What do you think?
Rate this book
PASS #3
Lock & Load
Juggling two jobs is nothing new for registered nurse, Hillary Glenwood, she’s been doing it for most of her adult life. She has an objective she intends to meet. But, just months before reaching her goal, she witnesses a violent attack outside her apartment that rattles her determination.
However, her carefully controlled life runs completely off the rails when she recognizes the new neighbor coming to the rescue.
As a hacker, Radar Jansen hasn’t always used his expertise in the most respectable ways until he came to work for PASS Security. Normally his time is spent behind a computer, but that doesn’t mean his skills end there.
When—walking his dog one night—he sees a familiar woman rushing into a dangerous situation, his training kicks in.
With Hillary’s safety compromised, the keyboard warrior puts on his real-life armor to shield the woman who is fast becoming his only focus.
However, her carefully controlled life runs completely off the rails when she recognizes the new neighbor coming to the rescue.
As a hacker, Radar Jansen hasn’t always used his expertise in the most respectable ways until he came to work for PASS Security. Normally his time is spent behind a computer, but that doesn’t mean his skills end there.
When—walking his dog one night—he sees a familiar woman rushing into a dangerous situation, his training kicks in.
With Hillary’s safety compromised, the keyboard warrior puts on his real-life armor to shield the woman who is fast becoming his only focus.
285 pages, ebook
First published January 25, 2021
About the author
Freya Barker
73 books1,856 followersUSA Today bestselling author Freya Barker loves writing about ordinary people with extraordinary stories.
Driven to make her books about 'real' people; she creates characters who are perhaps less than perfect, each struggling to find their own slice of happy, but just as deserving of romance, thrills and chills in their lives.
Recipient of the ReadFREE.ly 2019 Best Book We've Read All Year Award for "Covering Ollie, the 2015 RomCon “Reader’s Choice” Award for Best First Book, “Slim To None”, and Finalist for the 2017 Kindle Book Award with “From Dust”, Freya continues to add to her rapidly growing collection of published novels as she spins story after story with an endless supply of bruised and dented characters, vying for attention!
Driven to make her books about 'real' people; she creates characters who are perhaps less than perfect, each struggling to find their own slice of happy, but just as deserving of romance, thrills and chills in their lives.
Recipient of the ReadFREE.ly 2019 Best Book We've Read All Year Award for "Covering Ollie, the 2015 RomCon “Reader’s Choice” Award for Best First Book, “Slim To None”, and Finalist for the 2017 Kindle Book Award with “From Dust”, Freya continues to add to her rapidly growing collection of published novels as she spins story after story with an endless supply of bruised and dented characters, vying for attention!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
January 26, 2021
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
LOCK & LOAD (PASS Series Book #3) by Freya Barker is a fast-paced romantic suspense and is the third book in the world of PASS Security. This book has characters from the previous books due to the fact that they all work together, but they are easily read as standalones.
Hillary Glenwood is working two jobs; an Emergency Room RN at the local hospital and she also works at the Veterans Homeless Shelter so she can keep to her plan of paying off all her student loans. One night as she is coming home from the hospital, she witnesses and attempts to stop a violent attack. The attackers run off when they see not only Hillary, but a man running towards them.
Radar Jansen is an ex-hacker, now computer expert for PASS Security. While Radar is a genius on a computer, he is not as talented in the romance department. When he sees a familiar woman running towards danger, his training kicks in and he runs to protect and assist.
As the agents of PASS and the FBI work to find the killers of multiple people and work to uncover the motive, they keep discovering Hillary is tangentially connected to several of the dead and Radar begins to fear for her safety. As their relationship grows so does the danger. Will Radar and his friends from PASS be able to catch the killers and protect Hillary?
I enjoyed Hillary and Radar’s romance, but not as much as I usually do a Freya Barker romance. I just never got a feeling of believability with Radar, who kept switching from alpha to beta. I did like Hillary’s feistiness and backbone. The suspense plot of the book was intense, an interesting premise and the killers were surprising. The sex scenes are explicit, but not gratuitous.
Overall, a good romantic suspense read, just not my favorite of the series.
LOCK & LOAD (PASS Series Book #3) by Freya Barker is a fast-paced romantic suspense and is the third book in the world of PASS Security. This book has characters from the previous books due to the fact that they all work together, but they are easily read as standalones.
Hillary Glenwood is working two jobs; an Emergency Room RN at the local hospital and she also works at the Veterans Homeless Shelter so she can keep to her plan of paying off all her student loans. One night as she is coming home from the hospital, she witnesses and attempts to stop a violent attack. The attackers run off when they see not only Hillary, but a man running towards them.
Radar Jansen is an ex-hacker, now computer expert for PASS Security. While Radar is a genius on a computer, he is not as talented in the romance department. When he sees a familiar woman running towards danger, his training kicks in and he runs to protect and assist.
As the agents of PASS and the FBI work to find the killers of multiple people and work to uncover the motive, they keep discovering Hillary is tangentially connected to several of the dead and Radar begins to fear for her safety. As their relationship grows so does the danger. Will Radar and his friends from PASS be able to catch the killers and protect Hillary?
I enjoyed Hillary and Radar’s romance, but not as much as I usually do a Freya Barker romance. I just never got a feeling of believability with Radar, who kept switching from alpha to beta. I did like Hillary’s feistiness and backbone. The suspense plot of the book was intense, an interesting premise and the killers were surprising. The sex scenes are explicit, but not gratuitous.
Overall, a good romantic suspense read, just not my favorite of the series.
March 29, 2021
2nd read: I listened to the audiobook version for my re-read. The narrators did a fantastic job and I highly recommend it.
1st read: One of the best things I love about Freya Barker's books is the realistic approach she writes her couples. Hillary is 36 years old. Radar is 40 years old. They've lived life and have matured. You won't get silly drama, you get nail biting suspense that pulls you right into the book.
In Lock & Load, Hillary and Radar witnesses a woman being beaten by two teenagers. With Radar's occupation at PASS Security and their connections with the police, we get to see the investigation into this murder that leads to a much more.
While the investigation is enough to keep me glued to the pages, we also get the budding relationship of Hillary and Radar. Like most of this author's heroines, Hillary is guarded and it takes some effort on Radar's part to lower the walls she has. Radar isn't immune to his own issues that Hillary has to work through as well.
To me, this is the realty vs. silly drama part of the story. I enjoy seeing this kind of relationship. It's much easier to relate to and I always fall in love with their happy ending. I look forward to more in the series!
1st read: One of the best things I love about Freya Barker's books is the realistic approach she writes her couples. Hillary is 36 years old. Radar is 40 years old. They've lived life and have matured. You won't get silly drama, you get nail biting suspense that pulls you right into the book.
In Lock & Load, Hillary and Radar witnesses a woman being beaten by two teenagers. With Radar's occupation at PASS Security and their connections with the police, we get to see the investigation into this murder that leads to a much more.
While the investigation is enough to keep me glued to the pages, we also get the budding relationship of Hillary and Radar. Like most of this author's heroines, Hillary is guarded and it takes some effort on Radar's part to lower the walls she has. Radar isn't immune to his own issues that Hillary has to work through as well.
To me, this is the realty vs. silly drama part of the story. I enjoy seeing this kind of relationship. It's much easier to relate to and I always fall in love with their happy ending. I look forward to more in the series!
January 30, 2021
Nurse heroine + computer geek security specialist hero + conspiracy of thrill murdering teenagers = pretty good romantic suspense.
Enjoying this series. I am liking the older hero and heroines -- they are in their late 30s. Also while the hero's name is Radar -- that is only his badass dude-code name. I am tickled by the fact his real name is Murray. How many heroes have we had whose first name is Murray?
Enjoying this series. I am liking the older hero and heroines -- they are in their late 30s. Also while the hero's name is Radar -- that is only his badass dude-code name. I am tickled by the fact his real name is Murray. How many heroes have we had whose first name is Murray?
March 25, 2021
Yowza! This book took control of my every emotion and never let go!
This couple had some issues and a rough road before they finally found their footing. I was totally caught up in their relationship drama, biting my nails as they each were pulled into danger and suspense outside their relationship as well. There wasn’t a moment where something wasn’t happening or I didn’t feel the sense of trouble waiting in the peripheral of their personal story.
This cover hinted at a somewhat different hero, but I didn’t have a clue just how unique Radar was going to be. A little geeky with a tremendous talent in front of a computer, he also shined with an alpha attitude when it came to Hillary. She was more than capable of handling his dominant manner in a way that had me cheering her on. Feisty! I loved it!
Starting with a rush of action, this never really slowed down. Radar and Hillary were quite heated in more than one way and I was consumed with everything about them. With additional characters that added either support or more drama and a plot line I didn’t see coming, I refused to put this book down once I started.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
This couple had some issues and a rough road before they finally found their footing. I was totally caught up in their relationship drama, biting my nails as they each were pulled into danger and suspense outside their relationship as well. There wasn’t a moment where something wasn’t happening or I didn’t feel the sense of trouble waiting in the peripheral of their personal story.
This cover hinted at a somewhat different hero, but I didn’t have a clue just how unique Radar was going to be. A little geeky with a tremendous talent in front of a computer, he also shined with an alpha attitude when it came to Hillary. She was more than capable of handling his dominant manner in a way that had me cheering her on. Feisty! I loved it!
Starting with a rush of action, this never really slowed down. Radar and Hillary were quite heated in more than one way and I was consumed with everything about them. With additional characters that added either support or more drama and a plot line I didn’t see coming, I refused to put this book down once I started.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
December 22, 2020
The PASS series has to be one of my favorites by Freya Barker.
She brings in diverse characters without hitting you over the head with them. Hillary is a POC but the fact that she's in love with a white man isn't a point that she's trying to make in the story and I love how their relationship develops. Radar falls in love with the woman and so does his father an brother.
Plus, Radar is geek hot, and I mean hot. He's not great socially. He doesn't s recognize that the things he's doing are torpedoing his chances with Hillary, but he keeps trying and his apologies are heart felt. You know the whole relationship is going to be a learning experience for him.
And the suspense portion of this book was spot on. I mean you could see where it was going, but you didn't know how it would play out.
This is great storytelling.
She brings in diverse characters without hitting you over the head with them. Hillary is a POC but the fact that she's in love with a white man isn't a point that she's trying to make in the story and I love how their relationship develops. Radar falls in love with the woman and so does his father an brother.
Plus, Radar is geek hot, and I mean hot. He's not great socially. He doesn't s recognize that the things he's doing are torpedoing his chances with Hillary, but he keeps trying and his apologies are heart felt. You know the whole relationship is going to be a learning experience for him.
And the suspense portion of this book was spot on. I mean you could see where it was going, but you didn't know how it would play out.
This is great storytelling.
January 20, 2021
4.5 stars
I wasn't really sure what to think about Radar going into the story- but you know what they say: it's the quiet ones you have to watch out for! This tech geek is no slouch intellectually and he has never been hurting for female companionship it seems. But he has also come to the realization that his lonely life needs some changes, and his adoption of a rescue mutt for some companionship is the first step. When Hillary enters his line of sight after getting herself into a dangerous situation, she certainly gains his attention.
Hillary is a classic Freya Barker heroine: smart, fiercely independent, and sassy. She doesn't know how to depend on anyone else for anything, and her first interaction with Radar is less than ideal. After a really crappy day working 2 different jobs, getting home well after midnight and witnessing a gruesome attack, hearing the sexy techie telling her off for her actions is at the bottom of her list of things she is going to put up with and she doesn't hold back in letting him know it. Little does she know, that attitude is far from a deterrent for him.
When the seemingly random attack that Hillary witnessed turns out to be part of a bigger very disturbing pattern, the danger really ramps up and Radar appoints himself as her protector. He has never been a relationship guy so there are a lot of bumps in the road, but he doesn't give up. Hillary has 20 foot walls built around her heart, but somehow he seems to be able to find his way past those defenses... even if it takes a few good swift kicks in the butt from her friends to keep her moving along down the right path.
There is a great balance of heat, heart and action throughout the story as always. I have to admit that I am stuck between Dimi/ Willa and Hillary/Radar as my favorite couple of this series, and I definitely loved how the problem of Hillary's nemesis at work was resolved! Lock & Load was a great read that left me with a smile on my face as I finished the last page.
I wasn't really sure what to think about Radar going into the story- but you know what they say: it's the quiet ones you have to watch out for! This tech geek is no slouch intellectually and he has never been hurting for female companionship it seems. But he has also come to the realization that his lonely life needs some changes, and his adoption of a rescue mutt for some companionship is the first step. When Hillary enters his line of sight after getting herself into a dangerous situation, she certainly gains his attention.
Hillary is a classic Freya Barker heroine: smart, fiercely independent, and sassy. She doesn't know how to depend on anyone else for anything, and her first interaction with Radar is less than ideal. After a really crappy day working 2 different jobs, getting home well after midnight and witnessing a gruesome attack, hearing the sexy techie telling her off for her actions is at the bottom of her list of things she is going to put up with and she doesn't hold back in letting him know it. Little does she know, that attitude is far from a deterrent for him.
When the seemingly random attack that Hillary witnessed turns out to be part of a bigger very disturbing pattern, the danger really ramps up and Radar appoints himself as her protector. He has never been a relationship guy so there are a lot of bumps in the road, but he doesn't give up. Hillary has 20 foot walls built around her heart, but somehow he seems to be able to find his way past those defenses... even if it takes a few good swift kicks in the butt from her friends to keep her moving along down the right path.
There is a great balance of heat, heart and action throughout the story as always. I have to admit that I am stuck between Dimi/ Willa and Hillary/Radar as my favorite couple of this series, and I definitely loved how the problem of Hillary's nemesis at work was resolved! Lock & Load was a great read that left me with a smile on my face as I finished the last page.
January 10, 2021
I love the nerdy guy story. Mind you Radar is nerdy but he is also super alpha, super hot and super loving. I love Hillary’s character. She is an all-around great person who tries to do the right thing and sometimes she gets into a bit of mess trying to help out. In jumps Radar to look after her but she will not take all of his butting in. The dynamic is wonderfully written and such a joy to read. Again Freya gives us heroes/heroines over the age of 30 which is a bonus for me.
I received a complimentary copy from Booksprout.
I received a complimentary copy from Booksprout.
January 7, 2021
This book is about a registered nurse named Hillary who witnesses a horrible, vicious attack. Her neighbor, named Radar, begins to protect her. Hilary and Radar are very attracted to each other, but are kept very busy as they search for the perpetrators and aim to capture them and have them punished. There is treachery, misdirection, tricks, surprises, and many dangers to both Radar and Hillary along the way. Can they be kept safe? Can love between them grow? Can they have an HEA? I highly recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 28, 2021
Nurse Hillary Glenwood comes to the rescue of an attack victim and is assisted by her neighbor, Radar Jansen, a computer savant and his faithful companion, Phil. Radar is able to take a photo of the fleeing vehicle to give to the police. This is the jumping off point for them getting to know one another, though they have mutual friends in common, they have never interacted until fate steps in.
They give their respective statements and cull through mug shot books, to no avail. The danger ramps up as the victim list grows. Who is behind these deadly acts? The perpetrators seem to act without rhyme or reason. This is Radar’s area of expertise, and even he will have his work cut out for him.
As the mystery unfolds, the romance blossoms, though not without bumps in the road. It’s not a fantasy (billionaire) romance, but has a realism I enjoyed as these two people have been unsuccessful in finding and achieving the staying power required for romance and all it entails.
Freya Barker is fast becoming one of my go-to authors. Her characters are seasoned and flawed and have had good love and/or bad love and have been happy or disappointed and have given up. They are content, and have no grand illusions of finding a great love. Then a person comes along that sees them, and it a matter of let go, let flow. Beautiful!
Highly Recommended: Read It!
NOTE: This is a Romantic Suspense story and I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that the main storyline of this particular story is not for the faint of heart, and may trigger some of you. Graphic violence mentioned, though not in great detail. The romance doesn't get lost in the details.
Be sure to check out this author’s other books here: https://www.amazon.com/Freya-Barker/e...
Happy Reading!
They give their respective statements and cull through mug shot books, to no avail. The danger ramps up as the victim list grows. Who is behind these deadly acts? The perpetrators seem to act without rhyme or reason. This is Radar’s area of expertise, and even he will have his work cut out for him.
As the mystery unfolds, the romance blossoms, though not without bumps in the road. It’s not a fantasy (billionaire) romance, but has a realism I enjoyed as these two people have been unsuccessful in finding and achieving the staying power required for romance and all it entails.
Freya Barker is fast becoming one of my go-to authors. Her characters are seasoned and flawed and have had good love and/or bad love and have been happy or disappointed and have given up. They are content, and have no grand illusions of finding a great love. Then a person comes along that sees them, and it a matter of let go, let flow. Beautiful!
Highly Recommended: Read It!
NOTE: This is a Romantic Suspense story and I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that the main storyline of this particular story is not for the faint of heart, and may trigger some of you. Graphic violence mentioned, though not in great detail. The romance doesn't get lost in the details.
Be sure to check out this author’s other books here: https://www.amazon.com/Freya-Barker/e...
Happy Reading!
January 15, 2021
Hillary and Radar are thrown together when Hillary goes to the assistance of a woman being beaten to death as Radar gives chase to the murders. Hillary recognises Radar from a friend's wedding but has had no connection with him since. They are now witnesses to this murder. As they solve the murder by putting the pieces together. Radar shows Hillary that he has an interest in her well being and their budding relationship begins. Hillary is very wary of men at the moment due to past experiences and Radar is out of his comfort zone, being a computer geek. Will the investigation get in the way of this new experience for them both? or will the killer catch on to them first? A very good mystery and love story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 19, 2021
Once again Freya Barker has drawn me in from the very first chapter. Flipping pages to see what will happen next, will they solve the mystery, will these wonderful characters find their happiness along the way? A fabulous look at the behind the scenes part of some investigations with the world of the dark web and online social presence.
Hillary is a strong sassy independent woman with a plan. She has worked so hard to get where she hopes to be for her future. Working two jobs to play off her school loans. Her social life has taken the hit but she will get it back when things slow down. As she starts to feel out a relationship with the handsome private security guy, her old friend self doubt takes a pretty big stand, putting up some pretty high walls to conquer.
Radar has not been big on relationships in the past. Not that he has anything against them but his hobby and career as a computer specialist can easily drag him down the worm hole and time just evades you completely. But when the beautiful woman in the building across the way catches his attention, he becomes pretty determined to try. His true alpha comes out strong when he decides she needs to be looked out for.
Will Hillary be able to relax and let someone help her when needed? Will Radar learn to pull himself from the computer and reach out?
A wonderful addition to the PASS Series bringing all our friends along the way. Looking forward to what comes next.
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***
UPDATE - Audiobook is a fantastic listen. The narrators do a great job of bringing these characters to life, sharing the emotions and making you feel part of the story.
Hillary is a strong sassy independent woman with a plan. She has worked so hard to get where she hopes to be for her future. Working two jobs to play off her school loans. Her social life has taken the hit but she will get it back when things slow down. As she starts to feel out a relationship with the handsome private security guy, her old friend self doubt takes a pretty big stand, putting up some pretty high walls to conquer.
Radar has not been big on relationships in the past. Not that he has anything against them but his hobby and career as a computer specialist can easily drag him down the worm hole and time just evades you completely. But when the beautiful woman in the building across the way catches his attention, he becomes pretty determined to try. His true alpha comes out strong when he decides she needs to be looked out for.
Will Hillary be able to relax and let someone help her when needed? Will Radar learn to pull himself from the computer and reach out?
A wonderful addition to the PASS Series bringing all our friends along the way. Looking forward to what comes next.
*** Advanced copy provided in exchange for an honest review. ***
UPDATE - Audiobook is a fantastic listen. The narrators do a great job of bringing these characters to life, sharing the emotions and making you feel part of the story.
January 21, 2021
Review by: Jennifer
(5 stars)
The third in the PASS series, and I will say, yes, you should read these in order. Just makes it flow a bit better as far as knowing who the characters are and all that jazz. Radar is used to sitting in his office, in front of his computer doing what he does best, not interacting with people. It has gotten so bad, that he got a dog when he realized he was talking to himself. One night he stumbles upon his neighbor putting herself in the middle of a situation, and he steps in to help out. From that point Hillary was on his... well radar, and in a not stalkerish way he found himself watching for her. But how does someone that doesn't really deal with people well, date? Will Hillary have the patience with Radar for the mistakes he makes? Or will Hillary find Radar not worth the trouble?
Once again Freya Barker knocks it out the park. We can count on her to give us really amazing stories that keep you glued to your kindle until the last word. The drama was the perfect amount, some mystery, danger, violence, and some really hot naughty bits. I give this 5 stars.
(5 stars)
The third in the PASS series, and I will say, yes, you should read these in order. Just makes it flow a bit better as far as knowing who the characters are and all that jazz. Radar is used to sitting in his office, in front of his computer doing what he does best, not interacting with people. It has gotten so bad, that he got a dog when he realized he was talking to himself. One night he stumbles upon his neighbor putting herself in the middle of a situation, and he steps in to help out. From that point Hillary was on his... well radar, and in a not stalkerish way he found himself watching for her. But how does someone that doesn't really deal with people well, date? Will Hillary have the patience with Radar for the mistakes he makes? Or will Hillary find Radar not worth the trouble?
Once again Freya Barker knocks it out the park. We can count on her to give us really amazing stories that keep you glued to your kindle until the last word. The drama was the perfect amount, some mystery, danger, violence, and some really hot naughty bits. I give this 5 stars.
January 25, 2021
Hilary is a woman who is dedicated to helping others as evidenced by her career as a Nurse so when she sees someone being attacked, she doesn’t hesitate to step in regardless of the consequences to herself. While appreciative of her neighbor also trying to help her feisty personality doesn’t appreciate his advice and the sparks fly.
Ryder is more accustomed to solving crimes using his IT skills rather than being in the field, but he doesn’t hesitate to take matters into his own hands. Not only are he and Hilary neighbors but they have also met casually in the past and now they are witnesses who find themselves on a search to find the perpetrators before they find them.
Ryder has the best of intentions, but his social skills can only be classed as awkward while Hilary is used to depending only on herself so his need to keep her safe is an adjustment for both of them. Between the great characters, the romance and the intrigue this story will keep you entertained from beginning to end.
Ryder is more accustomed to solving crimes using his IT skills rather than being in the field, but he doesn’t hesitate to take matters into his own hands. Not only are he and Hilary neighbors but they have also met casually in the past and now they are witnesses who find themselves on a search to find the perpetrators before they find them.
Ryder has the best of intentions, but his social skills can only be classed as awkward while Hilary is used to depending only on herself so his need to keep her safe is an adjustment for both of them. Between the great characters, the romance and the intrigue this story will keep you entertained from beginning to end.
January 1, 2021
It's no secret I love this series. Truthfully I have loved every book I've ever read by Freya Barker. But this series in particular has been a huge favorite for me. Each book has its own unique special qualities that make them all stand out on their own, but for me, Lock&Load is a favorite among favorites. Hillary and Radar's story has a ramping up that really stands out. The suspense constantly has you guessing and just when you think you figure something out another twist comes along growing the story into something that gradually grows bigger and bigger and hitting you with an explosion when it all comes together. Radar and Hillary's romance hits in much the same way. With magnetic chemistry these two quietly grow into a love that will steal your breath and have you lost in their world never wanting to leave.
This book is yet another in a long list of five star hits from Freya Barker that will have you going back to binge read them all.
This book is yet another in a long list of five star hits from Freya Barker that will have you going back to binge read them all.
January 5, 2021
Freya has done it again. I feel like I am always saying this, but it's so true.
I just loved this book!
Radar had intrigued me when I first met him earlier in the series. I didn't expect him to have as much depth as he did. But with each chapter, I found I just kept pulling back more and more layers to him.
Hillary was just my type of gal. She was smart and sassy, and didn't pull any punches.
I loved how their relationship started and how it developed.
There's so much more I want to tell you about these two, but I don't want to give away any of their story or the plot of the book. I will just tell you their chemistry is off the charts!
The suspense and mystery surrounding this book were spot on and will have you guessing until the end.
This review may be short but this story will stay with you long after to finish it!
I just loved this book!
Radar had intrigued me when I first met him earlier in the series. I didn't expect him to have as much depth as he did. But with each chapter, I found I just kept pulling back more and more layers to him.
Hillary was just my type of gal. She was smart and sassy, and didn't pull any punches.
I loved how their relationship started and how it developed.
There's so much more I want to tell you about these two, but I don't want to give away any of their story or the plot of the book. I will just tell you their chemistry is off the charts!
The suspense and mystery surrounding this book were spot on and will have you guessing until the end.
This review may be short but this story will stay with you long after to finish it!
January 24, 2021
Lock & Load by Freya Barker
PASS Series #3
Book three in the PASS - Protection And Security Services – stellar series is the story of how Rada and Hilliary find their happily ever after and boy do they earn it in this book!
What I liked:
* Radar: computer nerd-hacker-programmer, team player working for PASS, son, brother, hunk, socially shy, reserved, focused, dog-lover, knows what he is good at, a great book boyfriend…HOT!
* Hilliary: RN, hard worker, goal oriented, intelligent, good friend, knows what she wants, has trust issues, intrigues Radar – intrigued by radar, interesting, perfect with Radar.
* That it took me awhile to figure out what Locked & Loaded was – oh my!
* That the story is believable
* Seeing couples from previous books
* Wondering what is eventually going to happen with Bree and Yanis
* Hoping there will be many more books in the series
* That Radar is so willing to put his feelings out there, ask for forgiveness, see his faults and not hold a grudge
* That it took me awhile to figure it all out
* The growth in the relationship between Radar & Hilliary
* Radar’s family dynamics
* The way Radar and Hilliary were better people as a result of their relationship
* The computer aspect of the story and how computers were used to help figure out how the crimes were occurring
* All of it really except…
What I didn��t like:
* The callous disregard for life shown by the baddies/criminals
* Knowing that there are homeless like the ones in this story and that their life on the streets is not pretty or easy
* Knowing that bigotry, bias and meanness still exists in this world
Did I enjoy this book? Definitely!
Will I read more in this series? Without a doubt!!!
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
PASS Series #3
Book three in the PASS - Protection And Security Services – stellar series is the story of how Rada and Hilliary find their happily ever after and boy do they earn it in this book!
What I liked:
* Radar: computer nerd-hacker-programmer, team player working for PASS, son, brother, hunk, socially shy, reserved, focused, dog-lover, knows what he is good at, a great book boyfriend…HOT!
* Hilliary: RN, hard worker, goal oriented, intelligent, good friend, knows what she wants, has trust issues, intrigues Radar – intrigued by radar, interesting, perfect with Radar.
* That it took me awhile to figure out what Locked & Loaded was – oh my!
* That the story is believable
* Seeing couples from previous books
* Wondering what is eventually going to happen with Bree and Yanis
* Hoping there will be many more books in the series
* That Radar is so willing to put his feelings out there, ask for forgiveness, see his faults and not hold a grudge
* That it took me awhile to figure it all out
* The growth in the relationship between Radar & Hilliary
* Radar’s family dynamics
* The way Radar and Hilliary were better people as a result of their relationship
* The computer aspect of the story and how computers were used to help figure out how the crimes were occurring
* All of it really except…
What I didn��t like:
* The callous disregard for life shown by the baddies/criminals
* Knowing that there are homeless like the ones in this story and that their life on the streets is not pretty or easy
* Knowing that bigotry, bias and meanness still exists in this world
Did I enjoy this book? Definitely!
Will I read more in this series? Without a doubt!!!
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
January 7, 2021
This is Radar and Hilary's story and is the 3 in the Pass series and as with all of Freya's characters we get to know their back stories that have brought them to this point it also deals with difficult real life situations on this occasion social media and racism, Radar is a 40 year old hacker working for Pass Security for the past decade after he was saved from a life of crime by Yanis , he is mostly happy with his life that is until after taking his dog Phil for a late nigh walk he comes to the rescue of his neighbour who is facing off with 2 people beating up a woman and is surprised to see it is Hilary an ER nurse who he has met a couple of times and liked but did not think he had any chance other than being a friend. Hilary is 36 and is working 2 jobs to save enough to clear her student loans she goes to the aid of an assault victim in the car park of her apartment building when Radar steps up to help her she has always though he was gorgeous but way out of her league, their story evolves around a dark net game with horrific results and the racial issues that Hilary faces as a mixed race nurse
Radar is a typical alpha male wanting to protect I love how Hilary takes no nonsense and how Radar is with his dog and Jake and Rosie's baby this is a tory that will hook you from the first paragraph until the last word and then makes you think about it hours later ..what's not to love. One of the few authors that you want to read without knowing what the book is about.
Radar is a typical alpha male wanting to protect I love how Hilary takes no nonsense and how Radar is with his dog and Jake and Rosie's baby this is a tory that will hook you from the first paragraph until the last word and then makes you think about it hours later ..what's not to love. One of the few authors that you want to read without knowing what the book is about.
August 13, 2023
I liked this book. Radar seems shy and all but he was as much an alpha male as the other ones. I loved how Hillary was understanding when he lost himself in work, it took time yeah but she got there. I liked her attitude, she was awesome. They were an interesting couple, they really did fit together
January 6, 2021
Lock&Load is the third book in Freya Barker’s PASS Series. This book can certainly be read as a standalone but I did find myself reading the description of the other two books of the series in order to keep the ancillary characters straight. Radar, hacker extraordinaire, works for PASS Security, late one night he observes his neighbor and acquaintance, Hillary, rushing to the aid of a woman being attacked. Her rescue attempt and HIS intervention set them off on an adventure involving the dark web and even darker acts of violence. Not only is Hillary his neighbor but they also share mutual friends and a budding attraction. They both have little time for social lives; Hillary is a nurse and works two jobs while hacking for PASS keeps Radar busy. The attack they witnessed is not an isolated incident; they are soon thrown together REPEATEDLY and love blossoms.
It took me a bit longer than usual to read this book. It wasn’t because the book did not hold my attention but Ms. Barker writes with such a leisurely authentic ease that I found myself mulling over passages and then rereading. In addition, the book is of full twists and thrills; twists I did not see coming. The two main characters are mature and very likable; their love has a richness and emotional resonance that I found very appealing. This is my first story by this author but I am checking out her other stories!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It took me a bit longer than usual to read this book. It wasn’t because the book did not hold my attention but Ms. Barker writes with such a leisurely authentic ease that I found myself mulling over passages and then rereading. In addition, the book is of full twists and thrills; twists I did not see coming. The two main characters are mature and very likable; their love has a richness and emotional resonance that I found very appealing. This is my first story by this author but I am checking out her other stories!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 28, 2021
Lock & Load
Written by: Freya Barker
Lock & Load was one of those books that you can’t put down! It’s relatable to real life and you can imagine it taking place anywhere.
The two main characters live in the same complex and on the night they meet it’s over the body of a person who has been beaten with a bat. Radar Jansen goes after the two people running away while Hillary Glenwood stays with the victim waiting for the ambulance. It isn’t until afterwards that Radar realizes he knows Hillary; she is a friend of his buddy and co-worker Jake and his wife Rosie.
Radar works for PASS Security Company, is a computer “nerd” and even with his nerdy glasses is a good looking man. Hillary is a nurse who also works a second job at a homeless shelter her friend Rosie runs.
While reading Lock & Load, you are pulled into the intrigue of events that continue to bring Radar and Hillary together. When they connect the sexual tension runs high, their mutual attraction is combustible.
They aren’t far apart in age, Radar is 40 and Hillary is 36, both have experienced a lot in life but it’s obvious they are both willing to explore this attraction. As Radar works the investigation of not one but two attacks, Hillary in hoping to help a patient, opens herself up for a potential problem at work.
Lock & Load’s story builds and tension grows as more deaths occur and it become evident that Hillary might be in danger the need to keep turning pages keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Just when you think the case may be solved, Barker comes at the reader with a twist.
This is definitely a five star read.
Written by: Freya Barker
Lock & Load was one of those books that you can’t put down! It’s relatable to real life and you can imagine it taking place anywhere.
The two main characters live in the same complex and on the night they meet it’s over the body of a person who has been beaten with a bat. Radar Jansen goes after the two people running away while Hillary Glenwood stays with the victim waiting for the ambulance. It isn’t until afterwards that Radar realizes he knows Hillary; she is a friend of his buddy and co-worker Jake and his wife Rosie.
Radar works for PASS Security Company, is a computer “nerd” and even with his nerdy glasses is a good looking man. Hillary is a nurse who also works a second job at a homeless shelter her friend Rosie runs.
While reading Lock & Load, you are pulled into the intrigue of events that continue to bring Radar and Hillary together. When they connect the sexual tension runs high, their mutual attraction is combustible.
They aren’t far apart in age, Radar is 40 and Hillary is 36, both have experienced a lot in life but it’s obvious they are both willing to explore this attraction. As Radar works the investigation of not one but two attacks, Hillary in hoping to help a patient, opens herself up for a potential problem at work.
Lock & Load’s story builds and tension grows as more deaths occur and it become evident that Hillary might be in danger the need to keep turning pages keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Just when you think the case may be solved, Barker comes at the reader with a twist.
This is definitely a five star read.
January 4, 2021
I have a thing with names. You can tell me a name and my brain immediately pictures someone I know. I’m sure a lot of us are like that. Since I was first introduced to Radar in the other PASS books, my mind immediately thinks of Radar O’Reilly from the TV show M.A.S.H. That being said, even though the two Radar’s share a few similarities, I can honestly say that when I hear the name Radar from now on, it’s the hot, geeky, computer genius I’ll be seeing in my head.
As I’ve come to expect with any Freya Barker book, her characters are real and endearing. They screw up, they are loyal, and they love hard. Ms Barker’s writing completely immerses her readers in the world she has created. She’s not afraid to show her male characters vulnerabilities and tender sides. And her heroines are strong, independent women that refuse to be doormats.
Lock & Load is book 3 in the PASS series and completely surpassed all my expectations. The plot was so masterfully woven, that while I had my suspicions as to who the bad guys were, I couldn’t fully put all the pieces together until they were revealed in the book. I loved Radar and Hillary’s story and I’m now waiting on pins & needles for the next in this series. 5 stars are not enough⭐️⭐️
As I’ve come to expect with any Freya Barker book, her characters are real and endearing. They screw up, they are loyal, and they love hard. Ms Barker’s writing completely immerses her readers in the world she has created. She’s not afraid to show her male characters vulnerabilities and tender sides. And her heroines are strong, independent women that refuse to be doormats.
Lock & Load is book 3 in the PASS series and completely surpassed all my expectations. The plot was so masterfully woven, that while I had my suspicions as to who the bad guys were, I couldn’t fully put all the pieces together until they were revealed in the book. I loved Radar and Hillary’s story and I’m now waiting on pins & needles for the next in this series. 5 stars are not enough⭐️⭐️
January 12, 2021
A captivating mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat! The author created the perfect balance of intrigue and drama swirling around the budding relationship of Hillary and Radar. This story line involves a mystery whose clues may be hidden in the depths of the dark web. They’ll have to dig through an underworld of hidden terror. Will their identities be traced? Will they come out unscathed? A fantastic read with characters that parallel the story in depth and complexity.
January 8, 2021
Lock&Load is book 3 in the PASS security series and another keep you on your toes story about Radar and Hillary. Hillary had always worked two jobs to keep her head above water after trying to save a woman from being attacked a series of events keep happening to her that beings our Radar’s protective side this pair have a slow burn spark that heats up and will have you gripped to the very end. Love this series and can’t wait for the next book.
January 8, 2021
Another exciting story in Freya Barker’s Pass series! This third book let us get to know the security team’s computer expert better and experience his story. As Radar connected with and began falling in love with Hillary, we were able to see the Alpha side come alive in our favorite computer “geek”! In my opinion these two were a perfect match. The mystery and action was there throughout this book right along with the romance! I can’t wait for book 4!
January 6, 2021
This author is a hit or miss for me. I am glad to say this is a hit. Loved Radar and Hillary. The chemistry was good between the two. Good story. Highlight, I was glad Karla was fired and Hillary started using common sense, she was kind of reckless at the beginning of the book.
January 13, 2021
Book 3 in the Pass Security series , follows its predecessors with a great storyline, instantly likeable characters,and all continuing to build a wonderful world . Radar - our geek hero is up front and centre here & Hillary our take no prisoners heroine.
A relationship blossoms as does the case thar Radar is working on, Hillary soon is involved.
A great paced read, a storyline that involving gaming, the dark web & enough intrigue to keep those pages turning
Loved it
A relationship blossoms as does the case thar Radar is working on, Hillary soon is involved.
A great paced read, a storyline that involving gaming, the dark web & enough intrigue to keep those pages turning
Loved it
January 25, 2021
Radar is a different kind of hero. He solves crimes from a computer. He works for Pass Security is a 40 years old hot geek. He is not your everyday lead.
Hillary is a Er nurse that sees a woman being beaten and runs to help.
It’s been a long week already and it’s only Monday. Instead I find myself running to stop some suicidal chick from getting her head bashed in by a bunch of hoodlums.
What I love about Ms. Barker she writes unique stories with mature couples and just enough suspense and that keeps the pages flying by.
I look forward to what comes next from this super talented author.
Hillary is a Er nurse that sees a woman being beaten and runs to help.
It’s been a long week already and it’s only Monday. Instead I find myself running to stop some suicidal chick from getting her head bashed in by a bunch of hoodlums.
What I love about Ms. Barker she writes unique stories with mature couples and just enough suspense and that keeps the pages flying by.
I look forward to what comes next from this super talented author.
January 25, 2021
Yes yet again a great well written story by Freya. Interesting plot with intriguing developments while the two main H and h who have lived lives singularly have to negotiate finding a way to be a couple, not all smooth sailing. Very thankful to have a preview and have purchased my own copy well worth the cost
January 25, 2021
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
Juggling two jobs is nothing new for registered nurse, Hillary Glenwood, she's bee doing it for most of her adult life. She has an objective she intends to meet. But, just months before reaching her goal, she witnesses a violent attack outside her apartment that rattles her determination. However, her carefully controlled life runs completely off the rails when she recognizes the new neighbor coming to the rescue.
As a hacker, Radar Jansen hasn't always used his expertise in the most respectable ways until he came to work for PASS Security. Normally his time is spent behind a computer, but that doesn't mean his skills end there. When-walking his dog one night-he sees a familiar woman rushing into a dangerous situation, his training kicks in. With Hilary's safety compromised, the keyboard warrior puts on his real-life armor to shield the women who is fast becoming his only focus.
This is the story of Hilary and Radar. Radar is what you might call the nerdy guy but he also has this side to him that is alpha from head to toe and he has a huge huge heart. Hilary is a nurse and just really a great all around person who is always doing the right thing and sometimes this gets her into messes when she is helping out. Hilary thought has witnessed a horrible and vicious attack. This is when her neighbor Radar begins to protect her. He likes to stay behind the key-board it is where he does his best work. Don't get me wrong though he can kick some serious butt when he needs to too. These two are also super attracted to each other and as keep themselves very busy by searing for the perpetrator and they intend to catch them and have them face the full extent to the law. This is where the twists and turns come and you will be on the edge of your seat. Can they catch the criminal's? Can Radar keep Hilary safe? Will these two find their forever love. You have to read to find out. Trust me it is well worth reading and you will not be disappointed that you do read it. I loved it so much.
Juggling two jobs is nothing new for registered nurse, Hillary Glenwood, she's bee doing it for most of her adult life. She has an objective she intends to meet. But, just months before reaching her goal, she witnesses a violent attack outside her apartment that rattles her determination. However, her carefully controlled life runs completely off the rails when she recognizes the new neighbor coming to the rescue.
As a hacker, Radar Jansen hasn't always used his expertise in the most respectable ways until he came to work for PASS Security. Normally his time is spent behind a computer, but that doesn't mean his skills end there. When-walking his dog one night-he sees a familiar woman rushing into a dangerous situation, his training kicks in. With Hilary's safety compromised, the keyboard warrior puts on his real-life armor to shield the women who is fast becoming his only focus.
This is the story of Hilary and Radar. Radar is what you might call the nerdy guy but he also has this side to him that is alpha from head to toe and he has a huge huge heart. Hilary is a nurse and just really a great all around person who is always doing the right thing and sometimes this gets her into messes when she is helping out. Hilary thought has witnessed a horrible and vicious attack. This is when her neighbor Radar begins to protect her. He likes to stay behind the key-board it is where he does his best work. Don't get me wrong though he can kick some serious butt when he needs to too. These two are also super attracted to each other and as keep themselves very busy by searing for the perpetrator and they intend to catch them and have them face the full extent to the law. This is where the twists and turns come and you will be on the edge of your seat. Can they catch the criminal's? Can Radar keep Hilary safe? Will these two find their forever love. You have to read to find out. Trust me it is well worth reading and you will not be disappointed that you do read it. I loved it so much.
January 12, 2021
This book blew my mind!
The plot is so intelligent I was wondering how come Freya came with its idea!
She looks like such a nice lady, doesn´t she? 😊😊😊
(I´m joking here…..she is wonderful! And thankfully have an amazing imagination!)
As always, you have all the gangue there, you have emotion, you have growth, you have romance and friendship…..
The plot is so intelligent I was wondering how come Freya came with its idea!
She looks like such a nice lady, doesn´t she? 😊😊😊
(I´m joking here…..she is wonderful! And thankfully have an amazing imagination!)
As always, you have all the gangue there, you have emotion, you have growth, you have romance and friendship…..
Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews