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BEING BOLD: A TOP Security Novel (Tactical Operations & Protection
She has a target on her back. His mission: protect her at all costs.
Selene Coleman almost died today. She found a piece of tech her boss was missing. Seems like that would be a good thing, right? Wrong. She stumbled onto something she can’t know about. Now, he wants her dead.
Everett “Bo” Larson is no stranger to demons. His past as a SEAL has haunted him for the last four years. When his nightmare walks into his cabin, he’s got one option—face it.
But the woman who crashes through his door is an angel, not a demon. She stumbled into his cabin and his heart. He’ll do whatever it takes, even at the cost of his life, to keep Selene safe.
Because he might have a death wish, but she was never part of the bargain. . .
If you like security series books with former military protectors, you’ll love Being Bold, the first book in the Tactical Operations & Protection (TOP) series.
Scroll up and one-click to read this angsty military romantic suspense, complete with an alpha protector, forced proximity, danger, action, and healing love. Guaranteed HEA!
Selene Coleman almost died today. She found a piece of tech her boss was missing. Seems like that would be a good thing, right? Wrong. She stumbled onto something she can’t know about. Now, he wants her dead.
Everett “Bo” Larson is no stranger to demons. His past as a SEAL has haunted him for the last four years. When his nightmare walks into his cabin, he’s got one option—face it.
But the woman who crashes through his door is an angel, not a demon. She stumbled into his cabin and his heart. He’ll do whatever it takes, even at the cost of his life, to keep Selene safe.
Because he might have a death wish, but she was never part of the bargain. . .
If you like security series books with former military protectors, you’ll love Being Bold, the first book in the Tactical Operations & Protection (TOP) series.
Scroll up and one-click to read this angsty military romantic suspense, complete with an alpha protector, forced proximity, danger, action, and healing love. Guaranteed HEA!
336 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 18, 2025
11 people are currently reading
12 people want to read
About the author
Blye Donovan
11 books77 followersI write pulse-pounding romantic suspense books. With small-town settings (sometimes—but not always).
Love quirky characters and familiar landmarks that show up in multiple books of a series? You'll find those in my Rolling Brook Protectors.
My characters typically include alpha protectors, strong heroines, and dangerous villains.
Some common tropes in my books are forced proximity, opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine, second chance.
Want a free novella featuring a woman on the run, a former military hero, and forced proximity? Sign up for my newsletter and download your copy at: https://linktr.ee/blyedonovan.
Love quirky characters and familiar landmarks that show up in multiple books of a series? You'll find those in my Rolling Brook Protectors.
My characters typically include alpha protectors, strong heroines, and dangerous villains.
Some common tropes in my books are forced proximity, opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine, second chance.
Want a free novella featuring a woman on the run, a former military hero, and forced proximity? Sign up for my newsletter and download your copy at: https://linktr.ee/blyedonovan.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
August 18, 2025
Ocean-eyes!!
Wow this one explosive distraction. From start to finish you just can’t put it down.
Bo goes into protective mode when a strange woman knocks on the door of his cabin asking for help.
“You’re my rainbow,”
Selene finds herself in a dangerous mess. Tactical Operations & Protection comes to the rescue.
You definitely don’t want to miss this one. It’s a keeper!!
Wow this one explosive distraction. From start to finish you just can’t put it down.
Bo goes into protective mode when a strange woman knocks on the door of his cabin asking for help.
“You’re my rainbow,”
Selene finds herself in a dangerous mess. Tactical Operations & Protection comes to the rescue.
You definitely don’t want to miss this one. It’s a keeper!!
August 6, 2025
If this book doesn’t warm the cockles of your heart and leave you yearning for more, there’s something wrong with you lol.
Every single page, every scene, every action and word held me an all too willing hostage, following them blindly wherever they wanted to lead me. Every fibre of me being wanted more and more until I’d ring every inch of goodness from this outstanding read!!!
I know Bo comes across as a stoic loner, always in the outskirts of everything. But to me, he’s just a man who has lost everyone who mattered to him. I could see what was left of his heart was locked down tight, allowing no one admittance.
My heart ached for this beautiful man. If there was anyone on this earth worthy of love it’s Bo. I wanted so much to wrap my arms around him and make him see that he was a soul deep good man who deserved to be loved for exactly who he was.
I loved the fact that he fought his feelings for so long. The reason being he didn’t want to lose someone else but I think it was also him protecting Selene from the possibility of hurt too. Yet another sign of a good man. A true protector and someone with a moral compass pointing true north.
Selene is a beautiful character. She’s honest enough to open up to the closed off man before her. Her trust in him immediate and binding. Despite her fear, she doesn’t hesitate to step up and do what’s asked of her, in the hopes of eventually getting her life back.
I love her absolute to accept Bo and everything he is. She doesn’t try to change him, just lives and accepts him for who and what he is. The man who completes her in a way no one else before him ever has.
Watching Bo and Selene together just reaffirmed what I already knew, and that was that they completed each other in every way possible. Their bond instant and their chemistry off the charts HOT!!! I adored watching them fall in love. It was so heartwarming and beautiful.
The side characters; his team mates and Yumi added an extra depth to a story that was already busting at the seams with it. The maelstrom of emotions leaving you shaken and breathless, yet aching for more.
Blye Donovan has once again truly outdone herself. This is an amazing story that absolutely floored me and has left me with one heck of a book hangover.
If you can’t tell, I highly recommend this stunning and unforgettable read.
It’s totally impossible to rate this book because there just aren’t enough stars to fully portray the magnificence of it.
Every single page, every scene, every action and word held me an all too willing hostage, following them blindly wherever they wanted to lead me. Every fibre of me being wanted more and more until I’d ring every inch of goodness from this outstanding read!!!
I know Bo comes across as a stoic loner, always in the outskirts of everything. But to me, he’s just a man who has lost everyone who mattered to him. I could see what was left of his heart was locked down tight, allowing no one admittance.
My heart ached for this beautiful man. If there was anyone on this earth worthy of love it’s Bo. I wanted so much to wrap my arms around him and make him see that he was a soul deep good man who deserved to be loved for exactly who he was.
I loved the fact that he fought his feelings for so long. The reason being he didn’t want to lose someone else but I think it was also him protecting Selene from the possibility of hurt too. Yet another sign of a good man. A true protector and someone with a moral compass pointing true north.
Selene is a beautiful character. She’s honest enough to open up to the closed off man before her. Her trust in him immediate and binding. Despite her fear, she doesn’t hesitate to step up and do what’s asked of her, in the hopes of eventually getting her life back.
I love her absolute to accept Bo and everything he is. She doesn’t try to change him, just lives and accepts him for who and what he is. The man who completes her in a way no one else before him ever has.
Watching Bo and Selene together just reaffirmed what I already knew, and that was that they completed each other in every way possible. Their bond instant and their chemistry off the charts HOT!!! I adored watching them fall in love. It was so heartwarming and beautiful.
The side characters; his team mates and Yumi added an extra depth to a story that was already busting at the seams with it. The maelstrom of emotions leaving you shaken and breathless, yet aching for more.
Blye Donovan has once again truly outdone herself. This is an amazing story that absolutely floored me and has left me with one heck of a book hangover.
If you can’t tell, I highly recommend this stunning and unforgettable read.
It’s totally impossible to rate this book because there just aren’t enough stars to fully portray the magnificence of it.
August 20, 2025
Selene Coleman has a target on her back but Bo has her back. She happened upon a piece of tech her boss was missing…seems he didn’t want it found and now she’s the one going down if she’s not careful.Knowing too much is what gets you killed,hunted down….Everett ‘B’ Larsen has seen plenty of demons in his past and present . Bo and his bro in arms Nugg are deployed in Afghanistan,they’re on the streets and acting on live instructions and what’s going down . Description vague ,female in a black Hijab they say ,no frigging way . That accounts to most of the women in this godforsaken place! Intelligence my backside ..then it went down. Bo escaped with a broken Tibia ,Nuggs never made it out alive. Four years pass and Bo is out of that game and been working for a unit by the acronym TOP ( Tactical Operations and Protection) the past three years ,drowning in tears though he barely notices them fall. His cabin in the woods in his own isolation measuring 632 Sq Ft. Three rooms plus a loft bedroom though he didn’t make it up there ,just drank whiskey ,wallowing in despair. Why wasn’t he the one to die ,he wants to know the reason why he lived ,cause heaven forbid there’s nothing to live for. Montana is cold in winter ,even fall. People he kept at bay ,he has none anyway ,his parents having succumbed to an avalanche fall when he was young and his gran who raised him was gone before he joined the navy. His life hasn’t been filled with good gravy that’s for sure.He may have a death wish but when this lady crashes into his life ,he will lay down his life for her ,she’s demure and a Angel ,not a demon who’s come to call and he’ll protect her with his all. His whole being is hers for the taking . God not forsaking. A brilliantly penned story by Blye Donovan who writes with might and from the heart . A beautifully executed piece of work that makes your mind work and your heart fill up . Awesome read indeed!
August 6, 2025
Being Bold is an engaging and gripping protector romantic suspense novel that follows the heroine, Selene, a translator, who is on the run after her boss tries to have her killed for stumbling across some technology he wants to remain a secret, and Bo, a reclusive former Navy Seal turned operator for a private security firm. When Selene stumbles injured and half frozen into his remote cabin during a snow storm, Bo's protective instincts kick in. The clock is ticking as they try to figure out what is happening and how to stop the sinister tech from being used.
I read this story in one day. The action and adventure is almost constant and kept me turning the pages! The chemistry between this man who thinks he's broken and this woman in life and death situations is palpable. You will be rooting for them and for their healing, both physical and mental. The rest of the team from Tactical Operations & Protection (TOP) Security and Selene's best friend, Yumi, offer humor and intrigue to the already captivating story.
Thank you to the author and publisher for giving me an advanced copy. This review is voluntary and entirely my own viewpoint.
Being Bold is book one in the Tactical Operations & Protection Security interconnected series and can be read as a standalone. There is no cliffhanger for our main couple and just a tease about the characters in the next book of the series.
I read this story in one day. The action and adventure is almost constant and kept me turning the pages! The chemistry between this man who thinks he's broken and this woman in life and death situations is palpable. You will be rooting for them and for their healing, both physical and mental. The rest of the team from Tactical Operations & Protection (TOP) Security and Selene's best friend, Yumi, offer humor and intrigue to the already captivating story.
Thank you to the author and publisher for giving me an advanced copy. This review is voluntary and entirely my own viewpoint.
Being Bold is book one in the Tactical Operations & Protection Security interconnected series and can be read as a standalone. There is no cliffhanger for our main couple and just a tease about the characters in the next book of the series.
August 21, 2025
Are you looking for an action packed, edge of your seat, thrilling romance? Maybe a Navy SEAL with a haunted look in his eyes & nightmares that keep him in their gripe? How about a multi-lingual nerdy tech girl who loves to travel, but is now being hunted by her boss?
Bo lost one of his best friends to a suicide bomber while stationed in Afghanistan, but he can't let go of the idea he could have stopped it. He is riddled with guilt, living as far out in the Montana woods as possible. He works for TOP Security, but returns to his cabin after each mission.
Selene has loved to travel & learned many languages that make her a commodity when it comes to translators. When she finds a piece of tech, she assumes returning it wont be an issue. However, her boss has decided that she needs to die now because she "knows too much". He takes her to the woods & when she runs, they shoot her.
Now she is laying on the floor in Bo's cabin & he is trying to find out what the hell is going on & fighting the instant attraction that he has for her. Protecting her isn't the question, but keeping his distance while doing it could be.
This was a fantastic read, sexy, action packed, exciting & so steamy! Check it out today! Enjoy!
Bo lost one of his best friends to a suicide bomber while stationed in Afghanistan, but he can't let go of the idea he could have stopped it. He is riddled with guilt, living as far out in the Montana woods as possible. He works for TOP Security, but returns to his cabin after each mission.
Selene has loved to travel & learned many languages that make her a commodity when it comes to translators. When she finds a piece of tech, she assumes returning it wont be an issue. However, her boss has decided that she needs to die now because she "knows too much". He takes her to the woods & when she runs, they shoot her.
Now she is laying on the floor in Bo's cabin & he is trying to find out what the hell is going on & fighting the instant attraction that he has for her. Protecting her isn't the question, but keeping his distance while doing it could be.
This was a fantastic read, sexy, action packed, exciting & so steamy! Check it out today! Enjoy!
October 17, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Being Bold by Blye Donovan is everything I want in a romantic suspense—intense danger, raw emotion, and a protector hero who will stop at nothing for the woman he loves. From the first page, I was hooked.
Selene is the perfect blend of intelligence and heart. One wrong discovery turns her life upside down, and I could feel her fear and courage in every moment. Enter Everett “Bo” Larson—former Navy SEAL, broody and broken, yet utterly devoted once Selene crashes into his life. The chemistry between them burns hotter than the danger chasing them, and their emotional connection gives this story so much depth.
Blye Donovan writes action and passion with equal skill—every scene pulses with adrenaline, every quiet moment melts your heart. I loved the balance of high-stakes suspense and tender romance. Bo’s protective instincts, Selene’s bravery, and the gritty, believable world of Tactical Operations & Protection make this book unforgettable.
If you love military protectors, women in danger, and love stories born in the fire of chaos, Being Bold will leave you breathless and begging for more from the TOP team.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Selene is the perfect blend of intelligence and heart. One wrong discovery turns her life upside down, and I could feel her fear and courage in every moment. Enter Everett “Bo” Larson—former Navy SEAL, broody and broken, yet utterly devoted once Selene crashes into his life. The chemistry between them burns hotter than the danger chasing them, and their emotional connection gives this story so much depth.
Blye Donovan writes action and passion with equal skill—every scene pulses with adrenaline, every quiet moment melts your heart. I loved the balance of high-stakes suspense and tender romance. Bo’s protective instincts, Selene’s bravery, and the gritty, believable world of Tactical Operations & Protection make this book unforgettable.
If you love military protectors, women in danger, and love stories born in the fire of chaos, Being Bold will leave you breathless and begging for more from the TOP team.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 19, 2025
This is such a brilliant romantic suspense read.
Bo is an ex navy seal who works for a private security and protection company but also suffers from PTSD. Selene is a translator and has recently started a new job.
When her boss thinks that she has tech that he wants back she is running for her life.
When she stumbles into Bo's cabin he knows that he will do anything to protect her.
The chemistry between them is off the charts but he doesn't think he is worthy of her so keeps shutting down.
Will his team be able to keep her safe and eliminate the enemy before he takes her out?
A must read with plenty of twists and turns and so much drama and suspense but also so much love.
Can't wait for the next book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Bo is an ex navy seal who works for a private security and protection company but also suffers from PTSD. Selene is a translator and has recently started a new job.
When her boss thinks that she has tech that he wants back she is running for her life.
When she stumbles into Bo's cabin he knows that he will do anything to protect her.
The chemistry between them is off the charts but he doesn't think he is worthy of her so keeps shutting down.
Will his team be able to keep her safe and eliminate the enemy before he takes her out?
A must read with plenty of twists and turns and so much drama and suspense but also so much love.
Can't wait for the next book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
August 4, 2025
I have to say, I’m really enjoying this series. I’ve been with this author from her debut, and witnessing how she’s honed her talents more with every story has happily brought me to Bo and Selene. They’re honestly perfect together, and Bo will break your heart just a smidge. Then you’ll find yourself on the edge of your seat come the terrace and an unplanned flight. You’ll think all is good. Then Yumi will throw you for a whirl and you’ll be demanding to know just what is coming our way next.
I devoured this in one day and I seriously want to beg the author for more now. That’s how engaging this team and these tales are, no lie!
I devoured this in one day and I seriously want to beg the author for more now. That’s how engaging this team and these tales are, no lie!
August 7, 2025
Wrong place, wrong time only led Selene to the right man, right time.
When Bo was at his lowest, trouble breaking down his door was what he needed to find happiness again.
To find life.
Even when it may cost him everything to get it.
This story kept me turning each and every suspenseful page, not wanting to sleep or put it down. I had my suspicions and yet I came up wrong. Which made me beyond excited. Predictability is overrated.
Mystery, suspense, and delicious chemistry are all wrapped up into a well crafted unique plot and storyline.
This is a must read! I can’t wait for more in the TOP Security Series.
When Bo was at his lowest, trouble breaking down his door was what he needed to find happiness again.
To find life.
Even when it may cost him everything to get it.
This story kept me turning each and every suspenseful page, not wanting to sleep or put it down. I had my suspicions and yet I came up wrong. Which made me beyond excited. Predictability is overrated.
Mystery, suspense, and delicious chemistry are all wrapped up into a well crafted unique plot and storyline.
This is a must read! I can’t wait for more in the TOP Security Series.
August 18, 2025
Captivating from start to finish! Kept me from putting the book down. This author has the alpha ex military MMC and the strong FMC and their storyline spot on. If you love a tortured man who feels that he doesn’t deserve love yet yearns for his woman and is in protective mode and the female who wants to show him that he doesn’t deserve deserve love, this is the story for you. Bo is ex Navy Seal who lost a friend that was like a brother years ago and continues to torture himself over the loss that he felt he could have prevented. Selene is a translator who just moved to Montana for the first time from SoCal. She finds herself embroiled in the evil plan of the owner of the company that will affect the world of the technology gets in the wrong hands. When found out, her boss leaves her for dead in the woods with freezing temps and lots of snow. Luckily she stumbles into a cabin where she passes out. This was Bo’s house and he saves her by getting her warm and treating her gunshot graze. From there, the two of them and the rest of the TOP team work to destroy the plans and the man behind a destructive weapon. Here is where Bo finds his redemption for his friend as well as the love he didn’t know he needed. Can’t wait to see what happens in the rest of the books in this series. This was a stand alone and HEA
August 11, 2025
Ocean eyes is my new favorite nickname for a FMC. Talk about melting!
The push a pull between Selene and Bo was so incredibly intense. The longing and desire were 100% there, but the brains just didn’t want to get on the right wavelength. At one point, I had to bite back the sob rising in my chest at Bo’s rejection.
With nonstop action, deadly situations, and the magnetic attraction pulsing throughout the book, I couldn’t put it down.
Also, huge shoutout to the author for accurately portraying military situations and her firearms knowledge. It made reading this that much more enjoyable!!
The push a pull between Selene and Bo was so incredibly intense. The longing and desire were 100% there, but the brains just didn’t want to get on the right wavelength. At one point, I had to bite back the sob rising in my chest at Bo’s rejection.
With nonstop action, deadly situations, and the magnetic attraction pulsing throughout the book, I couldn’t put it down.
Also, huge shoutout to the author for accurately portraying military situations and her firearms knowledge. It made reading this that much more enjoyable!!
August 15, 2025
Everett “Bo” Larson is a former Mavy sel from Bozeman MT.
Selene worked for Saber Tech as a translator.
Yuma is Selene’s friend and is a CIA agent.
Mr Dau is Selene and Yuma’s boss.
Romeo and Hercules are Bo’s friends.
Bo and Selene meet , when she shows up at his cabin to survive a betrayal by her boss to kill her over his secrets, that’s will alter the world of technology in the wrong hands.
Bo goes into protective mode and helps Selene.
Can Bo and TOP Security keep Selene safe and resolve the threat?
Can Selene and Bo have a Happily Ever After?
This book has edge of your seat suspense, danger, intrigue, twists, turns.
Great Job. Blye Donovan !!!!
Selene worked for Saber Tech as a translator.
Yuma is Selene’s friend and is a CIA agent.
Mr Dau is Selene and Yuma’s boss.
Romeo and Hercules are Bo’s friends.
Bo and Selene meet , when she shows up at his cabin to survive a betrayal by her boss to kill her over his secrets, that’s will alter the world of technology in the wrong hands.
Bo goes into protective mode and helps Selene.
Can Bo and TOP Security keep Selene safe and resolve the threat?
Can Selene and Bo have a Happily Ever After?
This book has edge of your seat suspense, danger, intrigue, twists, turns.
Great Job. Blye Donovan !!!!
August 18, 2025
Left for Dead
Riveting right from the start, this story had me on the edge of my seat. Selene stumbles across something dark and sinister, which leaves her fight for her life. It's not until she stumbles across Bo that this plot starts to intertwine into something more profound. It was exciting, suspenseful, and thrilling. The chemistry between Bo and Selene was electrifying. It was the perfect blend of plot points that made this a great story.
I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Riveting right from the start, this story had me on the edge of my seat. Selene stumbles across something dark and sinister, which leaves her fight for her life. It's not until she stumbles across Bo that this plot starts to intertwine into something more profound. It was exciting, suspenseful, and thrilling. The chemistry between Bo and Selene was electrifying. It was the perfect blend of plot points that made this a great story.
I am voluntarily leaving this review.
August 17, 2025
Blye Donovan has written yet another excellent piece of work that was easy to read and kept me engaged from start to finish!
Bo and Selena’s story was good! It was a top notch and highly explosive! For someone who has PTSD( Bo)he helps protect Selena when she has a target on her back!
I’m glad that I’ve been part of the ARC team for this book!
Highly recommend this book!📚
Bo and Selena’s story was good! It was a top notch and highly explosive! For someone who has PTSD( Bo)he helps protect Selena when she has a target on her back!
I’m glad that I’ve been part of the ARC team for this book!
Highly recommend this book!📚
August 12, 2025
A great read .. had me hooked from chapter 1. Stories with an AI theme are very on point right now so this book is scary .. and I'm afraid might be all too real. Enjoyed it very much and looking forward to book # 2!
August 18, 2025
Being Bold is a gripping story full of drama, action and suspense. It will pull you in from the start and keeps you hooked until the end. I loved the characters, the banter and undeniable chemistry. It’s a well written entertaining and intense read.
August 25, 2025
Selene and Bo
Exciting, with extreme danger, sexy vibes and excitement that had me turning those pages to see what is next! I got really frustrated with Bo’s defeatist attitude concerning Selene, while Selene marveled with her perseverance. Overall a great story of intrigue.
Exciting, with extreme danger, sexy vibes and excitement that had me turning those pages to see what is next! I got really frustrated with Bo’s defeatist attitude concerning Selene, while Selene marveled with her perseverance. Overall a great story of intrigue.
Read
September 15, 2025First time reading something from this author and really enjoyed it and can't wait to read the next one in line. Love a broody man and if he is by chance an ex SEAL, well.. such a shame. ;-)
Really liked the story build up, the suspense and the romance. For me it was the perfect mix of everything.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Really liked the story build up, the suspense and the romance. For me it was the perfect mix of everything.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 8, 2025
Donovan’s new TOP series has me by the throat! Each book just gets better and better. I devoured Being Bold in one night - like, did not fall asleep until 5 am.
Selene just moved to Montana, for a translator job. I appreciate that she is beautiful and intelligent, speaking several languages. She is a strong MFC that you will want to fight alongside with when she discovers that her new employer has nefarious technology that could devastate many lives. Honestly, it’s a worry of mine as things progress in the real world. To say I was invested is an understatement. When Selene uncovers the truth, her boss takes matters in his own hands, abandoning her in a blizzard, almost fatally injured.
Enter Bo the ex-Navy SEAL, who carries the heavy burden of shame and grief, believing he failed the people that counted on him in the past. He’s isolated himself in a small cabin, deep in the wooded mountain. But he’s not alone for long as our resilient heroine drags herself through his door, literally.
The chemistry between the brooding ex-Navy SEAL and the sharp translator feels authentic from their first encounter. The push and pull was chef’s kiss. And when they finally got together, holy hotness!
I loved mentions of Rogan and Crane throughout the book as I adored their story, Going Rogue. All the nail-biting and existential crises are worth it in the end, as Donovan delivers a well-deserved, sweet happy ending. I’m excited to see whose story we’re going to get next in this series!
Selene just moved to Montana, for a translator job. I appreciate that she is beautiful and intelligent, speaking several languages. She is a strong MFC that you will want to fight alongside with when she discovers that her new employer has nefarious technology that could devastate many lives. Honestly, it’s a worry of mine as things progress in the real world. To say I was invested is an understatement. When Selene uncovers the truth, her boss takes matters in his own hands, abandoning her in a blizzard, almost fatally injured.
Enter Bo the ex-Navy SEAL, who carries the heavy burden of shame and grief, believing he failed the people that counted on him in the past. He’s isolated himself in a small cabin, deep in the wooded mountain. But he’s not alone for long as our resilient heroine drags herself through his door, literally.
The chemistry between the brooding ex-Navy SEAL and the sharp translator feels authentic from their first encounter. The push and pull was chef’s kiss. And when they finally got together, holy hotness!
I loved mentions of Rogan and Crane throughout the book as I adored their story, Going Rogue. All the nail-biting and existential crises are worth it in the end, as Donovan delivers a well-deserved, sweet happy ending. I’m excited to see whose story we’re going to get next in this series!
October 11, 2025
Some stories don’t just grab your heart—they seize it, shake it, and leave you gasping by the last page. Being Bold by Blye Donovan is that kind of story. It’s raw, pulse-pounding romantic suspense at its finest, wrapped in the kind of emotion that lingers long after you close the book.
When Selene Coleman stumbles across a piece of tech her boss wants buried, she goes from employee to target overnight. Her only option? Run. But when fate (and danger) drive her straight into the arms of Everett “Bo” Larson, an ex-SEAL living in self-imposed exile, she finds not just protection—but a man who’s been living with ghosts of his own.
Bo is the kind of hero who doesn’t need a spotlight to shine. Scarred, haunted, and utterly selfless, he’s the quiet storm you feel before it hits. His cabin might be cold and empty, but his heart? It’s just waiting for someone brave enough to bring it back to life—and Selene is that someone.
From the first explosive encounter to their breathtaking, slow-burn connection, this book delivers everything: danger, redemption, heat, and heart. Blye Donovan doesn’t just write chemistry; she builds a world where it burns. You can feel Bo’s protectiveness in every scene, and Selene’s courage in every choice she makes.
Their love is messy, healing, and absolutely beautiful—the kind that teaches you that being bold sometimes means opening your heart when you’d rather hide it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When Selene Coleman stumbles across a piece of tech her boss wants buried, she goes from employee to target overnight. Her only option? Run. But when fate (and danger) drive her straight into the arms of Everett “Bo” Larson, an ex-SEAL living in self-imposed exile, she finds not just protection—but a man who’s been living with ghosts of his own.
Bo is the kind of hero who doesn’t need a spotlight to shine. Scarred, haunted, and utterly selfless, he’s the quiet storm you feel before it hits. His cabin might be cold and empty, but his heart? It’s just waiting for someone brave enough to bring it back to life—and Selene is that someone.
From the first explosive encounter to their breathtaking, slow-burn connection, this book delivers everything: danger, redemption, heat, and heart. Blye Donovan doesn’t just write chemistry; she builds a world where it burns. You can feel Bo’s protectiveness in every scene, and Selene’s courage in every choice she makes.
Their love is messy, healing, and absolutely beautiful—the kind that teaches you that being bold sometimes means opening your heart when you’d rather hide it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 13, 2025
Stick with me for a sec… who remembers Bon Jovi? Shot through the heart and you’re to blame… Yeah, well, Blye Donovan just loaded that arrow with adrenaline, lit it on fire, and aimed it right at my book-loving soul. Being Bold isn’t just a read—it’s a full-throttle, no-brakes, heart-in-your-throat experience that’ll leave you grinning, gasping, and maybe a little bit wrecked.
Bo Larson is the kind of hero who says he’s fine when everyone can see he’s bleeding out on the inside. Selene? She’s the storm you can’t outrun—sharp, fearless, and the only one bold enough to crash through his walls. Together, they’re danger and desire in a collision course, and every moment between them crackles like the air before a lightning strike. The action is relentless, the banter hits like gunfire, and the slow-burn heat? Forget it—you’ll be fanning yourself with one hand and flipping digital pages with the other.
By the time I hit the last page, I wasn’t just hooked—I was handcuffed to this story, begging for more. Being Bold is danger, heat, and heart all rolled into one explosive package. It’s the book that keeps you up until 3 a.m. promising yourself “just one more chapter” and then lying to yourself every time you try to stop. Donovan doesn’t just write romance—she drags you into the crossfire and dares you to survive it. Spoiler: you won’t. You’ll love every second.
Bo Larson is the kind of hero who says he’s fine when everyone can see he’s bleeding out on the inside. Selene? She’s the storm you can’t outrun—sharp, fearless, and the only one bold enough to crash through his walls. Together, they’re danger and desire in a collision course, and every moment between them crackles like the air before a lightning strike. The action is relentless, the banter hits like gunfire, and the slow-burn heat? Forget it—you’ll be fanning yourself with one hand and flipping digital pages with the other.
By the time I hit the last page, I wasn’t just hooked—I was handcuffed to this story, begging for more. Being Bold is danger, heat, and heart all rolled into one explosive package. It’s the book that keeps you up until 3 a.m. promising yourself “just one more chapter” and then lying to yourself every time you try to stop. Donovan doesn’t just write romance—she drags you into the crossfire and dares you to survive it. Spoiler: you won’t. You’ll love every second.
August 18, 2025
This story had me from the beginning! Blye Donovan has brought another explosive, action-packed, romantic suspense that I couldn’t put down.
Bo is a former Navy SEAL who has joined a private security company. He’s locked himself away in a remote mountain cabin, full of regrets and guilt over losing a friend in his last mission.
Selene accidentally finds technology that her boss doesn’t want her to have. Instead of just asking for it back, he tries to eliminate her. After leaving her in a snowstorm in the middle of nowhere, Selena manages to get to an isolated cabin. When Bo reaches for the door, she falls at his feet, freezing and injured. His protector instincts kick in, and he’s determined to find the people responsible for her injuries.
I’m never disappointed when I read a book by this author. The chemistry between the characters, the side characters she brings to the story, and all the page-turning action and suspense I like is definitely in this book! Being Bold is book 1 in Donovan’s new series, TOP Security (Tactical Operations & Protection). Throughout the story, we meet the rest of Bo’s coworkers and Selene’s best friend, Yumi, and I can’t wait for what’s next! I highly recommend this book. One-click now and spend your day with Bo and Selene!
Bo is a former Navy SEAL who has joined a private security company. He’s locked himself away in a remote mountain cabin, full of regrets and guilt over losing a friend in his last mission.
Selene accidentally finds technology that her boss doesn’t want her to have. Instead of just asking for it back, he tries to eliminate her. After leaving her in a snowstorm in the middle of nowhere, Selena manages to get to an isolated cabin. When Bo reaches for the door, she falls at his feet, freezing and injured. His protector instincts kick in, and he’s determined to find the people responsible for her injuries.
I’m never disappointed when I read a book by this author. The chemistry between the characters, the side characters she brings to the story, and all the page-turning action and suspense I like is definitely in this book! Being Bold is book 1 in Donovan’s new series, TOP Security (Tactical Operations & Protection). Throughout the story, we meet the rest of Bo’s coworkers and Selene’s best friend, Yumi, and I can’t wait for what’s next! I highly recommend this book. One-click now and spend your day with Bo and Selene!
August 11, 2025
Selene shows up at Bo’s door with a target on her back. Someone is trying to kill her and she needs help. As an ex-Navy SEAL, and a man who now works for a protection company, Bo is perfect for the job. Living with PTSD that keeps threatening to pull him under. He decides to help her, then move on with his tortured life alone…exactly what he thinks he deserves. Funny how sometimes the things you try to avoid refuse to be brushed aside.
The character depth and emotional connection takes center stage in this deliciously action-packed world of danger and deceit. I love how Selene isn’t a meek bystander and participates despite being scared. And even though Bo fights his feeling for her, she recognizes he’s hurting and refuses to give up on him. Plus, who doesn’t love a wounded hero with demons to slay and a heart of solid gold?
I’m already loving this series. And after having met the rest of the TOP crew and getting a taste of their personalities and team dynamic, I can’t wait for their stories!
The character depth and emotional connection takes center stage in this deliciously action-packed world of danger and deceit. I love how Selene isn’t a meek bystander and participates despite being scared. And even though Bo fights his feeling for her, she recognizes he’s hurting and refuses to give up on him. Plus, who doesn’t love a wounded hero with demons to slay and a heart of solid gold?
I’m already loving this series. And after having met the rest of the TOP crew and getting a taste of their personalities and team dynamic, I can’t wait for their stories!
August 8, 2025
This book was gripping from start to finish. I loved how the action didn't let up and kept me flipping pages until I was done. This is going to be an amazing series.
I love the characters of Selene and Bo. I really felt for Bo and the PTSD he carried. I felt like this gave me a real sense of what people suffer from when they come home from serving their country and have been through something really rough. Most books take on flashbacks or psychological pieces but this book actually showed it down to the hallucination severity of PTSD. It's so important that people understand this. I felt like I was going through it with him and transported to where it took place and that is good writing.
This is not only about action and a great story. It is also about healing. I enjoyed the plot so much and thought it was a fresh take on romantic suspense stories. Well done. I am very much looking forward to the next book in this series.
I love the characters of Selene and Bo. I really felt for Bo and the PTSD he carried. I felt like this gave me a real sense of what people suffer from when they come home from serving their country and have been through something really rough. Most books take on flashbacks or psychological pieces but this book actually showed it down to the hallucination severity of PTSD. It's so important that people understand this. I felt like I was going through it with him and transported to where it took place and that is good writing.
This is not only about action and a great story. It is also about healing. I enjoyed the plot so much and thought it was a fresh take on romantic suspense stories. Well done. I am very much looking forward to the next book in this series.
August 5, 2025
Captivating Romantic Suspense
This is a well written romantic suspense with gripping danger and suspense at every turn. I fell in love with the characters. Bo Larson is an alpha protective male that struggles with PDST. He quickly falls for Selene Coleman, but he does not do relationships and no matter how much he wants her he will not let himself have her. He is too damaged. She does not need the clouds blackening his soul to cast their gloom over her. She deserves sunshine and rainbows. Selene is a strong young woman that was in the wrong place at the wrong time and now she must battle to stay alive. Bo makes her feel safe and so much more. She does not want protection from him just the villains that are after her. A page turner that I could not put down. This is the first book I have read by Blye Donovan and will certainly be looking for more of her books to read.
This is a well written romantic suspense with gripping danger and suspense at every turn. I fell in love with the characters. Bo Larson is an alpha protective male that struggles with PDST. He quickly falls for Selene Coleman, but he does not do relationships and no matter how much he wants her he will not let himself have her. He is too damaged. She does not need the clouds blackening his soul to cast their gloom over her. She deserves sunshine and rainbows. Selene is a strong young woman that was in the wrong place at the wrong time and now she must battle to stay alive. Bo makes her feel safe and so much more. She does not want protection from him just the villains that are after her. A page turner that I could not put down. This is the first book I have read by Blye Donovan and will certainly be looking for more of her books to read.
August 17, 2025
When Blye Donovan first announced she was writing a former military series, I was all in! Protector romances are my jam--and then throw in a broken hero? Yes, please. Bo is a grumbly hero who locks himself away and doesn't believe he's worthy of much, especially love. Selene is a feisty heroine on the run with people trying to silence her. Their story kept me flipping the pages well into the night as I tried to figure out what was happening and how this new team would defeat the bad guys. They do, of course, and there's a perfect HEA, but Donovan sets up the next story for Yumi, Selene's CIA agent/total b@d@$$ friend, and I'm super excited to see how her adventure plays out. This is an interesting new group of protectors who snagged my attention and I'm looking forward to reading all their books. Great job!!
August 17, 2025
This book checks all the boxes for a romantic suspense story that I love so much!
Heroine in trouble ( shot and left for dead)
Former military hero (jaded from guilt and loss)
An isolated cabin (where said grumpy hero lives)
A team of TOP level operatives (also former military/found family)
A dangerous evil villain (in possession of very, very bad AI program)
Action packed story that keeps you guessing with a twist or two that surprises
Steamy scenes (you know the ones)
Tormented feelings that end in a happy ending, but it is the journey to the HEA that makes this special.
I love the drama and action as much as the romance and relationships. Perfect balance. Cant wait for the rest of this new series. Blye Donovan brings all the ingredients for a great start to the TOP Security Series.
Heroine in trouble ( shot and left for dead)
Former military hero (jaded from guilt and loss)
An isolated cabin (where said grumpy hero lives)
A team of TOP level operatives (also former military/found family)
A dangerous evil villain (in possession of very, very bad AI program)
Action packed story that keeps you guessing with a twist or two that surprises
Steamy scenes (you know the ones)
Tormented feelings that end in a happy ending, but it is the journey to the HEA that makes this special.
I love the drama and action as much as the romance and relationships. Perfect balance. Cant wait for the rest of this new series. Blye Donovan brings all the ingredients for a great start to the TOP Security Series.
August 18, 2025
Being Bold by Blye Donovan is exactly what you need when you're craving a fast-paced, high-stakes romance with a perfect blend of danger, will they/won’t they steamy scenes, and emotional depth.
From the moment Selene collapses at Bo’s remote Montana cabin, the story takes off at sprint with just the right amount of space to take a breath every now and again.
The action is so well written, you feel like you’re there with the TOP team. But it’s the emotional stakes that truly shine. Bo, the former Navy SEAL with scars, both emotional and physical, is a grumpy hero that you just want to hug! Selene, the world-traveling translator, who experiences her first Montana winter and repeated threats to her life, is the perfect person to help Bo come out of his darkness.
Absolutely loved this story!
From the moment Selene collapses at Bo’s remote Montana cabin, the story takes off at sprint with just the right amount of space to take a breath every now and again.
The action is so well written, you feel like you’re there with the TOP team. But it’s the emotional stakes that truly shine. Bo, the former Navy SEAL with scars, both emotional and physical, is a grumpy hero that you just want to hug! Selene, the world-traveling translator, who experiences her first Montana winter and repeated threats to her life, is the perfect person to help Bo come out of his darkness.
Absolutely loved this story!
August 24, 2025
This book is exciting from page one! The twists and turns will keep you reading this book! OMG I just loved the wounded teddy bear and the brilliant translator who finds herself in a rough situation. The chemistry is off the charts and the storyline will leave you thinking abut this story and all the twists.
Selene is lucky enough to escape being shot and bursting into former Seal Bo’s cabin in the woods. Bo works for (TOP.) Tactical, Operations & Protection.
This story will get your heart rate up in more ways than one. I can’t wait for the next book to find out what else will happen in this fast paced series!
Selene is lucky enough to escape being shot and bursting into former Seal Bo’s cabin in the woods. Bo works for (TOP.) Tactical, Operations & Protection.
This story will get your heart rate up in more ways than one. I can’t wait for the next book to find out what else will happen in this fast paced series!
October 8, 2025
This was a fast paced, gripping romantic thrill ride. The author created compelling characters and a story that was filled with twists and turns, action and adventure, mystery and romance. Selene and Bo were a great couple. Bo is a protector, but also wary that because of his PTSD he will never be worthy of love. Selene, meanwhile, was a tough and intelligent woman and held her own through all the craziness she was thrown into. This is my first book by this author, but I’m definitely looking forward to reading more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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