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Blackwood Security #13
Red After Dark
A missing girl from the past. A monster from the present…
When Bethany Stafford-Lyons accepted a position as personal assistant at Sirius Consulting, she didn’t expect to become embroiled in the murky world of American politics within a week of starting the job, but with money tight, she has little choice but to follow her new boss Alaric McLain overseas.
Together with Emmy Black, Alaric’s ex-girlfriend, they find themselves back on the trail of a stolen painting, but that’s not the only mystery they have to solve. Fourteen years ago, teenage homecoming queen Piper Simms disappeared, and finding her might be the only way to stop a criminal from stealing a seat in the US senate.
Catching a killer is all in a day’s work for Emmy Black, but her world is rocked by a betrayal from somebody very close to her. Can she fight back? Or will a ghost from the past destroy her future?
When Bethany Stafford-Lyons accepted a position as personal assistant at Sirius Consulting, she didn’t expect to become embroiled in the murky world of American politics within a week of starting the job, but with money tight, she has little choice but to follow her new boss Alaric McLain overseas.
Together with Emmy Black, Alaric’s ex-girlfriend, they find themselves back on the trail of a stolen painting, but that’s not the only mystery they have to solve. Fourteen years ago, teenage homecoming queen Piper Simms disappeared, and finding her might be the only way to stop a criminal from stealing a seat in the US senate.
Catching a killer is all in a day’s work for Emmy Black, but her world is rocked by a betrayal from somebody very close to her. Can she fight back? Or will a ghost from the past destroy her future?
448 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 16, 2020
65 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
About the author
Elise Noble
90 books736 followersElise 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.
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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
October 11, 2020
Red after Dark by Elise Noble
My thoughts:
This was a very nicely executed storyline weaving all the various strands of previous story arcs to a satisfying conclusion with just enough loose ends to continue in the next book. Well done Elise Noble. You gave us readers answers to many questions and a few surprises along the way. There was action, intrigue, betrayal , romance & suspense. I really enjoyed reading this book and look forward to the conclusion of the Alaric Trilogy in the next book. A great read. 5 stars.
This is a standalone book, there is enough background story in this book to follow along even if you have not read any of the other books in the series. It is my opinion that to get the most out of this book , make sure you have re-read The Black Trilogy (Book 1 to 3 Blackwood Security) and Black (the bonus story at the end of book 3) to refresh your memory of the complicated relationship between Emmy and Black. This is book 2 of the Alaric Trilogy, so you will miss out on the details of the relationship between Bethany and Alaric, if you have not read The Girl with the Emerald Ring first. I do hope that Elise Noble will bring out a Box Set for the Aleric Trilogy ( Book 12, 13, 14 of Blackwood Security)
My thoughts:
This was a very nicely executed storyline weaving all the various strands of previous story arcs to a satisfying conclusion with just enough loose ends to continue in the next book. Well done Elise Noble. You gave us readers answers to many questions and a few surprises along the way. There was action, intrigue, betrayal , romance & suspense. I really enjoyed reading this book and look forward to the conclusion of the Alaric Trilogy in the next book. A great read. 5 stars.
This is a standalone book, there is enough background story in this book to follow along even if you have not read any of the other books in the series. It is my opinion that to get the most out of this book , make sure you have re-read The Black Trilogy (Book 1 to 3 Blackwood Security) and Black (the bonus story at the end of book 3) to refresh your memory of the complicated relationship between Emmy and Black. This is book 2 of the Alaric Trilogy, so you will miss out on the details of the relationship between Bethany and Alaric, if you have not read The Girl with the Emerald Ring first. I do hope that Elise Noble will bring out a Box Set for the Aleric Trilogy ( Book 12, 13, 14 of Blackwood Security)
October 11, 2020
I was given an arc of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This is part 2 of 3 for the girl with the emerald ring. Even though it is a part 2 it could definitely be a stand alone however to get the most of it read the 1st one. (Also the black trilogy) you won't be sorry!!
So many great parts to this book. It answers so many questions left over from the 1st book including where alerics daughter came from. It also shows black and Emmys love story (which is my favorite part.) Bit my all time favorite part is the scene in the stables at the wedding. (Thats all I'm going to say. Don't want to give it away.)
Elise threw in so many characters from other books it felt like a reunion. I really enjoyed this book and I'm sure you will too.
*patiently waiting for book 3*
This is part 2 of 3 for the girl with the emerald ring. Even though it is a part 2 it could definitely be a stand alone however to get the most of it read the 1st one. (Also the black trilogy) you won't be sorry!!
So many great parts to this book. It answers so many questions left over from the 1st book including where alerics daughter came from. It also shows black and Emmys love story (which is my favorite part.) Bit my all time favorite part is the scene in the stables at the wedding. (Thats all I'm going to say. Don't want to give it away.)
Elise threw in so many characters from other books it felt like a reunion. I really enjoyed this book and I'm sure you will too.
*patiently waiting for book 3*
Read
October 16, 2020When the search for a stolen painting takes an unexpected turn, personal assistant Bethany and her oh-so-off-limits boss Alaric find themselves on the trail of a missing girl. Emmy Black’s along to help, but her world is rocked by a betrayal from somebody very close to her. Can she fight back? Or will a ghost from the past destroy her future?
Red After Dark is out now!
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Red After Dark is out now!
Amazon
iBooks
Kobo
Barnes & Noble
Google Play
October 19, 2020
I really enjoyed this book! I have to say I didn't see that twist coming, but at the same time it all makes sense looking back. I don't want to give away what happens in this story so I will say that it is a must read, but to truly feel the full impact of this story it should be read in the reading order listed on Elise Noble's website to feel the full impact of the twist.
October 11, 2020
Red After Dark picks up where The Girl with the Emerald Ring left off. We learn more about our new friends Sky, Bethany, Rune and others – but my favorite part of this book was learning more about several of the characters we have known for years. In fact, there is now additional depth even to originals like Emmy and Black.
If you dislike colorful language, this book may not be for you. BUT - For those of us who enjoy Elise Noble’s creative descriptions and words such as “clusterf***ery”, this is great fun! Another example: “Alex was basically a mob enforcer with the empathy of a rabid bull.” Finally, the award for most creative way to describe someone as good looking goes to: “Whose a** did he kiss in the gene pool?”
Once again there is humor, tension, and suspense in every chapter. As usual, the reader gets fully immersed in the lives of the characters – being disgusted by those who wrong them and cheering for new friends. Unpleasantness visits in rather creative ways in this book, whether the recipient is evil or merely selfish and annoying.
If you have not read the other Blackwood books, do yourself a favor and get to it! Those of us who have, repeatedly, are now anxiously awaiting the third and final installment of Alaric’s story.
If you dislike colorful language, this book may not be for you. BUT - For those of us who enjoy Elise Noble’s creative descriptions and words such as “clusterf***ery”, this is great fun! Another example: “Alex was basically a mob enforcer with the empathy of a rabid bull.” Finally, the award for most creative way to describe someone as good looking goes to: “Whose a** did he kiss in the gene pool?”
Once again there is humor, tension, and suspense in every chapter. As usual, the reader gets fully immersed in the lives of the characters – being disgusted by those who wrong them and cheering for new friends. Unpleasantness visits in rather creative ways in this book, whether the recipient is evil or merely selfish and annoying.
If you have not read the other Blackwood books, do yourself a favor and get to it! Those of us who have, repeatedly, are now anxiously awaiting the third and final installment of Alaric’s story.
October 24, 2020
As the second book in the trilogy of "The Girl With The Emerald Ring" - Alaric and Beth's story, we find out more about the past of several characters and some disturbing details come to light. Not only are the Blackwood team dealing with current issues but also delve into the disappearance of a teenager many years before that has ties to the current situation.
As always, it is a fast-paced story, leaving you breathless at times wondering what is going to happen in the next chapter. Plenty of tension, action, a bit of romance, jealousy, betrayal, bad language and some humour to top it off. This is a gritty read at times but very compelling. It would be preferable to read "The Girl With The Emerald Ring" first to get more background - better still, read the first trilogy - books 1, 2 & 3 of the Blackwood Security series. I'm patiently waiting for the third book in this trilogy.
As I tend to read Ms Noble's book at a rapid rate, I may just read this one again in case I missed anything while speeding my way through the book.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As always, it is a fast-paced story, leaving you breathless at times wondering what is going to happen in the next chapter. Plenty of tension, action, a bit of romance, jealousy, betrayal, bad language and some humour to top it off. This is a gritty read at times but very compelling. It would be preferable to read "The Girl With The Emerald Ring" first to get more background - better still, read the first trilogy - books 1, 2 & 3 of the Blackwood Security series. I'm patiently waiting for the third book in this trilogy.
As I tend to read Ms Noble's book at a rapid rate, I may just read this one again in case I missed anything while speeding my way through the book.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 15, 2020
Wow what a story! I loved the first book in this trilogy so I was already excited for book 2. As the story continues they’re all in Emmy’s home looking for clues. As always there’s tension between Black and Alaric. As secrets are revealed the tension rises! Fortunately tho Bethany and Alaric grow closer together. So whilst other relationships are strained theirs moves forward slowly. Add in the usual Emmy drama, Dan, Mac and the others and you get an explosive story that will grip you until the last page. Lots of suspenseful moments throughout this book which leave you reeling. No spoilers but I didn’t see them coming until it was too late either. Wonderful drama and intrigue throughout this book. I cannot wait to see where book 3 takes us. I absolutely loved this book I didn’t want to stop reading once I started it was so compelling.
October 28, 2020
Red after Dark
Fast paced, action packed with loads of ‘lightbulb’ moments. True Blackwood style with ‘only Emmy would do that’ thrown into the mix. I loved how a lot of loose ends were tied up and being able to see a more human side to the enigma that is Black. I’m now more desperate than ever for this story to come to a conclusion and hope that Alaric gets his happily ever after. The release of When The Shadows Fall can’t come soon enough!
Fast paced, action packed with loads of ‘lightbulb’ moments. True Blackwood style with ‘only Emmy would do that’ thrown into the mix. I loved how a lot of loose ends were tied up and being able to see a more human side to the enigma that is Black. I’m now more desperate than ever for this story to come to a conclusion and hope that Alaric gets his happily ever after. The release of When The Shadows Fall can’t come soon enough!
October 18, 2020
Loved this book, the first in the trilogy The Girl with an Emerald Ring, introduced all the characters so it was exciting to meet old friends again. This book had everything a romantic thriller needs to make it a must-read. Fast but clear and well written, exciting but funny, surprising but inevitable. Like all of Elise Nobles books, I will read this many times.
October 17, 2020
I love this installation of the trilogy. FINALLY a real fight scene between the main characters 🔥🔥🔥
October 18, 2020
First of All, AMAZING!
Yes!
Elise,
I am definitely glad I waited to read the two back to back,(lol in one evening.)
Quite frankly. I felt that Emmy and Black were back! Chapter 36, is exactly what I expected from two such passionate individuals, and frankly, I was surprised, you cut back. I haven't forgotten anything since the first novel, and the behavior you originally wrote was probably more on par. Their relationship simply had to come to a head! It needed it!
Alaric and Bethany, WOW! Perfect English gentile young woman had some serious depth! There was no questioning her strength in this novel, it showed the beginning of in the previous. But together with Rune, Alaric's daughter (what an amazing young woman), you truly see who Bethany is, and will be even more so, as time goes on.
The descriptive telling of Alaric's time after loosing his job from the FBI, okay I am out of superlatives, so, WOW!
Together, the are truly matched!
Priceless line in the novel, Don't get mushy, Mom, from Rune!
I cannot wait for 14, it seems I live between Blackwood Novels!
It felt a great deal like the amazing trilogy beginning! The intensity was overwhelming!
Stellar!
Karen
Yes!
Elise,
I am definitely glad I waited to read the two back to back,(lol in one evening.)
Quite frankly. I felt that Emmy and Black were back! Chapter 36, is exactly what I expected from two such passionate individuals, and frankly, I was surprised, you cut back. I haven't forgotten anything since the first novel, and the behavior you originally wrote was probably more on par. Their relationship simply had to come to a head! It needed it!
Alaric and Bethany, WOW! Perfect English gentile young woman had some serious depth! There was no questioning her strength in this novel, it showed the beginning of in the previous. But together with Rune, Alaric's daughter (what an amazing young woman), you truly see who Bethany is, and will be even more so, as time goes on.
The descriptive telling of Alaric's time after loosing his job from the FBI, okay I am out of superlatives, so, WOW!
Together, the are truly matched!
Priceless line in the novel, Don't get mushy, Mom, from Rune!
I cannot wait for 14, it seems I live between Blackwood Novels!
It felt a great deal like the amazing trilogy beginning! The intensity was overwhelming!
Stellar!
Karen
March 21, 2022
Fantastic second instalment in Alaric's story
No plot spoilers
There are potential triggers relating to kidnap and child prostitution.
There is some swearing and one sex scene lightly written.
The characterisation is absolutely perfect, you feel you know the characters as friends.
The plotline is so twisty and engaging I couldn't put the book down!
I adore the Blackwood family, as outrageous and competent as they are, the unexpected humour always makes me laugh and the sweet scenes are capable of inducing tears.
Elise Noble knows how to craft a good character and gift them with a twisty plot.
I have no problem recommending the series to fans of the genre but would advise reading from the beginning to obtain the best reading experience.
No plot spoilers
There are potential triggers relating to kidnap and child prostitution.
There is some swearing and one sex scene lightly written.
The characterisation is absolutely perfect, you feel you know the characters as friends.
The plotline is so twisty and engaging I couldn't put the book down!
I adore the Blackwood family, as outrageous and competent as they are, the unexpected humour always makes me laugh and the sweet scenes are capable of inducing tears.
Elise Noble knows how to craft a good character and gift them with a twisty plot.
I have no problem recommending the series to fans of the genre but would advise reading from the beginning to obtain the best reading experience.
October 21, 2020
Fantastic book
This was a fantastic book. A continuation of Emerald, it goes on from that book and is filled with all kinds of tricky situations, fun and fights, laughter and crying and of course guns! I thought it was amazing how Elise came up with those tricky situations that you would think could never have been figured out. Elise has got the most fantastic creativity that she puts down in her books, how she comes up with these scenarios is amazing. I have to say this is one of my favorites. I also loved having Sky in this book again also. She's great!
This was a fantastic book. A continuation of Emerald, it goes on from that book and is filled with all kinds of tricky situations, fun and fights, laughter and crying and of course guns! I thought it was amazing how Elise came up with those tricky situations that you would think could never have been figured out. Elise has got the most fantastic creativity that she puts down in her books, how she comes up with these scenarios is amazing. I have to say this is one of my favorites. I also loved having Sky in this book again also. She's great!
November 19, 2020
Elise Noble never disappoints, just like the first installment of the story, I couldn't drop the book once I started. If you are a lover of romantic thriller and comic relief and action, then Red after Dark is the dose you need for the weekend to wind down. I just love how Elise is able to bring life into her characters and You just love more of Emmy and Black as the reoccur in every story with more action. I can't wait to read what next Elise has in store for us.
December 11, 2020
Another success for Elise Nobel
This author develops each character so you want to know them and feel they are real. Noble researches the topics and comes off with accuracy. I have enjoyed every single book of hers that I've read, and hope she never lose her passion for her skilled mind and prolific writing.
This author develops each character so you want to know them and feel they are real. Noble researches the topics and comes off with accuracy. I have enjoyed every single book of hers that I've read, and hope she never lose her passion for her skilled mind and prolific writing.
January 27, 2021
Great book to read. The Blackwood team is trying to find the paintings that was taken and the money and the painting they found at a Kentucky farm. Bethany and Alaric have gone to Kentucky to help with the search of the painting and the people that have taken them. Now would be the time to get the book. I will be getting more from this author.
October 19, 2020
WOW!!
Truly THE BEST one of the series this far! Couldn't believe Black did it until there was the proof...and his confession once caught. Cannot wait for the remainder of the story to be told to see if he is forgiven.
Truly THE BEST one of the series this far! Couldn't believe Black did it until there was the proof...and his confession once caught. Cannot wait for the remainder of the story to be told to see if he is forgiven.
January 22, 2021
I LOVE anything to do with Ms Noble's Blackwood World ~ ANYTHING! Love the central story line with Emmy & Black and the 'offshoot' stories are entertaining ~ can't WAIT to have this art mystery solved!
November 1, 2020
Excellent read
The Blackwood series is my all time favorite for a series of books. Great character development. And the romance is inspiring.
The Blackwood series is my all time favorite for a series of books. Great character development. And the romance is inspiring.
November 30, 2020
Cliff hanger ahead
Each book just gets better and better!!!!! But I was left hanging on to the end. Will Emmy forgive Black???
Each book just gets better and better!!!!! But I was left hanging on to the end. Will Emmy forgive Black???
September 3, 2021
Read this
Twists and turns always and love and intrigue and such great characters and still can't wait to see what happens next.
Twists and turns always and love and intrigue and such great characters and still can't wait to see what happens next.
April 29, 2022
Bloody Brilliant
Running out of words to describe this amazing series. Original and well written
1 click now you will not be disappointed
Running out of words to describe this amazing series. Original and well written
1 click now you will not be disappointed
October 18, 2024
AMAZING!!!
Great read, I hated putting it down…. Excellent storyline, merging old characters and new, each book gets better and you will NOT get bored…. Enjoy!!!
Great read, I hated putting it down…. Excellent storyline, merging old characters and new, each book gets better and you will NOT get bored…. Enjoy!!!
July 10, 2022
Blackwood Securtiy Series A Must Read
Amazing, I love all of the books in this series.. I love how all the characters come to life and Emmy all I can say is she’s a hero.
Amazing, I love all of the books in this series.. I love how all the characters come to life and Emmy all I can say is she’s a hero.
October 19, 2020
As an avid fan of Elise Noble's writing, this book was one I had been eagerly awaiting. It is even better than I had hoped and I'm sure it will be one I read many times. Red After Dark is the continuation of the story that started in The Girl With The Emerald Earring and is a thrilling ride packed full of action, intrigue, fascinating characters who are both larger than life and totally relatable, snarky almost throwaway statements that make you laugh out loud, as well as romantic and troubled relationships. If you've not read any of the Blackwood Security books (this is the 13th), then dig in and lose yourself in their wacky world, but be warned, they are addictive!
If you already know the Blackwood gang, then Alaric's trilogy is absolutely a must-read. These are well-developed stories with plenty of depth, multiple story lines, and feature several of the old crew, as well as newer characters from recent books; for fans, it's a fun catch up with friends. There is also plenty of Emmy and the usually elusive Black, and when something from the past comes to light, it’s explosive.
While Red After Dark is the second book in a trilogy, following The Girl With The Emerald Earring, it is a satisfying and thrilling read on its own, but much better if you are familiar with the Blackwood Security series. I have read all of Elise's books multiple times, especially the Black trilogy. I enjoy all the stories, but this trilogy starring Alaric is especially enthralling.
If you already know the Blackwood gang, then Alaric's trilogy is absolutely a must-read. These are well-developed stories with plenty of depth, multiple story lines, and feature several of the old crew, as well as newer characters from recent books; for fans, it's a fun catch up with friends. There is also plenty of Emmy and the usually elusive Black, and when something from the past comes to light, it’s explosive.
While Red After Dark is the second book in a trilogy, following The Girl With The Emerald Earring, it is a satisfying and thrilling read on its own, but much better if you are familiar with the Blackwood Security series. I have read all of Elise's books multiple times, especially the Black trilogy. I enjoy all the stories, but this trilogy starring Alaric is especially enthralling.
October 17, 2020
Red After Dark is the 2nd title in Alaric and Bethany trilogy (12-14th) in the Blackwood series. After setting up the plot and characters in the first book, The Girl with the Emerald Ring the reader really starts to see a lot more depth into a number of major characters of author Elise Noble's Blackwood players. This book really starts to get interesting as it answers some of the secrets and twists mentioned in previous titles. Can't mention as don't wish to spoil for others. But in usual fashion it simply doesn't disappoint the reader to see how things will eventually pan out. Thankfully we get a dose of all our other favourite characters too and the blossoming of some newer ones. But the one real standout concept I love is the common thread of if you (the baddie) mess with one, then you are messing with all of Blackwood. A great sense of belonging and unity, or very much like the Musketeers. One for all and all for one kind of attitude. A well balanced story with lots of action, mystery, romance and as always great revenge tactics and fantastic humour. Again not disappointed in the direction and execution of the storyline and looking forward to see how this trilogy will end.
I was supplied with an advanced readers copy (ARC) for an honest review.
I was supplied with an advanced readers copy (ARC) for an honest review.
October 15, 2020
Red After Dark is pure entertainment. There is so much to this book! A slate of new characters, a more in-depth look at the recently introduced ones, and the discovery of new, unexpected facets in the personalities of the series's key protagonists, all combined with a multitude of intertwined stories, resulting in a fascinating, captivating and irresistible tale. Ms Noble's signature writing style and very British prose give a very peculiar tone to the whole narration. On one side, the author is very attentive to the revealing details of each character's personality, eliciting her readers' emotional involvement. Simultaneously, the whole narrative is permeated by a sharp irony, offering plenty of incredibly entertaining moments.
Most of all, Red After Dark is a pleasure to read. One of those rare books that one enjoys reading every page, feeling immersed in the story, sincerely feeling for the characters, and being genuinely sorry when the narration comes to an end. I can't wait to read the next instalment!
Most of all, Red After Dark is a pleasure to read. One of those rare books that one enjoys reading every page, feeling immersed in the story, sincerely feeling for the characters, and being genuinely sorry when the narration comes to an end. I can't wait to read the next instalment!
October 16, 2020
With a lead on Red After Dark the team goes off to Kentucky where dirty politics are in full force. Sky starts her training at Riverly and decends into the Emerald mystery with Hallie. Beth finds her place within Sirius and in her working relationship with Alaric. Sirius in London gets in on the action and finds a new team member. Mysteries new and old are solved. Emmy and Black dive into the past and the shake the trust at the foundation of their marriage.
This is a stand alone novel with humor throughout. Second in the trilogy, it brings together characters and unanswered mysteries from the first novel and leaves you wanting for the next.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
This is a stand alone novel with humor throughout. Second in the trilogy, it brings together characters and unanswered mysteries from the first novel and leaves you wanting for the next.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
October 16, 2020
My busy schedule came to a shuddering halt when I received an ARC of the second book in this series. So many questions from book one were answered. A political disaster rumbled in the background keeping everyone on their toes. The Blackwood team, head by Black, swooped into action to prevent such a disaster from occurring. We see many faces new and old along the way and watch Black’s spectacular fall from fame as his past betrayal of Alaric unfolds.
It would be easy to give away too many spoilers but this book was brilliant and I believe my favourite so far. It was worth the time I lost while reading it. The author Elise Noble has once again penned a masterpiece.
In return for receiving this ARC, I promised to leave an honest review of this book
It would be easy to give away too many spoilers but this book was brilliant and I believe my favourite so far. It was worth the time I lost while reading it. The author Elise Noble has once again penned a masterpiece.
In return for receiving this ARC, I promised to leave an honest review of this book
October 17, 2020
The second book in The Girl with the Emerald Ring series was quiet an eye opener when it comes to Black. Even though throughout all Elise's books you don't see much emotion from Black other than a little jealousy for Emmy's old lovers. Nothing was on the scale of what we saw and learnt of the lengths he would go not to lose Emmy. He is the dark lord except when it comes to his wife than you see he actually has a heart. This is what I liked best about this book even though it was sort of a side story. If you what to find out more about Black and Emmy's relationship it's a good read. Epic fight scene between them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews