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Steele Guardians #1
Tough as Steele
Searching for an abducted woman...
Detective Londyn Steel is thrown into the deep end when she’s assigned to find an abducted socialite. Problem is, her family’s company, Steele Guardians, was supposed to protect the family matriarch at her eightieth birthday party when she disappears, and Londyn fears her investigation will expose problems in her family’s company and bring them down. Especially when County Detective Nate Ryder declares jurisdiction over the scene, and Londyn must take a back seat in one of the most important cases she’s ever investigated.
Could put them in a deadly killer’s crosshairs.
Londyn has no choice but to work with Nate and bristles at his interference at first, but soon forms a working truce so they can combine forces to locate this missing woman before it’s too late. As they search for leads, emotions he hasn’t felt since before his service as a Navy SEAL come to the surface. He credits Londyn for unearthing the guy he used to be before his military service, and Londyn can barely fight her attraction for him. But when they fear the socialite was murdered and the killer is still hunting, seeking another prey, their feelings for each other have to be put on hold to stay alive
Detective Londyn Steel is thrown into the deep end when she’s assigned to find an abducted socialite. Problem is, her family’s company, Steele Guardians, was supposed to protect the family matriarch at her eightieth birthday party when she disappears, and Londyn fears her investigation will expose problems in her family’s company and bring them down. Especially when County Detective Nate Ryder declares jurisdiction over the scene, and Londyn must take a back seat in one of the most important cases she’s ever investigated.
Could put them in a deadly killer’s crosshairs.
Londyn has no choice but to work with Nate and bristles at his interference at first, but soon forms a working truce so they can combine forces to locate this missing woman before it’s too late. As they search for leads, emotions he hasn’t felt since before his service as a Navy SEAL come to the surface. He credits Londyn for unearthing the guy he used to be before his military service, and Londyn can barely fight her attraction for him. But when they fear the socialite was murdered and the killer is still hunting, seeking another prey, their feelings for each other have to be put on hold to stay alive
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2022
428 people are currently reading
399 people want to read
About the author
Susan Sleeman
131 books810 followersSUSAN SLEEMAN is the bestselling author of over sixty romantic suspense and mystery novels with more than two million books sold. She writes romantic suspense novels that are clean with inspiring messages of faith. Readers love her series for the well-drawn characters and edge-of-your-seat action. She graduated from the FBI and local police citizen academies, so her research is spot-on and her characters are real.
In addition to writing, Susan also hosts The Suspense Zone. She has lived in nine states but now calls Oregon home. Her husband is a retired church music director, and they have two beautiful daughters, two special sons-in-law, and four amazing grandsons
In addition to writing, Susan also hosts The Suspense Zone. She has lived in nine states but now calls Oregon home. Her husband is a retired church music director, and they have two beautiful daughters, two special sons-in-law, and four amazing grandsons
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
February 7, 2022
There are no words to describe how insanely excited I am over this new Susan Sleeman series. And, like her previous series, it has a clever title (Steele Guardians) and features a family of law enforcement specialists, this time all women! And are these women ever a force to be reckoned with! Love the sisterly/cousinly vibes zinging their way all through the story. The author does a great job of introducing everyone in this first book without weighing the plot down with introductions.
In fact the pacing is impeccable. Sleeman really knows how to strike a balance between family shenanigans, suspense and romance. I've come away satisfied on all counts and yearning for more of the same in future books. And, yay, Nerves of Steele comes out in May so I won't have long to wait!
I almost felt sorry for Nate in the beginning because he has no clue how determined (aka stubborn) and relentless (aka unreasonably stubborn) and single-minded (aka completely, utterly stubborn) Londyn can be when her family's honour is at stake. :-) He's a fast learner though and after a bit of head-butting and, well, intense discussions (ahem), they settle into a truce of sorts but then, oh my, once they let their guard down sparks of a different kind start to flare.
This is me still happy dancing over the sheer bibliophile bliss that comes from starting a new Susan Sleeman series!
I listened to the audible edition narrated by Whitney Dykhouse and enjoyed it tremendously.
In fact the pacing is impeccable. Sleeman really knows how to strike a balance between family shenanigans, suspense and romance. I've come away satisfied on all counts and yearning for more of the same in future books. And, yay, Nerves of Steele comes out in May so I won't have long to wait!
I almost felt sorry for Nate in the beginning because he has no clue how determined (aka stubborn) and relentless (aka unreasonably stubborn) and single-minded (aka completely, utterly stubborn) Londyn can be when her family's honour is at stake. :-) He's a fast learner though and after a bit of head-butting and, well, intense discussions (ahem), they settle into a truce of sorts but then, oh my, once they let their guard down sparks of a different kind start to flare.
This is me still happy dancing over the sheer bibliophile bliss that comes from starting a new Susan Sleeman series!
I listened to the audible edition narrated by Whitney Dykhouse and enjoyed it tremendously.
March 9, 2022
3.5 stars
"We have the old lady. We'll call to arrange a drop . . . . Call in the cops and she dies. Try to locate her and she dies."
"Oh. No. Mimi had been taken." On the evening of her eightieth birthday party no less. The octogenarian millionaire owned a wide expanse of businesses and corporations and Steele Guardians, a family owned security firm, was rehearsing for the contract. . . . . except, the curtain might have already dropped on that possibility unless Londyn Steele could put her investigative skills as a Portland Police Bureau detective into high gear. There was only one roadblock, and he was quite formidable; Detective Nate Ryder, Washington County who was convinced that Londyn was encroaching on his jurisdiction.
If you have ever watched an episode of The First 48, then you have an inkling of an idea about how this story might go down. Fast and furious is putting it mildly, and yet there are snippets of time when Nate and Londyn slow down long enough to admit their nearly immediate attraction, only to squash it, or perhaps just postpone it? God may have placed them together in His perfect timing, not theirs.
" . .. but the thing I've learned over the years is that God doesn't give us what we want. He gives us what we need. Sometimes it's the same thing, but often it's not. Then we have to adjust . . . "
The clock is ticking; so few clues, multiple dead-ends, an unnerving number of dead bodies, unlikely suspects, and an ending to a story that these two never realized was being written; theirs! Such a great start to this series!
"We have the old lady. We'll call to arrange a drop . . . . Call in the cops and she dies. Try to locate her and she dies."
"Oh. No. Mimi had been taken." On the evening of her eightieth birthday party no less. The octogenarian millionaire owned a wide expanse of businesses and corporations and Steele Guardians, a family owned security firm, was rehearsing for the contract. . . . . except, the curtain might have already dropped on that possibility unless Londyn Steele could put her investigative skills as a Portland Police Bureau detective into high gear. There was only one roadblock, and he was quite formidable; Detective Nate Ryder, Washington County who was convinced that Londyn was encroaching on his jurisdiction.
If you have ever watched an episode of The First 48, then you have an inkling of an idea about how this story might go down. Fast and furious is putting it mildly, and yet there are snippets of time when Nate and Londyn slow down long enough to admit their nearly immediate attraction, only to squash it, or perhaps just postpone it? God may have placed them together in His perfect timing, not theirs.
" . .. but the thing I've learned over the years is that God doesn't give us what we want. He gives us what we need. Sometimes it's the same thing, but often it's not. Then we have to adjust . . . "
The clock is ticking; so few clues, multiple dead-ends, an unnerving number of dead bodies, unlikely suspects, and an ending to a story that these two never realized was being written; theirs! Such a great start to this series!
July 22, 2022
3.5 stars
I really liked the MCs, Londyn and Nate, and Londyn's family. The story is a race to find and rescue Mimi, a kidnapped senior millionaire.
It wasn't easy to hop in and realize I'm seeing a lot of characters from previous series...evidently I didn't start at the beginning, after all. There were also a few clues that didn't match, such as the medicine bottle that was left behind and also taken. The detectives also had loads and loads of fancy tools at their disposal, so it felt more like an episode of CSI than of actual life. They also weren't great at following procedure and could have jeopardized certain parts of their conviction based on it.
But overall I couldn't stop flipping pages to find out what really happened to Mimi. I may or may not continue with the series.
I really liked the MCs, Londyn and Nate, and Londyn's family. The story is a race to find and rescue Mimi, a kidnapped senior millionaire.
It wasn't easy to hop in and realize I'm seeing a lot of characters from previous series...evidently I didn't start at the beginning, after all. There were also a few clues that didn't match, such as the medicine bottle that was left behind and also taken. The detectives also had loads and loads of fancy tools at their disposal, so it felt more like an episode of CSI than of actual life. They also weren't great at following procedure and could have jeopardized certain parts of their conviction based on it.
But overall I couldn't stop flipping pages to find out what really happened to Mimi. I may or may not continue with the series.
January 8, 2022
'As a former SEAL, Nate was trained on escape and evasion. Few men could hide things better than a SEAL.'
Susan Sleeman begins a new series here and she surely does a great job. I love how she brings us the details of law enforcement, along with her super believable plots. The intricacy of her work amazes me every time I read one of her books. I don't see how she can keep coming up with such wonderful stories time and again. But she never fails to bring me to the edge of my seat.
These characters are wonderful and I look forward to more books in this series! Action packed and full of surprises, this is one for the keeper shelf!
My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book. The review is my own opinion.
Susan Sleeman begins a new series here and she surely does a great job. I love how she brings us the details of law enforcement, along with her super believable plots. The intricacy of her work amazes me every time I read one of her books. I don't see how she can keep coming up with such wonderful stories time and again. But she never fails to bring me to the edge of my seat.
These characters are wonderful and I look forward to more books in this series! Action packed and full of surprises, this is one for the keeper shelf!
My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book. The review is my own opinion.
February 26, 2022
My thoughts: this book is the exciting first book in a new series by one of my favorite romantic suspense authors Susan sleman. I enjoyed getting to know London steele and I'm looking forward to getting to know the other five members of the family is they solve their own mysteries and find our own romances. There were some surprise twists in the story that I never saw coming. In fact the ending felt a little bit contrived to me, but I suppose it worked as it kept the interesting story engaging. If you like romantic suspense you will love this book and any other book buy this author. I was given a copy free in all opinions on my own.
January 20, 2022
Tough as Steele, the first book in Susan Sleeman’s new series, Steele Guardians, was excellent. I love the way she wrote both Londyn and Nate. They were perfectly aligned for each other personality-wise, neither one perfect and yet each one able to offer support to the other in the area of weakness. I loved the storyline, the suspense and the mystery. I didn’t figure out who had kidnapped the socialite until the very end and I love how Sleeman pulled it all together. Excellent read and I can’t wait to read the next in the series and learn more about the next Steele. The way Sleeman keeps her characters interacting with each other, interwoven throughout her various series makes me want to be a part of this action-packed family.
March 5, 2023
I enjoy Susan Sleeman's stories. They have a good balance between mystery, crime, clean romance, and a little bit of law enforcement education. This one had murder, embezzlement, bodies, crime scenes, and cooperation between multiple agencies and companies. I also like that she includes characters from past series and future books. Definitely worth reading. Good if you read previous series first. Londyn and Nate are a good start to this series. Just FYI, definitely Christian based but doesn't take over the story.
March 29, 2024
I enjoyed getting to know London Steele & Nate Ryder.
January 13, 2022
Wow! What a beginning of a new series by Susan Sleeman!
This book has so much action and drama.
A kidnapping of a dear lady puts two detectives on the run to find the answers and recur her. These two don’t really want to work together, but they are thrown into this case for two different reasons. Soon their connections bring in many different agencies around the Portland area to help. With this story, we get to see some old friends from some of Susan Sleeman’s past series.
I was swept away by all the fast-moving pace of this story. One time, I even voiced out loud how I just couldn’t see the connections. Wow! It was so intertwined and had so many roadblocks.
Susan Sleeman is a mastermind at bringing just the right amount of suspense to all her books. You really don’t know how it’s all going to end up until the very end! This is what makes an amazing author! When the reader gets so tangled up in the story that they don’t want to put it down.
This book not only has action, tension, and suspense but there is a bit of romance . . . well, maybe a little more than a bit! These characters learned that it’s okay to rely on others and God because He’s there for us and wants our best. They also learn the meaning of family and what a strong family truly is like.
If you love action, suspense, and intrigue, then I highly recommend you pick this book up and start reading it! However, I have to warn you, once you start reading, you won’t be able to stop! I stayed up way too late to finish this book. WOW!
I was given this book by the publisher which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book has so much action and drama.
A kidnapping of a dear lady puts two detectives on the run to find the answers and recur her. These two don’t really want to work together, but they are thrown into this case for two different reasons. Soon their connections bring in many different agencies around the Portland area to help. With this story, we get to see some old friends from some of Susan Sleeman’s past series.
I was swept away by all the fast-moving pace of this story. One time, I even voiced out loud how I just couldn’t see the connections. Wow! It was so intertwined and had so many roadblocks.
Susan Sleeman is a mastermind at bringing just the right amount of suspense to all her books. You really don’t know how it’s all going to end up until the very end! This is what makes an amazing author! When the reader gets so tangled up in the story that they don’t want to put it down.
This book not only has action, tension, and suspense but there is a bit of romance . . . well, maybe a little more than a bit! These characters learned that it’s okay to rely on others and God because He’s there for us and wants our best. They also learn the meaning of family and what a strong family truly is like.
If you love action, suspense, and intrigue, then I highly recommend you pick this book up and start reading it! However, I have to warn you, once you start reading, you won’t be able to stop! I stayed up way too late to finish this book. WOW!
I was given this book by the publisher which did not influence my review in any way, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 1, 2022
Londyn Steele and her family protection company are trying to get the protection contract of a prominent family. But when the woman they are supposed to be protecting disappears right under their noses it doesn't look good for their company. Londyn is determined to find Mimi even if it means stepping out of her jurisdiction to do it. Nate was practically raised by Mimi's daughter and son-in-law and he has no intention of letting Londyn step into the investigation that rightly falls in his jurisdiction. Can the two of them play nice in order to rescue and bring home Mimi before the kidnappers decide she is no longer valuable to them?
This is the first in the Steele Guardians series and I'll tell you what, it lives up to what I expect from a Susan Sleeman romantic/suspense story! I enjoyed the introduction of all of the characters of the Steele family. They all seem like strong women with competent skills. I love that it is tied in with the other series that this author writes so we get a glimpse into those characters again as well. Londyn and Nate work well together and I loved how they complimented each other. Londyn is independent but yet knows how to step back instead of being overbearing and insisting on her way. Nate's nature as an ex SEAL has him wanting to protect but yet he doesn't ever belittle Londyn because she is a woman. They are both willing to work together without having to have their ego's stroked constantly in order to bring Mimi back. The pace kept the story moving and exciting. The spiritual content was important to both characters and both grew stronger in their faith. I'm excited to continue reading this series!
This is the first in the Steele Guardians series and I'll tell you what, it lives up to what I expect from a Susan Sleeman romantic/suspense story! I enjoyed the introduction of all of the characters of the Steele family. They all seem like strong women with competent skills. I love that it is tied in with the other series that this author writes so we get a glimpse into those characters again as well. Londyn and Nate work well together and I loved how they complimented each other. Londyn is independent but yet knows how to step back instead of being overbearing and insisting on her way. Nate's nature as an ex SEAL has him wanting to protect but yet he doesn't ever belittle Londyn because she is a woman. They are both willing to work together without having to have their ego's stroked constantly in order to bring Mimi back. The pace kept the story moving and exciting. The spiritual content was important to both characters and both grew stronger in their faith. I'm excited to continue reading this series!
January 31, 2022
My review today is on the Romantic Suspense, Tough as Steele. This is book one in the series Steele Guardians. I am one of Susans' biggest fans so I was thrilled to get this book in the mail. It's well-written, action-packed, and full of suspense. It's an awesome book and I know you are going to love it.
Detective London Steele goes to a formal birthday party with her parents. Her family's company Steele Guardian is in charge of the security at the party. Before the party really gets in swing it's discovered that the eighty-year-old has been abducted. London tries to take charge fearing for her family business. There appears to be no way they could have taken the old lady out of the mansion. A county detective is also at the party and takes over jurisdiction. London is intrigued by the man. Can they work together to find Mimi?
Detective Nate Ryder (former Navy SEAL) is the foster son of Mimi's daughter. She is as close as a grandmother he ever had. He is determined to do everything in his power to find her and bring her home to her daughter. The woman who has raised him asks for London and Nate to work together. He is drawn to this London, she has touched him deeply. Can they find Mimi and bring her home safely?
A suspenseful journey to find the missing eighty-year-old and bring justice to the people who took her. God has a plan for them, a good plan for hope and a future. God has a plan for you too, a plan for peace and not for destruction even in this time of chaos. Give Him your heart and watch Him straighten your mess.
Detective London Steele goes to a formal birthday party with her parents. Her family's company Steele Guardian is in charge of the security at the party. Before the party really gets in swing it's discovered that the eighty-year-old has been abducted. London tries to take charge fearing for her family business. There appears to be no way they could have taken the old lady out of the mansion. A county detective is also at the party and takes over jurisdiction. London is intrigued by the man. Can they work together to find Mimi?
Detective Nate Ryder (former Navy SEAL) is the foster son of Mimi's daughter. She is as close as a grandmother he ever had. He is determined to do everything in his power to find her and bring her home to her daughter. The woman who has raised him asks for London and Nate to work together. He is drawn to this London, she has touched him deeply. Can they find Mimi and bring her home safely?
A suspenseful journey to find the missing eighty-year-old and bring justice to the people who took her. God has a plan for them, a good plan for hope and a future. God has a plan for you too, a plan for peace and not for destruction even in this time of chaos. Give Him your heart and watch Him straighten your mess.
February 21, 2022
SPECTACULAR START TO THE SERIES!
Susan Sleeman is one of my favorite romantic suspense authors. You can always count on her books to keep you turning pages way into the night and distracting you from all other things in your life. If — you are one of that kind of readers and I am! Her plots are clever, her characters are engaging, her villains are cagey, her settings are always interesting. She writes excellent descriptive word pictures that put you in the action. Sleeman’s new series is based on the Steele Guardians, a family-owned security company now run by the next generation who happens to be a group of very capable women. In Tough As Steele, Sleeman introduces readers to Londyn Steele who is in charge of providing security for a wealthy socialite. When the woman goes missing during her birthday party, things go from bad to worse when County Detective Nate Ryder arrives on the scene. To say the two have a history would be an understatement! She feels threatened that this incident will cause problems for her family's company but knows she has to put those thoughts aside. Nate realizes he must deal with his negative feelings and find a way to work together to find this woman before it is too late. They soon realize they still have feelings for each other that they have not worked out yet. They also know those feelings will have to wait until they find the lost woman, they solve the crime and do not get killed in the process! This is a spectacular new series and I cannot wait to read the next book!
Susan Sleeman is one of my favorite romantic suspense authors. You can always count on her books to keep you turning pages way into the night and distracting you from all other things in your life. If — you are one of that kind of readers and I am! Her plots are clever, her characters are engaging, her villains are cagey, her settings are always interesting. She writes excellent descriptive word pictures that put you in the action. Sleeman’s new series is based on the Steele Guardians, a family-owned security company now run by the next generation who happens to be a group of very capable women. In Tough As Steele, Sleeman introduces readers to Londyn Steele who is in charge of providing security for a wealthy socialite. When the woman goes missing during her birthday party, things go from bad to worse when County Detective Nate Ryder arrives on the scene. To say the two have a history would be an understatement! She feels threatened that this incident will cause problems for her family's company but knows she has to put those thoughts aside. Nate realizes he must deal with his negative feelings and find a way to work together to find this woman before it is too late. They soon realize they still have feelings for each other that they have not worked out yet. They also know those feelings will have to wait until they find the lost woman, they solve the crime and do not get killed in the process! This is a spectacular new series and I cannot wait to read the next book!
January 2, 2022
I am closer to the age of the matriarch that Steele Guardians had been hired to protect at her birthday party than the age of the security force. As difficult as it is to imagine being important enough to have trained guards protecting me, I probably find it more difficult imagining being one of those guards, even when I was their age. Detective Londyn Steele was a force to be reckoned with. Then, in steps Detective Nate Ryder. Unlike so many heroes and heroines, they were not former boyfriend/girlfriend. They had never met. Neither one even knew the other existed before the personal assistant of the matriarch screamed that the woman was missing. In a matter of a few minutes, Londyn and Nate had met and clashed. Fortunately, they both had the same goal in mind and understood the importance of cooperation. What a valuable lesson regardless of our status in life! Several other important lessons came to the surface as the story unfolded. I appreciated the part that faith played. Those who were believers simply lived out their faith rather than being in-your-face about it. Setting an example opens more doors of opportunity than preaching at people. If you like tense action, loads of suspense, and harrowing escapades, you will enjoy this story. I received an advance copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
January 13, 2022
Happy New Year to me! A new Susan Sleeman series has begun! They are always awesome, and I can depend on the characters being likable, intense and good at their jobs. The stories are believable, engrossing and usually hard to break away from! Tough as Steele is all of the above. The first story focuses on Londyn but introduces us to the whole family. Londyn is a detective for the police department but feels like she will eventually need to join the family business which is protection details. The family is protecting a wealthy, elderly matriarch at a lavish party when she disappears and Londyn wants in on the case but fears she won't be with it being out of her jurisdiction until the family demands that she work together with County Detective Nate Ryder. Of course, they clash a lot, being two strong-willed people but they soon learn that they are great at their jobs and can solve this together. I loved both Londyn and Nate. Their back stories were interesting and their methods of solving crimes were complimentary. Londyn's family is fantastic, and I can't wait for the remaining books to hear their stories!
February 1, 2022
In this first book in the Steele Guardians series, the author delivers a strong well developed story. A story that is a clean Christina suspense romance and one that will keep the reader on the edge of their seats.
Londyn Steele is a detective attending a fancy soiree when the lady of the mansion is abducted. She’s concerned not only for the victim, but also for her family’s business. It’s their security company that the woman used and if all goes wrong, her family will suffer.
In comes County Detective Nate Ryder, a former Navy SEAL and a surrogate family member of the woman abducted. Their first encounter was less than stellar, since each wanted to lead the investigation. They were even less thrilled when their bosses have both work the case.
The whodunit and why was a rollercoaster ride from the beginning to the end. In the midst of it all, feelings develop. Will they survive to explore their feelings or will the evil surrounding them win after all?
The plot was engaging and the characters, complex. I loved that the author gives us a VERY strong female character.
A great start to the series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Londyn Steele is a detective attending a fancy soiree when the lady of the mansion is abducted. She’s concerned not only for the victim, but also for her family’s business. It’s their security company that the woman used and if all goes wrong, her family will suffer.
In comes County Detective Nate Ryder, a former Navy SEAL and a surrogate family member of the woman abducted. Their first encounter was less than stellar, since each wanted to lead the investigation. They were even less thrilled when their bosses have both work the case.
The whodunit and why was a rollercoaster ride from the beginning to the end. In the midst of it all, feelings develop. Will they survive to explore their feelings or will the evil surrounding them win after all?
The plot was engaging and the characters, complex. I loved that the author gives us a VERY strong female character.
A great start to the series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
February 4, 2022
Tough as Steele is the first book in Susan Sleeman’s new romantic suspense series Steele Guardians.
Every time I read a new book by Susan Sleeman, I’m reminded why I enjoy her stories so much. The characters are real. They approach their relationships like adults. And the spiritual struggles are not met with platitudes.
In this particular book, I absolutely loved the interaction between her and Nate! Admittedly, I sometimes struggled with her motivations, but in all honesty, as long as she and Nate were together together, I didn’t mind not always understanding why. And the suspenseful ending! One of my favorite kinds. (I’d gush about it, but I don’t want to risk spoilers.)
If you’re looking for a new series to dive into, then definitely grab a copy of Tough as Steele. I’m excited to learn more about the Steele family!
—
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.
Every time I read a new book by Susan Sleeman, I’m reminded why I enjoy her stories so much. The characters are real. They approach their relationships like adults. And the spiritual struggles are not met with platitudes.
In this particular book, I absolutely loved the interaction between her and Nate! Admittedly, I sometimes struggled with her motivations, but in all honesty, as long as she and Nate were together together, I didn’t mind not always understanding why. And the suspenseful ending! One of my favorite kinds. (I’d gush about it, but I don’t want to risk spoilers.)
If you’re looking for a new series to dive into, then definitely grab a copy of Tough as Steele. I’m excited to learn more about the Steele family!
—
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.
February 10, 2022
Tough as Steele by Susan Sleeman
Steele Guardians Series Book One
Detective Londyn Steele has taken the lead in her family as the oldest sibling since her brother was murdered. As such, she needs to do what she can for their business, Steele Guardians, to succeed. She’s not ready to retire from being a detective to join the family business, but she will suffer through a birthday party to help get a contract.
Detective Nate Ryder owed Clarice Vandervoort everything. She was there for him when his mother died. Mimi, her mother, has been kidnapped, and he’s going to get her back even if he has to work with a detective from another agency. Not that he doesn’t like Detective Steele, more that he likes her too much.
The first book in another series, I’m sure, will be superb. I enjoy all of Susan Sleeman’s series. They keep my attention, have great plots with plenty of twists and turns, and of course, romance.
Looking forward to the rest of the series.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
Steele Guardians Series Book One
Detective Londyn Steele has taken the lead in her family as the oldest sibling since her brother was murdered. As such, she needs to do what she can for their business, Steele Guardians, to succeed. She’s not ready to retire from being a detective to join the family business, but she will suffer through a birthday party to help get a contract.
Detective Nate Ryder owed Clarice Vandervoort everything. She was there for him when his mother died. Mimi, her mother, has been kidnapped, and he’s going to get her back even if he has to work with a detective from another agency. Not that he doesn’t like Detective Steele, more that he likes her too much.
The first book in another series, I’m sure, will be superb. I enjoy all of Susan Sleeman’s series. They keep my attention, have great plots with plenty of twists and turns, and of course, romance.
Looking forward to the rest of the series.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
May 3, 2023
no clue how it was suggested to me by Amazon ...i must admit that i often feel it is a sponsored post and it just pushing it on folks ...now sometimes that is great ...that you are finding a new author to you, and it will give you some need details ...and whatnot ... so i am new to Susan's writing. i see this is a huge series ... "Steele Guardians". i will say that some Christian story i don't enjoy ...i don't a pen pointed discuss as to why i didn't like it ...but i guess like all reads it just depends on how it is written. so, i get a bit iffy when it is put into a genre or categories as such. any who ... out on February 1, 2022. Christian mystery & suspense romance (kindle store & books). Christian suspense. but that being said i did enjoy it ...and i will not only read more from this series but check out what else Susan has to offer for us to read very soon. can't wait!! and like i always say i enjoy seeing a lady on the book cover verses a male model. it is a nice change. thanks for that!
February 1, 2022
Filled with action, suspense, drama, a dash of romance, and a heaping dose of inspiration, Susan Sleeman’s latest book, Tough as Steele, kept me turning the pages. The first in her Steele Guardians series, this book features her signature law enforcement expertise, colorful and realistic characters, and nonstop action and adventure.
“God doesn’t walk away from us. We do the walking. He’s always there. Always.”
I like the way Sleeman incorporates threads of inspiration seamlessly into her stories. It’s always a plus for me. Her vast knowledge in the field of law enforcement and techniques adds elements of professionalism and realism. I always enjoy learning more about crime solving and detective work while I’m reading an engrossing story. If you enjoy fantastic and engrossing romantic suspense, you’ll love this book. 4.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
“God doesn’t walk away from us. We do the walking. He’s always there. Always.”
I like the way Sleeman incorporates threads of inspiration seamlessly into her stories. It’s always a plus for me. Her vast knowledge in the field of law enforcement and techniques adds elements of professionalism and realism. I always enjoy learning more about crime solving and detective work while I’m reading an engrossing story. If you enjoy fantastic and engrossing romantic suspense, you’ll love this book. 4.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
February 6, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed Tough as Steele by Susan Sleeman, 1 of my favorite authors. What a great kick off to a new series! It's action-packed non-stop, filled with mystery, danger, and so much more! Londyn and Nate, are investigating the kidnapping of a wealthy businesswoman. They start out fighting over who will take the lead in the kidnapping case. As they work together, their feelings begin to change towards each other so that they can work together, and they even begin to learn to appreciate each other's strengths in solving this case (though not without grumbling, growling, and stress). But is it all happening way too fast to be real?? After all, they've both been burned in past relationships. I loved Londyn's family! They are supportive and tough with a touch of humor thrown in that was a welcome interlude. I can't wait until the next book in this series!
March 8, 2022
This is book one in the Steele Guardians series, another great start to another great series by Sleeman. If you are a fan of Susan Sleeman, as I am, this book is everything you expect it to be. It is full of mystery, suspense, family, humor, romance and so much more. We met the Steele sisters in previous boos but you do not miss anything by starting this series. If you have read the Night hawk security series and the truth seekers series, you will reconnect with characters from those. I love how Sleemans books bring characters from previous series.
This book we learn more about the beautiful detective Londyn Steele and the handsome detective Nate Ryder. Londyn and Nate must figure out how to work together to find a kidnaped person all while dodging bullets and trying to hide their feelings.
I was given a copy of this novel for my honest opinion.
This book we learn more about the beautiful detective Londyn Steele and the handsome detective Nate Ryder. Londyn and Nate must figure out how to work together to find a kidnaped person all while dodging bullets and trying to hide their feelings.
I was given a copy of this novel for my honest opinion.
April 22, 2022
This is a spin-off of her past two series and one I enjoyed. The Steele's have begun a protection/detective agency. Londyn is helping out her family as they work as a protective detail during Mimi's 80th birthday party - but Mimi is kidnapped! Londyn immediately begins working the scene and looking for information before the police can come in and take it away from her. She's a detective, but this isn't her jurisdiction and she's sure someone will pull this out from under her - and sure enough Nate Ryder wants her nowhere near his investigation; but Londyn won't take no for an answer and eventually they are both working together to find out what happened to Mimi. They just know how close to home this one is going to hit! Oh, and it doesn't help that they are a little bit distracted by their attraction to one another.
This is a clean read.
This is a clean read.
December 17, 2024
"Tough as Steele" is a romantic suspense. Detective Londyn and County Detective Nate investigated the kidnapping of a rich, older woman during an event for which Steele Guardians was providing security. The woman was like a grandmother to Nate as her daughter acted as a mother to him when he lost his own father. Her faith was an example to him in the past, and now his faith helped Londyn trust God even when He seemed untrustworthy.
They worked well together. The mystery was interesting, and they followed up on any leads--even when they broke the rules. They felt saving a life was more important than making sure the case would be airtight against the kidnapper. There was the constant worry that the woman had already been killed, and the rescue attempt created a suspenseful ending.
There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this interesting mystery.
They worked well together. The mystery was interesting, and they followed up on any leads--even when they broke the rules. They felt saving a life was more important than making sure the case would be airtight against the kidnapper. There was the constant worry that the woman had already been killed, and the rescue attempt created a suspenseful ending.
There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this interesting mystery.
February 1, 2022
Portland Police Detective Londyn Steele also helps her family’s protection agency as they guard a wealthy woman’s estate in this compelling mystery. The suspense is intense and the case hard to solve, but they persevere despite all the obstacles. Not only does Londyn butt heads with County Detective Nate Ryder, being thrown together raises other feelings too. I enjoy Susan Sleeman’s intriguing thrillers and the setting in my home state. The latest crime-solving technology and the interplay between the realistic, strong characters make for a fine read. This new series has connections to others with recurring characters, which makes it fun for fans, but it stands on its own too. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
February 8, 2022
This is book 1 in a new series for Sleeman. We are introduced to the female lead in a previous series and some of the characters from several series appear in the book. However, you do not need to read the others first.
Londyn Steel is a detective with the city police and her family owns a security firm. They are providing security at a birthday party for an elderly rich socialite named Mimi as a bid for a security contract. Nate is a detective for the county and is in attendance at the birthday party because of ties to Mimi’s daughter. Mimi disappears. The race is on to find her before it is too late. Mimi’s daughter wants Nate and Londyn to work together to find her mother and money talks so it happens. Nate and Londyn have personal and professional things to work through as they work together to find Mimi. The case has a lot of twists and turns and they are fearful that it will be too late to find Mimi alive.
Londyn Steel is a detective with the city police and her family owns a security firm. They are providing security at a birthday party for an elderly rich socialite named Mimi as a bid for a security contract. Nate is a detective for the county and is in attendance at the birthday party because of ties to Mimi’s daughter. Mimi disappears. The race is on to find her before it is too late. Mimi’s daughter wants Nate and Londyn to work together to find her mother and money talks so it happens. Nate and Londyn have personal and professional things to work through as they work together to find Mimi. The case has a lot of twists and turns and they are fearful that it will be too late to find Mimi alive.
February 6, 2022
Tough as Steele indeed!
An action filled book that quickly catches you up in to the mystery of the missing "Mimi." Enjoyed the competition as they vie for who will lead the investigation. It is quickly resolved and the adventure begins. I enjoy the family element of each group we have been following and the interaction between the groups. Susan Sleeman is getting stronger in her character development. You will keep reading until it is finished. Waiting excitedly for the next one.
An action filled book that quickly catches you up in to the mystery of the missing "Mimi." Enjoyed the competition as they vie for who will lead the investigation. It is quickly resolved and the adventure begins. I enjoy the family element of each group we have been following and the interaction between the groups. Susan Sleeman is getting stronger in her character development. You will keep reading until it is finished. Waiting excitedly for the next one.
January 28, 2023
Detective Londyn Steele, not an employee of the Steele Guardians but a family member, is called in to investigate an abduction of Mimi at her 80s birthday party.
Ex-Navy Seal, now County Detective Nate Ryder, has been part of the family since he was orphaned in his teens, so this case is highly personal, and the clock is ticking to find the sweet "adoptive" matriarch.
Two departments working together along with the Steele Guardians make an action packed drama not to be missed.
Much prayer and faith add a special element to this terrific story.
Ex-Navy Seal, now County Detective Nate Ryder, has been part of the family since he was orphaned in his teens, so this case is highly personal, and the clock is ticking to find the sweet "adoptive" matriarch.
Two departments working together along with the Steele Guardians make an action packed drama not to be missed.
Much prayer and faith add a special element to this terrific story.
February 12, 2022
You're gonna love it!!!
Susan Sleeman is one of my favoritest authors! And OMGosh I am already living this new series! Londyn had been in several other books before this one but I'm so happy she finally got her Happily Ever After!
I can't wait to read about the other Steele sisters and cousins!
I love how we get to keep in touch with the folks from the Veritas Center as well!
Susan Sleeman is one of my favoritest authors! And OMGosh I am already living this new series! Londyn had been in several other books before this one but I'm so happy she finally got her Happily Ever After!
I can't wait to read about the other Steele sisters and cousins!
I love how we get to keep in touch with the folks from the Veritas Center as well!
September 24, 2022
I generally love this genre of book, but for me:
-the protagonist relied too heavily on a multitude of family members who just happen to be in all areas of law enforcement. It was all too convenient and too much of a stretch; plus they crossed lines of jurisdiction, etc.
-the romance scenes didn’t resonate with me
-the faith parts didn’t feel like they flowed naturally
-and the reader couldn’t possibly solve the mystery on their own (where the fun in that?)
3.5 stars
-the protagonist relied too heavily on a multitude of family members who just happen to be in all areas of law enforcement. It was all too convenient and too much of a stretch; plus they crossed lines of jurisdiction, etc.
-the romance scenes didn’t resonate with me
-the faith parts didn’t feel like they flowed naturally
-and the reader couldn’t possibly solve the mystery on their own (where the fun in that?)
3.5 stars
October 16, 2022
Tough as Steele is a hold-onto-your-seat suspense/mystery. This is my first foray into Susan Sleeman's writing and it was so good. Londyn and Nate were great characters. I wasn't crazy about Nate at first but he was protecting his jurisdiction. I liked the family aspect and how they are all in law enforcement. It definitely kept you wondering and the reveal didn't happen until the very end but it tied up all the loose ends. I will definitely be checking out the rest of the series.
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