Shadowed Alliances: A Shadowed Defense Security Thriller Book 5

by Mavery Ellscott

She saw something she shouldn’t have. Now she’s running for her life.

All Emery Foster wanted was a quiet moment to herself after the party. Instead, she witnessed cybersecurity guru Rudolfo Manetti murder a woman. After a narrow escape during a brutal assault on a U.S. Marshal’s safe house that leaves everyone dead, Emery realizes she’s no longer a witness—she’s a target.

Desperate and out of options, Emery turns to Javier Escarra, former Navy SEAL and owner of Shadow Defense Security. Together, they unravel a sinister web of corruption that reaches beyond a single murder, revealing Emery isn’t the only one marked for death.

As the enemy closes in, Emery and Javier are thrust into a sinister charade of secret alliances, backed by powerful players who will stop at nothing to silence them. But are they prepared for the ultimate betrayal?

If you love high-octane twisty thrillers laced with romance and humor that will keep you hooked to the last page, Shadowed Alliances is a must-read. Dive into Mavery Ellscott's world of deception and intrigue!

Scroll up, click “buy now” and grab your copy of Shadowed Alliances. Side effects may include a sudden urge to binge-watch action films.

Each novel in the Shadow Defense Security series is a stand-alone; however, the overarching conspiracy plot is present in each book and characters cross over.

Genres: Thriller

375 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 16, 2024

Reviews

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars
The Shadowed Defense Security series is captivating and is one of my favourite series. Each book surpasses the previous one, which I didn’t think was possible. While each book can be read as a standalone, it’s best to read them in order to fully appreciate all the alpha goodness and delicious darkness they offer.
I’ve mentioned before how much I love the adrenaline rush that comes from strong, sexy alpha males in protective mode paired with equally strong females. This dynamic is perfectly illustrated in Emery and Javier’s captivating and heart-stopping story.
Shadowed Alliances is the fifth book in the series and it has me completely hooked. It is entertaining, thrilling, and suspenseful, filled with tension. Mavery delivers high stakes, unexpected twists, and thrilling action from start to finish. The story is rich with drama, treachery, deceit, danger, intrigue, grit, conspiracies, suspicions, and attraction, all woven together with a touch of humour.
When the going gets tough, these sexy alpha SEALs make me laugh with their wit and banter, tug at my heartstrings with their tenderness, and keep me on the edge of my seat during action scenes while I swoon over the romantic moments. The tension is palpable throughout the plot, and I found myself anxious more often than not.
The characters are well-developed, intriguing, and interesting, with storylines that are dark and gritty. This series is captivating and engrossing, making it a must-read that you won't want to miss.
There's so much happening, with many players in this multilayered, tangled web that Mavery weaves so effectively. I can’t wait to see what’s next. Time is not on their side!

[Joanne Ellis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mavery Ellscott’s Shadowed Alliance is a pulse-pounding thriller that combines edge-of-your-seat suspense, action-packed sequences, and a dash of romance to create a story you won’t be able to put down. From the opening scene, the book grabs you with its high stakes and relentless pace, plunging readers into a deadly chase filled with betrayal, corruption, and unexpected alliances.

The story begins with Emery Foster, an ordinary woman thrust into extraordinary circumstances after she witnesses a shocking murder by Rudolfo Manetti, a powerful cybersecurity mogul with dangerous connections. What follows is a nightmare for Emery, as she becomes the sole survivor of a vicious attack on a U.S. Marshal’s safe house. Hunted and with nowhere to turn, she seeks the help of Javier Escarra, a former Navy SEAL turned private security expert. Together, they uncover a conspiracy far larger than either of them imagined, where enemies are everywhere, and trust comes at a high price.

Ellscott’s writing is fast-paced and cinematic, pulling readers into the action with vivid descriptions and tense, heart-stopping moments. From the claustrophobic danger of the safe house assault to the globe-spanning conspiracy they uncover, the plot never lets up. The twists and turns come fast, keeping you guessing about who can be trusted and what’s at stake.

What sets this book apart is its well-balanced mix of action, romance, and humour. Emery is a relatable and resilient heroine, grappling with her newfound role as a target while still maintaining her humanity and wit. Javier, with his military background and brooding demeanour, is the perfect counterpoint—both a protector and a partner who grows closer to Emery as the danger escalates. Their chemistry feels natural and adds emotional depth to the story, offering moments of levity and warmth amid the tension.

