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The Dark of You: Guardian Hostage Rescue Specialists: BRAVO TEAM

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Dear Devoted Reader, Prepare for an emotional rollercoaster as we delve into what’s happening with Forest. FEAR NOT! Our resilient hero, Forest, will endure. His life isn't easy, and his survival will be equally challenging, but he is a survivor, and we wouldn't have it any other way, would we? Fasten your seatbelts as we set course for "THE DARK OF YOU," the intense narrative of Paul's unique story. This intriguing man isn't just Forest's enigmatic partner, he's the force holding Forest’s darkness at bay, masterfully balancing the war of light and darkness within the man we’ve come to love. And then there's Sara. Forest's beacon in the storm, his luminous savior. She’s his loving light, the balance to his darkness. Together, Paul and Sara will be driven by their unwavering love for Forest to save him. They must unite or risk losing the man they both desperately love. "THE DARK OF YOU" — even the title chills you to the bone, doesn't it? This journey isn't for the faint-hearted, for it's destined to take a darker path. There's no alternative route, no escape from the inevitable. But in the depth of that darkness, there's a promise, an oath I give to you. Our hero, Forest, will NOT perish. "THE DARK OF YOU" is a tale you simply cannot afford to miss. Secure your copy of this gripping story. Let’s step into the darkness together.

410 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 12, 2023

684 people are currently reading
65 people want to read

About the author

Ellie Masters

365 books1,623 followers
Angsty, Steamy, Heart-Stopping, Pulse-Pounding, Can't-Stop-Reading Romantic Suspense.

Ellie Masters is a USA Today Bestselling author and Amazon Top 15 Author.

In addition, she's a wife, military mom, doctor, and retired Colonel.

She writes romantic suspense filled with all your sexy, swoon-worthy alpha men. Her writing will tug at your heartstrings and leave your heart racing.

Born in the South, raised under the Hawaiian sun, Ellie has traveled the globe while in service to her country. The love of her life, her amazing husband, is her number one fan and biggest supporter. And yes! He's read every word she's written.

Don't forget to sign up for her newsletter. Never miss another release, sale, or exclusive. https://elliemasters.com/NewsletterSi...

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5 stars
420 (72%)
4 stars
96 (16%)
3 stars
40 (6%)
2 stars
8 (1%)
1 star
13 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
Profile Image for Heather Nakkar.
48 reviews13 followers
September 10, 2023
Ellie Masters created a powerful one POV story about a man who we, as fans, know but really don’t. Paul is one part of Forest Summer’s throuple, who we met in Forest’s Fall. If you haven’t read that book yet, I strongly suggest that you do so before venturing into this book because it will give you much more incite into this story. Paul is also Piper’s brother (we meet Piper in Hearts Collide with Bent from the Insanity storyline). In this book we really get into who Paul is while he struggles to help the man he loves, Forest, as sickness ravages his lover’s body.

If you have been following along with all of Ellie Master’s books, you will know of Forest’s illness. In this book we see exactly what happens and how far Paul will go to help him. Forcing a resolution that will tear your heart from your chest. This M/M, M/F, M/M/F romance will take you on a ride that only Ellie Masters could craft. And while you will go through so many emotions, overall you will leave the book with a tiny piece of your heart left behind. Definitely plan for this book to take you on a journey that will have you still reeling days later. I know after I was given an opportunity to read this ARC that I had to give myself time to process it all before I could move on to anything else.
Profile Image for Karon Price.
1,241 reviews33 followers
September 7, 2023
This book was advertised as a rollercoaster of emotions and it did not disappoint. We finally find out what's wrong with Forrest and it's nothing good. The angst of those who love him and try to help him is at times heartbreaking and gloriously up-lifting. There is so much to unpack in this story and unfortunately I'm not sharing any of it here to avoid spoilers. Needless to say, it's a wonderfully transformative, realistic and yet improbable read all at the same time. Great romantic elements and HEA.
142 reviews
September 24, 2023
Survival of Darkness

This maybe Paul’s story but it’s so much more. Normally I can run through a book in a few hours easily but this is such an emotional roller coaster, it required a few breaks to breathe,& recenter(and a box of tissues!). An amazing experience not to be missed!
3,712 reviews42 followers
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September 9, 2023
This is Paul’s story and omg it is definitely a must read. Wow Wow Wow did this book take you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions that completely broke you apart, definitely, did this book then give you hope when you thought that all was lost, absolutely. I knew going into this story that it would be emotional, heartbreaking, devastating, dark, gripping, painful, have you on the edge of your seat while holding your breath and a story of love that knows no bounds and will do anything and everything just to keep them here with you and in the end you have to have hope that things work out because without them live will never be the same and darkness will consume you. You feel like you are there living through everything with them and I cried so many times with all the love and support that surrounded them all and where as normally I would read a book a day this one took me two because it absolutely consumed me right from the first page and kept my attention until the last one but who needs sleep when you have a book like this to read, definitely not me. Ellie you are an amazing author and incredible writer and you certainly outdone yourself with this book and you always give us hope when we feel all is lost. Five stars is definitely not enough for this book and it is a story that will stay with you long after you have finished reading it so buckle up for the ride of your life because you definitely do not want to miss reading this book.I Definitely recommend you read this book and you will not be disappointed.
Profile Image for Char Davis.
583 reviews8 followers
September 26, 2023
This is story that will break your heart and then slowly heal it.The trauma that the three people in love have gone through is so sickening.Being used as a child for a sex slave and Forrest unsent so much to protect Sara the young girl he feel for almost immediately,the there is Paul his father was the ruthless man that traded in child traffic owning among other things .At ten Paul was thrown into a cage with another boy to fight for his life after knocking the other boy out he was ordered to kill him if he failed they both would die.So after he became unbeatable his father taught him y abuse in thin torturing him turninghim into a sadist.But when he was told that he was needed to break someone for his fathers pleasure he thought its just another but when he laid eyes on Forrest he knew that someday Forrest would be his.He hated everything he had to do to Forrest but Forrest refused to surrender.When his father said that Sara would be raped by him and all his men then maybe sold he broke he promised to do anything to keep her safe.Now years later the three of them are together and have twins on looks like Forrest an one looks just like Paul .Now Forrest is fighting for his life cancer is a enemy that Paul can't fight for Forrest.When infection after infecting then the chemo stops working Forrest needs a bone marrow donor.Forrest says enough I just want to die living my life the best I can with my family around.When Paul talks to Forrest asking to let him have a donor drive Forrest says no I'm through and if you ever cross that line we will be through.So will Paul risk it all to get a donor for forrest? Will he also find the donor is a sister to Forrest? There are so many twists an turns to this story you will be riveted til the very last page.I can hardly wait to see what's next by this multi talented author.
3,071 reviews17 followers
September 11, 2023
Absolutely Stunning!!

The worlds that surround Forest and his story are simply incredible. Lately we have seen Forest weaken and know there is something unfortunate happening to him. We get answers in this book, and the news is not good. The struggle with his health becomes secondary to the relationship and the impacts caused there.

Definitely an emotional rollercoaster. Of course Forest is married to Sara, and has chosen Paul as his Master. Other high profile characters Skye, Mitzi and the Guardians also play a role. Paul is the major focus of this story. We gain insight into their relationship and how they created the relationship they have.

I can’t say more without giving away plot points. Just set up your orange juice, perhaps a stiff drink and block your calendar as this will need resolution once you jump in!

***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****
568 reviews8 followers
September 6, 2023
Ellie Masters has outdone herself! I can't even begin to describe how much I love this book. I couldn't put it down. I had to keep reading to find out what happens next. The story of Paul and Forest is dark at times, and complex. They understand each other. The depths of emotion in this book will pull at your heartstrings. It definitely has all the feels! Laughter, sorrow, love and no shortage of angst. We finally, at long last, find out what is wrong with Forest. The relationships between Forest, Sara and Paul are going to be tested in ways that threaten the very fabric of who they are together. This is not an easy read, but it was SO worth the wait! This is, in my opinion, the best book yet. Sorry, no spoilers. I received this ARC and here is my honest review.
Profile Image for Carolyn Spence.
1,919 reviews16 followers
September 10, 2023
Absolutely a stunning book. Full of all kinds of emotions, I cried when the game of spoons was told and that was early on in this story I have been waiting for for a long time. All of her regular readers wanting to know what was wrong with Forest and we finally find out. So totally true with all the steps involved with the prognosis. “Love, friendship and purpose” and surviving that is what is on the other side of pain, betrayal and fighting. You can choose your path. Storms always pass you just have to wait them out and figure out your next move. I loved how Josh, Jake and Kate showed up to put the next plan into motion. Their story was one of the first I read of Ms Masters. Absolutely loved this story and highly, highly recommend.

I voluntarily reviewed this book.
Profile Image for Sherry Wood.
578 reviews5 followers
September 11, 2023
Ellie Masters has me in awe with this book! I think it's the best one that she has ever written and is definitely a roller coaster throughout. it took me a few days to read as I took my time to feel and comprehend what all was going on with Paul, Forest, and Sara in their "circle of life". I cried, I laughed, I read in suspense for what was going to happen next. This book is so real, sad at times, brutal at times, and truly glorious with the love between the triad. I truly recommend reading this book but warn that some parts are dark and sad because this is what goes on in the world that most people don't think about. Illness and depravity and greed. Again, the " Circle of Life ". Well done Ellie Masters!!
799 reviews4 followers
September 12, 2023
I have given this book a 5-star review; it merits more than those 5. Like most of Ellie Masters’s readers, I am deeply fond of Forest. He’s a giant of a character, both physically and in terms of every story, and it has been awful watching him get weaker and weaker as the other series have built to this book. We finally find out why that is, and I have never worried about a fictional character as I have about Forest as Paul tells this story. This is also a welcome insight into Paul himself, a character I have never found particularly appealing before. But he humanizes here, and the developing throuple relationship he has with Forest and Sara is also vividly and masterfully portrayed. Don’t miss this book; it will keep you on the edge of your seat and desperate to know what is coming.
Profile Image for Sue Smith.
745 reviews6 followers
September 7, 2023
OMG, Ellie.... I don't know how to even start this review.
There are not enough stars to even give it a true rating......
This has to be one of the best books I have read in a very, very long time. It was absolutely brilliant.
Many times, I needed to reach for the tissues. It's a harrowing, heartbreaking story of trust, love and relationships.
I love the relationship that Paul has with Forest, but it's even better when he realises his feelings for Sarah too.
It was an absolutely amazing story, I loved it from start to finish and couldn't put it down.
I received an ARC copy of this book via the author and I'm willingly leaving an honest review.
1,072 reviews
September 13, 2023
The question burning after finishing the last few books.

Well this book answers that and more. A punishing story with sharp edges that bring all the emotions to the fore. The depth of love that Forest is surrounded with is almost as emotive as the trauma itself.

The sorry dips into the past and the origin story of F/S/P and how they came together and their relationship foundations were set. This book however turns that on its head and breaks then rebuilds everything you think you understood about them

A fab read I can wait for more Guardians.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
19 reviews
September 15, 2023
This book pulls you in and you become invested, not just in a good book, but emotionally invested. If you have ever gone through a cancer diagnosis and treatment yourself or with friends or family you might have a hard time reading this and experiencing the memories it brings up for you. Getting to experience Paul, Sara and Forest’s story was very moving. I’m glad this story takes place over many months, it is much more believable than trying to believe this all could evolve over a month or so. This book is very much worth reading and is very well written. A bit darker in tone that I am used to but a well written book is always a pleasure to read.
Profile Image for Mary Brannian.
1,068 reviews19 followers
September 8, 2023
“I don’t expect you to forgive me,” I say gently. “But I don’t need your forgiveness. When I return, and you’re still alive, it means I was right. That I did the right thing as your Master in looking out for your best interests. I’ll never regret saving your life. And just so we’re clear, when you stepped into the slave circle and went to your knees, you promised to be mine forever. I warned you what kneeling for me meant. That it was forever. You still went to your knees willingly. I was wrong to allow you to think you could withdraw consent. Consent isn’t a part of what we are. It never was. You’re mine, and we are what we are.” - Paul

The Dark of You destroyed me. I THOUGHT I knew where this story was going. I was so completely, utterly mistaken. It absolutely destroyed me. End of discussion.

That being said.... OMG.... The angst, the pathos, the PAIN is unimaginable. Yet fragile hope glimmers that somehow, some way... Love will triumph...
Profile Image for Gina Wooldridge .
377 reviews4 followers
September 7, 2023
Oh my God ! I am utterly devastated and emotionally wrung out. The angst, tenderness, anger and hurt will wring every emotion out of you and then some. I love Ellie Masters books because I know ultimately that good always outweighs and defeats evil , but the getting there whew sometimes is brutal.

If you’re looking for fluff romance this is not it. BUT if you are looking for raw emotions and an epic love story that is not easy or traditional then THIS IS YOUR BOOK! Get the Kleenex and your choice of beverage and buckle up it’s a 5 star +++++ read.
185 reviews7 followers
September 8, 2023
ARC review. I’ve been impatiently waiting for The Dark of You by Ellie Masters. Reading about Forest and Paul’s relationship from Paul’s perspective was raw, intense and unexpected as they faced critical life and death decisions. My emotions were besieged and battered as I pulled for Paul and Forest to find peace and happiness in their lives. I was expecting an emotional read but was blown away. This book was so much more than I thought was possible. It was absolutely amazing and worth the wait. Definitely my favorite book in this series but also on my personal list of all time favorites.
Profile Image for Didi.
1,923 reviews
September 11, 2023
An amazing book are words that don’t even cover the depths of this story. Buckle up for an emotional ride. It is thought provoking, complex, beautiful, intense, brutal, and overwhelming at times. We understand what Forest has been facing and experience the threat to Forest, Paul and Sara’s relationship. But amongst the heartache there are fragile glimpses of hope and love. There is extra story offered that you should not miss. Now to go buy more kleenex. Thank you Ellie for an incredible journey.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Melinda Swaine.
2,419 reviews12 followers
September 12, 2023
Sure to be a favourite for any lover of romantic suspense!!!

Holy heck! Make sure you start this so you can finish it in a session! As this is another fantastic addition to this Guardian Hostage Rescue Specialists romance series as it had me staying up late into the night wanting to know what happens next!! Compelling, intriguing, and jaw-dropping, this is sure to be a favourite for any lover of romantic suspense. Ellie Masters is a queen at being able to draw the reader in...and she doesn’t disappoint. Definitely pick this up today. Happy reading
Profile Image for Lissa.
224 reviews12 followers
September 15, 2023
Ellie Masters has truly outdone herself again! This story has all the “feels” and more, just like a roller coaster ride: up and down with the emotions, fast and slow (angst) with the action, sideways and upside down (never knowing what’s going to happen next)! I was on the edge of my seat all the way. Loved reading all of it from Paul’s point of view, so many new perspectives because of his particular life experiences. And finally, we know what was going on with Forest!! Five stars!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Carina Hales.
476 reviews11 followers
September 5, 2023
Ellie you have done it again! Absolutely amazing book. I have been so worried about Forest and needed to hear more!! Thank you for this book! I loved hearing more from Paul and understanding him more. The dynamic between Paul and Sara was amazing too! I’m so happy for them to have found their place together. They all just fit perfectly! Great as always to have Mitzy,Skye and then band all appearing. This book really tugged at my heart I had to really stop myself from checking the last page! I had faith in Ellie though! So looking forward now to reading Charlie’s series.
27 reviews2 followers
September 6, 2023
This is the most emotional read I've read in a while. Ellie Masters knocked it out of the park. I this release we bet some answers we've suspected and now know for certain. This is continuation of the relationship between Forest and Paul and Sara. The ups and downs and the roller coaster of emotions as they commit completely to each other. And we get to see some people from the past. Not all of them welcome but we see them get what's coming to them. I love this story!!!!....
1,205 reviews
September 9, 2023
Paul is part of a throuple with Sara and Forest.
Sara Forest’s wife.
Forest is the leader of The Guardian Hostage Rescue Specialists.

Paul, Sara and Forest have a special bond with each other.
This story is about Paul and Forest and their particular relationship.

Can Forest with his health issues overcome them and still have a relationship
( it will be tested), with Paul and Sara. You will have to read the book.

Please prepare to have your emotions to be on a rollercoaster of ups and downs
and tissues handy.

This book has suspense, a huge depth of emotions and heartache.

Great Job Ellie Masters !!!!
Profile Image for Renee.
954 reviews5 followers
September 14, 2023
Heartbreaking

Ellie Masters is a favorite author of mine. I have loved all her books, but I do believe this one is my favorite of hers. It gripped me and brought me to tears. I could not put it down. Told only in Paul's POV, I finally became more invested in him. Paul, Forest, and Sarah are more "one" than ever, overcoming the hardest of obstacles in life. I do hope we get more of them in the future.
Profile Image for Brenda Woodman.
57 reviews1 follower
September 14, 2023
Just WoW!

This story was a slower read for me, but it was a much anticipated story. My heart broke for Paul and had some momentary dislike for Forest, but this was a story that needed to be told. Paul learns much about himself and the man that he has become. The man he finds that he wants to be for Sara and for Forest. A phenomenal read. If you are new to Ellie Master, drop back and start with Ashes to New. Learn the twists and turns that become Guardian HRS.
Profile Image for Linda.
968 reviews2 followers
September 17, 2023
Perfect story! 🤓

This was one freakin awesome read.. my heart broke for Forest.. I felt Paul’s pain and Sara’s never ending love. This story told me more of Paul’s life, a glimpse into the past when he was a boy. The storyline was heartbreaking on so many fronts. But geez the ending is what fairytales are made from. And I’m counting that “bonus scene”. Dang Ellie Masters definitely know how to write a scene so freaking hot it’ll blow you away. 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
6,535 reviews27 followers
September 11, 2023
If you have been reading this series then you have probably been wondering what was wrong with Forest and now we get the answer which leads to a storyline that is full of turbulence angst and anger but also love strength and forgiveness. I don't want to give spoilers so all i can really say is this is one book you need to read to get not only Forest's story but also Paul and Sara's but be ready you will definitely need the tissues
Profile Image for Christina Standridge.
1,036 reviews3 followers
September 11, 2023
Oh my, what an emotional journey. The story goes in to detail about how Paul, Sara and Forest end up together. It shows the good, the bad and the ugly. Forest collapses and they don't know if he is going to survive. I love the ending as well. I love the entire series.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Maria Angie Mendoza.
3,178 reviews20 followers
September 12, 2023
The author wrote to get ready for an emotional roller coaster ride. She was not kidding. Prepare yourself to be transported into the compelling and complex world of Forest and the people who love and care about him.
Exciting, erotic and deeply emotional as we delve into a journey full of surprises and unexpected circumstances.
Best jump in and find out for yourself!
4.5 stars!
78 reviews10 followers
September 14, 2023
Amazing

I would give this 10 stars if I could!!! The much anticipated book with Forrest, Paul and Sara was everything I wanted and more!!! This series is one of my favorites and the characters are so well written you just want to be a part of their world!!! This is a must read series!!!
Profile Image for Leisel.
750 reviews4 followers
September 28, 2023
Definitely another winning read from Ellie Masters' and her "Guardian Hostage Rescue Specialists" series. Possibly slightly one of the more gritty emotional stories in this series but still so worth the effort of finding time to read it.
Having read a few of the other books this one was great to finally answer a few of the questions I've had regarding the boss, Forest and his intriguing background story and I can thankfully say my mind is clearer to him and his entourage of companions. It is defintely a "darker" story and can really push the emotional envelope and with its length of story, being a longer story there is so much entertainment for the reader to sit back and digest.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews

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