Calculated Risk

Black Tower Security #5

by Tara Grace Ericson

She trusts the numbers. He trusts no one. Now their second chance could cost them everything.

Norah Winslow built her life on precision and loyalty. As a senior analyst at Summit Capital, she believes numbers never lie—until her findings point to corruption tied to the highest levels of power. Determined to protect the mentor who gave her a career, Norah refuses to walk away… even when it makes her a target.

Marshall Kelley hasn’t forgiven the woman who broke his heart. As a Black Tower Security operative, he lives by one keep control. But when Norah’s digging puts her in the Syndicate’s crosshairs, Marshall can’t let her face the danger alone.

Drawn into a web of betrayal, war profiteering, and deadly secrets, Norah and Marshall must work together to expose the truth. But old wounds, unhealed faith, and an unseen enemy threaten to tear them apart.

Can they risk trusting each other—and God—for a love strong enough to survive the fight?

Genres: Suspense, Contemporary, Fiction, Romance

323 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 12, 2026

About the author

Tara Grace Ericson

faith, hope, and happily ever after

Tara writes small-town, contemporary Christian romance. She loves stories of modern-day characters struggling to obey God, forgive others, and accept themselves - oh, and finding their happily-ever-after along the way.

She lives in Southwest Missouri with her husband and two sons, writing full-time, in between chasing a two toddlers!

Get a free e-book by signing up for Tara's newsletter at her website!

Follow on instagram: www.instagram.com/taraericsonauthor
Follow on facebook:
www.facebook.com/taraericsonauthor

Reviews

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 5 in the Black Tower Security series is a fantastic suspense, filled with second chances, corrupt business dealings, and Russian mafia.

Marshall Kelley finally gets a second chance with Norah Winslow and he’s not walking away this time. The two learn to work together to expose the truth and, in doing so, realize that a second chance with each other is worth the risk. Both have matured in the past 15 years, and it was beautiful seeing them learn to trust each other. It was good to be reminded that true love is worth the wait!

Marshall was a wonderful character. His refusal to let evil steal his happiness and his willingness to let go of his tendency to control was inspiring. I could relate to Norah and her hesitancy to trust and her tendency to withdraw.

I’ll remember this book for (1) the reminder that God wins in the end and that the victory has already been won and (2) a swoony male character who is so open about his faith.

Ready for book six!

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished this ARC by @taraericsonauthor that comes out January 12, same day as another book bestie releases by Kendra Warden. Let tell you, you really want to get this book. You still have time to preorder it before January 12, MONDAY.

This is the 5th book in Black Tower Security series by Tara, it features Norah & Marshall. For Norah the numbers don’t lie. Norah pushed Marshall away and told him to leave all these years ago when he joined the military. Now fast forward years later, she finds herself in a situation where there is discrepancies in the numbers she runs at work. Things aren’t right but Marshall is sent in to protect her from the evils even BTS can’t pinpoint. Syndicate is still in play, there is murder, suspense and lots of danger. Can Norah and Marshall rekindle their relationship after all these years?

I love every single book by @taraericsonauthor and will continue to read every single book by her.

I receive a complimentary copy and all thoughts and opinions are all my

[Bernadette Cinkoske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Calculated Risk is a faith-filled, edge-of-your-seat, second chance, suspenseful romance! Norah and Marshall may break your heart as Nora increasingly risks her life tracking the numbers behind her companies latest acquisition. She is warned off the hunt, but as the numbers change practically before her eyes, Norah is determined to get to the truth. Marshall is equally determined to protect her despite her sending him away fifteen years ago. With financial shenanigans, corrupt politicians, a Russian assassin, and more than a few plot twists, you will not want to put this down so start reading much earlier in the evening than I did! It is 323 pages so plan accordingly. Ms. Ericson delivers an emotional, faith-filled thriller with believable characters and Norah's cat Cleo.

[Laura Bowman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series, Black Tower Security by Tara Grace Ericson. I just finished Calculated Risk, the fifth book in the series.

Black Tower operative Jackson Kelley is to investigate Summit Capital where his ex girlfriend Norah Winslow works. It’s been fifteen years since the break up which wasn’t amicable.

Tara knows how to keep you holding your breath in anticipation. Her characters are well developed. You will keep vacillating between frustration at their actions and rooting for them. You can’t miss reading calculated Risk and the rest of the series. I’m anxiously waiting the next book.

I received this book from the publisher and was not required to leave a review. The opinion is my own.

[Michaela (Reading in the Heartland) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this no spice Christian romantic suspense! It’s my favorite of the series! Now, this is a saga series, even though each book focuses on a different couple, and you’ll want to read it in order.

This second chance romance between a veteran and his high school sweetheart had high stakes, political intrigue, spreadsheets and numbers, family, faith, and so much more.

I loved seeing this team and getting more pieces to this political intrigue saga mystery. I do wish we saw more of the significant others from the previous books. I wish the next book was out so I could read it right now! The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 3.

TW: Murder, Language: 1 instance

[Cathy R Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Norah considers numbers the one thing she can rely on and that will never let her down. So when she uncovers an anomaly in some data she's assessing, it raises red flags she refuses to let go. Even when her boss tries to convince her it's nothing serious and the man who walked away from her years earlier reenters her life to warn her of the danger she's courting in investigating. Marshall has always regretted leaving when Norah told him to, but he's tried to get over her - and thought he was succeeding until the investigation into the Syndicate comes across her in a dangerous position. Can Marshall keep her safe when she refuses to step back? And is this a second chance or a final goodbye?

A great read with the perfect mix of action and downtime for character growth and relationship development. It's been a while since I read the previous books, so I appreciated the brief summary at the start. The romance here is a complete standalone story, but it's part of the overall series arc in terms of the fight against the Syndicate. I really enjoyed getting to know both Norah and Marshall, and seeing them get a second chance - and ultimately make good use of it. The book kept me turning pages eagerly, and I was sorry to see it finish, though really looking forward to Jackson's story after the hints in the epilogue. The one minor quibble I had was that the Syndicate seemed to give up on Norah a bit too easily - but I guess the alternative has her constantly on edge, so I'll take it. All in all, an enjoyable addition to a great series. Recommended.

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

[Tina Lowery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tara Grace Ericson's penned tale, Calculated Risk, truly sent my heart on a course destined to meet with every emotion under the sun! Marshall Kelley and Norah Winslow were too young to fight for the love they had when they walked away. As young adults, they took two very different paths towards the calling of their hearts and dreams. During this story, their accidental reconnection might have been a blessing, except for the the aura of danger thrumming throughout each incident that occurs.

Defensively, Norah tries to brush away the truth as to what's happening around her, while Marshall is doing everything that he can to ensure her safety. Each step they take brings them to a comfortable truth that all is not as it seems and that their love never faded away. Marshall and his team seek ways to protect American Interests abroad, as well as those on American Soil. Throughout it all, even Norah is beginning to realize everything not as neat and tidy as it should be within her company's culture.

Throughout this action-packed story, I and wrong in the culture of our society and that of an unconventional family, built by friends who believe in the bones of love, commitment and truth. It has the backbone of American freedom secured by those who lived and died for our Country, fighting injustice here or abroad. I give this novel a 5 out of 5 stars for its danger, compassion, and faith of the team of Black Tower Security, as well as the reality it serves to protect its clients and America as a whole.

[Angeline · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Oh my goodness, this book was so exciting! I was on the edge of my seat, I didn't know what was going to happen or how the book would end. Calculated Risk is the fifth book in Tara Grace Ericson’s Black Tower Security series.
I loved both Marshall and Norah! They were both fighting for what they believed was right and they were definitely struggling to make sense of everything. They had history and it was hard to move forward. I loved the growth of both Norah and Marshall. They were challenged to learn to trust God again and trust each other. Their relationship felt real. I love the inspirational themes woven into the book.
Marshall was calm but he had to learn that he couldn't be in control of everything. It was sweet to see him fighting for Norah. Norah was a bit complicated and harder to understand, but she grew on me. I loved how she fit Marshall perfectly. Numbers made sense to her but she also strived to do the right thing.
The book was so engaging and I didn’t want to put it down. Ahhh, I need the next book! There are so many questions that need to be answered. I would totally recommend this book! But be warned, you aren’t going to want to put it down. Calculated Risk is a clean Christian romantic suspense.

Book Highlights:
He protects her
She loves numbers
Second chance romance
Fake relationship
Family
Forgiveness
Learning to trust God

I received a complimentary copy

[Sonya Wasden · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fast-paced, suspenseful story with a happy ending.

Norah and Marshall had been sweethearts until he left to join the military. Now, many years later, Marshall is part of the Black Tower Security operative who is fighting against a tightly woven dark force called the Syndicate. The Syndicate has its talons in all levels of government and the private sector. Norah is a successful and highly valued analyst at Summit Capital. When she discovers what she believes to be possible signs of corruption, she becomes a target for the Syndicate. Marshall is determined to protect her without involving his heart. But the heart knows what it wants and right now his heart wants Norah, or at least to keep her safe.

This story has murder and intrigue, evil disguised as good and secrets and dangers around every corner. Norah doesn't know who to trust anymore. But Marshall has never lied to her. Can she trust him?

My heart was pounding and racing with every turn of this story. I lost several hours of sleep wanting to read to the next chapter before going to bed. The story doesn't have foul language and while there is evil, the story offers love and faith to those who believe good can win over evil.

I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.

[Gretchen Garrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The air between them thickened. She was already calculating whether to listen to him. He could see the notes moving behind her eyes—risk, reward, proof, panic—clicking into place. He could tell she was going to refuse. And then she would do what he said anyway. He could live with that."

Norah knows numbers. So when some calculations do not add up for one of her company's clients, she makes note of it. Instead of being praised, she finds herself being silenced for trying to do the right thing.

Marshall regrets how his relationship with Norah ended when he was in the military but has survived life without her. When it becomes clear that her life is in danger, he has to step into help. As a part of Black Tower Security, he knows what is really going on. Norah might not survive without him, and he may not make it without her.

While the author does provide an introductory summary, this book is a part of a sequential series. I highly recommend reading them all in order. I have enjoyed the books. The characters are compelling, the plot is unpredictable and good is trying to overcome evil. I can't wait to read the final book in the series!

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

[Kitty Elder · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have been reading this series in order, I know you are eager to read Marshall’s story. But if you have picked up this book before the others it’s ok, the author gives a quick recap of the earlier books at the beginning of this one so you won’t be lost.
The author describes herself as writing closed door books...but in this case there’s no sex on or off the page. There is also no profanity.
What the book does contain is lots of heart pounding action, a plot twist or two, a second chance romance, and the rediscovering of faith.
While this isn’t considered a cozy mystery, we do get to meet Norah’s cat Cleo. That’s close enough to an animal sidekick in my book. Especially since I have a cat named Cleo.
I was fortunate to pick this book up when I had a lot of reading time, because once I started it, I didn’t want to stop, even for meals. And yes, I stayed up too late so I could finish it. There’s both a regular epilogue, and a bonus epilogue, to satisfy you with the ending of this book and to keep your appetite whetted for the next book in the Black Tower Security series.

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a great mix of second chance romance and intriguing suspense. Nora and Marshal were once sweethearts until he enlisted in the military. Now she is an analyst who had discovered signs of corruption. Her discovery puts her in danger from the Syndicate, a criminal enterprise that seems to have infiltrated multiple sectors of government and private sector companies. Marshal, now a security specialist with Black Tower Security has been sent to protect her. The tension between them is palpable and the unresolved feelings between them threaten to explode. When it comes right down to it, neither could forget the other, and their hearts still want the other. As they investigate, they are forced to confront not only the Syndicate and its secrets, but also their own fears, doubts and chaotic feelings.

This book was hard to put down. It kept me on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t help but become invested in Nora and Marshal’s second chance at love. Both are dedicated to the jobs, rather stubborn and wary of love, but finally they are ready to open their hearts to love and each other again. This book has my wholehearted recommendation.

[Jessica Baker (A Baker's Perspective) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars!!

I just love the way Ericson writes. Her heroes are swoony, her heroines are delightful, and the action/suspense always keeps me on my toes. Calculated Risk is one of my favorites thanks to swoony Marshall! Ok that's not true. Norah had something to do with it as well lol.

Their chemistry is so good. On every. single. page. But what truly got me was the suspense of it all, and how Ericson once again weaves in a faith thread that touches me deeply, and at a time when I really needed it.

If you haven't jumped on the Tara Grace Ericson bandwagon then what are you even doing!? I highly recommend reading the series in order - but if you started here she writes in a way that you won't feel lost. You'll only feel regret because you missed out on the first four books. ha! In all seriousness, I do thing if you're a fan of romantic suspense with a strong faith thread, then this book (and series) is for you!

I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a favorable review.

[Ali · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can I just saw wow? This one was action packed and full of secrets. I have read the others in the series and it gets better with each book. This one does end in a cliffhanger .
This one is a second chance/rekindled love .
Norah and marshal were together when they were younger and he left for the military and she couldn’t handle the pressure so they ended things . They never stopped loving each other though
Marshall now works for black tower security and the company Norah works for is tied up in a problem they are trying to solve . She is an analyst and finds something she was not suppose to .
Marshall is working undercover to find the trail that leads to the syndicate they are trying to stop but it is run by very powerful people .
Norah agrees to help them but at what cost ?
This book definitely keeps you on your toes and thinking about who could be next .
BTS now has a mole and they need to find out who before it is too late .

[Brittany Searfoss · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so glad that I went back and read the prequel and the first two books in the series before reading this one because it helped me understand everything that was going on behind the scenes so much more than before, when I had only read books three and four. I highly recommend reading the series in order for the most enjoyable reading experience.
This book was so good and full of unexpected twists that I couldn’t put it down. I did find myself becoming frustrated with Norah a few times because she put herself in danger by not trusting Marshall as much as she should have. Marshall was amazing in his dedication to fighting the enemy and in protecting Norah. The ending was a cliffhanger that left me wanting 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.

[Lori R · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a book I could not put down. I really like this series and could not wait to find out what was next for Black Tower Security and the Syndicate. The author did not disappoint me. She held my interest throughout the book and had my heart pounding at times too. I enjoyed the friction and chemistry between Marshall and Norah, who had not seen each other in fifteen years when they each broke the other's heart. I liked that behind their hurt over the past there were real feelings hiding and trying to come out.

The book was fast paced and very interesting. I am so glad there are more books to come so I can find out what happens next. I received an advance copy of this book, and I willingly chose to write an honest review.

[Heather Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

CAUTION:

IF YOU START READING THIS BOOK, YOU WILL NOT WANT TO PUT IT DOWN UNTIL YOU ARE FINISHED!!! And you will be immediately looking to see when the next book will be releasing!

Whew!😥 Marshall and Norah's story will blow you away! Their past, the tension in their present, their fierce determination to keep up the walls of protection around themselves and their buried love for each other will have you feeling all the feels right along with them. Throw in their integrity, loyalty, conviction, and bravery, and you've got one hot mess of a situation happening!

So good, and again, I promise that the action and suspense will keep you on the edge-of-your-seat! You're going to LOVE this book!

[Tazzy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marshall and Norah's story does not disappoint. This is filled with action, suspense, great character growth and a faith thread throughout. I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next one.

This is part of a series and the author has kindly provided a short summary in the beginning of the book, which really helps refresh your memory. It is best read in series order as there is an overarching mystery thread through the series, however you could read the book as a standalone if you really wanted to. Let's be frank though, you want to read the entire series!

*I received an advanced readers copy of the ebook which I am voluntarily reviewing. All opinions are my own.

[Natalya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Calculated Risk by Tara Grace Ericson felt like it was written for me from the very first page. As someone who genuinely believes, “To everyone who likes numbers more than people - you’re not broken and math is awesome,” this story was totally my story from the beginning. The author blends clean romance, gentle suspense, and authentic character growth with a touch of faith that feels genuine and hopeful. The characters are relatable, the chemistry is sweet, and the emotional arcs are handled with warmth. It’s a comforting, uplifting read that celebrates both the logical mind and the tender heart - showing that sometimes the biggest risks lead to the most beautiful rewards.

[MaryEllen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given.

They broke up years ago but never stopped loving each other. Even though their hearts were broken.
He's sent in to investigate shady dealings. The very ones she noticed. They are both dropped into some serious intrigue, where loyalty is tested and lives are on the line.

This story was intense in short enough bursts to not overwhelm even though the action was prolonged. While we're left biting our nails to see how the overall story ends, we do see a happy reunion for the two main characters.

[Dora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Norah broke his heart years ago when she thought she was doing what was best for both of them. Now she has to trust him to keep her safe and decide if she can also trust him again with her heart. Marshall doesn’t want Norah to get herself involved in this investigation but he knows that she won’t rest until she helps expose the corruption she is seeing in the numbers. She may have broken his heart but he is still going to make sure she is kept safe. Neither are expecting to get a second chance at love together.

[Nati · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can Norah really trust the man that broke her heart and leave her behind fifteen years ago? The more she digs into the numbers for a company her boss might want to buy, the she realise that, as always, numbers never lie. But is it with risking her life when bigger issues are at stake that not only her security? Marshall left once but now he is ready to fight for Norah and save her only if she is able to trust him and God to do so. Fast paced, lots of danger and a second chance at love with lots of faith.

[Mary Jane McLeod · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really Great Series

This series is so good. I really enjoyed visiting with the characters of Blackwater Security again and absolutely loved Norah and Marshall's story. These two are so meant to be together. They separated 15 years ago and are brought back together in the middle of an investigation. Their story is full of suspense, danger and intrigue as well as love. It captivates and has you pulling for things to come together for them. I anxiously await the next book in the series.

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romantic suspense is not my go-to genre because I don’t generally enjoy scary or violent books. This book featured a very appealing second chance romance between Norah and Marshall and it was enough to keep me reading during some of the tense moments that the characters faced. Once I got into the story, it was unputdownable. So good! There was a tease of the next book in a bonus epilogue and now I can’t wait for Jackson’s story. I received a complimentary copy of the book. All opinions expressed in this review are strictly my own.

[Sandra Hartzel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had an ARC for this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Norah Winslow is a senior analyst who finds a discrepancy pointing to corruption. Once reported the discrepancy disappears, but she continues to dig. Marshall Kelley had dated her when he was younger but she told him to leave. Now he wants to protect her from her boss and the syndicate. They must work together to and are drawn into a web of betrayal, profiteering and deadly secrets. They must learn to trust God and each other and make the right choices. This book is a thrilling addition to this series.

[Grumpy74rwgmail.Com · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story full of suspense, adventure, drama and danger. Black Tower Security is working hard to protect the president and discover all the treacherous characters that are involved. Norah accidentally comes across information during her work as an analyst that proves the corruption taking place. Marshall is doing his best to protect Norah when he realizes what she has uncovered. Don’t miss out on this great story.

[Denice · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fabulous story that had me completely intrigued from the beginning, the suspense is incredible. I didn’t want to put it down; the stakes were so high, I just had to know what was going to happen. I loved the characters, Marshall who was so protective, Norah who was smart but a little too smart for her own good. There were twists and turns I didn’t expect. I loved the faith aspects of the story. A book that I highly recommend, but it is best read in order. Fabulous read!

[Lyn Herbohn · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a ride!

This is a must-read book! Marshall and Norah had history they both needed to work through. Their personal story was woven into the danger, action and twists this book was full of. They had to learn to lean on God while trying to navigate problems at Norah’s work, a mole, and the Syndicate’s growing web of evil. Be warned: once you pick this book up, you won’t want to put it down.

[Lucia Valenzuela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. Marshall refuses to leave Nora in danger, even though she pushes him away again. “Numbers don’t lie.” Unfortunately people do. Nora learns this in a devastating manner. I loved these characters and how they still loved each other despite everything. Great story and I can’t wait for Jackson’s story.
I received this book from the author and this is my voluntary, honest review.

[Erralee Hendrian · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finally finished and really liked this story. There is not any humor really but there is definitely suspense, danger, romance, and mystery. Let just say that finding something can have a bigger effect than expected; Norah is in that situation never expecting to have her life change just for doing her job and trying to make all the numbers work. Lots of twists and turns along with a few surprises. This book can get intense and still stays in Christian genre. Well written story.