What do you think?
Rate this book
Prey Security: Undercover Team #1
Defending Nathan
I’m not her salvation, I'm her worst nightmare.
When Emma Beaumont is snatched off the streets and finds she's been abducted by a sex trafficking ring she's determined to fight as hard as she can and never give up. She would rather die fighting than accept her fate. The last place she expected to find help was from one of the people holding her captive. Only things aren't as they seem with the mysterious man and just when she thinks she can trust him to help her get out she's sold and sent to the other side of the world.
Nathan Solace has always had a savior complex. His need to save everyone he crosses paths with makes his job as one of Prey Security's undercover operatives difficult, but he's good at his job. His latest case is working for a sex trafficking ring called Azure who specialize in selling blue eyed women to rich men across the globe. When a little blonde firecracker becomes the ring's next victim he's unable to help getting attached, but before he can get her out she's sold off, leaving him with only two options. Break his cover to save her life, or let her go and accept that sometimes you can't save everyone.
** Please note that some readers might find some situations depicted in this book triggering as there are issues regarding consent. **
When Emma Beaumont is snatched off the streets and finds she's been abducted by a sex trafficking ring she's determined to fight as hard as she can and never give up. She would rather die fighting than accept her fate. The last place she expected to find help was from one of the people holding her captive. Only things aren't as they seem with the mysterious man and just when she thinks she can trust him to help her get out she's sold and sent to the other side of the world.
Nathan Solace has always had a savior complex. His need to save everyone he crosses paths with makes his job as one of Prey Security's undercover operatives difficult, but he's good at his job. His latest case is working for a sex trafficking ring called Azure who specialize in selling blue eyed women to rich men across the globe. When a little blonde firecracker becomes the ring's next victim he's unable to help getting attached, but before he can get her out she's sold off, leaving him with only two options. Break his cover to save her life, or let her go and accept that sometimes you can't save everyone.
** Please note that some readers might find some situations depicted in this book triggering as there are issues regarding consent. **
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 12, 2026
About the author
Jane Blythe
128 books1,378 followers
USA Today bestselling author Jane Blythe writes action-packed romantic suspense and military romance featuring protective heroes and heroines who are survivors. One of Jane's most popular series includes Prey Security, part of Susan Stoker's OPERATION ALPHA world! Writing in that world alongside authors such as Janie Crouch and Riley Edwards has been a blast, and she looks forward to bringing more books to this genre, both within and outside of Stoker's world. When Jane isn't binge-reading she's counting down to Christmas and adding to her 200+ teddy bear collection!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Review of advance copy
This book is the first book in the Prey Security Undercover Team series and if this book is any indication what is to come, wow we're in for it. This was a fantastic book, definitely sad due to the trafficking aspect and how true it is in today's world. First heed the triggers they are there for a reason and this book definitely has some dark aspects to it. Emma was only trying to help a stranded stranger on the side of the road little did she know her life would be forever changed by her kind gesture. Nathan is working with Prey Security to take down a trafficking ring only thing is he has to go undercover to do it. His life and agenda changes when he meets Emma, he will do anything to try to keep her safe without putting them both in danger. This book is one heck of a wild ride full of different emotions. If you like suspense, action and a lot of angst then this book is for you. I'm so glad they got their happy ending. I highly recommend this book and I am so excited to read future books in this series.
June 7, 2026
I really enjoyed Defending Nathan. It kept me interested from the very beginning, and I was always wanting to know what was going to happen next.
What I loved most was how Emma could just tell that Nathan was a good person, even with everything stacked against him. The situation she was put in was absolute hell, and honestly, I don’t know how many people would have handled it as well as she did. Even through all of that, she trusted her instincts and never stopped believing there was more to Nathan.
I also loved how the bond between Emma and Nathan started so early in the story. It grew naturally through everything they went through, both together and apart. Even in the worst of her nightmare deep down she knew her feeling for him. Every new situation seemed to strengthen their connection, and it made me root for them even more as the story went on.
Overall, this was a really good read that kept me engaged the entire time. The characters felt real, the emotional connection was strong, and I found myself invested in what would happen to Emma and Nathan from start to finish.
What I loved most was how Emma could just tell that Nathan was a good person, even with everything stacked against him. The situation she was put in was absolute hell, and honestly, I don’t know how many people would have handled it as well as she did. Even through all of that, she trusted her instincts and never stopped believing there was more to Nathan.
I also loved how the bond between Emma and Nathan started so early in the story. It grew naturally through everything they went through, both together and apart. Even in the worst of her nightmare deep down she knew her feeling for him. Every new situation seemed to strengthen their connection, and it made me root for them even more as the story went on.
Overall, this was a really good read that kept me engaged the entire time. The characters felt real, the emotional connection was strong, and I found myself invested in what would happen to Emma and Nathan from start to finish.
May 12, 2026
This book is darker than other books that I've read by this author. Let me tell you, I'm here for all of it! I absolutely was talking to Emma when she was going to be nice to someone with a flat tire. (Note to self, pull along them and ask if they need help and then go call someone for them.) I was telling her not to do it but she didn't listen.
When Emma meets Nathan she feels like there's something different about him. Is there really though? He's working for and working with people that are horrible human beings. Why would he be any different?
Nathan hasn't felt this way before about a woman that has been in his care before. He fights it but loses the battle. You can feel the emotions just rolling off of Nathan. He makes decisions with her in mind. The kind that can get both of them killed if ever found out. Is Nathan and Emma going to have a chance to try for their HEA or is everything going to be for naught?
I CANNOT wait for the next book in this series!!
When Emma meets Nathan she feels like there's something different about him. Is there really though? He's working for and working with people that are horrible human beings. Why would he be any different?
Nathan hasn't felt this way before about a woman that has been in his care before. He fights it but loses the battle. You can feel the emotions just rolling off of Nathan. He makes decisions with her in mind. The kind that can get both of them killed if ever found out. Is Nathan and Emma going to have a chance to try for their HEA or is everything going to be for naught?
I CANNOT wait for the next book in this series!!
May 13, 2026
I really loved Nathan and Emma, I wasn’t sure where this story was going to go but I loved how it ended up. You aren’t really sure whether Nathan is a good guy or a bad guy and you have to see him evolve and understand why he’s involved with the traffickers. Emma was in the wrong place at the right time and what happens changes her life forever and now her life depends on whether Nathan can save her. Emma is different and Nathan has become protective of her and is doing his best to protect her at all costs, but he may not be able to always be there to step in between her and the men who took her. All she needs to do is just cooperate and stay in line until Nathan can come up with a plan to get her out, but Emma is stubborn, head strong and won’t comply and that will lead to things that will change her life as she knows it. This is the first book in a new series and I can’t wait for more. Loved it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a darker book than usual. This is the first in the new series, about the undercover operatives dealing with human traffickers.
Taken by the Azure group of traffickers because she had blue eyes, Emma is held but captured the attention of undercover operative, Nathan.
Brutal and hard hitting look at the harsh side of trafficking. I liked that Nathan was undercover as didn't really know where the story was going initially but pretty fast caught on.
I loved that Nathan was going his best to protect Emma but had his failings. This took us through an whole gamut of emotions, frustrations and also a couple of victorious moments.
Loaded with danger, action and eye opening moments that don't stop you reading. Certainly a plot that compels you to read on. So well done, I'm looking forward to more of the series. Fantastic!!
Taken by the Azure group of traffickers because she had blue eyes, Emma is held but captured the attention of undercover operative, Nathan.
Brutal and hard hitting look at the harsh side of trafficking. I liked that Nathan was undercover as didn't really know where the story was going initially but pretty fast caught on.
I loved that Nathan was going his best to protect Emma but had his failings. This took us through an whole gamut of emotions, frustrations and also a couple of victorious moments.
Loaded with danger, action and eye opening moments that don't stop you reading. Certainly a plot that compels you to read on. So well done, I'm looking forward to more of the series. Fantastic!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have read many books by Jane Blythe and I have a few favourites but this book is my ultimate favourite and what a fantastic read to begin a new series. I was constantly on the edge of my seat throughout and the story is one that unfortunately is a reality in the world these days but Jane Blythe handled this with the utmost professionalism and care. The characters of Emma and Nathan were nothing short of spectacular and I loved and admired Emma’s constant strength even when facing the worst case scenario. Beware of the trigger warnings because the content is not for the faint at heart but if you feel that you will be able to read this book I highly recommend it. If this book is any indication of what is to come in this series then we will be in for a massive emotional roller coaster ride. Once again, brilliant work by Jane Blythe.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Defending Nathan opens into dark and painful territory.
You start off feeling disgusted and confused, before finally reaching that moment of relief as you discover who Nathan truly is. Emma is strength and grit, you admire her even as you cringe at the risks she takes.
The stolen moments between them are touching, while the painful ones squeeze your heart. You’re left on edge as each scene unfolds, waiting for the other shoe to drop, especially when Emma disappears.
When it finally does, the rescue is fast and adrenaline-fueled, with banter and camaraderie cutting through the darkness.
A gripping, emotionally intense story that balances dark themes with strong character resilience, delivering tension, heart, and a powerful payoff.
You start off feeling disgusted and confused, before finally reaching that moment of relief as you discover who Nathan truly is. Emma is strength and grit, you admire her even as you cringe at the risks she takes.
The stolen moments between them are touching, while the painful ones squeeze your heart. You’re left on edge as each scene unfolds, waiting for the other shoe to drop, especially when Emma disappears.
When it finally does, the rescue is fast and adrenaline-fueled, with banter and camaraderie cutting through the darkness.
A gripping, emotionally intense story that balances dark themes with strong character resilience, delivering tension, heart, and a powerful payoff.
Review of advance copy
This first book in a new series from Jane is dark and I would recommend checking the triggers before reading
It starts of with Emma Beaumont being taken from the roadside and taken to a trafficking facility to be trained.
Emma doesn't make it easy on herself, she is defiant and unaccepting of her new reality, but Nathan one of her captors, makes it easier on her than the others. Is he messing with her head? Is he not what he seems?
Nathan has a job to do but in the meantime, he will do what he can to make Emma's captivity easier, because something in Emma calls to something in him.
This book is not for the faint hearted, it is full of drama, tension and emotion and I felt it all!
.
It starts of with Emma Beaumont being taken from the roadside and taken to a trafficking facility to be trained.
Emma doesn't make it easy on herself, she is defiant and unaccepting of her new reality, but Nathan one of her captors, makes it easier on her than the others. Is he messing with her head? Is he not what he seems?
Nathan has a job to do but in the meantime, he will do what he can to make Emma's captivity easier, because something in Emma calls to something in him.
This book is not for the faint hearted, it is full of drama, tension and emotion and I felt it all!
.
Review of advance copy
This is the first book in a brand-new series by one of my go-to authors, and once again, Jane Blythe absolutely delivered. From the very first chapter, I was hooked. The suspense immediately draws you in, leaving you questioning who can really be trusted. Was anyone truly there to help Emma? And who exactly is the enigmatic Nathan - can he really be trusted?
I genuinely could not put this book down and ended up finishing it in a single sitting. The story is packed with drama, tension, and plenty of twists that kept the pages turning. I was completely invested in Emma and Nathan’s journey and eager to see how they would overcome everything standing in the way of their happily ever after.
A gripping and addictive start to a new series, and I’m already looking forward to the next book.
I genuinely could not put this book down and ended up finishing it in a single sitting. The story is packed with drama, tension, and plenty of twists that kept the pages turning. I was completely invested in Emma and Nathan’s journey and eager to see how they would overcome everything standing in the way of their happily ever after.
A gripping and addictive start to a new series, and I’m already looking forward to the next book.
Review of advance copy
Have you read Jane? Well buckle up buttercup cause its about to get bumpy. I just love when Jane writes in Susan' s world because 2 of my favs in the same place is heaven. Anyhow make sure you catch the trigger warnings and proceed with caution.
And now the review. I read this in one sitting. Page turner folks that I could not put down.the worls is not black or white its can be morally grey and full of colors. Remember you can be the heroine or hero of your own story and still need assistance. So pour your coffee and enjoy getting to know the undercover team of Prey.
And now the review. I read this in one sitting. Page turner folks that I could not put down.the worls is not black or white its can be morally grey and full of colors. Remember you can be the heroine or hero of your own story and still need assistance. So pour your coffee and enjoy getting to know the undercover team of Prey.
Review of advance copy
Wow, couldn't put this story down, so much non-stop action. This story had your heart beating fast, biting your nails, and rooting for Emma and Nathan. Emma is a good Samaritan, but that will get her into trouble. She was kidnapped by sex traffickers after she tried to help a person stranded on the side of the road. She told the she will never submit to them!! Nathan has always wanted to help people or animals that are hurt or being hurt. So he went undercover to find a way to stop the sex traffickers. Highly recommend this book, I'm so ready to read the next book in the series.
Review of advance copy
This story is very dark and may not be suitable for sensitive readers. With that said watching Emma and Nathan navigate their traumatic experiences and find their way through the darkness was difficult yet rewarding. Emma is strong and resilient and despite her circumstances manages to retain her sense of self. I pretty much cried through most of the story but Jane Blythe is a master storyteller who weaves two people so well that by the end you are holding your breath to find out how they get to their HEA.
Review of advance copy
The Prey Security world is so much fun. These protective men driven to do what’s right. With skill, experience and history. I just love getting to know the characters better. They’re such a strong knit group. Everyone has their own place. Their loyalty and determination is strong. Emma is also a fighter, her strength of will is powerful. Can she persevere or will captivity break her. Nathan and Emma’s connection is immediate and the pull between them undeniable. Their journey moving.
A wonderful read. Can’t wait for more in this world!
A wonderful read. Can’t wait for more in this world!
May 12, 2026
Defending Nathan was dark! Loved every minute of it!
DN was suspenseful, intense and just plain unputdownable.
Its lower on the spice scale, and I don't even care, the story itself, is gripping and captivating.
At the beginning, Nathan made me RAGE. Emma, couldn't have loved her more, Ive never wanted a character to overcome(?) Succeed(?) Im not even sure of the word, but I was Team Emma from the beginning.
Shes an absolute powerhouse.
And that ending? CANNOT WAIT.
Vague for a reason
DN was suspenseful, intense and just plain unputdownable.
Its lower on the spice scale, and I don't even care, the story itself, is gripping and captivating.
At the beginning, Nathan made me RAGE. Emma, couldn't have loved her more, Ive never wanted a character to overcome(?) Succeed(?) Im not even sure of the word, but I was Team Emma from the beginning.
Shes an absolute powerhouse.
And that ending? CANNOT WAIT.
Vague for a reason
May 23, 2026
Defending Nathan
OMG! This story starts out really dark and just continues into darkness. This story is about Nathan - whom I thought was an evil in the beginning. The victim is Emma - who proves to be an amazingly strong woman who goes through evil and hell. Once Nathan reveals himself to us and Emma, we start feeling his pain for Emma. We are brought through all the horrors that Emma goes through but as we get through this story, we praise Emma for her bravery. FANTASTIC job Jane! I would recommend this book! Can't wait for Mateo's book!
OMG! This story starts out really dark and just continues into darkness. This story is about Nathan - whom I thought was an evil in the beginning. The victim is Emma - who proves to be an amazingly strong woman who goes through evil and hell. Once Nathan reveals himself to us and Emma, we start feeling his pain for Emma. We are brought through all the horrors that Emma goes through but as we get through this story, we praise Emma for her bravery. FANTASTIC job Jane! I would recommend this book! Can't wait for Mateo's book!
Review of advance copy
I really loved this book. Amongst such suffering true love couldn’t be denied!
A real spark happened between Emma and Nathan, the connection was there from the start. Emma was so very brave to fight and endure. I loved her spirit and determination.
Nathan was also amazing. He fought for what he wanted and did all he could.
Really great story and I’m really looking forward to book 2 now we know who the lead will be- I wasn’t expecting that!
A real spark happened between Emma and Nathan, the connection was there from the start. Emma was so very brave to fight and endure. I loved her spirit and determination.
Nathan was also amazing. He fought for what he wanted and did all he could.
Really great story and I’m really looking forward to book 2 now we know who the lead will be- I wasn’t expecting that!
Review of advance copy
This new series starts off INTENSE!
Highly recommend to read the trigger warnings as this book is dark. Emma is strong and has a lot of grit which she needs as she's been taken by sex traffickers. Nathan, undercover, wants to help her but can he save her?
Fast paced, emotional, trauma and non-stop action. There are a lot of horrible people in the world, but even through that, the hero and heroine can find love.
Highly recommend to read the trigger warnings as this book is dark. Emma is strong and has a lot of grit which she needs as she's been taken by sex traffickers. Nathan, undercover, wants to help her but can he save her?
Fast paced, emotional, trauma and non-stop action. There are a lot of horrible people in the world, but even through that, the hero and heroine can find love.
Review of advance copy received from Author
New team, new characters, new excitement! Couldn’t stop reading.
This does start out a little darker than usual but grabbed this reader right away. Human trafficking and undercover work makes for an excellent story. Nathan and Emma pull you in even with so many doubts and questions about themselves and each other.
As always the addition of a Susan S team always add to the drama and tension.
Can’t wait to read the rest of the team,,
This does start out a little darker than usual but grabbed this reader right away. Human trafficking and undercover work makes for an excellent story. Nathan and Emma pull you in even with so many doubts and questions about themselves and each other.
As always the addition of a Susan S team always add to the drama and tension.
Can’t wait to read the rest of the team,,
Review of advance copy
A very intense start to this new series. Do check your triggers. With that said, this is the story of two people caught in a world of darkness, one by assignment and the other by sinister means. Amidst the danger, a bond forms between them, pushing Nathan to make decisions for who he wants to be for Emma. It is a well written story that gives us an evil that we want to see taken down, bravery and perseverance beyond expectation, relief when Delta comrades step up, and a love that triumphs.
Review of advance copy
The Undercover Team hunts the worst of the worst. Their Job isn’t easy and morally taunting. As one of the Undercover operatives Nathan is falling for Emma. One of the victims that he wants to safe but can’t protect.
This team will emotionally bring you down because what they are going through will break you, its definitely not for a faint heart.
This team will emotionally bring you down because what they are going through will break you, its definitely not for a faint heart.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a good book. This is a new series by this author
Nathan and “blondie” go thru a lot to be together. She’s in a bad situation and he doesn’t want to take advantage of that. He falls first. She’s just trying to remain being herself.
This is the first book in a new series. I can’t wait for the next one.
Nathan and “blondie” go thru a lot to be together. She’s in a bad situation and he doesn’t want to take advantage of that. He falls first. She’s just trying to remain being herself.
This is the first book in a new series. I can’t wait for the next one.
Review of advance copy
I wasn't sure how to feel about Nathan when I first started the book. But he quickly showed who he was and I fell for him. Emma was unbelievably strong and stubborn. The storyline, of course, the stuff nightmares are made of. But with glimmers of goodness and light. I am looking forward to more in this series.
Review of advance copy
I love this book and I know its going to be another fantastic series it was a little hard in the beginning but once I got past the triggers it was a great book full of twist and turns I am glad Nathan and Emma got their happily ever after in the end.
Review of advance copy
I read many books by Jane and this start to the series is darker than I've read for a while, read the trigger warnings but don't let that put you off, a solid foundation has been set for the rest of the series which I can't wait for, handled carefully and excellently written
Review of advance copy received from Author
Holy moly Jane Blythe has just made this book my favorite book from her. Defending Nathan is the first book in Jane Blythe’s newest series Prey Security: Undercover Team. This story is darker than she’s written previously so please read content warnings before you start this story.
May 12, 2026
A must-read for fans of romantic suspense! Defending Nathan delivers a perfect balance of dark, dangerous thriller elements and a passionate, protective romance that keeps you hooked until the final page. Looking forward to the next one!
May 13, 2026
Defending Nathan is the first book in Jane Blythe's new series Prey Security: Undercover Team.
This book is a dark romance, full of lots of twists and turns. I could not put it down, and did not want it to end!!!
I can't wait to read more of this exciting series.
This book is a dark romance, full of lots of twists and turns. I could not put it down, and did not want it to end!!!
I can't wait to read more of this exciting series.
May 24, 2026
Dark wicked
Emma in the wrong place at the wrong time, thinking she was there to help but ooooh so much not.
Nathan who is he?, what are they?, and what do they want with Emma.
It's sexy, dark, wicked read 📚
Will things work out for her?
Seriously wicked read. 📚
Emma in the wrong place at the wrong time, thinking she was there to help but ooooh so much not.
Nathan who is he?, what are they?, and what do they want with Emma.
It's sexy, dark, wicked read 📚
Will things work out for her?
Seriously wicked read. 📚
Review of advance copy received from Author
While this book was a tough read, it had all the elements of a great story - a strong heroine, a powerful but gentle hero, a lot of really horrible people and a happily ever after.
May 12, 2026
Another excellent read from an amazing author! I was hooked from the first line! I was excited to start this series and was not disappointed at all! I absolutely loved everything about this book!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews