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Blackthorn Security #3
Silk Shadow
A detached special forces operative with everything to lose. A feisty Instagrammer used to getting her way.
When social media influencer and entrepreneur, Izzy, starts getting death threats, she turns to her mother's old friend, a military veteran who runs a private security company to help her. He assigns Viper, a new recruit, to be her personal protection officer. With abs harder than barnacles and eyes the color of the ocean, Izzy can't deny her attraction to the strong, silent bodyguard—but despite her best attempts to seduce him, he remains aloof.
Viper needs this job. He went off the rails after leaving the Navy SEALs and this is his one chance to forge a career for himself in the private security industry. Izzy wasn't quite the assignment he was expecting, but when she gets kidnapped during a fashion shoot, things suddenly get serious. Viper has to get her back if he's going to save her life—and his career.
*This is a sizzling, edge-of-your-seat, bodyguard romance by Amazon bestselling author, Gemma Ford, with some steamy scenes.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "This story was SO hot. A sizzling, edge-of-your-seat bodyguard romance. So hot it was on fire! Gemma Ford has hit pay dirt with this one."
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "I wanted more of Izzy and Viper!"
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "LOADS of tension, excitement, danger, romance and I was truly disappointed when the book ended."
When social media influencer and entrepreneur, Izzy, starts getting death threats, she turns to her mother's old friend, a military veteran who runs a private security company to help her. He assigns Viper, a new recruit, to be her personal protection officer. With abs harder than barnacles and eyes the color of the ocean, Izzy can't deny her attraction to the strong, silent bodyguard—but despite her best attempts to seduce him, he remains aloof.
Viper needs this job. He went off the rails after leaving the Navy SEALs and this is his one chance to forge a career for himself in the private security industry. Izzy wasn't quite the assignment he was expecting, but when she gets kidnapped during a fashion shoot, things suddenly get serious. Viper has to get her back if he's going to save her life—and his career.
*This is a sizzling, edge-of-your-seat, bodyguard romance by Amazon bestselling author, Gemma Ford, with some steamy scenes.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "This story was SO hot. A sizzling, edge-of-your-seat bodyguard romance. So hot it was on fire! Gemma Ford has hit pay dirt with this one."
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "I wanted more of Izzy and Viper!"
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "LOADS of tension, excitement, danger, romance and I was truly disappointed when the book ended."
- GenresMilitary FictionRomance
258 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 23, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
July 13, 2024
This was an excellent read that kept me on the edge of my seat. There's plenty of action and suspense. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a good story that keeps your interest peaked. HEA.
October 24, 2026
In the “About the Author” section, Gemma Ford says she enjoys writing about “feisty, independent women and their brave, warm-hearted men.” Honestly, I have to question that description based on this book. Izzy was not the feisty, independent heroine I was expecting. Instead, I found her annoying, frustrating, and, at times, downright stupid. To be fair, she was still a little better than I expected based on the Goodreads summary and other reviews, which had me anticipating a shallow airhead. Unfortunately, that isn’t exactly a glowing endorsement. Viper wasn’t much better. He was just kind of there, and I never found him particularly compelling, memorable, or swoon-worthy. Neither character had enough depth or personality to make me genuinely care about what happened to them.
The biggest problem, though, was the absolute lack of chemistry between Izzy and Viper. I couldn’t understand what was supposed to be drawing these two together beyond the fact that he was her bodyguard. There was no meaningful tension, no playful banter, no flirtatious energy, and no sense of an emotional connection developing between them. They felt more like two people sharing space than two people falling for each other. Even when they finally got together, more than halfway through the book, I still wasn’t buying it. The relationship didn’t feel earned because there was so little buildup to make it believable. I didn’t feel the attraction, I didn’t feel the emotional pull, and I certainly didn’t feel the romance. For a story that relies on the relationship between its main characters, that was a pretty significant problem.
The writing also became repetitive, particularly with certain word choices. “Deftly” was used numerous times, sometimes multiple times in the same chapter. There’s nothing wrong with the word itself, but when it keeps popping up over and over, it becomes distracting. Instead of adding anything to the writing, it started to feel like the author was trying too hard to sound clever.
The plot was also highly predictable. I had a pretty good idea of where things were headed from the beginning, and there wasn’t enough intrigue or suspense to make me question my assumptions. Nothing about the storyline or the characters gave me much reason to stay invested.
Ultimately, this book fell flat for me. The characters failed to make an impression, the romance lacked any believable chemistry or connection, and the predictable plot did little to make up for those shortcomings. I wanted a compelling couple and a story that would keep me engaged, but neither delivered.
The biggest problem, though, was the absolute lack of chemistry between Izzy and Viper. I couldn’t understand what was supposed to be drawing these two together beyond the fact that he was her bodyguard. There was no meaningful tension, no playful banter, no flirtatious energy, and no sense of an emotional connection developing between them. They felt more like two people sharing space than two people falling for each other. Even when they finally got together, more than halfway through the book, I still wasn’t buying it. The relationship didn’t feel earned because there was so little buildup to make it believable. I didn’t feel the attraction, I didn’t feel the emotional pull, and I certainly didn’t feel the romance. For a story that relies on the relationship between its main characters, that was a pretty significant problem.
The writing also became repetitive, particularly with certain word choices. “Deftly” was used numerous times, sometimes multiple times in the same chapter. There’s nothing wrong with the word itself, but when it keeps popping up over and over, it becomes distracting. Instead of adding anything to the writing, it started to feel like the author was trying too hard to sound clever.
The plot was also highly predictable. I had a pretty good idea of where things were headed from the beginning, and there wasn’t enough intrigue or suspense to make me question my assumptions. Nothing about the storyline or the characters gave me much reason to stay invested.
Ultimately, this book fell flat for me. The characters failed to make an impression, the romance lacked any believable chemistry or connection, and the predictable plot did little to make up for those shortcomings. I wanted a compelling couple and a story that would keep me engaged, but neither delivered.
July 16, 2024
We are back with another addition to the Blackthorn Security series. A security company in which former elite military warriors are finding a place as they transition into civilian life.
Victor/Viper Morgan is one of these men. Viper needs this job, especially after having to leave the job he loved as a Navy SEAL. But a mission and subsequent injury ended it all.
When he is assigned to protect Isabelle/Izzy Beaumont, a social influencer, entrepreneur and millionaire , he is determine to do his best, even if he’s attracted to her. Someone wants to scare her enough that her life is in danger.
In this action packed story, we are take from the luxury of a yacht to the jungles of Mexico as they try to stay alive.
All this leading them to fall for each other. But can Viper keep them alive? Who wants her dead? Who is after the mine in Mexico and will they go as far as to commit murder?
A captivating story from the first page to the last. Especially loved Viper with his determination and willingness to even lose his job in order to keep Izzy alive.
A great addition to the series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Victor/Viper Morgan is one of these men. Viper needs this job, especially after having to leave the job he loved as a Navy SEAL. But a mission and subsequent injury ended it all.
When he is assigned to protect Isabelle/Izzy Beaumont, a social influencer, entrepreneur and millionaire , he is determine to do his best, even if he’s attracted to her. Someone wants to scare her enough that her life is in danger.
In this action packed story, we are take from the luxury of a yacht to the jungles of Mexico as they try to stay alive.
All this leading them to fall for each other. But can Viper keep them alive? Who wants her dead? Who is after the mine in Mexico and will they go as far as to commit murder?
A captivating story from the first page to the last. Especially loved Viper with his determination and willingness to even lose his job in order to keep Izzy alive.
A great addition to the series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
March 1, 2025
Successful and gorgeous fashion influencer and entrepreneur Isabella ‘Izzy’ Beaumont inherited Mexican mines when her dad died and recently began receiving threats over a mine. Izzy’s Uncle Pat, Blackthorn co-founder insisted Izzy needed a bodyguard and freshly hired Victor ‘Viper’ Morgan was available. Izzy told Viper about a scheduled photo shoot starting the next day as they enjoyed the gender differences in each other. In their room’s Izzy shared her concerns about her dad’s death, Viper concurred and they got Uncle Pat on it.
Robert Hampton, the man Izzy named interim CEO of the mines had romantic plans for Izzy but she wasn’t onboard. When he saw Viper, who he dislikes on sight he didn’t wonder why and tried to separate him from Izzy for what should have been a yacht party on the pier but she insisted on Viper comig also. The yacht went out to sea and while in a semi-dark corner with Robert, Izzy is kidnapped! Viper has to ask himself if it’s Robert, someone else because of loose lips of an astronomical coincidence.
Rating: 4.5stars
Robert Hampton, the man Izzy named interim CEO of the mines had romantic plans for Izzy but she wasn’t onboard. When he saw Viper, who he dislikes on sight he didn’t wonder why and tried to separate him from Izzy for what should have been a yacht party on the pier but she insisted on Viper comig also. The yacht went out to sea and while in a semi-dark corner with Robert, Izzy is kidnapped! Viper has to ask himself if it’s Robert, someone else because of loose lips of an astronomical coincidence.
Rating: 4.5stars
July 26, 2024
Another great addition in this series that will have you turning the pages, not wanting to put it down. Viper is the new addition on the team and is assigned a bodyguard job to Izzy, a woman who is near and dear to Pat, the unit’s leader, and a man who holds Viper’s future in his hands....he can’t mess this assignment up. When Izzy is kidnapped, Viper pulls out all the stops to get her back and figure out who is out to get her and why.
No spoilers from me as this is once again a must read by this author. A read with steam...ahem...oh boy oh boy steam...I’ll just say pool scene....suspense, action, betrayal, and amazing characters. The story flowed beautifully without missing a beat and the descriptions were spot on, felt like I was right there. I loved the no over the top drama and how easily these two clicked when all their walls came down.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
No spoilers from me as this is once again a must read by this author. A read with steam...ahem...oh boy oh boy steam...I’ll just say pool scene....suspense, action, betrayal, and amazing characters. The story flowed beautifully without missing a beat and the descriptions were spot on, felt like I was right there. I loved the no over the top drama and how easily these two clicked when all their walls came down.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
July 18, 2024
Wow just brilliant! Fast paced and loads of action and suspense.
When influencer and mining magnate, Izzy is getting death threats, she talks to her Uncle Pat who owns Blackthorn Security and he gets new hire Viper to protect her.
The romance took a while to start with this even though the attraction was always there. For one, Viper was wanting to remain professional, and two, he couldn't get distracted. Izzy was a big distraction to him. But their chemistry was boiling and just a delight to read about.
The plot was so good. It made for a fast moving, easy read experience that I didn't want to put down. After reading it in one go, I'd like to go back and read it again. It was very absorbing.
Very well written, Gemma Ford did a great job writing this book. Wonderful characters that I really enjoyed. Fantastic story I can highly recommend.
When influencer and mining magnate, Izzy is getting death threats, she talks to her Uncle Pat who owns Blackthorn Security and he gets new hire Viper to protect her.
The romance took a while to start with this even though the attraction was always there. For one, Viper was wanting to remain professional, and two, he couldn't get distracted. Izzy was a big distraction to him. But their chemistry was boiling and just a delight to read about.
The plot was so good. It made for a fast moving, easy read experience that I didn't want to put down. After reading it in one go, I'd like to go back and read it again. It was very absorbing.
Very well written, Gemma Ford did a great job writing this book. Wonderful characters that I really enjoyed. Fantastic story I can highly recommend.
October 19, 2025
This book was ok. Not sure this author is for me. I didn’t love either main character. Izzy didn’t come off genuine and really didn’t take Viper’s security guidance into account. Viper was just so so. I never really felt the connection between the two. The pool scene didn’t do it for me as I just kept thinking how public it was. Plot was a bit weak too. Like nobody ever thought to dig into the car accident? And I don’t fully get how all the threats and kidnapping was going to help the bad persons cause. This might be the last book for me by this author as she seems to follow the formula of guy has to protect girl but they want each other but feel they shouldn’t and then not truly committing to each other til the very end after a bit of dramatic danger and then oh my, they can’t live without each other.
July 18, 2024
Another great read in the series!!!
Gemma Ford keeps knocking them out of the ballpark, and this third book of Blackthorn Security is no different. It is packed with excitement, action and suspense.
Viper has found it difficult after being medically discharged from the Seals, and looking for his reason to get up in the morning. He's offered a probationary job with Blackthorn Security, guarding an influencer, who happens to be a personal friend to his boss.
They find all sorts of trouble, keeping you on the edge of your seat.
Can't wait for another. I was given a copy of the ARC for my review.
Gemma Ford keeps knocking them out of the ballpark, and this third book of Blackthorn Security is no different. It is packed with excitement, action and suspense.
Viper has found it difficult after being medically discharged from the Seals, and looking for his reason to get up in the morning. He's offered a probationary job with Blackthorn Security, guarding an influencer, who happens to be a personal friend to his boss.
They find all sorts of trouble, keeping you on the edge of your seat.
Can't wait for another. I was given a copy of the ARC for my review.
September 30, 2024
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and managed to suspend disbelief enough to enjoy the second, even though the characters were a little thin and some of the situations were, frankly ridiculous.
This one though…omg am I struggling. The h is so, so insufferable. I’m 100 pages in and I *cannot stand* her. She’s incredibly self centred and so manipulative. I just hate her and her pouting and posing and “it’s just a little yacht party”and “Every man she’d ever known had hit on her”. So gross. I’m giving it 20 (reluctant) pages more to get better, and then calling it a day.
This one though…omg am I struggling. The h is so, so insufferable. I’m 100 pages in and I *cannot stand* her. She’s incredibly self centred and so manipulative. I just hate her and her pouting and posing and “it’s just a little yacht party”and “Every man she’d ever known had hit on her”. So gross. I’m giving it 20 (reluctant) pages more to get better, and then calling it a day.
February 25, 2025
I liked it. Viper and Izzy fell for each other while she was running from people who wanted her stake in the mining business and he was the security chosen to protect her.
Viper, a former navy seal, was struggling to gain traction after being discharged from the military. He gets brought in to Blackthorn and his first job is to protect Izzy after she receives several threats to her life. Sparks end up flying as Viper saves her on several occasions.
The chemistry between the two characters was really good. I liked the twists as they came along. I felt like I figured things out along with the characters and not before. Overall it was a good book.
Viper, a former navy seal, was struggling to gain traction after being discharged from the military. He gets brought in to Blackthorn and his first job is to protect Izzy after she receives several threats to her life. Sparks end up flying as Viper saves her on several occasions.
The chemistry between the two characters was really good. I liked the twists as they came along. I felt like I figured things out along with the characters and not before. Overall it was a good book.
May 30, 2025
K was about to give this book a 3/5, but the ending redeemed it for me.
Definitely the lesser of the books so far. I thought the middle was missing a big chunk of character development from both male and female protagonists. Other than that, very satisfied with the plot, action, suspense, and steam!
Quote I liked:
“He'd rather face a night of waterboarding than endure this.”
Definitely the lesser of the books so far. I thought the middle was missing a big chunk of character development from both male and female protagonists. Other than that, very satisfied with the plot, action, suspense, and steam!
Quote I liked:
“He'd rather face a night of waterboarding than endure this.”
July 25, 2024
loved it and can't wit for more
July 30, 2024
Loved it
January 23, 2025
Great!
Wonderful book and series! Gemma never disappoints! All her books are awesome. Intriguing and romance and sex. Happy reading😊 Enjoy!
Wonderful book and series! Gemma never disappoints! All her books are awesome. Intriguing and romance and sex. Happy reading😊 Enjoy!
May 27, 2025
Good
I enjoyed this book and the characters in this book and how the characters in this book had to overcome their past
I enjoyed this book and the characters in this book and how the characters in this book had to overcome their past
February 26, 2026
Still loving this series!
October 18, 2026
Bueno, lo Recomiendo
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews