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He’s a trained killer with dreams of a future…

Despite his efforts to the contrary, Former Army Ranger Asher Cross can’t forget the sexy doctor he and his team risked their lives to save. Her long dark hair and ocean blue eyes fill his dreams and fuel his fantasies. So, when Sydnee unexpectedly appears on his doorstep, alone and afraid, Asher knows there’s only one choice to make… Her.

She’s a doctor who’s convinced she’s in danger…

Dr. Sydnee Blake is being watched. She’s certain of it. Convincing the authorities, however, is a whole other frustrating story. Fearing the worst, Sydnee goes to the one man she hasn’t been able to forget. The mouthwatering operative with an intense gaze and lips she longed to taste.
But this isn’t about longing or lust… It’s about staying alive. Something she’d very much like to do.

But there’s only one man she trusts to keep her safe.

Despite the lack of evidence—and his team’s concerns—Asher believes Sydnee’s claims that she’s in danger once again. Taking charge of her protection, he vows to find the man responsible for the fear in her eyes. A fear that soon proves to be very, very real.
And if he and the rest of Charlie Team fail to eliminate the threat, it’ll be Asher who suffers the most. Because a life without Sydnee isn’t a life he wants to imagine.

214 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 31, 2022

596 people are currently reading
155 people want to read

About the author

Anna Blakely

59 books997 followers
Author of the exciting R.I.S.C. Series, Anna Blakely brings you stories of love, action, and edge of your seat suspense. As an avid reader herself, Anna writes what she loves...strong, Alpha heroes and the intelligent, independent heroines they love.

Anna's dream is to create stories her readers will enjoy, and characters they'll fall in love with as much as she has. She believes in true love and Happily Ever After, which is what she will bring to you.

Anna lives in rural Missouri with her husband and children, as well as several rescued animals. When she's not writing, Anna enjoys reading, watching action and horror movies (the scarier the better), and spending time with her amazing family.

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5 stars
902 (64%)
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371 (26%)
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112 (8%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
Profile Image for Melanie Marnell.
4,226 reviews34 followers
January 11, 2023
Can a future be decided with just one look? If you asked Asher Cross he'd answer with a resounding yes. The moment he found Dr. Sydnee Blake tied to a chair, he knew that although she was disheveled, dirty and injured, her underlying beauty shone through and he was captivated. Having to walk awzy once the rescue was done was tough. Sydnee could never have adequately expressed her utter gratitude to Charlie team for saving her, especially the care and kindness of Asher. Now she has to seek him out because something's not right. What Asher, his team and Syd's best friend don't know is that she's caught in the crosshairs of a revenge plot thanks to a loved one. Asher needs to get through to Syd and convince her to take a chance on him and their budding relationship. Opening herself up to an emotional relationship may be the hardestthing she's ever done but letting Asher walk away is not an option.
Profile Image for Jane.
Author 6 books89 followers
June 20, 2023
I borrowed Asher ~ R.I.S.C. Charlie Team ~ Book 2, by Anna Blakely from the Kindle Unlimited Program.

In Asher Dr. Sydnee Blake is kidnapped twice and Archer Cross and the Charlie Team rescue her twice and in between Asher and Sydnee start a lasting relationship. I enjoyed the teasing Asher takes from the team as the youngest member. I also enjoyed how the team had his back and joined him in working to find Sydnee. I look forward to the next story in the Charlie Team Series.
Profile Image for Julie Miller.
Author 295 books370 followers
May 17, 2023
Love the heroes in this series! Very fast reads.
Profile Image for Deb Richmond.
700 reviews4 followers
March 16, 2023
Asher is book two in Anna Blakely’s R.I.S.C. Charlie Team. I’m loving Blakely’s third series in the R.I.S.C. world!

Two weeks after being rescued from kidnappers by Asher Cross and the rest of Charlie Team, Sydnee Blake is sure she’s being followed. She shows up at Asher’s house looking for help and finds out that her stalker was hired by her father for protection. But why? The more time the spend together, the closer Asher and Sydnee become. Even though she’s never believed in love, Sydnee knows she’s feeling something for Asher. The two begin to develop a deep relationship. When Sydnee’s life is threatened again, will Asher be able to save her and have the woman of his dreams?

Asher is action-packed! The characters are great, and the story is fast-paced. Blakely continues to do a great job writing R.I.S.C. stories and keeping us entertained! What I like about this story is that Sydnee is the one against love while Asher has to convince her to give their romance a shot. I love the side character of Sydnee’s best friend Parker who is great at making Asher jealous. I’m looking forward to stories for the rest of Charlie Team.

Asher is a standalone in an interconnected series. You’ll love Charlie Team even more if you go back and start with the first R.I.S.C. series. Let me know what you think - I’d love to discuss!
Profile Image for Reading Addict.
1,087 reviews21 followers
June 2, 2022
I have really been enjoying the Charlie Team books that are an addition to the original RISC series. Asher's story was a good one to enjoy over my long weekend. Asher is the youngest team operative on the Charlie team but that doesn't mean that he's a kid. He has been watching his partners fall in love around him and he would love to meet that special someone. What he doesn't expect is to meet Dr. Sydnee Blake when she was held hostage and soon realizes that this is the woman who could ultimately hold his heart. When a stalker brings Sydnee knocking on Asher's door he feels that this could be the beginning of so much more and plans on doing everything to help her. Sydnee has no desire to be in a long term relationship. She honestly doesn't believe in everlasting love. What she does have is a problem and she trusts Asher and his team enough to help her. Sydnee may have her hang ups about relationships but Asher is determined to help her see how great they can be together. So let the action begin! Asher was a good solid romantic suspense story. It was told from dual POV and had action, angst, lust and ultimately love throughout.
1,072 reviews
May 31, 2022
super series

What an excellent extension series to RISC this has turned out to be

Asher and Sydnee are a super couple and the story has all the elements needed to make it a heck of a page turning read.

I love how Asher gave Sydnee space and they weren’t one of those couples that were in each other’s pockets from day 1, this isn’t a slow build romance in the slightest but there are facets of this relationship that are dealt with in a really realistic way.

More excellent interactions with the team and the enigma that is Rhys continues to be built (can you tell I’m desperate for his story) and did I spot the possibility of book 6…..(Parker!!!!)

Looking forward to Greyson’s book (and quite frankly anything this author wants to publish…..)

Highly recommended series

Profile Image for Jane A.
335 reviews2 followers
June 7, 2022
I love the R.I.S.C. Family and Charlie Team are an excellent addition to the series. Asher & Sydnee felt the same instant pull of attraction from the moment they first met - as Charlie Team rescued her. Open & honest Asher is wondering the possibilities of relationships surrounded by friends all finding their soulmates but Sydnee is cynical & resistant to both relationships & love shaped by her parents awful example. When Sydnee turns up on his doorstep scared for her life Asher is determined to keep her safe & convince her to give them a chance.
Sexy Asher may be the youngest on his team but he has a thoughtful maturity especially where Sydnee is concerned. Theirs starts as a slow burn relationship that nicely combusts into fireworks, action & suspense, a bump & a twist to keep it all intriguing. I love the character of Asher, he’s special & we also have tantalising insights of a little more Rhys & Grayson’s characters for their stories to come. Well written, thoroughly enjoyable & highly recommended, can’t wait for the next instalment.
Profile Image for Wendy Hodges.
2,902 reviews42 followers
June 4, 2022
I loved Asher, so genuine, kind and sincere. From the minute he set eyes on Sydnee he was a gonna, all he needed to do was persuade her to give him a chance. Action and suspense, a twist or two to keep it interesting. Wonderful characters who are easy to like, well most of them. I empathised with Sydnee, her parents really hadn't been the best and it's tough to figure out you come way down the line of priorities. Parker was intriguing. Great addition to the series which is one I am fully invested in. There was some very steamy, spark worthy scenes but they were also loving. Fabulous steady flow and really well written, this author never let's readers down with her books and she is a definite one click and pre order for me.
Profile Image for Meghan.
3,400 reviews8 followers
July 20, 2025
Love is worth the risk

Asher and Sydnee. Falling quickly on the heels of the last book we get to see Sydnee return as a potential client and as a definite love interest. The danger is real, but also takes some quick twists in this story as Sydnee has a complicated relationship with her dad. New characters also appear, hello Parker, and I hope we see more of him and his multifaceted life! Asher and Sydnee fall for each other quickly, but they also share about trust, love, family, and friendship. Rhys continues to be untrusting at first, so I can’t wait for his story. Greyson got a lot of time with his skillset and humor, he unfortunately had a tragic beginning to the set up for the next book. This was a good read and another addition to a wonderful series.
Profile Image for Carolyn Spence.
1,920 reviews16 followers
June 1, 2022
"Everything but her."
Asher is starting to feel lonely, some of his brothers are matching up with their soulmates and he realizes that he's missing something. That something is Dr. Sydnee Blake. Lightning and Heaven, all in one. That's what happens when they finally kiss, but he had feelings before that even happened. It's a slow burn, even though the attraction is not, but when the intensity rockets up, boy, does it rocket up. Sydney is the one running, not just from a kidnapper, but from a chance at something. Always a riveting read with Ms. Blakely. There is always a wonderful read and escape with her books.

I voluntarily reviewed this book.
Profile Image for Monique Westwood.
508 reviews4 followers
May 31, 2022
I was given this ARC for my honest review. 


This story starts with a bang.  We get to meet Asher and Sydnee, and they meet for the first time, during her rescue.   The connection is almost instantaneous but it isn't the time.  Even after they reconnect there's a bit of a problem because Sydnee has not had the best examples of love so she's hesitant.   I  love how the characters all interact with each other and that they feel like family.  This is part of a series but can definitely be read as a stand-alone.   Can't wait for the next book in the series!
Profile Image for A.
792 reviews
June 2, 2022
Anna Blakey just keeps writing excellent, sexy, romantic suspense books! Asher is the second book of Charlie Team, and I am so glad that she kept this series going. I could not put the book down!! Asher and Sydnee meet whenCharlie team rescue her on a mission. Asher is a hunky protector with a heart of gold. Sydnee is a strong successful woman that has trust issues. Their love story is sweet and steamy. The team works well together, and they help Sydnee out with her continuing problems. You definitely won’t see the end coming. Don’t miss this book!
1,206 reviews
June 7, 2022
Syndee is an ER Doctor helping out in another country.
Asher is the youngest member R.I.S.C.’S Carlie Team 2.

Syndee was held hostage and Asher and his team rescued her.
Syndee shows up at Asher’s house scared, when crazy incidents
keep happening.

Syndee and Asher have an attraction, but Asher has to win
her over (she has issues about love and relationships).

You have to read the book, to find out what happens.

It is a great book wit suspense, romance, action and emotions.

Great Job Anna Blakely !!!
Profile Image for Dana zamora.
868 reviews7 followers
June 12, 2022
Not once but twice

Asher and his team R.I.S.K. rescued Sydnee from her captors, and the chemistry between them wasn't one sided, but neither was looking for a relationship, Sydnee has issues with relationships from her past, becoming friends and giving into the intense attraction they have for each other, can they get past her issues, will his team find her in time after learning the truth from her father, high octane excitement from beginning to the end, thank you, Dana Zamora
Profile Image for PepperP0t .
5,108 reviews86 followers
April 4, 2024
When RISC-Charlie rescued a beaten and bound Dr. Sydnee Blake from an Abu Dhabi, a spark lit between her and Asher Cross but they didn’t act on it. A week later, a frantic Sydnee is at Archer’s door, she believes someone is trying to kill her. Archer gets help from the guys and realize it isn’t what she thought and after a life-changing night of passion, Sydnee walks away from Asher, not looking back. Asher uses an overload of charm to try to win Sydnee back and they’re both unaware how right she was as an unseen threat circles Sydnee.
Rating: 4stars
570 reviews8 followers
June 1, 2022
Another amazing swoon worthy read! Asher and Sydnee are perfect for each other. This is another installment of the Charlie Team. I loved every pulse pounding, suspense filled page.They have had wildly different upbringings and different ideas about everlasting love. They have a lot of obstacles in front of them to get through. Do they have what it takes to get the HEA they deserve? Get this book ASAP and find out. Sorry, no spoilers. I received this ARC and here is my honest review.
Profile Image for Courtney.
327 reviews43 followers
June 3, 2022
When Asher and Sydnee first meet she explains her feelings as hero worship and just being thankful to have been rescued. Asher didn't have any excuse. He's been on rescue missions before and has never felt like this towards anyone else. When her safety is threatened, Asher is the first person she runs to. Now that she's back, can he convince her to stay?
Another excellent book from the RISC series. Every new team we get to meet just makes me love this series more!
Profile Image for Belinda .
1,299 reviews8 followers
June 3, 2022
RISC Charlie Team is a great series. The guys are like family and protect their own. Asher and the team rescue Sydnee and bring her home. Although he felt an attraction he figures he would never see her again. When she shows up on his doorstep afraid and in need of protection, he asks himself, who is after her and how is she so connected that she was able to locate his home? Mystery, suspense and romance makes this a wonderful addition to this series.
531 reviews
June 13, 2022
PAYBACK

Sydnee is kidnapped not once but twice in an act of revenge, both times being rescued by Asher. The sins of the father are foisted on the daughter to inflict the maximum amount of pain and hurt on the father. Surprises and twists and turns plus an immediate romantic connection between Syd and Asher, all of which drive the story forward. A fast paced, very enjoyable read. Definitely recommend.
Profile Image for Dawn Cruikshank.
1,130 reviews8 followers
June 14, 2022
Asher

WOW! Another great story by Anna! The beginning grips you right away with the scene of Sydnee being held captive and Asher and his team rescuing her. It is interesting how one person who doesn't believe in love falls hard. It is also a total shock to find out who actually was behind Sydnee's kidnappings. This book keeps you intrigued throughout the story. FANTASTIC job Anna! I would recommend this book!
1,925 reviews5 followers
June 23, 2022
Asher met Sydnee when the team was sent to rescue her. He hasn't stopped thinking about her.
Sydnee doesn't believe in love after watching her parents growing up. All they cared about was themselves. Since she was rescued though, she keeps thinking about Asher. Now she is going to him for help.
Is there really a threat to Sydnee or is she just imagining it? Can her and Asher really have a relationship?
Profile Image for Stacy J..
1,345 reviews12 followers
October 25, 2022
I've been a fan of Mrs. Blakely since she started writing and this book was no different.

Asher knew from the moment he met Sydnee that she was different. Even though the meeting was brief she made an impact on him. Meeting up again and realizing she is in danger makes Asher realize that this woman is the one for him.

I loved many parts of this book but my favorite has to be when Asher stood up to Sydnee's father the first time he met him.
Profile Image for Teresa .
1,911 reviews3 followers
June 30, 2023
Saving Sidney again

Book two of this spin of series, I find I enjoyed the alpha team more than this series but it's still worth the read.jake has a cameo at the end of this book but so far you don't really need to read the other series (maybe the last book to see how trace met emma) but Emma so far is hardly in this one.It does feel slow in story telling.I liked Sidney hope she is in it a lot (you would think her dad would pay them for protecting her)
Profile Image for Ana Clara R.
39 reviews
August 29, 2023
Actually good

Best male protagonist. Asher is sweet, strong and protective but shows his vulnerability. I found that its one of the best written because the author shows us more sides of him.
I also feel like this book handled better the hole instalove. I kind of liked that they took the time to know each other. Like they actually dated a few weeks before telling each other I Love You. It makes sense.
907 reviews3 followers
June 1, 2022
Love, love

Think slowburn, smexy, instant connection read with action. Anna Blakely brings another book you won't be able to put down. Love the connection between Asher and Sydnee. The interactions between the guys on Charlie team give more insight into each of them. I absolutely can't wait to see what is next
34 reviews
June 3, 2022
Anna Blakely's Asher is another story in a great series. Easy enough to be read standalone, and perfect to read in order. She keeps you wanting more in all her books and Asher is no different. The characters are compelling. The stories intriguing. Her books make you want to be a part of the storyline and family/friends with the characters. Thoroughly enjoyable read!
Profile Image for Kira.
1,650 reviews
June 6, 2022
When we first see Asher and Sydnee together, I knew there story was going to be epic, and Anna Blakely did not disappoint! Book 2 in the R.I.S.C. Charlie Team series was a page turner full of action, suspense and romance! I love the continued adventure of these incredible alpha men and the women who steal their hearts. I cannot wait for the next book of this series!
913 reviews3 followers
July 3, 2022
A well written story with great characters. The guys from R.I.S.C. are awesome. Once you start reading you can't put it down. Full of mystery, action and suspense. All these books are great. Definitely would recommend reading.
I was given an advanced reader copy and I voluntarily leave this review.
1,861 reviews9 followers
April 17, 2023
Stubborn!

Asher: He envied his team mates for finding love. He may be the youngest of his team but he would love to find the one. Then they went rescue a Doctor who was being held captive. They went in and rescued her. Asher saw thought even though she had been roughed up she was a beauty. Great continuation of Team Charlie!
1,062 reviews
July 18, 2023
This book is another excellent piece of Anna Blakely. Asher saved Sydnee once, and weeks later she showed in his house begging for Asher's help with stalker. Asher jump to protect her, but his team not so much. When the real danger showed, it proved she's indeed in real danger. On the side, this allowed Asher to explore his unexplored feeling towards Sydnee.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews

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