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Watchdog Security #5

More Than Thrills

Will it be a new life or game over for Elissa?

Elissa St Claire has always lived in the shadow of her family of high-achievers while she bounces from career to career, preferring the great outdoors and competing in sports to sitting behind a desk--except when it comes to doing a little gray-hat hacking. Much to her loving family’s chagrin, she has no interest in settling down, either, instead dating men who are ‘good enough’ for now—until she meets Nashville. He’s gorgeous, charming, and kind—someone way out of her league so why bother, she thinks. Until Nash suggests she deserves more than ‘good enough.’

After a difficult assignment, former SEAL Nashville Jones decides to take some time off from protection work at Watchdog Security to reevaluate his life. Stepping away also means he doesn’t have to worry about seeing Elissa at every turn—a woman who sends his heart racing but has made it clear every time she looks away that she’s not interested. When he overhears how she’s been dumped by the latest loser for a ‘better prospect’, he impulsively offers to accompany her to Maui as her coach as she competes in an important race. Palm trees, beaches, blue waters—what could be better for falling in love?

But as Nashville and Elissa draw closer, an invisible enemy threatens Elissa after she hacks into the wrong server, spurring a desperate mission to save thousands of innocent lives. Can Nashville protect the woman who’s won his heart or is it game over for Elissa?

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Published January 18, 2022

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About the author

Olivia Michaels

20 books101 followers
Olivia Michaels is a life-long reader, dog-lover, gardener, and a certified beachaholic. When she’s not throwing a Frisbee for her fur-baby, harvesting tomatoes, or writing, you can find her playing in the surf, kayaking, or kicking back on the sand and cracking open a romantic beach read.

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5 stars
470 (68%)
4 stars
162 (23%)
3 stars
38 (5%)
2 stars
9 (1%)
1 star
3 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
Profile Image for Frances Phillips.
215 reviews16 followers
January 9, 2022
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
POV: Dual 3rd Person
M/F
Stand Alone Status: Due to a continuing back story I don’t recommend this as a stand Alone.

I was highly anticipating this story. Throughout the series Nash has been a favorite of mine. Watchdog Security has some great people but Nash has held a special place for me since I first met him, so getting to read his story was pretty much the highlight of my weekend 😂. The thing is that I really love a fast paced protection book. I love a book that the danger is imminent, the stakes are high, and 💩 is hitting the fan. I love a good romance forged in the flames of the world burning around them. This book was not that. It wasn’t a edge of your seat thriller romance like some of the Watchdog Security series is but man, oh man, it was still an awesome story.

What I love in a romance as much if not more than a thrill while reading, is a greater message in the writing. I have to say, the title of this book is PERFECT because this book definitely had More than Thrills. I love that I came away from this book with a message in my head that in no way detracted from the story, but stuck with me just the same. ”Run your own race.” I feel like that hit me hard. Be your own person, unapologetically you. That is good enough. This overall theme throughout the book was the bread and butter of my reading experience and was something I feel like every person needs reminded of occasionally.

More Than Thrills wasn’t as high octane as some books by Olivia Michaels (which I find funny since the heroine is a thrill seeker) but that doesn’t mean it didn’t have action. The world went up in flames eventually, it was just a slow burn. A brush fire that slowly smoldered and became an inferno by the end of the book. Most of the book was about the couple and not the adventure and I found it to be a fun read. Also, the Rebel surprise in the book (hopefully that is vague enough to not give anything away) was a particularly favorite Easter Egg find of mine. Like, ever!

Nash has had my heart from the first introduction. When we first met Elissa I liked her. I wasn’t in love with her or anything, but I liked her. In this book she stole my heart. Getting an in depth look at how her mind works really made my “like” go to a whole new level. Part of what I loved about Nash was his humor and calm in a crisis and getting an in depth view of what built those traits in him was both intriguing and heartbreaking. I feel like the character development in this one was particularly well done and honestly can’t wait to read it again.

Overall I was would say this book is well done and I definitely recommend reading it but if you haven’t read the whole series maybe go back to the beginning and pick up More Than Love. Starting there will give you an overall better reading experience. Happy Reading my Friends!
Profile Image for Karen Roma.
2,762 reviews33 followers
January 13, 2022
More Than Thrills by Olivia Michaels is the fifth book in the Watchdog Security series and as always, Ms Michaels has penned a free flowing, captivating, and exciting story that embodies everything that lovers of the romantic suspense genre could possibly want.

As I started this story I was immediately drawn to the quirky, impulsive, and totally loveable persona of Elissa; as even during her moments of insecurity and doubt, she remained strong, determined, and projected a vitality that was inspiring to behold. No wonder she captured the attention of Nashville Jones. A little jaded after his last mission, he’s never forgotten the vivacious beauty who underestimates her worth but is everything he didn’t know he wanted.

No Watchdog story would be complete without mystery, suspense, and nefarious entities, and More Than Thrills definitely provides Elissa with an opportunity to let her adrenaline junkie flag fly while in close quarters with a sexy protector whose southern drawl is like the smoothest honey. Add in the beauty of Maui and you just know their explosive chemistry will be impossible to deny.

I could go on and on about this book and others in the series, but all readers really need to know is if you are looking for an author who continually delivers quality stories with engaging characters that you’d happily read again and again, then look no further than Olivia Michaels; you certainly won’t be disappointed, as each time I read her stories I feel like I’m coming home.
Profile Image for Jane A.
355 reviews3 followers
January 16, 2022
More Than Thrills is book 5 in Olivia Michaels Watchdog Security series and probably my favourite so far simply for the fact it is Nash's story and Nashville Jones, with his goreous sexy voice, is an absolute keeper.
More Than Thrills definitely meets the description of romantic suspense, there is excitement, action, mystery and heat all written at a good pace. Both Nash and Elissa have their share of insecurities and whereas I've always loved Nash, Elissa took a little time to grow on me, she is an impulsive, thrill seeker doubtful of her own worth but showed her true colours as a strong and talented woman determined to 'run her own race' secure in the knowledge than funny, calm and steady as a rock Nash was her safe port in a storm. Of course, the fact that some of my favourite authors are also Elissa's favourites sealed the deal and truly excellent use of a treasured romantic suspense book!
Lots happening in the story to keep you riveted, love the miscommunication, fed by their insecurities, between Elissa and Nash initially that leads to misunderstandings before they realise they fit. Plenty of past characters to continue to enjoy and the introduction of new ones to come and we also get to learn a little more about the mysterious Spooky, can't wait for her story.
A great entertaining read that I highly recommend but probably best to read the rest of the series first to enjoy this one to the fullest.
I received an arc from the author and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

2,363 reviews19 followers
January 19, 2022
Nash has had his eye on Elissa for a while but due to unfortunate circumstances the timing is never right, until Nash finally takes a step forward and goes for it. Elissa has recently been dumped and she’s upset, not about the ex dumping her but because of the reason she was with him. Her and her ex were training for a race in Hawaii that would test her and she wanted to prove not only to herself but to her family, that she wasn’t a loser. She also has a side gig, she enjoys hacking and she gets on the radar of Spooky and her friends. Now Nash is torn, he wants to protect her but has never mixed business with pleasure and when it’s made known that she should still enter the race in Hawaii, Nash is her partner….but will he cross that line he is so adamant about and a line that he criticized Psychic on.
A great read with steam, some suspense, twists and turns and great characters. It’s recommended to read the previous Watchdog books before this but it’s not necessary as it is a standalone. I liked these two, Nash may have been a man wh*** but once he’s all in…he’s all in and doesn’t shy away, deny or fight his feelings. Elissa was a treat, she was a strong character and was not shy when it came to what she wanted, no shying away from her feelings either. I enjoyed the little to no drama between them and their adventure that not only included the race but the mystery on her hack.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
Profile Image for Trish.
1,619 reviews7 followers
January 26, 2022
This is the fifth book in the Watchdog Security series. You can enjoy this book as a standalone bid you will definitely see previous books characters. Nash and Elissa's story was awesome, honestly my fav in the series so far. They meet in book four but Nash never really got a chance to talk to Elissa plus she was dating someone at the time. Elissa has bounced her way from job to job trying to find what makes her happy, her parents think she's a flake but Nash sees there's so much more to her. Before their relationship even has a chance to start Elissa is pulled into a dangerous task for Watchdog and the mysterious group Gina works for. I couldn't put this book down. Excellent and well written. I loved every minute spent in the Watchdog Security World and am always excited when a new book is released. Can't wait to read Malcolm's next.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for PepperP0t .
5,161 reviews87 followers
February 9, 2024
Elissa St. Claire and operative Nashville Jones like each other but their own insecurities keep them apart. Nash arrives to clear the confusion of the previous night as Elissa celebrates her gray hat hacker magic and an on-line friend breaking the hacker’s year-long holy grail though there’s nothing to see there. Spooky visits to say the government needs Elissa’s help is needed, the site they hacked was a terrorist key to a conspiracy the government has been trying to break.

Elissa’s given a crash course to complement the variety of skills from her various jobs and her personality. In a move designed to keep Elissa out of terrorist hands, Nash is charged with playing her boyfriend and accompanying her to the Maui Challenge that she’d been training for with her ex who decided she wasn’t good enough to be his partner. Apparently, the next step to the terrorist key is on Maui and Elissa’s online friend has trapped her into following the next terrorist clue.
Rating: 4stars
6,811 reviews28 followers
January 23, 2022
Once again we are with the guys from Watchdog security and this time it is Nashville Jones story if you remember we met him in Psychic and Jordan's story and he wasn't to impressed when Psychic went a little crazy over protecting Jordan Now he finds himself in the same position He has always liked Elissa St Claire and thinks that they could have something but the timing has never been right Now she has been dumped by her ex who she was going to do an ironman event with Nashville doesn't hesitate to step up to be her new partner and as they spend time together the sparks fly. But her ex is about to cast a shadow over them Can Nash keep her safe and can they have a future together You will have to read to see
Profile Image for Carolyn Spence.
2,071 reviews16 followers
January 10, 2022
I loved this chapter of the Watchdog Security series. Nash finally gets his story and Elissa is just the right woman for him. Their relationship starts out rocky but they are forced to work together. A very interesting story, very detailed, the author has put a lot into this book and it shows. Loved the twenty questions, coffee dates, turning into jelly, accents and cowboy hats, leap frog, the office test, definition of fear and the greatest, "Riley Edwards to the rescue." Loads and loads of twists and turns, and definitely family drama. Totally recommend this book, read it, read it!

I voluntarily reviewed this book.
3,154 reviews18 followers
January 20, 2022
Love this Watchdog Series!!!

Elissa does not fit into her “high profile” family. Her latest venture - a triathlon in Maui- is a bust as her boyfriend/trainer just dumped her. She is also a bit of a “Robin Hood” hacker.

Nashville Jones (Nash), on leave from Watchdog, overheard her talking about her boyfriend being “good enough”. He assures her she deserves “more” than good enough.

When her hacking puts her in danger, suddenly her trip to Maui is back on, with Nash as her bodyguard. Danger, intrigue, romance and proving your worth; all features which coalesce into a fabulous story. Mahalo to the author!

*** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book ***
Profile Image for Melanie.
4,343 reviews33 followers
May 2, 2023
From the outset More Than Thrills captured and held my attention. Its two main characters: Elissa, a quirky, non-conforming, Jill of all trades, gray hat hacker and; Nashville, an "aw shucks" good ole Southern boy with a lazy drawl and flirty smile, former SEAL who can turnoff off the charm on a dime and become focused and deadly; are perfectly paired. They pretty much light up the pages from the start. The suspense and drama elements in this book will have you on the edge of your seat at times. The Watchdog Team is suddenly involved in something that could have international implications with Elissa at the center of and Nash right there by her side.
Profile Image for Darcy.
15k reviews552 followers
May 20, 2025
Nash and Elissa drove me nuts for the first half. I hated how both of them didn't think they were good enough for the other. It took them talking, realizing they had the same issue and a few laughs before they let it go.

The race part was fun! I loved seeing Elissa flourish and how the race came out.

The last part of the book was a bit harrowing. It was interesting all the people that were there and what they were able to do/stop. Nice to see that worked out.

But I think the best part was Elissa's new job at the end. I have a feeling she won't be looking for a new career or job for a long time now.
1,443 reviews
January 19, 2022
Book 5 of the Watchdogs Securities. Elissa is a career wanderer. Nashville is a member of the Watchdog Security. Their paths intersect, overlap, and then life gets interesting. Friendship, romance, threats, an athletic challenge, warmth and fun. I cannot remember the last time I laughed out loud while reading. Beloved characters from earlier books in the series make an even warmer and more colorful story. Bravo!!!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
9,377 reviews141 followers
January 22, 2022
Book five in the Watchdog Security series brings Nash and Elissa's story. The author does a great job developing their story as she brings the two together with a bit of drama and suspense,adds in some humor along with the romance and delivers another great book to the series. It's well written with perfectly painted scenes,moves fluidly and is a terrific read. Loved this book/series and would highly recommend reading.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
6,168 reviews58 followers
January 25, 2022
Enjoyed the Watchdog Security story about Nash and Elissa. Elissa boyfriend has broken up with her but she still wants to go to Hawaii for the race and Nash goes as her partner and bodyguard. Nash has crushed on Elissa for a while and finally the time is right and he goes for it. As they pursue their relationship Elissa ends up hacking into the wrong server. There is suspense, danger, twisted, not much drama, great character and steam. Great series.

I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for BookLover1990.
1,342 reviews
January 24, 2022
So this is book number 5 in this series but it is the 1st one that I have read. I loved this is of this story. Elise and is Elise and Nashville are the perfect book couple. II loved watching their story play out, the chemistry, comma everything about this book was exactly this was exactly why you read romance.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Barbara.
19.6k reviews8 followers
January 25, 2022
The fifth book in the Watchdog Security series a well written story that held my interest throughout. Elissa St Claire and former SEAL Nashville Jones who is working for Watchdog Security. He decides to take some time off and go with her to Hawaii to be her spotter. Their story has drama, twists, turns, a villain, and romance. This looks like the first book I have read in this series, I now want to read the rest. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
884 reviews3 followers
January 28, 2022
Nashville and Elissa make such a good pairing. I liked watching as their relationship slowly develops as their chemistry is almost like static it’s so strong. When Elissa needs a protector though, he is right there with her and it was easy to see from the first moments that they met that they were going to make a strong couple

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Carol.
922 reviews1 follower
June 9, 2022
More Than Thrills

Another page turner! Melissa and Nash keep running into each other at parties thrown by mutual friends, however each thinks they are not good enough for the other. When they finally get the nerve to try things out Melissa finds herself in trouble from her hacking life. Can Nash and Watchdog keep her safe? When, if, everything comes to a head can they continue where they left off?
Profile Image for Dawn Cruikshank.
1,207 reviews12 followers
October 27, 2023
Another great story by Olivia! This one is about Nash and Elissa. We get to see into these two lives and find out that Elissa is the thrill seeker of the two. As the story moves along we find that Elissa may be in trouble. Her hacker cohort was a surprise to say the least. It was nice to see not too much violence. Glad these two finally got together. Reggie is a good partner to have. FANTASTIC job Olivia! I would recommend this book.
3,562 reviews15 followers
November 23, 2025
More Than Thrills is a spectacular romantic suspense book by Olivia Michaels. Elissa and Nash's story is loaded from cover to cover with outstanding characters, drama, humor, spice and action. I loved this book and look forward to more from Olivia Michaels. More Than Thrills is book 5 of the Watchdog Security Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliffhanger.
I read a print copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
2,903 reviews7 followers
January 19, 2022
Elissa loved to hack into different servers to see if she could and catching scammers. Then found a server she couldn’t get in but with the help of another hacker they got in and Elissa thought it was just a timeshare thing. But was taken into custody to keep her safe but then after her triathlon the two hackers had to work together again. Good book!
Profile Image for Alisha Collins.
381 reviews4 followers
January 24, 2022
More Than Thrills by Olivia Micheals is the 5th book in the Watchdog Security Series and is probably my favorite one so far!! Nashville Jones (Nash) and Elissa the total adrenaline junkie that hasn’t found her purpose in life, come together for one hot little story that keeps you wanting more. While I feel it could probably be read as a stand-alone it will make you want to go read the rest of the series to meet everyone else.
Profile Image for Madm007.
1,167 reviews6 followers
January 25, 2022
Elissa and Nash

Excellent, fast-paced read with action, suspense, heat, and good bits of humor. This one involved some high tech cyber warfare taking them to beautiful Hawaii.
Love reading this series where they have fur baby partners who seem uncannily humanistically smart, with no high tech capabilities needed!
11.2k reviews130 followers
February 3, 2022
This is the 2nd book I've read written by Olivia Michaels; I can’t wait to read more of her books.

This is the 5th book in the Watchdog Security Series; it is a stand-alone book. The story is about Elissa & Nashville; he works for Watchdog Security and after she’s threatened he protects her.

I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Connie Harris.
1,532 reviews3 followers
March 10, 2022
I have enjoyed every book of this series. You don't want to miss this!

Each story is better than the previous. This one is Nash and Elissa's book. Since Elissa is protected by Nash it puts their w bidding relationship on hold. Once again I got caught up in this one and could not put my Kindle down.
Profile Image for A.
826 reviews
January 13, 2022
More than Thrills is the latest addition to the Watchdog Security series, and it is another winner. I was drawn in from the very beginning. Elissa has met the group through the girlfriend of one of the members of Watchdog. She is finding her place in life, and she definitely seeking some thrills. She has been attracted to Nash for a while. Both of them don’t see their own worth, but they find it together. When a hacking job causes some problems, Nash and Gina are there to help Elissa. A working trip to Hawaii changes their lives and cements their relationship. Nash and Elissa have a very sweet, sexy, exciting story. Don’t miss this great book. I can’t wait to see what’s next for Mal and the group!
Profile Image for Charlene.
5,783 reviews2 followers
January 19, 2022
Great story. I do recommend reading the series in order to better appreciate all the characters. (I did not do this, and got a smidge confused). I love all the intrigue and the dynamic between Elisa and Nash.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Gretchen.
1,127 reviews
January 21, 2022
Very good book. I enjoyed watching Nash and Elissa get their HEA. I thought there could have been more back story for each character’s family conflict, but that’s just me. It didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the book.
Profile Image for Kathy Mccalmon.
3,721 reviews29 followers
January 22, 2022
This is book 5 in the watchdog security series. Elissa ends up getting into trouble and has someone after her. Will Nashville be able to save her?

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Lyndsay Durbin.
901 reviews1 follower
January 25, 2022
this writing style just isn’t really for me but i love quick romantic suspense books

a VERY quick relationship develops between Nashville and Elissa. And we’re introduced to quite a few new characters for later books.

I’m excited for the next book with Malcolm and Annalie though!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews