A Hero's Scars Former Navy SEAL, Quentin Zane, was battle-scarred long before he joined the military. As a child, his father put him through hell. One terrible night, he lost everything. Since then, the only bright spot in his life has been Ellie King. And he'll stop at nothing to protect her, even if it means unleashing the blackness within.
Broken but determined After many false starts, Ellie finally left her abusive boyfriend and fled to her brother's place. But her ex is hatching a plan to kill innocent people, and she has to stop him. With Zane's help, she'll put him behind bars. Ellie's known her big brother's best friend for years, but she's never truly seen Zane before. Will they stop a madman from killing? And will they heal each other's wounds?
Cynthia Rayne is a USA TODAY bestselling author of the Black Star Security, Kinky Security, Lone Star Mobster, and the Four Horsemen MC Series. While Cynthia was born and raised a damn Yankee in Ohio, her parents hail from Dixie, and she grew up on homemade buttermilk biscuits and southern wisdom. In her spare time, she enjoys shopping, reading way too many romance novels, and drinking a truly obscene amount of coffee.
Plenty if espionage and plotting in this one. This one got a tad touch and go at the end. Lots of tension between Zane and Ellie. No real resolution till the end. Good story kept you reading.
Nothing is Black and White where Ellie and Zane are concerned. An intriguing story of family, relationships and betrayal of the highest order. A compelling story that kept me glued to my reader! Terrific characters that I enjoyed delving into. Such a variety of characteristics that it had great flow. I enjoyed the storyline as it combined the elements of danger, fear, love and trust. An absolute wonderful read.
In the third book of the Black Star Security series, lives are in danger and emotions are conflicted. The men and women who work for the security company are dedicated to helping others, which often leaves little time for them to focus on their personal lives. Quentin Zane does not talk about the years before he became a Navy SEAL and later a member of the Black Star Security team, yet his history greatly affects the way his sees his future playing out. Though Elinor King had a good childhood, she has made several bad choices as an adult, and these decisions have brought her back into Zane’s life which causes plenty of complications for them both. Now they will have to find a way to keep people safe while struggling with their feelings for each other. There was never a moment when I was not enthralled by what was happening in the story, as each event kept me totally entertained. Cynthia Rayne makes IN THE BLACK emotionally engaging and increasingly suspenseful.
At one time, Elinor King had thought the man with whom she lived would be in her life forever. But when his beliefs and conduct changed, she knew they must break up, especially since he seems to be involved with some men with questionable motives. When Ellie speaks to her boyfriend, the confrontation leaves her battered and then fleeing to stay with her brother who works for Black Star Security.
Though Ellie would like to come up with a plan on her own that will keep the group of men from carrying out a horrific scheme, she realizes some assistance is needed. Since she already knows Quentin Zane who works with her brother, she lets him in on what she knows. Zane has never confessed to Ellie how deeply he cares for her, and he knows his concentration needs to be on finding a way to keep this radical group from hurting anyone. So he will have to fight his attraction to her whenever they are together, and definitely not let it be apparent.
There is always an interesting situation occurring in the story, and Cynthia Rayne has created a wide range of emotions to experience while reading. I laughed at some witty comments and became fearful during incidents where outcomes were uncertain. The circumstances that were packed with sincere emotions often had me sympathizing with a character and wanting their desired wishes to be granted. Zane has suffered through some tough episodes in his life, and I so hoped he got his chance at happiness along with Ellie who also deserves some lasting joy. Any threats they faced are realistic and sadly could actually take place in today’s world. Emotions and peril make IN THE BLACK constantly gripping.
I voluntarily reviewed the book, and all comments are my honest opinion - 4.5 Stars
My heart was breaking for Zane! He's had such a tough life, but has used the horrors he's seen to make himself into a better man. Still, he doesn't think he deserves Ellie. When Ellie shows up needing the kind of help only Black Star Security can offer, Zane is no longer able to resist his feelings for her.
The suspense/security aspect of this story was very well done, keeping me glued to the pages almost to the point of forgetting this is a romance, too. But Zane and Ellie have loved each other from afar for a very long time, so this unique set of circumstances send their undeniable chemistry into overdrive, despite what Tommy might otherwise wish for his sister.
I loved the tender romance between the two, and I especially loved the brotherhood bond between Zane and King. Even though this is a standalone romance, we also get enough interaction with the other members of Black Star Security to keep me coming back to read all of the books in this series. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
"I've been waitin' years for you. So, I'm takin' my sweet time."
Oh Lordy!! If Black Star Security was real, and these men were on the job, I think I'd get myself in a heap of trouble, just so I could call them for help! They're all so hot, and alpha, but sweet and vulnerable all at the same time. Delicious!!
Ellie King is in trouble. Her boyfriend, Dave, and his radical buddies are up to something bad, and they've dragged her in to it. Whatever it is, it involves a secret government biological project she's been working on, that if unleashed, would be deadly. After Dave beats her senseless when she confronts him, she has one place to turn - her brother Tommy. Seeking his help, and that of Black Star Security, she finds herself face to face with the man who's had her heart for years - Zane. She's always wanted him but he left her without a reason, feeling hurt and confused. Now, he's sending mixed signals. Could she dare to think they have a chance? What if they can't stop Dave's plans? What if she goes to prison? She's lost him once before. She's not sure if she can survive losing him again.
Quentin Zane has held a torch for Ellie for a long time. But she's off-limits. Not only is she the sister of his friend and fellow Black Star Security team member, but she deserves better than him. After what he did, everyone does. Now, she's here and in trouble. Can he keep it professional while they try to stop Dave and his buddies from unleashing holy hell on the public? If he told her the truth, she'd walk away forever, but he's done fighting it. He knows one thing - he'll do whatever it takes to keep her safe and alive, even if it means giving up everything. Even his life.
This is such a great story. Suspense, action, danger, sweetness and steam all rolled into one. I can't wait for Nox's story next. I have a feeling that one's gonna be EPIC!
So loving this new series by Cynthia Rayne, Black Star Security is full of alpha men EX SEALS, CIA and two fierce women. This is another fantastic read, like all her other books once you start them you can’t put it down till you know what’s happened. I love the chemistry between Zane And Ellie it’s hot.
Forgiving yourself and starting over seems difficult… with friends and love on your side it’s possible.
You know you need help. You know that help is just a moment away, yet seems out of reach. Sometimes it’s not until you’ve been pushed to the edge, that you question the wrong, after nearly loosing yourself in an abusive cycle, that you dig deep to ask for that help. Knowing all to well that there is serious danger lurking and resignation to right a wrong.
IN THE BLACK… Oh WOW!!
Cynthia has pulled no punches with this book. Really the entire BLACK STAR SECURITY series is a beautiful blend of what some experience daily. It’s not easy and it’s all too real. Hurting, sadness, anger, despair and not knowing who to trust or turn to when you need help. There were moments and words uttered from both Ellie and Zane that made me cry. You felt their pain and sorrow. Both hold such strength and determination but also stubbornness to let the other in and admit they feel more for each other because they are carrying scars from the past. Amongst the sad there is banter and humourous moments to lighten this story.
It also carries the drama and suspense as life and a serious threat to a country’s safety unfolds. Again… some little teasing hints for future stories ahead…
A beautifully, well written story, I highly recommend for those that love anything military/security with real life situations, emotions and drama mixed in with their romance. It’s always good to catch up with past characters… this is a close knit team that protect each other and family.
If you haven’t already started this series… while each story could be read as a stand alone book… there are little snippets of previous characters throughout. Really you will want to go back to the beginning and immerse yourself in Black Star Security.
In The Black is the third book in the exciting Black Star Security series by bestselling author Cynthia Rayne. This was definitely my favorite book in the series so far! An emotional roller-coaster of a story that was intriguing, gripping, full of action, mystery, suspense, and captured me from beginning to end. The camaraderie, loyalty, and hilarious banter between the characters make it easy to connect with all of them, not just the main one's. Another fantastic story, and a great addition to this incredible series. I can't wait for more!
Quentin "Zane" and Elinor "Ellie" King have known one another for years due to Zane and King, Ellie's brother, being best friends. Ellie has been in love with Zane for most of that time, and even though Zane had strong feelings for Ellie, he knew that he would never be good enough for her because of his tragic past.
When Ellie shows up at HQ beaten and bloody, Zane and the guys make sure that her ex-boyfriend knows that he won't ever lay his hands on her again. Unfortunately, there's a lot more going on than just her beating. Ellie finally admits that she needs help, and after confiding in Zane, they know they're going to have to include the rest of the team in order to have a chance of stopping the upcoming attack.
With many twists and turns, will Ellie and the team be able to figure out what is going on, as well as prevent the attack before it's too late? With the extreme attraction between Zane and Ellie, can they push it aside again or will they finally give in to what they have both wanted for years? Can the team at Black Star keep Ellie and everyone safe? You'll have to read this to find out, but you won't be disappointed!
I strongly recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
I voluntarily reviewed this arc provided by the author.
King is still suffering from the injuries he sustained saving Savvy when his sister, Ellie, turns up at HQ, beaten by her scum sucking boyfriend. He and the crew mete out a little retribution with their fists and ensure Ellie's safety as she heals. But Ellie isn't only worried about her boyfriends fists, she is also worried about the friends that he has been keeping and what they might have planned. She is also pretty sure that he has used her access card to get his hands on some very nasty chemicals.
Zane has spent most of is adult life fighting back the "blackness", the rage that can build up inside of him, a result of an abusive childhood. He and Ellie had an "almost" moment years ago and he felt awful breaking the heart of the woman he loves, but he doesn't think he deserves a happy ever after and doesn't want to Drag Ellie down with him. But when her life implodes with the mess her boyfriend has made, he and the crew will do what they can to save her from prison!
Domestic terrorism, biological weapons, abusive boyfriends, child physical and emotional abuse all coalesce into a fantastic story. The passion comes late in this book but that just keeps the sexual tension cranked high throughout the book. I love Savvy's way of breaking up a fight LOL. Nox is as enigmatic as ever and Stormy, well he is just as Californian as ever! The offence he takes when he slips in a little Southern into his speech LOL. Some very delicate situations are handled with care and love and the black humour is thick. The BSS crew are a very dysfunctional but lovable all the same family and I can't wait to see who falls into their HEA next!
Former Navy Seal, Quentin Zane, is now working for Black Star Security. He seems to have found his place in the world with this special team. As a child, his father put him through hell and because of that he doesn’t feel worthy of the only woman he’s ever loved, Ellie King.
After Ellie’s boyfriend beat her up she goes to her brother, Thomas, who also works for Black Star Security and is a friend of Zane’s, for help. Ellie finds herself in trouble because her boyfriend and some of his buddies are planning to hurt a lot of people. Zane and the team step up to help her and stop Dave from doing this evil. While in the middle of this mess Zane and Ellie struggle with their feelings for each other and what to do about them.
This is the third book in this series and I love it as much as Book 1 and 2. I couldn’t put it down so I read it in one sitting. This story has a nail biting plot, lots of bad guys, heat between Zane and Ellie, fast pace action, some humor which makes things fun, sweet moments for the H&H, and everything tied together nicely in the end. I love this story and can’t wait for the next one.
What a heart stopping and emotional ride. Two people who have so much guilt and baggage are just trying to make it through the day.
Zane and Ellie have known each other for years. She is Zane's friend and coworkers younger sister. Both of them are very interested in each other but Zane keeps running hot and cold towards Ellie. We as the reader find out his backstory before her does it helps you understand why he is running scared with his feelings.
I liked the character of Ellie. She was both strong but vulnerable. She was in this really awful spot and she wants to do whatever was right but also she didn't want anyone to get hurt. My only complaint was while it added suspense, one thing kept bringing me out of the story. These highly training people were bringing her with to all of these awful situations where I think even though she felt guilty she seemed more like a burden than an asset.
Black Star Security is a crew made up of mismatched men with one thing in common, keeping their enemy in sight and their family close & safe. Ms. Cynthia has a way of making you believe her characters are real and people you may know. Zane and Ellie are no exception. We've met both characters briefly in "Black and White". Never heard of it ... shame on you. It's another "Good Read" by Ms. Cynthia. If you've read it - you're super awesome - and you know what I mean about these characters being real. Anyhoo ... Zane and Eliie have been fighting their own attractions to each other for a long time and now have a second chance to make it thru this current problem Ellie has with an ex. What is it ?? Well, it's like this ... I ain't telling you nothing but my name and occupation. It's the military way. Check it out !!! Or stay in the blackout. *wink-wink*
This book was edgy, suspenseful and passionate. I love the fact Cynthia Rayne pours so much into each character and most of all the relationship building.
The character development in this book is flawless. Most of all, the author is able to build a realistic relationship and create an emotional journey for the reader. Cynthia Rayne also pays attention to continuing to build secondary characters. The world building is fantastic making it a captivating book, one I couldn't put down.
The storyline itself was everything I could want. It kept me on the edge of my seat. I cried at times, I definitely cringed and yet the author knew exactly when to drop in some humor. There is plenty of sexiness; the entire series is filled with strong, sexy alpha men. From beginning to end, this book delivers.
5 stars for an edgy, captivating and sexy book! Highly recommend!
Love, love, love Cynthia Rayne’s books, she’s definitely one of my go to authors. Her MC and Lone Star Mafia books are some of my favorites and this new “Black Star Security “ series is amazing too. I’ve really been waiting for Zane’s book, he’s such a great character. Also think it’s fun that he’s in love with King’s sister Ellie. We got a tiny little glimpse of her in the end of Black and White, so I was definitely waiting for this book. Very quick read, I read it in a couple of hours, exciting and really hot...although they remained hands off for a lot longer than I thought they would. Another great read from the very talented Ms. Rayne, can’t wait for Nox’s story, it’s sure to be intriguing.
Exciting Installment in the Black Star Security series!!
Ellie’s big brother is an ex-SEAL and now on the Black Star Security team. When her boyfriend Dave steals her badge to a high security area for her work and then gives her a beating when asked about it, she runs to him for assistance. Not only does she need a place to recover, but there is a danger from Dave’s group who believes the government has no authority over them.
Quentin Zane used to be close to Ellie; she lived with her brother Tommy and Zane for a while until an incident broke that closeness. As Zane nurses her back to health and the team works to mitigate the risk from the sovereign group they once again grow close; “Well, here’s a newsflash for you. I felt the same way about you. Back then.” He winced. Felt. Not feel. She cleared her throat. “If you hadn’t rejected me, I think we might still be together”.
Every member of the team is interesting and unique. This story which gives a close-up of Zane and Ellie is emotional, danger-filled and a read I highly recommend!!
*** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book ***
Wow! Just wow. I loved this book! I read it in one sitting, could not put it down. The book has some dark sides to it, but just grabs you as Zane struggles with his past and domestic violence he experienced from his dad. Zane struggles with his dark side when Ellie shows ups to Black Star beaten by her boyfriend. Zane has (secretly) loved Ellie forever and he loses it when she shows up black and blue. Even though he suffered abuse as a child, it made him a protector of those he loves. I was lucky to receive this as an ARC for my honest review. I always still purchase the ebook to support the author and I’ve already pre-ordered the next book in this series.
WOWZERRSSS This story is crazy good! I have loved the whole series but this book has stolen the show. O.K. so Zane and Ellie have known each other for years. She is Zane's friend They are both very interested in each other but Zane keeps running well shall we say hot and cold. When we get Zane's story about his past it helps us to understand why he is running hot and cold.
Ellie was both strong but she also had a vulnerable side too. She was in this really awful relationship he put her in an awful spot. Ellie wants to do whatever was right but she also does not want anyone to get hurt. Can Zane help Ellie and will Ellie be able to help Zane?
I love this series of the Black Star Security boys. This is Zane and Ellie’s story. He has loved her forever, but she is off limits. The big brother, Tommy, is close friend and co-worker. Plus he is huge and will beat the shit out of Zane if he crosses the line. Things change when she shows up black and blue after her boyfriend beats her when she discovers his secret. Full of action, this is a great book. It’s a rapid releases series so waiting for the next book won’t take long, which makes me happy because it’s Nox’s story. I LOVE him already.
I really liked Zane and Ellie together. The backstory is a lite frustrating because there's not a lot of it, butt that's okay because the story itself makes up for it. Zane has had it rough and I really felt bad for him because he doesn't feel like he deserves happiness. Ellie on the other hand made some really dumb choices. I won't throw in spoilers, so you'll just have to read it, but holy Moses what was she thinking? Cynthia Rayne never disappoints and while the Horsemen remain my favorite series you'll want to pick this one up as well.
Zane’s turn to take up the mantle in this next part of the series. When King’s sister Ellie turns up beaten by her boyfriend Zane has to face up to his feelings for his friends little sister but does she feel the same? I’m really enjoying this latest series from Cynthia, she writes in such an easy relaxed way that feel comfortable, the characters are all believable and likeable , the storylines are exciting, the sex scenes are Hot without being over the top and it all meshes together perfectly. Look forward to the next book
An intense and gripping storyline, complex characters and powerful emotions help make this a very compelling and enjoyable read. I adored the connection between Zane and Ellie. Their chemistry is so hot and the love goes soul deep. These two have a long history and that enriches the story. Zane and Ellie are both damaged, imperfect people, with plenty of baggage that needs to be dealt with. A very entertaining blend of romance, angst, drama, danger, and suspense. This is my honest, voluntary review.
I loved this book! This is the story of Ellie and Zane. It is a thrilling story of mystery, suspense and a love that was hidden for years. Ellie is in trouble when she shows up at her brothers HQ for Black Star Security. But when she gets there, it isn’t her brother that answers the door and when she sees Zane, she is once again that teenager who is in love. As they navigate their relationship, they must also figure out the horrifying mystery that Ellie has gotten into. But when they solve it will they survive it? Great story!!!
In the Black was Zayne's story. It's a good addition to the Black Star Security series. I have a soft spot for Zayne. He is broody, in pain and in love with his bro's sister Ellie. Ellie has loved Zayne forever but he is always pushed her away. We Ellie shows up black and blue, Zayne's protective nature will kick in but he will fight the attraction til the end. Ellie is a strong female lead and goes after what she wants...and that's Zayne. So take a chance on In the Black you will not be disappointed. Happy Reading!!!
Zane's loved Ellie for years. He thinks any relationship is doomed because he's damaged goods and she's the little sister of his teammate. When things with her ex take a dangerous turn she comes to Black Star Security for help. The feelings they've both tried to hide are on display for all to see. A deadly domestic terror plot, her wildly overprotective brother and their respective insecurities are all that stand in the way of their HEA. Can they trust themselves, their love and stop the terrorists in time? Sexy romantic suspense at its best.
I love that the members of Black Star are family despite not being related. They have each other's backs no matter what happens. You get involved with the characters and want things to work for them. This is another great story in this series. It has danger, action, romance and redemption. Can be read as a standalone, no cliffhanger and an Hea. Can't wait to read the next book in this series. I received this arc in exchange for an honest review.
I love that the members of Black Star are family despite not being related. They have each other's backs no matter what happens. You get involved with the characters and want things to work for them. This is another great story in this series. It has danger, action, romance and redemption. Can be read as a standalone, no cliffhanger and an Hea. Can't wait to read the next book in this series. I received this arc in exchange for an honest review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and loved it so much, I purchased a copy.
This was a wonderful addition to this fantastic series. I just loved Ellie's and Quentin's story. The dual POVs was very helpful to me to understand Quentin's actions. I have adored all of this series. Reading about these perfectly wonderful heroes and their scared emotional side and how they over come to find their "happily ever after" is heart-wrenching. I can't wait for the rest of the series!!!
I've become completely obsessed with this series! I love Zane and Ellie's story! Zane's childhood has made his 'issues' hard to get past and he's pushed her away in the past. They love each other but can they get past their issues? Seeing them work through this all in the middle of a huge, dangerous situation....means a can't put it down read!