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Arrow Tactical Security #7
Gilded Saint
He's the King of Deception, Until She Becomes His Queen
A better man would've said no to her desperate fake marriage proposal.
Five years deep in the syndicate, I've built my reputation brick by blood-soaked brick. They call me Saint—a code name that mocks the darkness I've embraced for my country.
When the daughter of Italy's most dangerous family begs for my protection, my gut tells me to walk away. But there's something in her eyes that reminds me of the man I used to be.
It's supposed to be marry her, shield her from a monster, maintain my cover. When this mission ends, she'll be a wealthy, independent widow.
That's the plan.
Then night falls on our wedding day, and I discover divine temptation wearing my ring. Beautiful. Brilliant. Brave. Sensual. Everything I can't afford to want.
She can never know the real me. There's too much at stake—my mission, my family, my country. But with every passing day, she pulls me further from the darkness, challenging the walls I've built.
They say even saints can fall.
She might be my ultimate test of faith.
From glittering penthouses to deadly back alleys, the seventh book in the Arrow Tactical series is a high-stakes game of deception and desire. Gilded Saint is a standalone romance, no cliffhanger, and no prior reading required. Love may be the most dangerous mission of all.
A better man would've said no to her desperate fake marriage proposal.
Five years deep in the syndicate, I've built my reputation brick by blood-soaked brick. They call me Saint—a code name that mocks the darkness I've embraced for my country.
When the daughter of Italy's most dangerous family begs for my protection, my gut tells me to walk away. But there's something in her eyes that reminds me of the man I used to be.
It's supposed to be marry her, shield her from a monster, maintain my cover. When this mission ends, she'll be a wealthy, independent widow.
That's the plan.
Then night falls on our wedding day, and I discover divine temptation wearing my ring. Beautiful. Brilliant. Brave. Sensual. Everything I can't afford to want.
She can never know the real me. There's too much at stake—my mission, my family, my country. But with every passing day, she pulls me further from the darkness, challenging the walls I've built.
They say even saints can fall.
She might be my ultimate test of faith.
From glittering penthouses to deadly back alleys, the seventh book in the Arrow Tactical series is a high-stakes game of deception and desire. Gilded Saint is a standalone romance, no cliffhanger, and no prior reading required. Love may be the most dangerous mission of all.
- GenresRomance
364 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 5, 2024
55 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
About the author
Isabel Jolie
62 books533 followersApple Books Contemporary Romance Bestselling Author of spicy thrillers where love always wins. Get free books + early access: https://isabeljoliebooks.com/#newsletter
Heart-pounding romance. Unforgettable heroes. Sizzling happily-ever-afters—with a side of suspense that'll keep you up way past bedtime.
I dreamed of being a writer as a kid but took the "safe" route: journalism degree, advertising career, MBA, corporate gigs at Chase and Universal. Then in 2020, I said screw it and published my first book. Twenty-five books later, I'm living the dream.
I'm also a mom to two teenage daughters who are perpetually mortified by my career choices. My husband's an entrepreneur whose latest product is Nampons (yes, it rhymes with tampons and yes, it's for nosebleeds). Between my spicy romance and his biz... we've cornered the market on parental embarrassment.
My books feature tough characters facing tougher choices, compelling suspense, and storylines that'll make you think. But no matter how dark things get, my people always choose love.
Follow me wherever you love to scroll:
https://www.instagram.com/isabeljolie...
https://tiktok.com/@Therealisabeljolie
https://www.facebook.com/isabeljolieb...
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/isabe...
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
https://www.pinterest.com/isabeljolie...
Heart-pounding romance. Unforgettable heroes. Sizzling happily-ever-afters—with a side of suspense that'll keep you up way past bedtime.
I dreamed of being a writer as a kid but took the "safe" route: journalism degree, advertising career, MBA, corporate gigs at Chase and Universal. Then in 2020, I said screw it and published my first book. Twenty-five books later, I'm living the dream.
I'm also a mom to two teenage daughters who are perpetually mortified by my career choices. My husband's an entrepreneur whose latest product is Nampons (yes, it rhymes with tampons and yes, it's for nosebleeds). Between my spicy romance and his biz... we've cornered the market on parental embarrassment.
My books feature tough characters facing tougher choices, compelling suspense, and storylines that'll make you think. But no matter how dark things get, my people always choose love.
Follow me wherever you love to scroll:
https://www.instagram.com/isabeljolie...
https://tiktok.com/@Therealisabeljolie
https://www.facebook.com/isabeljolieb...
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/isabe...
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
https://www.pinterest.com/isabeljolie...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
November 21, 2024
Sam and Willow. We know some stuff about Sam from the previous books since he is Sage & Sloane’s brother.
I liked Sam, he is a pretty decent guy as expected. I can’t say I liked Willow for him. She was too young and I couldn’t feel any chemistry between them.
She gave me mixed signals: she made a scene for no reason at all, she came on to him out of the blue, she is naive and innocent but she figured stuff out about him in an instant.
It was too much of an instalove for this big age gap and I wasn’t a fan.
I did like the action though.
The pacing was nice until 75%, after that it slowed down and it dragged a bit.
I would like to read Nick & Scarlet’s story though.
-Dual 1st person POV
-Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Overall: 3.5/5 ⭐️ for me.
Thank you so much Isabel Jolie for providing this arc in exchange for my honest opinion.
I liked Sam, he is a pretty decent guy as expected. I can’t say I liked Willow for him. She was too young and I couldn’t feel any chemistry between them.
