Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Task Force 779 #1

Missing in Action

Rate this book
Ryder Morrison is a man of loyalty. To his country, his family, his team.

After joining the Navy, he was secretly recruited to Task Force 779, a specialized unit that infiltrates dangerous situations when no one else can — or will. As the communications expert, it’s his job to clear the way for a smooth mission. He knows where the enemy is hidden at all times and when his team can enter a zone safely.
When things go wrong and he’s captured, declared dead before a search can truly begin, Ryder knows that when he makes his way home, his life will be different… better. He’ll live for himself from now on, instead of following where duty takes him.

Enter his elusive neighbor…
A woman of mystery and fear.

Codie Ray is a woman filled with pain. Afraid of life and locked away.

She counts to soothe the anxiety. She watches her neighbor because he’s her only lifeline to the outside world. He’s a commitment she doesn’t have to worry will break her. Until the unthinkable happens and her solace is intruded upon.
Ryder comes to the rescue and barges his way into her life, pushing past her barriers, causing Codie to rethink her reclusive lifestyle. Slowly being tormented with mind games from an unknown predator, she battles her better judgment and trusts Ryder to do what he does best… hunt down the perpetrator.

Their connection is instantaneous. Two broken people yearning to be loved but afraid to reach for it. Codie fears Ryder will leave when he discovers just how damaged she is. Ryder worries Codie will remain locked away in her mind, unable to break free.

A surprise mission brings both of their fears to life, and when the walls crumble, Ryder is Missing in Action while Codie is just… missing. Will they find each other again or will they disappear, existing only in a memory?

156 pages, ebook

First published June 4, 2019

Loading interface...
Loading interface...

About the author

K.L. Donn

150 books1,539 followers
Krystal writes as USA Today Bestselling Author KL Donn. Born and raised in Alberta, Canada, she has over 50 published books in differing romance genres. She enjoys making her readers cry as they go on a deep journey of love and loss through each book.

Experiencing her own insta-love at 17, Krystal has been with her husband for 18 years and they share 4 beautiful children together.
 
Fun facts about KL:
Perpetual romantic.
Coffee addict.
Sarcasm lover.
Give her an action flick over a romance. But a romance book over action. She’s weird like that.
Did she mention coffee addict?
Closet shopaholic.
Beach lover.
Coffee addict, it bears repeating. Again.
Husband obsessed. Hers that is, you can keep yours.
Mom of 6, well 7 if you count the husband. Oh and 2 of those are a cat & dog, that are confused about their species.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
210 (54%)
4 stars
109 (28%)
3 stars
48 (12%)
2 stars
15 (3%)
1 star
6 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
Profile Image for Debbie DiFiore.
2,303 reviews258 followers
July 5, 2019
Fear and freedom

I really liked this book about an Agoraphobic woman. I loved with it for many years and it started after I gave birth to my son too. He lived though but it really made me think and remember. She was 27 years old and gave birth to a stillborn baby boy. Her father kicked her out and called her a wh@re when she had only been with that one boy. He also called her that and his Father threw money at her for an abortion. She lived in the streets, begging for food, money and ended up losing her child at birth. I felt so bad for her. She had no one. She locked herself inside of her house and never left it. You could feel her fear and pain. It was written very well. Her efforts to leave the house or just open a window were spot on. Then she gets a stalker intruder in her safe home and chaos erupts. She watches Ryder run by her house everyday. He sees her sit in her doorway and watch him run by. The night she finds the intruder in her room they finally meet and of course it's insta-love. I liked how he tried to help her and I liked his team members. He had a broken past also. They bonded and then she is kidnapped and that is all I will say. I really liked it so why four stars because of the crude sex scenes. It just was too disappointing and not romantic. Less is more. She'd only been with one man, a boy really, and she is off and sprinting for gold with a porn star. It just felt wrong. The scene in the hospital room almost made me laugh. So unbelievable! And the one thing that really annoyed me was his nickname for her, Dove. I wanted to start a drinking game once I saw how many times he said it. Again, less is way more. But overall I enjoyed the writing and I can't wait to read more of her books. One thing is that the story of his sister in the book felt like I should know it from another book but this is first in the series so I am confused. Is there a book for that? This book is safe.
Profile Image for Nerdy Dirty & Flirty.
3,985 reviews351 followers
June 4, 2019
description
Missing in Action, the first book in KL Donn’s Task Force 779 Series, was fast-paced and entertaining. This story was filled with suspense and drama.

Trauma impacts us all differently. Ryder has pushed himself, prepared to return to his team, and get himself back in the field. Codie closes herself off from the world. When an incident brings these two together, will they be able to find comfort in their shared pain or will the past be too much to overcome?

I enjoyed Ryder’s character. His strength and compassion drew me to him. Codie was intriguing. I found her to be interesting and wanted to see if and how she would grow and change. The mystery surrounding her and the action involved in his work added in another level of excitement. It created tension and suspense as well as played a role in the progression of their relationship. I’m definitely interested in reading more of this series in the future.
Profile Image for Sandy.
1,187 reviews4 followers
June 4, 2019
Emotional

This story is emotional in so many ways! We have all been waiting for this story since Hayes opened that door! It’s hard to hear about what both Codie and Ryder had to go through. Great story that handled all of the emotions so well.
Profile Image for April Symes.
5,013 reviews441 followers
June 5, 2019
Missing in Action by K.L. Donn is an emotional force, a rollercoaster ride of feels and a compelling story that will have you craving more from Ms. Donn immediately afterwards because this story is so amazing.
Without giving anything away, just know there are no words that can adequately describe Codie and Ryder perfectly. Their are so many words that I can use to describe them but I think you would best find out by reading this book. Their relationship is a deliciously tempting rollercoaster ride that will take you places. Their ride will have you going along on their journey towards heartbreak, angst but also finding joy and happiness. It is an emotional and tissue needed read. I enjoyed every moment of this story.


My Rating: 4.7 stars *******
Profile Image for Island Girl Romance Reads.
508 reviews54 followers
May 30, 2019
Another emotional read by KL Donn.
Two people who has been through so much. I was heartbroken for both of them. But both are strong and they where perfect for each other. Love how patience Ryder was with Codie. He sure won my heart. Love the brotherhood and how they support each other.
Can’t wait to read more of the men in this series.
Profile Image for Amanda Rodriguez.
217 reviews
June 4, 2019
Reading Missing in Action was an emotional roller coaster of emotions for me as I identify with Codie in a few ways. Even though I cried through most of MIA Task Force 779 I am completely honored to have gotten to read it and will recommend it to anyone and everyone I know. I love all of KL Donn’s books but this here surpasses all of them. Thank you KL for sharing this heartbreaking yet beautiful story with your readers and know that I will support your books any day and every day.
Profile Image for Teresa Lara.
3,134 reviews47 followers
May 25, 2019
Absolutely loved Ryder and Codies amazing broken intense emotional grabbed my heart and wouldn't let go.Loved more more more
Profile Image for Carol Dawn.
Author 29 books328 followers
July 5, 2019
Have you ever sat down to write a review and then…nothing? You can’t figure out a way to put into words how you felt about what you just read? It’s happened to me a handful of times. I’ve connected so deeply with characters that trying to depersonalize myself to write an unbiased review was hard. I finished this book two days ago. Instead of immediately writing my review, like I typically would, I held off. (Edited 6 hours later: I’m still working on how to word this review. It’s a Carol process. 😀 )

I connected with the heroine in the story (Codie) in a way that I don’t think I should explain in a book review. Having such a strong connection with a character makes a book feel more real. Makes it more emotional. More personal. And I connected with her in more ways than one.

I think we actually meet Ryder in one of the Hogan Brother’s books. I’m pretty sure it was “One Choice” because I was really hoping Ryder’s story was the next book, but it wasn’t. Which, I’m not complaining. I freaking love that series and Unchained was my favorite.

Okay, I’m getting off topic…

I really…really…REALLY love this book. The character connections, the world building, the plot. Everything about this book was fantastic. I was in tears by page 4. PAGE FOUR PEOPLE!

It isn’t just the connection with Codie that has me in love with this book. The plot itself was so very good. Codie and Ryder both go through something so drastic in their pasts. And trying to find that HEA isn’t an easy one for them. They must fight so hard. That’s all I’m going to say regarding the storyline. Just, please, go read this book. I’m thinking it’s my favorite book of the year, so far.

I don’t know how KL Donn does it, but with every new release, she gets better and better. From the first pages, she grabs my attention and refuses to let go until the very ending. I am beyond excited for the next book in the “Task Force 779” series. I fell in love with all of Ryder’s teammates and can’t wait to watch them go on their journeys.

I was incredibly lucky and blessed to have received a paperback ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Vera M.
503 reviews
June 4, 2019
Kl Donn shredded me!! My heart bled for Codie!! Through KL’s story I could feel Codie’s pain. I could feel how alone she was....until Ryder notices his neighbour.
Ryder is just as messed up, but he’s a fighter!! He’s going to fight for Codie!!
Their journey together breaks your heart, but the love they gain is worth the fight!!
This is a beautiful heart wrenching story of two fighters who meet each other for a reason. I feel like it was fate!!
A must read!!
Profile Image for Tina J.
1,250 reviews170 followers
May 28, 2019
POV ~> Various first-person perspectives, clearly marked and easy to follow.

The cover features a bare-chested military-esque man wearing a backpack. While alone, it may not be enough to fully capture the eye, it is enough to snag it. The synopsis, however, reeled me in! I’ve been exploring many books recently with damaged and/or flawed lead characters and knew this was one I’d have to read.

I admit I was worried about the length of this book. Being a series debut, I’d expect some complex world and character-building. This had it, and more. It managed to create a cohesive, strong unit with some backstory as well as providing plenty of history for Codie. Codie and Ryder’s relationship was fueled by chemistry. There was action and suspense. The secondary cast was varied in personality and ranged in their roles. The plot flowed very well and the writing was enjoyable. Predictability was low. The conclusion is solid and manages to tease at what may become the next book in the series.
This was the first time reading this author and, if given the chance, I will definitely follow this series.
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.5 ~ Stars: 5, rounding up due to the author’s ability to pack this novella full of content, history, dynamics, and a sense of strong bonds in a way few authors are able.
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from the Author/Publisher via RRR Promotion with the hope that I would voluntarily leave unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
Profile Image for A Book Lover's Emporium Book Blog.
2,814 reviews165 followers
June 2, 2019
It’s been a long time since I’ve stayed up until 3 am reading. I had a hard time putting this one down, even though at times I needed to. It was sometimes too painful to read. After I read the introduction I knew it was going to be emotional and the author gave me exactly that, I went through plenty of tissue.

Codie, what a strong woman, I have tears writing this because she was amazing. I’m seriously in awe of her strength and courage. She had been in such a broken state for so long, yet she was willing to, needed to heal and she knew it. I was so proud of her progress and hurt for her during her setbacks. I love the change in her when she recognized honest, good trustworthy people to help her through. She has a great support team. Her connection to Ryder is so strong as is his to her. Knowing what they both needed they could pull strength from each other. Her calming and coping methods, her understanding of his own past, his acceptance of every part of her and loving her completely; Just wow! The bond between these two is beautiful.

This is a realistic, heartbreaking, yet hopeful story that had my emotions all over the place from sadness, frustration and anger to feelings of comfort and promise. It flows nicely within the present as it gives glimpses into each of their past, which help deepen my connection with both Ryder and Codie. This is my first book by this author and I’m ready for more. I’m especially ready for more of Task Force 779. Explosive Encounter is coming not soon enough.
Profile Image for Leslee.
2,437 reviews71 followers
May 25, 2019
Ryder can't help but notice his neighbor as she sits in her doorway watching him run by. He can't image why he never sees her leave, never sees anyone visit. When the cops show up at her house in the middle of the night, he can't help but get involved. She is so scared and he understands fear. He desperately wants to help her, wants her in his life. Codie can't help but watch the handsome warrior who jogs past her house. When he comes to her rescue, she wants so badly to let him in. But fear has its claws in her and she just can't see how she will ever be the woman Ryder deserves. Can two wounded souls heal each other?

I'm a huge, huge fan of KL Donn. She always brings the feels and this one is especially full of emotion. Just a warning, having tissues standing by would not be a bad idea. These two both have their scars, their wounds and to watch them find strength and love in each other was really amazing. I loved Ryder and Codie, I wasn't ready for their story to come to a close. Thank goodness this is a series, so I hope we can check in with them. I will be anxiously awaiting for the other guys to get their stories told!
Profile Image for MJ's Book Blog and Reviews.
2,659 reviews54 followers
June 2, 2019
Review by: Melanie
(5 stars)

After a huge tragedy Codie moves from South Dakota to Charleston, West Virginia in hopes of a new start. Unfortunately her demons came with her and she has ended up a recluse who hasn't left her house in years. After suffering his own trauma as a prisoner of war, Ryder is recovered and trying to get his life back on track. He wants to re-join his team and is gearing up to do just that when he notices his neighbour has started watching him. She never speaks, or even leaves the safety of her open front door, she just watches. When something happens he can't ignore, Ryder makes it his mission to help Codie get her own life back, but how will he do that when he has to leave on missions and it seems someone else might be trying to do the opposite.. end her life as opposed to live it?

This was such a good story, I really enjoyed it and can't wait for the next one. Plenty of drama, action and of course the romance aspect and I couldn't put this down. I'll certainly be reading more from this author and give Missing in Action 5 stars.
Profile Image for Neringa Neringiukas.
1,232 reviews85 followers
May 25, 2019
After reading introduction, I didn't wanted to read it. Even more so, after prologue. I knew, there will be tears and my heart will be broken. I just didn't know, if I was ready for that. Even after finished reading, I can't tell. I felt a lot while reading and I just didn't know on which emotion was stronger. Helpless. Frustrated. Hopeful. Angry. I'm a mess and lost for words. It wasn't a light and easy story.
And while, I'm happy how the story ends, I still don't know how to feel about some characters there. I can't just forgive and forget.
What the most I loved here, it was Ryder. He was just... He was just everything. Every girl needs Ryder in her life.
Ryder & Codie. They both are messed up. Maybe that's way, they click so perfectly. Healing and soothing each other. Just being what another needs.
Profile Image for Marie  Brown (Marie's Tempting Reads).
2,747 reviews53 followers
June 5, 2019
Marie's Tempting Reads ARC Review:

Missing In Action was a story that put my emotions through the wringer! Heartbreaking, bold, passionate, caring, patient and beautiful, this romantic suspense was entirely welcome and extra special!

I absolutely ADORED Codie and Ryder. These two were amazing. And they made each other stronger and better. What Codie went through was incredibly real and tragic and sad. I cried for her like I haven't cried for a heroine before. And Ryder...oh he made me swoon and I was very happy to see the way he helped Codie through her anxiety. This was a magnificent and powerful story that really made me feel.

Missing In Action gets a HEART WRENCHING FIVE BOLD
Profile Image for Dana.
651 reviews59 followers
May 26, 2019
🌟3.5🌟

I have to admit, this was a bit of a struggle for me to get into; but, I wanted to finish so I could leave an honest review.

When I read the blurb a few months ago, I thought: oh this sounds like something I would like. My heart broke for Codie. The things that she endured and at a young age, I was hoping she would have a HEA. Ryder was a pure ALPHA man.....all the way!!! Their relationship took time to develop and they had a lot to overcome.

Even though I couldn’t really get into it, the writing was good and I look forward to reading more from the author.
Profile Image for Mindy McCray .
1,151 reviews9 followers
June 3, 2019
Another amazing, emotional read from KL Donn! I finished this book over a week ago but couldn't form words to describe how amazing this book really is. I'm still not sure I can but I'll give it a shot.

I will start by saying that KL is a brilliant author who knows how to turn something so heartbreaking into something amazing! I didn't want to put this book down for a second!

Codie is one strong woman! After everything she went through, all the pain, the heartache, every emotion you could think of, she survived!

This book really hit home for me. Donn hit every emotion perfectly. While reading, I felt every emotion that Codie dealt with.

I can't wait for more in this new series!!
Profile Image for Read.Review.Repeat Blog.
5,234 reviews96 followers
June 7, 2019
I absolutely loved Ryder and Codie's story. This book was a little different from what I expect from K.L. Donn, but in a very good day. I must say that I have a bit of a book hangover from this one. It was an emotionally charged book and left me in tears more than once. I consider that a great book when the author can evoke emotion from the reader by reading what the characters are going through.
Profile Image for Misty Schott.
3,818 reviews26 followers
May 27, 2019
Make sure you've got your tissues!!!!

After reading this book I had to take a little time to compose myself and get my thoughts clear in my head before I put them in a review. First off, make sure you have plenty of tissues. This is a beautiful story but definitely one that will have you crying and your emotional state will be tested. The heroine, Codie, goes through so much and is so strong, you'll definitely be rooting for her the whole time. She was young and alone when tragedy struck and it totally devastated her. Her neighbor, Ryder, has been through his own kind of h*ll but he fights his demons everyday. When Ryder notices that his Codie is in trouble he barges in and tries to help. But will these two damaged people be able to help each other? Or will this just be one more heartbreak for Codie? Grab this beautifully emotional book and hang on for the ugly cry!!! Definitely a great read and I highly recommend it!!!
Profile Image for Katherine.
518 reviews
June 4, 2019
When a book pulls you in so completely that you don't want to leave you know your on to a winner.

I cried, boy did I cry... But it was totally worth all the tears for the joy and love these characters bring to the page.

Bring supplies settle down and enjoy a read that will pull on every emotion in you body.
Profile Image for Sara Oxton.
3,475 reviews17 followers
May 25, 2019
Missing in Action by K.L. Donn a five-star read that you would hunt down. My goodness I am a huge fan of K.L. Donn but this one blew me away, it’s so well written and such a compelling and at times brutal read, but you will be breathless and desperate for the next page no matter how dark the page gets. Ryder Morrison is a great man, and he has his darkness, but he will bring the light to many. His light is being brought for Codie Ray, and my goodness she needs it. Codie is a great character and all of her complexities just make you fall that much harder for her. This is one of the hardest reviews I have written, as I don’t want to give the game away, but I do want to express how deep you will feel for Codie and Ryder they are both amazing characters that have been written in such a manner that you cant help but feel everything they go through. Thank you K for being a great writer and bringing both of these and the rest of he team into everyone’s lives.
105 reviews
June 20, 2019
Loved this book!!! This book made me cry!!! It is a book that will want you to read from the beginning to the end!!! I truly recommend this book!!!
Profile Image for Lauren.
2,499 reviews13 followers
June 4, 2019
Another fabulous 5 star read... I loved both Ryder and Codie. This book will have you all in your feelings and they will be all over the place.
June 5, 2019
Tac

***ARC provided in exchange for an honest review***

All I can say is I wasn’t ready for this book. Usually reading is an escape for me and I don’t want triggers or too much emotion when that’s not the mood I’m in. It took me a couple of days to prepare myself because once I starting reading it, get your tissues ready cause I know I wasn’t ready. After reading this beautifully told story I wish I started sooner because it has blown my mind. Codie and Ryder the demons they have both had to endure is devastating and you can’t help but feel for them. When they come together it’s healing and makes you root for them. This story was original and told so wonderfully that it leaves you enchanted and wanting more, I know I do and you will to after reading it!!!!
Profile Image for Cassie Ashford.
1,073 reviews8 followers
May 24, 2019
Where do I even begin???? Codie and Ryder’s story is exquisite beauty mixed in with tragedy!

There are no words that could adequately describe Codie or Ryder. Immeasurable strength? Raw passion? Sheer determination? True Grit? There are just too many ways to describe them.

Not all wounds are physical but are soul deep. Together they are the perfect remedy for each other.

By the end of this book I was cheering them on like I was their own personal cheerleader.

K.L. Donn must have cried herself through this book when writing it. The heartache was so real there is no way it was make believe. She pulled that from the depth of her being.

I absolutely love, love, love this book! Thank you for writing such an amazing book K.L.!
Profile Image for A.J. Alexander.
Author 255 books1,353 followers
May 21, 2020
KL Donn is a story telling of epic proportions. Missing in action is a story with action, suspense, and gut wrenching moment that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish.

A must read for anyone who wants to know what really happens when two broken souls find each other.
Profile Image for Codie .
545 reviews2 followers
August 8, 2021
I've been waiting a long time for this book, the wait was more than worth it. This book wasn't read, every word was devoured as I was instantly captivated by this duo. I couldn't put it down until I finished it.

I wanted to know Ryder's story from the moment we were introduced to him in One Choice, watching his story unfold of what he went through while missing was heartbreaking yet it was beautiful seeing how he overcame what he went through to be able to support Codie. She is broken, her past is filled with pain, heart break and loneliness. I cried multiple times feeling her anguish down to my soul, smiling as she overcame her past. This couple are perfect for each other, two souls that could be forever broken coming together in a breathtaking story.

I've never been able to state my favourite Kl Donn book but with this story I can claim I now have a favourite.
Profile Image for Lynne Garlick.
2,092 reviews24 followers
January 10, 2023
I freaking love KL Donn! Hands down, every book, she draws me in, sweeping me and my emotions along with the people in the book! I have literally just finished this book and......I need a minute to gather myself!
My tears were falling by the end of the prologue, a pain in my chest as I met Codie and slowly learnt her story.
Ryder is her neighbour, he becomes her light in the dark, not realising he has his own battles to fight. But he is determined not to let the dark win, does he have enough light for the both of them? My heart!! Here, take it!
I highly recommend you add this to your TBR.
June 4, 2019
When things go very wrong on a mission for Ryder Morrison, communications expert on a secret special ops military team, he’s captured and left for dead. The only thing that keeps him going through a year of extreme torture is that his team will find him and bring him home. He’s scarred emotionally and physically and still trying to recover. He’s ready to start living for himself now since that was the promise he made himself if he survived. He just hasn’t had a real reason to yet . . . until he meets his neighbor.

Codie Ray has suffered so much pain and loss in her life that she has locked herself away from the world, letting her anxieties take control of her life. Even opening the door is a real struggle for her. But, she can’t help but to secretly watch her neighbor as he runs past her house every morning. When the safe place she has created for herself in her home is violated, Codie can’t deal. She knows she can’t leave, but she also doesn’t feel safe . . . until Ryder steps in.

Their connection is immediate. Ryder finally has a reason to live for more than his job and Codie finally has someone willing to stay no matter what. Both are broken, but together they feel whole. But, the world isn’t done with them yet. Just when things start coming together, Ryder is compromised on a mission and taken prisoner again and Codie’s past catches up to her with her with a vengeance. Will they be able to survive and find their way back to one another or is it their destiny to lose one another and themselves for good?

Missing in Action was a very emotional romantic suspense. Both Codie and Ryder have been through so much. While it’s hard to imagine what it’s like to be a POW, Codie’s loss is something that many readers will unfortunately be able to identify with, giving a real emotional connection to this story.

This book has so much hurt and drama, that when good things start happening for Codie and Ryder it feels very uplifting. Readers will truly root for a happy ever after for this unconventional couple. It was also a great series starter and I appreciated getting glimpses of the rest of Ryder’s team so I can now anticipate their future stories. KL Donn fans will also enjoy catching up with Liam and Hayes from the Hogan Brother’s series since Hayes and Ryder are siblings. 4 stars!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.