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Somerton Security #2
Relentless
2019 RITA ® Finalist Best Romantic SuspenseA mission worth killing for. A love worth dying for.Ethan Somerton doesn't do safe or easy. He's all about the challenge. The risk. In order to rescue one of his agents, Ethan must infiltrate the ruthless Vega cartel. One tiny error--just one--and he's dead. Which means he needs Natalia Vega. Bright, beautiful, and cut sharper than the most lethal blade, she's finally reached her breaking point. Now Ethan must find a way to make her surrender.Caught between desperate choices and no-win situations, Natalia has survived the unthinkable by becoming dangerous, relentless, and feared. When it comes to protecting her sister, there's no line Natalia won't cross. But when Ethan storms into her life with his cocksure arrogance, stone-cold competence, and seductive promises, Natalia wonders if she's finally found a way out. But discovering whether Ethan is salvation or destruction is going to require the one thing Natalia doesn't have--trust.As the cartel implodes and loved ones are threatened, Ethan and Natalia are going to have to choose between love, loyalty, and the lies they cling to. They could run, knowing they'll never be safe. They could fight, knowing they'll probably die. Or they can trust in each other...and do something far more dangerous.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 12, 2018
282 people are currently reading
979 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Dyer
8 books213 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
April 12, 2019
Relentless was an enjoyable read with a fast-paced plot and the return of some fantastic characters from the first book in the series.
After finding out a friend is being held captive by the Vega cartel, Ethan Somerton doesn’t hesitate to find a way to infiltrate the organization. Upon meeting Natalia Vega, Ethan knows he needs her help in his quest. What Ethan didn’t count on was needing Natalia for himself which goes against all the rules. Stuck in a dangerous situation, Natalia has survived by becoming someone even the cartel fears. Determined to protect her sister no matter what the cost, Natalia will cross any line. As Ethan and Natalia’s relationship escalates, the situation with the cartel turns bad and they’ll be forced to make a choice there may be no coming back from.
Ethan has a white knight complex which we see quite a bit of in this book. He has this need to save people and tends to be blind to the obstacles in his way of being able to do that. Natalia knows and accepts what she is, a killer trained by one of the most vicious cartels in the world. Natalia believes she is beyond saving but she’s determined to save her sister Ana Maria before it’s too late to do so.
When Ethan and Natalia meet, they’re both hiding a number of secrets that were surprisingly brought out into the open fairly quickly. One thing I will say about their relationship was that they didn’t hide the worst parts of themselves from each other. Unfortunately I ended up having a problem with Ethan’s handling of Natalia being a killer. She told him from the start who and what she was and he claimed to accept it but after witnessing her in action, he acted completely blindsided by her true nature. I didn’t like how judgmental he was about the situation and I also feel like he didn’t sufficiently make up for it before the book ended. I will say the make up scene between the pair was very sweet and had there been more groveling on Ethan’s part, I would have been much more on board with their relationship.
There are a number of scenes throughout the book where Ethan is at Somerton Security which meant we got to see Parker and Georgia, the couple from the first book, again. I love how their relationship has continued to develop after their book and how we get to see those changes in this book. It’s still so obvious how much those two love each other and I hope we get more of them in the third book, which I would think we would since it follows Georgia’s brother.
While I didn’t like Relentless as much as the first book in the series, Defenseless, I did still find it to be an enjoyable read. I will definitely be picking up the third book, Fearless, soon as I’m looking forward to finally reading Will’s story.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
After finding out a friend is being held captive by the Vega cartel, Ethan Somerton doesn’t hesitate to find a way to infiltrate the organization. Upon meeting Natalia Vega, Ethan knows he needs her help in his quest. What Ethan didn’t count on was needing Natalia for himself which goes against all the rules. Stuck in a dangerous situation, Natalia has survived by becoming someone even the cartel fears. Determined to protect her sister no matter what the cost, Natalia will cross any line. As Ethan and Natalia’s relationship escalates, the situation with the cartel turns bad and they’ll be forced to make a choice there may be no coming back from.
Ethan has a white knight complex which we see quite a bit of in this book. He has this need to save people and tends to be blind to the obstacles in his way of being able to do that. Natalia knows and accepts what she is, a killer trained by one of the most vicious cartels in the world. Natalia believes she is beyond saving but she’s determined to save her sister Ana Maria before it’s too late to do so.
When Ethan and Natalia meet, they’re both hiding a number of secrets that were surprisingly brought out into the open fairly quickly. One thing I will say about their relationship was that they didn’t hide the worst parts of themselves from each other. Unfortunately I ended up having a problem with Ethan’s handling of Natalia being a killer. She told him from the start who and what she was and he claimed to accept it but after witnessing her in action, he acted completely blindsided by her true nature. I didn’t like how judgmental he was about the situation and I also feel like he didn’t sufficiently make up for it before the book ended. I will say the make up scene between the pair was very sweet and had there been more groveling on Ethan’s part, I would have been much more on board with their relationship.
There are a number of scenes throughout the book where Ethan is at Somerton Security which meant we got to see Parker and Georgia, the couple from the first book, again. I love how their relationship has continued to develop after their book and how we get to see those changes in this book. It’s still so obvious how much those two love each other and I hope we get more of them in the third book, which I would think we would since it follows Georgia’s brother.
While I didn’t like Relentless as much as the first book in the series, Defenseless, I did still find it to be an enjoyable read. I will definitely be picking up the third book, Fearless, soon as I’m looking forward to finally reading Will’s story.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
May 20, 2019
3.5 Stars
Relentless is book two of the Somerton Security series, and it can be read as a stand alone book. Parker and Georgia who were the main characters in the first book are supporting characters in this book. In this book Ethan Somerton is on the trail of his assumed dead best friend Will Bennett. In order to find Will he needs access to the Columbian drug cartel holding him. While undercover he meets Natalia Vegas, niece to the cartel head.
Ethan as a character has white knight blinders on, which Parker in his smart ass humor points out. Natalia is up to her eye teeth in dealing cartel death. She also has a sister Ana Maria whom she adores. The characters are well written, but I truly had to suspend disbelief for a lot of this book. That suspension of disbelief did cause me to deduct stars. We are to believe that the cartels reach is world wide. That Natalia despite her uncle killing her parents has not thought of killing him in a decade, despite his lax security. Or when he sold her to be raped and killed. She is a trained killer and never used the skill on her uncle. Despite the repetitive dialogue and being told what Natalia is, Ethan acts blindsided by the revelation. It takes Georgia calling him out to get him moving, yes it’s a great scene, but again unbelievable, as it makes Ethan seem wishy washy. Then there was the embezzlement angle and the total about face of a character that didn’t ring true for the timeline of the plot.
I liked the author’s first book, but this one for me was forgettable. It was a quick read that had promise but fizzled in the suspense.
Relentless is book two of the Somerton Security series, and it can be read as a stand alone book. Parker and Georgia who were the main characters in the first book are supporting characters in this book. In this book Ethan Somerton is on the trail of his assumed dead best friend Will Bennett. In order to find Will he needs access to the Columbian drug cartel holding him. While undercover he meets Natalia Vegas, niece to the cartel head.
Ethan as a character has white knight blinders on, which Parker in his smart ass humor points out. Natalia is up to her eye teeth in dealing cartel death. She also has a sister Ana Maria whom she adores. The characters are well written, but I truly had to suspend disbelief for a lot of this book. That suspension of disbelief did cause me to deduct stars. We are to believe that the cartels reach is world wide. That Natalia despite her uncle killing her parents has not thought of killing him in a decade, despite his lax security. Or when he sold her to be raped and killed. She is a trained killer and never used the skill on her uncle. Despite the repetitive dialogue and being told what Natalia is, Ethan acts blindsided by the revelation. It takes Georgia calling him out to get him moving, yes it’s a great scene, but again unbelievable, as it makes Ethan seem wishy washy. Then there was the embezzlement angle and the total about face of a character that didn’t ring true for the timeline of the plot.
I liked the author’s first book, but this one for me was forgettable. It was a quick read that had promise but fizzled in the suspense.
December 24, 2017
***BLOGGERS & REVIEWERS***
Relentless is coming June 12, 2018!!!
If you're interested in receiving information about advanced review copies or promotional activities, please fill out this form: https://goo.gl/24917d
More info to come!
Relentless is coming June 12, 2018!!!
If you're interested in receiving information about advanced review copies or promotional activities, please fill out this form: https://goo.gl/24917d
More info to come!
August 5, 2018
There were a few places where the pacing slowed and I felt I was told more than showed, but overall I enjoyed my introduction to Somerton Security and Elizabeth Dyer.
====
*3.5 Stars*
Relentless was suspenseful with well-developed characters. There were a few times when they pacing slowed and a few places where I felt as thought Dyer "told" me rather than "showed" me but overall Ethan and Natalia's story served as a good introduction to Dyer's writing.
What Worked:
*Premise
Ethan, feeling guilt and a lack of control, must ingratiate himself with the Vega family in order to save a member of his team. The target is Natalia Vega and Ethan would do well not to take her at face value. Ethan has his team at his back as he works against the clock to win Natalia's trust - and maybe more? - and gain the intel he needs. The premise hooked me and kept me turning the pages.
*Characters
Dyer created a great cast with Ethan and Natalia at its center. She deftly conveyed the type of people Ethan and Natalia are - loyal to a fault, fearless, strong, smart - as well as demonstrating the close relationships they each have with the friends and family. I was particularly fond of the snark and wit shared between Ethan and his friends/team members, Parker and Georgia. These interactions served to illustrate Ethan's ability to trust whereas Natalia's interactions with her sister and others showed her intense lack thereof. Of course, her family runs a cartel so it was understandable.
*Romance/Suspense
I lumped these two together because as this is romantic suspense, they were inextricably linked. And Dyer did relatively well in developing the romance in a way that amped the suspense. Wondering if Ethan and Natalia could build on the intense chemistry they felt while also moving toward their goals, wondering what would happen if they had to make difficult choices, kept me turning the pages. The dual POV, delivered throughout the chapters rather than alternating, also worked well in conveying the romance and the suspense.
What Could Have Worked Better:
*Pacing
There were points in the story where the pacing slowed...not something you want in romantic suspense. Most of these places occurred when Dyer "told" me what Ethan or Natalia was thinking or feeling where actions would have "shown" it more succinctly and would have kept the pace moving.
*Romance
While the chemistry between Ethan and Natalia was evident, I felt that their feelings occurred rather rapidly and mostly in their heads. If they'd spent a little more time together the romance would have felt more genuine.
Relentless, although #2 in the series, can be read as standalone. I was drawn into this world and these characters' lives deeply enough that I want to go back and read #1 as well as continue the series.
====
*3.5 Stars*
Relentless was suspenseful with well-developed characters. There were a few times when they pacing slowed and a few places where I felt as thought Dyer "told" me rather than "showed" me but overall Ethan and Natalia's story served as a good introduction to Dyer's writing.
What Worked:
*Premise
Ethan, feeling guilt and a lack of control, must ingratiate himself with the Vega family in order to save a member of his team. The target is Natalia Vega and Ethan would do well not to take her at face value. Ethan has his team at his back as he works against the clock to win Natalia's trust - and maybe more? - and gain the intel he needs. The premise hooked me and kept me turning the pages.
*Characters
Dyer created a great cast with Ethan and Natalia at its center. She deftly conveyed the type of people Ethan and Natalia are - loyal to a fault, fearless, strong, smart - as well as demonstrating the close relationships they each have with the friends and family. I was particularly fond of the snark and wit shared between Ethan and his friends/team members, Parker and Georgia. These interactions served to illustrate Ethan's ability to trust whereas Natalia's interactions with her sister and others showed her intense lack thereof. Of course, her family runs a cartel so it was understandable.
*Romance/Suspense
I lumped these two together because as this is romantic suspense, they were inextricably linked. And Dyer did relatively well in developing the romance in a way that amped the suspense. Wondering if Ethan and Natalia could build on the intense chemistry they felt while also moving toward their goals, wondering what would happen if they had to make difficult choices, kept me turning the pages. The dual POV, delivered throughout the chapters rather than alternating, also worked well in conveying the romance and the suspense.
What Could Have Worked Better:
*Pacing
There were points in the story where the pacing slowed...not something you want in romantic suspense. Most of these places occurred when Dyer "told" me what Ethan or Natalia was thinking or feeling where actions would have "shown" it more succinctly and would have kept the pace moving.
*Romance
While the chemistry between Ethan and Natalia was evident, I felt that their feelings occurred rather rapidly and mostly in their heads. If they'd spent a little more time together the romance would have felt more genuine.
Relentless, although #2 in the series, can be read as standalone. I was drawn into this world and these characters' lives deeply enough that I want to go back and read #1 as well as continue the series.
August 6, 2018
I've given this a B at AAR.
I’m always on the look-out for reliably good new authors of romantic suspense, and in Elizabeth Dyer, I think I’ve found one. Relentless, the second book in her Somerton Security series (and her second published novel), is a strongly-written, fast-paced story featuring a team of ex-military types who work for a specialist security firm that also runs off-the-books black-ops for the government. While that isn’t an especially original concept, Relentless is nonetheless a very readable tale; the author has created a suspenseful and intriguing plotline that packs an emotional punch in just the right places, the central characters have great sexual chemistry, and the knife-edge walked daily by the heroine is well-depicted. While characters from book one (Defenseless) reappear here, Relentless works perfectly well as a standalone and I didn’t feel as though I’d missed anything by not reading it first.
Natalia Vega’s father was head of the Vega cartel – until, that was, her uncle murdered him in front of her and her sister when Natalia was just seventeen. When she attacked Hernan Vega in an attempt to protect her mother from his cruelty, Natalia wasn’t strong enough to do much damage, and an enraged Vega retaliated by giving her to an associate of his as payment of a gambling debt. That night forced Natalie to make a choice, and since then, she has learned to keep her mouth shut and her eyes open, honing her skills with knife and hands to become one of Vega’s most ruthless killers, while at the same time striving to fulfil the promise she made to her dying father to protect her younger sister, Ana Maria. But Natalia is no fool. She knows she’s expendable and that every day could be her last; Hernan Vega is cruel and unpredictable and she suspects it won’t be long before he decides she’s outlived her use – but until then she will continue to do everything she can to ensure her sister’s safety and that Ana Maria has the chance of a decent life.
Former Navy SEAL and head of Somerton Security Ethan Somerton has recently learned that a close friend and colleague – whom he’d believed had died when an operation to take down the Vega cartel went wrong – is alive and being held hostage. Ethan is determined to get Will out, but finding him is going to be like looking for the proverbial needle in the haystack – until his technical expert, Parker (hero of the previous book) tells him he’s found a way into the heart of the cartel. The man Vega employs to cook his books and launder his money is on the take; and once Vega disposes of him, he’ll need a new accountant. An ex-SEAL with an MBA and a specialism in forensic accounting, Ethan is uniquely qualified to join Vega’s operation and to try to discover Will’s whereabouts from the inside, but it won’t be easy to gain entrée to Vega’s inner circle, and once there, it’ll be incredibly dangerous. But it’s his only chance to find Will and it also gives Ethan an opportunity to contact whoever it is within that inner circle who has been sending the authorities occasional tips about cartel operations. According to Parker, the informant is Ana Maria, but once Ethan meets her and her sister, he isn’t so sure. What he is sure of, however, is that he wants Natalia Vega. Desperately. It’s stupid and it’s dangerous, but she’s like no woman he’s ever met; exuding sensuality and an almost frightening confidence behind which he senses a deeply buried vulnerability.
Ethan and Natalia are tough, determined and prepared to do whatever has to be done in order to accomplish their objectives and their mutual attraction is intense and undeniable. They strike sparks off one another right from their very first encounter as they metaphorically size each other up while trading pointedly accurate barbs and thinly veiled insults, all of it underpinned by an intense sexual tension. Ethan has a bit of a saviour complex, but Natalia doesn’t want to be saved. Or rather, she believes, given the things she’s done over the years, that she doesn’t deserve a better life, but Ethan won’t accept that and is intent on finding a way to rescue Will and get Natalia beyond her uncle’s reach. But when his investigations into the cartel finances throw up some serious irregularities, Ethan finds himself confronted with a shocking choice while Natalia faces a devastating betrayal.
Ms. Dyer gets the balance between the romantic and suspenseful elements of the story just about right, and does a good job when it comes to conveying the harsh reality of Natalia’s situation, and of showing that she has no illusions about the way her life is likely to pan out. There are a couple of false notes struck however; one is how quickly Ethan and Natalia decide to throw in their lots together, and it’s also a little difficult to believe that Natalia was able – with relative ease – to uncover the truth of Ethan’s identity (which we’re asked to believe was so carefully fabricated) when nobody else did or thought to check the same places she did.
Other than that, though, the story is well-conceived and executed, and the second-half plot twist is well done and propels the story towards a gripping, gut-wrenching climax. Relentless is an intriguing page-turner with a high-stakes plot, a well-matched central couple and some nicely steamy interludes, and I’ll be on the look-out for more books in the series.
I’m always on the look-out for reliably good new authors of romantic suspense, and in Elizabeth Dyer, I think I’ve found one. Relentless, the second book in her Somerton Security series (and her second published novel), is a strongly-written, fast-paced story featuring a team of ex-military types who work for a specialist security firm that also runs off-the-books black-ops for the government. While that isn’t an especially original concept, Relentless is nonetheless a very readable tale; the author has created a suspenseful and intriguing plotline that packs an emotional punch in just the right places, the central characters have great sexual chemistry, and the knife-edge walked daily by the heroine is well-depicted. While characters from book one (Defenseless) reappear here, Relentless works perfectly well as a standalone and I didn’t feel as though I’d missed anything by not reading it first.
Natalia Vega’s father was head of the Vega cartel – until, that was, her uncle murdered him in front of her and her sister when Natalia was just seventeen. When she attacked Hernan Vega in an attempt to protect her mother from his cruelty, Natalia wasn’t strong enough to do much damage, and an enraged Vega retaliated by giving her to an associate of his as payment of a gambling debt. That night forced Natalie to make a choice, and since then, she has learned to keep her mouth shut and her eyes open, honing her skills with knife and hands to become one of Vega’s most ruthless killers, while at the same time striving to fulfil the promise she made to her dying father to protect her younger sister, Ana Maria. But Natalia is no fool. She knows she’s expendable and that every day could be her last; Hernan Vega is cruel and unpredictable and she suspects it won’t be long before he decides she’s outlived her use – but until then she will continue to do everything she can to ensure her sister’s safety and that Ana Maria has the chance of a decent life.
Former Navy SEAL and head of Somerton Security Ethan Somerton has recently learned that a close friend and colleague – whom he’d believed had died when an operation to take down the Vega cartel went wrong – is alive and being held hostage. Ethan is determined to get Will out, but finding him is going to be like looking for the proverbial needle in the haystack – until his technical expert, Parker (hero of the previous book) tells him he’s found a way into the heart of the cartel. The man Vega employs to cook his books and launder his money is on the take; and once Vega disposes of him, he’ll need a new accountant. An ex-SEAL with an MBA and a specialism in forensic accounting, Ethan is uniquely qualified to join Vega’s operation and to try to discover Will’s whereabouts from the inside, but it won’t be easy to gain entrée to Vega’s inner circle, and once there, it’ll be incredibly dangerous. But it’s his only chance to find Will and it also gives Ethan an opportunity to contact whoever it is within that inner circle who has been sending the authorities occasional tips about cartel operations. According to Parker, the informant is Ana Maria, but once Ethan meets her and her sister, he isn’t so sure. What he is sure of, however, is that he wants Natalia Vega. Desperately. It’s stupid and it’s dangerous, but she’s like no woman he’s ever met; exuding sensuality and an almost frightening confidence behind which he senses a deeply buried vulnerability.
Ethan and Natalia are tough, determined and prepared to do whatever has to be done in order to accomplish their objectives and their mutual attraction is intense and undeniable. They strike sparks off one another right from their very first encounter as they metaphorically size each other up while trading pointedly accurate barbs and thinly veiled insults, all of it underpinned by an intense sexual tension. Ethan has a bit of a saviour complex, but Natalia doesn’t want to be saved. Or rather, she believes, given the things she’s done over the years, that she doesn’t deserve a better life, but Ethan won’t accept that and is intent on finding a way to rescue Will and get Natalia beyond her uncle’s reach. But when his investigations into the cartel finances throw up some serious irregularities, Ethan finds himself confronted with a shocking choice while Natalia faces a devastating betrayal.
Ms. Dyer gets the balance between the romantic and suspenseful elements of the story just about right, and does a good job when it comes to conveying the harsh reality of Natalia’s situation, and of showing that she has no illusions about the way her life is likely to pan out. There are a couple of false notes struck however; one is how quickly Ethan and Natalia decide to throw in their lots together, and it’s also a little difficult to believe that Natalia was able – with relative ease – to uncover the truth of Ethan’s identity (which we’re asked to believe was so carefully fabricated) when nobody else did or thought to check the same places she did.
Other than that, though, the story is well-conceived and executed, and the second-half plot twist is well done and propels the story towards a gripping, gut-wrenching climax. Relentless is an intriguing page-turner with a high-stakes plot, a well-matched central couple and some nicely steamy interludes, and I’ll be on the look-out for more books in the series.
June 11, 2018
Stomach-churning tension. From the very beginning of Ethan and Natalia’s story I knew this was going to be very different from Georgia and Parker’s. Very different. The Vega cartel had taken something precious from both Ethan and Natalia but the whys and wherefores mattered a lot when one was fighting from the outside and the other, very much, from within. If the humour was definitely missing, other than Parker (of course) popping in for some much needed lightheartedness, there was nothing lacking in the intensity and sheer emotion running through this read. Every moment could bring about a life-ending situation and it did as their quest for justice, for freedom, was waged.
“My uncle won’t kill me, Ethan. That’s not a punishment—it’s just an end we’ve both expected for a long time.”
Ethan couldn’t fail and Natalia couldn’t either. Working against, and with, each other meant an uneasy alliance where promises were made that neither was sure they could keep. Finding love surrounded by such violence seemed impossible yet it fit, somehow, in the storyline without being out of place. Love, after all, is what brought them to their current circumstances and is what they fought tooth and nail for.
There are nail-biting moments, and others where I had to skim a few sentences (not for the faint-hearted!) but I was glued to the pages, wondering, hoping, wishing, as it all played out. There were surprises and a (mostly) satisfying ending even though things were not all resolved. I wonder and worry but most of all, can’t wait for what happens next!
June 14, 2018
Relentless is book 2 in the series and, after the first chapter, it really is a stand alone. I had to think back to what happened in book 1 because it is referenced. However, its not critical to the story of Relentless so it isn't really an issue.
Ethan is the leader of the security team and is carrying a huge burden. He is determined to save a fellow soldier from a drug cartel. First, he has to infiltrate the cartel! Natalia is the niece of the cartel leader. She has been forced into a life she does not want. She has to do awful things for her uncle in order to protect her younger sister. Sparks fly when these two meet and instantly they recognize that the other isn't who they say they are. They form an uneasy alliance-Ethan needs an in and Natalia and her sister need out!
I liked both Ethan and Natalia. They are hardened due to the things they have experienced and it fit in well with the plot. I thought the action was good and really keeps the story moving! Overall, if you like romantic suspense, Relentless is a great pick! Good characters, solid action, strong heroine!
POV: 3rd
Tears: no
Trope: secret identity
Triggers:
Series/Standalone: series
Cliffhanger:
HEA:
...then you will probably like Relentless!
Relentless
June 10, 2018
From the first pages, Relentless had me breathless. I was sucked in and could not put it down. Relentless is full of suspense, intrigue, and passion. Ethan and Natalia have a lot, A LOT, of obstacles in their story. It's twisty and addictive as we follow along and dig deeper into the characters.
Relentless was a well crafted and quickly paced story. It's book two of a series, but can be read on its own. Its exciting and a great book to get carried away in. The banter between the characters was witty and fun to read, I loved watching them together. Their story was busy, but easy to follow while getting staying caught up. I would recommend this book and series to the reader looking for an exciting, fun read, with captivating suspense keeping you on the edge of your seat.
Relentless was a well crafted and quickly paced story. It's book two of a series, but can be read on its own. Its exciting and a great book to get carried away in. The banter between the characters was witty and fun to read, I loved watching them together. Their story was busy, but easy to follow while getting staying caught up. I would recommend this book and series to the reader looking for an exciting, fun read, with captivating suspense keeping you on the edge of your seat.
June 11, 2018
***4.5 ‘Promises’ Stars***
I really enjoyed Defenseless and couldn’t wait to get my hands on the next book in the series to see what would happen next with the whole recovery of their friend/brother Will, as well as wanting to spend more time with the characters we’d met along the way. So I was more than happy to dive into Relentless and I thoroughly enjoyed it, even if it had me mentally pulling my hair out at times. I loved how everything played out and can’t wait to get my hands on the next book in the series.
Natalia and Ethan...Overall, I loved both of them. While they may seem total opposites on the surface, they are very much alike when you look beneath it. Loyal, honor bound, and lethal. They definitely take things to the next level, especially when it comes to carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders, which was what had me wanting to pull my hair out...numerous times, I didn’t, but the urge was strong. Thankfully, I did understand why they felt the way they did and rolled with it.
As far as their ‘romance’. If you’re looking for cute stuffed animals, wine and roses, you aren’t going to get it here. Theirs is more of the quick, intense kind that leaves you a little shook, but when you look at everything going on and just who Natalia and Ethan are, it ends up working. Their curiosity about the other and the intensity of the situation they find themselves in had them going for the jugular on every level. But in the end, I can see them building on the foundation that they have and making it last.
I really enjoyed the various twists and turns in this story, some I figured out, some I didn’t, but I like that they author went where she did with it all. As for the whole “Did they find Will?” situation ~ maybe?? Sorry, can’t say either way, you’ll just have to read the book to find out. As for the rest of the characters ~ we really don’t get too much time with them, with the exception of Georgia and Parker ~ whom I still love and adore ~ but the little time we do has me looking forward to the next book and getting to know them all better~
~ Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley & voluntarily reviewed ~
I really enjoyed Defenseless and couldn’t wait to get my hands on the next book in the series to see what would happen next with the whole recovery of their friend/brother Will, as well as wanting to spend more time with the characters we’d met along the way. So I was more than happy to dive into Relentless and I thoroughly enjoyed it, even if it had me mentally pulling my hair out at times. I loved how everything played out and can’t wait to get my hands on the next book in the series.
Natalia and Ethan...Overall, I loved both of them. While they may seem total opposites on the surface, they are very much alike when you look beneath it. Loyal, honor bound, and lethal. They definitely take things to the next level, especially when it comes to carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders, which was what had me wanting to pull my hair out...numerous times, I didn’t, but the urge was strong. Thankfully, I did understand why they felt the way they did and rolled with it.
As far as their ‘romance’. If you’re looking for cute stuffed animals, wine and roses, you aren’t going to get it here. Theirs is more of the quick, intense kind that leaves you a little shook, but when you look at everything going on and just who Natalia and Ethan are, it ends up working. Their curiosity about the other and the intensity of the situation they find themselves in had them going for the jugular on every level. But in the end, I can see them building on the foundation that they have and making it last.
I really enjoyed the various twists and turns in this story, some I figured out, some I didn’t, but I like that they author went where she did with it all. As for the whole “Did they find Will?” situation ~ maybe?? Sorry, can’t say either way, you’ll just have to read the book to find out. As for the rest of the characters ~ we really don’t get too much time with them, with the exception of Georgia and Parker ~ whom I still love and adore ~ but the little time we do has me looking forward to the next book and getting to know them all better~
~ Copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley & voluntarily reviewed ~
June 12, 2018
WOW - so much going on in this and all of it is fantastic!! Right from the beginning this story and these characters pulled me in keeping me on the edge of my seat until the very end. The suspense with the twists and turns in the story is top notch and the romance between Natalia and Ethan is heartwarming with the air of the forbidden. As Natalia and Ethan combine forces to fight the cartel and bring it down you can't help but cheer for them. This is one book everyone should have on their must read list. I highly recommend it.
June 13, 2018
This is my first book by Elizabeth Dyer. Yes, I know, I should have begun with the first book, but c’mon - mafia romance here people. And the surprising part? The mafia member wasn’t anywhere near what {who} I would have guessed.
While I’m no stranger to female lead characters that can be dark as all heck, string, athletic and deadly when you’re not paying attention, this was the first time that I had a character like Natalie Vega. Why did she affect me as much as she did? Well, she is strong, that much was clear from the prologue and her no nonsense attitude. But she’s also human, trying to survive, using her learned abilities to live one more day and protect her sister. She’s incredibly smart - it doesn’t take her long to figure out someone without having to spend hours on end to get to know their characters. And boy is she ever fearless - it takes lady balls to do half the things she does and still be as stoic as she is.
Now, Ethan for his part. Well, I believe that Natalie has him easily pegged - although arrogant in his capabilities, this man still has facades that he hides behind to protect himself and his loved ones.
Since I hadn’t read the previous book beforehand, I can’t say that I missed much - it still felt like its own standalone book with interconnecting characters. That being said though, I really need to get to know Parker and Georgia’s story because these two just seem too good together and they are entertaining as all heck!
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Kathleen, The Small Girl from A small girl, her man and her books
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August 6, 2018
The second book in the Somerton Security series and one book that ensures I will definitely be following this series from now on. I received this copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. I was looking forward to this book after how much I enjoyed the first book and I’m happy to say it did not disappoint. I didn’t read any reviews for this book so I went into it pretty unspoiled, which I think made the book even better.
Ethan Somerton, in the first book, was more than a little annoying. I found him a bit smug, a bit up himself, and so I was looking forward to his book to see him grow and change and be taken down a few pegs. And I got that so much. In Relentless, Ethan has to infiltrate the cartel that has Will held captive and try to find out where he was so they could go and get him. He immediately sets his sights on Ana-Maria, who apparently sent the tip about Will, only to immediately have Ana-Maria’s very over-protective sister stop him. Natalia and Ethan meet and sparks fly.
There were a few things that I really enjoyed in the first book of the series and they came up here once again. One was how I cared just as much about the suspense plotline as I did about the romance plotline, which is not normally a thing that happens to me. I normally find myself caring about one or the other, especially when it’s obvious the author cares about one more than the other (although typically I would end up caring for the opposite plotline to the one the author liked so ugh), but not so with this book. I couldn’t stop reading it (or listening to it rather considering I listened to half of it on audiobook) as I was swept up in the next big thing. Dyer has this habit of bringing you all the pieces and leaving you trying to figure out how everything was going to work out for the characters. They were trapped in a situation and I didn’t know how it was going to be resolved. And then I was still surprised, the ending completely blew me away.
Another thing I like about these books is that both the hero and heroine are competent. Both of them can hold their own in a fight and they had both had to survive against all odds, Natalia more than most. I liked how they were different enough but still complementary to each other and how their relationship grew and developed. They were both interesting characters in their own right and it was good to see them come together as they grew and developed as characters. I have to say that I thought Natalia had the stronger character arc as she has to come to terms with looking at a future for herself and I wish the book had focused more on that, rather than Ethan’s white-knight syndrome (although I really loved Georgia showing up to say to Ethan ‘I told you so’ after all the flack he gave her in the first book).
I loved what happened with Ana Maria. Quite frequently, innocent, protected little sisters in fiction are there to be perfect and everything that is good in the world, and it was great to see that subverted.
However, the ending really surprised me, but not in a bad way. Not only Will but also Natalia and AnaMaria. While for Natalia’s character, what happened was probably the best way to get her to put herself and her dreams first, even as you saw it hit her right where it hurts. I liked how everything came together in the end and I really can’t wait for the next book in the series and see how the two couples are doing. 4.5 stars!
Ethan Somerton, in the first book, was more than a little annoying. I found him a bit smug, a bit up himself, and so I was looking forward to his book to see him grow and change and be taken down a few pegs. And I got that so much. In Relentless, Ethan has to infiltrate the cartel that has Will held captive and try to find out where he was so they could go and get him. He immediately sets his sights on Ana-Maria, who apparently sent the tip about Will, only to immediately have Ana-Maria’s very over-protective sister stop him. Natalia and Ethan meet and sparks fly.
“I’m sorry,” she repeated, squeezing his fingers as he fought to keep his eyes open. “But you should have never involved my sister.”
There were a few things that I really enjoyed in the first book of the series and they came up here once again. One was how I cared just as much about the suspense plotline as I did about the romance plotline, which is not normally a thing that happens to me. I normally find myself caring about one or the other, especially when it’s obvious the author cares about one more than the other (although typically I would end up caring for the opposite plotline to the one the author liked so ugh), but not so with this book. I couldn’t stop reading it (or listening to it rather considering I listened to half of it on audiobook) as I was swept up in the next big thing. Dyer has this habit of bringing you all the pieces and leaving you trying to figure out how everything was going to work out for the characters. They were trapped in a situation and I didn’t know how it was going to be resolved. And then I was still surprised, the ending completely blew me away.
But as always, Ethan was one step ahead of her and too damn smart for his own good. Because draped across his lap, chewing on the edge of the jacket, was a gray puppy with toes dipped in white and a tail that never stopped moving.
He’d bought her a dog, damn him.
Another thing I like about these books is that both the hero and heroine are competent. Both of them can hold their own in a fight and they had both had to survive against all odds, Natalia more than most. I liked how they were different enough but still complementary to each other and how their relationship grew and developed. They were both interesting characters in their own right and it was good to see them come together as they grew and developed as characters. I have to say that I thought Natalia had the stronger character arc as she has to come to terms with looking at a future for herself and I wish the book had focused more on that, rather than Ethan’s white-knight syndrome (although I really loved Georgia showing up to say to Ethan ‘I told you so’ after all the flack he gave her in the first book).
“Remind me, when did my sleeping habits fall under your purview?”
“Oh, I don’t know,” Georgia said, leaning back in her chair. “About the time you accused me of thinking with my vagina.”
Ethan choked, and Georgia smiled. “That’s not exactly the way I remember it.”
“No? We were at FedExField, it was cold as balls, and you accused me of… do you know? I’m not actually sure what you accused me of. Breaking Parker’s delicate constitution with the power of my Kegels, I think.”
“Oh God, stop. Just… ” Ethan waved her off. “Just stop. I’m sorry, okay?”
I loved what happened with Ana Maria. Quite frequently, innocent, protected little sisters in fiction are there to be perfect and everything that is good in the world, and it was great to see that subverted.
How many times had Natalia thought the same? That her sister’s innocence, her kindness, her non-threatening nature, protected her? How many times had she encouraged Ana Maria to remain docile and accommodating and quiet?
To be invisible.
But when had she, too, stopped seeing her? Stopped paying attention?
However, the ending really surprised me, but not in a bad way. Not only Will but also Natalia and AnaMaria. While for Natalia’s character, what happened was probably the best way to get her to put herself and her dreams first, even as you saw it hit her right where it hurts. I liked how everything came together in the end and I really can’t wait for the next book in the series and see how the two couples are doing. 4.5 stars!
June 11, 2018
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
4.5*s of shimmering hope
This is the second book in the series, and whilst you could read it as a standalone, I do believe you would have a richer experience if you knew Ethan better (who wouldn't?!) Now, I have to confess I am not a huge mob romance fan, but given how excellent Defenceless was, I didn't want to miss out. I made an excellent decision; whilst there are elements of mob life, this concentrates firmly on the top of one family, and what it has wrought on one woman in particular.
Natalia is a very well written character, as she acts totally out of loyalty to her dead father, and a promise she made him. This has rendered her blind to a very key fact - as we discover through the book. I found that element of the plot to be engaging, enlightening and entertaining. It is also tragic, given how much she may have sacrificed without need. But pity is not something which Natalia courts, for sure! The growth of her as a person, thanks to the influence and love of Ethan is entrancing.
Ethan is a man on a mission and little did he expect to find the woman who would change his world when he went undercover in the Vega organisation. He is all too aware of how Parker fell for Georgia, and is intelligent enough to recognise that he too is utterly gone for Natalia. He trusts her when he knows that protocol says he shouldn't. I love how both of them act together in spite of themselves. so strong is the attraction.
There is a decent underlying plot, a lovely chemistry laden, complicated romance with some clever and tragic twists in this very readable book - do pick it up and enjoy!
4.5*s of shimmering hope
This is the second book in the series, and whilst you could read it as a standalone, I do believe you would have a richer experience if you knew Ethan better (who wouldn't?!) Now, I have to confess I am not a huge mob romance fan, but given how excellent Defenceless was, I didn't want to miss out. I made an excellent decision; whilst there are elements of mob life, this concentrates firmly on the top of one family, and what it has wrought on one woman in particular.
Natalia is a very well written character, as she acts totally out of loyalty to her dead father, and a promise she made him. This has rendered her blind to a very key fact - as we discover through the book. I found that element of the plot to be engaging, enlightening and entertaining. It is also tragic, given how much she may have sacrificed without need. But pity is not something which Natalia courts, for sure! The growth of her as a person, thanks to the influence and love of Ethan is entrancing.
Ethan is a man on a mission and little did he expect to find the woman who would change his world when he went undercover in the Vega organisation. He is all too aware of how Parker fell for Georgia, and is intelligent enough to recognise that he too is utterly gone for Natalia. He trusts her when he knows that protocol says he shouldn't. I love how both of them act together in spite of themselves. so strong is the attraction.
There is a decent underlying plot, a lovely chemistry laden, complicated romance with some clever and tragic twists in this very readable book - do pick it up and enjoy!
June 25, 2018
ARC REVIEW
Somerton Security #2, While this is part of a series and part (a miniscule part) goes back to the first book this can be read as a standalone. I'm not much for mafia tropes but this was Ethan's book and that I really wanted to know what happens with that miniscule part connecting this book to the first one. I really liked this one, I love me some strong female characters and you don't get stronger than Natalia. Ethan is a bit of a tarnished white knight and instead of getting the damsel in distress he falls for the black knight, Natalia. This book was intense, fast paced and well written. The chemistry between Ethan and Natalia, wow, their repertoire was intelligent and very telling; their first conversation with each other gave away more than they intended but both Natalia and Ethan are very intuitive. I absolutely loved them together.
Natalia and her sister watched as their uncle, Hernan, executed their father right in front of them. Natalia swore to protect her sister, Ana Maria, and shortly after their father's murder Natalia proved her worth to Hernan by killing the man meant to kill her since then Hernan has had the perfect leverage against Natalia; threaten Ana Maria and he can get Natalia to do just about anything. Natalia deals with quite a bit emotionally she's not as detached as she should be since the Vega Family's own sicario trained her and Hernan liked that no one would suspect such a deadly weapon in such a beautiful package.
Will Bennett was presumed dead after a mission gone bad a year ago, it was recently discovered that he's still alive and being held captive by Hernan Vega. The only way to find out where Will is being kept is to infiltrate the organization and hack into the network. Ethan is posing as their new accountant but what he finds is so much more than just Will, someone besides the old accountant was stealing from the Vega Family. Ethan's only way to find Will's exact location is with Natalia's help. Ethan feels responsible for Will's predicament and he is willing to risk everything to find him, Natalia knows this and if it comes to it she doesn't want Ethan to have to choose between her and Will.
Overall, such a good read. I really hope that there are going to be more books because Elizabeth Dyer is quickly becoming one of my favorites. Both Ethan and Natalia are wonderfully tortured souls and fall so hard in love they are willing to sacrifice themselves for the other's goal. This is one of those books I can easily see being made into a movie.
Somerton Security #2, While this is part of a series and part (a miniscule part) goes back to the first book this can be read as a standalone. I'm not much for mafia tropes but this was Ethan's book and that I really wanted to know what happens with that miniscule part connecting this book to the first one. I really liked this one, I love me some strong female characters and you don't get stronger than Natalia. Ethan is a bit of a tarnished white knight and instead of getting the damsel in distress he falls for the black knight, Natalia. This book was intense, fast paced and well written. The chemistry between Ethan and Natalia, wow, their repertoire was intelligent and very telling; their first conversation with each other gave away more than they intended but both Natalia and Ethan are very intuitive. I absolutely loved them together.
Natalia and her sister watched as their uncle, Hernan, executed their father right in front of them. Natalia swore to protect her sister, Ana Maria, and shortly after their father's murder Natalia proved her worth to Hernan by killing the man meant to kill her since then Hernan has had the perfect leverage against Natalia; threaten Ana Maria and he can get Natalia to do just about anything. Natalia deals with quite a bit emotionally she's not as detached as she should be since the Vega Family's own sicario trained her and Hernan liked that no one would suspect such a deadly weapon in such a beautiful package.
Will Bennett was presumed dead after a mission gone bad a year ago, it was recently discovered that he's still alive and being held captive by Hernan Vega. The only way to find out where Will is being kept is to infiltrate the organization and hack into the network. Ethan is posing as their new accountant but what he finds is so much more than just Will, someone besides the old accountant was stealing from the Vega Family. Ethan's only way to find Will's exact location is with Natalia's help. Ethan feels responsible for Will's predicament and he is willing to risk everything to find him, Natalia knows this and if it comes to it she doesn't want Ethan to have to choose between her and Will.
Overall, such a good read. I really hope that there are going to be more books because Elizabeth Dyer is quickly becoming one of my favorites. Both Ethan and Natalia are wonderfully tortured souls and fall so hard in love they are willing to sacrifice themselves for the other's goal. This is one of those books I can easily see being made into a movie.
April 16, 2018
Romance + Suspense + Snark = 5 Glow Stick Stars
You guys!!!! Relentless is pure suspenseful perfection. It’s full of danger, snark and even super hot sex! This book is exactly what you’re going to want for a HOOOOT summer read!
Ethan Somerton is the epitome of tall, dark and dangerous. He is a pull no punches, get things done, determined man. He’s all the things I dream about when I dream of my future husband. Even if he is a bit stubborn.
Natalia Vega is the most selfless and strong heroine I’ve read about in a long time. Her world has revolved around sacrificing herself for others forever.
This means she’s a captive in her own prison... until she meets Ethan.
Together these fight a battle of wills so strong I wasn’t sure so was ever going to like Natalia. But she brought me over to the dark side... and I loved every minute of it.
Passionate. Devastating. Relentless.
That’s exactly what this book is. It made me laugh so hard, I had tears streaming down my face. The sexiness was off the charts hot, the snark was well placed and timed and the suspense kept me glued to my kindle to the very end.
You guys!!!! Relentless is pure suspenseful perfection. It’s full of danger, snark and even super hot sex! This book is exactly what you’re going to want for a HOOOOT summer read!
Ethan Somerton is the epitome of tall, dark and dangerous. He is a pull no punches, get things done, determined man. He’s all the things I dream about when I dream of my future husband. Even if he is a bit stubborn.
Natalia Vega is the most selfless and strong heroine I’ve read about in a long time. Her world has revolved around sacrificing herself for others forever.
This means she’s a captive in her own prison... until she meets Ethan.
Together these fight a battle of wills so strong I wasn’t sure so was ever going to like Natalia. But she brought me over to the dark side... and I loved every minute of it.
Passionate. Devastating. Relentless.
That’s exactly what this book is. It made me laugh so hard, I had tears streaming down my face. The sexiness was off the charts hot, the snark was well placed and timed and the suspense kept me glued to my kindle to the very end.
June 12, 2018
**REVIEWED BY CASSIE**
I don’t know what has inspired authors lately/this year to write kick-butt and lethal female leads but Elizabeth Dyer just added herself to the list. Add that with some major cartel action and I am one hooked reader. This book is this perfect blend of romance, suspense, and action (yes friends BOTH kinds). I did not read the first book and although I would love to go back and read it I didn’t feel like I was missing anything with the characters.
Natalia Vega is one tough and rigid woman. Her fierce need to protect her sister was nothing short of amazing. She comes off as hard, calculating, and cold but her character really shed her skin through falling in love and let us see the toll the cartel has taken on her and her true self. Although I love her tough ways, seeing her fall apart in Ethan’s arms rounded her out perfectly.
Ethan is my favorite kind of guy. Looks great in a suit and tough as nails. The idea of a male character running a security company isn’t new but the idea of him working with the government is pretty awesome. He is loyal and straight-laced, and determined. Loving a quasi enemy definitely shook up his world. Really the fact that both character shook each other to the core is what makes the suspense more intense, the love more melting, and the lust more enticing.
I also wanted to mention this book is in third person. Normally I struggle with it but this book had me so involved I often forgot.
This book is for those who love a little action/suspense in their romance books. This book is for readers who love chemistry that is off the charts. This book is for anyone who loves a strong female character and a good hearted male character.
I don’t know what has inspired authors lately/this year to write kick-butt and lethal female leads but Elizabeth Dyer just added herself to the list. Add that with some major cartel action and I am one hooked reader. This book is this perfect blend of romance, suspense, and action (yes friends BOTH kinds). I did not read the first book and although I would love to go back and read it I didn’t feel like I was missing anything with the characters.
Natalia Vega is one tough and rigid woman. Her fierce need to protect her sister was nothing short of amazing. She comes off as hard, calculating, and cold but her character really shed her skin through falling in love and let us see the toll the cartel has taken on her and her true self. Although I love her tough ways, seeing her fall apart in Ethan’s arms rounded her out perfectly.
Ethan is my favorite kind of guy. Looks great in a suit and tough as nails. The idea of a male character running a security company isn’t new but the idea of him working with the government is pretty awesome. He is loyal and straight-laced, and determined. Loving a quasi enemy definitely shook up his world. Really the fact that both character shook each other to the core is what makes the suspense more intense, the love more melting, and the lust more enticing.
I also wanted to mention this book is in third person. Normally I struggle with it but this book had me so involved I often forgot.
This book is for those who love a little action/suspense in their romance books. This book is for readers who love chemistry that is off the charts. This book is for anyone who loves a strong female character and a good hearted male character.
July 23, 2018
Review: RELENTLESS (Somerton Security Book 2) by Elizabeth Dyer https://wp.me/p3d0RZ-aKU
Publication Date: June 12, 2018
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated 4 Stars
The second installment in the Somerton Security series managed to keep the life or death edge from book one. It is a bit heavy on the narrative and I would have liked more dialogue, but the story moved quickly, and it gave a clear understanding of motives. I liked Natalia right away and wanted her happiness, Ethan was the perfect choice for her; he was her white knight that enabled her to save herself. Overall, it was a hot romance full of intrigue and danger. I liked it!
*Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
~*~*~*~
Kindle $3.99 https://amzn.to/2y6s4fE
Book 1: DEFENSELESS (Somerton Security Book 1) by Elizabeth Dyer
Review 4.5 Stars: https://wp.me/p3d0RZ-avL | Kindle http://amzn.to/2BoFyzM
Publication Date: June 12, 2018
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated 4 Stars
The second installment in the Somerton Security series managed to keep the life or death edge from book one. It is a bit heavy on the narrative and I would have liked more dialogue, but the story moved quickly, and it gave a clear understanding of motives. I liked Natalia right away and wanted her happiness, Ethan was the perfect choice for her; he was her white knight that enabled her to save herself. Overall, it was a hot romance full of intrigue and danger. I liked it!
*Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
~*~*~*~
Kindle $3.99 https://amzn.to/2y6s4fE
Book 1: DEFENSELESS (Somerton Security Book 1) by Elizabeth Dyer
Review 4.5 Stars: https://wp.me/p3d0RZ-avL | Kindle http://amzn.to/2BoFyzM
May 9, 2018
Why are the books where the boss is the main lead always so gut wrenching? Two people on opposite sides basically of the law get into a battle of wills to save/protect someone they care about. Both are self-sacrificing and willing to do whatever it takes. For one that means even going as far as giving up her life for her sister.
Natalia Vega was born into a cartel family. Before her parents were killed it wasn't a bad life. But since their murders by her ruthless Uncle she has had to learn to be just as ruthless in her quest to keep her promise to her dying father to always protect her younger sister. She is deadly with a knife and just as cunning with her words but deep down the she has no sense of self worth and only stays alive to protect her sister.
Ethan Somerton runs both a security business and a cover black ops team. On a previous mission to bring the cartel down his best friend was captured. He and his team have been looking for a way to get back inside the cartel to try and find out where in South America he is being held. That opportunity finally happens when Natalia's Uncle finds himself in need of a new accountant when the previous one disappears. Ethan having the right background is the one that goes undercover.
Both Ethan and Natalia are willing to do whatever it takes to get what they want but immediately recognize that the other is not at all whom they seem and they eventually confess to each other their real reasons for being there. There is plenty of suspense, romance, pure comedic moments from Parker (the hero from the first book) and heartbreak.
I am dying to know whose story will be next after how this one ended..
Natalia Vega was born into a cartel family. Before her parents were killed it wasn't a bad life. But since their murders by her ruthless Uncle she has had to learn to be just as ruthless in her quest to keep her promise to her dying father to always protect her younger sister. She is deadly with a knife and just as cunning with her words but deep down the she has no sense of self worth and only stays alive to protect her sister.
Ethan Somerton runs both a security business and a cover black ops team. On a previous mission to bring the cartel down his best friend was captured. He and his team have been looking for a way to get back inside the cartel to try and find out where in South America he is being held. That opportunity finally happens when Natalia's Uncle finds himself in need of a new accountant when the previous one disappears. Ethan having the right background is the one that goes undercover.
Both Ethan and Natalia are willing to do whatever it takes to get what they want but immediately recognize that the other is not at all whom they seem and they eventually confess to each other their real reasons for being there. There is plenty of suspense, romance, pure comedic moments from Parker (the hero from the first book) and heartbreak.
I am dying to know whose story will be next after how this one ended..
June 12, 2018
4.5 Stars
This is the second book in the series and they should be read in order as they continue a story line from the first book.
Ethan Somerton knows that if there is any chance of finding his best friend Will Bennett alive he will do whatever it takes. He will even go undercover with a cartel if that is what it takes. He knows there is a chance that Hernan Vega could have something to do with it and Ethan believes his way in could be through an accounting job or getting close to his niece, Ana Marie Vega.
Natalie Vega has only one goal in life and that is to protect her sister, Ana Marie, at any cost. When she meets Ethan she is attracted to him but Natalie never takes anyone at face value and knows she has to protect herself.
When Natalie and Ethan make an alliance, Natalie makes sure Ethan knows that her only goal is to save Ana Marie and he must promise to get her out alive. But as Ethan and Natalie get closer to finding Will, they also find themselves falling for one another.
As the action heats up, they soon learn that someone else has been stealing money from Hernan and the Columbian cartel wants their money asap. Can Ethan keep his promise to Natalie when everything is on the line?
This was a great continuation of the first book with lots of action from start to finish.
Ethan was a great character and I am glad that we got more of him than we did in the first book. I love the team he has assembled, and I can’t wait for more books in the series! He was willing to do whatever he needed to do to find out if Will was still alive and find out his location. He never gave up the hope that he could rescue him.
Natalie was such an amazing character as she is so much more than what we think she is. She is tough because she had to be in order to survive after her father is killed and her mother is gone. She lives to protect her sister, Ana Marie. But through that her sister is her greatest weakness and those around her know that they can get Natalie to do whatever they need of her because of Ana Marie.
I loved watching Ethan and Natalie grow to trust each other and how their relationship developed and changed as things happened in the story. I was definitely shocked at some of the twists that occurred and I was not expecting some of the revelations for sure.
I was totally freaking out at the end with what Natalie did and my fingers were crossed at how everything was going to turn out.
The very end was good but with no news on a certain front there will definitely be more in the series and I am really looking forward to some more answers! - By Rebecca
This is the second book in the series and they should be read in order as they continue a story line from the first book.
Ethan Somerton knows that if there is any chance of finding his best friend Will Bennett alive he will do whatever it takes. He will even go undercover with a cartel if that is what it takes. He knows there is a chance that Hernan Vega could have something to do with it and Ethan believes his way in could be through an accounting job or getting close to his niece, Ana Marie Vega.
Natalie Vega has only one goal in life and that is to protect her sister, Ana Marie, at any cost. When she meets Ethan she is attracted to him but Natalie never takes anyone at face value and knows she has to protect herself.
When Natalie and Ethan make an alliance, Natalie makes sure Ethan knows that her only goal is to save Ana Marie and he must promise to get her out alive. But as Ethan and Natalie get closer to finding Will, they also find themselves falling for one another.
As the action heats up, they soon learn that someone else has been stealing money from Hernan and the Columbian cartel wants their money asap. Can Ethan keep his promise to Natalie when everything is on the line?
This was a great continuation of the first book with lots of action from start to finish.
Ethan was a great character and I am glad that we got more of him than we did in the first book. I love the team he has assembled, and I can’t wait for more books in the series! He was willing to do whatever he needed to do to find out if Will was still alive and find out his location. He never gave up the hope that he could rescue him.
Natalie was such an amazing character as she is so much more than what we think she is. She is tough because she had to be in order to survive after her father is killed and her mother is gone. She lives to protect her sister, Ana Marie. But through that her sister is her greatest weakness and those around her know that they can get Natalie to do whatever they need of her because of Ana Marie.
I loved watching Ethan and Natalie grow to trust each other and how their relationship developed and changed as things happened in the story. I was definitely shocked at some of the twists that occurred and I was not expecting some of the revelations for sure.
I was totally freaking out at the end with what Natalie did and my fingers were crossed at how everything was going to turn out.
The very end was good but with no news on a certain front there will definitely be more in the series and I am really looking forward to some more answers! - By Rebecca
June 7, 2018
I first discovered Ms. Dyer with Defenseless and knew I had found a new author that will always be a one click.
The author continues that one click method with Relentless. This is book 2 in the Somerton Security series and tells Ethan’s story.
I think when an author steps out of the “norm” of portraying a character, especially a female, he/she has to make it “real” and Ms. Dyer did that with Natalia. Natalia was such a strong, loyal and determined woman who gave Ethan a run for his money!
Ethan didn’t disappoint either; he knew what he wanted and was determined to do everything in his power to get it.
The story was absolutely perfect! The character development was spot on. Relentless had everything: intrigue, suspense, romance...hot, steamy romance!!!
It was also awesome to see Parker and Georgia again!!! Now.....to wonder who will be next in the series???? I know who I want it to be!
Grab Relentless and while you are at it, one click Defenseless as well!
The author continues that one click method with Relentless. This is book 2 in the Somerton Security series and tells Ethan’s story.
I think when an author steps out of the “norm” of portraying a character, especially a female, he/she has to make it “real” and Ms. Dyer did that with Natalia. Natalia was such a strong, loyal and determined woman who gave Ethan a run for his money!
Ethan didn’t disappoint either; he knew what he wanted and was determined to do everything in his power to get it.
The story was absolutely perfect! The character development was spot on. Relentless had everything: intrigue, suspense, romance...hot, steamy romance!!!
It was also awesome to see Parker and Georgia again!!! Now.....to wonder who will be next in the series???? I know who I want it to be!
Grab Relentless and while you are at it, one click Defenseless as well!
Read
June 3, 2020Ethan and Natalia are tough, determined and prepared to do whatever has to be done in order to accomplish their objectives and their mutual attraction is intense and undeniable. They strike sparks off one another right from their very first encounter as they metaphorically size each other up while trading pointedly accurate barbs and thinly veiled insults, all of it underpinned by an intense sexual tension.
June 15, 2018
Relentless is the second entry in Ms. Dyer's Somerton Security series, and as far as I can tell, her second book, overall. I have searched high and low for more books by this author, but alas, she seems to be at the beginning of what I have to believe will be a long and successful career.
Ethan is the head of Somerton Security, a firm that does some work for the government, as well as private security. When he finds out his best friend is still alive and being held by a cartel, he goes all in to find a way to save him.
Natalia is the niece of the head of the cartel. She is critical to Ethan's plan.
Ethan is described by Georgia, shero of Defenseless, sister of the best friend being held captive, as a White Knight..."Even your truck is white!" He is a rescuer. As much as he wants to rescue his friend, Natalia and her sister are also in need of help.
Natalia has been subjected to unspeakable horrors but instead of letting it break her, she has become a deadly tool in her uncle's arsenal. Her usefulness has kept her and her sister alive, but she longs for an escape from the nightmare of her life.
Ms. Dyer does not hold back in Relentless. The story is gritty and dark. The violence at times is graphic. It's a story of desperation and redemption, of being trapped in a life from which there is no good way out. Ethan and Natalia are formidable together. Great connection, believable growth.
Relentless lacks the humor of Defenseless, though Parker and Georgia make appearances throughout the book, providing levity. The story is darker. It moves along swiftly, weaving the reader into the plot. I was captivated from the first page to the last.
Bottom line - Ms. Dyer is the real deal. Her characters are so well drawn, I feel like I would recognize them on the street. The plot is solid, the sexy times are glorious, the dialogue is sharp and smart. Take a chance on this author. The book is also available through KU, if you are a subscriber.
**Although an ARC was provided by NetGalley for the purpose of a voluntary review, I also have purchased a copy.
Ethan is the head of Somerton Security, a firm that does some work for the government, as well as private security. When he finds out his best friend is still alive and being held by a cartel, he goes all in to find a way to save him.
Natalia is the niece of the head of the cartel. She is critical to Ethan's plan.
Ethan is described by Georgia, shero of Defenseless, sister of the best friend being held captive, as a White Knight..."Even your truck is white!" He is a rescuer. As much as he wants to rescue his friend, Natalia and her sister are also in need of help.
Natalia has been subjected to unspeakable horrors but instead of letting it break her, she has become a deadly tool in her uncle's arsenal. Her usefulness has kept her and her sister alive, but she longs for an escape from the nightmare of her life.
Ms. Dyer does not hold back in Relentless. The story is gritty and dark. The violence at times is graphic. It's a story of desperation and redemption, of being trapped in a life from which there is no good way out. Ethan and Natalia are formidable together. Great connection, believable growth.
Relentless lacks the humor of Defenseless, though Parker and Georgia make appearances throughout the book, providing levity. The story is darker. It moves along swiftly, weaving the reader into the plot. I was captivated from the first page to the last.
Bottom line - Ms. Dyer is the real deal. Her characters are so well drawn, I feel like I would recognize them on the street. The plot is solid, the sexy times are glorious, the dialogue is sharp and smart. Take a chance on this author. The book is also available through KU, if you are a subscriber.
**Although an ARC was provided by NetGalley for the purpose of a voluntary review, I also have purchased a copy.
June 12, 2018
My Readultery Life Review
Since being introduced to Elizabeth Dyer by a friend, I have been hooked with her story telling. Elizabeth has the ability to hook you into her characters and the storyline in each book. This is no different in Relentless, in fact it’s probably my favourite.
From the very beginning of our main characters, Ethan and Natalia, story I know this was going to be awesome. While it is the second instalment to her Somerton Security series, it is very different from the first book and can be read as a standalone.
Ethan and Natalia have their fair share off nail biting moments, which left me breathless and glued to the pages as you read their story unfold. Relentless is full suspend, intrigue and chemistry. We have a few surprises thrown into the mix just to keep us on the edge of our seats.
I thoroughly enjoyed the element off our characters finding love in a world that is filled with violence, making our characters fight tooth and nail for their relationship. Ethan and Natalia are perfect for each other, both strong individuals who are prepared to die for their family.
Elizabeth Dyer has written a fantastic romance story. Its so easy to fall into the book and get carried away with the characters. The relationships and banter we see with the characters have a natural flow and adds a lightness to this story. A lot does go on in this story but a no point did I lose the plot which allowed for an easy read.
I would recommend this book and series if you are looking for a fun and exciting series with the extra element of suspense to keep you hooked and guessing.
***** 5 Stars
Since being introduced to Elizabeth Dyer by a friend, I have been hooked with her story telling. Elizabeth has the ability to hook you into her characters and the storyline in each book. This is no different in Relentless, in fact it’s probably my favourite.
From the very beginning of our main characters, Ethan and Natalia, story I know this was going to be awesome. While it is the second instalment to her Somerton Security series, it is very different from the first book and can be read as a standalone.
Ethan and Natalia have their fair share off nail biting moments, which left me breathless and glued to the pages as you read their story unfold. Relentless is full suspend, intrigue and chemistry. We have a few surprises thrown into the mix just to keep us on the edge of our seats.
I thoroughly enjoyed the element off our characters finding love in a world that is filled with violence, making our characters fight tooth and nail for their relationship. Ethan and Natalia are perfect for each other, both strong individuals who are prepared to die for their family.
Elizabeth Dyer has written a fantastic romance story. Its so easy to fall into the book and get carried away with the characters. The relationships and banter we see with the characters have a natural flow and adds a lightness to this story. A lot does go on in this story but a no point did I lose the plot which allowed for an easy read.
I would recommend this book and series if you are looking for a fun and exciting series with the extra element of suspense to keep you hooked and guessing.
***** 5 Stars
June 12, 2018
I don’t know what has inspired authors lately/this year to write kick-butt and lethal female leads but Elizabeth Dyer just added herself to the list. Add that with some major cartel action and I am one hooked reader. This book is this perfect blend of romance, suspense, and action (yes friends BOTH kinds). I did not read the first book and although I would love to go back and read it I didn’t feel like I was missing anything with the characters.
Natalia Vega is one tough and rigid woman. Her fierce need to protect her sister was nothing short of amazing. She comes off as hard, calculating, and cold but her character really shed her skin through falling in love and let us see the toll the cartel has taken on her and her true self. Although I love her tough ways, seeing her fall apart in Ethan’s arms rounded her out perfectly.
Ethan is my favorite kind of guy. Looks great in a suit and tough as nails. The idea of a male character running a security company isn’t new but the idea of him working with the government is pretty awesome. He is loyal and straight-laced, and determined. Loving a quasi enemy definitely shook up his world. Really the fact that both character shook each other to the core is what makes the suspense more intense, the love more melting, and the lust more enticing.
I also wanted to mention this book is in third person. Normally I struggle with it but this book had me so involved I often forgot.
This book is for those who love a little action/suspense in their romance books. This book is for readers who love chemistry that is off the charts. This book is for anyone who loves a strong female character and a good hearted male character.
Natalia Vega is one tough and rigid woman. Her fierce need to protect her sister was nothing short of amazing. She comes off as hard, calculating, and cold but her character really shed her skin through falling in love and let us see the toll the cartel has taken on her and her true self. Although I love her tough ways, seeing her fall apart in Ethan’s arms rounded her out perfectly.
Ethan is my favorite kind of guy. Looks great in a suit and tough as nails. The idea of a male character running a security company isn’t new but the idea of him working with the government is pretty awesome. He is loyal and straight-laced, and determined. Loving a quasi enemy definitely shook up his world. Really the fact that both character shook each other to the core is what makes the suspense more intense, the love more melting, and the lust more enticing.
I also wanted to mention this book is in third person. Normally I struggle with it but this book had me so involved I often forgot.
This book is for those who love a little action/suspense in their romance books. This book is for readers who love chemistry that is off the charts. This book is for anyone who loves a strong female character and a good hearted male character.
June 12, 2018
I’ve been craving a romantic suspense for a while now and let me tell you, this totally did it for me. The characters were great, the story had me hooked and it that great nail biting anticipation I love.
I loved Ethan in Defenseless, so getting his full story is something I’ve really been looking forward to. He lived up to all of my expectations. Loyal, a little broody and a lot sexy. He’s the problem solver, the care taker, a no nonsense leader. He also has a soft spot for the people he cares about. This was evident in his relationship with Parker and Georgia in the last book. It was great to get inside of his head and learn about what drives his character.
Natalia is about as tough as it gets when it comes to female characters. She’s has spent the last several years of her life immersed in a cartel lifestyle. This was no choice of hers, so she is pretty closed off and prickly. Pretty much a perfect match for Ethan. Their chemistry is fantastic and the dynamic between them is really interesting. She’s involved in crime and he’s by the book, I wouldn’t necessarily say that they are polar opposites, as they have a lot of the same qualities when it comes to their personalities, but it’s the life style that’s vastly different. This sets up for a lot of great conflict.
I’m a sucker for a good guy, and I love my heroines strong and full of fire in books. Again, this story checked all the right boxes for me. I truly enjoyed everything about this book and I’m really excited to read the next installment.
I loved Ethan in Defenseless, so getting his full story is something I’ve really been looking forward to. He lived up to all of my expectations. Loyal, a little broody and a lot sexy. He’s the problem solver, the care taker, a no nonsense leader. He also has a soft spot for the people he cares about. This was evident in his relationship with Parker and Georgia in the last book. It was great to get inside of his head and learn about what drives his character.
Natalia is about as tough as it gets when it comes to female characters. She’s has spent the last several years of her life immersed in a cartel lifestyle. This was no choice of hers, so she is pretty closed off and prickly. Pretty much a perfect match for Ethan. Their chemistry is fantastic and the dynamic between them is really interesting. She’s involved in crime and he’s by the book, I wouldn’t necessarily say that they are polar opposites, as they have a lot of the same qualities when it comes to their personalities, but it’s the life style that’s vastly different. This sets up for a lot of great conflict.
I’m a sucker for a good guy, and I love my heroines strong and full of fire in books. Again, this story checked all the right boxes for me. I truly enjoyed everything about this book and I’m really excited to read the next installment.
June 13, 2018
Relentless by Elizabeth Dyer will leaving you hanging off the edge of your seat, slowly waiting for what will happen next. I honestly cannot count how many times my heart would race, my breath would catch, and I was in a state of WOW while reading this one. I thought Defenseless was a fantastic book (and it still is) but I have to say, Relentless made this series even better.
There is just so much dynamic with this story-line and Elizabeth Dyer does not disappoint. I also love how the dual POVs just up the angst and suspense that much more. If you’re looking for something to keep you fully invested until you read “The End”, I highly recommend checking out Relentless.
I wish I could rate this one higher than five stars, because it totally deserves it, and I cannot wait to see what will come next out of this series.
June 11, 2018
I first discovered Ms. Dyer with Defenseless and knew I had found a new author that will always be a one click.
The author continues that one click method with Relentless. This is book 2 in the Somerton Security series and tells Ethan’s story.
I think when an author steps out of the “norm” of portraying a character, especially a female, he/she has to make it “real” and Ms. Dyer did that with Natalia. Natalia was such a strong, loyal and determined woman who gave Ethan a run for his money!
Ethan didn’t disappoint either; he knew what he wanted and was determined to do everything in his power to get it.
The story was absolutely perfect! The character development was spot on. Relentless had everything: intrigue, suspense, romance...hot, steamy romance!!!
It was also awesome to see Parker and Georgia again!!! Now.....to wonder who will be next in the series???? I know who I want it to be!
Grab Relentless and while you are at it, one click Defenseless as well!
Reviewed by: Dana D.
The author continues that one click method with Relentless. This is book 2 in the Somerton Security series and tells Ethan’s story.
I think when an author steps out of the “norm” of portraying a character, especially a female, he/she has to make it “real” and Ms. Dyer did that with Natalia. Natalia was such a strong, loyal and determined woman who gave Ethan a run for his money!
Ethan didn’t disappoint either; he knew what he wanted and was determined to do everything in his power to get it.
The story was absolutely perfect! The character development was spot on. Relentless had everything: intrigue, suspense, romance...hot, steamy romance!!!
It was also awesome to see Parker and Georgia again!!! Now.....to wonder who will be next in the series???? I know who I want it to be!
Grab Relentless and while you are at it, one click Defenseless as well!
Reviewed by: Dana D.
August 17, 2018
Nothing says tension like a former Navy SEAL, government security operative and the cartel daughter. Talk about a conflict of...everything. Relentless has tension in every lust filled encounter. A sense of loyalty and an overwhelming need to succeed drive both toward their goals but what happens when everything you never wished for is standing in your way?
Relentless is what happens. And boy am I glad i stubble onto it! I loved the push and pull from Ethan and Natalia. I think that my biggest draw was Natalia's drive to do anything necessary, flawed or not, she would do anything for her sister. Let's not mention her particular skill set is intriguing in her world and unusual for a woman. Let's just say that Natalia is full of surprises.
Relentless is what happens. And boy am I glad i stubble onto it! I loved the push and pull from Ethan and Natalia. I think that my biggest draw was Natalia's drive to do anything necessary, flawed or not, she would do anything for her sister. Let's not mention her particular skill set is intriguing in her world and unusual for a woman. Let's just say that Natalia is full of surprises.
June 6, 2018
Disappointed in the ending. Full review to follow.
March 9, 2019
Suspenseful
Good book. It absolutely kept me guessing to the very end. I am still dying to find out what happened to Will.
Good book. It absolutely kept me guessing to the very end. I am still dying to find out what happened to Will.
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