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Secure One #4
The Silent Setup
He can only protect them
If he harnesses the lessons of his past
A special ops mission gone wrong has left Eric Newman deaf, grappling with PTSD and shouldering the burden of unresolved guilt. Nevertheless, he’s building a new career and a new sense of purpose as a security expert. Then Sadie Cook and her baby nephew come crashing into his life. Even before he knows that he’s falling for Sadie, he’s determined to do whatever it takes to keep her and the little boy safe. But painful memories keep invading, making him wonder if he's the right man to protect them…
If he harnesses the lessons of his past
A special ops mission gone wrong has left Eric Newman deaf, grappling with PTSD and shouldering the burden of unresolved guilt. Nevertheless, he’s building a new career and a new sense of purpose as a security expert. Then Sadie Cook and her baby nephew come crashing into his life. Even before he knows that he’s falling for Sadie, he’s determined to do whatever it takes to keep her and the little boy safe. But painful memories keep invading, making him wonder if he's the right man to protect them…
222 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 22, 2024
15 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
About the author
Katie Mettner
108 books1,667 followersKatie Mettner wears the title of 'the only person to lose her leg after falling down the bunny hill' and loves decorating her prosthetic leg to fit the season. She lives in Northern Wisconsin with her own happily-ever-after and spends the day writing romantic stories with her sweet puppy by her side. Katie has an addiction to coffee and dachshunds and a lessening aversion to Pinterest — now that she’s quit trying to make the things she pins.
Read about more of Katie's adventures as an amputee writer at http://katiemettner.com/
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Read about more of Katie's adventures as an amputee writer at http://katiemettner.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
October 5, 2024
From the opening scene, Ms. Mettner knows how to engage her readers through her storytelling. Right off the bat you’re taken in a flashback, and there’s so much you feel physically and mentally for the characters in the scene. Her hearty strings are pulled and the depth of understanding of each obstacle is clearly written. I always love that Ms. Mettner’s characters have a disability in each of her stories and the awareness of how individuals have to adjust to their way of life especially if something had happened to them later in life. This is not my favorite of the series but this series overall has been fantastic!
Book 4 focuses on Eric and Sadie’s story. Eric has a hearing disability, one attained from combat. He has hearing aids that allow him to be able to hear but he does heavily rely on reading lips. While working a job for Secure One, he meets Sadie, a woman is employed at a facility where a crime took place. Eric having to routinely question her is how these two meet for the first time. This is a fast romance which was hard for me as I would’ve liked a bit more depth but the chemistry was on point and I am glad they were each others’ saving grace and positive element to move forward with life’s “roadblocks”.
I admired Eric. Of course you know his hunky, strong, loyal and alpha protector that you are glad he would be on your side or ever come to your aid. You really feel for him and his struggles….not only with PTSD from war but having to go from being able to hear normally to needing assistance and without that assistance, all is silent. This book really does make you realize how much you can take for granted daily what God has designed the body to do. I can’t imagine what that feeling is like. There were times I would get frustrated with him but then I would quickly realize that my perspective is coming from not in that kind of position or trauma.
I was frustrated at times with Sadie and had a hard time relating but I felt sorry for her. Her sister went missing, no one would believe her, she’s caring for her nephew unexpectedly, and then she’s wanted for murder. Her life flipped inside down in an instant. I applaud her putting her nephews needs first and foremost and making sure he is taken care of.
Closed door romance, clean language, fast pace plot that keeps you engaged. TRIGGERS - MMC has PTSD and suffers from it throughout the book. There was quite a bit of focus on Selina so I am ready to read her story and get to know her history.
I received an advanced copy of the book and all my thoughts and opinions are my own.
Book 4 focuses on Eric and Sadie’s story. Eric has a hearing disability, one attained from combat. He has hearing aids that allow him to be able to hear but he does heavily rely on reading lips. While working a job for Secure One, he meets Sadie, a woman is employed at a facility where a crime took place. Eric having to routinely question her is how these two meet for the first time. This is a fast romance which was hard for me as I would’ve liked a bit more depth but the chemistry was on point and I am glad they were each others’ saving grace and positive element to move forward with life’s “roadblocks”.
I admired Eric. Of course you know his hunky, strong, loyal and alpha protector that you are glad he would be on your side or ever come to your aid. You really feel for him and his struggles….not only with PTSD from war but having to go from being able to hear normally to needing assistance and without that assistance, all is silent. This book really does make you realize how much you can take for granted daily what God has designed the body to do. I can’t imagine what that feeling is like. There were times I would get frustrated with him but then I would quickly realize that my perspective is coming from not in that kind of position or trauma.
I was frustrated at times with Sadie and had a hard time relating but I felt sorry for her. Her sister went missing, no one would believe her, she’s caring for her nephew unexpectedly, and then she’s wanted for murder. Her life flipped inside down in an instant. I applaud her putting her nephews needs first and foremost and making sure he is taken care of.
Closed door romance, clean language, fast pace plot that keeps you engaged. TRIGGERS - MMC has PTSD and suffers from it throughout the book. There was quite a bit of focus on Selina so I am ready to read her story and get to know her history.
I received an advanced copy of the book and all my thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 28, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed the silent setup, Katie Mettner has a way of making her characters real, they always have real life problems, either physical or mental health.
Eric is suffering from PTSD but also he lost his hearing during a mission gone bad.
Sadie is running away from people who she thinks have her sister.
She literally falls into Eric's arms after he saves her from her car being shoved off the road.
This is a fast paced thriller where you don't know what is going to happen next.
It's filled with lots of action and excitement that makes it hard to put the book down.
Eric is suffering from PTSD but also he lost his hearing during a mission gone bad.
Sadie is running away from people who she thinks have her sister.
She literally falls into Eric's arms after he saves her from her car being shoved off the road.
This is a fast paced thriller where you don't know what is going to happen next.
It's filled with lots of action and excitement that makes it hard to put the book down.
September 2, 2024
From the beginning, Katie Mettner grabs you and pulls you into the world of Secure One. Having survived a horrible bombing on a mission in the Army, Eric is essentially dead. With hearing Aida, he can hear well enough and works with Secure One. Enter Sadie Cook- hiding out and protecting her nephew while looking for her sister has her in danger. The chemistry between the characters is electric, the action and story all consuming. Love this series!
October 28, 2024
This is book 4 in the Secure One series and it did not disappoint. As with all of the Secure One characters Eric has ghosts that haunt him from a previous mission during his time in the service. but the team works together to get the job done.
Sadie is on the run with her nephew after receiving a note at work saying run. She notices she is being followed and her cars goes off the road. She is rescued by a couple members of Secure One, she briefly met team member Eric when she was interviewed by him at her place of work where a crime was committed. Secure One will do what it takes to keep Sadie and her nephew safe.
This story is full of action, danger and secretes being revealed. Can Eric keep Sadie and her nephew safe wile he is trying to keep his feeling in check and help solve the case. Can the teams trust in each other stay intact?
I look forward to reading more from Ms. Mettner as she has become one of my favorite authors!
Sadie is on the run with her nephew after receiving a note at work saying run. She notices she is being followed and her cars goes off the road. She is rescued by a couple members of Secure One, she briefly met team member Eric when she was interviewed by him at her place of work where a crime was committed. Secure One will do what it takes to keep Sadie and her nephew safe.
This story is full of action, danger and secretes being revealed. Can Eric keep Sadie and her nephew safe wile he is trying to keep his feeling in check and help solve the case. Can the teams trust in each other stay intact?
I look forward to reading more from Ms. Mettner as she has become one of my favorite authors!
June 3, 2025
This is book 4 in the series, but each book stands on its own. The Secure One team works together on cases and different characters appear in the various books throughout the series. The main character in this book, Eric Newman, has been in prior books. I enjoyed getting to know him better in this book and seeing the softening of his character. He and his love interest have great chemistry. The mystery portion was suspenseful and kept my interest throughout the book. I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series.
September 21, 2024
I always say Katie’s books make you feel a family value in each story. This book is no exception!
Sadie and her baby nephew, Houston, find themselves run off the road but they lucked out that they found themselves on the Secure One property. Eric and Efren rescue them and she realizes she met Eric earlier at her place of employment where a body was just found She had briefly been questioned by Eric as Secure One had been hired as security for Fettering’s company.
Eric, with the help of hearing aids, has little hearing. He also has PTSD from a military assignment that went wrong. And they lost the family they were protecting when the little boy went to step out of the car and a bomb went off. A memory that Eric sees in his mind every day.
Sadie explains her sister disappeared and that the police do not believe her but Eric and the team look into it and believe her and decide to help her find her sister and to protect her and Houston while doing so
While all this intrigue, kidnapping, and murder are going on Sadie and Eric have discerned they have a connection and have to decide if it’s something they want to explore.
Discovering the murder was a mob hit and in rescuing Sadie’s sister and the father of her baby, they also discover a secret within their Team. And Selina is not willing to give anyone an explanation!
This book will keep you on the edge of your seat! It also hits home that we should all recognize that love is worth any disability whether it be physical or mental (PTSD) and if you love someone don’t give up, help each other move forward!
Sadie and her baby nephew, Houston, find themselves run off the road but they lucked out that they found themselves on the Secure One property. Eric and Efren rescue them and she realizes she met Eric earlier at her place of employment where a body was just found She had briefly been questioned by Eric as Secure One had been hired as security for Fettering’s company.
Eric, with the help of hearing aids, has little hearing. He also has PTSD from a military assignment that went wrong. And they lost the family they were protecting when the little boy went to step out of the car and a bomb went off. A memory that Eric sees in his mind every day.
Sadie explains her sister disappeared and that the police do not believe her but Eric and the team look into it and believe her and decide to help her find her sister and to protect her and Houston while doing so
While all this intrigue, kidnapping, and murder are going on Sadie and Eric have discerned they have a connection and have to decide if it’s something they want to explore.
Discovering the murder was a mob hit and in rescuing Sadie’s sister and the father of her baby, they also discover a secret within their Team. And Selina is not willing to give anyone an explanation!
This book will keep you on the edge of your seat! It also hits home that we should all recognize that love is worth any disability whether it be physical or mental (PTSD) and if you love someone don’t give up, help each other move forward!
September 17, 2024
Another great book in the series. Love the heroes, who were all forged together due to a tragic mission gone wrong that impacted them all, and the strong women in this series. Each book is an interesting complex story. This one does stand alone better than the previous ones but I think it still helps to read the other books in the series. We learn so much about Eric in this one that I’m tempted to go back and re-read the previous books. Looking forward to Selina’s book.
September 14, 2024
The Silent set up.
Katie metner.
Simply a fabulous story Perfectly written.
Disability fiction.
Eric newman dealing with his PTSD. Another job falls in line of of Secure one .a young lady and a baby needing protection. A sister that's missing.This is a job for secure one.
When secure one is on the job, The bad guy has no chance. These guys bring it all home.
There's danger around every corner. This book was simply amazing. It is the fourth book in the series and I have loved every one of these books.
If you haven't tried out any of katie's books.I recommend this series.these are my favorite.
Simply amazing books.
Katie metner.
Simply a fabulous story Perfectly written.
Disability fiction.
Eric newman dealing with his PTSD. Another job falls in line of of Secure one .a young lady and a baby needing protection. A sister that's missing.This is a job for secure one.
When secure one is on the job, The bad guy has no chance. These guys bring it all home.
There's danger around every corner. This book was simply amazing. It is the fourth book in the series and I have loved every one of these books.
If you haven't tried out any of katie's books.I recommend this series.these are my favorite.
Simply amazing books.
September 6, 2024
Eric and Sadie had a connection with each other. How Eric believed Sadie, her sister was kidnapped. How Eric and the Secure team had to proved where Kadie was and bring her home to her son Huston. They also need to show proof that Sadie did not kill anyone. This book was so enthralling I had to read it all in an day. I couldnt go sleep until I find out what happened next. Again Katie Mettner gave me a book that I had to read it in a day. Awesome book you must read in a day.
September 1, 2024
Once again we get the real characters from Katie. They have flaws but in spite of them they learn to live and love, others and themselves. There’s suspense, murder, mystery, kidnapping and love all wrapped up in one great read!
October 24, 2024
This series is fantastic and this book is magnificent. I love Katie’s books, her characters, the suspense/action and the beautiful love story that unfolds . She also teaches me something new in each book about disability…real situations that people function with each day.
Sadie and Eric’s story is full of suspense, undeniable attraction and a woman who will stop at nothing to find her sister.
Sadie is strong, determined and takes matters into her own hands to protect her nephew. Eric is such a sweet soul…he has battle wounds that he’s still working through each day but he his an amazing man. Sadie and Eric are a great team.
The cast of characters is awesome..there is a genuine care for one another, they are fiercely protection and they also are holding onto some secrets of their own.
A fantastic read.
Sadie and Eric’s story is full of suspense, undeniable attraction and a woman who will stop at nothing to find her sister.
Sadie is strong, determined and takes matters into her own hands to protect her nephew. Eric is such a sweet soul…he has battle wounds that he’s still working through each day but he his an amazing man. Sadie and Eric are a great team.
The cast of characters is awesome..there is a genuine care for one another, they are fiercely protection and they also are holding onto some secrets of their own.
A fantastic read.
October 22, 2024
The guys and gals of Secure One are heroes with a capital H. Heroes in every sense of the word. They are definitely the folks you want in your corner when trouble or danger finds you.
Fast paced storytelling and extremely engaging characters full of personality make this one a fast and easy read for this reader.
This installment focuses on Eric Newman who has his fair share of problems. The main problem involves him shouldering guilt over an op that went tragically wrong. When Sadie ends up at Secure One, she provides light to the dark corners of his life, but it will not be easy.
The team had their hands full with this case. I really enjoyed Sadie and Eric’s story. Watching them find their way was amazing and heartwarming. Don’t let the romance portion of this book fool you, this is an action packed mystery full of intrigue and danger.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Fast paced storytelling and extremely engaging characters full of personality make this one a fast and easy read for this reader.
This installment focuses on Eric Newman who has his fair share of problems. The main problem involves him shouldering guilt over an op that went tragically wrong. When Sadie ends up at Secure One, she provides light to the dark corners of his life, but it will not be easy.
The team had their hands full with this case. I really enjoyed Sadie and Eric’s story. Watching them find their way was amazing and heartwarming. Don’t let the romance portion of this book fool you, this is an action packed mystery full of intrigue and danger.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 20, 2024
The thing I love most about the Secure One book series is their ability to grab you right from the opening scene.
I always love that this author includes those that have disabilities as well. In this case it is hearing loss as well as PTSD as so many of our beloved veterans often have experienced.
This is a great fast paced read that you can and will want to read in one sitting. The main characters are likable and the story is intriguing. The romance came along fast and I would have loved some more but it is necessary to keep the pacing and balance of romance to suspense.
As everything unfolds, it keeps you wanting to keep reading. I really enjoyed this installment in the series. It can stand alone but is always better when you get wrapped up in the whole series!
It sounds like Selina's story will be the next one coming up and after the great job that was done building mystery around her, I can't wait to read that story.
I always love that this author includes those that have disabilities as well. In this case it is hearing loss as well as PTSD as so many of our beloved veterans often have experienced.
This is a great fast paced read that you can and will want to read in one sitting. The main characters are likable and the story is intriguing. The romance came along fast and I would have loved some more but it is necessary to keep the pacing and balance of romance to suspense.
As everything unfolds, it keeps you wanting to keep reading. I really enjoyed this installment in the series. It can stand alone but is always better when you get wrapped up in the whole series!
It sounds like Selina's story will be the next one coming up and after the great job that was done building mystery around her, I can't wait to read that story.
October 22, 2024
This is the fourth book in Katie Mettner's Secure One Series focusing on Eric, who has PTSD and hearing loss, and Sadie, a woman who fears for her sister, and is caring for her baby nephew.
They first encounter each other as Eric questions Sadie as part of an investigation at her job, and he quickly takes notice of her. Within hours of their first meeting, Sadie and her baby nephew are running from unknown enemies and unknowingly end up in the safe haven of Secure One.
Eric will stop at nothing to keep her safe. However, he must confront his past and clear her of murder charges before he and Sadie can have a future together.
This is a fast-paced story full of thrills, romance, and healing. Katie's use of descriptive writing will captivate you from the very first page. You will absolutely fall in love with all of her Secure One characters.
They first encounter each other as Eric questions Sadie as part of an investigation at her job, and he quickly takes notice of her. Within hours of their first meeting, Sadie and her baby nephew are running from unknown enemies and unknowingly end up in the safe haven of Secure One.
Eric will stop at nothing to keep her safe. However, he must confront his past and clear her of murder charges before he and Sadie can have a future together.
This is a fast-paced story full of thrills, romance, and healing. Katie's use of descriptive writing will captivate you from the very first page. You will absolutely fall in love with all of her Secure One characters.
October 23, 2024
✨ARC Review✨
I loved this book by Katie Mettner. Silent Setup might be my favorite book of hers to date!! I loved the mysterious and spicy romanticness 😍. The book follows the main characters Eric Newman, and Sadie Cook. Eric is assisting Sadie in finding her missing sister Kadie. Watching Eric take care of her nephew, Houston, is making him irresistible in Sadie’s eyes. And the chemistry they have is off the charts! Will they find her? Will Eric allow Sadie into his heart? Read to find out! I can’t wait to read more of the series! 😍
#ARCReview #katiemettner #livelaughloveread #secureone #disabledromance
Book rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating: 3/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I loved this book by Katie Mettner. Silent Setup might be my favorite book of hers to date!! I loved the mysterious and spicy romanticness 😍. The book follows the main characters Eric Newman, and Sadie Cook. Eric is assisting Sadie in finding her missing sister Kadie. Watching Eric take care of her nephew, Houston, is making him irresistible in Sadie’s eyes. And the chemistry they have is off the charts! Will they find her? Will Eric allow Sadie into his heart? Read to find out! I can’t wait to read more of the series! 😍
#ARCReview #katiemettner #livelaughloveread #secureone #disabledromance
Book rating: 5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating: 3/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
October 23, 2024
‘Can’t a girl have an existential crisis without an audience?’
I’ve loved all of the Secure One books but this one takes it to a whole other level and I didn’t want it to end! It also sends us on a new journey now that the team has put an end to the sex and drug trafficking that started the series. Now they’re taking on mobsters...and it looks like that particular animal may already be entrenched in their ranks as the author set up the storyline for book five. Bonus points for this one because we got an update on Elliot and Jolene from the Harlequin online read Codename: Santa!
October 18, 2024
This is the 4th book of the secure 1 series. I feel like I am invested in these characters, like they are my own family. Sadie knows her sister Kadie did not voluntarily leave her baby. She get run off the road while she has her nephew in the car with her. The accident occurred at the best possible place.. Secure 1 grounds. Eric gets them out of the car and takes her to secure 1 headquarters. Where they learn she is a suspect in a murder. Eric knows she couldn't have killed anyone. He vows to protect her. Will he lose his heart in the process?
Another home run from Mettner! Great series. Sad it's coming to an end.
Another home run from Mettner! Great series. Sad it's coming to an end.
September 14, 2024
The Silent Setup by Katie Mettner is another great addition to the Secure One series! I’m so glad we got to hear Eric’s story. I so loved how he and Sadie struggled to help him overcome his deep-seated fears and ghosts. The suspense was great and kept my heart pumping.
I can’t wait for the next in the series.
I can’t wait for the next in the series.
September 14, 2024
This is book four in the secure one series. Another amazing book by Katie mettner. Secure one did their job and brought a family back together. Eric Newman had one job to protect Sadie and Houston and did what he had to do and fell in love in the process. Definitely a 5 star must read.
September 14, 2024
This is book four in the secure one series. Another amazing book by Katie. Secure one did their job and brought a family back together. Eric Newman had one job to protect Sadie and Houston and did what he had to do and fell in love in the process. Definitely a 5 star must read.
October 18, 2024
I have loved the first three books in the Secure One Series and The Silent Setup, the fourth book in the series, did not disappoint!
With each book I am eager to read the next and I am rewarded each time with an even better read than the last and The Silent Setup was no exception. It was wonderfully written and I look forward to reading more of this series. I also love and appreciate the descriptions of the charachters at the beggining of the books. Thank you so much Katie!
With each book I am eager to read the next and I am rewarded each time with an even better read than the last and The Silent Setup was no exception. It was wonderfully written and I look forward to reading more of this series. I also love and appreciate the descriptions of the charachters at the beggining of the books. Thank you so much Katie!
September 13, 2024
I love Sadie and Eric’s romance. Their instant connection. Can’t wait for the next book.
October 26, 2024
This is book 4 in the Secure One series. I knew a Secure One story by Ms. Mettner would involve former military with a disability, be action-packed, and riveting, and it is. In book 4, Eric from Secure One is deaf due to a failed mission, but he is an excellent operative for Secure One, partly because of his disability. He helps Sadie and her little nephew try to find her sister while protecting them and solving a murder. You couldn’t ask for more in a story. Sadie is such a special person with empathy for others and an unexpected understanding of the impact on Eric of having served in the military. She’s tough and loving and determined to take care of her nephew and find her sister. I experienced so many emotions reading this story, partly because I was anxious of what about what was happening in the story and partly because of the acknowledgement of the impact on those who serve. This comment from the book, “You carry the horrific memories of freedom so I don’t have to” reminded me of my dad and how he was different after his second tour in Vietnam. Thank you to Ms. Mettner for highlighting the impact. I can’t wait for the next story in the Secure One series. I voluntarily read an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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October 16, 2024Hearing and Listening
These are definitely two different things. And for Eric, Sadie helps him see this. Meanwhile, Eric helps keep Sadie and her baby nephew safe while searching for the baby's mom and Sadie's sister. Even in a silent world, the silence is most loud for the one who refuses to listen. Will these hearts hear and listen before it is two late?
These are definitely two different things. And for Eric, Sadie helps him see this. Meanwhile, Eric helps keep Sadie and her baby nephew safe while searching for the baby's mom and Sadie's sister. Even in a silent world, the silence is most loud for the one who refuses to listen. Will these hearts hear and listen before it is two late?
October 14, 2024
Wow what a book! I loved it! This book started off with a bang! I like when books do that!
Your story line and character were awesome.
I appreciate that you gave me a chance to read this awesome book! I couldn't lay it down for long without think about it! I had to know how it ended!
Great book
Your story line and character were awesome.
I appreciate that you gave me a chance to read this awesome book! I couldn't lay it down for long without think about it! I had to know how it ended!
Great book
October 8, 2024
I really love this series. Everytime I read about these characters, the new and the old, I just feel like they’re apart of me. I definitely think that Eric and Sadie and even little Houston are my new favorites…for now. Because we all know the next book in this series is going to compete for my favorite.
Thank you Katie for an ARC ♥️
Thank you Katie for an ARC ♥️
September 26, 2024
Secure One—an elite security and protection task force composed of highly skilled professionals—providing top-tier personal security, surveillance, and crisis management. Under the vigilant leadership of Cal Newfellow, the team has earned a reputation for its unparalleled expertise in navigating high-risk situations and crafting bespoke security solutions. Despite each member's physical disabilities, their unique skills and experiences make them formidable defenders against potential threats.
Eric Newman, a dedicated operative with a military background, carries the scars of war, including severe hearing loss from a tragic incident. Joining him is Efren Brenna, the newest recruit who lost his left leg in combat. Together, they investigate the Fettering storage units, a state-of-the-art storage facility with glaring security lapses, owned by Dirk Fettering.
In the dead of night, Eric and Efren witness a suspicious duo unloading a heavy trunk into one of the units. Alarms go off in their minds, signaling something deeply amiss. Opting for discretion over immediate legal action, they decide to delve deeper into this unknown. Upon discovering a body inside the trunk, a victim that has fallen prey to a mob-style execution, the investigation begins with interrogating Dirk Fettering’s employees, leading Eric to encounter Sadie Cook, Dirk's current housekeeper. Intriguingly, Sadie serves as more than just an information source for Eric; she embodies multiple reasons for his desire to read her lips.
Just as Eric is convinced he will never see Sadie again, fate intervenes, intertwining their paths once more. Complications arise when a warrant is already issued for Sadie’s arrest, and it emerges that she is withholding crucial information about her sister’s disappearance. Contrary to the police’s belief that her twin sister simply abandoned her eight-month-old baby, Houston, Sadie is convinced she was kidnapped. This revelation thrusts Secure One into a race against time to uncover the truth.
As the team dives deeper into the enigma, another puzzle surfaces. Selina Calvert, Secure One’s trusted medic, begins exhibiting strange behavior. Initially attributed to feelings of underappreciation or jealousy over Efren’s recruitment, it becomes clear that Selina harbors secrets far more sinister than mere professional envy.
With every layer peeled back, the stakes escalate, weaving a web of suspense and danger. Secure One must navigate treacherous terrain and every answer reveals yet another question. The clock is ticking, and the truth lies just beyond the reach while shadows from Eric’s past whisper doubts, yet his fierce determination burns. He knows to keep Sadie and Houston safe means confronting the darkest corners of his soul.
Katie Mettner’s “The Silent Setup” is the fourth installment in the Secure One Series, a masterful blend of romantic suspense that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The book revolves around the lives of the Secure One team, a group of uniquely skilled individuals who complement each other seamlessly, creating a perfectly oiled team. At the heart of this installment are Eric and Sadie, whose burgeoning romance is fraught with internal and external conflicts that keep readers hooked from start to finish.
The plot centers on Sadie, who becomes entangled in a series of mysterious events that she is desperate to uncover. Each member of the Secure One team steps in to assist her, trusting one another implicitly and anticipating each other’s needs. This unbreakable bond of trust and teamwork is not only the backbone of the story’s suspense but also an essential element that drives the plot forward. The narrative weaves through various layers of mystery and personal drama, keeping the reader constantly guessing and engaged. Katie Mettner’s writing ensures that these characters are not just heroes in a traditional sense but also characters with personal struggles and growth, which resonates with readers and adds richness to the narrative of the Secure One series.
Eric and Sadie’s relationship is the emotional core of the book. Sadie struggles with her feelings for Eric, believing she cannot be with someone who is emotionally unavailable. Eric, haunted by demons from his past, fears that he will only bring Sadie down. Their initial encounters are electric, filled with palpable tension and captivating dialogue that leaves readers yearning for more. Katie Mettner skillfully portrays their inner turmoil, making their fast-occurring feelings both believable and compelling. These characters personal journeys and relationships add depth to the characters, making them relatable and multidimensional.
The suspense element is heightened by the unveiling of hidden events with the help of Mina, another key member of Secure One. These revelations jumpstart the investigation, adding layers of intrigue and danger to the story. The author’s ingenious implementation of these events keeps readers on their toes, constantly anticipating the next twist. The suspense is further enriched by subplots, such as Selina’s story and snippets of events from previous books, which provide a deeper understanding of the characters and their motivations.
Katie Mettner’s writing style is both engaging and evocative. She crafts her characters with such realism that readers can’t help but feel their emotions. The narrative voice is clear and compelling, with a pace that balances the romantic and suspenseful elements perfectly. Katie Mettner’s use of subtle romantic lines and flirtatious dialogue adds a layer of charm to the story, making the developing relationship between Eric and Sadie even more delightful to follow.
"The Silent Setup" is a brilliantly crafted tale of romance and suspense, intricately weaving themes of love, trust, and redemption throughout its pages. Eric’s journey to overcome his past and Sadie’s trust in their future together create a rich emotional tapestry that captivates the reader. The book’s pacing ensures thorough exploration of these themes without ever losing interest, with each twist and turn carefully crafted to keep readers engaged. Katie Mettner excels in creating complex characters and a gripping plot, making the chemistry between Eric and Sadie both heartwarming and heart-aching. Fans of romantic suspense will find this book a delightful addition to their collection, and newcomers to the Secure One Series will be drawn in by its charm and intensity. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a blend of romance, mystery, and action.
From the heart-pounding action to the tantalizing whispers of romance, Katie Mettner grips readers with an iron fist from the very first page and doesn't release them until the climactic, earth-shattering finale.
Eric Newman, a dedicated operative with a military background, carries the scars of war, including severe hearing loss from a tragic incident. Joining him is Efren Brenna, the newest recruit who lost his left leg in combat. Together, they investigate the Fettering storage units, a state-of-the-art storage facility with glaring security lapses, owned by Dirk Fettering.
In the dead of night, Eric and Efren witness a suspicious duo unloading a heavy trunk into one of the units. Alarms go off in their minds, signaling something deeply amiss. Opting for discretion over immediate legal action, they decide to delve deeper into this unknown. Upon discovering a body inside the trunk, a victim that has fallen prey to a mob-style execution, the investigation begins with interrogating Dirk Fettering’s employees, leading Eric to encounter Sadie Cook, Dirk's current housekeeper. Intriguingly, Sadie serves as more than just an information source for Eric; she embodies multiple reasons for his desire to read her lips.
Just as Eric is convinced he will never see Sadie again, fate intervenes, intertwining their paths once more. Complications arise when a warrant is already issued for Sadie’s arrest, and it emerges that she is withholding crucial information about her sister’s disappearance. Contrary to the police’s belief that her twin sister simply abandoned her eight-month-old baby, Houston, Sadie is convinced she was kidnapped. This revelation thrusts Secure One into a race against time to uncover the truth.
As the team dives deeper into the enigma, another puzzle surfaces. Selina Calvert, Secure One’s trusted medic, begins exhibiting strange behavior. Initially attributed to feelings of underappreciation or jealousy over Efren’s recruitment, it becomes clear that Selina harbors secrets far more sinister than mere professional envy.
With every layer peeled back, the stakes escalate, weaving a web of suspense and danger. Secure One must navigate treacherous terrain and every answer reveals yet another question. The clock is ticking, and the truth lies just beyond the reach while shadows from Eric’s past whisper doubts, yet his fierce determination burns. He knows to keep Sadie and Houston safe means confronting the darkest corners of his soul.
Katie Mettner’s “The Silent Setup” is the fourth installment in the Secure One Series, a masterful blend of romantic suspense that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The book revolves around the lives of the Secure One team, a group of uniquely skilled individuals who complement each other seamlessly, creating a perfectly oiled team. At the heart of this installment are Eric and Sadie, whose burgeoning romance is fraught with internal and external conflicts that keep readers hooked from start to finish.
The plot centers on Sadie, who becomes entangled in a series of mysterious events that she is desperate to uncover. Each member of the Secure One team steps in to assist her, trusting one another implicitly and anticipating each other’s needs. This unbreakable bond of trust and teamwork is not only the backbone of the story’s suspense but also an essential element that drives the plot forward. The narrative weaves through various layers of mystery and personal drama, keeping the reader constantly guessing and engaged. Katie Mettner’s writing ensures that these characters are not just heroes in a traditional sense but also characters with personal struggles and growth, which resonates with readers and adds richness to the narrative of the Secure One series.
Eric and Sadie’s relationship is the emotional core of the book. Sadie struggles with her feelings for Eric, believing she cannot be with someone who is emotionally unavailable. Eric, haunted by demons from his past, fears that he will only bring Sadie down. Their initial encounters are electric, filled with palpable tension and captivating dialogue that leaves readers yearning for more. Katie Mettner skillfully portrays their inner turmoil, making their fast-occurring feelings both believable and compelling. These characters personal journeys and relationships add depth to the characters, making them relatable and multidimensional.
The suspense element is heightened by the unveiling of hidden events with the help of Mina, another key member of Secure One. These revelations jumpstart the investigation, adding layers of intrigue and danger to the story. The author’s ingenious implementation of these events keeps readers on their toes, constantly anticipating the next twist. The suspense is further enriched by subplots, such as Selina’s story and snippets of events from previous books, which provide a deeper understanding of the characters and their motivations.
Katie Mettner’s writing style is both engaging and evocative. She crafts her characters with such realism that readers can’t help but feel their emotions. The narrative voice is clear and compelling, with a pace that balances the romantic and suspenseful elements perfectly. Katie Mettner’s use of subtle romantic lines and flirtatious dialogue adds a layer of charm to the story, making the developing relationship between Eric and Sadie even more delightful to follow.
"The Silent Setup" is a brilliantly crafted tale of romance and suspense, intricately weaving themes of love, trust, and redemption throughout its pages. Eric’s journey to overcome his past and Sadie’s trust in their future together create a rich emotional tapestry that captivates the reader. The book’s pacing ensures thorough exploration of these themes without ever losing interest, with each twist and turn carefully crafted to keep readers engaged. Katie Mettner excels in creating complex characters and a gripping plot, making the chemistry between Eric and Sadie both heartwarming and heart-aching. Fans of romantic suspense will find this book a delightful addition to their collection, and newcomers to the Secure One Series will be drawn in by its charm and intensity. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a blend of romance, mystery, and action.
From the heart-pounding action to the tantalizing whispers of romance, Katie Mettner grips readers with an iron fist from the very first page and doesn't release them until the climactic, earth-shattering finale.
October 28, 2024
Book 4 of Secure One series, Katie continues writing great stories. Sadie's sister goes missing, never making it to work.
Sadie tries to get the police to hunt for her, but they think she ran off as her car is missing too. Sadie finds a note but is sure it was not her sister's handwriting.
Besides, she knows deep down she would never leave her baby son behind. Sadie's friend Julie was watching him while she was at work.
Returning home, she finds a note telling her to run. Packing up
baby Houston off she goes. First, being held up by an mva, she finally gets on the highway. She has a feeling she is being followed....next thing she knows her car rolls off the road onto Secure One property. Eric Newman a Secure One operative
is first on scene and pulls baby Houston out. Thankfully, his car seat protected him. Sadie is pinned in, so Eric and another operative get the car down on four wheels and upright so they can get Sadie out. Part of the dash had pinned her leg. They were able to free her. Her leg had a gash, which needed stitches.
Taking them back to headquarters to get the story. Secure One agrees to protect her and her nephew while sorting out why she was run off the road. They also agreed to help her look for her sister Katie.
Ok, I'm not giving anymore away. I highly recommend you read it. Can be read as stand-alone, but if you have not read them, I recommend the entire series.
Sadie tries to get the police to hunt for her, but they think she ran off as her car is missing too. Sadie finds a note but is sure it was not her sister's handwriting.
Besides, she knows deep down she would never leave her baby son behind. Sadie's friend Julie was watching him while she was at work.
Returning home, she finds a note telling her to run. Packing up
baby Houston off she goes. First, being held up by an mva, she finally gets on the highway. She has a feeling she is being followed....next thing she knows her car rolls off the road onto Secure One property. Eric Newman a Secure One operative
is first on scene and pulls baby Houston out. Thankfully, his car seat protected him. Sadie is pinned in, so Eric and another operative get the car down on four wheels and upright so they can get Sadie out. Part of the dash had pinned her leg. They were able to free her. Her leg had a gash, which needed stitches.
Taking them back to headquarters to get the story. Secure One agrees to protect her and her nephew while sorting out why she was run off the road. They also agreed to help her look for her sister Katie.
Ok, I'm not giving anymore away. I highly recommend you read it. Can be read as stand-alone, but if you have not read them, I recommend the entire series.
September 18, 2024
We’re four books into Mettner’s adrenaline-laced romantic thriller series for Harlequin, and if you’ve been paying any attention at all, you’ve probably come to realize that Secure One is as much a halfway house for broken people as anything else. Originally formed by a group of military officers who served together and were grievously injured during a mission gone horrifically sideways, they are now an elite private security team, each member contributing his or her own expertise for the betterment of the team as a whole. Most of the members live with some form of disability, many of them stemming from the original incident that served as the impetus to form the team. They support each other unconditionally as a family of both circumstance and choice, and they seem to be picking up new members like a tumbleweed…
This entry follows Eric Newman as he leads his first real mission, determined to prove himself worthy of the responsibility to his teammates. He lost his hearing in the explosion that altered so many lives, and he uses lip-reading and visual cues to read people and situations with an acuity that’s learned. He’s tasked with monitoring a storage facility for a gruff and thrifty client who wants top-notch security but often binds the hands of the experts he has hired to facilitate it. When Eric and his teammate Efren spy a suspicious delivery to one of the storage units, they investigate and discover a man who has been murdered and beheaded, his body stuffed into a trunk. It looks like a mob-style hit, and while questioning the employees who were on site at the time of the drop, sparks fly when Eric meets Sadie Cook, one of the housekeeping staff. He suspects she knows more than she’s willing to share, but releases her to go home, already regretting that he may never see her again.
He never imagined how quickly that he might and under what desperate circumstances.
Sadie is keeping a secret. She’s been left to care for her infant nephew as her sister, Kadie, has supposedly run off to start a new life. Only Sadie doesn’t believe her sister would do such a thing and suspects she’s been kidnapped. Her suspicions are confirmed when she and her nephew, Houston, are forced off the road in the middle of the night and left for dead outside the periphery of the Secure One property. Eric is part of the recovery team investigating the report of the accident, and by the time he realizes that Sadie is one of the two people inside the car, a warrant for her arrest has already been issued by the police in connection with the body found earlier at the storage facility. Unable to imagine Sadie involved in anything so nefarious, Eric arranges for her and her nephew to take refuge with Secure One until things can be sorted out.
Action-filled and full of twists, it’s hard to know who the real villains are, especially when one of Secure One’s own, Selina, starts acting particularly squirrelly. It’s a race to find and save Sadie’s sister and hopefully clear her name in the process. Is Secure One up to the task? Eric surely hopes so, especially considering he is completely smitten with the lady in question, although he can’t possibly imagine she would be interested in anyone as broken as he is…and vice versa. As I’ve mentioned in reviews of previous entries in the series, I’m not necessarily here for the back-and-forth romantic trope that makes me want to smack the leads in the back of the heads repeatedly, but I recognize that it’s part of the deal here, and Katie certainly won’t disappoint those who came for all that schtuff. Exciting denouement sets up the next entry nicely, and at this point, I’m fully invested. Well done!
This entry follows Eric Newman as he leads his first real mission, determined to prove himself worthy of the responsibility to his teammates. He lost his hearing in the explosion that altered so many lives, and he uses lip-reading and visual cues to read people and situations with an acuity that’s learned. He’s tasked with monitoring a storage facility for a gruff and thrifty client who wants top-notch security but often binds the hands of the experts he has hired to facilitate it. When Eric and his teammate Efren spy a suspicious delivery to one of the storage units, they investigate and discover a man who has been murdered and beheaded, his body stuffed into a trunk. It looks like a mob-style hit, and while questioning the employees who were on site at the time of the drop, sparks fly when Eric meets Sadie Cook, one of the housekeeping staff. He suspects she knows more than she’s willing to share, but releases her to go home, already regretting that he may never see her again.
He never imagined how quickly that he might and under what desperate circumstances.
Sadie is keeping a secret. She’s been left to care for her infant nephew as her sister, Kadie, has supposedly run off to start a new life. Only Sadie doesn’t believe her sister would do such a thing and suspects she’s been kidnapped. Her suspicions are confirmed when she and her nephew, Houston, are forced off the road in the middle of the night and left for dead outside the periphery of the Secure One property. Eric is part of the recovery team investigating the report of the accident, and by the time he realizes that Sadie is one of the two people inside the car, a warrant for her arrest has already been issued by the police in connection with the body found earlier at the storage facility. Unable to imagine Sadie involved in anything so nefarious, Eric arranges for her and her nephew to take refuge with Secure One until things can be sorted out.
Action-filled and full of twists, it’s hard to know who the real villains are, especially when one of Secure One’s own, Selina, starts acting particularly squirrelly. It’s a race to find and save Sadie’s sister and hopefully clear her name in the process. Is Secure One up to the task? Eric surely hopes so, especially considering he is completely smitten with the lady in question, although he can’t possibly imagine she would be interested in anyone as broken as he is…and vice versa. As I’ve mentioned in reviews of previous entries in the series, I’m not necessarily here for the back-and-forth romantic trope that makes me want to smack the leads in the back of the heads repeatedly, but I recognize that it’s part of the deal here, and Katie certainly won’t disappoint those who came for all that schtuff. Exciting denouement sets up the next entry nicely, and at this point, I’m fully invested. Well done!
October 22, 2024
This book is an emotionally charged thriller that beautifully balances heart-pounding action with deep personal struggles.
Eric, a Secure One agent, grappling with hearing loss and PTSD, is a complex but well-balanced character with a fair amount of both strength and vulnerability. Which seems to be Katie Mettner’s superpower as her characters always seem to jump off the page as real and relatable.
The moment Sadie and her nephew enter Eric's life, the stakes are raised. The chemistry between Eric and Sadie is electric and immediate, and their evolving relationship adds a rich emotional layer to the story. As Eric fights to protect them while also searching for the truth behind her sister’s disappearance, the weight of his past looms large. Is he up for the task? You’ll have to read it to find out for yourself.
Katie expertly weaves tension and vulnerability, creating a narrative that keeps you on the edge of your seat while also tugging at your heartstrings. The dialogue is sharp, and the supporting characters add depth to the unfolding drama. I can’t wait for Selina’s book!
The inclusion of differently abled characters (both physically and emotionally) creates depth to this story, reminding readers to read with an empathy and understanding that’s not usually needed for typical romance books but is a welcomed addition in this series. Another gift from Katie Mettner.
This book can be read as a standalone, but why miss the three previous stories if you don’t have to? The Silent Setup is a gripping and thrilling 5-star must-read!
Eric, a Secure One agent, grappling with hearing loss and PTSD, is a complex but well-balanced character with a fair amount of both strength and vulnerability. Which seems to be Katie Mettner’s superpower as her characters always seem to jump off the page as real and relatable.
The moment Sadie and her nephew enter Eric's life, the stakes are raised. The chemistry between Eric and Sadie is electric and immediate, and their evolving relationship adds a rich emotional layer to the story. As Eric fights to protect them while also searching for the truth behind her sister’s disappearance, the weight of his past looms large. Is he up for the task? You’ll have to read it to find out for yourself.
Katie expertly weaves tension and vulnerability, creating a narrative that keeps you on the edge of your seat while also tugging at your heartstrings. The dialogue is sharp, and the supporting characters add depth to the unfolding drama. I can’t wait for Selina’s book!
The inclusion of differently abled characters (both physically and emotionally) creates depth to this story, reminding readers to read with an empathy and understanding that’s not usually needed for typical romance books but is a welcomed addition in this series. Another gift from Katie Mettner.
This book can be read as a standalone, but why miss the three previous stories if you don’t have to? The Silent Setup is a gripping and thrilling 5-star must-read!
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