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Miami Private Security #0

The Defector: The Agency Begins

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An American spy on a simple mission to intercept a Russian courier. What could go wrong?

John Smith is a veteran agent. He has skills and won’t apologize for his old-school methods. That’s why the CIA assigns him when they need results. And this time he’s at a posh ski resort in Switzerland looking for a Russian with a package.

Kira Semenov is desperate. No more spy games. She’s ready to check out any way she can after this assignment. Only quitting the FSB isn’t as simple as giving her two weeks’ notice. Not when she takes a lifetime of Russian secrets with her.

When John looks at Kira he sees more than a Russian with valuable intel. As his attraction grows, he realizes helping her defect is about more than politics. He’ll risk his career and his life to bring her to America and offer her the hope of a new future with him.

Can two fortysomething operatives break down the walls of distrust and help each other? Or will their instant attraction leave them vulnerable when the Russians try to exterminate their rogue asset?

Spy games hot enough to melt the alpine snow.

The Defector is a fast-paced, smart, and exciting prequel to the NEW Miami Private Security Series featuring two characters in their forties. Expect thrilling escapes, tangled sheets, and a surprising future for a jaded CIA agent and Russian spy with nothing left to live for as they try to evade a team of FSB commandos in beautiful St. Moritz.

Please note this book contains steamy scenes, violence, and the mention of suicide.

200 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 19, 2022

67 people are currently reading
94 people want to read

About the author

Michelle Donn

21 books139 followers
Aim for the Heart!

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3lf7xJ9
Facebook: https://bit.ly/30xPjuN
Website michelledonn.com

Michelle introduced herself to romance novels by stealing them off her mother’s bookshelf. She got caught red-handed when she destroyed a new book by dropping in the bathtub before her mom could read it. From stolen paperbacks to an overloaded iPad, Michelle’s passion for reading grew into her debut contemporary romance novel: Savannah Run.

She lives in the South Carolina with her real-life prince charming, three dogs and two horses. Most evenings, you will find her enjoying a cocktail, and working out the plot of her next book with her husband.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
Profile Image for Sonya.
1,314 reviews55 followers
May 15, 2022
An American spy on a mission to meet up with a Russian courier to retrieve a package. Sounds easy enough; until it wasn't.

Veteran agent John Smith is hides in plain sight and completes his missions by the book; often according to his rules. This is one of the reason the CIA assigns him to their high level covert missions. His current mission is to retrieve a package from a Russian courier which seems simple enough until he finds out that the courier is indeed the package.

Kira Semenov is desperate for a way out. She has been used a a pawn for decades and is finally at her wits in. She is ready to get out either by escaping the Russian government's clutches or by death. Unfortunately, getting out isn't as easy as turning her back on the Russians and walking away.

Kira is the first woman to make John feel more than wanting a hookup. John doesn't see Kira as a Russian with valuable Intel and secrets but as a woman he's willing to risk his life and career for if it means getting her out of harms way and escaping to the US with him by her side.

This story had suspense and steam. John was ready to more heaven and hell for Kira's safety even if it meant him losing everything. Kira and John risked everything for a chance to be together and start a new life together in the end.

I received this book in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Hope.
10 reviews3 followers
May 13, 2022
This was the first book by Michelle Donn that I've read, and I was very surprised with how much I enjoyed it. I saw her video on TikTok last week looking for ARC readers, and without knowing anything of the series/book, I decided I'd give it a try. This is also the first spy book that I've read since high school, and I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it. Although considering the amount of Mafia books I read, I really should have known it would be a hit in my eyes.

This is a story or a woman with a phenomenal memory who is blackmailed and forced into spying for the Russian government. After multiple failed attempts to escape, she has given up hope of ever getting out, and accepted her fate. Insert the American CIA agent who happens to fall in love for the first time, and you've got the beginning of a thrilling romance novel.

I was actually impressed with how much Donn was able to fit into such a short novel. There's quite a lot of buildup before the final escape plan happens, which allowed for some major chemistry buildup between John and Kira, and some intense spicy scenes. I really enjoyed Kira's story, and getting to learn more about her past and how she became a Russian spy.

Since this is a romance novel, there is a guaranteed happily ever after, and this one did not disappoint. There are definitely a couple twists throughout this story, and the ending is no different. For this being a spy book with an extremely dangerous enemy, there wasn't that much fighting or death in the grand scheme of things. I really think if you are wanting to branch out into a more action packed romance book, but mafia books are too dark for you, this book would be a good place for you to start.

I will definitely be adding this series to my TBR list as the new books come out!
Profile Image for Julie Wilks.
13 reviews1 follower
May 14, 2022
ARC Review
My first Michelle Donn book and I really enjoyed it. A quick read that was filled with romance, excitement and action.
I love how John and Kira had no issues that could have been solved with just simply talking with each other.
I look forward to reading more in this series and others from Michelle.
Profile Image for Mari (Mystics & Metaphysics Book Blog).
7,751 reviews169 followers
May 19, 2022
I loved that the characters are older, in their 40s, which helped me related to them more. Kira and John are hot together and the story kept me on my toes with the action and suspense. Can't wait for more in the series.
2,689 reviews32 followers
May 10, 2022
Wow fantastic book!
This was about Kira who was wanted by the Russians because she knows too much but John Smith, CIA agent is out to protect her.
Drama was high on the agenda in this story along with lots of espionage, danger and intensity.
Michelle Donn certainly pushed the envelope on all good things suspense and gives us an amazing story that I just loved.
The chemistry and attraction between John and Kira really was wonderful and so strong. I am glad they get what they deserve after such a hard battle.
This was a brilliant story and I can't wait for more in the series. So good!!
This was an ARC and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Maxine Keith.
105 reviews7 followers
May 10, 2022
The Defector

By Michelle Donn

This isn't my typical romance read. Its a fast paced, easy story. Dual, single POV. "Suspenseful romance" if you will. Good sex scenes. Slightly predictable plot line. The dual POV gives too much away, but apparently that's what readers like and want. 

The characters were cute, and likeable. The setting was very movie-like. Had a cross of James Bond and Burn Notice feel about it. 

All in all, for a poolside, don't have to think, easy read … It's a good story. Not my typical thing, but I'm sure most readers will eat it up. 

⭐⭐⭐⭐
Profile Image for Tina.
263 reviews27 followers
August 1, 2022
Overall I really liked this book. I was on the hunt for a Burn Notice-esque romance and there were defiantly some similarities.
Things I liked, they are a mature couple in their late 30's early 40s. Medium spice, open door but not super detailed. Lots of action. I also loved how things turned out once they got state-side.

What I was slightly disappointed in was the beginning of the romance. I wish there had been a little more development between the couple. They went from zero to I'm going to rearrange my whole life for you in a few pages. This book is a bit of a novella origin story to the upcoming series Miami Private Security. There were two opportunities for the couple to show a growing connection but they were sort of fast-forwarded through. One time they were sitting at the bar talking and, it says they had a great time but no details on what they talked about. Then the following day they spend the morning in bed eating room service and watching the Hangover but again not much detail besides she loosed up and they laughed together.
Since this is laying the groundwork for how they met, fell in love, and then started their business. I felt like the relationship could have been better developed in those first few days of the meeting. He mentioned a few times that he felt more in their first few days than he had in his whole career before that, we just don't get to see that...He is super protective of her and that is super hot but I just wanted a little more.

BUTTT again I really enjoyed every other part of this book and I fully intend of continuing with the upcoming series once it's released.
190 reviews6 followers
May 18, 2022
The Defector by Michelle Donn is a well paced tale of espionage and intrigue, with a healthy dose of spicy romance to round out the story.

I really enjoyed both Kira and John. She is strong, intelligent and resilient, after a lifetime working for the Russian FSB. He is a chamelion that has spent his life working for the CIA. He is the man no-one notices. But underneath his quiet exterior, there lies a multitude of hidden depths.

I also love that these two are a little older than your standard romance main characters, with both of them being in their forties. It's not a big issue in the story, it's just a simple fact. And I like that it is just a part of it the best.

These two characters suit each other really well and their romance is entirely believable. I also enjoyed the pace that it all moved at. And I really enjoyed the way that the suspense side of the story grew. I can't say I ever reached a point where I was particularly shocked by any of it, but it defintely kept my attention snared.

This isn't an overly long book - I read it in two sittings over two days. But it is plenty long enough to build a really good intensity into the story.

This is the first book in Michelle Donn's Miami Private Security series and I'm looking forward to seeing what she has to offer us with the next book in the series, The Negotiator.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Ksarak Kent.
91 reviews
May 10, 2022
ARC REVIEW:
I wasn't ready for this, but here it is, a new series by Michelle Donn.
This author is definitely an automatic purchase, period. I truly wasn't expecting a new book/series this soon. And it's probably because I was still in the honeymoon phase with Maggie and Rick who are probably my favorite Michelle Donn couple. They are the stars of the sixth book from Michelle's last works, The Protecting Love Series. I absolutely loved that series, so knowing that, I couldn't wait to meet The Defector stars, Kira and John.

And just like in each of her previous books Michelle writes the perfect amount of romance, danger and action sequences. The plots are engaging and the romance is potent without an overabundance of angst and misunderstandings between the two leads.
This was a quick read and a damn fantastic start to the series. With Kira and John kicking the series off and being the base characters, I know we'll be in for a treat with the forthcoming books. I can't wait to meet new characters while continuing Kira and John's story because they just have so much left. Fantastic start to the series.
Profile Image for Cheryl A.
624 reviews2 followers
May 11, 2022
The is an amazing read. Thumbs up on a fabulous book. I read it in one day, truly a page turner. I loved John and Kira’s story. He is a CIA agent and her a Russian spy at a meeting in St Moritz. She is ready to end it all and he is attracted to her. It was intense knowing whether John would be successful in getting Them out of St Moritz alive. I really enjoyed being in the Alps in this book, so much detail I felt like I was there. . It was great to see how John started his agency and how he got a HEA. I love a good mystery with steamy romance mixed in.
1,791 reviews6 followers
May 21, 2022
This is such a brilliant read and not what I was expecting but absolutely brilliant.
CIA agent John Smith is sent to retrieve a package from a Russian courier but what he didn't expect was that the package was the courier.
Kira wanted out from the FSB but no-one ever leaves, especially with her skills of remembering everything. When she first meets John she knows that he is some sort of spy but who is he really.
The chemistry between them is off the charts but will he be able to get her out of the country and keep her safe without the Russians taking her out.
So much drama and plenty of suspense and even more emotion but can they make it out alive.
A must read.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
4,237 reviews52 followers
May 19, 2022
Romance with a twist. Kira is human hard drive sought out by many for different reasons. John has become her “handler” and I absolutely loved his character. I don’t do spoilers but I will say this was a good read with an interesting storyline. Loved it.

I received this copy and my spoiler free review is voluntary
Profile Image for Jenn.
37 reviews2 followers
May 19, 2022
Loved this book! Loved John and Kira. I was so involved in the story, the intrigue, the relationship between John and Kira! This was a quick read that kept me totally engrossed. I didn’t want it to end. Definitely a put on your want to read list.
Profile Image for Amorena.
16 reviews
May 9, 2022
The Defector is one of the most well written books I have read recently. It has you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Very descriptive… Mrs. Donn is an excellent author. I can’t wait to read the next book in the Miami Private Security series!
38 reviews
May 16, 2022
This type of book isn’t usually my style but I figured I mix it up. Well I’m glad I did. The storyline was great. The spice…chef’s kiss. This was not a long book. I read it in less than a day, but even though it was short. It packed a huge punch. The attention to detail was awesome and the main characters relationship was amazing. Definitely recommend.
Profile Image for Robin.
2,531 reviews20 followers
May 19, 2022
John & Kira - Espionage, action, drama, suspense AND romance, steamy goodness and a happily ever after. I really feel like John and Kira’s story had it all! I really wasn’t expecting to get so much in a fairly short story but I really, really enjoyed it! So good! I’m looking forward to more!
Profile Image for Danielle.
86 reviews1 follower
May 18, 2022
John and Kira light the world on espionage on fire! Their passion is immediate and intense and the love they find in each other is one for the records. From start to finish, The Defector was full of action, intrigue and above all else a timeless romance!
Profile Image for Carmela Dimattia.
1,907 reviews22 followers
May 21, 2022
A new series by Michelle Donn that I was very excited to read and I was not disappointed. This first book was just amazing. A quick fast paced read that last lots of drama and suspense that will leaving you hanging for more with every word you read. Loved the chemistry and tension between John and Kira and I loved how this author was able to make you visualise all the action and this book had everything that I enjoy reading. A great beginning to what promises to be a great, enjoyable series.

I received an arc copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Profile Image for Allison.
551 reviews
May 10, 2022
This book was excellent. Lots of action, heat and an HEA. I could not put this down and read in one sitting! Can’t wait for the next one.
Profile Image for Sunshine.
7 reviews1 follower
May 25, 2022
Well, that was unexpected. I was watching Tik Tok as one does, and I found myself on a book tok as I frequently do, and I saw a Tik Tok of Michelle Donn asking for ARC readers on her new book and I thought what the hell! So here it is... I had never heard of this author, and I will have to say this is outside of my normal fantasy spicy fiction that I normally read, but I do love a good spy story. That being said,I inhaled this book in a little over an hour, and damn what a ride! I don't feel like I need to give a lot of the story away as the summary in goodreads or Amazon gives you that basic info. I just want to say that this was a fairly short novel but had a ton of action, a very interesting plot twist and just the right amount of spice. I enjoyed every minute! I am promptly now about to delve into reading everything that she has written, and do none of the projects I had planned for my weekend. I would definitely recommend 10 out of 10!
Profile Image for Cindy Montgomery.
176 reviews2 followers
May 17, 2022
You expect action and attraction between characters in a Michelle Donn story. Let me say this is a great start for a new series. I loved the fast paced action and the sizzling attraction between John and Kira.
John, a veteran CIA agent, is very attracted to Kira, a Russian agent and is helping her defect to America. I loved the development of their relationship as they overcome the distrust that exists. There are thrills, steam between the sheets and the beginning of a series I know will be fabulous!
278 reviews2 followers
May 16, 2022
OMG! I'm looking forward to this new series by Michelle Donn, if The Defector is any indication this is going to be a must read series. John and Kira are enjoyable from the beginning the drama and suspense that surrounds them makes for an entertaining read. This is one of those books that once you start reading you won't be able to put it down as you want to know what's going to happen next. Michelle has written another book loaded with passion, suspense and drama!!!

I received this book as an ARC
Profile Image for Missi.
405 reviews12 followers
May 26, 2022
This was my first Michelle Donn book and I received an ARC copy. The Defector did not disappoint. With an engaging plot and a potent mix of romance and suspense, I was hooked from the beginning. I loved that the characters are close to my age(40's). The author did well building up the chemistry between John and Kira. I hope to see more of them in this series as it expands. I can't wait to go grab some more of Michelle Donn's other titles.
Profile Image for -♥ Keppy ♥-.
111 reviews4 followers
May 24, 2022
Don’t we all love a HEA?!?! This quick read was so enjoyable. I loved reading about John and Kira. John is always hiding in the background but who wouldn’t with a name like John Smith. John is smart, sneaky and loves with his whole heart. Kira is brilliant, The gift she has i could only wish for. What starts as an assignment turns into two people who fall in love when they least expected it. Once they got together man did sparks fly! If you are looking for an enjoyable quick read with a great story and HEA, this is the book for you!!
Profile Image for Teresa Reitnauer.
954 reviews5 followers
May 23, 2022
A great beginning to a new series. John Smith's mission was to retrieve a package from Kira Semenov before she handed it off. When they met, sparks flew. An intriguing storyline with action and romance. I look forward to more from this series. I received a copy, and I'm voluntarily giving my honest review.
Profile Image for Rebecca (Bex) Hulett.
72 reviews3 followers
May 18, 2022
I was given this book by the author for free for an honest review.

This is the first book I have read by this author, and after this one, I definitely want to read the rest!

This book was full of action, espionage, spice. It was such a good mix, and I DEVOURED this book. If this is how the series is starting out, I can’t wait for the rest!!
Profile Image for Christina Rybka.
1,129 reviews18 followers
November 15, 2022
love John and Kira

John’s job is to get the package from the Russians, and what he gets is Kira. They go back to the hotel and play their roles. They get to know each other and their chemistry is off the charts. Danger is lurking around every corner. Great characters and storyline. Highly recommended. Amazing book. There are a lot of twists and turns. Very action pack and spicy. This is my first book by this author definitely not my last.
136 reviews1 follower
October 12, 2022
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this book, but I was pleasantly surprised. I really liked this story. It was quick paced; the characters were really well written. I mean John Smith…. yes please! Think every girl hopes to find a man who will move heaven and earth to keep her safe. Will definitely read more by Michelle. I read this book as an ARC.
Profile Image for Sandy.
322 reviews4 followers
September 3, 2023
This was a great spy thriller with CIA operative John Smith and Russian asset Kira Semenov trying to escape being murdered by a Russian assassin. It has everything you'd want in a spy thriller - escaping from the assassins in a couple of different chases, hiding in a secret bar and a very good HEA.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews

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