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Undercover Protection
Something’s hidden on her family farm…
and it could get her killed.
When Leia Dukes is kidnapped at her family farm, the last person she expects to rescue her is the farmhand who broke her heart. With Leia’s life on the line, Jay Brock reveals his secret: he’s an undercover police officer hunting a serial killer—and there’s evidence in her childhood home. Jay might be Leia’s only hope of staying alive, but can she trust him again?
From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.
and it could get her killed.
When Leia Dukes is kidnapped at her family farm, the last person she expects to rescue her is the farmhand who broke her heart. With Leia’s life on the line, Jay Brock reveals his secret: he’s an undercover police officer hunting a serial killer—and there’s evidence in her childhood home. Jay might be Leia’s only hope of staying alive, but can she trust him again?
From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 24, 2021
328 people are currently reading
120 people want to read
About the author
Maggie K. Black
140 books100 followersMaggie K. Black is an award-winning journalist with a thirst for adventure. She's lived in the American South, Europe and Middle East, and left a piece of her heart in each. She now makes her home in Canada, where she writes stories that make her heart race, chases her dog around the park and shares her adventures with her one true love and and their two daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
September 10, 2021
What a rollicking wild ride, especially since most of the story takes place on the farm. The way Black keeps amping up the tension and danger and the way Leia and Jay survive on wits and nerve -- well, wow, makes for one frenzy of a page-turner!
And the puzzling out the mystery part is very unique! Plus, there's tons of action which feisty Leia takes in stride with instinctive aplomb....and there's a reason for that, but you're gonna have to read the book to find out.
And if the stellar suspense isn't enough to whet your bibliophile appetite, the reunion romance sweetens the deal. It's not without its own pitfalls though, and I really loved the way this couple bonded again while working together.
Fast-paced and original with a significant faith thread that made me one very happy reader.
And the puzzling out the mystery part is very unique! Plus, there's tons of action which feisty Leia takes in stride with instinctive aplomb....and there's a reason for that, but you're gonna have to read the book to find out.
And if the stellar suspense isn't enough to whet your bibliophile appetite, the reunion romance sweetens the deal. It's not without its own pitfalls though, and I really loved the way this couple bonded again while working together.
Fast-paced and original with a significant faith thread that made me one very happy reader.
September 7, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 “Lord, I worked so hard to shut down my feelings for this woman. Please don’t let them distract me now.”
What You’ll Find:
✔️Christian Fiction
✔️Hero Undercover
✔️Romance Suspense
✔️Closed Door
✔️Dual POV
Undercover Protection is a suspenseful romance that will have you on the edge of your seat from the start!
Leila is kidnapped on her families farm. When the farmhand who broke her heart rescues her, she’s in for a whole lot of surprises. Including the fact, that Jay is really an undercover officer and the serial killer evidence he’s looking for is apparently hidden in her childhood home.
So I normally don’t mix religion and my romance reads. But I was intrigued by this blurb and thought I’d give it a try. The Christian element was not for me (personal preference). But the story was fast paced and action filled, with a suspense that kept you turning the pages. The romance between Leila and Jay is a bit of a push pull. I said closed door above, but they kiss at most. This is my first Christian Faith read so perhaps this is the norm, that I am unsure of.
I wanted more romance, but again that’s a personal preference and not the story. You need to suspend reality a bit. But overall I enjoyed how the story unfolded. There was a lot packed into this and the twists and turns had me wondering what would happen next. If your a suspense lover and are of Christian Faith, I think you’ll enjoy it!
*I received a gifted copy from Harlequin and Harlequin Publicity Team in exchange for my honest review.
What You’ll Find:
✔️Christian Fiction
✔️Hero Undercover
✔️Romance Suspense
✔️Closed Door
✔️Dual POV
Undercover Protection is a suspenseful romance that will have you on the edge of your seat from the start!
Leila is kidnapped on her families farm. When the farmhand who broke her heart rescues her, she’s in for a whole lot of surprises. Including the fact, that Jay is really an undercover officer and the serial killer evidence he’s looking for is apparently hidden in her childhood home.
So I normally don’t mix religion and my romance reads. But I was intrigued by this blurb and thought I’d give it a try. The Christian element was not for me (personal preference). But the story was fast paced and action filled, with a suspense that kept you turning the pages. The romance between Leila and Jay is a bit of a push pull. I said closed door above, but they kiss at most. This is my first Christian Faith read so perhaps this is the norm, that I am unsure of.
I wanted more romance, but again that’s a personal preference and not the story. You need to suspend reality a bit. But overall I enjoyed how the story unfolded. There was a lot packed into this and the twists and turns had me wondering what would happen next. If your a suspense lover and are of Christian Faith, I think you’ll enjoy it!
*I received a gifted copy from Harlequin and Harlequin Publicity Team in exchange for my honest review.
October 15, 2022
Review: Undercover Protection
By: Maggie K. Black
Rating: 3.5/5 ⭐️
🍂
This was my first @harlequinbooks suspense. It was very entertaining and similar to an action movie. This is a Christian suspense and I didn’t know that going in. There was nothing wrong with it, it just took me by surprise when I noticed there was a lot of bible verses and prayer. I think Harlequin has two suspense categories. One is Christian and one is regular. Anyway, this takes place on a little family farm and has great atmospheric descriptions. An undercover cop walks into a kidnapping while trying to solve the case of a serial killer. We even got a cute barn cat thrown in. I’ll definitely be picking up more of these fun little crime novels.
By: Maggie K. Black
Rating: 3.5/5 ⭐️
🍂
This was my first @harlequinbooks suspense. It was very entertaining and similar to an action movie. This is a Christian suspense and I didn’t know that going in. There was nothing wrong with it, it just took me by surprise when I noticed there was a lot of bible verses and prayer. I think Harlequin has two suspense categories. One is Christian and one is regular. Anyway, this takes place on a little family farm and has great atmospheric descriptions. An undercover cop walks into a kidnapping while trying to solve the case of a serial killer. We even got a cute barn cat thrown in. I’ll definitely be picking up more of these fun little crime novels.
January 9, 2022
Imagine getting kidnapped on your family's farm. The one place you have always felt safe. That happened to Leia. But she was a strong, capable woman who escaped her kidnappers and found help with an old flame and farmhand, Jay Brock. Realizing she needed his help, badly, he confessed he was actually an undercover cop.
While running from the kidnappers, Leia wondered who was after her and why. Turned out the unusual skills she had been taught came in handy.
This is a good book for lovers of Christian romantic suspense.
I am in the minority here since almost all the reviews are 5 stars. I like Maggie Black's books and often do give them 5 stars but not this one. I enjoyed it but not as much as I expected.
While running from the kidnappers, Leia wondered who was after her and why. Turned out the unusual skills she had been taught came in handy.
This is a good book for lovers of Christian romantic suspense.
I am in the minority here since almost all the reviews are 5 stars. I like Maggie Black's books and often do give them 5 stars but not this one. I enjoyed it but not as much as I expected.
June 29, 2021
This book was amazing in so many ways. I think everyone should read this book. I actually had to look up Niagra falls, I didn't realize New York and Canada were so close. And just to peak your curiosity more about this book I say " go Moses!" and no, not the biblical one 😉.
September 24, 2021
My review today is on the Love Inspired Suspense, Undercover Protection. I'm a big fan of Maggie's and I'm always thrilled to receive one of her books in the mail. This one is awesome. It's well-written, action-packed, and full of suspense. I know you are going to love it.
Leia Duke steps into her family's old farmhouse. She is grabbed from behind by a pair of beefy hands. A second figure blindfolds her before she could even scream. She knew it must have something to do with her ranchhand. He had lied to her last year and broke her heart. The men moved her through the house. The strange teachings of her father are brought to mind. Stories of four princesses who fight a terrifying foe. Were the stories for now? What are they searching for? She escaped to a hidden passage only to meet the man who had broken her heart.
Undercover Police Officer of the Ontario Provincial Police cold-case homicide division, Jay Brock is investigating a serial killer. He was told the evidence they needed to stop the killer was hidden in Walter Duke's farmhouse. He had fallen in love with one of the beautiful daughters. He reveals his secret to Leia. Can he find the evidence and keep Leia safe?
A terrifying journey to survive the men that are out there to destroy them and the evidence. Will the stories Walter told his daughters save their lives? God has a plan for these two, a plan for hope and a future. God has a plan for you too, a plan for peace and not for destruction. Give Him your heart and watch Him move in your life.
Leia Duke steps into her family's old farmhouse. She is grabbed from behind by a pair of beefy hands. A second figure blindfolds her before she could even scream. She knew it must have something to do with her ranchhand. He had lied to her last year and broke her heart. The men moved her through the house. The strange teachings of her father are brought to mind. Stories of four princesses who fight a terrifying foe. Were the stories for now? What are they searching for? She escaped to a hidden passage only to meet the man who had broken her heart.
Undercover Police Officer of the Ontario Provincial Police cold-case homicide division, Jay Brock is investigating a serial killer. He was told the evidence they needed to stop the killer was hidden in Walter Duke's farmhouse. He had fallen in love with one of the beautiful daughters. He reveals his secret to Leia. Can he find the evidence and keep Leia safe?
A terrifying journey to survive the men that are out there to destroy them and the evidence. Will the stories Walter told his daughters save their lives? God has a plan for these two, a plan for hope and a future. God has a plan for you too, a plan for peace and not for destruction. Give Him your heart and watch Him move in your life.
April 5, 2023
"Undercover Protection" is a Christian romantic suspense novel. Leia and her sisters were raised by their father to be able to handle unexpected attacks, especially around their farm. He never explained why they needed to know this, but now the bad guys have appeared. Jay was asked by her father to help find the proof of a crime that was hidden by his now-dead wife. This might prove that Jay's father was murdered rather than his father abandoned Jay and his mother. Leia and Jay worked well together as a team, and Jay felt like Leia brought out the best in him.
Leia and Jay had spent some months together before the start of the book and had already started falling in love before Jay broke it off. He's certain that a wife and kids would be a burden in his undercover work, and that work is his priority. They're still attracted, but Jay had to work through why he's rejecting this capable, amazing woman.
There were a few places where the author seemed to forget something she'd previously written, like they know there is currently no ladder up to the attic but later Jay confidently believes there is a ladder there. The suspense came from the bad guys attacking Leia and Jay. They both prayed for help with the various dangerous, difficult situations they faced. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this exciting novel.
Leia and Jay had spent some months together before the start of the book and had already started falling in love before Jay broke it off. He's certain that a wife and kids would be a burden in his undercover work, and that work is his priority. They're still attracted, but Jay had to work through why he's rejecting this capable, amazing woman.
There were a few places where the author seemed to forget something she'd previously written, like they know there is currently no ladder up to the attic but later Jay confidently believes there is a ladder there. The suspense came from the bad guys attacking Leia and Jay. They both prayed for help with the various dangerous, difficult situations they faced. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this exciting novel.
September 28, 2021
This is an intriguing Love Inspired Suspense novel by a well-known author who is a favorite of mine.
The secrets abound and create quite a story unraveling all the mysteries this tale unfolds. The characters include an Undercover Police Officer, a Phantom serial killer on the loose, and the heroic daughters of a paranoid farmer. But was their father really paranoid? The story delves into the training Leia and her sisters were given by their father before he died. He had brought them up to know God but also to defend themselves against unknown enemies. But, why? Why would their father teach them to love others the way God loves them and also teach them the skills to defend themselves?
Mystery, suspense fans will enjoy this fast-paced in-depth story.
If you've never read a suspense story from Love Inspired Suspense, this would be a great book to hook you in!
The secrets abound and create quite a story unraveling all the mysteries this tale unfolds. The characters include an Undercover Police Officer, a Phantom serial killer on the loose, and the heroic daughters of a paranoid farmer. But was their father really paranoid? The story delves into the training Leia and her sisters were given by their father before he died. He had brought them up to know God but also to defend themselves against unknown enemies. But, why? Why would their father teach them to love others the way God loves them and also teach them the skills to defend themselves?
Mystery, suspense fans will enjoy this fast-paced in-depth story.
If you've never read a suspense story from Love Inspired Suspense, this would be a great book to hook you in!
September 6, 2021
Exciting and inspirational!
This story really moved. Leia is held hostage in her childhood home. When she manages to escape, she runs into the hired hand who used to work there, Jay. He turns out to be an undercover cop who is trying to solve a cold case from 25 years ago with clues from her father who has just died.
The pace is breakneck and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with an action and character oriented storyline that has only some mild kissing. The characters are vivid and endearing. The plot is thoroughly engaging. There are a lot of Bible verses and praying that happen, but it is made an integral part of the storyline. If you like your romances with a lot of action, gutsy characters and prayers, then this is for you! Enjoy!
This story really moved. Leia is held hostage in her childhood home. When she manages to escape, she runs into the hired hand who used to work there, Jay. He turns out to be an undercover cop who is trying to solve a cold case from 25 years ago with clues from her father who has just died.
The pace is breakneck and the tone is uncertain yet hopeful with an action and character oriented storyline that has only some mild kissing. The characters are vivid and endearing. The plot is thoroughly engaging. There are a lot of Bible verses and praying that happen, but it is made an integral part of the storyline. If you like your romances with a lot of action, gutsy characters and prayers, then this is for you! Enjoy!
September 6, 2022
Wow! What a wild ride! This book started out with a bang and ended with a bang. There was non-stop action from start to finish. The mystery and suspense in this story were spot on with lots of mysterious clues as to how to find the serial killer and his lair. This faith thread was spot on as both main characters used their memorization of Bible verses to help them through tough times. I really like Leia. She was one tough lady. She had a great will to survive and help others. She was full of spunk. Jay Brock was a man on a mission (not just an undercover cop). He was running from the demons of his past from losing his father. This is a great book for love inspired suspense lovers. Prepare to have a seat because you will not want to put this book down once you start it!
July 14, 2022
Most of the story takes place in or around Leila's family farm. Leila is kidnapped in her farmhouse but relies on the training and knowledge her father taught her and her other 3 sisters to elude her kidnappers. She runs into Jay Brock, an undercover cop posing as a farmhand and a former love interest. Together they must rely on wit and knowledge to escape the kidnappers and find out why they are after Leila and what they are after.
This story had twists and turns, suspense, romance, matchmaking, and a mystery.
This story had twists and turns, suspense, romance, matchmaking, and a mystery.
August 11, 2022
This action-packed, suspense-filled book was really good. There were lots of secrets revealed and, surprise, two villains. One of whom I never suspected. I loved that there was redemption in the characters, even in one of the so-called bad guys. Leia was full of courage and determination. I loved her forgiving spirit. Jay's pursuit of justice is so heartwarming and commendable. I'm searching for more books by this author.
November 1, 2021
I like this author's literary world of law enforcement in the province of Ontario, Canada. I particularly like the two lead protagonists in this book. They are interesting and intriguing characters. The setting and backstory for this book are fascinating. Leia's childhood home and the kind of childhood she had are unique and utterly captivated me.
July 6, 2023
I really enjoyed this clean, Love-Inspired, Romantic Suspense. I bought this at a local Goodwill store and I've given it a 5* rating. This was a little slow starting but speeded up as it went along. There were a lot of characters in this, good and bad. Lots to enjoy at different points, and to root for. Lots of little twists and turns going for clues. Be sure to keep an eye on the cat.
May 26, 2022
liea was kidnapped when she get out of the car at the old farm but some one come s to help her but an she trust him to help her and stop her sister and baby from coming to the farm when danger is there very good story
September 1, 2023
Great story
A great story full of attack & mystery. She was trained in survival skills & fought off the attackers over & over.
The theme = evil will be revealed & won't be hidden forever. Evil will not succeed!
Thankful for this truth.
A great story full of attack & mystery. She was trained in survival skills & fought off the attackers over & over.
The theme = evil will be revealed & won't be hidden forever. Evil will not succeed!
Thankful for this truth.
September 27, 2021
Very good read storyline did not drag, action from the beginning, maybe
more with some sisters
more with some sisters
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 27, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. Maggie K. Black is a really good author.
June 26, 2022
I loved this book although it's a September 2021 publication Many twists and turns in the story
July 1, 2022
Absolutely enjoyed reading
I loved this book and how it kept my desire to continue to read. Never knew what would transpire. The ending seemed to be rushed.
I loved this book and how it kept my desire to continue to read. Never knew what would transpire. The ending seemed to be rushed.
January 3, 2023
This book had me hooked from the very first page. I couldn’t put it down. It is now one of my favorite books. She also has became one of my favorite authors.
January 19, 2023
Loved this book! Great story! Loved the mystery! Lots of twists and turns. Really kept you guessing. Loved the two main characters! Would ❤️ read more about them!
September 4, 2023
This is a book from everyone's secret dreams! A house with hidden tunnels and childhood stories that hold clues to the whereabouts of a secret lair? I couldn't put it down!
October 13, 2024
Action packed from the very first sentence and kept me hooked the whole time. If it wasn’t for my busy schedule the last few days I would have read it all at once.
March 15, 2025
One of my favorite books by her.
June 2, 2025
Easily one of my most enjoyed LIS reads. The storyline of this one grabbed me immediately and the banter was such fun! Fabulous read!
August 8, 2025
This was an intriguing book. I think it would have worked better as a longer novel - more time for plot and character development and to spin out the mystery a bit longer.
May 13, 2024
The story itself was ok but wasn't prepared for the frequent religious references/overtones including praying and various scriptures quotes throughout, as it wasn't mentioned in the synopsis or indicated anywhere else. If you are looking for an edgy, hot romance between the characters, this isn't it. I did however enjoy that the book jumped right into the conflict and the there were a number of turns along the way that kept me wanting to turn the page.
July 7, 2022
“Undercover Protection” by Maggie K Black, starts with action and suspense from the very first sentence and just keeps building!
Leia is kidnapped in her family’s home and must keep her wits about her to get herself out. The kidnappers seem to think her house hides some sinister secrets. Her ex-
boyfriend, Jay Brock, was the family’s former farmhand, or was he? In trying to escape she discovers that Jay is an undercover cop and he thinks there is some important evidence in her house. Together they must fight for their lives. Leia is brave and quite resourceful. Ms. Black has a great storyline with good strong characters and LOTS of suspense and action!
Leia is kidnapped in her family’s home and must keep her wits about her to get herself out. The kidnappers seem to think her house hides some sinister secrets. Her ex-
boyfriend, Jay Brock, was the family’s former farmhand, or was he? In trying to escape she discovers that Jay is an undercover cop and he thinks there is some important evidence in her house. Together they must fight for their lives. Leia is brave and quite resourceful. Ms. Black has a great storyline with good strong characters and LOTS of suspense and action!
December 28, 2022
I loved this action packed adventure. It’s a great introduction to a new family and Maggie K Black’s next series. The romance between the two main characters is beautiful while keeping it clean. Highly recommend this read!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews