Step into the high-octane world of Leine Basso, where danger lurks around every corner and a former assassin fights for justice! The Leine Basso series by D.V. Berkom is a gripping collection of crime thrillers that blend heart-pounding action, steamy romance, and sharp social commentary. With its fierce protagonist, global adventures, and unflinching look at issues like human trafficking, this series is a must-read for thriller fans craving a badass heroine.
Leine Basso, a retired government assassin, is no ordinary lead. She’s tough, smart, and haunted by her past, making her a compelling mix of strength and vulnerability. Whether she’s chasing traffickers in Bangkok or unraveling conspiracies in Libya, Leine’s missions keep readers on the edge of their seats.
How Leine Basso Began
D.V. Berkom, a USA Today bestselling author, created Leine Basso out of a love for spy novels and a desire to craft resilient female leads. Inspired by her own adventurous life—living on a sailboat in Mexico and traveling extensively—Berkom launched the series with Serial Date in 2012. What started as a standalone novel sparked a fan-driven demand for more, leading to a thrilling saga that now spans over a dozen books. Berkom’s knack for weaving real-world issues into fast-paced plots has made Leine a standout in the thriller genre.
The Heart of Leine Basso
The Leine Basso series follows Leine as she leaves her assassin days behind to work for SHEN (Stop Human Enslavement Now), an anti-trafficking organization. Key books like Serial Date introduce Leine protecting reality TV contestants from a serial killer, while Bad Traffick dives into her fight against child trafficking, earning awards for its intense narrative. Cargo takes her to Bangkok and Tanzania, tackling both human and animal trafficking, and Fatal Objective explores betrayal and a secret cabal, keeping readers hooked with its twists.
Berkom’s stories shine through their global settings, from Tijuana’s underworld to North Dakota’s oil fields. Themes of redemption, justice, and resilience run deep, with Leine confronting her guilt and PTSD while battling cartels and traffickers. The series balances gritty action with witty dialogue and a touch of romance, particularly Leine’s evolving relationship with LAPD detective Santiago Jensen. Berkom’s unflinching portrayal of human trafficking adds weight, making each book both thrilling and thought-provoking.
Why Leine Basso Resonates
The Leine Basso series has carved a niche in the thriller world by blending entertainment with social awareness. Fans praise Leine’s complexity—she’s a killer with a conscience, making her relatable and inspiring. Berkom’s focus on human trafficking has sparked conversations, raising awareness without preaching. With rave reviews calling the series “unputdownable” and Leine a “kick-ass heroine,” the books have built a loyal following, proving that strong women and meaningful stories never go out of style.
- First Book Published: 2012 (Serial Date)
- Number of Books: 14+ (as of 2024)
- Notable Award: Bad Traffick won recognition for its compelling narrative
- Protagonist: Leine Basso, ex-assassin turned anti-trafficking operative
Ready for a thrilling ride? Grab Serial Date and dive into Leine Basso’s world of action, heart, and justice!