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The Guardians #3

Shadow Line

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Two bodyguards. One impossible assignment. And an attraction that could get them both killed.

Fletcher Dane works for The Guardians—elite, disciplined, and built on control. He plans for every variable and keeps distance where it matters.

Blaise Farrow doesn’t do distance.

Independent, unpredictable, and known for breaking rules when it counts, he trusts instinct over protocol—and gets closer than anyone else would dare.

They’ve never worked together.
They’re not supposed to.

When two rival journalists become targets, Fletcher and Farrow are forced into a shared protection detail. From the start, the friction is immediate—competing strategies, split-second clashes, and constant proximity neither of them can avoid.

Then the threat escalates.

What begins as pressure turns into coordinated attacks, exposing a network far more dangerous than anyone expected. As the investigation deepens, control slips, options narrow, and every move carries consequences.

And Farrow keeps getting closer.

Close enough to anticipate Fletcher’s every move.
Close enough to touch.
Close enough that distance stops being an option.

Now they have to work as one—through crowded streets, locked rooms, and a threat that doesn’t miss twice. Because the next move won’t be a warning.

It will be decisive.

And if Fletcher and Farrow can’t hold the line—between duty and instinct, between control and the pull neither of them can ignore—they won’t just lose the case.

They’ll lose each other.

278 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 16, 2026

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Declan Rhodes

97 books182 followers

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5 stars
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15 (30%)
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
209 reviews4 followers
May 17, 2026
When Dane Fletcher and Blaise Farrow had a blistering hookup one night in Boston they did not expect to be thrown together on a protection detail for Guardians Security 3 weeks later. Dane works for Guardians, Blaise is an independent contractor hired by the Boston Globe to protect one of their reporters, Wiley Priest. A reporter who definitely does not want a bodyguard looming over him and cramping his investigative journalist style. Dane’s protectee is Stanley Cabot, a reporter who cover s the society pages. Their editor has decided that the two men have overlapping stories and they should coordinate.
When they meet the next morning in a hotel conference room, it jars both Dane and Blaise. Things escalate quickly and the four of them end up in a safe house together. No one is happy, Stanley can’t go home to get his notes, and Wiley has just been pulled away from his husband who was taken to a separate safe house. Stanley has been embedded with the Harcourt family for fourteen years and is invited to all their family functions. Wiley covers militias and money laundering, and Stanley cannot figure out how their stories overlap. Wiley Priest has been tracking a nefarious organization called Onyx Bay. When the Harcourt family started getting threats two weeks before, Wiley can confirm that the language and syntax are identical to Onyx Bay. Stanley Cabot is their foot in the door to the Harcourts. Eamon Price of Guardians has flown in from the West Coast to handle this merger while his business partner Mike McCabe holds down the fort at their Seattle headquarters, monitoring everything and everyone from that end, keeping the safe house safe.
When Declan Rhodes took the plunge into romantic suspense in February of 2025. Four more novels in the First in Line series featuring the McCabe brothers quickly followed, vaulting Declan to the top of the mm romantic suspense genre.
Eamon Price came to the McCabe family protecting their cousin from a stalker. He and Former Swat leader Mike McCabe set up Guardians. We are now 3 books in this spin-off, and Rhodes shows no sign of slowing down. This one hits all the tropes for this genre, a high-stakes M/M romantic suspense featuring opposites-attract bodyguards, forced proximity, an intelligent, evolving threat, hurt-comfort, shoot-outs, car chases, and a Boston society wedding at their estate on the Vineyard which has been targeted for maximum destruction. And yes there is an HEA. I adore this book as I do all the romantic suspense releases by Declan Rhoades.
Profile Image for Glenn.
485 reviews
May 17, 2026
There's a lot of Chemistry between the two bodyguards for two men who have a big story

Declan Rhodes once again demonstrates his profound scholarship and extensive knowledge across numerous disciplines with this third installment of "The Guardians" series. Each volume features one or more romantic narratives, and this edition includes several, including reporters who have their partners, as well as a prominent social figure who has his.

The narrative is rich in characters and weaves a backdrop involving two reporters—one dedicated to crime reporting and the other to Boston’s social scene—and two individuals from separate protection services. Maintaining clarity among all participants proved challenging, as Mr. Rhodes occasionally alternated between using their first or last names across different contexts. I found it necessary to maintain a "Cheat Sheet" of characters, though I lost track of their relationships multiple times throughout the narrative.

