Ground Zero

Dauntless Defenders #5

by Taylor S. Newport

The grave was a lie. The silence was a trap. Now, the past has come to collect.

Following the death of her grandfather, Alexandra “Alex” Romanova steps into the weight of Veritek, the global cybersecurity empire her family built. Taking a brief breather in the States to grieve, she believes distance will help—until a violent attack on their lake house proves otherwise. The message is the Russian mafia has come for her and for the company she now controls. But when Alex uncovers a Bratva trafficking ring targeting young girls, protecting her inheritance becomes secondary. She refuses to stand by while innocent lives are sold.

Life hasn’t slowed down for Tyler Reid—only grown more dangerous. The Bratva isn’t just after Veritek; they’re watching Alex, waiting for the moment she slips. His new mission is to keep Alex out of the mafia’s hands. But stopping the trafficking network means stepping into the path of one of the most ruthless criminal organizations in the world.

When the Bratva makes their move, everything changes. Saving the trafficked girls could cost Alex everything she inherited—and Tyler may be the only one who can stop it. Every choice carries immense consequences, and the secret Alex holds could change everything between them. Survival will demand all they have—and force them to confront how far they are willing to go to protect each other.

Kindle Edition

Expected publication November 5, 2026

Reviews

[Tina Lowery · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ground Zero, by Taylor S. Newport, was intense, extremely well-written and would definitely fit in with an over 18+ crowd. It was an emotionally gripping book that was action-packed and just wouldn't let me go. This book was filled with challenging topics, all past events that Alex had to overcome. With Tyler Reid's assistance, she was ensured that she could change the future, since she couldn't turn back time. One step a a time, though, maybe it was possible that the door to her heart that she kept a heavy lock on could be opened. This book shares heavy topics with class, as much truth as possible and grace. It was imperative that it took an entire team effort to complete the narrative. I really loved the energy of this book -- even after all the tormented thoughts, nightmarish realities and genuine love between Tyler and Alex. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars, even with the harsh realities impressed upon the reader. I received an ARC from the Author, but all opinions and thoughts expressed are my own.

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ground Zero by Taylor S Newport is the next book in Dauntless Defenders releasing this summer. It was intense, action-packed, emotionally charged book. This series is intense and intended for 18+ due to themes that can be a little more haunting and serious. Alex is now taken over Veritec, her grandfather’s company in her homeland of Russia. Shes in the fight for her life now trying to protect her home and people from Bratva taking over. I loved this whole series so far but feel like GZ is really taking it up to the next level. We can see the developing slow burn relationship between Alex & Tyler. There is just so so much depth to this book I cant wait for the world of readers to get their hands on this book.

I received an ARC from the author, all thoughts and opinions are my own.