Death Wish

Task Force SEAR #3

by JJ Samie Myles

Some battles demand an unbreakable faith—and the ultimate sacrifice.

Former MARSOC sniper Ledger Romero faked his death to escape the Sombra Cartel after making their infamous revenge list. When a friend calls in a loyalty card and begs him to rescue his daughter from the ruthless regime, Ledger returns to Colombia and its deadly shadows—and walks right into an ambush.

Two years ago, Roxane Jaimes gave up a promising CIA career and infiltrated Sombra, the face of Colombia’s much-revered organization that funds pediatric surgeries with blood money. Her fiancé’s blood, to be exact. Determined to dismantle the cartel, she wrestles an inexplicable compulsion—which will destroy all her covert work—to save Sombra’s newest captive.

The cartel is hot on their heels as Ledger and Rox escape into the unforgiving Colombian jungle. When Task Force SEAR learns Ledger is still alive, they lock and load. However, squaring off against Sombra comes at a high price. Maybe higher than Ledger and Rox can pay.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Romantic Suspense

283 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 21, 2026

About the author

JJ Samie Myles is always on the hunt for a thrilling adventure, be it in real life or the fictional realm. Having traveled the globe and interacted with people from all walks of life, she is equipped with an arsenal of story ideas. Her mission is to share the beauty of God’s light in a dark world and encourage her readers in their faith. JJ is fluent in savage banter, obsessed with the ocean, and loves to laugh.

Reviews

[Bethany Meadows · Rating 5 out of 5]

My heart is gone. I’ve sobbed and squalled. Full RTC. Going down as one of those books that touched the depths of my spirit.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me hooked from the beginning it is full of action, suspense, banter and romance. On the run from the deadly cartel Ledge and Rox find themselves running through the jungles of Columbia, fighting all odds. I love Ledgers faith.I the chemistry between ledger and Rox is amazing. The bond between Ariel and Ledger is so special I love these brothers so much The book will make you laugh and cry and feel every emotion. This is one of the books that will live rent free in your head. This book broke my heart but it’s a beautiful story The book is a ten star read and can’t wait for the next one.

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

[Andrea Anderson-Bain · Rating 5 out of 5]

Death Wish ARC Review
Release Date: April 21, 2026

✨Reading Mood: Emotional, intense, gritty, faith-filled, and deeply romantic

Author: JJ Samie Myles
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

✨Short Summary:
Ledger and Rox are thrown into a dangerous fight for survival while on the run from a cartel, forcing them to confront their pasts, their faith, and what it truly means to trust, heal, and love against impossible odds.

My ARC Review:
This is the kind of story that reminds you even the most broken paths can still lead to redemption.

Just when I think I can’t possibly love JJ’s books any more, she gives us something new and completely captures my heart all over again. There’s a reason I will always recommend her books, and Death Wish is no exception. 🫶

We follow Ledger and Rox, two beautifully complex souls shaped by pain, past choices, and everything they’ve endured. Thrust into dangerous circumstances and on the run from a cartel, their journey is filled with tension and impossible odds, yet remains deeply emotional at its core.

I absolutely loved them, both individually and together. Ledger’s steadfast faith and hope in the midst of unimaginable challenges is such a powerful thread, and Rox’s sweetness and quiet strength make her impossible not to love. Watching their growth, healing, and love unfold felt so deeply earned. 💛

The SEAR team will always have my heart, and the bond between Ledger and Ariel added so much depth and emotion. Their connection was incredibly touching and had me in tears more than once, and their storyline left a lasting impact on my heart.

What stayed with me most was the thread of faith woven so gently throughout. You feel it in the quiet moments, the surrender, and the hope that even in the darkest places, God is still present and working. The “God winks” added such a beautiful, personal layer.

This story is gritty and emotional but never loses its heart. It made me feel everything…heartbreak, hope, and a love that refuses to let go.

If you love stories that stay with you and remind you of grace and redemption, this one will absolutely wreck you in the very best way.

And somehow, after all the chaos and heartbreak, it leaves you with something soft…a quiet reminder that redemption is always within reach.

⚠️ Content Note: A darker read with mature themes. Some parts were difficult for me, so I recommend checking content warnings depending on sensitivity.

[Nuri · Rating 5 out of 5]

JJ Samie Myles has done it again. This book had me laughing, gasping and, most important of all, practically sobbing. When I asked JJ if there was anything I needed to know before starting it, she said “it might rip your heart out.” I didn’t think she meant it literally. Aside from a rollercoaster of emotions (which I highly recommend you go on), JJ showed the character’s faith in God through their actions, words, and thoughts. They were real, gritty Christians, with doubts and struggles. They were imperfect, but trusting. You know how some people mention God twice in their book and call it a Christian book? Guys, JJ pulled out Greek words for a character to explain something to a different character. No spoilers :) And the moment you’ve been waiting for: the romance. Ledger Romero, the man that you are. 🤌🏻 that’s all I’m going to say.

If you enjoy gritty Christian faith, suspense and action, and yes, swoony clean romance, this book is for you.

This is a clean, no spice, no swearing, Christian, action packed book. Mentions of cursing every now and then. Heavy scenes (torture, malnourishment). HEA is assured!

*I received an ARC copy from the author. All opinions are my own.*

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐇 𝐖𝐈𝐒𝐇 𝐛𝐲 @jjsamiemyles -
Have you ever read a book and wrote a review for it and after you have no clue what you wrote because you were so emotional. Okay, so this DEATH WISH did that to me. Let me start at the beginning for those you haven’t read yet. Crimson Sands is book 1 the start of TASK FORCE SEAR with Dakota and Keith McCord then book 2 we have Rina Soto & Nik “Nikyboy” Te Koha with some every intense fighting the evil. Book 3 is Ledger Romero & Roxane Jaimes.

Book 3 is very powerful, gritty, intense and romantic suspense. Faith-filled. Redemption. All the things. Just when you think JJ can’t get any better with her books, she reminds you why God gave her this beautiful gift of writing. Ariel & Ledger’s brothers relationships beautiful throughout the series. Faith is definitely the theme in this book. JJ will always be a favorite author of mine due to her passion for Jesus.

Content warning: there is some darker themes in this book, a little more than books 1-2 but so worth it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are all my own.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow.

All of the SEAR team books have been intense but this one...blew me away.

Ledger is an amazing man. His steadfast faith in the face of unbelievable torture and circumstances was inspiring. I can only imagine having a faith like his...I hope I achieve it someday. (Hopefully without as many trials and horrers.) Still, he is definitely my favorite of the SEAR team now. I also love the relationship he has with Ariel, his brother. These two are such a dynamic pair. I absolutely love them and the growth both of them have made throughout this series is incredible! The two of them will definitely remain my favorites.

I also loved Rox. She is an incredibly strong character as well and I loved seeing her journey back to God throughout this novel. Seeing her find peace in her life and her love with Ledger was such a bright spark of hope in what was truly a grueling story.

I've said in every one of these books how raw, gritty and real JJ's stories are. This one is perhaps the hardest one so far to swallow. However, it will also, I think, go down as the most powerful for me.

Beware before you read, this is not an easy book or series. However, if you allow the light of Christ in these characters to find you in your heart...it really is an incredible read, worthy of 5 stars and more!

[Oruare Ojimadu · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am short of words!!!! Death Wish is a book that hits straight to the gut from the very first page. Mind-blowing, highly emotional and thrilling, Death Wish is a book about love, friendship, triumph over evil and God's presence and grace even at the darkest times in lives. Did I expect this? No but the message of love and God's unwavering grace is one that I will always remember.
Ledger and Rox's journey of love is one that is touching and heartfelt. Ledger's faith and walk with God is mind-blowing, in the midst of intense trial, he held steadfast and Rox came to understand God's true reflection as she saw a genuine relationship with God exemplified.
The SEAR team, that's an amazing bond, a family supporting and encouraging each other. JJ Samie Myles wrote a superb, excellent book and the way she crafted all the characters from all other books into this is awesome.
Death Wish is a suspense packed book, highly emotional and filled with lessons. Grab a tissue because your heart will be ripped out but in all God's grace is seen and the triumph of good over evil is always sure. I look forward to the next book in this series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been enjoying this series, and was happy to see another book coming out in the series.

It may be the best of the series so far, though there are some violent themes and torture in the book, and the author did something that emotionally wrecked me. If I had had a physical copy of the book in my hand, I may have thrown it across the room. It was that bad. Ugh.

But other than the gut wrenching "what was the author thinking?!" moment, the book was masterfully written. SEAR is a fictional team that has the primary goal of rescuing Christians from danger, mostly in other countries.

Death Wish is a wild ride from the USA to Columbia and back as at first Ledger and Roxanne battle evil on their own, and then get help from his team and others.

Ledger and Roxanne were great main characters, and very likable. Ledger especially was an excellent character, and his love for his brother and concern for his safety and spiritual condition were a highlight of the book.

The book had its share of bad guys, and I enjoyed seeing them get what was coming to them. And there was a surprise with one of them, which I will not give away.

Amid all of the danger and violence is the message of hope, and though I was kind of mad at the author for a certain thing, the book ended well with the message that God is always in control and is a comfort and help in grief.

Special thanks to the author for an advance e-book copy of this novel. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.

[Alissa Peppo (bookstagrambyalissamorgan) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Death Wish is the non-stop action-packed third installment of the Task Force SEAR romantic suspense series by JJ Samie Myles— and it does not disappoint! From action, to swoony romance, to deep faith filled moments— this story delivers a great read with emotional depth. I will warn you that this one has some stronger gritty content, but that’s what makes the story both riveting, believable, and deeply moving. JJ Samie Myles pushes the envelope of Christian romantic suspense to raise awareness of real persecution in this world, and the real grace and strength of Christ. Plus, Rox and Ledger are a fantastic pairing with plenty of romantic moments mixed in with survival! A five star read — in fact, the whole series is five stars! Don’t miss it!

I received a copy of this book in exchanged for an honest review. My thoughts are my own— I really did love it!

[Jenny x Carolena]

Death Wish is a wonderfully intriguing read that pulled me right down the rabbit hole of JJ Samie Myles's work — I first discovered this author through Taylor S. Newport and I'm so glad I did. Ledger and Rox's escape through the Colombian jungle is packed with realistic, vividly painted scenes full of adventure, thrills, and romance. The faith line running through the story is threaded in beautifully without ever feeling suffocating, which I appreciated even as someone who's usually more cautious around that. This author's talent really shines here — highly recommend for fans of high-stakes Christian romantic suspense.

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

[Tina Lowery · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!! Author JJ Samie Myles has done it again. Death Wish, Task Force Sear Book Three is so amazing, I am STILL trying to quiet my heart. Simply put, this is Ledger's and Rox's story. Let's just say IT BLEW MY MIND!! It's a slam dunk for people like me, those that crave action and suspense with a dash of romance tossed in. I started this book slowly, got hooked by the action immediately and then I just couldn't put it down!! I give this book, Death Wish, 5 out of 5 stars due to some amazing writing and a story that would not let me go!! Take a chance and grab this one up when it releases!!

[Allyson Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Death Wish is an emotional read, filled with banter, tense moments, action, twists and turns, and danger as Ledger and Rox must figure out to escape a cartel and survive in the jungles of Columbia. While Ledger has been a Christian for a while, Rox has a different view about Christianity at first because of her background. Her perspective and belief change during this story. Myles crafted another well-written read with faith elements in the SEAR series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Myra · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the first paragraph of the prologue to the last sentence this book holds the readers’ attention with hardly any room to take a breath. The plot twists and turns will keep your head on a swivel with Ledger and Rox as they traverse the dangers of an evil that prevails in the jungles of Columbia. Your faith will be challenged along with the them as you contemplate how your faith in a loving God would survive and/or grow in similar circumstances.
Absolutely a 10 on a 5-star scale.

[Ashley Severs · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me all in my feels!!! It’s so good and also heartbreaking. I cried during several scenes while reading. The characters faith in Jesus is absolutely incredible and inspiring! I would totally recommend to anybody who is interested in a Christian suspense. There’s a little romance through in but it’s written in a way that doesn’t overpower the suspense. Cannot wait for her to finish the last book to this series.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing!

JJ Samie Myles has become a must read author for me. I love this entire series and Death Wish did not disappoint! While the scenes themselves weren’t always pretty, this was such a beautiful story. Myles has an incredible way of weaving faith in her stories without being preachy, while also challenging you in your own faith journey.

I enjoyed the good guys in this book and there were some definite surprises that you won’t see coming. Can’t wait for the next book!

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic, action packed read!
Upon meeting Ledger earlier in the series I knew I would love him. And I was right. We see him grapplerise to be the hero in this book. He is steadfast and loyal to his core.
The suspense of him being trapped behind enemy lines had me completely riveted to the story. Magnetic chemestry between the two main characters *chef's kiss*
Highly recommend

[Oluwatobiloba Olubote · Rating 5 out of 5]

Death Wish was quite challenging and packed with action from the first page to the last. The turn of events was something I didn't expect at all but it is a good one. I shed tears in this book. JJ Samie Myles has released another blockbuster, and this is worth reading.
This book is highly recommended

[Mandy Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved it!!

JJ is a master of the romantic suspense genre. I couldn’t put it down. Absolutely loved the third installment in the Task Force SEAR series. Ledger and Rox’s story has to be my favourite in the series so far. If you’ve loved the other books in the series you won’t be disappointed! 10/10 recommend

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Don't know how to leave a review since this book broke me. Action, attraction, heart ache and laughter. Unexpected twists and turns kept me hanging on this wild ride. Author is queen of gritty Christian fiction and I'm here for it.

[Sandra Arbeni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivating

What a wonderful work of Christian fiction. It's the last book in a three book series.
It's a combination of thriller, adventure and romance.
I highly recommend it and you won't be disappointed.

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

If this book doesn’t jangle your nerves, check your pulse!

Death Wish is book three in JJ Samie Myles’ Task Force SEAR series, and as the title suggests, there’ll be no halt in breathless high-stakes action. You’ve been warned.

The main characters are an undercover CIA agent who has infiltrated the cartel and is posing as a nurse involved in organ trafficking and a former MARSOC sniper who needs to fake his death after making a cartel revenge list.

I was easily willing to trade chores for reading time because of this fresh and nerve-wracking examination of courage, which gave me a peek at the blueprint for how to face unexpected consequences in my faith journey. Myles examines the cost of fighting the cartel and shows us that every battle demands some sacrifice and faith. I couldn’t help but question if Ledger and Rox were willing to pay the price.

I’ll remember this book for (1) the ultimate showdown between faith, courage, evil, and might and (2) the encouragement to “focus on taking the next right step.”

I’m excited for Madden’s story in book 4.

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

[ChriseBee · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Task Force SEAR series is one of the best I've read for Christian romantic suspense. It's action-packed and filled with faith, banter, touching scenes, and frank conversations. I was really stoked to read an ARC of Death Wish because it was one of my most anticipated releases. I smiled, laughed, and cried (actually bawled at 2 a.m. and that doesn't happen often when reading). Death Wish exceeded my expectations. Again, JJ Samie Myles wrote a captivating story that reminded me that hope can exist in the darkest places.

JJ did a fantastic job of writing fictional strangers who feel so realistic, relatable, and admirable. I was deeply concerned for them as though they were my friends. I absolutely love the expansion of the found family trope in Death Wish. The SEAR team is accepting and supportive. They're not stingy with their love, respect, and protection. It's something that always feels comforting about them. Also, the banter and pranks are the best entertainment, strategically placed to give respite from the darkness of the story, but also still feel natural.

Ledger is a man who "walks his talk." As the layers of his past were pulled back, I appreciated him more. His steady faith, despite the hardships in his past and present, was amazing. I really liked Rox and related to her fears and struggles. Her unexpected connection with Ledger became a light in the darkness that surrounded her. Their romance developed gradually in a sweet way despite their horrific circumstances. The Bible verses, prayers, and discussions about faith through trials made this book so impactful.

There are some harsh realities that are not easy to handle, nor should they be: murder, kidnapping, torture, attacks, abuse, and more. These topics are addressed with care, presenting everything truthfully and respectfully without minimising the consequences. That's very important because these are real issues that affect many people.

[Words And Lore · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this book.

Former MARSOC Sniper
Infiltrating a Cartel
Savage Banter
Brotherhood

My Thoughts:
Wow. I adore this series and this book is no exception. It's exciting, it has powerful messages of faith and moving demonstrates of faith and courage and love. Ledger has always stood out to me with his bold faith and laid back attitude so seeing his forever love story was awesome. The bobds between the characters is understandably strong given all they endure together and this book definitely puts them to the test.
It will break your heart and put you back together all while reminding you of the character and power of God.

Content Notes: This is a heavy read. There is abuse, violence, death, and rather brutal bodily injury. Prominent faith themes. No language. Non-descriptive fade to black.

Some quotes I liked:
“If we get married, he won’t be in our bed. Just want to put that out there.”

Ledger inhaled a lung-full of musty air and closed his eyes. Lord, the darkness is closing in. Keep my head above water. Be my strength.

"I might not understand why, but if He asked whether I still trust Him, whether I still believe that He’s good, my answer would be yes. I need to pick up my cross and follow Him, no matter what. Every single day.”

“You’re right, the biblical marriage is the only one I do. And it does say that the husband is the head of the wife, and that she submits to him as she does to the Lord. But it also says that husbands ought to love their wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her.” His gaze intensified. “My job is to go to the cross for you, Rox. You have my word that I will.”

[Inspirationalfictionreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every time I think JJ Samie Myles can’t possibly top herself, she does. Again. I absolutely loved this book. Ledger is everything you want in a hero. He is strong, loyal, completely swoon-worthy, and full of unending faith. He and Rox together are pure perfection.

I’ve loved Ariel and Ledger since book one, and getting more of their relationship, history, and sibling dynamic was everything I hoped for. And as always, the faith thread was woven in so beautifully. It is thought-provoking, meaningful, and quote-worthy. I highlighted so much.

The team is one of my favorite parts of this series. The camaraderie, the banter, and the humor balance the intense action perfectly. The pacing is spot on, the suspense kept me glued to the pages, and the characters are so well written you can’t help but root for every single one of them.

And yes… I cried. There are some truly emotional moments in this book, and they hit hard because the writing is so powerful. You don’t just read what the characters are feeling, you feel it with them.

The more I read about this team, the more I love them. I cannot wait for the next book in the series! Honestly, for anything Ms. Myles writes. This is officially my favorite book in the series, which I didn’t think was possible after Elusive Evil.

If you love romantic suspense, stop what you’re doing and read JJ Samie Myles. You will not regret it.

Do. Not. Miss. This. Series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I also purchased this book. The faith thread is prominent throughout. All. The. Stars!!!

[MyWeekendIsBooked7 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. So many emotions. I laughed and cried several times throughout this book. It is amazing, and devastating! JJ Samie Myles sure knows how to make you fall in love with her characters. Ledger and Rox have a rough time as they try to escape the Sombra cartel. Ledger's faith in God keeps him strong through some really rough times. Rox is pushed far to and slowly relies more on God throughout the books. Their relationship was SO good! JJ is the queen of epic banter! I recommend bracing yourself, grabbing some tissues, and a box of chocolates before starting this wild ride. You'll love it, but you will probably cry too.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.