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Steele Ops #3
Fatal Deception
April Hunt "will keep you on the edge of your seat" (Lori Foster, New York Times bestselling author) in this heart-pounding new romantic suspense.
Roman Steele learned a hard lesson about trusting others. While serving his country, he put his faith in the wrong person and lost a leg for his loyalty. So far, civilian life suits him---as long as he doesn't have to deal with anyone. But when he's called in to investigate a break-in at a high-security lab, he finds himself butting heads with the lead virologist, a woman as infuriating as she is beautiful.
When criminals break into Isabel Santiago's lab and steal a deadly virus, she's desperate to find the culprits before they turn her research into a weapon. But first, she must put her trust in the brooding security expert who sees danger around every corner. As she and Roman race to track down the culprits, these two unlikely partners find there's more at stake for them than they ever imagined possible---but only if they stop the enemy in time.
Roman Steele learned a hard lesson about trusting others. While serving his country, he put his faith in the wrong person and lost a leg for his loyalty. So far, civilian life suits him---as long as he doesn't have to deal with anyone. But when he's called in to investigate a break-in at a high-security lab, he finds himself butting heads with the lead virologist, a woman as infuriating as she is beautiful.
When criminals break into Isabel Santiago's lab and steal a deadly virus, she's desperate to find the culprits before they turn her research into a weapon. But first, she must put her trust in the brooding security expert who sees danger around every corner. As she and Roman race to track down the culprits, these two unlikely partners find there's more at stake for them than they ever imagined possible---but only if they stop the enemy in time.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 10, 2020
34 people are currently reading
387 people want to read
About the author
April Hunt
9 books413 followersAlso writes under April Asher.
April Asher, aka April Hunt, was hooked on romantic stories from the time she first snuck a bodice-ripper romance out from her mom's bedside table. She now lives out her own happily-ever-after with her college-sweetheart husband, their two children, and a cat who thinks she's more dog—and human—than feline. By day, April dons dark blue nursing scrubs and drinks way too much caffeine. By night, she still consumes too much caffeine, but she does it with a laptop in hand, and from her favorite side of the couch.
From the far left cushion, April Asher pens laugh-out-loud romantic comedies with a paranormal twist, but when she’s not putting her characters into embarrassing situations with supernatural entities, she also writes high-octane romantic suspense as April Hunt, her thrill-seeking alter ego.
April Asher, aka April Hunt, was hooked on romantic stories from the time she first snuck a bodice-ripper romance out from her mom's bedside table. She now lives out her own happily-ever-after with her college-sweetheart husband, their two children, and a cat who thinks she's more dog—and human—than feline. By day, April dons dark blue nursing scrubs and drinks way too much caffeine. By night, she still consumes too much caffeine, but she does it with a laptop in hand, and from her favorite side of the couch.
From the far left cushion, April Asher pens laugh-out-loud romantic comedies with a paranormal twist, but when she’s not putting her characters into embarrassing situations with supernatural entities, she also writes high-octane romantic suspense as April Hunt, her thrill-seeking alter ego.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
December 8, 2021
Fatal Deception is an instant-attraction, forced proximity romance between an ex-Special Forces operative, tasked with investigating the theft of a deadly virus, and a virologist, who’s the leading expert on it.
Really, I just wanted an audio that could entertain me while doing busy work. But I liked this fast paced, suspenseful book way more than anticipated. If you are willing to overlook the plausibility and the slightly predictable plot, there is a satisfying romance novel here. Both the MCs were strong, likable characters who had issues complicating their commitment to a relationship, but that didn’t interfere with the hot sexy times! There is plenty couple interaction throughout the book, with only a brief issue between them before the end.
The virus in this book is something I’ve never heard of (and I’m not sure it exists). While there are tense moments, the book focuses on finding a treatment for the virus and the security team tracking the bad guys. Everything wraps up in a suspenseful ending.
🎧I listened to the audio narrated by Caroline Slaughter. The audio was enjoyable. The pacing was good (and could be set for a faster rate if desired) and the voices were varied enough to not cause confusion. However, the southern accents (of one or two side characters – can’t remember how many) were cringe-worthy. This wouldn’t matter to anyone not familiar with this type of accent, so I would still recommend the audio.
Sometimes, romantic suspense can get too intense for me. I’m after the romance in an exciting setting, not gore. This book stayed in that comfortable range where exciting things happened, the couple’s angst was minimal, and nothing truly evil occurred.
CW:
Safe:
Really, I just wanted an audio that could entertain me while doing busy work. But I liked this fast paced, suspenseful book way more than anticipated. If you are willing to overlook the plausibility and the slightly predictable plot, there is a satisfying romance novel here. Both the MCs were strong, likable characters who had issues complicating their commitment to a relationship, but that didn’t interfere with the hot sexy times! There is plenty couple interaction throughout the book, with only a brief issue between them before the end.
The virus in this book is something I’ve never heard of (and I’m not sure it exists). While there are tense moments, the book focuses on finding a treatment for the virus and the security team tracking the bad guys. Everything wraps up in a suspenseful ending.
🎧I listened to the audio narrated by Caroline Slaughter. The audio was enjoyable. The pacing was good (and could be set for a faster rate if desired) and the voices were varied enough to not cause confusion. However, the southern accents (of one or two side characters – can’t remember how many) were cringe-worthy. This wouldn’t matter to anyone not familiar with this type of accent, so I would still recommend the audio.
Sometimes, romantic suspense can get too intense for me. I’m after the romance in an exciting setting, not gore. This book stayed in that comfortable range where exciting things happened, the couple’s angst was minimal, and nothing truly evil occurred.
CW:
Safe:
September 14, 2020
Going into a romantic suspense book, I immediately try to start guessing where the author will take the story and who may be behind anything nefarious. I was so sure I had this pegged and I was wrong! I love when I'm wrong and find a story that isn't predictable.
I enjoyed Roman. He's a grumpy hero and I seem to enjoy that type. Sadly, most of his grumpiness comes from being a wounded war vet. He has come back strong, forming a security firm with his brothers. He still suffers some guilt over what happened when he was deployed, and that guilt got in his way a bit dealing with Isa.
Isa has her own guilt she is living with that also gets in her a way bit. That guilt comes from her just being an all around caring person who takes a lot of responsibility onto her shoulders. They really seem to be the perfect pair for each other.
I loved getting to see the same side characters from the previous book. I'm hoping the author has plans for a book for Jaz. I love her grit.
I enjoyed Roman. He's a grumpy hero and I seem to enjoy that type. Sadly, most of his grumpiness comes from being a wounded war vet. He has come back strong, forming a security firm with his brothers. He still suffers some guilt over what happened when he was deployed, and that guilt got in his way a bit dealing with Isa.
Isa has her own guilt she is living with that also gets in her a way bit. That guilt comes from her just being an all around caring person who takes a lot of responsibility onto her shoulders. They really seem to be the perfect pair for each other.
I loved getting to see the same side characters from the previous book. I'm hoping the author has plans for a book for Jaz. I love her grit.
November 20, 2020
I had a lot of fun with this story! Steamy, fast-paced with a lot of action and a bit of mystery.
Both Isabel and Roman were immersed in their job, and so each didn’t spend much time looking for love. Being thrown together when a band of thieves steal a deadly virus from Isabel’s lab, they feel an instant attraction. Roman was kind of a broody jerk when they first meet, but Isabel is a feisty character giving as good as she got and so there was a bit of sparring. However, they get physical pretty quick, which I think fit well with the intense circumstances they were in. Each have some past baggage to get through to find their HEA. Roman stems from the event that took his leg in an operation gone wrong, and Isabel’s from a past relationship that ended in tragedy.
Their personal issues must take a backseat as they work to retrieve the dangerous virus which is now in the hands of a deranged group bent on making a deadly statement. All the danger and action kept me glued to the pages to see how it all turned out!
Fatal Deception is the third book in the Steele Ops series, and the first two couples feature as characters in play in this installment. So it would’ve been nice to have read from the start for that reason, but I didn’t feel like I missed important information by reading Fatal Deception first.
A copy was kindly provided by Forever via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Both Isabel and Roman were immersed in their job, and so each didn’t spend much time looking for love. Being thrown together when a band of thieves steal a deadly virus from Isabel’s lab, they feel an instant attraction. Roman was kind of a broody jerk when they first meet, but Isabel is a feisty character giving as good as she got and so there was a bit of sparring. However, they get physical pretty quick, which I think fit well with the intense circumstances they were in. Each have some past baggage to get through to find their HEA. Roman stems from the event that took his leg in an operation gone wrong, and Isabel’s from a past relationship that ended in tragedy.
Their personal issues must take a backseat as they work to retrieve the dangerous virus which is now in the hands of a deranged group bent on making a deadly statement. All the danger and action kept me glued to the pages to see how it all turned out!
Fatal Deception is the third book in the Steele Ops series, and the first two couples feature as characters in play in this installment. So it would’ve been nice to have read from the start for that reason, but I didn’t feel like I missed important information by reading Fatal Deception first.
A copy was kindly provided by Forever via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 12, 2020
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.
I read the first chapter tease for this book and I'm hooked. Bio terrorism and the very hot, very secretive, wounded warrior Roman - Be still my heart! Unfortunately, this book does not live up to it's first chapter. Very disappointing. When both MC's have a deeply ingrained Martyr complex it's almost painful to endure reading. It sucks the enjoyment right out of a good plot premise.
When Roman Steele returned from his stent and a Special Forces operative assigned to a CIA black site in Africa, he came home minus his left leg below the knee and with a big load of regret. He was not a pleasant person to be around, but family wasn't about to let him wallow around in his muck. That's what family is for. When Steele Ops is called to the scene of a break in at a biotech facility, Roman comes face to face with one hot, mouthy woman who won't let him take the solitary way out.
Isabel Santiago is the lead virologist working with an Ebola type virus, FU-5. It is deadly and virulent. The thieves make off with enough of the stuff to kill millions. She needs Roman Steele to find the thieves and keep her safe. Being with Roman triggers all kinds of emotions for Isabel who lost her SEAL fiancé and hasn't moved on from that tragedy. Roman reminds her that she is very much a passionate woman and even though she has no interest in a long term relationship with a former Special Forces operative, she is very much interested in his body. But, first things first. They need to battle an outbreak and bring to enemy behind it to justice.
I read the first chapter tease for this book and I'm hooked. Bio terrorism and the very hot, very secretive, wounded warrior Roman - Be still my heart! Unfortunately, this book does not live up to it's first chapter. Very disappointing. When both MC's have a deeply ingrained Martyr complex it's almost painful to endure reading. It sucks the enjoyment right out of a good plot premise.
When Roman Steele returned from his stent and a Special Forces operative assigned to a CIA black site in Africa, he came home minus his left leg below the knee and with a big load of regret. He was not a pleasant person to be around, but family wasn't about to let him wallow around in his muck. That's what family is for. When Steele Ops is called to the scene of a break in at a biotech facility, Roman comes face to face with one hot, mouthy woman who won't let him take the solitary way out.
Isabel Santiago is the lead virologist working with an Ebola type virus, FU-5. It is deadly and virulent. The thieves make off with enough of the stuff to kill millions. She needs Roman Steele to find the thieves and keep her safe. Being with Roman triggers all kinds of emotions for Isabel who lost her SEAL fiancé and hasn't moved on from that tragedy. Roman reminds her that she is very much a passionate woman and even though she has no interest in a long term relationship with a former Special Forces operative, she is very much interested in his body. But, first things first. They need to battle an outbreak and bring to enemy behind it to justice.
August 30, 2020
'Fatal Deception' reminded me so much of Julie Rowe's 'Outbreak Task Force's and 'Biological Response Team' series, that it became very evident why I liked this so much.
The author's writing style was enthralling, leaving me damn near glued to the pages of this heart pounding romantic suspense novel. It was well organized, detailed and I was able to easily follow along with everything that was going on. More so there was a great blend of characters and I loved the fact that it included a POC heroine. Kudos to the author on that one!
In spite of my pleasant reading experience, I will like to pinpoint that there were scenes/chapters that dragged, in which case nearly (or for the most part) hindered my overall thoughts on the book. There were a lot of unnecessary add-ons that could have been removed to make this a seamless read but nonetheless, I liked this all in all.
Now I am
November 4, 2020
I've been a big fan of this series and have been waiting for Roman's book since his grumpy ass walked onto the page.
I loved Isa. She's smart and unrelenting and definitely stands up for herself. Roman is gruff and stand off-ish and an absolute, grumpy delight. Together, there is immediate chemistry and loads of button pushing. I adored that Isa wouldn't back down and roll over to Roman's orders. Of course, the rest of the group is always fun to see.
Plot wise, it was good. I will say that reading about a deadly virus while in the middle of a pandemic was a bit itchy, but the story was solid and the science wasn't too science-y. The build up is a slow burn and I didn't quite expect the main conflict to go down the way it did. And yes, I definitely wanted more from the epilogue, but I'm banking on getting more of their HEA in the next book...which I'm absolutely here for.
Overall, this series has a great balance of romance and tension and the characters are fantastic. I can't wait to see who's up next.
**Huge thanks to Forever for providing the arc free of charge**
I loved Isa. She's smart and unrelenting and definitely stands up for herself. Roman is gruff and stand off-ish and an absolute, grumpy delight. Together, there is immediate chemistry and loads of button pushing. I adored that Isa wouldn't back down and roll over to Roman's orders. Of course, the rest of the group is always fun to see.
Plot wise, it was good. I will say that reading about a deadly virus while in the middle of a pandemic was a bit itchy, but the story was solid and the science wasn't too science-y. The build up is a slow burn and I didn't quite expect the main conflict to go down the way it did. And yes, I definitely wanted more from the epilogue, but I'm banking on getting more of their HEA in the next book...which I'm absolutely here for.
Overall, this series has a great balance of romance and tension and the characters are fantastic. I can't wait to see who's up next.
**Huge thanks to Forever for providing the arc free of charge**
November 5, 2020
Wow, friends, we kick this baby off right into the thick of it. Dr. Isabel Santiago goes from workday straight into survival mode in a matter of minutes. This is why I'm such a fan of April Hunt's books. She grabs you from the start and doesn't let you go till the very end.
After a deadly virus has been stolen from Dr. Santiago's lab, Roman Steele has been tasked to investigate. It's a heart-pumping thrill ride and a budding relationship that proves to be just as palpable as the main action and adventure.
Give me all the Steele Ops Novels!!
~Tanja
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December 13, 2020
I've given this a C+ at AAR.
April Hunt has written a handful of romantic suspense novels, but I haven’t yet read anything of hers, which is what prompted me to pick up Fatal Deception, book three in her series about the Steele siblings, all of whom are ex-military and who now own and run a private security firm. Before I go any further, I’ll warn ahead that the novel’s suspense plotline centres around a deadly virus (more along the lines of Ebola than COVID) which, given we’re in the midst of a pandemic at time of writing, might not be a storyline with wide appeal. I confess I picked the book up for review without paying much attention to the synopsis (or if I did, I’d forgotten it by the time I got around to reading it!) – but in the end, I was more put off by the lack of a proper romance in the story than I was by the subject matter!
Isabel – Isa – Santiago is a former army medic who now works as a virologist for Tru Tec Industries, where she’s heading up a government sponsored research project on an Ebola-like virus known as FC-5. It’s a normal day in a normal week, and she’s just finishing up for the day when four masked and armed individuals enter the lab and hold Isa and two of her colleagues at gunpoint while they steal the FC-5 samples and then make a swift getaway.
Specialists in anti-terrorism, covert extractions and stuff the government can’t get its hands dirty with, Steele Security’s existence is known only to a select few – one of whom brings them in to find out what went down at Tru Tec and to head up the hunt for the virus. Roman is the second oldest of the Steele brothers and by far the grumpiest; he likes civilian life just fine provided he doesn’t have to deal with actual people, and still carries a shedload of guilt about the incident that ended his military career and saw him lose his left leg below the knee.
Roman and Isa are instantly, strongly attracted to one another and immediately go into denial mode – she because she has a fixed idea of the sort of man she wants, someone safe and dependable (and maybe just a bit dull); he because he’s still struggling with guilt over what he sees as a failure to protect his colleague on his final deployment. Roman quickly sums Isa up as a talented, dedicated woman who [is] as allergic to failure as {he is], and the fact that they’re both type-A personalities means they clash frequently. Following an attempt to kidnap Isa a few days after the break in at the lab, Roman wants to keep her out of the firing line as much as possible, where Isa wants and needs to be actively working to counter the threat by continuing her research on the virus and developing a cure.
Things step up a gear when Isa receives news of a few cases of what is clearly a hemorrhaagic disease in the small, remote Alaskan town of Beaver Ridge. Chances are high that the patients have been infected with FC-5, and there’s no way the virus got there on its own; Beaver Ridge is pretty isolated, and can only be reached by seaplane. Only a small number of inhabitants have been infected so far, but it’s only a matter of time before more become unwell, and it’s now a race against time to discover the source of the infection – and track down the people responsible for the theft of the virus.
The suspense storyline works quite well up until around the halfway point when it seems to fragment and become kind of episodic. We move from Alaska (and another kidnap attempt) back to DC via Texas and a visit to Isa’s grandfather – because she couldn’t just call him to tell him the Steele team was sending someone to keep an eye out for his safety, she has to waste time she says she doesn’t have enough of actually going there and then spends the weekend there for some local festival or other. The second half of the book drags until near the very end really; we’re back in the lab while Isa continues her search for a cure… which doesn’t make for particularly exciting reading. Kudos to the author for keeping the identity of the villain relatively well under-wraps until the reveal (I had it narrowed down to two possibles), although their motivations are inconsistent. But ultimately, I had expected the book to be based more around the search for the guys who stole the virus rather than sitting around in a lab while Roman and Isa moon over one another – when they’re not having explosive sex and then pushing each other away.
Which brings me to the romance. Or lack thereof. There’s a definite spark between Isa and Roman and they have plenty of sex (the scenes are well-written) but there’s little to no relationship development. Roman has met Isa a grand total of ONCE when his brothers start ribbing him about his being interested in her, and it’s not long after that his over-protective alpha gene kicks in. Isa is spunky and takes no crap – she can take care of herself pretty well in a fight – and she goes for what she wants (and when she decides she wants Roman, he’s toast), but she’s suffering from an overabundance of guilt over her dead fiancé and I got fed up with all the metaphorical handwringing. I did, however, appreciate the moment were Roman tries to pull a “I’m leaving you because I can’t make you happy” stunt and Isa calls him on his crap. But basically, I never saw anything between them but lust, and all the lovey-dovey stuff at the end comes out of nowhere.
There’s an entertaining secondary cast, although none are really more than two-dimensional – which is also true of the leads; they have interesting backstories, but they never felt organic. Fatal Deception was, in the end, not much more than mildly entertaining. It wasn’t bad, but wasn’t quite good enough to earn a recommendation.
April Hunt has written a handful of romantic suspense novels, but I haven’t yet read anything of hers, which is what prompted me to pick up Fatal Deception, book three in her series about the Steele siblings, all of whom are ex-military and who now own and run a private security firm. Before I go any further, I’ll warn ahead that the novel’s suspense plotline centres around a deadly virus (more along the lines of Ebola than COVID) which, given we’re in the midst of a pandemic at time of writing, might not be a storyline with wide appeal. I confess I picked the book up for review without paying much attention to the synopsis (or if I did, I’d forgotten it by the time I got around to reading it!) – but in the end, I was more put off by the lack of a proper romance in the story than I was by the subject matter!
Isabel – Isa – Santiago is a former army medic who now works as a virologist for Tru Tec Industries, where she’s heading up a government sponsored research project on an Ebola-like virus known as FC-5. It’s a normal day in a normal week, and she’s just finishing up for the day when four masked and armed individuals enter the lab and hold Isa and two of her colleagues at gunpoint while they steal the FC-5 samples and then make a swift getaway.
Specialists in anti-terrorism, covert extractions and stuff the government can’t get its hands dirty with, Steele Security’s existence is known only to a select few – one of whom brings them in to find out what went down at Tru Tec and to head up the hunt for the virus. Roman is the second oldest of the Steele brothers and by far the grumpiest; he likes civilian life just fine provided he doesn’t have to deal with actual people, and still carries a shedload of guilt about the incident that ended his military career and saw him lose his left leg below the knee.
Roman and Isa are instantly, strongly attracted to one another and immediately go into denial mode – she because she has a fixed idea of the sort of man she wants, someone safe and dependable (and maybe just a bit dull); he because he’s still struggling with guilt over what he sees as a failure to protect his colleague on his final deployment. Roman quickly sums Isa up as a talented, dedicated woman who [is] as allergic to failure as {he is], and the fact that they’re both type-A personalities means they clash frequently. Following an attempt to kidnap Isa a few days after the break in at the lab, Roman wants to keep her out of the firing line as much as possible, where Isa wants and needs to be actively working to counter the threat by continuing her research on the virus and developing a cure.
Things step up a gear when Isa receives news of a few cases of what is clearly a hemorrhaagic disease in the small, remote Alaskan town of Beaver Ridge. Chances are high that the patients have been infected with FC-5, and there’s no way the virus got there on its own; Beaver Ridge is pretty isolated, and can only be reached by seaplane. Only a small number of inhabitants have been infected so far, but it’s only a matter of time before more become unwell, and it’s now a race against time to discover the source of the infection – and track down the people responsible for the theft of the virus.
The suspense storyline works quite well up until around the halfway point when it seems to fragment and become kind of episodic. We move from Alaska (and another kidnap attempt) back to DC via Texas and a visit to Isa’s grandfather – because she couldn’t just call him to tell him the Steele team was sending someone to keep an eye out for his safety, she has to waste time she says she doesn’t have enough of actually going there and then spends the weekend there for some local festival or other. The second half of the book drags until near the very end really; we’re back in the lab while Isa continues her search for a cure… which doesn’t make for particularly exciting reading. Kudos to the author for keeping the identity of the villain relatively well under-wraps until the reveal (I had it narrowed down to two possibles), although their motivations are inconsistent. But ultimately, I had expected the book to be based more around the search for the guys who stole the virus rather than sitting around in a lab while Roman and Isa moon over one another – when they’re not having explosive sex and then pushing each other away.
Which brings me to the romance. Or lack thereof. There’s a definite spark between Isa and Roman and they have plenty of sex (the scenes are well-written) but there’s little to no relationship development. Roman has met Isa a grand total of ONCE when his brothers start ribbing him about his being interested in her, and it’s not long after that his over-protective alpha gene kicks in. Isa is spunky and takes no crap – she can take care of herself pretty well in a fight – and she goes for what she wants (and when she decides she wants Roman, he’s toast), but she’s suffering from an overabundance of guilt over her dead fiancé and I got fed up with all the metaphorical handwringing. I did, however, appreciate the moment were Roman tries to pull a “I’m leaving you because I can’t make you happy” stunt and Isa calls him on his crap. But basically, I never saw anything between them but lust, and all the lovey-dovey stuff at the end comes out of nowhere.
There’s an entertaining secondary cast, although none are really more than two-dimensional – which is also true of the leads; they have interesting backstories, but they never felt organic. Fatal Deception was, in the end, not much more than mildly entertaining. It wasn’t bad, but wasn’t quite good enough to earn a recommendation.
October 26, 2020
This is my first book by April Hunt and I am all in now! I was worried about the virus storyline with everything happening in our pandemic filled world, but appreciated how the emphasis was more on retrieving the virus from the bad guys that it was on the actual virus situation. While we can all relate to being in quarantine and the threat of a virus, this looked and felt significantly different and worked for me. I have been in a reading space where suspense is what I have craved and I flew through this. It reminded me a little of Maya Banks KGI series. The alpha men were fierce and protective, but in this book, he took her personality into consideration and let her lead when needed. I definitely recommend.
August 7, 2021
FATAL DECEPTION was a really enjoyable read and while I was a little nervous about the deadly virus plot (since I read this in the time of COVID) it was different enough from current circumstances to not bother me. The worries over the stolen virus and the infection in a small Alaskan town all created great tension and suspense but that tension's pace was a little staggered. There were parts of the book that felt like they weren't even worried about the virus or the fact that the bad guys were after Isabel. This made it so the tension would get really high and then fizzle out suddenly before coming back.
That being said, I still really liked the plot and I especially loved Isabel and Roman who were on fire together. Isabel was especially great; she's independent, super smart, and so compassionate when it comes to helping others. She constantly puts others before her even when she knows doing so will force her to confront her own demons. She needed someone like Roman who could look after her without stifling her strengths and her true self. Roman was protective but closed-off at first due to lingering trauma from his time overseas. But when he meets Isabel he can't stay away and he starts to let down his self-imposed walls. The journey wasn't easy for these two but they were perfect for each other.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Content Warning: Deadly virus, biological warfare, references to the death of a lover, PTSD
That being said, I still really liked the plot and I especially loved Isabel and Roman who were on fire together. Isabel was especially great; she's independent, super smart, and so compassionate when it comes to helping others. She constantly puts others before her even when she knows doing so will force her to confront her own demons. She needed someone like Roman who could look after her without stifling her strengths and her true self. Roman was protective but closed-off at first due to lingering trauma from his time overseas. But when he meets Isabel he can't stay away and he starts to let down his self-imposed walls. The journey wasn't easy for these two but they were perfect for each other.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Content Warning: Deadly virus, biological warfare, references to the death of a lover, PTSD
October 6, 2020
3 enjoyable stars
This was a solid 3 star read for me. I didn't hate anything about it. But it also didn't give me all the chills either. Please note: I did not read the first 2 in this serious, and did not real lost at all. This can definitely be read as a standalone novel.
Our hero had definitely lived a hard life. He was in the military and lost his leg because of a decision he made. Since then he has some serious PTSD and trust issues, especially when it come to people and his choices. He now owns and works with his brother at Steele Ops.
"I'll keep my people skills on the down-low. At least until someone says something that's too stupid to ignore." - Roman
The Steele Ops boys get called to a scene where someone stole a deadly virus from a Virologist (who happens to be our heroine).
Isa is a spitfire and does not take crap from anyone, especially our Hero. She is the epitome of don't judge a book by its cover. And she surprises our hero at every turn.
They are both drawn to each other immediately, have some serious sexual tension. While they struggle fighting the sexual chemistry, and try to stay away from each other they can't. Our heroine has this idea in her head of what she wants, and our hero doesn't think he is good enough for her because he lives a dangerous life. So while they keep being falling into bed they fight the relationship until the very end (which is one of the reasons why this is a 3 star and not high for me).
I always love reading mystery/suspense because I do love a good "who done it book" and this was one. It took me a while to figure out who did it, and I still was not 100% until the end.
This definitely a fun book to read right now, especially during a pandemic where a virus is running through our world.
My last little complaint and reason for 3 stars and not 4 is the lack of an epilogue (yes I know she wrote a quick 1 page epilogue, but it wasn't really an epilogue in my mind - you will see). Guys when you don't have a great epilogue its like leaving the icing off the freaking cake. I know this won't matter to some, but epilogues can make a huge difference in a book for me and here it just wasn't there. Especially since the couple's push and pull through the entire book. I need to see happily together in the future, at least for a chapter.
In the end, I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun quick mystery/suspense romance.
“I know my life isn’t for the faint of heart, Doc. I know it’s a lot. But I also know I love you, Isabel Santiago. I’m in love with you.” Roman braced his palm against the window and felt his chest throb when she laid hers on top. “And if you taught me one thing, it’s that there isn’t a damn thing you can’t do if you do it with the person you love.” - Roman
***ARC kindly provided by NetGallery and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) in exchange for an honest review.***
This was a solid 3 star read for me. I didn't hate anything about it. But it also didn't give me all the chills either. Please note: I did not read the first 2 in this serious, and did not real lost at all. This can definitely be read as a standalone novel.
Our hero had definitely lived a hard life. He was in the military and lost his leg because of a decision he made. Since then he has some serious PTSD and trust issues, especially when it come to people and his choices. He now owns and works with his brother at Steele Ops.
"I'll keep my people skills on the down-low. At least until someone says something that's too stupid to ignore." - Roman
The Steele Ops boys get called to a scene where someone stole a deadly virus from a Virologist (who happens to be our heroine).
Isa is a spitfire and does not take crap from anyone, especially our Hero. She is the epitome of don't judge a book by its cover. And she surprises our hero at every turn.
They are both drawn to each other immediately, have some serious sexual tension. While they struggle fighting the sexual chemistry, and try to stay away from each other they can't. Our heroine has this idea in her head of what she wants, and our hero doesn't think he is good enough for her because he lives a dangerous life. So while they keep being falling into bed they fight the relationship until the very end (which is one of the reasons why this is a 3 star and not high for me).
I always love reading mystery/suspense because I do love a good "who done it book" and this was one. It took me a while to figure out who did it, and I still was not 100% until the end.
This definitely a fun book to read right now, especially during a pandemic where a virus is running through our world.
My last little complaint and reason for 3 stars and not 4 is the lack of an epilogue (yes I know she wrote a quick 1 page epilogue, but it wasn't really an epilogue in my mind - you will see). Guys when you don't have a great epilogue its like leaving the icing off the freaking cake. I know this won't matter to some, but epilogues can make a huge difference in a book for me and here it just wasn't there. Especially since the couple's push and pull through the entire book. I need to see happily together in the future, at least for a chapter.
In the end, I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun quick mystery/suspense romance.
“I know my life isn’t for the faint of heart, Doc. I know it’s a lot. But I also know I love you, Isabel Santiago. I’m in love with you.” Roman braced his palm against the window and felt his chest throb when she laid hers on top. “And if you taught me one thing, it’s that there isn’t a damn thing you can’t do if you do it with the person you love.” - Roman
***ARC kindly provided by NetGallery and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) in exchange for an honest review.***
November 5, 2020
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I've been enjoying the Steele Ops series, which has a group of brothers, and some of their friends, who mostly all have a military background form a security business. With Fatal Deception being the third in the series, there is a great support group and circle of friends I have come to appreciate.
So when the team is providing security and investigating a lab break-in, it was an interesting story for these times. The lab had a killer virus which was stolen. The main person working towards a cure is Isabel; she is most knowledgeable. Isa is adamant about some things; she is used to being in charge of her team.
Roman is heading security for this case, but Liam, as usual, is working on the computer side. Isa and Roman have some words over how to handle security. Roman wants to protect her. Isa wants to save lives from the virus. They both want good outcomes but have different ideas about what is most important. As they spend time together, they develop a respect and attraction for each other.
Of course, each of them has personal issues from their past which they have to work out in order to have a real relationship. Their personal growth, along with a battle against a killer virus and terrorists makes for an exciting read.
Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I've been enjoying the Steele Ops series, which has a group of brothers, and some of their friends, who mostly all have a military background form a security business. With Fatal Deception being the third in the series, there is a great support group and circle of friends I have come to appreciate.
So when the team is providing security and investigating a lab break-in, it was an interesting story for these times. The lab had a killer virus which was stolen. The main person working towards a cure is Isabel; she is most knowledgeable. Isa is adamant about some things; she is used to being in charge of her team.
Roman is heading security for this case, but Liam, as usual, is working on the computer side. Isa and Roman have some words over how to handle security. Roman wants to protect her. Isa wants to save lives from the virus. They both want good outcomes but have different ideas about what is most important. As they spend time together, they develop a respect and attraction for each other.
Of course, each of them has personal issues from their past which they have to work out in order to have a real relationship. Their personal growth, along with a battle against a killer virus and terrorists makes for an exciting read.
November 2, 2020
This third installment was such a ride!
When a deadly virus is stolen from Isabel's lab, she is put in the care of Steele Ops, and one specific Steele brother, Rowan. Yes, the deadly virus portion of this story hit a little closer to home than some people will be comfortable with, but I hope you still dive in.
Both of our characters have forms of PTSD and Survivors Guilt, so please tread cautiously with this title if those can be triggers for you.
I loved the electric chemistry between Isabel and Rowan. The steam factor was too notch for me. This title had just enough suspense to make it believable, while also having a good balance with the romance part.
I also loved how their individual family units play into the story. It added a nice touch to the other parts, blending beautifully in concert with one another.
I have no complaints about this book. It fed my soul, was consumed in 2 sittings, and I cannot wait for more in this series.
When a deadly virus is stolen from Isabel's lab, she is put in the care of Steele Ops, and one specific Steele brother, Rowan. Yes, the deadly virus portion of this story hit a little closer to home than some people will be comfortable with, but I hope you still dive in.
Both of our characters have forms of PTSD and Survivors Guilt, so please tread cautiously with this title if those can be triggers for you.
I loved the electric chemistry between Isabel and Rowan. The steam factor was too notch for me. This title had just enough suspense to make it believable, while also having a good balance with the romance part.
I also loved how their individual family units play into the story. It added a nice touch to the other parts, blending beautifully in concert with one another.
I have no complaints about this book. It fed my soul, was consumed in 2 sittings, and I cannot wait for more in this series.
September 28, 2020
Fatal Deception (Steele Ops #3) by April Hunt
5 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers: Kidnapping, Murder
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Isa is a strong, independent, brillant woman who is working with a deadly virus. When her seemingly imprenitrable lab is broken in to and the thieves get away, she has heeps of guilt and is so mad she could spit fire. Isa is one of a few people who truly know what this virus is capable of and when she tries to explain it to Roman and his team, they are all a little less than enthusiastic about what Isa and her co-workers were working on.
Roman is a character that we've seen before. He's somewhat of an enigma. Silent, broody type. He didn't disappoint. He has lived through some horrible things and you get to see a side of him that you didn't in previous books. He wants to be strong and aloof, but Isa breaks those barriers with little effort.
The romance and mystery were perfectly entwined. I loved watching both unfold. Neither was the star of the story - they were equals and it made the story that much more enjoyable. I truly loved the mystery and the romance. Having a science background myself, I could tell that the author did a great job at trying to research what truly happens in those virology labs. Protocols and mannerisms were very well detailed.
You will not be disappointed with this story. You'll be wanting to know who is behind the mystery and cheering on for Isa and Roman. It was a wonderful story.
5 stars
M/F Romance
Triggers: Kidnapping, Murder
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Isa is a strong, independent, brillant woman who is working with a deadly virus. When her seemingly imprenitrable lab is broken in to and the thieves get away, she has heeps of guilt and is so mad she could spit fire. Isa is one of a few people who truly know what this virus is capable of and when she tries to explain it to Roman and his team, they are all a little less than enthusiastic about what Isa and her co-workers were working on.
Roman is a character that we've seen before. He's somewhat of an enigma. Silent, broody type. He didn't disappoint. He has lived through some horrible things and you get to see a side of him that you didn't in previous books. He wants to be strong and aloof, but Isa breaks those barriers with little effort.
The romance and mystery were perfectly entwined. I loved watching both unfold. Neither was the star of the story - they were equals and it made the story that much more enjoyable. I truly loved the mystery and the romance. Having a science background myself, I could tell that the author did a great job at trying to research what truly happens in those virology labs. Protocols and mannerisms were very well detailed.
You will not be disappointed with this story. You'll be wanting to know who is behind the mystery and cheering on for Isa and Roman. It was a wonderful story.
November 10, 2020
I loved this book so much, and this series has been amazing. I hope this isn't the last we see of these characters!
Roman Steele is that grumpy, aloof character we've fallen in love with over the first 2 books in the series. He was a military man until he lost his leg on a mission gone wrong. Now, he and his brothers have formed Steele Ops, a private security firm that takes on jobs the military and police agencies can't or won't do. They've been hired to deal with a break in at a lab, and track down a stolen virus before anyone can cause havoc with it. This puts him at odds with the lead virologist, who won't let him get away with bossing her around.
Dr. Isabel Santiago runs a lab at Tru Tech, and studies a very rare but terrifying hemorrhagic virus called FC-5. When a group of people break-in to her lab, which is supposed to be all but impossible, and steal the virus, Isa is panicked about what might be done with it. Then, when Roman Steele pops up on the scene acting accusatory, she is not having it. But, she needs help tracking down the culprits, so she'll have to learn to trust him, and quickly.
Roman and Isa had chemistry for DAYS, and I loved their bantering. They have both been hurt, and shaped, by their pasts, and they each had major hurdles to overcome before they could even consider being good for each other. Roman hasn't let anyone all the way in since his injury, not even his brothers. The death of someone close to Isa has lead her to stay away from home longer than she should have, especially when she can use work as an excuse. Though she talks to her grandfather regularly, she hasn't been home to Texas in a long time. This mission puts both Roman and Isa in the position to have to trust each other more than they have anyone else in a long time, maybe ever. Watching them grapple with their issues and help each other, while still dealing with the simmering attraction between them, was awesome!
The side characters here were amazing, as they've been throughout the series. I really hope we'll be getting more stories in this world, like Tank and Jaz! And King! Roman's brothers Ryder and Liam too! And Natasha the detective was fun as well. I'd love to see any or all of them in future stories! The family is close, and always calls each other on their crap, which I love. The other (non-related) team members are always great for comic relief too, and I don't want to let any of them go before we get to know them better! I also loved Isa's best friend and co-worker Maddy, and Isa's sly and smart grandfather too. Her grandfather knows her better than anyone, and she couldn't get anything by him, which was so fun. Maddy was ride or die for Isa and I adored their friendship.
The suspense plot was exciting, and often unexpected, and I thought it was very well done. It kept the story moving forward, and kept me guessing what would happen next. I enjoyed the way everything worked out it the end, though some of that was unexpected too!
This story was everything I wanted it to be. Honestly, my only tiny complaint would've been to see a little further along in time, in the epilogue. I'm hoping the fact that we didn't means we WILL be getting more in this world at some point! I highly recommend this book, and the entire series!
ARC provided by Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Megan from Alpha Book Club
Roman Steele is that grumpy, aloof character we've fallen in love with over the first 2 books in the series. He was a military man until he lost his leg on a mission gone wrong. Now, he and his brothers have formed Steele Ops, a private security firm that takes on jobs the military and police agencies can't or won't do. They've been hired to deal with a break in at a lab, and track down a stolen virus before anyone can cause havoc with it. This puts him at odds with the lead virologist, who won't let him get away with bossing her around.
Dr. Isabel Santiago runs a lab at Tru Tech, and studies a very rare but terrifying hemorrhagic virus called FC-5. When a group of people break-in to her lab, which is supposed to be all but impossible, and steal the virus, Isa is panicked about what might be done with it. Then, when Roman Steele pops up on the scene acting accusatory, she is not having it. But, she needs help tracking down the culprits, so she'll have to learn to trust him, and quickly.
Roman and Isa had chemistry for DAYS, and I loved their bantering. They have both been hurt, and shaped, by their pasts, and they each had major hurdles to overcome before they could even consider being good for each other. Roman hasn't let anyone all the way in since his injury, not even his brothers. The death of someone close to Isa has lead her to stay away from home longer than she should have, especially when she can use work as an excuse. Though she talks to her grandfather regularly, she hasn't been home to Texas in a long time. This mission puts both Roman and Isa in the position to have to trust each other more than they have anyone else in a long time, maybe ever. Watching them grapple with their issues and help each other, while still dealing with the simmering attraction between them, was awesome!
The side characters here were amazing, as they've been throughout the series. I really hope we'll be getting more stories in this world, like Tank and Jaz! And King! Roman's brothers Ryder and Liam too! And Natasha the detective was fun as well. I'd love to see any or all of them in future stories! The family is close, and always calls each other on their crap, which I love. The other (non-related) team members are always great for comic relief too, and I don't want to let any of them go before we get to know them better! I also loved Isa's best friend and co-worker Maddy, and Isa's sly and smart grandfather too. Her grandfather knows her better than anyone, and she couldn't get anything by him, which was so fun. Maddy was ride or die for Isa and I adored their friendship.
The suspense plot was exciting, and often unexpected, and I thought it was very well done. It kept the story moving forward, and kept me guessing what would happen next. I enjoyed the way everything worked out it the end, though some of that was unexpected too!
This story was everything I wanted it to be. Honestly, my only tiny complaint would've been to see a little further along in time, in the epilogue. I'm hoping the fact that we didn't means we WILL be getting more in this world at some point! I highly recommend this book, and the entire series!
ARC provided by Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Megan from Alpha Book Club
November 20, 2020
Funny how I've started to view many things through the lens of Covid-19; a year perhaps, is long enough to make or break certain habits. Pre-Covid-19, I was a huge fan of RS stories written around biological warfare (probably still am, just with a huge dose of caution) and April Hunt's 'Fatal Deception' is one that steps into such a world with terminology that's eerily familiar these days.
The RS plot itself is a familiar one: a virulent strain is forcibly taken from a lab, the forced dissemination (there was a bit of a hard time suspending disbelief with this one), a race to stop it from becoming a time bomb, a fast and furious relationship developing out of it in the meantime.
But if I liked Isabel Santiago's sass and the spicy start with Roman Steele, I hadn't quite gotten the feel of them together yet before they'd fallen hard and fast into bed. And the speed at with they'd gone in - the sexual tension failed to go up many notches first - made me wonder if what they had didn't quite go beyond their stressful circumstances.
How both Isabel and Roman came to the realisation that they loved each other wasn't a convincing one perhaps because there seemed to be insufficient investment in their emotional journey throughout the story. Both played the one-step-forward, two-steps back game which was put on the back-burner in favour of the action, and then came the turning point where Isabel was in danger which prompted Roman's hesitant, wavering feelings to suddenly flip resolutely to love.
In essence, this started out pretty well but a combination of implausible scenes and an unconvincing romance made it taper off to something lukewarm by the end. I did like both protagonists individually (great work ethics, good personalities and all) but 'Fatal Deception' being romance as well...it could and should have been much more.
The RS plot itself is a familiar one: a virulent strain is forcibly taken from a lab, the forced dissemination (there was a bit of a hard time suspending disbelief with this one), a race to stop it from becoming a time bomb, a fast and furious relationship developing out of it in the meantime.
But if I liked Isabel Santiago's sass and the spicy start with Roman Steele, I hadn't quite gotten the feel of them together yet before they'd fallen hard and fast into bed. And the speed at with they'd gone in - the sexual tension failed to go up many notches first - made me wonder if what they had didn't quite go beyond their stressful circumstances.
How both Isabel and Roman came to the realisation that they loved each other wasn't a convincing one perhaps because there seemed to be insufficient investment in their emotional journey throughout the story. Both played the one-step-forward, two-steps back game which was put on the back-burner in favour of the action, and then came the turning point where Isabel was in danger which prompted Roman's hesitant, wavering feelings to suddenly flip resolutely to love.
In essence, this started out pretty well but a combination of implausible scenes and an unconvincing romance made it taper off to something lukewarm by the end. I did like both protagonists individually (great work ethics, good personalities and all) but 'Fatal Deception' being romance as well...it could and should have been much more.
October 2, 2020
This was my first book by April Hunt and I quite liked it. It's an easy read, somewhat predictable though. An ex CIA agent, a beautiful doctor and a few very interesting side characters. It's a good suspenseful romance with very likeable characters. I really liked the story. Great ending but it was a tad inconsistent. I realize that the author was trying to keep you in suspense but I think she went a little to far off sometimes and made it hard to believe when the ending came around. Still, all in all it was a good book. It also dragged in the middle for me. It did pick up towards the end though. But overall the story flowed smoothly and it was interesting and it kept me turning tha pages, eager to find out how will the "thing with the deady virus" play out. There was also great tension in the plot and between the main characters which I liked very much. I'll defenitely check out the first two books in this series as well and I'm also looking forward to reading more books by Ms. Hunt.
***I received the ARC for free from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
***I received the ARC for free from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
November 6, 2020
Fatal Deception by April Hunt is the first novel I have ever read by her. Her writing is impeccable. I love the cast of characters. From the tough badass military ops men to the tough and smart women they fall in love with, I was hooked. I could not get enough of these characters. The team that specializes in saving the world from bag guys, have their hands full with their latest assignment. It takes a special kind of woman to deal with the brooding warrior like Roman. Isa works for a lab that tests things like deadly viruses. Until, bad guys come in and steal the most deadly virus from her lab. That's where Roman and his teammates are called in to help. Roman and Isa butt heads but their attraction is instant. It was fun to follow them and their fellow cast members as the action built into a frenzy. Exciting, sexy, and engaging-Fatal Deception despite being book three, was easy to follow. Overall, I recommend it to all romantic suspense fans. This is one author to add to your must watch list.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
February 1, 2021
First off a big thank you to the publishers Forever, Grand Central Publishing , as well as the author April Hunt , and NetGalley for letting me read and review it as well as another thank you to the publisher for sending me a copy of it .As soon as I found out about this book there was no holding back, because this is one of my all time favorite series, a series I can't wait to set down and re read them as soon as I can and yes I am one of those people who love to re read books or even series that is my all time favorite ,as soon as I found out about this book I was excited because it was and is one of my most anticipated reads for 2020 but sadly I just didn't get to it with how crazy everything was , and with my reading kind of dropping , but I'm so glad that this year I picked it up to read because it reminding me why I love this series and these characters so much. And even though it deals with a hard topic I love how April Hunt brings to life how and why Bio terrorism needs to be put a stop to , she also brings to life how hard the scientists and doctors work to find the cure for this diseases as well as how hard they work to study them at their one risk. And her hard work paid off, right from the start I was hooked and didn't even want to put the book down, I loved the inter action between the friends and family of Steel and the inter action between out two main characters Roman and Isabel.With that said I hope there will be more to this series to read and fall in love with .
November 11, 2020
I have been enjoying this romantic suspense series so much. I love the overarching plot with the guys running their own private security company and the women who challenge them. Roman is the epitome of a broody hero and I've been waiting for his story since I met him in the first book. And he definitely was the grumpy wonder that I was waiting for. Isa was just such a good match. I love how she stood up for herself. Plus, who doesn't love a smart and strong woman?! The chemistry between them was great. Throw in the suspense and action and you have quite the entertaining read. I would definitely recommend this whole series! Thank you to Forever Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 16, 2020
I loved everything about this action packed series!!! Isa and Roman were perfect for each other. April Hunt is definitely a favorite author of mine
November 4, 2020
Amazing!
Engaging plot that has well developed characters. I enjoyed the relationships and the twists.
I voluntarily read an advanced copy.
Engaging plot that has well developed characters. I enjoyed the relationships and the twists.
I voluntarily read an advanced copy.
November 17, 2020
Omg. In love with this book and series! Another fast paced romantic suspense that was always surprising you! Amazing job. So loved the chemistry between the characters!
November 17, 2020
After losing his leg in a gruesome event while serving his country, Roman Steele is closed off and cautious about trusting others. He’s adjusted to civilian life in his own way, but his people skills are lacking. When he and his team are hired to investigate a seeming impossible theft from a high-security lab, Roman immediately clashes with the lead virologist, who just happens to be the most beautiful woman he’s ever seen.
Isabel Santiago is devastated when criminals break into her lab and steal a deadly virus, intending to use her research as a weapon. She’s desperate to catch them and recover the virus before any damage can be done, but that means putting her faith and trust in the arrogant, brooding security expert. Roman and Isabel work together with Roman’s team to get to the bottom of the theft, but there is no denying the palpable connection they share. With both Isabel and Roman tentatively imagining a future together, there’s more at stake than they ever dreamed of, but they first have to thwart their enemy’s nefarious plans.
This was one heck of a nail-biter. It was tough given the current pandemic situation, but it also made me strangely thankful because the virus in this book is so much worse and deadlier than Covid. The pacing was fast and kept me engaged and Roman and Isabel were explosive together. I couldn’t help cheering for them as a couple, though both at times needed a good smack when they kept making poor decisions and inadvertently put themselves and others in danger, even as each tried to protect the other. The drama was very up and down, which suited the plot and the characters, but I was hoping for a bit more time for Isa and Roman to just be together and have an uninterrupted discussion of their feelings. Other things kept getting in the way, and understandably so, but I wanted more out of that last scene just to be gratuitous, even though their feelings for each other were more than obvious to one and all. I also vastly enjoyed the twist near the end. The Steele Ops crew was very charming and likable, and I’d like to go back and read the first two books of the series now and hope for more continuations.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Isabel Santiago is devastated when criminals break into her lab and steal a deadly virus, intending to use her research as a weapon. She’s desperate to catch them and recover the virus before any damage can be done, but that means putting her faith and trust in the arrogant, brooding security expert. Roman and Isabel work together with Roman’s team to get to the bottom of the theft, but there is no denying the palpable connection they share. With both Isabel and Roman tentatively imagining a future together, there’s more at stake than they ever dreamed of, but they first have to thwart their enemy’s nefarious plans.
This was one heck of a nail-biter. It was tough given the current pandemic situation, but it also made me strangely thankful because the virus in this book is so much worse and deadlier than Covid. The pacing was fast and kept me engaged and Roman and Isabel were explosive together. I couldn’t help cheering for them as a couple, though both at times needed a good smack when they kept making poor decisions and inadvertently put themselves and others in danger, even as each tried to protect the other. The drama was very up and down, which suited the plot and the characters, but I was hoping for a bit more time for Isa and Roman to just be together and have an uninterrupted discussion of their feelings. Other things kept getting in the way, and understandably so, but I wanted more out of that last scene just to be gratuitous, even though their feelings for each other were more than obvious to one and all. I also vastly enjoyed the twist near the end. The Steele Ops crew was very charming and likable, and I’d like to go back and read the first two books of the series now and hope for more continuations.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 28, 2020
Dr. Isabel Santiago is a virologist studying the most dangerous viruses in the world when armed madmen storm her lab and steal the virus. Now she has to put up with the arrogant, stubborn - and annoyingly sexy - Roman Steele to get it back before millions die.
I loved this read! Starts as enemies to lovers but quickly turns to sex before emotions with some forced proximity and some seriously awesome bodyguard moments. Dr. Isabel Santiago is brilliant and badass and will do what is best for the world before ever thinking about how it might end up hurting her. Roman is a dangerous man and despite his lack of one leg - will do whatever it takes to protect Isa. (Who he calls "Doc" the whole time and I have no idea why I loved that tidbit so much!) They both are so afraid to be hurt and vulnerable but they are an awesome team with some serious steam. There are great moments of consent ("Have you been drinking? Are you sure this is what you want?"); and great moments of calling people on their bullshit.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I loved this read! Starts as enemies to lovers but quickly turns to sex before emotions with some forced proximity and some seriously awesome bodyguard moments. Dr. Isabel Santiago is brilliant and badass and will do what is best for the world before ever thinking about how it might end up hurting her. Roman is a dangerous man and despite his lack of one leg - will do whatever it takes to protect Isa. (Who he calls "Doc" the whole time and I have no idea why I loved that tidbit so much!) They both are so afraid to be hurt and vulnerable but they are an awesome team with some serious steam. There are great moments of consent ("Have you been drinking? Are you sure this is what you want?"); and great moments of calling people on their bullshit.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 10, 2021
With this story's plot being about a deadly virus that was stolen, it is impossible not to think of current conditions in today's world.
Fatal Deception
is the exciting third book in the Steele Ops series. April Hunt did not misss a beat with this story, and I love that my attention was snagged from beginning to end.
As has been mentioned, this thrilling book is about a stolen virus. Admittedly not the easiest book to read during a pandenic. No worries, however, as April Hunt is an excellent author who wrote a relatable story, but no fear was instilled in me as I read it. Instead, I was able to enjoy the drama involved in the story, as well as the characters who played their parts.
I so enjoy romantic suspense. In this case with the third of the Steele brothers having a story, I was pleasantly entertained. Whether it was the mystery at hand or the romance developing, the story was well developed and kept my interest from beginning to end.
One thing that made this book so compelling is the fact that both of the primary protagonists, Rowan and Isabel had PTSD and survivor's guilt (trigger warning) in common. Add to the fact that Rowan had previously lost his leg gave these characters fabulous depth, and this only made a good story that much better. Also, the continuity that comes with recurring characters was an extra bonus. I don't know what else is in store for this series, but I cannot wait to find out so that I can read it.
Many thanks to Forever and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
As has been mentioned, this thrilling book is about a stolen virus. Admittedly not the easiest book to read during a pandenic. No worries, however, as April Hunt is an excellent author who wrote a relatable story, but no fear was instilled in me as I read it. Instead, I was able to enjoy the drama involved in the story, as well as the characters who played their parts.
I so enjoy romantic suspense. In this case with the third of the Steele brothers having a story, I was pleasantly entertained. Whether it was the mystery at hand or the romance developing, the story was well developed and kept my interest from beginning to end.
One thing that made this book so compelling is the fact that both of the primary protagonists, Rowan and Isabel had PTSD and survivor's guilt (trigger warning) in common. Add to the fact that Rowan had previously lost his leg gave these characters fabulous depth, and this only made a good story that much better. Also, the continuity that comes with recurring characters was an extra bonus. I don't know what else is in store for this series, but I cannot wait to find out so that I can read it.
Many thanks to Forever and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
November 8, 2020
An Amazing Suspense Romance .
I volunteered to read and review an advanced readers copy through Netgalley of Fatal Deception .
WOW! This is absolutely heart racing suspense at it's best . This is a one pulse pounding rollercoaster ride . It keeps you reading . I didn't want to put it down . It's full of heart breaking times humorous times and definitely scary times . Let's not forget romance . Roman Steele and his brothers own Steele Ops . They are called into Tru Tech labs where four mask men stole a virus . They weren't seen leaving the building . Steele Op's job is to find and retrieve the virus . Soon things get even harder
When the mask men attempt to capture Dr. Isabel Santiago who is studying the virus and trying to cure it . Roman steps into protect Isabel but things escalate as the virus is unleashed in a test run for something bigger . It will take everything Steele Ops has and Isabels knowledge to prevent devastation . I highly recommend taking the time to read .
I volunteered to read and review an advanced readers copy through Netgalley of Fatal Deception .
WOW! This is absolutely heart racing suspense at it's best . This is a one pulse pounding rollercoaster ride . It keeps you reading . I didn't want to put it down . It's full of heart breaking times humorous times and definitely scary times . Let's not forget romance . Roman Steele and his brothers own Steele Ops . They are called into Tru Tech labs where four mask men stole a virus . They weren't seen leaving the building . Steele Op's job is to find and retrieve the virus . Soon things get even harder
When the mask men attempt to capture Dr. Isabel Santiago who is studying the virus and trying to cure it . Roman steps into protect Isabel but things escalate as the virus is unleashed in a test run for something bigger . It will take everything Steele Ops has and Isabels knowledge to prevent devastation . I highly recommend taking the time to read .
March 10, 2022
Isabel is a scientist and before that a doctor in the navy. But since she lost her fiance she decided to bury herself into work up until she was targeted and a nasty virus from her lab was stolen and released. Special ops steel and his family came to the rescue to keep her safe and find the virus and the people that took it. But one steel and one doctor also had to figure out what the word love meant and how to conquer it too.
November 10, 2020
Check out our full post for FATAL DECEPTION on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Avid Reader – ☆☆☆☆☆
M/F Romance
Isa is a strong, independent, brilliant woman who is working with a deadly virus. When her seemingly impenetrable lab is broken into and the thieves get away, she has heaps of guilt and is so mad she could spit fire. Isa is one of a few people who truly know what this virus is capable of and when she tries to explain it to Roman and his team, they are all a little less than enthusiastic about what Isa and her co-workers were working on.
Roman is a character that we've seen before. He's somewhat of an enigma. Silent, broody type. He didn't disappoint. He has lived through some horrible things and you get to see a side of him that you didn't in previous books. He wants to be strong and aloof, but Isa breaks those barriers with little effort.
The romance and mystery were perfectly entwined. I loved watching both unfold. Neither was the star of the story – they were equals and it made the story that much more enjoyable. I truly loved the mystery and the romance. Having a science background myself, I could tell that the author did a great job at trying to research what truly happens in those virology labs. Protocols and mannerisms were very well detailed.
You will not be disappointed with this story. You'll be wanting to know who is behind the mystery and cheering on for Isa and Roman. It was a wonderful story.
Triggers: Hidden because they may contain spoilers.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
November 10, 2020
4.5 stars
I devoured Roman and Isa's story! Action, suspense, a little humor and a lot of heat with a dash of "a fine line between love and hate" defined this couple's journey to their HEA as two emotionally damaged people learned to let down their guard enough to learn to trust again.
Roman has simply been existing since he was injured in the line of duty. None of his family knows the full story of how he lost his leg and he is no hurry to share. He is known as the grumpy brother but it doesn't stop his family from trying to draw him out. They never anticipated that one beautiful former Army doctor turned virologist with a spine of steel and no fear of a grumpy Steele would be the one to bring him back to life!
Isabel has her own demons that haunt her in the form of what could have been on many different levels, but when her lab is breached by a highly trained team looking to steal a deadly virus, she embraces her anger to get past the shock and fear and focus on stopping it from being unleashed on the general public. Roman is a shock to her but there is no denying the sparks that fly every time they are in the same room. I loved seeing Roman and Isa's relationship develop; in the midst of some pretty intense moments, they find a way to support each other and open up to each other. Now if they can just keep themselves from derailing the best thing to ever happen to them when their fears come to the surface...
Fatal Deception crisscrosses the US as Isa races to find a cure for the virus and Roman and Steele Ops team do their best to keep her safe. New faces are introduced that I would like to see in future books, and familiar faces play important roles as well. All in all, this was a wonderful read and great addition to the series that left me ready for more of the Steele family!
ARC received from NetGalley
I devoured Roman and Isa's story! Action, suspense, a little humor and a lot of heat with a dash of "a fine line between love and hate" defined this couple's journey to their HEA as two emotionally damaged people learned to let down their guard enough to learn to trust again.
Roman has simply been existing since he was injured in the line of duty. None of his family knows the full story of how he lost his leg and he is no hurry to share. He is known as the grumpy brother but it doesn't stop his family from trying to draw him out. They never anticipated that one beautiful former Army doctor turned virologist with a spine of steel and no fear of a grumpy Steele would be the one to bring him back to life!
Isabel has her own demons that haunt her in the form of what could have been on many different levels, but when her lab is breached by a highly trained team looking to steal a deadly virus, she embraces her anger to get past the shock and fear and focus on stopping it from being unleashed on the general public. Roman is a shock to her but there is no denying the sparks that fly every time they are in the same room. I loved seeing Roman and Isa's relationship develop; in the midst of some pretty intense moments, they find a way to support each other and open up to each other. Now if they can just keep themselves from derailing the best thing to ever happen to them when their fears come to the surface...
Fatal Deception crisscrosses the US as Isa races to find a cure for the virus and Roman and Steele Ops team do their best to keep her safe. New faces are introduced that I would like to see in future books, and familiar faces play important roles as well. All in all, this was a wonderful read and great addition to the series that left me ready for more of the Steele family!
ARC received from NetGalley
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