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Shepherd Security #9
Operation: Healing Angel
Colonel Samuel ‘Big Bear’ Shepherd, retired on paper only. A West Point Graduate, he served his entire career in the Special Operations Command where he made the necessary contacts to make his agency, Shepherd Security, a reality. His agency was born from the need to have an independent, highly trained, and specialized group that could work outside of the system to accomplish what could not be done within the highly bureaucratic and often ineffectual governmental organizations.
Shepherd never shied away from getting his hands dirty. He actively engaged, leading his men on the toughest missions. It was on one such mission, nearly five years ago, that Shepherd was shot in the abdomen. Significant damage resulted from his injury, and he has been confined to a wheelchair since. Over the past few months, the pain has increased as well as other sensations in the lower half of his body.
His life has been focused on the mission, leaving little room for any personal distractions…until he meets the attractive and intelligent doctor who immediately impresses him. The doctor who will change his life.
Dr. Diana Palmer is a highly educated practitioner in multiple disciplines to bring the most effective treatments to her patients. Every second of her life focuses on her work with a patient wellness with a holistic approach and mindset, leaving little time for personal relationships outside of her large, close family. Her last romantic relationship while in med school ended with a pathetic whimper, two extremely busy people who had no time for each other. That was one mistake she vowed she would never repeat…until she meets the enigmatic recluse whom she finds to be both warm and personable as well as intelligent and kind. He communicates in a matter-of-fact manner that she respects. She is as attracted to his personality as she is to him physically, a wrong mindset to have, given that he becomes her patient.
Shepherd Security recruits only the best. They can protect someone in trouble like no other because they work in the shadows, invisible, and outside the system where the rules don’t apply–just the oath they took. They don’t exist. That’s also why they can break any suspect and can get answers out of anyone accused. That’s when they’re called in, when someone must be protected at all costs, or when answers must be obtained, by any means necessary.
Warning, this story is realistic, with adult language and content on the way to the HEA. This is book 9 in the Shepherd Security Series. Even though the story does continue from book to book, each is a stand-alone story and can be read without reading the prior book(s), but they are best enjoyed in order.
Shepherd never shied away from getting his hands dirty. He actively engaged, leading his men on the toughest missions. It was on one such mission, nearly five years ago, that Shepherd was shot in the abdomen. Significant damage resulted from his injury, and he has been confined to a wheelchair since. Over the past few months, the pain has increased as well as other sensations in the lower half of his body.
His life has been focused on the mission, leaving little room for any personal distractions…until he meets the attractive and intelligent doctor who immediately impresses him. The doctor who will change his life.
Dr. Diana Palmer is a highly educated practitioner in multiple disciplines to bring the most effective treatments to her patients. Every second of her life focuses on her work with a patient wellness with a holistic approach and mindset, leaving little time for personal relationships outside of her large, close family. Her last romantic relationship while in med school ended with a pathetic whimper, two extremely busy people who had no time for each other. That was one mistake she vowed she would never repeat…until she meets the enigmatic recluse whom she finds to be both warm and personable as well as intelligent and kind. He communicates in a matter-of-fact manner that she respects. She is as attracted to his personality as she is to him physically, a wrong mindset to have, given that he becomes her patient.
Shepherd Security recruits only the best. They can protect someone in trouble like no other because they work in the shadows, invisible, and outside the system where the rules don’t apply–just the oath they took. They don’t exist. That’s also why they can break any suspect and can get answers out of anyone accused. That’s when they’re called in, when someone must be protected at all costs, or when answers must be obtained, by any means necessary.
Warning, this story is realistic, with adult language and content on the way to the HEA. This is book 9 in the Shepherd Security Series. Even though the story does continue from book to book, each is a stand-alone story and can be read without reading the prior book(s), but they are best enjoyed in order.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 7, 2021
350 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
About the author
Margaret Kay
28 books107 followersMargaret Kay is a wife, a mother of two adult children, a grandmother, a pet lover who makes her own dog food from scratch, and a writer of Military Romance Novels.
Margaret's husband proudly served 8 years in the United States Navy. She's a veteran of more than a few deployments as the spouse who took care of the family while her military member served halfway around the world.
Margaret's husband proudly served 8 years in the United States Navy. She's a veteran of more than a few deployments as the spouse who took care of the family while her military member served halfway around the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
February 8, 2024
4.5 stars
Margaret has given us a bit of everything to make this a page turner. There is action, suspense, drama, danger, tension, angst, emotions, secrets, and a hell of a lot more. Twists and turns abound that you don’t see coming.
The action starts right from the beginning and keeps on coming. It is also a bit of a rollercoaster ride, but this is one series you will get addicted too. It did take me a while to get into the story and used to Margarets storytelling but once I did it is easy to enjoy the stories.
Make sure to start at the beginning as characters do cross over. The stories are told through multiple POV’s as you really get inside the characters heads and know what they are thinking and learn who they are better. These wonderful characters are well written, complex, and fully realised. These alpha men and women are saviours and will do anything to protect those who they love and those who need it to fight against evil and those who wrong others.
There is religious overtones which often had me wondering if I would continue, and the sexual references are left more to the imagination, but the stories soon outweighed all that.
Margaret has given us a bit of everything to make this a page turner. There is action, suspense, drama, danger, tension, angst, emotions, secrets, and a hell of a lot more. Twists and turns abound that you don’t see coming.
The action starts right from the beginning and keeps on coming. It is also a bit of a rollercoaster ride, but this is one series you will get addicted too. It did take me a while to get into the story and used to Margarets storytelling but once I did it is easy to enjoy the stories.
Make sure to start at the beginning as characters do cross over. The stories are told through multiple POV’s as you really get inside the characters heads and know what they are thinking and learn who they are better. These wonderful characters are well written, complex, and fully realised. These alpha men and women are saviours and will do anything to protect those who they love and those who need it to fight against evil and those who wrong others.
There is religious overtones which often had me wondering if I would continue, and the sexual references are left more to the imagination, but the stories soon outweighed all that.
October 19, 2025
So thrilled to read Shepherd's story!!! Absolutely met all my actcipations. Loved it!!!
February 15, 2021
Shep is my kinda hero.
I just find it whack that he never got a second or third opinion concerning his condition, especially since he had the access, resources, and money to the very best. Him trying to walk on his own not once but twice didn't really fit his character profile either to me. I get that the fall moved the plot forward with the h, but it was at the expense of conflicting with what we the reader know about him. I guess that some people could argue that it made him seem more relatable or human, but what normal person would take that risk? I'd follow the doctors strict orders so that I wouldn't have pain and could get out of a wheelchair as soon as possible.
When the h took off her tracking necklace because it interfered with her collar (something like that), I wanted to drop the book. Obviously, this was the hint that the climax of the book was coming (didn't mean for that to seem so suggestive), but it was just so stupid that I could barely tolerate it. Hmm, ruined shirt or lose your life? The saving grace was that the author didn't have the h do the old "You're a murderer/bad guy!" line for killing someone while saving her life (twice).
I'm all for strong, educated and independent female characters, but most of these authors don't add common sense to go with those qualities. I struggled with this h, like most others in similar books, for her naivety regardless of education (doctor++) and age (around 40).
I do wish that we could have seen him meet her brother or family. Maybe the brother will feature in a future book?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2021
A fantastic story
This has been an interesting and intriguing series that I have really enjoyed reading. In this story there was a lot of unexpected surprises for Shepherd, and if you've read the entire series, you know that he hates the unknown and what he can't control. Lol! I really enjoyed the medical part of the story, as there were a lot of insightful things that will apply to others, not just the subject of the story. Overall it was a terrific story that you certainly won't want to miss. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
As someone who has been through a lot of medical traumas, I can fully understand the importance of seeing the correct type of medical professional. When I was hurt 17 years ago, I was sent to 13 different types of doctors (all being different types of specialists), not including my primary care physician or the numerous ER visits, within 9 months. Unfortunately, I was never able to get a diagnosis, the pain was so horrible that I was put on full disability, and have been ever since. I actually never had any type of accident or significant injury, the pain just started one day, and within one month I was off work for good. I know that it seems far fetched that the subject of this story could be so misdiagnosed, but unfortunately it happens often. If you have a medical issue that is undiagnosed or even diagnosed but not getting any better, please continue to look for someone who will be able to help you. I have to agree with Doctor Diana, Chiropractic care is not what it used to be, and can produce many results, as can taking care of yourself in every aspect. Thank you to the Author and Dr. Diana for the intriguing story.
This has been an interesting and intriguing series that I have really enjoyed reading. In this story there was a lot of unexpected surprises for Shepherd, and if you've read the entire series, you know that he hates the unknown and what he can't control. Lol! I really enjoyed the medical part of the story, as there were a lot of insightful things that will apply to others, not just the subject of the story. Overall it was a terrific story that you certainly won't want to miss. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and outstanding author.
As someone who has been through a lot of medical traumas, I can fully understand the importance of seeing the correct type of medical professional. When I was hurt 17 years ago, I was sent to 13 different types of doctors (all being different types of specialists), not including my primary care physician or the numerous ER visits, within 9 months. Unfortunately, I was never able to get a diagnosis, the pain was so horrible that I was put on full disability, and have been ever since. I actually never had any type of accident or significant injury, the pain just started one day, and within one month I was off work for good. I know that it seems far fetched that the subject of this story could be so misdiagnosed, but unfortunately it happens often. If you have a medical issue that is undiagnosed or even diagnosed but not getting any better, please continue to look for someone who will be able to help you. I have to agree with Doctor Diana, Chiropractic care is not what it used to be, and can produce many results, as can taking care of yourself in every aspect. Thank you to the Author and Dr. Diana for the intriguing story.
March 24, 2024
Sam and Diana
I’ve been waiting for this book since the first book and I loved every word written. Sam, aka Shepherd, aka Big Bear, meets his match when his personal physical therapist has a long term family emergency and he meets he person he wants Sam to tryout. Diana, aka Dr Diana, is into holistic healing. She is a M.D., a physical therapist, and a Chiropractor. After a few treatments he has feeling in his legs and Dr Diana is determined to find out what’s going on with his back. Diana (not Dr Diana) is attracted to Sam also and joins him for meals after her treatments in his home. She is confused about what’s going on in the building and wonders if she stepped in a criminal group. I love her character. She is tenacious, speaks up for herself, and determined to get Sam on his feet. I loved watching Sam’s personality change from gruff and unsmiling to happy and smiling. I need to issue a Tissue Warning because there will be tears.
I’ve been waiting for this book since the first book and I loved every word written. Sam, aka Shepherd, aka Big Bear, meets his match when his personal physical therapist has a long term family emergency and he meets he person he wants Sam to tryout. Diana, aka Dr Diana, is into holistic healing. She is a M.D., a physical therapist, and a Chiropractor. After a few treatments he has feeling in his legs and Dr Diana is determined to find out what’s going on with his back. Diana (not Dr Diana) is attracted to Sam also and joins him for meals after her treatments in his home. She is confused about what’s going on in the building and wonders if she stepped in a criminal group. I love her character. She is tenacious, speaks up for herself, and determined to get Sam on his feet. I loved watching Sam’s personality change from gruff and unsmiling to happy and smiling. I need to issue a Tissue Warning because there will be tears.
October 9, 2024
Sam Shepherd is a retired Colonel (only on paper). While he was int he military he made all the contacts for him to start Shepherd Securities. All the men and women who work for him are all former military personnel. Sam was shot during one of the mission and told he was paralyzed. After Vic, his massage person, had to leave, he recommended Diana. Diana is educated in her field and is continuing going to school to learn. At first Sam was not thrilled at the change. But something changes in Sam and he cannot wait to Diana. Diana asked him to come to her office for the treatments and he tried to explain that he needed to be in the office all the time. Sam finally agrees to go to her office and she comes to his three times a week for his treatment. Diana takes some x-rays after Sam says that he has feelings in his legs. So the story continues. This book is just as good as the previous ones. They are fast reads and will make you laugh and cry during the read.
April 22, 2021
Big Bear and the Doc...
WOW!!! I have always enjoyed adult love stories and military books so this is a double header for me!
I was intrigued by the collection of characters, their individual skill sets, their humour, dedication and fearless approach to their jobs. Being part of a team is what makes this group of men & women so strong.
I believe the author captured the essence of this man-made family, as well as their stress and strengths. I felt the fear, the resolve, the respect and the love.
I cried, I laughed, worried & was on the edge of my seat through the whole book. I’m no military authority, but I think Tom Clancy would have approved of the tactics & terms and writing.
Five stars from me Margaret Kay. Looks like I need to go back & start the series at the beginning.
WOW!!! I have always enjoyed adult love stories and military books so this is a double header for me!
I was intrigued by the collection of characters, their individual skill sets, their humour, dedication and fearless approach to their jobs. Being part of a team is what makes this group of men & women so strong.
I believe the author captured the essence of this man-made family, as well as their stress and strengths. I felt the fear, the resolve, the respect and the love.
I cried, I laughed, worried & was on the edge of my seat through the whole book. I’m no military authority, but I think Tom Clancy would have approved of the tactics & terms and writing.
Five stars from me Margaret Kay. Looks like I need to go back & start the series at the beginning.
February 17, 2021
OMG Best yet
I am in love with Sam and Diana's story. Diana is a gifted healer, combining the best of physical therapy, chiropractic, western and Oriental medicine. Sam has been in a wheelchair for 5 years but she believes his diagnosis was in error and can help him walk again. Sam is our cherished leader of Shepherd Security, grandpa, Big Bear. This book is a beautiful gift to Kay's readers. We get to follow our favorite other characters and watch Sam change from just a strong leader to a vulnerable lover. Thank you. Want more. And don't forget a story for Joe.
I am in love with Sam and Diana's story. Diana is a gifted healer, combining the best of physical therapy, chiropractic, western and Oriental medicine. Sam has been in a wheelchair for 5 years but she believes his diagnosis was in error and can help him walk again. Sam is our cherished leader of Shepherd Security, grandpa, Big Bear. This book is a beautiful gift to Kay's readers. We get to follow our favorite other characters and watch Sam change from just a strong leader to a vulnerable lover. Thank you. Want more. And don't forget a story for Joe.
February 24, 2021
Colonel Sam and Diana
I absolutely loved this one! Fantastic story! I love reading about the Military and especially this series. When Diana and Sam met and how she was able to help him but still falling in love was the best. I've been waiting for Sam's story for awhile now and I must say I was not disappointed. I can't wait until the next one is available. i didn't sleep much until I was finished reading it all. This one was very interesting and I cried over different parts but not for long as the love of each one of them with their sense of humor keeps you captivated.
I absolutely loved this one! Fantastic story! I love reading about the Military and especially this series. When Diana and Sam met and how she was able to help him but still falling in love was the best. I've been waiting for Sam's story for awhile now and I must say I was not disappointed. I can't wait until the next one is available. i didn't sleep much until I was finished reading it all. This one was very interesting and I cried over different parts but not for long as the love of each one of them with their sense of humor keeps you captivated.
August 14, 2021
It’s been five long years since Colonel Samuel ‘Shep’ Shepherd, head of Shepherd Security was deemed paralyzed and relegated to a wheelchair. It hasn’t been easy but Shep has coped, now his regular therapist is leaving but highly recommends Dr. Diana Palmer who has expertise in many medical disciplines. They’re both strongly attracted and unsure they’ll be able to remain doctor patient distance.
Not only does this outing highlight Shep’s difficulties as non-obstacles, it shows the variety of work the team gets.
Rating: 3.75stars
Not only does this outing highlight Shep’s difficulties as non-obstacles, it shows the variety of work the team gets.
Rating: 3.75stars
March 3, 2021
Five stars
Sam Shephard is paralyzed after a gunshot wound. Dr Diane is highly recommended physical therapist who also is a chiropractor and practices holistic medicine. Read along as she helps Sam regain use of his legs. I loved this book as well as the previous eight books in the series.it would be best if you read these book as in order so that you can know all the team members. A military read.
Sam Shephard is paralyzed after a gunshot wound. Dr Diane is highly recommended physical therapist who also is a chiropractor and practices holistic medicine. Read along as she helps Sam regain use of his legs. I loved this book as well as the previous eight books in the series.it would be best if you read these book as in order so that you can know all the team members. A military read.
February 26, 2021
Wonderful stoey
I absolutely loved this book and have enjoyed the series! The characters have definitely made an impact on me while I have been reading so much that I want to know more about the lives of these people! This book makes me want the next one to hurry up and come out!
I absolutely loved this book and have enjoyed the series! The characters have definitely made an impact on me while I have been reading so much that I want to know more about the lives of these people! This book makes me want the next one to hurry up and come out!
February 26, 2021
This book was better than some of the others in this series. I will add to my read again list. I was happy that Sam finally could walk again. This book left off with a teaser that I hope will be finished in the next book. Book 1 is still my favorite in this series. I recommend you read each in order to fully understand each book.
February 28, 2021
I have read every one !
I love this book ! Every member of Shepherd Security is truly amazing . Once you start this book you can’t put it down , I tried to pace myself because I didn’t want it to end . If you are looking for suspense, romance and interesting characters this series is it .I can’t wait to read the next one !
I love this book ! Every member of Shepherd Security is truly amazing . Once you start this book you can’t put it down , I tried to pace myself because I didn’t want it to end . If you are looking for suspense, romance and interesting characters this series is it .I can’t wait to read the next one !
April 13, 2021
Best author and series
This series just keeps getting better with each book! The stories describe and pull you into the stories and connect you in a way, few others do. Can’t wait for next books in series. Thank you for sharing your talent Margaret Kay! You have captured a military wife’s feelings perfectly. My hubby is 20 yr retired Army.
This series just keeps getting better with each book! The stories describe and pull you into the stories and connect you in a way, few others do. Can’t wait for next books in series. Thank you for sharing your talent Margaret Kay! You have captured a military wife’s feelings perfectly. My hubby is 20 yr retired Army.
July 24, 2021
New author for me.
This series was recommended on a book group I am on. Really glad I gave it a try - really good read. Only problem is I have started late so now have to play catch up. Though looking forward to finding out more about the characters that I have been introduced to in this book.
This series was recommended on a book group I am on. Really glad I gave it a try - really good read. Only problem is I have started late so now have to play catch up. Though looking forward to finding out more about the characters that I have been introduced to in this book.
November 14, 2021
well deserved
I am so glad Shepherd got his HEA after watching all his operators get theirs and being honorary grandpa to the children. Diana is his perfect partner and great to see holistic medicine used and not just a magic wand! I am loving this series and this book maintains the high standard .
I am so glad Shepherd got his HEA after watching all his operators get theirs and being honorary grandpa to the children. Diana is his perfect partner and great to see holistic medicine used and not just a magic wand! I am loving this series and this book maintains the high standard .
October 21, 2022
Was so glad to read Shepherd's story and find his other half. Diana is a Dr. of physical therapy, training in chiropractic work, acupuncturist, and she's going to help Shepherd. He thought he would never walk again. While this is going on, they are still running missions. I really enjoyed this book and this series. HEA.
April 29, 2023
A little disappointing..
Having read previous books in the series I looked forward to reading shepherds story. I didnt feel this book was as good as previous books, boring in parts, I found myself skipping ahead quite a few times and the description of one of the agents was annoying with the constant emphasis of his colour every time he was mentioned.
Having read previous books in the series I looked forward to reading shepherds story. I didnt feel this book was as good as previous books, boring in parts, I found myself skipping ahead quite a few times and the description of one of the agents was annoying with the constant emphasis of his colour every time he was mentioned.
February 27, 2024
AWESOME
I loved this story. Sam was so deserving of somebody to love. It was wonderful to see this story unfold. Sam’s character is one of my favorites in this series. As usual, this story had enough going on to keep me not wanting to put the book down. If you are looking for intrigue with a little romance thrown in, this series is for you. I highly recommend it.
I loved this story. Sam was so deserving of somebody to love. It was wonderful to see this story unfold. Sam’s character is one of my favorites in this series. As usual, this story had enough going on to keep me not wanting to put the book down. If you are looking for intrigue with a little romance thrown in, this series is for you. I highly recommend it.
February 9, 2021
Margaret Kay
Another fantastic book by Margaret Kay. I have enjoyed every book in this series and am waiting anxiously for the next book. I love when alpha males protect their loved ones but yet allow them to be strong.
Another fantastic book by Margaret Kay. I have enjoyed every book in this series and am waiting anxiously for the next book. I love when alpha males protect their loved ones but yet allow them to be strong.
February 11, 2021
Loved
I only just found this author and proceeded to read every book back to back. I was anxiously awaiting her next story snd Shepherd’s story was wonderful. I highly recommend this author and her Shepherd security books. I can’t wait for the next one!
I only just found this author and proceeded to read every book back to back. I was anxiously awaiting her next story snd Shepherd’s story was wonderful. I highly recommend this author and her Shepherd security books. I can’t wait for the next one!
February 16, 2021
Love to read
I waited an eternity for this book! Lived it. This whole series has been absolutely wonderful. I love the family atmosphere. Now how long will I have to wait for the next one?
I waited an eternity for this book! Lived it. This whole series has been absolutely wonderful. I love the family atmosphere. Now how long will I have to wait for the next one?
February 18, 2021
Shepherd Security
This book was as good as the others . Keep the great stories coming! I can hardly wait for the next book to come out !!
Thank you so much for the job you do ! Fran
This book was as good as the others . Keep the great stories coming! I can hardly wait for the next book to come out !!
Thank you so much for the job you do ! Fran
February 28, 2021
Absolutely love this series
I love every one of these books, all the characters. And all their separate stories. Thankfully we didn't have to wait for the last story for Shepherd's
I love every one of these books, all the characters. And all their separate stories. Thankfully we didn't have to wait for the last story for Shepherd's
March 2, 2021
Love the action and Relationships
This story is a continuation of the series. We get glimpses into other characters. I wish we could have gotten more details about the operations but didn't bc this is from Sam's POV. Overall, a great story!
This story is a continuation of the series. We get glimpses into other characters. I wish we could have gotten more details about the operations but didn't bc this is from Sam's POV. Overall, a great story!
Read
March 22, 2021I have enjoyed reading this series, but have found that the first few books of the series held my interest much better than the last 3. I have enjoyed all of them, but the last two seemed to drag a bit at the beginning and the middle.
April 1, 2021
Can't wait for the next one these are so well written
Love all of them intriguing well written so enjoyable the people the stories everything's put together so well read you will enjoy
Love all of them intriguing well written so enjoyable the people the stories everything's put together so well read you will enjoy
April 1, 2021
Healing angel
I have read all books twice so far.I have had every emotion there is with this series.I absolutely love it.and I am always in a hurry for next one.thank you for the great read.
I have read all books twice so far.I have had every emotion there is with this series.I absolutely love it.and I am always in a hurry for next one.thank you for the great read.
April 13, 2021
Another top notch book from Margaret Kay. I have been waiting for Shepherd’s story since the beginning, and it was worth the wait. I love all the books in this series but this one is my second favorite, behind book 1.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews