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Strike Force #1
In Too Deep
Sometimes Trust Can Get You Killed
Retired Marine Special Operator Deep Del Toro watched the newscaster play the video of the woman he loves fighting off the FBI agent and escaping from a murder scene the night before. Now, Lacey's turning herself over to the police. What Deep’s practiced eye saw in the video was a highly-choreographed crime. But somehow Lacey had thwarted the professionals� plans.
She is in imminent danger.
Enmeshed in a mystery that includes the FBI, the CIA, and a tangle of interconnected international crimes, Deep and Lacey work to discover who plays the good guy and who plays the bad guy in a gray world where right and wrong easily overlap.
Lives depend on them.
A USA Today Bestselling Novel Download your copy now to join their fight for survival.
In Too Deep is the first book in the Strike Force Series. Each book can be read as a stand-alone, a part of this series, or part of the Iniquus World. In Too Deep does not have a cliffhanger ending.
The World of Iniquus in Chronological Order
* Weakest Lynx
* Missing Lynx (Lynx Series)
* Chain Lynx (Lynx Series)
* Cuff Lynx (Lynx Series)
* Wasp (Uncommon Enemies)
* In Too Deep (Strike Force)
* Relic (Uncommon Enemies)
* Mine (A Kate Hamilton Mystery)
* Jack Be Quick (Strike Force)
* Deadlock (Uncommon Enemies)
* Instigator (Strike Force)
* Yours (Kate Hamilton Mysteries)
* Open Secret (FBI Special Task Force)
* Thorn (Uncommon Enemies)
* Gulf Lynx (Lynx series)
* Cold Red (FBI Joint Task Force
Retired Marine Special Operator Deep Del Toro watched the newscaster play the video of the woman he loves fighting off the FBI agent and escaping from a murder scene the night before. Now, Lacey's turning herself over to the police. What Deep’s practiced eye saw in the video was a highly-choreographed crime. But somehow Lacey had thwarted the professionals� plans.
She is in imminent danger.
Enmeshed in a mystery that includes the FBI, the CIA, and a tangle of interconnected international crimes, Deep and Lacey work to discover who plays the good guy and who plays the bad guy in a gray world where right and wrong easily overlap.
Lives depend on them.
A USA Today Bestselling Novel Download your copy now to join their fight for survival.
In Too Deep is the first book in the Strike Force Series. Each book can be read as a stand-alone, a part of this series, or part of the Iniquus World. In Too Deep does not have a cliffhanger ending.
The World of Iniquus in Chronological Order
* Weakest Lynx
* Missing Lynx (Lynx Series)
* Chain Lynx (Lynx Series)
* Cuff Lynx (Lynx Series)
* Wasp (Uncommon Enemies)
* In Too Deep (Strike Force)
* Relic (Uncommon Enemies)
* Mine (A Kate Hamilton Mystery)
* Jack Be Quick (Strike Force)
* Deadlock (Uncommon Enemies)
* Instigator (Strike Force)
* Yours (Kate Hamilton Mysteries)
* Open Secret (FBI Special Task Force)
* Thorn (Uncommon Enemies)
* Gulf Lynx (Lynx series)
* Cold Red (FBI Joint Task Force
517 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 29, 2017
1,480 people are currently reading
354 people want to read
About the author
Fiona Quinn
79books485followersFiona Quinn is a USA Today bestselling author, a Kindle Scout winner, and an Amazon All-Star.
Quinn writes action-adventure romance in her Iniquus World of books including Lynx, Strike Force, Uncommon Enemies, Kate Hamilton Mysteries, FBI Joint Task Force, Cerberus Tactical K9 Team Alpha, and Delta Force Echo series.
She writes urban fantasy as Fiona Angelica Quinn for her Elemental Witches Series.
And, just for fun, she writes the Badge Bunny Booze Mystery Collection with her dear friend Tina Glasneck under the pen name Quinn Glasneck.
Canadian born, Fiona Quinn is now rooted in the Old Dominion where she lives with her husband. There, she pops chocolates, devours books, and taps continuously on her laptop.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
August 12, 2023
This is my first look at Fiona Quinn and as you should note the rating, it will not be my last book by her. In Too Deep is the first novel in the Strike Force series about the shadowy realm inhabited by undercover FBI, CIA, and myriad other agencies that protect and/or threaten the United States.
Lacey was a former agent who has now been targeted for elimination. Deep is a current agent that knows Lacey and when she comes to him for help, he drops everything to protect her. He goes against even those in his own agency due to his affection for her and for the suspicious ways that administration and other agents are behaving.
What follows is a tense, gripping narrative that involves a suspenseful chase through various settings. The exposition is limited by the situation the two agents are currently navigating, but the plot is a complex, convoluted one that all too readily mimics real-life. I loved the mystery, the intrigue, and the frenetic action, but felt that the exposition required further elaboration. Still, IMHO an excellent espionage thriller.
Lacey was a former agent who has now been targeted for elimination. Deep is a current agent that knows Lacey and when she comes to him for help, he drops everything to protect her. He goes against even those in his own agency due to his affection for her and for the suspicious ways that administration and other agents are behaving.
What follows is a tense, gripping narrative that involves a suspenseful chase through various settings. The exposition is limited by the situation the two agents are currently navigating, but the plot is a complex, convoluted one that all too readily mimics real-life. I loved the mystery, the intrigue, and the frenetic action, but felt that the exposition required further elaboration. Still, IMHO an excellent espionage thriller.
January 16, 2025
I have never read Fiona Quinn, but I love a good romantic suspense book. This one, it wasn't it for me. I enjoyed the story line, and Lacey and Deep, but there was something about this book that didn't mesh well. I thought the writing was well done and thought out. While I am not usually a closed door romance author, I didn't miss those scenes. However, there was just too much going on in the periphery. There were chapters with Steve, and I really felt like we could do without 75% of his chapters. Overall, this book was good, but it just fell flat for me.
Multiple times, people have tried to kill her and have almost succeeded, yet she can't share what the danger is with the guy helping her? Because it might put him in danger? The x special ops guy who gets off on adrenaline rushes? I just don't see Deep being attracted to her. There are too many issues and little sense of reality.
Libby listen 🎶 3.75 rating
Multiple times, people have tried to kill her and have almost succeeded, yet she can't share what the danger is with the guy helping her? Because it might put him in danger? The x special ops guy who gets off on adrenaline rushes? I just don't see Deep being attracted to her. There are too many issues and little sense of reality.
Libby listen 🎶 3.75 rating
February 13, 2021
I picked this book up because it was billed as romantic suspense/thriller. One of my favorite genres! Yay! Except, the romance part was missing. It was a case of knowing it happened, but not experiencing it with the characters, so I was very disappointed.
On to the plot - there were a lot of moving parts in this one. It felt like I was dropped in the middle of about 5 different plots and they all took way too long to wrap up. This book was much too long - so many scenes were unnecessarily drawn out.
It felt like a chore to finish the book and I won’t be reading more of the series.
On to the plot - there were a lot of moving parts in this one. It felt like I was dropped in the middle of about 5 different plots and they all took way too long to wrap up. This book was much too long - so many scenes were unnecessarily drawn out.
It felt like a chore to finish the book and I won’t be reading more of the series.
May 14, 2018
>Book Review � In Too Deep
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 1st in the Strike Force series and ends with an HEA. Lacey takes care of her uncle’s art gallery and seems to be in the wrong place at the wrong time throughout this whole book. She calls upon Deep, a private contractor from a group names Iniquus for help and protection. This is the first book of the series, yet there seems to be some missing backstory. Lacey’s uncle and a strange organization is mentioned, along with a whole scene where Lacey previously meets Deep during an art heist gone wrong. This scene seems particularly important as Deep falls in love at first sight with Lacy during this art heist bust, but this scene doesn’t take place in this book.
>Lacey has a lot of bad luck. She suffers situational amnesia twice, has an evil boyfriend and has 5 attempts upon her life just during this story. The plot is revealed as the bad guys are all discussing it. The plot seems a bit too involved. I had to read the plot reveal a few times to understand what was going on. The reveal involved the uncle’s secret organization that was never really mentioned before.
>This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving this book 4 stars. I loved the characters of Lacey and Deep, but the plot was confusing.
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 1st in the Strike Force series and ends with an HEA. Lacey takes care of her uncle’s art gallery and seems to be in the wrong place at the wrong time throughout this whole book. She calls upon Deep, a private contractor from a group names Iniquus for help and protection. This is the first book of the series, yet there seems to be some missing backstory. Lacey’s uncle and a strange organization is mentioned, along with a whole scene where Lacey previously meets Deep during an art heist gone wrong. This scene seems particularly important as Deep falls in love at first sight with Lacy during this art heist bust, but this scene doesn’t take place in this book.
>Lacey has a lot of bad luck. She suffers situational amnesia twice, has an evil boyfriend and has 5 attempts upon her life just during this story. The plot is revealed as the bad guys are all discussing it. The plot seems a bit too involved. I had to read the plot reveal a few times to understand what was going on. The reveal involved the uncle’s secret organization that was never really mentioned before.
>This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving this book 4 stars. I loved the characters of Lacey and Deep, but the plot was confusing.
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May 28, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/28/2019)! 🎁
January 12, 2020
This is my first book by this author, but it won’t be my last. I love books with suspense, action, mystery and romance. This book had it all. I felt so bad for Lacey as she was being used by the government and had no idea. Not only was she being used, but people were trying to kill her and she had no idea why. Luckily she had worked with an organization in the past because of her uncle’s wrong doing and met Deep. When Lacey got away from some of the people after her, she called Deep for help. I loved Deep and how honest he was with Lacey whether it was about his feelings or what was happening with them trying to find out why someone would want her dead. He made Lacey feel safe and put her first. There is so much action in this book, and times I was on the edge of my seat wondering if Lacey and Deep were going to get out of the trouble they were in. I loved the book and strongly encourage you to read it.
February 24, 2023
Terrifyingly twisted
Lacey is a pawn, and is totally unaware. Deep is fighting her shock and trauma to unearth hidden memories that will help to narrow down just exactly who is using her and who is targeting her. Are they two different people or one and the same? I like Lacey, despite the position she finds herself in she stays strong, yes she has moments of weakness, but she doesn't crumble, she regroups, reassesses and listens to the advice Deep gives with an open mind.
Deep is a hero, a protector, he rights wrongs and defends. There is no-one who is more important to him than Lacey, he will protect her with his life. He is also pretty good at puzzles and whilst he normally relies on Lynx for solving riddles, he proves very capable at slotting pieces together, surprising himself and Lacey
A great book in the Iniquus world, I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
Lacey is a pawn, and is totally unaware. Deep is fighting her shock and trauma to unearth hidden memories that will help to narrow down just exactly who is using her and who is targeting her. Are they two different people or one and the same? I like Lacey, despite the position she finds herself in she stays strong, yes she has moments of weakness, but she doesn't crumble, she regroups, reassesses and listens to the advice Deep gives with an open mind.
Deep is a hero, a protector, he rights wrongs and defends. There is no-one who is more important to him than Lacey, he will protect her with his life. He is also pretty good at puzzles and whilst he normally relies on Lynx for solving riddles, he proves very capable at slotting pieces together, surprising himself and Lacey
A great book in the Iniquus world, I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
March 17, 2018
This is the first book in this particular series, involving deep undercover agents, a naïve victim and various organisations all trying to take down a major crime organisation. A murder takes place in a bar and Lacey is accused of the crime. Who can she trust? As many lies become untangled in to something resembling the truth the book leads us through twists and turns.
It could have been a 5* book without the unfortunate typos.
It could have been a 5* book without the unfortunate typos.
Read
April 5, 2023DNF
July 25, 2019
Good. Lots of twists and turns. You keep wanting to know more and if Lacey would survive.
January 2, 2018
This novel was definitely up to Ms. Quinn's standard of skill, aptitude and imagination, when it comes to plot and character development. Once again, this author has pulled the reader in from the first page and kept the story-line driving forward into the abyss of human trafficking, pedophilia, prostitution, art theft, murder and crime organization. That's right readers, this book has it all!
This mystery will keep you in your seats, as the story of Lacey Elizabeth Stuart unfolds with the aid of Special Operative Joseph "Deep" Del Toro of the Iniquus Strike Force team. Lacey is an heiress, but chooses not to live as one, instead focuses on living her life, as a young woman, who wishes to support herself on her own recognizance. She manages an Art Gallery owned by her Uncle Winslow, whom now resides in Bali. After a near murder and kidnapping attempt, she calls Deep. He's not available. She leaves no message. She then calls her attorney, Mr. Reynolds. He encourages her to give a press conference on the steps of the Art Galley. Deep is headed out of the country on a much needed vacation when he hears of the press conference on his radio. He knew in his gut, it was Lacey calling him previously and choosing not to leave a message. He decides to attend the press conference. He notices a red laser directed at Lacey's body and lunges for her, pulling her to the ground and safety. Deep then takes Lacey into hiding and vows to protect her and assist her in finding out who is trying to kill her and why.
Read this story to find out who and why Lacey is a target for murder. Will she ultimately survive the attempts on her life? Will she retain her sanity and good name? Will she be able to develop a trust in others? How will this situation affect her life moving forward, if she, in fact does survive?
I was given an advanced reading copy of the novel, by the author, in exchange for my voluntary honest review.
This mystery will keep you in your seats, as the story of Lacey Elizabeth Stuart unfolds with the aid of Special Operative Joseph "Deep" Del Toro of the Iniquus Strike Force team. Lacey is an heiress, but chooses not to live as one, instead focuses on living her life, as a young woman, who wishes to support herself on her own recognizance. She manages an Art Gallery owned by her Uncle Winslow, whom now resides in Bali. After a near murder and kidnapping attempt, she calls Deep. He's not available. She leaves no message. She then calls her attorney, Mr. Reynolds. He encourages her to give a press conference on the steps of the Art Galley. Deep is headed out of the country on a much needed vacation when he hears of the press conference on his radio. He knew in his gut, it was Lacey calling him previously and choosing not to leave a message. He decides to attend the press conference. He notices a red laser directed at Lacey's body and lunges for her, pulling her to the ground and safety. Deep then takes Lacey into hiding and vows to protect her and assist her in finding out who is trying to kill her and why.
Read this story to find out who and why Lacey is a target for murder. Will she ultimately survive the attempts on her life? Will she retain her sanity and good name? Will she be able to develop a trust in others? How will this situation affect her life moving forward, if she, in fact does survive?
I was given an advanced reading copy of the novel, by the author, in exchange for my voluntary honest review.
September 12, 2021
In Too Deep: Strike Force: An Iniquus Romantic Suspense Mystery Thriller Book 1 is by Fiona Quinn. This book finds an Iniquuss agent involving himself in a problem that is counter to that of Iniquus rules. Can he find out who is wanting to kill Lacey and yet keep her safe?
Deep Del Toro was on a week’s vacation. He was packing to head to the airport to catch a flight to Costa Rico to meet up with friends. When his answering service told him he had a mysterious call, he knew it was Lacey. He decided to run a safety check on her on his way to the airport. However, he found himself saving her from a bullet and listening to her story. Needless to say, he didn’t make his flight.
Lacey Stuart had gone to a bar after work to meet her fiancé, Steve; but he was a no-show. The longer she waited, the angrier she got at him. She was definitely breaking up with him. While she was sitting here, a man kept watching her. He wasn’t flirting, just watching. Another man came to the door and watched her too. She paid her check and got up to leave and a bolt of lightening and thunder hit causing the lights to go out. The man at the door grabbed her and called her Danika and told her to run and not trust anyone. He put something in her bra. When the lights came on, he was on the floor with a knife in his back. Not thinking, she drew the knife out of him and dropped it. Then she turned to get away from his body. The first man who was watching her, grabbed her arm and helped her out of the bar. He tried to put her in a black car; but she got away. Now she is on the run and doesn’t know why. She knew she needed to call someone; but who? The only one she felt safe in calling was Deep. When he wasn’t there, she called her lawyer for help.
Who were those two men in the bar? Why had one called her Danika?
Deep Del Toro was on a week’s vacation. He was packing to head to the airport to catch a flight to Costa Rico to meet up with friends. When his answering service told him he had a mysterious call, he knew it was Lacey. He decided to run a safety check on her on his way to the airport. However, he found himself saving her from a bullet and listening to her story. Needless to say, he didn’t make his flight.
Lacey Stuart had gone to a bar after work to meet her fiancé, Steve; but he was a no-show. The longer she waited, the angrier she got at him. She was definitely breaking up with him. While she was sitting here, a man kept watching her. He wasn’t flirting, just watching. Another man came to the door and watched her too. She paid her check and got up to leave and a bolt of lightening and thunder hit causing the lights to go out. The man at the door grabbed her and called her Danika and told her to run and not trust anyone. He put something in her bra. When the lights came on, he was on the floor with a knife in his back. Not thinking, she drew the knife out of him and dropped it. Then she turned to get away from his body. The first man who was watching her, grabbed her arm and helped her out of the bar. He tried to put her in a black car; but she got away. Now she is on the run and doesn’t know why. She knew she needed to call someone; but who? The only one she felt safe in calling was Deep. When he wasn’t there, she called her lawyer for help.
Who were those two men in the bar? Why had one called her Danika?
May 6, 2023
I started listening to this book not sure of what to expect, and it started out on full tilt. I got so involved in the story, I didn't want to stop.
This book had a number of different government ops going on simultaneously that were all tied to Lacey, who wasn't completely aware she was involved in anything at all.
Lacey reached out to Deep, and there was definitely a shared intensity of attraction. Deep was the one person she trusted. I liked the way they connected.
It wasn't all instalove or instalust. Lacey respected Deep's talents and his ability to keep her safe. Deep respected Lacey's knowledge about her expertise. They worked together to figure out the puzzle of who was trying to kill Lacey, why, and which letter agencies were involved.
In Too Deep was aç read full of action, suspense, secrets, danger, and intrigue. There was romance, but not so much that it took over a somewhat involved and intertwined tale. Troy Duran did an excellent job with the narration.
One complaint would be the way some of the chapters ended. For example, an accident where the victim was left in a perilous situation. The chapter ended. On the next page, the victim had been fully treated and was standing there waiting for a meeting to start. EXCUSE me? What happened? There was so much detail about some things, and with others, the reader had to fill in the blanks
Or, a conversation was had that ends the chapter with a question being asked where an answer was expected. Not just by the person asking, but I wanted to know as well. On the next page, no answer and a completely different scenario. I came come up with an answer, but I wanted to know how the character would answer. I wanted that scene where the character DID answer.
An enjoyable read with an HEA that I would recommend if you like romantic mystery, suspense, espionage, and/or thrillers.
This book had a number of different government ops going on simultaneously that were all tied to Lacey, who wasn't completely aware she was involved in anything at all.
Lacey reached out to Deep, and there was definitely a shared intensity of attraction. Deep was the one person she trusted. I liked the way they connected.
It wasn't all instalove or instalust. Lacey respected Deep's talents and his ability to keep her safe. Deep respected Lacey's knowledge about her expertise. They worked together to figure out the puzzle of who was trying to kill Lacey, why, and which letter agencies were involved.
In Too Deep was aç read full of action, suspense, secrets, danger, and intrigue. There was romance, but not so much that it took over a somewhat involved and intertwined tale. Troy Duran did an excellent job with the narration.
One complaint would be the way some of the chapters ended. For example, an accident where the victim was left in a perilous situation. The chapter ended. On the next page, the victim had been fully treated and was standing there waiting for a meeting to start. EXCUSE me? What happened? There was so much detail about some things, and with others, the reader had to fill in the blanks
Or, a conversation was had that ends the chapter with a question being asked where an answer was expected. Not just by the person asking, but I wanted to know as well. On the next page, no answer and a completely different scenario. I came come up with an answer, but I wanted to know how the character would answer. I wanted that scene where the character DID answer.
An enjoyable read with an HEA that I would recommend if you like romantic mystery, suspense, espionage, and/or thrillers.
June 26, 2024
Out of all the books that's I've listened to, so far, i liked Deeps story the least.
I'm not sure why. Maybe because it didn't include any iniquus team members. It was mainly Deep and Lacey, although further books include characters from this book.
Or maybe, a first for me, it was the narrator. I admire Troy Duran but after Jessie Vilinsky creating all the accents, the voice of Deep just didn't ring true. Then, although I don't mind Troy's female tone, it didn't work for this heroine.
Fiona writes solid, strong, smart women but in saying that, for me
Lacey is one of the weakest leading ladies that Fiona has penned.
She cries a lot and finds it hard for urgent information to filter in.
The only time she seemed to have it together was the opening scenes. From there she seemed to move through the story shell shocked.
Her smarts were there which only added to the intrigue of the book, although her character as an introvert gave her the more brains than common sense feel.
Then there was Deep. He seemed a lot more intense in the Lynx series but here, he was pretty open to emotion and romance and even broke a rule. I did see how Deeps character rolled into the pace of the plot though, as there was only 2 main characters to puzzle things out. I enjoyed Lynx's cameo, it was just enough to spice the intrigue.
However, every now and then I lost my grip on the plotline, as there was a lot of espionage and involved detective analysing to take in.
Again the research put into this story was astounding, Fiona never ceases to amaze me.
I did find that in depth realisation and action parts of the book seemed to end in a chapter and the aftermath starts in a new one.
The crescendo, though was fantastic, and I only had it figured right at the end.
I'm not sure why. Maybe because it didn't include any iniquus team members. It was mainly Deep and Lacey, although further books include characters from this book.
Or maybe, a first for me, it was the narrator. I admire Troy Duran but after Jessie Vilinsky creating all the accents, the voice of Deep just didn't ring true. Then, although I don't mind Troy's female tone, it didn't work for this heroine.
Fiona writes solid, strong, smart women but in saying that, for me
Lacey is one of the weakest leading ladies that Fiona has penned.
She cries a lot and finds it hard for urgent information to filter in.
The only time she seemed to have it together was the opening scenes. From there she seemed to move through the story shell shocked.
Her smarts were there which only added to the intrigue of the book, although her character as an introvert gave her the more brains than common sense feel.
Then there was Deep. He seemed a lot more intense in the Lynx series but here, he was pretty open to emotion and romance and even broke a rule. I did see how Deeps character rolled into the pace of the plot though, as there was only 2 main characters to puzzle things out. I enjoyed Lynx's cameo, it was just enough to spice the intrigue.
However, every now and then I lost my grip on the plotline, as there was a lot of espionage and involved detective analysing to take in.
Again the research put into this story was astounding, Fiona never ceases to amaze me.
I did find that in depth realisation and action parts of the book seemed to end in a chapter and the aftermath starts in a new one.
The crescendo, though was fantastic, and I only had it figured right at the end.
August 21, 2021
After being stood up, Lacey Stuart a man gives her a cryptic warning seconds before she finds herself in the midst of a puzzle and on the run from who knows? And why? Meanwhile, a group of people are looking for Lacey and cursing their luck that she got away and a second group is searching the city for her. Barely getting away with her life and her face on the news tied to the murder, Lacey runs.
Knowing she needs help, Lacey doesn’t think to call her boyfriend, she calls Iniquus special operator Joseph ‘Deep� Del Toro, a man she met months ago that asked her out to dinner and seemed genuinely disappointed when she told him she was seeing someone. When Lacey’s honest with herself, she admits her boyfriend was replaced by Deep when they’d met.
Working together, Lacey and Deep peel away different layers as they try to comprehend the convoluted multi-layered scheme and identify the players and understand how and where they fit and what it all has to do with Lacey. Recalling different instances that had given her pause, Lacey feels not only dependent on Deep but more betrayed by others she thought had her best interests at heart.
To my taste, the plot appealed as did the strong characters but I’m not certain I completely believed the romance piece through no fault of the leads, the story lent itself more toward mystery, intrigue and suspense than anything close to a new romance. The read itself starts out balancing a well-done dramatic action and scene with a hint of mystery and goes non-stop from there.
Rating: 4.5stars
Knowing she needs help, Lacey doesn’t think to call her boyfriend, she calls Iniquus special operator Joseph ‘Deep� Del Toro, a man she met months ago that asked her out to dinner and seemed genuinely disappointed when she told him she was seeing someone. When Lacey’s honest with herself, she admits her boyfriend was replaced by Deep when they’d met.
Working together, Lacey and Deep peel away different layers as they try to comprehend the convoluted multi-layered scheme and identify the players and understand how and where they fit and what it all has to do with Lacey. Recalling different instances that had given her pause, Lacey feels not only dependent on Deep but more betrayed by others she thought had her best interests at heart.
To my taste, the plot appealed as did the strong characters but I’m not certain I completely believed the romance piece through no fault of the leads, the story lent itself more toward mystery, intrigue and suspense than anything close to a new romance. The read itself starts out balancing a well-done dramatic action and scene with a hint of mystery and goes non-stop from there.
Rating: 4.5stars
December 31, 2022
In Too Deep is the first book in the Strike Force series by Fiona Quinn. Lacey met Deep when Deep and Lynx were on an undercover assignment trying to find the stolen art from Iniquuis. Lacey was the museum curator in charge of collecting the art for an art show. Lacey went to a bar to meet her boyfriend but he never showed up instead a man is killed in front of her. Lacey is grabbed by someone and she decides her best option is to run and the dead man called her Danika then slipped something in her bra before he fell. Lacey goes to a friends house and calls her lawyer who decides the best option is to call a press conference and declare her innocence as all the news stations have listed her as a person of interest in the murder. Deep arrives at the press conference just in time to save Lacey from a shooter. Deep has feelings for Lacey and will do anything to keep her safe but he needs to know what she's involved in and why people are trying to kill her. They are faced with danger at every turn and Lacey's decides to trust Deep and tell him what she knows. Deep discovers there is so much more to the story than even Lacey is aware of. This is an original story with amazing characters. It is action packed from start to finish. I loved this book and I consider it a must read.
September 24, 2023
The Juxtaposition of Love
Lacey Stuart is unwittingly caught up and embroiled in criminal, dangerous and terrifying activities, including constant death threats and attempts on her life. She doesn't understand why she's a target. Lacey is just trying to keep her head down and her great uncle's art gallery open after he skipped the USA as a fugitive. She's dealing with constant fear, anxiety and amnesia while being all alone. Well, she does have a boyfriend, Steve, but though he professes love, family and forever, he seems to let her down when it really matters. Enter Deep del Toro, Iniquus operative and a man in love at first sight. Although both Lacey and Deep are drawn to each other, there's,well, Steve. But when the crucial time comes, Deep comes through with action, not words. This complicated, intense and fascinating story is another great adventure with the integrity laden Iniquus leading the way. Fighting injustice, including child sex trafficking, pedophiles, international murderers and art work cons, not to mention literal identity theft, Deep and Lacey show how smarts, determination and love can win the day.
Lacey Stuart is unwittingly caught up and embroiled in criminal, dangerous and terrifying activities, including constant death threats and attempts on her life. She doesn't understand why she's a target. Lacey is just trying to keep her head down and her great uncle's art gallery open after he skipped the USA as a fugitive. She's dealing with constant fear, anxiety and amnesia while being all alone. Well, she does have a boyfriend, Steve, but though he professes love, family and forever, he seems to let her down when it really matters. Enter Deep del Toro, Iniquus operative and a man in love at first sight. Although both Lacey and Deep are drawn to each other, there's,well, Steve. But when the crucial time comes, Deep comes through with action, not words. This complicated, intense and fascinating story is another great adventure with the integrity laden Iniquus leading the way. Fighting injustice, including child sex trafficking, pedophiles, international murderers and art work cons, not to mention literal identity theft, Deep and Lacey show how smarts, determination and love can win the day.
May 23, 2024
Great read
I really enjoyed this one and getting to know both Deep and Lacey. Lacey and Deep met when Iniquus' art was stolen and they had an immediate connection. He ended up asking her out but she said no due to the fact that she was dating Steve at the time. She knows that he works for Iniquus and so when things start to go really bad, he is the one that she reaches out to as someone that she thinks she can trust and keep her safe. Deep shows up in a big way for her, when he saves her from a sniper shot and they are off in hiding, trying to figure out exactly what is going and why people are after her. I loved Deep's open communication with Lacey and how he was okay if she didn't tell him everything immediately, the only thing he asked for was for her not to lie to him and he wouldn't lie to her. The story, action, and intrigue was well developed and engaging. I loved watching these two come together with a romantic relationship but also to figure out the puzzle. This was a great read and I'm looking forward to the next one in the series!
I really enjoyed this one and getting to know both Deep and Lacey. Lacey and Deep met when Iniquus' art was stolen and they had an immediate connection. He ended up asking her out but she said no due to the fact that she was dating Steve at the time. She knows that he works for Iniquus and so when things start to go really bad, he is the one that she reaches out to as someone that she thinks she can trust and keep her safe. Deep shows up in a big way for her, when he saves her from a sniper shot and they are off in hiding, trying to figure out exactly what is going and why people are after her. I loved Deep's open communication with Lacey and how he was okay if she didn't tell him everything immediately, the only thing he asked for was for her not to lie to him and he wouldn't lie to her. The story, action, and intrigue was well developed and engaging. I loved watching these two come together with a romantic relationship but also to figure out the puzzle. This was a great read and I'm looking forward to the next one in the series!
April 12, 2018
So good. I am hooked on Strike Force, of course Striker, Lynx and Gator are my favorites, I really really liked "Deep" Joseph Del Toro. The stories have so much action and intrigue and are complex to solve. Deep is the real deal, but I was not feeling his love interest Lacey. For some reason I didn't care for her as she seemed fake to me and not good enough for Deep. If she ended up with Steve I wouldn't have been upset. Deep wasn't playing games at all and was about a real relationship and when he pursued her in the past she said "no" and she asked him why didn't you ask me out again or something to that effect and he said when a woman says "no" I honor it. He was transparent on so many levels and she was still withholding information until just about the end. Can't wait to read the next installment.
October 5, 2022
In Too Deep there is a lot going on. Art forgery & theft, sex trafficking, murders with untraceable causes, Slovakian crime families with terrorism ties and an FBI sting just to name a few. There are a lot of twists and turns with many more questions than answers. One thing I really like was that Lacey and Deep were alone together most 9f the story. Yes, there are periphery characters but the majority of the focus is on these two. Chasing the truth isn't cut and dried norceasy when someone is out to kill you. Deep protects Lacey every way he knows how but he's basically on his own because his team is on another assignment. Learning that she's been living with a two timing liar is a bitter pill to swallow but by the same token spending time with Deep who is not shy about professing his feelings starts her on a path to real live and happiness.
August 6, 2019
Deep and Lacey
This is another great addition to the Iniquus Series. Deep met Lacey at a museum when he was working on a case with Lynx and feel in instant like. She however, was dating someone. he leaves her his card in case she changes her mind. Now months later Lacey is in “deep� trouble...like people trying to kill her trouble. She has been thinking of him since the meeting and now calls and gets his answering service at Iniquus. He gets to a press conference her lawyer has called in time to save her from an sniper’s bullet. He gets her away into hiding at Lynx’s house and they try to figure out who is trying to kill her. We have the FBI, CIA, 2 warring crime families from other countries, a mysterious death, action, suspense and two people falling in love.
This is another great addition to the Iniquus Series. Deep met Lacey at a museum when he was working on a case with Lynx and feel in instant like. She however, was dating someone. he leaves her his card in case she changes her mind. Now months later Lacey is in “deep� trouble...like people trying to kill her trouble. She has been thinking of him since the meeting and now calls and gets his answering service at Iniquus. He gets to a press conference her lawyer has called in time to save her from an sniper’s bullet. He gets her away into hiding at Lynx’s house and they try to figure out who is trying to kill her. We have the FBI, CIA, 2 warring crime families from other countries, a mysterious death, action, suspense and two people falling in love.
November 1, 2020
Fair
Lacy works at her uncle’s art gallery. She is meeting her boyfriend for dinner but he is late. A man is stabbed and men try to grab her but she gets away. She is scared, calls her lawyer, and he sets up a press conference where she is shot at. A man tackles her and races off with her. Deep is a former Marine but works for Iniquus now. He met Lacey months ago and when he sees her on tv, he goes to help her. While they are running from everyone, they try to find out what is going on. Can they figure it out before Lacey is caught?
When I first starting reading, I was confused. It’s was like I was dropped in the middle. As I read it got better but the end could have been better. Fast paced action and suspense.
Lacy works at her uncle’s art gallery. She is meeting her boyfriend for dinner but he is late. A man is stabbed and men try to grab her but she gets away. She is scared, calls her lawyer, and he sets up a press conference where she is shot at. A man tackles her and races off with her. Deep is a former Marine but works for Iniquus now. He met Lacey months ago and when he sees her on tv, he goes to help her. While they are running from everyone, they try to find out what is going on. Can they figure it out before Lacey is caught?
When I first starting reading, I was confused. It’s was like I was dropped in the middle. As I read it got better but the end could have been better. Fast paced action and suspense.
February 27, 2019
Three Ring Circus
This book had more twists and turns than are normal. I enjoyed it; however I could not see how anyone could live through this and not need extensive therapy. The wind up at the end of the book was when Deep made the presentation as a three ring circus. I think the author brought to light that sometimes our BIG agencies tend to forget they are to protect an individual US citizen. The FBI, CIA, and all the other alphabet agencies are so focused on bringing down big crime syndicates, big corporate corruption, and possible terrorist that they lose sight of individuals. This gives you lots to think about.
This book had more twists and turns than are normal. I enjoyed it; however I could not see how anyone could live through this and not need extensive therapy. The wind up at the end of the book was when Deep made the presentation as a three ring circus. I think the author brought to light that sometimes our BIG agencies tend to forget they are to protect an individual US citizen. The FBI, CIA, and all the other alphabet agencies are so focused on bringing down big crime syndicates, big corporate corruption, and possible terrorist that they lose sight of individuals. This gives you lots to think about.
November 12, 2020
Art, blackmail, crimes families oh my
Lacey and Deep are back and their story is unique, fast paced and full of intrigue and love.
Lacey was first introduced in one of the Lynx stories and now she is back and needing help from Deep. The story involves murder, art, fraud, cat fishing and more. I enjoyed seeing this side of Deep, returning to time with Lynx and also seeing a relationship develop while they worked to solve a crime. I am more intrigued then ever about Deeps call name, but that remained a mystery. The leadership of this company is fascinating and so are the stories.
Lacey and Deep are back and their story is unique, fast paced and full of intrigue and love.
Lacey was first introduced in one of the Lynx stories and now she is back and needing help from Deep. The story involves murder, art, fraud, cat fishing and more. I enjoyed seeing this side of Deep, returning to time with Lynx and also seeing a relationship develop while they worked to solve a crime. I am more intrigued then ever about Deeps call name, but that remained a mystery. The leadership of this company is fascinating and so are the stories.
June 20, 2021
This author is new to me but felt I’d definitely be looking into the follow on books to find out more about this series. In Too Deep tells the rather complex story of Lacey Stuart as she finds herself out of her depth as she is framed for murder and becomes public enemy number 1 but has no idea why. Enter Deep Del Toro, a long term friend and Special Ops soldier able to see beyond the headlines into the heart of the mystery. There’s a lot of action within this book, and it keeps you turning the pages to find out who did what and why! I didn’t understand some of their previous history, having not read the previous book, but persevered and enjoyed the storyline.
March 23, 2022
I suspect I have a very different outlook on this book, and some of the characters in it, than if I hadn’t already read several of the more recent books in this world. This book is political thriller at it’s twisty-est, most mind-bending best. I wasn’t feeling the sparks of romance between our leading couple the way I usually do with the author’s work, though. Considering everything that Lacey and Deep are navigating, I can understand how their chemistry could get buried under the terror and immediacy of all the obstacles they’re facing. This book makes me want to start over from the beginning and read everything even remotely related to Iniquus.
August 8, 2022
Wow! Excellent writing, fast paced
I love the K9 series by Fiona Quinn and various other writers, but also love the Iniquus, Cerberus story lines, so decided to go from the K9 to this series. So much happening in this book, you feel the fear, the passion the agents have for what they do and for each other. I just couldn't stop reading about an innocent young woman being unknowingly made a pawn in a deadly game by both a crime family and the Agent using her to take down an art theft ring, a human trafficking ring and ends up falling for her, as does the Iniquus agent that truly saved her life. On to Book 2! Then probably the Lynx series
I love the K9 series by Fiona Quinn and various other writers, but also love the Iniquus, Cerberus story lines, so decided to go from the K9 to this series. So much happening in this book, you feel the fear, the passion the agents have for what they do and for each other. I just couldn't stop reading about an innocent young woman being unknowingly made a pawn in a deadly game by both a crime family and the Agent using her to take down an art theft ring, a human trafficking ring and ends up falling for her, as does the Iniquus agent that truly saved her life. On to Book 2! Then probably the Lynx series
October 28, 2024
This book was an excellent read. Suspenseful story, solid character development, intriguing details and complexities, a well-written and engaging page-turner. I read it in two sittings. Jack's depth of love for Suz and hers for him, despite her anxieties, was beautifully described and fledged out as the novel unrolled and brilliantly demonstrated in how Jack prepared Suz for a possible school shooting and humorously for the zombie apocalypse and how she unexpectedly ended up using that preparation.
I first discovered Fiona Quinn a couple of months ago when I came across her Cerberus Tactical K9 trilogy (I'm a sucker for novels featuring working K9s). Quickly read those and was fascinated by the character of Lexi who appears at various times in those novels. So went back to read the first novel featuring the genesis of what made Lexi so special. Her puzzler and paranormal skills are particularly fascinating. (I had the pleasure of listening to the exceptional narration and many voices of the marvelous Jesse Vilinsky for the first four novels featuring Lexi). I've now enjoyed 12 of the Iniquus series and fully intend to read all 34 books. Fiona Quinn's novels are creative and well-researched, features intelligent dialogue, attention to detail and intricate plots. She has been quickly added to my list of favourite authors and she is now an automatic must-read/buy for me.
I first discovered Fiona Quinn a couple of months ago when I came across her Cerberus Tactical K9 trilogy (I'm a sucker for novels featuring working K9s). Quickly read those and was fascinated by the character of Lexi who appears at various times in those novels. So went back to read the first novel featuring the genesis of what made Lexi so special. Her puzzler and paranormal skills are particularly fascinating. (I had the pleasure of listening to the exceptional narration and many voices of the marvelous Jesse Vilinsky for the first four novels featuring Lexi). I've now enjoyed 12 of the Iniquus series and fully intend to read all 34 books. Fiona Quinn's novels are creative and well-researched, features intelligent dialogue, attention to detail and intricate plots. She has been quickly added to my list of favourite authors and she is now an automatic must-read/buy for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 1, 2025
3.5*
Gripping romantic suspense with Lacey who takes care of her uncle’s art gallery after he left the country because of art thefts. She is on the run in a mystery that includes the FBI, the CIA, and a tangle of interconnected international crimes. She is given a flash drive by an unknown man who mistakes her for someone else before he is stabbed and she is framed for the murder. Iniquus Special Operative Deep Del Toro who she met briefly in prior case comes to her aid.
I liked the book and the narration was very easy to listen to but overall I just didn't feel that engaged with the characters.
Gripping romantic suspense with Lacey who takes care of her uncle’s art gallery after he left the country because of art thefts. She is on the run in a mystery that includes the FBI, the CIA, and a tangle of interconnected international crimes. She is given a flash drive by an unknown man who mistakes her for someone else before he is stabbed and she is framed for the murder. Iniquus Special Operative Deep Del Toro who she met briefly in prior case comes to her aid.
I liked the book and the narration was very easy to listen to but overall I just didn't feel that engaged with the characters.
January 4, 2021
I love Fiona Quinn's World of Iniquus series. I read In Too Deep as part of a four book set of series starters. The Iniquus security organisation is really interesting - the men and one woman who comprise the teams of strong operatives determined to do anything to fulfil their mission and keep the woman (usually) they're contracted to guard or rescue, safe. There's danger and mystery to overcome and if there's a bit of love and even romance involved - all the better! I loved this book and intend to read them all!
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