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Strike Zone Series #1
Strikethrough
Keeping her safe has become his life's mission.
Gage Hendrix is a man without roots. As an MSD Team Leader for the Department of State, he operates in high-threat environments. Serving in dangerous postings around the world, his team provides emergency security support and crisis response. Keeping the US ambassador's daughter safe in Sri Lanka? An unusual assignment for an "action group" used to dealing with evacuations, wars, incursions, and coups.
Expecting a spoilt princess, Gage finds a hard-working therapist with a huge heart and haunted eyes.
Hiding from heartache is no longer an option.
Chantal Durant's best friend has gone into hiding with intel that could lead to a nation's upheaval. Enemies have targeted the last person who helped her to escape…
Turning a tragic past into a constructive existence, Chantal dedicates herself to helping others. She likes her work, likes her routine, and doesn't like that her safety is now in the hands of a cocky MSD agent. Her undeniable sexual attraction for the ruggedly handsome bodyguard would not only end his career but could get them both killed.
As multiple threats close in, Gage is faced with harrowing decisions. Trapped in an unfamiliar landscape, both Gage and Chantal will have to act fast to make it out alive.
Gage Hendrix is a man without roots. As an MSD Team Leader for the Department of State, he operates in high-threat environments. Serving in dangerous postings around the world, his team provides emergency security support and crisis response. Keeping the US ambassador's daughter safe in Sri Lanka? An unusual assignment for an "action group" used to dealing with evacuations, wars, incursions, and coups.
Expecting a spoilt princess, Gage finds a hard-working therapist with a huge heart and haunted eyes.
Hiding from heartache is no longer an option.
Chantal Durant's best friend has gone into hiding with intel that could lead to a nation's upheaval. Enemies have targeted the last person who helped her to escape…
Turning a tragic past into a constructive existence, Chantal dedicates herself to helping others. She likes her work, likes her routine, and doesn't like that her safety is now in the hands of a cocky MSD agent. Her undeniable sexual attraction for the ruggedly handsome bodyguard would not only end his career but could get them both killed.
As multiple threats close in, Gage is faced with harrowing decisions. Trapped in an unfamiliar landscape, both Gage and Chantal will have to act fast to make it out alive.
337 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 12, 2021
19 people are currently reading
63 people want to read
About the author
Louise Dawn
14 books41 followersI write fast-paced, gritty romantic suspense. I've lived an adventurous - sometimes harebrained - life in South Africa, the Middle East, and Utah. Thanks to numerous careers and escapades (Jill of all trades, master of some) I've been lucky enough to have traveled the globe.
I love to write about strong independent women and the men that support them. I try not to include any weak-ass protagonists in my books - if I ever do - you have permission to kick my typist bum. When I'm not writing about men whose beards smell of Cordite, I work as a Corporate Trainer in Utah.
I love British Chocolate, and my little wigglebum 'British' Cocker Spaniel.
I love to write about strong independent women and the men that support them. I try not to include any weak-ass protagonists in my books - if I ever do - you have permission to kick my typist bum. When I'm not writing about men whose beards smell of Cordite, I work as a Corporate Trainer in Utah.
I love British Chocolate, and my little wigglebum 'British' Cocker Spaniel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
February 6, 2021
ARC received for review
Well, it started out very interesting and them slowed down. Gage was being stupid multiple times that I wanted to Gibbs slap him upside the head. Chantal needs to learn the word, No, which she eventually did. The escape from bad guys several times but they do get caught. There is some romance, love and sex thrown in too. I knew the bad guy was....kinda.
Now, there's another book with her bestie who is on the run from the head bad guy. There are also a lot of hot guys on Gage's team.
Well, it started out very interesting and them slowed down. Gage was being stupid multiple times that I wanted to Gibbs slap him upside the head. Chantal needs to learn the word, No, which she eventually did. The escape from bad guys several times but they do get caught. There is some romance, love and sex thrown in too. I knew the bad guy was....kinda.
Now, there's another book with her bestie who is on the run from the head bad guy. There are also a lot of hot guys on Gage's team.
May 16, 2021
The blurb to this one sounded interesting, so I grabbed the book when it showed up on my library's website. It really opened with a bang, hated how a kid was manipulated like that. Then when we got to present day, things were slightly interesting, Pearl did a dangerous thing, a good thing, but man the danger she put herself in. The team really irritated me for some reason. Usually I like it when the tease each other, but this time not so much. I didn't really care for Chantal either. In the end this one wasn't for me.
March 11, 2025
Otra autora que descubro gracias a la antología de suspense romántico Dangerous as Sin. Nos vamos a Ceilán, donde Gage Hendrix tiene que proteger a Chantal Durant, hija de la embajadora estadounidense y trabajadora humanitaria, a quien amenaza un malo muy desagradable. Descubro con esta novela a un nuevo grupo de guerreros gubernamentales dedicados a eso de «servir y proteger»: el MSD. Mobile Security Deployments es una unidad táctica del servicio secreto diplomático, seguridad para embajadas, básicamente. Entre Gage y Chantal las cosas se ponen calentitas casi desde el principio, pero claro, ella es su trabajo y tampoco es cosa de que a uno le echen por un calentón. De todas formas, sí, habrá sexo, amenazas, acción y un giro respecto a la identidad de un asesino que no vi venir ni de lejos. Me enganchó, lo reconozco. La he leído rápido, y me dejó con ganas de leer la siguiente, Striking blow, que salió en agosto.
Crítica amplia, en mi blog.
Crítica amplia, en mi blog.
February 7, 2021
I really enjoyed Strikethrough, by Louise Dawn. The romantic suspense novel, which takes place in Sri Lanka, has the perfect balance of badass-but-gentle alpha male and strong, smart and compassionate woman. Gage and Chantal meet when Gage's emergency security support team are assigned to protect Chantal after she becomes a soft target of her friend's crazy ex husband. They fall fast and hard for each other (probably a little too fast, but I'm always willing to suspend my disbelief for romantic suspense), and the bulk of the novel is them dealing with multiple emergency situations and the whole I-love-you-but-how-can-we-possibly-make-this-work angst.
I found the story to be compelling and hard to put down. The plot is exciting and fast paced, though it does take time to introduce the reader to Sri Lanka. Chantal's work as a volunteer chiropractor (and budding prostheticist) working with Sri Lankan victims of land mines and war is fascinating. The characters were solid, and the author does an excellent job of pulling the wool over the readers' eyes. I guessed the twist almost immediately, but I'm preternatural that way. Even knowing what was probably going on, I still second guessed my theory on more than one occasion. So, good job, Ms. Dawn.
This book is the first in the series, and it includes a teaser chapter for the next book. I'm looking forward to it.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
I found the story to be compelling and hard to put down. The plot is exciting and fast paced, though it does take time to introduce the reader to Sri Lanka. Chantal's work as a volunteer chiropractor (and budding prostheticist) working with Sri Lankan victims of land mines and war is fascinating. The characters were solid, and the author does an excellent job of pulling the wool over the readers' eyes. I guessed the twist almost immediately, but I'm preternatural that way. Even knowing what was probably going on, I still second guessed my theory on more than one occasion. So, good job, Ms. Dawn.
This book is the first in the series, and it includes a teaser chapter for the next book. I'm looking forward to it.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
in-collection-boxset
August 1, 202107/31/21 currently free in Dangerous as Sin: Ten Addictive Romantic Thrillers & Mysteries
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BCDRFCB/
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BCDRFCB/
January 31, 2021
This book thoroughly wowed me. Gage and Chantal had so much working against them, but they couldn’t seem to shut down their attraction and feelings for each other. So in the midst of terrorists, secrets, worries about who is truly friend or foe, an overbearing mother, and a humanitarian effort, they had to find their footing fast. I especially enjoyed the suspicions as to who was behind the attacks, who Jona was, and whether or not everything would be solved in the end. This author did NOT let me down with her writing and she’s got me wanting Pearl’s story because I need to know what comes next!
February 2, 2021
Really enjoyed this read, as much as i enjoyed the Author's 1st series. Looking forward to the rest of the series
February 3, 2021
Great book! Can’t wait for more.
February 19, 2021
If you are a lover of romantic suspense, you will LOVE this!
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Highly recommend
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I fell in love with Gage and Chantal’s love story so hard, the way this book is written pulls you in quickly, the detail in the story clearly shows how much research the author has done.
I’ll be honest we all know about Navy SEALs, Delta Force teams etc but this book brings us Diplomatic Security Service, in particular the Mobile Security Deployment Teams, a small tactical team within DSS (and they are so badass!) I thoroughly enjoyed learning about their roles.
The book literally starts with a bang I was engrossed from chapter one, this quickly swept me up into the story full of suspense, intrigue and action as we jump ahead 12 years to current day.
I’ll be honest I didn’t think I’d like Chantal, my thoughts were running along side some of the assassin thoughts, but as we got to know her character she was a pure delight to read.
Gage was a character I easily fell in love with, he is dedicated to his job, and his MSD brothers are the only family he has, as the story progressed you could really see the connection and pull between Gage and Chantal, both showing signs of needing a place to call home, a person to call home.
Can love be enough for Gage and Chantal, is it worth risking his job and only family for it, is it enough when Chantal tells him of her past heartbreak, and can Chantal step away from her mother’s shadow...oh, let’s not forget assassin threats coming from every side, mudslides, explosions, heartbreak, secrets, danger around every corner *phew* this story is packed full of suspense.
You kind of know the assassin from the start, but the secrets that are revealed mean more people join the hunt for the missing information, and Chantal is the end goal for these assassins.
Very much looking forward to book 2, Striking Blow coming in June
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Highly recommend
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I fell in love with Gage and Chantal’s love story so hard, the way this book is written pulls you in quickly, the detail in the story clearly shows how much research the author has done.
I’ll be honest we all know about Navy SEALs, Delta Force teams etc but this book brings us Diplomatic Security Service, in particular the Mobile Security Deployment Teams, a small tactical team within DSS (and they are so badass!) I thoroughly enjoyed learning about their roles.
The book literally starts with a bang I was engrossed from chapter one, this quickly swept me up into the story full of suspense, intrigue and action as we jump ahead 12 years to current day.
I’ll be honest I didn’t think I’d like Chantal, my thoughts were running along side some of the assassin thoughts, but as we got to know her character she was a pure delight to read.
Gage was a character I easily fell in love with, he is dedicated to his job, and his MSD brothers are the only family he has, as the story progressed you could really see the connection and pull between Gage and Chantal, both showing signs of needing a place to call home, a person to call home.
Can love be enough for Gage and Chantal, is it worth risking his job and only family for it, is it enough when Chantal tells him of her past heartbreak, and can Chantal step away from her mother’s shadow...oh, let’s not forget assassin threats coming from every side, mudslides, explosions, heartbreak, secrets, danger around every corner *phew* this story is packed full of suspense.
You kind of know the assassin from the start, but the secrets that are revealed mean more people join the hunt for the missing information, and Chantal is the end goal for these assassins.
Very much looking forward to book 2, Striking Blow coming in June
February 24, 2021
Gage is a dedicated MSD Agent. He protects Diplomats throughout the world and has never crossed a line with any of them. But that may change with Chantal - she's technically not his charge, to begin with, but once she becomes his protectee can they keep their hands to themselves whilst the danger is near?
Chantal should be the epitome of privileged, snotty, and snobby but she is refreshingly down to earth. She knows exactly how lucky she has been through life and is dedicated to bringing some relief and healing to all those she can. But someone has it in for Chantal, her surgery, or Americans in general. Is it because her friend made off with her daughter and some evidence of her ex-husband's corruption with a little assistance from Chantal? Or does someone else have an axe to grind?
Sri Lanka is almost a character itself, the descriptions were so vivid and imagination capturing.
I'll admit I googled all the places to get a better idea of where the characters were LOL. Gage is Alpha to the core and does have a hard time letting Chantal do all she can to help her clients. But Chantal isn't a wallflower. She met not be military trained or a Federal Agent but she has a spine of steel and is not afraid to face danger if it means helping her clients.
The action is fast-paced, and reads like a movie in my head - which I loved! I loved learning about the work of Chiropractors and Prothecists in general. There are enough twists and turns to keep you on your toes and I got sucked into the story completely and read in one sitting!
Chantal should be the epitome of privileged, snotty, and snobby but she is refreshingly down to earth. She knows exactly how lucky she has been through life and is dedicated to bringing some relief and healing to all those she can. But someone has it in for Chantal, her surgery, or Americans in general. Is it because her friend made off with her daughter and some evidence of her ex-husband's corruption with a little assistance from Chantal? Or does someone else have an axe to grind?
Sri Lanka is almost a character itself, the descriptions were so vivid and imagination capturing.
I'll admit I googled all the places to get a better idea of where the characters were LOL. Gage is Alpha to the core and does have a hard time letting Chantal do all she can to help her clients. But Chantal isn't a wallflower. She met not be military trained or a Federal Agent but she has a spine of steel and is not afraid to face danger if it means helping her clients.
The action is fast-paced, and reads like a movie in my head - which I loved! I loved learning about the work of Chiropractors and Prothecists in general. There are enough twists and turns to keep you on your toes and I got sucked into the story completely and read in one sitting!
February 11, 2021
This was just an okay read for me. I liked Gage and Chantal, but I didn't feel much of a connection between them, so the romance part fell flat for me. However, the story itself was well written and full of details that made it realistic. It's clear that the author did her homework and/or had the background knowledge needed to provide the realistic details of Gage's group and the setting of Sri Lanka. If you enjoy suspense/action books with a touch of romance (versus the other way around, which is my preference), then this will likely be a great read for you.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC for review.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC for review.
February 4, 2021
3.75⭐
Strikethrough was a well-written and detailed story. That nicely mixed romance with action and suspense; and whilst I didn't necessarily feel the romance between Chantal and Gage I did enjoy the suspense and action when it came. And it was that, that really kept me reading.
But I did find the story quite slow paced, and there were moments, especially early on where my attention did wander, but all in all I did enjoy it and I would certainly look out for the next book in the series.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Strikethrough was a well-written and detailed story. That nicely mixed romance with action and suspense; and whilst I didn't necessarily feel the romance between Chantal and Gage I did enjoy the suspense and action when it came. And it was that, that really kept me reading.
But I did find the story quite slow paced, and there were moments, especially early on where my attention did wander, but all in all I did enjoy it and I would certainly look out for the next book in the series.
**I was kindly provided with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
March 23, 2021
**This ARC was given to me by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**
Gage Hendrix has a job to do: keep the U.S. Ambassador's daughter safe.
This book started out great. The setting is Sri Lanka. Interesting. And the bad guys are, well, bad. The beginning of the book jumps right into the action and it is fast paced, and a page-turner. I enjoyed getting to know the characters. The heroine is likeable and someone I wanted to cheer on.
However, a few things kept me from giving this one a 4 star review. 1) The U.S. Ambassador behaves terribly toward her daughter. She is unlikable and her behavior is explained away because of the constant pain she experiences from severe injuries. The heroine was a doormat for her mother and it took away from the strong character I believe the author intended. 2) Gage, our hero, acts like it's his first time on a job. He not only gets involved with his principal, but he makes mistake after mistake putting himself and everyone on his team at risk. 3) When the assassin is revealed, this character reminded me of a bad guy from a Scooby-Doo episode. I found this character very unbelievable.
I don't mean to be too critical. There is plenty to like about this book. The author does a good job of building suspense that leads up to the next book in the series. I am actually looking forward to reading the next one and I did enjoy the author's style.
Gage Hendrix has a job to do: keep the U.S. Ambassador's daughter safe.
This book started out great. The setting is Sri Lanka. Interesting. And the bad guys are, well, bad. The beginning of the book jumps right into the action and it is fast paced, and a page-turner. I enjoyed getting to know the characters. The heroine is likeable and someone I wanted to cheer on.
However, a few things kept me from giving this one a 4 star review. 1) The U.S. Ambassador behaves terribly toward her daughter. She is unlikable and her behavior is explained away because of the constant pain she experiences from severe injuries. The heroine was a doormat for her mother and it took away from the strong character I believe the author intended. 2) Gage, our hero, acts like it's his first time on a job. He not only gets involved with his principal, but he makes mistake after mistake putting himself and everyone on his team at risk. 3) When the assassin is revealed, this character reminded me of a bad guy from a Scooby-Doo episode. I found this character very unbelievable.
I don't mean to be too critical. There is plenty to like about this book. The author does a good job of building suspense that leads up to the next book in the series. I am actually looking forward to reading the next one and I did enjoy the author's style.
March 21, 2021
Gage Hendrix was a bodyguard for Chantal Durant, daughter of the U.S. ambassador in Sri Lanka. He was surprised to see she wasn't the pampered woman he expected but a hard-working therapist. Chantal was dedicated to bringing some relief to as many people as she could. But someone was after her. The husband of Chantal’s best friend believed that Chantal would lead him to his runaway wife, but the real danger might be even closer than they realize.
Gage had a hard time letting Chantal work with her clients. But she is courageous and wasn't afraid to face danger if it meant helping her clients. She is not worried about the threats on her life now that she had a security detail to keep her safe.
Gage has another problem. His attraction to Chantal. It made his job even harder, especially when she felt the same.
This was a well-written, detailed story. Learning about the way life was for the Sri Lankan people was heartbreaking. The suspense was incredible. So many things happened to Gage and Chantal and so many villains were after them that I wondered if they would survive. Add the romance and you've got a good romantic suspense.
I received a copy of #Strikethrough from #NetGalley in exchange for my honest thoughts.
3.5 stars
Gage had a hard time letting Chantal work with her clients. But she is courageous and wasn't afraid to face danger if it meant helping her clients. She is not worried about the threats on her life now that she had a security detail to keep her safe.
Gage has another problem. His attraction to Chantal. It made his job even harder, especially when she felt the same.
This was a well-written, detailed story. Learning about the way life was for the Sri Lankan people was heartbreaking. The suspense was incredible. So many things happened to Gage and Chantal and so many villains were after them that I wondered if they would survive. Add the romance and you've got a good romantic suspense.
I received a copy of #Strikethrough from #NetGalley in exchange for my honest thoughts.
3.5 stars
February 8, 2021
I loved Louise's Mobile Intelligence Team Series so when i saw she was starting a new series it was a no brainer for me Like all the work I have read of hers it was a well balanced mix of suspense and drama with a fait bit of angst and romance thrown in. We also get a wonderful look at Sri Lanka and the work done for victims of land mines there.
Chantel hasn't had the easiest life she saw her father gunned down and her mother shot when she was a child but she has built a life for herself working as a chiropractor and helping with the fitting of prosthetics She is currently in Sri Lanka where her mother is the Ambassador She is allocated a security team when she is the last person to see her friend before she fled her abusive ex and he is determined to find out where she is and will use Chantel to do it. Gage is the leader of that team they are usually allocated to the worlds hot spots so this should be an easy job for them but things becomes complicated when he starts to fall for Chantel and the feeling is mutual Can he keep her safe and do they have a future You will have to read to see
Chantel hasn't had the easiest life she saw her father gunned down and her mother shot when she was a child but she has built a life for herself working as a chiropractor and helping with the fitting of prosthetics She is currently in Sri Lanka where her mother is the Ambassador She is allocated a security team when she is the last person to see her friend before she fled her abusive ex and he is determined to find out where she is and will use Chantel to do it. Gage is the leader of that team they are usually allocated to the worlds hot spots so this should be an easy job for them but things becomes complicated when he starts to fall for Chantel and the feeling is mutual Can he keep her safe and do they have a future You will have to read to see
February 12, 2021
This is the first book I've read by this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters are multi-dimensional and both of the main characters had challenges in their past that have definitely influenced who they are today. Gage could easily have ended up on the other side of the law if not for the intervention at a young age of a man who taught him how to deal with family tragedy. Chantal's past has led her to be a very caring person who wants to help those who are less fortunate then herself, especially those who have suffered injuries due to land mines.
Gage and his team are brought in to provide security for Chantal. He feels an instant attraction that he tries to fight as it would be unprofessional for him to have a relationship with her while she is under his protection. But will he be able to fight the attraction until after the assignment is completed?
There is a lot of suspense and action in the story, as well as a growing chemistry between the two main characters. There's also some twists along the way to finding out who the assassin is, and you will be kept guessing until late in the story.
Gage and his team are brought in to provide security for Chantal. He feels an instant attraction that he tries to fight as it would be unprofessional for him to have a relationship with her while she is under his protection. But will he be able to fight the attraction until after the assignment is completed?
There is a lot of suspense and action in the story, as well as a growing chemistry between the two main characters. There's also some twists along the way to finding out who the assassin is, and you will be kept guessing until late in the story.
February 12, 2021
Once again this author had me from the first page to the last and who knew there was another special team that rivals the skills and strength to any SEAL or Special Forces team.
Gage is an MSD team leader, a special team that protects Embassy personnel around the world and as is tasked to keep Chantal, a US Ambassador’s daughter in Sri Lanka safe. Chantal is nothing what Gage expected and is drawn to the beautiful, kind, hard working woman. As Gage and his team works with her security team to keep her safe, an unexpected turn of events leads to not just one threat but another from her past.
Holy Toledo !!!! LOVED this read, the steam, the build up, the characters, suspense, action, surprises and a twist I didn’t see coming....LOVED IT!! The story flowed beautifully without skipping a beat, the descriptions were spot on that made me feel like I was right in the middle of all the scenes, the characters were amazing and I didn’t want to stop reading about these two....KUDOS to the author for delivering another AMAZING read and I can’t wait for the next one!!!
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
Gage is an MSD team leader, a special team that protects Embassy personnel around the world and as is tasked to keep Chantal, a US Ambassador’s daughter in Sri Lanka safe. Chantal is nothing what Gage expected and is drawn to the beautiful, kind, hard working woman. As Gage and his team works with her security team to keep her safe, an unexpected turn of events leads to not just one threat but another from her past.
Holy Toledo !!!! LOVED this read, the steam, the build up, the characters, suspense, action, surprises and a twist I didn’t see coming....LOVED IT!! The story flowed beautifully without skipping a beat, the descriptions were spot on that made me feel like I was right in the middle of all the scenes, the characters were amazing and I didn’t want to stop reading about these two....KUDOS to the author for delivering another AMAZING read and I can’t wait for the next one!!!
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
September 25, 2023
The couple: Gage and Chantal
Romance trope: Romantic suspense
Series: Strikezone
Length: 337 pages
Plot: Chantal is the daughter of the ambassador to Sri Lanka. She loves living there and working with the Sri Lankan people. But when she helps a friend escape her abusive ex-husband, he comes after her, and a new protection team is assigned to her. Gage isn't supposed to fall for his protectee, but he can't help it. He'll need to be dedicated and vigilant to keep her alive, and not even that might be enough.
Commentary: I wasn't sure about this one. I liked the idea of it but Chantal was pretty bitchy sometimes, without cause in my opinion. She took on her mom's personality from time to time, and that's not a compliment. And of course her mom was the worst part of the book. I hate reading about a parent who is great to the outside world -everyone loves them, they're the best - but in private, they're abusive to their child. And make no mistake; despite all the excuses everyone made for the Ambassador, she was abusive. She wasn't an in-control, powerful woman. She was abusive to many of the people around her, but most especially her daughter. Her daughter was full grown and she forced her to stay with her as her personal masseuse. She shouldn't have been able to force her - yes, Chantal allowed it - but there was definitely some trauma-based relationship there and it wasn't healthy. I really hated the mom. She didn't consider her daughter's needs or wants at all. Every time someone would say "she's just in a lot of pain," well, there are ways to deal with that besides making your daughter your personal servant. We're supposed to believe that there was some character growth at the end, but for me, it was too little too late.
But the suspense was good and I think the next story in the series might be good as well.
Next book in the series: Striking Blow
Romance trope: Romantic suspense
Series: Strikezone
Length: 337 pages
Plot: Chantal is the daughter of the ambassador to Sri Lanka. She loves living there and working with the Sri Lankan people. But when she helps a friend escape her abusive ex-husband, he comes after her, and a new protection team is assigned to her. Gage isn't supposed to fall for his protectee, but he can't help it. He'll need to be dedicated and vigilant to keep her alive, and not even that might be enough.
Commentary: I wasn't sure about this one. I liked the idea of it but Chantal was pretty bitchy sometimes, without cause in my opinion. She took on her mom's personality from time to time, and that's not a compliment. And of course her mom was the worst part of the book. I hate reading about a parent who is great to the outside world -everyone loves them, they're the best - but in private, they're abusive to their child. And make no mistake; despite all the excuses everyone made for the Ambassador, she was abusive. She wasn't an in-control, powerful woman. She was abusive to many of the people around her, but most especially her daughter. Her daughter was full grown and she forced her to stay with her as her personal masseuse. She shouldn't have been able to force her - yes, Chantal allowed it - but there was definitely some trauma-based relationship there and it wasn't healthy. I really hated the mom. She didn't consider her daughter's needs or wants at all. Every time someone would say "she's just in a lot of pain," well, there are ways to deal with that besides making your daughter your personal servant. We're supposed to believe that there was some character growth at the end, but for me, it was too little too late.
But the suspense was good and I think the next story in the series might be good as well.
Next book in the series: Striking Blow
June 6, 2021
What a book!! If you like well written, fast paced action, suspense, romance, twists & turns and all the feels then this book is for you!! Trust me you will be so engrossed & won’t want to put the book down. Gage Hendrix, MSD agent & his team are assigned to protect the daughter of US Ambassador of Sri Lanka, Chantal Durant. Chantal’s best friend comes to Chantal & her Mother, the ambassador with evidence leaving herself, her daughter & Chantal in danger. Gage is expecting a spoiled rich girl only to find a hard working woman dedicating her life to helping others. I didn’t care for how the ambassador treated her daughter but Chantal finally spoke up to her Mom. You will love this couple & will be rooting for their HEA that they both so deserve. You will be wondering who Jona is throughout the book, I was thinking it was another character, wasn’t predictable at all. Such a fabulous book & I can’t wait to read the next one (& the ones after for all the MSD team members)!! I received an arc from Netgalley and the publisher for an honest review.
February 8, 2021
This is the first book I have read by Louise Dawn, winning an ARC through a FB reader group. How lucky was I?!
I really enjoyed the book, which is the first in a new series. Set on Sri Lanka this is a fast paced romantic suspense, which shows the author’s appreciation (and knowledge) of the beauty of the country, its history, people and the food. There are some good guys, some truly evil villains and a few you just don’t know to keep you guessing. While the first part is set around Chantal’s clinic in Colombo and the Ambassador’s residence, the second half is in-country and moves like a rollercoaster ride giving you a moment to breathe before the next action-packed scene.
While there are still loose ends and not the entire mystery is solved, the book doesn’t end with a cliffhanger: Chantal and Gage get their HEA and readers get a sneak peak at the next book ‘Striking Blow’. I for one am already looking forward to see how Pearl fares. So glad to have discovered this author!
I really enjoyed the book, which is the first in a new series. Set on Sri Lanka this is a fast paced romantic suspense, which shows the author’s appreciation (and knowledge) of the beauty of the country, its history, people and the food. There are some good guys, some truly evil villains and a few you just don’t know to keep you guessing. While the first part is set around Chantal’s clinic in Colombo and the Ambassador’s residence, the second half is in-country and moves like a rollercoaster ride giving you a moment to breathe before the next action-packed scene.
While there are still loose ends and not the entire mystery is solved, the book doesn’t end with a cliffhanger: Chantal and Gage get their HEA and readers get a sneak peak at the next book ‘Striking Blow’. I for one am already looking forward to see how Pearl fares. So glad to have discovered this author!
February 10, 2021
I had not read anything by this author and really enjoyed the story, the characters, the suspense and romance. When she was younger, Chantal Durant witnessed her father’s assassination and her mother being shot. Years later, her mother is the U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Chantal is a therapist working with those in need of medical aide. There have been threats on her life, but she now has a special security detail assigned to keep her safe. Gage Hendrix had not planned on babysitting the daughter of the ambassador, but when he spends time with Chantal, he doesn’t find a spoiled and pampered woman, but a woman of courage and ideals. His attraction to Chantal makes his job harder, especially as she returns his feelings. The husband of Chantal’s best friend believes that Chantal will lead him to his runaway wife, but the real danger may be even closer than they realize. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)
October 6, 2021
I liked the suspense of the book. The romance between Gage and Chantal was a bit fast paced, but I still liked them together. Chantal was stubborn but I liked that she really cared about helping others and Gage was willing to do anything to protect her. The writing style was also good I could feel the emotions of the characters.
However, the reason I didn’t give it 5 stars was because I felt like there was too much Chantal trauma like the last kidnapping felt so unnecessary, she had been through a lot already. It was also frustrating that the bad guys somehow kept winning until the very end. There were also many characters and it was sometimes hard to keep up with who they were. That being said, it was a decent read.
However, the reason I didn’t give it 5 stars was because I felt like there was too much Chantal trauma like the last kidnapping felt so unnecessary, she had been through a lot already. It was also frustrating that the bad guys somehow kept winning until the very end. There were also many characters and it was sometimes hard to keep up with who they were. That being said, it was a decent read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2021
What an action-packed suspense filled with high detail and smoldering love! It’s a classic bodyguard close-proximity, forced-protector story. This is an interesting couple with two characters that have strong personal convictions. Gage, State Department security in Sri Lanka, is assigned to protect the ambassador’s daughter, Chantal. The reason she was in danger didn’t feel contrived, but was complex and well executed. The suspense kept me reading to the end.
There are a lot of characters in this book to add a rich world filled with many potential future stories. Can’t wait to read more in this series.
There are a lot of characters in this book to add a rich world filled with many potential future stories. Can’t wait to read more in this series.
February 26, 2021
Louise Dawn is an author whose life experiences make her as interesting as the plots she weaves. She’s super active online, and both responsive and supportive of her readers and emerging authors. Given how much I loved 'Jade in the Snow' and 'Kite on the Rocks,' it’s no surprise that her new Strike Zone series would grab me by the lady balls and strangle me with tension and emotion. Based in the world of diplomacy, which you know is backed up by some series badassery and brawn, STRIKETHROUGH is a winner. The pace is breakneck, the plot engrossing, and the characters explosive.
*Originally posted at Frolic: https://frolic.media/romantic-suspens...
*Originally posted at Frolic: https://frolic.media/romantic-suspens...
October 9, 2021
I read this story as part of the Dangerous as Sin collection. It was my first time reading this author and I enjoyed the book.
I love this genre, but I was new to the world of diplomatic security service and all the ins and outs of their duties. There were lots of new acronyms and groups to keep track of in this book, but it certainly wasn’t a deterrent to reading the book.
The characters were interesting and the story was a good one. It seemed to drag a little in the middle and then all of the action was back loaded, but it all came together very nicely into the end.
I love this genre, but I was new to the world of diplomatic security service and all the ins and outs of their duties. There were lots of new acronyms and groups to keep track of in this book, but it certainly wasn’t a deterrent to reading the book.
The characters were interesting and the story was a good one. It seemed to drag a little in the middle and then all of the action was back loaded, but it all came together very nicely into the end.
September 21, 2022
I always try to give a series a fair chance but this is drivel. I thought this was a draft which ended up in a slush pile and accidentally found itself published as a debut novel or something, but no. Theres a whole series of this awful and seems like it was intentionally put out there like this. Its been a while since I've read something this terrible, there are Wattpad stories and Fanfics written by 12 year olds with more creativity and chemistry between the characters. The talent is non-existent.
Definitely not my cup of tea.
Definitely not my cup of tea.
February 8, 2021
Striketrough
The Strike Zone Series
Louise Dawn
An elite diplomatic security team is sent to Sri Lanka to protect the Ambassador’s daughter who just wants to go about her normal life.
When chaos ensues nothing is as it seems with evil lurking, waiting patiently to take it’s shot.
The action and suspense builds throughout this book. This book can be read as a stand-alone novel with hea. A great romantic suspense read, so hard to put down.
I received an arc of this book.
4 1/2 stars
The Strike Zone Series
Louise Dawn
An elite diplomatic security team is sent to Sri Lanka to protect the Ambassador’s daughter who just wants to go about her normal life.
When chaos ensues nothing is as it seems with evil lurking, waiting patiently to take it’s shot.
The action and suspense builds throughout this book. This book can be read as a stand-alone novel with hea. A great romantic suspense read, so hard to put down.
I received an arc of this book.
4 1/2 stars
February 28, 2021
Strikethrough is the first in a new series by Dawn and it was quite a good start to the series. I was sucked in by the characters, the setting, and the trilling plot. This is a romantic suspense with a insta love connection between Gage, an MSD agent who is to protect is principal, Chantal, but how can he do that when he is falling so fast for her?
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC to read for a an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC to read for a an honest review.
March 2, 2021
Louise Dawn is a new author for me. This is a series that I know I am going to follow. The storyline grabs you from the beginning and even though it slowed down a nit it was only to set you up for the page-turning action ahead. I thought I knew who the enemy was but the twist surprised me. If you are a fan of romantic suspense then this book will not disappoint. I look forward to Book 2. I received this as an ARC and voluntarily give my honest review.
August 3, 2021
I enjoyed this book and was hooked from page one. This is a new author for me. I loved staying on suspense. The romance was a little slow to start. Loved being totally shocked towards the end. There’s a betrayal that I didn’t see coming. Glad that Gage and Chantal finally got their happy ever after.
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