The core of the story is engaging and richly detailed, filled with intrigue and multiple avenues for the Guardians to explore as they collaborate with another agency to protect two reporters. Due to their diligent research and keen insights, these reporters have become witnesses to the planning of criminal activities. At the same time, the attraction between the two initially assigned protectors deepens, correspondingly adding more depth to the story, and, alternatively, to those that fall apart around them.

The narrative provides intricate details on the use of safehouses for protected individuals, methods of discreet movement within the area, and strategies employed to keep their locations confidential. It also illustrates how the two reporters compile their notes, ultimately arriving at a frightening prediction of future events.

This story resembles a cinematic plot, complete with meticulous details that deepen our admiration for Mr. Rhodes' exceptional research and storytelling. I look forward to the release of the fourth installment in this series.
Profile Image for Mandy (MP Book Reviews).
5,204 reviews46 followers
May 18, 2026
Dane Fletcher and Blaise Farrow — two very different bodyguards — are forced to work together after a one‑night encounter turns into an unexpected reunion on the same high‑risk assignment. Their principals, two reporters chasing the same explosive story from opposite angles, have uncovered a domestic extremist network that wants them silenced before a high‑profile wedding on Martha’s Vineyard. Dane protects by holding the line; Farrow protects by crossing it — and as the threat escalates, so does the tension between them. One wrong move could cost a life, but getting too close might be the only way either of them survives.

This romantic suspense story delivers a great mix of danger, tension, and emotional pull. The threat against the journalists keeps the suspense sharp, but it’s the undeniable connection between the two bodyguards that really steals the spotlight. The author teases their growing feelings beautifully, leaving you wondering whether their partnership will turn into something deeper in the future. I loved the way the extremist network was unravelled — smart, layered, and solved with the help of many people working together. And the inclusion of sourdough starters with names was such a charming, unexpected touch that added warmth to all the intensity. Easy to feel, easy to understand, and full of suspense, drama, danger, and tenderness — this story will keep you hooked from start to finish. This was an MM story with mature content.
196 reviews1 follower
May 21, 2026
SHADOW LINE - DECLAN RHODES

This is book 3 in The Guardians series, and can be read as a standalone.

Dane Fletcher and Blaise Farrow meet in a bar and have a hot hookup, never expecting to see each other again, but fate had something else in store for them.

When The Guardians were hired to provide protection to two reporters from The Globe who were unknowingly working on crossover articles, life is going to get a lot more complicated.

Working as bodyguards never came up during their one night stand, so imagine their surprise when Dane and Blaise meet in a conference room to set up a protection plan for the reporters, while trying to figure out what and who is causing the situation to escalate to potential life threatening consequences.

Fast paced, suspenseful, but still romantic enough to feel the attraction building between the bodyguards and knowing their assignment must take priority. Stolen kisses, shared touches, and making love when you can find time in an already stressful schedule definitely make this intriguing.

In true Declan Rhodes fashion, the reader is engaged immediately and will feel like they are part of the story from the first page. Character visits from previous books will also enhance the dynamic as well. Definitely an author worth reading every single time.
Profile Image for Deb Kel.
2,815 reviews9 followers
May 19, 2026
Just love Declans writing and this was such an enjoyable mix of romantic suspense and slow-building tension. Fletcher and Farrow had that perfect opposites-attract dynamic from the start, one controlled and disciplined, the other impulsive and impossible to ignore and the chemistry between them carried the whole story for me.

I really liked how the romance developed alongside the investigation instead of overshadowing it. The danger felt constant, with the attacks and the larger conspiracy keeping the pace moving, but there were still quieter moments that let their connection grow naturally. The push and pull between duty and attraction was done really well.

The suspense side was also stronger than I expected. The investigation unfolded in a way that kept me engaged, and I liked that it relied on teamwork and intelligence rather than everything feeling too over-the-top. Even the smaller details, like the sourdough starters, added some warmth and personality amongst all the tension.

A really solid blend of action, attraction, and emotional tension that kept me hooked the whole way through. Great addition to the series that I highly recommend
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
Profile Image for DJ McCready.
546 reviews9 followers
May 18, 2026
I have read the prior two books in this series. In comparison to the others, this has a little less anxiety and takes on much more of a reveal of what a guardian has to do - protect and investigate so one knows every risk. Thus the book is a pleasant change. In the end Dane and Farrow have multiple people to protect and other guardians involved but throughout they are also looking after each other, even though they only met once prior to this assignment. The chemistry between the two guardians is made very clear throughout, even as they focus on their job.

The writing style is quite different than some of the author's other series. There is a staccato feel to it that enhances the urgency of always being tuned into risk. The few times they were able to grab alone time were short and were focused on quick so they could get back to work. They managed until near the end of their duty to hide their attraction - to say more would be more revealing than I wish to be.
49 reviews1 follower
May 19, 2026
I have read all of Rhodes’s novels but I must admit that his new The Guardian Series has become my favorite. The series still contains life philosophies and spiciness, however there is more. I’m a thriller lover and Rhodes beautifully adds the extra elements to make this a thriller. We discover that both main characters are equally stubborn, opinionated, and fiercely independent. Yet it works even during the delicate work they have of protecting their many principles. How are there so many principles and how are they connected? Who is hiding their secret identity? How many safe houses do the Guardians have? As you know, many novelists develop their characters as if writing their biographies. Thankfully, Rhodes does not write in this manner. He develops his characters to the extent necessary to understand their role in the novel. Let’s see if you catch the glimpse of a character from a previous series. You are in for a treat with this spicy mystery thriller. Enjoy!
Profile Image for Yvonne.
762 reviews12 followers
May 24, 2026
2 journalists whilst covering different stories are linked to the same influential family and now their lives are in danger, Dane, who works for the Guardian and Farrow are tasked to guide them.
One thing I enjoy about this series, is the detailed description on how the bodyguards do their jobs, what signs they see, how they link clues.
The suspense was comprehensive and I was drawn into the mystery following the links.
The romance was subtle, quick glances and touches, not knowing how they will end up. Dane and Farrow whilst worked differently were so alike, both good at their job.
Secondary characters were as important as Dane and Farrow, getting involved in their lives and conversations, even the mundane day to day conversations had me wanting to know more about them.
Each book has been different from the others and I am looking forward to more
863 reviews7 followers
May 17, 2026
If I were stranded on a deserted island it is Declan Rhodes books I would want with me. I could read them over and over finding fulfillment and joy every time. I had loved Rhodes’ romantic books and this shift to romantic suspense has me believing Rhodes can deliver on every type of genre. This suspenseful book was a one sitter for me-meaning I read it cover to cover on one sitting. These four men and their situation drew me in immediately and I had to know what happened to each. Took me a bit to keep them all straight but each was well developed and meaningful to the storyline. I was especially into it once all four were in safe house as it pulled on all my emotions. I cannot wait till book four of the series
Profile Image for Cynthia M Brow.
1,473 reviews20 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 13, 2026
Shadow Line is the third book in The Guardians series. This book can be read as a standalone but why not enjoy the whole series. This is the story of Dane Fletcher and Blaise Farrow who are both bodyguards. This was such a good book that I couldn't put it down once I started it. I have always loved books about bodyguards, so imagine having two in the same book. I loved how these two who are complete opposites just fit perfectly. I loved watching these two figure things out while still doing their jobs. There was plenty of action, steam, suspense, and love. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
received a free review copy
Profile Image for Raven and Chris.
3,459 reviews30 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
May 15, 2026
I enjoyed this book. I admit that I haven’t read the rest of this series and that might have affected it a little bit, but not too bad. I liked these characters enough that I need to go find the first two books in the series. Dane and Farrow’s worlds collide when they find themselves protecting two people whose work has connected them, whether they like it or not. This story kept me on the edge of my seat. I was also hoping Dean wouldn’t be too stubborn to finally admit what he ultimately wanted. These two mesh very well and it made for an enjoyable read. I also got attached to the two reporters they were protecting.
224 reviews3 followers
May 21, 2026
ARC review
This is the third book from Declan Rhodes The Guardian series. An action-packed, suspenseful thriller with clever surprises. I was drawn in and kept on my toes from page one. The ultimate page-turner that I devoured in one sitting. Dane and Farrow have an magnetic chemistry that slowly progress through the book. The unspoken awareness and lingering touches creates an intimate bond between them. At the same time they manages to be professionals and keep their eyes on the important assignment.
So far I have read all three books in this series and I love them all. Rhodes has a unique way with words and presenting them to the readers. I highly recommend to read this book.
Profile Image for Amie.
538 reviews
May 25, 2026
THIS ONE READS LIKE A GREAT THRILLER AND WHILE I LIKED THE STORYLINE, I WISH THERE WAS MORE OF AN EXPLANATION AS TO WHY MARIA DID WHAT SHE DID.
I ALSO FELT LIKE THERE WAS TOO MUCH IMPLIED WITH OTHERS KNOWING, BUT ALSO IGNORING, GIVING THEM THEIR SPACE, WHEN IT CAME TO THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN DANE AND FARROW.
I ENJOYED LEARNING ABOUT THE SAFEHOUSES AND THE INTRACIES THAT GO INTO PROTECTING PEOPLE, BUT AGAIN, THERE WERE A FEW PLOT POINTS THAT I FELT WERE NOT EXPLAINED PROPERLY AND THERE WERE SO MANY CHARACTERS IN THIS ONE THAT AT ONE POINT I WAS CONFUSED AS TO WHO WAS WHO.
OVERALL THIS WAS A GOOD, FAST READ.
Profile Image for Pamela.
16 reviews
May 27, 2026
A classic tale, you have a hot one-night stand, and you go your separate ways. What you don’t expect is to meet that person again and learn you’ll be working together. I love stories like this and this one does disappoint. Dand and Blaise are hot from the first page. Add in the reporters in danger that these two must work together to protect in life threatening consequences. This is a romantic thriller that lets the attraction build between Blaise and Dane, from stolen kisses to making love, this is a ride you don’t want to get off. My new Declan Rhodes fave. *I received an advanced copy of this book and happily leave my review.
889 reviews7 followers
May 27, 2026
This was a gripping romantic suspense that balanced high-stakes danger with intense chemistry. Dane and Farrow couldn’t be more different, yet their clashing approaches made them a compelling team from the start. I loved the tension between Dane’s controlled professionalism and Farrow’s instinctive, boundary-pushing style, especially as the threat around them escalated. The plot felt smart and layered, with the two reporters caught in a dangerous conspiracy that kept the pacing sharp throughout. The forced proximity and hurt-comfort elements add just the right amount of emotional depth without slowing the action. A fast-paced, addictive read with fantastic chemistry and plenty of tension.
2,360 reviews21 followers
May 27, 2026
Farrow and Dane hooked up. 3 weeks later they are working together on a witness protection detail while a conspiracy is unraveled. It's suspense and intrigue at its finest, detailed and sharp. Dane and Farrow work well together and fall for each other with Dane being organized and structured, going by the book. Farrow is more independent and free styles through most things. Something for everybody, exciting for conspiracists, dangerous for adventure junkies, some steam for romantics, perfect for it's kind of story. It even made me cry a time or two. I received a copy of this and this is my voluntary opinion.
46 reviews
May 28, 2026
Two equally competent personal protection agents walk into a bar ...

As always, Declan Rhodes brings his characters fully to life and makes us care. Not just about the MCs, who clash in their approaches to the job but ultimately have the same goal. We also care about the rest of the team, the men in danger, and even the family who will be hurt by emotional betrayal. There are plenty of twists and turns in the plot to keep the reader wondering, and the usual excellent standard of technical expertise is leveraged to get the job done right.

Each book in this series is better than the last, and that's an impressive accomplishment!
Profile Image for Simera.
1,829 reviews7 followers
May 21, 2026
Dane Fletcher and Blaise Farrow are both bodyguards and both are protecting reports when they have to come together to keep them both safe.
The chemistry between this instant when they meet at a bar not knowing that soon their lives would be more intertwined.
This is med angst read with the subject and who is involved to keep the reports safe. The love story Fletcher and Farrow continues to develop.
As the case starts to come to a close words and feelings need to be said.
Bodyguards, stopping a terrorist plot, finding love and a HEA
432 reviews3 followers
May 19, 2026
  Dane Fletcher and Blaise Farrow are bodyguards that end up working the same case. Watch out for the love that sneaks up on them as they keep the danger at bay!
From the very first there is loads of action and adventure and family mixed in!
Shadow Line is the third book in the Guardian series and each story has made me ready for the next!  You just can't beat Declan Rhodes on a good thriller!
Profile Image for Lisa.
3,620 reviews144 followers
May 20, 2026
I thought this was the best so far of this series.
Farrow and Fletcher are 2 bodyguards looking after 2 journalists. There was plenty of story about why the 2 were under protection.
I think the story happened around 4 weeks and for me that was a little too short of time for the 2 bodyguards to fall in love and decide to move in together.
Profile Image for Amanda Reeves.
4,071 reviews42 followers
May 26, 2026
Shadow Line is the third book in the Guardians series, it can be read as a standalone but I think is better in order. This is a forced proximity, opposites attract, hurt/comfort, co-workers, ONS to more read about Dane and Blaise. Another fantastic read by Declan Rhodes, I loved this story, the suspense and the characters.
430 reviews4 followers
May 19, 2026
Fletcher and Dane 2 bodyguards with a great chemistry and different personality. An amazing story which I enjoyed reading.
716 reviews86 followers
May 25, 2026
Nice book that made me bite my fingernails till the end, lots of plot twists and some love, but not much because danger is at the door
Can't wait for the next book
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews