"Another fabulous SEAL novel with complex storyline and characters."

Many stories circulate about Navy SEAL Chief Cosmo Richter, most implying an extreme coldness in his personality that makes him capable of doing terrible things. For instance, there's the story about the time he supposedly killed numerous terrorists after they destroyed a village. Cosmo doesn't waste his time correcting any impressions -- that reputation has come in handy before.

An emergency (his mother broke both her wrists) gives Cosmo a welcome respite from the report writing he hates. But when he's offered the opportunity to do a short job for his ex-SEAL friends who run their own business, Troubleshooters Inc., he jumps on the chance to take a break from his lovable but wacky mom. The job sounds cush, too - guarding a Hollywood movie producer.

Of course he doesn't plan on Mercedes Chadwick. Like Cosmo, she has a reputation that isn't necessarily deserved. But hers, however, has been a well-planned maneuver to present a hot, sexy, completely confident woman to the film community. She can't resist pushing Cosmo's buttons and the steam between these two would set wet wood on fire.

Of course, as in all of Ms. Brockmann's fabulous SEAL books, there are several different storylines going on at once. This book includes a terrific story with Jules, the gay FBI agent, allowing us to see the personal side of him that hasn't been as apparent before. He is a good, strong character, but I must warn you -- if you're made uncomfortable by homosexuality, there may be a couple of parts that bother you. They didn't bother me at all -- Jules is just looking for love like the rest of us.

A great book again. I wouldn't miss one of this series. I love the way all the characters continue to crop up and you can find out what's going on in their lives now. Cosmo is a cool one and it's nice to see him fall flat on his face. A definite read!

Reviewed by Morgan Chilson
Posted January 10, 2005

Summary

New York Times bestselling author Suzanne Brockmann knows exactly what makes hearts race and pulses pound: peril and passion. No one succeeds more brilliantly at blending these exhilarating elements in breathtaking novels of men and women forced to grapple with the deepest emotions and the highest risks. And there's no better proof than her new novel of suspense: Hot Target aims to thrill on every level. Like most men of action, Navy SEAL Chief Cosmo Richter never learned how to take a vacation. So when he finds himself facing a month's leave, he offers his services to Troubleshooters Incorporated. Founded by a former SEAL, the private-sector security firm is a major player in the ongoing war against terrorism, known for carrying out covert missions too volatile for official U.S. military action. But the first case Richter takes on is anything but under the radar. High-profile maverick movie producer Jane Mercedes Chadwick hasn't quite completed her newest film, but she's already courting controversy. The World War II epic frankly portrays the homosexuality of a real-life hero--and the storm of advance media buzz surrounding it has drawn the fury of extremist groups. But despite a relentless campaign of angry E-mails, phone calls, and smear tactics, Chadwick won't be pressured into abandoning the project. Then the harassment turns to death threats. While the FBI appears on the scene, nervous Hollywood associates call in Troubleshooters, and now Chadwick has an army of round-the-clock bodyguards, whether she likes it or not. And she definitely doesn't. But her stubbornness doesn't make FBI agent Jules Cassidy's job any easier. The fiercely independent filmmaker presents yet another emotional obstacle that Cassidy doesn't need--he's already in the midst of a personal tug-of-war with his ex-lover, while fighting a growing attraction to Chadwick's brother. Determined to succeed--and survive--on her own terms, Chadwick will face off with enemies and allies alike. But she doesn't count on the bond she forms with the quiet, capable Cosmo Richter. Yet even as their feelings bring them closer, the noose of deadly terror all around them draws tighter. And when all hell erupts, desire and desperate choices will collide on a killing ground that may trap them both in the crossfire.