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Team Zulu #3
The Heist
Freya
I’ll do anything to escape the controlling monster who’s tormented me for years, even if it means putting my life at the mercy of a criminal. When Kane Daniels breaks into my gilded cage, he doesn’t realize his loot will include more than gold and diamonds—it’ll include me.
Bearded, built, and covered in tats, Kane looks like a sexy Viking warrior wrapped in biker gear, embodying every filthy fantasy I never knew I had. It’s been a long time since I could choose anything for myself, and I’m choosing him.
But the devil I fled has dangerous men hunting me, and they won’t hesitate to eliminate anyone who stands in their way. I’m tougher than I look and have faced unimaginable suffering many times in my life, but losing Kane could be the first thing to break me.
Kane
After getting out of Team Zulu, my life is exactly the way I want it. No commitments. No responsibilities. No killing. And then a brazen blonde forces her way into my world, turning it upside down.
Freya Palmer is exactly the kind of trouble I should avoid, but when I learn of the nightmare she’s endured, my protective instincts kick in, and the black ops skills I never wanted to use again suddenly seem mighty useful. Because the man who hurt her badly wants her back, and I’m going to be the one to stop him.
Our arrangement is temporary. She’s living with me until she’s safe, but what if my heart wants something more permanent? How can I ask Freya to stay with me when all she dreams of is being free?
I’ll do anything to escape the controlling monster who’s tormented me for years, even if it means putting my life at the mercy of a criminal. When Kane Daniels breaks into my gilded cage, he doesn’t realize his loot will include more than gold and diamonds—it’ll include me.
Bearded, built, and covered in tats, Kane looks like a sexy Viking warrior wrapped in biker gear, embodying every filthy fantasy I never knew I had. It’s been a long time since I could choose anything for myself, and I’m choosing him.
But the devil I fled has dangerous men hunting me, and they won’t hesitate to eliminate anyone who stands in their way. I’m tougher than I look and have faced unimaginable suffering many times in my life, but losing Kane could be the first thing to break me.
Kane
After getting out of Team Zulu, my life is exactly the way I want it. No commitments. No responsibilities. No killing. And then a brazen blonde forces her way into my world, turning it upside down.
Freya Palmer is exactly the kind of trouble I should avoid, but when I learn of the nightmare she’s endured, my protective instincts kick in, and the black ops skills I never wanted to use again suddenly seem mighty useful. Because the man who hurt her badly wants her back, and I’m going to be the one to stop him.
Our arrangement is temporary. She’s living with me until she’s safe, but what if my heart wants something more permanent? How can I ask Freya to stay with me when all she dreams of is being free?
367 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 28, 2023
About the author
Julie Weaver
9 books589 followersJulie Weaver is a RWAus Emerald Award winner and author of spicy, action-packed romantic suspense novels.
Her Team Zulu series features morally gray, ex-elite military heroes and the feisty, kick-ass heroines who challenge them.
Get your free Team Zulu Christmas novella here: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/hvreeguzny
Find me here:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/juliewe...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julie.weave...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JulieWeaverA...
Website: https://www.julieweaverbooks.com/
Her Team Zulu series features morally gray, ex-elite military heroes and the feisty, kick-ass heroines who challenge them.
Get your free Team Zulu Christmas novella here: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/hvreeguzny
Find me here:
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/juliewe...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julie.weave...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JulieWeaverA...
Website: https://www.julieweaverbooks.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 286 reviews
August 22, 2025
SEALed with a Heist
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💚💜💙❤️🤎
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪🧪
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏
Character development: 😋🙂☺️😍🥰
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Dual Narration
🦸🏼♀️ Heroine: Freya
Freya’s resilience was forged in grief and captivity. After losing her mother at twelve, she grew up protecting her younger sister Lena from afar—while trapped in a gilded cage in Los Angeles. For seven years, she’s been the unwilling mistress of Andre, a sadistic black-market arms dealer who punishes her for infractions as petty as a servant’s mistake. Once charmed by his looks, Freya now sees only the grotesque mask of control and cruelty. Forced to wear a five-carat ring as a symbol of possession, she clings to the last ember of defiance. Andre thinks he’s broken her. He hasn’t. And she’s quietly plotting the only escape she believes possible.
---
🦸🏻♂️ Hero: Kane
Kane’s world is quieter now, but no less haunted. Living aboard a barely seaworthy motor yacht off Coronado Island, he’s traded Navy SEAL missions for caretaking at the yacht club. His twin brother Wyatt—also ex-SEAL—turned to high-stakes heists to pay for his daughter Reagan’s life-saving heart surgeries. Kane wants no part of that world anymore. But when Wyatt asks for help on one last job, Kane reluctantly agrees. The payout could finally restore his boat—and maybe his peace.
---
🔥 Story
The heist is simple on paper: pose as a security company, install a fake system, and steal priceless art, jewels, and a custom $3M car. Kane’s role? Drive the car, keep it pristine. But when a flat tire leads him to pop the trunk, he finds more than stolen luxury—he finds Freya. She’s orchestrated her own disappearance to look like a kidnapping, hitching her freedom to the chaos of the heist.
What follows is a tense, adrenaline-laced escape from Andre’s reach, with Kane and Freya forced into close quarters, high stakes, and emotional vulnerability neither expected.
---
❤️🔥 Highlights
• Freya’s initial bravado feels jarring given her trauma, but it’s a compelling layer—her armor against years of abuse.
• The premise is electric: a woman escaping her captor via a heist gone sideways? Yes, please.
• Andre’s subplot with a cartel adds depth and danger.
• The final showdown delivers satisfying catharsis and grit.
---
🤨 Low Points
• The emotional arc between Kane and Freya simmers too long. Their reluctance to acknowledge real feelings makes the romance feel delayed rather than slow-burn.
---
🎧 Narration Notes
Told in dual POVs, the narration is a standout.
• Stephen Dexter brings his signature gravelly charm, effortlessly shifting between characters with nuance and heat.
• Kai Kennicott, new to me, impressed with her rich, slightly husky British-accented delivery. Her tone suits Freya’s strength and vulnerability beautifully.
💬 Favorite Quotes
“I’d whore’d myself to the devil and should have read the fine print.”
“Wyatt’s SEAL career ended when he lost part of his leg. Mine ended when I lost part of my soul.”
“Of all the stupid things you could have stolen on your way out, why would you take Matisse’s god damned trophy wife?”
“Trophy mistress, and I didn’t take her. She hid in the trunk as part of some plan to escape, and I can’t figure out if it was pure genius or downright crazy.”
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Instagram|Twitter|BookBub
The following ratings are out of 5:
Romance: 💚💜💙❤️🤎
Heat/Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪🧪
Story/Plot: 📕📗📘📙📔
World building: 🌏🌍🌎🌏
Character development: 😋🙂☺️😍🥰
Narrator(s): 🎙🎙🎙🎙🎙
Narration type: Dual Narration
🦸🏼♀️ Heroine: Freya
Freya’s resilience was forged in grief and captivity. After losing her mother at twelve, she grew up protecting her younger sister Lena from afar—while trapped in a gilded cage in Los Angeles. For seven years, she’s been the unwilling mistress of Andre, a sadistic black-market arms dealer who punishes her for infractions as petty as a servant’s mistake. Once charmed by his looks, Freya now sees only the grotesque mask of control and cruelty. Forced to wear a five-carat ring as a symbol of possession, she clings to the last ember of defiance. Andre thinks he’s broken her. He hasn’t. And she’s quietly plotting the only escape she believes possible.
---
🦸🏻♂️ Hero: Kane
Kane’s world is quieter now, but no less haunted. Living aboard a barely seaworthy motor yacht off Coronado Island, he’s traded Navy SEAL missions for caretaking at the yacht club. His twin brother Wyatt—also ex-SEAL—turned to high-stakes heists to pay for his daughter Reagan’s life-saving heart surgeries. Kane wants no part of that world anymore. But when Wyatt asks for help on one last job, Kane reluctantly agrees. The payout could finally restore his boat—and maybe his peace.
---
🔥 Story
The heist is simple on paper: pose as a security company, install a fake system, and steal priceless art, jewels, and a custom $3M car. Kane’s role? Drive the car, keep it pristine. But when a flat tire leads him to pop the trunk, he finds more than stolen luxury—he finds Freya. She’s orchestrated her own disappearance to look like a kidnapping, hitching her freedom to the chaos of the heist.
What follows is a tense, adrenaline-laced escape from Andre’s reach, with Kane and Freya forced into close quarters, high stakes, and emotional vulnerability neither expected.
---
❤️🔥 Highlights
• Freya’s initial bravado feels jarring given her trauma, but it’s a compelling layer—her armor against years of abuse.
• The premise is electric: a woman escaping her captor via a heist gone sideways? Yes, please.
• Andre’s subplot with a cartel adds depth and danger.
• The final showdown delivers satisfying catharsis and grit.
---
🤨 Low Points
• The emotional arc between Kane and Freya simmers too long. Their reluctance to acknowledge real feelings makes the romance feel delayed rather than slow-burn.
---
🎧 Narration Notes
Told in dual POVs, the narration is a standout.
• Stephen Dexter brings his signature gravelly charm, effortlessly shifting between characters with nuance and heat.
• Kai Kennicott, new to me, impressed with her rich, slightly husky British-accented delivery. Her tone suits Freya’s strength and vulnerability beautifully.
💬 Favorite Quotes
“I’d whore’d myself to the devil and should have read the fine print.”
“Wyatt’s SEAL career ended when he lost part of his leg. Mine ended when I lost part of my soul.”
“Of all the stupid things you could have stolen on your way out, why would you take Matisse’s god damned trophy wife?”
“Trophy mistress, and I didn’t take her. She hid in the trunk as part of some plan to escape, and I can’t figure out if it was pure genius or downright crazy.”
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February 22, 2023
I didn’t think anyone could surpass my love for Shep in The Hit (book 1) and then Brandon in The Payback (book 2) but Ladies & Gentleman Kane Daniels IS my book boyfriend, you can all read this book, and of course you definitely should…but just know, Kane is mine 🥵🫠😍😂 sorry, not sorry lol
Ok, now let me explain why I loved Kane and Freya so much ❤️
This is a protector romance and Wow, Kane has “touch her and you die” vibes perfected 🫠
His brother Wyatt asks him to do a one time Heist with his ex military brothers, this is where he meets Freya in an epic way!
The banter between Kane & Freya starts as soon as they meet, and the heat builds throughout the book (the heat is SCORCHING!! *ahem phone scene 🥵🫠🌶️)
Freya certainly tests Kane’s grumpy patience early on, and I found their growing relationship to be addictive, as each one opens up about their pasts, they connect in a way that I found endearing.
Danger is closing in and they both need to use their wits and support of his teammates to overcome their nightmares both current & past.
This is a spicy 🌶️ book, with plenty of feels, it’s full of action and I would say it’s a military romantic suspense thriller (ex Navy Seals)
The secondary characters are great, some of which we’ve already seen, the future is bright with this series, my only complaint…I need the author to write faster 😬😂😂 I NEED Vaughan’s book asap 🤣😍
Highly Recommend
Ok, now let me explain why I loved Kane and Freya so much ❤️
This is a protector romance and Wow, Kane has “touch her and you die” vibes perfected 🫠
His brother Wyatt asks him to do a one time Heist with his ex military brothers, this is where he meets Freya in an epic way!
The banter between Kane & Freya starts as soon as they meet, and the heat builds throughout the book (the heat is SCORCHING!! *ahem phone scene 🥵🫠🌶️)
Freya certainly tests Kane’s grumpy patience early on, and I found their growing relationship to be addictive, as each one opens up about their pasts, they connect in a way that I found endearing.
Danger is closing in and they both need to use their wits and support of his teammates to overcome their nightmares both current & past.
This is a spicy 🌶️ book, with plenty of feels, it’s full of action and I would say it’s a military romantic suspense thriller (ex Navy Seals)
The secondary characters are great, some of which we’ve already seen, the future is bright with this series, my only complaint…I need the author to write faster 😬😂😂 I NEED Vaughan’s book asap 🤣😍
Highly Recommend
September 2, 2023
Friends, this series is great! It’s fast, full of wild and ridiculous near-death missions, and smutty romance.
This installment was hot and delicious 🤤 but the “mission” was ALL OVER THE PLACE! I’m obsessed with Kane and the rest of Team Zulu but these last two books had the most bonkers insta-love stories 🤣
3.5 stars
This installment was hot and delicious 🤤 but the “mission” was ALL OVER THE PLACE! I’m obsessed with Kane and the rest of Team Zulu but these last two books had the most bonkers insta-love stories 🤣
3.5 stars
March 5, 2023
DNF at 34%. Forced proximity with a non-enemies to lover trope does not work!!! 🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️ I'm sorry, but where's the tension? I loved the characters, but from 1/3 of the way in, I can tell the rest of the plot is going to be "let's get the bad guy" spliced between "emotional moments"
February 17, 2023
5 Sexy and Suspenseful Stars!!
Ok I have question.... How does one find themselves a protector from Team Zulu???
I mean....
Book 1 gave as Shep who will always own me.
Book 2 gave as the playful and sweet Brandon (I still swoon thinking about this man)
Now....
Book 3 gives as Kane and oh boy this tortured and broody man is lethal. He's a dirty talking cinnamon roll with piercings in all the right places (wink wink) and wrapped in a sexy AF layer of tattoos.
Did this man meet his match in Freya?? Oh yes he did...
Freya is a whole badass package. She's sassy, strong, loyal, humorous and determined. When she wants something (aka Kane) she will pull at all the stops until she gets it.
From the moment these two meet the sexual tension is fire.
But...
Kane doesn't want or need any drama in life and Freya is coming in hot with all of the drama and dangerous complications.
However, the desire to protect and keep her safe takes over and he will stop at nothing to keep her safe and maybe just maybe keep her forever?
What a ride the HEA journey was for these two.
It was filled with sexual tension, wicked banter, suspense, action, steam, a little angst and a whole lot of alpha-ness.
I'm loving this series and the Team Zulu Guys...
I can't wait for Book 4 where I'm totally calling it now... and saying Vaughn is MINE!! hehe
Ok I have question.... How does one find themselves a protector from Team Zulu???
I mean....
Book 1 gave as Shep who will always own me.
Book 2 gave as the playful and sweet Brandon (I still swoon thinking about this man)
Now....
Book 3 gives as Kane and oh boy this tortured and broody man is lethal. He's a dirty talking cinnamon roll with piercings in all the right places (wink wink) and wrapped in a sexy AF layer of tattoos.
Did this man meet his match in Freya?? Oh yes he did...
Freya is a whole badass package. She's sassy, strong, loyal, humorous and determined. When she wants something (aka Kane) she will pull at all the stops until she gets it.
From the moment these two meet the sexual tension is fire.
But...
Kane doesn't want or need any drama in life and Freya is coming in hot with all of the drama and dangerous complications.
However, the desire to protect and keep her safe takes over and he will stop at nothing to keep her safe and maybe just maybe keep her forever?
What a ride the HEA journey was for these two.
It was filled with sexual tension, wicked banter, suspense, action, steam, a little angst and a whole lot of alpha-ness.
I'm loving this series and the Team Zulu Guys...
I can't wait for Book 4 where I'm totally calling it now... and saying Vaughn is MINE!! hehe
April 3, 2023
Silly and funny on occasion
But also incredibly insensitive
Oh he raped you for seven years but you're not going to be a victim and you're going to act like a horny imbecile instead
She wrote her as more upset she couldn't have a burger than that she was abused by a pedo
But also incredibly insensitive
Oh he raped you for seven years but you're not going to be a victim and you're going to act like a horny imbecile instead
She wrote her as more upset she couldn't have a burger than that she was abused by a pedo
May 8, 2023
DNF at 49%
I felt bored reading this. The story just fell flat to me. Other reviews were saying how the FMC was one of their favorites they've ever read, and after experiencing her for 200 pages, I have to say she was not up to the hype. I understand that she's supposed to be this strong, independent woman who doesn't want her past to define her, but I feel like her lack of visible pain in regard to her past made her less realistic. I also found her to be a little inconsistent at times. For instance, she's triggered by small, dark places, but was able to WILLING sit in the trunk of the car TWICE and had no problem. But when she's in a small bedroom with the lights off, she can't handle it. So she was just annoying me at moments like that. I also felt no connection between the two characters.
I felt bored reading this. The story just fell flat to me. Other reviews were saying how the FMC was one of their favorites they've ever read, and after experiencing her for 200 pages, I have to say she was not up to the hype. I understand that she's supposed to be this strong, independent woman who doesn't want her past to define her, but I feel like her lack of visible pain in regard to her past made her less realistic. I also found her to be a little inconsistent at times. For instance, she's triggered by small, dark places, but was able to WILLING sit in the trunk of the car TWICE and had no problem. But when she's in a small bedroom with the lights off, she can't handle it. So she was just annoying me at moments like that. I also felt no connection between the two characters.
February 25, 2023
Holy wow! What can I say other than I freaking loved this book! Freya is one of the strongest heroines I've ever read and after having her life controlled for far too long by a monster, she decides to break free from her gilded cage...with the unknowing help of some thieves. Kane, a former Navy SEAL haunted by a past mistake, is the protector who would die to keep her safe. Everything about this story-- from the action to the spice to the revenge-- kept me reading late every night. Bravo, Julie! Another fantastic book! I can't wait for Vaughn!
July 5, 2023
I gave it 3 ⭐ but more like a 2.5 ⭐..
First I give Freye props for getting herself kidnapped and not letting Andre ruin her mentally..
However, she tries jumping into bed with Kane like 24 hrs later and acting immature. Like she couldn't screw him fast enough after getting away from Andre. Like "hold up girl, take a breather" before getting into bed with another man you don't know. (Cause it worked out great the first time)... Also I'm all for an insta-lust, but saying "I love you" after like a week? With the first man you've even talked to in 7 yrs, c'mon now.
But Kane's mouth? 🥵
First I give Freye props for getting herself kidnapped and not letting Andre ruin her mentally..
However, she tries jumping into bed with Kane like 24 hrs later and acting immature. Like she couldn't screw him fast enough after getting away from Andre. Like "hold up girl, take a breather" before getting into bed with another man you don't know. (Cause it worked out great the first time)... Also I'm all for an insta-lust, but saying "I love you" after like a week? With the first man you've even talked to in 7 yrs, c'mon now.
But Kane's mouth? 🥵
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2026
I LOVED it!! I love all the zulu team series but this one has my heart!
Freya sacrificed for 7 years to give her father and sister a life. But the sacrifice that should have broken her only made her stronger!
Kane has sworn never to participate in his brother's Robin Hood scheme, but when he discovers that one of the people he loves most is at risk, he decides to join. What makes him kidnap Freya... By mistake. 😅 And what a beautiful mistake. Because these two together are the cutest mistake I've ever seen! 😍
Freya has escaped the bars of a criminal who won't give up on getting his prize back. But for that he will have to go through Kane, who is willing to do what he promised never to do again... Kill!
You need to read this book!! If you weren't convinced by what I said above, know that Kane and Freya are the sexiest couple in the literary world (as far as I know!). Oh and did I mention that Kane is covered in tattoos and has a few piercings?! 😈😈
The banter between them from the moment they meet is 🔥
We have action right from the first chapter that only increases throughout the story. The chemistry and playful side of the two is 👨🍳🤌🏻. And you can see that in a certain scene involving a phone call 😈😈 IYKYK
So as you can see I loved it and highly recommend this reading!!
Freya sacrificed for 7 years to give her father and sister a life. But the sacrifice that should have broken her only made her stronger!
Kane has sworn never to participate in his brother's Robin Hood scheme, but when he discovers that one of the people he loves most is at risk, he decides to join. What makes him kidnap Freya... By mistake. 😅 And what a beautiful mistake. Because these two together are the cutest mistake I've ever seen! 😍
Freya has escaped the bars of a criminal who won't give up on getting his prize back. But for that he will have to go through Kane, who is willing to do what he promised never to do again... Kill!
You need to read this book!! If you weren't convinced by what I said above, know that Kane and Freya are the sexiest couple in the literary world (as far as I know!). Oh and did I mention that Kane is covered in tattoos and has a few piercings?! 😈😈
The banter between them from the moment they meet is 🔥
We have action right from the first chapter that only increases throughout the story. The chemistry and playful side of the two is 👨🍳🤌🏻. And you can see that in a certain scene involving a phone call 😈😈 IYKYK
So as you can see I loved it and highly recommend this reading!!
August 31, 2026
THE HEIST was so much fun and Freya and Kane were such a delight to read about! I loved the setup for this book with Freya basically facilitating her own kidnapping so she could escape her abuser. The sparks were flying from the moment Kane found Freya stashed away in the trunk of the car he just stole and they never let up. These two had such amazing chemistry and yes, they did fall fast and hard but I have no complaints about their obsessive attraction to each other.
We met Kane back in book 1 and I loved his character even though he played such a small role so it was great to dive deeper into who he was. On the surface he's a laid back, casual guy who lives on his boat and enjoys just scraping by, but under all of that we saw the painful trauma Kane was still working through. He was the perfect landing spot for Freya to recover and find her independence because he never wanted to stifle her big personality. And can I just say that Freya had me rolling with her dirty mouth, creative British curse words, and zero filter. She's been living under the thumb of an abusive and controlling man but she hasn't let that dim her spirit or fire.
Together Kane and Freya were spicy and sexy but also really tender and sweet. I think THE HEIST found the perfect balance of romance and suspense and I equally loved the relationship development as well as the mission the team took on to take down Andre. There was so much action and I never wanted to put this down because I had to know what would happen next. It was also great to see the previous couples as the Team Zulu team worked together (especially Cam and Shep) and I also loved the addition of Kane's brother Wyatt and his crew. This series has definitely cemented Julie Weaver as a go-to author for sexy suspense romance!
Content Warning: coerced relationship and domestic violence (not between MCs); PTSD; references to human trafficking
We met Kane back in book 1 and I loved his character even though he played such a small role so it was great to dive deeper into who he was. On the surface he's a laid back, casual guy who lives on his boat and enjoys just scraping by, but under all of that we saw the painful trauma Kane was still working through. He was the perfect landing spot for Freya to recover and find her independence because he never wanted to stifle her big personality. And can I just say that Freya had me rolling with her dirty mouth, creative British curse words, and zero filter. She's been living under the thumb of an abusive and controlling man but she hasn't let that dim her spirit or fire.
Together Kane and Freya were spicy and sexy but also really tender and sweet. I think THE HEIST found the perfect balance of romance and suspense and I equally loved the relationship development as well as the mission the team took on to take down Andre. There was so much action and I never wanted to put this down because I had to know what would happen next. It was also great to see the previous couples as the Team Zulu team worked together (especially Cam and Shep) and I also loved the addition of Kane's brother Wyatt and his crew. This series has definitely cemented Julie Weaver as a go-to author for sexy suspense romance!
Content Warning: coerced relationship and domestic violence (not between MCs); PTSD; references to human trafficking
August 1, 2023
This was soooo good omg i wasn't expecting it, going blind into reading and then find a 5⭐️ book truly is the best feeling🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻
February 12, 2023
The Heist Team Zulu Book 3. Freya was a feisty force to be reckoned with trying to live life on her terms after managing to free herself from an unfortunate situation. Turns out she was the perfect challenge for Zane, who was mired in his own past regrets and perceived failures with Team Zulu. Right from their first unusual meeting this slow burn romance was lit all the while the action, drama, and intrigue surrounding them begins to take shape. As this well written story unfolds, many memorable Team Zulu members make an appearance and perhaps there’s a hint of what may come in the future.
February 12, 2023
This one has a different feel from the first two books, but it’s still great. I loved Kane and Freya’s characters and enjoyed the growth they experienced separately and together. From their first meet which was surprising and funny, it just gets better from there. There’s plenty of excitement, danger, heat, struggles, emotions, and lots of twists and turns. It was also great seeing the guys and gals from the previous books. Intense, edge of your seat goodness from beginning to end!
February 28, 2023
you see all those 5 stars? THEY ARE WELL FUCKING DESERVED!!!!!
I ATE THIS BOOK UP!
Eeekk this is also my 1st five star read of 2023! So, YES IT IS THAT GOOD.
I completely fell in love Kane. And wait... because guess what? I fell in love w Freya too. These two are my new favs. I love Shep& Cam. I love Brandon& Sage. BUT THESE TWO? I AM DOWNRIGHT OBSESSED with them!
Never in my life have a ever cared so much for an fmc lol. Sorry not sorry. But Freya? SHE IS A BAD ASS BITCH. It's like... I want to be her but I also just want to be her bestie. Not once did she annoy me. Which is a huge shocker, because most fmc's do. And ohhhh I love that she has sass!!! She's funny and caring. She suffered for so long, and yet she still so strong. It's admirable! She radiated boss bitch vibes from the very first page and I am so here for it.
"God help any bastard who stood in the path of my freedom."
Now y'all... Kane? NEW BOOK BOYFRIEND. Actually, NO. He IS HUSBAND material. Period. He's right there on my top 10. I will literally fight a bitch for him. I'm thanking Julie everyday for writing this man! He's like a combination of broody and sunshine. His possessives has me weak in the knees. And heart beating way too fast to be normal. How can I not be obsessed when he's all muscles and tattoos? WITH A BEARD!!!! How I wish he was real ): but fr, it isn't even about just his looks. This man is super caring and loving! He's protective over those he loves. He gives it his all to everything he does. Whether that's taking care of his niece or having to look after Feyra. I love that he's a family man. 🥹 AND THE THINGS HE WOULD SAY TO FEYRA!!!!!! THE THINGS HE WOULD THINK!!! *sighs* He's adorable& sweet while also giving "don't fuck with me vibes", it's just too much! My brain is on overload.
“If she smiled, I wanted to see it again. When she laughed, I wanted the next one to be louder. And when she touched me, my weak-ass brain jumped to a whole new level of indecency and imagined all the dirty things I wanted to do to her.”
As for the storyline? And pacing? It was all done so right. Okay, so maybe there was times where I thought some things could've been left out. I don't even mind though because here I am and there I was not sleeping to finish the book. Which btw has everything you can possibly want.
There's a good amount of action to keeps you entertained. There's HOT HOT HOT smut that will have you blushing. There's so so many cute scenes where he's just so perfect you want to hug him. And there's funny scenes where you're going to laugh your ass off because Feyra and her mouth!!!! And Kane too! They're so perfect together. THESE TWO ARE SOULMATES FRFR. I love how they kept each other on their toes. The strangers to friends to lovers is *chef's kiss* ! The banter is AMAZING! The relationship is indescribable!
This book is written to perfection. I highly HIGHLY recommend reading it. BUT not before you start with book 1! The Hit. Shep& Cam's story. These two? I love them! I love them all. Gosh, this series and their found family HAS ME IN A CHOKEHOLD. I can't wait for Vaughn's story!!!!!! and I'm really hoping Lena and Owen get one too! I don't even mind a novella. At this point I'd read anything Julie writes.
*arc provided in exchange for an honest review*
I ATE THIS BOOK UP!
Eeekk this is also my 1st five star read of 2023! So, YES IT IS THAT GOOD.
I completely fell in love Kane. And wait... because guess what? I fell in love w Freya too. These two are my new favs. I love Shep& Cam. I love Brandon& Sage. BUT THESE TWO? I AM DOWNRIGHT OBSESSED with them!
Never in my life have a ever cared so much for an fmc lol. Sorry not sorry. But Freya? SHE IS A BAD ASS BITCH. It's like... I want to be her but I also just want to be her bestie. Not once did she annoy me. Which is a huge shocker, because most fmc's do. And ohhhh I love that she has sass!!! She's funny and caring. She suffered for so long, and yet she still so strong. It's admirable! She radiated boss bitch vibes from the very first page and I am so here for it.
"God help any bastard who stood in the path of my freedom."
Now y'all... Kane? NEW BOOK BOYFRIEND. Actually, NO. He IS HUSBAND material. Period. He's right there on my top 10. I will literally fight a bitch for him. I'm thanking Julie everyday for writing this man! He's like a combination of broody and sunshine. His possessives has me weak in the knees. And heart beating way too fast to be normal. How can I not be obsessed when he's all muscles and tattoos? WITH A BEARD!!!! How I wish he was real ): but fr, it isn't even about just his looks. This man is super caring and loving! He's protective over those he loves. He gives it his all to everything he does. Whether that's taking care of his niece or having to look after Feyra. I love that he's a family man. 🥹 AND THE THINGS HE WOULD SAY TO FEYRA!!!!!! THE THINGS HE WOULD THINK!!! *sighs* He's adorable& sweet while also giving "don't fuck with me vibes", it's just too much! My brain is on overload.
“If she smiled, I wanted to see it again. When she laughed, I wanted the next one to be louder. And when she touched me, my weak-ass brain jumped to a whole new level of indecency and imagined all the dirty things I wanted to do to her.”
As for the storyline? And pacing? It was all done so right. Okay, so maybe there was times where I thought some things could've been left out. I don't even mind though because here I am and there I was not sleeping to finish the book. Which btw has everything you can possibly want.
There's a good amount of action to keeps you entertained. There's HOT HOT HOT smut that will have you blushing. There's so so many cute scenes where he's just so perfect you want to hug him. And there's funny scenes where you're going to laugh your ass off because Feyra and her mouth!!!! And Kane too! They're so perfect together. THESE TWO ARE SOULMATES FRFR. I love how they kept each other on their toes. The strangers to friends to lovers is *chef's kiss* ! The banter is AMAZING! The relationship is indescribable!
This book is written to perfection. I highly HIGHLY recommend reading it. BUT not before you start with book 1! The Hit. Shep& Cam's story. These two? I love them! I love them all. Gosh, this series and their found family HAS ME IN A CHOKEHOLD. I can't wait for Vaughn's story!!!!!! and I'm really hoping Lena and Owen get one too! I don't even mind a novella. At this point I'd read anything Julie writes.
*arc provided in exchange for an honest review*
February 12, 2023
This one kept me on the edge of my seat! Freya is a totally awesome strong woman with a whole lot of spunk! I love how Kane fell fast and hard and pulled out all the stops to give Freya what she needed….even if it might mean waiting! Lots of plot twists, moments of sweetness, and flashes of heat- a great read! ❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
March 20, 2023
So good
This book is freaking fantastic. I love Freya and Kane, they're so good together. He's not grumpy and actually a lot nicer for a hero. As for Freya, I really admire her resilience, even after all what she went through she still got that fire inside her. I would say she has a sunny personality.
I also liked the action and angst. There's a sexual tension but not so much seeing as they were both attracted to each other, and openly showing that. But I did had fun with their banter and push and pull in the beginning.
I love this series, the heroes are all protective and alpha in endearing ways. I love the most are the heroines, they're all brave, feisty and with headstrong personality. I'm glad that even though they are under the protection of these soldiers they never become spineless and can stand their ground.
Overall, this is such an enjoyable read. I hope there's more books to come from Ms. Weaver ❤️
This book is freaking fantastic. I love Freya and Kane, they're so good together. He's not grumpy and actually a lot nicer for a hero. As for Freya, I really admire her resilience, even after all what she went through she still got that fire inside her. I would say she has a sunny personality.
I also liked the action and angst. There's a sexual tension but not so much seeing as they were both attracted to each other, and openly showing that. But I did had fun with their banter and push and pull in the beginning.
I love this series, the heroes are all protective and alpha in endearing ways. I love the most are the heroines, they're all brave, feisty and with headstrong personality. I'm glad that even though they are under the protection of these soldiers they never become spineless and can stand their ground.
Overall, this is such an enjoyable read. I hope there's more books to come from Ms. Weaver ❤️
October 31, 2024
I don’t usually write reviews, but fuck that was bad. I mean sooo bad and cringe and the heroine, who has gone through hell supposedly, was spilling her guts to the first stranger and had zero trauma from seven years of torture somehow? Anyway I only finished it because I had to know if it was all a the that bad. Spoiler alert it was.
May 30, 2026
I wanted to DNF this so bad but i pushed through so i can with full confidence say that it absolutely sucked, it had so much potential i actually liked the plot and the beginning was really good it got to like 40% and all went to hell, it’s so bad it single handily pushed me into a reading slump…
August 16, 2023
Mana m reee para polla cute story! Alla o Andre ekame me na thelw na tou fkalw ta mathkia tou thkiaole!
March 10, 2024
This was the one in the series I’ve been waiting for, and yes it was the best in the series too.
A good storyline and great main characters.
A good storyline and great main characters.
September 23, 2023
I adored The Heist. It’s probably my favourite after The Payback. It was filled with action, romance, chemistry, a bit more spice and suspense. I found Freya to be a delightful character who didn’t lose herself even when her life was nothing but suffering in a not-so-gilded cage. Whilst I didn’t always agree with her decisions, I completely understood most of them even if they were unconventional. Kane was a grump with a dark past, who had sworn off any and all commitments and responsibilities but had a soft heart and some serious protective instincts. Their chemistry was palpable from the very first moment they met and whilst their romance started off with more of a physical desire, which didn’t come to completion until about 50% into the book, the deeper emotions soon joined in as well. The plot worked with some heavy topics and themes, but they didn’t drive the story into a very dark place.
Freya sacrificed her freedom to support her family, unknowingly giving herself to a man who actively tried to break her in. I adored her determination and strength not only for not giving herself up and not breaking from all the suffering she had to endure but also for being able to play the long game, escape and save herself essentially, even if she needed a little help. But she wasn’t defined by her situation. Whilst she could have been a darker character struggling with her situation, she didn’t let her experiences overpower her and she took control of her life. The way she put those circumstances behind her was pretty much a coping mechanism. Instead, she was adorably delightful and funny. A rather positive character who still showed, however rarely, that her situation did affect her. Sometimes I felt that she was just a tiny bit naïve, but I justified that with her past experiences, or their lack of, and to be honest, that was one of the reasons why I really liked her. But then other times she was very bold and cheeky, so I felt that she was a very well-rounded character with both flaws and strengths.
‘Freya was temptation personified. Everything about her called to me in a way I’d never experienced before. Yes, she was beautiful, but her strength, determination, and bravery set her apart. I admired the way she spoke her mind, wore her heart on her sleeve, and loved her family fiercely. That she’d survived her ordeal and maintained her sense of self was testament to her resilience.’
Kane, who was a former black-ops member, pretty much sworn off any and all commitments and responsibilities, living from day to day on his boat, keeping a distance from people. He was a grumpy character who preferred to be on his own because he didn’t think he deserved to be happy and at peace, his past tormenting him, unable to forgive himself. But then he was also a cinnamon roll who loved deeply. I loved his loyalty to his loved ones and his reliability. Even though he didn’t want to care about anything, he stepped up to take part in the “Robin Hood” heist his brother, Wyatt, and his former military friends planned. Whilst he hesitated, it was clear he would’ve never left them on their own and had their backs, just like he did with the other Team Zulu members.
I absolutely adored the banter and witty remarks between Kane and Freya. Freya tested Kane’s patience multiple times, riling him up, and pushing his buttons sometimes accidentally, sometimes on purpose. Their chemistry was pretty captivating from the beginning. The unconventional way they first met was really entertaining. There was a physical chemistry from the get-go which steadily increased as the story progressed, along with their deeper emotions. One could say that the romance was quite fast-paced for someone in Freya’s position, but for me, it made sense because finally she had control over her own body, and her own choices, and it is an actual, real reaction. Some people want to get the control back by pretty much jumping into bed, which didn’t happen immediately as Kane stepped up to be the reasonable one, but the way she wanted to do it, the thought process, was indeed realistic. And Kane was pretty clear-headed, more than I thought he would be, and he also offered protection, support and transparency to Freya. It’s kind of hard to resist that. Besides, I loved how relentless Freya was when it came to getting Kane’s attention and more. It created some pretty funny and heated scenes both in and out of the bedroom.
“I’m just trying to be a gentleman. It doesn’t come naturally to me.”
“Didn’t you just finish telling me to be myself? I don’t expect you to change who you are while I’m here. And just so you know, I’m going to stare at all this”—I gestured at the ink covering his bulky chest—“as much as I like and not feel guilty about it for a second.”
I loved that the Zulu team and their love interests appeared because we could see them together, we could see their friendship, their trust, and the way they worked together. I think it was book 1 where I said I wanted to see more of that and now they were all in one place, working together which kind of helped me connect with them more. And I was pretty happy seeing new side characters showing up as well.
Just like the previous books, the plot was fast(er)-paced focusing on romance, action, control, revenge, friendships and familial relationships creating multiple dangerous, heated and suspenseful scenarios. The writing style was easy to understand and had a healthy balance of inner monologues, descriptions and action, and a good ratio between telling and showing. It is a stand-alone book, meaning it can be read without reading the other books in the series as every necessary information is shared throughout the story, however, it does offer more depth if it’s read in order.
On a side note, I cannot wait or rather am hoping for Freya’s sister, Lena, and Vaugh’s brother, Owen’s story. From the first moment they appeared together, I knew there was something in the air.
Overall, this was a delightfully entertaining book with very likeable and well-rounded characters. The story was filled with action, drama and suspense, and the romance and chemistry provided some very heated intimate scenes. I adored Freya and Kane both separately and together, not only because their romance was captivating, but also because they provided some hilarious scenes. However, the only reason The Heist got 4/5 stars is because after The Payback (book 2), this was missing something. Maybe I shouldn’t have read them back-to-back, maybe I should have waited a bit, but book 2 was an absolute 5-star read and this book didn’t have that extra little kick.
Ratings of the other books in the series:
Mid-Reading Updates!
@inkedbooksloth
Freya sacrificed her freedom to support her family, unknowingly giving herself to a man who actively tried to break her in. I adored her determination and strength not only for not giving herself up and not breaking from all the suffering she had to endure but also for being able to play the long game, escape and save herself essentially, even if she needed a little help. But she wasn’t defined by her situation. Whilst she could have been a darker character struggling with her situation, she didn’t let her experiences overpower her and she took control of her life. The way she put those circumstances behind her was pretty much a coping mechanism. Instead, she was adorably delightful and funny. A rather positive character who still showed, however rarely, that her situation did affect her. Sometimes I felt that she was just a tiny bit naïve, but I justified that with her past experiences, or their lack of, and to be honest, that was one of the reasons why I really liked her. But then other times she was very bold and cheeky, so I felt that she was a very well-rounded character with both flaws and strengths.
‘Freya was temptation personified. Everything about her called to me in a way I’d never experienced before. Yes, she was beautiful, but her strength, determination, and bravery set her apart. I admired the way she spoke her mind, wore her heart on her sleeve, and loved her family fiercely. That she’d survived her ordeal and maintained her sense of self was testament to her resilience.’
Kane, who was a former black-ops member, pretty much sworn off any and all commitments and responsibilities, living from day to day on his boat, keeping a distance from people. He was a grumpy character who preferred to be on his own because he didn’t think he deserved to be happy and at peace, his past tormenting him, unable to forgive himself. But then he was also a cinnamon roll who loved deeply. I loved his loyalty to his loved ones and his reliability. Even though he didn’t want to care about anything, he stepped up to take part in the “Robin Hood” heist his brother, Wyatt, and his former military friends planned. Whilst he hesitated, it was clear he would’ve never left them on their own and had their backs, just like he did with the other Team Zulu members.
I absolutely adored the banter and witty remarks between Kane and Freya. Freya tested Kane’s patience multiple times, riling him up, and pushing his buttons sometimes accidentally, sometimes on purpose. Their chemistry was pretty captivating from the beginning. The unconventional way they first met was really entertaining. There was a physical chemistry from the get-go which steadily increased as the story progressed, along with their deeper emotions. One could say that the romance was quite fast-paced for someone in Freya’s position, but for me, it made sense because finally she had control over her own body, and her own choices, and it is an actual, real reaction. Some people want to get the control back by pretty much jumping into bed, which didn’t happen immediately as Kane stepped up to be the reasonable one, but the way she wanted to do it, the thought process, was indeed realistic. And Kane was pretty clear-headed, more than I thought he would be, and he also offered protection, support and transparency to Freya. It’s kind of hard to resist that. Besides, I loved how relentless Freya was when it came to getting Kane’s attention and more. It created some pretty funny and heated scenes both in and out of the bedroom.
“I’m just trying to be a gentleman. It doesn’t come naturally to me.”
“Didn’t you just finish telling me to be myself? I don’t expect you to change who you are while I’m here. And just so you know, I’m going to stare at all this”—I gestured at the ink covering his bulky chest—“as much as I like and not feel guilty about it for a second.”
I loved that the Zulu team and their love interests appeared because we could see them together, we could see their friendship, their trust, and the way they worked together. I think it was book 1 where I said I wanted to see more of that and now they were all in one place, working together which kind of helped me connect with them more. And I was pretty happy seeing new side characters showing up as well.
Just like the previous books, the plot was fast(er)-paced focusing on romance, action, control, revenge, friendships and familial relationships creating multiple dangerous, heated and suspenseful scenarios. The writing style was easy to understand and had a healthy balance of inner monologues, descriptions and action, and a good ratio between telling and showing. It is a stand-alone book, meaning it can be read without reading the other books in the series as every necessary information is shared throughout the story, however, it does offer more depth if it’s read in order.
On a side note, I cannot wait or rather am hoping for Freya’s sister, Lena, and Vaugh’s brother, Owen’s story. From the first moment they appeared together, I knew there was something in the air.
Overall, this was a delightfully entertaining book with very likeable and well-rounded characters. The story was filled with action, drama and suspense, and the romance and chemistry provided some very heated intimate scenes. I adored Freya and Kane both separately and together, not only because their romance was captivating, but also because they provided some hilarious scenes. However, the only reason The Heist got 4/5 stars is because after The Payback (book 2), this was missing something. Maybe I shouldn’t have read them back-to-back, maybe I should have waited a bit, but book 2 was an absolute 5-star read and this book didn’t have that extra little kick.
Ratings of the other books in the series:
The Rescue 4/5 stars
The Hit 4/5 stars
The Payback 5/5 stars
The Heist 4/5 stars
Scarred Souls 4/5 stars
Ravaged Hearts 4/5 stars
Mid-Reading Updates!
Page 117
Lol Freya and Kane are absolutely chaotic xD
Page 231
Shouldn’t they throw away the iPad? They threw away the phones since they were traceable. Isn’t an iPad traceable as well? I’m assuming they were watching YouTube in the safe house through one of Brandon’s safer routes like they did in The Payback (book 2) but throughout the car ride Regan was using the iPad before they met Brandon so didn’t that risk their location? Maybe I’m just overthinking it.
Page 347
Ooh this was good! The Payback (Book 2) is still my favourite, but I still enjoyed this more than The Hit (Book 1). I love a man who loves wholly. And whilst Freya made me feel a lot of different feelings, often shock, she was quite entertaining.
@inkedbooksloth
August 18, 2024
Look man I can’t even rank these books I’m devouring them so fast it’s like a tv show they are all my favorite start at the beginning & keep going!!! I can’t stop!!! I have to wait what 3 more days for the next one?! And then after that what?! Am I just to hungrily wait like a rabid animal?! I swear these books have me in a chokehold my brain, my body, my dating life?! None of me will ever be the same Julie Weaver you have ruined me in the best way. Side note anyone in SD wanna hang around Coronado this weekend & just kinda scope things out, might be weird if I started poking around the boat docks alone
February 3, 2024
When he’s allergic to commitment and she’s only looking for freedom.. Seems like the perfect combo until emotions get in the way.
Kane and Freya 😍 I loved these two together! The way they’re thrown together cracked me up. Freya is seriously a warrior, I have so much respect for her and the way she handles everything. The change in Kane though.. 🥹
Kane and Freya 😍 I loved these two together! The way they’re thrown together cracked me up. Freya is seriously a warrior, I have so much respect for her and the way she handles everything. The change in Kane though.. 🥹
March 19, 2023
4⭐️ oh my god so much better than the 1st book in the series! (I skipped the 2nd and I probably won’t read it)
Kane and Freya are so fun. Freya is hysterical and I love her “honey badger” attitude lol. My only complaint is the spice! For such a dirty talker, their phone sex was for entertaining then when they actually did it. Meh.
Kane and Freya are so fun. Freya is hysterical and I love her “honey badger” attitude lol. My only complaint is the spice! For such a dirty talker, their phone sex was for entertaining then when they actually did it. Meh.
April 12, 2023
Broody man with a poorly defined past that still haunts him? ✅
Long drawn out sexual tension?✅
One bed (boat) trope?✅
Tattoos?✅
Plot? No, but I don’t require plot in my smut.
Long drawn out sexual tension?✅
One bed (boat) trope?✅
Tattoos?✅
Plot? No, but I don’t require plot in my smut.
December 19, 2024
Kane & Freya’s story
February 23, 2024
The pacing was great, and I loved both the mmc and fmc’s pov. Freya had it rough for seven years but she didn’t let it hold her back when she got free and found Kane.
July 2, 2025
Welp, one of the few moments where TikTok got me with a quote! I had a grand time reading this!
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