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DUTCH
He'd spent his life making sure he had nothing to lose. She was about to become everything.
Dutch had learned early that loving someone didn't guarantee they'd stay. People died. People left. And the ones who remained could do more damage than any enemy he'd ever faced. The former Navy SEAL had made peace with his past, built a life on his own terms, and surrounded himself with four men he trusted with his life. As the leader of Black Team, Dutch understood loyalty, sacrifice, and the cost of caring. What he didn't understand was how one stubborn, infuriating woman had managed to turn his carefully ordered world upside down. Penny Cox was beautiful, brilliant, entirely too tempting, and completely off-limits. Not only was she his teammate's sister, but she'd already survived one kidnapping, and Dutch had no intention of allowing her to become a target again. Keeping her safe was his responsibility. Wanting her was his problem.
Penny Cox had spent forty-five years learning that being capable and independent didn't mean life couldn't knock you flat. She'd survived things that would've broken a lesser woman, and she had no intention of letting fear dictate her future. Unfortunately, the overbearing, maddeningly attractive man whose Wyoming ranch she'd taken refuge on seemed determined to dictate it for her. Dutch was everything she didn't need—controlling, secretive, and accustomed to getting his way. He was also fiercely loyal, unexpectedly thoughtful, and the first man who'd ever made her wonder if she'd been wrong about needing no one. Penny knew better than to fall for a man who kept his heart locked behind walls thicker than the ones protecting his classified missions. Knowing better and doing better, however, were two entirely different things.
Just as Dutch begins to realize keeping Penny at arm's length might be the biggest mistake of his life, she discovers evidence that someone has been manipulating classified intelligence. What begins as a search for answers becomes a deadly game of deception, betrayal, and murder. With powerful enemies determined to silence Penny and an international conflict threatening to erupt into war, Black Team is forced to question everything they've been told. Dutch has never backed down from a fight, but this time the stakes are more personal than any mission he's ever undertaken. Because the woman he swore he'd never fall for has become the one person he can't bear to lose.
Dutch has spent his life believing love is a weakness. Penny is about to teach him that losing the woman you love is the only thing worth fearing.
First there was Zane Lewis's Red Team.... Now there's Dutch's Black Team.
Elite operatives. Ruthless missions. Protective alpha heroes willing to burn the world down for the women they love.
From high-risk missions and deadly enemies the Black Team series delivers heart-pounding romantic suspense packed with emotional intensity, fierce devotion, and hard-earned happily ever afters.
Grumpy / Sunshine-ish
Forced Proximity
Brother's Teammate
Touch Her and Die
He Falls Hard
Found Family
Protective Alpha Hero
Military Romance / Former Navy SEAL
Dutch had learned early that loving someone didn't guarantee they'd stay. People died. People left. And the ones who remained could do more damage than any enemy he'd ever faced. The former Navy SEAL had made peace with his past, built a life on his own terms, and surrounded himself with four men he trusted with his life. As the leader of Black Team, Dutch understood loyalty, sacrifice, and the cost of caring. What he didn't understand was how one stubborn, infuriating woman had managed to turn his carefully ordered world upside down. Penny Cox was beautiful, brilliant, entirely too tempting, and completely off-limits. Not only was she his teammate's sister, but she'd already survived one kidnapping, and Dutch had no intention of allowing her to become a target again. Keeping her safe was his responsibility. Wanting her was his problem.
Penny Cox had spent forty-five years learning that being capable and independent didn't mean life couldn't knock you flat. She'd survived things that would've broken a lesser woman, and she had no intention of letting fear dictate her future. Unfortunately, the overbearing, maddeningly attractive man whose Wyoming ranch she'd taken refuge on seemed determined to dictate it for her. Dutch was everything she didn't need—controlling, secretive, and accustomed to getting his way. He was also fiercely loyal, unexpectedly thoughtful, and the first man who'd ever made her wonder if she'd been wrong about needing no one. Penny knew better than to fall for a man who kept his heart locked behind walls thicker than the ones protecting his classified missions. Knowing better and doing better, however, were two entirely different things.
Just as Dutch begins to realize keeping Penny at arm's length might be the biggest mistake of his life, she discovers evidence that someone has been manipulating classified intelligence. What begins as a search for answers becomes a deadly game of deception, betrayal, and murder. With powerful enemies determined to silence Penny and an international conflict threatening to erupt into war, Black Team is forced to question everything they've been told. Dutch has never backed down from a fight, but this time the stakes are more personal than any mission he's ever undertaken. Because the woman he swore he'd never fall for has become the one person he can't bear to lose.
Dutch has spent his life believing love is a weakness. Penny is about to teach him that losing the woman you love is the only thing worth fearing.
First there was Zane Lewis's Red Team.... Now there's Dutch's Black Team.
Elite operatives. Ruthless missions. Protective alpha heroes willing to burn the world down for the women they love.
From high-risk missions and deadly enemies the Black Team series delivers heart-pounding romantic suspense packed with emotional intensity, fierce devotion, and hard-earned happily ever afters.
Grumpy / Sunshine-ish
Forced Proximity
Brother's Teammate
Touch Her and Die
He Falls Hard
Found Family
Protective Alpha Hero
Military Romance / Former Navy SEAL
310 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 30, 2026
About the author
Riley Edwards
135 books2,841 followersRiley Edwards is a Wall Street Journal and USA Today Bestselling author, wife, and military mom. Riley was born and raised in Los Angeles but now resides on the east coast with her fantastic husband and children.
Riley writes heart-stopping romance with sexy alpha heroes and even stronger heroines. Riley's favorite genres to write are romantic suspense and military romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
October 31, 2026
The part I enjoyed the most in this book was the crossover with Brittney Sahin’s characters at the sapphire hotel. For me, personally, I don’t feel like you can do a military suspense book justice when it’s this short. There’s no time to build tension, and our MCs went from hating each other to loving each other with a flip of a switch. I just needed more of everything.
November 1, 2026
I'm so happy to be back in the Z Corps world and this was a fantastic start to the Black Team. Dutch and Penny are perfect for each other. They're both fierce protectors, prepared to defend each other and dig out the hurt after they get past the initial stubbornness. Classic Riley Edwards. I cannot wait for Hollywood's book.
*I loved the crossover scene at The Sapphire Hotel with some of my favorite Brittany Sahin's characters.
*I loved the crossover scene at The Sapphire Hotel with some of my favorite Brittany Sahin's characters.
October 31, 2026
I loved this book so much. So much. Older characters-fmc is 45 and MMC is (?) I forget but same age?? Doesn’t matter it’s not an age gap so they are around the same age. 🫣🤣
The voices of the men in this series are far different than voices she has penned in previous books. I LOVED it.
It isn’t darker for me, but the idea of Black Team is black ops so in reality there is more at stake but it didn’t feel that dark for me. If one gets caught-they go down bc it’s not “on the books” dealings like Zane’s teams normally do.
Ok. The plot & characters makes more sense if you have read Cash, the last book in Zane’s Z Corp world. That’s where Cash meets Penny, his long lost sister. Otherwise Pen’s emotions and thoughts will confuse you.
This entire world is tied together with familiar characters interwoven. Again the biggest player is Cash. So at the very least read that book.
If you want a buffet then start at the Red Team and move from there. It’s a great series. My fave books are the first one Nightstalker, you could skip to read Ivy’s book where Zane falls in love and then pop around reading whatever floats your boat in that world bf ending w Cash then Dutch.
All that to say, when you get to Dutch, you will have a sense of Riley’s voices for her men. It’s different for Dutch and his men and it’s a BREATH OF FRESH AIR!!!
Kindle U 🩵
MF👫🏻
HFN for couple but plot continues in Hollywood’s book!! Which I cannot wait to read. 😇
No preg in this book or talk of children and not sure if this is intentional or there will be in future bc she does write kids and babies in her books a ton. 🎱
Not a ton of spice in the book which is rare for Riley. I’m not sure if this is a new trend for her or not. I don’t care either way bc the book was fun to read 🌶️🌶️
Penny is smart and not one of those dumb annoying stubborn TSTL women. She is sad at times (ok a lot of the book until about mid way) and it’s well written.
Dutch is-well I thought he made a great MMC and I loved reading his POV but I have a feeling Hollywood is gonna be my man. 😂😂 Later on in the book the team and Pen are walking in to meet a CIA agent and Pen gets caught off guard by how different Hollywood looks going into this tense meeting and situation in another country, when for months all she had seen was him goof off and smile. 🥵🤣
Looking forward to all the books tbh. This plot and series feels fresh and reads as smooth as warm butter on hot toast.
The voices of the men in this series are far different than voices she has penned in previous books. I LOVED it.
It isn’t darker for me, but the idea of Black Team is black ops so in reality there is more at stake but it didn’t feel that dark for me. If one gets caught-they go down bc it’s not “on the books” dealings like Zane’s teams normally do.
Ok. The plot & characters makes more sense if you have read Cash, the last book in Zane’s Z Corp world. That’s where Cash meets Penny, his long lost sister. Otherwise Pen’s emotions and thoughts will confuse you.
This entire world is tied together with familiar characters interwoven. Again the biggest player is Cash. So at the very least read that book.
If you want a buffet then start at the Red Team and move from there. It’s a great series. My fave books are the first one Nightstalker, you could skip to read Ivy’s book where Zane falls in love and then pop around reading whatever floats your boat in that world bf ending w Cash then Dutch.
All that to say, when you get to Dutch, you will have a sense of Riley’s voices for her men. It’s different for Dutch and his men and it’s a BREATH OF FRESH AIR!!!
Kindle U 🩵
MF👫🏻
HFN for couple but plot continues in Hollywood’s book!! Which I cannot wait to read. 😇
No preg in this book or talk of children and not sure if this is intentional or there will be in future bc she does write kids and babies in her books a ton. 🎱
Not a ton of spice in the book which is rare for Riley. I’m not sure if this is a new trend for her or not. I don’t care either way bc the book was fun to read 🌶️🌶️
Penny is smart and not one of those dumb annoying stubborn TSTL women. She is sad at times (ok a lot of the book until about mid way) and it’s well written.
Dutch is-well I thought he made a great MMC and I loved reading his POV but I have a feeling Hollywood is gonna be my man. 😂😂 Later on in the book the team and Pen are walking in to meet a CIA agent and Pen gets caught off guard by how different Hollywood looks going into this tense meeting and situation in another country, when for months all she had seen was him goof off and smile. 🥵🤣
Looking forward to all the books tbh. This plot and series feels fresh and reads as smooth as warm butter on hot toast.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Pure black gold! Simply wonderful story and everything I want and expect from Riley Edwards - gritty, no holds barred emotions, hard hitting action and suspense and all the humour you need, oh yes a good dose of sweet and spicy too! Make no mistake Black Team are darker and more shadowy than Zane Lewis’ other teams but they are absolutely built from the same mould of growly, infuriating, over protective, gorgeous men that annoy the heck out of you at the same time as making you melt.
I will confess when I met Penny previously I wasn’t convinced I was going to like her - turns out I am both right and wrong, I don't like Penny I absolutely adore her. Stronger than she thinks, smart and stubborn to the hilt, Penny fought to survive and to build her life from the horror of her childhood with her abusive drug addict mother, she survived the recent kidnapping that placed her in Black Team leader Dutch's care. Penny is now determined to uncover the person behind her kidnapping and find out why they wanted her silenced.
Dutch works and lives in the shadows, Black Team do the tasks that don't exist, he was comfortable with his existence then Penny landed in his life and every bit of his carefully crafted control is under threat. He doesn't want to want her, he doesn't want the attraction and temptation that have suddenly crept into his carefully ordered life, he's a ruthless elite operative there is no room in his life for a complication like Penny. Dutch frustrates and enrages Penny to an equal degree, he challenges her control and independence but as uttering maddening as he is he also makes her dream of belonging.
Feelings creep in and get bigger and walls start to fall as both start to see beyond the barriers they have erected, Penny never saw herself as being worthy of love and whilst Dutch would burn the world down for her if he had to. When Penny is drawn into Black Team's latest mission Dutch finds himself in the terrifying position of protecting the woman he loves.
Watching Penny and Dutch's relationship evolve is completely enthralling, both have baggage, both are stubborn, it's intense, they are navigating something neither expected but it's perfect and I loved every moment. Love the new Team too, so many new characters to carve out a space in my heart, so much banter to enjoy - can't wait.
Thank you Riley Edwards - Dutch is truly an excellent addition.
I will confess when I met Penny previously I wasn’t convinced I was going to like her - turns out I am both right and wrong, I don't like Penny I absolutely adore her. Stronger than she thinks, smart and stubborn to the hilt, Penny fought to survive and to build her life from the horror of her childhood with her abusive drug addict mother, she survived the recent kidnapping that placed her in Black Team leader Dutch's care. Penny is now determined to uncover the person behind her kidnapping and find out why they wanted her silenced.
Dutch works and lives in the shadows, Black Team do the tasks that don't exist, he was comfortable with his existence then Penny landed in his life and every bit of his carefully crafted control is under threat. He doesn't want to want her, he doesn't want the attraction and temptation that have suddenly crept into his carefully ordered life, he's a ruthless elite operative there is no room in his life for a complication like Penny. Dutch frustrates and enrages Penny to an equal degree, he challenges her control and independence but as uttering maddening as he is he also makes her dream of belonging.
Feelings creep in and get bigger and walls start to fall as both start to see beyond the barriers they have erected, Penny never saw herself as being worthy of love and whilst Dutch would burn the world down for her if he had to. When Penny is drawn into Black Team's latest mission Dutch finds himself in the terrifying position of protecting the woman he loves.
Watching Penny and Dutch's relationship evolve is completely enthralling, both have baggage, both are stubborn, it's intense, they are navigating something neither expected but it's perfect and I loved every moment. Love the new Team too, so many new characters to carve out a space in my heart, so much banter to enjoy - can't wait.
Thank you Riley Edwards - Dutch is truly an excellent addition.
October 31, 2026
3.75⭐️
2.5🌶️
Before I get started, I wanted to preface this review by saying: Riley Edwards is one of my favorite authors, especially if I'm looking for a military/romantic suspense. She is my go-to for that genre, and I don't see that changing, even with my rating on this one.
Now, lemme also say, I freaking loved these characters. Genuinely, they are probably some of my favorite characters out of her Teams Series.
When I knew Penny was getting her story, I wasn't overly excited for it. I didn't connect with her much in Cash's book.
However, by the time I got to chapter five, that had changed completely. I was half in love with her by then.
And don't even get me started on Dutch. I was really excited to be getting his book, and he did not disappoint.
With all that being said, I was a little disappointed overall. The story was so short that I felt like the characters' backstories were only a quarter of the way delved into. We got very little depth to them, only scratching the tip of the iceberg. The book wasn't long enough to give them justice, in my opinion.
My other disappointment: the spice was nowhere near the normal level of Ms. Edwards usual spice. We only really got one in depth 👉🏻👌🏻 scene and that was at the VERY end. The only other penetrative spice had very little detail & was over in half a page really.
Riley Edwards spice is usually more on point and it wasn't this book, but I wonder if that could be a theme for this series, though we won't know till the rest of the series comes out.
Also, the ending had me very excited for Hollywood's book. I am so ready.
To sum up my point, even though I was disappointed, it doesn't mean I won't read the rest of the series. Make no mistake, I absolutely loved every second of reading this, even if I felt it wasn't long enough.
And I will absolutely keep Riley Edwards on my one-click author list.
Tropes:
✨ Romantic Suspense
✨ Competent Heroine
✨ Growly, Overprotective MMC
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Dual, First Person POV
2.5🌶️
Before I get started, I wanted to preface this review by saying: Riley Edwards is one of my favorite authors, especially if I'm looking for a military/romantic suspense. She is my go-to for that genre, and I don't see that changing, even with my rating on this one.
Now, lemme also say, I freaking loved these characters. Genuinely, they are probably some of my favorite characters out of her Teams Series.
When I knew Penny was getting her story, I wasn't overly excited for it. I didn't connect with her much in Cash's book.
However, by the time I got to chapter five, that had changed completely. I was half in love with her by then.
And don't even get me started on Dutch. I was really excited to be getting his book, and he did not disappoint.
With all that being said, I was a little disappointed overall. The story was so short that I felt like the characters' backstories were only a quarter of the way delved into. We got very little depth to them, only scratching the tip of the iceberg. The book wasn't long enough to give them justice, in my opinion.
My other disappointment: the spice was nowhere near the normal level of Ms. Edwards usual spice. We only really got one in depth 👉🏻👌🏻 scene and that was at the VERY end. The only other penetrative spice had very little detail & was over in half a page really.
Riley Edwards spice is usually more on point and it wasn't this book, but I wonder if that could be a theme for this series, though we won't know till the rest of the series comes out.
Also, the ending had me very excited for Hollywood's book. I am so ready.
To sum up my point, even though I was disappointed, it doesn't mean I won't read the rest of the series. Make no mistake, I absolutely loved every second of reading this, even if I felt it wasn't long enough.
And I will absolutely keep Riley Edwards on my one-click author list.
Tropes:
✨ Romantic Suspense
✨ Competent Heroine
✨ Growly, Overprotective MMC
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Dual, First Person POV
November 11, 2026
Dutch is the perfect kickoff to the Black Team series, and it hits the ground running.
Dutch is the broody, intense leader of the Black Team, a super clandestine group of former “team guys” who take care of business no one else can touch. When Penny, an NSA analyst, uncovers things that were never meant to be found, Dutch is the one left to watch over her. If you’ve read Riley’s previous Team series (Red, Gold, Blue, Silver), you already know Zane, the head of the organization Dutch works for, and he is, as always, a one-of-a-kind character who steals every scene he’s in.
Dutch’s job is simple on paper: keep Penny safe. But in doing so, he pushes too hard and realizes that what she needs isn’t what he’s been giving her. Watching him figure that out is where the book really shines. From there, we get excitement across several countries in Europe, chases, bullets flying, a little misunderstanding to keep the tension high, and plenty of tear-inducing romance. The happy ending is exactly the kind you want: earned, satisfying, and sigh-worthy.
And then there’s the bonus treat: a brilliant crossover with characters from Brittney Sahin’s world that melds beautifully. Two of the characters even meet, and since the same cover model appears on both Sahin’s cover and Edwards’ cover, there’s plenty of in-story commentary about how much they look alike. It was a pure moment of meta in booklandia, and I loved every second of it.
Action, heart, humor, and a hero who has to learn to love the right way. Five stars, no hesitation.
Now, more Black Team, please!
Dutch is the broody, intense leader of the Black Team, a super clandestine group of former “team guys” who take care of business no one else can touch. When Penny, an NSA analyst, uncovers things that were never meant to be found, Dutch is the one left to watch over her. If you’ve read Riley’s previous Team series (Red, Gold, Blue, Silver), you already know Zane, the head of the organization Dutch works for, and he is, as always, a one-of-a-kind character who steals every scene he’s in.
Dutch’s job is simple on paper: keep Penny safe. But in doing so, he pushes too hard and realizes that what she needs isn’t what he’s been giving her. Watching him figure that out is where the book really shines. From there, we get excitement across several countries in Europe, chases, bullets flying, a little misunderstanding to keep the tension high, and plenty of tear-inducing romance. The happy ending is exactly the kind you want: earned, satisfying, and sigh-worthy.
And then there’s the bonus treat: a brilliant crossover with characters from Brittney Sahin’s world that melds beautifully. Two of the characters even meet, and since the same cover model appears on both Sahin’s cover and Edwards’ cover, there’s plenty of in-story commentary about how much they look alike. It was a pure moment of meta in booklandia, and I loved every second of it.
Action, heart, humor, and a hero who has to learn to love the right way. Five stars, no hesitation.
Now, more Black Team, please!
October 31, 2026
Black Team is proving to be fantastically mysterious
Okay, let me tell you all about Dutch—a total pro when it comes to taking down threats, but man, does he have one hilarious weakness: Penny Cox. She’s sharp as a whip, stubborn as they come, and there’s no way she’s gonna let some brooding SEAL run the show. Honestly, that’s probably why sparks fly—and chaos follows—whenever these two are in the same room!
This book is packed to the brim with secret missions, jaw-dropping reveals, international drama, and a romance that’s basically yelling, “I’m definitely not falling for her”—but, spoiler alert, he totally is. Penny’s got the brains and the guts, Dutch is that perfect mix of tough and irresistibly swoony, and Black Team? They’re exactly the kind of backup you need.
If you’re all about strong heroines, gruff heroes, nonstop excitement, and that slow-burning, heart-melting kind of love, buckle up, because this story is one wild, thrilling ride. Yeah, Dutch can take down the bad guys like a champ... but guess what? No one ever gave him a guide on how to survive falling head over heels in love! This was good but cant wait to see what's in store for Hollywood and the mysterious Berlin.
Okay, let me tell you all about Dutch—a total pro when it comes to taking down threats, but man, does he have one hilarious weakness: Penny Cox. She’s sharp as a whip, stubborn as they come, and there’s no way she’s gonna let some brooding SEAL run the show. Honestly, that’s probably why sparks fly—and chaos follows—whenever these two are in the same room!
This book is packed to the brim with secret missions, jaw-dropping reveals, international drama, and a romance that’s basically yelling, “I’m definitely not falling for her”—but, spoiler alert, he totally is. Penny’s got the brains and the guts, Dutch is that perfect mix of tough and irresistibly swoony, and Black Team? They’re exactly the kind of backup you need.
If you’re all about strong heroines, gruff heroes, nonstop excitement, and that slow-burning, heart-melting kind of love, buckle up, because this story is one wild, thrilling ride. Yeah, Dutch can take down the bad guys like a champ... but guess what? No one ever gave him a guide on how to survive falling head over heels in love! This was good but cant wait to see what's in store for Hollywood and the mysterious Berlin.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely amazing book! DUTCH is all that and more. Riley completely knocked the emotional bar out of the park with the start of the Black Team series. The alpha, bada$$, growly, hardened team lead and the smart, scared, healing, lonely protectee make a pair to be reckoned with when it comes to digging for answers, protective streaks, navigating each other, and becoming a team.
My heart ached for both Dutch and Penny as they worked their way through the minefields of conversations and emotions to find their way to love and happiness. The rest of the team were the perfect balance of mystery, protectiveness, and fun banter. I loved how they all treated Penny like a little sister and easily pulled her into their found family; something she had never had but definitely needed. Each man had a unique personality that leaves you wanting to know more about them. I can’t wait for all their stories.
Once you start reading it will be hard to put down, DUTCH pulls you in and takes you on a wild, thrilling ride. Suspense, danger, mystery, action, steam, found family, romance, humor, twists/turns, hard, profound love, HEA, and all the feels! Highly recommend!
My heart ached for both Dutch and Penny as they worked their way through the minefields of conversations and emotions to find their way to love and happiness. The rest of the team were the perfect balance of mystery, protectiveness, and fun banter. I loved how they all treated Penny like a little sister and easily pulled her into their found family; something she had never had but definitely needed. Each man had a unique personality that leaves you wanting to know more about them. I can’t wait for all their stories.
Once you start reading it will be hard to put down, DUTCH pulls you in and takes you on a wild, thrilling ride. Suspense, danger, mystery, action, steam, found family, romance, humor, twists/turns, hard, profound love, HEA, and all the feels! Highly recommend!
November 2, 2026
Holy Smoking Riley!!!
Riley Freaking Edward’s has done it again!
***This is the first book of a new series BUT it picks up where Cash’s book left off. If you have not read his book please be warned there is a SPOILER for his book**
She made us fall in love with red team and Zane-isms and now she has given us Black Team. The team that is called in when no one else will get their hands dirty. The team who is in the outer circle of all that is Zane but not quite inside of it. The team that is now in charge of Cash’s sister. Penny Cox.
Penny, the one who was stuck thinking she is unloveable gets shipped off with the elusive BLACK TEAM after being kidnapped. Dutch is the one you call when no one else will do the dirty work. The one who is better off on his own and not open to anyone outside his team. Then, Penny is thrown into his home under his protection and she is the only one who could get under his skin.
Will they figure out who kidnapped her? Why they wanted her? Or will they end up tearing themselves apart?
Riley Freaking Edward’s has done it again!
***This is the first book of a new series BUT it picks up where Cash’s book left off. If you have not read his book please be warned there is a SPOILER for his book**
She made us fall in love with red team and Zane-isms and now she has given us Black Team. The team that is called in when no one else will get their hands dirty. The team who is in the outer circle of all that is Zane but not quite inside of it. The team that is now in charge of Cash’s sister. Penny Cox.
Penny, the one who was stuck thinking she is unloveable gets shipped off with the elusive BLACK TEAM after being kidnapped. Dutch is the one you call when no one else will do the dirty work. The one who is better off on his own and not open to anyone outside his team. Then, Penny is thrown into his home under his protection and she is the only one who could get under his skin.
Will they figure out who kidnapped her? Why they wanted her? Or will they end up tearing themselves apart?
November 4, 2026
Dutch and Penny together!
It has been a while since I’ve read a Riley Edwards book, but when I saw this one had a crossover with one of my favorite authors, Brittney Sahin, I knew I had to give it a chance. And I’m so glad I did! It was great getting to experience a story that brought together two authors who write my top tropes together.
This book has so many things to unpack: emotions, action, heat, attraction, and adventure. There was a little bit of everything, and all the characters had something to add to the story.
I would encourage readers to read Cash before picking up this book because I found myself a bit lost with some of the backstory. That said, the author did a nice job of bringing new readers up to speed.
I’m giving this book 4 stars! Overall, it was an engaging read from beginning to end. I enjoyed the mix of action, romance, and emotion, and I’m glad I gave this one a chance. Definitely a crossover I’m happy I didn’t miss! Oh and I can’t wait for Hollywoods story!
It has been a while since I’ve read a Riley Edwards book, but when I saw this one had a crossover with one of my favorite authors, Brittney Sahin, I knew I had to give it a chance. And I’m so glad I did! It was great getting to experience a story that brought together two authors who write my top tropes together.
This book has so many things to unpack: emotions, action, heat, attraction, and adventure. There was a little bit of everything, and all the characters had something to add to the story.
I would encourage readers to read Cash before picking up this book because I found myself a bit lost with some of the backstory. That said, the author did a nice job of bringing new readers up to speed.
I’m giving this book 4 stars! Overall, it was an engaging read from beginning to end. I enjoyed the mix of action, romance, and emotion, and I’m glad I gave this one a chance. Definitely a crossover I’m happy I didn’t miss! Oh and I can’t wait for Hollywoods story!
November 3, 2026
I'm happy to be back in Z Corps territory again and meet the members of the Black Team. We got bits and pieces of other team members and I'm really looking forward to reading their stories. We also get to recconect with familiar faces from Brittney Sahin's Falcon Falls series. A definite plus. But first up...Dutch. He's a hard bitten man whose life of service, danger and taking lives have made him seemingly humorless, stoic and growly. Penny Cox doesn't fit in anywhere. She's become Dutch's virtual prisoner after he declared himself her baby sitter while keeping her safe. Black Team with the aid of Penny works on tracking down the network who've put a target on her back. She's dug too deep and learned too much. Dutch isn't the only surly one. Penny gives as good as she gets yet slowly integrates into the team, and the Z Corps family. When these two finally admit and pursue their connection, hang on because things get HAWT!!
November 2, 2026
Oh my goodness, I thought the mystery of black team was going to start unravelling, instead I’m left with more questions than answers and a feverish need for more.
I loved this book and am pretty much going to go again and have a reread just to make sure I got all the nuances.
Penny was amazing, I loved her from Jonas and Cash’s books and felt like her ending there was so unfinished. I knew there was so much more to her and her relationship with Cash and I’m so pleased that fleshed out in this book
Dutch was an A hole for a LOT of the book, but then suddenly turned into the worlds most adorable boyfriend, then fell off his pedestal and almost ruined it all, and…..well you have to read this amazing book to find out
Couldn’t have loved it more and am so excited. Hollywood will fall hard I am sure but North has me in a spin if I’m honest…..
I loved this book and am pretty much going to go again and have a reread just to make sure I got all the nuances.
Penny was amazing, I loved her from Jonas and Cash’s books and felt like her ending there was so unfinished. I knew there was so much more to her and her relationship with Cash and I’m so pleased that fleshed out in this book
Dutch was an A hole for a LOT of the book, but then suddenly turned into the worlds most adorable boyfriend, then fell off his pedestal and almost ruined it all, and…..well you have to read this amazing book to find out
Couldn’t have loved it more and am so excited. Hollywood will fall hard I am sure but North has me in a spin if I’m honest…..
November 4, 2026
Oh, boy! What an explosive start to a new series! This is the story of Dutch and Penny and it's amazing! A rollercoaster of emotions. I won't go into many details because I don't want to spoil it for you. There's forced proximity (because no one can say no to The Zane). There's found family and banter and slowly getting to know the members of the Black Team. Fragile balances between family.
Dutch is grumpy, growly and would die for his team, for his brothers and for the right woman. Penny is a silent force, an amazingly strong woman. There's difficult childhood and trauma. Oh, the chemistry ... the action, the plot that's plotting and twisting! This story has it all!! Go read it please!
P.S.: Riley, I know Cash is KING but Penny... Penny is king and queen and all the royalties put together!
Dutch is grumpy, growly and would die for his team, for his brothers and for the right woman. Penny is a silent force, an amazingly strong woman. There's difficult childhood and trauma. Oh, the chemistry ... the action, the plot that's plotting and twisting! This story has it all!! Go read it please!
P.S.: Riley, I know Cash is KING but Penny... Penny is king and queen and all the royalties put together!
November 9, 2026
Intrigue and excitement- a perfect start to a new series
DUTCH (Black Team Book 1)
by Riley Edwards
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Riley Edward's has quickly become a favorite author. I started with her Downrange Series and this book is a great start of her newest series. Dutch is grumpy and loves his solitude. So when he's told he needs to host Penny while she's in hiding, he's not happy about it. It'd be easier if she weren't so beautiful, so quick-tempered while at times trying to make herself so small.
This book is filled with intrigue, suspense, chemistry, and banter. Trying to keep Penny safe proves difficult for Dutch and his team when their sanctuary is invaded. Dutch and Penny are relatable characters with their share of troubles and trauma to overcome. The other members of Black Team are all intriguing in their own ways and I look for to reading their stories as well.
DUTCH (Black Team Book 1)
by Riley Edwards
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Riley Edward's has quickly become a favorite author. I started with her Downrange Series and this book is a great start of her newest series. Dutch is grumpy and loves his solitude. So when he's told he needs to host Penny while she's in hiding, he's not happy about it. It'd be easier if she weren't so beautiful, so quick-tempered while at times trying to make herself so small.
This book is filled with intrigue, suspense, chemistry, and banter. Trying to keep Penny safe proves difficult for Dutch and his team when their sanctuary is invaded. Dutch and Penny are relatable characters with their share of troubles and trauma to overcome. The other members of Black Team are all intriguing in their own ways and I look for to reading their stories as well.
November 2, 2026
Having read some of Riley’s other books in the Downrange series and really enjoying them, I was looking forward to reading Dutch and also because of the crossover with characters from Brittney Sahin’s Falcon Falls series. Dutch and Penny both had issues and were equally strong and interesting. ( I now have to read the Silver Team series.) There was a good amount of suspense with some hints at things to come. The relationship between Dutch and Penny was a slow burn and trust developed over time. While there were instances of spice, it was not overdone. Next up on my TBR is the Silver Team series for background for future Black team books. If you like military romance/ suspense books, I would recommend reading this one.
November 6, 2026
Dutch is team lead of the Black team, Zane's super secret group that no one knew he had. Dutch is opinionated but hides a tender heart. He's drawn to Penny, Cash's sister but trying to stay away. Penny is just lost, her world has been turned upside down, they have sent her to hide out with Dutch and his team. She just wants to puzzle out who was behind her being kidnapped, figure out her place in her brothers world and find a place to belong. Dutch is doing everything he can to stay away from Penny. Hearing him call her "woman" is my favorite thing is this book. I love it when she finally opens up and shows the guys her true self.
Great read with a new group of hunky guys to get to know.
Great read with a new group of hunky guys to get to know.
October 31, 2026
Dutch and Penny are Amazing!
FIVE well deserved stars as Riley Edwards does it again! What an incredible start to a brand new series. Dutch is a hard man who has lived a rough life. He and his team have sequestered themselves on a ranch to fight their brand of war. Penny needs a safe zone, so Zane banishes her to Dutch's stronghold. Penny is surrounded and protected by the team but is just as alone as she has always been. An accidential misunderstanding open Dutch's eyes to see Penny and her worth. Then it is Game On for Dutch to win her over. An edge of your seat page turner that you do not want to miss.
FIVE well deserved stars as Riley Edwards does it again! What an incredible start to a brand new series. Dutch is a hard man who has lived a rough life. He and his team have sequestered themselves on a ranch to fight their brand of war. Penny needs a safe zone, so Zane banishes her to Dutch's stronghold. Penny is surrounded and protected by the team but is just as alone as she has always been. An accidential misunderstanding open Dutch's eyes to see Penny and her worth. Then it is Game On for Dutch to win her over. An edge of your seat page turner that you do not want to miss.
November 2, 2026
Disappointing Dutch
Being accustomed to deep character development from Riley Edwards, the book is a letdown. It's obvious the book was a rush, the writing just doesn't flow like an Edwards' book. Not only is it shorter than most, due to lack of plot expansion, but there's no cohesive story theme as expected from this author. There's little true development of the feeling between Dutch and Penny, other than a reason to throw in the sex scenes. We'll have to see if the rest of the Black team warrior stories are better written. I would rather the author take time to publish the next one of the series than rush and present more lackadaisical drivel.
Being accustomed to deep character development from Riley Edwards, the book is a letdown. It's obvious the book was a rush, the writing just doesn't flow like an Edwards' book. Not only is it shorter than most, due to lack of plot expansion, but there's no cohesive story theme as expected from this author. There's little true development of the feeling between Dutch and Penny, other than a reason to throw in the sex scenes. We'll have to see if the rest of the Black team warrior stories are better written. I would rather the author take time to publish the next one of the series than rush and present more lackadaisical drivel.
November 3, 2026
Dutch, honey, your caveman “I’ll protect you from my world” routine made me want to shake you, then maybe hug you. Penny survived uncovering dangerous secrets; she can survive your feelings. 😂 Once this book got moving, it had me glued to my Kindle. The Zane Lewis moments were gold, and I loved the crossover connections with Carter Dominic and the Falcon Team crew. Action, intrigue, laughs, a hero who’s equal parts annoying and swoony, and enough spice 🌶🌶🌶🌶 to keep things interesting. Best of all, Penny finally gets the family and belonging she’s always deserved. An addictive start to Black Team that left me ready for more.
November 4, 2026
Oh wow, this book hit it out of the park! It has all the emotions I look for in a book. I've been looking forward to Penny's story since Cash! Penny is under the protection of Dutch and the Black Team as they try to unravel the mystery of who is trying to get Penny.
Penny, based on her background, is an independent and strong woman who has survived a lot. She strives to remain independent with walls built within her for survival, but when you add in Dutch with his walls, can they both knock down those walls and survive both physically and emotionally? Can Dutch and his team keep Penny safe?
I absolutely loved the start of this series and can't wait for more Black Team!
Penny, based on her background, is an independent and strong woman who has survived a lot. She strives to remain independent with walls built within her for survival, but when you add in Dutch with his walls, can they both knock down those walls and survive both physically and emotionally? Can Dutch and his team keep Penny safe?
I absolutely loved the start of this series and can't wait for more Black Team!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I loved this book, I couldn’t put it down from the moment I read the beginning, I wanted to know more about Cash’s sister. I was so excited to read the first book with the Black Team. Penny was so quiet in the beginning to me but we know why, but to see her grow and learn what family is…I had a few favorite parts that I can’t give away but all I will say is Jesse & Carter from other books, sigh and the part where we talk of a funny moment with Hollywood, it is a must read yall, I almost fell off the couch I laughed so hard. This is a must read for suspense to laugh out loud moments.
October 30, 2026
Holy Sheetsky Bitsky…this one has it all…I laughed, I cried, I got really ticked off, and then I melted with love for both Dutch and Penny. Both had absolutely horrible lives growing up and building walls around their hearts was their protection from any further pain. Little did they know that things were going to change and opening their eyes and hearts weren’t the worst things to happen.
Grab this action-packed romance as Dutch & Penny fall as someone(s) try to do away with the one they believe has info they do not want out and Dutch will do anything to keep Penny safe!! Loved it!!❤️🔥❤️
Grab this action-packed romance as Dutch & Penny fall as someone(s) try to do away with the one they believe has info they do not want out and Dutch will do anything to keep Penny safe!! Loved it!!❤️🔥❤️
October 31, 2026
Riley never disappoints so why would the first book in a series be different. Dutch is the leader of the whispered Black team. They get in and then get out a whisper maybe. Cash's sister Penny is being protected by Black. Penny has always taken care of herself and kept her safe. But Dutch is fighting his feelings for his team mate 's adjacent sister. What happens when they both stop fighting their feelings but danger is looming? Well you have to read to find out. LOL. Riley is a wizard with her words. You will laugh, cry, cheer, and the groan because you want the next book.
November 1, 2026
Finally, Dutch. He's on par with Zane! Zane makes an appearance in this and it quite professional in his appearance, and I absolutely loved the ceremony, it was so apropos in it's telling. These alpha men don't know how to act around someone they admire or like, typical screw ups that they grovel from. There is "beauty in darkness", and it's so, so great when the reader gets to see it in the characters. Loved the intensity, loved these new characters and can't wait for more in this series. I will drop everything to read one of Ms. Edwards stories. Come on over to the dark side.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Call the Black Team when every other option has failed. Dutch is broody, ruthless, disciplined, and the team leader. Penny Cox is brilliant, stubborn, and a distraction to Dutch's way of life. They have a mutual attraction that gets harder to resist the more time they spend together. He will protect her with his life. She will show him he deserves to be loved. This is a story you don't want to miss.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 2, 2026
Zane from Z-corps has asked Dutch to watch and protect Penny who is Cash's sister. Dutch leads the Black team which operates in the shadows. With the help of his team their trying to figure out who kidnapped Penny and why. Great story with suspense, danger, action, emotions, romance as Dutch and Penny get to know one another and humor as only Zane can do. This first book is great and I can't wait to see what happens to all the new characters we're going to meet.
November 2, 2026
Penny finds out the brother she thought she had imagined is actually alive and well, but now her life has taken unexpected turns. She's living with Dutch and he is the worst, except that it is all underlying attraction. This book felt like a wrap-up of the last one and a setup for the next in the series. It was still good, and I enjoyed seeing Penny and Dutch get together; it just needed a bit more depth.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 4, 2026
READ IT!
Another one Riley knocked out of the park.
Dutch is all deep and broodie, that is until he meets
Penny and then gradually she gets to him and then because her life was in danger the protector in him comes out, then WOW look out it’s like a combustible chemistry erupts.
Add in cameo of our favourite Carter and Ella and Jessie and you have to read it.
Now for Hollywoods story.
Another one Riley knocked out of the park.
Dutch is all deep and broodie, that is until he meets
Penny and then gradually she gets to him and then because her life was in danger the protector in him comes out, then WOW look out it’s like a combustible chemistry erupts.
Add in cameo of our favourite Carter and Ella and Jessie and you have to read it.
Now for Hollywoods story.
November 5, 2026
I recommend this book. It is a wonderful quick read with a great plot. I love Dutch, Penny and all of Black Team. Penny finally gets the love she deserves from Dutch, his team, and Cash in this book. The characters are well developed and likable. The story has romance, a little suspense, and sexy times. My complaint is we don’t get the answers of who is after Penny in this book, it continues into Hollywood’s story.
Review of advance copy
I love these new characters Riley did it again this book has all the elements a riley book has with new twists i am so glad penny got her happily ever after with a grumpy Dutch at first cant wait for the next book in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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