What do you think?
Rate this book
Fortress Security #8
Shadow Guardian
While on a diplomatic mission, Mercy Powers is attacked and taken hostage by terrorists. Although a team of black ops warriors rescues her, Mercy's troubles are just beginning. The terrorists aren't giving up, and now she and her family have a bounty on their heads. But having already survived a devastating loss, Mercy has more reason to live than ever and refuses to surrender to a group of men determined to destroy her new life. Instead, she turns to the warrior who captured her heart for help.
On an overdue break, Fortress Security operative Nico Rivera and his team of Shadow warriors are called to duty to rescue the president's niece. With his team at his back, Nico snatches Mercy from the hands of a deadly terrorist group. After returning home, the danger to Mercy escalates. Nico searches for the enemy, but instead of learning answers, he finds more questions. When the hunt leads him to Capitol Hill, Nico takes on the Washington elite in his quest to protect Mercy. With time running out, he must uncover the power behind the plot before the woman he adores pays the ultimate price.
On an overdue break, Fortress Security operative Nico Rivera and his team of Shadow warriors are called to duty to rescue the president's niece. With his team at his back, Nico snatches Mercy from the hands of a deadly terrorist group. After returning home, the danger to Mercy escalates. Nico searches for the enemy, but instead of learning answers, he finds more questions. When the hunt leads him to Capitol Hill, Nico takes on the Washington elite in his quest to protect Mercy. With time running out, he must uncover the power behind the plot before the woman he adores pays the ultimate price.
- GenresRomance
305 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2018
241 people are currently reading
50 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Deel
47 books215 followersRebecca Deel is the author of 43 high-velocity romantic suspense novels that prove the only thing more dangerous than a covert mission is losing your heart. Known for weaving intricate mysteries with deep emotional stakes, Rebecca has built a massive library of stories featuring elite security teams, courageous heroines, and protective heroes.
Whether she’s exploring the shadows of a quiet small town or the adrenaline of a global operation, Rebecca delivers the kind of twists that keep readers turning pages long after the lights should have been out.
Whether she’s exploring the shadows of a quiet small town or the adrenaline of a global operation, Rebecca delivers the kind of twists that keep readers turning pages long after the lights should have been out.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
December 26, 2025
Mercy Powers was on a diplomatic mission in Mexico for her uncle when she's kidnapped by terrorists. She is interrogated and beaten but knows that if she gives them the information they're after, she'll be of no use to them. She'll just have to stay strong until she can figure out a way to escape the terrorists.
Nico Rivera and the Shadow Unit had been on a much needed break for a couple of days when they were tasked to rescue the President of the United States niece. They were successful in getting Mercy out of the hands of the Scorpions but their troubles are just beginning.
Once they return to the US, they receive word from Zane that Mercy has a bounty on her head. The Scorpions are desperate to get her back. With the attempts being made on her life and her house being trashed, Nico becomes even more determined to protect Mercy. There's just something about this beauty that intrigues him. She lights up the darkest parts of his life.
Mercy can't remember the last time she felt this safe. She knows that Nico and his team would sacrifice their own lives to protect her. She's determined to do whatever she can to help figure out why the Scorpions are after her. Both Nico and Mercy have too much to live for to let the Scorpions win. No one will rest until the Scorpions are dismantled completely and Mercy is safe. Once that happens, then they can look to the future and their HEA.
*dreamy sigh*
This book. This book right here... wow! Where do I start?! Talk about being sucked in! Once I started this book, I couldn't put it down. I may or may not have forgotten to eat while reading.. ;) I absolutely loved Nico and Mercy! They were perfect for each other and balanced each other out. I am hoping the rest of the Shadow unit get their own books! And of course seeing other characters from previous books was an added bonus. :)
I am SO glad I discovered Ms. Deel! I have devoured her books over the last month and have to admit that I'm sad I'm all caught up! I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!
I have to say that I seriously adore these two for Mercy and Nico! What do you think?!
Content: Mild violence. Talk of rape but nothing happens. No swearing. Clean romance.. just swoony kisses!
Nominated for a 2018 Swoony Award, vote here http://bit.ly/2CWYB9U
Nico Rivera and the Shadow Unit had been on a much needed break for a couple of days when they were tasked to rescue the President of the United States niece. They were successful in getting Mercy out of the hands of the Scorpions but their troubles are just beginning.
Once they return to the US, they receive word from Zane that Mercy has a bounty on her head. The Scorpions are desperate to get her back. With the attempts being made on her life and her house being trashed, Nico becomes even more determined to protect Mercy. There's just something about this beauty that intrigues him. She lights up the darkest parts of his life.
Mercy can't remember the last time she felt this safe. She knows that Nico and his team would sacrifice their own lives to protect her. She's determined to do whatever she can to help figure out why the Scorpions are after her. Both Nico and Mercy have too much to live for to let the Scorpions win. No one will rest until the Scorpions are dismantled completely and Mercy is safe. Once that happens, then they can look to the future and their HEA.
*dreamy sigh*
This book. This book right here... wow! Where do I start?! Talk about being sucked in! Once I started this book, I couldn't put it down. I may or may not have forgotten to eat while reading.. ;) I absolutely loved Nico and Mercy! They were perfect for each other and balanced each other out. I am hoping the rest of the Shadow unit get their own books! And of course seeing other characters from previous books was an added bonus. :)
I am SO glad I discovered Ms. Deel! I have devoured her books over the last month and have to admit that I'm sad I'm all caught up! I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!
I have to say that I seriously adore these two for Mercy and Nico! What do you think?!
Content: Mild violence. Talk of rape but nothing happens. No swearing. Clean romance.. just swoony kisses!
Nominated for a 2018 Swoony Award, vote here http://bit.ly/2CWYB9U
February 8, 2023
Definitely one of my Favorites!
This book is definitely one of my favorites by Rebecca Deel! To be honest, I have enjoyed all of her books (and feeling a major book hangover since this is the last one of hers I hadn’t read). I’m REALLY hoping we see more books both in this series and in the Otter Creek series, SOON!
I really loved our two main characters in this book, Nico and Mercy. Nico fits the bill for a big, skilled, black ops hero, and Mercy is kind, smart, and has a quiet inner strength. The action and suspense kept me on the edge of my seat, and the romance was toe-curling and tender. Definitely one I will be reading again!
This book is definitely one of my favorites by Rebecca Deel! To be honest, I have enjoyed all of her books (and feeling a major book hangover since this is the last one of hers I hadn’t read). I’m REALLY hoping we see more books both in this series and in the Otter Creek series, SOON!
I really loved our two main characters in this book, Nico and Mercy. Nico fits the bill for a big, skilled, black ops hero, and Mercy is kind, smart, and has a quiet inner strength. The action and suspense kept me on the edge of my seat, and the romance was toe-curling and tender. Definitely one I will be reading again!
August 27, 2020
Just What I Needed Today
I really needed a book like this today. It was a bit of a palette cleanser for me. A bit of mystery, a bit of suspense and a super alpha male who goes all in with everything he does. Nico guards, protects and defends his woman in the best kind of way. I liked the kissing too. I've read several books in this series and really enjoyed them all. It will be a series I continue to come back to.
I really needed a book like this today. It was a bit of a palette cleanser for me. A bit of mystery, a bit of suspense and a super alpha male who goes all in with everything he does. Nico guards, protects and defends his woman in the best kind of way. I liked the kissing too. I've read several books in this series and really enjoyed them all. It will be a series I continue to come back to.
May 2, 2018
Another 5 star book from Ms. Deel. I have read them all and find myself itching for for the next one. If you haven’t read any of her works I suggest you start at the beginning, the correct reading order can be found at RececcaDeelBooks.com
May 3, 2018
Great as always
I love these books. Outstanding action with romance that's not degraded with explicit sex scenes. Books I wouldn't mind my teenage grandchildren reading.
I love these books. Outstanding action with romance that's not degraded with explicit sex scenes. Books I wouldn't mind my teenage grandchildren reading.
December 17, 2020
Totally entertaining!!!
I love the wonderful characters and the stories in this series. The suspense, action, and romance are so enjoyable. Lots of excitement in this book!
I love the wonderful characters and the stories in this series. The suspense, action, and romance are so enjoyable. Lots of excitement in this book!
June 4, 2018
So good!
About time Rico got a book! I love him and Mercy is perfect for him a sleeper celebrity. I love it! The plot was thick with twists and turns and I loved the wrap up. I wish we had heard more about the political fall out though. That would have made it more complete. Also we never hear a word about Sam after the final hospital scene so that was a bummer. Did she make the wedding? Oh well hopefully her story will be next. Love this series. Write On Rebecca love Fortress and Otter Creek! Davia
About time Rico got a book! I love him and Mercy is perfect for him a sleeper celebrity. I love it! The plot was thick with twists and turns and I loved the wrap up. I wish we had heard more about the political fall out though. That would have made it more complete. Also we never hear a word about Sam after the final hospital scene so that was a bummer. Did she make the wedding? Oh well hopefully her story will be next. Love this series. Write On Rebecca love Fortress and Otter Creek! Davia
August 5, 2019
Stunning book - even better for being on Kindle Unlimited!
Wow! Another cracker by Rebecca Deel, I loved finally meeting the Shadow Team and getting to know them better. As with the rest of Fortress Security and Otter Creek they didn't disappoint, they swept in, and for a couple of hours at least, saved us from the drudgery of daily life in the real world.
Mercy is amazing, she is feisty, witty, smart, fearless and despite everything life has thrown at her over the last few years she is sweet and loving - it is exactly this combination that steals Nico's heart. She steals the breath from his lungs the minute he lays eyes on her and every minute from then on he falls deeper and deeper.
Nico is the Shadow Team leader, assertive, confident, he knows exactly what he wants and the best way to get it. But Mercy throws his self confidence, can he pursue Mercy? Is it fair to her? Can he be the man she needs?
I am looking forward to Joe and Sam's book and to getting to know Shadow Team better!
Wow! Another cracker by Rebecca Deel, I loved finally meeting the Shadow Team and getting to know them better. As with the rest of Fortress Security and Otter Creek they didn't disappoint, they swept in, and for a couple of hours at least, saved us from the drudgery of daily life in the real world.
Mercy is amazing, she is feisty, witty, smart, fearless and despite everything life has thrown at her over the last few years she is sweet and loving - it is exactly this combination that steals Nico's heart. She steals the breath from his lungs the minute he lays eyes on her and every minute from then on he falls deeper and deeper.
Nico is the Shadow Team leader, assertive, confident, he knows exactly what he wants and the best way to get it. But Mercy throws his self confidence, can he pursue Mercy? Is it fair to her? Can he be the man she needs?
I am looking forward to Joe and Sam's book and to getting to know Shadow Team better!
August 31, 2022
Wow, another strong woman in danger and another wonderfully capable man to help her and fall in love. This is a wonderful addition to an already wonderful series. I am really looking forward to Sam's story which will hopefully be out soon.
July 3, 2023
I quite enjoyed this one. A few funny mistakes still, some that made me laugh.
When Mercedes/Mercy is taken hostage, the president (He’s Mercy’s uncle.) asks Brent to rescue her. Shadow team are sent in under the leadership of Nico. Nico was so sweet and caring in this book, but in later books he comes across as a d*ck.
After Mercy has been rescued, it becomes obvious that she’s in a lot of danger, so is sent to a safe house with the team. While there they fall in love, but as usual with this author, they both doubt the others feelings. Yawn….
There’s a few niggles still, particularly this authors weird habit of writing all police, and agencies as horrible men who are really quite stupid. It’s bizarre, and annoying!!
Then there’s the stupid woman, (Mercy) who thinks she can dictate where she goes and when, and Nico and his team have to jump to it. So unbelievable. There’s no way that someone in that much danger would be allowed to dictate where she goes.
A few spelling mistakes, some quite amused me. It’s definitely this best one I’ve read out of this series.
When Mercedes/Mercy is taken hostage, the president (He’s Mercy’s uncle.) asks Brent to rescue her. Shadow team are sent in under the leadership of Nico. Nico was so sweet and caring in this book, but in later books he comes across as a d*ck.
After Mercy has been rescued, it becomes obvious that she’s in a lot of danger, so is sent to a safe house with the team. While there they fall in love, but as usual with this author, they both doubt the others feelings. Yawn….
There’s a few niggles still, particularly this authors weird habit of writing all police, and agencies as horrible men who are really quite stupid. It’s bizarre, and annoying!!
Then there’s the stupid woman, (Mercy) who thinks she can dictate where she goes and when, and Nico and his team have to jump to it. So unbelievable. There’s no way that someone in that much danger would be allowed to dictate where she goes.
A few spelling mistakes, some quite amused me. It’s definitely this best one I’ve read out of this series.
June 6, 2018
I have rated every single book from this author 5 stars, and this one was no exception. I really loved Nico and Mercy and thought they complemented each other really well. They both are such strong characters who have been through traumatic events but have managed to thrive. As always, the romance was spot on and there was a perfect mix of action and suspense along with it. I loved the supporting characters and cannot wait for Sam's story!! I really adored this author and am so looking forward to her next book!
May 3, 2018
Finally!
Finally we get to learn more about the elusive Shadow Team! Loved the book & the characters, and there were some old favorites in there too. My only issue is that I had a hard time placing this book in a timeline with previous books. But that didn’t take away at all from this 5 star book. Thanks for another great one!
Finally we get to learn more about the elusive Shadow Team! Loved the book & the characters, and there were some old favorites in there too. My only issue is that I had a hard time placing this book in a timeline with previous books. But that didn’t take away at all from this 5 star book. Thanks for another great one!
May 4, 2018
Another great book in the Fortress Security series. As soon as I got the email that the book was out I set aside the book I was reading to read this one. It's nice to get to know the Shadow team a little better. We found out what motivates Nico to do the job they do. I look forward to learning the same thing about the rest of the team.
May 5, 2018
Another great book!
What a wonderful author she is! Another great book in the series. It's full of twists and turns. Just when you think you have it all figured out. Every woman should be so lucky as to have a guy like a Rebecca Feel hero! I would and already have recommended her to my friends and family.
What a wonderful author she is! Another great book in the series. It's full of twists and turns. Just when you think you have it all figured out. Every woman should be so lucky as to have a guy like a Rebecca Feel hero! I would and already have recommended her to my friends and family.
May 25, 2018
Exciting story. The
Great story. I love reading books, but as a Christian that joy has been spoiled by the pornographic graphic gratuitous sexual scenes in do many books. I guess its like the movies every studio wants an "R" rating. But not this book. I could relax and enjoy the love story unfolding along with crime being solved. And of course the guy gets the girl.
Great story. I love reading books, but as a Christian that joy has been spoiled by the pornographic graphic gratuitous sexual scenes in do many books. I guess its like the movies every studio wants an "R" rating. But not this book. I could relax and enjoy the love story unfolding along with crime being solved. And of course the guy gets the girl.
May 3, 2018
Mercy
I was so happy to read Nico and Mercy’s story. Mercy is just the woman for Nico and I loved getting to know him and his team better. Very excited for the rest of Shadow to get their HEA. Thanks Rebecca for another awesome story.
I was so happy to read Nico and Mercy’s story. Mercy is just the woman for Nico and I loved getting to know him and his team better. Very excited for the rest of Shadow to get their HEA. Thanks Rebecca for another awesome story.
May 4, 2018
Outstanding!!
Another awesome, clean, suspenseful, and romantic read from Rebecca Deel!! I’m always excited when another new one comes out. Love both of the series she has out. The characters in her books are like family and it’s exciting to find out more about them.
Another awesome, clean, suspenseful, and romantic read from Rebecca Deel!! I’m always excited when another new one comes out. Love both of the series she has out. The characters in her books are like family and it’s exciting to find out more about them.
May 6, 2018
A must buy
Rebecca deel is an amazing author.... she has you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.....i have loved every book she has bought out ... I would recommend all of them to anybody... can't wait for the next one
Rebecca deel is an amazing author.... she has you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.....i have loved every book she has bought out ... I would recommend all of them to anybody... can't wait for the next one
May 25, 2018
Brilliant just brilliant. I have enjoyed everyone of the Fortress Security books. Look forward to the next one. I also like how they mix with the Other Creek series. Hope there is more to come. This book has thrills and romance. Really enjoyed Nico and Mercy.
May 27, 2018
Fortress security
I loved all the books in the series . When are you going to write a book on Joe and Sam and the rest can't wait for them to come out. These books are a great read don't miss them!!!!!!!
I loved all the books in the series . When are you going to write a book on Joe and Sam and the rest can't wait for them to come out. These books are a great read don't miss them!!!!!!!
June 9, 2018
Good but not great
This was a decent book but the characters failed to interest me as much as this author's previous books. It was an ok read but easy to put down. The plot and descriptions were very similar to many of her other books.
This was a decent book but the characters failed to interest me as much as this author's previous books. It was an ok read but easy to put down. The plot and descriptions were very similar to many of her other books.
June 17, 2019
Nico's story
Nico and Mercedes meet when he rescues her from a Mexican gang. While keeping her out of the gangs clutches onc stateside, they realize there's something between them. Can't wait to read Joe and Sam's story.
Nico and Mercedes meet when he rescues her from a Mexican gang. While keeping her out of the gangs clutches onc stateside, they realize there's something between them. Can't wait to read Joe and Sam's story.
September 7, 2025
Another winner!
There haven't been any Rebecca Deel books that I have not enjoyed immensely. She really knows her stuff, and always provides a compelling, detailed, and gripping storyline that keeps me involved till the end. Highly recommended!
There haven't been any Rebecca Deel books that I have not enjoyed immensely. She really knows her stuff, and always provides a compelling, detailed, and gripping storyline that keeps me involved till the end. Highly recommended!
May 3, 2018
Absolutely loved it!!
This is a fantastic read!! I love the Fortress Security series, and Otter Creek series!! Can't wait for the next one!
This is a fantastic read!! I love the Fortress Security series, and Otter Creek series!! Can't wait for the next one!
May 8, 2018
Awesome
As always Rebecca has done it again! Loved this book! Can't wait for the next one. A must read! You will not be disappointed!
As always Rebecca has done it again! Loved this book! Can't wait for the next one. A must read! You will not be disappointed!
May 16, 2018
Sweet
This series is always a sweet read for me. I love how her book series intertwine with each other. Want a sweet clean read these are your books to read.
This series is always a sweet read for me. I love how her book series intertwine with each other. Want a sweet clean read these are your books to read.
May 27, 2018
Love this author.
I love all of the Fortress Security and Other Creek books. Very well written. Intrigue and romance, with built tough guys. Who could ask for more.
I love all of the Fortress Security and Other Creek books. Very well written. Intrigue and romance, with built tough guys. Who could ask for more.
May 27, 2018
I love reading anything by Rebecca Deel, she always delivers. I hope that this series never ends.
May 29, 2018
Action packed suspense is Rebecca Deel’s forte, Shadow Guardian has that in spades.
If you haven’t read this series, you need to start. Read in order to get all the character nuances.
If you haven’t read this series, you need to start. Read in order to get all the character nuances.
June 1, 2018
Another great read from Rebecca Deel
I have read all of the books in this series and each one is a "don't want to put it down" story. Can't wait for the next one.
I have read all of the books in this series and each one is a "don't want to put it down" story. Can't wait for the next one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews