Into the Black

Blackwood Security #2

by Elise Noble

Diamond may be used to saving the world, but can she save her own relationship? 

With her husband’s killer still on the loose and her life in England a disaster, Diamond returns to the only thing she knows: work. As the star of special ops takes on enemies from the States to Syria, she finds the toughest battle is the one going on in her own head.

While she faces her demons, the man she left behind is involved in his own struggle when a beautiful stranger crosses his path. Will Luke give in to the ultimate temptation?

Into the Black is a romantic thriller, and the second book in the Blackwood Security series. While one couple find their happily ever after in this book, the Blackwood story continues in book three.

Genres: Romance, Suspense, Mystery, Thriller, Romantic Suspense, Audiobook, Contemporary

489 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 2, 2016

About the author

Elise Noble is an English rose with a few thorns who loves chocolate, sleep, and well-defined abs. Not hers, unfortunately. She lives near London with a horse who eats all her money and three dogs who eat everything else.

Elise writes real, gutsy heroines and flawed but swoon-worthy heroes in stories that mix mystery and mayhem, humour and happily-ever-afters.


You can get find her current freebies HERE.

Reviews

[Deb · Rating 3 out of 5]

Entertaining

The first book in this series was a good mystery written well and lots of drama. However, this one was predictable and I prefer mystery in this type of writing. There is too much flaunting of Emerson 's wealth which also took away from it's quality. If you enjoy a series I recommend this one to people that want a more romance type read with action and adventure thrown in.

[Caitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I definitely enjoyed this book.

Spoilers:


As much and I would love to hate Black, I feel like I understood what Diamond meant to him through this book.


I have a theory that Black faked his death and that either Nate or Nick was in on it. The mystery caller could be Black telling her not to investigate his death because she would find out that he wasn't actually dead. I feel like he had to do it for a case or as a test for Diamond to see how she could handle it.

I do hope that Luke stays out of the picture with Mack though.

Anyways, onto book 3!

[Beth-Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story picks up right where the last one let off.

A good chunk of it is background details. Answers to questions you probably have after the first book. When the action does pick up though, it's worth the wait.


**Real Spoiler part**



I'm happy for Luke. Kinda saw it coming from part #1. Still wish less story had come from his POV especially since he was moving into a different sort of role within the story.

[katie1jfgmail.com · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best series!

These books are the best,they're the ones that keep you up late because you can't put them down. You almost don't want them to be over at the end.

[Lisa · Rating 2 out of 5]

I skipped over the flashback scenes, which was like a third of the book, because I really just didn't care about Emmy's past. I don't think I'll read the rest of the series.

[Siti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yes, this is a re-read. Yes, the clean version still deserves 5 stars. If anything, I want to give more because it IS a challenge to make Emmy NOT swear! LOL.

[Mare · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well. I liked the writing stile, characters and so on. I really is a good story, but I had I few problems with it. First of all I'm not sure this should be classified as a romance book. Thriller, suspense and similar is on the spot, but romance, not so much. I would give this 4 stars if I expected only suspense/thriller story. But as the first book had Ash/Emmy and Luke as a fair portion of the story I expected something to happen along this line. I really think there should be some tipe of warning in the beginning of the book, i.e. This is not your tipical suspence romance. Don't expect happy end. ... or something like that, and yeah this warning should get on the first book also as this is a continuing story. Don't get me wrong, this story really is a refreshing one and a good one at that, I just expected something different and Emmy's character got me frustrated more than once.

The beginning picks up where the first book ended, but the expected conversation/communication between Emmy and Luke doesn't happen until near the end of the book (cca 90%, WTF!!). They do see each other before that, but as Emmy dosn't want to talk to him yet, or more to the point doesn't know what to say to him and keep running from the emotional part of her life, more of huge misunderstanding on Luke's side is piled on. And really you can't blame the guy. We get a fair number of chapters on history and her early years, meeting and working with Black and others, fling with Nick and so on. Then another run down with Luke... I mean really, at this point she sould get over herself and bloody say I'm sorry and also do some major explaining. I really didn't like her character at this point. I get the whole 'I hate conflicts' part, but still she really, really got on my nerve with the whole Luke situation - she was all I'm sorry I hurt him, I have to do some explaining but I can't do that now.... and than she runs of to America again with the excuse of 'he need to cool down a bit before I speak to him'. Girl, this tipe of avoiding in the fiction is not cool, not cool at all. If anything, I just started to skip parts of the text to see what the rest of the book has to offer plotwise.
Ha, ha, chapter 48 even starts with "I knew I'd run away yet again,...,but avoiding my feelings was easier than facing them". Not cool at all.
Also I still don't get why, in the first book, Ash/Emmy wasn't honest with Luke and tell him that thair relationship is olny a short term thing. She bloody knew it then. She was a mess but she did think about telling him something like that. Why didn't she, ha??? Probably for the sake of the plot, but I don't care. The whole mess left me frustrated.
And for Toby, the nutricionist, blah.... from what is showed on the page, the guy doesn't know shit about healthy nutrition for phisically active people. Starving shouldn't even get close to the equation. If you're so hungry with that diet, something isn't right....
To conclude - at this point I really hope that Luke and Mack end together and happy (and yes, this is something for the next book). Yes, Emma does deserve happines, but the way she goes through it I don't see it happen at the near future. As for her (Emmy) emotional and similar health, the whole thing with her nightmares and stuff from her early years - she's in a need for a really good psychologist. I really can't believe no one arranged that. The lame excuse that was given - her work is confidential and she kills people as a part of the job - well get a doctor that has high security clearances. Or hire one inside Blackwood security for f*** sake. I can't believe that almighty Black didn't figure that one.

[Brighton100 · Rating 3 out of 5]

gave up on this book several times but finished it in the end

I loved some of this authors other books, and the first one of this series but the start of this one kept putting me off. emerson has all the clothes, houses, weapons , jets, helicopters, etc etc it was just too much like a child’s picture of being rich. the underlying stories were good although like the richness just over the top. I have already bought the next book based on the first book so will probably read it and just skip some of the rubbish. It is a shame as I hoped to read many of this author . it would help if the author added the name of the character to each chapter as it got a bit confusing at times. did not see the luke romance coming probably for the best. It was a good book but could have been so much better.

[debturk1970_bookvibes · Rating 4 out of 5]

More Intense and Shocking!💀💥🥺
Into the Black: Blackwood Security, Book 2
By: Elise Noble
🎧 Audiobook Narrated by: Sarah Kempton
Length: 11 hrs and 10 mins
📖 Ebook

Emmy is trying desperately to put her life back together after losing her husband, her rock!💔

She misses Tia and Luke. She feels bad that she told them so many lies about her past and life. She doesn't think she's good enough to be around them. When Tia calls her in need, she's immediately there for her, and their bond grows.🥰

Her husbands killer makes contact right at the end of the book.💥

This was full of action. We finally got to see Emmy in action on a full op, and she's a little crazy!😆

I really like this narrator. 👏⭐️

Debbie, 1970, UK

[Mrs R · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another page-turner! This book really delves into Emmy and her past. We see what happened to her - how and why she became who she now is in much more detail. Watching her grow into the amazing assassin she is whist building some amazing friendships has me hooked.

I enjoyed reading about all the missions and disasters she managed to get into and also out of. She can do pretty much anything between her training and her wealth, things just get done when she asks.

Luke and Tia make an appearance, and manage to weave themselves into Emmy's inner circle.

Insane action-packed and addictive.

[Reader · Rating 3 out of 5]

While I appreciated some elements of this book, such as the flashbacks that offered deeper insight into Emmy and her team, I found it less engaging than the first installment. One aspect that didn’t resonate with me was Luke's involvement in the narrative; his presence felt somewhat forced, and the rapid development of his relationship with Emmy's best friend felt wrong.

I also noticed that Emmy's character development feels a bit stagnant, which makes it challenging to stay fully invested in her journey. As a result, I’m uncertain about continuing with book three. I hope to see more depth and evolution in the characters moving forward, as I believe it could enrich the overall story.

[I’m a Paula too… Thompson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Blackwood Security 2…

The romance this time is with Mack and Diamond’s ex Luke, the guy from the UK. Diamond ends up in the Syrian desert, and no one knows where she is.

The thriller part of the book is really good and I enjoyed it a lot. The characters are all a lot of fun and I especially love Luke’s younger sister, Tia. Diamond is still grieving and she still suffers from horrible nightmares, with the Syrian gig adding to her terrors.

I’m not really into her sexploits, but I still want to see her happy again. Book 3 is the end of her trilogy so I’m off to the next book.

[Leisel · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was sometime ago that I first read this story and it was brilliant second time around. Honestly just love all these characters, they're just so incredibly fascinating and inspiring. Even though I know how things pan out I was still hit with the big emotional component that this plot centres itself around. Honestly love this Author's works so much. Into the Black is a brilliant and entertaining read, with incredible characters that leave you craving for more. It's full of action and simply swoonworthy for the fact that Emmy Black is just pure perfection as a role model for being one of the all time best heroines I've ever read.

[Michele Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great second book!

I love the kick ass heroine in this story but I really wish she could get a happy ending- I was mad at Luke and Mack and even though he’s not right for her it’s gotta suck seeing others happy when your shot at happiness died. Is it possible to bring Mr. Black back from the dead? That would make my day- if not that, then find someone strong and loyal for our leading lady- maybe someone who’s not just a FWB. She’s had a shitty childhood and a tough life- she deserves a little happily ever after...doesn’t she??

[Peter Cruskall · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have read Blackwood Security Books 1 and 2 and honestly don't know what to make of them. Pitch Black spends most of the book inside Ash / Emmy's head with little action at all. And the second book, Into the Black, isn't much better. And all her expensive trappings, jets, houses, cars, villas, etc just don't make sense. Also, I found many of the peripheral characters were just fluff, not adding anything to the story. Emmy could be an excellent character, and given her supposed vocation, she should be.

[Bonny Niswonger · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can not stop reading the Blackwood security series from the start of book 1. From book 1 Emmy starts out one way with her feelings out of control and now she is taking care of a kidnapping things with the CIA and other things all while she is not in control of her self. But it is time to Buy the book and read what happens next and enjoy the book with Emmy and her friends it is worth it. You will not want to put it down

[Flora W. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great sequel

Into The Black picks up where Pitch Black ended. Luke and Tia reappear. We also get the background of Emerson-how she met her husband, her childhood, her training. This back flash takes up a large portion of the book and was fascinating. We get to know Emerson because, like Luke, we only knew her as Ash in Pitch Black. And Emerson is one tough lady. She is like a female James Bond. A mission in Syria shows just how good she is. Can't wait to read the next book!

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series and it's sure nice to learn more about Emmy but it hurts that she has to go through life without Black. I wish she have had the chance to show him how she felt but he sure still gives her strength like when she's fighting to survive in Jordania. I wasn't too keen on Luke falling for Mack at first but since Emmy can never be the one for him, I accept that both computer nerds might work out as a couple. I'm looking forward to read on Forever Black now.

[Shilpi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book is fantasctic.It just as good the first one.
It gives insight on the past the emmy has faced, how it has molded her into the super duper kickass heroine (which I love).I was looking to luke and emmy rekidling their romance, but a suprising twist. It has good pace and author keeps a good mix of action, romance, dry humour alive like the last one.

Looking forward to the next book, in which may be emmy goes ballistic on the killer of her husband.

[Alicia S · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great 2nd installation, nice to have a decent length book to keep you gripped. Although it follows on, it delves into the origin story of the Blackwood, digging deeper into the relationships between the main characters of the series.
I did find it difficult when it came to Luke's parts as he seemed to turn whiny and entitled, then moved very quickly into a horndog for Mack - main reason for giving 4*

[Brittany Lyda · Rating 4 out of 5]

After choosing book 1 to read accidently, I went on to read book number 2 which should be a compliment. I was searching for a dark romance named Pitch black, and I was surprised, but its ok i was pleasantly surprised. I ended up reading a book i probably would have otherwise not read.
I loved Diamond and Blacks story, and they kept me invested in what was going on.
It seems so rare to find such a badass FMC.

[Sandee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Better than the first book. The character growth continues and the depth of the emotions is just as compelling. Emmy is taking on international cases that are scarier and more threatening. Romance continues to be part of the plot and Emmy's back story is revealed. I highly recommend this book.

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great background story on Blackwood Security, the owners and their associates. You discover how Emmy and Black first met and all the events that followed. Luke and Tia are thrown into the mix as well. Learning more about the characters that revolve around Blackwood Security keep you invested in their stories. Can't wait to read Forever Black, the last book of "The Black Trilogy".

[Vivian Brennan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely Brilliant

Safe to say I’m going to run out of words to describe just how awesome this book was. The highs and lows the author doesn’t give you a chance before you are thrown into another situation. I love Diamond. Off to buy Book 3

1 click now you will not be disappointed

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great!

I love this blackwood series. I received book 1 free and couldn't get in to give a review. Book 2 was just as fantastic, it's full of action, excitement, and you get some sexy going on in there too. At this point I plan on continuing to buy the books in the series. Enjoy.

[Joanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't enjoy this one as much as the first, although it gave a better look into why Emmy is the way she is there just seemed to be something missing. I will read the third though as I'm still curious about how everything is going to turn out.

[Alina · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the most amazing book series i have ever read.......The story is so engaging that u forget whats going on in your own life......best book ever!......Never loved fictional characters so much......The author has a way with the words used......😄

[Trish Goodgame · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading the first book of this series (a freebie), I simply had to read more, so I bought the Black Trilogy. I love the characters (& sometimes love to get cross with the characters as they become so real - eg the ongoing saga of Luke & Ash, Luke's attraction to Mack after theoretically being so in love with "Ash" aka Emmy in the first book). The writing flows freely to keep the interest up. I was never bored for a moment. Looking forward to reading further developments in book 3 of the trilogy and then onto the rest of the Blackwood Security series.

[Kelly Williams · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wanted to like this book. Annoyed by the sudden Luke/Mac involvement. It’s ridiculous as he had the same reaction to Emmy. It was just poor character development on authors part and I don’t like love triangles in this vein.

[Marion Philippi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

Very fast moving and hard to put down. The history of Emmy and Black puts her character into perspective. Great book!