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He loved her in silence…because loving her out loud was never an option.

Former Navy SEAL Sawyer Maddox has spent most of his life protecting others from the shadows. Calm under pressure. Loyal to the core. And painfully aware that the woman he’s always cared about is completely off-limits.

Anastasia Knox is the little sister of one of his best friends…and the one woman Sawyer has never been able to forget. She’s built a quiet life in their small coastal town, doing her best to be content with a relationship that looks right on paper. But when anonymous messages turn into late-night threats, that fragile sense of safety shatters.

Sawyer doesn’t hesitate. He moves in. Steps closer. Putting himself between Anastasia and the danger—no matter the cost. Even if it means crossing lines he swore he never would.

Because the longer he’s near her, the harder it is to ignore the truth.

She doesn’t belong with the man she’s with.

She belongs with him.

A gripping romantic suspense about faith, sacrifice, and a soldier who will risk everything for the woman he was never meant to love.

317 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 26, 2026

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About the author

Jessica Ashley

22 books454 followers
Hi! I’m Jessica Ashley, a three-time award-winning author of Christian romantic suspense where protective heroes, high-stakes danger, and swoony romance collide—without the spice.

I write stories for readers who want the intensity of suspense and the depth of romance, all grounded in faith, hope, and redemption. Because even in the darkest moments, God is still at work.

When I’m not writing, I’m homeschooling my three kids, baking homemade bread, or sneaking quiet moments with my husband in our New Hampshire home.

My stories are filled with danger, devotion, and faith that holds fast—because what we read matters.

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5 stars
96 (79%)
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20 (16%)
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Profile Image for theliterateleprechaun .
2,874 reviews204 followers
July 27, 2026
This is book three and a fantastic addition to the Iron Tide Brotherhood romantic suspense series!

It is centered around Psalm 46 and God’s sustaining presence in our times of trouble. The two main characters, Anastasia Knox (the little sister of the MMC’s friend) and Sawyer Maddox (former Navy SEAL and MMC), are two friends who’ve been previously off limits to each other, but have decided to bet everything on each other and hope they don’t lose it all. When chaos ensues, these two learn that “having faith isn’t just turning to God in the good times. It’s trusting in Him to ride out the storm with you. It’s trusting He will tell the waters to be still.” I love that they held out for a hero/heroine and found it in each other….cue Bonnie Tyler’s song!

Sawyer tells Anastasia, “Buildings can be rebuilt. Bodies can heal. But the one thing that matters, Anastasia - the one irreplaceable thing in my life - is you. And since you’re lying right here beside me, safe and sound, my world is right side up.” Doesn’t that choke you up?! I love this hero; he’s willing to risk it all to be with Anastasia.

I wasn’t expecting to be affected by the focus on carrying the weight of silence, nor the moment one character’s obsession turned to madness, but the author brought out some wonderful thoughts. This one resonated with me because I, too, at one time, didn’t belong with the man I was dating and my then friend/now my husband stepped in and showed me the sacrifice of real love. If you’ve ever loved someone in silence or are getting tired of holding out for a hero, this book is the encouragement you are looking for!

I can’t wait for SEAL of Valor!

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Profile Image for Melmo2610.
3,854 reviews
July 13, 2026
Phenomenal read for me as always when it’s a new story from one of my favorite authors. Jessica’s stories never disappoint and I love her blend of great friend groups, exciting stories, sweet romances and meaningful spiritual threads. I’d been waiting for Sawyer to get his story, and this best friend’s brother trope is one I’m always here for. I loved this story!

I received a copy of this book from the author as well as purchased my own audio copy. I was not required to post a positive review and all thoughts are my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Stephanie - Books Less Travelled.
244 reviews6 followers
July 25, 2026
This book!!! I knew, I knew!!! And it still snuck up on me!? Wow, this was such a wild ride, and I loved it! The mystery balances so well with the romance in this one, and Sawyer and Anastasia are adorable together! They might have even topped Garrison and Katelyn, in that way at least, which actually surprised me a little, but I loved it all the same.

I also loved the family/team banter in this one! Lol, these characters are wonderful, and I love them so much. While Sawyer wasn't my favorite 'romantic hero' type, he's such a sweet guy, and I loved seeing more of who he really is and getting his perspective here. I always enjoy these stories, since it's more like watching friends find love, and I can happily cheer him from the sidelines in a way that I sometimes find harder for other characters. Comparison is a beast I try to defeat, but certain characters make that easier than others for me. Not sure if that makes sense, but hopefully? (So, I have a type, okay? It's honestly a bit of a struggle, lol. XP)

The mystery side, wow! I mean, we'd seen hints along the way, but just...speechless! So well done, and it definitely kept me guessing. (And I totally stayed up too late finishing this one, but it was worth it!) I usually guess the villain fairly early, or at least start piecing it together a bit before the actual reveal, but this one absolutely had me second-guessing myself the whole way, and even though I had a feeling I was missing something, it still surprised me how long I was in suspense! Well done!

*I read an ecopy from the author. This does not affect my thoughts. My review is voluntary.*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Lili.
21 reviews
July 12, 2026
3⭐️

Ok so Swayer’s book was the one I was anticipating the most. I instantly fell in love with his character from the first book. His jokes were top tier,but this book lacked for me a bit. Tho i did enjoyed it, but right now i don’t think it can top Seal of Honor for me. The prologue was really good it captured my attention so fast and i think it should have kept that vibe throughout the whole book. I wish we could have seen more of Swayer’s and Anastasia’s past to really get a good feel of their relationship it could have added that yearning factor to it that it was missing. It would have added more depth to their relationship but also the book. To see how blind she was throughout all those years and to see how they developed a friendship even when both of them wanted more but they were too scared to make a move. I would write more but this has a limit.

I received a digital ARC of Seal of Honor from the author.
I was not required to write a positive review but an honest one. All thoughts and opinions are my own unbiased opinions.
14 reviews
July 14, 2026
Usually I‘m not the biggest fan of friends to lovers but goodness did this book hit me, it just pulled me right in!
Seal of Courage is the third book in an incredible series and is about Anastasia and Sawyer, two best friends, navigating their path to love through obstacles like past and present hurt, trauma, mistakes and a whole lot danger.

Sawyer and Anastasia are literally made for each other, their chemistry is insane and they are both so beautifully written, coming to life in such a captivating and picturesque way, one can‘t help but fall for them.
But aside from the “obvious“ romance part in the book, the suspense is gripping and doesn‘t let you put it down. To be honest when I was done I picked it up again right away, you just can‘t get enough of them!

Also I must admit, the foreword alone had me in tears!
Once again, I feel incredibly blessed and grateful to have received this ARC!!
Profile Image for April Wilson.
492 reviews22 followers
July 12, 2026
Love is worth the risk!

This is an exciting, terrifying, dangerous, and fulfilling journey that Sawyer and Anastasia take. After years of wondering about the other’s feelings, they decide to take a chance and become more. When they go for it, they discover they are made for each other. But now things turn dangerous…

Anastasia has a deep, dark secret that she has never revealed and now a mysterious stalker knows all about it. There are twists and turns and “oops, didn’t see that coming” in the plot. It kept me on my toes and constantly turning pages to see what happened next. We get to see Zane, Garrison, Ryker, and Weston along with Sawyer in action again protecting what is important; the brotherhood is solid.

Biblical themes on forgiveness, salvation, and healing are woven throughout the story. I enjoyed it. I received a complimentary copy from the author and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
86 reviews1 follower
July 6, 2026
Absolutely loved it!

Come back home with me to Stormwatch Landing South Carolina for Sawyer and Anastasia's friends to forever romance!
Of course this faith packed story by Jessica Ashley is a high stakes suspense full of found family, and twists and turns and a wonderful swoon worthy couple. (Closed door, and only kissing.) I had to keep reminding myself that Sawyer, Anastasia, and their friends and town are fictional characters. While the story does deal with some difficult topics, in true Jessica Ashley fashion, the darkness never overcomes the Light!
While I don't want to rush this series away, I am looking forward to reading Weston's and Ryker's stories and getting to know their leading ladies!
15 reviews
July 4, 2026
I didn’t See That Coming!

Do yourself a favor and read Anastasia and Sawyer’s story, it’s got some real cliff hanger moments in it. Very well written and totally captivating. I loved it.
16 reviews1 follower
June 30, 2026
A Tender, Tension Filled Romance with Heart and Faith at Its Core

Jessica Ashley has delivered another standout entry in the Iron Tide Brotherhood series with SEAL of Courage. Sawyer Maddox is exactly the kind of hero readers fall for, steady, protective, and quietly carrying years of feelings he never allowed himself to act on. Watching him finally step forward for Anastasia, even knowing the complications it would bring, made for such a satisfying slow burn.

Anastasia's character felt wonderfully real too, a woman who has settled for a life that looks right on paper but never quite feels like home. The suspense thread, with the anonymous messages escalating into real danger, kept the pacing tight and gave Sawyer's protective instincts real weight, this never felt like danger added just for plot convenience, it genuinely raised the stakes for both of them emotionally and physically.

What I appreciated most was how naturally faith was woven into the story. It never felt heavy handed, instead it added depth to Sawyer and Anastasia's growth as individuals and as a couple, making their eventual connection feel earned rather than rushed.

A heartfelt, suspenseful, and beautifully written romance. Highly recommended for fans of military romance with faith, loyalty, and a slow burn love story that pays off in the best way.
Profile Image for Kaylah.
37 reviews3 followers
August 9, 2026
Oh… my… GOODNESS!!! 😱😵
Agh! I’ve got to find the words, because I don’t think putting “ahshfhjsjahajdhcbdja!!!” will quite suffice for a review… 😅 haha
So umm… I had to put my iPad down for a solid minute or two and just… let the turmoil release. I swear, I haven’t gotten this tore up about a plot twist in a while! (And yes, I stayed up till almost 3:00 AM finishing this because I could NOT stop!)
It’s been a few days since I finished it, but I needed at least 3 business days to settle myself 🤣

*Ahem* SO! The friends-to-lovers was great (and that’s one of my least favorite tropes btw, so that’s saying a lot for me). The YEARNING!! At one point she asked him if he remembers the day they met and he remembers the outfit she wore and how her hair was… When she asks how he remembers, he answers, “One doesn’t forget a major turning point in his life.” 😭❤️ *swoon*
I loved this addition to the Iron Tide Brotherhood Series!!

⚓️ Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⚓️Language: None
⚓️Romance: Kisses only (more attention to emotion than description)
⚓️Tropes:
📍Brothers Best Friend
📍Friends to Forever
📍He Falls First
📍Small Coastal Town
📍Ex-Navy Seal MMC
📍Protective Hero
📍Forced Proximity
📍Touch Her & Suffer
⚓️Other Elements: As is usual, there is on-page violence. Flashbacks of death of a loved one, but nothing gory.
352 reviews13 followers
July 13, 2026
I was looking forward to this book for a while, and it was so good! Sawyer and Anastasia were two of my favorite characters in the previous books, so reading their story was like opening a gift. The action-packed, suspenseful plot kept me guessing and turning the pages, and the villain was so unexpected and loathsome that I had to take some deep breaths to calm myself down. I appreciated and was encouraged by the author’s note in the beginning, as well as the characters’ focus on God and His trustworthiness. I absolutely loved this book, and I cannot wait to read Weston’s story next.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book for the author. A positive review was not required, and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.
37 reviews1 follower
July 12, 2026
I enjoyed this book. It was wonderful to see Sawyer and Anastasia get together - finally. The romance in this book was tooth achingly sweet, but enjoyable and satisfying. The author did an excellent job bringing to life the yearning the characters had felt for each other over the years finally being realized. I also loved the inclusion of the characters' prayers and the Psalms. I wish that it was more suspenseful as I felt like the suspense elements were over too quickly and I had a hard time feeling like I was able to get really invested in the mystery. Overall, I did really enjoy this book and the return of many of the beloved characters from the first two books. 4.5 stars
Profile Image for Santina.
3 reviews
September 19, 2026
★★★★★

WOW! What an amazing book! I was definitely NOT disappointed. I enjoyed this one more than book two, and for me, it was just as good as book one!

I loved that the story of these two main characters happened in this book instead of making us wait even longer. The action, suspense, romance and faith were all so well done….. and once again, no spice, which I absolutely love!

And that ending… 😳 I honestly thought something was missing and was almost disappointed, but then came the craziest plot twist! I NEVER saw it coming, and it completely made the book for me.

Absolutely loved it. Five stars! 🤍

Now onto book four!
3,065 reviews35 followers
June 30, 2026
Just a great book! Best friend's sister who is in trouble and he drops everything to help protect her.

Sawyer and Anastasia were so good together. Long lost love they never thought would be realised. That romance can't be missed.

I enjoyed the Chemistry they had been trying to delay as well as the slow, build.

Sawyer was a real sweetheart, alpha when it counted but soft with her.

A beautiful book i didn't want to leave alone. Believable characters and a team spirit i always adore. I can't wait for more!
19 reviews
August 28, 2026
I would give this book six stars if I could. It was that good. The characters, the story, the love - absolutely fantastic.
Setting a light to the sparks between friends, Anastasia and Sawyer, after Anastasia turns down a marriage proposal - things go south with regards to her safety as she becomes a stalking victim.
If I could read this book again for the first time, I'd do it over and over.
I can't wait to continue this series with Reese and Cowboy aka Weston.
55 reviews
June 30, 2026
I loved Anastasia and Sawyer’s story and read it in a single weekend. The suspense starts slow and steady, then tightens its grip until you’re reading “just one more chapter”. The plot is clever, and the author keeps you guessing about the villain right up to the final pages, dropping hints without giving the game away. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Sara.
301 reviews5 followers
July 1, 2026
This is book #3 in the Iron Tide Brotherhood series but can be read as a standalone book.

Wow another great read by Jessica.

I fell in love with the characters and there is enough suspense to keep you wanting to read more.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. The review expressed here is my honest opinion.
75 reviews
August 14, 2026
This was such a sweet story. It obviously had a lot of action in it which was amazing, but most importantly, this couple just had my heart. Sawyer is just the sweetest protector and Anastasia has the kindest most faithful heart. I couldn't get enough of their story even the parts that were heartbreaking. Seeing their story and relationship evolve was perfection. God is good. All the time.
11 reviews1 follower
September 24, 2026
Loved It

Did not guess the plot twist!
Sawyer's yearning was everything and Anastasia realizing how she felt made me yell "finally!".
I love Sawyer's sense of humor and wit.
A sweet friends to lovers story mixed with the thrill and suspense of being hunted by a serial killer.
Lots of great bible quotes and the faith of the characters is always so refreshing to read.
Profile Image for Melissa.
279 reviews8 followers
September 2, 2026
This is an excellent Christian romantic suspense story. I loved the characters and getting to know Sawyer and Anastasia better. This story is a thrilling twisty read that keeps you guessing until the end. I highly recommend reading this book.
Profile Image for Brenda.
298 reviews8 followers
September 3, 2026
Very Good book. Great story line. Lots of suspense. Enjoyed the characters and how they bonded as a Family! Can't wait to read the rest of their stories!

I received an advance ebook and I am voluntarily leaving my review.
Profile Image for Lettie Loo.
174 reviews
July 4, 2026
Sawyer has had a thing for Anastasia for years...The only thing that has kept him from acting on his feelings is the fact that she's the younger sister of his best friend...And that she's been dating and FBI agent for the past 6 months.

Shortly after starting the relationship, Anastasia went to see Sawyer, to see what was going on between the two of them, but he told her that he wanted her to be happy, so she walked out and went on with her life. Fast forward to the present and Sawyer happens to go to a family dinner at the Knox house. Anastasia's FBI boyfriend proposes, but she turns him down.

All of a sudden, she starts getting questionable phone calls, and then a stuffed animal. Sawyer and Zane, her brother, drive to Atlanta to confront her ex, who assures them he is not involved.

We get some more of Anastasia's back story, specifically her friendship with Weston's younger sister. Watching how Sawyer and the rest of his team work together to help Anastasia and find out who is hunting her, they also uncover the real story behind what happened to her best friend.
Profile Image for Janice Federico.
16 reviews1 follower
September 13, 2026
I didn’t see that one coming! Oh my gosh! I read this book in one day. Sawyer is my favorite of the team! I loved this story so much.
113 reviews7 followers
July 12, 2026
Once again Jessica Ashley has written an awesome story with page turning suspense and slow burning romance!! This is the third one in the Iron Tide Brotherhood series and they just keep getting better! This is Anastasia and Sawyer's adventure! They met 7 years ago and there was definitely a spark but they each told themselves that they were going to just be friends. As time went on Sawyer knew he was in love with Anastasia but he,felt he just wasn't good enough. One of my favorite parts of these books is the relationships between the teammates and also between Anastasia and Zane. When danger forces it way into Anastasias world Sawyer is all in. He will do anything to protect her! She is scared for her life as the danger keeps getting closer and closer but she is reminded that through her faith in God all things are possible in Gods timeframe. Once again I thought I knew who the bad guy was but boy was I shocked!! This is a stand alone book but I recommend you start with the first one. This book was just the perfect amount of page turning suspense and all the romance you could want. It is definitely a 5 star book! I want to thank this author for my early copy of this book. My opinions are all my own.

Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews