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Black Inc. #1
Jacob
Lisa Marie Rice's books can be summed up in one word — addictive!" — Katie Reus
You met the powerful and mysterious Jacob Black, of Black Inc., in the celebrated Women of Midnight series. Now it’s time for Jacob to step to the fore, in the first installment of a scorching, heart-pounding all-new series from Lisa Marie Rice—Black Inc.
Years ago, he abandoned her, shattering her heart…
Alexandra Hethering lost her best friend, the boy she loved, at the lowest point in her life. Since then she’s forged a new life for herself as a top-tier scientist at the CDC. Yet her lost love haunts her dreams.
Now, eighteen years later, she’s facing down a world-wide threat that could kill billions. She needs help—expert, fearless, powerful help.
He’ll never leave her side again…
Jacob Black was a decorated soldier, then created a world famous security company. He is powerful and feared, but he has a single weak spot—the beautiful, brilliant girl he had to leave behind. Now Alex is in danger—the kind that could get her killed.
Not happening. Not on his watch. He’ll keep her safe at any cost…
"Lisa Marie Rice is an autobuy author for me. She never disappoints! Her books are comfort reads that I re-read time and time again. Hands down she is one of my favorite authors." —NYT bestselling author Maya Banks
"The right blend of romance and pulse-pounding thrills makes this a riveting story. Rice creates strong characters that develop and grow. ..Sensual sex scenes, action, suspense and some unpredictable twists keep the pages turning."—Romantic Times
You met the powerful and mysterious Jacob Black, of Black Inc., in the celebrated Women of Midnight series. Now it’s time for Jacob to step to the fore, in the first installment of a scorching, heart-pounding all-new series from Lisa Marie Rice—Black Inc.
Years ago, he abandoned her, shattering her heart…
Alexandra Hethering lost her best friend, the boy she loved, at the lowest point in her life. Since then she’s forged a new life for herself as a top-tier scientist at the CDC. Yet her lost love haunts her dreams.
Now, eighteen years later, she’s facing down a world-wide threat that could kill billions. She needs help—expert, fearless, powerful help.
He’ll never leave her side again…
Jacob Black was a decorated soldier, then created a world famous security company. He is powerful and feared, but he has a single weak spot—the beautiful, brilliant girl he had to leave behind. Now Alex is in danger—the kind that could get her killed.
Not happening. Not on his watch. He’ll keep her safe at any cost…
"Lisa Marie Rice is an autobuy author for me. She never disappoints! Her books are comfort reads that I re-read time and time again. Hands down she is one of my favorite authors." —NYT bestselling author Maya Banks
"The right blend of romance and pulse-pounding thrills makes this a riveting story. Rice creates strong characters that develop and grow. ..Sensual sex scenes, action, suspense and some unpredictable twists keep the pages turning."—Romantic Times
243 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 2, 2024
58 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Marie Rice
57 books1,610 followersLisa Marie Rice is eternally 30 years old and will never age. She is tall and willowy and beautiful. Men drop at her feet like ripe pears. She has won every major book prize in the world. She is a black belt with advanced degrees in archaeology, nuclear physics, and Tibetan literature. She is a concert pianist. Did I mention her Nobel Prize? Of course, Lisa Marie Rice is a virtual woman and exists only at the keyboard when writing erotic romance. She disappears when the monitor winks off.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
April 3, 2024
I can't tell you how much I have loved the Midnight Series, Men of Midnight Series and the Women of Midnight Series. They are the best in sexy romance and heart pounding suspense, and they all gave he the escape I crave from the reality of life. Now we have Jacob Black of Black, Inc., a man who can get the job done when no one else can. Be. Still. My. Heart. I can depend on Lisa Marie Rice to deliver an excellent story and a heart-rending romance and do it all in the page space some authors use for the introduction. There is not one wasted page in this book. I love that.
When Alexandra Hethering was sixteen, she experienced tragedy so profound it marked her for life. She was never the same carefree girl as she was before her parents died and Jake took a bus out of her life. Eighteen years later she is an accomplished scientist at the top of her profession, working at the CDC, but she still wonders what happened to the boy she cared for and why did he leave her on the worst day of her life.
Jacob Black owns the premier security firm in the world, Black, Inc. He has come a long way from that trailer park he left behind in Bend, Oregon. He is a decorated SEAL, and wealthy beyond his wildest dreams. But he has never forgotten the girl he was forced by circumstances to leave behind.
Jacob is notified the minute that Alex makes an appointment at Black, Inc. and he sets in motion their reunion. But it is not the happy event Jacob envisions. Alex is more than a tad put off by his sudden reappearance in her life and is not inclined to be all that forgiving of Jacob. Alex is on a mission and if anyone else could help her, she would be out the door. Her colleague has gone missing in at a critical time in their research. She needs Black, Inc. to find him and fears that his disappearance could lead to a world-wide epidemic that could kill billions of people.
The threat is real, and Jacob realizes how vital this is, but after seeing Alex again, he is not going to ever let her go. Convincing her may take some time, but Jacob is a patience man. Alex insists on being a part of this mission and Jacob only wants to keep her safe. He has no life without her.
My thanks to the Publisher and Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
When Alexandra Hethering was sixteen, she experienced tragedy so profound it marked her for life. She was never the same carefree girl as she was before her parents died and Jake took a bus out of her life. Eighteen years later she is an accomplished scientist at the top of her profession, working at the CDC, but she still wonders what happened to the boy she cared for and why did he leave her on the worst day of her life.
Jacob Black owns the premier security firm in the world, Black, Inc. He has come a long way from that trailer park he left behind in Bend, Oregon. He is a decorated SEAL, and wealthy beyond his wildest dreams. But he has never forgotten the girl he was forced by circumstances to leave behind.
Jacob is notified the minute that Alex makes an appointment at Black, Inc. and he sets in motion their reunion. But it is not the happy event Jacob envisions. Alex is more than a tad put off by his sudden reappearance in her life and is not inclined to be all that forgiving of Jacob. Alex is on a mission and if anyone else could help her, she would be out the door. Her colleague has gone missing in at a critical time in their research. She needs Black, Inc. to find him and fears that his disappearance could lead to a world-wide epidemic that could kill billions of people.
The threat is real, and Jacob realizes how vital this is, but after seeing Alex again, he is not going to ever let her go. Convincing her may take some time, but Jacob is a patience man. Alex insists on being a part of this mission and Jacob only wants to keep her safe. He has no life without her.
My thanks to the Publisher and Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
March 27, 2024
The romance here is instant, sizzling and fierce. I loved how determined Jacob was to hold fast to Alex once she entered his life again. He’s the perfect alpha hero as he displays all the traditional traits that I love in such a character. He’s obsessive, protective, and giving.
This is sharply written with fantastic details that added a level of sophistication I’m not accustomed to. I found myself completely engulfed within the story. I enjoyed everything about this and was anxious to find out what had happened and what was going to happen next.
I would have liked to have had more about their previous relationship and a look into how they were together during that time. Nevertheless, I highly recommend this read for those that enjoy romance with a little something more.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
This is sharply written with fantastic details that added a level of sophistication I’m not accustomed to. I found myself completely engulfed within the story. I enjoyed everything about this and was anxious to find out what had happened and what was going to happen next.
I would have liked to have had more about their previous relationship and a look into how they were together during that time. Nevertheless, I highly recommend this read for those that enjoy romance with a little something more.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
April 6, 2024
The opening to this one was heart breaking. I hated what Alex was going through and how Jake reacted. Of course in the present we learned what happened with Jake and why he had to be so cold and my heart broke for him. It was interesting how in the 2 decades they were apart, both of them kept think of the other and were still single, no one could live up to the ghost they loved and lost.
The trouble Alex discovered horrified me, even as some of the science stuff went over my head. I was glad that she had Jake and his crew to help her. And of course things didn't go as planned. Luckily enough there was enough planning so that the bad part didn't happen for long and Alex and Jake could get back to their lives, now together. Loved seeing that!
The trouble Alex discovered horrified me, even as some of the science stuff went over my head. I was glad that she had Jake and his crew to help her. And of course things didn't go as planned. Luckily enough there was enough planning so that the bad part didn't happen for long and Alex and Jake could get back to their lives, now together. Loved seeing that!
April 3, 2024
What a fabulous treat! It's been a long time since I had a Lisa Marie Rice book to enjoy. This one is possibly my new favorite of all her works. Awesome hero, amazing heroine, truly horrible bad guys and a delightful supporting cast.
March 27, 2024
I was hooked from the very beginning when we meet a young Alex and through her a young Jacob. The first chapter was so evocative, I could practically feel Alex's emotions jumping off the page. Her pain and desperation were laid bare for the reader to breath each painful breath with her as her heart was torn apart.
Grown Alex is brilliant having channeled her pain into learning but never giving up a young girl's dream. However, when that dream turns out to be a man of power and strength not the boy she remembers she is taken aback. Again, we experience her emotion with her as she realizes the boy she worried for is a man who controls an empire. Underneath he is the boy who defended her with a strength not fully realized.
The scenario the two find themselves in, chasing a possibly dirty brilliant scientist across the globe is frightening. Actually, frightening is too mild a word. The scenario, gene splicing to build the perfect disease is terrifying real. The author explained something complex in a way that was clear and easy to understand. Maybe too easy but wow did it make for a crazy action story. Speaking of action, Alex was whisked across the country from the CDC to meet Jake with very little explanation and she handled it like a pro even though it may have felt like a kidnapping.
It is clear immediately the two are it for each other as the chemistry between them comes alive on the page. The action ramps up to match the chemistry as the two with some new characters race to stop something horrific. It was good to see the Queens from previous books back in action. I personally love books with smart people and it interested me how both were smart but in different ways. They both had the same thought about understanding only every 10th word which was cute. There are all kinds of smarts as the book illustrates through the characters strength. Of course, the smarts go out the window when the author ratchets up the steam.
Emotions, heat, crazy science, action and love are all rolled into a wild ride that could shake the very foundations of the US. The ending was absolutely darling and leaves us with a giant clue on who comes next. One last note, oh la la that cover model is hot.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Grown Alex is brilliant having channeled her pain into learning but never giving up a young girl's dream. However, when that dream turns out to be a man of power and strength not the boy she remembers she is taken aback. Again, we experience her emotion with her as she realizes the boy she worried for is a man who controls an empire. Underneath he is the boy who defended her with a strength not fully realized.
The scenario the two find themselves in, chasing a possibly dirty brilliant scientist across the globe is frightening. Actually, frightening is too mild a word. The scenario, gene splicing to build the perfect disease is terrifying real. The author explained something complex in a way that was clear and easy to understand. Maybe too easy but wow did it make for a crazy action story. Speaking of action, Alex was whisked across the country from the CDC to meet Jake with very little explanation and she handled it like a pro even though it may have felt like a kidnapping.
It is clear immediately the two are it for each other as the chemistry between them comes alive on the page. The action ramps up to match the chemistry as the two with some new characters race to stop something horrific. It was good to see the Queens from previous books back in action. I personally love books with smart people and it interested me how both were smart but in different ways. They both had the same thought about understanding only every 10th word which was cute. There are all kinds of smarts as the book illustrates through the characters strength. Of course, the smarts go out the window when the author ratchets up the steam.
Emotions, heat, crazy science, action and love are all rolled into a wild ride that could shake the very foundations of the US. The ending was absolutely darling and leaves us with a giant clue on who comes next. One last note, oh la la that cover model is hot.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 4, 2024
3.5 Stars
Imagine a world where the thrills of high-tech espionage and the chills of bioterrorism collide, creating a cocktail so potent it could wipe out millions. Now, sprinkle in a dash of old flames and unresolved childhood drama, and voila, you've got yourself a narrative that's as believable as it is tense.
Enter our protagonists, Alex and Jake—childhood buddies thicker than thieves, whose bond could weather any storm... until, on the gloomiest day of Alex's life, Jake pulls a Houdini, leaving her alone. Fast forward through the sands of time, and Alex marches into Black Inc, seeking assistance, only to bump into the ghost of heartaches past: Jacob.
As the story unfolds, it seems someone forgot to write dialogue, opting instead for a deep dive into the characters' innermost thoughts. It's like reading a diary, but without the juicy secrets. Just when you start to wonder if the action got lost in the mail, the final quarter delivers more excitement than a caffeine-fueled all-nighter.
Once Alex and Jake reunite, any semblance of the complex, intriguing characters introduced at the start is thrown out the window, replaced by love-struck teens with the depth of a kiddie pool. The dramatic shift is so sudden, you'll wonder if pages were skipped.
Despite its wanderings into the realm of insta-love and undercooked reconciliations, the novel's backbone—its thrilling plot—manages to pull it back from the brink. It's a mix of heartbreak, second chances, and a looming global threat, wrapped up in a narrative that's equal parts frustrating and fascinating. Buckle up for a story that's a rollercoaster of emotions, with a side of existential contemplation.
It's a wild ride through what could have been a compelling story, if only the characters remembered they were supposed to be adults dealing with a little more than just high school drama.
**I was given this book for my honest review by NetGalley **
Imagine a world where the thrills of high-tech espionage and the chills of bioterrorism collide, creating a cocktail so potent it could wipe out millions. Now, sprinkle in a dash of old flames and unresolved childhood drama, and voila, you've got yourself a narrative that's as believable as it is tense.
Enter our protagonists, Alex and Jake—childhood buddies thicker than thieves, whose bond could weather any storm... until, on the gloomiest day of Alex's life, Jake pulls a Houdini, leaving her alone. Fast forward through the sands of time, and Alex marches into Black Inc, seeking assistance, only to bump into the ghost of heartaches past: Jacob.
As the story unfolds, it seems someone forgot to write dialogue, opting instead for a deep dive into the characters' innermost thoughts. It's like reading a diary, but without the juicy secrets. Just when you start to wonder if the action got lost in the mail, the final quarter delivers more excitement than a caffeine-fueled all-nighter.
Once Alex and Jake reunite, any semblance of the complex, intriguing characters introduced at the start is thrown out the window, replaced by love-struck teens with the depth of a kiddie pool. The dramatic shift is so sudden, you'll wonder if pages were skipped.
Despite its wanderings into the realm of insta-love and undercooked reconciliations, the novel's backbone—its thrilling plot—manages to pull it back from the brink. It's a mix of heartbreak, second chances, and a looming global threat, wrapped up in a narrative that's equal parts frustrating and fascinating. Buckle up for a story that's a rollercoaster of emotions, with a side of existential contemplation.
It's a wild ride through what could have been a compelling story, if only the characters remembered they were supposed to be adults dealing with a little more than just high school drama.
**I was given this book for my honest review by NetGalley **
April 11, 2024
I did get this eARC from NetGalley*
This is the story of Jacob and Alex. They were best friends when they were young but on the day her parents died he left her and never looked back. Now, Jacob is the CEO of a security office under a different last name than was Alex knew him as. Alex is a top notch scientist who has discovered a secret that might wipe out the world's population forever. They now must team up and put aside their differences to save the world.
I don't feel like the problem was resolved. Yes, they're blowing everything up but I mean the problem with Jacob and Alex. I did not feel like closure that I wanted between the two of them. It is a HEA, but I felt like his explanation needed more. I understand why he left on the day itself, but that does not explain why he did not contact her for 18 years- even though he knew her every move.
It was also very repetitive at some points. She explained the situation to the first guy, then Jacob, then the Queens and all three times the reader had to reread the problem. I understood the problem the first time, I did not need to read it 2 more times. I was also 52% into the book and I feel like nothing of importance had happened. The scenario was set up for us for half the book and the action only happened at the end of it- but honestly there was not that much action and I was hoping for more. This book was half romance half sci-fi and I feel like the two were competing for attention. It might have been better to write two separate books instead of forcing both genres into one.
I kind of mentioned this earlier in the review, but it was an insta-love scenario. Yes, they both still had feelings for each other from when they were children, but where was the pining? Where was the groveling - I would rather read that than read about how Alex thought Jacob's toe hairs were sexy.
This is the story of Jacob and Alex. They were best friends when they were young but on the day her parents died he left her and never looked back. Now, Jacob is the CEO of a security office under a different last name than was Alex knew him as. Alex is a top notch scientist who has discovered a secret that might wipe out the world's population forever. They now must team up and put aside their differences to save the world.
I don't feel like the problem was resolved. Yes, they're blowing everything up but I mean the problem with Jacob and Alex. I did not feel like closure that I wanted between the two of them. It is a HEA, but I felt like his explanation needed more. I understand why he left on the day itself, but that does not explain why he did not contact her for 18 years- even though he knew her every move.
It was also very repetitive at some points. She explained the situation to the first guy, then Jacob, then the Queens and all three times the reader had to reread the problem. I understood the problem the first time, I did not need to read it 2 more times. I was also 52% into the book and I feel like nothing of importance had happened. The scenario was set up for us for half the book and the action only happened at the end of it- but honestly there was not that much action and I was hoping for more. This book was half romance half sci-fi and I feel like the two were competing for attention. It might have been better to write two separate books instead of forcing both genres into one.
I kind of mentioned this earlier in the review, but it was an insta-love scenario. Yes, they both still had feelings for each other from when they were children, but where was the pining? Where was the groveling - I would rather read that than read about how Alex thought Jacob's toe hairs were sexy.
April 2, 2024
✨ Publication date: April 2, 2024✨
Alexandra Hethering is a top tier scientist for the CDC and is worried about her missing colleague who hasn’t been seen or heard from in four days. She can’t be sure but she fears he may have been working with an outside organization that may be using his talents to unleash a deadly disease to the world.
Alex doesn’t trust anyone at the CDC so she engages Black Inc a well known private investigative security company to help her find out what truly happened to her colleague. As she is whisked to head quarters she comes face to face with Jacob Black.
Alex knows Jacob, but knows him as Jake Simpson….the one that got away. Eighteen years ago he left Alex in the rain and never looked back. She never stopped looking for him and now here he is.
Jacob lost eighteen years with the woman he loves and now that she’s in front of him, he vows she will never be out of his sight. After learning why she engaged his company, Jacob offers all of his resources and people to help solve her problems.
When Alex is kidnapped by the organization that has her colleague, Jacob will stop at nothing to get her back.
I liked this book, the writing was good and the plot and relationship were good too. It was a quick read with minimal spice and lots of action. I would have liked a bit more detail on their relationship before and more on their connection now. After 18 years Alex forgave him pretty quickly. I liked the CDC story but similarly would have liked some more details. This is a 3.5 star for me and I would definitely pick up the next instalment of the series.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
#NetGalley #lisamarierice #jacob
Alexandra Hethering is a top tier scientist for the CDC and is worried about her missing colleague who hasn’t been seen or heard from in four days. She can’t be sure but she fears he may have been working with an outside organization that may be using his talents to unleash a deadly disease to the world.
Alex doesn’t trust anyone at the CDC so she engages Black Inc a well known private investigative security company to help her find out what truly happened to her colleague. As she is whisked to head quarters she comes face to face with Jacob Black.
Alex knows Jacob, but knows him as Jake Simpson….the one that got away. Eighteen years ago he left Alex in the rain and never looked back. She never stopped looking for him and now here he is.
Jacob lost eighteen years with the woman he loves and now that she’s in front of him, he vows she will never be out of his sight. After learning why she engaged his company, Jacob offers all of his resources and people to help solve her problems.
When Alex is kidnapped by the organization that has her colleague, Jacob will stop at nothing to get her back.
I liked this book, the writing was good and the plot and relationship were good too. It was a quick read with minimal spice and lots of action. I would have liked a bit more detail on their relationship before and more on their connection now. After 18 years Alex forgave him pretty quickly. I liked the CDC story but similarly would have liked some more details. This is a 3.5 star for me and I would definitely pick up the next instalment of the series.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
#NetGalley #lisamarierice #jacob
April 2, 2024
✨ Publication date: April 2, 2024✨
Alexandra Hethering is a top tier scientist for the CDC and is worried about her missing colleague who hasn’t been seen or heard from in four days. She can’t be sure but she fears he may have been working with an outside organization that may be using his talents to unleash a deadly disease to the world.
Alex doesn’t trust anyone at the CDC so she engages Black Inc a well known private investigative security company to help her find out what truly happened to her colleague. As she is whisked to head quarters she comes face to face with Jacob Black.
Alex knows Jacob, but knows him as Jake Simpson….the one that got away. Eighteen years ago he left Alex in the rain and never looked back. She never stopped looking for him and now here he is.
Jacob lost eighteen years with the woman he loves and now that she’s in front of him, he vows she will never be out of his sight. After learning why she engaged his company, Jacob offers all of his resources and people to help solve her problems.
When Alex is kidnapped by the organization that has her colleague, Jacob will stop at nothing to get her back.
I liked this book, the writing was good and the plot and relationship were good too. It was a quick read with minimal spice and lots of action. I would have liked a bit more detail on their relationship before and more on their connection now. After 18 years Alex forgave him pretty quickly. I liked the CDC story but similarly would have liked some more details. This is a 3.5 star for me and I would definitely pick up the next instalment of the series.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
#NetGalley #lisamarierice #jacob
Alexandra Hethering is a top tier scientist for the CDC and is worried about her missing colleague who hasn’t been seen or heard from in four days. She can’t be sure but she fears he may have been working with an outside organization that may be using his talents to unleash a deadly disease to the world.
Alex doesn’t trust anyone at the CDC so she engages Black Inc a well known private investigative security company to help her find out what truly happened to her colleague. As she is whisked to head quarters she comes face to face with Jacob Black.
Alex knows Jacob, but knows him as Jake Simpson….the one that got away. Eighteen years ago he left Alex in the rain and never looked back. She never stopped looking for him and now here he is.
Jacob lost eighteen years with the woman he loves and now that she’s in front of him, he vows she will never be out of his sight. After learning why she engaged his company, Jacob offers all of his resources and people to help solve her problems.
When Alex is kidnapped by the organization that has her colleague, Jacob will stop at nothing to get her back.
I liked this book, the writing was good and the plot and relationship were good too. It was a quick read with minimal spice and lots of action. I would have liked a bit more detail on their relationship before and more on their connection now. After 18 years Alex forgave him pretty quickly. I liked the CDC story but similarly would have liked some more details. This is a 3.5 star for me and I would definitely pick up the next instalment of the series.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
#NetGalley #lisamarierice #jacob
March 25, 2024
Riveting drama and suspense kept me glued to the pages of this novel, firstly as Alex loses the most important people in her life and secondly when she realizes that a missing colleague could spell an international disaster. Knowing that Black Inc. can be trusted to help her ascertain the risk, she is appalled when it seems she is being kidnapped, even before she can state her case. Coming face to face with her past is a shock and Jacob has some explaining to do, but when he hears what Alex has to say, the wheels whir into motion and within hours Alex and Jacob are on the other side of the world. The risks for an international disaster are even more acute than they at first thought and when Alex goes missing, Jacob almost loses control over the situation. Fortunately, he has team members who steady him and they race to her rescue. Despite being physically compromised, Alex nevertheless plays her part in bringing the villains down, allowing Jacob's team to take over. The attraction between the main characters is electric and their moments of intimacy are steamy, but through it all, there is a deep and abiding sense of two hearts that belong together. The novel is well-written and comes to a really good conclusion. I received a copy of this book as a gift through Booksprout and this is my honest and voluntary review.
March 30, 2024
Jacob is the first book in Lisa Marie Rice’s new Black Inc. series. This is a second chance, military romance that is suspenseful, action packed, and filled with intense passion and fantastic characters. It is written in third person from the point of views of the hero, the heroine, the antagonist and a few other key secondary characters.
It’s been eighteen years since tragic events and misunderstandings tore Alexandra Hethering and Jacob Black apart. Now a potentially catastrophic event begins Alex, a top-tier scientist at the CDC and Jacob, former SEAL and famous security expert together. But can he fight the distracting chemistry between them and his never forgotten feelings, in order to keep her alive and get their happily ever after? Read it and find out.
This book is an amazing start to a new and exciting series which shares elements and characters from Rice’s Women of Midnight series, in which readers were first introduced to Jacob Black. Rice has done a fantastic job creating amazing characters and intense, action packed love stories. I loved the very graphic and steamy scenes between Jacob and Alex. The soul deep connection between them evident from the start. I can’t wait for the next book in this intense and fascinating series.
I received a free copy of this book via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It’s been eighteen years since tragic events and misunderstandings tore Alexandra Hethering and Jacob Black apart. Now a potentially catastrophic event begins Alex, a top-tier scientist at the CDC and Jacob, former SEAL and famous security expert together. But can he fight the distracting chemistry between them and his never forgotten feelings, in order to keep her alive and get their happily ever after? Read it and find out.
This book is an amazing start to a new and exciting series which shares elements and characters from Rice’s Women of Midnight series, in which readers were first introduced to Jacob Black. Rice has done a fantastic job creating amazing characters and intense, action packed love stories. I loved the very graphic and steamy scenes between Jacob and Alex. The soul deep connection between them evident from the start. I can’t wait for the next book in this intense and fascinating series.
I received a free copy of this book via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 18, 2025
A fitting follow up
So, in overall terms, this was very much based on a similar formula to the Midnight books. I have to admit that I have all those books and have read them more than once. I loved the book, from start to finish, and I am waiting, not so patiently, on Nikolai's story. I wanted to wait a few days until it was released before reading this book so I could read them both on the same day, but having an unread book by LMR on my Kindle proved to be more than I could handle.
You see where I'm coming from. I suppose that I could talk about the fact that there are a few typos and some missing words, and also the over the top plot and resolution. I'm hoping that the technical information is correct because I do not have enough knowledge to judge. What I do know is that the book provided me with a few hours of sheer raw entertainment; the kind that has you holding your breath and your heart racing while you root for the characters as if they were real people; the kind that has you welcoming back the ASI Queens as if they were real friends that you haven't seen in some time.
In short, the book provided exquisite feel-good endorphins, for only a few dollars and not involving any drugs, and in the comfort of my home too. Well done. I look forward to repeating the experience with the next book.
So, in overall terms, this was very much based on a similar formula to the Midnight books. I have to admit that I have all those books and have read them more than once. I loved the book, from start to finish, and I am waiting, not so patiently, on Nikolai's story. I wanted to wait a few days until it was released before reading this book so I could read them both on the same day, but having an unread book by LMR on my Kindle proved to be more than I could handle.
You see where I'm coming from. I suppose that I could talk about the fact that there are a few typos and some missing words, and also the over the top plot and resolution. I'm hoping that the technical information is correct because I do not have enough knowledge to judge. What I do know is that the book provided me with a few hours of sheer raw entertainment; the kind that has you holding your breath and your heart racing while you root for the characters as if they were real people; the kind that has you welcoming back the ASI Queens as if they were real friends that you haven't seen in some time.
In short, the book provided exquisite feel-good endorphins, for only a few dollars and not involving any drugs, and in the comfort of my home too. Well done. I look forward to repeating the experience with the next book.
April 4, 2024
x Hethering had one constant in her young life after the death of her parents, her friend Jake Simpson, but then he was gone. After years of study, Alex is now Dr. Alexandra Hethering, a scientist working at the CDC. She had searched over the years for Jake, but with no results. Her colleague is missing and she fears for his safety, as well as the country, if what she believes he is involved in proves to be true. She arrives at Black, Inc., a well-known security business hoping that they can help her locate him. She finds herself rerouted across the country to the main headquarters and office of the head of Black, Inc. She is shocked to recognize that Jacob Black is actually her Jake. When she explains what she fears may be involved, a strain of virus that could decimate the world, Jacob sets a plan in motion to find her missing colleague and stop whatever horror he might be unleashing. When she is abducted, will her tracker on her watch work and will he find her in time? A total rush to the thrilling end as now that he has found her, he can’t live without her! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
April 4, 2024
Years ago, sixteen year old Alexandra was at the lowest point and needed her best friend Jake. She goes looking for Jake but his father says he has left. Alex figures he’s gone to the bus station and pedals there as fast as she can. But he is already on the bus and doesn’t even turn to look at her.
Eighteen years later, Alex is one the head scientist at the CDC. One of her colleagues is missing and she turns to Black Inc. for help. When she arrives at their headquarters, she is instantly escorted to a helicopter then a plane, where she is taken to the main office.Once Alex arrives, she is shocked to see the boy she loved.
Jake now Jacob Black is a millionaire, decorated soldier, and owner of a security company. He will move heaven and earth to help Alex. A threat that could kill millions of people and Jacob will not lose Alex again. When she’s taken, Jacob will stop at nothing to get her back.
Loved this story. Second chance at love. Sex. Fast paced and will keep you on the edge of your seat. I liked it because she didn’t hold Jacob’s past mistakes against him.
* voluntarily read and reviewed for Netgalley *
Eighteen years later, Alex is one the head scientist at the CDC. One of her colleagues is missing and she turns to Black Inc. for help. When she arrives at their headquarters, she is instantly escorted to a helicopter then a plane, where she is taken to the main office.Once Alex arrives, she is shocked to see the boy she loved.
Jake now Jacob Black is a millionaire, decorated soldier, and owner of a security company. He will move heaven and earth to help Alex. A threat that could kill millions of people and Jacob will not lose Alex again. When she’s taken, Jacob will stop at nothing to get her back.
Loved this story. Second chance at love. Sex. Fast paced and will keep you on the edge of your seat. I liked it because she didn’t hold Jacob’s past mistakes against him.
* voluntarily read and reviewed for Netgalley *
April 2, 2024
Alex has always lived Jake. She just never got the chance to tell him before he left. She compared every man to him and the always came up short to even the boy he was.
Jacob has only ever loved one woman...Alex. He has kept tabs on her but never allowed her to see him. And then she found trouble he was uniquely qualified to help her with. But can Alex forgive the pain Jacob caused when he left her so long ago?
Jacob is first in Black Inc. by Lisa Marie Rice. I enjoyed getting to know Jacob. He has been in the periphery of the Midnight series so I loved that it was his turn. Jacob finds himself feeling. His emotions are engaged and he is determined to take advantage of having Alex back. She is angry but he is sure he can convince her to forgive him. Even if they saved the world first, he will fight for a future with her. I lived seeing Jacob accept that he has emotions even as he works to thaw out Alex's anger. Saving the world must happen but love and acceptance will become equally important.
I enjoyed this new series and look forward to where Ms. Rice will take us next.
Jacob has only ever loved one woman...Alex. He has kept tabs on her but never allowed her to see him. And then she found trouble he was uniquely qualified to help her with. But can Alex forgive the pain Jacob caused when he left her so long ago?
Jacob is first in Black Inc. by Lisa Marie Rice. I enjoyed getting to know Jacob. He has been in the periphery of the Midnight series so I loved that it was his turn. Jacob finds himself feeling. His emotions are engaged and he is determined to take advantage of having Alex back. She is angry but he is sure he can convince her to forgive him. Even if they saved the world first, he will fight for a future with her. I lived seeing Jacob accept that he has emotions even as he works to thaw out Alex's anger. Saving the world must happen but love and acceptance will become equally important.
I enjoyed this new series and look forward to where Ms. Rice will take us next.
April 1, 2024
I've been looking forward to reading Jacob's story!
To the point that I wanted to re-read all the books where he makes an appearance in order to remember all his moments.
Even if I haven't done that, this book delivered.
It felt pretty short, though it even features the pov of the villain, in true Lisa Marie Rice Fashion. Jacob and his long lost first love, Alex, were granted a second chance and their love flourished beautifully, almost obsessively and very hot. I liked the take on the bioweapon, and I always love to read how this author tackles the danger in her suspense, it is never boring, always intriguing with all the knowledge and use of tools.
For me, this book checked all the good boxes and I'll be sure to follow my plan and re-read all the past book in order to arrive again at the elusive character, most wanted, Jacob. A great read!
I received a copy of this book in order to share my view on it.
To the point that I wanted to re-read all the books where he makes an appearance in order to remember all his moments.
Even if I haven't done that, this book delivered.
It felt pretty short, though it even features the pov of the villain, in true Lisa Marie Rice Fashion. Jacob and his long lost first love, Alex, were granted a second chance and their love flourished beautifully, almost obsessively and very hot. I liked the take on the bioweapon, and I always love to read how this author tackles the danger in her suspense, it is never boring, always intriguing with all the knowledge and use of tools.
For me, this book checked all the good boxes and I'll be sure to follow my plan and re-read all the past book in order to arrive again at the elusive character, most wanted, Jacob. A great read!
I received a copy of this book in order to share my view on it.
April 7, 2024
I'm not sure why this guy had to be so extra. The helicopters, the jets, all his houses and buildings, the most money, the hugest offices, the most widespread reputation, the best at what he does, the best company, the best and most employees, the biggest muscles. Stupidly outfitting limos and airplanes with all this food no one will eat so it can be "well stocked." Enough already that's not the draw the author seems to think it is.
And despite all that, the hero avoids the heroine for 18 years because he is afraid??? It's so dumb I wanted to smack some sense into both of them. She should definitely have held out on the reconciliation for as many days as the years where he knew where she was but was getting his dick wet with fuckbuddies while avoiding her. And he supposedly loved her all this time? Pfffffffft.
Second chance stories work better and are way less enraging when the reason the couple is apart doesn't all fall on the hero's broad but idiotic shoulders.
And despite all that, the hero avoids the heroine for 18 years because he is afraid??? It's so dumb I wanted to smack some sense into both of them. She should definitely have held out on the reconciliation for as many days as the years where he knew where she was but was getting his dick wet with fuckbuddies while avoiding her. And he supposedly loved her all this time? Pfffffffft.
Second chance stories work better and are way less enraging when the reason the couple is apart doesn't all fall on the hero's broad but idiotic shoulders.
April 5, 2024
Gripping Romantic Suspense
What happened when Alexandra saw the man who had abandoned her eighteen years ago? She had never forgotten him, and now, here he was. She must trust someone with her dangerous secrets. Could she trust him?
Why did Jacob abandon Alex? Now that she was on his doorstep, could he convince her to give him a second chance?
This riveting romantic suspense kept me on the edge of my seat from the first, until the very last page. There is deadly danger, heart-pounding action, and a second chance romance. This book has all the right elements to keep the reader enthralled. Will Jacob and Alex survive an evil intent on killing billions of people without any remorse? The odds are not in their favor, but Jacob went through the fires of hell and lived to tell about it. He was the right man for the job despite Alex’s reservations in the beginning.
What happened when Alexandra saw the man who had abandoned her eighteen years ago? She had never forgotten him, and now, here he was. She must trust someone with her dangerous secrets. Could she trust him?
Why did Jacob abandon Alex? Now that she was on his doorstep, could he convince her to give him a second chance?
This riveting romantic suspense kept me on the edge of my seat from the first, until the very last page. There is deadly danger, heart-pounding action, and a second chance romance. This book has all the right elements to keep the reader enthralled. Will Jacob and Alex survive an evil intent on killing billions of people without any remorse? The odds are not in their favor, but Jacob went through the fires of hell and lived to tell about it. He was the right man for the job despite Alex’s reservations in the beginning.
May 20, 2024
(inglés). (Explícito). No me gustó. La historia no tiene nada de malo, simplemente no fue para mi. Tiene lo mismo de siempre de LMR, mujer en problemas va a una compañía de seguridad donde se reencuentra con, básicamente, el amor de su vida, el cual se convirtió en multimillonario, por no decir billonario, después de retirarse de las fuerzas especiales y que fundó una mega compañía de seguridad. Así. Y que para resolver el problema, ella decide ir con él a la misión, que casualmente tiene que ver con Rusia y experimentos con armas biológicas, y en la cual ella termina secuestrada, algo golpeada y rescatada, como en menos de tres horas. Sencillo y lo mismo de siempre. Me esperaba algo más emocionante y profundo, con más misterio e intriga. Me resultó muy sencillo.
Narrado en tercera persona.
Narrado en tercera persona.
December 20, 2024
*4.5 stars*
A second chance at love and a death-defying search for the truth.
I love this author’s stories, with their strong characters – both men and women – and courtships that involve the heart and danger (lots of danger!) as well…
Alexandra and Jacob’s journey was a second chance at what could have been. Their reunion was full of emotional upheaval and the uncertainty was only equaled by their desire to stay alive. From page one, I was totally involved in their history and especially their not so certain future.
They resolved their issues with little drama (perhaps too little lol) but that didn’t take away from the tension and pulse-pounding excitement. The Midnight series was one of my all-time favorites and this vibed just like that so you know I can’t wait for more Black Inc. I need more!
*I happily reviewed this story
**Thank you to Booksprout
A second chance at love and a death-defying search for the truth.
I love this author’s stories, with their strong characters – both men and women – and courtships that involve the heart and danger (lots of danger!) as well…
Alexandra and Jacob’s journey was a second chance at what could have been. Their reunion was full of emotional upheaval and the uncertainty was only equaled by their desire to stay alive. From page one, I was totally involved in their history and especially their not so certain future.
They resolved their issues with little drama (perhaps too little lol) but that didn’t take away from the tension and pulse-pounding excitement. The Midnight series was one of my all-time favorites and this vibed just like that so you know I can’t wait for more Black Inc. I need more!
*I happily reviewed this story
**Thank you to Booksprout
March 31, 2024
First read of this author for me and whilst I enjoyed the premise of the book and the characters, it didn’t really tick all my boxes.
I followed along happily enough right up till our characters were reunited then (for me personally) the story morphed from two strong characters to two love struck teenagers incapable of rational thought. Alex instantly forgave Jake/Jacob for what happened (which was so quickly glossed over it’s like it didn’t happen) and Jake/Jacob became unrecognisable by being incapable of having rational thought or decision making abilities in the presence of Alex.
The storyline was intriguing and made up for this somewhat but this was instalove on steroids with little really character interaction to warrant it for me
I followed along happily enough right up till our characters were reunited then (for me personally) the story morphed from two strong characters to two love struck teenagers incapable of rational thought. Alex instantly forgave Jake/Jacob for what happened (which was so quickly glossed over it’s like it didn’t happen) and Jake/Jacob became unrecognisable by being incapable of having rational thought or decision making abilities in the presence of Alex.
The storyline was intriguing and made up for this somewhat but this was instalove on steroids with little really character interaction to warrant it for me
April 4, 2024
suspense
Alex and Jake (Jacob) were childhood friends, they could count on each other through everything. On the worst day of Alex’s life Jake walked away without an explanation and left her all alone. Many years later Alex walks into Black Inc to ask for help,never expecting to confront the one thing from her childhood that still haunts her . Jacob finally has a chance and he isn’t going to let Alex slip through his fingers. I was very excited for this story unfortunately 3/4 of the book the characters have little dialogue and it’s more about what they are thinking or explanation of the situation that is happening . It was a little bit of a disappointment until you got through 75% of the story then it got real good.
Alex and Jake (Jacob) were childhood friends, they could count on each other through everything. On the worst day of Alex’s life Jake walked away without an explanation and left her all alone. Many years later Alex walks into Black Inc to ask for help,never expecting to confront the one thing from her childhood that still haunts her . Jacob finally has a chance and he isn’t going to let Alex slip through his fingers. I was very excited for this story unfortunately 3/4 of the book the characters have little dialogue and it’s more about what they are thinking or explanation of the situation that is happening . It was a little bit of a disappointment until you got through 75% of the story then it got real good.
March 25, 2024
This story hits the ground running with a heartbreaking beginning and doesn’t let up as the plot continues with a second chance, a very alpha hero and an equally strong heroine. There is also thrown into the mix a very, very evil man bent on having his way no matter the cost in money or people. I absolutely fell in love with this couple as they had been through so much that I could feel the emotion coming off the pages of the book. This author is an auto read for me as she writes stories you won’t be able to put down and once you get to the end you don’t want the story to be over. I highly recommend Jacob Black, Inc for a page turning, read in one sitting book!
April 1, 2024
The start of this story was heartbreaking when Alex's best friend Jake left town without talking to her. Of course, we don't learn the reason for his actions until later in the story when circumstances bring them back together. It's eighteen years later and Alex is concerned as a colleague at the CDC has gone missing.
From that point there is plenty of action and danger as a team is put together to search for the missing scientist and shut down a potential bioweapon. There are several interesting side characters that add to the richness of the story.
From that point there is plenty of action and danger as a team is put together to search for the missing scientist and shut down a potential bioweapon. There are several interesting side characters that add to the richness of the story.
April 3, 2024
I could not put this book down! You have two teenagers who come from two totally different backgrounds, but were best friends anyway. One day everything changed and they never saw each other again. Now 18 years later you have Alex stumbling into the Black Inc. office for help with a missing colleague at the CDC. What started out as a pretty normal meeting totally shifted with one phone call. She ends up coming face to face with her past and she is experiencing all of the emotions with anger taking the forefront. Will things work out or will Alex end up like she was 18 years ago?
April 10, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy.
I really enjoy Lisa Marie Rice's books. They have fun bonkers tendencies. I think this reads well as a standalone - there is no need to have any of the Midnight books to enjoy it. It was clear there was a Jocab book coming. Second chances are not really my thing bu this works for me. They knew each other as kids/teens and then grew up separately. When Alex and Jacob meet again they are independent adults who have grown into strong people.
This is a fun read!
I really enjoy Lisa Marie Rice's books. They have fun bonkers tendencies. I think this reads well as a standalone - there is no need to have any of the Midnight books to enjoy it. It was clear there was a Jocab book coming. Second chances are not really my thing bu this works for me. They knew each other as kids/teens and then grew up separately. When Alex and Jacob meet again they are independent adults who have grown into strong people.
This is a fun read!
April 13, 2024
This is the first in a new series. This is about Jacob and Alex. They were friends in school. He was 2 year ahead of her in school. Jacob had a horrible childhood so he mostly stayed with Alex and her family. Jacob left town during Alex’s worsted day. She never seen him again for 28 years.
She is a scientist and one of her colleagues dissapesrs she goes to Black inc to see if they can find him. She meets up with Jacob again. The stories begins, suspense, drama, and lots of heat between Jacob and Alex.
Great start to a great series.
She is a scientist and one of her colleagues dissapesrs she goes to Black inc to see if they can find him. She meets up with Jacob again. The stories begins, suspense, drama, and lots of heat between Jacob and Alex.
Great start to a great series.
March 21, 2024
Finally Jacobs story and it did not disappointed! I loved his and Alex's story, their history, how their lives were altered and how they came back together, these two are definitely destined mates. The only part of the story that frustrated me was why Jacob didn't approach a lot sooner, so much wasted time and heart ache. If you've followed the Midnight Men you will really like this new, fresh spin off. I can't wait for Nikolai's story.
March 30, 2024
Jacob Black, Inc. is a fast paced long-lost lovers novella.
When Alexandra (Alex) walks into his business looking for help - Jacob is determined to not let her get away a second time! After a minor bit of angst, and a little back story, the romance hits the ground running, and Jacob helps his lady love (who is a scientist - yay smart girl power!) save the world.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When Alexandra (Alex) walks into his business looking for help - Jacob is determined to not let her get away a second time! After a minor bit of angst, and a little back story, the romance hits the ground running, and Jacob helps his lady love (who is a scientist - yay smart girl power!) save the world.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 31, 2024
First book by this author for me! I just love finding new authors stories I can try out!
Fast paced.
Great world and character building.
I really enjoy second chance romance, and eighteen years later…I loved that!
Suspenseful. It kept me engaged and needing to find out if these two could have staying power!
I was rooting for Alex and Jacob!
I will definitely check out other stories by this author!
Fast paced.
Great world and character building.
I really enjoy second chance romance, and eighteen years later…I loved that!
Suspenseful. It kept me engaged and needing to find out if these two could have staying power!
I was rooting for Alex and Jacob!
I will definitely check out other stories by this author!
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