Forged in Shadows

by Kendra Warden

He had a dark secret. He took it to his grave…

With the help of her K9 partner, Koda, widowed airport security officer Demi De Luca is committed to keeping her passengers safe as they fly. But when she overhears a mysterious phone call, she soon finds out that the real threat might be closer than she ever expected.

As founder of his family’s private security company, Gabriel Forge knows his mission in take the lead, hold the line, and never let anything–or anyone–get in the way. Not his faith. Not the beautiful girl from his childhood he thought he’d never see again. And certainly not an unruly German Shepherd puppy determined to eat his freshly polished shoes.

As dangerous forces begin to collide, Gabe and Demi must figure out the truth together, or watch from the ground as everything goes up in smoke.

Serve. Protect. Redeem.

Forge Brothers Security is a clean and Christian romantic suspense series. Each book is a standalone and can be read in any order. Tropes for Forged in Shadows include infertility rep, type A hero, adorable dogs, and a thrilling race against the clock.

Genres: Fiction, Contemporary, Christian Fiction

374 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 12, 2026

About the author

Kendra Warden writes romantic suspense with real danger and fearless faith. She lives in Ontario, Canada, with her husband, four young children, two cats, and a whole lot of books. She loves Monday mornings and getting up early, and she's convinced that if she only figures out the perfect planning system, she'll mysteriously have the time to write every Christian romance idea that pops into her head.

Reviews

[DevotedToHope · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent!!!

Forged in Shadows pulls you into the reality of spiritual warfare. As you read, the weight of truth, fear, and hope becomes real. You finish this book wide awake to the battles we wage every moment.

This story keeps you turning pages. The suspense is sharp and immediate. Demi, a widowed airport security officer, works with her K9 partner, committed to protecting the people who pass through her world. Gabriel, who runs a private security firm, is determined to protect, serve, and carry the weight of responsibility for others. The threats they face are close. Danger presses in with every chapter as Demi and Gabe are forced to outthink and outlast enemies who are both seen and unseen. The need to protect, the risk of trusting, and the cost of standing for what is right fill every moment of the story.

Demi’s quiet ache for something lasting, her bond with her K9, and her honest wrestling with faith and pain feel grounded and real. Gabe’s steady strength brings both protection and vulnerability. Their relationship, shaped by history and tested by circumstance, becomes a place where faith is refined and rebuilt. Each of them faces pain, danger, and choices that require courage and surrender. At one point, Demi’s journey echoes the truth that sometimes suffering is necessary. That continues to reverberate.

The threat at the center of the story is urgent and present. Evil is personal and destructive, intent on shattering lives. The spiritual battle is never hidden or minimized. Like The Screwtape Letters, this story reveals the reality of evil’s schemes and the true nature of the fight. Yet hope is always present. Even in the moments where loss or uncertainty press in, there is a reminder that God is not absent. Even if circumstances don’t change, God remains and provides the miracles needed for each day.

Loyalty, love, and sacrifice are woven through every relationship. The K9s bring comfort and steadiness, a reminder of faithful companionship when words are not enough. The writing is crisp and purposeful, never wasting a moment, and every risk has meaning.

Forged in Shadows draws a clear distinction. Jesus alone rescues, sustains, and redeems. This story does not avoid hard realities or uncomfortable questions. Both Demi and Gabe carry wounds, doubts, and the weight of real suffering. The narrative shows how faith is not a quick comfort, but a lifeline discovered in surrender, loss, and courage. Demi wrestles with disappointment and longing, yet learns, like Gabe, that only Christ’s presence is enough to steady her in every season. The story acknowledges the deep struggles that shape people, the evil at work in the world, and the cost of truth in a divided culture.

Forged in Shadows is a five-star, genuine encounter with the work of an author following the Holy Spirit’s guidance. This book is suspenseful, spiritually rich, and deeply real. For anyone longing for faith that endures, courage that costs something, and the assurance that darkness does not win, this story is a gift. Read it with your heart open. If you read one book this year, let it be Forged in Shadows. Every person in the world needs to read this book.

I received a digital ARC from the publisher. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing and story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

[Judith McNees · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have enjoyed this series from the beginning, and this book was no exception. I appreciate that the author keeps the stories moving along without giving a lot of superfluous filler material. I was engaged throughout the story, and there was a good mix of suspenseful tension and romance. The romance was tasteful, and the book was clean with no swearing and no sc. The faith content was well done.

I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. (But honestly, I only take ARCs from authors I know I'm gonna love, so I already knew it would be a 5 star read!) If you haven't read the series, go read them before this one is released so you're caught up!

[Nicole | Nicole's Bookstagram · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forged in Shadows is a fast-paced, emotional, and heartwarming Christian romantic suspense rooted in faith, healing, hope, love, and loyalty. The tender, faith-centered romance works seamlessly alongside the suspense, creating a story that feels grounded, heartfelt, and deeply satisfying. This is the fourth book in the Forge Brothers Security series, and it continues everything I’ve loved about this series from the beginning.

Gabe, the oldest of the Forge brothers and founder of Forge Brothers Security, is wrestling with his place in the family and the expectations his father has placed on him. Demi is a widowed TSA K9 officer—kind, genuine, and a bit of a hot mess at times. She and Gabe were childhood friends before her family moved away, and when their paths cross again, Demi is still processing the loss of her husband, unresolved questions about their marriage, and some devastating medical news.

I loved that Gabe and Demi’s relationship is built on the foundation of their childhood friendship. Their connection develops naturally through forced proximity and ongoing threats. Gabe is protective and tender, while Demi is strong, open, and thoughtful. I enjoyed the twists and turns of the suspense storyline, which kept the story engaging without overshadowing the romance.

Faith and prayer are woven throughout the story in a way that feels natural and sincere. The author handles complex topics with truth, care, and gentleness. One conversation in particular—where the case for Jesus is shared with someone wrestling with their Muslim faith—was handled beautifully and with great sensitivity.

This book does end with a bit of a cliffhanger, but it doesn’t directly involve Gabe and Demi. I normally avoid cliffhangers, but this one didn’t bother me and left me more curious than frustrated.

If you love Christian romantic suspense with strong faith elements, a protective MMC, a resilient FMC, and lovable K9s, this one definitely deserves a spot on your TBR.


✨Includes:✨
🔐Founder of Forge Brothers Security
✈️Widowed TSA K9 Officer
🧸Childhood Friends
💪🏻Protective MMC
❤️‍🩹Strong and Resilient FMC
🐾Loveable K9s
🧡Infertility Rep
🧲Type A Hero x Type B Heroine
⏰Race Against The Clock
🔥Slow Burn
✝️Christian Romantic Suspense
👀Multiple POV
🚪Closed Door
🚫No Language

“The truth holds up to scrutiny... we should never fear to seek it out.”

“Handsome, strong, and smart enough to dismantle a bomb. I could kiss you,” she joked.

“It makes perfect sense to me. God comes to us where we are and draws us closer to Him.”

Thank you Kendra Warden for the gifted ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Rachel Trout · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cozy Crime Fic for January ❄️🐕‍🦺

Crime fiction/romantic suspense always seems to be what I want to reach for in January, and Forged in Shadow did not disappoint!

Although I haven't read any of the other Forge Brothers books, I understood this one just fine by itself! (Although I do look forward to finishing the series soon!)

Despite the plot being somewhat unoriginal, I still found myself wanting to reach for the book until I finished it! I enjoyed the characters, especially the furry ones 🐕‍🦺🐕‍🦺, and the story proved to be a cozy read overall.

If you like Dee Henderson, Dani Pettrey, or Lynette Eason, Kendra Warden might just be your indie crime fic pick.

Read if you like:
❄️Romantic Suspense
❄️Friends to lovers
❄️Widow's 2nd chance at love
🐕‍🦺 Doggo antics 💙

*Thank you to the author for the ARC. The above opinions are completely my own.

[Laura Bowman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kendra Warden’s Forged in Shadows is the fourth book of the Forged Brothers Security, not including the prequel Forged in Darkness.

Gabe Forge, is the oldest of the brothers and the first to leave the fold to start the security agency. Gabe is in San Antonio to deliver a therapy dog to a veteran when Demi is threatened and ask for his help.

Demetria “Demi” De Luca, a TSA K-9 Handler, grew up with the Forge brothers before moving to San Antonio. The threat is coming though the airport where Demi works.

Love this series and especially this book. Kendra has written lots of twists and surprises which keeps you reading with anticipation and on the edge of your seat.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[Denise A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful next book in the series! This book is full of action and suspense, right from the very first chapter! There are multiple suspense threads in the book, plenty of angst, and a slow burn romance to keep you engaged with the characters. Plus some amazing dogs that you’re going to love! While I did have a suspicion about the main bad guy, I was wrong about a different one, which kept it interesting as I worked my way through the suspense thread. Overall a great story to keep you up reading late into the night! This book is a standalone, I recommend the entire series! I read in advanced copy, all thoughts and opinions in this review are honest and my own personal expressions.

[Brittany Searfoss · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forged in Shadows was full of surprises and dangers from the beginning to the end. I couldn’t put it down without wishing that I could continue reading. Gabe and Demi were both brilliant as they tried to find the truth and dodge bullets at the same time, and Koda and Valor were both brave and a great addition to the team. With each new book, I am continually impressed with the author’s ability to tackle difficult issues and similar current events with ease and tact while not shying away from the truth. The book ended with one whale of a cliffhanger, making me want the next book as soon as possible! I highly recommend this book and the rest of the series to anyone who enjoys inspirational suspense.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book for the author. A positive review was not required, and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.

[Lily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I saw so much of my husband in Gabe and so much of me in Dee. it was a page turner you won't regret reading.

[AlwaysByTheBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Widow and TSA agent Demi De Luca puts the safety of all passengers first. When she overhears a mysterious phone call, she realizes that she might be the one who needs to be protected.

Gabe Forge is the founder of his family’s private security business and got there by not letting anything get in his way. When he ends up with an unruly German Shepard and has to protect the girl he has known for years, his plan is about to get complicated.

When secrets from Demi’s late husband are revealed and she becomes a target, can Gabe keep her safe while making sure his new K9 doesn’t destroy every shoe he owns?

This was my second book by Kendra and I had the honor and privilege of being on her launch team for Forged in Shadows. Kendra is the sweetest human and her writing is no different!🩵

I loved how she wove in strong faith elements in this book in ways that felt natural and human. The relationship with Demi and her Muslim coworker and their differences in faith was so well written and really interesting!

I really enjoyed the suspense component in this book. The integration of Jacob’s storyline in preparation for the next book worked so well and I was on the edge of my seat.

While the first half of the book was a little slow for me personally and took me a bit to get into it, once it picked up, I couldn’t put it down!

I loved Gabe’s character. As someone who also strives for perfection, control and organization, he was very relatable. I really liked Demi with Gabe and their relationship was so sweet. Demi helped encourage Gabe to find his way back to God and restore the relationship with his father. I also liked how they were able to help each other reveal parts of themselves that were hurting and used that to heal.

And of course, I can’t forget Koda and Valor!🐶🐶 These pups were adorable and added so much to the story❤️

If you’re looking for Christmas vibes, high stakes and second chance romance, this book is for you!

It laid the foundation perfectly for the next book in the series and I can’t wait to read about Jacob next!😍

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[ChriseBee · Rating 5 out of 5]

(4.5 rounded up to 5 stars).
I read an ARC of Forged in Shadows and truly enjoyed it as my introduction to Kendra Warden's Christian romantic suspense series. It was a good blend of mystery, lighthearted moments, sweet romance, gripping suspense, and thought-provoking discussions about faith. This is book 4 in the series, but it can be read as a standalone. Although I have the previous books, I didn't get a chance to start the series until now, and I wasn't confused when Gabe's brothers or past situations were mentioned. It actually made me more excited to read the other books soon.

I was hooked from chapter 1 by the characters and mystery. I loved Demi and Gabe right away and related to how they felt in many ways. Their reconnection was divinely directed, and the progression of their relationship felt natural. My heart broke for Demi after she experienced so much pain, and I felt like I was right there with them as events suddenly unfolded.

It was great how the author realistically presented all the characters. They weren't simply good or bad people in black and white, but they were complex as we all are. She told the story through multiple perspectives, which helped me connect to it more and better understand the characters' motivations.

There was nothing preachy about this book - just honesty about faith while living the best as one can. I appreciated that it was stressed that God loves and meets us all where we are, drawing us to himself no matter our perceived flaws, mistakes, and painful situations.

I also loved that the dogs were more than just briefly mentioned minor characters. Koda, Valor, and Maven had significant scenes. An assuring note about the dogs for those concerned: they don't die. I know that is a deal breaker for many people, me included.

I'm looking forward to the release of Jacob's story because he's an intriguing character. Until then, I'm going to catch up on the other books. Thanks to Kendra Warden for the ARC.

[Terry T · Rating 5 out of 5]

Is a sweet clean opposites attract, friends to more, Christian romantic suspense with no cliffhanger
Some of the lines I really like --- when we ‘seek first the Kingdom of God’, He gives us everything we need in the end. Offering our first fruits includes giving the Lord our time, before life sneaks in and steals it all away.” --- “And I’ll make sure I find you a uniform that fits. You’ll have to look ridiculous today, though. Sorry.” --- “I’ll try my best to be threatened more conveniently next time.” --- "God is in control. Even when things feel impossible, there’s always a way forward. I need to start taking action in my own life, even if I’m terrified. And when I do…miracles happen. Nothing is too difficult for God.” --- when it came to being a leader. Maybe it was less about making all the right calls, and more about doing what God called him to, no matter the cost. --- “If everyone lived exactly as Jesus had, there would be peace throughout the world. There would certainly not be any terrorist bombings in the name of Jesus. Not by anyone actually following His example.” ---
Who ran Vince off the road and why? What's going on with Brady? What's Al-Amin up to? What's Gina up to? These and other questions will all be answered.
I loved Demi and Gabe's story and I'm sure you will too. I've loved everyone of her books that I've read and I can't wait to read her next book.

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

Risk perception and protecting others are two responsibilities Gabriel Forge and Demetria De Luca don’t take lightly. Gabe, the oldest Forge sibling and head of his family’s private security company, reconnects with a childhood friend, Demi, when he agrees to deliver a K9 to another veteran. Demi works as a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agent alongside her K9 partner, a yellow lab, Koda. When she overhears something she wasn’t meant to hear, Demi realizes that it won’t be just another day at North Star International Airport.

Author Kendra Warden knows how to hook her readers! This time, it’s with an abandoned puppy in the airport parkade. Feelings of love and tenderness over caring for a German Shepherd puppy and reuniting with a childhood sweetheart are well balanced with the fear and mystery of drug cartels/money laundering and terrorists. The tension is nail-biting and the way the faith thread is developed is enlightening. I appreciated the reminder that our hearts, our minds and our place in eternity need to be included in the things worth protecting. It was also good to see what goes on behind the scenes on the ‘air side’ of the airport.

I’ve enjoyed meeting Cameron, Benjamin, Asher and Gabriel, and can’t wait to read about another Forge Brother in the next sequel!

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Gretchen Garrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Hey, is anybody there?” she called into the shadows, trying to force her voice to remain friendly. There was no response. Not that she’d expected one. She shoved the phone back into her pocket and gripped the dog leashes more tightly. Not that there was much chance that the animals were planning to take off. Both Koda and Valor had stopped short as she did, sniffing at the air. Valor let out a low whine, and she could see the hairs on the back of Koda’s neck rising."

Demi knows how to sniff out danger - at least her dog, Koda, does. As a K9 handler and airport security, she tries to stop trouble before it starts. But when the threats come directly at her, she is unsure about how to proceed.

As the leader of Forge Security, Gabriel is used to neutralizing threats. When his childhood friend, Demi, finds herself in an uncertain situation, he can't help but step in to assist her in finding answers. What is really going on at the airport?

This book is full of twists and turns. What seems obvious becomes part of the bigger plot that kept me guessing. This book was fascinating and intriguing on many levels. This book is a part of a series, but the plots are not as connected - just the characters. One could read this title as a stand alone.

I was provided with an early copy of this book. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.

[Heidi Sjostrom · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars rounded to 5

Next up in the Forge Brothers Security series is book four - Forged in Shadows. This is Gabe’s story. Gabriel Forge is the founder and head of Forge security. He carries a heavy load striving for perfection. Because Gabe broke away from the family business to create his own, he often feels he has let his dad down and endeavors even harder to succeed in order to prove his worth to his dad, to his brothers who work with him, and to the others employed in his agency. Demi and her K9 partner work in TSA. After overhearing a suspicious phone call, she and Gabe race to fight an unseen enemy, yet little do they know another one is lurking in the shadows.

At first this story has a slower build than the other books to set the stage. But once it was set it was an on-the-edge-of-your-seat ride. I liked watching Gabe learn to set aside his drive for perfection and control and instead lean on God for strength and peace. Demi too has burdens and weaknesses she must surrender to God, allow Him to pick up her pieces, and let Him heal her heart. The internal struggles the both of them had were so relatable. Also the dogs in this story were wonderful especially one particular German Shepherd puppy.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC from the author. No positive review was required. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Lexi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Demi, a young widow, is a TSA agent with a K9 companion. She’s noticed that something seems off - she feels like she’s being followed and she overhears a concerning conversation from another TSA agent.

Demi reconnects with an old family friend, Gabe, who is head of a security firm. She realizes that whatever is going on is a lot bigger than she initially realized and she needs protection.

The plot contains some sweet canine companions, gang members, drug running, possible terrorist attacks, and of course, a little bit of romance. There’s a lot going on and at times it doesn’t seem quite plausible. And I will admit that I had the villain figured out more than halfway through the book which was a disappointment.

I enjoyed the story, but I felt like the first half of the book was a little slow. I also struggled with the relationship between Gabe and Demi - while I know it was an old friends to more/second chance type of romance, I’m not sure I really felt the chemistry between the two characters.

The second half of the book contained more action and held my interest. I loved that the book ended with a strong connection to faith and the hope we have in Christ.

4 stars

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing! I loved how relatable and flawed the main characters were and how they struggled with things that aren't typically mentioned in books. (Demi struggled with infertility and thought she was broken and couldn't be fixed and Gabe was struggling with his faith) The plot was well paced and kept me interested but once it reached the climax, it was like pedal to medal, boom, everything happened! Seriously, I was glued to the book and literally on the edge of my seat for the last few chapters. Besides the suspense, the other things I really liked about the book was the romance between Gabe and Demi (which was so sweet!!) and the hope that was threaded throughout everything going on. Oh, and don't forget the dogs!! I liked Koda, but Valor stole my heart (I wish I could adopt him right out of the book!) And I don't want to give any spoilers, but the end of the book, there is a moment with Demi's boss, Shireen which was just downright amazing!! Overall, I loved the book and can't wait for the next one in the series!!

I was given an ARC from the author in exchange for my opinion - all thoughts are my own!

[Ethelann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forged in Shadows was very exciting. It was a quick read for me, because I read it every chance I got at home and work.
Airport security officer Demi De Luca and her K9 partner, Koda work hard to keep passengers safe as they get through the airport and then onto their flight. After she hears a weird phone call, she soon realizes that there is a very real threat close to them all.

Gabriel Forge knows he, as the oldest brother of the Forge Brothers Security Company, that he will take the lead, and never let anything or anyone get his the way when it comes to protecting those who need him. So when Demi needs his help he knows that he can't leave her alone, since she is being targeted by an unknown assailant.

As the danger grows, Gabe and Demi must work together to get to the truth and quickly or everything and everyone they love may be destroyed.

This book's ending totally surprised me. I wasn't ready for the who the bad guy was. And I love how the gospel was brought into the story.

[Katherine Weda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was up until 2am rooting for the characters and only slightly regret the lost sleep. I must say, though, this book ends on a major cliff-hanger and I don't want to have to wait for the next book!!!! *sigh* But I must…

If you want a book that will dive deep emotionally and leave you reeling, I recommend Forged in Shadows (but read the other books first due to minor spoilers)! I could read any of her books over and over again, and I shall…someday!

Kendra wove a masterful story that had me feeling deeply the emotions of Demi and Gabe. She always delivers a powerful, Christ-shining message to her readers and for that, I say “thank you”. Mrs. Warden has quickly established herself, in my mind, as a reliable source of contemporary christian fiction that dwells in the world but is not of it.

Also, Koda and Valor (the doggies) are the cutest!

For those new to Kendra Warden, know this: Her characters experience deep, realistic relationships, they rely on or learn to rely on God, and no detail is simply there "just for the plot."

I received an Advanced Review Copy (ARC) from the author, all thoughts and opinions are my own!

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is a high-stakes event that is going to take place at the North Star International Airport and widowed TSA agent Demi De Luca and her K9 partner, Koda, are assigned to find out the plan and stop it before it happens. Childhood friend, Gabe Forge, quickly becomes involved when Demi discovers a fleeing intruder in her home and turns to him for help. Since he is head of his own security company it should be easy to keep Demi safe, shouldn’t it?

Hold onto your seat because you are going on a wild ride as the past collides with the present that will affect the future. I love how storylines intertwine and keep you turning the pages.

Things to love:
the dogs
Forge family
mystery
suspense
danger
faith thread
clean romance

This is part of the Forge Brothers Security series, and I have read every one of them. It can be read as a standalone, but I love seeing the brothers make an appearance. This book ends with a cliffhanger, so I can’t wait to read what is going to happen next.

I received a copy of the book, but I was not obligated to write a positive review.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful Christian romantic suspence novel by Kendra Warden. This was book 4 in the Forge Brothers Security series but is self contained and can be read as a standalone. This one focuses on Gabe, the eldest of the Forge siblings and founder of FBS. He finds himself getting drawn into help Demi, a childhood friend, as she gets threatened after overhearing a conversation she shouldn't have.
Demi, a widowed TSA K-9 Handler is independent, strong, kindhearted and a bit of a hot mess at times. Her dog Koda is dverything you want a trace dog to be and more. Valor, a puppy found in the airport and staying with her until properly homed is a handful and a half, but loveable enough to overlook his shortcomings.😉 The secondary characters are equally as compelling and well flushed out (for their station). When the threat to Demi seems to intensify, they also realize the issue may be bigger than they initially suspected. The suspense will keep you engaged and invested as they use every means at their disposal, including their faith, to untangle the web.

[Rosemary Humphreys · Rating 5 out of 5]

We finally get Gabe’s story, and it does not disappoint! Gabe is the oldest brother of the Forge Brothers Security team with a Type A, driven, perfectionist personality so it is hard to imagine him falling for beautiful and a little bit messy, Demi. But these two rekindle their friendship after crossing paths and Gabe gets pulled into a dangerous situation with the Demi’s work as an airport K-9 security officer. This book has it all! Action! Sparks! Two wonderful dogs (one a loyal working dog and another a rambunctious puppy)! Plus, Gabe and Demi must rely on their faith and trust in God during a life-threatening situation and later have the courage to share their faith with a non-believer. If you have not read the previous Forge Brothers books, no worries, this can be read as a stand-alone book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review.

[Oruare Ojimadu · Rating 5 out of 5]

I totally enjoyed reading this book! The build up, the suspense... gripping from the beginning. The fight wasn't just against injustice or terrorism but also inner fears and feelings of inadequacy. Demi and Gabriel look composed and perfectly fine on the outside, their well perfected facade in place to face the world. When they begin to open up to each other, the heaing process begins as they joined forces to bring down evil. Unlikely characters definitely showed their ugly sides and the race against time to foil the plans is filled with suspense. The K-9 dogs Valor, Koda and Maven, they surely brought their A-game. Intelligent and sharp, they successfully pulled down carefully laid down plans.
Forged in Shadows is a thrilling story of love and rekindled hope amidst danger. I look forward to reading more in this series. Book 5 let's go!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Hannah Crawford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kendra Warden has written another spectacular book! I was drawn in from the beginning and was reading on the edge of my seat! Her attention to detail and intricate plot lines are fantastic! The story definitely had some intense moments.

Gabe gets the chance to reconnect with old family friend Demi. So when Demi feels like someone is watching her, the first person she calls is Gabe. Can they figure out the threat before it gets bigger then they can handle?

Highlights:
Three adorable dogs
Demi and Gabe teamwork
Demi’s choices in the bathroom (iykyk)

I love Demi for being driven. I love that she is kind and fair.

I love Gabe for being protective and loyal. I love his leadership and organization.

““Handsome, strong, and smart enough to dismantle a
b0mb. I could kiss you,” she joked.
“And you’re welcome to. As soon as we’re done.”
This was an ARC, all thoughts are my own.

[Tina Lowery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gabriel Forge Jr., otherwise known as Gabe, ran the Forge Brothers Security company -- even though they all had their own role to play in it. As Christmas approached, Gabe's promised good deed for his brother, ensured a run in with a dog-handler at an airport. Gabe happened to see his childhood friend, Demetria, also known as Demi. She was a woman whom all of his brothers had known from their youthful escapades. Throughout this book, danger followed and chased them, no matter what steps they took to evade the chase. Memories surfaced as well, ones that scrambled Demi's faith, memories and one solid truth. But, Demi realized that with hope, the truth could remain as it lightened the path that faith calls us to follow. I gave Warden's book 5 out of 5 stars and believe that this story could teach you to reach out and touch the sky.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

Demi and Gabe were childhood friends. When Demi meets up with Gabe again she learns he runs a security company. When Demi's house is broken into, she decides it is time for some help. She felt that someone had been watching her since her husband died. Gabe comes to her aid and from there it is non-stop action as the two get to know each other and form a bond. Secrets are revealed as they figure out who the players are in the danger against them. Demi and Gabe also learn that secrets don't always protect, sometimes they just cause more heartache and confusion. As they put aside old hurts and learn to trust each other, can they find love and a HEA?
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Myra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Warden starts the reader off on a thrilling suspenseful ride through life-changing and challenging events. This time with the eldest Forge brother, Gabe.

Demi must deal with her struggles as a widow and emotional baggage that entails, while Gabe is forced to face his perfectionist and control issues head on. All this while trying to deal with the evil forces of our culture that seek to destroy lives through misplaced religious zeal, greed and the struggle for power over other’s lives.

Warden has a way of keeping you on the edge of your seat while gently leading you to understand every person’s need for a personal relationship with the true savior of the world, Jesus.

[Jenny x Carolena · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off, let me just start off by saying that this book was absolutely incredible!

Forged in the Shadows is a fast-paced, emotionally rich romantic suspense that delivers both heart-pounding danger and tender healing moments. From the very first chapter, this story pulled me in with its mix of danger, faith, and tender second-chance romance. Demi De Luca is a widowed airport K-9 handler who quietly carries the weight of a loss not easily understood which felt raw, respectful, and real.

Gabe is the childhood friend, long-time secret crush, and the very definition of a strong protector. As the owner of Forge Brothers Security, Gabe is disciplined, guarded, and (unfortunately for him) not a fan of dogs - making his forced proximity to not one but multiple pups both hilarious and disarming. When he goes undercover to investigate escalating threats tied to the airport, the story shifts into full throttle: stalking, national security risks, shocking family revelations, and a race against time that kept me glued to the page.

I don't want to give too much away but let's just say a certain pup becomes a hero in more ways than one!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Fran · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was well done. It was exciting and realistic. Demi is an airport security officer with K9 Koda. I enjoyed learning about this role, and some of the details of being a K9 handler. Then she rescues a "crazy" German shepherd found loose in the airport. The 2nd dog creates all sorts of havoc in her life. Gabe Forbes, head of the Forbes Security company, meets with Demi regarding a K9 pup hand-off. He ends up coming to protect her, when she feels threatened. Her late husband was involved with the Jihad, and now there is danger at the airport. This can be read alone, but I look forward to book 5.

[BecReadReview · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gabe and Demi take you on an emotional journey filled with obstacles that test faith, trust, and resilience. The emotions hit hard, especially as belief wavers but never truly breaks. The K9s add a special kind of joy—bringing laughter, lightness, and a few wince-worthy moments that only deepen the connection to the story.

Danger arrives in a thought-provoking way, keeping you on edge as events spiral toward an impossible-feeling climax. Love, danger, and the courage to take a leap of faith intertwine beautifully, making this a gripping and heartfelt read.

[Sara · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is book #4 in the Forge Brother's Security series but can be read as a standalone book.

TSA agent Demi and her K-9 partner Koda reconnects with childhood friend Gabe who runs a private security company when she runs into trouble after hearing something she shouldn't have.

Lots of fast paced suspense, mystery, danger and dogs to keep you wanting to find out what happens next.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. The review expressed here is my honest opinion.