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Defenders of Battle Mountain #3
Dead on Arrival
A bomb-strapped body
A rookie cop caught in the inferno
After barely escaping a deadly explosion, Officer Alma Majors has one clue to identify the victim and solve the case: a sliver of bone. But it’s going to take more than shrapnel to expose the culprit. Bomb expert Cree Gregson will risk everything to protect his neighbor from a killer determined to avoid exposure. Protecting his heart may prove more difficult…
A rookie cop caught in the inferno
After barely escaping a deadly explosion, Officer Alma Majors has one clue to identify the victim and solve the case: a sliver of bone. But it’s going to take more than shrapnel to expose the culprit. Bomb expert Cree Gregson will risk everything to protect his neighbor from a killer determined to avoid exposure. Protecting his heart may prove more difficult…
203 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2022
47 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
About the author
Nichole Severn
207 books449 followers"First class romantic suspense!"
- Cynthia Eden, NYT Bestselling Author
Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author Nichole Severn writes mind-twisting suspense and bullet-proof romance with strong heroines, heroes who dare challenge them, and cases you won’t be able to forget.
She graduated from Utah Valley University with a degree in Psychology and is working for her masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. She’s a member of Mystery Writers of America, a founding member of the Addicted to Danger Facebook group, and volunteers for a number of non-profits focused on supporting mothers.
She resides with her very supportive and patient husband, as well as her two demon spawn, in Utah. When she’s not writing, she’s constantly injuring herself training for marathons, accidentally stabbing herself with screwdrivers during her many DIY projects, or playing violin. That’s right. She stabbed herself with a screwdriver.
- Cynthia Eden, NYT Bestselling Author
Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author Nichole Severn writes mind-twisting suspense and bullet-proof romance with strong heroines, heroes who dare challenge them, and cases you won’t be able to forget.
She graduated from Utah Valley University with a degree in Psychology and is working for her masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. She’s a member of Mystery Writers of America, a founding member of the Addicted to Danger Facebook group, and volunteers for a number of non-profits focused on supporting mothers.
She resides with her very supportive and patient husband, as well as her two demon spawn, in Utah. When she’s not writing, she’s constantly injuring herself training for marathons, accidentally stabbing herself with screwdrivers during her many DIY projects, or playing violin. That’s right. She stabbed herself with a screwdriver.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
October 20, 2022
Dead on Arrival is reserve officer Alma Majors and bomb tech Cree Gregson’s thrilling romance.
Book Three of Defenders of Battle Mountain follows a serial bomber as they blow-up evidence of their misdeeds in this small town!
Trigger Warning: Bombings, Panic attacks, Domestic abuse in the past
Warning: This is the third book in a series and has spoilers for the first two.
Synopsis
On the first day of her job, Officer Majors didn’t expect to become involved in a homicide and if the rookie cop didn’t want to get killed, she needs the help of her neighbour.
Cree is still not over the last case that led him to leave the place of his day job, only to be faced with another one in his new place of residence. Can they both solve the mystery of the anonymous bomber before everything goes up in flames?
Review
Alma Majors was introduced in Defenders of Battle Mountain Book 2's epilogue as a woman who finally takes a stand and escapes her abusive husband. Now, she’s the newest reserve officer of Battle Mountain (ex-archaeologist Dr Alma Ortega) and Easton Ford has had something to do with it.
Dead on Arrival takes us back to the rocky mountain mining town of 2,800 residents, which include the brothers Weston and Easton Ford (Books 1 and 2, respectively).
Weston Ford is now the police chief of Battle Mountain and I loved the easy camaraderie between Alma and Weston. Aptly titled, the story starts with Alma in a gulch, responding to a call about suspicious activity. Then there’s Cree Gregson, who is a bomb tech and can’t stay away when he hears a blast go off at close range.
Cree and Alma have been neighbours for a while but they never knew what profession the other was in. And from one boom to the next, they have to team up to search for the culprit. Recently splitting from her abusive ex, Alma isn’t looking for any kind of relationship right now but her heart goes out to Cree.
Nichole Severn writing such a gripping story with so few main characters has me in awe of her writing prowess. She makes her characters appear effortless in the way they connect, forge a bond, and trudge toward their common goal.
Alma and Cree search for leads jointly but someone threatens Alma without appearing in front of her. Then there’s the victim’s immediate family that reminds Alma of her own past. But it all spirals into even more danger as the bomber comes after Alma, and the way that is done is spooky. The bomber’s like a ghost.
I loved seeing the Ford brother’s funny yet totally serious and workable familial solutions to things. There’s so much action and blasts that the story kept me on tenterhooks throughout.
The epilogue introduces Kendric Hudson, one of the protagonists of the next book in the series, Presumed Dead.
Thank you to the author an e-ARC of the book.
Originally posted on:
Shaina's Musings
Book Three of Defenders of Battle Mountain follows a serial bomber as they blow-up evidence of their misdeeds in this small town!
Trigger Warning: Bombings, Panic attacks, Domestic abuse in the past
Warning: This is the third book in a series and has spoilers for the first two.
Synopsis
On the first day of her job, Officer Majors didn’t expect to become involved in a homicide and if the rookie cop didn’t want to get killed, she needs the help of her neighbour.
