This third installment was such a ride!

When a deadly virus is stolen from Isabel's lab, she is put in the care of Steele Ops, and one specific Steele brother, Rowan. Yes, the deadly virus portion of this story hit a little closer to home than some people will be comfortable with, but I hope you still dive in.

Both of our characters have forms of PTSD and Survivors Guilt, so please tread cautiously with this title if those can be triggers for you.

I loved the electric chemistry between Isabel and Rowan. The steam factor was too notch for me. This title had just enough suspense to make it believable, while also having a good balance with the romance part.

I also loved how their individual family units play into the story. It added a nice touch to the other parts, blending beautifully in concert with one another.

I have no complaints about this book. It fed my soul, was consumed in 2 sittings, and I cannot wait for more in this series.

Received in exchange for a honest review.

OVerall the book was good. I loved the suspense and danger that you felt throughout the book. It lept off the page. I loved how Roman had a hard time trusting and how he learned to overcome that for Isabel. How they didn’t really care for each other when they first met but learned to work together, see the other’s view and put trust and faith in each other. Especially if they were going to survive.

Roman for me is the favorite character. I think this is because he went through more than Isabel in this book. He is trying to overcome so much and trying to put faith in someone for the first time in a long time and that takes courage. Watching him and his team help Isabel find out who is stealing the virus and why was seat gripping. The team works great together and is a family you can tell. They mesh well and I love how they have each other’s back. As they travel to Alaska to help Isabel’s mentor, you can see this. They know the dangers and yet are all in. I love that and how Roman is accepted no questions asked. I love how he grows and becomes someone he hopes to be all the time. How he lets someone in and finds love. How he puts faith in that person when that is all that is left and never waivers in that faith. How he in the end he is in the battle of his life and yet still doesn’t let go of that faith in Isabel. But shows her love, understanding and support even when we don’t think he is or can he does. That is what makes him so amazing, his belief and his ability to face fear and death with such faith and belief.

Isabel is stubborn and strong. A perfect match for Roman who is the same way. They but heads but still have that attraction she fights until she can’t anymore. They are working against time to find out who stole a virus and why they are doing what they are. All the while, trying to save a town and keep themselves alive as well. Isabel learns to let people in and trust those around her that aren’t in her field. She learns that not everyone may be as noble with their research concepts but that others outside of research may be and are there for her. IT’s hard when you face the idea that some do things for reasons that seem unfathomable and it’s really hard when it’s people you may know and trust. That takes time to wrap your head around and Isabel had to especially at the end. These two go on an adventure of learning to trust and rely on one another. IN believing in one another and finding a way to let go of past pains and demons to gain a future and catch someone that can harm so many others. A story of love, faith and belief and also of strength and friendship. Of betrayal and pain but hope and family. A story that keeps you on the edge of your seat and smiling and rooting Isabel and Roman on as they go find the culprit, fall in love and have to face the fight of their lives for that love.

Usually I like to start with book one of a series and read the series in order but this was available as a Read Now so I took advantage and I'm glad I did.
This is a romantic suspense novel dealing with the theft of a deadly virus from a lab. Dr. Isabel Santiago is an expert in the FC-5 virus and when masked gunmen break into her lab while she is working, all hell breaks loose. Enter Roman Steele and his company, Steele Ops. Sparks fly between Isa and Roman and after the gunmen come after Isa again, Roman and Isa decide to work together to track down the thieves and virus before disaster strikes.
I really liked Isabel and Roman. Isabel is not only a doctor but a former Army Major and is smart and capable. Roman is haunted by a previous covert mission and is closed off to getting involved with Isa, despite their attraction. He is an alpha but not a jerky one.
Even though the virus described in this book is not airborne, I did have a couple of thoughts whether reading this during a global pandemic was a good idea but ultimately the story was too good not to finish. As soon as I was done with this book, the third in the series, I went on-line to see if my library had the first one. They did and so I plan on reading the first two books in the series as well.

I loved this story.
Isabell is researching a deadly disease, FC-5. She is working hard to find a cure when her lab is broken into and the disease is stolen. Roman Steele and his brothers are hired to protect Isabell and find the virus before it is unleashed onto the public.
Great characters with steaming chemistry. The plot was full of suspense, action and of course romance.
Looking forward to another Steele book.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

4/5 stars!

After the lessons he learned from his time in the military, Roman Steele returned to civilian life by going into business with his brothers. At his latest investigation, he meets Isabel Santiago, a virologist who is in danger after a failed kidnapping by the same group who took a deadly virus from her work. The two must face danger and their instant connection with each other as the road towards love is full of personal demons and their hurtful past. Along with a wonderful group of comrades and family, this thrilling series is full of strong individuals, action, danger, and emotional upheavals as each couple learn to let go of their internal struggles to let in love for each other.

Though I hadn't read the previous books in the series, it didn't deter from the enjoyment of the story. I liked how the couple each grew as individuals and learn to accept the growing feelings they have for each other. I liked the secondary characters that were their support group and though I found certain characters to be transparent in their roles in the story, I still enjoyed reading the book. It would have been nice to get the Isabel/Isa to be consistent in the story and some details could be added to make some transition some fluidity, but the story is strong and I look forward to reading more of the series, especially when there are more characters that needs their own books.

**Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the review copy.**

Although I think the author wrote this before our current world health conditions, the story eerily mimics the pandemic reality we face today in 2020. This was a great story; full of action, twists and turns, angst, humor and some steam. Both Roman and Isabel had tragic pasts they had to move forward from which was heart warming to watch. Loved the antics and interpersonal dynamics of all the secondary characters. I am eagerly anticipating this author’s next story.

For those new to this series, it centers around brothers that have recently formed an elite security firm housed in DC and whose offices are hidden below their new bar.
Each has served their country in one form or another, and in Roman’s case, he came back with a great deal of guilt and as an amputee. He is a hard man who keeps everyone at arms length.
When Steele Ops is hired to not only investigate a break-in in a lab with high security and one from which a deadly virus has been stolen, but also protect the virologist in charge, he never realized his life would be turned upside down.
Isa Santiago is former Army, a doctor in her own right that chose not to work with patients. She is also a woman whose past is filled with losses as well as a dedicated woman who will do anything, even put herself in danger, for the sake of mankind.
From the start, this story will have you on the edge of your seats as the danger increases, and the attraction between Roman and Isa also increases. Each had made it clear that their hearts were not to be given to anyone. But what happens when the heart has a different agenda?
This is a book with an engaging and very real plot.
The main characters are complex making it a book you won’t want to put down.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Forever and Netgalley. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

Fatal Deception by April Hunt is the third book in the author's Steele Ops series. The book is well-written and has well-developed characters. Heroine Isabel Santiago is a virologist who is smart, dedicated and strong. She fits well the hero of the story Steele brother and operative Roman Steele. The storyline about a stolen virus being used as a potential bioweapon is interesting but I liked the first two books in the series better.

This book was AMAZING, I wasn’t sure if reading about a deadly virus at a time like this would be as enjoyable as it would have been pre-Covid, but boy was I wrong. Isa and Roman where amazing characters, the chemistry between them was of the charts and the banter between them, at times had me in stitches. I also loved the conversations between the brothers and team members. The comradery was brilliantly expressed.

The actual story was tense, nerve wracking and emotional, and when you let your guard down, more danger was round the corner.

Absolutely loved this series and can’t wait for the rest of the teams, and I’m hoping Kings, HEA

This is my first book by April Hunt and I am all in now! I was worried about the virus storyline with everything happening in our pandemic filled world, but appreciated how the emphasis was more on retrieving the virus from the bad guys that it was on the actual virus situation. While we can all relate to being in quarantine and the threat of a virus, this looked and felt significantly different and worked for me. I have been in a reading space where suspense is what I have craved and I flew through this. It reminded me a little of Maya Banks KGI series. The alpha men were fierce and protective, but in this book, he took her personality into consideration and let her lead when needed. I definitely recommend.

I am really liking this series . This book was a little different than the others . Isabel is intelligent and steady character. I loved her grit and determination. Roman has been growing on me thru the series. I am hoping all the new characters are here to stay and will get their own books .

Fatal Deception is book three in April Hunt's Steele Op's series, but you really don't need to have read the earlier books to enjoy this one.

Although there are quite a few recurring characters, the story itself is completely stand-alone and features impassive Roman Steele and sassy virologist Isabel Santiago. Who, after having her lab robbed of a deadly virus and accused by Roman of being involved reluctantly teams up with him when it becomes clear the terrorists involved want more than just the virus they stole.

And it certainly was a satisfying read, with pockets of action, great characters, a sweet romance and a little suspense. Not to mention parts of the story certainly echo what life is like for many of us at the moment what with a virus running rampant throughout the world, and it really does make you think. But honestly, don't let that put you off as there is a lot more to this story than just a deadly virus, and it was engaging to read. Which is why I would happily recommend it to others.

Q: what’s on your weekend TBR?

[Note: this romance has a deadly virus plot line.]

An energetic romantic thriller with lots of kissing & huge stakes, April Hunt’s Fatal Deception is the latest installment in her Steele Ops series & with the broodiest (to borrow from the book) hero yet.

Roman’s a former special ops who lost his leg in an incident in Africa that he hasn’t told his family about. He keeps to himself, he broods—as others regularly accuse—, & he pretty much falls into lust the first time Dr. Isabel Santiago refuses to be cowed by him.

Isabel, a virologist, wants a special love story. She also wants to find the virus that’s been stolen from her lab before it’s unleashed.

Then it *is* unleashed, in Alaska, & she & others, including her security detail which Roman is part of, have to do what they can to save people from a horrible virus that someone is deliberately infecting people with.

Fatal Deception has explosive attraction, a super smart heroine who doesn’t back down, a lot of feelingssss, & a strong sense of suspense.

The virus plot might not be for everyone, especially right now, but Hunt keeps its devastation fairly minimal, all things considered. I did question a couple of things about the plot—specifically in regards to Isabel’s security & how involved the government would have been in the case of a virus leak—but I am obviously not any kind of expert 🤣.

In terms of their relationship, Hunt convincingly portrays the things in their past that hold them back, but I would have loved a little more more on their interpersonal issues (how he gives orders, as Isabel notes, & how she doesn’t enjoy that.) That seems like a big part of their dynamic throughout the book—& something Isabel struggles with—but it’s not really addressed at the end.

With that being said, I do love how both leads have strong personalities & how they stand up for what they want with each other, how sexy the book is, & how quickly Roman is enamored—even if he won’t admit it.

This was a 4⭐️ read for me.


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[another CW: there’s an off-putting seizure joke in here—someone compares their dancing ability to one. I will be offering feedback on this when I submit my review.]

4⭐️. Fatal Deception is out on 11/10. Thanks to the publisher & Netgalley for the complimentary ARC. All opinions provided are my own.

I will admit the Steele Ops series is hot Hot HOT!! April Hunt bring Roman out of the darkness and into the light with a woman and story that will have readers needing water and a fan.

The story fit perfectly into the Steele ops series and what is happening in the world today. Reader will figure out the the Madman behind the killer virus as the story flows even before the characters that are trying to save the world. While the Madman is killing he is doing it with a purpose that connects into the real world. The story has romance, edge and fiesty characters that refuse to give up or give in. The brother rip on each other which is entering.

The author shows the love of family. Readers will connect with the different characters and excited for the next in the series.



Thank you to Netgalley for the advance copy of April Hunt Fatal Deception.

3 enjoyable stars

This was a solid 3 star read for me. I didn't hate anything about it. But it also didn't give me all the chills either. Please note: I did not read the first 2 in this serious, and did not real lost at all. This can definitely be read as a standalone novel.

Our hero had definitely lived a hard life. He was in the military and lost his leg because of a decision he made. Since then he has some serious PTSD and trust issues, especially when it come to people and his choices. He now owns and works with his brother at Steele Ops.

"I'll keep my people skills on the down-low. At least until someone says something that's too stupid to ignore." - Roman

The Steele Ops boys get called to a scene where someone stole a deadly virus from a Virologist (who happens to be our heroine).

Isa is a spitfire and does not take crap from anyone, especially our Hero. She is the epitome of don't judge a book by its cover. And she surprises our hero at every turn.

They are both drawn to each other immediately, have some serious sexual tension. While they struggle fighting the sexual chemistry, and try to stay away from each other they can't. Our heroine has this idea in her head of what she wants, and our hero doesn't think he is good enough for her because he lives a dangerous life. So while they keep being falling into bed they fight the relationship until the very end (which is one of the reasons why this is a 3 star and not high for me).

I always love reading mystery/suspense because I do love a good "who done it book" and this was one. It took me a while to figure out who did it, and I still was not 100% until the end.

This definitely a fun book to read right now, especially during a pandemic where a virus is running through our world.

My last little complaint and reason for 3 stars and not 4 is the lack of an epilogue (yes I know she wrote a quick 1 page epilogue, but it wasn't really an epilogue in my mind - you will see). Guys when you don't have a great epilogue its like leaving the icing off the freaking cake. I know this won't matter to some, but epilogues can make a huge difference in a book for me and here it just wasn't there. Especially since the couple's push and pull through the entire book. I need to see happily together in the future, at least for a chapter.

In the end, I would definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun quick mystery/suspense romance.

“I know my life isn’t for the faint of heart, Doc. I know it’s a lot. But I also know I love you, Isabel Santiago. I’m in love with you.” Roman braced his palm against the window and felt his chest throb when she laid hers on top. “And if you taught me one thing, it’s that there isn’t a damn thing you can’t do if you do it with the person you love.” - Roman

This was my first book by April Hunt and I quite liked it. It's an easy read, somewhat predictable though. An ex CIA agent, a beautiful doctor and a few very interesting side characters. It's a good suspenseful romance with very likeable characters. I really liked the story. Great ending but it was a tad inconsistent. I realize that the author was trying to keep you in suspense but I think she went a little to far off sometimes and made it hard to believe when the ending came around. Still, all in all it was a good book. It also dragged in the middle for me. It did pick up towards the end though. But overall the story flowed smoothly and it was interesting and it kept me turning tha pages, eager to find out how will the "thing with the deady virus" play out. There was also great tension in the plot and between the main characters which I liked very much. I'll defenitely check out the first two books in this series as well and I'm also looking forward to reading more books by Ms. Hunt.

Isabel is a scientist and before that a doctor in the navy. But since she lost her fiance she decided to bury herself into work up until she was targeted and a nasty virus from her lab was stolen and released. Special ops steel and his family came to the rescue to keep her safe and find the virus and the people that took it. But one steel and one doctor also had to figure out what the word love meant and how to conquer it too.

I love this series! I really can’t state that enough—I think about it often, and always look forward to new releases. Which I am doing once again, now that I’ve finished Fatal Deception. How long do I have to wait?!

This was a really engaging and topical read. Centered as it is on the risk of a highly fatal pandemic, it certainly makes one think about the world we are currently living in. April Hunt must’ve done her research—either that, or she’s really adept at faking it—because it felt informative as well as entertaining.

And entertaining it surely was. The romance between Isabel and Roman pushed all the right buttons for me. There were fiction, feels, and flirting to soften some of the stress from the specter of pandemic, and I loved that Isa was no wilting flower, before or after she met Roman. (Who, by the way, is delightfully grumpy.) In addition to that, this series boasts a host of fantastic secondary characters to get invested in, and the banter and emotion they added to Fatal Deception can’t be understated.

Which just brings me back to impatiently waiting for the next book in this series. I want books for the remainder of the Steele brothers, Tank and Jaz, and Ethan, too. Now, please!

Dr. Isabel Santiago is a virologist studying the most dangerous viruses in the world when armed madmen storm her lab and steal the virus. Now she has to put up with the arrogant, stubborn - and annoyingly sexy - Roman Steele to get it back before millions die.

I loved this read! Starts as enemies to lovers but quickly turns to sex before emotions with some forced proximity and some seriously awesome bodyguard moments. Dr. Isabel Santiago is brilliant and badass and will do what is best for the world before ever thinking about how it might end up hurting her. Roman is a dangerous man and despite his lack of one leg - will do whatever it takes to protect Isa. (Who he calls "Doc" the whole time and I have no idea why I loved that tidbit so much!) They both are so afraid to be hurt and vulnerable but they are an awesome team with some serious steam. There are great moments of consent ("Have you been drinking? Are you sure this is what you want?"); and great moments of calling people on their bullshit.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Some aspects of this book maybe hit a little too close to home right now for me to truly enjoy the book! The virus in this story is nothing like COVID - but it definitely resonated! Isabel is a very smart virologist with a complicated past. She is working on finding treatments and cure for the worst viruses imaginable. Roman is one of the brothers who owns Steele Security - the private security firm. Be lost a leg below the knee in a combat situation and since then has closed himself off from everyone. He's grumpy and not particularly sensitive to others feelings. He clearly feels things very deeply - but doesn't express himself well.

This book definitely keeps you guessing as to who the villain might be! I had suspicions - but until the ending I wasn't sure. It keeps you on your toes with a lot of action and uncertainty.

What I didn't love, however, was that the characters didn't feel particularly three dimensional to me. They had interesting backgrounds - and the events that shaped their lives weren't easy ones. I just never felt like we got much below the surface. I didn't understand the hot and cold routine they each gave the other - and I didn't understand why they were both so willing to let the other go towards the end. I love romantic suspense - and I know it is chock full of insta-love, I'm just not sure I really felt the strong connection here.

Overall - I would recommend it to fans of this series, strong heroines, and suspense.

I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.