The supporting cast of characters and the shadowy villains are equally compelling, with Manetti standing out as a chillingly believable antagonist. The layers of deception and betrayal that unfold keep the narrative engaging, leading to a finale that’s both shocking and satisfying.

If there’s a critique, it’s that the pacing leaves little room for deeper character development beyond the leads, and some of the revelations in the conspiracy feel slightly rushed. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise thrilling and well-crafted story.

Shadowed Alliance is a must-read for fans of romantic suspense and high-stakes thrillers. With its twisty plot, likeable characters, and action-packed sequences, it delivers everything you’d want in a fast-paced page-turner. Mavery Ellscott proves herself a master of tension and intrigue, leaving readers eagerly anticipating her next book.

[Evelyn Dotson · Rating 5 out of 5]

We will now read the much-anticipated story of Emery, who was introduced in Shadowed Storm! Emery is a character to remember! Street smart, savvy, a chameleon in any social standing, intelligent, capable, can defend herself, adapts as needed, book and computer smart, caring, generous, and deadly. Do not forget loyal, loving, and beautiful! She will need someone very special to come into her life to match what she offers.

Shadowed Alliances will require Javiar Escarra to come out from behind his computers. He is another Navy SEAL who knows how to take care of those from the seedier sides of life. The story of Emery and Javiar will not be an easy one! The conspiracy continues to evolve while ensnaring those involved to show their hands and culpabilities in the journey to uncover the mastermind. The books in the serial continue to introduce the main characters of that book, and how they end up in a once-in-a-lifetime love and relationship.

You will read about other characters from previous books that display great world building as time marches on for all. The books start strong and finish before you can even blink your eyes. The true-to-life conspiracies, story lines, plots, etc. display how Mavery Ellscott takes her time to thoroughly research her characters, plots, devices used, and places we are transported to throughout the books.

It is easy to imagine yourself there with the intricate storytelling. The characters become like family. The humorous escapades involved will leave you chuckling, LOL, or simply doubled over. So far, I have to read the books from cover to cover with no breaks (why I own a smart phone and tablet, I can take them with me wherever I travel to continue reading). Each book takes you on an action-packed, thrilling, psychological ride!

I cannot recommend this author enough~ I am always disappointed when I reach the end of a new book, because I want the next one to come right now to continue to discover what will happen! I do highly recommend you read the series from the beginning! Each book contains a stand-alone romance, but the storyline is one huge conspiracy uncovering more and more players with each book. If I could give these books more than a five-star review, I would! Hurry up and grab these books to add to your library and read.

[Ashley Lape · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emery Foster was pretty lucky her friend Maddy had convinced her to be her date to an evening high-end function. Little did Emery know she would find the love of her life, Aidan Manetti. Their whirlwind relationship would end up with an engagement. One night while a party was winding at the Manetti mansion Emery was trying to catch a moment to herself when she witnessed Aiden’s dad Rudolfo Manetti drown a woman in the hot tub. Pretending to be asleep no one realized she was a witness to the murderer. Emery also got pictures of Rudolfo talking to a man about an assassination they were planning. As an artist, Emery hid the roll of film that contained the picture of the two men’s meeting in one of her statues in the atrium of Rudolfo’s building. Emery needed to escape. Cutting a deal with the DA’s office Emery was put into witness protection. She wouldn’t be in the witness protection program long before her safehouse was ambushed but Emery was able to escape yet again. She had no choice but to enlist the help from Shadow Defense Security. Her friend Seb had insisted that if she needed help, she would go to Shadow Defense. Her question was how did Manetti know she would end up going to them for help? Once inside Emery was met by Javier Escarra, the owner of Shadow Defense. Once she explains everything to Javier they both find themselves on the run. This time they are on the run to stop the assassination attempt of the still-unknown target. Who will end up walking away alive? Who can they trust with their safety? People Emery never thought would portray her end up enlarging the target on her back.
This is the third book I have read from this set, and like the others, I could not put it down. The twists and turns keep you hooked and want to keep reading. I can't wait to see what comes next in the series.

[Beverly Finnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not the first book in this series I’ve read. However Shadowed Alliances is the first book I didn’t want to put down. The author sucked me in while following the main character's story. The way the story developed flowed really well. It’s one of those books I’m going to add to my must-read -again collection.
Emery is on the run. Her ex-father in law is after her. She has information that he wants. But he has yet to catch her. He gets close and she slips through his fingers. When we meet Emery at the beginning of the story she’s realized she needs help and can’t keep running on her own. She previously had a run in with Seb who told her if she ever needed anything to reach out to his company Shadow Defense Security. Unfortunately he wasn’t there when she got there. However Javier was and little did they know what this adventure would entail.
Javier knew of Emery’s story but he didn’t expect everything to be this difficult. He wants to help her get her life back, more than he realizes. He’s the tech guy in the business. So while everyone is finding significant other’s he’s on his computer. When Emery wakes up something within him he knows it’s more than just the need to help her.
When they realize the same man that’s after her, is the same one that’s been giving him and his partner’s trouble out in the field, it becomes personal.
What will happen between Javier and Emery?
Will he be able to help her get her life back?
Stronger than she looks, Emery and Javier are determined to finish what they started.
If you enjoy suspense with some romance thrown in. These books are for you. I’m ocd to the point where I need to read things in consecutive order. However, these books work fairly well as standalone novels as well. Happy reading!

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

"We underestimated you," Cummingsworth said, his gun aimed at her.
"Most people usually do," Emery replied.

What do you get when you cross a street smart female fighter with an eyewitness testimony to a murder? The high-stakes, tension-building thriller of Shadowed Alliances!

I might have watched Home Alone and Die Hard too many times this Christmas season, but from the FIRST PAGE, I was gripped with that sense of danger -- and an overwhelming need to protect the innocent at all costs, even at risk to self ... and the tension didn't let up! It was like the cleverness of Kevin from Home Alone combined with John McClain's proficiency in street fighting!

But this isn't a shallow movie of a kid protecting his parents' house or a barefoot cop trapped with a bunch of bad guys and his ex-wife.

The best part is we've gotten a taste of sassy Emery in Book 4 ... and SHE'S BACK in her OWN full-length novel! Just as sassy, smart, and serious, she won't let a guy do a job she can do herself. And she doesn't!

And get ready to meet fun side characters, Talia and Kenjiro, who can't quit bickering, and Captain Selene Ryker who brings feminine brains and brawn to the fight.

If you've drunk too much eggnog and are looking for high stakes suspense and action with a splash of comedy and romance, check out Shadowed Alliances, the fifth installment in the suspense-thriller epic adventure of Shadowed Defense Security today! After you do, go ahead and read the first 4 books to meet other operatives (and their tough girl partners) who make up this powerhouse group of crime-fighters. But beware, this bumpy ride is JUST GETTIN' STARTED!

[Kerry carr · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 5th book in the Shadow Defense Security Series. Even though this is part of a series they can be read as standalone, however personally I would recommend reading them in order so you get a complete picture of the Shadow Defense team and the characters involved in them.
This is a romance suspense story filled with action, danger, adventure, secrets, betrayal, hidden agendas and so much more.
This story starts off fast paced and doesn't let go all the way through.

In this story we are with Emery Foster and Javier.
Emery is on the run. After witnessing her father in law to be commit a crime she knows she has to run to save herself. Not wanting to put anyone else in harms way she tries to go it alone but when she feels him closing in on her she turns to the only people she knows can help Shadow Defence and this is where she meets Javier

Javier is the tech guy for Shadow Defense. When Emery comes into the office asking for help he doesn't think twice about helping her. As they start to unravel things Javier realises that things are more dangerous than they first anticipated, there are big players involved and a betrayal neither of them see coming.
With them both on the run the relationship between Javier and Emery gets closer. And when Javier realises the person after Emery is the same person who has been targeting the members of the Shadow Defense then this case gets a lot more personal.

This was a really fast paced engaging read that I couldn't put down. This author has just got better and better with each addition to this series

[Candice · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is book 5 in the Shadow Defense Security series, and while it can be read as a stand-alone, I truly doubt you'll want to once you get started on this series.

Shadow Defense is a private security firm started by a group of men who are former Navy Seals, each with their own histories, and one tragic event that seems to keep coming back to mess with their present. This book is no different, and while I can't wait to see where this series is ultimately going, I am so enjoying learning more about the main characters/players of this world, and those who become their closest friends or more.

For instance, here have Emory Foster who is trying to escape from the grasp of her ex-fiancee's father, and a cybersecurity expert, who is trying to prevent her from getting information to those who need it to stop a plan he's put into motion. When Emory realizes that she can't do it alone, she turns to Javier Escarra and his partners at Shadow Defense. Nothing goes quite as expected, and Emory quickly discovers that even those she thought would never betrayer her may have their own agenda. The most important thing to remember in this world is simply be careful who you trust, or better yet, trust NO ONE. This book, like the previous four, have a guaranteed happily ever after, which is a great way to end all of the action and suspense, too. I truly couldn't put this one down, and finished it in less than 24 hours!

[Heidi Sturgess · Rating 5 out of 5]

While this is book 5 in the series and can be read as a stand alone I highly recommend starting at book 1 for a fuller and more rounded reading experience and there are references to previous characters and events but having said that I don’t think you’ll feel “lost” if you’ve not read the series in it’s entirety but trust me you’ll want to 😉📕

While Emery is at a party and taking a breath of fresh air she is witness to something she should have seen and now she’s in some serious trouble , she went into hiding but even in hiding she’s not safe 🙈🤷‍♀️

Emery is now desperate and comes into contact with Shadow defence security and Javier as the plot unfolds it would seem Emery isn’t the only one in danger , Emery and Javier have their work cut out for them because the people they’re up against are powerful and their power has no end , my nerves were shattered but there was some romance to alleviate the tension or should I say added tension if another kind !? 😉🤣

A few unexpected twists and while I’ve my own thought I’d like to let a fellow book buddy read this do we can compare notes , spill the tea 🤣 Emery may be scared but make no mistake she’s no wallflower and I think Javier has his hands full in more ways than one 😉trust no one !

[Christie72 (Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shadowed Alliances is a twisty romantic suspense that will keep you turning the pages late into the night.

Emery is on the run from some powerful enemies who want her dead. She was at a party when she witnessed a man murder a woman. It wasn’t some random man; it was her future father-in-law. However, she has some other dangerous secrets she is holding close. She is taken into protective custody but soon discovers no place is safe. She is one of the only survivors after an attack, leaving almost everyone dead in the safe house she was staying in. Her only option for staying alive is Shadow Defense Security.

Javier is a former Navy Seal and owner of a security firm. While he and Emery are on the run, he discovers that the organization determined to kill Emery is connected to some recent issues involving the firm.

I found myself quickly immersed in the shadowy world the author created. The book had a little bit of everything…romance, suspense, action, and thrills, with a bit of humor sprinkled in. The book's name is perfect…there are a lot of shadowy alliances between dangerous people. This is the first book I have read in the series. While it was easy to read, I would like to go back and read the earlier books, as the overarching conspiracy begins with the first book!

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

Shadowed Alliances is the fifth book in the Shadow Defense Security series by Mavery Ellscott, and as I say with each new instalment, it is my favourite of the series to date.
This is another tense romantic suspense/romantic thriller with plenty of action, adventure, danger, high stakes, mystery, chemistry, agendas, sinister & powerful adversary, twists, intrigue, tension, emotion, challenges, deception, betrayal, agendas, and so much more — which all made for another very engrossing read.
I loved all the exciting elements that Ms. Ellscott weaves into each of her stories, she never fails to deliver a thrilling read. Her characters are such well-developed individuals, each with their own unique personality, quirks, and flaws- making them interesting and easy to connect with and invest in. I was right by their side, drawn into the story and experiencing everything right alongside them. Which, as I have mentioned in previous instalment reviews, would translate well onto the big screen- or make a great, long-running, television series also.
I can’t wait for more from Ms. Ellscott!
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Mavery Ellscott!

[Yvonne Derrig · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grippingly Riveting

I was on the edge of my seat for the entirety of this page-turner by Mavery Ellscott. Definitely a 6-star read for me, as the whole series has been… I have read all the books in this series up to this point, and all I can say is riveting. Are you looking for relatable stories that draw you in, make you question everything you thought you ever knew, then look no further. I never expected the twist in this one. I may not always be able to figure it out by the end, but I almost always question the one person they leave out… Not in this case, though! Completely shocker! As with all the books in this series, Shadow Defense Security is in the thick of working on the arduous task of discovering who set them up 5 years ago. Now Emery is running from her ex’s father and trying to stay alive after a few episodes of being in the wrong place at the wrong time. She turns to Javier, hoping he can help her hide out. This series has a little bit of everything for everyone, but this book has me on pins and needles while I wait for her next one. Every book has gotten better and this is no exception! Take my suggestion and go read this now!

[Tara Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shadowed Alliances is book five in A Shadow Defense Security Thriller series. It is an intense psychological thriller full of danger, action, mystery, deception, murder, secrets, lies, and corruption. The story revolves around MC Emery Foster, who witnesses Rudolfo Manetti murder a woman. Now Emery is both a witness and a target and is running for her life. She trusts no one to help her and feels that she has nowhere safe to turn. Out of fear for her life, Emery seeks out the former Navy SEAL and owner of Shadow Defense Security, Javier Escarra. They soon discover that Emery is not the only one who is a target. They uncover a sinister web of corruption that throws them into a world full of powerful players with secret alliances. These individuals will stop at nothing to keep their secrets and corruption hidden and will do anything to silence those who threaten to expose them. This is a fast-paced, edge of your seat thriller that will keep you riveted until the end. This entire series is captivating, well written, and full of intriguing characters that completely immerse you into the story and their lives.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This fast paced, action packed novel can be read as a standalone story however, the overarching conspiracy plot runs through each story and the characters cross over. Having witnessed cybersecurity guru Rudolfo Manetti murder a woman, Emery Foster is now a target herself. On the run and in danger Emery turns to former Navy SEAL and owner of Shadow Defense Security Javier Escarra. They start to unravel a sinister web of corruption and murders much larger than they had thought. Emery and Javier must work together as the enemy closes in, but they find themselves dealing with secret alliances.
They discover that certain powerful people involved are willing to do anything to silence them, but they were not expecting the ultimate betrayal. The world of deception and intrigue that the author has created is brought vividly to life by the descriptive narrative. The storyline had me hooked and the plot twists and turns kept me gripped throughout. The suspense grew chapter by chapter, whilst the romance between Emery and Javier developed as the story progressed. An enjoyable and engaging read and I look forward to binge - reading the previous books in the series.

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

At the end of Shadowed Storm, Emery had left Seb and Alexis to go her own way. This story begins with Orlan driving her to Ridgeton Montana so that she could seek help from Shadowed Defense Security. She made it to the office and met with Javier and explained the situation. It seems that her ex-fiancée's father still wanted her out of the picture. Javier also learned in addition to seeing a murder, she also had pictures of two people discussing an assassination. It was decided to go to Chicago to obtain the role of film and have it developed to find out who the other party was that talked to Rudolfo. Once they arrived in Chicago, all hell broke loose. They were able to manage leaving and their next stop was to a Ski Resort in Colo where the expected assassination was to take place.

Read along and discover what actions Javier had to take to protect Emery, who the individual to be assassinated, who wanted this person assassinated, how Emery and Javier's relationship worked out eventually and how it all worked out in the end, then you need to read this book.

I have read all of the books in the series now and highly recommend it. You won't be disappointed!

[Tausha Treadway · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shadowed Alliances: A Shadowed Defense Security Thriller by Mavery Ellscott. This is the 5th book in this amazing series and I loved every minute of it. It can be read as a standalone but I always recommend reading series in order to get a better understanding of the story and the characters. This is the story of Emery who is engaged to the love of her life Aidan but while at a party Emery steps out to get some air and ends up witnessing Aidan's dad drowning a woman. Desperate and scared she goes in to hiding but she knows even then she's not safe. Emery ends up seeking out Shadow Defense and Javier is assigned to her. What Javier and Emery don't realize is they are in serious trouble and they may not get out of this alive. Emery has broken up with her fiance but knows she is still in deep trouble. Javier and Emery end up on the run but will spending so much time together there may be a little chemistry there. It won't matter though if they both end up dead! Such a fast paced thriller that I absolutely loved!

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been eagerly awaiting this newest addition to this series!! This is one of my all-time favorite book series!

Javier is the focus of this story with his Shadow Defense Security team mentioned from time to time in the background. It's not essential that you read the previous books before this one but it might clear up who some of the players are as the series does build on itself. Javier is an ex-Navy Seal who is trying to help Emery take down a murderer and to save Emery's life.

This book is full of action, some romance, and twists and turns that you may not see coming. There were a few moments where things weren't really clear as to what was happening and I have some lingering questions about certain events that took place that weren't cleared up. Hopefully they'll be addressed in future books. Also, I felt that this one ended somewhat abruptly, maybe because I was waiting on clarification on aforementioned events.

I'm excited about the next book to come and look forward to reading more from this author.

[Ayla Phipps · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eeek. This one was bittersweet as the Shadow Defense Security Series came to an end. At least for now. Mavery Ellscott has truly delivered with this series. While they can be read as standalones there is an overarching plot that starts in book one and continues to the end of this book. Once again dual perspectives of Javier and Emery.
I just can’t with this one the twists, turns, suspense, romance, and humor made this book one of my favorites in this series. That said I loved each book as they each are so unique that you can’t really compare them fairly. I don’t want to give any spoilers or risk anything with this one as hello finally got Javier’s story and Emery’s. Just know if you love a good action thriller book that has everything this series is for you but make sure you start with book one as it makes it so much more satisfying to see the overarching plot evolve and how each new book fits into it seamlessly. I cannot wait for my next Mavery Ellscott read because she is a favorite that I will continue to return time and time again.

[Jennifer Reimer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gripped me from the first page, and I couldn’t put it down until the very end. It had so much in this from suspense, romance, thriller, action, adventure, danger, high stakes, mystery, chemistry, agendas, sinister & powerful adversary, intrigue, tension, emotion, deception, betrayal, agendas, twist and turns the slapped in the face that I didn’t see them coming and so much more. I will say I never read anything before this book in this series, which wasn’t bad, I was still able to follow the story and know what was going on, but I think reading the other books will give a nice and better back story with the characters. Emery witnesses a murder, and after she goes into protective custody, you would think she would be safe, the story really made me feel like I was there with all the suspense and action going on. I well enjoyed this book and will be going back to read the other n this series.

[Shannen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down! It’s rare for a series to maintain its momentum, especially after the second book, but somehow, Shadow Defense Security has only gotten better. Each installment has kept me hooked, and this one was no exception. It is a pulse-pounding thriller that combines high-stakes action, romance, and dark intrigue. Emery saw something she shouldn’t have and with nowhere to turn, she teamed up with Javier who is a former Navy SEAL and owner of Shadow Defense Security. Somehow the author delivered a tightly woven narrative packed with shocking twists and suspense while also injecting humor and chemistry between Emery and Javier. Perfect for fans of twisty thrillers with a side of romance, this is an exhilarating read that will leave you breathless and hooked to the very last page. The author has made it to my watch list and I’m on my way to pick up more from them now!

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

(4.5) Entertained, thrilled, romance, humor, and more. The whole Shadowed Defense Security is a great series and Shadowed Alliances ups the game. I was waiting for Emerys story and not disappointed. There are a lot of players in the game and a lot going on. To be clear, this is not a game, this affects each member in a way that destroyed part of their soul. Its a scary thought to know there are people in the world like that. I love watching the pieces of the puzzle slowly click together.
There are couple twists. The one at the end I guessed, the one in the middle or 1/3 of the way floored me. This is a story that you want to read in a book club to discuss the nuances and the different thoughts. Thank you for the advanced copy. I freely volunteer my honest thoughts and opinions. #ShadowedAlliance #AShadowedDefenseSecurty #MaveryEllscott #Kulmatycki Educational Services Inc

[Bobbi Wagner · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this thriller story. This is the fifth book in this series but it can be read as a standalone. I look forward to reading the previous books in this series as well. This is a well written story about Emery and what she saw. What she sees is a murder and now she has turned to Javier and Shadow Defense Security. As lives become in danger and a betrayal that you won’t see coming, how far will this murderous group go to silence them? I enjoyed these characters and how connectable they are. I enjoyed how they brought the twists and turns to life. They had me turning pages fast just to see what would happen next. The growth of this story is great throughout. This is a fast paced, hard to put down story. This is an engaging story that is easy and entertaining to read. I really enjoyed reading this book. I highly recommend this book.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Get ready for a non stop action filled thriller. Shadow Defense Security is on it once again. This is a group of former seals who have come together to stop crimes. This is Emery Foster's story. She has walked into a party that does not go as planned. Her goal is to stay alive! So how will she do that? While this is part of a series, it can be read as a stand alone. Although I recommend you read the series. Watch as the characters interact with each other as well as the support from their friends. This story has it all, mystery, intrigue, humor and romance. Just not in that order. The author has a way with words. She sucks you in on page 1 and you just can't stop reading until the last page. A thrilling rollercoaster of emotions will be included. Best book to keep you up all night reading.

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shadowed Alliances is the first book I've read by Mavery Ellscott. While I read this as a standalone, I would have liked to have read the previous books. However, I didn't feel like I missed any relevant information by not reading the other books. The world building was amazing. There was action from the beginning until the end! Shadowed Alliances had intrigue, drama, betrayals, suspense, romance, and lots of twists and turns. It kept me on the edge of my seat from the very beginning and the twists kept me guessing until the very end! This book definitely hammered home the fact: trust no one. The characters were very relatable, realistic, and lovable. I felt connected and invested in the successes of Emery and Javier. I am looking forward to reading more of the Shadow Defense Security Series.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This being the fifth book of the Shadow Defense Security series, I definitely wanna go back to read the previous ones. While it can be read as a standalone, if you're familiar with the series you will appreciate the recurring characters and overarching conspiracy that ties the books together. It starts as a simple protection job quickly spirals into a deeper conspiracy, revealing corruption that puts both Emery and Javier Escarra in the crosshairs of powerful enemies. Ellscott does a great job balancing action, suspense, and romance. The chemistry between Emery and Javier feels organic, without overpowering the plot. There are some well-executed twists that are perfectly timed. With gunfights, close calls, and tactical maneuvers keep the adrenaline flowing. It’s definitely a gripping, fast-moving, tension filled story that is worth picking up.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've read each book in the Shadow Defense Security series so far, and this one did not disappoint! This book was action packed literally from page one and I don't think it stopped much the entire way through. One of the things I enjoy about this series is that each main character set has a thread that overlaps into the overall Shadow Defense Security mystery that ties each book together.
In this particular storyline, I really enjoyed Emery's role. You learn more and more about her background as the story unfolds, and she definitely has had an intriguing life. She's inventive and resourceful, and understandably distrustful of many of the characters she has to align herself with.
If you're looking for an exciting read with a lot of betrayal and conspiracy, I definitely recommend this one!

[Manda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I do not know why I've had this on my TBR pile for so long. It had me on the edge of my seat from the very start.

Emery is definitely between a rock and a hard place. Not wanting to trust anyone but unable to move forward without help. No option than to rely on Javier the two end up in a desperate race against time and violent unseen forces.

Emery is a strong, resourceful, intelligent young woman. Whilst Javier is a tough, seasoned operative pushed to his limits keeping her safe and ahead of the game.

A fantastic seat of your pants, fast paced, all action story and one I would absolutely recommend. This was great as a standalone but I will definitely be looking for the first four in this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kerry Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is a brilliant one and Shadowed Alliances is another fantastic book to add to the collection. This is an exciting and fast paced story that sees Emery thrown into a cat and mouse chase as she has to run for her life. After witnessing something she shouldn’t have, she is forced to reach out to Javier for assistance.
The whole story is action packed. It is a well developed plot that really grabs your attention from the word go. You feel like you are being taken on the journey with the characters, going through thick and thin with them. I found it hard to put this book down once I had started reading, as I just had to know how things would turn out. This is a brilliant addition to the series and I am already looking forward to the next.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love! love! Love this one!! How could I not? It has spectacular characters and is FILLED with action. This completely kept my interest and I could hardly wait to get back to it every day! I enjoyed learning about each of the personalities quirks and backstory. The FMC is almost more interesting than Javier. Ha! Also the 2 sidekicks that pal around with them have mastered bickering add enjoyment to some situations. My only very small issue is Hank…I wish there would have been a follow up with him but maybe it will be in the next one.

This is a highly entertaining and enjoyable book! While it is the fifth in the series it could he be read as a standalone. Although I feel the previous books are just as exciting.

[Rebecca Hill · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is part of a series, however it works well as a stand alone. This book centered around Emery Foster and Javier Escarra. Emery is on the run from Rudolfo Manetti, because she overheard and saw something she wasn’t supposed to. She has been on her own trying to stay hidden, but he has always managed to find her, So she turns to Shadow Defense Security who Javier works for. As Javier is protecting her, he begins to fall in love with her. But Emery’s trust issues come between them and almost gets her killed. I enjoyed this book and would happily read more of this series. There were some “spicy" parts and some parts that were a little hard to believe. Neither made me want to put the book down, because I definitely wanted to read to the end!