GAF Factor

Owens Protective Services #26

by Giulia Lagomarsino

Knox Thorne.
You’ve read about them in Reed Security.

You’ve come to know a little about who the men of OPS are.

But everything you thought you knew is a lie—smoke and mirrors.

The truth of OPS is hidden deep inside, waiting to be revealed.

Owens Protective Services.

Defend. Investigate. Secure.

Genres: Romance, Humor

338 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 27, 2025

About the author

Giulia Lagomarsino is the author of the action-packed series Owens Protective Services, along with four other series that feature hot men, strong women, and storylines that will leave you laughing, crying, and begging for more. To find her reading order, visit her website http://giulialagomarsinoauthor.com or join her reading group https://www.facebook.com/groups/Giuli....

Reviews

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars

Who will she choose?

GAF Factor is the twenty-sixth book in Giulia Lagomarsino's brilliant Owens Protective Services series.

Giulia Lagomarsino truly shines! The book offers a mix of fun, emotional moments, steamy encounters, and plenty of action. I found myself laughing out loud when I wasn't on the edge of my seat from the suspense. The complex storylines and well-developed characters keep me coming back for more. I was so engrossed that I lost track of time, and before I knew it, hours had passed.

What I love about her books is that you never know what to expect. Her characters are opinionated, often speak without a filter, and possess a divine sense of sarcasm. The witty banter and hilarious moments are plentiful, but there's also a strong dose of action, danger, and suspense as they find themselves in various predicaments. I appreciate that we get to experience thrilling adventures—or misadventures—along with a happy ending, or sometimes not.

So, grab a drink or two and settle in for one of the best reads of your life!

[Tish-Anne Singh · Rating 4 out of 5]

GAF Factor picks up just days after the explosive ending of Dear John, diving straight into the aftermath of Isla’s near-death experience. Initially, I was hesitant to read this installment—not because I doubted it would be action-packed, but because I wasn’t sure I was ready for the emotional rollercoaster that awaited. Yet, the story gripped me from the start.

Isla’s journey is raw and complex as she grapples with the trauma of her ex’s betrayal, her harrowing ordeal in the container, and the emotional conflict brewing between her, Kavanaugh, and IKE. The tangled web of feelings between these three creates a tense and compelling dynamic. Kavanaugh’s guilt over his role in Isla’s endangerment is palpable, especially as he realizes he may have lost her to IKE, whose quiet, enigmatic presence grows more prominent in this book.

IKE steps into the spotlight in GAF Factor. Once a shadowy figure on the periphery, his increasing involvement with the OPS team mirrors his deepening connection to Isla. This shift brings a fresh layer to the story and offers readers a chance to understand his character in greater depth.

Meanwhile, the backdrop of the OPS team’s struggle to pull Cash back from the brink adds a parallel thread of desperation and loyalty. Eva’s relentless determination to save Cash is both heartbreaking and inspiring, adding emotional weight to the broader narrative.

While the book delivers on action and character development, I did have a few reservations. Isla’s quick transition from Kavanaugh to IKE felt abrupt, and her lack of honesty with Kavanaugh about her feelings was frustrating. Additionally, the way the OPS team handled the situation—leaving Red to inform Kavanaugh about Isla’s return—felt out of character for their otherwise tight-knit group. These moments detracted slightly from the overall experience.

That said, GAF Factor remains a thrilling and emotional read, even if it feels a bit more rushed than previous installments. The blend of high-stakes action, heartfelt moments, and intriguing character dynamics keeps the series compelling. I’m eager to see where the story goes next!

[Renee Entress · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 star

If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first:
In The Trenches: An OPS Protector Romance Novel (Owens Protective Services Book 1)
Nuclear Option: An OPS Protector Romance Novel (Owens Protective Services Book 2)
Charlie Foxtrot: An OPS Protector Romance Novel (Owens Protective Services Book 3)
Pop Smoke (Owens Protective Services #4)
Alpha Mike Foxtrot (Owens Protective Services Book 5)
Got Your Six: An OPS Protector Romance Novel
Full Battle Rattle (Owens Protective Services Book 7)
Embrace the Suck (Owens Protective Services #8)
Assume the Position (Owens Protective Services #10)
Soup Sandwich (Owens Protective Services #11)
Secret Squirrel (Owens Protective Services #11)
Self-Licking Ice Cream Cone (Owens Protective Services, #12)
Pucker Factor (Owens Protective Services #13)
Blowed Up (Owens Protective Services #14)
Balls to the Walls (Owens Protective Services #15)
Bite the Bullet (Owens Protective Services #16)
Free Fire Zone (Owens Protective Services #17)
Left-Handed Monkey Wrench (Owens Protective Services #18)
...And A Wake-Up (Owens Protective Services Book 19)
Blue Falcon (Owens Protective Services Book 20)
Iron Rations (Owens Protective Services #21)
Release Point (Owens Protective Services #22)
On the Double (Owens Protective Services #23)
Hurry Up and Wait (Owens Protective Services #24)
Dear John (Owens Protective Services #25)

This is more of Isla’s story. You must read the 2 books before this one in this series to get the beginning of this story. This book is full of even more twists and turns and suspense. It picks up where we left off in the previous book. Isla must make choices, and they must be the right ones for herself. She has to worry about her life and no one else. The antics of the team continue. Secrets and even more secrets. You get answers to previous questions, but you will still have more unanswered questions.

I recommend this book.

[Angels · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such an awesome read. The characters were amazing as always. Fox is just as fun as ever.

This one was a bit of an emotional roller coaster. This story was a bit complex with a lot going on. The story was filled with mystery, suspense, intrigue, secrets, revenge, falsehoods, trust issues, love, laughter and so much more. This story continues with Kavanagh Isla and Ike.

The story was full throttle from beginning to end. Our hearts went out to Eva she is dealing with so much where Cash is concerned, her heart bleeding even Fox gave it his all to bring him back from the edge.

We are sorry when it comes to Kavanagh but, we honestly think the best man one out as Isla is so much more suited for Ike. Their chemistry is explosive and we love how protective and possessive he is of her. So many hot and sexy scenes fan worthy even. These two made us laugh. We love Isla's sister she is a riot. Ike is a swoony character. We love the dark and dangerous vibes he gives off and we love how different he is when it comes to Isla but, make no mistake he is an alpha man down to his bones. Broody also has some swoony vibes to him.

This story was so much fun it was a page-turner in our book and we could not put it down. Cash you are on my you know what list. Do you know why? You messed with my favorite character. We loved how all the characters were involved in this one and loved the twists and turns the story took. This story was full of so many surprises just loved it.

[Trish (Beautiful Chaos Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 🌟
3 🌶️

GAF Factor picks up where Dear John leaves off. (Note: You really need to read these books to grasp the narrative threads; this has all been building since Book 1). But this is IKE (Knox) and Isla from now on. We could see Kavanaugh and Isla's relationship was not going to be strong enough to weather and I honestly don't believe that Kavanaugh was in love with Isla but in love with the memory and idea of her. I also think that was a two-way street. We get Knox and Isla and Knox's true immersion into OPS. The scenes with IRIS and Knox are hilarious, as are those with Jane and IRIS and Knox and Isla. They brought back the true giggle-fest comedy I love about these books. And that comedy element has been subdued in these last books, and it has colored the storyline with a darker vibe that I haven't seen since Knight's books in Reed Security. I am still here for it because I am rooting for this band of tough guys with some of the funniest quirks (say it with me now, Funyuns) ever. I know we are a ways from the conclusion, but I am hoping for two things, Cash makes his comeback, and ALL the OPS guys get HEAs, particularly Kavanaugh (he's had enough crap). We are not done yet! Join the crazy ride now!

Thank you, Enticing Book Journey Promotions and Giulia Lagomarsino, for the eArc.

[Breen · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Okay, what in the actually world was this?! Geez no, why my poor Kavanaugh has to deal with this much? After the previous book I seriously thought my man will get his happily ever after with Isla (yeah didn't acknowledge Ike cause I'm totally biased for K) but why she has to be like that!? Girl, you really have to get your head in the game and make a decision. My sweet man is haunted by his past actions, yes we all know that but he's trying and keeps trying, Isla girl stop making everybody suffer and make a decision, you need to come in terms with your feelings because there's no way a trio will work here! But deep down part of me feels Isla might not be the girl for my man, there's something missing between them and if that's the case then what will happen with my Kavanaugh...this is stressing me out! Also, fool me thought we would get all the answers but genious Giulia once again opened the door for more questions and utterly shocking twists. I'm not forgetting about Cash dangerous decisions and the consequences, all is chaos!"

[Viper · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW & WOW

IKE (Knox) really loves Isla giving her time to look deep into her heart and decide who she really loves and she chose him. Nicely done.

You felt her chemistry and their passion from the start.
IKE putting her safety first.

There was so much adventure and suspense. So much going on with many of the characters intense and real. Lots of emotions love,hate laughter, revenge, fear, joy, passion, pain, trust, patience etc. I laughed, cried.

Cash totally out of it. Eva, stepping in to keep the business moving forward with the help of OPS.
Kavanaugh, I felt bad for him, I do hope he finds his true love.

OPS wow their bond is always there and strong. Always prepared at a drop of a hat to help a teammate in need.
They still bringing so much laughter, silliness and humor. Totally enjoyable.

Nice seeing the Reed Security mentioned.
Some questions were answered others still pending!

Giulia thank you sharing your talent. Look forward to the continuation of the Syndicate.
Also Asher's second chance at love.

[Jennifer Pierson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The chaos is still going strong between Isla, Kavanaugh, and IKE which kept me on the edge of my seat as I knew who was better for her but would it end up that way? Isla & her sister are definitely the perfect women for Ops (please let Isla's sister find herself the perfect OPS man hint hint LOL) by the way. On the flip side, my emotions are raw when it comes to Cash, who is going through a lot of pain, but also, I wanted to slap him for what he's putting those who love him through at the same time. Fox has hit new levels of crazy trying to help, and I'm not going to lie, I was seriously busting a gut laughing at his plan. There's also tons of twists, danger, betrayal, and suspense to make this the perfect high octane read. I'm not sure how this author's perfection keeps getting better but it does, and I'm dying for the next book like I crave my next cup of coffee so yeah, I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow this book is jam packed with lots of emotions, highs and lows. It’s suspenseful, has times of drama, laughs, and danger. More secrets come to light. More twists and turns. This are all things Ms. Lagomarsino is known for and as usual she doesn’t disappoint us readers with GAF Factor. Will Isla finally make a choice between Kavanaugh and Ike? If so, what is the fall out? Where is the Ex and what is he up to now? Will Fox be able to get through to Cash or will his spiral continue? Is the Syndicate finally facing its downfall? SO many questions and yes we get lots of answers but who knows, maybe even a few more questions?

I Highly recommend this action packed, crazy banter, suspense series and this reader can’t wait to see what happens next with the guys that make up the Owens Protective Services.

2 Thumbs Up and 5 Stars

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 26th book in this phenomenal series, and this story continues straight on from the ending in “Dear John” and ends in another cliffhanger.
This is a great addition to this series, with Knox / Ike an Isla’s relationship evolves into more, while her friendship with Kavanaugh, is complex. Fox’s shenanigans are hilarious as usual, and he deals out his own brand of crazy trying to get through to Cash what he is doing to those who love him, but will he succeed?
This is a well written action packed, emotional roller coaster, with danger, suspense, intrigue, secrets, trust, challenges, drama, mystery, humor, witty banter, revelations, making choices, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, twisted, and unpredictable, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

[Dee Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great story in the Owens Protective Services series. This book will wind you up and blow you away. Does the guy get the girl? Does the girl get the guy? And... what about the other guy? All I can say is that finally there is a romance that blows up all my preconceived endings. These OPS guys are so much fun, so comical, yet so dangerous with their antics. I loved this book. I loved that something went right for a change. So, while my review may be somewhat short, it is very meaningful. This will go down as one of my more favorite books in the series and, trust me, that's saying something because there are GREAT books in this OPS series. Kudoos to Giulia Lagomarsino again. And again. Then some more agains.

[K books · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one was…a little better.

I cannot even express how happy I am that isla and IKE are together. Man they are so good together. I loved isla and Jane together, the shit they got up to was hilarious. Almost as good as Riley and isla.
I love IKE. I’ve been rooting for him since Jane and he’s way better in this book! Shit hot.
The whole “ending” with Shawn was so stupid. You give us 3 whole books dedicated to that dramatic plot and that’s how it’s concluded!? Ughhh

I’m glad Cash wasn’t in this book too much, man that story line needs a breather. It’s just insane and stupid.

I liked seeing Knight again and I love when Reed has a crossover!

Kavanaugh- he’s just ridiculous. He marginally redeemed himself in the end. Teeny tiny amount..

[Cathy Brockman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the wrap up to the 3 part ARC with Kavanaugh, IKE, and Isa.
It was a good closing to there story of course it opened another and there's still the overall story ARC with Cash.
There is lots of action, adventure and this one has more humor than the last couple to lighten things up.
We get FOX which is always good, but we got lots of IRIS and some Scotty and FNG too.
The story was overall intriguing, Dramatic, hot, humorous and of course a knock out Cliffhanger ending.
You do need to read this series in order and this is book 20 something. Well worth the read!

[Zelda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series has me on a roller coaster of emotions. The author creates characters that you get to know, and experience them evolve over time and events. This is the 26th book in this series and there is a lot going on. Isla is processing a shared trauma and this has an impact on Kavanaugh and the team. IKE is growing on me the more I understand his perspective. The plot arc with Cash has me twisted up. Despite all the humour & banter, this overall heavy feeling sits with me. It’s a great series with action & all the feels.

[Kimberley Volk Tersteeg · Rating 4 out of 5]

Prepare yourself. Poor Kavanaugh can't seem to do anything right by Isla after withholding thre truth from her, other than getting her a kitten. After Isla and Ike nearly perish together after being kidnapped, Isla is unsure of her feelings. After witnessing Kavanaughs mistakes, Ike is nothing but up front with Isla and takes her on a mission to find out who is truly after her. Who is after Isla and who will she ultimately give her heart to...Kavanaugh or Ike..

[Shannon Godwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh wow! We have so much going on in this book you will no be able to put it down. Continually turning the pages because I couldn’t get enough fast enough. Poor isla has decisions to make. Fox is trying to get Cash to wake up to what he is doing to everyone who loves him. Poor Kavanaugh can’t seem to do anything right toward Isla. Ike seems to be doing everything right. Wow! So much in one book (in a great way!) can’t wait for the next one!

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Owens Protective Services is the series that keeps giving!

I can't tell you how many laughs I've had!

Steamy times and plenty of action-packed suspense!

Ms. L has gone above and beyond the "call of duty!" Providing this reader with so many wonderful hours of entertainment.

This is a series you have to read from the beginning. But believe me, you won't want to miss a minute!

The characters will more than likely become your family. They've become mine!

[Clayr Catherall · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have said it before but I will say it again, I can’t get enough of this series.

This story had my head in a total spin! So much happens. We do get some answers but then have even more questions . It had lots of surprises, suspense, action and laugh out loud moments.

GAF FACTOR is the third book of a trilogy within the series. So make sure you’ve read at least the two previous books before delving into this one.

[Pam Bryant · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great!

I chose this rating because this was actually a pretty good book. I enjoyed pretty much all of the characters. This was a book of determination, compassion, kindness, acceptance, believing in yourself and doing what's right for you. I was kind of disappointed that Isla and IKE got together but I could also see her point with her not staying with Kavanaugh. She knew what she wanted. I'm ready to read his story. Great read! I recommend this book to all romance readers.

[Rebecca Coleman · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the previous book we were left with a cliff hanger. Who will Isla choose? Will Cash see the error of his ways? What about the Syndicate? Giulia does it again! This book is filled with answers and more questions. I was riveted from page one. Grab you Funyuns! You will need them! Giulia never disappoints!

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Isla, Kavanaugh and Ike so many unsaid feelings, so many bad decisions. But you have to follow what is in your heart. Loved this story I really hope Kavanaugh will finally get his story and not seem like a third act. Well written and had me on the edge of my seat waiting for what is coming next. The next book can't come soon enough.

[Sophie Ruthven · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one conflicted me, I really wanted to hate the way it went, but the more it went on the more it made sense.
I've said all along there's a reason behind everything this author and her characters does, and this book is proof of why.
Because of the way it ended I can't say much more, but definitely strap on your seatbelts, as this ride isn't smooth or safe.

[Nettie Schneider · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was action packed from page one all the way to the end! It was sweet. It was sad. It was exciting. It was hot. It had you laughing one minute and almost crying the next.

It was sad that Isla and Kavanagh parted ways. They had been through so much. waiting to find out what happens to Cash. And, now, Kavanagh too.

[Mechelle Ross · Rating 2 out of 5]

Isla, the FMC, ruined this book for me. I didn't like her in the last book and I really didn't like her in this book. Her sister Riley on the other hand was funny and I loved her blunt openness. I enjoyed the story line of GAF Factor minus Isla's romantic escapades. And I always enjoy seeing the OPS and Reed Security characters.

[nina hipp · Rating 4 out of 5]

👍

Wow, this story came out swinging! What an emotional roller-coaster ride!
There was so much going on that I couldn't put it down. I felt captivated by this story. The ending threw me into unexpected abyss. I'm looking forward to reading the next book! ❤️📖❤️

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This series is non stop! Things are getting tense now as the books start to come to an end. I’m reading these way too fast but can’t seem to stop and there’s still 4 books not released yet! I don’t want them to end. This book was great, I always liked IKE, and the ending was a shocker!

[Lorraine Anton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great

I enjoyed reading the twenty sixth book in the Owens Protective Services series.

I loved the characters, plot and storyline.

A lot of twists.

Sex, love, murder and so much more.

Read it

[Charlotte Isaac · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. This book had everything from the teams helping everyone out. This has so much going on that you can't put the book down. I don't want to give it away but it carries on from Hurry up and wait and Dear John.

I can't wait for more.

[LaWanna Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

SPOILER ALERT:





I so loved the way this book turned out. I always felt like Isla and Kavanaugh were never a good fit.
It was nice to continue to see the people from Reed Security and some from the OPS group.
I feel like Ike and Isla were the perfect fit for each other. He was always truthful with her where Kavanaugh was always lyng to her and never telling her anything under the disguise of trying to protect her, when really he was just a taker and not a giver.
Now I'm just waiting for the next book hoping that it will continue where this left off.

[Sheryl Mcnaught · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another good story

A good story line as usual and some laughs .I have to admit it but I did not like the Isla character .Can't wait for the next book