Cree is still not over the last case that led him to leave the place of his day job, only to be faced with another one in his new place of residence. Can they both solve the mystery of the anonymous bomber before everything goes up in flames?
Review
Alma Majors was introduced in Defenders of Battle Mountain Book 2's epilogue as a woman who finally takes a stand and escapes her abusive husband. Now, she’s the newest reserve officer of Battle Mountain (ex-archaeologist Dr Alma Ortega) and Easton Ford has had something to do with it.
Dead on Arrival takes us back to the rocky mountain mining town of 2,800 residents, which include the brothers Weston and Easton Ford (Books 1 and 2, respectively).
Weston Ford is now the police chief of Battle Mountain and I loved the easy camaraderie between Alma and Weston. Aptly titled, the story starts with Alma in a gulch, responding to a call about suspicious activity. Then there’s Cree Gregson, who is a bomb tech and can’t stay away when he hears a blast go off at close range.
Cree and Alma have been neighbours for a while but they never knew what profession the other was in. And from one boom to the next, they have to team up to search for the culprit. Recently splitting from her abusive ex, Alma isn’t looking for any kind of relationship right now but her heart goes out to Cree.
Nichole Severn writing such a gripping story with so few main characters has me in awe of her writing prowess. She makes her characters appear effortless in the way they connect, forge a bond, and trudge toward their common goal.
Alma and Cree search for leads jointly but someone threatens Alma without appearing in front of her. Then there’s the victim’s immediate family that reminds Alma of her own past. But it all spirals into even more danger as the bomber comes after Alma, and the way that is done is spooky. The bomber’s like a ghost.
I loved seeing the Ford brother’s funny yet totally serious and workable familial solutions to things. There’s so much action and blasts that the story kept me on tenterhooks throughout.
The epilogue introduces Kendric Hudson, one of the protagonists of the next book in the series, Presumed Dead.
Thank you to the author an e-ARC of the book.
Originally posted on:
Shaina's Musings
September 27, 2022
This story grabs ahold of you from the first chapter and doesn’t let go.
Alma Majors is with the Battle Mountain Police Department. She is investigating a a horrific crime.
“You don’t really want me to go back, Alma. I think you’re scared. I think you have feelings for me, too.
You’re afraid to get hurt again. Like your husband hurt you. You’re terrified of someone else getting close, someone who could potentially hurt you, and that kind of risk just isn’t worth taking.”
“Cree Gregson is on leave from the Larimer County bomb squad. He is there to help investigate the bombing.
The more there together the closer they get. This is more suspense than romance and that’s fine with me because it was a non stop thrill ride.
“I’ve lived with this empty space in my chest since the divorce was final, like a part of me stayed behind.”
“But when I saw the aftermath of the bombing at the police station, and I realized it’d been filled. By you.
This author writes the most intense romantic suspense. Grab this one now!!
Alma Majors is with the Battle Mountain Police Department. She is investigating a a horrific crime.
“You don’t really want me to go back, Alma. I think you’re scared. I think you have feelings for me, too.
You’re afraid to get hurt again. Like your husband hurt you. You’re terrified of someone else getting close, someone who could potentially hurt you, and that kind of risk just isn’t worth taking.”
“Cree Gregson is on leave from the Larimer County bomb squad. He is there to help investigate the bombing.
The more there together the closer they get. This is more suspense than romance and that’s fine with me because it was a non stop thrill ride.
“I’ve lived with this empty space in my chest since the divorce was final, like a part of me stayed behind.”
“But when I saw the aftermath of the bombing at the police station, and I realized it’d been filled. By you.
This author writes the most intense romantic suspense. Grab this one now!!
July 17, 2023
Good book about two people who must overcome painful pasts to move on to a better future. Alma was a successful anthropologist until her jealous husband turned to abuse. She escaped the marriage, moved home to Battle Mountain, and became a reserve officer with the Battle Mountain police department. Though she is friendly to those she meets, Alma keeps a distance between herself and others, unable to trust enough to open her heart. Cree is a bomb tech in another town who moved to Battle Mountain to escape the guilty memories from a bombing he couldn't prevent. He's isolated himself, trusting no one else.
The book's explosive opening sucked me into the story, and didn't let go until I'd read the last page. Alma was sent to check out reports of suspicious activity in a gulch, where she found a woman with a bomb sewn to her body. Alma barely escaped with her life. Her only clue to identifying the body is a sliver of bone. Cree heard the bomb blast, and even though he was on a leave of absence from his unit, he still rushed to the site and offered his services. Seeing his neighbor, Alma, involved stirs his protective instincts.
While others investigate the bombing, Alma is determined to identify the victim. If she can do that, it should lead to the who and why behind it. The investigation quickly becomes complicated when the bomber sets more explosives to cover their identity. Then the bomber targets Alma herself. From destroying the contents of Alma's apartment to capturing Alma and attempting to turn her into a living bomb, the story's intensity increases the closer Alma and Cree get to identifying them. Alma's methods were intriguing, bringing in her past work as an anthropologist. The final confrontation was a nail-biter that kept me glued to the pages until it was over. Alma's determination and Cree's protectiveness came together in a heart-pounding scene.
I enjoyed seeing the relationship between Alma and Cree develop. Neither is looking for love. Alma is still dealing with the aftereffects of her abusive marriage. Cree is wrapped up in the guilt he still feels over his last case. I loved Cree's protectiveness toward Alma and his sensitivity to what she went through. I liked seeing them grow closer as they worked together. Sharing what they'd experienced helped each break down the walls that kept their feelings locked up. It takes nearly losing each other to open their eyes to what has been missing in their lives. I liked the ending and seeing them look forward to a future together.
The end of the book and the epilogue introduced a new character - ATF agent Kendric Hudson. A former coworker of Cree's, it looks like he will stick around Battle Mountain. I liked how he encouraged Cree to follow his heart and provided some straight talk about the case that injured them. He will likely be the focus of the next book of the series.
The book's explosive opening sucked me into the story, and didn't let go until I'd read the last page. Alma was sent to check out reports of suspicious activity in a gulch, where she found a woman with a bomb sewn to her body. Alma barely escaped with her life. Her only clue to identifying the body is a sliver of bone. Cree heard the bomb blast, and even though he was on a leave of absence from his unit, he still rushed to the site and offered his services. Seeing his neighbor, Alma, involved stirs his protective instincts.
While others investigate the bombing, Alma is determined to identify the victim. If she can do that, it should lead to the who and why behind it. The investigation quickly becomes complicated when the bomber sets more explosives to cover their identity. Then the bomber targets Alma herself. From destroying the contents of Alma's apartment to capturing Alma and attempting to turn her into a living bomb, the story's intensity increases the closer Alma and Cree get to identifying them. Alma's methods were intriguing, bringing in her past work as an anthropologist. The final confrontation was a nail-biter that kept me glued to the pages until it was over. Alma's determination and Cree's protectiveness came together in a heart-pounding scene.
I enjoyed seeing the relationship between Alma and Cree develop. Neither is looking for love. Alma is still dealing with the aftereffects of her abusive marriage. Cree is wrapped up in the guilt he still feels over his last case. I loved Cree's protectiveness toward Alma and his sensitivity to what she went through. I liked seeing them grow closer as they worked together. Sharing what they'd experienced helped each break down the walls that kept their feelings locked up. It takes nearly losing each other to open their eyes to what has been missing in their lives. I liked the ending and seeing them look forward to a future together.
The end of the book and the epilogue introduced a new character - ATF agent Kendric Hudson. A former coworker of Cree's, it looks like he will stick around Battle Mountain. I liked how he encouraged Cree to follow his heart and provided some straight talk about the case that injured them. He will likely be the focus of the next book of the series.
September 6, 2022
Oh this is a great romance suspense, wonderfully written to keep you on edge with a good investigation and excellent characters. You can read it as stand alone without trouble or read it in order it's even better.
Battle Mountain is sure doing its best with what they have and it's not a lot despite all what happened before.....Alma is new to the service department new recruit and new to the police as well. She is a survivor and it does shape her mind and reactions. Trying to get a new live she chooses to protect but did not expect to be caught in an explosion on her first day....but she is determined to find the truth and close that investigation.
Cree is hiding, explosive expert he was hurt in an explosion he could not prevent and the guilt is eating him ....however when he feels an explosion blast he is running on teh scene to help , seeing its his neighbour that nearly got killed stir his protective instincts....he can't stay away when Battle police mountain is needing help. Hpowever Alma and him must learn to trust each other first to progress especially when danger is at every corner.
Oh really that was excellent and it's just that i did not like Alma too much that's it's just a 4,5 and not a 5stars but she did grow on me when i understood her better. The author built an excellent investigation with damaged characters we can relate to as their personnalities and psychology is perfectly reserched and built. We feel for them, admire their courage and just want more!!
Battle Mountain is sure doing its best with what they have and it's not a lot despite all what happened before.....Alma is new to the service department new recruit and new to the police as well. She is a survivor and it does shape her mind and reactions. Trying to get a new live she chooses to protect but did not expect to be caught in an explosion on her first day....but she is determined to find the truth and close that investigation.
Cree is hiding, explosive expert he was hurt in an explosion he could not prevent and the guilt is eating him ....however when he feels an explosion blast he is running on teh scene to help , seeing its his neighbour that nearly got killed stir his protective instincts....he can't stay away when Battle police mountain is needing help. Hpowever Alma and him must learn to trust each other first to progress especially when danger is at every corner.
Oh really that was excellent and it's just that i did not like Alma too much that's it's just a 4,5 and not a 5stars but she did grow on me when i understood her better. The author built an excellent investigation with damaged characters we can relate to as their personnalities and psychology is perfectly reserched and built. We feel for them, admire their courage and just want more!!
September 22, 2022
This is the third book in Nichole Severn's "Defenders of Battle Mountain" series but it is very much a standalone.
They are both running away from their past but fate threw them together.
Cree Gregson was part of a bomb disposal team, being caught in an explosion where deaths occurred, Cree blamed himself, he moved to Battle Mountain for some peace and to recover in the stress free atmosphere until ......
Alma Majors had a good job as an archaeologist, she was making a name for herself and she loved it until, after one two many beatings from her abusive husband she was thrown a lifeline by Police Chief Weston Ford, he offered her a job as the newest reserve police officer in the Battle Mountain PD.
Although Alma and Cree were neighbours, living in the same apartment, they were strangers until ........
Alma , on her fist shift, came face to face with a woman, at the bottom of a gully, with a bomb strapped to her, the woman whispered "run".
When Cree hear about the bomb he felt that he had to offer his help and expertise, the Battle Mountain PD was only a small unit.
This story follows the journey of Alma and Cree becoming partners, having to learn to trust, overcoming self doubt. As the bombs keep coming, the body count rises, Alma and Cree become closer, the danger is palpable but Cree will do anything to keep alma safe.
This story is action packed with nail biting suspense and of course a wonderful love story with likeable characters.
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary.
They are both running away from their past but fate threw them together.
Cree Gregson was part of a bomb disposal team, being caught in an explosion where deaths occurred, Cree blamed himself, he moved to Battle Mountain for some peace and to recover in the stress free atmosphere until ......
Alma Majors had a good job as an archaeologist, she was making a name for herself and she loved it until, after one two many beatings from her abusive husband she was thrown a lifeline by Police Chief Weston Ford, he offered her a job as the newest reserve police officer in the Battle Mountain PD.
Although Alma and Cree were neighbours, living in the same apartment, they were strangers until ........
Alma , on her fist shift, came face to face with a woman, at the bottom of a gully, with a bomb strapped to her, the woman whispered "run".
When Cree hear about the bomb he felt that he had to offer his help and expertise, the Battle Mountain PD was only a small unit.
This story follows the journey of Alma and Cree becoming partners, having to learn to trust, overcoming self doubt. As the bombs keep coming, the body count rises, Alma and Cree become closer, the danger is palpable but Cree will do anything to keep alma safe.
This story is action packed with nail biting suspense and of course a wonderful love story with likeable characters.
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary.
September 4, 2022
Dead on Arrival was the third book in the Defenders of Battle Mountain and it was another great addition to this series! Officer Alma Majors is the newest addition to the small police force of Battle Mountain. She grew up in this small former mining town and after a stellar career as an anthropologist but a traumatic marriage then divorce, she needed the peace of her hometown. Who knew that it would become a magnet for killers! Cree Gregson spent a lot of time with his grandfather in the outskirts of Battle Mountain and he too has come here for peace from his career as a bomb technician in a different part of the state. He needs to recover from his last assignment that went horribly wrong. He and Alma are neighbors but neither has approached the other until Alma comes across a woman in the woods with a bomb attached to her. An explosion ensues and Cree is drawn to his previous life and that is where their story begins. Each one has scars hidden beneath their surfaces but need to work together to solve a crime and prevent more damage from happening to their town. Alma and Cree were great characters. Complex but underneath it all both of them are yearning for more in their lives. If you are a lover of romantic suspense but prefer the romance to be behind closed doors and the action to be front and center then Dead on Arrival is the perfect book to read. It stands completely alone, told from dual POV and the twists and turns will keep you glued to the pages!
September 27, 2022
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "DEAD ON ARRIVAL". I thoroughly enjoyed this intense, suspense filled drama, with action, humor, steam, intrigue, danger, plots twists that have you on the edge of your seat.
Officer Alma Major's had once been a terrific Anthropologist grew up in small mining town of Battle Mountain she finally left her abusive husband she was dealing with divorce it was all to traumatic she needed some peace so became newest member of police force there her first day she was sent to check the gulch some strange happenings were going on there but what she blew her away almost literally he barely escaped alive.
Cree Gregson was with a bomb expert team his traumatic past an explosion he should have found sooner he moved to Battle Mountaing to get away to deal with his stress lives in same building as Alma but they didn't know each other until her boss adk him to work with her on this case.
I definitely recommend to get this well written story Alma & Cree's jouney together is fill of intense drama, humor, spice, loved them together both dealing with traumatic pasts, trying to find a killer, can they get a HEA in this story you have up get this book to learn what happens. AWESOME READ!!!!
Officer Alma Major's had once been a terrific Anthropologist grew up in small mining town of Battle Mountain she finally left her abusive husband she was dealing with divorce it was all to traumatic she needed some peace so became newest member of police force there her first day she was sent to check the gulch some strange happenings were going on there but what she blew her away almost literally he barely escaped alive.
Cree Gregson was with a bomb expert team his traumatic past an explosion he should have found sooner he moved to Battle Mountaing to get away to deal with his stress lives in same building as Alma but they didn't know each other until her boss adk him to work with her on this case.
I definitely recommend to get this well written story Alma & Cree's jouney together is fill of intense drama, humor, spice, loved them together both dealing with traumatic pasts, trying to find a killer, can they get a HEA in this story you have up get this book to learn what happens. AWESOME READ!!!!
February 18, 2023
Nichole Severn
Dead on Arrival was a book that kept me on the edge of my seat from the beginning to the end. The characters where a great fit. Officer Majors and Officer Gregson had worked together a a team through the whole investigation. Going from one assignment to the gulch to getting almost blown up to saving herself and partner during the bombing. These two had eachothers back. She was left to uncover and investigate the bombing. When she was kidnapped by the bomber he was there to find and protect her and keep her safe till the very end. No matter what they went through they where a team.
Office Gregson was contacted from his CO in Loveland, Larimer County told him to come home or lose his career he didn't know what to say so told him he get back to him in 24-hours. Then they had been called in by Chief Weston Ford to go to the station. When there was a final discussion at the police station. Would he go back to his home in Larimer County or stay at Battle Mountain?
Had they fallen in love through this whole situation?
Nichole had made this a suspense intriguing and you can follow the story to the very end.
Dead on Arrival was a book that kept me on the edge of my seat from the beginning to the end. The characters where a great fit. Officer Majors and Officer Gregson had worked together a a team through the whole investigation. Going from one assignment to the gulch to getting almost blown up to saving herself and partner during the bombing. These two had eachothers back. She was left to uncover and investigate the bombing. When she was kidnapped by the bomber he was there to find and protect her and keep her safe till the very end. No matter what they went through they where a team.
Office Gregson was contacted from his CO in Loveland, Larimer County told him to come home or lose his career he didn't know what to say so told him he get back to him in 24-hours. Then they had been called in by Chief Weston Ford to go to the station. When there was a final discussion at the police station. Would he go back to his home in Larimer County or stay at Battle Mountain?
Had they fallen in love through this whole situation?
Nichole had made this a suspense intriguing and you can follow the story to the very end.
July 22, 2025
I feel like this book just went too big.
I liked the fact that they were both locals, but not. Alma had grown up there before leaving for her career. Cree had spent summers with his grandfather. And I liked that they both returned to escape something. Their romance wasn’t what I had issue with (though falling for each other in four days seemed a bit much.) I like how respectful and conscious Cree was of her boundaries, I appreciated that Alma noticed and trusted him. I like that they also respected each other professionally.
My issue came when they had FIVE bombing in their small, almost nonexistent town. (This was apparently on the heels of two serial killers in previous books.) The first one I could understand. Maybe even the second one. But past that I have a hard time believing someone working for the ATF couldn’t figure out a more subtle way to get rid of someone. And one bomb literally took out the entirety of Main Street! She took out the whole town and they’re apparently just… supposed to come back from that?
The whole thing was just a touch over the top for me.
I liked the fact that they were both locals, but not. Alma had grown up there before leaving for her career. Cree had spent summers with his grandfather. And I liked that they both returned to escape something. Their romance wasn’t what I had issue with (though falling for each other in four days seemed a bit much.) I like how respectful and conscious Cree was of her boundaries, I appreciated that Alma noticed and trusted him. I like that they also respected each other professionally.
My issue came when they had FIVE bombing in their small, almost nonexistent town. (This was apparently on the heels of two serial killers in previous books.) The first one I could understand. Maybe even the second one. But past that I have a hard time believing someone working for the ATF couldn’t figure out a more subtle way to get rid of someone. And one bomb literally took out the entirety of Main Street! She took out the whole town and they’re apparently just… supposed to come back from that?
The whole thing was just a touch over the top for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2022
Another amazing book by Nichole Severn. Another whirlwind ready to blow you away for the Defenders of Battle Mountain! Rookie Officer Alma Majors first day on the job in Battle Mountain is sent to check out a gulch for some strange happenings. She finds all sorts of things in that gulch, but only one makes her flee for her life. Her neighbor Cree Gregson, bomb technician expert, fled to Battle Mountain to get his head on straight after getting caught in an explosion.
I love Alma and Cree. They are an amazing H/h, both with complicated pasts. I could not put this book down. It kept me on the edge of my seat. It's great as a standalone, but there are characters from her other two books of this series. This is definitely a book (and series) I would recommend to others. I'm anxiously awaiting the next book in this series!
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book in return for an honest opinion. Honest opinion: I loved it and well be re-reading it again soon!
I love Alma and Cree. They are an amazing H/h, both with complicated pasts. I could not put this book down. It kept me on the edge of my seat. It's great as a standalone, but there are characters from her other two books of this series. This is definitely a book (and series) I would recommend to others. I'm anxiously awaiting the next book in this series!
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book in return for an honest opinion. Honest opinion: I loved it and well be re-reading it again soon!
September 3, 2022
A very well written edge-of-your-seat police thriller, a chilling murder spree and a few very close calls make this a good read, like all the books in the series.
There are also a few very serious discussion topics, but I must restrain to comment for fear of spoilers. Well, maybe not the abuse topic, which was on the table from the very start. I can't imagine what an abuse victim goes through, but the fact that it would happen to someone as smart, accomplished and successful as Alma is even more painful. And having to change her whole career after all that ... was that really winning? Or maybe the principle "the smarter one cedes" applies, which means you waste you time arguing with a fool. The PTSD topic is also there, and makes everything even more complicated for the 2 protagonists.
The book cleverly unravels the culprit by small doses, and is painfully explosive - a worthy read.
There are also a few very serious discussion topics, but I must restrain to comment for fear of spoilers. Well, maybe not the abuse topic, which was on the table from the very start. I can't imagine what an abuse victim goes through, but the fact that it would happen to someone as smart, accomplished and successful as Alma is even more painful. And having to change her whole career after all that ... was that really winning? Or maybe the principle "the smarter one cedes" applies, which means you waste you time arguing with a fool. The PTSD topic is also there, and makes everything even more complicated for the 2 protagonists.
The book cleverly unravels the culprit by small doses, and is painfully explosive - a worthy read.
September 9, 2022
We are back in Battle Mountain a town whose residents take care of each other, and where many come for a second chance in life.
This time the story belongs to Alma Majors and Cree Gregson.
Alma is back to the place she called home most of her life. She became a well known archeologist but that success create serious issues in her marriage. A marriage that left her not trusting people nor letting them get too close to her.
On her first day on the job, she almost died in an explosion. The same day she meets Cree. He’s a bomb expert who has been on leave for months from his job in the city, after almost getting killed in an explosion. One in which he still feels guilty for the lives lost.
As Cree and Alma join forces in attempting to find the culprit not only more bombs go off, but also feelings developed.
This was a clean suspense romance with complex characters and a great addition to the series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
This time the story belongs to Alma Majors and Cree Gregson.
Alma is back to the place she called home most of her life. She became a well known archeologist but that success create serious issues in her marriage. A marriage that left her not trusting people nor letting them get too close to her.
On her first day on the job, she almost died in an explosion. The same day she meets Cree. He’s a bomb expert who has been on leave for months from his job in the city, after almost getting killed in an explosion. One in which he still feels guilty for the lives lost.
As Cree and Alma join forces in attempting to find the culprit not only more bombs go off, but also feelings developed.
This was a clean suspense romance with complex characters and a great addition to the series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
September 11, 2022
This was such an exciting and suspenseful book. Cree and Alma came to this mountain town to try and heal. Cree had blamed himself for not finding a bomb moths earlier that went off that killed and wounded some people. Alma was back after she escaped and divorced her husband after he beat her one too many times. The two had their own reasons for not trusting anyone that they needed to get past. Someone had planted a bomb on a woman Alma found, and Alma got far enough away that she was hurt but not dead. Cree was a bomb expert and Alma’s boss asked him to partner up with Alma who had only been on the job for a day to try and find the identity of the woman killed. This started a string of more bombings and people being killed and/or property being destroyed. This is an edge of your seat book waiting for the next bomb to go off or Alma getting killed. I encourage you to read the book. I was given a copy and voluntarily wrote a review.
September 27, 2022
Battle Mountain sure lives up to it's name as there always seems to be a battle between good and evil and this latest instalment is no different Yes you can read this book as a stand alone but I would tell you to o yourself a favour and read the preceding two books as Nichole really knows how to write a romantic suspense that keeps you on the edge of your seat
Officer Alma majors has had a hard life but instead of fading away and protecting herself she has become a protector and the newly minted member of Battle Mountains police force is determined to solve this latest crime and explosion that killed someone and nearly killed her. She has help in the shape of explosives expert Cree Gregson a man who cannot forgive himself for the explosion that he didn't stop that killed his friends. Can they solve this latest crime Can Cree learn to forgive himself and can Alma let her walls down enough for them to act on the feelings they have for one another You will have to read to see
Officer Alma majors has had a hard life but instead of fading away and protecting herself she has become a protector and the newly minted member of Battle Mountains police force is determined to solve this latest crime and explosion that killed someone and nearly killed her. She has help in the shape of explosives expert Cree Gregson a man who cannot forgive himself for the explosion that he didn't stop that killed his friends. Can they solve this latest crime Can Cree learn to forgive himself and can Alma let her walls down enough for them to act on the feelings they have for one another You will have to read to see
September 27, 2022
This book was fantastic.. It’s a bit light on the romance but it makes up for it with pulse pounding action. It starts with a literal bang and just gets better and better. Alma is starting a new life for herself in Battle Mountain, and her first night on the job is a lot more than she ever expected. Cree shows up at the investigation to offer his expertise as a bomb expert. He’s been taking a leave of absence from his job, but somehow he can’t seem to stay away from this case or the newly minted officer who is even more intriguing than he imagined. I loved the slow burn between the two main characters. It was great to read about two people who were secure in who they were, were intelligent, confident and mature. And the action just seemed to be nonstop. I never felt like the story dragged. More like it dragged me along on an exciting adventure I was more than happy to take with the author. Highly recommended.
February 12, 2023
I received a complimentary copy of this book and I am voluntarily reviewing it.
While this is a part of a series, you don't have to read the prior ones to fully understand and enjoy this one. This book is written in a dual POV format. Getting that glimpse into both main characters' thoughts, really help me to better understand and connect with them.
The story flowed very nicely and the action almost started right from the beginning and kept going through to the end.
Both Alma and Cree come to Battle Mountain to escape their past. Alma is a former archaeologist. She left her abusive ex-husband and came home. Cree, a bomb tech, is on leave after an explosion on his last assignment leaves him scared.
Can these two over come the past? Can they found enough clues to identify the victim? Will the bomber/murderer get away? The questions of who, what and why kept me glued to my e-reader.
This is a clean romance that anyone would enjoy.
While this is a part of a series, you don't have to read the prior ones to fully understand and enjoy this one. This book is written in a dual POV format. Getting that glimpse into both main characters' thoughts, really help me to better understand and connect with them.
The story flowed very nicely and the action almost started right from the beginning and kept going through to the end.
Both Alma and Cree come to Battle Mountain to escape their past. Alma is a former archaeologist. She left her abusive ex-husband and came home. Cree, a bomb tech, is on leave after an explosion on his last assignment leaves him scared.
Can these two over come the past? Can they found enough clues to identify the victim? Will the bomber/murderer get away? The questions of who, what and why kept me glued to my e-reader.
This is a clean romance that anyone would enjoy.
September 6, 2022
Well this book certainly started off with a bang, and continued with a gripping twisty story that keeps your attention. Both Alma and Cree have things in their past that make them wary. However, they work well together as a team investigating who the bomber is. If they don’t get killed they may just come to realise they are also perfect for each other, and have a future neither thought possible.
I love how the author brings these two together, and slowly weaves their romance into the plot. As an avid romantic suspense reader I would recommend this one for you library, and for those that like a clean story this is one for you.
I look forward to more from the Defenders of Battle Mountain, and from Ms Severn.
I love how the author brings these two together, and slowly weaves their romance into the plot. As an avid romantic suspense reader I would recommend this one for you library, and for those that like a clean story this is one for you.
I look forward to more from the Defenders of Battle Mountain, and from Ms Severn.
September 10, 2022
Dead On Arrival
Defenders of Battle Mountain #3
Harlequin Intrigue
Nichole Severn
Alma ran away back to her home town after a traumatic divorce. Cree escaped to Battle Mountain to evade his past. Neighbours, colleagues of sorts and just maybe they could be more if only things stop exploding around them.
“This town has a way of making sure those wounds we like to pretend don’t exist won’t scar.”
A quick romantic suspense read with all of the danger and dead bodies you expect in a Defenders of Battle Mountain Intrigue. Loved it! Familiar characters and great new leads this book is part of a series but can be read as a stand-alone novel with hea. I can’t wait for Kendrick’s story next.
I received an arc of this book.
4 1/2 exploding stars.
Defenders of Battle Mountain #3
Harlequin Intrigue
Nichole Severn
Alma ran away back to her home town after a traumatic divorce. Cree escaped to Battle Mountain to evade his past. Neighbours, colleagues of sorts and just maybe they could be more if only things stop exploding around them.
“This town has a way of making sure those wounds we like to pretend don’t exist won’t scar.”
A quick romantic suspense read with all of the danger and dead bodies you expect in a Defenders of Battle Mountain Intrigue. Loved it! Familiar characters and great new leads this book is part of a series but can be read as a stand-alone novel with hea. I can’t wait for Kendrick’s story next.
I received an arc of this book.
4 1/2 exploding stars.
September 18, 2022
Running from your present you end up facing your past and finding your future.
Two law enforcement officers who are working through their own issues suddenly find themselves having to work together to solve a case that neither of them expected to be thrust in the middle of. While working through their own issues and trying to save lives they end up sharing a lot more than a near death experience. This is a suspenseful romantic mystery that will have you at the edge of your seat. This is the third book in the series and it can be read as a standalone but in order to get a better picture of all the supporting characters in this book I suggest reading the rest of the series before or after you read this one whichever you prefer.
Two law enforcement officers who are working through their own issues suddenly find themselves having to work together to solve a case that neither of them expected to be thrust in the middle of. While working through their own issues and trying to save lives they end up sharing a lot more than a near death experience. This is a suspenseful romantic mystery that will have you at the edge of your seat. This is the third book in the series and it can be read as a standalone but in order to get a better picture of all the supporting characters in this book I suggest reading the rest of the series before or after you read this one whichever you prefer.
September 19, 2022
High intensity intrigue! With the third book in the Defenders of Battle Mountain series we are quickly thrust into the middle of danger and the action is intense throughout. I wanted more relationship development and a bit more details in their back stories would have been ideal, but the impact of the mystery and danger was top notch.
Alma is sincere and kind and looking to turn over a new beginning for herself in a new town, but she doesn't expect her first case with Battle Mountain PD to overtake her life so much.
Cree is adept and knowledgeable in ways that are in demand even though he's only passing through Battle Mountain.
I recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone that enjoys a fast paced mystery filled with action, danger and a hint of romance.
Alma is sincere and kind and looking to turn over a new beginning for herself in a new town, but she doesn't expect her first case with Battle Mountain PD to overtake her life so much.
Cree is adept and knowledgeable in ways that are in demand even though he's only passing through Battle Mountain.
I recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone that enjoys a fast paced mystery filled with action, danger and a hint of romance.
September 26, 2022
Alma is an ex-archeologist turning a reserve cop in Battle Mountain after her divorce from her abusive ex. Cree is a county bomb squad investigator on leave and comes to Battle Mountain to hide his shame. The mutual attraction is strong and instant, but the trust takes time to grow. Even though they rather hide behind the safety of their well-built walls, it doesn’t work. They partner up to solve the mystery of the first bomb victim and the bomber. The story is non-stop action. The bomber is relentless and always one step ahead. I lose count of how many bomb explosions since the first victim is found. They both sustain serious injuries and I can’t imagine anyone can still function. They ultimately find their salvation and the one who will always have their back. Great story.
September 21, 2022
Severn really knows how to write an action packed ride. Alma, a former archeologist, has had a crazy first day as a part time deputy. Explosions and dead bodies wouldn’t make me come back for day two but she is determined to identify the victim. Hiding from his past for various reasons Cree is a bomb tech for another county. Between the two of them they will solve this mystery. Their story is intense and filled with lots of nail biting suspense. It’s the third in a series about the small town sheriff’s department but each book can be read separately. I received an early copy and thoroughly enjoyed it, my review is given voluntarily.
September 24, 2022
The suspense and action in this story are nonstop. You are barely able to catch your breath from one explosion before another incident happens. Both Alma and Cree have suffered trauma in their past. They are trying to deal with it and move on in their lives. As they work together to solve who is behind the explosion, and the person who was blow up, they find they are developing a connection with each other. I loved how Cree helped Alma to understand that her past was a part of her experience and as such would always have some impact on she handles future situations. This is my favorite so far of this series.
August 26, 2022
Wow what a book. Loved it from bragging to end. When Officer Alma Majors is investigating the gulch she comes across interesting things. She needs to get out of there quick before things get dicey. Her neighbor Cree Greyson hold back things about him, but soon he’s helping her with what happened in the explosion. But the person who’s in charge of them isn’t done yet.
What happens next will shock you. It’s a page turner. At times even in the dire situation Ms. Severn makes made me laugh. Macie the dispatcher had me laughing twice.
Highly recommend, and the ones before this book.
What happens next will shock you. It’s a page turner. At times even in the dire situation Ms. Severn makes made me laugh. Macie the dispatcher had me laughing twice.
Highly recommend, and the ones before this book.
August 30, 2022
Dead On Arrival is the third book in the Defenders of Battle Mountain series. Alma and Cree are neighbors and are searching for a serial bomber. Cree on leave from his job, and Alma on her first day of her job are racing against the clock to find the bomber before more lives are lost. The book had plenty of twists and turns and I loved it. I certainly would recommend this book to others. I received an ARC from the author and am under no obligation to leave a favorable review. The opinion expressed here are my own.
August 31, 2022
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. Well, well, well. Being almost blown to Kingdom Come on her very first day on the new job does leave Alma with some questions. Unfortunately for her, it won't be the last time she'll have to endure that experience. So, fortunately, she has a very handsome neigbour who by chance knows some things about bombs...
The third book inthe BM-universe and you'll get to re-meet the Ford -brothers - only now it's Almas turn to investigate...
That series is seriously amazing, as every other book/series by this talented author. Very impressive.
The third book inthe BM-universe and you'll get to re-meet the Ford -brothers - only now it's Almas turn to investigate...
That series is seriously amazing, as every other book/series by this talented author. Very impressive.
September 6, 2022
Nichole has given us another great book in the Defenders of Battle Mountain with some wonderful characters. We have Alma Majors who's a rookie cop and her neighbor Cree Greyson who's a bomb tech. When Alma goes to investigate suspicious activity, things go sideways fast. With the help of Cres can they figure out who is setting bombs off and why. There's plenty of action, danger, suspense, and Cree and Alma make a great couple and team. This book is so good from beginning to end that you have to keep reading.
September 20, 2022
Dead on Arrival (Defenders of Battle Mountain Book 3) by Nichole Severn is one of the best books in the series so far. Alma Majors and Cree Gregson is a great team. This couple packed a lot of action into just 3 days. The serial killer in this book is just so cold blooded and crazy. The town of Battle Mountain may never recover from these crazy serial killers, but I'm sure Nichole Severn will find a way to help the town. I highly recommend this book and don't forget to read the first 2 books Grave Danger, Dead Giveaway and the next book in the series Presumed Dead book 4 of the series.
September 23, 2022
Wow!!! The action never stops in this page-turner. For every step forward Alma and Cree make in their investigation, the bomber has already prepared for it. In the author's words: "There were explosions, high-speed chases, a rogue agent, an abducted child, and romance." With each page turned, this book will have you at the edge of your seat. I loved the storyline and the characters. Alma and Cree found how to make their life complete. I received a copy, and I'm voluntarily giving my honest review.
September 27, 2022
Bomb expert Cree is called in when officer Alma thinks there is a serial killer on the loose.
I really enjoyed this book. Danger, drama, intrigue and lots of mystery all tied up with a suspenseful tone. Not to mention the little romance and I just loved that part of it.
Cree and Alma although not wanting to admit it had an attraction and chemistry from the start. Once they let their walls down the romance truly began.
This was another great book from Nicole Severn and won't be my last. Loving this lot of books!!
This was an ARC and this is my honest review.
I really enjoyed this book. Danger, drama, intrigue and lots of mystery all tied up with a suspenseful tone. Not to mention the little romance and I just loved that part of it.
Cree and Alma although not wanting to admit it had an attraction and chemistry from the start. Once they let their walls down the romance truly began.
This was another great book from Nicole Severn and won't be my last. Loving this lot of books!!
This was an ARC and this is my honest review.
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