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Shadowed Designs: A Shadow Defense Security Thriller Book 7
411 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 15, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
March 15, 2026
5 stars
Shadowed Designs comes in hot like the universe looked at Olivia Harrington and said, “Hey girl, remember that serial killer you buried in your past? Surprise—he’s back, he’s smarter, and he’s absolutely obsessed with ruining your week.”
This book has that delicious “no breathing room, no safety, no sleep” energy from page one. Olivia walks into Flagstaff thinking she’s dealing with a copycat, and the case immediately laughs in her face. Bodies drop. Patterns twist. Every clue feels like it’s been left there just for her, like the killer is leaning over her shoulder whispering, catch me if you can, sweetheart. And Olivia—poor, brilliant, exhausted Olivia—is trying to stay three steps ahead of someone who keeps rewriting the rules.
Josh Burton is the exact brand of grumpy‑competent chaos you want in a manhunt. He’s steady where Olivia spirals, sharp where she doubts, and the two of them together have that slow‑burn, “we’re going to die but also I might kiss you” tension that makes every scene crackle. He’s used to killers who slip up. This one doesn’t. This one learns. This one adapts. And watching Josh realize he’s dealing with something far uglier than a copycat? Chef’s kiss.
The whole book feels like running through a maze that keeps rearranging itself. Every time you think you’ve got the killer pinned, the story yanks the floor out from under you and drops you into a deeper, darker layer of conspiracy. It’s fast, it’s sharp, and it’s the kind of thriller where you keep telling yourself “One more chapter” until suddenly it’s 3 a.m. and your side‑eyeing every shadow in your house.
And the humour? The banter? The tiny sparks of romance in the middle of absolute carnage? Perfect. Just enough to let you breathe before the next punch lands.
A high‑octane, nerve‑shredding, twist‑happy 5‑star ride that grabs you by the throat and drags you through every page. It’s messy, it’s intense, it’s addictive, and it absolutely refuses to let you look away. I so enjoy Mavery’s work.
Shadowed Designs comes in hot like the universe looked at Olivia Harrington and said, “Hey girl, remember that serial killer you buried in your past? Surprise—he’s back, he’s smarter, and he’s absolutely obsessed with ruining your week.”
This book has that delicious “no breathing room, no safety, no sleep” energy from page one. Olivia walks into Flagstaff thinking she’s dealing with a copycat, and the case immediately laughs in her face. Bodies drop. Patterns twist. Every clue feels like it’s been left there just for her, like the killer is leaning over her shoulder whispering, catch me if you can, sweetheart. And Olivia—poor, brilliant, exhausted Olivia—is trying to stay three steps ahead of someone who keeps rewriting the rules.
Josh Burton is the exact brand of grumpy‑competent chaos you want in a manhunt. He’s steady where Olivia spirals, sharp where she doubts, and the two of them together have that slow‑burn, “we’re going to die but also I might kiss you” tension that makes every scene crackle. He’s used to killers who slip up. This one doesn’t. This one learns. This one adapts. And watching Josh realize he’s dealing with something far uglier than a copycat? Chef’s kiss.
The whole book feels like running through a maze that keeps rearranging itself. Every time you think you’ve got the killer pinned, the story yanks the floor out from under you and drops you into a deeper, darker layer of conspiracy. It’s fast, it’s sharp, and it’s the kind of thriller where you keep telling yourself “One more chapter” until suddenly it’s 3 a.m. and your side‑eyeing every shadow in your house.
And the humour? The banter? The tiny sparks of romance in the middle of absolute carnage? Perfect. Just enough to let you breathe before the next punch lands.
A high‑octane, nerve‑shredding, twist‑happy 5‑star ride that grabs you by the throat and drags you through every page. It’s messy, it’s intense, it’s addictive, and it absolutely refuses to let you look away. I so enjoy Mavery’s work.
March 21, 2026
Shadowed Designs is book 7 in the Shadow Defense Security series. While it can be read as a stand-alone, you will be missing out on the amazing stories and characters that come before this one.
Olivia Harrington is an FBI agent with the Behavioral Analysis Unit (or BAU), who has spent far more time than she would like to trying to solve a serial killer case, a man called the Strangler. She feels safer, and more relaxed after the murderer plunges is believed to have died falling over a cliff. However, when a woman is found murdered in a new city, and her murder seems to following the same pattern and matching the original cases detail for detail, Olivia is called in to make sure that it is just a copycat, and to try and help the local police solve the case.
Josh Burton is a Deputy US Marshall who is in the same area by coincidence, chasing a criminal of his own, when their cases unexpectedly overlap in ways they couldn't have predicted. Josh helps Olivia to sort through the details that just don't seem quite right, as well as deal with her ex-fiancee. Daniel Kingsley shows up to try and take over the case to help his own career in the FBI. Olivia doesn't trust him, with good reason, after he failed to protect her during the initial investigation of the Strangler, resulting in her being kidnapped before managing to escape, only to have Daniel fly off to Italy for a vacation instead of trying to help her through her trauma.
When Josh and Olivia, as well as Josh's K9 partner, McClane, work together to solve the copycat case, which appears to be a protege of the Strangler, as well as Josh's case, they quickly realize they have to be careful who they trust, and not everyone is who they appear to be.
Olivia Harrington is an FBI agent with the Behavioral Analysis Unit (or BAU), who has spent far more time than she would like to trying to solve a serial killer case, a man called the Strangler. She feels safer, and more relaxed after the murderer plunges is believed to have died falling over a cliff. However, when a woman is found murdered in a new city, and her murder seems to following the same pattern and matching the original cases detail for detail, Olivia is called in to make sure that it is just a copycat, and to try and help the local police solve the case.
Josh Burton is a Deputy US Marshall who is in the same area by coincidence, chasing a criminal of his own, when their cases unexpectedly overlap in ways they couldn't have predicted. Josh helps Olivia to sort through the details that just don't seem quite right, as well as deal with her ex-fiancee. Daniel Kingsley shows up to try and take over the case to help his own career in the FBI. Olivia doesn't trust him, with good reason, after he failed to protect her during the initial investigation of the Strangler, resulting in her being kidnapped before managing to escape, only to have Daniel fly off to Italy for a vacation instead of trying to help her through her trauma.
When Josh and Olivia, as well as Josh's K9 partner, McClane, work together to solve the copycat case, which appears to be a protege of the Strangler, as well as Josh's case, they quickly realize they have to be careful who they trust, and not everyone is who they appear to be.
April 2, 2026
Shadow Defense Security is back with Shadowed Designs. The next book in the series. And you can bet that this book is just as good if not better than the previous ones!
Olivia is in a nightmare which she didn’t think was possible. But it was all real as can be. A girl found dead matching the MO of their previous target. A man who kidnapped her, a man that strangled his victims, a man that fell to his death. It’s got to be a copy cat, but there’s things this person is doing that they never told anyone outside their original investigation team. The clock is ticking and Olivia and those around her have to decide if she needs protection because she may be next.
Will the killer finish what was started?
All the while this is going on, Josh who was there to help her unexpectedly ran right into his past. A man that he let get away. A man who is dangerous and killed multiple law enforcement officers. A man who has changed his face but has now weaseled his way into the president’s daughter’s life. But he would never forget his ticks, the little things he does that gives him away.
Will Josh be exposed?
Will Torres(D’Angelo) decide to take care of unfinished business?
All that and so much more. Keep one turning the page. Eating it all up! Wanting more!
Should you read previous books prior to this one. You can. However it gives enough info that you can read it as a standalone novel as well.
If you enjoy a good suspense, check it out!
Olivia is in a nightmare which she didn’t think was possible. But it was all real as can be. A girl found dead matching the MO of their previous target. A man who kidnapped her, a man that strangled his victims, a man that fell to his death. It’s got to be a copy cat, but there’s things this person is doing that they never told anyone outside their original investigation team. The clock is ticking and Olivia and those around her have to decide if she needs protection because she may be next.
Will the killer finish what was started?
All the while this is going on, Josh who was there to help her unexpectedly ran right into his past. A man that he let get away. A man who is dangerous and killed multiple law enforcement officers. A man who has changed his face but has now weaseled his way into the president’s daughter’s life. But he would never forget his ticks, the little things he does that gives him away.
Will Josh be exposed?
Will Torres(D’Angelo) decide to take care of unfinished business?
All that and so much more. Keep one turning the page. Eating it all up! Wanting more!
Should you read previous books prior to this one. You can. However it gives enough info that you can read it as a standalone novel as well.
If you enjoy a good suspense, check it out!
April 14, 2026
This book was a page turner for me, and I had a hard time putting it down! I love a great series on TV about crime me investigations, and this book led me straight down a path of nostalgia. This is the first book that I've read in the series, so I didn't have any of the history on the serial killer, but book 7 didn't leave me in the dark. I really enjoyed reading how the story kept developing, and the author was very creative in the development of this thriller, and I was SO VERY surprised with every chapter I read! Olivia is an FBI agent who has been working this case with this horrendous serial killer that to her knowledge, fell off a cliff to his death, after trying to send her to her own demise. She lives to see another day, and investigate a murder with the same MO as this serial killer, and she wonders what is going on! She believes that the killer is copying the original serial killer, and works hard with Josh as they try to solve these murders. The two of them spark chemistry between each other in the midst of the growing irritation to find this killer! Of course in their line of work, danger meets them at every turn, especially for a serial killer! My heart and also my stomach both rised with every few chapters read. While Josh she Olivia ate 3pm the search to find the killer, the killer outsmarts them EVERY TIME, and by the end my mind was blown! I really enjoyed reading this book and have fallen in love with this author!
March 18, 2026
4 Stars
Shadowed Designs is the seventh book in the Shadow Defense Security series by Mavery Ellscott. This is a gripping, action-packed, romantic suspense/romantic thriller with serial killer tension, danger, high stakes, adventure, slow-burn, mystery, chemistry, intrigue, emotion, challenges, conspiracies/agendas, and a race against time - which all made for another very engrossing read.
I have been really enjoying this series – and I love all the exciting elements that Ms. Ellscott weaves into each of her instalments, she never fails to deliver a thrilling read. This could be read as a standalone, as each book focuses on different MC’s and has its own ‘self-contained’ mystery - but as there is an overarching subplot and recurring characters, I recommend reading all the books, in the correct sequence, in order to fully appreciate this book, and the series as a whole.
Ms. Ellscott’s characters are really well-developed individuals, each with their own unique personality, quirks, and flaws - making them interesting and easy to connect with and invest in. As expected from reading the rest of the series, I was drawn into the story and experiencing everything right alongside our MCs. Again, this book/series would translate well onto the big screen- or make a great, long-running, television series…
Happy Reading…
Shadowed Designs is the seventh book in the Shadow Defense Security series by Mavery Ellscott. This is a gripping, action-packed, romantic suspense/romantic thriller with serial killer tension, danger, high stakes, adventure, slow-burn, mystery, chemistry, intrigue, emotion, challenges, conspiracies/agendas, and a race against time - which all made for another very engrossing read.
I have been really enjoying this series – and I love all the exciting elements that Ms. Ellscott weaves into each of her instalments, she never fails to deliver a thrilling read. This could be read as a standalone, as each book focuses on different MC’s and has its own ‘self-contained’ mystery - but as there is an overarching subplot and recurring characters, I recommend reading all the books, in the correct sequence, in order to fully appreciate this book, and the series as a whole.
Ms. Ellscott’s characters are really well-developed individuals, each with their own unique personality, quirks, and flaws - making them interesting and easy to connect with and invest in. As expected from reading the rest of the series, I was drawn into the story and experiencing everything right alongside our MCs. Again, this book/series would translate well onto the big screen- or make a great, long-running, television series…
Happy Reading…
March 21, 2026
Shadowed Designs: A Shadow Defense Security Thriller Book by Mavery Ellscott.
5 of 5 Stars.
This exciting adrenaline fuelled series just keeps getting better and better! I was gripped from page one by this fast paced, action packed thriller. Olivia Harrington is an FBI profiler who thought the Strangler was dead and buried, until she arrives in Flagstaff to investigate a copycat killer. With the rising body count Olivia realises the serial killer isn’t copying but evolving and that he’s hunting her. As Olivia and Deputy U.S Marshal Josh investigate they are shocked to find that this predator seems to be learning from their every move. They soon find themselves in the crosshairs of people willing to do anything to keep them silent.
As a deadly manhunt ensues, for Olivia and Josh it’s a race against time to catch a killer who seems to adapter faster than then can predict. I loved being back investigating alongside Olivia and Josh and I was quickly immersed in their world once again. I was hooked throughout by the unpredictable storyline and plot twists. Although it can be read as a standalone novel the characters do cross over, and there is an overarching conspiracy which runs throughout the series. I have found each book in the series to be a real page turner and so I recommend reading them all!
5 of 5 Stars.
This exciting adrenaline fuelled series just keeps getting better and better! I was gripped from page one by this fast paced, action packed thriller. Olivia Harrington is an FBI profiler who thought the Strangler was dead and buried, until she arrives in Flagstaff to investigate a copycat killer. With the rising body count Olivia realises the serial killer isn’t copying but evolving and that he’s hunting her. As Olivia and Deputy U.S Marshal Josh investigate they are shocked to find that this predator seems to be learning from their every move. They soon find themselves in the crosshairs of people willing to do anything to keep them silent.
As a deadly manhunt ensues, for Olivia and Josh it’s a race against time to catch a killer who seems to adapter faster than then can predict. I loved being back investigating alongside Olivia and Josh and I was quickly immersed in their world once again. I was hooked throughout by the unpredictable storyline and plot twists. Although it can be read as a standalone novel the characters do cross over, and there is an overarching conspiracy which runs throughout the series. I have found each book in the series to be a real page turner and so I recommend reading them all!
April 13, 2026
This is the 7th book in the Shadow Defence Security Series. Even though it is part of a set each book can be read as a standalone. However if you are like me once you read one you will want to read them all.
This is an action packed thriller with a touch of romance, a lot of danger and suspense and so many twists and turns I was hooked from the first page.
We are back with Olivia is a FBI profiler. She returns to help with a case, however the killer she is profiling seems to be the same killer she who was already dead. Is it a copycat killer or something more dangerous? One thing is for sure this killer is learn from past mistakes and has Olivia in their sights as the target.
When US Marshall Josh arrives his case interlinks with Olivia’s so they decide to work together to stop this killer but it won’t be an easy task. This killer is clever and is learning from the two agents making it harder for them to solve this case. With Olivia being on the killers hit list it is a race against time to find the killer before he gets to Olivia. But with secret agendas and people who are untrustworthy how are Olivia and Josh going to navigate everything and know who to trust and who they can’t.
What was nice is how the story is gripping and edge of your seat read but the slow burn romance element between Olivia and Josh adds another element and depth into this story
This is an action packed thriller with a touch of romance, a lot of danger and suspense and so many twists and turns I was hooked from the first page.
We are back with Olivia is a FBI profiler. She returns to help with a case, however the killer she is profiling seems to be the same killer she who was already dead. Is it a copycat killer or something more dangerous? One thing is for sure this killer is learn from past mistakes and has Olivia in their sights as the target.
When US Marshall Josh arrives his case interlinks with Olivia’s so they decide to work together to stop this killer but it won’t be an easy task. This killer is clever and is learning from the two agents making it harder for them to solve this case. With Olivia being on the killers hit list it is a race against time to find the killer before he gets to Olivia. But with secret agendas and people who are untrustworthy how are Olivia and Josh going to navigate everything and know who to trust and who they can’t.
What was nice is how the story is gripping and edge of your seat read but the slow burn romance element between Olivia and Josh adds another element and depth into this story
March 31, 2026
Shadowed Designs is the seventh book in the Shadow Defense Security series. It is a romantic thriller that blends high stakes suspense with emotional depth. The story explores themes of trauma, trust, conspiracy, and the psychological complexity of hunting a serial killer. The story follows FBI profiler Olivia Harrington as she confronts a new murder that mirrors the methods of the Strangler, a killer she believed was already dead. When Deputy U.S. Marshal Josh Burton arrives on a separate case, their investigations collide, revealing a predator who is learning, adapting, and targeting Olivia directly. Political interference, hidden agendas, and the shadowy Consortium add layers of tension as the body count rises. The character of Olivia is brilliant, determined, and deeply affected by her past. Josh brings steadiness, competence, and quiet protectiveness. Their chemistry grows naturally amid the chaos, supported by standout side characters like McClane, Josh’s capable and charming K9 partner. This was a fast paced and emotional read that I feel is one of the strongest in the series.
Read
February 16, 2026I received an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
This story begins with Olivia arriving in Flagstaff, Az, to assist with the investigation of a murder which appears to be a copycat of the Strangler who had died earlier in Hawaii. On arriving and attending the scene the M.O. was so similar to the Strangler. Later Josh, the US Marshall arrived and together they worked on the investigation. Daniel, Olivia's ex-fiancee and FBI agent also showed up to assist. There was another situation in town that had Celeste, POTUS's daughter and D'Angelo, her fiance , having a fundraiser and Gala for her organization. Later a second murder happened with the same earmarks as the 1st.
Follow Olivia, Josh and McLane as they pursue the killer as well as look into a situation involving the Consortium. Learn who was also assisting the two in their hunt as well in what situations arise that are dangerous for both. The ending is well done and provides all answers to questions that you might have.
This is another great story in the series and well worth the read, don't miss out!
This story begins with Olivia arriving in Flagstaff, Az, to assist with the investigation of a murder which appears to be a copycat of the Strangler who had died earlier in Hawaii. On arriving and attending the scene the M.O. was so similar to the Strangler. Later Josh, the US Marshall arrived and together they worked on the investigation. Daniel, Olivia's ex-fiancee and FBI agent also showed up to assist. There was another situation in town that had Celeste, POTUS's daughter and D'Angelo, her fiance , having a fundraiser and Gala for her organization. Later a second murder happened with the same earmarks as the 1st.
Follow Olivia, Josh and McLane as they pursue the killer as well as look into a situation involving the Consortium. Learn who was also assisting the two in their hunt as well in what situations arise that are dangerous for both. The ending is well done and provides all answers to questions that you might have.
This is another great story in the series and well worth the read, don't miss out!
April 7, 2026
Shadowed Designs: A Shadow Defense Security Thriller Book by Mavery Ellscott. This is the 7th book in the Shadow Defense Thriller series and its become one of my favorite series. Its the continuing story of Olivia who arrives in Flagstaff to assist with a murder that appears to be a copycat of the Strangler. Josh from the US Marshall's arrives as well and as they dig deeper and deeper it gets darker and more creepy. The more they investigate the more they begin to think this may not be a copycat after all. Daniel who is Olivia's ex fiance' shows up as well to help with the investigation and they soon realize Olivia may be the next target. The night they have a big fundraising dinner for a candidate and they have another murder at the dinner. This killer has the same mo as the Strangler but it feels off to the investigators. Will they be able to catch this killer before another murder happens. Will Olivia survive this investigation or will this be her last? I love this series so much and this book kept me guessing until the very end.
April 7, 2026
This story is part of a series that I have enjoyed reading from the first book I picked up. This book is by an author that is fast becoming one of my favorites. I enjoy this author’s writing skills as well as their use of details that made the story come to life. This is a suspenseful thriller with some romance added in. A story about a manhunt that is a race against time. A serial killer is evolving and the deeper Olivia and Josh dig the more they realize how twisted things are. You don’t want to miss what happens in this story. I enjoyed all the characters in this story and what they brought to the story. They are strong, determined and well developed. The twists and turns come to life with the author’s creative details. They left me sitting on the edge of my seat just waiting to see what would happen next. The growth of this story made it easy and entertaining to read. I found this story to be fast paced and hard to put down a story that I enjoyed reading. I look forward to seeing what is next for this author. I highly recommend this book.
February 23, 2026
Did Thorne Mercer die in the last book? They believed so, until now. Olivia and Josh along with McClane are back to check out a new murder that copies the others. Many say a copycat. Olivia and others think protegee. Just how many are there that committed these murders?
In a new city, the stakes have risen. Adaptions have been made. Also, another case or two run parallel with Olivia’s. Josh suspects someone from his past has made an appearance in the location of the murders. Is it really him? He looks different, but telltale signs say different. Get ready for the continuation of Josh and Olivia’s stories. This time, they are dealing with someone even deadlier and smarter. The twists will leave you holding your breath in anticipation of who the bad guy(s) are and what they will do to get what they desire.
If you did not read the book prior to this one in the series, you will need to read it prior to this one to get the full effect of both stories. The world building, twists, plots, action, with a twist of humor in places leaves Mavery Ellscott as one of my fav authors. She manages to write true to life scenarios that leaves you wondering if they are true or not. I always feel as if I am right there in each page partaking in the action.
In a new city, the stakes have risen. Adaptions have been made. Also, another case or two run parallel with Olivia’s. Josh suspects someone from his past has made an appearance in the location of the murders. Is it really him? He looks different, but telltale signs say different. Get ready for the continuation of Josh and Olivia’s stories. This time, they are dealing with someone even deadlier and smarter. The twists will leave you holding your breath in anticipation of who the bad guy(s) are and what they will do to get what they desire.
If you did not read the book prior to this one in the series, you will need to read it prior to this one to get the full effect of both stories. The world building, twists, plots, action, with a twist of humor in places leaves Mavery Ellscott as one of my fav authors. She manages to write true to life scenarios that leaves you wondering if they are true or not. I always feel as if I am right there in each page partaking in the action.
April 2, 2026
This was my first book by Mavery Ellscott, and I enjoyed it but did feel lost when some details/plot were brought up. I'd highly recommend reading the previous books in the series first! Thorne Mercer was supposed to be dead, but FBI profiler Olivia Harrington is on the case when a new murder copies the Strangler’s signature. Her superiors all feel like it's a copycat, but Olivia suspects that a protégé is finishing what her former kidnapper started. Deputy U.S. Marshal Josh Burton’s own investigation overlaps with hers, forcing them to team up against this new criminal along with his K-9 partner. I enjoyed the fast-paced thriller. Olivia and Josh had great chemistry. The action and intrigue were well thought out and a few twists I didn't even guess ahead of time. And can we all agree Daniel is a character written to be hated? I definitely plan to go back and start at the beginning of the series!
April 15, 2026
5 out of 5 Stars
Shadowed Designs: A Shadow Defense Security Thriller #7 by Mavery Ellscott
This is the first book I've read by the author. Shadowed Designs is the seventh book in the Shadow Defense Security series. This can be read as a standalone.
Olivia is an FBI agent and she doesn't like asking for help. Then she needs the help from the US Marshal she met. She tells this to him while on a case: “Sterling Mercer is riddled with guilt because he could never please his father. He’s terrified genetics will turn him into a monster, like Thorne. He wanted reassurance he could fight it and remain the man he is today.”
Josh is the US Marshal that Olivia asks help from. He knows not to mess with her, but damn if he can't help catching feelings. He says this to her: “So, we’ve got a witness we figure saw Mercer’s protégé but can’t ID him, and the Consortium is watching our every move.”
Shadowed Designs: A Shadow Defense Security Thriller #7 by Mavery Ellscott
This is the first book I've read by the author. Shadowed Designs is the seventh book in the Shadow Defense Security series. This can be read as a standalone.
Olivia is an FBI agent and she doesn't like asking for help. Then she needs the help from the US Marshal she met. She tells this to him while on a case: “Sterling Mercer is riddled with guilt because he could never please his father. He’s terrified genetics will turn him into a monster, like Thorne. He wanted reassurance he could fight it and remain the man he is today.”
Josh is the US Marshal that Olivia asks help from. He knows not to mess with her, but damn if he can't help catching feelings. He says this to her: “So, we’ve got a witness we figure saw Mercer’s protégé but can’t ID him, and the Consortium is watching our every move.”
April 4, 2026
Every page of this series keeps you locked in and that sleep is optional is very real because I lose quite a bit every time I dive into this world. Yes, each book can be read as a standalone but for the ultimate journey and the overarching plot it is a must to start from the beginning and continue. The growth of the characters, the changes, the story and what they overcome never is expected and keep you guessing what will happen next. Having read every book in this series up to this one I love seeing previous characters pop in and seeing how they have evolved over time since their story. Oliva and Josh thought they knew what they were looking into, it was just a copycat, right, and what was going to happen next but with each twist and turn the story gets deeper until they no longer know who they can trust.
April 9, 2026
Shadowed Designs is the 7th book in the Shadow Defense Security Thriller series, but the first I have read. The description and cover drew me in and I’m glad I decided to read it, despite being so far into a series. While I am sure there is backstory, I didn’t feel like I needed it. I really loved this book- it is a fast paced crime thriller. I love it even more because it takes place in the same state I reside- Arizona. There is a little bit of office romance, but it mainly focuses on the hunt of a serial killer. We aren’t sure if the killer didn’t really die, or had a protégé, or perhaps a copycat. I love that I didn’t figure it out, and it kept me hooked til the end. I will definitely read more by this author, and the series!
February 16, 2026
Don’t blink—or breathe—you just might miss something. An intricate web spun by a taunting serial killer keeps everyone scrambling, always one step behind. Alongside Josh and Olivia, you feel the frustration as every lead seems to hit another dead end. The suspense pulls you in deep, daring you to piece the puzzle together while a slow-burn connection steadily builds between them.
With so many moving parts, the story stays sharp and intriguing from start to finish. Maclane rules once again, proving instrumental in more ways than one—and completely adorable while doing it. And just when you think it’s finally over… it really isn’t.
With so many moving parts, the story stays sharp and intriguing from start to finish. Maclane rules once again, proving instrumental in more ways than one—and completely adorable while doing it. And just when you think it’s finally over… it really isn’t.
February 17, 2026
Josh and Olivia are just an amazing couple. Danger and suspense at its best and the connection they share drives this book.
FBI profiler Olivia thinks the killer is dead but when he targets her she teams up with Agent Josh to get him.
Their connection is strong. Josh is tough and knows they're in real danger from the killer but knowing he is after her his drive kicks in.
Olivia is smart and scared but her training kicks in. Tracking down this killer is the mission and knowing Josh is on her side helps immensely.
Such a fantastic book. I've enjoyed this whole series and this book is just as great. Great work!
FBI profiler Olivia thinks the killer is dead but when he targets her she teams up with Agent Josh to get him.
Their connection is strong. Josh is tough and knows they're in real danger from the killer but knowing he is after her his drive kicks in.
Olivia is smart and scared but her training kicks in. Tracking down this killer is the mission and knowing Josh is on her side helps immensely.
Such a fantastic book. I've enjoyed this whole series and this book is just as great. Great work!
March 4, 2026
(4.5) Fast-paced thriller full if intrigue and suspense with a masterful twist at the end. Strong, Independent and still vulnerable FBI Profiler Oliva and Josh US Marshall with McClane (4 legged) hook up again to track a killer. A killer that Olivia has a history with. I received and advanced copy and also purchased a copy. I freely share my honest thoughts ad opinions. I absolutely despise Olivia's ex - Daniel, every time he was on the page I bristled. There are a lot of characters and twists and turns. I highly recommend starting with book one. #ShadowedDesigns #ShadowDefenseSecurity #MaveryEllscott #BookFunnel
March 31, 2026
Shadowed Designs: A Shadow Defense Seciruty Thriller Book 7 by Maverick Ellscott
4 Star Review
FBI profiler Olivia Harrington thought that the Strangler was dead and buried. As the body count rises, she realizes that she had been very wrong.
Deputy Marshall Josh Burton had put away several killers, but this predator is as slippery as they get.
This book is a real page turner with great characters and lots of suspense. This book is a standalone book, but you will definitely get the whole picture if you read the entire series. When I read it, I kept feeling like I had maybe missed something. So cozy up and grab the whole series.
4 Star Review
FBI profiler Olivia Harrington thought that the Strangler was dead and buried. As the body count rises, she realizes that she had been very wrong.
Deputy Marshall Josh Burton had put away several killers, but this predator is as slippery as they get.
This book is a real page turner with great characters and lots of suspense. This book is a standalone book, but you will definitely get the whole picture if you read the entire series. When I read it, I kept feeling like I had maybe missed something. So cozy up and grab the whole series.
April 7, 2026
This is one of my favorite series to read and this author gets better with every book. This can be read as a standalone but you'd be missing out on some pivotal characters that would make this more understandable.
There is a lot that I would love to say about this book but I really can't say much without giving it away. I will tell you to prepare to read this in one sitting or you'll be finding ways to revamp your schedule so that you can. This is fast paced, intense, suspenseful action with Olivia, Josh, and their K-9 trying to bury the people in the past and look forward to the future.
I look forward to more from this author!
There is a lot that I would love to say about this book but I really can't say much without giving it away. I will tell you to prepare to read this in one sitting or you'll be finding ways to revamp your schedule so that you can. This is fast paced, intense, suspenseful action with Olivia, Josh, and their K-9 trying to bury the people in the past and look forward to the future.
I look forward to more from this author!
April 7, 2026
This series has been exciting since book one and this latest story is no exception. From the moment I started reading this book I was pulled right back into the characters as though I had never stopped reading about them. The story is really gripping – it is intense, fast paced and is one of those stories that had me on the edge of my seat the whole way through.
This book can be read as a standalone but I would highly recommend reading the other books in the series. It will give you a much greater appreciation for everything happening, and they are also just that good! I read this book in one sitting and loved every minute of it.
This book can be read as a standalone but I would highly recommend reading the other books in the series. It will give you a much greater appreciation for everything happening, and they are also just that good! I read this book in one sitting and loved every minute of it.
April 9, 2026
The seventh book in the Shadow Defense Security series, Shadowed Designs did not disappoint. While it can be read as a stand alone book, the characters and stories do have some overlap. Olivia Harrington, with the FBI Behavioral Analysis Unit has been called in on a case, that seems very similar to a case that she had investigated in her past. New city, same patterns, but the murderer is dead right?!? Is it a copycat or is the strangler still alive. Enter Deputy US Marshal John Burton, who just happens to be in the same area investigating a case of his own. Now that their investigations have overlapped can they truly get to the bottom of whats going on. A great can't put down book.
April 14, 2026
This series has become one of my absolute favorite series ever! This is the seventh installment of Shadow Defense Security, and although I highly recommend reading all of them, they also do well as standalones. The reason I recommend them so highly is because they are all absolutely incredible! This author has mastered the art of suspense without being repetitive or cliche. The character development is still perfect even though we are seven books into this series! Olivia and Josh are a great duo and have wonderful chemistry together. This is a nonstop thrill ride so if you are looking for a cozy book to wind down the evening, don’t pick this one up because you won’t put it back down!
April 15, 2026
The Shadow Defense Series has been great. In Shadowed Designs Olivia and Josh are trying to figure out if a serial killer called The Strangler is back or if it is a copy cat. It was thought that The Strangler had plunged to his death after falling off a cliff, but bodies are turning up in a new city that match his MO. As Josh and Olivia follow his trail he changes the game. Their perp is learning from them and adapting how he does things. How do you stop someone that always seems to be one step ahead at all times? You don't necessarily have to read this series in order but I highly recommend doing so.
April 3, 2026
Follow Olivia, Josh and McLane as they pursue the killer as well as look into a situation involving the Consortium. Learn who was also assisting the two in their hunt as well in what situations arise that are dangerous for both. The ending is well done and provides all answers to questions that you might have. Love this series so far, love the characters, the storyline and the mystery. Did the strangler actually did in the last book or did he survive? You will just have to read and find out. I could hardly put this down and hope to read more in this series.
April 6, 2026
Shadowed Designs is a gripping, fast-paced thriller that keeps the tension high from start to finish. Olivia is a strong, compelling lead, and the dynamic between her and Josh adds just the right touch of slow-burn chemistry without taking away from the action. The evolving killer concept is genuinely chilling and keeps you guessing, with plenty of twists to stay hooked. A few moments feel a bit over-the-top, but it only adds to the intensity. Overall, it’s a really entertaining, edge-of-your-seat read that’s perfect if you enjoy smart, high-stakes thrillers.
April 11, 2026
Olivia and Josh have worked together before. It was the Strangler case, where Olivia was the intended target. After witnessing the murderer’s death, the Behavioral Analysis Unit has agent Olivia Harrington working what looks to be a copycat killer. And Olivia is again the target. Deputy U.S. Marshall Josh Burton is not going to let that happen. When their two cases begin to intertwine and the killer is getting closer, Josh has to decide if he can tell Olivia how he feels and not let his feelings cloud his judgement. Another case for Shadow Defense Security to solve; love these books!
February 21, 2026
Wow , what a ride this one was. I don't do spoilers I simply write how I feel about the book. This was one heck of an adrenaline ride. An absolute cracker of a thriller. Some stories you may loose interest in but not this one. Chasing bad guys is what it's all about and trying , sometimes, to discover who the bad guy is. Add to that mix a love interest.
This book has something for everyone.
I wholeheartedly recommend this for your reading pleasure. The entire series is brilliant.
This book has something for everyone.
I wholeheartedly recommend this for your reading pleasure. The entire series is brilliant.
April 2, 2026
Wonderful story! I enjoyed seeing and hanging out with Olivia and Josh again. Just when I thought the Strangler business was done and now we have a copycat. This really kept me going and I enjoyed all the suspense. Plus there is a good amount of humor in here which is a nice break. Not sure I would have figured it out which it always makes the story extra good for me. We do see a lot of repeat characters so I would highly recommend reading others in the series to be able to follow along.
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