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Defiant Hearts
He’s a trained protector. She ran to the mountains to disappear. Now survival means putting her life in his hands.
Former forest ranger Wyatt Rhodes has spent his career finding people no one else could. Entering Mountain Warfare Tactical Training at Black Heart Ranch is the assignment he’s been chasing. But when his team is sent deep into the mountains, he never expects to find a woman who’s built a life there alone—and clearly doesn’t want anyone asking questions. Whitley may be good at hiding her secrets, but Wyatt is better at seeing what other people miss.
For months, Whitley Newman has hidden in the wilderness from the man hunting her. Now she’s under Black Heart Security’s protection, and Wyatt is the one tasked with keeping her safe. Falling for her protector is a risk she can’t afford—but staying out of his arms might be impossible.
With Whitley’s past catching up to her and their friendship blooming into something much, much more, Wyatt is done pretending she’s just another rescue. The stalker who drove her into hiding is still out there, and Wyatt intends to make sure he never sends her running again. Because somewhere along the way, keeping Whitley safe became keeping Whitley—and Wyatt has no intention of letting her go.
If you love friends to lovers, forced proximity, a woman in hiding, and a protective hero who lives by touch-her-and-die rules—plus enough slow-burn chemistry to set the mountain ablaze—you’re going to devour Wyatt and Whitley’s story. 1-CLICK DEFIANT HEARTS now and binge the Black Heart Security series!
Fans of Anna Hackett, Lynn Raye Harris and Elle James will love the Black Heart Security Series!
Former forest ranger Wyatt Rhodes has spent his career finding people no one else could. Entering Mountain Warfare Tactical Training at Black Heart Ranch is the assignment he’s been chasing. But when his team is sent deep into the mountains, he never expects to find a woman who’s built a life there alone—and clearly doesn’t want anyone asking questions. Whitley may be good at hiding her secrets, but Wyatt is better at seeing what other people miss.
For months, Whitley Newman has hidden in the wilderness from the man hunting her. Now she’s under Black Heart Security’s protection, and Wyatt is the one tasked with keeping her safe. Falling for her protector is a risk she can’t afford—but staying out of his arms might be impossible.
With Whitley’s past catching up to her and their friendship blooming into something much, much more, Wyatt is done pretending she’s just another rescue. The stalker who drove her into hiding is still out there, and Wyatt intends to make sure he never sends her running again. Because somewhere along the way, keeping Whitley safe became keeping Whitley—and Wyatt has no intention of letting her go.
If you love friends to lovers, forced proximity, a woman in hiding, and a protective hero who lives by touch-her-and-die rules—plus enough slow-burn chemistry to set the mountain ablaze—you’re going to devour Wyatt and Whitley’s story. 1-CLICK DEFIANT HEARTS now and binge the Black Heart Security series!
Fans of Anna Hackett, Lynn Raye Harris and Elle James will love the Black Heart Security Series!
- GenresRomanceMilitary Romance
229 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 19, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
October 26, 2026
🍃Contemporary
🍃Romantic suspense
🍃Protector
🍃Military
🍃Small town
🍃Western romance
🍃Fake Relationship / Fake Dating
🍃Forced Proximity
🍃Touch Her and Die
🍃Slow burn
🍃Found Family
🍃Woman in Hiding
🍃Protective Hero
🍃Unpredictable twists and turns
🍃Page-turner
🍃Fun cast of supporting – secondary characters that add to the story and development
Em Petrova absolutely nailed it with this one. I’ve been following the Black Heart Security series for what feels like forever, and book 13 did not disappoint. If you love a rugged alpha hero who will completely stop at nothing the second his girl is threatened, you need to read this immediately.
Whitley Newman is a brilliant criminal profiler who has been forced to go completely off the grid, building a solitary life deep in the wilderness to escape a dangerous threat. Instead of waiting around to be rescued, she has adapted to the elements, keeping her head down, staying incredibly secretive, and relying entirely on her own wit to survive. Enter Wyatt Rhodes, a disciplined tactical expert burdened by his own past, who has spent his career tracking down people who don't want to be found. He is incredibly sharp, observant, and possesses a quiet, immovable sense of duty. Wyatt takes the "touch her and die" trope to a whole new level. Watching his meticulous, analytical tracking instincts shift into a hyper-focused, unyielding determination to protect Whitley whenever danger crept close was absolute perfection. What made their connection so spectacular was that Wyatt doesn't try to smother her capability. He completely recognizes and respects Whitley’s survival skills and inner strength, allowing them to operate as true partners even when his intense drive to keep her safe takes over. Whitley is no helpless damsel in distress; she is a fierce, incredibly resilient survivor whose sharp competence and knowledge of the terrain make her just as lethal as the team helping her. They are two deeply guarded, complex souls who fit perfectly together. Their emotional bond is incredibly deep and intense. Wyatt and Whitley's chemistry is explosive, and the author definitely turned up the heat with some intense, dark micro-tropes.
Highly recommend if you love military romance, fiercely protective heroes, brilliant, strong, and capable heroines, and suspense!
🍃Romantic suspense
🍃Protector
🍃Military
🍃Small town
🍃Western romance
🍃Fake Relationship / Fake Dating
🍃Forced Proximity
🍃Touch Her and Die
🍃Slow burn
🍃Found Family
🍃Woman in Hiding
🍃Protective Hero
🍃Unpredictable twists and turns
🍃Page-turner
🍃Fun cast of supporting – secondary characters that add to the story and development
Em Petrova absolutely nailed it with this one. I’ve been following the Black Heart Security series for what feels like forever, and book 13 did not disappoint. If you love a rugged alpha hero who will completely stop at nothing the second his girl is threatened, you need to read this immediately.
Whitley Newman is a brilliant criminal profiler who has been forced to go completely off the grid, building a solitary life deep in the wilderness to escape a dangerous threat. Instead of waiting around to be rescued, she has adapted to the elements, keeping her head down, staying incredibly secretive, and relying entirely on her own wit to survive. Enter Wyatt Rhodes, a disciplined tactical expert burdened by his own past, who has spent his career tracking down people who don't want to be found. He is incredibly sharp, observant, and possesses a quiet, immovable sense of duty. Wyatt takes the "touch her and die" trope to a whole new level. Watching his meticulous, analytical tracking instincts shift into a hyper-focused, unyielding determination to protect Whitley whenever danger crept close was absolute perfection. What made their connection so spectacular was that Wyatt doesn't try to smother her capability. He completely recognizes and respects Whitley’s survival skills and inner strength, allowing them to operate as true partners even when his intense drive to keep her safe takes over. Whitley is no helpless damsel in distress; she is a fierce, incredibly resilient survivor whose sharp competence and knowledge of the terrain make her just as lethal as the team helping her. They are two deeply guarded, complex souls who fit perfectly together. Their emotional bond is incredibly deep and intense. Wyatt and Whitley's chemistry is explosive, and the author definitely turned up the heat with some intense, dark micro-tropes.
Highly recommend if you love military romance, fiercely protective heroes, brilliant, strong, and capable heroines, and suspense!
October 19, 2026
She has smart eyes, but those smart eyes are also scared
This is an awesome introduction to the Black Heart Tactical Training Facility, it's a great crossover with Black Heart Security and all our favourite characters.
Wyatt is such a complex character, he thinks he is broken, doesn't fit in and feels as though he has weaknesses he has to compensate for. But in reality he isn't broken, he has undiagnosed dyslexia and the ways he already accommodates for this in his life show just how talented he really is. Words may be his weakness, but when it comes to tracking and reading the mountain? He's a superhero! And I love that he sees all the evidence of Whitney on that mountain, when nobody else does.
Whitley is truly amazing, I am not sure how she survives the mountain, but I am so glad she does. She sees the real Wyatt, the warrior with a heart of gold and so much love to give...to the right person. They are an awesome couple who fit perfectly into Black Heart Ranch and they finally find the family they both need.
A fantastic read on Kindle Unlimited.
This is an awesome introduction to the Black Heart Tactical Training Facility, it's a great crossover with Black Heart Security and all our favourite characters.
Wyatt is such a complex character, he thinks he is broken, doesn't fit in and feels as though he has weaknesses he has to compensate for. But in reality he isn't broken, he has undiagnosed dyslexia and the ways he already accommodates for this in his life show just how talented he really is. Words may be his weakness, but when it comes to tracking and reading the mountain? He's a superhero! And I love that he sees all the evidence of Whitney on that mountain, when nobody else does.
Whitley is truly amazing, I am not sure how she survives the mountain, but I am so glad she does. She sees the real Wyatt, the warrior with a heart of gold and so much love to give...to the right person. They are an awesome couple who fit perfectly into Black Heart Ranch and they finally find the family they both need.
A fantastic read on Kindle Unlimited.
Review of advance copy
Defiant Hearts by Em Petrova delivers a story that will appeal to readers who love romance with suspense, passion, and emotional depth. I enjoy stories that blend romance with danger and emotional twists, and this book is a great choice for readers looking for that combination. Em Petrova has a way of drawing romance readers into stories filled with heart, courage, and loyalty. If you enjoy romantic suspense, protective heroes, and love stories that keep you invested in the characters, this novel is worth adding to your reading list. Overall, Defiant Hearts is a great addition to the Black Heart Security 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.
October 20, 2026
Defiant Hearts
Great story about someone who saw something they shouldn't have. Now on the run, trying to keep herself safe, having to stay hidden. On a training mission, someone finds her, rescues her, keeps her safe, gets her well. Now to keep her away from her enemies, those out to do her harm. Great intense, full of drama.
Great story about someone who saw something they shouldn't have. Now on the run, trying to keep herself safe, having to stay hidden. On a training mission, someone finds her, rescues her, keeps her safe, gets her well. Now to keep her away from her enemies, those out to do her harm. Great intense, full of drama.
October 23, 2026
🏔️ He Found Her in the Mountains, but She Helped Him Find His Worth ❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
Give me a protective hero with a heart of gold, a strong heroine who's been through more than anyone should have to endure, and a found family that welcomes people exactly as they are, and I'm hooked! ❤️ Defiant Hearts by Em Petrova delivered all of that, along with plenty of suspense, emotional moments, and a romance I couldn't help rooting for.
I loved being back in the world of Black Heart Security, and the introduction of the Mountain Warfare Tactical Training program at Black Heart Ranch was such a great addition! There's something about this ranch and the people who call it home that makes me want to keep coming back. The familiar faces, the loyalty, and the way everyone steps up when someone needs help are some of my favorite things about this series.
Wyatt Rhodes is a former forest ranger who's determined to earn his place in the new tactical training program. He's incredibly skilled at tracking, reading the wilderness, and noticing things that other people completely overlook. But Wyatt doesn't always recognize just how talented he really is. He's spent so much of his life struggling with reading because of his dyslexia that he's convinced himself there's something wrong with him. And oh, that broke my heart a little. 🥹
What I loved about Wyatt was that the very things he sees as weaknesses have never stopped him from finding ways to succeed. He works harder, adapts, and relies on skills that most people could only dream of having. Put this man in the mountains, and he's practically a superhero! When his team heads into the wilderness for a training exercise, Wyatt notices signs that someone has been living out there, even when nobody else sees what he sees. And that determination leads him straight to Whitley Newman.
Whitley has spent months hiding in the mountains after witnessing something that put her life in danger. She's been doing everything she can to stay one step ahead of the man hunting her, but surviving alone in those conditions has taken a serious toll. When Wyatt finally finds her, she's frightened, injured, and desperately needs help. I honestly couldn't imagine having the strength to survive what Whitley endured. She's resourceful, stubborn, and determined to stay alive, but I also loved that the story allowed her to be scared. Being strong doesn't mean you aren't afraid.
And Wyatt? The moment he realizes how much trouble she's in, his protective instincts take over. He knows getting her medical attention is more important than completing his training exercise, and he doesn't hesitate to act. I loved that about him! He doesn't see Whitley as an inconvenience or someone who's getting in the way of his plans. He sees a woman who needs help, and he's going to make sure she gets it.
Once Whitley is brought to Black Heart Ranch and placed under the protection of Black Heart Security, their relationship slowly becomes something neither expected. I really enjoyed watching their friendship develop while Wyatt helped her feel safe again. He never needed to be the loudest or most intimidating man in the room to make me believe he could protect her. His patience, his attention to detail, and the way he genuinely cared about her well-being said more than enough.
But what made their romance especially sweet for me was the way Whitley saw Wyatt. ❤️ He'd spent so much time believing he didn't measure up, especially when it came to his reading difficulties, yet she recognized the intelligent, capable, caring man standing right in front of her. I loved that she didn't see him as someone who needed fixing. She saw his strengths, understood his struggles, and appreciated him for who he was. And in return, Wyatt gave her something she'd been missing for months: a chance to feel safe enough to trust someone again.
The suspense was another part of the story that kept me invested. Whitley's past doesn't simply disappear because she's found people willing to protect her. The danger is still out there, and there are plenty of tense moments as the team works to keep her safe. I enjoyed the mix of action, mystery, and romance without feeling like one completely overshadowed the others.
And can we talk about the Black Heart Ranch family for a minute? Because I absolutely love these people! The Malone family and the familiar faces from Black Heart Security bring so much warmth to the story. I love how the ranch is a place where people can find support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. Seeing Wyatt and Whitley gradually become part of that family made me love their story even more.
What stayed with me most was how these two characters helped each other recognize their own worth. Wyatt had spent years questioning whether he was good enough, while Whitley had been forced into a life where trusting anyone felt dangerous. Neither of them had an easy road, but together they found friendship, understanding, and eventually a love that gave them something worth holding on to.
Five stars from me! Defiant Hearts was a wonderful blend of romantic suspense, action, emotional growth, and found family. Wyatt absolutely stole my heart with his determination and the way he cared for Whitley, and I loved how she recognized the incredible man he already was. Em Petrova continues to make Black Heart Ranch feel like a place I never want to leave, and I can't wait to see where this new tactical training storyline takes us next! 🏔️❤️
Thank you to Em Petrova and Booksprout for the gifted advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars
Give me a protective hero with a heart of gold, a strong heroine who's been through more than anyone should have to endure, and a found family that welcomes people exactly as they are, and I'm hooked! ❤️ Defiant Hearts by Em Petrova delivered all of that, along with plenty of suspense, emotional moments, and a romance I couldn't help rooting for.
I loved being back in the world of Black Heart Security, and the introduction of the Mountain Warfare Tactical Training program at Black Heart Ranch was such a great addition! There's something about this ranch and the people who call it home that makes me want to keep coming back. The familiar faces, the loyalty, and the way everyone steps up when someone needs help are some of my favorite things about this series.
Wyatt Rhodes is a former forest ranger who's determined to earn his place in the new tactical training program. He's incredibly skilled at tracking, reading the wilderness, and noticing things that other people completely overlook. But Wyatt doesn't always recognize just how talented he really is. He's spent so much of his life struggling with reading because of his dyslexia that he's convinced himself there's something wrong with him. And oh, that broke my heart a little. 🥹
What I loved about Wyatt was that the very things he sees as weaknesses have never stopped him from finding ways to succeed. He works harder, adapts, and relies on skills that most people could only dream of having. Put this man in the mountains, and he's practically a superhero! When his team heads into the wilderness for a training exercise, Wyatt notices signs that someone has been living out there, even when nobody else sees what he sees. And that determination leads him straight to Whitley Newman.
Whitley has spent months hiding in the mountains after witnessing something that put her life in danger. She's been doing everything she can to stay one step ahead of the man hunting her, but surviving alone in those conditions has taken a serious toll. When Wyatt finally finds her, she's frightened, injured, and desperately needs help. I honestly couldn't imagine having the strength to survive what Whitley endured. She's resourceful, stubborn, and determined to stay alive, but I also loved that the story allowed her to be scared. Being strong doesn't mean you aren't afraid.
And Wyatt? The moment he realizes how much trouble she's in, his protective instincts take over. He knows getting her medical attention is more important than completing his training exercise, and he doesn't hesitate to act. I loved that about him! He doesn't see Whitley as an inconvenience or someone who's getting in the way of his plans. He sees a woman who needs help, and he's going to make sure she gets it.
Once Whitley is brought to Black Heart Ranch and placed under the protection of Black Heart Security, their relationship slowly becomes something neither expected. I really enjoyed watching their friendship develop while Wyatt helped her feel safe again. He never needed to be the loudest or most intimidating man in the room to make me believe he could protect her. His patience, his attention to detail, and the way he genuinely cared about her well-being said more than enough.
But what made their romance especially sweet for me was the way Whitley saw Wyatt. ❤️ He'd spent so much time believing he didn't measure up, especially when it came to his reading difficulties, yet she recognized the intelligent, capable, caring man standing right in front of her. I loved that she didn't see him as someone who needed fixing. She saw his strengths, understood his struggles, and appreciated him for who he was. And in return, Wyatt gave her something she'd been missing for months: a chance to feel safe enough to trust someone again.
The suspense was another part of the story that kept me invested. Whitley's past doesn't simply disappear because she's found people willing to protect her. The danger is still out there, and there are plenty of tense moments as the team works to keep her safe. I enjoyed the mix of action, mystery, and romance without feeling like one completely overshadowed the others.
And can we talk about the Black Heart Ranch family for a minute? Because I absolutely love these people! The Malone family and the familiar faces from Black Heart Security bring so much warmth to the story. I love how the ranch is a place where people can find support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. Seeing Wyatt and Whitley gradually become part of that family made me love their story even more.
What stayed with me most was how these two characters helped each other recognize their own worth. Wyatt had spent years questioning whether he was good enough, while Whitley had been forced into a life where trusting anyone felt dangerous. Neither of them had an easy road, but together they found friendship, understanding, and eventually a love that gave them something worth holding on to.
Five stars from me! Defiant Hearts was a wonderful blend of romantic suspense, action, emotional growth, and found family. Wyatt absolutely stole my heart with his determination and the way he cared for Whitley, and I loved how she recognized the incredible man he already was. Em Petrova continues to make Black Heart Ranch feel like a place I never want to leave, and I can't wait to see where this new tactical training storyline takes us next! 🏔️❤️
Thank you to Em Petrova and Booksprout for the gifted advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🏔️❤️🔥🛡️ She Ran to the Mountains to Hide—But Her Protector Has No Intention of Letting Her Run Again!
Defiant Hearts by Em Petrova was such a great romantic suspense! I loved Wyatt Rhodes and Whitley Newman together. Give me a former forest ranger turned security specialist, a heroine hiding from a dangerous stalker, forced proximity, and a protective hero who falls hard, and I’m hooked!
Wyatt has spent his career finding people in places where most others wouldn’t even know where to look. Now he’s training with Black Heart Security at Black Heart Ranch, preparing for Mountain Warfare Tactical Training. What he doesn’t expect is to discover a woman living alone deep in the wilderness who clearly doesn’t want to be found.
Whitley has spent months hiding from a man who’s determined to find her. She’s created a life in the mountains because disappearing feels like her only chance at staying safe. Unfortunately for her, Wyatt is very good at noticing things other people miss. 🏔️
I loved that Wyatt doesn’t simply see Whitley as another person who needs rescuing. He’s observant, patient, and determined to understand the woman behind all those carefully guarded secrets. And once Black Heart Security takes her under its protection, Wyatt becomes the man responsible for keeping her safe.
Of course, keeping things strictly professional becomes increasingly difficult! ❤️
One of my favorite parts of this story was the friends-to-lovers, slow-burn relationship between Wyatt and Whitley. Their connection isn’t just about physical attraction. There’s trust developing between them, which means even more when you consider everything Whitley has been through.
And Wyatt? Oh, I loved his protective side! ❤️🔥
He’s trained to handle dangerous situations, but Whitley becomes so much more than an assignment. Somewhere along the way, his determination to keep her safe turns into something far more personal. That “touch her and die” energy is exactly what I love in a romantic suspense hero.
I also appreciated that Whitley has survived for months on her own. She’s resourceful, cautious, and understandably hesitant to trust anyone. Watching her slowly allow Wyatt into her life adds an emotional layer to their growing relationship.
The mountain setting makes everything even better. The isolation, rugged wilderness, and knowledge that someone dangerous is still searching for Whitley create plenty of suspense. You know her past is eventually going to catch up with her, and I loved the tension that brings to the romance. 🔎
At 275 pages, there’s a great balance of danger, emotional connection, protective-hero moments, and slow-building chemistry. Wyatt and Whitley’s relationship has that wonderful combination of friendship, trust, attraction, and a hero who knows exactly who he wants.
If you love romantic suspense, former military-style security teams, forest rangers, mountain settings, friends-to-lovers, forced proximity, women in hiding, stalker suspense, protective alpha heroes, slow-burn romance, and “touch her and die” heroes, Wyatt and Whitley’s story is definitely worth reading! 🏔️🛡️❤️
Absolutely 5 stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
🏔️❤️🔥🛡️ She Ran to the Mountains to Hide—But Her Protector Has No Intention of Letting Her Run Again!
Defiant Hearts by Em Petrova was such a great romantic suspense! I loved Wyatt Rhodes and Whitley Newman together. Give me a former forest ranger turned security specialist, a heroine hiding from a dangerous stalker, forced proximity, and a protective hero who falls hard, and I’m hooked!
Wyatt has spent his career finding people in places where most others wouldn’t even know where to look. Now he’s training with Black Heart Security at Black Heart Ranch, preparing for Mountain Warfare Tactical Training. What he doesn’t expect is to discover a woman living alone deep in the wilderness who clearly doesn’t want to be found.
Whitley has spent months hiding from a man who’s determined to find her. She’s created a life in the mountains because disappearing feels like her only chance at staying safe. Unfortunately for her, Wyatt is very good at noticing things other people miss. 🏔️
I loved that Wyatt doesn’t simply see Whitley as another person who needs rescuing. He’s observant, patient, and determined to understand the woman behind all those carefully guarded secrets. And once Black Heart Security takes her under its protection, Wyatt becomes the man responsible for keeping her safe.
Of course, keeping things strictly professional becomes increasingly difficult! ❤️
One of my favorite parts of this story was the friends-to-lovers, slow-burn relationship between Wyatt and Whitley. Their connection isn’t just about physical attraction. There’s trust developing between them, which means even more when you consider everything Whitley has been through.
And Wyatt? Oh, I loved his protective side! ❤️🔥
He’s trained to handle dangerous situations, but Whitley becomes so much more than an assignment. Somewhere along the way, his determination to keep her safe turns into something far more personal. That “touch her and die” energy is exactly what I love in a romantic suspense hero.
I also appreciated that Whitley has survived for months on her own. She’s resourceful, cautious, and understandably hesitant to trust anyone. Watching her slowly allow Wyatt into her life adds an emotional layer to their growing relationship.
The mountain setting makes everything even better. The isolation, rugged wilderness, and knowledge that someone dangerous is still searching for Whitley create plenty of suspense. You know her past is eventually going to catch up with her, and I loved the tension that brings to the romance. 🔎
At 275 pages, there’s a great balance of danger, emotional connection, protective-hero moments, and slow-building chemistry. Wyatt and Whitley’s relationship has that wonderful combination of friendship, trust, attraction, and a hero who knows exactly who he wants.
If you love romantic suspense, former military-style security teams, forest rangers, mountain settings, friends-to-lovers, forced proximity, women in hiding, stalker suspense, protective alpha heroes, slow-burn romance, and “touch her and die” heroes, Wyatt and Whitley’s story is definitely worth reading! 🏔️🛡️❤️
Absolutely 5 stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 25, 2026
Defiant Hearts is another outstanding addition to Em Petrova's Black Heart Security series, blending heart-pounding suspense, emotional depth, and unforgettable romance into a story that is impossible to put down. Em Petrova proves once again that she is an extraordinary author, expertly crafting characters who feel real, relatable, and worth rooting for from the very first page.
The story follows Wyatt Rhodes, a former forest ranger and skilled protector who joins a mountain warfare training assignment at Black Heart Ranch. During the mission, he discovers Whitley Newman, a woman living in isolation in the mountains while hiding from a dangerous stalker. As Wyatt is assigned to keep Whitley safe, their connection deepens from friendship into something much more powerful. But with Whitley's past catching up to her, both must confront threats that could destroy the future they are beginning to build together.
What makes this book shine is the perfect balance between suspense and romance. The forced proximity, friends-to-lovers dynamic, and protective hero elements create an emotional and captivating journey. Wyatt is fiercely loyal and determined, while Whitley is resilient, courageous, and easy to admire. Their chemistry is beautifully developed, making every interaction meaningful and heartfelt. Em Petrova's writing is engaging, vivid, and emotionally rich. She has a remarkable talent for building tension while delivering tender, memorable romantic moments. The mountain setting adds an extra layer of atmosphere, and the suspense keeps readers invested until the very end.
Overall, Defiant Hearts is a compelling romantic suspense filled with danger, passion, and hope. If you enjoy strong characters, high-stakes drama, slow-burn romance, and heroes who will do anything to protect the woman they love, this book is a must-read. Em Petrova continues to demonstrate why she is one of the most talented authors in the genre, delivering a story that will stay with readers long after the final chapter.
Defiant Hearts was a great romantic suspense read. I really enjoyed getting to know Wyatt and Whitley and seeing their relationship develop while danger continued to close in around them. The mountain setting added a lot to the story, and the suspense kept me turning pages. Em Petrova does an excellent job creating characters that are easy to connect with, and I found myself invested in their journey from beginning to end. If you enjoy protective heroes, strong heroines, and a romance mixed with plenty of action, this is definitely worth picking up.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story follows Wyatt Rhodes, a former forest ranger and skilled protector who joins a mountain warfare training assignment at Black Heart Ranch. During the mission, he discovers Whitley Newman, a woman living in isolation in the mountains while hiding from a dangerous stalker. As Wyatt is assigned to keep Whitley safe, their connection deepens from friendship into something much more powerful. But with Whitley's past catching up to her, both must confront threats that could destroy the future they are beginning to build together.
What makes this book shine is the perfect balance between suspense and romance. The forced proximity, friends-to-lovers dynamic, and protective hero elements create an emotional and captivating journey. Wyatt is fiercely loyal and determined, while Whitley is resilient, courageous, and easy to admire. Their chemistry is beautifully developed, making every interaction meaningful and heartfelt. Em Petrova's writing is engaging, vivid, and emotionally rich. She has a remarkable talent for building tension while delivering tender, memorable romantic moments. The mountain setting adds an extra layer of atmosphere, and the suspense keeps readers invested until the very end.
Overall, Defiant Hearts is a compelling romantic suspense filled with danger, passion, and hope. If you enjoy strong characters, high-stakes drama, slow-burn romance, and heroes who will do anything to protect the woman they love, this book is a must-read. Em Petrova continues to demonstrate why she is one of the most talented authors in the genre, delivering a story that will stay with readers long after the final chapter.
Defiant Hearts was a great romantic suspense read. I really enjoyed getting to know Wyatt and Whitley and seeing their relationship develop while danger continued to close in around them. The mountain setting added a lot to the story, and the suspense kept me turning pages. Em Petrova does an excellent job creating characters that are easy to connect with, and I found myself invested in their journey from beginning to end. If you enjoy protective heroes, strong heroines, and a romance mixed with plenty of action, this is definitely worth picking up.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Former Forest Ranger Wyatt Rhodes is trying out for the Mountain Tactical Training team held at Black Heart Ranch. Worried that he won’t make the team, he is thrilled when he is selected as part of the team. They are to spend time, together, in the mountains. He is used to being on his own and while tracking the area, he comes upon items that he believes belong to someone who is living in the harsh conditions. Who and why? When he finds Whitley Newman, he is unaware that she is running from her ex and has been in the area for two months. She is desperately ill and even though he is not allowed to leave his team, he doesn’t hesitate to take her down the mountain for treatment. When he and his supervisor realize why she was staying in the mountains, they learn that she is listed as a missing person. Finally telling them what she had witnessed and learning that the man she saw is now missing, they offer for her to spend time with them, healing. He is finding himself unable to stop wanting her and she is attracted to him as well. Would she still be, if she knew what he believes is his shameful secret? Until they can verify that she will be safe he guards her as they explore the attraction between them. He wants her to feel safe, but when she is to meet with the FBI, he is told that he can’t accompany her. He may not be in the car with her, but between her tracking device and his plans to follow her, he has no intention of losing her now…he loves her! Will they be able to take down her ex while keeping her safe, for him, for their love? Strong characters and a story that you won’t be able to stop reading until the very, satisfying end! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
Review of advance copy
5 STARS: Imperfect, perfect hero!
I love everything about this series. The recurring characters are wonderful. Oh, new ones pop up in each story, but having the regulars there makes them feel like friends you have deep feelings for. The ranch is a dream place that I would love to visit. The kindness of the Malone family, working to help people in danger through the Security business, and helping Veterans in crisis through the many programs they offer on the ranch is over-the-top giving back. Former Forest Ranger Wyatt Rhodes is stepping out of his comfort zone by applying to the Mountain Warfare Tactical Training Program now offered at the Black Heart Ranch. Wyatt has many times proven he is hero material, but he has a disability that has been an obstacle all his life. Wyatt is seriously dyslectic. School was hell; the military rejected him, and he is working incredibly hard to make it in this training program. And again, the Malones step up to help Wyatt succeed.
He’s selected with 5 others to show what he can do in the Mountain survival test, but on the first night he finds a woman who is seriously injured. Whitley has been hiding in the mountains from her ex-boyfriend Lance for over 2 months. Lance is not what he seems... He’s a bad guy, and she saw something she shouldn’t have. Now she’s running for her life.
Wyatt knows that Whitley needs immediate medical attention, so he leaves the other men and takes her back to base. Everyone cares for Whitley, helping her recover and stay safe. This is a powerful story. Wyatt is a Superman, and Whitley is a strong, wonderful woman. They make a perfect couple. I received a free ARC copy of this story from Booksprout, and these are my thoughts. Linda.
I love everything about this series. The recurring characters are wonderful. Oh, new ones pop up in each story, but having the regulars there makes them feel like friends you have deep feelings for. The ranch is a dream place that I would love to visit. The kindness of the Malone family, working to help people in danger through the Security business, and helping Veterans in crisis through the many programs they offer on the ranch is over-the-top giving back. Former Forest Ranger Wyatt Rhodes is stepping out of his comfort zone by applying to the Mountain Warfare Tactical Training Program now offered at the Black Heart Ranch. Wyatt has many times proven he is hero material, but he has a disability that has been an obstacle all his life. Wyatt is seriously dyslectic. School was hell; the military rejected him, and he is working incredibly hard to make it in this training program. And again, the Malones step up to help Wyatt succeed.
He’s selected with 5 others to show what he can do in the Mountain survival test, but on the first night he finds a woman who is seriously injured. Whitley has been hiding in the mountains from her ex-boyfriend Lance for over 2 months. Lance is not what he seems... He’s a bad guy, and she saw something she shouldn’t have. Now she’s running for her life.
Wyatt knows that Whitley needs immediate medical attention, so he leaves the other men and takes her back to base. Everyone cares for Whitley, helping her recover and stay safe. This is a powerful story. Wyatt is a Superman, and Whitley is a strong, wonderful woman. They make a perfect couple. I received a free ARC copy of this story from Booksprout, and these are my thoughts. Linda.
Review of advance copy received from Author
As a Former forest ranger Wyatt Rhodes has spent his career searching for missing persons. Now he's entered into the Mountain Warfare Tactical Training at Black Heart Ranch and chosen as part of a team of 6 elite candidates to live for a month in the mountains conducting survival training exercises.
Having witnessed something she shouldn't have, Whitley Newman has hidden for months in the wilderness from the man chasing her. When Wyatt's team accidentally comes across the life she's built for herself in the forest, Whitney's forced to have to trust someone else other than herself to remain alive. Now under Black Heart Security's protection, she's not only fearing being found by her stalker, but also losing her heart to the man who rescued her from the mountain and is assigned to protect her- Wyatt.
As these two get closer so does the danger following Whitley. Can Whitley be kept safe, giving Wyatt and Whitley a chance toward building a future together? Defiant Hearts is a story about true grit and determination. Overcoming the obstacles that life thrusts into one's path to the level of not just surviving but actually thriving. Whitley and Wyatt couldn't be more perfect for each other and to read their friends to lovers story was the perfect way to spend my weekend. Defiant Hearts is part of Em Petrova's Black Heart Security series, each book best read in order but could be read as a stand alone novel. This series is addicting!
Having witnessed something she shouldn't have, Whitley Newman has hidden for months in the wilderness from the man chasing her. When Wyatt's team accidentally comes across the life she's built for herself in the forest, Whitney's forced to have to trust someone else other than herself to remain alive. Now under Black Heart Security's protection, she's not only fearing being found by her stalker, but also losing her heart to the man who rescued her from the mountain and is assigned to protect her- Wyatt.
As these two get closer so does the danger following Whitley. Can Whitley be kept safe, giving Wyatt and Whitley a chance toward building a future together? Defiant Hearts is a story about true grit and determination. Overcoming the obstacles that life thrusts into one's path to the level of not just surviving but actually thriving. Whitley and Wyatt couldn't be more perfect for each other and to read their friends to lovers story was the perfect way to spend my weekend. Defiant Hearts is part of Em Petrova's Black Heart Security series, each book best read in order but could be read as a stand alone novel. This series is addicting!
Review of advance copy received from Author
A story filled with suspense and action a simply captivating read, inspirational.
Wyatt Rhodes has always wanted to be part of the Black Tactical Training School and had been chosen to work on a training course in the mountains, whilst there he had discovered a woman Whitley Newman that had been hiding out.
Whiney was in the wrong place at the wrong time and had seen something that put a target on her back, she had been hiding out from her ex who wants her dead. He is a member of the Talon Group and Black Heart Security have had a run in with these before. Wyatt had found her in the mountains on the first day of training and as a specialised forest ranger s more than used to rescues under these conditions.
When he discovers that she is actually very ill he knows that he has to get her to medical treatment immediately, this means that he has to leave his team on the mountain whilst he attempts to take her down the mountain on his own. When he had actually discovered the extent of trouble, he actually was in Wyatt decided that he would guard her himself until the danger had passed.
Wyatt and Whitney have become very emotionally involved during this time; they do not want to be apart from each other preferring to remain with each other
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wyatt Rhodes has always wanted to be part of the Black Tactical Training School and had been chosen to work on a training course in the mountains, whilst there he had discovered a woman Whitley Newman that had been hiding out.
Whiney was in the wrong place at the wrong time and had seen something that put a target on her back, she had been hiding out from her ex who wants her dead. He is a member of the Talon Group and Black Heart Security have had a run in with these before. Wyatt had found her in the mountains on the first day of training and as a specialised forest ranger s more than used to rescues under these conditions.
When he discovers that she is actually very ill he knows that he has to get her to medical treatment immediately, this means that he has to leave his team on the mountain whilst he attempts to take her down the mountain on his own. When he had actually discovered the extent of trouble, he actually was in Wyatt decided that he would guard her himself until the danger had passed.
Wyatt and Whitney have become very emotionally involved during this time; they do not want to be apart from each other preferring to remain with each other
I thoroughly enjoyed the book and look forward to reading any future publications; keep up all the wonderful writing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is the 13th in an excellent series revolving around the men and women of Black Heart Ranch. You can read each one as a stand alone or get even more enjoyment following along with the lives of the key characters in previous books.
In this book there is the introduction of a Wyatt Rhodes, a new male lead character from the forest service. The book begins around his new challenges at the Mountain Warfare Tactical Training center at the Black Heart Ranch. He has a depth of character and an interesting back story. Life hasn’t been easy but he keeps persevering to achieve his goals. He is a loner who keeps to himself instead of opening himself up to criticism.
He encounters Whitley Newman in the woods while on a training mission. She is escaping civilization to avoid an ex-boyfriend who means her harm
The books takes twists and turns and the men and women of Black Heart Security and the Black Heart Ranch rehabilitation facility join forces to protect and resolve Whitley’s challenges. Along the way Wyatt and Whitley find the solace of friendship and love while overcoming obstacles to her safety.
I highly recommend this book and the series to all. I look forward to the next installment in the series as there are more interesting stories to be told!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In this book there is the introduction of a Wyatt Rhodes, a new male lead character from the forest service. The book begins around his new challenges at the Mountain Warfare Tactical Training center at the Black Heart Ranch. He has a depth of character and an interesting back story. Life hasn’t been easy but he keeps persevering to achieve his goals. He is a loner who keeps to himself instead of opening himself up to criticism.
He encounters Whitley Newman in the woods while on a training mission. She is escaping civilization to avoid an ex-boyfriend who means her harm
The books takes twists and turns and the men and women of Black Heart Security and the Black Heart Ranch rehabilitation facility join forces to protect and resolve Whitley’s challenges. Along the way Wyatt and Whitley find the solace of friendship and love while overcoming obstacles to her safety.
I highly recommend this book and the series to all. I look forward to the next installment in the series as there are more interesting stories to be told!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
A fabulous romantic suspense filled story all in one as Wyatt Rhodes who always wanted to be in the military joined the Black Heart Tactical Training School and was one of the six chosen to do a training exercise upon the mountain, where he found a young woman, Whitley Newman hiding out. Whitney had been in the wrong place at the wrong time, and she saw something she should not have saw. Now, she's hiding from her ex-boyfriend who wants her dead. He's part of the Talon Group that Black Heart Security has had dealings with before. Wyatt discovered Whitney the first night on the mountain, and of course he was a forest ranger who specialized in rescues. He soon discovered that she was seriously ill, and he needed to get her medical treatment immediately. He had to leave his team on the mountain to take her down. Only to discover the trouble she was really in, where Carson assigned Wyatt as her guard until things were settled. Wyatt and Whitney were soon very emotionally dependent on each other or it appeared that way. They could not be apart from the other for very long. They soon built an undeniable bond between them.
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.
Review of advance copy
Wyatt has struggled all his life with reading. He was able to cope by having others read to him while he memorized the materials. His whole family are in the military, but he was rejected due to his low scores. He has forged his way as a ranger. He applies and is accepted to the Mountain Warfare Tactical Training at the Black Heart Ranch. He has been using an app which reads the material to him. On his first assignment he finds Whitley, cold, nearly septic from a back injury and takes her back down the mountain for care.
She is running from her former boyfriend who is league with Talon Tactical, she witnessed a murder which will get her killed.
Wyatt and Whitley form a bond over the weeks of her recovery. She is an RN with experience in the ER. The women of Black Heart Ranch welcome her.
Wyatt and the team are aware of her troubles but don't anticipate the FBI agent being in league with her ex. She is abducted by the corrupt agent.
Against all odds Wyatt recues her, which results in an HEA ending.
I loved the effort Wyatt expends in making sure Whitley is safe, while Whitley maintains her alertness, but allows herself to feel safe at the Ranch.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
She is running from her former boyfriend who is league with Talon Tactical, she witnessed a murder which will get her killed.
Wyatt and Whitley form a bond over the weeks of her recovery. She is an RN with experience in the ER. The women of Black Heart Ranch welcome her.
Wyatt and the team are aware of her troubles but don't anticipate the FBI agent being in league with her ex. She is abducted by the corrupt agent.
Against all odds Wyatt recues her, which results in an HEA ending.
I loved the effort Wyatt expends in making sure Whitley is safe, while Whitley maintains her alertness, but allows herself to feel safe at the Ranch.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read
October 17, 2026Wyatt was a forest ranger who applied and got accepted for the Black Heart Security Mountain training...but he had a problem, and the tests were from the book and his dyslexia made the words swim, so he had to stay up late to hear and memorize the material...which made him look like he didn't belong to the rest of the guys who didn't know of his problem with reading...Whitley was a traveling nurse who took a job in Utah, found a guy to date but then found out Lance and his group of friends were trouble...after they killed a Federal Agent, she ran ending up in the wild Wyoming mountains before spring, when Wyatt and his group were on training mission nearby...familiar with the territory, Wyatt scouting area and came upon Whitley's camp, eventually leading her closer to his camp with a promise of food and pain killers for an injury...but she was sicker than he knew and carried her down to the ranch for treatment...where Black Heart Security found her former boyfriend part of suspected terrorist group they had been hunting...but would she be safe from him there?? You will need to read this roller-coaster story to see what happens...I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 18, 2026
If you love romantic suspense filled with high-stakes action, protective heroes, and strong heroines, Defiant Hearts is an absolute must-read!
Former forest ranger Wyatt Rhodes is taking part in a grueling month-long survival exercise with Black Heart Security when he stumbles upon Whitley Newman hiding out deep in the mountains. Whitley witnessed something dangerous involving the Talon Group and has been living off the grid to stay alive. When Wyatt realizes how ill she is, his rescue instincts take over, and he leaves his training team behind to get her down the mountain for urgent medical help.
Once she's placed under Black Heart Security’s protection, Carson assigns Wyatt as her personal guard. As the danger closing in on Whitley escalates, so does the deep emotional connection between her and Wyatt. They quickly form an undeniable bond and become anchored to one another in the best way possible.
t’s an inspiring story about overcoming immense obstacles—not just surviving, but actually thriving. Watching Wyatt and Whitley build trust and turn into a deeply bonded "friends-to-lovers" romance was the perfect weekend read.
While Defiant Hearts can be read as a standalone, it makes you want to dive headfirst into the rest of Em Petrova’s Black Heart Security series!
Former forest ranger Wyatt Rhodes is taking part in a grueling month-long survival exercise with Black Heart Security when he stumbles upon Whitley Newman hiding out deep in the mountains. Whitley witnessed something dangerous involving the Talon Group and has been living off the grid to stay alive. When Wyatt realizes how ill she is, his rescue instincts take over, and he leaves his training team behind to get her down the mountain for urgent medical help.
Once she's placed under Black Heart Security’s protection, Carson assigns Wyatt as her personal guard. As the danger closing in on Whitley escalates, so does the deep emotional connection between her and Wyatt. They quickly form an undeniable bond and become anchored to one another in the best way possible.
t’s an inspiring story about overcoming immense obstacles—not just surviving, but actually thriving. Watching Wyatt and Whitley build trust and turn into a deeply bonded "friends-to-lovers" romance was the perfect weekend read.
While Defiant Hearts can be read as a standalone, it makes you want to dive headfirst into the rest of Em Petrova’s Black Heart Security series!
October 19, 2026
Whitley and Wyatt . . .
Whitley Newman, a nurse, had inadvertently witnessed a crime that has put her life in danger. She has hidden in the mountain for months now while she is hunted by Lance who intends to silence her. Black Heart Security has begun a special Mountain Warfare Tactical Training course in which Wyatt Rhodes is participating when he finds Whitley in the mountains. She is now his assignment to keep safe as she is still being hunted. She also has a back wound badly infected from when she scraped her back on a rock when she slipped in the mud. She had been unable to get to the damaged area on her back to keep the wound clean because she couldn't reach it in that location, causing it to get seriously infected. But after a near-death rescue when she went over the cliff's edge, Wyatt got her to Black Heart Ranch for treatment. Whitley and Wyatt are also becoming attracted to each other as they spend time together, and he realizes she is special to him. Will she tell him about Lance still hunting her? The doctor here had been able to trace her with little effort, completely undoing the two months she’d spent trying to erase herself. Will Lance now come after her here and try to kill her? Or will she trust Wyatt and the others to protect her?
Whitley Newman, a nurse, had inadvertently witnessed a crime that has put her life in danger. She has hidden in the mountain for months now while she is hunted by Lance who intends to silence her. Black Heart Security has begun a special Mountain Warfare Tactical Training course in which Wyatt Rhodes is participating when he finds Whitley in the mountains. She is now his assignment to keep safe as she is still being hunted. She also has a back wound badly infected from when she scraped her back on a rock when she slipped in the mud. She had been unable to get to the damaged area on her back to keep the wound clean because she couldn't reach it in that location, causing it to get seriously infected. But after a near-death rescue when she went over the cliff's edge, Wyatt got her to Black Heart Ranch for treatment. Whitley and Wyatt are also becoming attracted to each other as they spend time together, and he realizes she is special to him. Will she tell him about Lance still hunting her? The doctor here had been able to trace her with little effort, completely undoing the two months she’d spent trying to erase herself. Will Lance now come after her here and try to kill her? Or will she trust Wyatt and the others to protect her?
Review of advance copy
“Defiant Hearts” delivers exactly what keeps this series addictive: danger, heart, humor, and the ever-reliable chaos of the Malone family woven seamlessly into every storyline. Em Petrova knows her formula, and she sharpens it here. Navy, as always, steals the show — six years old, zero filter, maximum entertainment.
Wyatt and Whitley are the emotional core of this book. Both carry wounds that shaped their lives; both have longed for things they believed they’d never have, and watching them slowly realize they’re worthy of more is the kind of payoff romance readers live for. Their connection feels earned, tender, and fierce in all the right ways.
The danger and intrigue keep the pace tight, but the real magic is the theme threaded through every chapter: family isn’t always blood — sometimes it’s the people who show up, stay, and fight beside you.
A strong, heartfelt installment that hits the emotional and suspense beats with confidence.
I received a free copy of this book through Booksprout and am leaving a voluntary review. All opinions stated are solely my own and were not influenced by outside sources.
Wyatt and Whitley are the emotional core of this book. Both carry wounds that shaped their lives; both have longed for things they believed they’d never have, and watching them slowly realize they’re worthy of more is the kind of payoff romance readers live for. Their connection feels earned, tender, and fierce in all the right ways.
The danger and intrigue keep the pace tight, but the real magic is the theme threaded through every chapter: family isn’t always blood — sometimes it’s the people who show up, stay, and fight beside you.
A strong, heartfelt installment that hits the emotional and suspense beats with confidence.
I received a free copy of this book through Booksprout and am leaving a voluntary review. All opinions stated are solely my own and were not influenced by outside sources.
October 19, 2026
More than one surprise. Black Heart Security has started an exclusive and highly selective Mountain Warfare Tactical Training course. Wyatt Rhodes, a former forest ranger is hoping for one of the converted spots. Unbeknownst to them, there is a nurse, Whitley Newman who has been hiding in the very mountains where training will take place. The story follows their meeting and the discovery as to why she had been sequestered there for over two months. The Malone family, including their smallest members and the Veterans are all present as this tale unfolds. Tasked with keeping her safe, Wyatt and Whitley become friends before they fall head over heels. The challenges they face come from the past. Some that are shared and some that try to stay hidden. The secrets don’t hinder the trust building between them. The way they almost seamlessly find their place at Black Heart Ranch feels destined. There is still danger hiding just outside the gates of Black Heart Ranch. A story that follows a predictable path. A whirlwind romance. A threat in the shadows. Responsibility practically interfering. An addition to a series that is full of stories that turn their own pages.
Review of advance copy
Defiant Hearts by Em Petrova is book 13 of the Black Heart Security Series featuring Whitley Newman and Wyatt Rhodes. On the run from her boyfriend because she witnessed him murder an ATF agent, Whitley finds herself in extreme danger when an injury turns her body septic, and Wyatt has to get her off the mountain to save her life. Wyatt is in the mountains training with the BHS men and finds her half-starved and sick. He takes her to the Black Heart Ranch, a haven for military veterans who are learning to lead normal civilian lives after the atrocities of war. Because he had to fight his learning disability to even get on the mountain rescue team, Wyatt is putting his new job and position in jeopardy by helping Whitley. He does so anyway, and his boss, Gabe, supports his decision 100 percent. Thus begins the bad guy stalker part to get rid of Whitley and the hero part where Wyatt saves her. As with all of Em Petrova’s stories, this one is another winning addition to the series. I received a free copy of this book from Booksprout, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
October 19, 2026
Former forest ranger Wyatt Rhodes is thrilled to make the Mountain Tactical Training team at Black Heart Ranch. Used to working alone, he discovers signs of someone surviving in the harsh mountains—and finds Whitley Newman. She’s been hiding there for two months, desperately ill and on the run from her ex.
Despite orders, Wyatt gets her down the mountain for treatment. Once they learn she’s a missing person and hear what she witnessed, the team offers her a safe place to heal. Attraction sparks between them, but Wyatt fears she’ll reject him if she learns his shameful secret.
He stays close, determined to protect her. When the FBI calls and he’s barred from accompanying her, he refuses to let her go unprotected. He loves her—and he’ll do whatever it takes to keep her safe while they take down the threat.
Strong characters and nonstop tension make this one impossible to put down until the satisfying end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Despite orders, Wyatt gets her down the mountain for treatment. Once they learn she’s a missing person and hear what she witnessed, the team offers her a safe place to heal. Attraction sparks between them, but Wyatt fears she’ll reject him if she learns his shameful secret.
He stays close, determined to protect her. When the FBI calls and he’s barred from accompanying her, he refuses to let her go unprotected. He loves her—and he’ll do whatever it takes to keep her safe while they take down the threat.
Strong characters and nonstop tension make this one impossible to put down until the satisfying end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 20, 2026
Book 13 in the Black Heart Security series, and we get a sweet suspense and passion filled story.
Whitley is traveling nurse who happened to witness an incident that has her on the run ever since. She has been up on the mountain hiding and surviving, always on the move, and on alert until Wyatt finds her at her lowest.
Now, Wyatt is a man trying to prove himself, unfortunately his dyslexia has been holding him back from advancing in the Black Heart Security. IN one of his missions, he spots Whitley's camp and is able to rescue her from the environment and herself. He abandons the mission and returns to base with her and what follows is filled with healing, understanding, conversations, moments, recognition that leads her to trust, care and be part of a team and feel love once again.
But just when Wyatt and Whitley are finally reaching a level of comfort close to home her past comes back to find her.
Such and addictive and passionate suspenseful love story!!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Whitley is traveling nurse who happened to witness an incident that has her on the run ever since. She has been up on the mountain hiding and surviving, always on the move, and on alert until Wyatt finds her at her lowest.
Now, Wyatt is a man trying to prove himself, unfortunately his dyslexia has been holding him back from advancing in the Black Heart Security. IN one of his missions, he spots Whitley's camp and is able to rescue her from the environment and herself. He abandons the mission and returns to base with her and what follows is filled with healing, understanding, conversations, moments, recognition that leads her to trust, care and be part of a team and feel love once again.
But just when Wyatt and Whitley are finally reaching a level of comfort close to home her past comes back to find her.
Such and addictive and passionate suspenseful love story!!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wyatt is on the final exercise up the mountain for his training for Black Heart Security when he finds Whitley who has been hiding on the mountain from her boyfriend after she saw something happen that will get her killed. Despite having to leave the rest of the members of the team he gets her down the mountain before she dies from a bad infection. When the guys of Black Heart Security hear her story and realize it is involved with a group they have been investigating he is tasked with protecting her. As they interact more they discover a mutual attraction.
As usual the characters are so real and it is wonderful to see other recurring characters as they all work to solve this part of the ongoing mystery arc. I'm sad this is the second to last book in this series! I hope there are more books that will happen on the Black Heart ranch. A great book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
As usual the characters are so real and it is wonderful to see other recurring characters as they all work to solve this part of the ongoing mystery arc. I'm sad this is the second to last book in this series! I hope there are more books that will happen on the Black Heart ranch. A great book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 19, 2026
Defiant Hearts - Black Heart Security #13
This series is all about protective heroes, strong women, and found family. It’s romantic suspense at its best.
I really loved both Wyatt and Whitley.
I fell for Wyatt right from the start. Despite his problem with reading he has managed to achieve quite a lot. The way Black Heart Security gave him a chance is heartwarming. He proved his competence time and again, and I loved how he saved Whitley, not just once, but twice.
~He’d do anything, give up anything, and take whatever risks he had to in order to make damn sure she was safe.~
Whitley is a very strong woman, both physically and mentally, and endured so much before she finally found happiness. I definitely loved how this story ended.
~ She was done running. She was finally, completely home. ~.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This series is all about protective heroes, strong women, and found family. It’s romantic suspense at its best.
I really loved both Wyatt and Whitley.
I fell for Wyatt right from the start. Despite his problem with reading he has managed to achieve quite a lot. The way Black Heart Security gave him a chance is heartwarming. He proved his competence time and again, and I loved how he saved Whitley, not just once, but twice.
~He’d do anything, give up anything, and take whatever risks he had to in order to make damn sure she was safe.~
Whitley is a very strong woman, both physically and mentally, and endured so much before she finally found happiness. I definitely loved how this story ended.
~ She was done running. She was finally, completely home. ~.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 19, 2026
4.5 stars.
I really felt a connection to Wyatt and Whitley, I wanted to hug them both at different times, and I enjoyed seeing their personal growth in this. I believed in their connection and chemistry, liked seeing the trust they had in one another, and the respect and support they showed each other. There was something between them from the start which grew very nicely as the story unfolded, it was nice to catch up with past characters, I have to say that Navy is certainly coming into her own!
I hope to see more of Wyatt and Whitley in future books as I would like to see how their relationship is doing, how Wyatt is settling into his new role, and how he is dealing with other things now he has support and understanding around him.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really felt a connection to Wyatt and Whitley, I wanted to hug them both at different times, and I enjoyed seeing their personal growth in this. I believed in their connection and chemistry, liked seeing the trust they had in one another, and the respect and support they showed each other. There was something between them from the start which grew very nicely as the story unfolded, it was nice to catch up with past characters, I have to say that Navy is certainly coming into her own!
I hope to see more of Wyatt and Whitley in future books as I would like to see how their relationship is doing, how Wyatt is settling into his new role, and how he is dealing with other things now he has support and understanding around him.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 20, 2026
Whitley is on the run from her ex and is hiding out on a mountain. Wyatt is training for Black Heart security when he comes across her. Having been in rescue before, he recognizes she is in trouble. He just thought it was the "unprepared" hiker sort. He carries her down the mountain to Black Heart Ranch where she receives the medical treatment she needs and confesses she is being stalked by her ex. She settles in on the ranch and Wyatt and Whitley get closer. Black Heart is contacted by an FBI agent and Whitley must go to a local office to make a statement. Wyatt has a bad feeling about the whole thing and is determined to follow her. The agent it seems is working with her ex and they meet up and he kidnaps her. Wyatt and Black Heart must now try to rescue her without anyone being hurt.
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.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Defiant Hearts forges a path into the mountains where Wyatt and Whitley’s paths cross. One is running for her life, and the other is gunning to make a life for himself.
The suspense keeps you intrigued about why Whitley is on the run, while your heart tugs for the recognition Wyatt craves. Their interactions are tentative and sweet, and when Wyatt takes her situation into his own hands, the warrior in him comes out.
Their chemistry sizzles and grows into something deeper. Black Heart Security does its part in supporting its people, with the unwavering camaraderie flowing through the team.
The frustrations build when danger slips past all those trained eyes, but it gets handled swiftly. Another excellent addition to the Black Heart tribe!
The suspense keeps you intrigued about why Whitley is on the run, while your heart tugs for the recognition Wyatt craves. Their interactions are tentative and sweet, and when Wyatt takes her situation into his own hands, the warrior in him comes out.
Their chemistry sizzles and grows into something deeper. Black Heart Security does its part in supporting its people, with the unwavering camaraderie flowing through the team.
The frustrations build when danger slips past all those trained eyes, but it gets handled swiftly. Another excellent addition to the Black Heart tribe!
Review of advance copy
This is a gripping romantic suspense romance about a woman running for her life and the protective hero who refuses to let her face the danger alone. When former forest ranger Wyatt finds Whitley hiding deep in the mountains, he quickly realises she is more than just a woman in need of rescue - she is someone he cannot walk away from. As Whitley’s past closes in, their growing trust turns into a fierce, slow-burn connection that neither of them expected. With forced proximity, high-stakes danger, and a devoted hero who will do whatever it takes to keep her safe, this is a heart-racing read. I adore protective heroes and plots where love is found in the most unexpected places.
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.
October 20, 2026
Whitley has been running from her past, with someone dangerous on her trail. She escapes to the forest, where she manages to build a quiet life for herself. That is, until Wyatt shows up and changes everything. Their lives, actually.
They develop an easy friendship that doesn't stay platonic for long. It's a good book overall, with a decent plot and a pretty tame vibe. However, Whitley's kidnapping fell a little flat for me. It felt like watching a horror movie where you just know the character is making a terrible decision, yet they go ahead and open the door anyway. You can't help but wonder why they don't see the danger coming!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
They develop an easy friendship that doesn't stay platonic for long. It's a good book overall, with a decent plot and a pretty tame vibe. However, Whitley's kidnapping fell a little flat for me. It felt like watching a horror movie where you just know the character is making a terrible decision, yet they go ahead and open the door anyway. You can't help but wonder why they don't see the danger coming!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 20, 2026
This is another great book in the Black Heart Security series and is this great story, we find a new trainee, Wyatt Rhodes who finds himself at Black heart Ranch in their mountain warfare program. He is struggling with the manual due to his dyslexia. He has always considered himself "broken" due to his condition but none of that is important when he comes across Whitley. She needs saving but she also saves him as she helps him to believe in himself. Wyatt has so much to give to the "right" person and she hopes that she is that person. There is so much danger, romance and many twists and turns as these two try and find their HEA.
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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