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Luke Steele #3

Silent Strike

Not yet published
Expected 1 Sep 26

Win a free print copy of this book!

19 days and 18:28:21

3 copies available
U.S. only
Rate this book
In the heart of Washington, one deadly secret could topple the presidency and ignite a national crisis.

Captain Luke Steele knows the corridors of power can be as perilous as any battlefield. As a military aide to the president, he carries the nuclear codes and stands at the center of America's most closely guarded secrets. But when whispers of betrayal swirl inside the White House, Luke is drawn into a web of political corruption and hidden agendas that threaten not just the presidency but the stability of the entire nation too.

FBI agent Amberlyn Reiner never expected her late grandmother to leave behind more than keepsakes. But on Christmas Eve, Amberlyn receives an unmarked box containing her grandmother's jewelry from Eastern Europe, coded documents, and obituaries linking to a string of suspicious deaths. As Amberlyn digs deeper, she uncovers whispers of Cold War poisons, vanished operatives, and secrets someone will kill to bury. What her grandmother knew connects directly to a network that didn't die with the fall of the Iron Curtain.

Together, Luke and Amberlyn must follow a trail of hidden alliances stretching from the highest offices in Washington to the quiet streets of Europe. With time running out and enemies embedded within their own government, the two are thrust into a deadly game, where one misstep could cost them their lives--and ignite an international crisis.

304 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication September 1, 2026

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About the author

Traci Hunter Abramson

68 books2,031 followers
Traci Hunter Abramson was born in Arizona, where she lived until moving to Venezuela for a study-abroad program. After graduating from Brigham Young University, she worked for the Central Intelligence Agency for several years, eventually resigning in order to raise her family. She credits the CIA with giving her a wealth of ideas as well as the skills needed to survive her children's teenage years. She is a eight-time Whitney Award winner and has written more than forty bestselling novels. For more information about Traci, click here: https://linktr.ee/traciabramson


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5 stars
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8 (38%)
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3 (14%)
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
Profile Image for PamG.
1,406 reviews1,150 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
August 10, 2026
This exciting political thriller with a romance subplot kept me reading to the end. Silent Strike by Traci Hunter Abramson is the third book in the Luke Steel series. It features Steele, a marine captain and military aide to President Frazier as well as Amberlyn Reiner, an FBI special agent with one of the FBI’s behavioral analysis units. On Christmas Eve, Amberlyn receives an unmarked box containing her recently deceased grandmother’s jewelry from Eastern Europe along with documents and obituaries linking a string of suspicious deaths. As Amberlyn investigates, Luke helps, and they’re drawn into the world of hidden agendas and spies that threaten the stability of the entire nation.

Luke has a dry sense of humor, listens when others need to talk things out, has a fierce sense of loyalty, and is caring and patriotic. He’s also analytical, protective, duty-bound, and has a high degree of integrity. However, he feels he’s not worthy of notice and can be hard to read. Amberlyn is smart, kind, and insightful. She’s also resourceful, collaborative, and resilient. The antagonist is ambitious, ruthless, and manipulative. Their characterization, along with that of the secondary characters, is excellent.

The novel starts with an intriguing prologue and continues with investigations, suspense, and action. The author does a great job building suspense until it culminates in an action-packed ending. Readers get insight into events and operations in the White House as well as both Luke’s and Amberlyn’s jobs. A large part of this novel is the investigation and its discoveries. Readers know in the prologue who the main antagonist is, but that doesn’t deter from the reading experience. Fast pacing, intense physical stakes, a sweet slow-burn romance, and the inclusion of Cold War-era secrets, family history, and documents added another layer of depth to the story. Additionally, this book weaves in White House protocols and military duties with authenticity.

Overall, this excellent political thriller with a touch of romance was full of mystery, suspense, and action. I can’t wait to read more of this author’s backlist of novels. She is a superb storyteller who kept me on the edge of my seat with gripping scenes and a twisty plot. It was a riveting story full of drama, action, and interesting characters, with suspenseful moments that made it an enthralling read. The trilogy works best if read in order. This will help them understand the relationship dynamics and previous character growth. My one disappointment is that this seems to be the end of this series.

Shadow Mountain Publishing and Traci Hunter Abramson provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for September 1, 2026.
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My 4.63 rounded to 5 stars review is coming soon.
Profile Image for Jo|Ruth Reads.
842 reviews93 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 24, 2026
This was a definite page turner! I was so happy to be back with Luke and Amberlyn, waiting impatiently to see what the next step in their relationship would be and what kind of trouble these two would find themselves in again!

Amberlyn believes she is just receiving her late grandmother's belongings, but what she uncovers isn't what she was expecting. As she and Luke dig deeper into her grandmother's things, they begin to wonder if they're connected to the chain of deaths happening around them. When they become the next targets, they have to uncover who is behind it all, and fast.

As the danger closes in, the two not only have to uncover the truth behind the crimes but also the truth behind what they feel for each other.

This was a page turner for sure. As a romance reader, it felt less like a romance since Luke and Amberlyn's relationship is a continuation of one we were already familiar with. Instead, it leaned more into the thriller, mystery and suspense side, but truthfully, it kept me engaged, and that's saying something!

I'm curious what's next. The discussion questions in the back asked who we'd want a story from next, and part of me thinks Ian. His behavior was questionable enough that he'd make an interesting choice for a spin off series. But we'll see! I'm also excited to see what's next for Amberlyn and Luke. I can't wait!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. This review reflects my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Carissa.
451 reviews5 followers
August 7, 2026
Another great installment to the Luke Steele series! I think this one might be my favorite so far!

Luke and Amberlyn do not live a quiet, peaceful life, certainly not in their line of work. But after just coming off a high profile case, both are hoping to settle in for the holidays and get a little rest. Along with exploring where their relationship is heading. But, an unusual package from her grandmother has Amberlyn investigating yet another potential case… one that involves lots of secrets, poison, and a bunch of murders. But what connection do these have with her family? Is she reading into something that isn’t there? One pink box spirals into a massive investigation where danger lurks behind every corner.

I really liked this story! It was fast paced and kept you on the edge of your seat. The plot flowed smoothly and was engaging. I liked getting a little more background into Amberlyn and her family-there were some interesting surprises along the way. Luke and Amberlyn’s relationship progresses some more in this book too which I loved and of course seeing them work together was awesome. They make a really great team! Thoroughly enjoyed this one.

I received an advanced copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Kaylee  M..
4 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
May 13, 2026
First off, a huge thank you to NetGalley and Traci Abramson for the ARC of Silent Strike! I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to read this book early.

This story hooked me right away with the suspense, action, and emotional moments woven throughout. I had such a hard time putting this one down because every chapter made me want to keep reading just one more. I loved that it wasn’t just fast-paced and thrilling, but also had characters you could truly connect with and care about.

Traci Abramson did such a great job balancing tension, heart, and meaningful relationships in a way that made the story feel both exciting and genuine. The military and suspense elements felt exciting and authentic without being overwhelming, and the twists kept me fully invested the whole time. This was exactly the kind of suspense read I enjoy.

If you enjoy suspense, military themes, mystery, and strong character-driven stories, I definitely recommend checking out Silent Strike!

Such a captivating and enjoyable read — I finished this book wanting more and I’m excited to read more from Traci Abramson in the future! 📚✨
Profile Image for Sheri.
394 reviews25 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
June 23, 2026
“Silent Strike” by Traci Hunter Abramson is the 3rd novel in the Luke Steele series. It can easily stand alone, but I guarantee it will have you racing back to read books 1 and 2!

A military aid who is responsible for carrying the nuclear codes, and a female FBI agent partner together again to locate a Russian mole in the highest echelons of the US government. The FBI agent receives an unexpected package from her recently deceased grandmother containing the obituaries of unknown people, never seen before photos, and unusual jewelry containing a stone found only in one place in Eastern Europe. As she begins to try and understand the meaning of the package, which is connected to a string of murders possibly caused by a Cold War Russian poison, she and Luke become targets of some very powerful forces determined to eliminate them. They are thrust into a deadly cat and mouse game that has the potential to start an international crisis.

This is a super suspenseful, exciting, and fast paced read that had me wanting more…..I can’t wait for the next book! 4.5 solid stars!

Thank you NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
94 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
July 7, 2026
Luke Steele and Amberlyn Reiner find themselves in the cross-hairs again. They are both trying to get back into regular life and seeing where dating will take them. But then Amberlyn gets a mysterious package from her Grandmother, who recently passed away. Inside she finds jewelry, obituaries, articles about Russian prisoners, and a note about TX89. The more they dig into what it all could mean, the more danger they seem to be in. After Amberlyn's car is tampered with, a vehicle targets Luke after picking him up, Amberlyn shoots someone breaking into Luke's apartment, and another FBI agent is shot in a targeted drive by, Luke and Amberlyn have to face the facts that someone wants them dead. Trying to find out who will lead them to a mystery from the Cold War.

I don't know how Traci Hunter Abramson does it, but I get sucked into every story. There is just something comforting about her books, which is weird to say because there is a lot of death going on. Enjoyed it. Thank you Netgalley for the ARC of this book.
Profile Image for Mike.
1,516 reviews95 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
August 6, 2026
A slow-burn thriller, Silent Strike (2026) by Traci Hunter Abramson has an irksome element of two characters’ personal and professional relationship. Marine Captain Luke Steele is a military aide to the President of the United States of America and is hoping for a closer relationship with FBI Special Agent Amberlyn Reiner. Upon Amberlyn’s grandmother’s death, she discovers a cache of documents regarding several seemingly unconnected deaths. As she investigates, she informs Luke, and they combine resources to seek the truth. After a series of life-threatening incidents and a break-in, they realise a killer is using a Cold War poison that links back to a CIA team in 1991 Germany. This is a somewhat benign tale, with an unnecessary romantic element, and is a standalone review, given no prior knowledge of the series. Overall, its explosive finale earns it a three-star rating. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own, freely given and without any inducement.
Profile Image for Tamara.
925 reviews11 followers
July 3, 2026
FBI agent Ambelyn Reiner never expected her late grandmother to leave behind more than keepsakes. But on Christmas Eve, Amberlyn receives an unmarked box containing her grandmother's jewelry from Eastern Europe, coded documents, and obituaries linking to a string of suspicious deaths. As Amberlyn digs deeper, she uncovers whispers of Cold War poisons someone will kill to bury. What her grandmother knew connects directly to a network that didn’t die with the fall of the Iron Curtain.

As usual, a fast-paced, action-filled book with Luke and Amberlyn kept me occupied, to say the least. I really enjoyed this and look forward to more from the Luke Steele series, which is quickly becoming a favourite of mine!

My gratitude to Netgalley and Shadow Mountain. All opinions expressed are mine and honest.
Profile Image for Marilee .
1,602 reviews239 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 16, 2026
OH.MY.WORD!! This series just keeps getting better and better!!! Just when I thought the stakes couldn’t get any higher…

This is the third book in a connected series featuring military aide Luke Steel and FBI agent Amberlyn Reiner. It is a fantastic blend of suspense, high-level political intrigue, and a super sweet romance! I was on the edge of my seat with every page! Yes, this story kept me up way past my bedtime, but I have absolutely no regrets - I couldn't put it down until every secret was revealed! I am already counting down the days until the next installment!!

10/10 stars, highly recommend this entire series!

I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.




Profile Image for Shauna Jones.
812 reviews18 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
April 21, 2026
I could not put down this book
This book grabs you from the start and doesn’t let you go. Everything seems to be going well with Luke, a military aide, and Amberlyn, an FBI agent, their relationship is deepening in spite of the requirements of their jobs. Then a surprise package arrives addressed to Amberlyn containing jewelry, obituaries, and notes from her grandmother who she had lost months ago. As she begins to search for the meaning of the package, she and Luke quickly become someone’s targets and neither knows why. A fast-paced book that will keep you wanting to read just a little bit more. Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the copy. This is my review and all thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Emily.
397 reviews117 followers
May 26, 2026
(I received a complimentary copy of this title from NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.)

Traci Hunter Abramson is one of my favorite suspense authors, and I’ve been wanting to pick up the Luke Steele series for a while. When I got the opportunity to read an arc of this third book in the series, I couldn’t pass it up. It took me a minute to catch up since I hadn’t read the previous books of the series, but WOW. I loved this book so much!

The political backdrop, the suspense, the high stakes, the twists and turns. This book was truly everything that I love in a romantic suspense book.

I immediately borrowed the first two books from my library, and I’m so excited to read them soon!

If you love romantic suspense and/or political thrillers with no language or spice, this series is for you!

Highly recommend!
Profile Image for Maureen Timerman.
3,311 reviews498 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
June 26, 2026
This is the third book in this series, but it can be read alone!
A read that will keep you riveted to page turning, yes, you will need answers, and they do come, but what a journey!
The author does a wonderful job of keeping your attention, this book is full of action, and the story could come from the headlines!
There is evil in this world, no regard for human life, greed, hate for America, and the culprit in this read shines with all of them!
I loved how the President acted towards Luke and Amberlyn, but wonder what is up with Ian?
I am looking forward to more of these fast pace reads, and keeping up with this couple!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Shadow Mountain, and was not required to give a positive review.
Profile Image for Kristen.
217 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
May 24, 2026
Silent Strike is the 3rd book in a series, but can be read alone because each book is a contained action story. Luke and Amberlyn are federal employees who are also romantically involved. Silent Strike is about a deep cover Russian spy who has worked her way to a US presidential cabinet nomination. A surprise gift to Amberlyn from her deceased grandmother starts the duo investigating a string of deaths and that leads to attacks on them as well. The book is filled with suspense, a sweet romance and a good guys get their man kind of theme. It was an enjoyable read for anyone who likes spy novels with a clean love story.

I received a free advance reader copy. All opinions are my own.
414 reviews21 followers
June 29, 2026
Another awesome and suspenseful Luke Steele mystery! I love this series! I know I’ve said it before, but Traci is such an amazing suspense writer! Silent Strike has Amberlyn receiving a package after her grandma’s death that she wanted her to have. But the things inside don’t seem to fit with that grandmother she knew. Luke and Amberlyn try to figure out why she wanted Amberlyn to have these things and realize there was a lot more to her grandma than anyone knew. It’s no secret that I’ve been a big fan of Traci’s for years, and I’m always so excited to read one of her books!

I received an advanced copy from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own
356 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
July 11, 2026
I enjoy the Luke Steele books! They keep me on my toes! And they don't like to be put down!

Amberlyn received a gift from her grandmother who had recently passed away. In it are some things she loved, plus some unusual obituaries, jewelry, and info on a Russian toxin. These items begin a journey of intrigue, travel, running for safety, and a government mole! She, of course, brings Luke and with the White House along on the journey.

The book is fast paced, intriguing, and a little bit of romance. A good, clean read!

Thank you to netgalley and Shadow Mount for the opportunity to read an early release copy.
Profile Image for Mariana.
304 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
April 9, 2026
Luke and Amberlyn are back to working together. This was a great addition to this series. The growth of their relationship amidst figuring out clues and solving a mystery felt real and believable. The mystery was fascinating and complex and kept you guessing. Loved that Amberlyn's grandmother knew her so well to leave the mystery in her hands. Lots of action and clean romance. Highly recommend.
244 reviews9 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
July 10, 2026
Thanks to Netgalley and the author for an ARC of this book. So much adventure, danger and mystery! I've not read the first books in this series but this can be read as a stand alone. Amberlyn receives some jewelry from her late grandmother and the adventure begins. Someone wants her and Luke dead but they don't know why. Tons of suspense and action!
26 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
May 29, 2026
I loved this book! So much suspense and also so interesting to dive into politics and characters that are up close with CIA and FBI. I have enjoyed following this couple and their travels and especially the fact that it connects with history in a mystery to be solved. Can't wait for more!
548 reviews
June 6, 2026
Oh I’m so glad this one was up to caliber. Great read and couldn’t put it down at the end.
Profile Image for Mehva.
1,169 reviews19 followers
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
June 16, 2026
The story was interesting, the writing style was a little flat for me and i didnt connect with the romance, so this was ok but nothing great for me.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews