What do you think?
Rate this book
Cole’s return home was supposed to be restful, but fate had other plans for the man, better known as Viper.
Enter the mysterious woman, wearing a hoodie, pursued by a relentless stalker. Unable to stand by, Viper sweeps into her life, proposing a fake engagement to silence the nosy people in their small mountain town after insisting she move in with him.
Bailey’s cabin was meant to be a refuge from her tormenter, not an unexpected detour into a stranger’s world.
However, her initial resistance to Viper taking charge begins to crumble as sparks fly and their limited shared space awakens dormant desires. And while she feels safe for the first time in too long, he poses a different challenge to her guarded heart. Their undeniable attraction and the heat from just a simple touch leave them perilously close to shattering their resolve to avoid love. Will they surrender to their yearning, or can they find a way to defy the odds?
Enter the mysterious woman, wearing a hoodie, pursued by a relentless stalker. Unable to stand by, Viper sweeps into her life, proposing a fake engagement to silence the nosy people in their small mountain town after insisting she move in with him.
Bailey’s cabin was meant to be a refuge from her tormenter, not an unexpected detour into a stranger’s world.
However, her initial resistance to Viper taking charge begins to crumble as sparks fly and their limited shared space awakens dormant desires. And while she feels safe for the first time in too long, he poses a different challenge to her guarded heart. Their undeniable attraction and the heat from just a simple touch leave them perilously close to shattering their resolve to avoid love. Will they surrender to their yearning, or can they find a way to defy the odds?
197 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 23, 2024
About the author
Susie McIver
181 books72 followersSusie McIver is a native Californian and lifelong lover of great books. Born into a family of ten children, there were plenty of stories to tell and share. It’s only fitting she now writes books of her own.
When she’s not writing or plotting her next book, she enjoys walking in nature, fishing in a lake near her home, reading, and spending as much time as she can with her three amazing children, five beautiful grandchildren, and her husband, whom she proudly says is her best friend in the world.
For more information about Susie and her books, visit her website here: https://www.susiemciver.com
When she’s not writing or plotting her next book, she enjoys walking in nature, fishing in a lake near her home, reading, and spending as much time as she can with her three amazing children, five beautiful grandchildren, and her husband, whom she proudly says is her best friend in the world.
For more information about Susie and her books, visit her website here: https://www.susiemciver.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
October 3, 2025
This engaging story draws readers into a thrilling world filled with constant action and excitement. Surprising twists reveal deeper layers, building tension as the stakes increase. The main character impresses him with her strength and resilience, sparking his determination to protect her from danger.
The leading characters are strong, charismatic men who have solid moral values and caring hearts. They confront powerful enemies driven by greed and delve into dark forces, all while staying loyal to each other. Their deep friendship inspires a strong commitment, making them fierce protectors of their loved ones and fellow warriors. Above all, they represent the true meaning of family, standing together against any challenge. Each character, facing their own struggles with determination, adds depth to this emotional story that keeps readers engaged.
The leading characters are strong, charismatic men who have solid moral values and caring hearts. They confront powerful enemies driven by greed and delve into dark forces, all while staying loyal to each other. Their deep friendship inspires a strong commitment, making them fierce protectors of their loved ones and fellow warriors. Above all, they represent the true meaning of family, standing together against any challenge. Each character, facing their own struggles with determination, adds depth to this emotional story that keeps readers engaged.
January 13, 2024
After reading the previous book to this one that featured Weston whom Viper had saved before they were both captured and held prisoners for four years, I looked forward to reading about Viper's story. Susie McIver didn't disappoint. Bailey Peterson is in hiding from a stalker that has been after her for three years. They live on the same mountain and when they meet, Viper is determined to protect her. They each swear that they will not fall in love or ever get married. However, Viper insists on telling everyone they are engaged so he came stay with her in order to protect her. Loved the twist Susie threw in the storyline to add to the stalker situation.
March 30, 2025
decent
This read was a decent read. I expected a lot more of the dominant alpha energy with the protector portion of the title. I have to say I was a little let down. But all in all it was a good read.
This read was a decent read. I expected a lot more of the dominant alpha energy with the protector portion of the title. I have to say I was a little let down. But all in all it was a good read.
July 3, 2024
Awkward stilted dialogue.
In Stephen King’s book on writing he discusses how he is bad at writing dialogue so he limits the use in his books. It’s not the loss of death for an author but writing a dialogue heavy book when you haven’t practiced it enough is definitely the kiss of death for a book.
/“Yes, my cousin sold me the cabin a couple years ago; I can’t let people see me because if he comes around asking about me and showing everyone my picture, they can point him in my direction.” Her dark hair cascaded down to her waist as she removed her hoodie. The thought crossed my mind that I was in dire need of female company. “Tell me, what's going on?” I urged. She handed me a photograph, her apprehension evident. “Here’s his picture. As you can see, he takes a picture of me while watching me. Look, we’re both in the photo. He’s been following me for three years. This is the only place where he hasn’t found me. What do you think?” “You don’t know this guy? Perhaps he went to school with you and developed an unhealthy obsession. When did you graduate?” I couldn’t help but smile at her exasperated reaction. She rolled her eyes, and I held back my smile. “What does that have to do with anything? It's not about when I graduated; it's about this crazy man who's after me.” “Yeah, but I think you’re too young to be out here alone.”/
In Stephen King’s book on writing he discusses how he is bad at writing dialogue so he limits the use in his books. It’s not the loss of death for an author but writing a dialogue heavy book when you haven’t practiced it enough is definitely the kiss of death for a book.
/“Yes, my cousin sold me the cabin a couple years ago; I can’t let people see me because if he comes around asking about me and showing everyone my picture, they can point him in my direction.” Her dark hair cascaded down to her waist as she removed her hoodie. The thought crossed my mind that I was in dire need of female company. “Tell me, what's going on?” I urged. She handed me a photograph, her apprehension evident. “Here’s his picture. As you can see, he takes a picture of me while watching me. Look, we’re both in the photo. He’s been following me for three years. This is the only place where he hasn’t found me. What do you think?” “You don’t know this guy? Perhaps he went to school with you and developed an unhealthy obsession. When did you graduate?” I couldn’t help but smile at her exasperated reaction. She rolled her eyes, and I held back my smile. “What does that have to do with anything? It's not about when I graduated; it's about this crazy man who's after me.” “Yeah, but I think you’re too young to be out here alone.”/
August 6, 2025
The story is about He’s her fiercest protector. She’s the challenge he never saw coming. Together, they’re about to ignite a fire that could destroy them or save them both.
When Delta Force operative Cole "Viper" returns to his small mountain hometown, he’s expecting peace and quiet. What he doesn’t expect is Bailey, a mysterious woman on the run, haunted by a relentless stalker. Drawn by her vulnerability and fierce determination, Cole can’t stand by while danger closes in.
Bailey’s cabin was supposed to be her sanctuary, but safety feels impossible until Viper steps in. With his take-charge attitude, he insists on moving her into his home and proposes a fake engagement to keep the town gossip at bay. Sharing close quarters, the walls around Bailey’s guarded heart begin to crumble, and Cole finds himself fighting a battle he’s never trained for: resisting the fiery connection sparking between them
But when their sizzling attraction threatens to ignite into something deeper, the stakes rise. Can Bailey trust the man who’s sworn to protect her? And can Cole open his heart to a love that could cost him everything?
I did not finish this book. There is no flow. It is all a major mix-up. What felt as a good story does not flow through the book as all characters have their own stories in between. No real substance.
When Delta Force operative Cole "Viper" returns to his small mountain hometown, he’s expecting peace and quiet. What he doesn’t expect is Bailey, a mysterious woman on the run, haunted by a relentless stalker. Drawn by her vulnerability and fierce determination, Cole can’t stand by while danger closes in.
Bailey’s cabin was supposed to be her sanctuary, but safety feels impossible until Viper steps in. With his take-charge attitude, he insists on moving her into his home and proposes a fake engagement to keep the town gossip at bay. Sharing close quarters, the walls around Bailey’s guarded heart begin to crumble, and Cole finds himself fighting a battle he’s never trained for: resisting the fiery connection sparking between them
But when their sizzling attraction threatens to ignite into something deeper, the stakes rise. Can Bailey trust the man who’s sworn to protect her? And can Cole open his heart to a love that could cost him everything?
I did not finish this book. There is no flow. It is all a major mix-up. What felt as a good story does not flow through the book as all characters have their own stories in between. No real substance.
January 22, 2024
Cole “aka Viper” Reed has returned home to his mountain family and community after four years as a prisoner in Iran. Able to save the life of fellow soldier, they were finally rescued. His sister tells him there is a strange woman living further up the mountain and he decides to find out who she is. He is immediately attracted to Bailey Peterson who is hiding from a stalker, a man who was responsible for her sister’s death. Cole insists on taking care of her by moving her into his home. He’s not interested in forever, but as he spends time with her, she makes him yearn for more, more than just the present. Bailey is determined to handle her stalker on her own, but can Cole keep her safe as trouble continues to follow her? Believing she has no family, after her parents disappeared years ago, she soon learns that she has more relatives than she thought possible. Two wounded souls trying to move on with their lives, a strong and supportive family community, and maybe a few surprises for both of them along the way. Great characters and a truly enjoyable romantic suspense. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
April 23, 2024
I had high hopes for this book But it didn't pan out for me
I like the characters But the writing just was not what I expected. It was kind of 1⁄3 person story but it was written as if the characters were Thinking and saying it. It was stilted And bland. There should have been more emotion in some of the scenes and it just wasn't there. Plus it needs a better editing than it had. I don't I don't know about this author because I never read about the author unless I know them from previous books But I would guess she 's young. I think some would enjoy the book but I don't know how many times I wanted to quit reading it.
I like the characters But the writing just was not what I expected. It was kind of 1⁄3 person story but it was written as if the characters were Thinking and saying it. It was stilted And bland. There should have been more emotion in some of the scenes and it just wasn't there. Plus it needs a better editing than it had. I don't I don't know about this author because I never read about the author unless I know them from previous books But I would guess she 's young. I think some would enjoy the book but I don't know how many times I wanted to quit reading it.
January 13, 2024
This was a really great story. Suspenseful but romantic.
After being imprisoned for four years Cole has returned home but finds neighbor Bailey who is in hiding from a stalker.
These two were passionate and Cole was protective of her but the attraction was strong. After what he had been through he seems to overcompensate but she understands him as he does her.
Very well done, great cast of characters and a feasible plot.
After being imprisoned for four years Cole has returned home but finds neighbor Bailey who is in hiding from a stalker.
These two were passionate and Cole was protective of her but the attraction was strong. After what he had been through he seems to overcompensate but she understands him as he does her.
Very well done, great cast of characters and a feasible plot.
January 22, 2024
Viper was a good book, full of action and romance. I enjoyed meeting Viper's family and his friends from Delta Force. Though Bailey tried to be strong, Viper realized she was in over her head and stayed with her despite her protests. She finally learned to rely on him, though she never became a doormat. She insists on being a part of the action. They fall in love, despite their protests that they never would.
March 29, 2024
Can't recommend
I gave this book a two because the dialog was stilted, the characters weren't effectively developed and there were numerous editing problems. The author's plot idea had merit, but she clearly didn't spend much time researching anything. And for the record, it's "messed up", not "missed up". I know that seems petty, but that error appeared a number of times, so it wasn't a typo.
I gave this book a two because the dialog was stilted, the characters weren't effectively developed and there were numerous editing problems. The author's plot idea had merit, but she clearly didn't spend much time researching anything. And for the record, it's "messed up", not "missed up". I know that seems petty, but that error appeared a number of times, so it wasn't a typo.
January 12, 2024
An excellent story. I loved Bailey, she was down to earth and an innocent. She has been on her own for a while trying to out run her stalker. There are surprises, danger, plenty of heat. Cole (Viper), doesn't know how to act around her, she challenges all his beliefs about love. Get ready for never ending changes. HEA.
June 18, 2024
Great Story, Military Romance, Family
She has the amazing ability to write her stories so detailed and totally independent of repetition. I am in awe of her mind!
Another amazing read!
My only suggestion is to smooth the flow of the story. I love that you are detailed so that all the tidbits are followed through with closure!
She has the amazing ability to write her stories so detailed and totally independent of repetition. I am in awe of her mind!
Another amazing read!
My only suggestion is to smooth the flow of the story. I love that you are detailed so that all the tidbits are followed through with closure!
June 24, 2024
Not all heros are cowboys.
I grew up reading westerns and I loved the gunfighters and cowboys so much. And yes I read some harlequins but I didn't enjoy them as much. Your story line was sweet a whole mountain of family and well named ex seals or whatever, that deserved happiness after their ordeals. A real good feel good read.
I grew up reading westerns and I loved the gunfighters and cowboys so much. And yes I read some harlequins but I didn't enjoy them as much. Your story line was sweet a whole mountain of family and well named ex seals or whatever, that deserved happiness after their ordeals. A real good feel good read.
November 22, 2024
Grammatical Errors And Abrupt Shifts Dampened A Great Story
I absolutely loved the spirit of this story.
I wish the author would update it by fixing the editing because it was hard to tell who was speaking at times and the scenes shifted in tone, location and voice without warning. It would have been even better if we had time to get to know the characters better too.
I absolutely loved the spirit of this story.
I wish the author would update it by fixing the editing because it was hard to tell who was speaking at times and the scenes shifted in tone, location and voice without warning. It would have been even better if we had time to get to know the characters better too.
November 5, 2025
Decent storyline. Needs Editing
Storyline has potential, but it reads like a high school level attempt at wry.
The lack of grammar, punctuation and editing is really distracting.
The author really needs to take a professional level writing class. Focus on the rise and fall of action and plot resolution.
Has potential but there is tremendous room for growth.
Storyline has potential, but it reads like a high school level attempt at wry.
The lack of grammar, punctuation and editing is really distracting.
The author really needs to take a professional level writing class. Focus on the rise and fall of action and plot resolution.
Has potential but there is tremendous room for growth.
February 5, 2024
Great Book
This was the first time , I read her book. Definitely, read more, of them. 💓 Viper and Bailey. I 💓this Love story. This book was entertaining, Starker, danger, lots of Heat, drama, suspense, romance, and wonderful characters. Definitely, reading her books, again.
This was the first time , I read her book. Definitely, read more, of them. 💓 Viper and Bailey. I 💓this Love story. This book was entertaining, Starker, danger, lots of Heat, drama, suspense, romance, and wonderful characters. Definitely, reading her books, again.
February 23, 2024
great story
The actual story is gripping however I found that most things were cut off a bit soon so it felt choppy. It needs padding out to bring in more emotion and generally more description . Has huge potential as a series. M
The actual story is gripping however I found that most things were cut off a bit soon so it felt choppy. It needs padding out to bring in more emotion and generally more description . Has huge potential as a series. M
June 17, 2024
WONDERFUL BOOK. I THINK BAILY AND VIPER WAS GOING TO BE A GREAT COUPLE IN THE BEGINING WHEN THEY FIRST MET. LATER YOU CAN JUST TELL HOW MUCH THEY LOVED EACH OTHER AND THEIR FAMILIES. I WOULD RECOMMEND THIS BOOK.
June 23, 2024
Very short
So while this is a good little chapter I'm confused because I thought I was getting the whole book. It was only about a bonus ending of a book and not anything like the description doesn't match sadly I paid full price for a book that wasn't.
So while this is a good little chapter I'm confused because I thought I was getting the whole book. It was only about a bonus ending of a book and not anything like the description doesn't match sadly I paid full price for a book that wasn't.
September 15, 2024
disjointed dialogue
Story was promising, but all dialogue was very stilted so it felt awkward. It all felt disjointed like it was missing something to flow better. Also had a lot of typos, so I’m pretty disappointed. I had to force myself to finish it because I really hate DNF.
Story was promising, but all dialogue was very stilted so it felt awkward. It all felt disjointed like it was missing something to flow better. Also had a lot of typos, so I’m pretty disappointed. I had to force myself to finish it because I really hate DNF.
November 8, 2024
This book just isn't for me. I'm writing this review to remind myself in case I come across the book again. I did not find the characters engaging and it all seemed kind of ridiculous. I did not finish the book.
February 6, 2025
Too convenient
Events in the story unfolded at lightening speed without even taking breathe between one thing happening and the next. Everything just fell into line much too conveniently. It was all too predictable. I won't bother to carry on reading this series
Events in the story unfolded at lightening speed without even taking breathe between one thing happening and the next. Everything just fell into line much too conveniently. It was all too predictable. I won't bother to carry on reading this series
November 26, 2025
Don't waste your time!!
This book is a disjointed mess. I almost always finish any book I start, but pulled the plug on this one 60 pages it. Horrid mishmash of pieces that don't tie together.
This book is a disjointed mess. I almost always finish any book I start, but pulled the plug on this one 60 pages it. Horrid mishmash of pieces that don't tie together.
December 28, 2025
Viper by Susie Mclver
This story had all the bells and whistles to a good book. Bailey and Viper make a great couple. There's found family, missing parents, helping people in need. Good feel book! Loved the story!!
This story had all the bells and whistles to a good book. Bailey and Viper make a great couple. There's found family, missing parents, helping people in need. Good feel book! Loved the story!!
January 19, 2026
Good story
This story has danger,suspence twist and turns around every corner and heart break of the loss of a sister and finding out that you have a large family and the trails you had growing up, looking forward to reading more books from this author
This story has danger,suspence twist and turns around every corner and heart break of the loss of a sister and finding out that you have a large family and the trails you had growing up, looking forward to reading more books from this author
January 24, 2024
A wonderful read. There is action, suspense, romance and well rounded characters. The twists and turns kept things interesting. I can't wait for the next book in the series.
January 30, 2024
Love this book
I love all the action and humor and romance in this book. Viper and Bailey are the perfect couple. I laughed and cried, I can't wait to read the next book.
I love all the action and humor and romance in this book. Viper and Bailey are the perfect couple. I laughed and cried, I can't wait to read the next book.
March 12, 2024
Can’t make me finish this one
Did Not Finish
May 6, 2024Dnf - did not like the writing
Read
July 21, 2024This was a great story and a joy to read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews