A glittering Christmas bash at a financial firm starts the story off in UNDERCOVER CHRISTMAS ESCAPE by Terri Reed. The bravery of US Marshals will soon be on display, but for now, DEA agent Duncan O’Brien and Deputy US Marshal Seraphina "Sera" Morales don’t look alarmed. They’re dressed up as Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus. Wouldn’t you know it, they are not there to enjoy themselves, but undercover to investigate dodgy dealings. That’s about the last time they get to smile.

Working Christmas undercover is a great theme, but in a moment like the film Die Hard, armed men in black take over the office floor, and the U.S. Marshals are notified through connected earpieces worn by Duncan and Sera. Two notorious drug dealers had been joining forces and of course, the deal went bad and they are now at odds. One side wants to steal bank details. The sheer number of dark-clad goons and black SUVs in the story is alarming, given the location in Dallas. With high buildings and CCTV all around, a helicopter is also involved in a daring move.

This fast-paced read will have you on the edge of your seat, with some shootings and a great deal of menace. In the middle of all this chaos, Sera has an unexpected reunion with her estranged sister Angelina and discovers that she has a new family member. This adds a personal stake and a deeper dilemma for the law enforcement officers.

Terri Reed writes authentic characters and strong action scenes. For once there are no K9 dogs involved, but UNDERCOVER CHRISTMAS ESCAPE has plenty going on otherwise. And given the time of year, there are frequent references to Christmas festivities and decorations. Enjoy this seasonal thriller, and if you’ve read some recent books by Terri Reed, you may recognise some of the secondary characters.