Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
A missing woman. A deadly conspiracy. A love worth fighting for.

The Black Knights are back and better than ever!

Social media maven Sabrina Greenlee knows she’s playing with fire regarding her feelings for Hewitt Birch. But when mysterious men spirit her away in the night, her survival depends on the team she calls family…Hew included…and she willingly welcomes the flames.

Hewitt Birch has spent a lifetime controlling his emotions. But when Sabrina disappears, his carefully maintained self-discipline shatters. He vows to bring Sabrina home, even when it becomes clear her kidnapping is a smokescreen. The real target? BKI itself.

Sabrina and Hew are left reeling from the lingering danger and the passion ignited between them when her ransom becomes a rescue mission. With an unseen enemy closing in and betrayal lurking around every corner, they’ll have to decide if they can afford to risk their hearts while they fight for their lives…

"A first-rate thrill ride."—Publishers Weekly, STARRED Review for Thrill Ride

"This razor-sharp, sensual, and intriguing tale will get hearts pounding"—Publishers Weekly, STARRED Review for Wild Ride

"Deft characterization, skillful pacing, touches of humor, and red-hot love scenes rev up this highly recommended roller-coaster." —Publishers Weekly, STARRED Review for In Rides Trouble

314 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 27, 2026

Loading...
Loading...

About the author

Julie Ann Walker

36 books2,686 followers
Julie Ann Walker is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author. She has won the Book Buyers Best Award, been nominated for the National Readers Choice Award, the Australian Romance Reader Awards, and the Romance Writers of America's prestigious RITA award. Julie loves to travel the world looking for views to compete with her deadlines. And if those views happen to come with a blue sky and sunshine? All the better! When she's not writing, Julie enjoys camping, hiking, cycling, fishing, cooking, petting every dog that walks by her, and... reading, of course!

Be sure to sign up for Julie's occasional newsletter at: http://julieannwalker.com

Or follow her on Facebook: www.facebook.com/julieannwalkerauthor and/or Instagram: @julieannwalker_author.

In Moonlight and Memories:
#1 IN MOONLIGHT AND MEMORIES: VOLUME ONE
#2 IN MOONLIGHT AND MEMORIES: VOLUME TWO
#3 IN MOONLIGHT AND MEMORIES: VOLUME THREE

Black Knights Inc.:
#1 HELL ON WHEELS
#2 IN RIDES TROUBLE
#3 REV IT UP
#4 THRILL RIDE
#5 BORN WILD
#6 HELL FOR LEATHER
#7 FULL THROTTLE
#8 TOO HARD TO HANDLE
#9 WILD RIDE
#10 FUEL FOR FIRE
#11 HOT PURSUIT
#12 BUILT TO LAST

Deep Six:
#0.5 HOT AS HELL
#1 HELL OR HIGH WATER
#2 DEVIL AND THE DEEP
#3 RIDE THE TIDE
#4 DEEPER THAN THE OCEAN
#5 SHOT ACROSS THE BOW
#6 DEAD IN THE WATER

Black Knights Inc: Reloaded:
#1 BACK IN BLACK
#2 BLACK HEARTED
#3 MAN IN BLACK
#4 BLACK MOON RISING
#5 BLACK WIDOW
#6 FADE TO BLACK

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
208 (56%)
4 stars
112 (30%)
3 stars
45 (12%)
2 stars
4 (1%)
1 star
1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
Profile Image for Dar.
4,763 reviews96 followers
November 7, 2025
I took these two entirely too long to be honest about their feelings for each other! But, there was a lot going on - kidnappings, violent adversaries, a cranky tom cat, and a still elusive big bad that they are no closer to unmasking. What isn’t in doubt is the strong bond between Hew and Sabrina; The worry and care that flows between them to sooth the other; The absolute attraction that both enflames and confuses them. That is why these cautious, and clueless, people don’t see what is right there. Even when we think they do, they manage to misstep. They get there, eventually, and because of the base they had been building, it is more than they could ever hope for <3
Profile Image for Diana Aragon .
70 reviews1 follower
February 18, 2026
Black Widow is the fifth installment of the Black Knights, Inc. reloaded and this one is pack of action and slow burn romance between introvert, nerdy Hewitt Birch and social media guru Sabrina Greenlee who we met in Black Moon Rising.

Hew and Sabrina bonded after the incident that brought them together in Black Moon Rising, their friendship one based on books, movies and real feelings. Hew was Sabrina's champion, the calm in the center the storm and little by little the one who "saved” her. Hew being her protector and a gentleman on top of that, never realized when her feelings evolved and became serious, missing her signals and making her believe that her feelings weren't reciprocated. Sabrina, accepting her failed attempts turned into a dating app and start seeking prospects. After a date, Sabrina was confused, in need of peace and solace to understand what was happening in her life, and decided to go for a drive. It was late, and cold when her car was hit in a country road, and she was kidnapped by a group of dark operatives who worked for the mysterious and elusive Bishop.

Back at the shop, Hew was worried; Sabrina didn't arrive as expected. Next day, after checking if she returned but didn't, he decided to track her car. Using the resources available to the BK, they found the car crash and no Sabrina. Hours later, the landline of the Black Knight factory rang and a ransom was issued. From here on, the action is non action. It involved the onsite mobilization of resources and the entry of a new character from the inside of the White House with ties to another of our Knights. It was a race against the clock, an all-hands-on deck situation with a brilliant plan to come up with the money to save Sabrina. The Knights did what they do best, they plan and execute flawlessly the assignment, Sabrina was once again among them, not the broken girl from before but the strong woman who will refuse to go down or help in the demise of her chosen family. Hew was an avenging angel, his sole purpose: save Sabrina and bring her home; but his good heart and understanding was in display when he gave Sabrina a red lobster which was her safety blanket…a totally sweet touch that will give you all the feels.

During the campaign to save Sabrina, the Knights were able to secure the leader of the dark operatives, a women known by code name Black Widow. She was uncooperative and stubborn, but in the end the Knights were able to piece a better picture about how close they were to be identify publicly, and how truly powerful Bishop is.

In Black Widow, Julie Ann Walker finally brought us to the climax of this saga. We are within reach of knowing who is Bishop and what his nefarious plan involved. Although this book can be read as a standalone book, it is a thousand times better if you had the pleasure to read the prior installments of the Black Knight, Inc. reloaded. It’s always a treasure to find easter eggs and catching up with the OG Black Knights. As a fan of Ms. Walker, I read the book in one sitting, then re-read it just because and to catch as many details as possible. These books read as episodes of “24”, fast paced, intense and unpredictable, so my friends sit back and enjoy. Five shinning stars.

I was provided an ARC, and these are my most sincere thoughts and opinion; but Black Widow is in my collection too.
Profile Image for mellidiezahnfee.
1,047 reviews6 followers
February 1, 2026
He never felt loved or accepted.
She has experienced terrible things.
Can they heal each other?

This installment also strikes a wonderful balance between action and emotion.
The threat is more real than ever, because Sabrina is kidnapped and her life now depends on being rescued by the Black Knights. This incident sets a lot of things in motion. Not only are Sabrina and Hew's feelings shaken up and reshuffled, but the Black Knights also get a little closer to uncovering the threat. Who is the mysterious stranger named Bishop who has been terrorizing them for so long? The trail is getting hotter and the Black Knights are picking up the scent. The fact that Graham and Lura work together and fall in love ? in the next volume gives us a little preview. I'm excited. :)
“Black Widow” is a “friends to lovers” novel with lots of action and suspicion, in which you meet some of the original characters again. Ozzy and Boss. Becky and, of course, all the current Black Knights. The wonderful thing about this constellation is the friendly, family-like atmosphere in which everyone can rely on each other. Even not-so-nice supporting characters like Vivian, also known as Black Widow, can't win although she feels superior: the boys and girls of BKI are on the ball and turn the tide in their favor.
I love Julie Ann Walker's writing style. In the action scenes, it is powerful and expressive, and in the interpersonal sequences, it is both emotional and doubtful. As a reader, you get to experience every nuance of the protagonists' inner lives up close, which creates additional suspense.
Er fühlte sich nie geliebt und angekommen
Sie hat grauenvolle Dinge erlebt.
Können sie einander heilen?

Auch in diesem Band ist das Verhältnis zwischen Action und Gefühlen wunderbar ausgewogen.
Die Bedrohung geht weiter und ist realer denn je, denn Sabrina wird gekidnappt und jetzt hängt ihr Leben an der Rettung durch die Black Knights. Durch diesen Zwischenfall gerät einiges in Bewegung. Nicht nur die Gefühle von Sabrina und Hew werden durchgeschüttelt und neu gemischt, auch kommen die Black Knight der Bedrohung ein wenig auf die Spur. Wer ist der geheimnisvolle Unbekannte namens Bishop, der sie schon so lange terrorisiert? Die Spur wird heißer und die Black Knights nehmen die Witterung auf. Einen kleinen Ausblick gibt die Tatsache, dass Graham und Lura in nächsten Band zusammen arbeiten, und sich verlieben? Ich bin gespannt :)
Black Widow ist ein Friends to Lovers Roman mit jeder Menge Action und Verdächtigungen, in dem man einige Ursprungscharaktere wieder trifft. Ozzy und Boss. Becky und natürlich alle aktuellen Black Knights. Das Wunderbare an dieser Konstellation ist ein freundschaftliches, familiäres Miteinander in dem sich alle aufeinander verlassen können. Da können auch nicht so nette Nebencharaktere wie Vivian aka Black Widow sich noch so überlegen fühlen, die Jungs und Mädels von BKI sind auf Zack und wenden das Blatt zu ihren Gunsten.
Ich liebe den Schreibstil von Julie Ann Walker. In den Actionszenen kraftvoll und aussagekräftig und in den zwischenmenschlichen Sequenzen sowohl gefühlvoll als auch zweifelnd, bekommt man als Leser jede Nuance des Innenlebens der Protagonisten hautnah mit, was zusätzlich Spannung erzeugt.

Profile Image for Sandy S.
8,624 reviews212 followers
January 27, 2026
4.25stars-BLACK WIDOW is the fifth instalment in Julie Ann Walker’s contemporary, adult BLACK KNIGHTS INC: RELOADED erotic, romantic suspense series, a spin off set in the author’s BLACK KNIGHTS INC world, focusing on a team of former military heroes headquartered and fronted by a custom motorcycle shop in Chicago known as Black Knights Inc. This is former US Navy SEAL helicopter pilot Hewitt ‘Hew’ Birch, and social media promoter Sabrina Greenlee’s story line. BLACK WIDOW can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and cohesion as there is an ongoing premise throughout.

Told from several omniscient third person perspectives including Hew and Sabrina,using present day and memories from the past, BLACK WIDOW follows in the wake of the abduction and rescue of our story line heroine. Months earlier, Sabrina was the victim of a kidnapping and assault, wherein she struggled to save her brother’s life. Living with the team at Black Knights Inc, Sabrina found purpose as their social media manager but our heroine found herself falling for a man refused to cross the line. Hewitt Birch had fallen in love with Sabrina the first time they met but Sabrina was still healing, and Hew was biding his time but Sabrina was stubborn, and in an effort to clear her head, found herself the prisoner of a team of professional assassins, assassins who were using our heroine as bait.

The world building follows several intersecting paths including the return of the person known as Bishop, a high ranking politician who has targeted the team at Black Knights Inc. Very few people are aware of Bishop’s true identity but the BKI team begins to suspect is may be someone they knew.

The relationship between Hew and Sabrina is a friends to lovers in which Hew has declared himself guardian and protector of a woman who is battling between head and heart. Sabrina believes Hew sees her as nothing more than a friend, and as the weeks and months pass, their miscommunication and misunderstandings threaten any chance for a happily ever after. The $ex scenes are intimate and provocative without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is another large ensemble cast of colorful, familiar and charismatic secondary and supporting character including many of the previous story line characters and the team at Black Knights Inc We are reintroduced to Graham Coleburn, and White House assistant Lura Dougherty, and as well as Vivian Draka aka Black Widow. The requisite evil has many faces.

BLACK WIDOW is a story of power and control, betrayal and vengeance, obsession and madness, family and friendships, relationships and love. The character driven premise is detailed, complex and intriguing; the romance is seductive and impassioned; the characters are desperate, determined and dynamic.

copy supplied for review
Profile Image for Linda Ketter.
819 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 25, 2026
Black Widow is book 5 in the Black Knights Inc Reloaded series and follows rough and tumble flyboy, Hew, as he struggles with his feelings for social media maven, Sabrina.

Hew is a bookish person. He is always reading a book of some kind. He is not big on going out and partying, but does go out with the guys on occasion. His backstory is a testament to his strength; mental, emotional and physical. He is a quiet person, tending to observe more and act less. But do not poke the bear.

We met Sabrina in Black Moon Rising, where her story began. She, too, has a history that has forged steel into her spine and ingenuity from necessity. She lost the last of her family, when her brother was killed previously, so when the Black Knights offered her a job to help create a social media presence for them, she chose to stay.

Sabrina and Hew bonded after she came to the Black Knights for help. He was the only one she could confide in about what happened to her previously. He was the one she could go to when she was scared. He was the one who provided her comfort and security when she needed it.

As time when on, Sabrina's need for comfort and security lessened. She started seeing Hew in a different light. She began dropping hints, but he never acknowledged them. So she started seeing someone new. But all that did was poke the bear.

Hew would never admit his feelings for Sabrina. After what she went through, he needs to tread lightly with her. Too bad, he tread too lightly. Because now she has moved on, and is seeing Martin. And his ugly green monster has reared its ugly head.

But when Bishop's new plan to attach the Black Knights through their women impacts Sabrina, Hew will go to any lengths to protect her.

But will the attack on the Black Knights, and the threat to Sabrina, cause Hew to acknowledge his feelings for her?

So many emotions go through this book and these characters. We have fear, love, lust, jealousy. But with the other Black Knights watching them, they are careful to remain friends no matter what. But that is hard to do when bodies connect, but feelings are not acknowledged. These two seriously need ot talk.

I still have so many question about Bishop and Kerberos. Yes they are prominent in this book. But who are they actually? I think I have figured out who Bishop is, but Kerberos is still a huge mystery.

We also meet Lura, who grew up with Graham, in this book. These two will have an interesting, and dangerous, job to do in the next installment of Black Knights Inc Reloaded.

But will this be the end of the Knights? Or will we have more generations to come? Only time will tell, but I know I am hoping for more. I love these men and I love the adventures. And the women prove over and over again how strong and resilient they are. So here is to more Black Knights in the future.
Profile Image for Visionary Druid.
744 reviews15 followers
November 8, 2025
Hewitt Birch, former Nightstalker pilot, is a secret operative for Black Knights Inc. He has been silently looking after Sabrina since the day she fainted in his arms. When she is kidnapped, Hew’s calm veneer crumbles. After a harrowing rescue mission, and learning about their enemies’ true intent, Hew does not want to jeopardize what he has with Sabrina. Will self-preservation keep Hewitt from telling Sabrina about his feelings? Or will his hesitation push her into the arms of another man?

Sabrina Greenlee works as the Black Knights Inc’s social media specialist. Thanks to the BKI gang, especially Hewitt, she has slowly overcome her traumatic ordeal. However, Sabrina is put to the test when she finds herself kidnapped and held for ransom. She refuses to jeopardize the people who have done so much for her. Once she is rescued, Sabrina is determined to tell Hew how she feels. Will Sabrina finally find the nerve to confess? Or will the threat against BKI keep her from doing so?

Hewitt and Sabrina share so much in common. They both have had terrible childhoods without proper and loving parental guidance. They both have the love of reading. And they both were too afraid to jeopardize their friendship by admitting their true feelings. I admit, there were times when I wanted to knock both in the head. Their dillydallying annoyed me. But, deep down, I understand their uncertainty and hesitation.

Hew’s background is so heartbreaking! I could not help but feel for the big guy. I love how Hewitt understood everything that Sabrina was going through. Since he too experienced trauma, he knew exactly what she needed. He selflessly became her anchor so she could heal and move forward.

Sabrina has shown amazing growth since her introduction. She managed to keep it together during her kidnapping than relapsing. That ordeal would be difficult for anyone for a second time.

BLACK WIDOW is the fifth book in Julie Ann Walker’s romantic suspense series, BLACK KNIGHTS INC: RELOADED - a sequel to the author’s popular BLACK KNIGHT INC books. Fans of the first series will love knowing that Becky, Boss, and Ozzy make frequent appearances. I never get enough of my Ozz man and his love for hairbands and 80’s music. Sure, he plays a minor part, but it is not a BKI book without him in it. And Peanut!

Once again, like the prior four books, the author sets up the next couple: Graham and Lura. I cannot wait for their adventure. Will they figure out who Bishop is? And what about Kerberos? Will we ever learn who they are?
Profile Image for Leah.
704 reviews34 followers
January 27, 2026
Julie Ann Walker knows how to build a story that hooks you in and won’t let go. Black Widow is another perfect example of why this series works so well—and why it must be read in order. Each book layers character development, rising tension, and an overarching threat that keeps growing sharper.

This story belongs to Hewitt “Hew” Birch and Sabrina Greenlee.
Their connection doesn’t happen overnight. It grows slowly and naturally across previous books. They build a friendship first. But for both of them, from the moment they met it was more.

Friends to lovers often is a hard trope for me to love, but Julie Ann Walker makes it work. She structures this relationship in a way that feels earned and believable. Every moment adds weight. Every interaction matters.

Hew holds back. He believes Sabrina needs more time to heal after what she’s been through. Sabrina knows herself better. She’s ready to move forward, and she wants Hew at her side. When he doesn’t act, she does—and that choice changes everything.

Julie Ann Walker thrives in emotional gray space.
Walker lets her characters struggle. She lets them make mistakes. And never gives them the easy route.

There’s kidnapping, explosive action, and a dangerous conspiracy tied to the larger Black Knights Inc storyline. The abduction isn’t what it seems. The ransom is a smokescreen. And the real threat runs deep. We also get more clues about the big bad that’s been lurking in the background since earlier books.

What I love most is how Walker balances romantic suspense with emotional payoff. The danger feels real. The passion burns hot. And the stakes—both personal and professional—collide hard.

I’m a huge Julie Ann Walker fan, and Black Widow reinforces my why. She pulls you into the story and refuses to let you go. If you love action-packed romance with layered characters and an ongoing storyline, this series delivers every single time.
Profile Image for Gwen Larson.
238 reviews12 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
December 12, 2025
Fast action and good world building
I’m a sucker for suspense titles especially when they involve official or quasi-official black-ops type units (think Rachel Grant, Toni Andersen). So I was thrilled when author Julie Ann Walker allowed me to read an ARC of “Black Widow,” Book 5 of her Black Knights Inc.: Reloaded series. All opinions are mine.
Walker knows how to keep the action moving and write engrossing characters. Black Knights Inc. is a special ops unit hiding in plain sight as a company that builds high-end motorcycles.
Our central romance focuses on Sabrina and Hew, who both work for BKI, Hew as an operator and Sabrina as their social media guru.
Sabrina surprised me. She was much stronger than I anticipated given what this book shared from her back story. Sabrina definitely is a badass!
Hew was as I expected but still fun to watch as he struggled to acknowledge what is in his teddy bear heart he keeps hidden under layers of military training.
Running through the book was a mystery that seems to have come up in earlier titles, as well as the beginning of a storyline that will continue with a main romance in a future book. Sometimes it’s easy to jump into an established series in the middle. In this case, I felt I would have benefitted from reading earlier books to get more of Sabrina’s back story.
The only negative that I found in “Black Widow” is that it used a pet peeve of mine — lack of communication as the primary impediment for our star-crossed lovers. This was not as bad as when I encounter the same in historical romances where the characters just talk and talk and talk in their own heads instead of taking action.
In “Black Widow” the supporting characters take an active role in figuratively slapping some sense into Hew and Sabrina, which I found refreshing.
Now, I’m headed out to dive into the backlist of BKI: Reloaded.
Profile Image for Brodiebert.
226 reviews
April 28, 2026
The Good

Pacing:The book moves fast, and if you're looking for a quick binge, it delivers on speed.

The Frustrating

Inconsistent Writing & POV: The side character chapters felt jarring. Having a character wax poetic about a past flame while a main character is currently abducted killed the tension. Combined with an unclear dream sequence, the immersion was constantly being broken.

Tactical & Technical Errors: For a story about "elite operators," the logic was absent. From noisy missions to waiting until the last second to fuel a helicopter, the military aspect didn't track. Additionally, the medical inaccuracies regarding IVs were distracting—a quick Google search or professional check would have gone a long way.

The "Mercy" Plot Hole:The decision to let the villain (Black Widow) go, not once, but twice, was nonsensical. Letting a dangerous operative go because "we're better than that," only for her to immediately kidnap the FMC again, made the heroes look incompetent rather than noble. Their existence is supposed to be a huge secret, but they just let her walk knowing about them.

The Romance: Because the leads were essentially already in love at the start, there was no real burn. The "conflict" felt forced by a simple lack of communication, and the flashbacks didn't do enough to build the chemistry that was missing in the present day.

Dialogue: The MMC’s Maine accent (the constant "Ayuh") didn't translate well to the page and ended up being more off-putting than atmospheric.

Final Verdict:This didn't hit the mark for me. The plot felt forced, the characters made baffling decisions, and the emotional payoff was thin. I’ve enjoyed this author's previous work, but this one missed the standard
Profile Image for Carey S..
629 reviews9 followers
December 6, 2025
Sabrina Greenlee experienced assault and trauma at the hands of a really bad man, while losing her brother at the same time. She’s got some processing and healing to do. Hewitt Birch, Hew, has been helping her with the process. They spend time together talking and he lets her sneak into his room for hugs when she has bad dreams. He keeps a stuffed animal lobster nearby that she can use for comfort as well, and he provides a listening ear anytime she needs it. She’s starting to smile more and she’s made a lot of progress. Hew has feelings for her, but has trained himself to keep them to himself because of her trauma. When he returns from a trip to learn that she has started dating, he realizes that his chance to be with her is gone. This story is filled with heartbreaking glimpses of the early lives of both protagonists, and the well-written story leads readers to understand and empathize with the guarded nature of these two characters.

Then Sabrina gets kidnapped and the entire BKI crew mobilizes to find her and to neutralize the threat. Whew! From that point on, this story flies! There’s lots of action, misread cues, and disappointment, along with lots of joy and beauty and vulnerability. These two need to be together, but each one has suffered so much already, that being vulnerable is hard to do. The push and pull is delightful yet occasionally hard to read. There is one large overarching mystery that has haunted each of the prior books in this Reloaded series, and this book brings us one step closer to solving that mystery. I am looking forward to discovering the resolution of that mystery!
102 reviews
January 29, 2026
What a great installment in the BKI reloaded series! I think I keep saying that about these books, but its true each time! This book is about Hew and Sabrina. We meet Sabrina in an earlier book in the series, but don’t worry if you haven’t read the earlier book as what you need to know is included in this book for you! The book begins with Sabrina being kidnapped and BKI’s search for her. We get introduced to some new characters – and there’s a good bit of Frank “Boss” himself (from the original Black Knights books) in this one - which I LOVED.

I don’t want to give away too much of the story, but suffice it to say Walker wrote a wonderfully complex story with complicated and real life characters and watching the BKI guys work on finding Sabrina and what follows kept me pulled in from the very first page. As a warning, there are a few scenes where I wished I could reach into the book and shake some sense into Hew AND Sabrina - or make them say the things they are thinking to each other out loud, but I loved reading the complicated emotions and feelings that they were having even when I was frustrated by them.

Overall, a great book in this series. It is a continuation of an overarching story, but can be read as a standalone. I can’t wait for the next book, whose characters we got to know a little bit in this book. And the one guy who is maybe the bad guy had me gasping! I can’t figure out who the big bad is and I’m hoping we discover his identity in the next book!

I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book. This is my true and honest opinion.
515 reviews4 followers
June 18, 2026
Black Widow by Julie Ann Walker delivers a fast paced romantic suspense narrative that blends high stakes action, emotional intensity, and a deeply rooted love story set against the backdrop of a deadly conspiracy targeting Black Knights Inc.

One of the most compelling elements of the book is the dual focus on external danger and internal emotional conflict. Sabrina Greenlee’s unexpected abduction places her in immediate peril, while also testing her trust in the very people she considers family. Her resilience under pressure adds depth to her character and keeps the tension consistently high.

Hewitt Birch provides a strong counterbalance as a disciplined and emotionally guarded operative whose world is disrupted when Sabrina disappears. His transformation from controlled restraint to determined urgency creates a compelling emotional arc that drives both the action and the romance forward.

The integration of suspense and romance is particularly well executed. The kidnapping storyline unfolds alongside a broader conspiracy threatening BKI itself, creating multiple layers of danger and intrigue. This combination ensures a steady pace of tension while still allowing space for emotional development between the main characters.

For readers who enjoy romantic suspense with strong character dynamics, military style operations, and high stakes emotional relationships, Black Widow offers a gripping and engaging reading experience.
3,680 reviews40 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 9, 2026
We are back in Chicago at the BKI motorcycle garage/headquarters, where former government employees (CIA, FBI, SEALs etc) now work undercover for the President of USA. One of these men is Hewitt Birch.
Since the arrival of Sabrina Greenlee, a woman saved by BKI and now their social media guru, Hew has been attracted to her. But feelings are dangerous and just being “friends” with Sabrina after her ordeal, is all he is capable of handling.
But all that changes when evil men kidnap her . Unbeknown to BKI, the real target is them. Sabrina was just an opportunistic job.
The kidnapping unhinges the control Hew has toward her, and is determined to get her back.
Meanwhile, a more dangerous situation seems to arise when it appears someone up high in the government is the one ordering the destruction of BKI.
This was definitely an edge of your seat story filled with twists and turns, whodunit, and of course , romance.
In a world that exists in gray areas, can they right the wrong ?
The plot is engaging, and the main characters perfect in their imperfections .
This reader was especially thrilled to “see” characters from previous stories having a part in this one. Especially from the original series: Boss, Becky, and Ozzie, as did Peanut, the infamous cat.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Profile Image for Linda Carlson.
495 reviews
January 27, 2026
Sabrina & Hewitt

So sassy and suspenseful!

I was immediately hooked on Hew’s obsession with Sabrina. They have been through a lot in the last several months and he cares more than he lets on. He say’s they’re just friends, but he watches every move she makes, to make sure she is okay and happy. He is extremely jealous of her new, rich boyfriend, Martin, but denies it, and he listens for her footsteps when she comes upstairs to her room, you know, just to make sure she gets to her room alright. This man is in love and denial!

I love how Sabrina has come such a long way in her healing these last nine months. She has a special bond with Hew and the BKI team. I feel that she has a heart of gold and a core of steel.

This story takes you on a journey of healing, growth, and discovery. The initial suspense expands to a very serous series of events that keep you sitting on the edge, turning the pages to see what happens next, and biting your lip in silent encouragement for Sabrina. I love her resilience and bravery and I felt Hew’s angst when she needed him the most.

In different ways Hew shows the strength Sabrina needs to move forward and also the soft side of his heart that she needs to see. I wish this story went on a lot longer, it is that good. There is never a dull moment with this group and I can get behind their brand of family. Love this!
Profile Image for Yvonne V (Naughty Professora).
802 reviews15 followers
January 27, 2026
Another BKI Reloaded hit for me! This one features Sabrina, who we met in a prior release (Black Moon Rising) when she lost her brother. She has been staying at the BKI compound and is currently their social media manager. Hew is the self-appointed guardian of Sabrina. He is in love with Sabrina, but is not willing to move beyond being her friend. He’s being supportive as she heals from her experiences, but he definitely wants more. These two are dancing around each other – she’s giving him clues and hints, and he’s just getting frustrated. When she starts to date another man, he realizes he might actually lose her.

When Sabrina is trying to find some space and get out of her head, she ends up kidnapped again – and Hew will stop at nothing to get her back safely. When the team discovers that Sabrina is not really the victim, but being used to bait the BKI team. At the center of the kidnapping and targeting BKI is a familiar entity: Bishop and Kerberos. The crew is finally starting to discover who Bishop really is, and they fear it’s someone they know.

This one has a few of the original crew appearances, and interactions with Boss and Becky, Ozzie, as well as Peanut, make this another great addition to this series.
Profile Image for Reading Addict.
1,119 reviews24 followers
January 27, 2026
I have read every book in the Black Knights Inc Reloaded series and Black Widow just blew me away! Hew Birch is a BKI operative and from the moment he met Sabrina Greenlee, he was gone for her. Sabrina had gone through a very traumatic experience in Black Moon Rising and BKI has given her a place to rest and heal. Hew has been by her side from the moment she met him and now that she's healed, her feelings have changed but she doesn't want to destroy their friendship by demanding more. So she keeps her feelings to herself and pursues online dating. Hew doesn't take that turn in events well but before he can discuss things with Sabrina, she's disappeared from her road trip and nothing will stop him from not only finding her but finding out the reason that she was kidnapped. There's so much more I want to say but in doing so, I would give away the story and it's an amazing story! There's an underlying plotline running through the Reloaded series so I highly recommend reading them in order even though Black Widow stands alone. If you crave action, intrigue, angst and heat, then run and pickup Black Widow. It was told from dual POV and I cannot wait to see what comes next in this amazing series!
666 reviews5 followers
February 11, 2026
The book was rather boring. All of the action was in the middle. Then the rest of the story was whether Hew would wake up and realize that Sabrina cared for him. The book just dragged.

As I said in the review of the previous book, 'ya' is not a Southern word. It is "ya'll." I was born and raised in the South. I have a Southern drawl, but I do not say 'ya.' Graham is from Georgia as are my grandkids. They do not say 'ya.' The use of the word is annoying. We do drop the 'g' off of words ending in 'ing.'

What does "body the hostage" mean? I am guessing it is kill the hostage. Just say "kill the hostage." There were several instances where the meanings of certain sayings did not make sense to me.

It has been almost a year since the last book came out. I do not remember the situation with Sabrina. Please, if the writer is going to write a series, make the books closer together. DO NOT have the continuous mystery as to who Bishop is. Make the books stand alone. These books do not as we are going to have to read the last book to solve the mystery. I like the original Black Knights' books better.

I read the whole book, but I kept checking to see how many pages were left. It just dragged.
3,194 reviews
April 1, 2026
Sabrina Greenlee keeps up the BKI’s social media accounts. She lives in the old cigarette factory with the others. She has been attracted Hewitt/Hew Birch since she first met him but she was assaulted and her brother was killed. When Sabrina goes for a drive, she is run off the road and kidnapped. When the Hew realizes she should have returned by now, they find her car wrecked and in some trees. Then they receive a ransom call for ten million dollars to get Sabrina back. But it’s not really Sabrina they are wanting, it’s the Black Knight’s. Someone has hired the group to eliminate all the Black Knights but they are family to Sabrina and she won’t let them hurt any of them. Hew and Sabrina finally give in to their urges but neither believes the other could possibly love them. But the one who wants the truth about the Black Knights to come to light, they find out is very high up in the government. They send in Graham Coleburn to get an assistant to the Chief of Staff to help them.

This was a very good story. Action. Smoking hot love scenes. Edge of your seat suspense. Slow burn. Hew was raised in foster homes and has trust issues. Sabrina and her brother were left to fend for themselves when growing up.
16 reviews1 follower
February 16, 2026
The story of Sabrina and Hewitt is full of suspense, intrigue, jealousy, hidden love and the continuous fight with the BKI Nemesis, Bishop. It seems that it grows from the depths of one united, customized family and each member's complicated pathway to reach total love. They have each other's backs, they are an unit, but they carry their own crosses through life. Hewitt and Sabrina bonded over their love for books, they each come from a world of pain, which made their hearts recognize each other as "the one". Hewitt is both strong and so sensitive to Sabrina's pain, that he is very reluctant to admit his love for her. Sabrina came into the BKI so traumatized, that it is a wonder how she grew so much inner strength. She is the River Goddess and he is the Incandescent Man. It is how they recognize each other's souls. What I strongly feel from all the books in the series is the unity, the brotherhood love, men and women together in the fight against evil. This one is a powerful story, I am not going to spoil it, but I strongly advise you to read it. I cannot wait for the next one, Graham's and Lura's own love story.
Profile Image for Anima.
2,799 reviews52 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 6, 2026
Bishop is still threatened by BKI that he continues to hire assassins. Of course BKI is determined to learn Bishop’s identity. When one of their own is in danger nothing will stop the team to get her. Hewitt and Sabrina got close in the last book after her kidnapping and her brother’s death, very close. He’s honestly too good to be true with the way he takes care of her and acknowledges her issues even before she does. But being too afraid to damage a wonderful friendship these two are walking on egg shells. Sabrina is quick witted, strong and independent needing to feel loved. Hew was the troubled orphan enlisting in the Army searching for family and a sense of belonging. Typical guy fashion it takes a long time to verbalize feelings, even though everyone can see it. And, Graham might have something blooming with Lura, a former schoolmate from back home. Will BKI ever get peace? Who is Bishop? Maybe we’ll get answers next time. I got to enjoy an early copy from the author and wrote my review voluntarily.
515 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 7, 2026
Outstanding! I jumped right into Black Knights Inc: Reloaded on book 5 and this book reads great as a stand alone. Although I am a huge fan of the original series and read them ALL. I loved that series and am THRILLED the author is continuing with "Reloaded". My expectations were high, as this is one of my favorite series, and I was not disappointed. All the "BKI" magic is still there. The crossover characters (hey Ozzie & Boss, I see you) were perfect!

I loved both the main characters from the first page and was absolutely tuned in to the action and their romance journey the whole time. This story will grab your interest right away and then you should hold on for the high velocity action and all the emotional romance coming your way.

In this story, "Black Widow" is the villian (hired thug), but who sent her? The mission to get Sabrina back gets intense and Hew comes to realize maybe he is more invested in his "friend" than he let on. And so begins his determination to get her back and tell her all the things. Don't miss this!
2,366 reviews5 followers
February 11, 2026
This book was the perfect combination of suspense, mystery, romance, and spice. This is Book Five in the Black Knights Inc: Reloaded series. Even so, this novel stands alone quite well, since Ms. Walker carefully includes all the necessary background for the world and its characters. I thoroughly enjoyed this story. Ms. Walker has such a way with words, ratcheting up the suspense or exploring a developing relationship, as needed. Sabrina Greenlee is the Black Knights Inc's media specialist. She is already close friends with Hewitt Birch, operative and helicopter pilot. These two make quite a pair, especially since they both work hard to hide their stronger feelings for each other. Add to this the mayhem of Sabrina's kidnapping and related events, and the feelings flying back and forth really explode. I was especially impressed with the storytelling in their physical encounters, where the writing is both detailed and evocative.  All of Ms. Walker's characters are so rich in detail, and the Black Knights Inc operatives are some of the most warm hearted security experts I could imagine. I love this fictional yet believable world of the Black Knights, with its extensive "found family" dedicated to keeping others safe. That said, I am certainly planning to catch up with those earlier stories after reading this one!
I was given an ARC and volunteered to write a review.
122 reviews1 follower
February 6, 2026
Sabrina and Hew have been through a lot. Hew has given Sabrina the strength, encouragement, and a safe place to grow into herself. He has given her wings and encourages her to fly, though he loves her so much he doesn't want her to fly far. When she feels she is ready and Hew doesn't pick up on cues that she wants more, she does move on to the "perfect man". She just wishes she felt the was the one for her. When Sabrina disappears, Hew and the team rally around and rescue her. They are able to free her, but can't pinpoint who the danger is coming from, exactly. When Sabrina is home again, she realizes she can't keep her perfect man, Martin hoping for more from her. She lets him go, and as the danger swirls around her, Hew and Sabrina finally come clean with their feelings. The Black Knights go into action to find who wants them exposed as the next in the series is set up. Can't wait for the next one!
Profile Image for Readernerd57_book_reviews.
364 reviews2 followers
March 31, 2026
5⭐ 2🌶️ 5❤️
✨ Review Highlights✨
- Action packed
- Fast paced
- Slow burn! ❤️‍🔥
- Great characters
- Couldn't put it down

I had such a good time reading this book. Romantic suspense is my palette cleanser, I really enjoy this genre and it almost always takes me out of a reading slump. This book took me out of an almost month longer slump and I'm so happy for it. I loved this story and these characters so much. I really enjoyed how action packed the plot was, and I loved how slow the slow burn was. It was so good! The build up to the moment these two FINALLY got together was so perfect. There was so much tension and longing and wanting and yearning. It was beautiful and it was perfect.
I love Julie Ann Walker 's writing style. I have read almost all of her romantic suspense books and I've loved every single one of them. She is definitely a favorite author for this genre for me. I highly recommend her books if you are interested in romantic suspense.
Profile Image for Lisa.
1,302 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
December 14, 2025
I loved the original Black Knight series and I love this one just as much! This new addition to the Reloaded series is a great read and a great addition to the series.

Hew and Sabrina are both individuals with past trauma that has lead to trust issues later in their lives. When Sabrina gets kidnapped, Hew will stop at nothing to see her safety returned but can this pair reveal their true feelings for one another in this action packed read??

This latest addition has the chemistry between the characters, the action and suspense that one has come to enjoy from this author along with the return of the characters from the previous books that makes this book a great read. I was left wanting more from this book while also looking forward to the next book in the series. Overall, this is a great read that I would recommend to others.
614 reviews7 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
January 15, 2026
I love the Black Knights, Inc: Reloaded series. This book is no exception. This story revolves around Hewitt and Sabrina. There were moments in the story that were laugh out loud hilarious. Hewitt and Sabrina were made for each other, they just can't see it. Both of them have serious trust issues due to traumatic childhoods. When Sabrina and Hewitt met, she was traumatized and terrified. He made it his mission to draw her out of her shell and be the friend she desperately needs. Neither of them expected feelings to develop. When Sabrina is kidnapped, Hewitt is ready and willing to do whatever it takes to bring her home. Through everything, they still have a traitor to find. The road to their HEA is anything but easy for Hewitt and Sabrina. Will they get the desires of their hearts? Will the traitor in their midst finally be exposed? Get this book ASAP and find out. Sorry, no spoilers
Profile Image for Misty.
1,374 reviews31 followers
February 5, 2026
I have loved this series from the beginning, and this story is no different. Hew is a rough and tumble fly boy, who is struggling with his feelings for social media maven Sabrina. He is always reading a book he doesn’t party but does go out with his teammates on occasion. He doesn’t have the best back story, but his strength is a testament to who he is. There is a lot that goes on in this book, that has you on the edge of your seat. Between the kidnappings, violent adversaries, and the big bad that is always lurking but are no closer to unmasking. The bond between Hew and Sabrina is strong and they take care of each other. Hew and Sabrina’s story has it all, and leaves you wanting more, with the mystery of who is in the shadows waiting to destroy BKI.

Received ARC from author for honest review.
Profile Image for Shelley C.
3,089 reviews70 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
December 31, 2025
Black Widow🕷️

Black Widow is the next book in this amazing Black Knights Reloaded series and is everything one would expect❣️ It’s full of action, suspense and best of all romance😍

Hew and Sabrina are who we get to focus on in this book and it’s a turbulent one phew😮‍💨 The Black Knights save Sabrina in the previous book and now she has become their social media manager. While she is healing, her and Hew become friends, whereby they both lean on each other. Both are a bit stubborn in that they try to ignore their attraction when Sabrina is finally ready to move on.

Loved how we get to see old favourites amongst the OG Black Knights but also getting to know the new guys🙌 Can’t wait to read Graham’s story🤩 I received an advanced copy and willingly leave my honest review❤️‍🩹
Profile Image for J Stryker.
265 reviews5 followers
January 27, 2026
Julie Ann Walker is one of my favorite authors. Her series about Black Knight Inc. and the secret government agents who ride motorcycles got me hooked on this genre. Her latest story is “Black Widow” and is as exciting as all her other books in this series. The stories are so good that I recommend you read them all. This book is about a female killer sent by a person high up in the government to get rid of the Black Knights who are a group of motorcycle riders who work undercover for the president of the US. Of course, there always is a love story involved. This time Sabrina is kidnapped and Hew is on the chase to save her and kill the Black Widow gang. Lots of twists and turns up to the end. Loved it and definitely recommend this book.
20 reviews
February 1, 2026
Honestly... This one wasn't my favorite, and all because the HEA took WAY too long to get to. Sabrina and Hew had such strong feelings for each other. And everyone but them knew about it. The whole book danced around their feelings and left you with a lot of will they won't they, causing much frustration. That being said, the action and intrigue this book contains is 5 stars. Learning that someone in the White House, close to the BKI operation could be Bishop was quite the revelation. I can't wait to see how they smoke out the true mole in (hopefully) the next book! The storylines that run throughout this series are fabulously written, especially when we keep getting cameos from the original BKI members. Can't wait for the next one!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews