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Devil's Shroud #6
Deadly Fall
New York Times bestselling author Elle James's chilling romance brings together a billionaire and his beautiful bodyguard!
In a Gothic mansion on a windy coast, former soldier Dixie Reeves and her client, billionaire Andrew Stratford, are in grave danger. The single dad has hired her to help him protect his daughter from a mysterious threat. As their enemy closes in, even tough-as-nails Dixie has to hold her nerveand keep her guard up to stop herself from falling for Andrew and his adorable little girl. The long nights pass, and Dixie and her handsome boss can't deny they're barreling toward the kind of love that changes lives. That is, if they can somehow keep their instant family safe from the danger at the door!
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In a Gothic mansion on a windy coast, former soldier Dixie Reeves and her client, billionaire Andrew Stratford, are in grave danger. The single dad has hired her to help him protect his daughter from a mysterious threat. As their enemy closes in, even tough-as-nails Dixie has to hold her nerveand keep her guard up to stop herself from falling for Andrew and his adorable little girl. The long nights pass, and Dixie and her handsome boss can't deny they're barreling toward the kind of love that changes lives. That is, if they can somehow keep their instant family safe from the danger at the door!
"
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 3, 2017
98 people are currently reading
138 people want to read
About the author
Elle James
689 books1,209 followersAward-winning author Elle James grew up as an air force military brat. She received her work ethic from her rock-solid father, her creative streak from her artistic mother and inspiration from her writing partner and sister, Delilah Devlin. As a former member of the army reserves and a current member of the air force reserves, she's traveled across the United States and to Germany, managed a full-time job, and raised three wonderful children. She and her husband have even tried their hands at ranching exotic birds (ostriches, emus and rheas) in the Texas hill country. Ask her, and she'll tell you what it's like to go toe-to-toe with an angry three-hundred-and-fifty-pound bird and live to tell about it!
Her adventures in the army and air force reserves, and the wild antics of her life on a small ranch in Texas give her fodder for mystery, suspense and humor in her writing. Elle writes gothic, paranormal mystery for the Harlequin Intrigue line and paranormal romantic comedy for Dorchester Publishing. A former manager of computer programming and project management professionals, Elle is happy she now has the opportunity to pursue her writing full time.
Her adventures in the army and air force reserves, and the wild antics of her life on a small ranch in Texas give her fodder for mystery, suspense and humor in her writing. Elle writes gothic, paranormal mystery for the Harlequin Intrigue line and paranormal romantic comedy for Dorchester Publishing. A former manager of computer programming and project management professionals, Elle is happy she now has the opportunity to pursue her writing full time.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
May 4, 2024
In
Deadly Fall,
my first book by Elle James, the author brings readers a suspenseful story of atmosphere, romance, family, and danger. Billionaire Andrew Stratford and his daughter Leigha live in a Gothic mansion on the coast of Oregon outside the town of Cape Churn. When someone is obviously attempting to harm them, Andrew hires a bodyguard. Stealth Operations Specialists assigns new employee Dixie Reeves.
Dixie is a former squad leader in the Army’s Airborne Rangers and a former mixed martial arts fighter. She’s stubborn, tough, fast, independent, and strong. However, she is also compassionate and can’t stand to be confined. Andrew is new to being a dad, broody, doesn’t mince words, and silence disconcerts him. Leigha is abnormally solemn, has a sense of imagination, and is an explorer. All three suffer from nightmares and post-traumatic stress disorder.
This story has the right balance of suspense and romance. It’s heartwarming at times and filled with several tense and exciting scenes interspersed with some humor. While it was a little predictable, it was atmospheric and a fun read. However, I still had a couple of unanswered questions that the ending didn’t fully resolve. Themes include greed, family, secrets, friendship, healing, love, and much more.
Overall, this was an entertaining, tense, and atmospheric story with an incredible setting and characterization that was well done. While this is the sixth book in the series, it can be read as a standalone novel. However, if you have read the previous books, some of those main characters have cameo roles in this one. I’m looking forward to reading them.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date was January 1, 2017.
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My 4.07 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
Dixie is a former squad leader in the Army’s Airborne Rangers and a former mixed martial arts fighter. She’s stubborn, tough, fast, independent, and strong. However, she is also compassionate and can’t stand to be confined. Andrew is new to being a dad, broody, doesn’t mince words, and silence disconcerts him. Leigha is abnormally solemn, has a sense of imagination, and is an explorer. All three suffer from nightmares and post-traumatic stress disorder.
