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Blackhawk Security #1
Rules in Blackmail
Blackhawk Security Elite Protection Services—
Their business is your safety
But not hers. Former SEAL Sullivan Bishop refuses to work for Jane Reise. The JAG Corps prosecutor is hard core—and he never stopped blaming her for his brother’s death. But Blackhawk is Jane’s only hope in fending off a frightening stalker, and she’ll blackmail Sullivan to get it. Forced into her service, he soon realizes he was wrong about Jane. As bullets fly, Sullivan knows he’ll risk his life—and heart—to save her.
Their business is your safety
But not hers. Former SEAL Sullivan Bishop refuses to work for Jane Reise. The JAG Corps prosecutor is hard core—and he never stopped blaming her for his brother’s death. But Blackhawk is Jane’s only hope in fending off a frightening stalker, and she’ll blackmail Sullivan to get it. Forced into her service, he soon realizes he was wrong about Jane. As bullets fly, Sullivan knows he’ll risk his life—and heart—to save her.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 14, 2018
About the author
Nichole Severn
224 books461 followers"First class romantic suspense!"
- Cynthia Eden, NYT Bestselling Author
Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author Nichole Severn writes mind-twisting suspense and bullet-proof romance with strong heroines, heroes who dare challenge them, and cases you won’t be able to forget.
She graduated from Utah Valley University with a degree in Psychology and is working for her masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. She’s a member of Mystery Writers of America, a founding member of the Addicted to Danger Facebook group, and volunteers for a number of non-profits focused on supporting mothers.
She resides with her very supportive and patient husband, as well as her two demon spawn, in Utah. When she’s not writing, she’s constantly injuring herself training for marathons, accidentally stabbing herself with screwdrivers during her many DIY projects, or playing violin. That’s right. She stabbed herself with a screwdriver.
- Cynthia Eden, NYT Bestselling Author
Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author Nichole Severn writes mind-twisting suspense and bullet-proof romance with strong heroines, heroes who dare challenge them, and cases you won’t be able to forget.
She graduated from Utah Valley University with a degree in Psychology and is working for her masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. She’s a member of Mystery Writers of America, a founding member of the Addicted to Danger Facebook group, and volunteers for a number of non-profits focused on supporting mothers.
She resides with her very supportive and patient husband, as well as her two demon spawn, in Utah. When she’s not writing, she’s constantly injuring herself training for marathons, accidentally stabbing herself with screwdrivers during her many DIY projects, or playing violin. That’s right. She stabbed herself with a screwdriver.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
January 22, 2021
Synopsis:
Legendary JAG Corps prosecutor Captain Jane Reise seeks out Blackhawk Security owner Sullivan Bishop for help. Protection from a stalker, to be precise. Even if she has to blackmail him to do the job. Because he doesn't want to have to do anything with her now, does he? Especially with the history between her and his family. But then, something dastardly happens which changes his mind and brings forward every protective instinct he possesses to protect Jane. Even after what she did to his family.
Suspects: her ex, Christopher Menas; his dead brother, Marrok Warren; and her boss, Patrick Barnes. And ... Herself? Just when she starts trusting Sullivan?
And then comes full-blown action - car chases, gunshots, fisticuffs, oof...
Review:
A story that starts with the hero pointing a gun at the heroine!?! Hell, yeah! They don't trust each other because he blames her for his brother's suicide. An ex-SEAL, now CEO of an elite security agency, pitted against a prosecutor who stands up to criminals and soldiers alike. True to the title, there's blackmail involved. She knows his secret and is using it against him to make him help her.
I love stalker stories (you can call me creepy). Haha! And this one was written with finesse, the characters fleshed out perfectly. Jane, even after being fearless, is driven out of her mind for the past three months with fear. And she trusts no one in this except Bishop, she has her reasons. A man who hates her guts, a hatred which spews from every syllable he utters for Jane. Reading this sub-zero temperature story in chilly weather gave me the chills. Brrr... Though the hotness in the first few pages did set it aflame. It is quite amusing, the way they are grateful to each other for saving the other's life, while in the next instant, thinking that each is doing it for their own benefit and not at all from the goodness of their heart! She has quite an interesting nickname due to that. Oh man! I didn't see it coming, though. The secret that Sullivan hid all these years. A dark past indeed.
And then what an explosive climax! And a surprising twist towards the end as the real stalker is revealed. (You won't know what you're missing till you read it!)
Set in the largest city of Alaska, with scenes overlapping in the nearby wilderness, this story, told from both his and her point of view, will give you all the chills and thrills.
One minute playfulness, the next minute seriousness. This dynamic duo will keep you on your toes.
P.S. I'll let you in on a secret, you want to know how Jane broke into Sullivan's office? Then read Search and Rescue, and you'll get your answers!
The other books by the author that I have read and also recommend are:
Blackhawk Security Series
Rules In Blackmail | Rules in Rescue | Rules in Deceit | Rules in Defiance | Caught in the Crossfire | The Line of Duty
Blackhawk Security Novella
Search and Rescue | Search and Protect | Rules in Revenge | Search and Defend | Search and Pursue
Midnight Abduction (Tactical Crime Division #3)
Marshal Law Series
The Fugitive | The Witness
Originally posted on:
Shaina's Musings
Legendary JAG Corps prosecutor Captain Jane Reise seeks out Blackhawk Security owner Sullivan Bishop for help. Protection from a stalker, to be precise. Even if she has to blackmail him to do the job. Because he doesn't want to have to do anything with her now, does he? Especially with the history between her and his family. But then, something dastardly happens which changes his mind and brings forward every protective instinct he possesses to protect Jane. Even after what she did to his family.
Suspects: her ex, Christopher Menas; his dead brother, Marrok Warren; and her boss, Patrick Barnes. And ... Herself? Just when she starts trusting Sullivan?
And then comes full-blown action - car chases, gunshots, fisticuffs, oof...
Review:
A story that starts with the hero pointing a gun at the heroine!?! Hell, yeah! They don't trust each other because he blames her for his brother's suicide. An ex-SEAL, now CEO of an elite security agency, pitted against a prosecutor who stands up to criminals and soldiers alike. True to the title, there's blackmail involved. She knows his secret and is using it against him to make him help her.
I love stalker stories (you can call me creepy). Haha! And this one was written with finesse, the characters fleshed out perfectly. Jane, even after being fearless, is driven out of her mind for the past three months with fear. And she trusts no one in this except Bishop, she has her reasons. A man who hates her guts, a hatred which spews from every syllable he utters for Jane. Reading this sub-zero temperature story in chilly weather gave me the chills. Brrr... Though the hotness in the first few pages did set it aflame. It is quite amusing, the way they are grateful to each other for saving the other's life, while in the next instant, thinking that each is doing it for their own benefit and not at all from the goodness of their heart! She has quite an interesting nickname due to that. Oh man! I didn't see it coming, though. The secret that Sullivan hid all these years. A dark past indeed.
And then what an explosive climax! And a surprising twist towards the end as the real stalker is revealed. (You won't know what you're missing till you read it!)
Set in the largest city of Alaska, with scenes overlapping in the nearby wilderness, this story, told from both his and her point of view, will give you all the chills and thrills.
First rule of blackmail: don’t fall in love.
One minute playfulness, the next minute seriousness. This dynamic duo will keep you on your toes.
P.S. I'll let you in on a secret, you want to know how Jane broke into Sullivan's office? Then read Search and Rescue, and you'll get your answers!
The other books by the author that I have read and also recommend are:
Blackhawk Security Series
Rules In Blackmail | Rules in Rescue | Rules in Deceit | Rules in Defiance | Caught in the Crossfire | The Line of Duty
Blackhawk Security Novella
Search and Rescue | Search and Protect | Rules in Revenge | Search and Defend | Search and Pursue
Midnight Abduction (Tactical Crime Division #3)
Marshal Law Series
The Fugitive | The Witness
Originally posted on:
Shaina's Musings
May 26, 2019
Although I liked the fact that this Intrigue book took place outside of the standard Texas or Colorado setting (it takes place in Alaska), that's about the only positive thing I can say about it. I had a quick look at the other reviews after reading the book, and saw lots of 4 and 5 star ratings. Did I read the same book? Am I too picky? This was just awful!
Jane Riese is a JAG prosecutor who is being stalked. She blackmails Sullivan Bishop, the head of Blackhawk Security, into helping her stay alive and find out who the stalker is. The reason why she uses blackmail is because Sullivan wouldn't otherwise help her, as she prosecuted his brother, Marrok Warren, over some sexual assaults, which led to Marrok committing suicide. And the police don't seem interested in her claims, and apparently she'd lose her security clearance and possibly her job if her employers knew about it. Or something.
Absolutely nothing here made one lick of sense to me:
Why does Jane need to break into Blackhawk Security to meet with Sullivan? How does she break into Blackhaw Security? This is apparently a running joke, as we're never told how Jane got past their stringent security protocols. But once again - WHY does she need to break in? Why not make an appointment like any normal person?
Which brings me to: why is Sullivan the ONLY person who can help her? By Sullivan's own admission, any of his team can help out. Indeed, any security firm could, really. But for some reason, it is vitally, vitally important to Jane that Sullivan is the ONLY PERSON IN THE WORLD who can help her, without us ever being told or understanding why this is the case. I understand our h and H have to be thrown together, but it should at least be believable!
Which brings me to: the fact that Jane even has to blackmail him. What an odious thing to do! How am I supposed to like this woman? Why bring blackmail into the plot when, realistically, IT IS COMPLETELY UNNECESSARY. Since we're never told why Jane considers Sullivan is the ONLY PERSON IN THE WORLD who can help her, I never understood why she couldn't simply let someone else do the job and avoid having to blackmail anybody in the first place. Hence why I couldn't get behind the romance when the h basically has to commit a crime for them to even get together in the first place!
Because of my disconnect with the h and H (particularly the h with her blackmail antics), I also failed to connect with the flimsy plot they were flailing around in. Although I can admit this was fast-paced and action packed, none of it really had an effect on me because I couldn't engage with Sullivan and Jane and the ludicrous way in which they'd been brought together, and sadly, didn't really care about what happened to them.
The fight scenes are described down to the last detail, and really, they go on for so long that I couldn't figure out how Jane and Sullivan were still alive by the end of some of them. Particularly Sullivan. Is he a hero, a superhero, a superhuman, a supernatural entity? I don't think anybody could take the licking he does and still be standing by the end of it! I normally don't say this but: the violence needs to be dialed back big time! There's strong and then there's invincible. Not only did the set-up lack any credibility, so did the battle descriptions.
Not only is Jane a horrid blackmailer, she treats Sullivan horridly for most of the book. Despite him being the ONLY PERSON IN THE WORLD who can help her, she frequently does the TSTL thing and runs out on him and puts herself and everybody else in danger. Then she keeps throwing out cliched romance statements such as, "Bad things happen to everybody I know," without ever ONCE clarifying what she means by that. Who, Jane? Who are we talking about? What happened to them? Are you saying these dramatic things to add being a martyr to your list of unlikable traits?
Then we have the simple, predictable plot that nevertheless still manages to not make any sense.
Then there were all the other inconsistencies. You know - Sullivan has the best team ever, all at the highest levels of their fields yada yada yada - who conveniently miss the important stuff that then nearly gets them all killed. Dialogue is limited, and what we do have is cheesy and cringe-inducing.
Jane often says to herself throughout the book that the first rule of blackmail is not to fall in love. I would have thought that the first rule would be not to get caught, but I suppose Jane's line of thinking is in line with her boneheadedness as a character. Only bother with this hot mess of a book if you're blackmailed into it yourself!
Jane Riese is a JAG prosecutor who is being stalked. She blackmails Sullivan Bishop, the head of Blackhawk Security, into helping her stay alive and find out who the stalker is. The reason why she uses blackmail is because Sullivan wouldn't otherwise help her, as she prosecuted his brother, Marrok Warren, over some sexual assaults, which led to Marrok committing suicide. And the police don't seem interested in her claims, and apparently she'd lose her security clearance and possibly her job if her employers knew about it. Or something.
Absolutely nothing here made one lick of sense to me:
Why does Jane need to break into Blackhawk Security to meet with Sullivan? How does she break into Blackhaw Security? This is apparently a running joke, as we're never told how Jane got past their stringent security protocols. But once again - WHY does she need to break in? Why not make an appointment like any normal person?
Which brings me to: why is Sullivan the ONLY person who can help her? By Sullivan's own admission, any of his team can help out. Indeed, any security firm could, really. But for some reason, it is vitally, vitally important to Jane that Sullivan is the ONLY PERSON IN THE WORLD who can help her, without us ever being told or understanding why this is the case. I understand our h and H have to be thrown together, but it should at least be believable!
Which brings me to: the fact that Jane even has to blackmail him. What an odious thing to do! How am I supposed to like this woman? Why bring blackmail into the plot when, realistically, IT IS COMPLETELY UNNECESSARY. Since we're never told why Jane considers Sullivan is the ONLY PERSON IN THE WORLD who can help her, I never understood why she couldn't simply let someone else do the job and avoid having to blackmail anybody in the first place. Hence why I couldn't get behind the romance when the h basically has to commit a crime for them to even get together in the first place!
Because of my disconnect with the h and H (particularly the h with her blackmail antics), I also failed to connect with the flimsy plot they were flailing around in. Although I can admit this was fast-paced and action packed, none of it really had an effect on me because I couldn't engage with Sullivan and Jane and the ludicrous way in which they'd been brought together, and sadly, didn't really care about what happened to them.
The fight scenes are described down to the last detail, and really, they go on for so long that I couldn't figure out how Jane and Sullivan were still alive by the end of some of them. Particularly Sullivan. Is he a hero, a superhero, a superhuman, a supernatural entity? I don't think anybody could take the licking he does and still be standing by the end of it! I normally don't say this but: the violence needs to be dialed back big time! There's strong and then there's invincible. Not only did the set-up lack any credibility, so did the battle descriptions.
Not only is Jane a horrid blackmailer, she treats Sullivan horridly for most of the book. Despite him being the ONLY PERSON IN THE WORLD who can help her, she frequently does the TSTL thing and runs out on him and puts herself and everybody else in danger. Then she keeps throwing out cliched romance statements such as, "Bad things happen to everybody I know," without ever ONCE clarifying what she means by that. Who, Jane? Who are we talking about? What happened to them? Are you saying these dramatic things to add being a martyr to your list of unlikable traits?
Then we have the simple, predictable plot that nevertheless still manages to not make any sense.
Then there were all the other inconsistencies. You know - Sullivan has the best team ever, all at the highest levels of their fields yada yada yada - who conveniently miss the important stuff that then nearly gets them all killed. Dialogue is limited, and what we do have is cheesy and cringe-inducing.
Jane often says to herself throughout the book that the first rule of blackmail is not to fall in love. I would have thought that the first rule would be not to get caught, but I suppose Jane's line of thinking is in line with her boneheadedness as a character. Only bother with this hot mess of a book if you're blackmailed into it yourself!
December 31, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. Sullivan Bishop hates Jane Reise; he holds her responsible for the suicide of his brother because Jane prosecuted him years ago. When she shows up at his supposedly impenetrable office one night, asking for his help to find the man who’s been stalking her, Sullivan refuses. In desperation, Jane blackmails him because she knows a secret about Sullivan that could put him in prison and lose him his business.
Faced with no choice, Sullivan calls his team in. They soon find that Jane is being targeted by a particularly vicious individual who wants Jane dead and won’t stop until she isn’t breathing anymore. Jane realises she’s made a mistake by dragging Sullivan and his team into it and tries to cut him loose, but by then he’s too involved and determined to keep his word – he promised he’d protect her, and he will.
The action doesn’t stop in this book! Sullivan’s determination to keep Jane alive is only matched by the stalker’s determination to kill her, and what begins is a deadly battle with each side determined to emerge victor. After four long, action and tension filled days, Sullivan and Jane give in to the attraction that has burned between them since she showed up at his office. Normally, I would be a little hesitant to buy the short time frame, but given everything Sullivan and Jane went through it worked fine. And just when you think you’ve worked it all out, you know who’s behind the bounty on Jane, you’ll find out you were wrong.
I liked both Jane and Sullivan; they were both strong willed and kick ass characters. The only thing that bugged me was something Jane did to Sullivan towards the end of the book. I can sort of buy why she did it, and what her rationale was behind it, but I think I’d have a much harder time forgiving her for it than Sullivan did because it was a really horrible thing to do. She clearly didn’t think of the consequences of her actions, and it could have been a whole lot worse than it ended up.
I also want to know, Nichole… how *did* Jane get into Sullivan’s office?
Faced with no choice, Sullivan calls his team in. They soon find that Jane is being targeted by a particularly vicious individual who wants Jane dead and won’t stop until she isn’t breathing anymore. Jane realises she’s made a mistake by dragging Sullivan and his team into it and tries to cut him loose, but by then he’s too involved and determined to keep his word – he promised he’d protect her, and he will.
The action doesn’t stop in this book! Sullivan’s determination to keep Jane alive is only matched by the stalker’s determination to kill her, and what begins is a deadly battle with each side determined to emerge victor. After four long, action and tension filled days, Sullivan and Jane give in to the attraction that has burned between them since she showed up at his office. Normally, I would be a little hesitant to buy the short time frame, but given everything Sullivan and Jane went through it worked fine. And just when you think you’ve worked it all out, you know who’s behind the bounty on Jane, you’ll find out you were wrong.
I liked both Jane and Sullivan; they were both strong willed and kick ass characters. The only thing that bugged me was something Jane did to Sullivan towards the end of the book. I can sort of buy why she did it, and what her rationale was behind it, but I think I’d have a much harder time forgiving her for it than Sullivan did because it was a really horrible thing to do. She clearly didn’t think of the consequences of her actions, and it could have been a whole lot worse than it ended up.
I also want to know, Nichole… how *did* Jane get into Sullivan’s office?
June 26, 2018
Severe, savage, and sharp suspense, the kind of creepy stalking where I can feel the eyes on me, giving the chills, the kind of up close and personal action that scared the daylights outta me.
No one is safe from the battle or from getting wounded, hurt, or marred, not even the protagonists. The fight for survival is acute, you can taste the fear, you can hear the war cries, the images the author creates are vivid and toe-curling frightening. There are no guarantees of anyone surviving the hostile attacks towards the heroine.
Jane Reise is one capable, kick-ass heroine. She is an army captain, a JAG lawyer, she knows her guns, she is familiar with combat moves, and she is not afraid to step into a line of fire or risk her life to save another.
She is desperate to get help, to get intel, to get protection from the ruthless stalker, and desperate times calls desperate measures, even blackmail.
I loved how Sullivan Bishop and Jane were on such equal footing after the rocky start. The mutual respect, the mutual recognition of each others capabilities, and even the attraction they have for each other, they were comparable, they were a perfect match for each other, there was a tangible harmony between them, that made the connection between them unique, true, and believable. Sullivan and Jane together were so hot together they could have melted the snow in the Alaskan winter, yet their most private moments happen behind the closed doors.
This story took my breath away. The non-stop thrilling, brutal action had me on the edge, and the delightfully dreamy, ardent love story developing between Jane and Sullivan had me sighing with content. There's such a perfect balance between the relentless conflict and the wonderment of falling in love, between the tragedy and drama of Sullivan's family and the tight bond and teamwork, even the light banter, between him and his troops. I relished reading this story, it gave the kind of gratification that only a well written and plotted, smoothly flowing tale can give, it's the kind of explosive romantic suspense that I can't get enough of.
~ Five Spoons!
No one is safe from the battle or from getting wounded, hurt, or marred, not even the protagonists. The fight for survival is acute, you can taste the fear, you can hear the war cries, the images the author creates are vivid and toe-curling frightening. There are no guarantees of anyone surviving the hostile attacks towards the heroine.
Jane Reise is one capable, kick-ass heroine. She is an army captain, a JAG lawyer, she knows her guns, she is familiar with combat moves, and she is not afraid to step into a line of fire or risk her life to save another.
She is desperate to get help, to get intel, to get protection from the ruthless stalker, and desperate times calls desperate measures, even blackmail.
I loved how Sullivan Bishop and Jane were on such equal footing after the rocky start. The mutual respect, the mutual recognition of each others capabilities, and even the attraction they have for each other, they were comparable, they were a perfect match for each other, there was a tangible harmony between them, that made the connection between them unique, true, and believable. Sullivan and Jane together were so hot together they could have melted the snow in the Alaskan winter, yet their most private moments happen behind the closed doors.
This story took my breath away. The non-stop thrilling, brutal action had me on the edge, and the delightfully dreamy, ardent love story developing between Jane and Sullivan had me sighing with content. There's such a perfect balance between the relentless conflict and the wonderment of falling in love, between the tragedy and drama of Sullivan's family and the tight bond and teamwork, even the light banter, between him and his troops. I relished reading this story, it gave the kind of gratification that only a well written and plotted, smoothly flowing tale can give, it's the kind of explosive romantic suspense that I can't get enough of.
~ Five Spoons!
June 27, 2018
Fast paced, action-packed with hot romance...a great ride and everything I love about romantic suspense. Ah, this couple. Sullivan and Jane. They were a lot of fun to watch the angst between two bullheaded people. This heroine is all spitfire and willing to do whatever it takes to get what she needs, which is Sullivan’s help, and like the title says, she uses blackmail. Someone’s stalking her, threatening her. The twists and turns as danger closes in on their lives kept me turning the pages.
The ending was a nice surprise. This is most definitely one to pick up if you’re in need of a great suspense. And one I’ll be re-reading.
The ending was a nice surprise. This is most definitely one to pick up if you’re in need of a great suspense. And one I’ll be re-reading.
June 17, 2018
Review Posted at HarlequinJunkie.com
When JAG Corp prosecutor Jane Reise discovers she has a stalker, she doesn’t know who else to turn to except Former SEAL Sullivan Bishop. Unfortunately, convincing him to work for her is impossible, especially given their past history. However, Jane has information on Sullivan he’d rather not have aired, so she uses the knowledge to gain his co-operation. Will Sullivan call her bluff or will he allow her to blackmail him? Read More
June 16, 2018
High octane action but I wanted to know how she got into his office in the first place.
One thing I didn't like was how she exposed his secret without thinking about the repercussions for him. He could have gone to prison if the situation went against him.
One thing I didn't like was how she exposed his secret without thinking about the repercussions for him. He could have gone to prison if the situation went against him.
January 1, 2019
“Rules in Blackmail” is book one of Nichole Severn’s Blackhawk Security miniseries.
Jane Reise’s life is in danger and the only man she believes who can help is also the man she is positive hates her.
The last thing Sullivan Bishop wants is for Jane to be a client of Blackhawk Security, but when she blackmails him with information about his past, he has no choice.
As Sullivan and Jane fight for survival against a menacing adversary, they begin to fall for each other despite having personal rules for not doing so.
“Rules in Blackmail” has very descriptive action scenes that will make your heart lodge in your throat while you root for Sullivan and Jane to make it out alive.
We are also introduced to other members of Blackhawk Security and I can’t wait to find out what kind of mess they find themselves in on their road to happily-ever-after.
In my opinion, Ms. Severn is an author on the rise in the romantic suspense genre. I will definitely be getting the next book in the series, “Rules in Rescue”.
Jane Reise’s life is in danger and the only man she believes who can help is also the man she is positive hates her.
The last thing Sullivan Bishop wants is for Jane to be a client of Blackhawk Security, but when she blackmails him with information about his past, he has no choice.
As Sullivan and Jane fight for survival against a menacing adversary, they begin to fall for each other despite having personal rules for not doing so.
“Rules in Blackmail” has very descriptive action scenes that will make your heart lodge in your throat while you root for Sullivan and Jane to make it out alive.
We are also introduced to other members of Blackhawk Security and I can’t wait to find out what kind of mess they find themselves in on their road to happily-ever-after.
In my opinion, Ms. Severn is an author on the rise in the romantic suspense genre. I will definitely be getting the next book in the series, “Rules in Rescue”.
September 26, 2018
Action-packed, fast-paced book full of suspense and hot chemistry between the H/H that start out not liking one another. Great read, but not finding out how Jane broke into the office and her turning Sullivan in to the police kept me from rating this book with 5 stars...
BlackHawk Security is owned by former SEAL Sullivan Bishop. His business is to protect others but when Jane Reise, JAG Corps prosecutor breaks into his office to obtain his help, he refuses. Sullivan blames her for his brother's suicide. Jane feels like Sullivan and BlackHawk is her only hope of escaping the stalker after her so, she blackmails him to get it. Forced to work with Jane, he soon realizes that she is not what he thought about her. She's feisty, independent, and can take care of herself, especially when she saves his life not once but 3 times, all when bullets were flying and their lives were at risk. Soon chemistry cannot be denied and hearts become involved to find out that the sick, psychopath has ties to the both of them.
BlackHawk Security is owned by former SEAL Sullivan Bishop. His business is to protect others but when Jane Reise, JAG Corps prosecutor breaks into his office to obtain his help, he refuses. Sullivan blames her for his brother's suicide. Jane feels like Sullivan and BlackHawk is her only hope of escaping the stalker after her so, she blackmails him to get it. Forced to work with Jane, he soon realizes that she is not what he thought about her. She's feisty, independent, and can take care of herself, especially when she saves his life not once but 3 times, all when bullets were flying and their lives were at risk. Soon chemistry cannot be denied and hearts become involved to find out that the sick, psychopath has ties to the both of them.
December 13, 2018
This is the 1st time I've read this author and I loved the story. I enjoyed meeting Sullivan and Jane. They reminded me of people I've met in my life. I like how she brings Sullivan and Jane to life. The way she keeps the other characters going in the story is great also. I'm waiting for stories about the rest of Sullivan's team for they are unique. The story line is awesome for she keeps you in suspense as to what is going to happen next. When you find out who is the major bad guy it will shock you. It will keep you in suspense all the way til the end. I love how it ends. It is a great story and worth a read. J
July 4, 2018
I was gifted this story in paperback , but I would have purchased it anyway. As soon as I read the synopsis of the story I was intrigued. Wow what a wonderful suspenseful storyline. So well written and exciting ,great characters. I couldn't put it down. I highly recommend taking the time to read this story. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author. A must read.
September 23, 2020
Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance
Rules in Blackmail begins the Blackhawk Security series with an intense, dangerous romance. Jane’s life is on the line, and Sullivan is the only person she trusts to protect her and stop the stalker, bringing them to justice for their actions. Yet. Sullivan is not her biggest fan as he blames the JAG prosecutor for bringing charges against his brother, but especially for his brother’s death by suicide because of the ruling in that case.
There is no way in hell he’s going to help Jane now. Unless… she blackmails him into it.
It won’t take long for Sullivan to begin to see Jane in a different light. Bullets flying in your direction and the woman saving your butt (several times) will make a man think twice about a strongly held opinion. But what is yet to come at them will be a stunning blow.
I am now hooked on the Blackhawk Security series. Rules in Blackmail pulled me in, introduced me to a lot of intriguing, interesting secondary characters that I want to know more about, to read their individual stories. This is a perfect example of why I go back to the beginning of a series when a later book intrigues me, tempts me to skip ahead (which is how I discovered this series). The groundwork laid in the earlier stories only adds to the depth that the later books will draw me in (or not). So, for me, starting at the beginning, even if it’s been years since the release of the first book, is my style of reading.
There are unanswered questions in Rules in Blackmail, ones that I overlooked when I 4.5 star rated this title. Because I think exactly how Jane got into the secured property, right into Sullivan’s office will be a running joke among Sullivan’s men for some time to come (meaning in future stories) so I’m okay with that one. The other ones I believe will be answered at some point in the series, so I can wait for them. I cannot just toss aside a good story because all of the questions weren’t answered at first, especially when those questions become part of an arc throughout the series. (Some people can – but I can’t)
I don’t intend to say much more about the plot. I try not to give away spoilers, but I’m especially careful in stories with a mystery involved. I loved the interaction between Sullivan and Jane. Their conflict felt real, even when I didn’t agree with some actions that were taken. Also, their attraction felt real and was being fought against until Sullivan allowed himself to view Jane differently. The secondary characters (Sullivan’s men) brought this story to life for me and made it an intriguing, funny at times, intense journey to discover the truth. The ending is stunning, and that’s all I’m going to say on that.
I enjoyed my time in this world – and since I’ve already bought the entire series (so far) I’ll be diving back in the Blackhawk Security stories soon.
I own a Kindle edition of Rules in Blackmail.
Rules in Blackmail begins the Blackhawk Security series with an intense, dangerous romance. Jane’s life is on the line, and Sullivan is the only person she trusts to protect her and stop the stalker, bringing them to justice for their actions. Yet. Sullivan is not her biggest fan as he blames the JAG prosecutor for bringing charges against his brother, but especially for his brother’s death by suicide because of the ruling in that case.
There is no way in hell he’s going to help Jane now. Unless… she blackmails him into it.
It won’t take long for Sullivan to begin to see Jane in a different light. Bullets flying in your direction and the woman saving your butt (several times) will make a man think twice about a strongly held opinion. But what is yet to come at them will be a stunning blow.
I am now hooked on the Blackhawk Security series. Rules in Blackmail pulled me in, introduced me to a lot of intriguing, interesting secondary characters that I want to know more about, to read their individual stories. This is a perfect example of why I go back to the beginning of a series when a later book intrigues me, tempts me to skip ahead (which is how I discovered this series). The groundwork laid in the earlier stories only adds to the depth that the later books will draw me in (or not). So, for me, starting at the beginning, even if it’s been years since the release of the first book, is my style of reading.
There are unanswered questions in Rules in Blackmail, ones that I overlooked when I 4.5 star rated this title. Because I think exactly how Jane got into the secured property, right into Sullivan’s office will be a running joke among Sullivan’s men for some time to come (meaning in future stories) so I’m okay with that one. The other ones I believe will be answered at some point in the series, so I can wait for them. I cannot just toss aside a good story because all of the questions weren’t answered at first, especially when those questions become part of an arc throughout the series. (Some people can – but I can’t)
I don’t intend to say much more about the plot. I try not to give away spoilers, but I’m especially careful in stories with a mystery involved. I loved the interaction between Sullivan and Jane. Their conflict felt real, even when I didn’t agree with some actions that were taken. Also, their attraction felt real and was being fought against until Sullivan allowed himself to view Jane differently. The secondary characters (Sullivan’s men) brought this story to life for me and made it an intriguing, funny at times, intense journey to discover the truth. The ending is stunning, and that’s all I’m going to say on that.
I enjoyed my time in this world – and since I’ve already bought the entire series (so far) I’ll be diving back in the Blackhawk Security stories soon.
I own a Kindle edition of Rules in Blackmail.
August 6, 2023
Terrific action-packed, enemies-to-lovers story that kept me hooked from the first page to the last. Sullivan owns and runs an elite security company that protects people in danger. One night, he was working alone in his office when the last person he expected or wanted to see showed up - the JAG officer he blames for his brother's death. This meeting is quite contentious, as she managed to get into the office without setting off any alarms, wants his help to stop a stalker, and is willing to blackmail him to get it.
Sullivan promises Jane twenty-four hours, but on the way to check her home for clues, they are broadsided and run off the road by a tow truck. Fleeing into the Alaskan wilderness, they are luckily close to Sullivan's getaway cabin. However, he's injured, and it's made worse by the below-freezing temps, and Jane ends up dragging him to the cabin. I loved the banter between them as they dealt with their situation. The attack arouses Sullivan's protective instincts, and he puts away his grudge against Jane to solve the problem of her stalker.
The twists and turns of this story kept me guessing with every new attack. Sullivan and Jane quickly identify the stalker, but his skills keep them on their toes as they try to bring him down. When it looks like they've finally succeeded, another player enters the game. This one has a deep grudge against Jane, and nothing will stop him from destroying her. The final confrontation had me on the edge of my seat until it was over.
I liked watching the relationship develop between Jane and Sullivan. She is feisty, independent, and quite capable of taking care of herself under most circumstances, though this stalker is an exception. The chemistry between her and Sullivan is undeniable, though both try to fight it. Each is also protective of the other. Sullivan wants to keep Jane safe, and she doesn't want him hurt because of her. This causes several instances of poor decision-making as they try to mitigate the danger. I was rooting for them to finally realize that they belonged together. The ending is fun as the two stubborn people recognize that, though they belong with each other, neither will give up striving for dominance.
I enjoyed getting to know the other members of Blackhawk Security. Each one has a unique personality and set of skills. The inherent trust among them allows for an outstanding brand of teamwork. Some light-hearted moments of teasing and snarky comments helped break up some of the tension. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
The one question that still needs to be answered is how Jane got into Sullivan's secure building. I heard that question is answered in one of the author's novellas, so I'm off to find it and get the answer!
Sullivan promises Jane twenty-four hours, but on the way to check her home for clues, they are broadsided and run off the road by a tow truck. Fleeing into the Alaskan wilderness, they are luckily close to Sullivan's getaway cabin. However, he's injured, and it's made worse by the below-freezing temps, and Jane ends up dragging him to the cabin. I loved the banter between them as they dealt with their situation. The attack arouses Sullivan's protective instincts, and he puts away his grudge against Jane to solve the problem of her stalker.
The twists and turns of this story kept me guessing with every new attack. Sullivan and Jane quickly identify the stalker, but his skills keep them on their toes as they try to bring him down. When it looks like they've finally succeeded, another player enters the game. This one has a deep grudge against Jane, and nothing will stop him from destroying her. The final confrontation had me on the edge of my seat until it was over.
I liked watching the relationship develop between Jane and Sullivan. She is feisty, independent, and quite capable of taking care of herself under most circumstances, though this stalker is an exception. The chemistry between her and Sullivan is undeniable, though both try to fight it. Each is also protective of the other. Sullivan wants to keep Jane safe, and she doesn't want him hurt because of her. This causes several instances of poor decision-making as they try to mitigate the danger. I was rooting for them to finally realize that they belonged together. The ending is fun as the two stubborn people recognize that, though they belong with each other, neither will give up striving for dominance.
I enjoyed getting to know the other members of Blackhawk Security. Each one has a unique personality and set of skills. The inherent trust among them allows for an outstanding brand of teamwork. Some light-hearted moments of teasing and snarky comments helped break up some of the tension. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
The one question that still needs to be answered is how Jane got into Sullivan's secure building. I heard that question is answered in one of the author's novellas, so I'm off to find it and get the answer!
July 23, 2020
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for an honest review, I was not required to give a favorable review. This is a story that will keep you on your toes. Jane is a JAG Lawyer & officer and is being stalked. Sullivan is the brother of the one of the men she convicted for sexual assault on women and also an ex-Navy SEAL with his hone Security company. He can't figure out how she got in his building and now she is blackmailing him to help protect her and find out who is the stalker. But after being run off the road by an ex-boyfriend turned mercenary she saves Sullivan's life. But so much more happens and they both get attacked, kidnapped, stabbed, shot and when it comes down to finding out who is doing this too her, it will come to shock at the end. But they figure out that the is a wonderful chemistry between them.
January 24, 2019
What an amazing book. Sullivan can’t believe who’s in his office. The last person he’d ever want to see. To say he can’t stand her is putting it mildly. How did she get past his security? Jane Riese.
He’s so mad at her and tells her to leave his office. When she doesn’t and blackmails him into helping her he’s stunned. He here’s her out. It’s not until they leave his office things become real, and he believes what she’s saying.
Jane might have a reputation as being somewhat of a cold heart, but she does her job. She knows Sullivan is the only one she can trust
It’s when things get dicey that he believes her and protects her.
See what happens while he’s protecting her.
So good. So suspenseful. Edge of your seat.
He’s so mad at her and tells her to leave his office. When she doesn’t and blackmails him into helping her he’s stunned. He here’s her out. It’s not until they leave his office things become real, and he believes what she’s saying.
Jane might have a reputation as being somewhat of a cold heart, but she does her job. She knows Sullivan is the only one she can trust
It’s when things get dicey that he believes her and protects her.
See what happens while he’s protecting her.
So good. So suspenseful. Edge of your seat.
May 20, 2019
Fast paced, action packed, Sullivan Bishop is hot ex Seal turned Security Protection. Jane Reise is kick ass Jag lawyer, now throw in romance and lots of bad guys, lots of suspense with twists and turns and you’ve got one hellava read! Awesome job Nicole, will definitely read more from this author!!
April 20, 2019
Jane has a stalker and knows just who can help her Sullivan even if she has to blackmail him to help. This story has lots of action and suspense plus a twist in the end that surprises you. I was drawn in from the beginning and eagerly turned page after page enjoying this story til the end.
July 11, 2019
this story hooked me in from page one and could not sleep until I finished reading.
two people emotional affected by events in their past and circumstances brought them together. Great introduction to the Blackhawk security team.
two people emotional affected by events in their past and circumstances brought them together. Great introduction to the Blackhawk security team.
June 11, 2020
This is the 2nd book I read by Nichole Severn. This book's storyline was okay. I liked the action in this story. I liked Sullivan's character. I liked Sullivan's toughness in this story. Jane got on my nerves in this story. I liked the ending.
October 14, 2020
I love a good suspence that keeps me on my toes and my adrenaline pumping and that's exactly what this book gave me. I loved it! Even if it was a little PG compared to what I usually read. I'm already starting the second in the series and cant wait to see what happens!
January 15, 2021
Suspenseful
I loved the suspense in this story. The author wove twists and turns throughout, I never knew what was next. I thoroughly enjoyed and can’t wait to read the rest of the series.
I loved the suspense in this story. The author wove twists and turns throughout, I never knew what was next. I thoroughly enjoyed and can’t wait to read the rest of the series.
January 19, 2021
Action Packed
An action packed, you can't put the book down story. Great character building, very good chemistry between the main characters. A good, clean read - that has you guessing until the end
An action packed, you can't put the book down story. Great character building, very good chemistry between the main characters. A good, clean read - that has you guessing until the end
February 5, 2021
Edge of your seat
This story hooked me early on and just kept on. Every time I was about to set it aside for a bit to do something else, another twist came and I couldn't stop reading. The twists and turns and suspense kept me on the edge of my seat.
This story hooked me early on and just kept on. Every time I was about to set it aside for a bit to do something else, another twist came and I couldn't stop reading. The twists and turns and suspense kept me on the edge of my seat.
February 16, 2026
Gritty!
Rules in Blackmail is one tense, action packed suspense novel. Great novel with loads of twists and turns. I was conflicted about the heroine, though. On the one hand, she’s a strong woman. On the other, her actions cause the hero to be a pin cushion of wounds.
Rules in Blackmail is one tense, action packed suspense novel. Great novel with loads of twists and turns. I was conflicted about the heroine, though. On the one hand, she’s a strong woman. On the other, her actions cause the hero to be a pin cushion of wounds.
February 6, 2022
Fascinating. Nothing's what it seems. And when you think, the threat just might be over, you'll get thrown right into it - again.
April 12, 2025
A thoroughly enjoyable, engaging read!
June 20, 2021
Excellent story
Great story from the very start. There’s a love story blended with battles of all kinds, and stirred with the occasional drop of humour. And there’s a jaw dropping mystery. I loved it all.
Great story from the very start. There’s a love story blended with battles of all kinds, and stirred with the occasional drop of humour. And there’s a jaw dropping mystery. I loved it all.
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