Saving Grace

by Madison Love

The man she left behind is now her only hope of staying alive.

Grace Atwood vanished from my life nearly three decades ago, leaving me heartbroken on the courthouse steps. Now, she’s back—using a pen name, hiding from an unknown enemy, and asking for my help. As a journalist who witnessed the murder of a whistleblower, she’s seen too much. And someone is trying to make sure she stays silent.

As a former Air Force Pararescueman turned elite protection specialist for the Southern Knights, I never thought I’d see Grace again—let alone be the one assigned to protect her. When our undercover mission takes us to Duskhaven, a sleepy small town with explosive secrets, we pose as husband and wife. Our infiltrate Noctira Weapons Systems, a local militia, and a community that doesn’t take kindly to outsiders.

Living under the same roof, working side by side, we discover that the embers of our past still burn bright. But trust is fragile, and forgiveness doesn’t come easy—especially when lives are on the line. With a growing conspiracy threatening national security and shadowy enemies watching our every move, our rekindled bond will be tested. It’s either going to break or be forged in fire.

When bullets fly and betrayals cut deep, we must rely on more than our instincts—we’ll have to lean on God’s guidance, the team of Southern Knights, and each other. Because the only thing more dangerous than uncovering the truth... is losing a second chance at love.

Perfect for fans of romantic suspense, this novel features heart-pounding action, emotional depth, and unshakable faith, delivering a thrilling ride that focuses on mercy and grace. This is a clean, kisses-only book free from cursing or promiscuity.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Suspense

365 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 1, 2026

About the author

Best Selling, Award Winning Author, Madison Love enjoys writing clean and Christian romances while intertwining humor, faith, and suspense. She has spent most of her life traveling abroad, discovering new places, and meeting wonderful people. She spent twenty years in the military before settling in a rural town outside of Buffalo, New York, where she now lives on a forty-acre farm with her husband, son, and two dogs. Having been afforded the time and opportunity to bring her ideas and stories to life, she seeks to give her readers the ‘happy ever after’ they seek.

***2024 Global Book Awards Gold Medal Winner in Women's Christian Fiction***

***2024 Global Book Awards Silver Medal Winner in Clean Romance***

*** Recipient of the 2025 Christlit Book Award for The Shining Knight Protector Series ***

*** Recipient of the 2025 Christlit Book Award for The Beanbaggers of Cornhole County ***

Reviews

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Don’t waste this second chance focusing on mistakes that were made with good intentions. If God saw fit to bring you back into each other’s orbit, no doubt it’s with a divine plan in mind. Find a way to make it work because opportunities like this don’t happen by accident.”

This is book two in The Southern Knight Protector series by Madison Love. It’s a clean, romantic suspense story about second chances and delicately examines a kidnapping case.

I love how the second chance was introduced and especially how Grace and Scott chose to overcome their past. We all have moments we’d rather ‘do over’, so connecting to this theme resonates with many of us. I appreciate the reminder to overcome moments like this with grace, mercy and forgiveness rather than anger, bitterness and resentment. I loved one character’s advice: “Extend a little grace.”

I’m always pulled deeper into a story when I learn something and I enjoyed the exploration of simunition and smart bullets…and will admit to going down a Google rabbit hole.

With so much action and suspense, it was nice to have light-hearted scenes to balance the tension. I laughed at the rogue hedgehog, Mr Pickles, and the kitchen scene with cooking with garlic. It was a conversation that could have easily happened between me and my husband.

“Are we fighting vampires tonight? With the amount of garlic you’re using, I figure that we were infusing every cell in our body to ward off vampires.”

“One can never use too much garlic.”

The pacing and the faith thread were the stars of this sequel for me.

I can’t wait to uncover more of Liberty Ward’s influence and unravel the characters pasts in the next installment.

[Jenny x Carolena · Rating 5 out of 5]

I stumbled onto this series last year and have been eagerly awaiting book two ever since — and it did not disappoint. Madison Love has built such a rich world with the Southern Knights, and Saving Grace pulls you right back in with all the intensity and heart that made the first book so compelling. The plot thickens beautifully here, layering twists and mystery on top of each other until the tension is almost unbearable in the best way. This one leans hard into survival instincts and pure adrenaline, and I was completely along for the ride.

Grace and Scott's dynamic is the beating heart of this story, and what a dynamic it is — she literally left him at the altar, and now she needs him to save her life. The forced proximity of their undercover husband-and-wife mission was everything I wanted: awkward, charged, and slowly, inevitably rekindling the spark neither of them asked for. Scott's reluctance felt so earned, and watching both characters navigate trust and forgiveness while bullets are flying made for a truly satisfying read.

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

[Joan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is another good Christian romantic suspense by Love. The plot is timely as it deals with members of a militia group that become domestic terrorists. Investigative journalist Grace needs protection and turns to the man she knows can do the job. Their previous relationship provides some tension in the midst of the possibility of reignited romance.

There is an exploration of gun ownership and legislative control of gun use included in the plot. There are also some advanced designs of weaponry that are involved. The Southern Knights face danger to complete their job. Because the relationships involved are so important, there is quite a bit of character thought included.

This is a good book for readers who like a strong Christian faith message included in their romantic suspense. And an unsolved investigation means there will be another in this series. I'll be watching for it.

I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through BookSirens. My comments are an independent review.

[Ellen · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Saving Grace" by Madison Love is a suspenseful , well-written romance based on Christian principles. The story is captivating and keeps you on the edge of your seat. A wonderful story with beautiful characters that keeps you engaged until the very end.

[Catherine Perschke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Madison Love creates the best characters who become dear friends! In Saving Grace, Scott and Grace are both so real. Neither of their lives have turned out as they dreamed. Although Scott struggles with his attitude, both of them clearly love the Lord and want Him to guide their lives. Their faith is so refreshing. I was so blessed and encouraged by how they reconnected and, with faith and grace, negotiated the grave injustice that was forced on them!

The suspense and action kept me dialed in and puzzling through the clues to figure out who was a friend and who was a foe! There are so many twists, turns, and moments of peril! The story is a great reminder that someone with evil intent can twist and destroy even a noble cause!

I am so thankful for my advance copy and to share my excitement for Saving Grace with other readers! I am hooked on Madison Love's Southern Knight Protectors series and can't wait to read the next one!

[Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grace Atwell left Scott at the altar 27 years ago. Neither of them have ever been the same. Grace is now in grave danger, and has asked Southern Knights for protection. She specifically asks for Scott to be her protector. Needless to say he is not happy about this arrangement, especially when he finds out that they will be undercover as husband and wife.

This faith-infused story was an action-packed mystery that gave me an adrenaline rush. It was also a story of healing and second chances. I know I can always count on nerve-shredding scenes when the Southern Knights are on the job. Things definitely got a little hairy at the end. Prayer was Grace and Scott's best friend as they worked to overcome past hurts and present fears while also battling unseen and unknown enemies.

The author always sprinkles in a little humor amongst the elite operators of the Southern Knights. They are more like family than co-workers, which provides some lightness to the story.

The domestic terror plot within this book was chilling and riveting and added even more intrigue to an already well-plotted mystery.

Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Amanda Marlowe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Grace is an investigative journalist when her investigations start causing problems she contacts the Southern Knights, and asks for Scott to protect her, she left him at the altar twenty seven years ago when she was only eighteen, but there were mitigating circumstances, she wrote to him to try to explain but he never replied. So years later she married Jake, Scott and her best friend. It wasn't a love match for either of them.
To say Scott isn't happy with the assignment is an understatement, he's furious and isn't sure that his anger can be contained. Why would she ask for him after what she did? Who is targeting her, what has she inadvertently discovered and where are all the extra arms that have been produced?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

An entertaining romantic suspense with second chances thrown in!

[Sherry Bendorf · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

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

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I like the way this author develops her characters. I feel as though I know them and who they are. it was fun to see characters from the previous book as well, learning more about their story line. I like how the Southern Knights team works so well together and they are truly a "family". I liked the bits of humor/banter between the team, i.e. fruit on pizza?! I'm a fan, just saying. 🙂

I appreciated the faith elements woven throughout the story. How Grace and scott turned to God not only in times of fear but just everyday situations.

I look forward to reading more from her.

[Fruzsina Bagin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of the book via Booksprout, and the following review is entirely my own voluntary, and honest opinion.

Once again, Madison Love delivers a compelling Christian romantic suspense filled with danger, action, second chances, and plenty of faith. After enjoying the first book, I was excited to return to the world of the Southern Knights, and this story certainly didn't disappoint.

Grace Atwood and Scott Renault have a history that goes back nearly three decades. They were once in love and were supposed to get married, but Grace never showed up at the courthouse. Now, years later, she finds herself in danger and turns to the one man she knows can protect her. Scott may still carry the hurt and resentment of the past, but when Grace needs help, he doesn't hesitate to step in.

I really enjoyed their second-chance romance. Twenty-seven years of misunderstandings, pain, and unanswered questions don't simply disappear, and I appreciated that rebuilding their relationship required time, honesty, and forgiveness. As with the first book, faith is woven naturally into the characters' lives. I love that Madison Love allows her characters to pray, rely on God, and work through their struggles without making faith feel like something added to the story as an afterthought.

The suspense kept me turning the pages. An investigative journalist, a murdered informant, stolen military technology, a militia group, and a growing conspiracy create a dangerous situation for Grace and the Southern Knights. The story is fast-paced, with plenty of action and twists, but there are also moments when the tension gives way to humour, banter, and some genuinely emotional scenes.

One aspect of the story that I found particularly interesting was its exploration of gun ownership and gun control in the United States. As someone who isn't American, I have a different perspective on the subject, and I didn't always agree with the ideas presented. Still, I appreciated the opportunity to read about a debate that plays such a central role in American public debate and in the story's conflict.

I enjoy the team dynamic among the Southern Knights. Their banter can be so funny, but beneath the teasing is a deep sense of loyalty and care. They feel like a family, and I love how they can be silly with each other while still being willing to risk everything to protect one another.

“Saving Grace” is a complete story with a satisfying romantic conclusion, although some of the larger questions remain open for the next books in the series. That has only made me more curious about what Madison Love has planned for the Southern Knights.

Overall, this was another exciting combination of romantic suspense, action, humour, and faith. If you enjoy clean Christian romantic suspense with plenty of danger, twists and turns, a heartfelt second-chance romance, and meaningful themes of forgiveness and grace, I definitely recommend this series. I'm already looking forward to the next book.

[Mary Ann Speel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book, one you start reading and cannot put down. It really keeps you involved as you want to learn what will happen next as the web of deceit expands. It starts with an under cover news reporter, who is the h, and writes under a pseudonym to hid her true identity, because she is a rich heiress. She receives an anonymous note telling her to meet with an unknown source about theft of new very sophisticated technology important to the military. He gives her the information of what is happening and then walks away. She watches as the man is stabbed to death as he leaves. The h due to physical skills is able to escape the blind alley. She then seeks very skilled assistance and will only accept the help and protection of the man she left, as he waited for her at the town hall to marry her. They proceeded, as a married couple, to the town where the new weapons are produced and proceed with their investigation. The danger they face grows and eventually the h is abducted. She is rescued but before she is rescued she finds out who was behind the whole scheme and its goal. The leader escaped but will later be captured before leaving the country. The goal of murder and destruction is prevented. The H and h get their HEA. Hope this book is one that you will enjoy reading as much as I did. Enjoy!

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Scott and Grace have a second chance at love to fix the anger, hurt and resentment that caused their 18 year old selves to not get married.

Grace was afraid of hurting Scott so she followed her father’s wishes. Scott left for basic training but wrote her everyday. 27 years later they are forced back together when someone is trying to attack/kidnap Grace.

I really enjoyed Saving Grace. It was a little more heavy on Second Amendment rights and gun control than I would have liked, but I enjoyed the action and the love between Grace and Scott that never really went away.

The banter from the other Southern Knights was so funny. I love that they treat each other like family and can be silly but protect deeply.

My favorite quotes are:

“If you can pray, you can help. Not every warrior needs to be on the battlefield.”

““Can I have a bottle of water, please? If I’m going to die, I’d prefer it isn’t because of dehydration.” I remove the bag from my shoulders and hand her a bottle. “Dramatic much?” “Of course, I am. I’m a woman. It’s part of my job description. The term is called ‘Drama Queen’ for a reason. It’s our duty, and I take it seriously!””

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

[Roberta aka Bobbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grace Atwood, who uses the pen name of Anna Jameson, witnessed the murder of an informant. A man she was meeting to get information about some stealth guns and a high-speed stealth drone. They were missing from Noctira Weapons System.

Since she witnessed the murder her life was at risk. She hires The Southern Knights and specifically Scott Renault to keep her safe while she tries to solve the possible thefts. She hasn't talked to Scott for 27 years, since she left him standing on the courthouse steps on the day they were to be married.

Hiring The Southern Knights and Scott has, she hopes, a two-fold purpose. Not only does she hope they can keep her alive, she also wants the chance to tell Scott why she didn't meet him on the courthouse steps 27 years ago. A lot happens before Grace gets that chance. That's the rest of the story.

This is a dual point-of-view, clean, faith-based, contemporary romance with nail-biting suspense. I definitely recommend this exciting romance… there's even a happy-ever-after ending.

I was given an ARC of this story but all thoughts and comments are mine, given voluntarily.

[Becky Durstenfeld · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a well written book with good character development. I like that the Southern Knights are Christian. This is a love story in a suspense story. There is danger, some violence and a lot of guns. I really didn't like this story because of the guns. I have a hard time reconciling Christians enjoying guns and being good at shooting people. The bad guys were the extreme violent gun lovers and the good guys don't shoot to kill unless absolutely necessary. But still it was too much for me. I also guessed at who the head of the group was before our good guys did. It was good to see the main characters get back together, but it seemed a bit too quick and easy after 27 years of separation, but that was probably due the situation they found themselves in.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jean Katchmar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book having all the ingredients---second chance at love, emotions, suspense, and faith in God to save your life despite the odds! The story pulls you in right away when Grace Atwood, now a journalist, writing under the pen name, Anna Jameson, is writing a story about a stolen drone. Her secret contact Simon agrees to meet her and when he does, he tells her a lot about the missing stealth weapons. When they part, Simon is killed and she takes off and evades being killed as well. She contacts her BFF Jake (also her ex) for a way to keep her safe. He suggests to hire Scott and the Southern Knights to protect her. She left Scott at the altar 27 years ago and she doesn't think he will help her. But he does and their path is long and complicated as Scott vows to protect her while he is trying to help her find the missing drone and guns. Lots of action and suspense you will not want to miss...and also the story of why Grace left Scott at the altar 27 years ago!

[Cilla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Grace is a journalist chasing a lead on missing weapons but when it becomes clear her life is in danger, she hires Southern Knights to protect her and help her investigate. Unfortunately (or fortunately!) her ex-fiance Scott is on the team and he has never forgiven her for not turning up to their wedding then ghosting him decades earlier. I appreciated how they came to terms (eventually) with what happened in the past, but also who they both were now. It was interesting seeing some differing views on gun control too. Lots of action, plenty of bad guys and a reliance firt on God then on the team which is like a family. I received an ARC but this review is my own. I am really looking forward to the next book - Daisy and Angel's story.

[Bernadette Cinkoske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Saving Grace is a Christian, edge-of-your-seat, heart pounding, second chance romance with a lot of suspense. I love these books in the Southern Knight Protectors series. The Southern Knights, Grace and Scott will have to depend on God's guidance to uncover the evil that is targeting Grace. The plot seems very realistic which really enhances my reading experience. I came to care about Grace and Scott and root for their HEA amid all the treachery. Having read book one of this series, I knew I needed to start reading early in the day unless I wanted to be up far too late because I could not put it down. Book two exceeded my expectations!

[Sharon S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intense addition to the Southern Knight Protectors series by Madison Love.
Grace is a reporter and was supposed to marry Scott years ago before her father intervened.
Scott work for Southern Knight Protectors and Grace requested him specifically for her protection unit.
They are going undercover as a married couple, nothing can go wrong with that plan, right?
National security is at stake in the small town.
The plan is to find out who is behind the thefts of the special weapons but this is even bigger than they thought.
*I received this as an ARC reader and am leaving my unbiased review.

[Denise A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent addition to an amazing series!

Oh my goodness, I can’t express how much these characters feel like actual people to me! I love both the Shining Knights and the Southern Knights series and have read them all. This series brings found family to a whole new level. The action and suspense will keep you reading long past your bedtime because you won’t want to sleep until you know everyone’s safe. Plus there are moments of levity where you’ll be smiling and laughing at the pranks they play on each other. There is a strong Faith thread that is so skillfully woven throughout the story, and will draw you in closer to Him as you see their faith tried, tested, and strengthened! Overall a wonderful new addition to a great series!

[sharon blankenship · Rating 5 out of 5]

Saving Grace by Madison Love is another fantastic addition to her series, and she absolutely didn’t disappoint. The plot is packed with twists, action, and steady suspense that kept me turning the pages. I loved all the characters, and Grace—our newest addition—quickly became a favorite. The way the characters care for each other feels like a true family, and the story made me both laugh and cry in all the right moments.

There were two possible directions the next story could take, and now that I know which one it is, I’m even more eager for the next installment. This series just keeps getting better, and I can’t wait to read what comes next.

[Karen Brasher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Saving Grace

Such a wonderful story of danger and intrigue as well as a bit of romance. This book also deals with the sensitive subject of Americans right to bear arms from both sides of the issue. Grace Atwood and Scott Renault were suppose to have been married after graduation only Grace never showed up. Fast forward years later Grace has become an undercover reporter using a pen name. She has become the target of a killer so she hires Southern Knights to protect her asking for Scott personally. I highly recommend you read their exciting story to find out if they live long enough for their second chance.

[Rhondia Cannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Saving Grace is the second book in a series about an elite protection team. It’s a nice inspirational romantic suspense tale that entertains as it points the reader to the Savior. I don’t know how realistic the law enforcement aspect is but I didn’t feel forced to accept outlandish details to enjoy the story. The romantic elements were a bit of a stretch in the beginning but soon I got into the rhythm of the second chance for the main characters and could follow along. I look forward to the third book in the series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Psusan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Saving Grace is the second Christian romantic suspense story in the Southern Knight Protectors series. By Madison Love, a journalist, Grace, turns to a former close friend, Scott for protection from danger enemies. The enemies outside of the US are dangerous but none more so than the homegrown terrorists right here. Grace sees something she was not meant to see but she does not give up. An intense story with emotional depth as these two rebuild a broken relationship, reconsider their lives and dreams while continuing to trust in God. This story is complete, but not all is solved so there must be another book coming. I look forward to it.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is so good. Each book can be read as a stand alone, but it's always more fun to go in order.
Scott and Grace were best friends and high school sweethearts. Then Grace's father stepped in to break them apart when they were going to meet and get married. Many lies were told and threats made.
When divine intervention brings them back together many years later, will they take that second chance?
This is a story of redemption, forgiveness, fighting for what's right and sweet romance. This is an action packed, thrill ride.

[TJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

SAVING GRACE by Madison Love is fast-paced, action packed, Christian Romantic Suspense.

With the heart-pounding action, gripping intrigue, explosive secrets, growing conspiracies, hidden dangers, and unknown enemies, you’ll be on the edge of your seat turning pages.
Thankfully, it is skillfully balanced with plenty of witty banter, emotional depth, and growing faith and dependence on God.
I would definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys romantic suspense!

I received an advanced copy and am voluntarily giving my honest opinion.

[Reads lotsa stuff · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s my job. An opportunity to make a difference. A journalist going after a big story gets in some hot water. She hires protection and asks for a specific bodyguard. A bodyguard she has history with from a lifetime ago. The history makes it uncomfortable. The plot thickens and becomes more intense. There is mystery and a puzzle to unravel. There is corruption, deception and duress affecting many. There are only a few quiet moments in a tale that travels at a remarkable speed towards suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat. A great story.

[MommyO · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this series and once again the author has a way of weaving romance, suspense, and faith into a wonderful story. For Grace and Scott there is a lot of “mending” that needs to be done for them to find forgiveness and the ability to move forward. It’s incredibly refreshing that their faith in God allows them to move toward a future together. Reoccurring characters from previous stories in this series adds a nice element yet can be read as a stand alone.

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

[Dani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Madison Love has created another well written novel! This riveting tale of faith and suspense has page turning action that keeps you up later than you’re intending! Anchored in faith, God’s love and redemption is shown throughout and there are enough twists to keep you guessing for the suspense side of the story. Definitely an interesting read and I would recommend this book to others! This book is a clean read with no explicit scenes or language.

I received an advanced review copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jacqueline Johnston Cotton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is so good! Absolutely fantastic writing! Action, suspense, danger, faith, forgiveness and a second chance at love. This book was fantastic from start to finish. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough! Exceptional complex characters. I love how Scott and Grace lean on God’s guidance. Very interesting and entertaining, there is more to this book than romance. I would definitely recommend this book and the whole series.

[Cecilia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another great one! The spin off series of the Shining Knights did not disappoint. Something old and something new with enough action, drama, friendship, love and faith to keep you reading until the sun comes up.

Would definitely recommend reading them in order.

Love the little sneak peeks of the next book and can’t wait for the next adventure!

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

[Sharon Schafer · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great second book in this series! I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Grace and Scott were so well written that I feel like I could be friends with them.

Fantastic story line, with lots of new and old faces.

Fast paced and very hard to put down.

Very intense.

I can't wait to read more of these books!

I received a free copy of this book and this is my voluntary review.