This story has the right balance of suspense and romance. It’s heartwarming at times and filled with several tense and exciting scenes interspersed with some humor. While it was a little predictable, it was atmospheric and a fun read. However, I still had a couple of unanswered questions that the ending didn’t fully resolve. Themes include greed, family, secrets, friendship, healing, love, and much more.
Overall, this was an entertaining, tense, and atmospheric story with an incredible setting and characterization that was well done. While this is the sixth book in the series, it can be read as a standalone novel. However, if you have read the previous books, some of those main characters have cameo roles in this one. I’m looking forward to reading them.
I purchased a copy of this novel. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date was January 1, 2017.
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My 4.07 rounded to 4 stars review is coming soon.
January 4, 2017
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.
I am an unabashed Elle James fan. I love her hot SEAL books and I love her sweet romantic-suspense work too. In "Deadly Fall" fall we have all the elements of a great gothic mystery worthy of Phyllis A. Whitney, brooding mansion; scarred, handsome hero; competent, take charge, also scarred heroine; sad lonely child; and even a ghost. But, this isn't a gothic mystery, it's a fantastic romantic-suspense.
Dix Evans is a veteran Army Ranger who was captured and has the scars, on the inside, and anger that goes with it. She turned that anger into a successful career in the MMA until the anger got away from her and she seriously injured an opponent. She quit MMA and took a job with Stealth Operations Specialists, SOS, as a bodyguard to reclusive billionaire, Andrew Stratford, and his daughter, Leigha.
Andrew Stratford is a handsome billionaire who has scars from rescuing his daughter, Leigha, from a fire that killed her mother. He has lived in Cape Churn, Oregon in his grandfather's gothic mansion for almost a year with little contact with the town. Someone pushed him off the cliff and he is concerned with the safety of his daughter so he hires SOS and gets Dix as his bodyguard and what he gets is much, much more.
These two scarred people have lots of issues to overcome, but the attraction is not to be denied. They also have ghosts from the past and an enemy in the present to deal with.
I am an unabashed Elle James fan. I love her hot SEAL books and I love her sweet romantic-suspense work too. In "Deadly Fall" fall we have all the elements of a great gothic mystery worthy of Phyllis A. Whitney, brooding mansion; scarred, handsome hero; competent, take charge, also scarred heroine; sad lonely child; and even a ghost. But, this isn't a gothic mystery, it's a fantastic romantic-suspense.
Dix Evans is a veteran Army Ranger who was captured and has the scars, on the inside, and anger that goes with it. She turned that anger into a successful career in the MMA until the anger got away from her and she seriously injured an opponent. She quit MMA and took a job with Stealth Operations Specialists, SOS, as a bodyguard to reclusive billionaire, Andrew Stratford, and his daughter, Leigha.
Andrew Stratford is a handsome billionaire who has scars from rescuing his daughter, Leigha, from a fire that killed her mother. He has lived in Cape Churn, Oregon in his grandfather's gothic mansion for almost a year with little contact with the town. Someone pushed him off the cliff and he is concerned with the safety of his daughter so he hires SOS and gets Dix as his bodyguard and what he gets is much, much more.
These two scarred people have lots of issues to overcome, but the attraction is not to be denied. They also have ghosts from the past and an enemy in the present to deal with.
February 16, 2017
Quick notes:
The story line felt choppy and the scene transitions weren't smooth and the time frames seemed off. A number of times I re-read something because I missed the transition - although I was forcing the read so there was some yawn skimming.
The insta-lust was fast and the sex between employer and bodyguard was too quick - way too quick
Dixie felt like a glorified baby sitter and not a bodyguard. I know the author wanted her to be intrigued by the father/daughter, but again - much too quick without the background that makes it feel real.
The plot had potential but I think too much was attempted in too few pages.
The story line felt choppy and the scene transitions weren't smooth and the time frames seemed off. A number of times I re-read something because I missed the transition - although I was forcing the read so there was some yawn skimming.
The insta-lust was fast and the sex between employer and bodyguard was too quick - way too quick
Dixie felt like a glorified baby sitter and not a bodyguard. I know the author wanted her to be intrigued by the father/daughter, but again - much too quick without the background that makes it feel real.
The plot had potential but I think too much was attempted in too few pages.
March 19, 2022
After narrowly missing falling off the cliff at the edge of his propery when an intruder pushes him, Andrew Stratford winds up getting a bodyguard in the form of former soldier and MMA fighter, Dixie Reeves. Dixie is instantly attracted to Andrew, and falls in love with his six-year-old daugther, Leigha. They must figure out who is targeting Andrew, and why. It's most likely linked to some of his ancestors, who were rum runners during the prohibition and are rumoured to have left valuable treasure somewhere in his sprawling mansion, or its ground.
Although predictable and not much happens, this was an enjoyable read. At first I was a bit perturbed that Andrew thought a mansion at the edge of a 300 foot cliff was an appropriate place to raise a six-year-old child, but my annoyance at that stretch of credibility faded away. This was a nice change of pace from Elle James' usual hoo-ra action-oriented military romantic suspense stories, and much more reminiscent of the gothic romances of old, set in a mansion that has secret passageways and a possible ghost haunting thte premises. I can't say I got much of a feel for the romance, but I enjoyed the story, so I let it go!
Additonal points for Brewer, the black labrador, who is just adorable! I wanted to reach into the book and give him a hug.
Although predictable and not much happens, this was an enjoyable read. At first I was a bit perturbed that Andrew thought a mansion at the edge of a 300 foot cliff was an appropriate place to raise a six-year-old child, but my annoyance at that stretch of credibility faded away. This was a nice change of pace from Elle James' usual hoo-ra action-oriented military romantic suspense stories, and much more reminiscent of the gothic romances of old, set in a mansion that has secret passageways and a possible ghost haunting thte premises. I can't say I got much of a feel for the romance, but I enjoyed the story, so I let it go!
Additonal points for Brewer, the black labrador, who is just adorable! I wanted to reach into the book and give him a hug.
January 4, 2017
A little bit of spooky with ghost stories, a lot of intrigue with a treasure hunt and old mansion with secret hallways, and lots of love between three broken people in desperate need of healing are the makings of this tale. A final episode, so to say, to a well-loved series where most of the previous characters get to visit for a minute of two, and Andrew, the stockbroker, gets his chance with a mending of wounds inside and finding happiness.
All three of the main characters Andrew, Dixie, and Andrew's daughter Leigha have a form of PTSD from their former times. The past events were glanced over just enough to explain them to the reader. I enjoyed the instant connection and development of the relationship between Andrew and Dixie, yet I wished they would have spent a little bit more time reconstructing themselves from the past. Both Andrew and Dixie are slightly intimidating, yet easy to be around with, and so obviously falling for each other. Andrew's daughter has them both wrapped around her little finger, and the trio soon form a family unit. I loved watching both Andrew and Dixie just melt when it came to anything to do with Leigha.
Leigha was an absolute delight, with her ghostly friend and loyal dog, they provided the entertainment and light fun to the story.
The suspenseful attacks towards the characters, the excitement of the possible treasure, mixed with Andrew's family history was enchanting and fascinating.
The book was easy to read and had a nice flow to it. I felt that most of the issues got an easy solution, and were treated lightly, but that didn't dim the pleasure of the story or the entertainment of the tale.
~ Four Spoons
All three of the main characters Andrew, Dixie, and Andrew's daughter Leigha have a form of PTSD from their former times. The past events were glanced over just enough to explain them to the reader. I enjoyed the instant connection and development of the relationship between Andrew and Dixie, yet I wished they would have spent a little bit more time reconstructing themselves from the past. Both Andrew and Dixie are slightly intimidating, yet easy to be around with, and so obviously falling for each other. Andrew's daughter has them both wrapped around her little finger, and the trio soon form a family unit. I loved watching both Andrew and Dixie just melt when it came to anything to do with Leigha.
Leigha was an absolute delight, with her ghostly friend and loyal dog, they provided the entertainment and light fun to the story.
The suspenseful attacks towards the characters, the excitement of the possible treasure, mixed with Andrew's family history was enchanting and fascinating.
The book was easy to read and had a nice flow to it. I felt that most of the issues got an easy solution, and were treated lightly, but that didn't dim the pleasure of the story or the entertainment of the tale.
~ Four Spoons
December 27, 2016
Andrew lives with his imaginative daughter in a mansion he inherited from a family member. This mansion seems to hold secrets, unknown passageways and history. When Andrew was almost pushed over a cliff he hires a body guard. Dixie was nothing he expected a tough female bodyguard with a soft spot for his daughter.
I really enjoyed this book, it was filled with family secret and passageways they'll keep any readers hooked. I loved getting to know more about Andrews family history and curious where each corridor they went into lead. I thought that aspect of Andrews daughter imaginary friend was interesting. I kept wondering if it really is an imaginary friend, or maybe some intruder, I was just really curious what was going on with that part. I loved that connection / heat between Andrew and Dixie and couldn't help but smile that they just couldn't catch a break sometimes.Theres enough mystery and suspense to keep the readers hooked and I just couldn't put this book down. Highly Recommend!
I really enjoyed this book, it was filled with family secret and passageways they'll keep any readers hooked. I loved getting to know more about Andrews family history and curious where each corridor they went into lead. I thought that aspect of Andrews daughter imaginary friend was interesting. I kept wondering if it really is an imaginary friend, or maybe some intruder, I was just really curious what was going on with that part. I loved that connection / heat between Andrew and Dixie and couldn't help but smile that they just couldn't catch a break sometimes.Theres enough mystery and suspense to keep the readers hooked and I just couldn't put this book down. Highly Recommend!
December 29, 2016
4 1/2 STARS!
An attention getting mystery from start to finish! Quick to read, intriguing with a side of sweetness!
Former soldier Dixie Reeves is happy to take on a new job just when she needs the distraction most. She's set to be a bodyguard to a billionaire's daughter. When she arrives and meets the family, she's immediately drawn in and is determined to keep them safe!
Andrew Stratford doesn't understand what's going on in his house, but he's determined to keep his daughter safe. When Dix arrives and is not what he was expecting, he doesn't think he can trust her to get the job done, but when she puts him in his place and proves her worthiness, they agree to a truce. When attraction flares, will they be able to work together to figure out who is out to get him?
An attention getting mystery from start to finish! Quick to read, intriguing with a side of sweetness!
Former soldier Dixie Reeves is happy to take on a new job just when she needs the distraction most. She's set to be a bodyguard to a billionaire's daughter. When she arrives and meets the family, she's immediately drawn in and is determined to keep them safe!
Andrew Stratford doesn't understand what's going on in his house, but he's determined to keep his daughter safe. When Dix arrives and is not what he was expecting, he doesn't think he can trust her to get the job done, but when she puts him in his place and proves her worthiness, they agree to a truce. When attraction flares, will they be able to work together to figure out who is out to get him?
July 19, 2025
Very different from the author's usual books. The book was okay.
Not far into the book there was the usual editing problems: "Leigha stopped beside the bed and laid her hand on Leigha's forehead." I believe the first Leigha should have been Dix.
I agree with another reader in that Dix was more of a glorified babysitter instead of a bodyguard.
The romance was just too quick. It happened within 24 hours. The actions of Dix was not very professional.
The book was rather choppy.
Not far into the book there was the usual editing problems: "Leigha stopped beside the bed and laid her hand on Leigha's forehead." I believe the first Leigha should have been Dix.
I agree with another reader in that Dix was more of a glorified babysitter instead of a bodyguard.
The romance was just too quick. It happened within 24 hours. The actions of Dix was not very professional.
The book was rather choppy.
March 31, 2024
amazing story
Great characters, suspense, drama, wonderful storyline it was different for a change. A couple small issues. Author got Leah and Dix mixed up in one area, Nd then left the “treasure” portion of the book hanging! So what happened to the treasure was it all found? Love this author anyway but hate that main parts of the story were left hanging.
Great characters, suspense, drama, wonderful storyline it was different for a change. A couple small issues. Author got Leah and Dix mixed up in one area, Nd then left the “treasure” portion of the book hanging! So what happened to the treasure was it all found? Love this author anyway but hate that main parts of the story were left hanging.
April 7, 2024
I am so Glad Ella ended this series going back to Andrew. Leigh was a very special little girl with her friend Bennett and dog Brewster watching over her.
Greed can be deadly. Greed has no boundaries and will kill to get what they want. A lot going on in this last book in the series review all. Enjoy
Greed can be deadly. Greed has no boundaries and will kill to get what they want. A lot going on in this last book in the series review all. Enjoy
February 18, 2017
Let me begin by stating that I am fan of Elle James' novels, but this is only the second novel I've read in her Devil's Shroud series, set on the Oregon coast, and it brought me back to my high school fixation on the Gothic novels of Phyllis Whitney and Victoria Holt, complete with the air of mystery surrounding a lost treasure in missing jewels, the possibility of a resident ghost, an oppressive fog, a Gothic mansion, and it all worked for me--I give it 4.5 stars.
As the novel opens, scarred yet handsome Wall Street billionaire Andrew Stratford is searching for his 6-year-old daughter, Leigha, and her dog, Brewer, in the thick fog that regularly descends over Cape Churn, Oregon. Although she's not supposed to leave the house, she's a willful, adventurous and curious little girl who spends far too much time alone with only their housekeeper, Mrs. Purdy, and an imaginary friend she's rather tight-lipped about, for company in Stratford House, the huge, 3-story Gothic mansion high on the cliffs above the Pacific ocean. As the Devil's Shroud fog closes in, Andrew senses a presence just before someone (or something) shoves him off the edge of the cliff, yet he manages to grab onto a tree root and climb his way back up to safety, rather than falling onto the jagged rocks 300 feet below. While at the hospital to have his wounds seen to, he reports the incident to the deputy policeman who, after hearing his tale, suggests that he contact SOS, the Stealth Operations Specialists, who have recently opened their service in Cape Churn, to have them recommend a bodyguard for his daughter. He's expecting a big brawny bodyguard, but that's not who they send him. If you're expecting a faint-hearted damsel in distress, you're in for a surprise.
Enter Dixie (Dix) Reeves, a new hire at SOS, a well-trained Army Ranger who was once captured and tortured by terrorists, and has the PTSD and emotional scars to prove it. She's also a champion MMA fighter, and she doesn't like Stratford's assumption that she's too small and weak to be of service until she has no problem subduing him. While she didn't expect that her first assignment with SOS would be something so common as to be tasked with being a bodyguard to scarred and reclusive Andrew Stratford and his daughter, Leigha, she’s committed to doing her best to keep them safe, and the sparks that fly between Dix and Andrew are a distraction she doesn't need.
What follows is a rock-solid, suspense-filled Gothic romance novel, with quite a bit more sexual tension between the main characters than the novels I read in high school. Leigha is an absolutely charming child, although she too bears emotional scars from the incident that caused Andrew's physical burns and scars, and the explanation for all that is one I won't reveal, but it was hard to miss the similarities between this story and elements of Daphne de Maurier's classic novel, Rebecca, and Charlotte Bronte's brilliant novel, Jane Eyre--two of my all-time favorite reads.
My only complaint with the novel is that Ms. James never gives us a full explanation of exactly what happened while Dix was held captive to make her so wary of a relationship that she calls herself "damaged goods" when Andrew makes his attraction to her known. It was far easier to understand Andrew's physical scars when the explanation for how he got them is revealed.
Aside from the aforementioned minor flaws, this was a very good read, with well-drawn characters, mystery-upon-mystery, and it was hard to put down. The nefarious goings on at Stratford House, ghostly encounters, hidden tunnels, and the multi-layered family history behind them is riveting, the characters are compelling, and although part of a series, it all worked perfectly well as a standalone, and I am happy to recommend it.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this novel.
As the novel opens, scarred yet handsome Wall Street billionaire Andrew Stratford is searching for his 6-year-old daughter, Leigha, and her dog, Brewer, in the thick fog that regularly descends over Cape Churn, Oregon. Although she's not supposed to leave the house, she's a willful, adventurous and curious little girl who spends far too much time alone with only their housekeeper, Mrs. Purdy, and an imaginary friend she's rather tight-lipped about, for company in Stratford House, the huge, 3-story Gothic mansion high on the cliffs above the Pacific ocean. As the Devil's Shroud fog closes in, Andrew senses a presence just before someone (or something) shoves him off the edge of the cliff, yet he manages to grab onto a tree root and climb his way back up to safety, rather than falling onto the jagged rocks 300 feet below. While at the hospital to have his wounds seen to, he reports the incident to the deputy policeman who, after hearing his tale, suggests that he contact SOS, the Stealth Operations Specialists, who have recently opened their service in Cape Churn, to have them recommend a bodyguard for his daughter. He's expecting a big brawny bodyguard, but that's not who they send him. If you're expecting a faint-hearted damsel in distress, you're in for a surprise.
Enter Dixie (Dix) Reeves, a new hire at SOS, a well-trained Army Ranger who was once captured and tortured by terrorists, and has the PTSD and emotional scars to prove it. She's also a champion MMA fighter, and she doesn't like Stratford's assumption that she's too small and weak to be of service until she has no problem subduing him. While she didn't expect that her first assignment with SOS would be something so common as to be tasked with being a bodyguard to scarred and reclusive Andrew Stratford and his daughter, Leigha, she’s committed to doing her best to keep them safe, and the sparks that fly between Dix and Andrew are a distraction she doesn't need.
What follows is a rock-solid, suspense-filled Gothic romance novel, with quite a bit more sexual tension between the main characters than the novels I read in high school. Leigha is an absolutely charming child, although she too bears emotional scars from the incident that caused Andrew's physical burns and scars, and the explanation for all that is one I won't reveal, but it was hard to miss the similarities between this story and elements of Daphne de Maurier's classic novel, Rebecca, and Charlotte Bronte's brilliant novel, Jane Eyre--two of my all-time favorite reads.
My only complaint with the novel is that Ms. James never gives us a full explanation of exactly what happened while Dix was held captive to make her so wary of a relationship that she calls herself "damaged goods" when Andrew makes his attraction to her known. It was far easier to understand Andrew's physical scars when the explanation for how he got them is revealed.
Aside from the aforementioned minor flaws, this was a very good read, with well-drawn characters, mystery-upon-mystery, and it was hard to put down. The nefarious goings on at Stratford House, ghostly encounters, hidden tunnels, and the multi-layered family history behind them is riveting, the characters are compelling, and although part of a series, it all worked perfectly well as a standalone, and I am happy to recommend it.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this novel.
July 13, 2024
Deadly Fall (Harlequin Romantic Suspense Book 1928)
Great story. The history of the house and family was fantastic. Bennett saved his family. Having to find the treasure was Interesting.
Great story. The history of the house and family was fantastic. Bennett saved his family. Having to find the treasure was Interesting.
May 18, 2025
This is one of those authors that are quick and easy reads. I like to throw one in every once in awhile for a lighter read. I enjoyed having a female lead who is MMA experienced. The author made her strong while also keeping the male strong. I loved it! I can't wait to find more by this author!
November 28, 2017
Really pleasant category romance. Characters were all very likeable, and I loved the pacing of the gothic storytelling. Quick cozy ready. Solid writing.
January 8, 2018
One if my favs - look forward to reading again!!!
September 7, 2018
A nice mix of romance and suspense.
April 2, 2024
Exciting
I absolutely loved Andrew & Dix's story, and so will you. It is exciting and interesting. Thanks, Elle, for writing another wonderful book
I absolutely loved Andrew & Dix's story, and so will you. It is exciting and interesting. Thanks, Elle, for writing another wonderful book
July 5, 2025
Ghost story
Enough suspense and who dun it to keep you on the edge of your seat and throw in love, jewels and ghost, not to mention a precocious child and this story is a winner!
Enough suspense and who dun it to keep you on the edge of your seat and throw in love, jewels and ghost, not to mention a precocious child and this story is a winner!
January 3, 2017
In the past year, Andrew's life has changed drastically since discovering he had a daughter, Leigha. However, his life isn't done changing yet as due to some incidents at his house it seems as if he might need a bodyguard, though he's more concerned with Leigh's safety than his own.
Three years ago, Dixie's life was forever changed when she was captured during a mission. After being rescued, she was unable to return to duty and was discharged. She then spent some time as an MMA fighter, though has since become the newest employee for a private security company, Stealth Operations Specialists.
When Andrew is introduced to his new bodyguard, he's completely shocked to see he is actually a woman. So much so that he immediately questions her abilities, resulting in a demonstration of her skills. Afterwards though, there's a debate on her actually accepting the job as she refuses to be judged based on her gender and he now insists she can more than handle it.
As Dixie gets to know Andrew and Leigha, it isn't long before she starts having feelings for both of them, and vice versa. But Andrew and Dixie each have personal demons they're struggling with as well as doubts to beginning a relationship. However, they must first focus on discovering who is behind the attacks on Andrew and what the person is after.
Can Dixie ensure Andrew and Leigha remain unharmed? Who is after Andrew and why? Is Andrew even the target? Or is he just in the way of the perpetrator's true goal? Will Andrew accept that his feelings for Dixie are real as are hers for him? Will Dixie strive to overcome her fears and admit that she wants a future with Andrew? Will there be a HEA?
One-click now and follow along as the characters, all wounded in their own way, discover a love that can heal anything. Please keep in mind that while this is part of a series, and is in fact the final book, I feel it can easily be read as a standalone without feeling left out. But I do recommend reading the whole series as I enjoyed them.
**I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
Three years ago, Dixie's life was forever changed when she was captured during a mission. After being rescued, she was unable to return to duty and was discharged. She then spent some time as an MMA fighter, though has since become the newest employee for a private security company, Stealth Operations Specialists.
When Andrew is introduced to his new bodyguard, he's completely shocked to see he is actually a woman. So much so that he immediately questions her abilities, resulting in a demonstration of her skills. Afterwards though, there's a debate on her actually accepting the job as she refuses to be judged based on her gender and he now insists she can more than handle it.
As Dixie gets to know Andrew and Leigha, it isn't long before she starts having feelings for both of them, and vice versa. But Andrew and Dixie each have personal demons they're struggling with as well as doubts to beginning a relationship. However, they must first focus on discovering who is behind the attacks on Andrew and what the person is after.
Can Dixie ensure Andrew and Leigha remain unharmed? Who is after Andrew and why? Is Andrew even the target? Or is he just in the way of the perpetrator's true goal? Will Andrew accept that his feelings for Dixie are real as are hers for him? Will Dixie strive to overcome her fears and admit that she wants a future with Andrew? Will there be a HEA?
One-click now and follow along as the characters, all wounded in their own way, discover a love that can heal anything. Please keep in mind that while this is part of a series, and is in fact the final book, I feel it can easily be read as a standalone without feeling left out. But I do recommend reading the whole series as I enjoyed them.
**I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
December 28, 2016
This was a great story! I really loved the characters. Andrew, Dixie and Leigha were fantastic characters. Andrew has come back to his grandfather's estate to raise his daughter Leigha. Leigha is absolutely adorable!!! He runs into some trouble when he is pushed off a cliff and weird things put him on guard. He decides to hire a bodyguard to protect his daughter while they try and figure out what is going on. In comes Dixie. She is an ex-army ranger and MMA champion. She knows what she's doing but because Andrew doesn't trust easy, he makes her prove that she can take him down and protect his daughter. They are drawn to each other from the beginning but at first neither really knows what to do with that. Besides Dixie being the bodyguard, they both have scars, whether they are physical or emotional ones that they are dealing with. There is plenty of action and intrigue in this story as we are caught up in figuring out who has attacked Andrew and what they could be after. I loved the secret passageways and the ghost/imaginary friend. There were a lot of great touches that just added to this story and really drew me in. The story's well written, flows smoothly, and has some really great characters. We get to catch up a little bit with some of the other characters from this series but this is a standalone read. You don't have to have read any of the other books to fully enjoy and understand this one. The sex is explicit but not very frequent. We get to see more relationship building and the intrigue of figuring out the mystery. It fits the story and characters. There is plenty of sexual tension though. This story was great and pulled me in from the beginning and held my attention until the end.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
December 27, 2016
Deadly Fall is part of the Devil’s Shroud series but you don’t need to have read it to enjoy this one. While Harlequin series books are no longer at the top of my TBR (to be read) list, I am a huge fan of books by Elle James and will read anything she writes.
This was a very quick read for me and I enjoyed it. The attraction between Dixie and Andrew could be felt in the writing and I loved how Andrew was willing to risk his life for a daughter he didn’t even know existed; his devotion to Leigha was wonderful.
I loved the mystery and suspense in this story. I just wish that there had been an epilogue (I’m a sucker for epilogues). After the mystery was solved I wanted to know a little bit more about how things really wrapped up. Considering that this was the last book in the series I think an epilogue would have been a perfect touch.
If you’ve enjoyed the other books in this series I’m sure you won’t want to miss this one as characters from previous books make an appearance. Even if you haven’t read any others this would still be a great read for anyone who enjoys romantic suspense stories from Harlequin.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
This was a very quick read for me and I enjoyed it. The attraction between Dixie and Andrew could be felt in the writing and I loved how Andrew was willing to risk his life for a daughter he didn’t even know existed; his devotion to Leigha was wonderful.
I loved the mystery and suspense in this story. I just wish that there had been an epilogue (I’m a sucker for epilogues). After the mystery was solved I wanted to know a little bit more about how things really wrapped up. Considering that this was the last book in the series I think an epilogue would have been a perfect touch.
If you’ve enjoyed the other books in this series I’m sure you won’t want to miss this one as characters from previous books make an appearance. Even if you haven’t read any others this would still be a great read for anyone who enjoys romantic suspense stories from Harlequin.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
January 1, 2017
Action, suspense, ghosts, very likeable characters, including an adorable little girl and her dog, the friendly small town of Cape Churn, Oregon, sweet but steamy love scenes and the thick fog known as the Devil’s Shroud; this story has it all. This book starts out with the attempted murder of Andrew Stratford, our hero, leading to his employment of former Airborne Ranger & MMA Champion, Dixie Reeves, our heroine. Dixie’s job is to protect Andrew’s daughter, Leigha while the mystery of the attempted murder and other suspicious activity is solved. Along the way Dixie falls for Andrew, Leigha and black Labrador Retriever, Brewer. Follow along as the mystery of hidden treasure is solved along with the guilty being identified.
Author Elle James composes the complete package of an excellent story here with her fast-paced storyline, excellent character development, interesting dialogue and great plot resolution. This story is part of the Elle James Devil’s Shroud series and the first in that series that I have read. Believe me it won’t be the last.
I highly recommend this book.
Author Elle James composes the complete package of an excellent story here with her fast-paced storyline, excellent character development, interesting dialogue and great plot resolution. This story is part of the Elle James Devil’s Shroud series and the first in that series that I have read. Believe me it won’t be the last.
I highly recommend this book.
December 7, 2016
Veteran Dixie Reeves is ready for a career change. After returning from the war, she became a MMA fighter to try and fight her demons. Unable to escape them, she's decided to become a bodyguard. She's taken a job for the elusive Andrew Stratford. Stratford is a billionaire, who's returned to his grandfather's home to raise his daughter. A shove off the cliff at the edge of Stratford's estate has him concerned for his safety but more importantly the safety of his daughter. All three characters are suffering from a form of PTSD and find comfort in one another.
This is a fun story, full of love and even a bootlegger's story. It was a fast, easy read. I would have loved to read more about Andrew and Dix and tackling their issues together. Not to mention, learning more about Leigha's ghost friend.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is a fun story, full of love and even a bootlegger's story. It was a fast, easy read. I would have loved to read more about Andrew and Dix and tackling their issues together. Not to mention, learning more about Leigha's ghost friend.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 7, 2017
Dix Reeves never expected her first assignment with SOS (Stealth Operations Specialists) to be guarding billionaire Andrew Stratford and his daughter, but she’s determined to do everything in her power to keep them safe. However, it isn’t easy to keep things strictly professional between her and Andrew. Is it possible she can mix business with pleasure while keeping him and his daughter safe, or will the distraction the handsome Andrew provides ruin her first chance to prove her skills to her new boss? Read More
January 10, 2017
Fun and Great storyline.
I loved the characters and i love the SOS team. This book was way too short. There was so much that could have been done with this story i was sad to feel like it had to be wrapped up.in so many pages. I find that i love the way Elle James thinks and writes and i am drawn in and invested. I think Harlequin needs to revise their page numbers. Sometimrs 200 ish pages are not enough.
I loved the characters and i love the SOS team. This book was way too short. There was so much that could have been done with this story i was sad to feel like it had to be wrapped up.in so many pages. I find that i love the way Elle James thinks and writes and i am drawn in and invested. I think Harlequin needs to revise their page numbers. Sometimrs 200 ish pages are not enough.
January 1, 2017
Romantic Suspense, Yes, there was plenty of suspense. It kept me guessing throughout the book. Also, my interest in the story increased the more I read. The romance that developed between new SOS Agent Dixie Reeves and the client Andrew Stratford made the story that much better. I love these Stealth Operations Specialists (SOS) stories!!!
December 31, 2016
This a wonderful exciting book by Elle James. I just love her books as there is always so much suspense and a little romance thrown in. This is a grand slam for Elle! A definite book to be read byh those who just love cliffs and danger.
January 17, 2017
loved this story! would recommend to anyone who likes romantic suspense
March 27, 2024
Fun Book. The mystery is minimal, the characters were great.
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