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Justice for Francesca
FBI Special Agent Francesca McCabe follows the rules.
Being related to the “Dirty McCabes” of New York City, there’s no other choice if she wants to avoid their reputation attaching to her. However, her new case is about to make following the rules a lot more difficult than she ever expected.
Ethan “Tripoli” Evans is no stranger to rules and regulations.
As a former Navy medic, he’s trained to expect the unexpected. Still, nothing could have prepared him for the five a.m. phone call that throws his world into chaos. Now he has a dead body in his nightclub, and the only woman he’s ever wanted for his own is investigating him.
The clock is ticking.
Within forty-eight hours, another body shows up. No one has an alibi, but neither do they have a motive. Fellow FBI Agent Cruz Livingston and San Antonio Medical Examiner Calder Stonewall are just as in the dark as everyone else. Francesca is being bombarded left and right with her past and her present, both of which could affect her future.
Now Francesca’s discovering that sometimes rules are made to be broken if you want to come out alive on the other side.
This book is intended for mature readers, age 18+.
Being related to the “Dirty McCabes” of New York City, there’s no other choice if she wants to avoid their reputation attaching to her. However, her new case is about to make following the rules a lot more difficult than she ever expected.
Ethan “Tripoli” Evans is no stranger to rules and regulations.
As a former Navy medic, he’s trained to expect the unexpected. Still, nothing could have prepared him for the five a.m. phone call that throws his world into chaos. Now he has a dead body in his nightclub, and the only woman he’s ever wanted for his own is investigating him.
The clock is ticking.
Within forty-eight hours, another body shows up. No one has an alibi, but neither do they have a motive. Fellow FBI Agent Cruz Livingston and San Antonio Medical Examiner Calder Stonewall are just as in the dark as everyone else. Francesca is being bombarded left and right with her past and her present, both of which could affect her future.
Now Francesca’s discovering that sometimes rules are made to be broken if you want to come out alive on the other side.
This book is intended for mature readers, age 18+.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 11, 2025
36 people are currently reading
21 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Craig
8 books108 followersNicole Craig lives in Southeastern Wisconsin. She is a devout Milwaukee Brewers fan, mother of four furry feline children, and married to The One. After twenty-five years as a high school English teacher, she decided to retire to spin fantastic tales, travel, and live the ultimate fantasy: reading a book a day until the end of time.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
March 11, 2025
4.5 stars
I have read many books in Susan Stoker’s Operation Alpha universe, where an array of authors contributes their own stories/series and crossover characters. Nicole is one of my favourite authors, so I was excited to see how her book compared to others in the series. I can confidently say that she has made a smooth transition into this sought-after world with her first book.
Justice for Francesca is an intriguing tale that is complex and cleverly woven, featuring multiple storylines and a twisty plot. The characters are strong, well-developed, and undeniably complex.
FBI Special Agent Francesca McCabe follows a twisted trail that leads her into murder, danger, secrets, lies, hidden agendas, and high drama. Throughout her investigation, she realizes that not everything is as black and white as she once believed. Now, she must stay alive to catch a killer.
Ethan ‘Tripoli’ Evans has seen his world turn upside down. First, there’s a body, and now he’s being investigated by FBI Special Agent Francesca McCabe—a woman who holds a special place in his heart. Will this investigation bring them together or tear them apart?
Additionally, it was a bonus to catch up with FBI Agent Cruz Livingston and San Antonio Medical Examiner Calder Stonewall who I fell in love with from other series in the Operation Alpha universe.
I have read many books in Susan Stoker’s Operation Alpha universe, where an array of authors contributes their own stories/series and crossover characters. Nicole is one of my favourite authors, so I was excited to see how her book compared to others in the series. I can confidently say that she has made a smooth transition into this sought-after world with her first book.
Justice for Francesca is an intriguing tale that is complex and cleverly woven, featuring multiple storylines and a twisty plot. The characters are strong, well-developed, and undeniably complex.
FBI Special Agent Francesca McCabe follows a twisted trail that leads her into murder, danger, secrets, lies, hidden agendas, and high drama. Throughout her investigation, she realizes that not everything is as black and white as she once believed. Now, she must stay alive to catch a killer.
Ethan ‘Tripoli’ Evans has seen his world turn upside down. First, there’s a body, and now he’s being investigated by FBI Special Agent Francesca McCabe—a woman who holds a special place in his heart. Will this investigation bring them together or tear them apart?
Additionally, it was a bonus to catch up with FBI Agent Cruz Livingston and San Antonio Medical Examiner Calder Stonewall who I fell in love with from other series in the Operation Alpha universe.
March 17, 2025
An early morning phone call led Tripoli to drop everything and return to San Antonio. What he bever expected was that this murder that happened at one of his clubs would bring back the one who got away. Justice for Francesca puts the reader in a world of whodunit with some tense & passion thrown in.
Francesca gets a call, she goes. That’s her job. Working for the FBI has its advantages but this time she’s being thrown right back into the path of a man she dreads seeing again. A man she knows there’s unresolved feelings and tension between them. She met him on a previous undercover mission, one where she was distracted and misstep. Now she’s thrust right back into Tripoli’s path but this time instead of women being abducted they are being murdered. It’s her job to find out who. Unfortunately Tripoli isn’t her only complication, her baby brother who she hasn’t seen in 14 years is not only his employee but a suspect. Hoping all these reasons would have her removed were null and void.
What will she do?
Will she give into how she feels?
Tripoli refuses to let her get away, and he uses the investigation to his advantage. He’s willing to cooperate with the FBI but at what cost? Well that’s up to Francesca. He told himself if he ever crossed paths with her again, he wasn’t letting her go this time. It’s just trying to get her to see and understand that she doesn’t have to be all black and white. That there are gray areas in which him and his feelings reside.
They need to work together. Together to find who is doing this before someone else loses their life. All while battling what’s between them.
Will they discover who is behind the murders?
Is it linked to Francesca’s past like she believes?
The author wrote a book that sucks the reader in. From beginning to end, I didn’t want to put it down. So keep that in mind when reading this, you may go from a few chapters at a time, to getting lost this the very end.
Francesca gets a call, she goes. That’s her job. Working for the FBI has its advantages but this time she’s being thrown right back into the path of a man she dreads seeing again. A man she knows there’s unresolved feelings and tension between them. She met him on a previous undercover mission, one where she was distracted and misstep. Now she’s thrust right back into Tripoli’s path but this time instead of women being abducted they are being murdered. It’s her job to find out who. Unfortunately Tripoli isn’t her only complication, her baby brother who she hasn’t seen in 14 years is not only his employee but a suspect. Hoping all these reasons would have her removed were null and void.
What will she do?
Will she give into how she feels?
Tripoli refuses to let her get away, and he uses the investigation to his advantage. He’s willing to cooperate with the FBI but at what cost? Well that’s up to Francesca. He told himself if he ever crossed paths with her again, he wasn’t letting her go this time. It’s just trying to get her to see and understand that she doesn’t have to be all black and white. That there are gray areas in which him and his feelings reside.
They need to work together. Together to find who is doing this before someone else loses their life. All while battling what’s between them.
Will they discover who is behind the murders?
Is it linked to Francesca’s past like she believes?
The author wrote a book that sucks the reader in. From beginning to end, I didn’t want to put it down. So keep that in mind when reading this, you may go from a few chapters at a time, to getting lost this the very end.
May 10, 2025
Justice for Francesca by Nicole Craig is her first book in the new series 6 Paths To Justice, part of the Operation Alpha world. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Tripoli is an uncomplicated yet enigmatic man. A protector through and through, he owns several specialty clubs catering to specific crowds. He also had met Francesca 2 years back in a different story, and felt an instant connection. But he couldn’t do anything at that time about the attraction.
Now Francesca is back in his life, this time as someone who is investigating a gruesome crime in one of his clubs. Tripoli wants to tear down her walls but before that can happen, he now has to keep her safe as well.
It’s a race against time; with twists and turns and sinister forces.
The other thing I really enjoyed : I’ve read all of the books in Susan Stoker’s Badges of Honor: Texas Heroes and I loved seeing some of the characters from that series show up in this one!
I also enjoy reading Nicole Craig’s Deadman’s Tribe, her other series, which has some of the characters that make special appearance in this one as well.
Overall, it’s a romantic suspense filled with nail biting suspense, thrills, and of course, steamy romance. The characters are wonderful and reading about some old and new ones was a treat. Get this one!! It’s thoroughly enjoyable.
Tripoli is an uncomplicated yet enigmatic man. A protector through and through, he owns several specialty clubs catering to specific crowds. He also had met Francesca 2 years back in a different story, and felt an instant connection. But he couldn’t do anything at that time about the attraction.
Now Francesca is back in his life, this time as someone who is investigating a gruesome crime in one of his clubs. Tripoli wants to tear down her walls but before that can happen, he now has to keep her safe as well.
It’s a race against time; with twists and turns and sinister forces.
The other thing I really enjoyed : I’ve read all of the books in Susan Stoker’s Badges of Honor: Texas Heroes and I loved seeing some of the characters from that series show up in this one!
I also enjoy reading Nicole Craig’s Deadman’s Tribe, her other series, which has some of the characters that make special appearance in this one as well.
Overall, it’s a romantic suspense filled with nail biting suspense, thrills, and of course, steamy romance. The characters are wonderful and reading about some old and new ones was a treat. Get this one!! It’s thoroughly enjoyable.
March 14, 2025
This was a gripping read and the intriguing storyline and plot twists kept me hooked throughout. Being related to the “Dirty McCabes” of New York City has always been problematic for FBI Special Agent Francesca McCabe. Because of this Francesca always follows the rules, but her latest case makes this very difficult for her to do. Former Navy Medic Ethan “Tripoli” Evans is trained for the unexpected, but having a dead body in his nightclub and being investigated by Francesca, the only woman he’s ever loved throws his world into chaos. When another body shows up fellow FBI Agent Cruz Livingston and San Antonio Medical Examiner Calder Stonewall are in the dark, with none of the suspects having an alibi but also no apparent motive. Francesca discovers that sometimes rules are made to be broken, especially if you want to survive. I found the characters to be very realistic and Francesca was particularly likeable and relatable. I was kept reading late into the night by this real page turner, and I look forward to the next book in this exciting new series.
March 18, 2025
I have read the Tribes series by Nichole Craig, and when I heard that this next series was set in Susan Stoker's world, I was interested in how The two worlds would connect.
FBI Agent Francesca McCabe has tried so hard to distance herself from her family the “Dirty McCabes” of New York City, she has no choice if she wants to avoid their reputation.
When she finishes her latest assignment, instead of a break, she's sent to a crime scene at a club, because she has history with the owner of the club, they met during another case at one of his other clubs The Library (this is the link to the Tribes series)
Ethan 'Tripoli' Evans, A retired Navy medic, he’s trained to expect the unexpected. But, nothing could have prepared him for the call from his club manager, they found a dead body in his nightclub.
This is an intense story which takes you on a physiological trail for an unknown killer, and when another body is found, Francesca and Tripoli must work together to work out who is targeting the club.
From start to finish the book kept me gripped, with the twists and turns.
FBI Agent Francesca McCabe has tried so hard to distance herself from her family the “Dirty McCabes” of New York City, she has no choice if she wants to avoid their reputation.
When she finishes her latest assignment, instead of a break, she's sent to a crime scene at a club, because she has history with the owner of the club, they met during another case at one of his other clubs The Library (this is the link to the Tribes series)
Ethan 'Tripoli' Evans, A retired Navy medic, he’s trained to expect the unexpected. But, nothing could have prepared him for the call from his club manager, they found a dead body in his nightclub.
This is an intense story which takes you on a physiological trail for an unknown killer, and when another body is found, Francesca and Tripoli must work together to work out who is targeting the club.
From start to finish the book kept me gripped, with the twists and turns.
March 28, 2025
Such a Thrilling and Entertainingly Suspenseful Romance
This is the first novel by Nicole Craig I have had the pleasure of reading, and it has completely captivated me. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading this, even while walking through the store or cooking dinner! I was hooked from the first sentence to the last. There is something powerful about the way this story was written, magical even, and I’m not sure how to even begin to describe it. Francesca is a no-nonsense, rule-following, by-the-book, independent FBI agent that can take care of herself and doesn’t need any help, thank you very much. Ethan is retired from the Navy special forces, but has carried that discipline over into his businesses. His employees are like family, and he doesn’t take it lightly when they are in harms way. Can these two figure out what’s going on before it’s too late? Can they also help each other face, and overcome, their past’s? Well, I’m not going to tell, so maybe you should go read it and ride the roller coaster to find out yourself! I promise it’s worth the ride!
This is the first novel by Nicole Craig I have had the pleasure of reading, and it has completely captivated me. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading this, even while walking through the store or cooking dinner! I was hooked from the first sentence to the last. There is something powerful about the way this story was written, magical even, and I’m not sure how to even begin to describe it. Francesca is a no-nonsense, rule-following, by-the-book, independent FBI agent that can take care of herself and doesn’t need any help, thank you very much. Ethan is retired from the Navy special forces, but has carried that discipline over into his businesses. His employees are like family, and he doesn’t take it lightly when they are in harms way. Can these two figure out what’s going on before it’s too late? Can they also help each other face, and overcome, their past’s? Well, I’m not going to tell, so maybe you should go read it and ride the roller coaster to find out yourself! I promise it’s worth the ride!
April 1, 2025
4 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Justice for Francesca is Book 1 in this new series full of drama, intrigue, danger and past lives coming back together. The story is full of twists and turns.....but I also wish I had known about the world of Susan Stoker and how all the connections come about...I had to try and piece together details..but overall I really enjoyed the story.
Ethan "Tripoli" Evans is not only a retired Navy Medic, but also a popular club owner...but getting a call out of the blue there was a murder at his club is anything but expected. Chance encounters happen when Francesca McCabe, fresh off an assignment, gets a call to handle the latest murder at Ethan's club. With secrets around every corner will Ethan and Francesca be able to find out whom the murderer is responsible for the heinous actions in is club...especially since Ethan and Francesca have know each other from a previous encounter....
Justice for Francesca is Book 1 in this new series full of drama, intrigue, danger and past lives coming back together. The story is full of twists and turns.....but I also wish I had known about the world of Susan Stoker and how all the connections come about...I had to try and piece together details..but overall I really enjoyed the story.
Ethan "Tripoli" Evans is not only a retired Navy Medic, but also a popular club owner...but getting a call out of the blue there was a murder at his club is anything but expected. Chance encounters happen when Francesca McCabe, fresh off an assignment, gets a call to handle the latest murder at Ethan's club. With secrets around every corner will Ethan and Francesca be able to find out whom the murderer is responsible for the heinous actions in is club...especially since Ethan and Francesca have know each other from a previous encounter....
April 7, 2025
Justice for Francesca by Nicole Craig is another shared universe novel that I have recently discovered is a thing. This shared universe is the Operation Alpha world, and it's also the first book in the Six Paths to Justice series. The reader is introduced to Francesca McCabe, an FBI agent, and Ethan “Tripoli" Evans, a former Navy medic turned nightclub owner. The two have a complicated history and must join together to solve a murder at one of Ethan's clubs. Ethan and Francesca's characters were to die for! She's a follow-the-rules FBI agent while he is the haunted, former medic. Both are looking to break from their pasts to forge a better future. Their chemistry is undeniable, despite Francesca's reservations. This book has it all; danger, secrets, drama, murder, and plenty of twists and turns. Justice for Francesca kept me on the edge of my seat and entertained from beginning to end. I cannot wait to read more by Nicole Craig and also more in the shared Operation Alpha universe.
March 20, 2025
This is an amazing story that I really enjoyed! It is action packed, suspense filled and has a wicked suspenseful storyline. I enjoy meeting or *seeing* these characters again but this time we are getting their full story. Ethan was a complete surprise to me. I considered him a player and was thrilled with how he was “all in” with Francesca. He has a large array of friends (some we have met in previous books and others from the Susan Stoker series) which I loved seeing all of them. I enjoyed the most how they were deeply involved with the story and not just name drops. Francesca is a hard nut to crack. She frustrated me at times with her straight up protocol but once she went to the “dark side” everything starts getting exciting. By the end she has made a complete change and I love her and Ethan together.
I can't wait for more in this series and from this author!
I can't wait for more in this series and from this author!
April 9, 2025
FBI Special Agent Francesca McCabe is a rule follower but she has no choice in the matter when she is trying to have a reputation other than being a "Dirty McCabe". Ethan "Tripoli" Evans used to be a medic in the army but now he runs a night club in New York. When he gets a phone call at five am it's not what he expected. A woman has been found deceased in his club. The one woman he wants is back in his life but not exactly in the way he would like. She is heading the investigation into the murder and he is the prime suspect. Can he prove that he has nothing to do with the homicide? I haven't read anything by this author before so for a first time reader this was great. Lots of twists and turns to keep you on your toes and keeping you engaged in the story. I look forward to the next book in the series.
March 10, 2025
Not only did I get two great new characters from a author I love and I so hope there will be more but I got to visit with old friends from Susan Stokers world
We met both Ethan “Tripoli” Evans and Francesca in earlier books in Nicole's Deadmans Tribe series but here we get their story She has always lived her life between very strong lines always worried she would be tarred with the brush of her infamous family He is a man who has always lived by the rules first as a Navy medic and now running his nightclub. But a dead body in his club means he is now a suspect and as the number of bodies increase It will take a team to find out what is going on All while these two fight for their attraction to one another
We met both Ethan “Tripoli” Evans and Francesca in earlier books in Nicole's Deadmans Tribe series but here we get their story She has always lived her life between very strong lines always worried she would be tarred with the brush of her infamous family He is a man who has always lived by the rules first as a Navy medic and now running his nightclub. But a dead body in his club means he is now a suspect and as the number of bodies increase It will take a team to find out what is going on All while these two fight for their attraction to one another
April 18, 2025
Justice for Francesca is the first book in the 'Six Paths to Justice' series by Nicola Craig, set in the Operation Alpha universe by Susan Stoker. You don't have to have read any of the other books to enjoy this one, though there are enough hints to make you intrigued about the different stories.
Ethan “Tripoli” Evans and Francesca McCabe are the subjects of an earlier book in Nicola Craig's 'Deadman Tribe' Series, so they do come into this book with a previous history, which influences how they interact with each other in this book. It just makes things more intriguing to me, to see if they can overcome their previous working relationship to be able to work effectively to solve the crime.
I really enjoyed the writing and romantic suspense of this book, which felt real and not forced. It is a fast-paced book that will keep you entertained to the end.
Ethan “Tripoli” Evans and Francesca McCabe are the subjects of an earlier book in Nicola Craig's 'Deadman Tribe' Series, so they do come into this book with a previous history, which influences how they interact with each other in this book. It just makes things more intriguing to me, to see if they can overcome their previous working relationship to be able to work effectively to solve the crime.
I really enjoyed the writing and romantic suspense of this book, which felt real and not forced. It is a fast-paced book that will keep you entertained to the end.
March 15, 2025
I’ve read books by Nicole Craig before and she is usually guaranteed to offer up a well written, suspenseful, edge of your seat story. Justice for Francesca is the first in a new series for Nicole, but it is also an addition to a series with multiple authors. I love the fact we have a dual point of view. We can understand how each character is processing, thinking, and feeling which I think adds depth to a good story. I enjoyed my journey into Tripoli and Frankie’s world and I think you will too.
March 10, 2025
This first book of a new series and first book in Susan Stoker’s world was amazing. Ethan “Tripoli” Evan’s and Francesca work with Cruz Livingston and Calder from Susan’s world to solve a string of crimes. The chemistry between Francesca and Tripoli is off the charts once Francesca lets her walls down. Craig left me on the edge of my seat with the suspense and the twists. I’m excited for the rest of the series.
March 11, 2025
Francesca McCabe FBI special Agent.
Ethan “Tripoli” Evans is former Navy Medic and now owns several nightclubs.
Tripoli and Francesca “ Frankie” have a rollercoaster of a relationship with ups and downs working on a case with lots of variables going on.
Can they resolve the case and have a Happily Ever After? You will have to read the book.
This book has edge of your seat suspense, danger, intrigue, twists turns
you don’t see coming, and old friends.
Great Job. Nicole Craig. !!!!!!
Ethan “Tripoli” Evans is former Navy Medic and now owns several nightclubs.
Tripoli and Francesca “ Frankie” have a rollercoaster of a relationship with ups and downs working on a case with lots of variables going on.
Can they resolve the case and have a Happily Ever After? You will have to read the book.
This book has edge of your seat suspense, danger, intrigue, twists turns
you don’t see coming, and old friends.
Great Job. Nicole Craig. !!!!!!
March 11, 2025
This book really latches on with a fierce hold that simply doesn't let up. Francesca and Ethan's story is an intense ride filled with suspense, drama, action, twists and emotions. Very easy to get caught up in and super hard to put down, this tantalizing read kept me on the edge of my seat and left me eager to continue this series.
March 14, 2025
Captivating suspense
Nicole Craig's Justice for Francesca, the 1st book in the Six Paths to Justice series, has started out with a bang. Impressive writing, interesting characters, and lots of twists and turns make this a captivating romanic suspense.
It should be on everyone's reading list.
Nicole Craig's Justice for Francesca, the 1st book in the Six Paths to Justice series, has started out with a bang. Impressive writing, interesting characters, and lots of twists and turns make this a captivating romanic suspense.
It should be on everyone's reading list.
April 5, 2025
Retired Navy medic and Marine Raider, Tripoli, never thought he would see Fleur again. After being abducted and held captive while working undercover, she disappeared from Tripoli’s life. Now, their paths cross again, but now Fleur is investigating Tripoli, but their connection picks right up from where they left things before. Can he keep her from running again when the case is resolved? Great read and I highly recommend it!
April 9, 2025
Justice For Frencesca (Police And Fire: Operation Alpha) is book 1 of the "Six Paths to Justice" by Nicole Craig. This was an amazing read, very intense, full of action and drama, and of course, emotional. This is absolutely one of those books that snatches your attention from the first page and doesn't let you go until you've been reading all night and suddenly you've finished the book at 5am. I highly recommend this read, and absolutely cannot wait to see more from this author.
April 8, 2025
This was exactly the book I needed! Its a perfect mixture of murder, mystery and romance. Twists turns and lots of loving moments. I would love to have a man like Tripoli.
March 11, 2025
Francesca and Tripoli
Nicole Craig's debut into Susan Stoker's World was out of this world awesome! I love Francesca and Tripoli's story. Seeing Lobo and the others was like visiting old friends. Nicole did a fantastic job with Cruz and Calder. This story has so many surprises and plot twists, it's like being on a really fun rollercoaster. I can't wait for the next book in the series. Definitely a 5 star read. I highly recommend you get this book asap. I received this ARC and here is my honest review. Sorry, no spoilers.
Nicole Craig's debut into Susan Stoker's World was out of this world awesome! I love Francesca and Tripoli's story. Seeing Lobo and the others was like visiting old friends. Nicole did a fantastic job with Cruz and Calder. This story has so many surprises and plot twists, it's like being on a really fun rollercoaster. I can't wait for the next book in the series. Definitely a 5 star read. I highly recommend you get this book asap. I received this ARC and here is my honest review. Sorry, no spoilers.
April 8, 2025
Nicole Craig’s Justice for Francesca is a riveting romantic suspense that blends high-stakes investigation, sizzling chemistry, and deeply personal stakes into one thrilling package. With sharp pacing and emotionally charged tension, this novel delivers both a satisfying mystery and a slow-burn romance that keeps you hooked until the final page.
FBI Special Agent Francesca McCabe is determined to distance herself from her family’s notorious legacy—the “Dirty McCabes” of NYC. She plays by the book, always. That is, until a murder investigation drops her into the orbit of Ethan “Tripoli” Evans, a nightclub owner and former Navy medic who just so happens to be the man she’s secretly wanted—and now must interrogate.
Craig expertly layers the intrigue: a body turns up at Tripoli’s club, and another quickly follows. No clear motive, no solid alibis, and mounting pressure create a sense of urgency that pulses through every chapter. Francesca is stuck in the middle of it all—torn between the professional boundaries she’s always clung to and the undeniable connection she shares with Tripoli.
What truly elevates Justice for Francesca is the emotional complexity of its characters. Francesca isn’t just an agent—she’s a woman navigating the shadow of her family name, the expectations of her profession, and a growing desire she can’t ignore. Tripoli is strong, loyal, and emotionally grounded, the perfect foil to Francesca’s restraint. Their chemistry is electric, but their dynamic also offers depth and vulnerability, making their romance feel genuine and earned.
Supporting characters like Agent Cruz Livingston and ME Calder Stonewall add richness to the investigative team, bringing personality and wit while deepening the mystery. The procedural elements are smart and believable, adding realism without bogging down the pace.
Final thoughts:
Justice for Francesca is a well-crafted, emotionally resonant romantic suspense novel with all the right ingredients: a compelling heroine, a swoon-worthy hero, a twisty murder mystery, and just the right amount of heat. Nicole Craig delivers a powerful story about identity, trust, and the rules we’re willing to break for love—and justice.
FBI Special Agent Francesca McCabe is determined to distance herself from her family’s notorious legacy—the “Dirty McCabes” of NYC. She plays by the book, always. That is, until a murder investigation drops her into the orbit of Ethan “Tripoli” Evans, a nightclub owner and former Navy medic who just so happens to be the man she’s secretly wanted—and now must interrogate.
Craig expertly layers the intrigue: a body turns up at Tripoli’s club, and another quickly follows. No clear motive, no solid alibis, and mounting pressure create a sense of urgency that pulses through every chapter. Francesca is stuck in the middle of it all—torn between the professional boundaries she’s always clung to and the undeniable connection she shares with Tripoli.
What truly elevates Justice for Francesca is the emotional complexity of its characters. Francesca isn’t just an agent—she’s a woman navigating the shadow of her family name, the expectations of her profession, and a growing desire she can’t ignore. Tripoli is strong, loyal, and emotionally grounded, the perfect foil to Francesca’s restraint. Their chemistry is electric, but their dynamic also offers depth and vulnerability, making their romance feel genuine and earned.
Supporting characters like Agent Cruz Livingston and ME Calder Stonewall add richness to the investigative team, bringing personality and wit while deepening the mystery. The procedural elements are smart and believable, adding realism without bogging down the pace.
Final thoughts:
Justice for Francesca is a well-crafted, emotionally resonant romantic suspense novel with all the right ingredients: a compelling heroine, a swoon-worthy hero, a twisty murder mystery, and just the right amount of heat. Nicole Craig delivers a powerful story about identity, trust, and the rules we’re willing to break for love—and justice.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2025
Francesca McCabe has an unfortunate family history. Her father and older brothers are known for their corruption as police officers. This led her to joining the FBI. Francesca does undercover work and is really good at it. By accident one day, Francesca’s worlds cross.
While Francesca is undercover, she spots her father associating with her target. She doesn’t turn him in. She doesn’t report seeing him. She just starts some background computer searches to find the connection. This causes alarms to go off for Francesca’s father.
Ethan “Tripoli” Evans owns several exclusive clubs across the country. A couple of them are niche erotic clubs. One of the clubs had some trouble with bad people a while back and Francesca was sent undercover to help find those bad people. She and Tripoli became friends. Might even have become more than friends but she didn’t cross that line.
Now, someone has started killing people linked to Tripoli and his clubs. Francesca is sent to help investigate, as herself. Both Tripoli and Francesca have some unresolved feelings. As Francesca starts to decide what is more important to her, love or her job, more bodies are found. Are the cases linked, are they random, who are they actually targeting?
Tripoli and Francesca discover that there is more to these offings than first appeared. An old enemy has resurfaced and is coming after Francesca. Can Tripoli keep Francesca safe? Will solving the case mean an end to them? Read to find out.
This author once again delivers great action, edge of seat suspense, and enough heat to keep it interesting. I like the characters that pop in from other series. These characters seem real. Have real issues. Excellent story.
While Francesca is undercover, she spots her father associating with her target. She doesn’t turn him in. She doesn’t report seeing him. She just starts some background computer searches to find the connection. This causes alarms to go off for Francesca’s father.
Ethan “Tripoli” Evans owns several exclusive clubs across the country. A couple of them are niche erotic clubs. One of the clubs had some trouble with bad people a while back and Francesca was sent undercover to help find those bad people. She and Tripoli became friends. Might even have become more than friends but she didn’t cross that line.
Now, someone has started killing people linked to Tripoli and his clubs. Francesca is sent to help investigate, as herself. Both Tripoli and Francesca have some unresolved feelings. As Francesca starts to decide what is more important to her, love or her job, more bodies are found. Are the cases linked, are they random, who are they actually targeting?
Tripoli and Francesca discover that there is more to these offings than first appeared. An old enemy has resurfaced and is coming after Francesca. Can Tripoli keep Francesca safe? Will solving the case mean an end to them? Read to find out.
This author once again delivers great action, edge of seat suspense, and enough heat to keep it interesting. I like the characters that pop in from other series. These characters seem real. Have real issues. Excellent story.
April 9, 2025
Francesca McCabe is a woman with a strong will and stronger morals, she is a detective who sticks to the rule book at every turn and is determined to prove her worth, not to mention her intentions to completely dissociate from her family name and the dirty image which surrounds it thanks to her father and brothers. Ethan Evans, also known as "Tripoli" is an ex-navy medic who has thrown himself into the world of BDSM and the structure which came with it after leaving the Marines and retiring from active duty, so when he gets a phone call at 5 am, he is not very impressed, however, he immediately heads straight to his nightclub where they have just found a dead body.
As soon as he arrives, Ethan goes into his organisation mode and starts with the damage control as the police and FBI arrive to start their investigation, but when Francesca walks into his office, he is immediately sent two year into the past and to the last time he saw her and all the emotions he has been trying to bury come flooding back. As for Francesca, she has the same immediate reaction to Ethan, however, she knows she cannot act on anything because of the rules of an active investigation but Ethan makes that an extremely hard task.
Unfortunately, the bodies begin to pile up and alibis are in short supply, will Francesca be able to loosen her grip on the rules and accept the passion which is burning up between the two, all while trying to solve a murder, or will she explode is a blast of emotions? This is a suspenseful thriller with romance threading through the plot which keeps you hooked in throughout and takes you on a rollercoaster ride of ups and downs as you follow along with the story until the end
As soon as he arrives, Ethan goes into his organisation mode and starts with the damage control as the police and FBI arrive to start their investigation, but when Francesca walks into his office, he is immediately sent two year into the past and to the last time he saw her and all the emotions he has been trying to bury come flooding back. As for Francesca, she has the same immediate reaction to Ethan, however, she knows she cannot act on anything because of the rules of an active investigation but Ethan makes that an extremely hard task.
Unfortunately, the bodies begin to pile up and alibis are in short supply, will Francesca be able to loosen her grip on the rules and accept the passion which is burning up between the two, all while trying to solve a murder, or will she explode is a blast of emotions? This is a suspenseful thriller with romance threading through the plot which keeps you hooked in throughout and takes you on a rollercoaster ride of ups and downs as you follow along with the story until the end
April 9, 2025
When Ethan "Tripoli" Evans is woken up shortly after going to sleep due to the discovery of a body in his nightclub, he certainly has no way to predict the adventure he is about to be sent on. While Tripoli has nothing to do with this death, or the others that happen in and around his club, he will need all of the skills he has acquired from his years in the military, and then some.
When Francesca McCabe is assigned to the gruesome death of a woman in Tripoli's club, after just getting home from an extended undercover assignment with the FBI, she tries to get out of it in favor of rest. Her superior refuses to let her out of it, and sends her down a dark path and on a collision course with her past. Francesca has always tried to fight against the stigma of her father and older brothers bad acts as NYPD officers who aren't always playing by the rules, and are often referred to as the "Dirty McCabe's".
Francesca and Ethan know each other from one of Francesca's previous undercover assignments, and when they start spending more time together, sparks start flying. When a mutual friend becomes the third murder victim of a killer who seems to be using the club's employees and those they care about as a hunting ground, Francesca and her partner must race against time to stop him before he's able to carry out his true goal.
This book is the first book in the Six Paths to Justice series, and is a GHEA. TRIGGER WARNING: There are definitely some graphic scenes, both intimate and murder related. However, the book is amazing and leaves you wanting to stay in the world that Ms. Craig created, with characters you never want to leave...well, most of them anyway!
When Francesca McCabe is assigned to the gruesome death of a woman in Tripoli's club, after just getting home from an extended undercover assignment with the FBI, she tries to get out of it in favor of rest. Her superior refuses to let her out of it, and sends her down a dark path and on a collision course with her past. Francesca has always tried to fight against the stigma of her father and older brothers bad acts as NYPD officers who aren't always playing by the rules, and are often referred to as the "Dirty McCabe's".
Francesca and Ethan know each other from one of Francesca's previous undercover assignments, and when they start spending more time together, sparks start flying. When a mutual friend becomes the third murder victim of a killer who seems to be using the club's employees and those they care about as a hunting ground, Francesca and her partner must race against time to stop him before he's able to carry out his true goal.
This book is the first book in the Six Paths to Justice series, and is a GHEA. TRIGGER WARNING: There are definitely some graphic scenes, both intimate and murder related. However, the book is amazing and leaves you wanting to stay in the world that Ms. Craig created, with characters you never want to leave...well, most of them anyway!
March 11, 2025
Nicole Craig has once again delivered an exceptional read that pulls readers right into her compelling world. In Justice for Francesca, we are reintroduced to Ethan and Francesca—two characters we've previously encountered in Nicole's other works. This debut novel in her latest series does not disappoint, providing an intense, thrilling, and heart-pounding experience that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
The plot of this book is full of twists and turns, constantly keeping the reader guessing. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions, with unexpected developments that enhance the suspense and excitement. Nicole's ability to weave in both tender moments and heart-racing action makes for a well-rounded, immersive story. As this story is set in Susan Stoker's world, fans of her work will be pleased to see the return of familiar characters.
The relationships and dynamics between the characters are well developed, and it's clear that Nicole Craig knows how to blend romance and action seamlessly. There’s a perfect balance between personal growth, love, and intense situations that keeps the pace throughout the novel. I found myself deeply invested in Ethan and Francesca’s journey.
In conclusion, Justice for Francesca is an exhilarating read that promises even more thrills in the series to come. I can't wait to dive into the next book in this series. If you're a fan of action-packed romance with deep character development, this is one you won't want to miss.
The plot of this book is full of twists and turns, constantly keeping the reader guessing. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions, with unexpected developments that enhance the suspense and excitement. Nicole's ability to weave in both tender moments and heart-racing action makes for a well-rounded, immersive story. As this story is set in Susan Stoker's world, fans of her work will be pleased to see the return of familiar characters.
The relationships and dynamics between the characters are well developed, and it's clear that Nicole Craig knows how to blend romance and action seamlessly. There’s a perfect balance between personal growth, love, and intense situations that keeps the pace throughout the novel. I found myself deeply invested in Ethan and Francesca’s journey.
In conclusion, Justice for Francesca is an exhilarating read that promises even more thrills in the series to come. I can't wait to dive into the next book in this series. If you're a fan of action-packed romance with deep character development, this is one you won't want to miss.
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April 9, 2025Justice for Francesca is Book Number One in the Six Paths to Justice series. It is a romantic suspense full of drama, mystery, intrigue, action, danger, murder, emotion, love, loss, family dynamics, crime, and investigation. The story centers around FBI Special Agent Francesca and ex Navy Medic, Ethan, AKA Tripoli. Francesca is currently investigating a murder case that becomes a little bit more complex as she goes along. Tripoli has recently returned to San Antonio to discover that a murder had happened at one of his clubs. Francesca gets the call to investigate the case which she is dreading because it reunites her with Tripoli. Francesca and Tripoli have a complex past that is filled with tension, animosity, and unresolved feelings. Tripoli refuses to let Francesca get away from him this time so he decides to use the investigation to his advantage. As Francesca continues her investigation things become more complex when her estranged brother appears to be a suspect in the murder. It is now up to her and Tripoli to work together to find out who the murderer is and bring them to justice. Can they put their feelings for each other aside to solve the case? This is a beautifully woven story with a complex story line and well-developed characters with their own unique and complex personalities. This book had me riveted from the beginning and the twists and turns made it impossible to turn down. I highly recommend this book!
March 11, 2025
This is the first book in Susan Stoker’s new world, Six Paths to Justice. Nicole Craig does not disappoint with her first book outside of her Deadman’s Tribe series. Ethan “Tripoli” Evans and Francesca “Frankie” McCabe were introduced in Nicole’s previous books. In this book they are the main characters.
Frankie is an FBI agent working hard to overcome her family’s tainted history as the “Dirty McCabe’s”. Tripoli is a former Navy medic who purchased a “mature” nightclub, which has, among other attractions, a trapeze room. The story opens as a murder is discovered in Tripoli’s club.
Frankie is called in to investigate. She and Tripoli have a history and old desires are rekindled. The plot has twists and turns. We also get to revisit with two characters from the Deadman’s Tribe universe.
Tripoli and Frankie are multifaceted characters. Neither are not as they seem at first glance. Their attraction builds as the story progresses.
I have read all the books written by Nicole Craig in her Deadman’s Tribe series. Wow they are great. I highly recommend you look into those books. I love it when a book brings in characters from previous books or series. In this book you get to visit old friends, make new friends and travel with Tripoli and Frankie in their journey to a happily ever after.
Highly recommended.
Frankie is an FBI agent working hard to overcome her family’s tainted history as the “Dirty McCabe’s”. Tripoli is a former Navy medic who purchased a “mature” nightclub, which has, among other attractions, a trapeze room. The story opens as a murder is discovered in Tripoli’s club.
Frankie is called in to investigate. She and Tripoli have a history and old desires are rekindled. The plot has twists and turns. We also get to revisit with two characters from the Deadman’s Tribe universe.
Tripoli and Frankie are multifaceted characters. Neither are not as they seem at first glance. Their attraction builds as the story progresses.
I have read all the books written by Nicole Craig in her Deadman’s Tribe series. Wow they are great. I highly recommend you look into those books. I love it when a book brings in characters from previous books or series. In this book you get to visit old friends, make new friends and travel with Tripoli and Frankie in their journey to a happily ever after.
Highly recommended.
April 8, 2025
Agent Francesca McCabe is drawn into a case which has her greeted by the past she wanted stay hidden but when she discovers more than just one body of a woman she starts to look at her and see if they were related from a past case but when the man she let go walks back in, can she keep it together long enough to solve the case or will it end tragically.
Ethan "Tripoli" Evans is rushed back to one of his clubs when he told there is a dead body of a woman in his club, upon entering he is greeted with a blast from his past the woman he let go but still has feelings for. So while he is trying to convince the FBI that he has nothing to do with it, he is determined that he has to prove to them that he is not involved with what's going on.
So when things go crazy can they work together to find out who is responsible.
This is the first book in the series and is a powerful start to the series. The story is full of action and thrilling twists and turns with the main characters of Tripoli and Francesca are the brilliant counterparts to each other, with the tension within there relationship jumping off the page and driving you to read more as the story progresses.
The author always engages you into the story and you feel like you are part, trying to find the person behind it all. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
Ethan "Tripoli" Evans is rushed back to one of his clubs when he told there is a dead body of a woman in his club, upon entering he is greeted with a blast from his past the woman he let go but still has feelings for. So while he is trying to convince the FBI that he has nothing to do with it, he is determined that he has to prove to them that he is not involved with what's going on.
So when things go crazy can they work together to find out who is responsible.
This is the first book in the series and is a powerful start to the series. The story is full of action and thrilling twists and turns with the main characters of Tripoli and Francesca are the brilliant counterparts to each other, with the tension within there relationship jumping off the page and driving you to read more as the story progresses.
The author always engages you into the story and you feel like you are part, trying to find the person behind it all. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.
April 8, 2025
This is the first book in the Six Paths To Justice series. This book has all the elements I love. It is a gripping romance with danger, mystery, crime and investigation.
FBI Special Agent Francesca McCabe has always been someone who plays by the rules. When she is called to a murder in a nightclub the last thing she expects is to be investigating someone she has a history with.
Ethan “Tripoli” Evans has trained to always be ready for any circumstance but the discovery of his body is not something he thought he would need. Now he finds himself under investigation by someone he never expected to cross paths with again. The one women who got away.
Now it is a race against time to find out who is the murderer but with all the suspects having no alibis or now apparent motives this will be no easy tasks and gets even more complicated when another body shows up.
When things get dangerous will Francesca follow the rules as always or will she go against her own rules to survive?
I loved how this story was told from a duel perspective as it really gives you a feeling of getting a full story from both side of the characters. This story is fast paced and really entertaining. I can't wait to read more
FBI Special Agent Francesca McCabe has always been someone who plays by the rules. When she is called to a murder in a nightclub the last thing she expects is to be investigating someone she has a history with.
Ethan “Tripoli” Evans has trained to always be ready for any circumstance but the discovery of his body is not something he thought he would need. Now he finds himself under investigation by someone he never expected to cross paths with again. The one women who got away.
Now it is a race against time to find out who is the murderer but with all the suspects having no alibis or now apparent motives this will be no easy tasks and gets even more complicated when another body shows up.
When things get dangerous will Francesca follow the rules as always or will she go against her own rules to survive?
I loved how this story was told from a duel perspective as it really gives you a feeling of getting a full story from both side of the characters. This story is fast paced and really entertaining. I can't wait to read more
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