What do you think?
Rate this book
Black Heart Security #10
Reckless Hearts
He was her husband’s commander.
Now he’s her only protection.
And loving him may be the most dangerous mission of all.
An age-gap romance with a hot, guilt-ridden SEAL, a fallen soldier’s widow, fake marriage, forced proximity, and an all-in military protector who believes keeping her safe is his only mission. RECKLESS HEARTS, book 10 of the Black Heart Security Series is your next 1-Click! Binge the entire series!
Fans of Susan Stoker, Elle James and Lynn Raye Harris will love the Black Heart Security Series!
Now he’s her only protection.
And loving him may be the most dangerous mission of all.
An age-gap romance with a hot, guilt-ridden SEAL, a fallen soldier’s widow, fake marriage, forced proximity, and an all-in military protector who believes keeping her safe is his only mission. RECKLESS HEARTS, book 10 of the Black Heart Security Series is your next 1-Click! Binge the entire series!
Fans of Susan Stoker, Elle James and Lynn Raye Harris will love the Black Heart Security Series!
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 20, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
April 21, 2026
He was her husband’s commander.
Now he’s her only protection.
And loving him may be the most dangerous mission of all.
Grant “Church” Upchurch has carried the loss of his teammate for years—and the one thing he never expected was that man’s widow taking a job at the new Black Heart Tactical Training Facility. Seeing Zee Davis again stirs more than guilt and ghosts of the past—it awakens a protective instinct he can’t ignore. When a job throws them into a fake marriage, she’s suddenly at his side, in his space…and under his skin. Wanting her feels wrong. Letting it happen feels so right.
Zee came to Black Heart Ranch to rebuild her life and finally feel like herself again. But a threat has been following her from place to place—and when it finds her there, she can’t ignore it any longer. Church makes her feel safe in a way she hasn’t felt in years…but the way he looks at her, and the heat in his touch, reminds her she’s still alive.
The line between friendship and desire blurs fast as they race to uncover who’s stalking Zee. They’ll have to face the danger closing in—and the attraction neither of them can outrun. And when the threat hits too close, they realize it’s not just their lives on the line—it’s their hearts.
This contemporary steamy Western ranch military fake marriage age-gap romantic suspense romance is page-turning, with exceptional world-building at Black Heart Ranch and characters who are Grant, an all-in military protector, hot, guilt-ridden SEAL who believes keeping Zee safe is his only mission, and Zee, a fallen soldier's widow, who are resilient, captivating, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with reckless hearts, mature, explicit romance that is consumed by steamy, sizzling passion, lust, desire, and spice with all the feelings to leave readers breathless and begging for more, a fake marriage, line between friendship and desire blurs fast, danger closing in, suspense that is sure to leave readers on the edge of their seats, attraction neither can out run, threats hit too close, not jsut their lives are on the line, its their hearts, chaos/drama, heartfelt emotions/emotional depth, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with reckless hearts and a contemporary, steamy Western ranch military fake-marriage age-gap romantic suspense romance that is sure to transport readers into a world that is wildly dangerous, lustful, intriguing, and unforgettable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Now he’s her only protection.
And loving him may be the most dangerous mission of all.
Grant “Church” Upchurch has carried the loss of his teammate for years—and the one thing he never expected was that man’s widow taking a job at the new Black Heart Tactical Training Facility. Seeing Zee Davis again stirs more than guilt and ghosts of the past—it awakens a protective instinct he can’t ignore. When a job throws them into a fake marriage, she’s suddenly at his side, in his space…and under his skin. Wanting her feels wrong. Letting it happen feels so right.
Zee came to Black Heart Ranch to rebuild her life and finally feel like herself again. But a threat has been following her from place to place—and when it finds her there, she can’t ignore it any longer. Church makes her feel safe in a way she hasn’t felt in years…but the way he looks at her, and the heat in his touch, reminds her she’s still alive.
The line between friendship and desire blurs fast as they race to uncover who’s stalking Zee. They’ll have to face the danger closing in—and the attraction neither of them can outrun. And when the threat hits too close, they realize it’s not just their lives on the line—it’s their hearts.
This contemporary steamy Western ranch military fake marriage age-gap romantic suspense romance is page-turning, with exceptional world-building at Black Heart Ranch and characters who are Grant, an all-in military protector, hot, guilt-ridden SEAL who believes keeping Zee safe is his only mission, and Zee, a fallen soldier's widow, who are resilient, captivating, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with reckless hearts, mature, explicit romance that is consumed by steamy, sizzling passion, lust, desire, and spice with all the feelings to leave readers breathless and begging for more, a fake marriage, line between friendship and desire blurs fast, danger closing in, suspense that is sure to leave readers on the edge of their seats, attraction neither can out run, threats hit too close, not jsut their lives are on the line, its their hearts, chaos/drama, heartfelt emotions/emotional depth, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with reckless hearts and a contemporary, steamy Western ranch military fake-marriage age-gap romantic suspense romance that is sure to transport readers into a world that is wildly dangerous, lustful, intriguing, and unforgettable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Grant "Church" Upchurch is an Ex-Navy SEAL Commander who currently works at Black Heart Tactical Training Facility. While in the Navy, Matt Davis' passing is the one team member he lost in his entire time as a commander and his biggest life regret.
Zee Davis is Matt's widow. Grant was her late husband's SEAL commander at the time of his death. Since his funeral, Zee has had to change jobs and relocate numerous times due to someone stalking her. Her residences and possessions are frequently ransacked but nothing is taken. Now Zee doesn't feel comfortable or safe anywhere she goes. She's referred to the Black Heart Tactical Training Facility for work. Finally, under Grant's careful watch and the top notch security around the Black Heart Ranch, Zee begins to feel comfortable and let down her guard. but then trouble resumes and Zee is once again ready to flee.
Grant vows to protect Zee not only because he feels compelled to look out for her as Matt's widow, but he has also come to have very real feelings for her. Will Grant be able to keep Zee safe and resist acting on his emotions or will Grant reach out for the one thing in life he truly wants--Zee?
I love that the author has seamlessly segued into a new spinoff series (Black Heart Tactical Training) while still remaining firmly in the Black Heart Ranch family. All of the characters that the reader has come to love play secondary roles in each new book, allowing the reader to snatch glimpses of the life progressions of their favorite characters. Add in watching gruff Church fall hard for a woman he deems forbidden, it makes for the perfect weekend read. I loved this new book and can't wait to watch each team member fall hard in the coming books.
The perfect start to a new series!
Zee Davis is Matt's widow. Grant was her late husband's SEAL commander at the time of his death. Since his funeral, Zee has had to change jobs and relocate numerous times due to someone stalking her. Her residences and possessions are frequently ransacked but nothing is taken. Now Zee doesn't feel comfortable or safe anywhere she goes. She's referred to the Black Heart Tactical Training Facility for work. Finally, under Grant's careful watch and the top notch security around the Black Heart Ranch, Zee begins to feel comfortable and let down her guard. but then trouble resumes and Zee is once again ready to flee.
Grant vows to protect Zee not only because he feels compelled to look out for her as Matt's widow, but he has also come to have very real feelings for her. Will Grant be able to keep Zee safe and resist acting on his emotions or will Grant reach out for the one thing in life he truly wants--Zee?
I love that the author has seamlessly segued into a new spinoff series (Black Heart Tactical Training) while still remaining firmly in the Black Heart Ranch family. All of the characters that the reader has come to love play secondary roles in each new book, allowing the reader to snatch glimpses of the life progressions of their favorite characters. Add in watching gruff Church fall hard for a woman he deems forbidden, it makes for the perfect weekend read. I loved this new book and can't wait to watch each team member fall hard in the coming books.
The perfect start to a new series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Intense read, Grant, Church and Zee wonderful characters, once started reading impossible to put down
Grant is living with the guilt of his Navy teammates death and his survival; he has started to work for Black Heart Security and the job they are about to start working on requires them to be married. The one in danger is Zee and as she surveys and as she allows herself to be viewed by whoever wants her dead.
As they return to the security of Black Hear Ranch the new additions to the group Grant, Church and Zee are a great addition to the team and as Church and Zee continue to ensure that their phoney marriage is believed and the actual rate of love is fast moving and they dig into the going on so that they can try and capture the Murderer.
Neither of them has recovered from Matts death and it seems Zee has been running for her life totally scarred for her very existence, her life and she knows that someone has been stalking her and she cannot wait to discover who exactly they are and also whoever is threatening her as well.
I guarantee that other readers will be just the same as myself and as soon as they read this book will not be able to put the book down until they reach the end and discover the outcome, this book will, I am sure. keep readers guessing right up to the very last page.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.
Grant is living with the guilt of his Navy teammates death and his survival; he has started to work for Black Heart Security and the job they are about to start working on requires them to be married. The one in danger is Zee and as she surveys and as she allows herself to be viewed by whoever wants her dead.
As they return to the security of Black Hear Ranch the new additions to the group Grant, Church and Zee are a great addition to the team and as Church and Zee continue to ensure that their phoney marriage is believed and the actual rate of love is fast moving and they dig into the going on so that they can try and capture the Murderer.
Neither of them has recovered from Matts death and it seems Zee has been running for her life totally scarred for her very existence, her life and she knows that someone has been stalking her and she cannot wait to discover who exactly they are and also whoever is threatening her as well.
I guarantee that other readers will be just the same as myself and as soon as they read this book will not be able to put the book down until they reach the end and discover the outcome, this book will, I am sure. keep readers guessing right up to the very last page.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.
Review of advance copy
Former Delta Force Grant “Church” Upchurch has accepted a position at the Black Heart Security and Tactical Training Facility to train new recruits for the program. He is shocked to see Zanobia “Zee” Davis at the office interviewing for a job. She is the widow of one of the men who was under his command before he left the service. Her husband’s death has always bothered him and now seeing his widow he realizes that she seems anxious. She interviews knowing that her many past jobs has not made her an ideal candidate. How can she explain what her life has been like since Matt was killed? After she is hired, he realizes that she has nowhere to stay and offers for her to stay in his quarters. When there is an incident with his truck, which she had borrowed, will she finally explain what the years since Matt’s death have been like, for her? After explaining her past, they assure her that she has the job and will be safe. When a security assignment requires that Church be a married man, they convince Zee to be with him during the daily assignment. Meanwhile, they investigate who might be after her and why? A delayed package from Matt may finally lead to who is terrorizing her and why. As they finally give in to the feelings between them, will he be able to end the threat against her and share in the love and safety that she has longed for? A beautiful story of love after loss. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
April 26, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reckless Hearts by Em Petrova delivers an emotional, high-stakes romance filled with tension, danger, and second chances.
Church is a powerful, guilt-driven hero who has carried the weight of loss for years, and seeing Zee again brings everything rushing back. His protective instincts feel natural, but the emotional conflict of wanting his fallen teammate’s widow adds a deeper layer to his character that makes the story hit harder.
Zee’s journey is just as compelling. She’s not just surviving—she’s trying to rebuild, reclaim herself, and move forward despite the fear following her. Her strength and vulnerability balance beautifully, especially as she begins to trust Church with both her safety and her heart.
The fake marriage and forced proximity tropes work perfectly here, creating a slow burn that builds into undeniable chemistry. Their connection feels earned, not rushed, as they navigate grief, guilt, and growing feelings.
The suspense element keeps the story moving, with the stalking threat adding urgency and tension. As danger closes in, it raises the stakes—not just for their lives, but for whether they’re willing to risk their hearts again after everything they’ve lost.
If you enjoy military romance with emotional depth, protective heroes, and a mix of action and heartfelt connection, this one is a gripping and satisfying read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Church is a powerful, guilt-driven hero who has carried the weight of loss for years, and seeing Zee again brings everything rushing back. His protective instincts feel natural, but the emotional conflict of wanting his fallen teammate’s widow adds a deeper layer to his character that makes the story hit harder.
Zee’s journey is just as compelling. She’s not just surviving—she’s trying to rebuild, reclaim herself, and move forward despite the fear following her. Her strength and vulnerability balance beautifully, especially as she begins to trust Church with both her safety and her heart.
The fake marriage and forced proximity tropes work perfectly here, creating a slow burn that builds into undeniable chemistry. Their connection feels earned, not rushed, as they navigate grief, guilt, and growing feelings.
The suspense element keeps the story moving, with the stalking threat adding urgency and tension. As danger closes in, it raises the stakes—not just for their lives, but for whether they’re willing to risk their hearts again after everything they’ve lost.
If you enjoy military romance with emotional depth, protective heroes, and a mix of action and heartfelt connection, this one is a gripping and satisfying read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
5 STARS: ++ Finding Love in a sea of danger.
Grant Upchurch dedicated his life to his military career. He ended that career as a team leader for a SEAL TEAM, but it’s time he moved on. At 42, his next chapter is running the new Black Heart Tactical Training Facility. Grant didn’t realize he was lonely until ZEE Davis came to work as the facility's admin. Zee is the widow of Matt, the only SEAL Grant ever lost. Grant has always admired Zee, but she is no longer that vibrant young lady…she’s beaten down and fearful. Since Matt’s funeral three years ago, Zee has had a stalker, forcing her to move many times to try to get away. She’s safe now at the Black Heart Ranch. Grant is helping her recover… regain her health… feel safe. And he’s falling for the much younger woman, and she is feeling the same.
I love the camaraderie the residents have towards each other. How they open their hearts and help each person heal and thrive. I would love to live at the ranch. This story is filled with mystery… who’s the stalker, and why are they following Zee? What do they want? I loved the very romantic story and the spectacular scenery. I received a free ARC copy of this story from Booksprout, and these are my thoughts. Linda
Grant Upchurch dedicated his life to his military career. He ended that career as a team leader for a SEAL TEAM, but it’s time he moved on. At 42, his next chapter is running the new Black Heart Tactical Training Facility. Grant didn’t realize he was lonely until ZEE Davis came to work as the facility's admin. Zee is the widow of Matt, the only SEAL Grant ever lost. Grant has always admired Zee, but she is no longer that vibrant young lady…she’s beaten down and fearful. Since Matt’s funeral three years ago, Zee has had a stalker, forcing her to move many times to try to get away. She’s safe now at the Black Heart Ranch. Grant is helping her recover… regain her health… feel safe. And he’s falling for the much younger woman, and she is feeling the same.
I love the camaraderie the residents have towards each other. How they open their hearts and help each person heal and thrive. I would love to live at the ranch. This story is filled with mystery… who’s the stalker, and why are they following Zee? What do they want? I loved the very romantic story and the spectacular scenery. I received a free ARC copy of this story from Booksprout, and these are my thoughts. Linda
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
A quick and intense read. Humor, grief, suspense and a sizzling attraction.
Zee has moved from place to place for the last 3 years since her Navy SEAL husband was killed in action. She interviews for a job with Black Heart Security and comes face to face with Grant Upchurch, her husband’s former commanding officer.
Grant/Church is shocked to see Zee and how grief has changed her. When his temporary assignment as a bodyguard on a local movie set requires him to be married, Zee volunteers to pretend to be his wife. Then Zee needs a place to stay when her short term rental can’t be extended and he offers to let her stay in his 1 bedroom apartment. Close proximity and unexpected attraction has Church falling fast for the beautiful widow.
It was entertaining to watch gruff and taciturn Church develop and show his softer and protective side while watching over Zee. When it became apparent she is being watched and tracked, Church gets protective and really focuses on taking care of Zee.
As these two deepen their relationship beyond friendship to include acting on the attraction between them it slowly begins to also heal their emotional wounds.
I received a free ARC from the author; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
Zee has moved from place to place for the last 3 years since her Navy SEAL husband was killed in action. She interviews for a job with Black Heart Security and comes face to face with Grant Upchurch, her husband’s former commanding officer.
Grant/Church is shocked to see Zee and how grief has changed her. When his temporary assignment as a bodyguard on a local movie set requires him to be married, Zee volunteers to pretend to be his wife. Then Zee needs a place to stay when her short term rental can’t be extended and he offers to let her stay in his 1 bedroom apartment. Close proximity and unexpected attraction has Church falling fast for the beautiful widow.
It was entertaining to watch gruff and taciturn Church develop and show his softer and protective side while watching over Zee. When it became apparent she is being watched and tracked, Church gets protective and really focuses on taking care of Zee.
As these two deepen their relationship beyond friendship to include acting on the attraction between them it slowly begins to also heal their emotional wounds.
I received a free ARC from the author; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
Review of advance copy
A real page turner as someone appeared to be following Zee wherever she escapes to. Every place gets broken into including her vehicle nothing was ever stolen except her husband's dogtags. She kept moving on to where she has now landed at Black Heart Tactical Training Facility and finds her husband's old commander Grant "Church" Upchurch. She feels a comfort seeing Church after all this time. Church was not so sure how he felt at first, as her husband was the only man he failed to bring home alive. Church had taken on a bodyguard job, until the facilities opened up which required him to have a wife. Zee agreed to play the part of his wife and was playing his wife when the Black Heart Security team discovered she was being stalked. She had the right pretend husband on the case, as she was already living at his place at the compound. Things were about to get hot and sticky, because Church could only think of Zee. A high action read, with wonderful suspense that keeps you engaged from beginning to end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed reading Reckless Hearts . It's book ten in the Black Heart Security series . Grant ( Church) Upchurch will be helping run The Black Heart Tactical Training Facility as soon as it officially opens . When he commanded his own team of Seals years ago he loss one of his men and it has affected him ever since . He never thought he'd find himself working face to face with the mans widow till she took a position with Black Heart Tactical Training Facility . Zee Davis has been bouncing around from job to job since her husbands death because someone is following her . Hoping for a fresh start she applied to Black Heart . When the security team is stretched thin Church is asked to step in and work an assignment which He and Zee need to work as a married couple . As they grow close and the threats on Zee excalate Church will do anything to protect the woman who owns his heart . This story is wonderful . It's steamy and intriguing and just a Sensational suspense romance. I highly recommend taking the time to read .
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved Grant & Zee's story... it was fast paced (a well written romantic suspense!) with unexpected plot twists, yearning, slow burn and some spice.
While Zee is a widow (her husband was a SEAL with Grant), it's such a sweet love story between her & Grant... it's been over 3 years since her husband passed and while she is falling in love with Grant, she realized that while she did love her husband, the relationship with Grant is different... in a good way.
Loved the ending! Look forward to reading more books in the series! This is Book 10 of the Black Heart Security series... as interconnected standalones. I thought the characters were well developed & the book was well written.
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
*romantic suspense
*ex-Navy SEAL/bodyguard/security team
*age gap
*widow
*fake marriage
*forced proximity
*found family
*protector
*western/ranch romance
Thank you to the author (Em Petrova), publisher & Booksprout for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
While Zee is a widow (her husband was a SEAL with Grant), it's such a sweet love story between her & Grant... it's been over 3 years since her husband passed and while she is falling in love with Grant, she realized that while she did love her husband, the relationship with Grant is different... in a good way.
Loved the ending! Look forward to reading more books in the series! This is Book 10 of the Black Heart Security series... as interconnected standalones. I thought the characters were well developed & the book was well written.
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
*romantic suspense
*ex-Navy SEAL/bodyguard/security team
*age gap
*widow
*fake marriage
*forced proximity
*found family
*protector
*western/ranch romance
Thank you to the author (Em Petrova), publisher & Booksprout for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Grant Upchurch "Church" to the men of Black Heart Security was waiting to start the program of the Tactical Training facility once all the federal black tape was worked through, and an interview for the Office Coordinator position was taken by the wife of a deceased SEAL who was lost three years before. Zee Davis had been moving around since her husband's death, no longer able to stay in base housing, going from town to town trying to find place to belong and avoid the bad luck of getting broken into in several rental apartments, but when her B&B broken into after purchasing security equipment, Church insisted she move to Ranch property...so when needed to fill-in for movie company actor's security, and needs spouse to bring with him per contract, Zee volunteers to be his fake wife during movie shooting...and give him opportunity to see who is stalking the beautiful younger woman...but you will need to read this thriller to see what happens...I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 25, 2026
Grant "Church" Upchurch finds himself in a job as the head of new Black Heart Tactical Training Facility and hopes that this job will help him ease the guilt he carries for the man he lost that was under his command. Zee Davis has had a rough three years since the death of her husband Matt, but it isn't her grief that has had her moving so frequently. She hopes that her new job at the Black Heart Ranch will provide her the peace she has been seeking as well as a place to finally call home. Seeing her dead husband's former commander is a shock for both her and Grant but as circumstances would have it, they are thrown together when they have to pose as husband and wife. When her secret that someone has been following and terrorizing her comes to light, Grant's protective side as well as the entire Black Heart Family rush to her rescue. This is a sweet story that shows that sometimes a tragedy can bring you the person who were always meant to be with and an HEA you didn't think was possible.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Reckless Hearts is book ten of Em Petrova’s Black Heart Security series and is another winner in this collection of stories. Zee Davis lost her husband, Matt, in the military. Matt’s commander, Grant “Church” Upchurch, felt the guilt for years for not bringing all his boys home. Zee has been running from a stalker for three years since her husband died. She becomes a member of the Black Heart Team and encounters Church once more. Through the danger and action, they fall in love. This story explores the characters with a depth that allows readers to know and understand them. The plot is interesting and moves the Black Heart Team closer to their ultimate goal of training military personnel while supporting veterans who have problems to overcome. This whole group of books is a must-read, and while they can be read as stand-alone novels, they are so much better if read in order.
I received a free copy of this book from Booksprout, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
I received a free copy of this book from Booksprout, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
April 22, 2026
Born to Protect, Destined to Heal
I will never get tired of a good found-family series, and Reckless Hearts delivers exactly that—love, healing, and just enough danger to keep you hooked. Throw in a hot, serious military man and a thread of mystery, and I’m all in.
I’ve been waiting (impatiently) for Church’s story, but Zee completely caught me off guard in the best way. Their connection feels raw and real—two people bound by grief, finding something steady and safe in each other. It’s that quiet kind of love that sneaks up on you, the kind that’s been there all along, just waiting for the right moment.
Church was born to protect, but with Zee, it finally feels like he has something worth living for again. And Zee? She finds safety, belief, and a place to land in his arms—and within the Black Heart Ranch family as a whole.
Captivating, emotional, and full of heart, this one reminds you that sometimes home isn’t a place—it’s a person.
A solid 4⭐ read.
I will never get tired of a good found-family series, and Reckless Hearts delivers exactly that—love, healing, and just enough danger to keep you hooked. Throw in a hot, serious military man and a thread of mystery, and I’m all in.
I’ve been waiting (impatiently) for Church’s story, but Zee completely caught me off guard in the best way. Their connection feels raw and real—two people bound by grief, finding something steady and safe in each other. It’s that quiet kind of love that sneaks up on you, the kind that’s been there all along, just waiting for the right moment.
Church was born to protect, but with Zee, it finally feels like he has something worth living for again. And Zee? She finds safety, belief, and a place to land in his arms—and within the Black Heart Ranch family as a whole.
Captivating, emotional, and full of heart, this one reminds you that sometimes home isn’t a place—it’s a person.
A solid 4⭐ read.
May 1, 2026
Wonderful and heart stopping
Reckless Hearts is the tenth book in the Black Heart Security series and it is a great addition to an outstanding series. I really enjoyed the story of Zee Davis and Grant 'Church' Upchurch. They meet when she comes to Black Heart Security for protection from a secret stalker and he is assigned to guard her. Zee is the widow of Matt Davis, a Navy SEAL who was killed on a mission. Grant as it turns out was Matt's commanding officer and always took Matt's loss hard. Since Matt's death Zee has had someone break into her house but never take anything that she can figure out. She has moved a number of times, changed jobs several times, and yet it continues to happen. When Grant comes into her world he vows to protect her and keep her safe and she finally starts to feel that way once again. The thing is that real feelings start to grew between Zee and Grant, and that may just lead to some unexpected recklessness of the naughty kind.
Reckless Hearts is the tenth book in the Black Heart Security series and it is a great addition to an outstanding series. I really enjoyed the story of Zee Davis and Grant 'Church' Upchurch. They meet when she comes to Black Heart Security for protection from a secret stalker and he is assigned to guard her. Zee is the widow of Matt Davis, a Navy SEAL who was killed on a mission. Grant as it turns out was Matt's commanding officer and always took Matt's loss hard. Since Matt's death Zee has had someone break into her house but never take anything that she can figure out. She has moved a number of times, changed jobs several times, and yet it continues to happen. When Grant comes into her world he vows to protect her and keep her safe and she finally starts to feel that way once again. The thing is that real feelings start to grew between Zee and Grant, and that may just lead to some unexpected recklessness of the naughty kind.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Reckless Heart brings Grant and Zee together after a painful past, giving them a chance to rebuild where it matters most. Black Heart Ranch feels like home—a place where life and love are given a second chance—and you’ll enjoy the sweet, slow build of their attraction and chemistry.
I loved how they choose to hold onto that chance at love, refusing to let the past dictate their future. The warmth that radiates from the ranch and its crew truly shines, adding heart to every moment.
But just as things begin to settle, danger lurking behind Zee makes its move—and Grant doesn’t hesitate to let his protector side take over.
Sweet emotion and underlying danger blend seamlessly, delivering an exciting and heartfelt read.
A warm, emotionally grounded second-chance romance with a gentle slow burn and just enough danger to keep things exciting.
I loved how they choose to hold onto that chance at love, refusing to let the past dictate their future. The warmth that radiates from the ranch and its crew truly shines, adding heart to every moment.
But just as things begin to settle, danger lurking behind Zee makes its move—and Grant doesn’t hesitate to let his protector side take over.
Sweet emotion and underlying danger blend seamlessly, delivering an exciting and heartfelt read.
A warm, emotionally grounded second-chance romance with a gentle slow burn and just enough danger to keep things exciting.
April 21, 2026
A mix of romantic suspense and emotional redemption, this story centers on Grant “Church” Upchurch, a former Delta Force operative haunted by the loss of a man under his command, and Zee Davis, the soldier’s widow trying to piece her life back together. Their unexpected reunion at a security training facility sets the stage for a slow-building connection shaped by grief, guilt, and resilience. As Zee’s past begins to catch up with her and a hidden threat emerges, the pair are drawn into both a protective partnership and a deeper emotional bond. With elements of danger, forced proximity, and second-chance romance, the story delivers a heartfelt journey toward healing, trust, and love. I loved how Church was a strong protective presence that made Zee feel safe after so long. Adorable!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Zee was widowed when her Seal husband was killed during an op. She has been moving from job to job due to frightening break-ins which the police have ignored. She applies for an office manager job at Black Heart Security. She encounters Church her husband's former commander.
Due to a contract issue, they are forced to play husband and wife while Church provides security on a movie set. They develop a relationship which is threatened by the unknown stalker.
The story has a great surprise ending. I loved the characters in this story and the interaction with the team at Black Heart Security. The heat between Church and Zee was exceptional.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Due to a contract issue, they are forced to play husband and wife while Church provides security on a movie set. They develop a relationship which is threatened by the unknown stalker.
The story has a great surprise ending. I loved the characters in this story and the interaction with the team at Black Heart Security. The heat between Church and Zee was exceptional.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The suspense, romance and the warm feeling of the ranch was such a drawcard of this book.
Zee was the new coordinator of the Black Heart Ranch Tactical centre and finds she is working along side her dead husband's former commander Grant Upchurch aka Church.
Church is a protective and warm guy who is older than Zee. But the feelings he had for her overtake all the worries he has with approaching her. Zee is going through hell and needs the support that Grant offers. But that steam is nice to read about.
So well done I am loving this series and the spin off with the training centre staff. Can't wait for the next!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Zee was the new coordinator of the Black Heart Ranch Tactical centre and finds she is working along side her dead husband's former commander Grant Upchurch aka Church.
Church is a protective and warm guy who is older than Zee. But the feelings he had for her overtake all the worries he has with approaching her. Zee is going through hell and needs the support that Grant offers. But that steam is nice to read about.
So well done I am loving this series and the spin off with the training centre staff. Can't wait for the next!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read
April 20, 2026Reckless Hearts is an absolute page-turner and a standout entry in the Black Heart Security series! If you love high-stakes romance, this book delivers on every front.
The chemistry between Church and Zee is electric, and the "forced proximity" of their working together to uncover who is following Zee adds so much tension to their growing relationship. I was deeply moved by Church’s emotional backstory and his journey toward healing—seeing him open up to the widow of a man he lost really gave the story an extra layer of heart.
Between the fast-paced suspense and the incredible character development, I couldn't put it down. Em Petrova has done it again. This is a must-read for any fan of the military romance and suspense genres!
The chemistry between Church and Zee is electric, and the "forced proximity" of their working together to uncover who is following Zee adds so much tension to their growing relationship. I was deeply moved by Church’s emotional backstory and his journey toward healing—seeing him open up to the widow of a man he lost really gave the story an extra layer of heart.
Between the fast-paced suspense and the incredible character development, I couldn't put it down. Em Petrova has done it again. This is a must-read for any fan of the military romance and suspense genres!
April 20, 2026
Another Black Heart Security book to get your heart rate up and turn your legs turning to jelly. This is Church's story. Church had been added into the Black Heart but working on getting their new training facility up and running. They are close, just a couple staff positions to be filled. Zee shows up at Black Heart Ranch for an office position at the new training facility. It is not only a job but she is hoping for a temporary safe haven as well. What neither character expects is to find one another in the same place. This book has all the heat of electric charscter chemistry and the suspense and adventure of unraveling the truth about a man's death. Enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 20, 2026
5 stars! Grant “Church” Upchurch, was the Commanding Officer of Matt Davis, the only Seal he had lost under his command. He also met his wife Zee and they had a social friendship. Three years later, Church is charged of Black Heart Security’s new government training facility. Zee is hired as the administer of the program. Zee has been on the run since her husband passed away as she has a stalker who is terrifying her, causing her to move from place to place. Church is her protector and vows to keep her safe. At the same time they develop a relationship. While this can be read as a standalone, would recommend reading the first nine books for a richer experience.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 21, 2026
Book 10 of the Black Heart series. Can be read as a standalone but for maximum enjoyment read the books in series order.
'An age-gap romance with a hot, guilt-ridden SEAL, a fallen soldier’s widow, fake marriage, forced proximity, and an all-in military protector who believes keeping her safe is his only mission.'
The characters were very complex and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building was solidly drawn and impressive. All in all a great addition to the series. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'An age-gap romance with a hot, guilt-ridden SEAL, a fallen soldier’s widow, fake marriage, forced proximity, and an all-in military protector who believes keeping her safe is his only mission.'
The characters were very complex and complicated and perfectly steamy together. Plot was intriguing and intense and well paced. World building was solidly drawn and impressive. All in all a great addition to the series. Thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 24, 2026
Grant "Church" has never recovered from the loss of his teammate, Matt Davis. Now, working at Black Heart Tactical Training facility, he is faced with his teammates widow, Zee, when she comes there to try and find some peace. Unfortunately, despite moving multiple times and changing jobs, her stalker keeps finding her. When Zee is ready to flee again, Church vows to keep her safe but not only because of the guilt he feels for his teammates death. There is something more between them. And even though it feels complicated to them both, neither is willing to walk away. Church just has to keep her safe so they can move forward. This is another great read in the series. I like that the we still see the Black Heart Ranch family in this series as well.
April 25, 2026
Grant "Church" is a magnetic hero—rough around the edges, guarded by a heavy past, yet fiercely loyal once he lets you in. Watching him slowly drop his walls with Zee is incredibly satisfying.
Zee is equally compelling: strong-willed and independent, but with real vulnerability. She challenges Grant, refuses to settle for half-truths, and holds her own when things get messy.
Their chemistry is electric—full of push-pull tension, misunderstandings, and raw attraction. The relationship feels authentically complicated, making the heartfelt moments land even harder.
Gripping, emotional, and full of heart, Reckless Hearts is a must-read for fans of high-stakes romance with complex characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Zee is equally compelling: strong-willed and independent, but with real vulnerability. She challenges Grant, refuses to settle for half-truths, and holds her own when things get messy.
Their chemistry is electric—full of push-pull tension, misunderstandings, and raw attraction. The relationship feels authentically complicated, making the heartfelt moments land even harder.
Gripping, emotional, and full of heart, Reckless Hearts is a must-read for fans of high-stakes romance with complex characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Grant carries the guilt of losing his Navy Seal teammate Matt but he doesn’t expect his widow to start working for Black Heart Security, that they have to pretend to be married for a protection job, and that Zee is the one who needs the protection. Zee keeps moving around because she feels like she’s being targeted after repeatedly being broken into but no one takes her seriously because nothing of value was taken until the Black Heart Team. But can they protect her from someone who has determined that she has something they want? This was a steamy age gap romance. It was nice to catch up with the previous characters in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Reckless Hearts is the 10th book in the Black Heart Security series, bringing us back into the circle of a growing number of awesome characters on the Black Heart Ranch. I love the tapestry of life on the ranch that's being woven one romance at a time and I highly recommed reading the books in order, although they could be read as standalones in a pinch. Grant/Church and Zee are wonderful additions and make a great couple. Their love story is a fast-moving, starting-over romance with a suspense plot that brings a number of surprises and a wonderful HEA that had me teary-eyed. Can't wait to return! I received an early copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story has two lost souls finding each other, both united by grief for one person, in Grant's case it was one of his men who had been killed on a mission who just happened to be Zee's husband. They are thrown together when Grant acts as security to a film actress and he has to be married. Things, though, aren't as straight forward as they seem and Zee has someone stalking her but for what reason? I liked the way Grant and Zee gradually realised they had feeling for each other and how their relationship grew. There's thrills and spills in this story and l read it in one sitting. Great book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Grant Church Upchurch works for the Black Heart Security. He never expected to see Zee Davis again but she just got hired on at the training facility. Zee came to Black Heart Ranch to get away from whoever has been following her around. Everywhere Zee has lived someone has broken into her place looking for something but never taking anything. Grant will do anything to keep Zee safe. Together they will need to work along with the security team to find out who is causing Zee problems and what they are looking for. This is a great book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
When I was reading book 9 I was really, REALLY hoping Grant would get his own book. So I cant tell you how excited I was when this was released :)
My word Grant is delicious. He was everything I dreamed he would be.
I have never been a fan of the fake marriage trop but this was written so perfectly.
I loved every minute of this read.
An age-gap romance with a hot, guilt-ridden SEAL, a fallen soldier’s widow, fake marriage, forced proximity, and an all-in military protector who believes keeping her safe is his only mission.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
My word Grant is delicious. He was everything I dreamed he would be.
I have never been a fan of the fake marriage trop but this was written so perfectly.
I loved every minute of this read.
An age-gap romance with a hot, guilt-ridden SEAL, a fallen soldier’s widow, fake marriage, forced proximity, and an all-in military protector who believes keeping her safe is his only mission.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews