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Dìleas Security Agency #1
Near Miss
He’s hostage to his past.
Betrayal and death haunt former British Special Air Service captain Lachlan Mackay after a disastrous mission in the mountains of Afghanistan ends his military career. Now a civilian, his job overseeing security teams in Kabul brings the opportunity to topple a powerful warlord, avenge the dead, and free himself from the crushing guilt of trusting the wrong woman. However, his plans for revenge get derailed when someone from his past targets his beautiful new American colleague.
She has a secret that could destroy him.
Sophia Russo wants to make a difference in the lives of the Afghan people. As the new director of Legislative Affairs at Landry Associates International, her job is to lobby Congress to support her company’s development projects in the war-torn country. But when her best friend’s father, a retired four-star admiral, tells her someone may be trafficking weapons to a warlord, she agrees to spy on the prime suspect, LAI’s head of Global Security. Lachlan Mackay is dangerously sexy and full of secrets, but after getting to know the Hot Scot, her heart refuses to believe he’s a criminal.
The past won’t stay dead.
When Sophia is caught in a deadly game of cat and mouse between Lachlan and an unknown enemy, she teams up with him to help prove his innocence. The tables are turned when their hunt for the truth makes them the hunted.
To save Lachlan, Sophia may have to betray him, and Lachlan is forced to do the one thing he swore he’d never do again.
Trust a woman with his life.
Near Miss is book one in C.S. Smith’s steamy romantic suspense series featuring former special operators from the US and UK. Contains cursing, on the page sex, and violence. It can be read as a standalone and does have a HEA.
If you like alpha males, strong women, danger, and some spice in your romance, this is the story for you!
Betrayal and death haunt former British Special Air Service captain Lachlan Mackay after a disastrous mission in the mountains of Afghanistan ends his military career. Now a civilian, his job overseeing security teams in Kabul brings the opportunity to topple a powerful warlord, avenge the dead, and free himself from the crushing guilt of trusting the wrong woman. However, his plans for revenge get derailed when someone from his past targets his beautiful new American colleague.
She has a secret that could destroy him.
Sophia Russo wants to make a difference in the lives of the Afghan people. As the new director of Legislative Affairs at Landry Associates International, her job is to lobby Congress to support her company’s development projects in the war-torn country. But when her best friend’s father, a retired four-star admiral, tells her someone may be trafficking weapons to a warlord, she agrees to spy on the prime suspect, LAI’s head of Global Security. Lachlan Mackay is dangerously sexy and full of secrets, but after getting to know the Hot Scot, her heart refuses to believe he’s a criminal.
The past won’t stay dead.
When Sophia is caught in a deadly game of cat and mouse between Lachlan and an unknown enemy, she teams up with him to help prove his innocence. The tables are turned when their hunt for the truth makes them the hunted.
To save Lachlan, Sophia may have to betray him, and Lachlan is forced to do the one thing he swore he’d never do again.
Trust a woman with his life.
Near Miss is book one in C.S. Smith’s steamy romantic suspense series featuring former special operators from the US and UK. Contains cursing, on the page sex, and violence. It can be read as a standalone and does have a HEA.
If you like alpha males, strong women, danger, and some spice in your romance, this is the story for you!
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 10, 2023
437 people are currently reading
2747 people want to read
About the author
C.S. Smith
5 books89 followersC.S. Smith writes steamy romantic suspense featuring current and former special operations soldiers. She admits to having a thing for alpha males. The bigger and badder they are, the harder they fall!
Sign up for her newsletter to get the prequel background novel, The Mission, to her romantic suspense series Dìleas Security Agency for FREE! (And get access to the latest news and other cool giveaways.) Go to HTTP://cssmithauthor.com and click on the Newsletter tab on the top menu.
While earning a Master's in National Security Studies, she worked in and around the Pentagon surrounded by good-looking men in uniform, including the one she eventually married.
Her career as a writer took off in 2018 when her youngest child learned to drive, and her days of micromanaging a family of five were coming to an end. Now she manages her husband of over thirty years and the family rescue dog - a supposed Golden Retriever that DNA tests revealed is really a lab, chow, boxer mix.
Her debut award-winning romantic suspense series, Dìleas Security Agency, focuses on three former elite special operators in a brotherhood forged by betrayal, blood, and death. If you enjoy hot alpha men and feisty women wrapped up in storylines full of danger and intrigue, be sure to look for Near Miss (Book 1), Missing in Action (Book 2), and Missed Opportunity (Book 3), coming in 2023.
Sign up for her newsletter to get the prequel background novel, The Mission, to her romantic suspense series Dìleas Security Agency for FREE! (And get access to the latest news and other cool giveaways.) Go to HTTP://cssmithauthor.com and click on the Newsletter tab on the top menu.
While earning a Master's in National Security Studies, she worked in and around the Pentagon surrounded by good-looking men in uniform, including the one she eventually married.
Her career as a writer took off in 2018 when her youngest child learned to drive, and her days of micromanaging a family of five were coming to an end. Now she manages her husband of over thirty years and the family rescue dog - a supposed Golden Retriever that DNA tests revealed is really a lab, chow, boxer mix.
Her debut award-winning romantic suspense series, Dìleas Security Agency, focuses on three former elite special operators in a brotherhood forged by betrayal, blood, and death. If you enjoy hot alpha men and feisty women wrapped up in storylines full of danger and intrigue, be sure to look for Near Miss (Book 1), Missing in Action (Book 2), and Missed Opportunity (Book 3), coming in 2023.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
January 10, 2023
2.5 stars
Near Miss is an okay novel with a decent plot, and I was somewhat interested throughout. However, I just couldn't see any legit connection between Sophia and Lachlan. Furthermore, neither of their backgrounds were fleshed out enough for me to connect with them myself.
When I read the blurb, I understood Sophia--perhaps overoptimistically--to be a hands-on expert on Afghan social issues and developmental needs. I really thought she and Lachlan would cross paths in Afghanistan. However, in reality, she's a young former legislative aid for a member of Congress who somehow landed the position of Director of Legislative Affairs at the company Lachlan also works for. It's pretty obvious that she got the position thanks to her BFF's father (a former 4-star admiral) who also wants her to spy/but not spy spy on Lachlan. Anyway, she never actually seems to do her job; she mostly just bumbles around. In short, I wanted to see more demonstrable competence rather than naïve insecurity.
Lachlan's current sitch is clearer; someone is trying to make it look like he's smuggling arms to a warlord in Afghanistan. Meanwhile, he's suffering from guilt for an op gone bad, partially because he trusted the wrong person. He's pretty gritty and cynical and under the microscope from the get go, and I think his character suffers a little from not having the opportunity to be anything other than a guy on the edge. But with a Scottish accent, yum. (That said, the Scottish slang that peppers both his quoted speech and the narrative around it comes across as a little forced at times.)
Together, I just don't see it. They start off with a little love/hate that quickly becomes an inability to stop thinking of one another. But I didn't feel the connection; I was just told there was one. The story does move along, though, and there's definitely a target audience for it. It just didn't do it for me.
I received an ARC of this book for free from the publisher and Netgalley. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion. Thanks!
Near Miss is an okay novel with a decent plot, and I was somewhat interested throughout. However, I just couldn't see any legit connection between Sophia and Lachlan. Furthermore, neither of their backgrounds were fleshed out enough for me to connect with them myself.
When I read the blurb, I understood Sophia--perhaps overoptimistically--to be a hands-on expert on Afghan social issues and developmental needs. I really thought she and Lachlan would cross paths in Afghanistan. However, in reality, she's a young former legislative aid for a member of Congress who somehow landed the position of Director of Legislative Affairs at the company Lachlan also works for. It's pretty obvious that she got the position thanks to her BFF's father (a former 4-star admiral) who also wants her to spy/but not spy spy on Lachlan. Anyway, she never actually seems to do her job; she mostly just bumbles around. In short, I wanted to see more demonstrable competence rather than naïve insecurity.
Lachlan's current sitch is clearer; someone is trying to make it look like he's smuggling arms to a warlord in Afghanistan. Meanwhile, he's suffering from guilt for an op gone bad, partially because he trusted the wrong person. He's pretty gritty and cynical and under the microscope from the get go, and I think his character suffers a little from not having the opportunity to be anything other than a guy on the edge. But with a Scottish accent, yum. (That said, the Scottish slang that peppers both his quoted speech and the narrative around it comes across as a little forced at times.)
Together, I just don't see it. They start off with a little love/hate that quickly becomes an inability to stop thinking of one another. But I didn't feel the connection; I was just told there was one. The story does move along, though, and there's definitely a target audience for it. It just didn't do it for me.
I received an ARC of this book for free from the publisher and Netgalley. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion. Thanks!
April 1, 2023
It took me a while to get into the story
No plot spoilers
No potential triggers
There are no grammatical or typographical errors that I can recall - which is always a good thing!
There is a little swearing and a couple of sex scenes lightly written.
The plotline is interesting, with the potential to be much better given a little editing.
However, it took me several tries over a few days to get into the who storyline and I'm sorry to say I did play with the idea of giving up.
Initially, I think it was a bit too much world building that jumped around a tad too much that prevented me from just diving into the book.
The characterisation isn't the strongest, by the end of the book I knew and cared about the main characters about as much as I did at the start of the story.
I also thought the Scottish idioms were overplayed at the start of the book, they vanished by the middle of the book and were replaced with Gaelic endearments.
It felt a bit contrived.
Would I recommend the book?
Yes, but don't expect too much.
Will I purchase the next book in the series? No, I think I will settle where I am with the series and let the author continue without me.
No plot spoilers
No potential triggers
There are no grammatical or typographical errors that I can recall - which is always a good thing!
There is a little swearing and a couple of sex scenes lightly written.
The plotline is interesting, with the potential to be much better given a little editing.
However, it took me several tries over a few days to get into the who storyline and I'm sorry to say I did play with the idea of giving up.
Initially, I think it was a bit too much world building that jumped around a tad too much that prevented me from just diving into the book.
The characterisation isn't the strongest, by the end of the book I knew and cared about the main characters about as much as I did at the start of the story.
I also thought the Scottish idioms were overplayed at the start of the book, they vanished by the middle of the book and were replaced with Gaelic endearments.
It felt a bit contrived.
Would I recommend the book?
Yes, but don't expect too much.
Will I purchase the next book in the series? No, I think I will settle where I am with the series and let the author continue without me.
January 6, 2023
I am voluntarily leaving a review after receiving an ARC from Hidden Gems.
It was good. Fast-paced and a little predictable. Sophia is starting a new job at LAI. She is asked to spy on a co-worker, Lachlan. Lachlan is a former British Special Forces who is now in charge of the Global Securities Divisiok of LAI. Lachlan has flashbacks from his last mission in Afghanistan where his female interpreter betrayed his team. This led Lachlan to be mistrustful of females. His past has also come back to hunt him. As Sophia and Lachlan race to solve the mystery of missing weapons, the have to solve issues from his past.
It was good. Fast-paced and a little predictable. Sophia is starting a new job at LAI. She is asked to spy on a co-worker, Lachlan. Lachlan is a former British Special Forces who is now in charge of the Global Securities Divisiok of LAI. Lachlan has flashbacks from his last mission in Afghanistan where his female interpreter betrayed his team. This led Lachlan to be mistrustful of females. His past has also come back to hunt him. As Sophia and Lachlan race to solve the mystery of missing weapons, the have to solve issues from his past.
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February 13, 2025🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/27/2023)! 🎁
January 7, 2023
This book is good romance suspense.
So I had my suspicions since the beginning and I was right !! It’s a well written book.
I like the fact that there isn’t a lot of clichés.
Lachlan is the alpha man that I like in my books. He is Scott so he’s the perfect man.
It’s a good slow burn romance book.
One problem I didn’t really connect with Sophia. But I connect with Lachlan so it’s a good book.
I look forward to read the next one because Emily and Nathan intrigue me so much.
Thank you netgalley for this book
So I had my suspicions since the beginning and I was right !! It’s a well written book.
I like the fact that there isn’t a lot of clichés.
Lachlan is the alpha man that I like in my books. He is Scott so he’s the perfect man.
It’s a good slow burn romance book.
One problem I didn’t really connect with Sophia. But I connect with Lachlan so it’s a good book.
I look forward to read the next one because Emily and Nathan intrigue me so much.
Thank you netgalley for this book
January 10, 2023
LOVED this book! The author really knows her stuff when it comes to military, espionage, etc. Along with the cation, there are great steamy scenes. Even though they try to fight their attraction, they just cannot resist. Plus, he is from Scotland. It was hard to put this thriller down. I look forward to the next book! This review is in exchange for an ARC
October 4, 2023
He’s hostage to his past.
She has a secret that could destroy him.
The past won’t stay dead.
Betrayal and death haunt former British Special Air Service captain Lachlan Mackay after a disastrous mission in the mountains of Afghanistan ends his military career. Now a civilian, his job overseeing security teams in Kabul brings the opportunity to topple a powerful warlord, avenge the dead, and free himself from the crushing guilt of trusting the wrong woman. However, his plans for revenge get derailed when someone from his past targets his beautiful new American colleague.
Sophia Russo wants to make a difference in the lives of the Afghan people. As the new director of Legislative Affairs at Landry Associates International, her job is to lobby Congress to support her company’s development projects in the war-torn country. But when her best friend’s father, a retired four-star admiral, tells her someone may be trafficking weapons to a warlord, she agrees to spy on the prime suspect, LAI’s head of Global Security. Lachlan Mackay is dangerously sexy and full of secrets, but after getting to know the Hot Scot, her heart refuses to believe he’s a criminal.
When Sophia is caught in a deadly game of cat and mouse between Lachlan and an unknown enemy, she teams up with him to help prove his innocence. The tables are turned when their hunt for the truth makes them the hunted.
To save Lachlan, Sophia may have to betray him, and Lachlan is forced to do the one thing he swore he’d never do again.
Trust a woman with his life.
Book is described as a “steamy romantic suspense series featuring former special operators from the US Navy Seals and British Special Air Service”. A brilliant story full of suspense, intrigue and betrayal. Can Lachlan move on from the the betrayal from his past and trust another woman again? I Sophie able to break through the armour surrounding his heart? An absolute page Turner that you can not put down - you will be hooked from the start. Highly recommended
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
She has a secret that could destroy him.
The past won’t stay dead.
Betrayal and death haunt former British Special Air Service captain Lachlan Mackay after a disastrous mission in the mountains of Afghanistan ends his military career. Now a civilian, his job overseeing security teams in Kabul brings the opportunity to topple a powerful warlord, avenge the dead, and free himself from the crushing guilt of trusting the wrong woman. However, his plans for revenge get derailed when someone from his past targets his beautiful new American colleague.
Sophia Russo wants to make a difference in the lives of the Afghan people. As the new director of Legislative Affairs at Landry Associates International, her job is to lobby Congress to support her company’s development projects in the war-torn country. But when her best friend’s father, a retired four-star admiral, tells her someone may be trafficking weapons to a warlord, she agrees to spy on the prime suspect, LAI’s head of Global Security. Lachlan Mackay is dangerously sexy and full of secrets, but after getting to know the Hot Scot, her heart refuses to believe he’s a criminal.
When Sophia is caught in a deadly game of cat and mouse between Lachlan and an unknown enemy, she teams up with him to help prove his innocence. The tables are turned when their hunt for the truth makes them the hunted.
To save Lachlan, Sophia may have to betray him, and Lachlan is forced to do the one thing he swore he’d never do again.
Trust a woman with his life.
Book is described as a “steamy romantic suspense series featuring former special operators from the US Navy Seals and British Special Air Service”. A brilliant story full of suspense, intrigue and betrayal. Can Lachlan move on from the the betrayal from his past and trust another woman again? I Sophie able to break through the armour surrounding his heart? An absolute page Turner that you can not put down - you will be hooked from the start. Highly recommended
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
January 6, 2023
4.5*
It's been so long since I've read a romantic suspense, this was a great book to break that pause.
Thit is the story of Sophia, a young woman who gets a new job at an US company that makes projects for Afghanistan, and Lachlan , the man she has to research, because the man who helped her get the job thinks this ex-military is involved in illegal arms selling. Their book is a whirlwind of trust issues, of secrets and of feelings that can't be denied.
I liked a lot about this book, the fact that it kept you guessing, you reach almost the middle of the book until you realize who is the bad character. Both the hero and the heroine are nicely shaped in their flaws and in their humanity, Sophia is hard not to like, while Lachlan has his Scottish charm, his alpha struggles yet a tender heart. I loved the supporting characters, especially their fun friends, I cannot wait for their book! I also loved the precious, heart warming details and the things that made this book unique, like the scenes involving the painting and the meeting with the veteran.
The book was well written, nice paced, I liked that the villains weren't featured too much in the story as you get in some romantic suspense. But I would have preferred more romance over the suspense. Also, it's worth mentioning, this is a book that has a very real feel, it doesn't dive much into clichés, the character's struggles are real, they are imperfect and they react as humanly as possible. There is not much of the sugar coated layer some romantic suspense books offer, there is raw life here.
My half of star is missing because I didn't feel particularly connect to the characters or to the story, but I did enjoyed this construction and for a debut novel it is a very good one. I look forward to read the next one in the series.
I received a copy of this in order to offer my personal view on it.
It's been so long since I've read a romantic suspense, this was a great book to break that pause.
Thit is the story of Sophia, a young woman who gets a new job at an US company that makes projects for Afghanistan, and Lachlan , the man she has to research, because the man who helped her get the job thinks this ex-military is involved in illegal arms selling. Their book is a whirlwind of trust issues, of secrets and of feelings that can't be denied.
I liked a lot about this book, the fact that it kept you guessing, you reach almost the middle of the book until you realize who is the bad character. Both the hero and the heroine are nicely shaped in their flaws and in their humanity, Sophia is hard not to like, while Lachlan has his Scottish charm, his alpha struggles yet a tender heart. I loved the supporting characters, especially their fun friends, I cannot wait for their book! I also loved the precious, heart warming details and the things that made this book unique, like the scenes involving the painting and the meeting with the veteran.
The book was well written, nice paced, I liked that the villains weren't featured too much in the story as you get in some romantic suspense. But I would have preferred more romance over the suspense. Also, it's worth mentioning, this is a book that has a very real feel, it doesn't dive much into clichés, the character's struggles are real, they are imperfect and they react as humanly as possible. There is not much of the sugar coated layer some romantic suspense books offer, there is raw life here.
My half of star is missing because I didn't feel particularly connect to the characters or to the story, but I did enjoyed this construction and for a debut novel it is a very good one. I look forward to read the next one in the series.
I received a copy of this in order to offer my personal view on it.
March 16, 2024
This thrilling story grabbed me on page one and never let go. Of the hundreds of romantic suspense novels I've read, this gem ranks near the very top of the list. Honestly, it's that good! Here's a bit of the plot, but you'll get no big spoilers from me.
As an officer in the 22nd British Special Air Service (SAS) regiment in Afghanistan, Lachlan Mackay led a rescue mission that ended in death and disaster because he'd trusted Nadia Haider, a beautiful woman who'd betrayed him. After he was forced to kill Nadia in order to save one of his men, Lachlan vowed he'd never trust another woman.
That vow is sorely tested when he meets lovely Sophia Russo, a new employee at Landry Associates International, where Lachlan now works as a civilian overseeing security teams in Kabul. Attraction flares between them, but Sophia harbors a secret. She's been asked to spy on Lachlan, who's suspected of trafficking weapons to an Afghan warlord. With walls of secrets between them, can they trust their hearts and work together to expose the true source of the weapons trafficking scheme?
It's a deadly game filled with stunning twists that kept me glued to my Kindle. And the romance between Lachlan and Sophia is smoking hot! I adored Lachlan's best friend (Nathan), a former Navy SEAL who gets involved with Sophia's best friend (Emily) in the second book in this exciting series. I can't wait to read it!
Kudos for likable characters (except the villains), immersive settings, limited profanity, flawless proofreading, and for the author's research about the Afghan War, Afghan politics and warlords. I identified the main villain fairly early on, but that didn't diminish my enjoyment of this story, which easily earns five glowing stars and my enthusiastic recommendation!
As an officer in the 22nd British Special Air Service (SAS) regiment in Afghanistan, Lachlan Mackay led a rescue mission that ended in death and disaster because he'd trusted Nadia Haider, a beautiful woman who'd betrayed him. After he was forced to kill Nadia in order to save one of his men, Lachlan vowed he'd never trust another woman.
That vow is sorely tested when he meets lovely Sophia Russo, a new employee at Landry Associates International, where Lachlan now works as a civilian overseeing security teams in Kabul. Attraction flares between them, but Sophia harbors a secret. She's been asked to spy on Lachlan, who's suspected of trafficking weapons to an Afghan warlord. With walls of secrets between them, can they trust their hearts and work together to expose the true source of the weapons trafficking scheme?
It's a deadly game filled with stunning twists that kept me glued to my Kindle. And the romance between Lachlan and Sophia is smoking hot! I adored Lachlan's best friend (Nathan), a former Navy SEAL who gets involved with Sophia's best friend (Emily) in the second book in this exciting series. I can't wait to read it!
Kudos for likable characters (except the villains), immersive settings, limited profanity, flawless proofreading, and for the author's research about the Afghan War, Afghan politics and warlords. I identified the main villain fairly early on, but that didn't diminish my enjoyment of this story, which easily earns five glowing stars and my enthusiastic recommendation!
May 26, 2024
I enjoyed this in the ebook version but the audiobook truly brought the story to life in this introduction to Dileas Security Agency.
Lachlan Mackay, a former British special Air Service captain, still is struggling from the effects of the last mission in Afghanistan. Trusting a woman ended his career and started the nightmares of that mission.
Nowadays, he is working in the US at LAI as head of global security where he can keep an eye on the trafficking occurring as well as getting to meet the enchanting director of legislative affairs, Sofia Russo.
When she realizes that weapons are being trafficked and sold to an Afghani buyer, she tells Lachlan. The man she’s been asked by an Admiral to spy on.
As the attraction intensifies, so does the danger not only against Lachlan but also against Sophia.
From the opening words to the last ones, this audiobook will keep the listeners on the edge of their seats.
Will these two be able to survive the danger? If so, will Lachlan forgive Sophia for acting as a spy to gather information against him? Or, will each go their separate ways devastated by the hurt they experienced.
The narrator, Cole Robert Eubanks, does an excellent with the rendition of the various characters and as mentioned before, bringing the characters and the story to life.
I was entrusted a copy of this audiobook. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Lachlan Mackay, a former British special Air Service captain, still is struggling from the effects of the last mission in Afghanistan. Trusting a woman ended his career and started the nightmares of that mission.
Nowadays, he is working in the US at LAI as head of global security where he can keep an eye on the trafficking occurring as well as getting to meet the enchanting director of legislative affairs, Sofia Russo.
When she realizes that weapons are being trafficked and sold to an Afghani buyer, she tells Lachlan. The man she’s been asked by an Admiral to spy on.
As the attraction intensifies, so does the danger not only against Lachlan but also against Sophia.
From the opening words to the last ones, this audiobook will keep the listeners on the edge of their seats.
Will these two be able to survive the danger? If so, will Lachlan forgive Sophia for acting as a spy to gather information against him? Or, will each go their separate ways devastated by the hurt they experienced.
The narrator, Cole Robert Eubanks, does an excellent with the rendition of the various characters and as mentioned before, bringing the characters and the story to life.
I was entrusted a copy of this audiobook. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
January 12, 2023
Lachlan Mackay as SAS working in Afghanistan was badly betrayed by a female interpreter and lost most of his team. Now Security Teams Director for Landry Associates International, he has no time for women, and second guesses his judgement on them.
Sophia Russo made her move from Capitol Hill to Landry Associates to become Director of Legislative Affairs. She’s young for the position, but has great connections that should see her succeed in her new post.
Lachlan is leery of Sophia at first, and knows she’s got a hidden agenda, just not what. However it’s not long before they realise they have feeling for each other. With someone illegally selling arms to the Afghans, and making it look like Lachlan is the culprit, the pair will have to have some pretty fancy footwork to keep him being charged with treason.
If he can prove his innocence, and both survive the betrayal. They just might end up with a HEA.
The story held my attention from start to finish. It has a very twisty storyline with some unexpected outcomes. This is book one in the Dìleas Security Agency series, and I’m looking forward to the rest of the books.
I received a review reader’s copy of the book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Sophia Russo made her move from Capitol Hill to Landry Associates to become Director of Legislative Affairs. She’s young for the position, but has great connections that should see her succeed in her new post.
Lachlan is leery of Sophia at first, and knows she’s got a hidden agenda, just not what. However it’s not long before they realise they have feeling for each other. With someone illegally selling arms to the Afghans, and making it look like Lachlan is the culprit, the pair will have to have some pretty fancy footwork to keep him being charged with treason.
If he can prove his innocence, and both survive the betrayal. They just might end up with a HEA.
The story held my attention from start to finish. It has a very twisty storyline with some unexpected outcomes. This is book one in the Dìleas Security Agency series, and I’m looking forward to the rest of the books.
I received a review reader’s copy of the book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 5, 2023
I read an awful lot off military romance suspense and really didn't want to add another author to my always growing reading list but this book had been recommended on quite a few of my authors sites and seeing it was on unlimited I thought I would give it a try. I am so glad I did You know it is a great read when you read until your eyes can't stay open any longer and then you are back up at 6am hoping no one else wakes up until you finish the book and that is how I was with this read. It is a tightly woven story with quite a few twists and turns that kept me engaged Lachlan was a totally damaged hero who just need that strong woman to give him a reason to start living again even though he wasn't as responsible as he thought he was for everything that happened. Sophie was sweet and innocent but had a core of steel which she needed not only to handle Lachlan but also the situation she found herself in I can't wait for the next book in this series and this time I won't hesitate to grab it and devour it
January 28, 2024
I loved the narration of Cole Eubanks, who brings the action to your ears.
While Lachlan Mackay was with the SAS in Afghanistan, he and his team was betrayed by a female interpreter and because of this betrayal Lachlan lost most of his team. After leaving the SAS he became the Security Teams Director for Landry Associates International. Because of what happened in Afghanistan he has no time for women, and second guesses his judgement on them.
Sophia Russo has just become Director of Legislative Affairs. though young for the position, she has great connections.
Lachlan is not sure of Sophia at first, he knows she’s got a hidden agenda, just not what. Things start to get completed when they have feeling for each other. Someone is illegally selling arms to the Afghanistan, and making it look like Lachlan is the seller. Lachlan and Sophia have to work hard to Lachlan innocent and from being charged with treason.
This book has action, suspense, twists and the right amount of romance.
While Lachlan Mackay was with the SAS in Afghanistan, he and his team was betrayed by a female interpreter and because of this betrayal Lachlan lost most of his team. After leaving the SAS he became the Security Teams Director for Landry Associates International. Because of what happened in Afghanistan he has no time for women, and second guesses his judgement on them.
Sophia Russo has just become Director of Legislative Affairs. though young for the position, she has great connections.
Lachlan is not sure of Sophia at first, he knows she’s got a hidden agenda, just not what. Things start to get completed when they have feeling for each other. Someone is illegally selling arms to the Afghanistan, and making it look like Lachlan is the seller. Lachlan and Sophia have to work hard to Lachlan innocent and from being charged with treason.
This book has action, suspense, twists and the right amount of romance.
September 11, 2025
OMG! I finally got to this one on my TBR, and now I’m already loading up the rest of the series on audiobook. For starters, I am a complete sucker for Scottish men with that brogue accent, and Lachlan is basically Jamie Fraser in a suit, armed with a Sig Sauer and a whole arsenal of hidden weapons on his 6’4” frame. Good golly, what a hero!
This story had it all: fantastic pacing, non-stop action, heart-pounding suspense, and a romance that kept me hooked from start to finish. I’m beyond excited that I’ll be meeting this author at a book convention later this year, and after this book, I am officially stoked!
And can we talk about the narration? Eubanks absolutely nailed it. His accents for every character were on point- from the brooding Scottish Lachlan, to his Texan best friend Nathan Long, to British Intelligence officer Ryder Montague. Each voice was distinct, immersive, and completely spot-on.
Bottom line: just click Buy It Now. This book is amazing, and I can’t wait for more!
This story had it all: fantastic pacing, non-stop action, heart-pounding suspense, and a romance that kept me hooked from start to finish. I’m beyond excited that I’ll be meeting this author at a book convention later this year, and after this book, I am officially stoked!
And can we talk about the narration? Eubanks absolutely nailed it. His accents for every character were on point- from the brooding Scottish Lachlan, to his Texan best friend Nathan Long, to British Intelligence officer Ryder Montague. Each voice was distinct, immersive, and completely spot-on.
Bottom line: just click Buy It Now. This book is amazing, and I can’t wait for more!
January 12, 2023
Loved it!
This was a fabulous debut romantic suspense novel. The tension and mystery kept me guessing and the chemistry and interactions between Sophia and Lachlan kept me yearning for more. Somehow the plot felt novel and fresh and I particularly liked that the lead male character was Scottish and had served in the SAS. I appreciated that there were multiple levels of intrigue and mystery yet it was still easy to follow along.
I loved Sophia and Lachlan and thought they complimented each other well. The supporting characters were interesting too and I really look forward to continuing with this series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
This was a fabulous debut romantic suspense novel. The tension and mystery kept me guessing and the chemistry and interactions between Sophia and Lachlan kept me yearning for more. Somehow the plot felt novel and fresh and I particularly liked that the lead male character was Scottish and had served in the SAS. I appreciated that there were multiple levels of intrigue and mystery yet it was still easy to follow along.
I loved Sophia and Lachlan and thought they complimented each other well. The supporting characters were interesting too and I really look forward to continuing with this series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
November 13, 2025
Nice action mystery romance
This book was a suspenseful romance with a scene or two that could be considered racy but I wouldn't consider it very really steamy. It has alot of action and is very detailed but the romance ending of the book seemed rushed to me. Another issue I has was that at the start of the book, I thought the MMC was British but somewhere along the way, he started speaking with a Scottish accent so I was a little confused. He also used words in his native tongue and there was no translation for the reader, which is a negative for me to have to stop and look up the translation while reading.
But, overall, I enjoyed the content of the book and the development of the characters. I would read more from this author in the future.
This book was a suspenseful romance with a scene or two that could be considered racy but I wouldn't consider it very really steamy. It has alot of action and is very detailed but the romance ending of the book seemed rushed to me. Another issue I has was that at the start of the book, I thought the MMC was British but somewhere along the way, he started speaking with a Scottish accent so I was a little confused. He also used words in his native tongue and there was no translation for the reader, which is a negative for me to have to stop and look up the translation while reading.
But, overall, I enjoyed the content of the book and the development of the characters. I would read more from this author in the future.
December 31, 2022
Wow this was non stop action with such intensity and drama. It was fantastic!!
Sophia was starting a new job when asked to keep her eye on Lachlan Mackay as a suspected weapons trafficker.
The action never let go and I was so caught up in the story that I read it in one night.
Full of drama, conspiracy, deceipt and intrigue. I loved the connection that Sophia and Lachlan developed. Definitely a slow burn romance but the in depth feelings thrown around really took my breath away at times.
This is the first book I've read of this authors and won't be the last, that's for sure. So very good!!!
This was an ARC and this is my honest review.
Sophia was starting a new job when asked to keep her eye on Lachlan Mackay as a suspected weapons trafficker.
The action never let go and I was so caught up in the story that I read it in one night.
Full of drama, conspiracy, deceipt and intrigue. I loved the connection that Sophia and Lachlan developed. Definitely a slow burn romance but the in depth feelings thrown around really took my breath away at times.
This is the first book I've read of this authors and won't be the last, that's for sure. So very good!!!
This was an ARC and this is my honest review.
March 6, 2023
What a great read! Three former military men are trying to prevent a tragedy that will affect coalition forces, but can they trust a civilian woman that keeps getting in their way? There is action, adventure and a piping-hot romance to boot! The characters are well-written and developed. The story pace is a mile a minute until the very end. This is neither a cozy read nor appropriate for all readers. There are some explicit sex scenes. I can't wait until the next book to see which of these men meet their fated mates.
I received this book for free in exchange for a review.
I received this book for free in exchange for a review.
September 30, 2023
3.5* - Good start to the Series
Although I missed the ARC, I borrowed the book from KU to see if I would want to read further into the series. The story is pretty action filled when following Sophia as she starts her new job with a security firm. There she meets Lachlan, a former SAS captain who heads their Global Security services, while trying to find an arms dealer responsible for his injuries and the deaths of his men. The book will keep you guessing who is the good guys are!
Although I missed the ARC, I borrowed the book from KU to see if I would want to read further into the series. The story is pretty action filled when following Sophia as she starts her new job with a security firm. There she meets Lachlan, a former SAS captain who heads their Global Security services, while trying to find an arms dealer responsible for his injuries and the deaths of his men. The book will keep you guessing who is the good guys are!
February 19, 2024
A captivating story of betrayal, secrets, and honor as these two unlikely partners team up to discover an enemy hiding in the shadows. Lachlan and Sophia attempt to fight their instant chemistry, but of course what the heart wants cannot be denied. I did frequently get anxious and mentally urged the characters to open their eyes and realize who the true traitor was, as I had my suspicions early on...but that's just how I roll ha. I enjoyed the narration with Lachlan's accent. And that hint setup for next book's lovers has me intrigued.
March 15, 2025
Had Me Hooked At Page One!
Wow! This story was amazing, I love Lachlan and Sophia, they really went through it all! They were both dealing with things that had happened in their past, and things that were happening now. Lachlan was dealing with someone trying to frame him and Sophia was dealing with her job and a shady boss. In the midst of this they fell in love. This series is totally awesome!
Wow! This story was amazing, I love Lachlan and Sophia, they really went through it all! They were both dealing with things that had happened in their past, and things that were happening now. Lachlan was dealing with someone trying to frame him and Sophia was dealing with her job and a shady boss. In the midst of this they fell in love. This series is totally awesome!
January 17, 2023
This was a great book and the start of a brand new series. Ms. Lewis' characters were believable as Sophia trying to investigate whether Lachlan was involved in arms dealing with the Afgans. As she delves deeper, both are in danger. This is an action packed book I thoroughly enjoyed and will be reading the next one.
March 8, 2023
This is the first book I have read with this author. I will read more of her books. I really liked the characters and how they fight their attraction for each other. Love how they work together and solve a mystery of who is selling guns to the enemy.
The story of their love for each other is obvious to the reader and it takes some time for the characters to get it 'on'. I will be reading more of this authors books.
The story of their love for each other is obvious to the reader and it takes some time for the characters to get it 'on'. I will be reading more of this authors books.
September 22, 2024
Hooked
A start to a new ex-military series that gets you hooked. I liked the mix of interesting and diverse characters, enjoyed the twisted plot. A stand-alone story which is that, but linked to book 2 that I read first, which probably would have enjoyed more reading them in order. Looking forward to umber 3.
A start to a new ex-military series that gets you hooked. I liked the mix of interesting and diverse characters, enjoyed the twisted plot. A stand-alone story which is that, but linked to book 2 that I read first, which probably would have enjoyed more reading them in order. Looking forward to umber 3.
January 10, 2023
I received this story as an ARC and couldn’t be happier. This face paced book kept me up past my bedtime wondering if Sophia and Lachlan could make it through to the end with both their lives and hearts intact. Great twists and turns! Can’t wait for the next book!
January 20, 2023
Really sank into this romantic suspense. It had a lot of military jargon, but it was explained really well. The slow burn romance was well woth the wait! Enjoyed the cat and mouse suspicions between the two, the fact that the hero was a Scott (whew!) and great ending! Highly recommend.
February 10, 2023
I totally enjoyed this book. Lachlan is a complex character and the author did a fantastic job weaving his backstory into the plot. All of the details, from the settings to Sophia's legislative position to the military structure seemed authentic, and the last 25 percent flew by.
April 1, 2023
Great story
This book has a lot of danger,suspence and a little romance ,keeps you turning the pages to see what happens next until the very last page.looking forward to reading more books from this author
This book has a lot of danger,suspence and a little romance ,keeps you turning the pages to see what happens next until the very last page.looking forward to reading more books from this author
June 28, 2023
wonderful story
I am loving this new author!! She writes intricate stories that keep you guessing. The characters are well developed and have great chemistry. I love her heroes too!! I read this one after I read the second book and now I am ready for book 3, Ryder’s story!!!
I am loving this new author!! She writes intricate stories that keep you guessing. The characters are well developed and have great chemistry. I love her heroes too!! I read this one after I read the second book and now I am ready for book 3, Ryder’s story!!!
February 5, 2024
We are proud to announce that NEAR MISS by C.S. Smith has been honored with the B.R.A.G. Medallion (Book Readers Appreciation Group). It now joins the very select award-winning, reader-recommended books at indieBRAG.
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