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Blade & Arrow Shadow Team #1

Protected from Malice

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At first, I thought it was just paranoia.

It wouldn’t be the first time, after all. Ever since that night two years ago, I’ve never felt completely safe. So I convinced myself the strange sense of being watched was all in my head. My PTSD flaring up just as it had in the past.

Then I was nearly run off the road on my way home from work, and as much as I wished it was just a coincidence, I knew it wasn’t.

I could go to the police, but I wanted someone I trusted to help me.

So I called Rafe. My brother’s former teammate and best friend. And—though I’d never let on for a second—the man who’d held my heart ever since I met him.

As soon as Eden told me she was in trouble, I dropped everything to help her.

“Maybe it’s nothing,” she told me. “But things have been happening.”

I didn’t need to hear more. If Eden needed me, I would be there. And if someone was bothering her, I’d teach them that they messed with the wrong woman. Because as a bounty hunter and former Green Beret, I’m the last person they want to piss off.

When I arrive in Portland to find Eden terrified and in danger, every protective instinct comes roaring to the surface. And I’m furious that someone would dare try to hurt her.

I’m not the white knight I always thought Eden deserved. Far from it. But I’m a dangerous man when someone I care about is threatened. And Eden? I’ll do anything to protect her.

Protected from Malice is a slow burn friends-to-lovers story with a morally grey hero who’ll do anything to protect the people he loves, a brave and intelligent heroine, a team of Army veterans, thrilling twists, and plenty of sweet and steamy moments. No cliffhangers and a happily-ever-after guaranteed!

TW- References to prior SA

326 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 9, 2025

89 people are currently reading
32 people want to read

About the author

Gia Cobie

41 books138 followers
Gia Cobie is a librarian and author living in upstate New York. In her spare time, Gia enjoys reading and spending time in the Adirondacks. She loves romantic suspense and paranormal romance, and also has a weakness for reality romance shows, wine, and buying way too many books!

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
Profile Image for Marcia.
496 reviews82 followers
September 20, 2025
Solid start to a new Blade and Arrow group. This one was a little darker than the other stories so Shadow Team is fitting. It's great that we continue to get cameos from other B&A team members. I am looking forward to the next series.
Profile Image for Pà.
875 reviews11 followers
September 5, 2025
Eden came across as a strong yet vulnerable character, someone easy to connect with and admire. I liked how her determination balanced with her hidden fears, making her feel real. Rafe had that steady, protective energy that made every scene with him fascinating. Their slow burn connection felt genuine, with care, and a lot of chemistry. The side characters and team spirit brought warmth and humor. The writing flowed smoothly, combining suspense and sweetness without ever losing balance. Higly recommended. Thank you so much to the author and The Author Agency for giving me the opportunity to read the book in advance, I received this for free and I'm leaving an honest review.
Profile Image for Patricia Baxes.
3,050 reviews30 followers
September 1, 2025
Oh Lordy… these books just get better and better! Protected from Malice just grabs you from the start and doesn’t let you go. The storyline is unbelievably good; the characters are perfectly executed; the plot twists and turns are outrageously good; and the HEA is totally incredible. You definitely need to add this one to your TBR list today! ❤️❤️
Profile Image for Woodatsi.
500 reviews8 followers
August 3, 2025
Gia Cobie always delivers, whether it’s with swoony romance or thrilling suspense, you can count her to write a story that keeps you glued to your pages. And no different here with the first book of her new series: Blade & Arrow Shadow Team. Book 1 gives us Rafe and Eden’s journey towards their happy ending and man, do they need to fight for it!

Eden works as lead researcher for Langworthy Pharmaceuticals, she’s a genius working to find a cure for diseases. She’s very focused on her work but also misses someone to share her life with. If she could have her wish, she love for it to be Rafe, her brother Indy’s best friend. Unfortunately for her, he only seems to be interested at being a friend and nothing more. She couldn’t be more wrong…

Rafe is ex-Special Forces, now working as a bounty hunter and has known Eden for some time. Right from the start he’s fallen for her but doesn’t deem himself worthy enough for her and there’s the little thing her being his best friend’s sister. He keeps tabs on her through messages and a phone call from time to time but would love nothing more than have a real relationship with her.

When weird things start to happen and Eden is coming under attack, Rafe goes in overprotective mode. He rushes to her side to stand by her and make sure she gets the help she needs. He calls in the help of the B&A team who sends over a few of Rafe’s former team mates.

Being in close proximity makes it hard for both Eden and Rafe to hide their feelings. But both also have things in their pasts that they haven’t spoken about to anybody and bit by bit they open up. Telling each other their biggest secrets gave us some heartfelt scenes and it was so great to read how supportive and caring they were for each other.

We get to see a lot of new characters as well as cameo’s from previous stories. The action is practically non stop and there are some twists and turns that are unexpected. The romance between Rafe and Eden is super sweet and when they give in to their feelings, wow, I had to fan myself..

All in all, Protected from Malice is yet again a great story and I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book in the series.

I was lucky to beta read this book for the author and this is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Jasmin.
348 reviews8 followers
September 9, 2025
✨ARC Review✨

Two years ago, Eden went through something traumatic and hasn’t felt truly safe since. She tried to convince herself that the eerie feeling of being watched and followed was just in her head until one night, on her way home from work, someone nearly ran her off the road. Shaken and desperate, she turns to the one person she knows she can trust, her brother’s former teammate and best friend Rafe the man she’s secretly had feelings for since the moment they met. And when Eden calls Rafe doesn’t hesitate to come to her side.

Protected from Malice is the first book I’ve read by Gia Cobie, and I absolutely loved it! The action, mystery, and suspense had me hooked from the start and kept me completely invested I didn’t want to stop reading. The story builds beautifully with a fast-paced plot that kept me on the edge of my seat and made it impossible to put down. All the characters were well developed and added depth to the story.

I especially loved the chemistry between Eden and Rafe. The way he supported and protected her was so heartwarming. They really are perfect together. Eden is such a strong character, having dealt with her trauma mostly on her own was both heartbreaking and inspiring and it made her such a powerful character to root for. Her strength and resilience really stood out.

Gia Cobie did a fantastic job blending emotion, tension, and romance. I’ll definitely be reading more of her books. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys romantic suspense with strong characters and an engaging storyline!

Thank You to Gia Cobie and the authors agency for the eARc in exchange of my honest review!
Profile Image for Amanda Marlowe.
2,463 reviews25 followers
September 8, 2025
Eden is trying not to act on what she thinks is paranoia until someone tries to run her off the road, fortunately Indy, her brother, and his best friend, Rafe, taught her some evasive manoeuvres in a car.
She rings Rafe, as she doesn't want to bother Indy so late at night. Rafe arrives as quickly as he can and realises that his feelings for her are changing. He becomes very protective and contacts Blade and Arrow to discuss the way forward.
Eden hasn't shared what happened to her two years ago with anyone, she knows that she needs to now, in case it has something to do with what is going on.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

The first of the Shadow team, as usual a great romantic suspense from Gia.
Profile Image for Cathaleen Way.
299 reviews3 followers
September 4, 2025
One person's hero is another's villain.

This is book 1 in the new series Blade and Arrow Shadow Team. This is Rafein off from the Blade and arrow series. What a blast off to this new series! It has got me hooked and I can’t wait to get to know the team better. This series is a little darker than you would think from saviors but the reality is Gia has done it again. Hero’s are not only white knights or wearing tights. They are everyday people who have a history of their own. They are in the right place at the right time and willing to step into the situation. I loved Rafe and Eden and am so excited for the next book.
Profile Image for Marie.
841 reviews16 followers
August 27, 2025
Eden is hoping her latest research will finally be approved for first round trials. This is something she's worked hard on and is close to her heart. But although she appears normal, underneath, she's always on guard. Between work and home and occasionally visiting her brother after he left the forces through injury, her life is organised. When she's nearly run off the road on her fears are heightened. Rafe has accepted that he's not a relationship person. Being a bounty hunter was a natural choice after leaving the forces. After all the training and missions his team carried out, this is a perfect job. When he receives a call from Eden, he knows something is wrong as soon as she speaks. What he sees when he gets to her home worries him, and the police seem to just put as another case to look into. Not good enough. Eden is his weakness. She's also his best friends sister, and he'll never be good enough for her. The twists and turns of this story weave and blend well. When all the team comes together to protect Eden, it certainly comes across as family more than former teammates coming together. Can Eden finally admit her feelings for Rafe. Will she be able to reveal all her secrets. I loved this book and hope we may get books for the other members of the team, especially Indy and even Zada Edens' friend. I will certainly be reading more from this author.
Profile Image for Beth Von Voigt.
130 reviews3 followers
September 1, 2025
Eden is struggling with PTSD and just assumes she is imagining being watched and some other strange events. When it becomes clear that she’s in danger, she reaches out to her brother’s best friend and former military teammate. Rafe comes running immediately when Eden asks him for help. Rafe puts his life on the line to protect Eden while battling himself and his growing attraction to her.

Wow! What an introduction to a new series by a new to me author! The book description sucked me in and I am totally here for it! I wasn’t expecting the link to characters created by Susan Stoker and it was definitely a pleasant surprise. I love getting glimpses of characters after their initial stories! I’m a total sucker for military linked romances and this book did not disappoint. I found it believable and totally hot! The angst and attraction builds between Rafe and Eden quickly. There is never a dull moment! I can’t wait to read the rest of the series! *I received an advance copy of the book for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Mackenzie Gaventa.
44 reviews
August 31, 2025
I have never read a book by Gia Cobie before, but this book has definitely made me want to read more from her. I was excited to try this book because I am a huge fan of the Operation Alpha world. It did not disappoint!
I love the buildup for this series. The complex backstories of each character makes me so excited for all the rest of the men to find their perfect match. This book is definitely a slow burn, but I really enjoyed it. It reminded me of my first kiss and how nervous you can be. The writing in this really pulls on your heartstrings. The part where Eden talks about her trauma was so raw it made me cry. Any woman that has experienced something similar will relate. Rafe really was the perfect book boyfriend too. I can't wait for the next book! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Becky.
129 reviews
August 31, 2025
Gia Coble delivers a gripping blend of suspense and romance in Protected from Malice. Eden, a brilliant scientist haunted by a traumatic past, finds herself once again in danger—and this time, the threats are escalating. Enter Rafe, her brother’s best friend and former Green Beret turned bounty hunter, whose protective instincts and long-buried feelings won’t let him stay away. Their reunion sparks a slow-burn attraction layered with danger, secrets, and the fight for survival.

This story perfectly balances heart-pounding suspense with emotional intensity, pulling you into Eden and Rafe’s journey of healing, trust, and undeniable love. A romantic thriller that keeps you guessing until the end while delivering all the swoon-worthy feels.
1,521 reviews19 followers
September 5, 2025
rely

This author has always created the perfect combination of suspense and sizzling romance and again Eden and Rafe´s story had me hooked from the first page. I liked how the author shone a light on the influence of PTSD not only on the trauma victim´s but also their social environment´s lives.
117 reviews
September 2, 2025
After realising she’s not being paranoid, and is in danger, Eden turns to the person she knows can and will help her, who is also her teenage crush and her brothers best friend.

Rafe only just turns up in the nick of time but stays to help Eden, finding out some rough truths about what she has been going through.

They both help each other overcome turmoil and self worth, fighting their feelings for each other but in true Gia Cobie style they find their happily ever after together.
Profile Image for Abby.
203 reviews1 follower
August 29, 2025
This was such an incredible story. Very heart wrenching for sure, I mean my gosh poor Eden couldn’t catch a dang break. I mean come on leave the girl alone. I really loved how the relationship didn’t drag out as an unknown or a big secret to Edens brother. He was happy for them and knew that Rafe was the best man for his sister. I loved the closeness and how all the men would do literally anything for each other. The end trivia game was such a sweet surprise. I can’t wait to read more from this author in general and whatever comes next in the series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Darcie.
1,060 reviews11 followers
August 30, 2025
Rafe and Eden are wonderfully sweet, especially with as damaged as each of them feels they are. They fight for one another, not only to be safe in the world but they fight to show the other one how much they “belong” with one another. I loved the new characters and the cameos from the other series characters. I can wait to see where this new spinoff series goes from here. I am hoping we get to see Indy’s HEA next!

I received an advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Tonya Peterson.
1,605 reviews3 followers
Read
August 28, 2025
This book was fantastic lots of mysteries to solve. Eden has always had a crush on her brothers best friend Rafe and suddenly when she needs help he is the person she calls even though he lives far away. Rafe got a call and sped to help her with an intruder.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Judy.
2,035 reviews13 followers
August 25, 2025
Eden is having some issues. A few years ago, she was raped and didn't tell anyone, and now someone is after her. Doesn't understand why or who but she needs help thus time. Rafe, her crush is her brother's best friend and a bounty hunter and more. He has liked her but the bro got in the way but this time he's not holding back. I received a free copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Profile Image for Jenn O'Leary.
1,034 reviews22 followers
August 26, 2025
Gia Cobie does not disappoint with her first book in her new Blade & Arrow: Shadow Team Series.
From the first page, I was drawn into this exciting slow-burn, romantic suspense.
Eden survived something awful, and reaches out to her brothers best friend Rafe for help.
I really enjoyed this book and loved Eden & Rafe. I can't wait for more in this exciting new series.
Profile Image for BecReadReview.
1,930 reviews35 followers
August 10, 2025
Adrenaline surges & heart-pounding moments blur the line between danger & desire, only to crash into waves of gut-deep relief that leave you breathless. This darker, edgier chapter in the B&A team’s world crackles with intensity. Rafe is all hard-edged, alpha dominance—ruthless to the world, but a fierce, protective teddy bear for Eden. Eden dazzles with her quiet strength, fierce heart, & unshakable practicality. When they finally give in, the sweet, searing heat is molten enough to scorch the page. Loyalty, laughter, & love intertwine with an unrelenting need to protect, destroy, & claim—making this spin-off dangerously addictive.
Profile Image for Mg Meredith.
516 reviews3 followers
August 7, 2025
Everything about Protected from Malice is over the top the storyline is interesting and full of action right from the beginning and continues through out the story a ever-changing plot that draws the reader in as the storyline unravels with plenty of wow moments. The characters are intense with over the top personalities hearts of gold and the mindset whatever it takes to protect what's mine ( Hero and his team) Eden sweet and smart and stronger than she realize's . This was a good beginning for a new team in this world old friends showed new heroes introduced and just waiting for their stories to be told and how they got their happy ever after .

I received a advance readers copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Profile Image for Anika.
671 reviews5 followers
August 3, 2025
Gia Cobie delivers a gripping blend of suspense, slow-burn romance, and emotional healing in "Protected from Malice". This friends-to-lovers story follows Eden, a trauma survivor haunted by paranoia that turns out to be all too real, and Rafe, the brooding former Green Beret determined to keep her safe—no matter the cost.

The chemistry between Eden and Rafe is palpable, layered with unspoken history and simmering tension that builds beautifully. Cobie handles Eden’s PTSD with sensitivity, grounding the story in emotional realism while still delivering on the action and intrigue. Rafe’s protective nature and morally grey edges make him an irresistible hero, and the team of veterans adds a strong sense of camaraderie and competence to the plot.

With heart-pounding suspense, heartfelt moments, and a satisfying HEA, "Protected from Malice" is a must-read for fans of romantic suspense. Cobie has crafted a compelling start to what promises to be another addictive series. Loved it!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
217 reviews1 follower
August 12, 2025
what a great start to Shadow Team.
Profile Image for Jessie (thatchickwithabook).
989 reviews16 followers
August 3, 2025
And the Shadow Team saga begins!

What a series opener this was. All of these teases of characters towards the end of Bravo Team become our newly formed Shadow Team. PFM focuses on Rafe who’s protecting Eden, Indy’s sister, after some strange occurrences and an intentional fender bender.

Eden is possibly one of my favourite GC FMCs ever. She is so strong. She’s survived every woman’s worst nightmare, yet she is still so selfless and kind, not hardened to the world. But what I loved most about her was how she loved Rafe’s darkness. She didn’t just accept that for him the pursuit of justice has grey areas, but loved him for it.

I really loved the details of the new base of operations. I’ve always loved that B&A is set out of a compound where the team lives and works from. It’s just such a cool setting.

There’s not much else to say without giving anything away, other than this is another five star read from GC.

Disclaimer: I’m on Gia Cobie’s beta and ARC team. This review is entirely voluntary and honest.
Profile Image for Ela La1978.
595 reviews14 followers
August 10, 2025
The new Team is fantastic, not only new faces some old ones too and a new city. Its unique, a bit different from the other two teams. The storyline is new and exciting.
Profile Image for Cheryl.
33 reviews
August 8, 2025
whew! From the first chapter, I was hooked!! The author knocked it out of the park!The spice level is perfect! Love the twist! I'm definitely ready for the whole series!
Profile Image for Amanda.
1,331 reviews8 followers
August 6, 2025
Morally Grey is my favorite color. I loved Rafe and Eden's story. I have a feeling this series is going to be on the darker side but I am all good with that. Can't wait for the next book in the series, one of my top favorites.
Profile Image for Sue.
4,377 reviews5 followers
August 4, 2025
This story may cause triggers for some. What happened to Eden two years ago come back to haunt her. She calls Rafe instead of her brother Indy which causes problems. There's danger, suspense and new beginnings. HEA.
Profile Image for Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog).
5,902 reviews213 followers
September 11, 2025




Amazon



Eden's been in love with her brother Indy's former Army Special Forces teammate and friend, Rafe, forever now. But he only sees her as his friend's sister at the very least, as a friend at most. But he is the only person she thinks to call when she's run off the road after a series of other creepy incidents. Rafe may not be in love with her like she is with him, but he'll at least know what to do to find out who's harassing her.



Rafe could never tell anyone of his feelings for Eden - not only was she his friend's and former teammate's sister, but he's never felt as if he's good enough for someone as sweet, smart and good as Eden. But when she calls and needs him, there's no question that he's going to be there for her. He'll find out who's harassing her, make them stop, and...perhaps find out his feelings for Eden have only gotten stronger.



Rafe and Eden are so perfect for each other. Their close proximity was the perfect way for them to realize and act on their feelings, all the adrenaline amped up the intensity of their connection, and they finally got to open up to each other in a way they never had before. Opening up has a healing effect for both, and I loved that about them. In fact, I loved everything about them and their story, including all the Blade and Arrow teammates and especially Indy. I can't wait for his story *hint hint.* This Shadow team is shaping up to be as awesome as their fellow Blade and Arrow Security counterparts - now I'm really excited to read as the next teammate falls in love in Protected from Villainy.



ARC provided by The Author Agency for an honest review.

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1,247 reviews14 followers
October 17, 2025
Felt really disjointed as it jumps around a lot. It takes them ages to admit to their feelings and they’ve known each other years.

Some parts of all of these books are really good. I love that the author always gets the women into counselling and she doesn’t just skim over their trauma. I love their genuine love that they have for their old team mates, and how they pull together to help one of them. These are the things that have kept me reading all this authors books. Then there’s the other side to the books. This one is really disjointed as it jumps from one day to the next, and it never really explains what happened. The main characters Rafe and Eden have known each for years and always had feelings for each other but never did anything about them. WHY NOT?? Why did it take Eden being attacked and threatened for both of them to finally declare how they feel?

Rafe was Eden’s brother’s team mate in the Green Berets. When Eden feels like she is being stalked and watched, she thinks she’s being paranoid until one night when someone breaks into her house. Rafe drops everything and goes to help Eden along with her brother and three other men that they served with. Once the danger at the beginning is over it drags on and on with nothing happening, till YET AGAIN right near the end when it all happens then it gets silly and o.t.t.

I didn’t feel their chemistry at all to be honest. I liked Rafe in previous books and I was hoping he would be a bit more dominant with Eden. Instead he’s constantly asking her, ‘Is this okay?’ TO HOLD HER HAND!! Yes something traumatic happened to Eden two year ago, but after he finds out he starts treating her like delicate glass. If Eden is upset and crying, ‘Is it alright if I hug you?’ Eden even says, ‘You hugged me yesterday, why would it be different today?’

I think I’ve got to give up on these books for a while. There are parts I did enjoy but there’s a lot of things wrong with it.
125 reviews
August 27, 2025
I have been really excited for the new Blade and Arrow Shadow Team. I have enjoyed the Blade and Arrow series so much, and as the Bravo Team members found their "forevers" I was getting anxious that the series was almost over and I wouldn't be able to keep up with their lives. Thankfully Gia came thru and not only will you now meet an awesome group of guys but you will be able to get glimpses into the other teams too! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This is the first book in the Shadow Teams series and you are in for a treat. My heart broke for Eden. I can't even imagine the pain and terrifying trauma that she went thru! Then to feel like she had to protect her family by not saying anything and handling it on her own is truly selfless. I loved how Rafe immediately jumped in and protected Eden when she realized she was in trouble. The fact that he is her brother, Indy's best friend makes it even better! Rafe is the type of man who is willing and able to go to any length to protect the ones he loves, even when many would say that he goes to far. I personally believe that sometimes in order to get justice, you have to do things that you normally wouldn't dream of doing. Sometimes the scales of justice just aren't too even. That's when the Shadow Team steps up. I loved how Rafe and Eden felt the need to talk to Indy before taking their relationship too far, that they showed Indy the upmost respect in asking for his blessing. I loved how I got to read about the other two teams and what they were doing plus I got to visit with the "Refuge" people too. Tonka was always my favorite so I love getting a glimpse into his life. I really enjoyed this book from start to finish, and I know you will too! I loved the karma delivered in the end!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews

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