She gave me mixed signals: she made a scene for no reason at all, she came on to him out of the blue, she is naive and innocent but she figured stuff out about him in an instant.
It was too much of an instalove for this big age gap and I wasn’t a fan.
I did like the action though.
The pacing was nice until 75%, after that it slowed down and it dragged a bit.
I would like to read Nick & Scarlet’s story though.
-Dual 1st person POV
-Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Overall: 3.5/5 ⭐️ for me.
Thank you so much Isabel Jolie for providing this arc in exchange for my honest opinion.
December 13, 2024
This is a well written book with strong characters in Sam and Willow. The author does a great job developing the story and paints her scenes perfectly. She brings an action packed story filled with drama, anxiety and twists, moves it fluidly and delivers an intriguing read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
December 3, 2024
This is book seven in The Arrow Tactical series and it is Leo ( Sam ) and Willow’s story and omg it is definitely a must read. Sam is a navy seal and active member of Seal Team 8 but at the moment he is so deep undercover as Leo and the inside man with the syndicate to get information about the cartel and if he is found out it would be instant death for him and also put his family in a dangerous situation even though he can’t have any contact with them because they think that he is dead along with his team that were killed but now he had been undercover for 5 years and now he wants out of this undercover operation only what he wasn’t expecting is to be in a more complicated situation. When Willow is attacked it is Leo who helps save her but her father had arranged a marriage to the same cruel, nasty, dangerous and evil man so she ended up asking Leo to marry her because she realised that he is a good and protective person regardless of what he does and because Leo can’t stand men abusing women he agreed but made it clear that it would be a marriage in name only so he took her to live in London so that she can live a normal life and continue with her art while being protected. The more time that Leo and Willow spend together the quickly lines became blurred between them but it could put them both in danger so Leo tried to keep his distance but Willow had other ideas and took matters into her own hands and then they couldn’t keep there hands off each other and then things start to turn deadly and Leo knows that his time undercover is at a end and he needs to be extracted but his biggest regret is that he will have to leave Willow behind but she dug her heels in because there was no way that he was leaving without her especially as he had become her reason for living but will they get away from the danger in time before it takes away everything that they want and care about. This book will certainly take you on a rollercoaster ride of so many different emotions along with danger, drama, kidnapping, mystery, action, secrets, cartels, mafia, betrayal, hope, love and situations that will have you on the edge of your seat while holding your breath wondering what will happen next and also what the outcome will be for Leo and Willow in the end. The book will pull you in and keep you engaged in the story that you will be unable to put it down with all the twists and turns while turning the pages because you need to know if Leo and Willow are able to escape and eventually get the happiness and future that they both want and deserve but never thought that they would have after everything that has happened and also what they have both been through in their lives because they are so perfect together and for each other and the attraction, connection and chemistry just grew so strong that they were unable to deny exactly how they felt about each other. Isabel Jolie is a amazing author and writer and she certainly knows how to keep her readers engaged in her story’s and kept your attention throughout and I can’t wait to read more of her book’s in the future.
December 7, 2024
“Gilded Saint” is the seventh book in “The Arrow Tactical Series.” From glittering penthouses to deadly back alleys, the seventh book in the Arrow Tactical series is a high-stakes game of deception and desire. Leo (aka Saint, aka Sam) has been deep undercover for five long years and it is beginning to take its toll. He is tired, he misses his sisters, who think he is dead - a must to keep them safe. Leo/Sam is an active Navy Seal, a member of Seal Team 8, though officially he is deceased. His only “friend” whilst undercover is Nikolai Ivanov, Nick, but even he does not know who Leo really is. Leo is a gentleman, who respects women and will always protect them, hence Willow coming into his life. Whilst walking on the beach late in the evening he saves a beautiful young lady from being raped by a much older man.
She turns up in her room with a proposition for him, to save her being forced into a marriage to Leandro De Luca, Massimo De Luca’s brother. Next thing he knows, being the gentleman he is, he agrees to her to marry her, to protect her from a forced marriage that would not end well for her.
“Willow, if you will have me, I would be honored to be your husband.” By Sunday he will be married to Willow. He is adamant to her that this will be a marriage in name only and nothing else. “This marriage, tomorrow. You understand it’s an arrangement? I’ll do this to protect you, to get you away from here, but all we have is an arrangement.”
Leo convinces himself that this will be a platonic marriage and only to protect her. Contrary to what he wanted, the relationship between them flourishes. The chemistry between them sizzles even with the age difference. He begins to have strong feelings towards Willow, he lets his guard down and falls for her. Will he be able to walk away from her when the time comes for him to return home? Will she be safe without him around to protect her? How will she feel if she found out the truth? So many questions …. The story will captivate you - it is full of drama, sexual tension, passion, danger and a few other twist and turns …. you will be hooked!
We have had snippets of information about the mysterious Saint throughout “The Arrow Tactical Series” - aka Leo/Sam. He is Sage and Sloane’s brother. I have been so looking forward to reading Saint’s story and it has not disappointed. I have loved all the books in this series, but I have to say, “Gilded Saint” has been my favourite. I just love Sam - he is a gentleman that always tries to do what he thinks is right and will always protect the one’s he loves. You will fall in love with Sam and Willow, hoping that everything with work out for them and they have a future together. Overall, I would highly recommend this book and you will not be disappointed 😊
She turns up in her room with a proposition for him, to save her being forced into a marriage to Leandro De Luca, Massimo De Luca’s brother. Next thing he knows, being the gentleman he is, he agrees to her to marry her, to protect her from a forced marriage that would not end well for her.
“Willow, if you will have me, I would be honored to be your husband.” By Sunday he will be married to Willow. He is adamant to her that this will be a marriage in name only and nothing else. “This marriage, tomorrow. You understand it’s an arrangement? I’ll do this to protect you, to get you away from here, but all we have is an arrangement.”
Leo convinces himself that this will be a platonic marriage and only to protect her. Contrary to what he wanted, the relationship between them flourishes. The chemistry between them sizzles even with the age difference. He begins to have strong feelings towards Willow, he lets his guard down and falls for her. Will he be able to walk away from her when the time comes for him to return home? Will she be safe without him around to protect her? How will she feel if she found out the truth? So many questions …. The story will captivate you - it is full of drama, sexual tension, passion, danger and a few other twist and turns …. you will be hooked!
We have had snippets of information about the mysterious Saint throughout “The Arrow Tactical Series” - aka Leo/Sam. He is Sage and Sloane’s brother. I have been so looking forward to reading Saint’s story and it has not disappointed. I have loved all the books in this series, but I have to say, “Gilded Saint” has been my favourite. I just love Sam - he is a gentleman that always tries to do what he thinks is right and will always protect the one’s he loves. You will fall in love with Sam and Willow, hoping that everything with work out for them and they have a future together. Overall, I would highly recommend this book and you will not be disappointed 😊
December 16, 2024
He's the King of Deception, Until She Becomes His Queen
A better man would've said no to her desperate proposal.
Five years deep in the syndicate, I've built my reputation brick by blood-soaked brick. They call me Saint – a code name that mocks the darkness I've embraced for my country.
When the daughter of Italy's most dangerous family begs for my protection through marriage, duty tells me to walk away. But there's something in her eyes that reminds me of the man I used to be.
It's supposed to be simple: marry her, shield her from a monster, maintain my cover. When this mission ends, she'll be a wealthy, independent widow.
That's the plan.
Then night falls on our wedding day, and I discover divine temptation wearing my ring. Beautiful. Brilliant. Brave. Sensual. Everything I can't afford to want.
She can never know the real me. There's too much at stake – my mission, my family, my country. But with every passing day, she pulls me further from the darkness, challenging the walls I've built.
They say even saints can fall.
She might be my ultimate test of faith.
This contemporary mafia romance is page-turning with exceptional world-building that is engulfed by darkness, danger, violence, and grit, and characters that are exuding power, alpha, dangerous, dark, violent, obsessive, possessive, captivating, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with the gilded saint, explicit romance that is consumed by steamy, sizzling passion, lust, desire, and spice with all the feelings to leave readers breathless and begging for more, romantic suspense, military romance, age gap, forbidden romance, fake marriage romance, action and adventure, international romance, from glittering penthouses to deadly back alleys, high-stakes games of deception and desire, love may be the most dangerous mission of all withheartfelt emotions, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with the gilded saint and explicit romance that is sure to transport readers into a world that is wildly dangerous and unforgettable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A better man would've said no to her desperate proposal.
Five years deep in the syndicate, I've built my reputation brick by blood-soaked brick. They call me Saint – a code name that mocks the darkness I've embraced for my country.
When the daughter of Italy's most dangerous family begs for my protection through marriage, duty tells me to walk away. But there's something in her eyes that reminds me of the man I used to be.
It's supposed to be simple: marry her, shield her from a monster, maintain my cover. When this mission ends, she'll be a wealthy, independent widow.
That's the plan.
Then night falls on our wedding day, and I discover divine temptation wearing my ring. Beautiful. Brilliant. Brave. Sensual. Everything I can't afford to want.
She can never know the real me. There's too much at stake – my mission, my family, my country. But with every passing day, she pulls me further from the darkness, challenging the walls I've built.
They say even saints can fall.
She might be my ultimate test of faith.
This contemporary mafia romance is page-turning with exceptional world-building that is engulfed by darkness, danger, violence, and grit, and characters that are exuding power, alpha, dangerous, dark, violent, obsessive, possessive, captivating, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with the gilded saint, explicit romance that is consumed by steamy, sizzling passion, lust, desire, and spice with all the feelings to leave readers breathless and begging for more, romantic suspense, military romance, age gap, forbidden romance, fake marriage romance, action and adventure, international romance, from glittering penthouses to deadly back alleys, high-stakes games of deception and desire, love may be the most dangerous mission of all withheartfelt emotions, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with the gilded saint and explicit romance that is sure to transport readers into a world that is wildly dangerous and unforgettable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 12, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
"He’s the King of Deception, Until She Becomes His"
Wow, Isabel has managed to get me hooked and on the edge from start to the end!!! If you like suspense with heat this is the book for you.
If you have read previous books in the series then you will understand what a shock it was to meet Saint. Please don't read the review if you don't want to spoil the the last two books for you. However it can still be read as a standalone.
Saint is the brother of Sage and Sloane that was ki11ed in action in the Navy.
So to see his story was just a fantastic and a shocking story.
Working undercover as a syndicate member, which was only meant to be for 6 months ended up being 5 years. It's a lot of politics so you really need to concentrate to understand it.
Willow was a Mafia princess, that thought she was safe from arranged marriage until a monster caught her eye. She is now desperate to escape that arrangement and who better to help her? The foreign British man from the syndicate. No one messes with the syndicate. I really liked Willow, she came across a young and naive but she was so much more. She was smart, mature and kind person.
The syndicate is run by Nick Ivanov and he is literally the highest order of the Mafia and Cartel world. Saint has been gathering intelligence during his time there. Every day is a risk to his life and he really didn't want to bring another into his webs of lies. But her life is in danger and he can't ignore that either.
What will happen when he has to leave her behind? Will saint manage to leave before Nick finds out? How will he leave the woman he has fallen for?
This was another great book by Isabel.
It was full of secrets, suspense, action, twists, betrayal, heartbreak, friendship, love and spice.
This was perfect ending to this chapter and a beginning of the next. I was secretly hoping we get Nick's story and Isabel has granted my wish. I really liked his character and can't wait to read his story.
🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️
"He’s the King of Deception, Until She Becomes His"
Wow, Isabel has managed to get me hooked and on the edge from start to the end!!! If you like suspense with heat this is the book for you.
If you have read previous books in the series then you will understand what a shock it was to meet Saint. Please don't read the review if you don't want to spoil the the last two books for you. However it can still be read as a standalone.
Saint is the brother of Sage and Sloane that was ki11ed in action in the Navy.
So to see his story was just a fantastic and a shocking story.
Working undercover as a syndicate member, which was only meant to be for 6 months ended up being 5 years. It's a lot of politics so you really need to concentrate to understand it.
Willow was a Mafia princess, that thought she was safe from arranged marriage until a monster caught her eye. She is now desperate to escape that arrangement and who better to help her? The foreign British man from the syndicate. No one messes with the syndicate. I really liked Willow, she came across a young and naive but she was so much more. She was smart, mature and kind person.
The syndicate is run by Nick Ivanov and he is literally the highest order of the Mafia and Cartel world. Saint has been gathering intelligence during his time there. Every day is a risk to his life and he really didn't want to bring another into his webs of lies. But her life is in danger and he can't ignore that either.
What will happen when he has to leave her behind? Will saint manage to leave before Nick finds out? How will he leave the woman he has fallen for?
This was another great book by Isabel.
It was full of secrets, suspense, action, twists, betrayal, heartbreak, friendship, love and spice.
This was perfect ending to this chapter and a beginning of the next. I was secretly hoping we get Nick's story and Isabel has granted my wish. I really liked his character and can't wait to read his story.
November 26, 2024
I have been waiting anxiously for Gilded Saint to be released because I couldn’t wait to read Sam’s story. My oh my – it was so worth the wait! This entire series has been outstanding and Ms. Jolie knows why Sage’s book (Book #1 in the Beauty Trilogy) was so near and dear to my heart, but I have to say she knocked this one out of the park. I can honestly say this is my favorite series of all time by this author and I’m so very glad that I had the opportunity to read the entire series. Gilded Saint is Book #7 within the Arrow Tactical Series and we have been teased about Sam for awhile now so I was ready to dive into this one and it was everything I had hoped for. Romantic suspense is by far my most favorite genre and Ms. Jolie never disappoints – twists and turns, adventure, drama, suspense and really well-developed characters. I thought Willow was a very mature young woman and I really enjoyed the way Ms. Jolie wrote her character. I was a bit skeptical about the age difference, but it wasn’t even an issue once I got into the story line and the plot. Sam a/k/a Leo a/k/a Saint was a character I knew I would like, but he turned out to be more than that–he may be my favorite, second only to Sage because in Sam’s words, “she’s the best of the three of us” and I have to agree. But Sam is right up there along side Sage. If you insist on reading this as a standalone, I have no doubt you’ll enjoy it, but seriously think about picking up the entire series - you won’t be sorry. I’m very grateful to have been given the opportunity to read an advance copy of this 5+ star book.
December 16, 2024
This is the 7th book in The Armor Tactical Series featuring the absolutely riveting age-gap, fake-marriage, mafia, romantic suspense, twists and turns, undercover CIA operative romance between Saint aka Sam and Willow. Sam has been deep undercover for the CIA for the past 5yrs he's working with Arrow Tactical posing as an arms dealer. When he meets Willow he thinks that she's too young for him but he also can't help being attracted to her. Willow's father is a Mafia Don in Italy's most dangerous crime family and she's about to be married to a very abusive older man. Of course she has no say in the matter so when she meets Saint it seems like divine intervention so she asks him for a pretty big favor Willow wants him to marry and protect her. Saint feels in his gut that he should walk away but something in her eyes reminds him of the man he once was it should be simple right? Marry Willow and shield her from a monster all while maintaining his cover then he finds divine temptation wearing his ring on their wedding night. You know what they say about the best laid plans right? You really need to read this absolutely riveting age-gap, fake-marriage, mafia, romantic suspense, twists and turns, undercover CIA operative romance to see what happens. I would definitely recommend reading this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 8, 2024
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥
𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 ↴
This story was just perfect, from saving Willow from a gross man to the reunion with Sage and Sloan. Sam was starting to make me mad when he kept telling Willow that he was leaving without her, the girl couldn’t have made it any clearer that she wanted to go with him and he was hellbent on leaving her behind as if she wasn’t old enough to make her own decisions so it was nice to see him give her information at the end instead of leaving her in the dark. I honestly hope that Jack keeps his word and keeps him out of the field so he can spend some much-needed time with his family. This has got to be by far my favorite book in the series, and yes, Sam’s reunion with his sisters is mainly the reason why. I’m so glad that Sage finally got the reunion she’s been hoping for. She was the only one who never gave up hope when it came to her brother. I’m super excited to get Nick’s book.
𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐫 ↴
This is an Advanced Reader copy. Although this book was given to me as an ARC my thoughts are my own. Thank you to Isabel Jolie for the ARC opportunity!
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐃𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐬 ✎
𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 ⇝ ★★★★★
𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭 ⇝ 364
𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭 ⇝ e-Book | Kindle
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 ⇝ Dec. 5, 2024
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐓𝐨 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭 ↴
🖤Mafia Romance
⚜️Romantic Suspense
🖤Fake Marriage Proposal
⚜️ 𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 📖
𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 ↴
This story was just perfect, from saving Willow from a gross man to the reunion with Sage and Sloan. Sam was starting to make me mad when he kept telling Willow that he was leaving without her, the girl couldn’t have made it any clearer that she wanted to go with him and he was hellbent on leaving her behind as if she wasn’t old enough to make her own decisions so it was nice to see him give her information at the end instead of leaving her in the dark. I honestly hope that Jack keeps his word and keeps him out of the field so he can spend some much-needed time with his family. This has got to be by far my favorite book in the series, and yes, Sam’s reunion with his sisters is mainly the reason why. I’m so glad that Sage finally got the reunion she’s been hoping for. She was the only one who never gave up hope when it came to her brother. I’m super excited to get Nick’s book.
𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐫 ↴
This is an Advanced Reader copy. Although this book was given to me as an ARC my thoughts are my own. Thank you to Isabel Jolie for the ARC opportunity!
˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐃𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐬 ✎
𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 ⇝ ★★★★★
𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭 ⇝ 364
𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭 ⇝ e-Book | Kindle
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 ⇝ Dec. 5, 2024
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐓𝐨 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭 ↴
🖤Mafia Romance
⚜️Romantic Suspense
🖤Fake Marriage Proposal
⚜️ 𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 📖
December 26, 2024
This series is full of amazing books, but each one steps up the stakes in both romance and suspense. It will literally take your breath away, making you gasp at the emotion and the shock of the action that Saint (Sam) and Willow experience.
Saint has been deep undercover and we’ve had the privilege of getting to know his sisters, but it would be his story that I knew would truly shake things up. And Isabel Jolie did not disappoint in the slightest! I was reading this on a recent trip during our time on the airplane and in the airport. My eyes were flying through each page, desperate to keep climbing the magnificent peak that I anticipated between these two.
When Saint meets Willow, the attraction is very obvious. For the past five years, he’s been able to maintain a strict code for himself while working undercover and although he crosses a lot of boundaries, there are some he simply hasn’t/won’t. Until Willow. I loved how much she tested his personal limits, the temptation being as dangerous as the mission.
If you haven’t started this series yet, do so now. Seriously. Don’t just put it on your TBR list. Stop what you’re doing and reading and start from the very beginning. The romance is always absolutely divine, but you’ll discover that Isabel Jolie is a MASTER at romantic suspense!
Saint has been deep undercover and we’ve had the privilege of getting to know his sisters, but it would be his story that I knew would truly shake things up. And Isabel Jolie did not disappoint in the slightest! I was reading this on a recent trip during our time on the airplane and in the airport. My eyes were flying through each page, desperate to keep climbing the magnificent peak that I anticipated between these two.
When Saint meets Willow, the attraction is very obvious. For the past five years, he’s been able to maintain a strict code for himself while working undercover and although he crosses a lot of boundaries, there are some he simply hasn’t/won’t. Until Willow. I loved how much she tested his personal limits, the temptation being as dangerous as the mission.
If you haven’t started this series yet, do so now. Seriously. Don’t just put it on your TBR list. Stop what you’re doing and reading and start from the very beginning. The romance is always absolutely divine, but you’ll discover that Isabel Jolie is a MASTER at romantic suspense!
November 23, 2024
*ARC Review*
Gilded Saint is the seventh installment in Isabel Jolie’s Arrow Tactical Security series. Each book is a standalone in the interconnected world of Arrow Tactical, and this is my first dive into the series. The story follows Sam Watson—known by his code name, Saint—who is a Navy SEAL recruited by the CIA to work undercover with Arrow Tactical Security. For the next five years, Sam operates as an arms dealer and negotiator for a dangerous criminal syndicate.
While in Italy to meet with members of the Italian Mafia, Sam saves Willow, the daughter of a mafia man, from a violent assault by an older and sadistic mobster. In an effort to escape an arranged marriage to her attacker, Willow proposes a marriage of convenience to Sam. What follows is a fast-paced blend of action, suspense, and sizzling romance, with plenty of twists and secrets that kept me hooked from start to finish.
I thoroughly enjoyed Gilded Saint. The high stakes make it an engaging, thrilling read that balances the intensity of undercover operations with the allure of forbidden romance.
-Age Gap
-Marriage of convenience
-Romantic suspense
Gilded Saint is the seventh installment in Isabel Jolie’s Arrow Tactical Security series. Each book is a standalone in the interconnected world of Arrow Tactical, and this is my first dive into the series. The story follows Sam Watson—known by his code name, Saint—who is a Navy SEAL recruited by the CIA to work undercover with Arrow Tactical Security. For the next five years, Sam operates as an arms dealer and negotiator for a dangerous criminal syndicate.
While in Italy to meet with members of the Italian Mafia, Sam saves Willow, the daughter of a mafia man, from a violent assault by an older and sadistic mobster. In an effort to escape an arranged marriage to her attacker, Willow proposes a marriage of convenience to Sam. What follows is a fast-paced blend of action, suspense, and sizzling romance, with plenty of twists and secrets that kept me hooked from start to finish.
I thoroughly enjoyed Gilded Saint. The high stakes make it an engaging, thrilling read that balances the intensity of undercover operations with the allure of forbidden romance.
-Age Gap
-Marriage of convenience
-Romantic suspense
December 2, 2024
Wow. Clear your calendar and be prepared to be glued to your seat because I predict you won't be able to put this book down! Gilded Saint is the long-awaited story of Sam aka Saint aka Leo, brother to the Watson sisters from the Beauty Trilogy, a man so deeply loyal to his country he spent years deep undercover as an arms dealer, separated from his family. While it is not strictly necessary to have read the previous books in the story, I'd still recommend reading the Beauty Trilogy for the background info. Saint is the epitome of a hero and so it doesn't come as a surprise that he jumps in when a young woman's life is in peril and she begs for his help. Willow turns out to be just what he needs and I loved how their initial attraction turns into love while they face increasingly higher levels of danger. An absolutely thrilling addition to the series and I hope we'll catch up with Sam again when it's time for his former boss turned friend to face his own destiny in the next installment of the series!
I was fortunate to have received an advanced copy and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
I was fortunate to have received an advanced copy and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
December 9, 2024
Been waiting for Saint
4.5 stars ⭐
🌶️🌶️
Spoilers ahead
I've been waiting for Sam's story ever since we met Sage. I just had a feeling that he was still alive and so glad I was right.
There was a lot to like in this story. Sam sounds delicious. Willow sounded young and nieve but quick on the pick up once she understood the rules of the game had changed. I was pleasantly surprised by the turn of events which has not been the case in any of the prior books. Jack's continued involvement was strange as I thought he left the CIA but hey, wasn't arguing. The spice was there but as with other books it's vieled in flowery language and imagery more often than not. You get the spice but without much detail.
A few things kept this from a 5 star was what felt like Instalove and frankly it was kinda unbelievable. Not with a man who's lived for 5 years in a double life. Not after basically 2 weeks. Also, the lack of Tristan and Lucia at the end was very much a bummer... I wanted that full circle moment.
Am excited for Nick and Scarlet. Hope we find out Willow's brother hasn't totally been brought to the dark side. Hope Nick and Sam can actually be friends.
4.5 stars ⭐
🌶️🌶️
Spoilers ahead
I've been waiting for Sam's story ever since we met Sage. I just had a feeling that he was still alive and so glad I was right.
There was a lot to like in this story. Sam sounds delicious. Willow sounded young and nieve but quick on the pick up once she understood the rules of the game had changed. I was pleasantly surprised by the turn of events which has not been the case in any of the prior books. Jack's continued involvement was strange as I thought he left the CIA but hey, wasn't arguing. The spice was there but as with other books it's vieled in flowery language and imagery more often than not. You get the spice but without much detail.
A few things kept this from a 5 star was what felt like Instalove and frankly it was kinda unbelievable. Not with a man who's lived for 5 years in a double life. Not after basically 2 weeks. Also, the lack of Tristan and Lucia at the end was very much a bummer... I wanted that full circle moment.
Am excited for Nick and Scarlet. Hope we find out Willow's brother hasn't totally been brought to the dark side. Hope Nick and Sam can actually be friends.
December 16, 2024
Part of The Arrow Tactical Series -hang on and get comfortable. Sam is tired been undercover with no contact with his family or seal team in fact everything thinks he is dead but after five years he wants out especially with all he has had to witness in dealing with the cartel. Things get complicated when the boss daughter Willow is attacked by the very man he has set her up to marry, Sam knows he is evil will ultimately kill her so she asked Sam to marry her to avoid the marriage to someone worse he stress it is a marriage in name only agreeing to move to Europe for her to continue her studies but things don’t go as easy as they planned. They fell for each other hard now it is time for him to be pulled head back to his life. Leaving her is the one thing he doesn’t want to do but she isn’t going to allow him to leave her but can they get away without trouble, will her father, her fiancé come for them both, with all the betrayal where are they headed, can they hold on to each other if not will they find each other, and can they have some type of normalcy or happiness?
February 18, 2026
Just finished this book today. I would rate this a 7 out of 10. I finished this book in three hours while enjoying the beach on my vacation. I read this book in one sitting. There was so many little twists and turns that as you read further in the book, prior scenes began to make sense and provide insight into people’s action. The book ended on a cute moment between the two main characters with a cliff hanger for the next book. This book discusses age-gap, arranged marriages, and unexpected love. The main character deserved the nickname he got which was Saint for two different reasons which is revealed in the book. I loved that the two characters came from different types of lifestyles and had different reasons for the arrangement but at the end of the day, they were a perfect match and it was only fate for that to happen. My prediction for the second book is that it will give us a background about an important character in book one before the pick up on the cliff hanger. I hope the two main characters get their wishes fulfilled in book two as well.
November 17, 2024
Wow! I have been eagerly awaiting Saint's story and it did not disappoint. Isabel packed this full of suspense, action, intrigue, but also heart, connection and heat. Sam, aka Leo, aka Saint, was all I wanted and more. Despite being deep undercover for more than 5 years, he may have lost his enthusiasm and drive for the role, but he has not lost his heart and soul. Willow is his perfect temptation, and while his intentions are noble, ultimately he is unable to resist her charms. I loved the way we get to know both characters, and the worlds they inhabit, and how they grow together as a couple despite the temporary nature of their relationship. Isabel has delivered an intriguing and addictive tale, and while providing the ending I desperately hoped for, she has also set up the next story in the series perfectly. I loved it and can't wait for book 8.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 22, 2024
Omg,I was waiting for Sam’s story so much, I’m blessed to have read it and it’s a five star read for it. His life is a rollercoaster and I can see how Willow out of nowhere crated a whole situation for him. Willow may seem too naive and a petulant child that didn’t want to follow her family’s orders, but it made sense for her age and life experiences. The characters were realistic, with traits I wish I had and some I didn’t like, but as I say, we’re humans, and we’re not here to look for creating the perfect humans in books.
Another thing to address, I’m not a fan of the age gap but the way the romance between Sam and Willow flourished, I liked that the forced proximity made her go for him instead of the opposite. The scenes of Sam thinking about Willow as a woman were so well written. And the spice and suspense ratio was just right for me.
Huge thank you to Isabel Jolie for exchanging the ARC of this book for my honest opinion. This book made my whole year.
Another thing to address, I’m not a fan of the age gap but the way the romance between Sam and Willow flourished, I liked that the forced proximity made her go for him instead of the opposite. The scenes of Sam thinking about Willow as a woman were so well written. And the spice and suspense ratio was just right for me.
Huge thank you to Isabel Jolie for exchanging the ARC of this book for my honest opinion. This book made my whole year.
December 2, 2024
Amazing book! I've not read many by this Author but this book makes me want to read more. Awesome story!
When Sam goes undercover as Leo, he gets asked to marry Mafia princess Willow to save her from marrying a monster.
Willow being so much younger that Leo wasn't a problem for her, but for him it was. But the connection and chemistry certainly wins out. Him being tough, alpha and close to being a bad guy doesn't deter her at all and for him, her willingness only adds fuel to the fire.
I loved these two. So much of the relationship isn't real but I like how they are forced into the way of it but roll with it as well.
A story full of danger, suspense, drama and intensity wrapped in a plot that kept me spell bound from start to finish.
Very well written, I can't wait for the next book in the series. So amazingly good!!
When Sam goes undercover as Leo, he gets asked to marry Mafia princess Willow to save her from marrying a monster.
Willow being so much younger that Leo wasn't a problem for her, but for him it was. But the connection and chemistry certainly wins out. Him being tough, alpha and close to being a bad guy doesn't deter her at all and for him, her willingness only adds fuel to the fire.
I loved these two. So much of the relationship isn't real but I like how they are forced into the way of it but roll with it as well.
A story full of danger, suspense, drama and intensity wrapped in a plot that kept me spell bound from start to finish.
Very well written, I can't wait for the next book in the series. So amazingly good!!
December 4, 2024
From the picture of the man I thought I knew through his sisters’ books, Willow was not at all who or what I imagined for Sam’s Forever. But I get it. There was a lightness and innocence to her that were missing from his life, and that drew him in. On the other hand, I’m not surprised at how quickly and deeply Willow fell for Sam: an honorable man with a mile-wide protective streak in a world where honor and nobility were in short supply. The further into the book I read, the more I fell in love with the pair of them. And the more I despaired over how on Earth the author was going to get them out of the quicksand she’d written them into. But I gotta say, I adored that ending and I already can’t wait to discover what’s next.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author.
December 6, 2024
Gilded Saint is the seventh book in the Arrow Tactical Security series by Isabel Jolie
It is the long-awaited story of Sam aka Saint aka Leo, brother to the Watson sisters from the Beauty Trilogy
This one is an age-gap and marriage of convenience
Willow is a mafia princess, and to avoid an arranged marriage with an abusive old man, Willow meets Saint and asks him to marry her as a favor.
Saint is undercover for Arrow Tactical Security.
Willow turns out to be just what he needs and I loved how their initial attraction turns into love while they face increasing levels of danger.
Thank you so much Isabel Jolie for another stunning book , do yourself a favor and read the whole series.
I was fortunate to have received an advanced copy and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
It is the long-awaited story of Sam aka Saint aka Leo, brother to the Watson sisters from the Beauty Trilogy
This one is an age-gap and marriage of convenience
Willow is a mafia princess, and to avoid an arranged marriage with an abusive old man, Willow meets Saint and asks him to marry her as a favor.
Saint is undercover for Arrow Tactical Security.
Willow turns out to be just what he needs and I loved how their initial attraction turns into love while they face increasing levels of danger.
Thank you so much Isabel Jolie for another stunning book , do yourself a favor and read the whole series.
I was fortunate to have received an advanced copy and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
December 2, 2024
Outstanding:
This was a fabulous book that drew me in and made me not want to put it down. I loved not only the relational aspects but the suspense was as equally awesome.
It was wonderful to finally find out the truth about Sam and even though characters from previous books make appearances, it could nevertheless be enjoyed as a standalone. Despite their age gap and the circumstances surrounding their relationship, I loved Sam and Willow together. I felt like I really got to know them and was totally invested in their journey.
I now can't wait for the next book in the series! I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
This was a fabulous book that drew me in and made me not want to put it down. I loved not only the relational aspects but the suspense was as equally awesome.
It was wonderful to finally find out the truth about Sam and even though characters from previous books make appearances, it could nevertheless be enjoyed as a standalone. Despite their age gap and the circumstances surrounding their relationship, I loved Sam and Willow together. I felt like I really got to know them and was totally invested in their journey.
I now can't wait for the next book in the series! I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
December 5, 2024
Sam (aka Saint, aka Leo) finally has his story told and it is completely worth the wait! He was a complex and thought provoking character, not to mention loyal and protective. Willow could not have asked for a better to save her from her family's expectations (a nice word for it).
I absolutely do not want to give away any plot points, so I'm trying to keep spoilers to a minimum. I will say that it's interesting to see characters from other stories in a different light then in their own book(s). The chemistry between Leo/Sam and Willow jumped off the pages and although the age gap was significant, I for one never really noticed it. Probably because Willow is an old soul, growing up in the mafia, even as she was fringe-ish.
Gilded Saint is my favorite of the Arrow series!
I absolutely do not want to give away any plot points, so I'm trying to keep spoilers to a minimum. I will say that it's interesting to see characters from other stories in a different light then in their own book(s). The chemistry between Leo/Sam and Willow jumped off the pages and although the age gap was significant, I for one never really noticed it. Probably because Willow is an old soul, growing up in the mafia, even as she was fringe-ish.
Gilded Saint is my favorite of the Arrow series!
November 23, 2024
Gilded Saint is the seventh book in the Arrow Tactical Security series by Isabel Jolie. This whole series has been amazing, and this one was no exception! This one is an age-gap, marriage of convenience and it's Saint and Willow's story. Marriage of convenience is one of my favorite tropes, and I absolutely loved this one! Willow is a mafia princess, and to avoid an arranged marriage with an abusive old man, Willow meets Saint (Sam/Leo) and asks him to marry her as a favor. Saint is undercover for Arrow Tactical Security. Every book I read in this series seems to become my new favorite, which tells you how good they all are. Highly recommended with way more than five stars!
December 5, 2024
Finally! Sam’s story is a wild ride and was the ending I was hoping for. Sam’s relationship with Arrow Tactical requires him to be deep undercover as an arms dealer. He’s missed his sisters Sloane and Sage over the past five years, so when Mafia princess Willow needs saving, he can’t say no. I adore Sam. Even as a criminal, he’s maintained his integrity as much as possible. I could feel the age gap between them, with Willow becoming more savvy as the danger increased—the angst was perfection. The story was fast-paced and exciting, it had all the hugs & tears I imagined. I want to see a lot more of Nick and Scarlet, great characters.
December 9, 2024
This was one of my most anticipated books of the year, in fact I've been waiting patiently for many years.
It definitely didn't disappoint.
It was very nearly a top read for me, the only reason it wasn't is more because of the fact I've waited for this story for so long and each couple only gets one book and would of loved some expansion on some things but that's definitely on me, not the author.
Because of the contents of this book I won't say much else, especially out of respect for long time readers like myself who have been on tenterhooks.
It was very cleverly done and I'm excited for the next book in this 'set'.
It definitely didn't disappoint.
It was very nearly a top read for me, the only reason it wasn't is more because of the fact I've waited for this story for so long and each couple only gets one book and would of loved some expansion on some things but that's definitely on me, not the author.
Because of the contents of this book I won't say much else, especially out of respect for long time readers like myself who have been on tenterhooks.
It was very cleverly done and I'm excited for the next book in this 'set'.
December 15, 2024
I've been waiting for Sam,'s story and there was nothing disappointing about it! From the beginning I believed Sage was right, he was alive and Isabel delivered. I love how the stories intertwine with all the characters. Leo/Sam is drawn into a fake marriage wig Willow, whose family is Mafia in Italy. She doesn't want to marry a man three times her age so Sam married her knowing is temporary because his time as an undercover arms agent is coming to an end and he will finally go home to his sister's and hopefully somewhat normal life, lots of action in this story, I couldn't put it down. Now we can look forward to the next story.
December 6, 2024
OMG, what an absolutely phenomenal story... I was hooked from start to finish. It was so exciting, and I can not wait for Nick and Scarlett's story!!
Sam (Leo/Saint) has been undercover for 6 years... leaving his family and friends behind to live in a dangerous world trying to bring down the bad guys!
Willow needs rescuing from an arranged marriage to the mob, and she sees "Leo" as her way out....
Sam knew she'd be trouble the minute he laid eyes on her, little did he realise how much!
Brilliant storyline with fantastic characters and an amazing HEA.
Sam (Leo/Saint) has been undercover for 6 years... leaving his family and friends behind to live in a dangerous world trying to bring down the bad guys!
Willow needs rescuing from an arranged marriage to the mob, and she sees "Leo" as her way out....
Sam knew she'd be trouble the minute he laid eyes on her, little did he realise how much!
Brilliant storyline with fantastic characters and an amazing HEA.
December 12, 2024
Ms. Jolie always weaves a beautifully intricate storyline. I love an age gap romance. This one also has a fake marriage involving Saint aka Sam, and Willow, the daughter of a wealthy dangerous family. The marriage is supposed to be fake but he is not immune to how beautiful she is and how much she affects him. This is a romantic suspense that always keeps you guessing. I really love Sam's character, he's such a man's man and so protective of his woman. This might be my favorite book of the series.
December 16, 2024
He's alive! Lol, I couldn't resist that one. We finally get Sam's story told, there have been snippets of info over the last 3 books but it was nice to see the complete story and conclusion, or should I say outcome? This story takes you on a journey and whilst I was in thae story with Sam and Willow, at the back of my mind was always his sisters, I couldn't help but wonder how it would all go when his family knew the truth...
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 24, 2024
Omg so good!! This series just gets better and better!! It’s so hard to not sit and read these straight through. Too bad life has to get in the way! Lol Sam & Willows story is a great addition to this series that you definitely don’t want to miss. Not counting one that at least I’ve been waiting to read for answers as to what happened to Sam!! Of course now I can��t wait for the next one!
I received this book as an ARC for my honest opinion.
I received this book as an ARC for my honest opinion.
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