Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book
Rate this book
He would let her go if it would keep her safe…

Strong, self-reliant Nathan Hawkins—owner of Hawk Elite Security—can’t fathom a world in which he can’t protect the ones he loves. But the ticking time bomb of scar tissue in his head threatens to end his career and his marriage, even his life. But the scar tissue is nothing compared to the twisted enemy from Nathan’s past who returns, wanting Nathan to pay for his transgressions, pay with his wife.

As the bonds of her once rock-solid marriage disintegrate, Stacy Hawkins is ready to strangle her distant husband if that's what it takes to break down the barriers. Then she meets a man who makes her feel special again, one who makes her long for what she’s lost with Nathan.

…she would give anything to reach him.

A vacation to their favorite spot in Belize isn’t enough to draw Hawk away from the team, especially when it seems that each mission in the past six months is rife with misfortune. And when Stacy becomes the target of a deranged killer out to punish Nathan, they must confront their own personal demons before they can triumph over the evil intent on leaving them dead.

303 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 15, 2017

89 people are currently reading
143 people want to read

About the author

Beth Rhodes

12 books133 followers
Beth writes whatever she wants to write--typically, romance. As a mother of six, she finds doing things for herself vital to maintaining her sanity. Writing, working out, cross stitching, trying out healthy recipes, hanging out with her man...and enjoying the company of good friends. You can find more about her and her books at her website and Instagram (@BethRhodes_99).

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
29 (39%)
4 stars
29 (39%)
3 stars
10 (13%)
2 stars
4 (5%)
1 star
1 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Profile Image for "Avonna.
1,463 reviews588 followers
December 6, 2016
I absolutely love reading a new to me author and the first book in her romantic suspense series blows me away! Beth Rhodes writes like a much more seasoned author with a perfect balance of romance and suspense. STRIKE BACK (A Hawk Elite Security Novel-Book One) features a couple who have been married for 20 years, which makes the romance unique. The suspense is fast paced and well plotted throughout.

Nathan Hawkins is a former Marine and co-owner with his wife, Stacy Hawkins, of Hawk Elite Security. When the story starts Nathan and Stacy are trying to vacation and reconnect in their favorite resort in Belize. Both are dealing privately with things they should be sharing. Hawk is going blind from an old brain injury and thinks Stacy would be better off without him and Stacy has been working hard to get back in-shape after raising their kids and wants to return to some field work.

As their personal lives are in turmoil, and Hawk has to leave for a short side trip, Stacy is befriended by Michael Richards. He is charming and attentive to the lonely Stacy, but he is not who or what he seems. A haunting case from Hawk’s past is coming back for revenge. Hawk is dealing with his loss of sight, Stacy is trying to prove her competence and they both need to have each other’s backs for what lies ahead.

These characters are so realistic. Hawk has always been a leader and protector and the sight issue makes him go through all possible emotions. Stacy loves being a mom and wife, but she wants to be out from behind a desk and in the field with Hawk. All the highs and lows are covered and these two work on their relationship. They both realize they are better together than apart. All the secondary characters in Hawk Security are just as interesting and hopefully will find their own matches in books to come.

Strike Back gives you a great realistic mature romance, exotic locales and a revenge suspense plot that keeps you turning the pages. I am really looking forward to reading more in this series!
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews127 followers
Want to read
October 31, 2018
💝 FREE on Amazon today (10/31/2018)! 💝

Blurb:
He would let her go if it would keep her safe…

Strong, self-reliant Nathan Hawkins—owner of Hawk Elite Security—can’t fathom a world in which he can’t protect the ones he loves. But the ticking time bomb of scar tissue in his head threatens to end his career and his marriage, even his life. But the scar tissue is nothing compared to the twisted enemy from Nathan’s past who returns, wanting Nathan to pay for his transgressions, pay with his wife.

As the bonds of her once rock-solid marriage disintegrate, Stacy Hawkins is ready to strangle her distant husband if that's what it takes to break down the barriers. Then she meets a man who makes her feel special again, one who makes her long for what she’s lost with Nathan.

…she would give anything to reach him.

A vacation to their favorite spot in Belize isn’t enough to draw Hawk away from the team, especially when it seems that each mission in the past six months is rife with misfortune. And when Stacy becomes the target of a deranged killer out to punish Nathan, they must confront their own personal demons before they can triumph over the evil intent on leaving them dead.
Profile Image for Suzy  (readaholicmom).
1,067 reviews20 followers
July 12, 2017
It's beautiful to read about how Stacy and Hawk in one way or another by the end of the book were trying to save their marriage. They have been married for about 20 years with 3 kids and a busy life, Hawks Elite company takes full front demand of his time and safety while Stacy stays behind and cares for their children. Things get really twisted while their on vacation, trying to put time into spending time together but fate has a different agenda for them. This book is full of heart dropping and heart warming moments, it's full of bad ass guys with lots of testosterone and guns saving lives all over the world.
1,707 reviews14 followers
May 28, 2017
I really liked Strike Back. Following the lives of Nathan, "Hawk", and his wife Stacy, the reader gets a little bit of everything. Hawk runs his own security firm and Stacy wants to become more involved again. Being married for twenty years, they have grown the business, as well a, raised a famiy.

There is a rift between the couple: she wants back in thged business but he wants to keep her safe and he has a medical issue that (although he kniws he needs to) he doesn't want to talk to her about it. She finds friendship with another man - thankfully never doing anything other than talking. Just when he decides to talk to her, the choice is taken from him and then all he** starts breaking loose.
A man from Hawks past comes back into their lives and Nathan an Stacy don't have to worry about only themselves (separately and their marriage), but their family as well. Can they work together to save everything or did he push her too far away? Can Nathan let go of his pride enough to realize that Stacy is all he needs? Does Stacy still have what it takes to work with the teams? Read the exciting, entertaining, 'romance' today.
Profile Image for Rebecca Austin.
3,153 reviews3 followers
March 18, 2017

I liked this book but I was confused a couple of times with character's names and I don't know if it was an editing mistake or my own oversight into who is who.

I really liked Hawk but was wondering how he was going to get through everything with his health issues. It was clear that he was not in any condition to be doing everything that he was but he hated for people to know what was going on and see him as weak. I did see that as a little frustrating as how could no one see what was going on, especially trained men.

I completely understand why Stacy began to feel neglected and I was happy that she was able to sort through things before doing anything that she would have regretted. She felt ignored and it was nice to have someone pay attention to you. I liked learning how trained Stacy really was and glad that she was able to contribute to everything.

Cortez was interesting as I could understand why he was hell bent on revenge but he had some major issues with Daniel. It was interesting how quick he was able to exact some of his revenge and how easily people seemed to be able to fly around the world.

For me personally I didn't really like the ending as I enjoyed Hawk and hate that he is going to become very limited. Looking forward to the next book and seeing what's coming for the team.
Profile Image for Christi Fowler.
1,637 reviews17 followers
February 10, 2018
Genre: Romantic Suspense, military
Standalone: Yes
Part of a Series: Yes Book 1 of Hawk Elite Security)
POV: Stacy, Hawk, Bad Guy
Steam Level: Hints of warmth
3.5/5

Strike Back was a fun romantic suspense. It was both predictable (especially if you've read the blurb) and kept you guessing. I like how the tension grew and played out. It took me a little bit to connect the pieces but once I did it sucked me in even further. I think that that was the point and it worked.

I enjoyed how the main characters have been married twenty years and are finding each other again after distance grew between them. That in itself is a unique twist on the romantic suspense genre. It allows them to communicate with just a look or a touch, in the way that a lot of "old, married couples" do (I can say that b/c my husband and I are celebrating 18 years married and 22 together this year so we fall into this category).

The issue Nathan is going through and the emotions that go with it is portrayed realistically. I like how it's treated as not the end of the world but another challenge to adapt to. It shows just how much have a close set of friends and family are needed and how they are an asset in times of need. They are there to help you up when you're down.

My only true issue with this book was the formatting and editing. There were quite a few. Not enough to make me stop reading but enough to pull me out of the story at times.

I received this book for free. This is my honest and voluntary review.
3,423 reviews20 followers
February 9, 2018
Ten years ago, Hawk and his team had a mission go bad. Bad because two civilians were killed, a woman and her baby. He'd never forgotten and he was about to be reminded in a big way. On a vacation with his wife Stacie, he's called away for his team. Things aren't going well for them. They've had a good marriage but something is in the way and he isn't talking. Hawk is fighting his own demons, a war head injury is affecting his vision. It may be permanent and it is interfering with his ability to protect his family and lead his team even his security business. More important, his self-esteem.
An old enemy that was supposed to be ruined has been rebuilding his drug business. Now that he is reestablished revenge is next. Against Hawk. Their marital problems work right into his plans. Yet, he has someone working against him besides Hawk.
Will they fight back to each other? Or will Hawk's deficiencies cost them their marriage and business--even more.
I found the characters interesting. Love an alpha male with a few insecurities to make him real. His wife is a strong woman, yet she too has issues that make them a stronger team together. The team was introduced but there were few insights to their characters. I'm sure there is more to come as the series continues. This good storyline makes me ready for the rest of the series.
Reviewed for Words Turn Me ON
Profile Image for Denise.
4,119 reviews12 followers
March 2, 2017
I do believe this is my first time in reading this author. She has a genre /story with special security I adore reading and always looking for new ones. Scored with this one too cause first in series with starting from beginning. This one will have the two characters-Stacy and Hawk whom happen to be married attach themselves to you, grabbing you from the beginning. With them being a match for each other but with drama that is chipping away at them sliding to the edge happens all too soon. Others will also be in this with giving this one a foundation too with characters that shape this story. One will also come along to cause the drama needed to make for grit your teeth reading. Emotional pulling a given with you not letting go until you are given all the answers with results you crave for a special ops romance.
Profile Image for KDRBCK.
7,396 reviews67 followers
December 7, 2017
Strike Back by Beth Rhodes is the first installment in the Hawk Elite Security Series. Every book can be read as a standalone, but I recommend to read the series in order.
Nathan Hawkins is the founder of Hawk Elite Security. He and his wife Stacy are married a long time. Somehow they grew distant, both ahve secrets. When a ghost from the past threatens them and their family they have to put their discrepances aside and work together .Strike Back is a beautiful love story with the right amount of drama and danger. I liked the story, the writing and the characters. I give 5 stars. Thank you, Beth Rhodes !
Profile Image for Julie Jackson.
2,312 reviews10 followers
December 26, 2017
Reviewed for SNS


Nathan has two huge issues to deal with. The first being his wife and the things he is keeping from her. The second is an old enemy that only wants his wife. Keeping her safe may mean having to let her go. This book was amazing. The fierce loyalty of the security firm is breathtaking. I’m pulling for Nathan and Stacey.
Profile Image for Samantha Grubey.
Author 4 books33 followers
January 5, 2018
A very interesting start to the story!
I hate how Hawk keeps things from Stacy especially as they are married. I understand why Hawk is protective but pushing Stacy away is stupid and silly. The secrets for a married couple, really can’t stand secrets.
It was hard to keep my attention at times and I didn't really love it the story was ok.
Profile Image for Lynn Smith.
2,682 reviews9 followers
June 13, 2017
Strike Back

I was slow getting into the story. It seemed like to much at once. But as I sorted it out I really got into it. The characters are complex and plenty of action and suspense.n
Profile Image for Kim.
701 reviews11 followers
June 16, 2017
I received this e-book free from Amazon and I am voluntarily writing a review. 65% and I had to quit. Rambling that does not make sense, words that were used out of context, and sex scenes thrown in at inappropriate times does not make a good read and I could not waste anymore time or frustration.
Profile Image for Lorraine Anton.
2,982 reviews11 followers
June 18, 2017
Great

Hawk and Stacy and their security firm are out to help save the business and they find out there is unfinished business that is threatening their safety. Hawk also has some health issues.
1 review
October 25, 2019
Interesting

It kept me interested the whole time to see what would happen next. I liked that I was able to paint a clear picture on my head of Stacy
29 reviews2 followers
January 2, 2017
Fast paced and hard to put down . not one for giving spoilers but you'll want to read it
Profile Image for Sassy Southern Book Blog.
5,396 reviews274 followers
March 2, 2017
Nathan "Hawk" Hawkins is in the Philippines on a mission which does not go as planned and now he has a man named Cortez seeking revenge. And yet that seems to be the least of his worries when his own health is declining as is his marriage.

When Hawk and his wife Stacy head to Belize for a vacation without their kids they are confronted with their own marriage problems. When Hawk has to fly back to the Philippines, Stacy finds herself comforted by another man.

Will Stacy and Hawk confront their issues and when it is clear that Hawk's past is back wanting revenge will the two be able to work together to overcome everything that is headed their direction?

I liked this book but I was confused a couple of times with character's names and I don't know if it was an editing mistake or my own oversight into who is who.

I really liked Hawk but was wondering how he was going to get through everything with his health issues. It was clear that he was not in any condition to be doing everything that he was but he hated for people to know what was going on and see him as weak. I did see that as a little frustrating as how could no one see what was going on, especially trained men.

I completely understand why Stacy began to feel neglected and I was happy that she was able to sort through things before doing anything that she would have regretted. She felt ignored and it was nice to have someone pay attention to you. I liked learning how trained Stacy really was and glad that she was able to contribute to everything.

Cortez was interesting as I could understand why he was hell bent on revenge but he had some major issues with Daniel. It was interesting how quick he was able to exact some of his revenge and how easily people seemed to be able to fly around the world.

For me personally I didn't really like the ending as I enjoyed Hawk and hate that he is going to become very limited. Looking forward to the next book and seeing what's coming for the team.
Profile Image for K.R. Smith.
Author 11 books5 followers
March 1, 2017
Is this a romance novel, an action/adventure novel, or a feel-good family story?

For the first round of Beth Rhodes' Hawk Elite Security series (Strike Back), the answer is yes.

I've followed Beth for some time now, and this story seems like a natural for her style. While it certainly has its steamy moments, you're never far away from flying fists and bullets. And though it may seem somewhat incongruous, the tender moments between family members are woven throughout.

Perhaps that's what makes this "romance" different. It isn't a couple of twenty-somethings meeting who, after a bit of conflict, have their happy-ever-after. Nathan and Stacey Hawkins are (slightly) older. They have a family. Unfortunately, there is a growing distance between them. Due to injuries Nathan received while working his security business, he has developed physical problems and is reluctant to discuss them with his wife, Stacey. Sensing this distance, Stacey begins to look for attention away from the marriage. They are still deeply in love, but unsure of how to revive the excitement and feelings they once had. Or if their marriage can even be saved. It gets more complicated when a man Nathan had once fought returns to seek revenge. I don't want to give anything away, so I suggest you read the story to find out how it all works out!

I think this is Beth's best book so far, with a consistent feel throughout. It also introduces characters that will be in other stories in the series. And as I mentioned at in the beginning of this review, there is something in it for everyone. Recommended - maybe 4.5 stars if I could do that!
Profile Image for Breanna  Eichhorn.
1,251 reviews13 followers
March 1, 2017
Hawk and Stacy are on Vacation where Hawk promised that there wouldn't be any work while on vacation. Stacy got upset when Hawk more time working then spending time with her. Hawk has plans to spend the day with Stacy snorkeling as soon as he finished up some more work. When she decided that he wasn't coming that she was going to go out with someone else.
Nathan Hawkins retired from the Army. He owns Hawk Elite Security. He is married to Stacy and has three kids. Stacy Hawkins is Nathan's wife, she wants back into the business. James is part of Hawks Security, stood up at Stacy and Hawk's wedding. Stacy and Hawk's friend. John is 17 years old and the oldest of 3 siblings. In Germany with his grandparents, Stacy and Hawks son. Moira is the second oldest of the Hawk Siblings. She is very stubborn. Stacy and Hawks daughter. Willy is the youngest sibling at the age of five. Craig works for Hawk Security. Cortez is someone who wants revenge on Nathan Hawkins and his family.
This is book one in the Hawk Elite Security. I found this book very hard to put down. I loved how well this book is written and how well the characters are developed. I loved that I felt very connected to the characters. I can't wait to read the next book in this series. Hawk and Stacy's story
Profile Image for Tracy.
684 reviews20 followers
March 1, 2017
Strike Back isn't a tale of finding love, but a quickly paced, action packed tale of continuing love and loyalty. Hawk and Stacy have been married and have children, they love each other but secrets are building.

Hawk is a lovable guy. He's strong, fiercely protective, and is a very proud man. I loved his integrity and intensity.

Stacy is a strong woman, always trying to prove just how strong. She trusts easily and loves hard.

I really enjoyed the suspense Beth Rhodes does so well. The characters were strong, admirable, and very well developed. Overall, the tension- good and bad- was beautifully crafted.

*Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMG Reads*

ARC widget photo ARC1.png

Profile Image for Le Ann Foster.
739 reviews5 followers
February 24, 2017
☆☆Reviewed for Hooked On Books ☆ ☆

I gave this book 4.5 stars!

I love a good suspenseful, security book and this book didn't disappoint. I love how this book has a older couple and has a realism feel over all to it. Through out the book we get twist, turns and a couple fighting for their marriage.

Nate is fighting for his sight from a head injury he has from a years past and feel like he will be half the man he is now with his sight. Stacy his wife is a stay at mom raiding their 3 kids and is wanting to get back into the field with Nate. While on vacation to try to reconnect and put life into prospective a ghost from Nate past comes back. While Nate is fighting for his sight, he wife is friend by another male that makes her feel how Nate did all those years ago, but when friend turns enemy, can Nate save his wife and his marriage while getting ride of his past?
Profile Image for Ashley Carr, LSoR.
4,997 reviews62 followers
March 1, 2017
Ms. Rhodes is a new author to me and I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed her work. I really enjoyed the dynamic between Hawk and Stacy, they've been married for almost 20 years and they are still in love like it was the first day. Nathan Hawkins, the owner of Hawk Elite Security and former marine, has been put in a tough spot wanting to protect those he loves with his failing sight. Scar tissue has built up in his brain and he is effectively going blind and his marriage to Stacy is in jeopardy.

Stacy Hawkins is a former member of Hawk Elite Security but having taken a back seat to raise her and Hawk's children. Even in their favorite vacation destination her husband becomes distant she seeks the emotional support from a stranger. But this stranger has ulteriorly motives. When the past havoc becomes the present will Hawk's vision hold up to protect Stacy and their family?
Profile Image for Sara.
594 reviews25 followers
November 15, 2016
This was my first read by Beth and while I do not typicall read books with a Military aspect to them (I was an Army wife for 3 years until we ended up divorced so reliving that part of my life isn't something I'm always on board with) But I read the blurb and was pretty confident that Beth could make me enjoy reading this book despite my hesitations going in! (That's the mark of a great author right there) 


This story begins with a bang! You sre drawn right into this intense action where the stakes are high and once you finish the first page I dare you to be able to set the book down, with the descriptive writing style and attention to even the smallest details it is easy to let the story spiral out in your mind. Hawk is a different take on a military hero and I really liked the different aspects of his character that break your typical hero mold. 


Stacy is this real world relatable heroine! She is the type of woman who should be celebrated, she is a strong, family oriented, not afraid to state her opinion and always stands by her man. She is Hawk's perfect match and their relationship is by no means idyllic and perfect but it is original and unique in its realness. I love the trend of romance novels these days to have these positve role models who are real women, they have flaws, they aren't photoshopped or up on a pedestal but ladies who could be your best friends or your sister. To me these are the love stories I want to know about. 


So, we have fantastic characters, a realistic love story and finally exotic locales! All important components to a fantastic piece of escapism which is what you find in this story! Its fast paced and a thrill ride from beginning to end, I would definitely read more books by this author as well as purchase this book in print (becuase that cover y'all! Googly eyes!) 
Profile Image for Christine Frieseke-Miller.
1,659 reviews4 followers
October 29, 2016
This was the first book I've read by this author and I loved how it featured an older couple. Hawk is 42 and Stacy is in her 30's. They have 3 kids and are a little further along in life. Hawk is facing a health issue that makes him feel like less of a man. He has always been the alpha military man who protects his family at any cost. What happens if he can't be that man anymore. Hawk is the only man that Stacy has ever loved. He continues to push her away when she wants nothing more than to rekindle the love they've shared for 20 years. This is a great story about fighting for your marriage. Communication is such a vital part of a marriage and what it takes to make it work. Love can burn fierce after a long period of time, but love is work. This was a really good story on fighting for that love and getting back to where both people want to be. I can't wait to see what the rest of the series brings.
Profile Image for Tracey.
1,301 reviews12 followers
August 7, 2017
Every once in a while you need to read a light book... this is not that book.

I really enjoy reading a good suspenseful book and this one certainly filled that need. It is easy to read and yet kept me wondering what was going to happen next. It is a busy book, but not so much that you are distracted from the main plot. It also has just enough heat to keep you turning the pages.
Profile Image for Spunky N Sassy.
5,399 reviews119 followers
February 13, 2018
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 4.5

~~~~~~~~~~Julie's ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~

Nathan has two huge issues to deal with. The first being his wife and the things he is keeping from her. The second is an old enemy that only wants his wife. Keeping her safe may mean having to let her go. This book was amazing. The fierce loyalty of the security firm is breathtaking. I’m pulling for Nathan and Stacey.

~~~~~~~~~~~Lindsey's ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~~

This book is fantastic and will definitely be raved about by other readers.
Profile Image for Pamela Devereux.
1,032 reviews2 followers
November 10, 2016
Nate Hawkins is an alpha male. He believes it is his duty to protect what is his. That means his family that he created with Stacy and his work family. Only Nate is keeping a secret that can effect not only his personal life but the company he has built with Stacy. This secret is putting a wedge in their marriage and everyone can feel the tension. Yet the vacation that they are on is not making the issue easier, it is making it worse. Added to the mix is an enemy that has waited 10 yrs for revenge and he is willing to make Nate hurt. The time for secrets to be revealed and trust renewed. With trust comes the knowledge that no matter what, you have each others back. Great start to the series.
Profile Image for Ani's  Reviews.
285 reviews10 followers
November 13, 2016
ARC for an honest review!

I liked that this book had a lot of action in. The story wasn't boring and the characters have an amazing love story that keeps them going even when times are tough and they question everything. And even when they question themselves and their love...they don't run but face the hard times together. Not saying this book is perfect or that their love is easy, but I think it deserves five starts nevertheless.
Profile Image for Alicia Harrietha.
546 reviews6 followers
November 21, 2016
A very enjoyable read... the characters are great, loved the whole team and the job they do. Hawk is a very strong male that would do anything for his family including letting them go to kept Jen safe. Very admiral. This book rings true that all relationships need constant love and affection and honestly to make it work. The action and the story makes for a great read.
Profile Image for Amy Barber.
894 reviews12 followers
March 30, 2017
Enjoyed

It took me a few chapters to get into the story and then I was hooked. I loved that the characters were in their thirties and forties. There was a lifetime of history between them. It almost seemed like I had missed a whole other series of stories about their lives up to this point. It was more story, suspense than romance but it was a great balance, a story I really enjoyed. Definitely going on to read book 2.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.