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Code Name: Phoenix
A HACKER ON THE RUN,
CAUGHT BETWEEN
AN OBSESSIVE MADMAN
AND A LOVER WHO THINKS SHE’S DEAD.
Hunted from both sides of the law, Jessa is a hacker in hiding in this intense, action-packed romantic suspense that starts on the first page and never lets up. Once the secrets come out, not everyone will end up on the same side they started on.
Code Name: PHOENIX
I lost Jessa when her family was killed by a sadistic psycho ten years ago.
Her body was never found and I vowed vengeance.
Imagine my shock when my black ops team shows up to capture that same monster’s hacking team—and she comes to the door.
It pales in comparison to the rage that consumes me when she chooses to run.
I thought I lost her then. Now, I’ll never let her go.
Target: JESSA
I lost Jack when my family was murdered and I was forced into hiding.
I searched for him for years only to be told he moved on and was living the perfect life with a new family while I fought to stay alive.
Then he shows up, telling me everything I thought I knew about him was a lie, but this changes nothing.
I’m still being hunted by someone I once trusted, and if I don’t recover the code I need, I’ll never be free.
There’s only one it’s hidden in the one place I can’t hack into, my own mind, and time is running out.
* language, violence, and the recollection of torture/assault (contained to one chapter, not between main characters). Code Phoenix is the first book in a brand new interconnected standalone series titled Cypher Black Ops Security. Each book in the series is a standalone and can be read on its own. Some characters may appear in other stories in the series.
CAUGHT BETWEEN
AN OBSESSIVE MADMAN
AND A LOVER WHO THINKS SHE’S DEAD.
Hunted from both sides of the law, Jessa is a hacker in hiding in this intense, action-packed romantic suspense that starts on the first page and never lets up. Once the secrets come out, not everyone will end up on the same side they started on.
Code Name: PHOENIX
I lost Jessa when her family was killed by a sadistic psycho ten years ago.
Her body was never found and I vowed vengeance.
Imagine my shock when my black ops team shows up to capture that same monster’s hacking team—and she comes to the door.
It pales in comparison to the rage that consumes me when she chooses to run.
I thought I lost her then. Now, I’ll never let her go.
Target: JESSA
I lost Jack when my family was murdered and I was forced into hiding.
I searched for him for years only to be told he moved on and was living the perfect life with a new family while I fought to stay alive.
Then he shows up, telling me everything I thought I knew about him was a lie, but this changes nothing.
I’m still being hunted by someone I once trusted, and if I don’t recover the code I need, I’ll never be free.
There’s only one it’s hidden in the one place I can’t hack into, my own mind, and time is running out.
* language, violence, and the recollection of torture/assault (contained to one chapter, not between main characters). Code Phoenix is the first book in a brand new interconnected standalone series titled Cypher Black Ops Security. Each book in the series is a standalone and can be read on its own. Some characters may appear in other stories in the series.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 5, 2023
144 people are currently reading
165 people want to read
About the author
Luna Kayne
23 books189 followersFollow Luna on BookBub for the latest on sales and new releases: bookbub.com/profile/luna-kayne
Luna Kayne is a multi-genre romance author located in Canada. She writes dark romantic suspense with a hint of humor and a heaping dose of angst. Her men are dominant and often stubborn, and her women are often underestimated.
Luna enjoys gardening, dislikes long winters, and she doesn’t understand how commas work (thankfully, her editor does).
Luna Kayne is a multi-genre romance author located in Canada. She writes dark romantic suspense with a hint of humor and a heaping dose of angst. Her men are dominant and often stubborn, and her women are often underestimated.
Luna enjoys gardening, dislikes long winters, and she doesn’t understand how commas work (thankfully, her editor does).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
June 5, 2023
Logan ruined this whole book for me. And he wasn't even the hero. He was a side character whose attitude I simply didn't appreciate.
There's a way to go about getting what is needed without abusing an already suffering victim. I also don't appreciate the overall response to his actions.
There's a way to go about getting what is needed without abusing an already suffering victim. I also don't appreciate the overall response to his actions.
June 6, 2023
Code Name: Phoenix by Luna Kayne is a part of the Cypher Black Ops Security Series. This is the story of Jack and Jessa. Jack and his team have been on the path to take down criminal syndicate especially those involved with Jessa 'death and that of her family. Jessa watched her family killed and live through her own hell but now is a pawn due to her hacking skills. This is how Jack learns she is alive. This is a suspense romance with some trigger issues.
June 4, 2023
Firstly I normally wouldn’t read the military romance genre but when I saw it was written by Luna Kayne I knew I was going to like it.
The only way I can describe this book is that it is an emotional rollercoaster from start to finish. Please beware of chapter 22 as this chapter may hold some content that you may not be comfortable in reading - so please do check the trigger warnings.
The story follows Jessa and Jack. Jack and Jessa meet years previously while he is undercover for a job but right before they of course catch the bad guy disaster strikes which leads to the murder of Jessa and her family in a car accident… or so we thought. Years later Jessa and Jack are reunited when he is on a mission.
Jessa is an absolute amazing and strong FMC and I clicked with her instantly and Jack may I say SWOON.
Thank you to the author for providing this e-arc for my honest review.w
The only way I can describe this book is that it is an emotional rollercoaster from start to finish. Please beware of chapter 22 as this chapter may hold some content that you may not be comfortable in reading - so please do check the trigger warnings.
The story follows Jessa and Jack. Jack and Jessa meet years previously while he is undercover for a job but right before they of course catch the bad guy disaster strikes which leads to the murder of Jessa and her family in a car accident… or so we thought. Years later Jessa and Jack are reunited when he is on a mission.
Jessa is an absolute amazing and strong FMC and I clicked with her instantly and Jack may I say SWOON.
Thank you to the author for providing this e-arc for my honest review.w
June 1, 2023
This was a different book for me…. Hacker…. I enjoyed this! It was exciting the whole book lots of action and romance too!!!
Jessa and jack
They met in high school but he was uNader over trying to get info on a kid in the school. He falls in love with Jessa but an accident happens he be believes that she dies along with her entire family. He spends the next 10 years looking and gathering information on this family that put him undercover in the first place….. until he finds this one thing that changes his plan
I received an ARC of this book for my honest opinion….Loved this story highly recommend
Jessa and jack
They met in high school but he was uNader over trying to get info on a kid in the school. He falls in love with Jessa but an accident happens he be believes that she dies along with her entire family. He spends the next 10 years looking and gathering information on this family that put him undercover in the first place….. until he finds this one thing that changes his plan
I received an ARC of this book for my honest opinion….Loved this story highly recommend
June 7, 2023
My mistake thinking this was a fictional romance with some mystery & suspense.
June 4, 2023
5⭐️ 2🌶️
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again–I absolutely love Luna Kayne’s writing. This was another fantastic start to a now must read series and I don’t know if I’ll ever get enough of Cypher Black Ops. This was definitely on the less spicy side of Luna’s writing but when we did get steamy scenes, they were delicious, and it more than made up for this shift by giving us an incredible plot. I was hooked from the very beginning and there were so many twists, turns, and secrets revealed that I never saw coming.
Jack was spectacular. I was a bit hesitant when I found out he was ex-military, as that’s not typically my jam, but he was all the things I love in a book boyfriend–possessive, protective, obsessive, and yet so tender, kind, and sweet toward Jessa. He was never over-the-top alpha and I appreciated how he let the emotional side show, even in front of others, because he simply couldn’t help himself when it came to Jessa. I loved the way he loved her.
Jessa was also everything I dream of in a badass FMC. She is intelligent, selfless (to nearly a fault), fierce, and yet constantly underestimated by those around her. I love that she doesn’t let this hold her back, though, and rather uses it to her advantage to enact her meticulous plans. My heart ached at the lies she believed at the hands of Markos, though, and when she finally found out the truth, it broke again as she realized all of the time she’d missed with Jack. Her endless protection of him, though, even when she thought he had moved on and was happy, was incredible and I was cheering her on when she finally got her long deserved and hard fought HEA.
I really enjoyed the style of writing here and I’m not sure I’ve seen it anywhere else. While we flip between first person accounts from Jessa, Jack, and Logan, we do get some overlap in timeline and see multiple perspectives of the same event which I felt painted such a stronger picture. I also enjoyed the side characters and all of the world building set up in this book. I can’t wait to see what the next book brings and where Dana’s story will take us after that doozy of an ending.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again–I absolutely love Luna Kayne’s writing. This was another fantastic start to a now must read series and I don’t know if I’ll ever get enough of Cypher Black Ops. This was definitely on the less spicy side of Luna’s writing but when we did get steamy scenes, they were delicious, and it more than made up for this shift by giving us an incredible plot. I was hooked from the very beginning and there were so many twists, turns, and secrets revealed that I never saw coming.
Jack was spectacular. I was a bit hesitant when I found out he was ex-military, as that’s not typically my jam, but he was all the things I love in a book boyfriend–possessive, protective, obsessive, and yet so tender, kind, and sweet toward Jessa. He was never over-the-top alpha and I appreciated how he let the emotional side show, even in front of others, because he simply couldn’t help himself when it came to Jessa. I loved the way he loved her.
Jessa was also everything I dream of in a badass FMC. She is intelligent, selfless (to nearly a fault), fierce, and yet constantly underestimated by those around her. I love that she doesn’t let this hold her back, though, and rather uses it to her advantage to enact her meticulous plans. My heart ached at the lies she believed at the hands of Markos, though, and when she finally found out the truth, it broke again as she realized all of the time she’d missed with Jack. Her endless protection of him, though, even when she thought he had moved on and was happy, was incredible and I was cheering her on when she finally got her long deserved and hard fought HEA.
I really enjoyed the style of writing here and I’m not sure I’ve seen it anywhere else. While we flip between first person accounts from Jessa, Jack, and Logan, we do get some overlap in timeline and see multiple perspectives of the same event which I felt painted such a stronger picture. I also enjoyed the side characters and all of the world building set up in this book. I can’t wait to see what the next book brings and where Dana’s story will take us after that doozy of an ending.
June 5, 2023
4⭐️ 2🌶️
- MF
- Romantic Suspense
- Second Chance
- Forced Proximity
- Revenge
- Found Family
When I pick up a Luna Kayne book I know I’m in for a good time. Her writing makes me so happy! I couldn’t wait to see her take on romantic suspense and I was not disappointed.
Jack thought he lost the love of his life years ago after her family was targeted by a powerful and corrupt family. Jack made it his life to take down those responsible for her death and thought he was one step closer when his private security firm tracked down the hacker working for his enemy. Imagine his surprise when he comes face to face with Jessa, his lost love. Now he doesn’t know who she is working for and who to trust.
I loved Jessa! She was such a baddie who would do anything to protect those she loves, even if it means sacrificing herself. My heart broke for all that she had endured while she and Jack were apart but she was such an incredibly strong person. She used her trauma to motivate her to be the best hacker she could be to take down those responsible for ruining her life. I loved that she never stopped loving Jack despite her belief that they could never be together.
Poor Jack has his life turned upside down when he found Jessa alive and well. I loved seeing this big, bad, special ops guy completely lose his mind over the woman he loved. Seriously all his common sense went out the window and all he cares about was Jessa and protecting her. It was pretty adorable.
I cannot wait for the next book in this series. I’m assuming it is going to be about Dana and Grizz and I am so excited to see the wild chance she will take him on.
- MF
- Romantic Suspense
- Second Chance
- Forced Proximity
- Revenge
- Found Family
When I pick up a Luna Kayne book I know I’m in for a good time. Her writing makes me so happy! I couldn’t wait to see her take on romantic suspense and I was not disappointed.
Jack thought he lost the love of his life years ago after her family was targeted by a powerful and corrupt family. Jack made it his life to take down those responsible for her death and thought he was one step closer when his private security firm tracked down the hacker working for his enemy. Imagine his surprise when he comes face to face with Jessa, his lost love. Now he doesn’t know who she is working for and who to trust.
I loved Jessa! She was such a baddie who would do anything to protect those she loves, even if it means sacrificing herself. My heart broke for all that she had endured while she and Jack were apart but she was such an incredibly strong person. She used her trauma to motivate her to be the best hacker she could be to take down those responsible for ruining her life. I loved that she never stopped loving Jack despite her belief that they could never be together.
Poor Jack has his life turned upside down when he found Jessa alive and well. I loved seeing this big, bad, special ops guy completely lose his mind over the woman he loved. Seriously all his common sense went out the window and all he cares about was Jessa and protecting her. It was pretty adorable.
I cannot wait for the next book in this series. I’m assuming it is going to be about Dana and Grizz and I am so excited to see the wild chance she will take him on.
June 8, 2023
And breath. I felt like I was watching a high drama action spy movie but all in my head. The plot was fantastic and was written so well, it was easy to imagine everything happening in real time.
This was a superb starter to a series I'm sure I will love.
Jack spent 10 years building Cypher Ops and hunting this villain Max and his Father.
Jessa has spent 10 years on the run hiding from one location to another. Working with this said Villian.
Until one day when Jessa and Jack met and their past came crashing.
I don't want to give anything away so will leave it there.
Oh my goodness! I was on a ride and a half. The mystery, suspense, revelations, deception, torture, twists and turns, the omg 'no way' moments, found family, emotional roller-coaster and Steam.
Please read triggers as some scenes were very upsetting and hard to read.
I cried, then was so happy and then heartbroken, yeah an emotional roller coaster haha.
I really liked how clever the whole plot was. The way the story developed and each time being shocked at a turn.
I can't wait to read next book and hope it's Grizz and Dana's story.
This was a superb starter to a series I'm sure I will love.
Jack spent 10 years building Cypher Ops and hunting this villain Max and his Father.
Jessa has spent 10 years on the run hiding from one location to another. Working with this said Villian.
Until one day when Jessa and Jack met and their past came crashing.
I don't want to give anything away so will leave it there.
Oh my goodness! I was on a ride and a half. The mystery, suspense, revelations, deception, torture, twists and turns, the omg 'no way' moments, found family, emotional roller-coaster and Steam.
Please read triggers as some scenes were very upsetting and hard to read.
I cried, then was so happy and then heartbroken, yeah an emotional roller coaster haha.
I really liked how clever the whole plot was. The way the story developed and each time being shocked at a turn.
I can't wait to read next book and hope it's Grizz and Dana's story.
June 2, 2023
This book was beyond fantastic! It was heart wrenching and tragic, full of suspense and twist and turns- some you definitely don’t see coming! I had a pretty good idea right from the start who “Zane” was, but I was totally blown away and surprised at the big revelation at the end about Travis! I so didn’t see any of that coming. It kinda broke my heart for Jessa when she finally revealed the truth.
I loved Jack and Jessa’s story, how they met, and their connection, it was all perfect. Until tragedy struck, forcing them apart, and lies were told that kept them separated for a decade. But then certain events happened and brought them together again. And this time Jack vowed he’d never lose her again. They both were broken and devastated by the past, so seeing them get their HEA was the best thing. I loved Jessa. That girl went through hell, and suffered so much pain, but she came back stronger and determined to get revenge!
I started this book at around 8:30pm, and I couldn’t put it down! Finished it just before midnight and now I’m dying for Grizz and Dana’s story! I can’t wait, it’s going to be very exciting. I’d love to see Logan and Waldo get their story too!
I loved Jack and Jessa’s story, how they met, and their connection, it was all perfect. Until tragedy struck, forcing them apart, and lies were told that kept them separated for a decade. But then certain events happened and brought them together again. And this time Jack vowed he’d never lose her again. They both were broken and devastated by the past, so seeing them get their HEA was the best thing. I loved Jessa. That girl went through hell, and suffered so much pain, but she came back stronger and determined to get revenge!
I started this book at around 8:30pm, and I couldn’t put it down! Finished it just before midnight and now I’m dying for Grizz and Dana’s story! I can’t wait, it’s going to be very exciting. I’d love to see Logan and Waldo get their story too!
June 2, 2023
Wow!!! What a story!!! Code Name: Phoenix, by Luna Kayne, is the non-stop action, thriller, the start of the Cypher Black Ops Security series. It is the story of Jack and Jessa. They were a thing in high school…until the unbelievable happens. Now, Jessa is hacker. She and her friend are caught red-handed hacking a system. They are discovered by Jack and his team. The story spirals at this point!!! There’s one shock after another, huge devastating truths come out…and the hits just keep on coming!!!
Jack is phenomenal, but has trouble staying professional, at times. Jessa is da bomb!!! She’s so strong, resilient, and full of vim and vigor!!! I can’t remember when a book kept me up past bedtime…LOL. But, it wasn’t just individual chapters that I anticipated and had to continue with…it was every single word!!! I couldn’t miss even one!!! Definitely, one of the best reads of the year for me!!! Magnificent read! There are riggers in this story...so beware. There are also some messed up characters whose actions are off the charts!! Highly, HIGHLY, recommend!!!
Jack is phenomenal, but has trouble staying professional, at times. Jessa is da bomb!!! She’s so strong, resilient, and full of vim and vigor!!! I can’t remember when a book kept me up past bedtime…LOL. But, it wasn’t just individual chapters that I anticipated and had to continue with…it was every single word!!! I couldn’t miss even one!!! Definitely, one of the best reads of the year for me!!! Magnificent read! There are riggers in this story...so beware. There are also some messed up characters whose actions are off the charts!! Highly, HIGHLY, recommend!!!
June 4, 2023
I WAS NOT READY!! Absolutely mind blown consumed and sucked all the way in with this book and all that is Jack and Jessa. This good will put you through all the emotions let me tell you. Some of the gut wrenching scenes destroyed my heart. But the love that these once shared and really never went away shined bright. You knew from the moment Jacks eyes landed on Jessa again she was end game felt that in my soul. This book has it all the secrets the lies the drama and suspense it will have you on the edge of your seat at times and others wanting to throw ur kindle across the room. All in all a great read and I’m looking forward to more in this series hopefully from some of the side characters because they were seriously amazing!
June 5, 2023
The military background, possessiveness, underestimated FMC- I was hooked from the start! Every time I said to myself “this is the last chapter for tonight”, I found myself saying “just one more chapter!” The suspense right from beginning really pulls you in, and keeps you wanting more.
I absolutely love a strong, smart, and feisty female main character like Jessa, and I love that Jack is a badass military guy with a soft heart and eyes only for her.
Multiple POVs in this book, which I do enjoy as it helps me understand characters more. I can’t wait for another book in the series, and to follow some of the other characters more!
I absolutely love a strong, smart, and feisty female main character like Jessa, and I love that Jack is a badass military guy with a soft heart and eyes only for her.
Multiple POVs in this book, which I do enjoy as it helps me understand characters more. I can’t wait for another book in the series, and to follow some of the other characters more!
June 6, 2023
We are the sum of two souls that have been shattered, only to find our way back to each other.
H.O.L.L.Y hell! What a ride. I freaking LOVED this series. I love the plot. It was a slow burn for sure but I was still so freaking good! There was so much trauma that Jessa had to endure at one point but she still rose from the ashes. She was a freaking smart as heck computer coder. Underestimate but she played her cards just right to set things in motion. I can't wait for the rest of the series. This was amazing!
H.O.L.L.Y hell! What a ride. I freaking LOVED this series. I love the plot. It was a slow burn for sure but I was still so freaking good! There was so much trauma that Jessa had to endure at one point but she still rose from the ashes. She was a freaking smart as heck computer coder. Underestimate but she played her cards just right to set things in motion. I can't wait for the rest of the series. This was amazing!
May 27, 2023
I was hooked within a few chapters. I love pining MC’s and both of them had been pining for a decade. Bring on the angst, catnip for me. Jessa and Jack, ah I was so happy they met up again. The scenes between them were emotional and heartfelt, especially after the video Jessa sees. The action and intrigue kept the story moving at a great pace and I finished this book so fast. Definitely a series I want to continue.
I do wish we had the moles motivation for betrayal, but besides that I’m a happy reader.
Thank you Luna Kayne and BookFunnel for the arc.
I do wish we had the moles motivation for betrayal, but besides that I’m a happy reader.
Thank you Luna Kayne and BookFunnel for the arc.
July 20, 2023
Full Review posted at A Book Lovin' Mama's Blog
Code Name: Phoenix is Luna Kayne’s first book in her new military/romantic suspense interconnected standalone series. This one was definitely hard to put down, especially with it being a second-chance romance where lost loves are reunited. It also is romantic suspense, and it’s been a while since I read a book from this subgenre.
Luna Kayne did a fabulous job introducing this brand-new series, where the MMC is part of a military/black ops team, and the FMC is a hacker who has been on the run for years. As someone who worked in the CyberSecurity field, I love books that have hackers in them, especially when the author has researched what hackers are capable of in today’s technologies. I also enjoyed being introduced to secondary characters that will possibly get their stories in this series, even if one of them I didn’t like at first.
I will immediately admit that I’m a big fan of Jessa, who is the FMC in the book, not only due to her being a hacker but getting glimpses of her past to present-day POVs to read what happened to her and what was behind her being a hacker. She went through a lot when she was thought to be dead for ten years, but she never gave up on her love for the MMC, Jack. She was very well-written and will definitely be one that will go down on my list as unforgettable kick-butt heroines.
The story gets really interesting because Luna throws in so many twists and turns, with secrets being revealed on what really happened ten years ago up until the present day, with the sadistic villain in the story that deserves the revenge that will be coming for him. This man was psychotic and deserved what was coming to him.
This book is dual POV, with Jessa and Jack telling their sides of things from past/present POVs, and there is also another character’s POV, Logan, which is significant to the storyline. He was one secondary character you’ll have a hate/love relationship with until you read his POV.
Overall, the first book in this series by Luna Kayne gets four stars, and I look forward to reading the rest.
Content Warning(s)/Trigger(s): Please, read the author’s content warning at the beginning of the book since there is one chapter that could be difficult for some readers to read.
Would I recommend this book? Yes. I recommend this to readers who enjoy the subgenre Romantic Suspense with heart-pounding, action-packed scenes. I also recommend it to readers that enjoy reading military/black ops romance stories with characters that get a second chance at love.
Code Name: Phoenix is Luna Kayne’s first book in her new military/romantic suspense interconnected standalone series. This one was definitely hard to put down, especially with it being a second-chance romance where lost loves are reunited. It also is romantic suspense, and it’s been a while since I read a book from this subgenre.
Luna Kayne did a fabulous job introducing this brand-new series, where the MMC is part of a military/black ops team, and the FMC is a hacker who has been on the run for years. As someone who worked in the CyberSecurity field, I love books that have hackers in them, especially when the author has researched what hackers are capable of in today’s technologies. I also enjoyed being introduced to secondary characters that will possibly get their stories in this series, even if one of them I didn’t like at first.
I will immediately admit that I’m a big fan of Jessa, who is the FMC in the book, not only due to her being a hacker but getting glimpses of her past to present-day POVs to read what happened to her and what was behind her being a hacker. She went through a lot when she was thought to be dead for ten years, but she never gave up on her love for the MMC, Jack. She was very well-written and will definitely be one that will go down on my list as unforgettable kick-butt heroines.
The story gets really interesting because Luna throws in so many twists and turns, with secrets being revealed on what really happened ten years ago up until the present day, with the sadistic villain in the story that deserves the revenge that will be coming for him. This man was psychotic and deserved what was coming to him.
This book is dual POV, with Jessa and Jack telling their sides of things from past/present POVs, and there is also another character’s POV, Logan, which is significant to the storyline. He was one secondary character you’ll have a hate/love relationship with until you read his POV.
Overall, the first book in this series by Luna Kayne gets four stars, and I look forward to reading the rest.
Content Warning(s)/Trigger(s): Please, read the author’s content warning at the beginning of the book since there is one chapter that could be difficult for some readers to read.
Would I recommend this book? Yes. I recommend this to readers who enjoy the subgenre Romantic Suspense with heart-pounding, action-packed scenes. I also recommend it to readers that enjoy reading military/black ops romance stories with characters that get a second chance at love.
July 17, 2024
I delayed reading this based on the many reviews blasting Logan for his cruel treatment of Jessa (Logan is not the MMC).
Have to say the reality was underwhelming. Logan wasn't just being an ass for shits and giggles. It had to be done by surprise but it's something Jessa would actually have asked him to do. We know from the book description that Jessa was a hacker and had been captured and tortured years ago by the crime boss Maxwell.
There's a moment when Maxwell makes contact and surprises them by
Except Logan isn't really an ass.
Finally, let's be clear that Logan did not repeat the torture that Maxwell inflicted (again this isn't a spoiler, you know from the book blurb that Maxwell tortured her). For those who want to know what happened that the other reviewers are mad at Logan for, here's the spoiler. I would have appreciated the disclosure before I read it because for me it ended up not being nearly as bad as I was expecting, and certainly didn't ruin the overall story for me. But here it is so you can decide for yourself if it's a deal-breaker.
As you can see from the hidden quotes above, Jessa was already fretting about how to unlock the mental block and she would have had Logan trigger her had he not already come to that decision.
From Logan's POV:
Later:
Okay, now that THAT'S taken care of, reviewing the rest of the book.
* no plot holes
* nothing implausible, no 16 yr olds acting and speaking like 30 yr olds lol
* no cheating
* MMC and FMC are devoted to each other
* emotional maturity all around
* spice was fairly low - maybe two stars. It was definitely secondary to the special opps plot.
* Epilogue - finally a solid epilogue and one we don't have to sign up for a newsletter to download and read.
Have to say the reality was underwhelming. Logan wasn't just being an ass for shits and giggles. It had to be done by surprise but it's something Jessa would actually have asked him to do. We know from the book description that Jessa was a hacker and had been captured and tortured years ago by the crime boss Maxwell.
There's a moment when Maxwell makes contact and surprises them by
Except Logan isn't really an ass.
I (Jack) glance over to Logan, who is frozen in his seat with his hand covering the look of shock on his face.
Finally, let's be clear that Logan did not repeat the torture that Maxwell inflicted (again this isn't a spoiler, you know from the book blurb that Maxwell tortured her). For those who want to know what happened that the other reviewers are mad at Logan for, here's the spoiler. I would have appreciated the disclosure before I read it because for me it ended up not being nearly as bad as I was expecting, and certainly didn't ruin the overall story for me. But here it is so you can decide for yourself if it's a deal-breaker.
As you can see from the hidden quotes above, Jessa was already fretting about how to unlock the mental block and she would have had Logan trigger her had he not already come to that decision.
From Logan's POV:
Later:
I am truly sorry, Jessa. For your experience, and for my part in bringing those memories back. I know Jack and Dana are here for you, and I want you to know that I am as well, if you'd like to talk to me, considering... I can also get access to a counselor, someone with no personal attachment, whatever you need.
Okay, now that THAT'S taken care of, reviewing the rest of the book.
* no plot holes
* nothing implausible, no 16 yr olds acting and speaking like 30 yr olds lol
* no cheating
* MMC and FMC are devoted to each other
* emotional maturity all around
* spice was fairly low - maybe two stars. It was definitely secondary to the special opps plot.
* Epilogue - finally a solid epilogue and one we don't have to sign up for a newsletter to download and read.
June 8, 2023
*ARC kindly provided by the author and I’m leaving an honest review*
5 *
✔Contemporary
✔Romantic suspense
✔Military romance
✔Second chance
✔Undercover assignment
✔A thirst for revenge
✔A hacker on the run
✔A black ops team
✔An ex-military hero with a big heart, vulnerable, protective, possessive and with a weight on his shoulders and revenge on his mind
✔A tough hacker who has a silent strength, vulnerable, stands her ground, fierce yet doesn't trust easily
✔Enough twisty suspense and emotional baggage to fill a room
✔Fun cast of supporting – secondary characters that add to the story and development
✔A heart-pounding action
✔A page-turning mystery
✔Unpredictable twists and turns
✔Gripping / gritty / raw / suspenseful
✔Scorching Steam
✔Off – the- charts chemistry
✔Beautiful love story
Code Name: Phoenix is the first book in a brand new interconnected standalone series Cypher Black Ops Security by Luna Kayne. Each book can be read as a standalone. Code Name: Phoenix is a thrilling, compelling, gripping, raw, edge of your seat page turner, a bit dark, a little twisted, and a wild ride that I enjoyed from the beginning to the end with an effortless and poignant writing and storytelling. The author brings her A game crafting a beautifully imperfect masterpiece, an intense, action-packed romantic suspense, a dark world and relatable, high-octane characters with a storyline that will keep the reader glued to the pages.
I was spellbound by Jack and Jessa. These two were fabulous together. Their love story is thrilling, gripping, raw and a huge emotional roller coaster. Jack has a big heart, vulnerable, protective, possessive, obsessive with a weight on his shoulders and revenge on his mind. Yet, he can be tender, kind, loving, caring especially with Jessa. He also let his emotional side show in front of others, he wasn't shy about it. Jessa is fierce, vulnerable, stands her ground and so selfless to the point where she sacrifices her own happiness. Many times over the book I wished she was more selfish and to reach her own happiness because she deserved it. I loved her silent strength and how kickass she was. The chemistry and tension between them were everything. It felt like the fate brought them together. They are both so relatable and real. The pace of the story added to their romance and plot. They are layered with an edge and depth. I loved how they blossomed and thrived, got their chance at love and a fresh beginning.
HEARTBREAKINGLY BEAUTIFUL, UNPUTDOWNABLE, RAW, HEALING AND REAL! A beautiful start to the brand new series. My first book by this author but certainly won't be the last. If you enjoy romantic suspense with elements of military romance, a black ops team, a hacker, wonderful secondary characters, second chance, struggles, challenges, a journey of self-discovery, forgiveness, believing in love, secrets and mystery then this book is for you. Cannot wait for the next one.
5 *
✔Contemporary
✔Romantic suspense
✔Military romance
✔Second chance
✔Undercover assignment
✔A thirst for revenge
✔A hacker on the run
✔A black ops team
✔An ex-military hero with a big heart, vulnerable, protective, possessive and with a weight on his shoulders and revenge on his mind
✔A tough hacker who has a silent strength, vulnerable, stands her ground, fierce yet doesn't trust easily
✔Enough twisty suspense and emotional baggage to fill a room
✔Fun cast of supporting – secondary characters that add to the story and development
✔A heart-pounding action
✔A page-turning mystery
✔Unpredictable twists and turns
✔Gripping / gritty / raw / suspenseful
✔Scorching Steam
✔Off – the- charts chemistry
✔Beautiful love story
Code Name: Phoenix is the first book in a brand new interconnected standalone series Cypher Black Ops Security by Luna Kayne. Each book can be read as a standalone. Code Name: Phoenix is a thrilling, compelling, gripping, raw, edge of your seat page turner, a bit dark, a little twisted, and a wild ride that I enjoyed from the beginning to the end with an effortless and poignant writing and storytelling. The author brings her A game crafting a beautifully imperfect masterpiece, an intense, action-packed romantic suspense, a dark world and relatable, high-octane characters with a storyline that will keep the reader glued to the pages.
I was spellbound by Jack and Jessa. These two were fabulous together. Their love story is thrilling, gripping, raw and a huge emotional roller coaster. Jack has a big heart, vulnerable, protective, possessive, obsessive with a weight on his shoulders and revenge on his mind. Yet, he can be tender, kind, loving, caring especially with Jessa. He also let his emotional side show in front of others, he wasn't shy about it. Jessa is fierce, vulnerable, stands her ground and so selfless to the point where she sacrifices her own happiness. Many times over the book I wished she was more selfish and to reach her own happiness because she deserved it. I loved her silent strength and how kickass she was. The chemistry and tension between them were everything. It felt like the fate brought them together. They are both so relatable and real. The pace of the story added to their romance and plot. They are layered with an edge and depth. I loved how they blossomed and thrived, got their chance at love and a fresh beginning.
HEARTBREAKINGLY BEAUTIFUL, UNPUTDOWNABLE, RAW, HEALING AND REAL! A beautiful start to the brand new series. My first book by this author but certainly won't be the last. If you enjoy romantic suspense with elements of military romance, a black ops team, a hacker, wonderful secondary characters, second chance, struggles, challenges, a journey of self-discovery, forgiveness, believing in love, secrets and mystery then this book is for you. Cannot wait for the next one.
June 24, 2023
This was a very intriguing read as well as one of the new to me author reads I had this month.
I'm pretty much a one click reader for anything that has "hacker" in the title or blurb for a book. Add in Romantic Suspense or Military and I can't get my mouse to the download button fast enough.
I did need to take a little bit of time to write this review only as I read this book coming off of two very dark and hard for me reads. This book had some deeper and twistier parts than I was expecting so I needed some space before I came back to review it. I needed to clear my head.
Overall, this book was an utterly phenomenal read. It reads as a series starter as the plot of this book wraps up and is closed, but there is still an open door that needs to be closed. I am looking forward that book being published as I am firmly attached to this group of men and women.
Jessa, Jack, and the group of service men who make up Jack's military ops group are well written, well formed characters. Their personalities are strong and come across on the page as if they are standing in the room with you.
Jessa and her friend Dana have been on the run for quite a long time. These circumstances have lead to some very understandable behaviors and these are not women who are sitting around waiting for a prince or a knight to appear and solve their issues. Both of these women are strong, independent thinkers, and they approach problems and solutions in different ways. Jessa is a strong, loud, leader. A very in your face alpha female. Dana is a bit more relaxed, but just as fierce. Dana's fierce appears in different ways and her strength is that velvet covered steel backbone one associates with women of the south.
Jack and his team come to terms very quickly with how these two women operate, how they will need to work with them, and how the two women may be both weapons that could destroy Jack's ops unit or allies that could make them stronger than ever.
The plot did go much darker than I anticipated from the blurb. Both with interrogation tactics as well as repressed memories and past harm. While the harm to one of the characters is in the past it is quite harsh and at one point in the book it is described on page as the group watches the character in a video. I would strongly advise anyone with triggers to tread carefully with this novel as while the scenes are necessary for the plot, the book, and the characters, they are graphic in nature. Please chose self care over the book if need be.
The handling of this critical plot piece is well done by the author. The reactions of all of the characters and the actions it sets into play are understandable if difficult to read at parts. Reading through the character's thoughts as items played out was perfect as it helped center the reader on the "whys" and it also kept the characters grounded in the reader's head.
The plot had a great pace to it with minimal drag. There were some slower spots but I can't pinpoint anything that I would like removed or anything that I would have liked added to the story line.
I did like that the story keep me engaged and intrigued to a point that I didn't check the last page to see if my guesses to the main "reveals" were correct or not. I was fully immersed with these fictional people on their mountain base in their cyber battles against a nemesis they'd all been hunting down for years for their own various reasons.
I also enjoyed that in various ways, every character had their own personal stake in why they needed to find the main baddie and why that gave them all equal urgency to get to the end point.
A very unique look at situation often presented in this area of writing with a major role reversal that I adored.
I would highly recommend this book with the warning of the graphic nature of items requiring trigger warnings.
I'm pretty much a one click reader for anything that has "hacker" in the title or blurb for a book. Add in Romantic Suspense or Military and I can't get my mouse to the download button fast enough.
I did need to take a little bit of time to write this review only as I read this book coming off of two very dark and hard for me reads. This book had some deeper and twistier parts than I was expecting so I needed some space before I came back to review it. I needed to clear my head.
Overall, this book was an utterly phenomenal read. It reads as a series starter as the plot of this book wraps up and is closed, but there is still an open door that needs to be closed. I am looking forward that book being published as I am firmly attached to this group of men and women.
Jessa, Jack, and the group of service men who make up Jack's military ops group are well written, well formed characters. Their personalities are strong and come across on the page as if they are standing in the room with you.
Jessa and her friend Dana have been on the run for quite a long time. These circumstances have lead to some very understandable behaviors and these are not women who are sitting around waiting for a prince or a knight to appear and solve their issues. Both of these women are strong, independent thinkers, and they approach problems and solutions in different ways. Jessa is a strong, loud, leader. A very in your face alpha female. Dana is a bit more relaxed, but just as fierce. Dana's fierce appears in different ways and her strength is that velvet covered steel backbone one associates with women of the south.
Jack and his team come to terms very quickly with how these two women operate, how they will need to work with them, and how the two women may be both weapons that could destroy Jack's ops unit or allies that could make them stronger than ever.
The plot did go much darker than I anticipated from the blurb. Both with interrogation tactics as well as repressed memories and past harm. While the harm to one of the characters is in the past it is quite harsh and at one point in the book it is described on page as the group watches the character in a video. I would strongly advise anyone with triggers to tread carefully with this novel as while the scenes are necessary for the plot, the book, and the characters, they are graphic in nature. Please chose self care over the book if need be.
The handling of this critical plot piece is well done by the author. The reactions of all of the characters and the actions it sets into play are understandable if difficult to read at parts. Reading through the character's thoughts as items played out was perfect as it helped center the reader on the "whys" and it also kept the characters grounded in the reader's head.
The plot had a great pace to it with minimal drag. There were some slower spots but I can't pinpoint anything that I would like removed or anything that I would have liked added to the story line.
I did like that the story keep me engaged and intrigued to a point that I didn't check the last page to see if my guesses to the main "reveals" were correct or not. I was fully immersed with these fictional people on their mountain base in their cyber battles against a nemesis they'd all been hunting down for years for their own various reasons.
I also enjoyed that in various ways, every character had their own personal stake in why they needed to find the main baddie and why that gave them all equal urgency to get to the end point.
A very unique look at situation often presented in this area of writing with a major role reversal that I adored.
I would highly recommend this book with the warning of the graphic nature of items requiring trigger warnings.
May 27, 2023
So good. Heartwrenching at times, tragic in others, but still with moments that made me smile or at times even laugh. Hot off the disappointment of another ARC (different author) that was a DNF, I was cautiously optimistic but not incredibly hopeful as I started this one. What I got was a book nearly impossible to put down with characters I couldn't help but love and root for. (And also at times hate! WTF, Logan?)
Jessa is amazing. She's brilliant but underestimated by everyone, and I love a heroine that uses those traits to get what she wants. I did find her characterization confusing at times, mostly by what the author doesn't tell us. Unless I missed it, none of Jack's memories of the girl he loved in high school showed any inkling of her being a tech genius of the caliber that she clearly was and is. I was also missing a description of her. I suppose that's a pertains personal preference, but I like to know hair and eye color and general build of my characters. Beyond being 5'6", she's a mystery, though late in the book she's described as dark haired (or I dreamt that as it was around midnight when I got to that part).
Jack is also a terrific character. I love that he's strong and intelligent but not an over-the-top alpha, not caring if he appears overly emotional at times. I mean, he really loves Jessa. The secondary characters are also great, which is good as there are more books coming in this series.
There were a few things I didn't care for, though they didn't do much more than mildly distract. The story is told first person, from both Jessa's and Jack's POVs (and one Logan). Frequently, subsequent chapters are told of concurrent events, so we read what Jessa says and does, for example, and then we reread what she said and did from Jack's POV. On one hand, I understand that approach, but in the other, I found it sometimes unnecessarily repetitive. I was also a little unclear about some of Jessa's actions.
Do be aware of the content warnings at the beginning of this book. What happened to Jessa in the past and is told about on the book starting around chapter 22 is horrible and could be very difficult for some readers. I'll add content warnings at the very end of this review.
I received a copy of this book for free from the author and BookSirens. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion. Thanks!
Content warnings: Violence, death, loss of family, torture and rape of main character (but not between the two MCs).
Jessa is amazing. She's brilliant but underestimated by everyone, and I love a heroine that uses those traits to get what she wants. I did find her characterization confusing at times, mostly by what the author doesn't tell us. Unless I missed it, none of Jack's memories of the girl he loved in high school showed any inkling of her being a tech genius of the caliber that she clearly was and is. I was also missing a description of her. I suppose that's a pertains personal preference, but I like to know hair and eye color and general build of my characters. Beyond being 5'6", she's a mystery, though late in the book she's described as dark haired (or I dreamt that as it was around midnight when I got to that part).
Jack is also a terrific character. I love that he's strong and intelligent but not an over-the-top alpha, not caring if he appears overly emotional at times. I mean, he really loves Jessa. The secondary characters are also great, which is good as there are more books coming in this series.
There were a few things I didn't care for, though they didn't do much more than mildly distract. The story is told first person, from both Jessa's and Jack's POVs (and one Logan). Frequently, subsequent chapters are told of concurrent events, so we read what Jessa says and does, for example, and then we reread what she said and did from Jack's POV. On one hand, I understand that approach, but in the other, I found it sometimes unnecessarily repetitive. I was also a little unclear about some of Jessa's actions.
Do be aware of the content warnings at the beginning of this book. What happened to Jessa in the past and is told about on the book starting around chapter 22 is horrible and could be very difficult for some readers. I'll add content warnings at the very end of this review.
I received a copy of this book for free from the author and BookSirens. I'm writing this review voluntarily, and it reflects my honest opinion. Thanks!
Content warnings: Violence, death, loss of family, torture and rape of main character (but not between the two MCs).
June 15, 2023
Wow! What a book! This one starts off with action right from the start and keeps you on the edge until the end. This is not your typical second chance romance where the couple broke up years ago, one party left the town, then came home and everything become happen-ever-after.
No, we have a young strong, brilliant woman, Jessa, who watched her family murdered and it was believed she also was killed. She survived and ends up working for her enemy for years to gather information on him to put him in jail.
Jack, Special Operative, Code Name: Phoenix, was undercover 10 years ago when he met Jessa and they became a couple in love. Jack was broken hearted over Jessa's death so he and another man form a private company. Whenever possible they hunt the man who they believed killed Jessa and her family.
Fireworks go off when Jesus and Jack met after 10 years. They are now adults and not the same people, so much has happened in both of their lives. Can they overcome all that happened in the past and come together now as one to go forward in the future?
This book has so much going on for it. You have the revisiting of the second chance romance between Jessa & Jack, brave women, danger at every corner, interrogation, love ones reunited, action-packed, suspense, murder, some very vivid violence and torture, PTSD experiences, chases, twists and unpredictable turns and very steamy romance. Overall, the book moves very quickly, rememberable characters, multiple plots, with a nice foundation for a Series. I'm looking for to reading the next book!
I recommend this book for those who wants an Action & Adventure Romance or a Second Chance Romance book. I received a free copy of this book for an honest review and am voluntarily leaving a review.
No, we have a young strong, brilliant woman, Jessa, who watched her family murdered and it was believed she also was killed. She survived and ends up working for her enemy for years to gather information on him to put him in jail.
Jack, Special Operative, Code Name: Phoenix, was undercover 10 years ago when he met Jessa and they became a couple in love. Jack was broken hearted over Jessa's death so he and another man form a private company. Whenever possible they hunt the man who they believed killed Jessa and her family.
Fireworks go off when Jesus and Jack met after 10 years. They are now adults and not the same people, so much has happened in both of their lives. Can they overcome all that happened in the past and come together now as one to go forward in the future?
This book has so much going on for it. You have the revisiting of the second chance romance between Jessa & Jack, brave women, danger at every corner, interrogation, love ones reunited, action-packed, suspense, murder, some very vivid violence and torture, PTSD experiences, chases, twists and unpredictable turns and very steamy romance. Overall, the book moves very quickly, rememberable characters, multiple plots, with a nice foundation for a Series. I'm looking for to reading the next book!
I recommend this book for those who wants an Action & Adventure Romance or a Second Chance Romance book. I received a free copy of this book for an honest review and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 5, 2023
5/5 ⭐
2/5 🌶️
I don't think I'll ever get enough Luna Kayne. This woman seriously doesn't get the love she deserves in the bookish world and I'll continue to shout her name from the rooftops until people start listening. Code Name: Phoenix was such an incredible start to the Cypher Black Ops Security series. The concept was unique, the characters were bad as hades and the smut was perfect (even though I wish there was more).
Jessa was incredible. I love a heroine who can handle herself and is a bit feisty and Jessa basically puts all other super smart, bad a female leads to shame (okay, not for real, but I'm on a book high after finishing this one lol). The way she handled Jack, his team and Maxwell was so good and had me wanting to fist pump multiple times. And the girl knows how to play the long con like a goddess too. The times she broke due to her treatment at the hands of Maxwell had my heartbreaking, she is just so strong and an incredible person. Jack was amazing too, I really adored how much he loved and cared for Jessa and wasn't afraid of how independent she was.
The third act had me on the edge of my seat and wondering just how Luna was planning on breaking me and putting me back together. It was so intense and wild and everything, so flipping good. And the set up for the next book was fantastic to boot. I can't wait to see how things go down with this next couple, they are so sweet but I know from the setup both of them are going to be pretty broken before they find their way to each other for good.
2/5 🌶️
I don't think I'll ever get enough Luna Kayne. This woman seriously doesn't get the love she deserves in the bookish world and I'll continue to shout her name from the rooftops until people start listening. Code Name: Phoenix was such an incredible start to the Cypher Black Ops Security series. The concept was unique, the characters were bad as hades and the smut was perfect (even though I wish there was more).
Jessa was incredible. I love a heroine who can handle herself and is a bit feisty and Jessa basically puts all other super smart, bad a female leads to shame (okay, not for real, but I'm on a book high after finishing this one lol). The way she handled Jack, his team and Maxwell was so good and had me wanting to fist pump multiple times. And the girl knows how to play the long con like a goddess too. The times she broke due to her treatment at the hands of Maxwell had my heartbreaking, she is just so strong and an incredible person. Jack was amazing too, I really adored how much he loved and cared for Jessa and wasn't afraid of how independent she was.
The third act had me on the edge of my seat and wondering just how Luna was planning on breaking me and putting me back together. It was so intense and wild and everything, so flipping good. And the set up for the next book was fantastic to boot. I can't wait to see how things go down with this next couple, they are so sweet but I know from the setup both of them are going to be pretty broken before they find their way to each other for good.
July 20, 2023
Holey doley what a truly gripping story! Not too often I would suggest wanting to rate a story with a higher than 5 ⭐ rating but for me this was one that really stood out for warranting a higher score.
From the moment I started I was hooked into this very well constructed, mysterious and high octane world of storytelling involved in the dark and dangerous world of hacking, greed, manipulation, murder, and the typical good verses bad. There were so many scenes throughout the book that really had me sliding along one truly rough emotional roller-coaster and not the fun sort. Without really giving away too much of this fantastic plot there are moments of quite distressing scenarios for the wonderfully created character of Jessa that could be triggering concerns for readers, including elements of torture, rape and emotional abuse.
But Jessa is such a strong resilient and smart character that really outshines in this intricate plot, that readers will simply want to see her succeed. One concept the I was drawn to, is the idea of what is broken may need to be rebroken later to really mend itself properly. Believe me, that was one truly graphic memory to this story. As the start of a new series I'm really looking forward to seeing how these wonderful characters will engage readers more into their world of security.
I was provided with an advanced copy of this book for a fair review.
From the moment I started I was hooked into this very well constructed, mysterious and high octane world of storytelling involved in the dark and dangerous world of hacking, greed, manipulation, murder, and the typical good verses bad. There were so many scenes throughout the book that really had me sliding along one truly rough emotional roller-coaster and not the fun sort. Without really giving away too much of this fantastic plot there are moments of quite distressing scenarios for the wonderfully created character of Jessa that could be triggering concerns for readers, including elements of torture, rape and emotional abuse.
But Jessa is such a strong resilient and smart character that really outshines in this intricate plot, that readers will simply want to see her succeed. One concept the I was drawn to, is the idea of what is broken may need to be rebroken later to really mend itself properly. Believe me, that was one truly graphic memory to this story. As the start of a new series I'm really looking forward to seeing how these wonderful characters will engage readers more into their world of security.
I was provided with an advanced copy of this book for a fair review.
June 4, 2023
A gripping romantic suspense from Luna Kayne that gripped me from the start as hacker Jessa tries to keep one step ahead of the unwanted attentions of an obsessive and sadistic criminal who had murdered her family, long enough to bring him down permanently. Along the way she meets her first love Jack, a man who has mourned her loss for years thinking she had died alongside her parents and who has dedicated his life to bringing down her murderer.
The first book in a series of standalone novels, this was a fabulous, fast paced full of twists and turns with a mysterious mastermind known simply as Zane working in the background, pulling the strings as Jessa strives to bring down her tormentor while protecting the few people she loves. She has been an horrific ordeal that she’s buried deep in her psyche blocking those days from her memory but details of the torture and abuse she went through is covered in chapter 22 and for some readers it might be overly graphic. The ensuing actions of one of the characters will have you hating him. With a strong cast of secondary characters and while I would’ve loved more on why the mole betrayed the people he had worked with and considered friends I’m looking forward to reading more from the Cypher Black Ops Security series.
The first book in a series of standalone novels, this was a fabulous, fast paced full of twists and turns with a mysterious mastermind known simply as Zane working in the background, pulling the strings as Jessa strives to bring down her tormentor while protecting the few people she loves. She has been an horrific ordeal that she’s buried deep in her psyche blocking those days from her memory but details of the torture and abuse she went through is covered in chapter 22 and for some readers it might be overly graphic. The ensuing actions of one of the characters will have you hating him. With a strong cast of secondary characters and while I would’ve loved more on why the mole betrayed the people he had worked with and considered friends I’m looking forward to reading more from the Cypher Black Ops Security series.
June 9, 2023
Luna Kayne sure made an impression with my first read from her. Code Name: Phoenix was go go go from the start and I couldn't look away (even when there were a few times I wanted to).
I really liked Jessa. She was so smart and savvy. She had to be after her life changed in the worst way when she was younger. I won't lie, there were more than a few scenes that were uncomfortable to get through but they made me root for her more. Especially when Jack, the one thing she never thought she could have was in the middle of it all.
I have mixed feelings about Jack. Makes sense because his were all over the place the entire time. Torn between duty and love, the pain of the past and the hope of the future. I liked seeing him in protector mode as him and the team tried to get one step ahead of the madman they were after.
There were so many twists and turns along the way that I wasn't sure what exactly was happening at some points. Throw a sacrifice and double cross into the mix and my pulse was pounding as everything played out. Whew talk about a wild ride. Jessa and Jack's second chance romance was a whirlwind of chaos, acceptance and fighting the good fight. I'm not sure what's in store for this team next but I can't wait to find out.
I really liked Jessa. She was so smart and savvy. She had to be after her life changed in the worst way when she was younger. I won't lie, there were more than a few scenes that were uncomfortable to get through but they made me root for her more. Especially when Jack, the one thing she never thought she could have was in the middle of it all.
I have mixed feelings about Jack. Makes sense because his were all over the place the entire time. Torn between duty and love, the pain of the past and the hope of the future. I liked seeing him in protector mode as him and the team tried to get one step ahead of the madman they were after.
There were so many twists and turns along the way that I wasn't sure what exactly was happening at some points. Throw a sacrifice and double cross into the mix and my pulse was pounding as everything played out. Whew talk about a wild ride. Jessa and Jack's second chance romance was a whirlwind of chaos, acceptance and fighting the good fight. I'm not sure what's in store for this team next but I can't wait to find out.
June 2, 2023
Pretty exciting fast-paced page-turner. Paramilitary theme with a small side of romance and a deep dive into the angsty crazy that was Jessa the hacker.
Jack and his paramilitary team had been trying to take down a criminal syndicate with tentacles all over the world. They caught a break when they teamed up with Jessa who also happens to have history with Jack. Jack and his team knew Jessa was a wild card because she had ties to the syndicate they were trying to destroy. Jessa actually wanted the same thing Jack wanted. So, she agreed to team up. In the end, Jessa and her hacking superpowers did manage to save the day. The scene where the villain gets his comeuppance, actually pulled a chuckle out of me. I thought Jack and Jessa’s HEA was also a pretty good one considering the mess her life had been before.
Good start to the series. There will probably be more syndicate drama as well as some bakery and coffee house raids as Jessa tries to find her lost best friend, Dana (she likes to bake), in the next story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Jack and his paramilitary team had been trying to take down a criminal syndicate with tentacles all over the world. They caught a break when they teamed up with Jessa who also happens to have history with Jack. Jack and his team knew Jessa was a wild card because she had ties to the syndicate they were trying to destroy. Jessa actually wanted the same thing Jack wanted. So, she agreed to team up. In the end, Jessa and her hacking superpowers did manage to save the day. The scene where the villain gets his comeuppance, actually pulled a chuckle out of me. I thought Jack and Jessa’s HEA was also a pretty good one considering the mess her life had been before.
Good start to the series. There will probably be more syndicate drama as well as some bakery and coffee house raids as Jessa tries to find her lost best friend, Dana (she likes to bake), in the next story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 9, 2023
3.74/5 🌟
2/5 🌶
Tropes:
Romantic Suspense
Second Chance
Forced Proximity
Revenge Plot
Found Family
Triggers:
Kidnapping
Torture
Death
PTSD/Trauma
"I thought I lost her then. Now, I’ll never let her go."
I'm in love with Lunas writing, I've never picked up a book of hers that didn't hook me in the first few chapters! This romantic suspense did not disappoint!
After 10 years of Jack thinking, he lost Jessa to find out she was alive this entire time was heartbreaking. I loved seeing him break and drop everything to protect her again, no matter the consequences.
Jessa showed tremendous strength throughout the book. Everything she had to go through should have broken her, but she came out on top, and IMO was a complete badass.
Jack & Jessa just had such a great story. They both went through so much heartbreak together, both for different reasons, but in the end, it only brings them back together.
I thought the story was beautifully written. It had so many twists and turns throughout to keep you invested in the story!
2/5 🌶
Tropes:
Romantic Suspense
Second Chance
Forced Proximity
Revenge Plot
Found Family
Triggers:
Kidnapping
Torture
Death
PTSD/Trauma
"I thought I lost her then. Now, I’ll never let her go."
I'm in love with Lunas writing, I've never picked up a book of hers that didn't hook me in the first few chapters! This romantic suspense did not disappoint!
After 10 years of Jack thinking, he lost Jessa to find out she was alive this entire time was heartbreaking. I loved seeing him break and drop everything to protect her again, no matter the consequences.
Jessa showed tremendous strength throughout the book. Everything she had to go through should have broken her, but she came out on top, and IMO was a complete badass.
Jack & Jessa just had such a great story. They both went through so much heartbreak together, both for different reasons, but in the end, it only brings them back together.
I thought the story was beautifully written. It had so many twists and turns throughout to keep you invested in the story!
June 8, 2023
This book had my attention from the start when Jessa is on vacation only to end up running for her life away from Jack, the love of her life. From there I was totally invested in her story and what she faced ahead. I enjoyed the idea of her as the best of the best hackers out there and she, being female is constantly being underestimated. I loved how strong she was despite her circumstances. The only thing I found irritable was her best friend, Dana to be nosy, blabbering everything out and I was worried she would inadvertently say something she shouldn’t -even though she did have permission from Jessa to do so. However having finished the book, I do look forward to her story in (hopefully) the next book.
I would’ve liked more elaboration on her encounter with the doctor who Jessa wakes up to after her ordeal with Maxwell.
I received an ARC from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I would’ve liked more elaboration on her encounter with the doctor who Jessa wakes up to after her ordeal with Maxwell.
I received an ARC from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 13, 2023
This book will have your heart racing from start to finish. The action/adventure is heart stopping. The personality of the alpha team members are still being introduced. As you read, you feel like you are part of the action. Trying to figure out if people are who they say they are and if they can be trusted. It can be read as a standalone.
*As the author notes, there are situations in this book, in a chapter or two, that may trigger people. Scenes detailing a past rape and torture and a situation in the present that triggers the character. Even knowing about it, I was still a bit stunned when I came across it. The author did well to have characters show some humanity and compassion when needed. *
I wish it was noted at the end of the book when the next book in the series would be coming and/or who's story would be next. I feel like I'm now in limbo.
*As the author notes, there are situations in this book, in a chapter or two, that may trigger people. Scenes detailing a past rape and torture and a situation in the present that triggers the character. Even knowing about it, I was still a bit stunned when I came across it. The author did well to have characters show some humanity and compassion when needed. *
I wish it was noted at the end of the book when the next book in the series would be coming and/or who's story would be next. I feel like I'm now in limbo.
June 5, 2023
Wow! This is a powerful book, graphic and dark at times, and Jessa is an amazing character. (Please do not take the trigger warning lightly.)
The human mind is complex in what it is capable of doing to protect a person from more than they can handle. After seeing her family killed and surviving her own hellish monster, Jessa is a pawn used for her superior hacking skills. There is one escape route available to her. But before her and her accomplices can enact the plan, she is taken by Cypher. What follows are twists and turns, edge of your seat suspense, blurred lines between good guys and bad, and an emotion packed second chance romance. As the first book of the series, Kayne has written a gripping story and I cannot wait to read more.
The human mind is complex in what it is capable of doing to protect a person from more than they can handle. After seeing her family killed and surviving her own hellish monster, Jessa is a pawn used for her superior hacking skills. There is one escape route available to her. But before her and her accomplices can enact the plan, she is taken by Cypher. What follows are twists and turns, edge of your seat suspense, blurred lines between good guys and bad, and an emotion packed second chance romance. As the first book of the series, Kayne has written a gripping story and I cannot wait to read more.
June 6, 2023
After seeing her family murdered by Maxwell, a sadistic psycho, Jessa knew she had to go into hiding. For years Dana and Jessa had always been careful and had a back up plan in case either was captured. In the blink of an eye they both were captured by the Cyber Black Ops Security. Much to her surprise her first love was part of the team.
Everyone underestimates Jessa and her hacking skills. She has a goal. One that will set her, Zane and Dana free from the clutches of Maxwell. The things Jessa had to endure while in his hands is earth shattering.
There's a mole in the ranks.
When Maxwell reveals the truth about Jessa's time with him, she knows the time has come to finish her plan.
Romantic suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Can't wait for Dana and Grizz's story!
Everyone underestimates Jessa and her hacking skills. She has a goal. One that will set her, Zane and Dana free from the clutches of Maxwell. The things Jessa had to endure while in his hands is earth shattering.
There's a mole in the ranks.
When Maxwell reveals the truth about Jessa's time with him, she knows the time has come to finish her plan.
Romantic suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Can't wait for Dana and Grizz's story!
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