The Recommended Reading Order for Deep Ops
Rebecca Zanetti’s Deep Ops series (sometimes referred to as the Requisition Force series) follows a misfit group of rogue agents, hackers, and elite operatives working for a clandestine government unit. The series is best read in chronological order—which closely mirrors the publication order—because of the evolving character relationships, team dynamics, and overarching plots that span multiple books.
While each novel features a standalone romance with a satisfying happily-ever-after (HEA), the background plot, the mystery of their targets, and the found-family dynamics build from book to book. Skipping around will spoil major character developments, especially regarding the team's brooding leader, Angus Force, and their notorious companion animal, Roscoe.
1. Hidden (Book 1)
Published in September 2018 by Kensington Books, Hidden kicks off the series by introducing us to the Requisition Force team. The story centers on Pippa Smith, a woman hiding from a dangerous, vindictive cult, and Malcolm "Mal" West, a retired undercover cop struggling with severe PTSD. When their paths cross, the chemistry is instant, but they must work together to dismantle a looming terrorist threat while keeping Pippa out of the cult's clutches. This book sets the stage for the gritty tone, fast-paced action, and quirky humor that defines the series.
2. Taken (Book 1.5 Novella)
Released in April 2019, this crucial novella shifts the spotlight to Hunter Holt, an ex-soldier and Deep Ops operative, and Faye Smith, a woman from his past. Five years after they were forced apart, Hunter is tasked with locating his runaway teenage half-brother, Jackson. Faye joins him on this high-stakes mission, forcing them to confront their shared history and unresolved feelings. It is a compact, action-packed second-chance romance that bridges the gap between the first two main novels.
3. Fallen (Book 2)
Published in September 2019, Fallen pairs Brigid Banaghan, a brilliant but chaotic hacker with a criminal record, with Raider Tanaka, a deadly and disciplined federal agent assigned as her handler and bodyguard. To clear Brigid's estranged father of ties to Boston's organized crime, the two are forced into close quarters, pretending to be engaged. The fake-relationship trope shines here, backed by intense suspense and banter.
4. Shaken (Book 2.5 Novella)
Published in March 2020 (originally featured in the Pivot anthology), Shaken focuses on team member Evan Bishop and Michelle. This short story provides key updates on the team's status and delivers another quick, satisfying dose of romance and danger before the events of the third full-length novel.
5. Broken (Book 3)
Released in May 2020, Broken features Clarence "Wolfe" Wolfe, a former Navy SEAL with a tough exterior but a surprising soft spot—he carries a tiny orphaned kitten in his pocket and has an addiction to sweet coffee drinks. He is paired with Dana Mulberry, a determined investigative reporter seeking justice for her murdered colleague. Together, they navigate a web of conspiracy and deadly threats.
6. Driven (Book 4)
Published in January 2021, Driven tackles the romance of the unit's brooding leader, Angus Force, and Nari Zhang, the team's brilliant psychologist. Angus is determined to track down an elusive serial killer named Lassiter, who has made Nari his next target. The book is highly emotional, featuring a high-stakes cat-and-mouse game and intense, protective chemistry between Angus and Nari.
7. Unforgiven (Book 5)
Published in June 2022, Unforgiven centers on Jethro Hanson, a former MI6 agent now working as a philosophy professor while assisting the Deep Ops team, and Gemma Falls, a brilliant academic and expert in game theory who is fleeing a dangerous stalker. The intellectual pairing brings a fresh dynamic to the series' trademark action.
8. Frostbitten (Book 6)
Released in January 2024, Frostbitten focuses on Millicent "Millie" Frost, a socially awkward but exceptionally talented gadget designer, and Scott Terentson, a former Marine turned lawyer. When Millie becomes a suspect in a local murder investigation, Scott steps in to defend and protect her, leading to a snowy, high-tension romance.
What to Know Before You Start
The Deep Ops series is famous for its unique blend of intense romantic suspense and laugh-out-loud comedy. The Requisition Force is essentially a dumping ground for highly skilled but "broken" operatives who don't fit in standard government agencies. This setup allows Rebecca Zanetti to write excellent found-family dynamics, filled with sharp banter, mutual respect, and fierce loyalty.
A signature element of the series is Roscoe, a boozy, high-heel-loving German Shepherd. Roscoe is a certified scene-stealer who regularly drinks beer and hoards women's shoes, adding a touch of absurd humor to the otherwise gritty and violent missions the team undertakes.
For the absolute best experience, do not skip the novellas (Taken and Shaken). While they are shorter, they contain important character interactions and team updates that keep the series' overarching continuity seamless.