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Caught in the Crosshairs
Nate Walker lived in the shadows and spent his days hunting the enemy. He knew only darkness and loss. Then her name crossed his desk, and alarm bells went off. She wasn’t meant to be the target. Now he had to decide if he was going to turn his back on the agency he’d been so loyal to and risk prison. Or would he swoop in to save the woman he’d never even met?
Daisy Evans spent her days teaching and her nights volunteering. So, when a tall, dark, and dangerous stranger came to her door with the notion that people were gunning for her, she couldn’t believe it. But as the bullets start flying, his evidence became more compelling, and she had no choice but to follow him.
Together, they fight to stay one step ahead of the threat as their chemistry tries to take center stage. As they edge closer to answers, only more questions arise. Daisy must decide if Nate is the one pulling the strings or if he is the only thing standing between her and certain death.
Daisy Evans spent her days teaching and her nights volunteering. So, when a tall, dark, and dangerous stranger came to her door with the notion that people were gunning for her, she couldn’t believe it. But as the bullets start flying, his evidence became more compelling, and she had no choice but to follow him.
Together, they fight to stay one step ahead of the threat as their chemistry tries to take center stage. As they edge closer to answers, only more questions arise. Daisy must decide if Nate is the one pulling the strings or if he is the only thing standing between her and certain death.
169 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2021
1 person is currently reading
17 people want to read
About the author
Daphne Drake
9 books24 followersDaphne Drake is a writer of sweet and steamy romantic suspense with swoon-worthy, muscled men and the fiercely independent women they can't help but love. She's living her own adventure with her fun-loving husband and two energetic children tucked away in the Pacific Northwest.
When she isn't reading or writing romance you might find her hiking a nearby trail or snapping photos of the sunset. Her hobbies are vast and varied, from baking to gaming. While obtaining her bachelor's degree in psychology she renewed her love of writing and the captivating world of the happily ever after.
When she isn't reading or writing romance you might find her hiking a nearby trail or snapping photos of the sunset. Her hobbies are vast and varied, from baking to gaming. While obtaining her bachelor's degree in psychology she renewed her love of writing and the captivating world of the happily ever after.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
June 19, 2021
Holy wow! Whether you like romantic suspense or not, you’re definitely going to want to get your hands on this one! You'll bite your nails while on the edge of your seat, gripping tightly to the “oh sheet" handle, but it will leave you breathless with a ginormous happy sigh in your heart!
Daisy Evans lives an unremarkable life, teaching young minds and reading to ill children at the hospital. Her father works for Homeland Security and her brother made the ultimate sacrifice for his country, but Daisy prefers to stay below the radar.
Nate Walker has served his country and now works for a clandestine division of the government doing what he does best. But when his military brother's sister comes across his desk, he has a choice to make. Keep his promise to his fallen brother to protect his sister or take the assignment that will make his break that promise.
If you love a romance with a slow burn, electric chemistry and twists and turns you never imagined, this one is for you. I absolutely couldn’t put this one down and had to read straight through to find out what happened next. Just when I thought I had something figured out, boom! Here came another surprise that stole my breath and had me yelling at my kindle! This is, without a doubt, one of the most spellbinding, engrossing, extraordinary romantic suspense stories I’ve ever read, and you really won’t want to miss it!
Daisy Evans lives an unremarkable life, teaching young minds and reading to ill children at the hospital. Her father works for Homeland Security and her brother made the ultimate sacrifice for his country, but Daisy prefers to stay below the radar.
Nate Walker has served his country and now works for a clandestine division of the government doing what he does best. But when his military brother's sister comes across his desk, he has a choice to make. Keep his promise to his fallen brother to protect his sister or take the assignment that will make his break that promise.
If you love a romance with a slow burn, electric chemistry and twists and turns you never imagined, this one is for you. I absolutely couldn’t put this one down and had to read straight through to find out what happened next. Just when I thought I had something figured out, boom! Here came another surprise that stole my breath and had me yelling at my kindle! This is, without a doubt, one of the most spellbinding, engrossing, extraordinary romantic suspense stories I’ve ever read, and you really won’t want to miss it!
June 23, 2021
I am fairly new to the romantic suspense genre and each time I read a book in this genre I keep getting pulled deeper and deeper.
This book did not disappoint in the slightest. I really enjoyed watching Nate and Daisy's relationship escalade as he is trying to protect her.
By the middle of the book I couldn't figure out who I was suppose to be suspecting as everyone had a reason.
The only reason I didn't rate this a 5 star is because I'm not much on the insta-attraction vibes as I feel things needs to be a bit more well rounded. Unless you are going for the "lust" part then the insta-attraction really does the trick.
I can't wait to read more from this author!
This book did not disappoint in the slightest. I really enjoyed watching Nate and Daisy's relationship escalade as he is trying to protect her.
By the middle of the book I couldn't figure out who I was suppose to be suspecting as everyone had a reason.
The only reason I didn't rate this a 5 star is because I'm not much on the insta-attraction vibes as I feel things needs to be a bit more well rounded. Unless you are going for the "lust" part then the insta-attraction really does the trick.
I can't wait to read more from this author!
June 24, 2021
Caught in the Crosshairs was an exciting romantic suspense. I had no idea what I was in for when I started but it ticked a lot of boxes for me; slow burn, sizzling chemistry, a strong female lead (don’t let her name fool you) and a sexy, protective action hero *swoon*.
This book was full of action and plot twists. There’s heartache and secrets, suspense and a dash of spice (which we all like), leading us to the HEA I was waiting for. You’ll be trying to figure out whodunit the whole way through, will you get it right?
You’ll have to read it and find out.
This book was full of action and plot twists. There’s heartache and secrets, suspense and a dash of spice (which we all like), leading us to the HEA I was waiting for. You’ll be trying to figure out whodunit the whole way through, will you get it right?
You’ll have to read it and find out.
June 19, 2021
4.25 ⭐️
A short book but not on steam or intrigue.
Nate and Daisy are instantly attracted to each and their chemistry burned up the pages even though she was a target for assassination. He goes all protective alpha which just makes you swoon as they uncover a whole web of deceit.
Though I loved Nate’s protective vibe, I’m glad Daisy was no shrinking violet. Made the book more enjoyable. There are a few surprises and the secondary character of Devon added to my enjoyment. Can’t wait for his story.
* I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
A short book but not on steam or intrigue.
Nate and Daisy are instantly attracted to each and their chemistry burned up the pages even though she was a target for assassination. He goes all protective alpha which just makes you swoon as they uncover a whole web of deceit.
Though I loved Nate’s protective vibe, I’m glad Daisy was no shrinking violet. Made the book more enjoyable. There are a few surprises and the secondary character of Devon added to my enjoyment. Can’t wait for his story.
* I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
September 2, 2022
This is my first read by this author and I can tell it won’t be my last.
From the first chapter I got pulled into this world, and with all the twists the author gave it, I did not see what was coming.
I suspected everyone, if I didn’t know Nate was the H, I would have suspected him too! 🤣
Daisy was thrown into a race for her life. And apparently Nate was the only one she could trust, but could she really trust someone that she hadn’t ever met before?
And could Nate really be able to keep her safe?
This story is full of action and suspense, and the plot twist?!!! Mind blowing!!! 🤯
I received an ARC copy of this story and this is my voluntary review.
From the first chapter I got pulled into this world, and with all the twists the author gave it, I did not see what was coming.
I suspected everyone, if I didn’t know Nate was the H, I would have suspected him too! 🤣
Daisy was thrown into a race for her life. And apparently Nate was the only one she could trust, but could she really trust someone that she hadn’t ever met before?
And could Nate really be able to keep her safe?
This story is full of action and suspense, and the plot twist?!!! Mind blowing!!! 🤯
I received an ARC copy of this story and this is my voluntary review.
June 23, 2021
Caught in the Crosshaira by Author Daphne Drake is book one in her A Shadow Agency Romance series. This is also the first book that I have read by Daphne.
Caught in the Crosshairs is a Romantic Suspence, Best Friend's Sibling, Slow Burn Romance that is written in Dual POV.
This book was very well written, well layed out, full of attraction with some steamy scenes. There is a mix of loss and heartache, secrets and lies, and a HEA. This was a great quick read. I felt there was not as much suspense as I was hoping for and quickly had my suspicions of who was behind the hit that was put out, and ended up being correct. There is a part that I would have never expected and I think it was a perfect scene and made the book even better (you have to read to find out ;)) This a book I would recommend to anyone that is iffy on a suspense romance story and wanting to give it a try.
Caught in the Crosshairs is a Romantic Suspence, Best Friend's Sibling, Slow Burn Romance that is written in Dual POV.
This book was very well written, well layed out, full of attraction with some steamy scenes. There is a mix of loss and heartache, secrets and lies, and a HEA. This was a great quick read. I felt there was not as much suspense as I was hoping for and quickly had my suspicions of who was behind the hit that was put out, and ended up being correct. There is a part that I would have never expected and I think it was a perfect scene and made the book even better (you have to read to find out ;)) This a book I would recommend to anyone that is iffy on a suspense romance story and wanting to give it a try.
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August 14, 2022
4.5/5 stars
I really liked this book and had a hard time putting it down when I had to stop reading. I liked that Drake wrote from a variety of angles- from Daisy, Nate, Daisy’s dad, and the mystery enemy to name a few. I had my suspicions about who the bad guy was but definitely not confident in it so for once I didn’t mind being right :)
I was glad that Daisy was a functional human being, and not a damsel in distress; we often do female leads freeze under pressure but Daisy handled the confrontation like a boss.
The dynamic between Nate and Daisy also seemed really natural and realistic; they connected over someone who meant a lot to them, but they also still had their independence. Daisy still took the time to wonder if she was really with the good guy, and Nate considered that he may be abusing her trust in him.
I also feel like I need to take a moment to mention the lady who thought Daisy was being followed by her abusive ex husband and decided to straight up punch him. Bless her soul and may there be many like her in the real world too ❤️
The only thing I didn’t really like is part of the ending. It was happy and good but it was too sunshine and rainbows, too everyone-gets-everything-they-want.
PS if you are reading this on a site that only uses whole stars, I round up :)
Disclaimer: I am going to be an ARC reader for Drake’s upcoming release, Caught With the Heiress and was gifted a free ebook of Caught in the Crosshairs to have the background context needed to read the second book. In return, I am offering an honest review and rating.
I really liked this book and had a hard time putting it down when I had to stop reading. I liked that Drake wrote from a variety of angles- from Daisy, Nate, Daisy’s dad, and the mystery enemy to name a few. I had my suspicions about who the bad guy was but definitely not confident in it so for once I didn’t mind being right :)
I was glad that Daisy was a functional human being, and not a damsel in distress; we often do female leads freeze under pressure but Daisy handled the confrontation like a boss.
The dynamic between Nate and Daisy also seemed really natural and realistic; they connected over someone who meant a lot to them, but they also still had their independence. Daisy still took the time to wonder if she was really with the good guy, and Nate considered that he may be abusing her trust in him.
I also feel like I need to take a moment to mention the lady who thought Daisy was being followed by her abusive ex husband and decided to straight up punch him. Bless her soul and may there be many like her in the real world too ❤️
The only thing I didn’t really like is part of the ending. It was happy and good but it was too sunshine and rainbows, too everyone-gets-everything-they-want.
PS if you are reading this on a site that only uses whole stars, I round up :)
Disclaimer: I am going to be an ARC reader for Drake’s upcoming release, Caught With the Heiress and was gifted a free ebook of Caught in the Crosshairs to have the background context needed to read the second book. In return, I am offering an honest review and rating.
September 20, 2025
I jumped at the opportunity to check out Daphne Drake’s writing when she offered me a copy of Caught in the Crosshairs. The cover and blurb piqued my curiosity. At first I thought this story was going to be a bit dark, but it quickly turned into a light, insta-attraction love story with a “who did it” twist, and I was excited to read it. I was invested in their emotional connection.
There’s a balance between suspense and romance that definitely appealed to me as a reader. I’m not a fan of angst, but the low-angst moments between them fit the storyline. Reading the push and pull between them as they explored their feelings highlighted their pain and guilt over the loss of her brother, who was his best friend.
Nate is a thoughtful and genuinely good guy. He wants to do the right thing. That doesn’t mean he can’t be the bad guy when he needs to. I love how he showed his feelings for Daisy despite trying hard to not develop an attachment. He likes how sweet she is, but he loves her fighting spirit more.
Drake did a great job in creating Daisy’s character. She’s sweet and quiet, but not a pushover. She gives Nick a piece of her mind when she needs to. You could feel her emotions when she hit the breaking point after she took numerous emotional blows as her life was on the line.
The story was wrapped up in a satisfying way with a couple of surprises that made me smile. It was an easy book to read and review. I’ve already downloaded the next book!
There’s a balance between suspense and romance that definitely appealed to me as a reader. I’m not a fan of angst, but the low-angst moments between them fit the storyline. Reading the push and pull between them as they explored their feelings highlighted their pain and guilt over the loss of her brother, who was his best friend.
Nate is a thoughtful and genuinely good guy. He wants to do the right thing. That doesn’t mean he can’t be the bad guy when he needs to. I love how he showed his feelings for Daisy despite trying hard to not develop an attachment. He likes how sweet she is, but he loves her fighting spirit more.
Drake did a great job in creating Daisy’s character. She’s sweet and quiet, but not a pushover. She gives Nick a piece of her mind when she needs to. You could feel her emotions when she hit the breaking point after she took numerous emotional blows as her life was on the line.
The story was wrapped up in a satisfying way with a couple of surprises that made me smile. It was an easy book to read and review. I’ve already downloaded the next book!
August 9, 2021
Caught in the Crosshairs is a quick and steamy romance full of suspense and intrigue. Daphne Drake wastes no time jumping into this story, and you're pulled into the drama from the very first page.
Daisy lives a pretty simple life teaching and volunteering, so she's surprised to have Nate show up and tell her that there is a hit out on her. She has little choice but to trust him, and the sparks fly almost immediately between these two. As more and more questions, secrets and lies start to come forth, Daisy isn't sure if Nate can protect her or if she can even really trust him.
Although I felt like Nate and Daisy's relationship was almost a little too "insta-love", it still gave me whiplash a few times with the back and forth. I liked some of their banter though and there was plenty of steam. This story had several twists and turns, and I wasn't quite sure which direction it was going to take. It kept me in suspense and then threw in a few more surprises before the story was over.
If you're looking for a good romantic suspense, then you'll want to check this one out. This is the first book that I've read by Daphne Drake and I'll definitely check out some of her other books.
Daisy lives a pretty simple life teaching and volunteering, so she's surprised to have Nate show up and tell her that there is a hit out on her. She has little choice but to trust him, and the sparks fly almost immediately between these two. As more and more questions, secrets and lies start to come forth, Daisy isn't sure if Nate can protect her or if she can even really trust him.
Although I felt like Nate and Daisy's relationship was almost a little too "insta-love", it still gave me whiplash a few times with the back and forth. I liked some of their banter though and there was plenty of steam. This story had several twists and turns, and I wasn't quite sure which direction it was going to take. It kept me in suspense and then threw in a few more surprises before the story was over.
If you're looking for a good romantic suspense, then you'll want to check this one out. This is the first book that I've read by Daphne Drake and I'll definitely check out some of her other books.
July 5, 2021
Nate runs hot and cold so much it made me want to smack him. The fact that he thinks he’s not good enough for Daisy was infuriating. There are so many that could be considered suspicious. There’s a hit out on Daisy and Nate appears out of the blue to help her. I must say she’s more trusting than me. I don’t care how many stories or things he knows about her brother I wouldn’t go with him anywhere. And I would’ve drowned Nate for running cold after kissing her.
It’s well written. I would’ve like more emotions. Not to be told about what they’re feeling but to have felt it also.
It’s a good book but I felt it was more suspense than romance. And the connection between Nate and Daisy I couldn’t really feel. I did enjoy the book and the writing. I liked that Daisy will say what’s on her mind. She’s scared which is something completely natural but she tells Nate what’s been on her mind and she craves that connection to know him and know about his friendship with her brother.
Received a copy from author for honest review.
It’s well written. I would’ve like more emotions. Not to be told about what they’re feeling but to have felt it also.
It’s a good book but I felt it was more suspense than romance. And the connection between Nate and Daisy I couldn’t really feel. I did enjoy the book and the writing. I liked that Daisy will say what’s on her mind. She’s scared which is something completely natural but she tells Nate what’s been on her mind and she craves that connection to know him and know about his friendship with her brother.
Received a copy from author for honest review.
September 30, 2022
Quintessential romantic suspense!
Nate's attempts to keep things professional with Daisy were admirable and understandable.
If you're into . . .
She tempted him like no other.Nate and Daisy fall in love while on the run for their lives and I loved every second of it. I was cheering for them from the very first page.
Nate's attempts to keep things professional with Daisy were admirable and understandable.
There was only one word for his situation, screwed. He had the hots for his best friend's little sister.And Daisy's irritation with Nate was sweet and heartfelt.
She needed to stop thinking about this guy who was intent on pushing her away.The balance between the action and the tender moments was perfect and it kept me turning the pages.
"Maybe one day, when you trust me with your secrets, I'll trust you with mine."Sigh. 😍😍
If you're into . . .
✔ romantic suspense. . . you've found your next read!
✔ best friend's little sister
✔ grumpy/sunshine
✔ a twist at the end
April 1, 2022
Intense Storyline!
From the first time Daisy and Nate meet, sparks fly. He promises to protect her from the target on her life. The assignment that came across his desk. One that's forced him to go rogue for his best friend's sister.
She's led a safe, quiet life while Nate's has been dark and dangerous. He's different than any man she's known. He's soulful and sensuous, and this turns her world upside down. The emotional bond that builds is undeniable.The question is, do they have what it takes to make it, or will they undermine it?
Ms. Drake crafts a mysterious plot in 'Caught in the Crosshairs'. The suspense and danger element make it unpredictable and the chemistry between these two, in the midst of the threat, is intense! Can't wait to read the next in the
Shadow Agency Romance series!
From the first time Daisy and Nate meet, sparks fly. He promises to protect her from the target on her life. The assignment that came across his desk. One that's forced him to go rogue for his best friend's sister.
She's led a safe, quiet life while Nate's has been dark and dangerous. He's different than any man she's known. He's soulful and sensuous, and this turns her world upside down. The emotional bond that builds is undeniable.The question is, do they have what it takes to make it, or will they undermine it?
Ms. Drake crafts a mysterious plot in 'Caught in the Crosshairs'. The suspense and danger element make it unpredictable and the chemistry between these two, in the midst of the threat, is intense! Can't wait to read the next in the
Shadow Agency Romance series!
July 3, 2021
All I can say is OMG! I am a beta reader for Daphne and I have loved all her books. This book by far has been my favorite. I love the connection between the two main characters Nate and Daisy . They were suppose to meet when her brother came home on leave during the holiday but that didn't happen. He gave his life for our country. This book was so fast pace that I couldn't put it down to even go to the bathroom! I cried a few times during the read but I also laughed out loud too! So many emotions through this whole read! Lots of surprises too. I highly recommend this to anyone. If I could give it more than 5 stars I definitely would. BEST BOOK EVER!!!
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August 15, 2021Thoroughly enjoyed this book! I'm new to romantic suspense, and I loved the way that Nate's need to protect Daisy tangled with his desire to be with her! Can't wait for book 2!
August 1, 2021
This story is romantic, suspenseful, with brother's best friend, and secrets. I was immediately drawn into the story, and the twists and turns kept me guessing till the end. I liked the characters, they sure had undeniable chemistry. Caught in the Crosshairs is the first novel I have read from this author, and I can say it won't be my last. Enjoyable read!
August 22, 2025
Fun action paced debut novel. Daisy gets taken away in the night by Nate, her dead brothers friend and that's just where the story starts. Follow Nate and Daisy as they run, hide, and run some more while trying to figure out who is after Daisy and why. Binge worthy romance.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews