Iris

The Minnesota Marshalls #4

by Susan May Warren

Iris Marshall never wanted to be anything more than what she is—an official for the European League of (American) Football. So, why she said yes to being a courier for the CIA? She’s not sure, especially when it lands her in an international thriller that has her on the run from a killer. And worse, the person she’s on the run with? Arrogant, bossy, playboy Hudson Bly football player and the last person on earth she wants to go into hiding with.

Hudson knows his days as a wide-receiver are numbered. Too many head injuries, starting with a violent TBI in college have caught up with him. So yes, he agreed to be a patriot, do his bit for the USA and courier a message between agents. He never expected for that simple act to ignite an international man-hunt for the official who wrecked his life, Iris Marshall. But what’s a guy to do—let her get killed?

But spending time with Iris has ignited a desire in him that takes him by surprise, and for Iris, maybe Hudson is more than she thought.

But who is after Iris? When one of her fellow officials is murdered, maybe the killer is after more than just her—maybe she’s found herself in the middle of an international plot to take down a country.

It’ll take the help of the entire family to keep Iris safe…but at what cost when they have to choose between their careers…and their country?

Join the Marshall family in book four of the thrilling romantic adventure!


THE MARSHALL FAMILY SAGA

The Minnesota Marshalls
Book 1: Fraser
Book 2: Jonas
Book 3: Ned (coming soon)
Book 4: Iris (coming soon)
Book 5: Creed (coming soon)

More Marshall family romantic adventures

The Epic Story of RJ and York
Book 1: Out of the Night
Book 2: I Will Find You
Book 3: No Matter the Cost

The Montana Marshalls
Book 1: Knox
Book 2: Tate
Book 3: Ford
Book 4: Wyatt
Book 5: Ruby Jane

Genres: Christian Fiction, Contemporary, Romance, Suspense, Fiction, Christian, Audiobook

276 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 1, 2023

About the author

I can't help be amazed at the gifts God has delighted me with - a wonderful husband, four amazing children, and the opportunity to write for Him.

I've been writing as long as I can remember - I won my first book writing contest in first grade! Over the years, writing has become, for me, a way to praise God and see Him at work in my life.

Although I have a degree in Mass Communications from the University of MN, my real writing experience started when I penned the The Warren Report - a bi-monthly newsletter that detailed our ministry highlights.

Living in Russia meant I never lacked for great material - and those experiences naturally spilled out first into devotionals and magazine articles and finally into my first published story, "Measure of a Man," in the Tyndale/HeartQuest, Chance Encounters of the Heart anthology.

Susan and husbandI grew up in Wayzata, a suburb of Minneapolis, and became an avid camper from an early age. My favorite fir-lined spot is the north shore of Minnesota - it's where I met my husband, honeymooned and dreamed of living. The north woods easily became the foundation for my first series, The Deep Haven series.based on a little tourist town along the shores of Lake Superior. I have to admit - I'm terribly jealous of Mona, the heroine of my first full-length book, Happily Ever After, a Christy Award Finalist published in 2004 with Tyndale/Heartquest.

Our family moved home from the mission field in June 2004 -- and now we live in the beautiful town I'd always dreamed of! God has amazed me anew with His provision, and blessings -- and allowed me a season when I can write full time for Him.

I 'm delighted you've stopped in to visit. My hope is that you'll be blessed and encouraged by soul-stirring stories of regular people interacting with a God who loves them.

I'd love to hear from you! I love getting mail, especially from readers and I welcome your questions and comments. Write to me at susan@susanmaywarren.com. And, if you're interested, sign up for my newsletter, a quarterly sneak peek into upcoming releases and projects. Thank you for your interest and support.

God Bless and Happy Reading!

In His Grip,
Susan May Warren

Reviews

[Susan May Warren]

🏈 🏈 IRIS is now available! 🏈 🏈


Read on for a fun excerpt...

“Are you on your honeymoon?” This from Xaris. Behind him, the shore grew, along with the port of Santorini with its fishing boats and houses built on the craggy hillside. Along the top of the ridge, like so many hats, sat the whitewashed buildings, one on top of another, many with domed roofs, all nestled together.
Magical. And the perfect place for a honeymoon.
Iris looked at Hudson. She’d used the lie only a few days ago when he’d been hospitalized, but—
“Yes.” Hudson lifted their clasped hands. “We’re staying in Santorini—just took a rental out for the day. I don’t think we’re getting our deposit back.” He grinned, and wow, she’d seen his charm up close and personal, but now it had the power to loosen the aura of suspicion she hadn’t noticed until that moment.
Then, he leaned over and kissed her on the cheek. “I’ll bet you can’t wait for a warm shower and a gourmet dinner, right, honey?”
She’d be happy for dry clothes and a vending machine sandwich, but she nodded.
“You look familiar,” Nico said, frowning. “I don’t know where.”
Hudson lifted a shoulder. “I get that a lot. I sort of look like an actor.”
“Hmm,” said Nico, but the boat was turning into the harbor, and he left to pick up a line.
Iris glanced at him. Raised an eyebrow. “An actor?”
“Yeah. Didn’t you see the new Reacher on Netflix? It’s a series—Coach says I look like that actor.”
She hadn’t seen it, and frankly, Nico probably hadn’t either, but, “Right.” Because if the man was a fan of American football in Europe, then they both knew exactly why Nico recognized the six-foot-four, blindingly handsome, fit and sturdy wide receiver from the Vienna Vikings.
“Let’s hope he’s not interested in a selfie,” she said.
They pulled up alongside other fishing boats coming into dock. The place smelled of fresh catch, salt, and oil, and dockhands tied up boats as fishermen sat on deck, sorting their fish from the nets. A road switchbacked up from the harbor to the pristine town. Horses snorted nearby, tied up, waiting to pull carts filled with today’s catch to market.
Or at least, that’s what Iris supposed. She also wanted to suppose that the nightmare was over—that whoever had shot at them yesterday, blown up their boat, and sent them to spend the most terrifying night of her life in a cave made of jagged shells might have decided to give up, and was most definitely not waiting for her in some nearby bistro, drinking coffee and eating baklava.
Her stomach growled as she got up.
“You can’t walk around town like that, ma’am,” Nico said.
She still clung to her towel, but under that she wore only her swimsuit.
Thank the Lord it wasn’t a bikini. But still.
“Here,” said Nico and reached for a grimy denim button-up shirt wadded into a cubby near the helm.
“Thanks.” She managed a smile, then dropped the towel and pulled on the shirt. It hung about three sizes too big, the cuffs wagging, the tail of the shirt to her knees. “Who owned this? Andre the Giant?”
“My brother, Atlas,” Nico said, laughing.
She glanced at Hudson, who appraised her, nodding.
“Thank you.” First stop was a store.
Well, no. They might need money, given that her cash was currently swimming with the fish in the depths of the Aegean.
Hudson climbed out first, then held out his hand. “Thanks again for saving us.”
Xaris shook his hand. “You know where you’re going?”
Not a clue, but Hudson grinned, nodded. “We’re staying at resort nearby.”
They were?
Hudson took her hand, and she climbed off the boat and onto the dock. Managed not to drop to her knees and kiss the cement jetty.
Nico stood in the boat, hands on his hips. “Really familiar. You sure we haven’t met?”
“Really? You run into a lot of shipwrecked Americans?” Hudson reached down to shake his hand.
Nico laughed. “That’s it. In the Heart of the Sea.”
Iris just stared at him.
“You’re Chris Hemsworth.”
A beat, and then Hudson laughed. Something loud and full, and even Iris had to smile.
“I wish, mate,” Hud said, sounding decidedly Australian. “But I’ll take it.”
Iris rolled her eyes.
Hud took her hand. “C’mon, darlin’. Before more of my fans find me.”
“Please.” But she held on, because she was hungry and tired, and maybe he did, just a little, resemble a superhero.
Stop. She wasn’t looking for a man in her life.
They were barely friends.
In fact, as soon as she could, she needed to ditch him.

© 2023 SDG Publishing

You can read IRIS now in Kindle Unlimited or buy from Amazon

You can also grab it in print, large print, audiobook, and special edition hardcover with dustjacket from the Susan May Warren Store!

[Joanne | wellreadcoffeeaddict]

Another instalment of the Minnesota Marshalls that I absolutely devoured.

This book picks up where Ned left off, adding in a family drama dynamic and sports career that set Iris's story apart from all the intrigue of the previous 3 books. If you have not read Books 1-3, I would strongly recommend doing so before reading Iris . This is not a standalone book, and really, the entire series is basically one large novel split into 'episodes', Iris being episode 4.

I didn't care for Iris's constant need to prove herself or how she would run directly from people's warnings straight into danger. It's understandable to feel like her family was overbearing at times, but to constantly ignore everything but her own opinion made her seem highly ignorant.

Otherwise, it was a thrilling read and I will be reading Creed's book asap.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading Iris and Hudson’s story. Iris and Hud began working together to survive in the novel that came just before this one, titled Ned. And it was actually an enemies to friends start for these two. Then, in this novel, the friends relationship turned into more. I loved the connection between Iris and Hud, and the gradual way that they began to realize their deeper feelings for each other. Iris was a very strong woman who did not want to ever ask for help or rely on someone else. Sometimes her decisions led her to get into situations that ended up with her needing Hudson, and even her brother, Ned, to help her to get out of whatever complication arose.

As this is the fourth book in the Minnesota Marshalls series, it definitely would be a good idea to start at the beginning of the series and read the books in order so that you have a full understanding of the overarching troubles and dangers that are facing the characters in their novels. The author does give good background in this book about all that has been going on for the siblings and their significant others, so it might be possible to jump in mid series and read this one, but you will have to recognize that many events have taken place to build up to the pivotal moments of this story.

This novel built beautifully on all that has been occurring in the previous stories and helped tie some of the separate threads together. I enjoyed it from start to finish and look forward to reading the next book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Beauty in the Binding · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wish Iris and Hudson's story had been completely in this book instead of part of it being in "Ned." It took awhile for things to come back to me even though I read "Ned" only a few months ago. Overall, a good story that held my attention and had me rooting for the good guys.

[MJSH · Rating 5 out of 5]

"But the fact is, it's just fear behind all that pride. And it'll make you forfeit the grace that could be yours. Be smarter than that."

I absolutely adored Iris and Hudson. There's something extra special about non-military alpha heroes Susan May Warren creates - i.e. Ty and Ian from Montana Rescue, Wyatt from Montana Marshalls, and now Hudson. This story felt more romance than action/suspense, though there was definitely plenty of adrenaline from unknown villains chasing Iris and Hudson through Europe and beyond. I learned more than I thought possible about refereeing football games through Iris. I enjoyed learning about how football players train and work through Hudson. Their romance had chemistry and witty banter, balanced out by mutually hard-earned trust and tenderness.

The chaos, love, banter, and fierce loyalty that is the Marshall family was simply delightful. I loved getting to know the matriarch Jenny better and expect she'll play a role in the next book. All the Marshall children and their loved ones under the same roof made me reminisce about the times when all my children are back home. Ty and Brette from Montana Rescue made a cameo appearance which made me giddy with happiness.

Though some plot threads were worked out in this book, Iris and Hudson's story left me with more questions than answers regarding the rogue ex-CIA agent, Russians, and Lauchtenland. I'm bouncing on my toes to read Creed to find out all the answers!

I received a complimentary copy courtesy of publisher via JustRead Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.

[Heather Wood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iris has tons of romantic tension as Iris and Hud can't consider a relationship with each other and both keep their jobs, but can't ignore the attraction between them. We get a good sense of Iris's backstory and how she ended up with the career she did. I was interested to see how she would differ from RubyJane, her cousin who also has a bunch of tough high-stakes-job brothers. Iris is quite different! Sure, there's still a part of her that wants to be tough and independent like RJ, but I didn't want to bang my head against the wall from Iris's stubbornness the way I do with RJ.
There's a lot of sibling time in this book (always a major YAY) and a lot of good faith conversations, making Iris a super strong installment of the Montana Marshalls.
I had the opportunity to read this book provided by the publisher for JustReads Tours, but my opinions are my own and a positive review was not required.

[Rosalyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! This is another riveting sequel to this continuing exciting saga of the Minnesota Marshalls.

This time it's Iris' story.

Iris, as the only girl in the family, has a lot to live up to. And...her older brothers have never let her live down some things. Ever.

She's fought her own way in the world of football. And is an official. That's how she first met Hudson Bly. (He won't ever forget what she cost him, but she doesn't even remember him)

Now, they are on the run together. Someone is after Iris, and Hudson is determined to keep her safe, at all costs.

This story is one of those typical Susan May Warren stories. It has all the good stuff! Action. Danger. Adventure. Mystery. Romance. Excitement.

I've loved each one of these, and Iris' story is just as good as her brothers'.... and maybe even a teeny bit better.

Iris is desperately looking to find herself. And, until she recognizes her own value, she has to continue looking.

I do encourage you to read the other books first, because the story line continues from one straight into the next. And.... I can't wait to finish the story with the final book, coming next, Creed.

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

[Ayla Will · Rating 5 out of 5]

SMW weaves an incredible suspenseful story intertwined with the perfect amount of romance, a riveting plot, and strong faith. I don't think I've ever read a book of hers that didn't keep me up way past my bedtime!

"But the fact is, and I learned this from your mom"--he put a hand on her arm--"you need to trust God for the now. Just right here, the earth beneath your feet. And then know that He'll be in the next step when you get there."

Iris is the fourth book in the Minnesota Marshalls series, and although we've already gotten to know Iris and Hudson a little bit in the series, we finally get a book primarily about the two of them. Iris loves her career as a European League of (American) Football official--so she still isn't sure why she ever agreed to become a courier for the CIA. And now she's on the run...with the last person she wants to be stuck with; Hudson Bly the arrogant and very-annoying football player. Hudson knows his days as a football star are numbered. Too many hard hits have left him with a traumatic brain injury and another accident could end not only his career, but his life. So signing up to help his country seemed like the logical next step. Until his new side-job landed him in the middle of an international man-hunt with the woman who wrecked his life--and doesn't even seem to remember doing it. Despite his feelings about Iris, he can't just let her be killed, right? And as they work together to stay alive, they just might find love along the way.

As much as I love SMW's military heroes, I have to say I loved that Hudson is just a regular (or mostly) guy without any hardcore special-ops training. He may not always know exactly what he's doing, but nothing could stop him from protecting the people he cares about. And Iris. She's gritty and strong, but hides her soft side from the world: the side that is terrified of losing the ones she loves. I enjoyed seeing so much of the entire Marshall family in this novel and getting a glimpse into their tight-knit family and the struggles that have brought them closer together. They never hesitate to drop everything and rush to the rescue when someone is in trouble. Also, both Garrett and Jenny had so much wisdom to share and I appreciated the godly advice they brought along the way. Everything about this novel was fantastic and I can't see where it takes us next! Although we got some more loose ends tied up in Iris and solved a few problems, we're left with just enough to keep us on edge and guessing what happens in Creed's story. It's a good thing SMW releases her books relatively close together, because I for one can't wait much longer to see how it all ends!

If romantic suspense is your thing, you'll want to grab a copy of Iris (and the previous books) asap!

*As a member of the launch team, I received a complimentary copy of Iris through the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own. My positive review is not required.

[Kelly Bridgewater · Rating 4 out of 5]

Iris by Susan May Warren is a non-stop thrill ride through the heart of Iris and Hudson. While the story does have some action, it was toned down from Warren's previous books in this novel. This time around, it was more about the heart issues with Iris and wondering if she was good enough. One issue that I did find was when Warren mentioned that Hudson was being scouted by the Minnesota Vikings, she also mentioned that the football team, Seattle Kraken, a new football team, could be looking at him too. Wrong. Seattle Kraken is a National Hockey Team. Totally different sport. I love the family dynamics of the Marshalls when Iris comes home. A huge family with many moving parts sounds interesting. A family that actually cared and spent time together is a nice thing. I'm trying to do that with my immediate family because I did not have that growing up. Writing is never an issue with Warren. She produces these dynamic stories within weeks, and they are wonderful. I really enjoyed this novel, and I will eventually purchase a paperback copy to go in my personal library.

I received a complimentary copy of Iris by Susan May Warren by Sunrise Publishing through JustRead Tours, but the opinions stated are all my own.

[Kelly (The_CozyBookworm) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iris was another fast-paced, can’t catch my breath, but do I really even want to kind of story. Hudson and Iris are such great characters. Their banter is top-notch. Hudson is…I just love him. The scenes with Hudson and Iris interacting with the rest of the Marshall clan (Garrett Marshall is such a wise and loveable character!) were incredible. Susan writes family dynamics perfectly. She just…gets it. All the little ins and outs of sibling relationships and parent-child relationships—Susan just brings these to life so well on the page. The spiritual truths throughout Iris were wonderful, another strength of this author’s work. The journey she took both Hudson and Iris on in their faith was great.

The global plot carried over from previous books in the series took some unexpected and thrilling turns. I can’t wait to see what Creed (book 5) holds in that regard. There was also an unexpected twist on the homefront within the Marshall family (no spoilers here) that had my heart in my throat. I need answers!

Another five star, hit it out of the park story.

[Ochegba · Rating 4 out of 5]

Iris and Hudson took for a fun-filled action pack ans romantic ride. From the opening lines of this story I was hooked wanting to know what comes next, rooting for them to survive and just come out of this whole ordeal alive.
Iris is a fighter. She's worked her way up through the world of football and is now an official but with a mark on her back and Hudson is determined to keep her safe. A football player with career that is nearing its end he does his best to protect her while trying to deny his feelings.
Filled with a lot of heart moments and faith filled messages, we see both characters grow as the story progresses, their struggles, the decisions they make and repercussions of their choices. The family dynamics that makes the story all the more beautiful. I loved every moment.
This book should definitely be read in order of the series as a lot of past characters make appearances.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are solely mine .

[Hallie (Hallie Reads)]

A romantic-suspense read for football lovers!

Iris Marshall is an official in the European League of Football, and Hudson Bly is a wide receiver. They are not fans of one another, but they both acted as courier for the CIA, which brought about some complications, of course. Now, the pair must figure out who has made them a target... and it just might take the whole Marshall family to keep them safe.

Susan May Warren's latest Minnesota Marshall book, Iris, is a fun—romantic and thrilling—read. Of course, I made the mistake of jumping into this series on Book 4... Aspects of the story and characters have been building since the beginning of the series, so I imagine Iris and the rest of the Minnesota Marshalls are best enjoyed in series order. Still, I enjoyed Iris enough that I'll just have to revisit it when I start the series over from the beginning.

(I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.)

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished this in one day! It was unputdownable! I just loved the overall plot. The writing is just excellent, the character development and the story telling was just so good! So entertaining, so creative, so fun and the spiritual truths and wisdom really hit home for me.
I loved watching Iris and Hudson fall in love; really romantic--but more than that I appreciate how there was depth to their relationship, built on more than physical attraction. The family/sibling dynamics too, were so relatable and fun. Susan May Warren is the only author that makes me laugh out loud and cry all in one sitting! ... I didn't want this story to end and I'm already worried about the series being over after Creed's story comes out in October!

[Sue Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great spiritual inspiration read.

Loved the description of the origin of Yaway: “A Jewish name for God. When Moses asked God what his name was, He said what translates to Ya Wa. The Jewish alphabet added the rest, to give it intonation. But if you stop and say that it sounds just like breathing. Ya (out) wa, (in). The scriptures say that in Him we live and move and have our being. He is the very air in our lungs…”

Also, God is life The root of control is fear and God’s perfect love for us casts out fear.

[Emslo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fell in love with Iris and Hudson in book 4, and highly enjoyed this book as a continuation of their story. I liked the pacing of this book, the themes of giving up control and living in the freedom of God’s plans for us, and seeing Garrett and Jenny’s POVs. Can’t wait for the last book!

[Bcs (Sarah. B) · Rating 4 out of 5]

See Fraser for the series review

[Amanda H · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading about Iris and her search for the truth behind the espionage that she has been pulled into. Is someone after her, or was she just in the wrong place at the wrong time? How does it play into the bigger picture of what has been going on through the course of the series?
This series is not one to be read out of order, since there is an ongoing thread through them. I also like how Susan May Warren sets up the next story in the current one, giving the reader a chance to get to know who will be featured in the next story. It does make it hard to wait for the next book to come out though!
This is an action packed, enjoyable read that crisscrosses the globe!
I received this book from Just Read. This is my honest review.

[Mandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Exciting as always! Susan May Warren delivers top notch characters who find themselves in dire situations, fighting to survive. The pace and action/adventure of this story are fantastic; the plot is twisted and turns in dramatic ways making the story highly entertaining. I loved Hudson as a heroine and he may just be one of my favorites with his sweet nature and protective manner. Iris is a force to be reckoned with, independent and strong, a character I also enjoyed. Of course, I loved seeing the whole Marshall family reappear in this story and the globe trotting.

My only drawback was I didn't love all the football play descriptions. So many references and so little understanding of the game made this story a little less enjoyable, but that's just me!

Overall, a definite recommendation from me and one that I highly recommend is read as part of the series, in order!

[Sarita · Rating 4 out of 5]

Iris continued the thrilling pace and suspenseful events where Ned left us hanging. This series should be read in order.

Iris is a strong independent woman – how can she not be with three older brothers. Hudson was an everyday man who stepped out into danger when required. I enjoyed the references to Thor and Chris Hemsworth with his slight Australian accent.

All the football detail was interesting to learn more about and was a change in the pace of danger and espionage.

I enjoyed how Hudson and Iris went from enemies, to friends, to more, and how Iris wanted to remain her independence even though Hudson and the males in her family wanted to come to her rescue.

Susan May Warren has a talent to combine the physical plot and danger to spiritual truths and lessons and bringing the characters closer to God. It is something I always appreciate about this author’s writing.

An exciting series which will keep you up late into the night.

[MJ Ruiz · Rating 2 out of 5]

80% American football
15% in God we trust
5% romance

[Allyson Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

Iris, the fourth installment in the Minnesota Marshalls series, is a fast-paced suspense story with a riveting plot. The only daughter and the middle child, Iris has worked hard to become one of the female football officials for the European League of (American) Football. Now Iris is in trouble and on the run after she had agreed to become a courier for the CIA.
Football player Hudson Bly, who got caught up in this as a courier, finds himself on the run with Iris and does his best to protect her. Having had a TBI and had head injuries from playing football, Hudson knows his football career is coming close to an end.
I enjoyed the banter between Iris and Hudson as well as their budding relationship even though Iris doesn't date football players, the camaraderie among the Marshalls, and the suspense in this story. I'm looking forward to Creed's story

[Tamara Tilley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet another great installment in The Minnesota Marshalls series. Iris might be outnumbered by her hero status brothers, but she's got just as much drama and angst in her life. She might be the fairer of the group, but she can certainly hold her own with any of her brothers, and football hunk Hudson Bly who fumbles into her life. Another favorite.

[Carrie Mcnair · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever read a book, not knowing that the lesson the character learns is exactly what you needed to read? That’s what Iris was for me. I related to Iris and how she plans her life. I’ve read the series, so naturally, I didn’t hesitate to read Iris. As I read, Susan May Warren does what she does best by weaving all the characters together from the series, while focusing mainly on Iris and Hudson. (Please note that if you haven’t read the series, that will not hinder you at all in reading this book.) Hudson Bly is an American playing football overseas. Iris Marshall is a referee. Their jobs mean they can’t have a relationship, and who can think about a relationship when someone is after Iris. Not only has her life been threatened, but there have also been attempts on her life. She and Hudson are on the run even though they just met. Trouble seems to follow them wherever they go. Even through the danger they are drawn to each other. Eventually they find their way to Iris’ childhood home to lay low for awhile until the danger passes. Here her brothers and their significant others are with them, bringing them all together for the first time in years. If you’ve read the series, you will recognize the characters. As an avid reader, I love getting to see the characters I know in later stories so I can check in on them.
As they are at the family vineyard, Iris and Hudson have some learning to do. The struggle to ignore their growing feelings while keeping their jobs is strong. Hudson is beginning to understand how God is in control and to give Him his life. Iris is learning to trust and let go. The lesson Iris comes to understand is that planning your life to a T and living it only when it is planned and you know what’s next, isn’t trusting God or listening to Him. This was a truth bomb for Iris but also me as a reader. Both with a renewed faith and the thought that her life is no longer in danger, they travel back to Europe for a game. Is the trouble over or is it just wishful thinking? Will the lessons they learn at home hold fast when put to the test? How can a relationship work without someone giving up their passion of a job?
Susan May Warren does an amazing job of keeping her characters busy with twists and turns and unexpected turns. She has a way of wrapping up the story and leaving it finished but also leaving you wanting more and wishing she could write as fast as you can read. I’m excited that there will be another book that follows the Marshall family. I loved getting a glimpse into the life of a female football official. That was a new take on a character I haven’t read before. If you love adventure with a little romance, this book is for you!

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Iris by Susan May Warren is the 4th book in her Minnesota Marshalls series. Each book centers on one of the Marshall siblings. This one centers on Iris, the only girl. Iris is an official for the European League of (American) Football. It's all she has ever wanted to do & she loves her job. When she is asked to be a courier for the CIA surprisingly she says yes. Or maybe not surprising if you know the family she was born into. This sets off her being hunted by a killer. Unfortunately, she is also on the run with Hudson Bly the arrogant, bossy, playboy of the ELF. Hudson knows that his time as a football is running out. He's asked to be a courier between agents. He says yes because he wants to be a patriot for his country. He also didn't realize what was going to happen and now he is on the run with Iris the girl who he claims ruined his life. As these two are on the run, they start to realize that maybe they have conflicting feelings about each other. Maybe they might start to like each other. Only time will tell if the feelings are real or just extenuating circumstances.
I admit that this is my first book that I've read in this series. I was a little teeny bit lost at the beginning, but Susan May Warren does a great job of letting you know what has happened before in the other 3 books in this series. I think it would be better to start with Fraser (Minnesota Marshalls #1). There are running storylines and characters that you meet in each of the books that appear in Iris. It is helpful to read the previous books, but you certainly can read Iris and know what is going on. Just from reading this book, I'm in love with the whole Marshall clan and will definitely be reading Fraser, Jonas, Ned, and Creed (when it comes out). She also has the Montana Marshalls who are cousins to these Marshalls. I love that. I love getting to know the towns and the family of characters. That being said, this is a thrill of a ride. This book has everything. If you like families, spooks, football, and a little bit of faith then you will love this book. I know I did! I'm so happy that I was able to read this one and I can't wait to read the others. I was given a copy, but all opinions are my own.

[Marylin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fast-paced ride with another sibling of the Marshall family. Wow!
I’m unsure I have the words to convey the depth of emotions I always experience each time I read a book by Susan May Warren.
Her books lead me on an adventure and never let me stop until the last page. Often, I’m still reeling in the emotions and words are spinning around in my head.
Each book has so much drama, suspense, action, and bits of romance and you find yourself having to remember to breathe, or you faint because of holding your breath. This one is NO different. We start off with the main characters having survived a night stranded in a cave in the ocean, only to be chased and near death many times.
I’m not sure I would EVER want to be one of this author’s characters because they go through so much, and yet, they come out stronger in the end!
Susan May Warren is a very gifted writer. One of the things I truly appreciate about her writing is that she’s not afraid to speak the truth. She wove sweet life lessons throughout this book. Lessons like reaching out to God when it feels like things are out of control, we don’t need to be the ones in control. God has got it all in His hands and timing. When it feels the darkest, He’s still there with us!
I’ve said this before, but it needs to be said again . . . Whatever Ms. Warren writes I’ll read because I know I’ll be captivated and blessed in a way that is life-changing. She is one of my favorite authors to read and whenever I hear of a new book of hers, I’ll run to buy it!
I highly recommend you pick up this new book. You might end up like me, waiting on pins and needles for the next book! AND the next book is the last book in this series and I know it’s going to be explosive and full of mouth-dropping adventures!
I was given this book by the publisher which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Krystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

"'But the best thing you can do in your life is swap captivity- your fear- for love. Let God be in charge of your heart, and He will surprise you.'"
Iris is tough and brave, as one of the only female officials in the EFL would need to be. She is living her dream, and is shocked when her tiptoe into spy work makes her path cross with a football player, Hudson. Up to this point, she has thought him egotistical, but as they partner together, she finds him surprisingly caring and brave...and she begins to want to know him more. However, a contract has been put out on her, and she can't see a way that she can have a future with a football player, if she even has a future ahead of her. And as the danger mounts, she is faced with the fear of all that is out of her control. Can she find hope in the midst of the darkness? And how does she move forward with a relationship in the midst of the unknown?
The Marshall family are so dear to my heart. I have loved each story in this series, and enjoyed this exciting and romantic story! Iris and Hudson are similar in a lot of ways, and seeing how their adventure forced them rely on each other, despite their past perceptions of each other, was so wonderful to watch. The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat, and I couldn't wait to find out how it would turn out. I also couldn't wait to see what would happen between Hudson and Iris!
I definitely feel like you can read this as a standalone, but would recommend starting from the beginning, as I feel like each story builds on the others. You won't regret it getting to know this family and seeing how each story shows the beauty of finding love and hope in the darkest of places.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Raechel Lenore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Susan May Warren always writes some riveting suspense, and Iris was no exception. 
While I have not had the opportunity to read the first three books in the Minnesota Marshalls series, I very much enjoyed Iris! And I definitely want to catch myself up on the previous books as soon as possible. Iris read pretty well by itself however I'd say it would be better enjoyed as apart of the series. There were just a few times where I felt like I was missing something that I'm sure the previous books would have explained. 
All of the characters lept from the page, and interlocked as pieces of a greater story, which I really liked.Iris is a strong yet vulnerable character and I felt like that came across the page really well. Hudson was sweet and charming, and I loved their relationship. There was enough intrigue to keep things exciting without being overly stressful (which I appreciate!), and hints towards more that has yet to be revealed. This is definitely a sports themed novel, and I confess that a lot of it went over my head because I don't watch or get much involved with football, but I still appreciated the sport and how it was displayed throughout the novel.All in all, I definitely enjoyed Iris and am very excited to read the entire series!
(Kinda fun side note: a town I grew up in was mentioned at one point in the story - reading books set in/around my state is always rather fun, and definitely so when familiar towns are mentioned, hehe.)

*I received a complimentary copy from the publishers. I was not required to write a positive review, and all thoughts expressed are mine alone.

[(Jen) The Artist Librarian · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've been waiting for Iris Marshall's story ever since I first read about her in the last book featuring her brother Ned, and Susan May Warren did no disappoint! Not to be overshadowed by her many heroic brothers, the only daughter of the Marshall family has worked hard to build herself a career in the European League of American Football. However, when she decided to do her "patriotic duty" assisting who she thought was the CIA, Iris found herself on the run with who she initially thought was a most exasperating man, football player Hudson Bly.

Perhaps because I followed these characters since they were present in book three, I felt more invested in their journey than I did with Ned's. I thought Warren did an excellent job describing the football scenes, making them dynamic and full of action. I also enjoyed seeing more backstory to Iris and Hudson's lives before we were introduced to them in Europe. I also felt that the spiritual threads were more natural and integrated compared to the last novel I read from Warren. As with previous books in the series, set up for the next title takes place in the secondary plot, this one with the rest of the Marshalls back in Minnesota: primarily Garrett and Jenny with their sons Creed and Fraser, along with Princess Imani and her bodyguard Pippa. As all the plots converge, I eagerly await the finale to The Minnesota Marshalls series later this year!

[Disclosure: I read a copy of this book via the publisher for review purposes.]

[Heidi Robbins (Heidi Reads...) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The suspense and thrills continue in the fourth book of the Minnesota Marshalls series! Definitely read this series in order since the overarching mystery continues throughout, and the subplot in each book becomes the main plot of the following book. I really like this way of getting to know the Marshall siblings simultaneously as their individual stories weave together. Iris and Hudson get pulled into secret agent work for the CIA in the previous book, which puts a target on their backs. This book picks right up with their escape from a life-threatening situation, and the tension doesn't abate while they seek to discover who is after them while still participating in the football season with Hudson as a player and Iris as an official. I loved how the siblings have each others backs, and work together to fight against their enemies, the threads of each book's plot tightening as the elements of each are tied together. The chemistry between Iris and Hudson didn't feel as strong since so much of their attention is on their careers and the danger. I was happy with the resolution and the way they overcame the obstacles that had prevented them from deepening their relationship. We also get some perspective from Iris's parents as they face a new trial which I'm sure will develop in the next book.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Iris! Every book in this series has been amazing! Think of a book that you can’t put down. Think of a book that you simply can’t even contemplate taking a break from reading! That is this book. In fact, that is this series 100%. And if you’ve read this one I’m hoping that you have read the other Marshall series as well. So wonderful!

Okay, now for Iris. She travels a lot. And she gets the opportunity to play CIA a bit like her cousin. When it goes terribly wrong who is out to kill her? And why? Why would someone want her dead? Can Hudson keep her safe? Will she even let him?

The only problem I had with this book is that it sets up the next book and you’re ready to start reading the next book only to not be able to read the next book yet! You’re waiting. And I hate waiting for the next book in a series. It’s very much not fun at all.

Iris read so quickly. I was so excited to get the book I might have stayed up way past my bedtime reading. In fact, it’s a fact. I purposely allowed myself to become sleep deprived even more than normal because I could not wait to see what was going to happen.

If you’re ready for a high suspense novel grab this one and read it immediately!

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.