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Prey Security: Alpha Team #1
Deadly Risk
The last thing he wants is to fall for her.
Mackenzie Arden knows she'll never be free of her brother's violent obsession with her, and now she's his prisoner and an unwitting pawn in his plot. When she’s rescued by a man who is as intriguing as he is intimidating, she finally starts to feel safe for the first time in her life, only he wants nothing to do with her.
Luca “Bear” Jackson has been betrayed too many times to put his trust in anyone. Especially a woman who might be embroiled in her brother’s terrorist plot. Try as he might to stop it from happening Mackenzie manages to make him feel things he has no interest in feeling.
But the danger isn’t over and if Bear can't set aside his fears of being hurt again Mackenzie will pay the ultimate price.
Mackenzie Arden knows she'll never be free of her brother's violent obsession with her, and now she's his prisoner and an unwitting pawn in his plot. When she’s rescued by a man who is as intriguing as he is intimidating, she finally starts to feel safe for the first time in her life, only he wants nothing to do with her.
Luca “Bear” Jackson has been betrayed too many times to put his trust in anyone. Especially a woman who might be embroiled in her brother’s terrorist plot. Try as he might to stop it from happening Mackenzie manages to make him feel things he has no interest in feeling.
But the danger isn’t over and if Bear can't set aside his fears of being hurt again Mackenzie will pay the ultimate price.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 17, 2023
1946 people are currently reading
742 people want to read
About the author
Jane Blythe
117 books1,361 followers
USA Today bestselling author Jane Blythe writes action-packed romantic suspense and military romance featuring protective heroes and heroines who are survivors. One of Jane's most popular series includes Prey Security, part of Susan Stoker's OPERATION ALPHA world! Writing in that world alongside authors such as Janie Crouch and Riley Edwards has been a blast, and she looks forward to bringing more books to this genre, both within and outside of Stoker's world. When Jane isn't binge-reading she's counting down to Christmas and adding to her 200+ teddy bear collection!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
February 17, 2023
Way too insta-lovey for me and I overall found the pacing to be a bit off.
The heroine is also a woman of color and there’s like one hand wavy scene where she’s like “yeah, sometimes people are racist towards me.” And that’s the extent of it. If you’re going to include that as an element, making it seem like “oh well, not a huge deal his parents are racist” doesn’t sit well with me.
Also, the attitude towards pregnancy was way too blasé for my taste. These are two very damaged people who need to do a lot more healing before they bring a baby into this mess. I could do without pregnancy in more of my romances anyway but if it had to be there, at least give me the fantasy of all babies being throughly planned for.
The heroine is also a woman of color and there’s like one hand wavy scene where she’s like “yeah, sometimes people are racist towards me.” And that’s the extent of it. If you’re going to include that as an element, making it seem like “oh well, not a huge deal his parents are racist” doesn’t sit well with me.
Also, the attitude towards pregnancy was way too blasé for my taste. These are two very damaged people who need to do a lot more healing before they bring a baby into this mess. I could do without pregnancy in more of my romances anyway but if it had to be there, at least give me the fantasy of all babies being throughly planned for.
March 1, 2023
Unbelievable….*spoiler alert*
There’s a lot of internal dialogue and even more angst with these two. The story takes on some pretty weird turns. Why stay at her house (where they were sitting ducks) at all? The bad guys already know where she lives and have attacked her there twice! Idiots! After that ended predictably, why go somewhere you know you aren’t welcome and that will bring up bad stuff when you’re supposedly looking for safety? That’s just stupid. How did the bad guys keep finding her so easily? This wasn’t explained at all. Then, because she was already rather juvenile emotionally, she made a really poor snap decision. A real TSTL moment. I didn’t even really like the characters much. I finished this out of sheer stubbornness, but won’t be continuing the series or looking into the other series that apparently came before it.
There’s a lot of internal dialogue and even more angst with these two. The story takes on some pretty weird turns. Why stay at her house (where they were sitting ducks) at all? The bad guys already know where she lives and have attacked her there twice! Idiots! After that ended predictably, why go somewhere you know you aren’t welcome and that will bring up bad stuff when you’re supposedly looking for safety? That’s just stupid. How did the bad guys keep finding her so easily? This wasn’t explained at all. Then, because she was already rather juvenile emotionally, she made a really poor snap decision. A real TSTL moment. I didn’t even really like the characters much. I finished this out of sheer stubbornness, but won’t be continuing the series or looking into the other series that apparently came before it.
May 20, 2023
Redundant
I don't normally write a review but this author repeated the reasons of why the characters struggled to trust over and over again. I couldn't stop eye rolling the entire time I was reading the references of their broken relationships with their family. Ugh. I wanted to enjoy this book but sadly I just couldn't get on board with rereading the same references. Boo
I don't normally write a review but this author repeated the reasons of why the characters struggled to trust over and over again. I couldn't stop eye rolling the entire time I was reading the references of their broken relationships with their family. Ugh. I wanted to enjoy this book but sadly I just couldn't get on board with rereading the same references. Boo
August 10, 2023
Trust.
The main thing that Bear and Mackenzie have in common is that neither one of them trust people or life in general. Both have heartache from the way their own families have repeatedly failed them but do they dare to hope they can find something special together. Or will he crazy brother, Storm, destroy her before Bear can save her?
The main thing that Bear and Mackenzie have in common is that neither one of them trust people or life in general. Both have heartache from the way their own families have repeatedly failed them but do they dare to hope they can find something special together. Or will he crazy brother, Storm, destroy her before Bear can save her?
January 17, 2023
I loved Bear and Mackenzies story!!!! Mackenzie had had horrible thing after horrible thing happen to her and when Bear and his team come her rescue everything completely changes for both of them but the rollercoaster of disaster that keeps Mackenzie in danger isn’t ready to let go.
September 8, 2024
Deadly Risk is book one in the Prey Security: Alpha Team 1 series by Jane Blythe. Mackenzie Arden's biggest fear is her brother Storm, and when her brother kidnaps her, she believes that she will not survive this encounter. However, during the operation to find Storm, Luca "Bear", Jackson finds Mackenzie in the underground cell that her brother put her in after he got his man to give her a beating. During their escape, they are separated from Luca's team and are both on the run from Storm's men. The readers of Deadly Risk will continue to follow Luca and Mackenzie to discover what happens.
I enjoyed Jane Blythe's showing that heroes do not need to be perfect and can still achieve their dreams. Deadly Risk is the start of another fantastic series by Jane Blythe. I engaged with the characters and story from the first page and continued to the end. Jane Blythe's portrayal of characters did not disappoint, and I love their interaction with each other. Deadly Risk is well-written and researched. I like Jane Blythe's description of the settings of Deadly Risk, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers will understand the consequences of obsession and revenge on everyone involved and the dangers of ignoring one's child's wishes and desires.
I enjoyed Jane Blythe's showing that heroes do not need to be perfect and can still achieve their dreams. Deadly Risk is the start of another fantastic series by Jane Blythe. I engaged with the characters and story from the first page and continued to the end. Jane Blythe's portrayal of characters did not disappoint, and I love their interaction with each other. Deadly Risk is well-written and researched. I like Jane Blythe's description of the settings of Deadly Risk, which allowed me to imagine being part of the book's plot.
The readers will understand the consequences of obsession and revenge on everyone involved and the dangers of ignoring one's child's wishes and desires.
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July 15, 2025I was dubious about a military romance, and the first chapter was enough to put me off. For one, the female protagonist is described as having ‘chocolate-brown skin,’ and, to the best of my research skills, the author appears to be white. More importantly, the story’s antagonist, whose name is Storm, is – get this – obsessed with storms. He’s so obsessed with thunderstorms, in fact, that 1) he has one eye tattooed with lightning bolts and one with a tornado, and 2) he moved to Uganda so he could live in the place with the ‘world’s most thunderstorms’… I’m sorry, but that is cartoon supervillain behaviour. I’m out.
November 21, 2023
Mackenzie and Bear. Talk about strong-willed and independent, my word. Major slow clap moment for Mackenzie and how amazing she was in the forest. She’s full of grit. These two have such a pull towards each other that they can only ignore for so long. And can we talk about Mackenzie’s brother?! Because he’s terrifying. The way he kept showing up, and the connections he had to be able to hunt Mackenzie down kept me on my toes. This was a fast-paced romantic suspense full of chaos and intrigue!
January 17, 2023
This book is a great start to an offshoot of Prey Security. Bear is a good guy for everyone and he made me want to keep reading more. I kept thinking I need to put this down and go do something else and keep having to keep going.
April 10, 2023
Loved it can't wait for the next one to read.
January 17, 2023
What a great start to this spinoff from the Prey series. This story follows the alpha security team and let me tell you if the rest of the books are anything like this one it’s gonna be a wild amazing ride.
Luca “Bear” Jackson and his team are out to get a crazy whacked out madman. In the process they find the sister that he kidnapped and has some evil plans for. He’s drawn to Makenzie but he doesn’t trust anyone because of the past.
“Stand down, little siren. No need to mess up my pretty face.”
Mackenzie has lived through the most horrific childhood. Her brother has been obsessed with her for years. He’s not going to let her go.
Love at first sight. He hadn’t believed it existed, hadn’t even thought real love existed, but he couldn’t deny that from the moment he’d laid eyes on Mackenzie, he’d known she was his.
This is a fast paced suspenseful adventure and let me tell you I wanted to smack Luca up side the head a few times. I am already in love with this new team and can’t wait for more. Plus there is another ongoing mystery to be solved.
Luca “Bear” Jackson and his team are out to get a crazy whacked out madman. In the process they find the sister that he kidnapped and has some evil plans for. He’s drawn to Makenzie but he doesn’t trust anyone because of the past.
“Stand down, little siren. No need to mess up my pretty face.”
Mackenzie has lived through the most horrific childhood. Her brother has been obsessed with her for years. He’s not going to let her go.
Love at first sight. He hadn’t believed it existed, hadn’t even thought real love existed, but he couldn’t deny that from the moment he’d laid eyes on Mackenzie, he’d known she was his.
This is a fast paced suspenseful adventure and let me tell you I wanted to smack Luca up side the head a few times. I am already in love with this new team and can’t wait for more. Plus there is another ongoing mystery to be solved.
November 26, 2023
First read 11/25/23:
It was an enjoyable read at first but miss girl was TSTL.
Mackenzie started off pretty start in the escape. She had some ideas for evasion and helped save Bear’s life. But it was all downhill as soon as they were back in the states. She went to stay alone in her house, despite knowing her brother was trying to capture her, because “she wouldn’t feel comfortable staying with her family or close friends.” Like dude. You are going to die.
Then they’re in a hotel hiding out and she insists on eating in the restaurant because “she doesn’t want to be cooped up.” Again, someone is trying to kidnap and kill you. Priorities girl.
Lastly, Bear’s ex corners her in the bathroom, shows her a pic of her w a kid, and she immediately believes the ex that it’s his kid. Does she tell him? No, she tries to escape so he can be with his evil ex. Like what??????????????
I just could not.
It was an enjoyable read at first but miss girl was TSTL.
Mackenzie started off pretty start in the escape. She had some ideas for evasion and helped save Bear’s life. But it was all downhill as soon as they were back in the states. She went to stay alone in her house, despite knowing her brother was trying to capture her, because “she wouldn’t feel comfortable staying with her family or close friends.” Like dude. You are going to die.
Then they’re in a hotel hiding out and she insists on eating in the restaurant because “she doesn’t want to be cooped up.” Again, someone is trying to kidnap and kill you. Priorities girl.
Lastly, Bear’s ex corners her in the bathroom, shows her a pic of her w a kid, and she immediately believes the ex that it’s his kid. Does she tell him? No, she tries to escape so he can be with his evil ex. Like what??????????????
I just could not.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 24, 2023
The most silly plot ever, on top of badly written.
Wow this was so bad! I don’t even know where to start, it’s so bad. When team one are trying to hunt down Storm, (Who in the previous series kidnapped Dove.) Bear/Luca finds Mackenzie, Storms sister. Storm was keeping her in a metal case thing underground. Yeah, the silliness begins….. As Luca and Mackenzie are trying to get to safety, after he rows her around in boat for hours, they go back to the island. Luca who is a super soldier, won’t use his radio for help, because???? As they’re traipsing around the island, sparks fly between them, which angers Luca as he’s been betrayed so many times in the past. So as soon as they’re safe, he avoids seeing Mackenzie, even though she saved his life.
It just gets even worse after that. Eagle who owns Prey, puts two men on Mackenzie, but doesn’t want her to be spooked, so they stay back. So when Storm’s men try to kidnap her again they nearly succeed, as the men are too far away to stop it. JUST NO!!! PLEASE STOP WITH THE STUPIDITY!!! This is all after they let Mackenzie go back home WHERE SHE WAS KIDNAPPED FROM BEFORE!! It just gets worse after that.
There’s no recovering the book after this. I haven’t even mentioned about Mackenzie’s injuries, that never seem that bad according to this author. She gets hit over the head at an alarming rate but she’s okay. Broken ribs, she can have sex later, trauma from her childhood, that’s okay too, she doesn’t need counselling. 😡😡😡😡
Absolutely awful book. The plot about her brother is sick and disgusting by the way! 🤮🤮
Wow this was so bad! I don’t even know where to start, it’s so bad. When team one are trying to hunt down Storm, (Who in the previous series kidnapped Dove.) Bear/Luca finds Mackenzie, Storms sister. Storm was keeping her in a metal case thing underground. Yeah, the silliness begins….. As Luca and Mackenzie are trying to get to safety, after he rows her around in boat for hours, they go back to the island. Luca who is a super soldier, won’t use his radio for help, because???? As they’re traipsing around the island, sparks fly between them, which angers Luca as he’s been betrayed so many times in the past. So as soon as they’re safe, he avoids seeing Mackenzie, even though she saved his life.
It just gets even worse after that. Eagle who owns Prey, puts two men on Mackenzie, but doesn’t want her to be spooked, so they stay back. So when Storm’s men try to kidnap her again they nearly succeed, as the men are too far away to stop it. JUST NO!!! PLEASE STOP WITH THE STUPIDITY!!! This is all after they let Mackenzie go back home WHERE SHE WAS KIDNAPPED FROM BEFORE!! It just gets worse after that.
There’s no recovering the book after this. I haven’t even mentioned about Mackenzie’s injuries, that never seem that bad according to this author. She gets hit over the head at an alarming rate but she’s okay. Broken ribs, she can have sex later, trauma from her childhood, that’s okay too, she doesn’t need counselling. 😡😡😡😡
Absolutely awful book. The plot about her brother is sick and disgusting by the way! 🤮🤮
April 11, 2023
it’s “ok”
Spoilers ahead…I liked the first half but halfway through, Kenzie’s house was blown up and they needed to go somewhere secure to keep her away from her evil brother.
So the take her to Bear’s property in Montana. Um, wouldn’t that be the first place they looked plus all the people on the ranch are brought into the danger, PLUS he never wanted to see his parents (that live at the ranch) again. Oh, and his ex wife lives there too?!
Surprise, a day or so later the main house explodes and they have to go somewhere safe again. Where do they go? To the nearest town and get a hotel rooms for the entire group. It’s explained away because there will be a private jet flown in the next day.
Are you Kidding me?? These are supposed to be a super elite security team and they can’t figure out that the first place the bad guys are going to go is the nearest town?! Why not get on the road and meet up somewhere else with the jet?
I won’t be reading and more in the series.
Spoilers ahead…I liked the first half but halfway through, Kenzie’s house was blown up and they needed to go somewhere secure to keep her away from her evil brother.
So the take her to Bear’s property in Montana. Um, wouldn’t that be the first place they looked plus all the people on the ranch are brought into the danger, PLUS he never wanted to see his parents (that live at the ranch) again. Oh, and his ex wife lives there too?!
Surprise, a day or so later the main house explodes and they have to go somewhere safe again. Where do they go? To the nearest town and get a hotel rooms for the entire group. It’s explained away because there will be a private jet flown in the next day.
Are you Kidding me?? These are supposed to be a super elite security team and they can’t figure out that the first place the bad guys are going to go is the nearest town?! Why not get on the road and meet up somewhere else with the jet?
I won’t be reading and more in the series.
May 11, 2023
Strong out of the gate, lack luster finish.
To preface, I didn’t read any other books by this author, but I’m assuming this is a spin off series from one about the Oswald siblings.
When I started this book, I was SO excited! The premise was (a little) strange, but nothing I could look past. I mean a man named Storm who was obsessed with storms? It was very c list marvel comic to me. Anyway, I loved this book up until the team went to Montana. Bear’s family drama was way overblown and unnecessary. I dislike when the only other women in the story are there to tear the FMC down, whatever happened to women supporting women? It is also never explained how Storm tracks them to Montana or how everyone tracks them to the hotel in town. After about 65% I was very done with all of the shenanigans, so I skimmed to the end. Also it’s a party of all my least favorite tropes: miscommunication, “there is no way anyone can understand me, I’m too damaged”, unexpected pregnancy.
Thought I found a series to fill my TBR, but alas this isn’t it.
To preface, I didn’t read any other books by this author, but I’m assuming this is a spin off series from one about the Oswald siblings.
When I started this book, I was SO excited! The premise was (a little) strange, but nothing I could look past. I mean a man named Storm who was obsessed with storms? It was very c list marvel comic to me. Anyway, I loved this book up until the team went to Montana. Bear’s family drama was way overblown and unnecessary. I dislike when the only other women in the story are there to tear the FMC down, whatever happened to women supporting women? It is also never explained how Storm tracks them to Montana or how everyone tracks them to the hotel in town. After about 65% I was very done with all of the shenanigans, so I skimmed to the end. Also it’s a party of all my least favorite tropes: miscommunication, “there is no way anyone can understand me, I’m too damaged”, unexpected pregnancy.
Thought I found a series to fill my TBR, but alas this isn’t it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 11, 2024
Deadly
Where do I start? I found myself smiling as I read. I cringed at the terror Mac went through. I so wanted to smack Bear. The team was amazing & wanted to just hug them all. The ups, downs, suspense, emotions, everything just made this an excellent story I absolutely enjoyed. A series I will continue.
Where do I start? I found myself smiling as I read. I cringed at the terror Mac went through. I so wanted to smack Bear. The team was amazing & wanted to just hug them all. The ups, downs, suspense, emotions, everything just made this an excellent story I absolutely enjoyed. A series I will continue.
January 3, 2023
Luca “Bear” Jackson and his team are after Storm Gallagher and his followers who have fled to Uganda in order to carry out their personal vendettas against anyone who oppose them. When Luca and his team arrive at Storm’s compound they know something isn’t right but Luca is able to rescue a woman who is kept in a cellar in the ground. He doesn’t know if the woman is friend or foe but knows he needs to get them out of there before it’s too late.
Mackenzie Arden knows that her brother hates her and that she will never be safe from her no matter how hard she tries. She had finally felt at ease when he kidnapped her again and she found herself a prisoner until she was rescued by Luca but now they need to escape safely.
As Luca does everything he can to keep Mackenzie safe it’s clear that Storm is not ready to give up on her and there isn’t anything that he won’t do to get her back. Can Luca keep her safe while trying to keep his feelings for her to a minimum after being burned badly in the past?
This was a great book and a little bit different than what I am used to from the author. That being said she always writes a great thriller/romance but this one was different right from the beginning and I really enjoyed it.
Luca had been burned badly in the past by his ex-wife and also by his family for choosing her side in their divorce. He was very reluctant to try and find love as he didn’t want to go through any of that again. That being said he knew he was attracted to Mackenzie but had no idea if she truly was a victim or was working with Storm. I completely understood the suspicion as it was a bad situation that they had walked into.
Mackenzie on the other hand was a fighter but the moment she was rescued by Luca she felt an extra kinship with him. I wasn’t sure if it was because he rescued her or if she genuinely knew that he was someone who was going to protect her from her brother. I really loved that she never gave up and yet she also never wanted anyone else injured or to cause drama for anyone.
There was so much chemistry between Mackenzie and Luca but there were definitely some ghosts in Luca’s past that caused some issues. There was still the threat of Storm looming over them as well but I found it was mostly Luca who was scared to go any further with Mackenzie. I was glad that the rest of Luca’s team were there for Mackenzie and let her know they would protect her.
The twists and turns were awesome and I kept on hanging on for more!
The ending was awesome and I hope more books are coming!
By Rebecca
Mackenzie Arden knows that her brother hates her and that she will never be safe from her no matter how hard she tries. She had finally felt at ease when he kidnapped her again and she found herself a prisoner until she was rescued by Luca but now they need to escape safely.
As Luca does everything he can to keep Mackenzie safe it’s clear that Storm is not ready to give up on her and there isn’t anything that he won’t do to get her back. Can Luca keep her safe while trying to keep his feelings for her to a minimum after being burned badly in the past?
This was a great book and a little bit different than what I am used to from the author. That being said she always writes a great thriller/romance but this one was different right from the beginning and I really enjoyed it.
Luca had been burned badly in the past by his ex-wife and also by his family for choosing her side in their divorce. He was very reluctant to try and find love as he didn’t want to go through any of that again. That being said he knew he was attracted to Mackenzie but had no idea if she truly was a victim or was working with Storm. I completely understood the suspicion as it was a bad situation that they had walked into.
Mackenzie on the other hand was a fighter but the moment she was rescued by Luca she felt an extra kinship with him. I wasn’t sure if it was because he rescued her or if she genuinely knew that he was someone who was going to protect her from her brother. I really loved that she never gave up and yet she also never wanted anyone else injured or to cause drama for anyone.
There was so much chemistry between Mackenzie and Luca but there were definitely some ghosts in Luca’s past that caused some issues. There was still the threat of Storm looming over them as well but I found it was mostly Luca who was scared to go any further with Mackenzie. I was glad that the rest of Luca’s team were there for Mackenzie and let her know they would protect her.
The twists and turns were awesome and I kept on hanging on for more!
The ending was awesome and I hope more books are coming!
By Rebecca
December 28, 2022
Oh dear lord what a rush!!!
This story hooked me from the get go and didn’t let me go until it had rung every conceivable emotion out of me. Although that shouldn’t surprise me - Jane Blythe doesn’t write anything that’s not first rate.
Bear…dear lord!! Just the thought of him makes me need a cold shower!! He is the epitome of the grump, stoic, dominant alpha male.
The one thing I loved most about Bear was his faults. It made him more appealing I think, to know that he could be a stubborn in his actions and feelings. Although I wanted to smack him for his behaviour, I could also understand why he was behaving the way he was. He was treated in a soul damaging way by the people who should have loved him no matter what.
When you’re faced with family who discard you and don’t care for your feelings then you stop trusting in people in general and work to protect the shards that are left of your heart.
Watching him work with his team was beautiful. They are a family born of blood, sweat, love and respect. They are like a well oiled machine.
Mackenzie is a stunning character. She is so strong I was in awe of her. As a child she was subjected to behaviour that was deplorable and left so many scars on her soul. Parents who cared too little to do anything about what was happening.
She may have retreated from the world in order to feel safe but to me that just made her seem stronger. She survived. She may not have flourished but she made a space for herself in the world and given that she had no support to achieve what she had was awe inspiring.
She has a pure soul. Her goodness shines bright and envelopes everyone who comes into contact with her.
Bear and Mackenzie stumbled down the path meant for them, stumbling many times along the way because of the scars of their pasts. It was so heartwarming to watch Bear and his team work to protect Mackenzie from the evil that had infiltrated her life from childhood.
Jane Blythe has once again knocked it out of the hemisphere with this beautiful piece of art. Her talent truly knows no bounds and I am so excited for the rest of this series. This was wit by out a doubt a Phenomenol start to Alpha Teams series within her Prey Security world.
I could not recommend this book highly enough.
There are definitely nowhere near enough stars in the sky to fully portray how fantastic this book is.
This story hooked me from the get go and didn’t let me go until it had rung every conceivable emotion out of me. Although that shouldn’t surprise me - Jane Blythe doesn’t write anything that’s not first rate.
Bear…dear lord!! Just the thought of him makes me need a cold shower!! He is the epitome of the grump, stoic, dominant alpha male.
The one thing I loved most about Bear was his faults. It made him more appealing I think, to know that he could be a stubborn in his actions and feelings. Although I wanted to smack him for his behaviour, I could also understand why he was behaving the way he was. He was treated in a soul damaging way by the people who should have loved him no matter what.
When you’re faced with family who discard you and don’t care for your feelings then you stop trusting in people in general and work to protect the shards that are left of your heart.
Watching him work with his team was beautiful. They are a family born of blood, sweat, love and respect. They are like a well oiled machine.
Mackenzie is a stunning character. She is so strong I was in awe of her. As a child she was subjected to behaviour that was deplorable and left so many scars on her soul. Parents who cared too little to do anything about what was happening.
She may have retreated from the world in order to feel safe but to me that just made her seem stronger. She survived. She may not have flourished but she made a space for herself in the world and given that she had no support to achieve what she had was awe inspiring.
She has a pure soul. Her goodness shines bright and envelopes everyone who comes into contact with her.
Bear and Mackenzie stumbled down the path meant for them, stumbling many times along the way because of the scars of their pasts. It was so heartwarming to watch Bear and his team work to protect Mackenzie from the evil that had infiltrated her life from childhood.
Jane Blythe has once again knocked it out of the hemisphere with this beautiful piece of art. Her talent truly knows no bounds and I am so excited for the rest of this series. This was wit by out a doubt a Phenomenol start to Alpha Teams series within her Prey Security world.
I could not recommend this book highly enough.
There are definitely nowhere near enough stars in the sky to fully portray how fantastic this book is.
January 17, 2023
I really could not have asked for a more awesome beginning to what I can already tell is going to be a phenomenal new series . It’s kinda crazy because until this past year I was never a huge fan of romantic suspense . But Jane Blythe has certainly changed that . And if I’m being completely honest it really is her books that are the exception for me . Deadly Risk is the first installment in her brand new Prey Security Alpha Team series as well as the emotional journey of both Bear and Mackenzie two people who have not had the easiest of lives yet somehow end up being just that each other needs . I really was not prepared for how fast I was going to find myself utterly invested not to mention all the different emotions both characters ended up stirring in me . Both have suffered some terrible emotional and physical trauma and man did my heart break for them . There were moments I was on the edge of my seat heart beating so fast , others I found myself balling like a baby . It really was like being on a rollercoaster in the best way possible. Now let’s talk characters Mackenzie is the type of female heroine you cannot help but love and admire - she’s been though so much trauma in her life and had a horrific childhood yet somehow came out on the other side . She’s strong and confident and has a heart of gold . And Bear well I was not so sure what to make of him at first as he did appear kinda grumpy , but the more I read and got to know his character I realized there was so much more to him then met the eye . In fact he ended up being Mackenzie’s biggest protecter . A Alpha who would do absolutely anything for the woman he grew to love . Intriguing, suspenseful, angsty , steamy, dark , raw , gritty , heartbreaking, heartfelt, non stop action, love , healing , tragedy , family , friendships, second chances , twists and turns , phenomenal world building, unforgettable and unputdownable. . Fair warning- prepare yourself for all the feels and definitely make sure you have plenty of free time put aside because once you start I can guarantee you’ll find it impossible to stop .
a minute ago
a minute ago
January 6, 2023
This was a great book and a little bit different than what I am used to from the author. That being said she always writes a great thriller/romance but this one was different right from the beginning and I really enjoyed it.
Luca had been burned badly in the past by his ex-wife and also by his family for choosing her side in their divorce. He was very reluctant to try and find love as he didn’t want to go through any of that again. That being said he knew he was attracted to Mackenzie but had no idea if she truly was a victim or was working with Storm. I completely understood the suspicion as it was a bad situation that they had walked into.
Mackenzie on the other hand was a fighter but the moment she was rescued by Luca she felt an extra kinship with him. I wasn’t sure if it was because he rescued her or if she genuinely knew that he was someone who was going to protect her from her brother. I really loved that she never gave up and yet she also never wanted anyone else injured or to cause drama for anyone.
There was so much chemistry between Mackenzie and Luca but there were definitely some ghosts in Luca’s past that caused some issues. There was still the threat of Storm looming over them as well but I found it was mostly Luca who was scared to go any further with Mackenzie. I was glad that the rest of Luca’s team were there for Mackenzie and let her know they would protect her.
The twists and turns were awesome and I kept on hanging on for more!
The ending was awesome and I hope more books are coming!
Luca had been burned badly in the past by his ex-wife and also by his family for choosing her side in their divorce. He was very reluctant to try and find love as he didn’t want to go through any of that again. That being said he knew he was attracted to Mackenzie but had no idea if she truly was a victim or was working with Storm. I completely understood the suspicion as it was a bad situation that they had walked into.
Mackenzie on the other hand was a fighter but the moment she was rescued by Luca she felt an extra kinship with him. I wasn’t sure if it was because he rescued her or if she genuinely knew that he was someone who was going to protect her from her brother. I really loved that she never gave up and yet she also never wanted anyone else injured or to cause drama for anyone.
There was so much chemistry between Mackenzie and Luca but there were definitely some ghosts in Luca’s past that caused some issues. There was still the threat of Storm looming over them as well but I found it was mostly Luca who was scared to go any further with Mackenzie. I was glad that the rest of Luca’s team were there for Mackenzie and let her know they would protect her.
The twists and turns were awesome and I kept on hanging on for more!
The ending was awesome and I hope more books are coming!
January 14, 2023
Bear, aka Luca, and Mackenzie met in a very stressful situation and although they had never met before they soon learned to trust each other as best they could—considering they both had trust issues that was asking a lot!
This insta love story was unusual in as far as it’s the characters who are rejecting the idea of instant love—not readers! What a refreshing spin, though Bear and Mackenzie’s whole relationship was very different so it fits perfectly. It started, as I said, in unusual circumstances and then continued in the same vein. The fact that any type of relationship evolved is remarkable. But—the chemistry and attraction was undeniable and very strong.
I really liked gruff Bear, who, although he might have been solely focused on his team and work, was also justifiably lacking trust in anyone outside of his workmates. That’s not to say I didn’t want to give him a kick in the pants at times because I did! 😁
I also really liked Mackenzie who also hadn’t had an easy time of it. Her brother, Storm, was more than a nut, he was completely insane, in my opinion, but what I felt for Kenzie was so much more than empathy. She was a strong, determined young woman even with her past and she was extremely caring of others.
The action and drama in this story is absolutely incredible, it is literally nonstop and makes for one extremely exciting and enjoyable story. With a few twists and turns thrown in to add some surprises this is a brilliant start to a new series.
This insta love story was unusual in as far as it’s the characters who are rejecting the idea of instant love—not readers! What a refreshing spin, though Bear and Mackenzie’s whole relationship was very different so it fits perfectly. It started, as I said, in unusual circumstances and then continued in the same vein. The fact that any type of relationship evolved is remarkable. But—the chemistry and attraction was undeniable and very strong.
I really liked gruff Bear, who, although he might have been solely focused on his team and work, was also justifiably lacking trust in anyone outside of his workmates. That’s not to say I didn’t want to give him a kick in the pants at times because I did! 😁
I also really liked Mackenzie who also hadn’t had an easy time of it. Her brother, Storm, was more than a nut, he was completely insane, in my opinion, but what I felt for Kenzie was so much more than empathy. She was a strong, determined young woman even with her past and she was extremely caring of others.
The action and drama in this story is absolutely incredible, it is literally nonstop and makes for one extremely exciting and enjoyable story. With a few twists and turns thrown in to add some surprises this is a brilliant start to a new series.
January 18, 2023
I absolutely loved Prey Security, the Oswalds...
And was sad to see it end, however, Ms Blythe, you have begun a new era with the Alpha Team and it is terrific!
I loved Bear when we have met him in previous novels. He is always so caring and sweet to the people he is helping or watching over. But in this novel, we really learn who Bear is, not a one dimensional character at all!
Bear has trust issues. He finds, accidentally, a young woman, Mackenzie in a hidden hole. Mackenzie has trust issues. Together, the sparks fly.
Bear saves Mackenzie from her half brother, and Mackenzie saves herself from one of her hal brother's men and saves Bear, twice.
Yet, it's just beginning, and it seems regardless of where these two are Mackenzie's half brother finds them.
Let the Prey Security chaos begin.
I loved these two individuals! Neither had great home lives, yet grew up in "wealth and privilege", not all is what it seems.
Excellent description of how what you are born into means nothing by this author. Both Bear and Mackenzie really have no respect for the parents, with good reason.
Their story continues from "Dove, Prey Security", and you are sucked in immediately.
Excellent characters, both made their own way without outside (parental) help, and their character is terrific.
Bottom line, Alpha Team is going to be just as wonderful to be part of, as were the Oswalds.
Can't wait for the next book!
Loved it!
Karen
And was sad to see it end, however, Ms Blythe, you have begun a new era with the Alpha Team and it is terrific!
I loved Bear when we have met him in previous novels. He is always so caring and sweet to the people he is helping or watching over. But in this novel, we really learn who Bear is, not a one dimensional character at all!
Bear has trust issues. He finds, accidentally, a young woman, Mackenzie in a hidden hole. Mackenzie has trust issues. Together, the sparks fly.
Bear saves Mackenzie from her half brother, and Mackenzie saves herself from one of her hal brother's men and saves Bear, twice.
Yet, it's just beginning, and it seems regardless of where these two are Mackenzie's half brother finds them.
Let the Prey Security chaos begin.
I loved these two individuals! Neither had great home lives, yet grew up in "wealth and privilege", not all is what it seems.
Excellent description of how what you are born into means nothing by this author. Both Bear and Mackenzie really have no respect for the parents, with good reason.
Their story continues from "Dove, Prey Security", and you are sucked in immediately.
Excellent characters, both made their own way without outside (parental) help, and their character is terrific.
Bottom line, Alpha Team is going to be just as wonderful to be part of, as were the Oswalds.
Can't wait for the next book!
Loved it!
Karen
March 12, 2023
Don't know how how a series spinoff could get much better than Deadly Risk. It picks right up from where Protecting Dove left off with Alpha team on the hunt for the psychopathic cult leader, Storm Gallagher. Drama, suspense and action start in the first chapter. Plus Ms Blythe does a deep d8ve into some strong feelings and emotional events. We get to know Alpha team members a bit more so I am looking forward to their individual stories plus we got a glimpse or two of Bravo team. Lots of great reading in my future!
Mackenzie Arden turns the ever stoic Luca "Bear " Jackson's life upside down. Although he rescued her, she returned the favor by treating his wound and basically saved his lie. Yet once the mission is over he walks away without so much as a goodbye. He's closed himself off for the past 10 years after suffering the worst kind of betrayal. Here's the problem though, he can't get Mackenzie out of his mind. It takes her life being in jeopardy again for him to finally pull his head out. Giving into emotions he long ago locked away isn't easy but he realizes he needs this woman in his life. Mackenzie is leery of Luca's turnaround but she's in too deep to walk away. No place seems to be out of Storm Gallagher's reach and his people grab Mackenzie again. It's an all out effort to find her and Luca is in danger of losing his mind over the time it takes. Fortunately all's well that ends well but the stage is set for ominous things to occur in upcoming books.
Mackenzie Arden turns the ever stoic Luca "Bear " Jackson's life upside down. Although he rescued her, she returned the favor by treating his wound and basically saved his lie. Yet once the mission is over he walks away without so much as a goodbye. He's closed himself off for the past 10 years after suffering the worst kind of betrayal. Here's the problem though, he can't get Mackenzie out of his mind. It takes her life being in jeopardy again for him to finally pull his head out. Giving into emotions he long ago locked away isn't easy but he realizes he needs this woman in his life. Mackenzie is leery of Luca's turnaround but she's in too deep to walk away. No place seems to be out of Storm Gallagher's reach and his people grab Mackenzie again. It's an all out effort to find her and Luca is in danger of losing his mind over the time it takes. Fortunately all's well that ends well but the stage is set for ominous things to occur in upcoming books.
March 19, 2024
I dived into this series after seeing an AD, not realising that it includes characters from a previous series (which I will be reading after I've completed this one) however, each book is set out so that it can be read as a standalone with the plot being easy to follow. There's a common plot that connects all the books in this series, however, it is through the subplot that that the main characters meet. I found the plot, both the bigger picture one and the individual ones to be interesting and action packed.
This book follows Mackenzie, the villains sister who he has kidnapped to further his psychotic plan and Bear, team leader of Alpha who are working to take down a group of terrorists plotting to overthrow the government and enforce their own rules. Bear finds Mackenzie trapped in a holding cell underground as his team infiltrates an enemy island and is immediately suspicious of her, even more so when he finds out that she is the sister of the man they are after. They get split from his team and end up on the run, forcing them to trust each other. After eventually escaping the island, the team works to keep her out of her brothers hands and simultaneously destroy him and his plan.
I liked that this book showed the struggles of both characters following their individual traumas and how it had impacted their lives but also how they both overcame them together.
This book follows Mackenzie, the villains sister who he has kidnapped to further his psychotic plan and Bear, team leader of Alpha who are working to take down a group of terrorists plotting to overthrow the government and enforce their own rules. Bear finds Mackenzie trapped in a holding cell underground as his team infiltrates an enemy island and is immediately suspicious of her, even more so when he finds out that she is the sister of the man they are after. They get split from his team and end up on the run, forcing them to trust each other. After eventually escaping the island, the team works to keep her out of her brothers hands and simultaneously destroy him and his plan.
I liked that this book showed the struggles of both characters following their individual traumas and how it had impacted their lives but also how they both overcame them together.
December 1, 2024
The couple: Luca (Bear) and Mackenzie
Romance trope: romantic suspense
Series: Prey Security: Alpha Team
Length: 260 pages
Plot: Luca and his team at Prey Security are after Storm; instead, they find his sister, Mackenzie. It takes a while, but Bear finally decides that she's innocent in all of this. By that time, he's already half in love with her but leaves her alone because he thinks he's a bad bet. But he finally decides, with a lot of input from his team, to go back to her, if for nothing else, to keep her safe. Her brother is definitely coming for her.
Commentary: I do feel like there were things left unexplored. His parents? Nothing more there? Her parents? The way they let her be terrorized was legitimate neglect, at the very least. They both needed therapy. And time. The fact that she went back to her home - where she had been violently kidnapped - by herself after escaping the still-living kidnappers is wild. I enjoyed the suspense and the romance (although he was a little too resistant) but I would have liked a little more depth in places.
Next book in the series: Lethal Risk
Romance trope: romantic suspense
Series: Prey Security: Alpha Team
Length: 260 pages
Plot: Luca and his team at Prey Security are after Storm; instead, they find his sister, Mackenzie. It takes a while, but Bear finally decides that she's innocent in all of this. By that time, he's already half in love with her but leaves her alone because he thinks he's a bad bet. But he finally decides, with a lot of input from his team, to go back to her, if for nothing else, to keep her safe. Her brother is definitely coming for her.
Commentary: I do feel like there were things left unexplored. His parents? Nothing more there? Her parents? The way they let her be terrorized was legitimate neglect, at the very least. They both needed therapy. And time. The fact that she went back to her home - where she had been violently kidnapped - by herself after escaping the still-living kidnappers is wild. I enjoyed the suspense and the romance (although he was a little too resistant) but I would have liked a little more depth in places.
Next book in the series: Lethal Risk
January 17, 2023
Deadly Risk is a fantastic start to this spinoff of the Prey series, and seriously, it came out of the gate with a big BANG! Bear & his team are chasing a deadly enemy, Storm, when he comes across Mackenzie, Storm's sister, who is being held as a prisoner. She's had a horrifying childhood due to her brother, and the parents who didn't protect her, and she knows she'll never be safe as long as Storm is alive. Bear has a long trail of betrayal behind him which has left him with serious trust issues, so despite the fact that he's instantly attracted to Mackenzie, he can't trust it or her. The sparks are flying between them as they set off to get away from her brother but he's not being so nice, and when they're rescued, he cuts all ties. Poor Mackenzie, she's now an army of one, and her brother is never going to quit so finally Bear comes back but is it too late?! This story had everything I love in my stories with the suspense bringing the twists in hot, heat in spades, and a ton of angst as I felt every bit of pain these two felt. Can Bear keep Mackenzie safe in order to have a shot at forever?! Well, you'll have to hit those one click buttons to find out as I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
April 15, 2023
Almost every terror, bad memory or nightmare MacKenzie Arden’s ever had could be attributed to her half-brother Storm Gallagher. Resuming his life’s mission after a two year lapse, Storm and his men break into MacKenzie’s house, beat, kidnap, beat (again) and hold her prisoner in a dark, Ugandan basement where Luca ‘Bear’ Jackson finds her.
Luca’s angry Storm isn’t in the house. Despite finding the nightgowned, trembling, bruised, delicate, petite woman in her own filth, Luca isn’t sure MacKenzie’s not working with Storm. As soon Luca pulls MacKenzie out of the house, a barrage of bullets come their way, ensuring their separation from the team.
Luca and MacKenzie take a boat to get to the team’s rally point but abandon it when Storm’s men chase them. Trekking to a delayed rally point, MacKenzie nurses Luca when he’s felled by an infection. The pair survive an attack by Storm’s men as Luca’s team arrives to rescue them. Later, despite their strong attraction, Luca and MacKenzie’s separation to resume their regular lives ends on a sour note. Storm’s alive more determined than ever to involve MacKenzie in his plans for domination.
Rating: 4.5stars
Luca’s angry Storm isn’t in the house. Despite finding the nightgowned, trembling, bruised, delicate, petite woman in her own filth, Luca isn’t sure MacKenzie’s not working with Storm. As soon Luca pulls MacKenzie out of the house, a barrage of bullets come their way, ensuring their separation from the team.
Luca and MacKenzie take a boat to get to the team’s rally point but abandon it when Storm’s men chase them. Trekking to a delayed rally point, MacKenzie nurses Luca when he’s felled by an infection. The pair survive an attack by Storm’s men as Luca’s team arrives to rescue them. Later, despite their strong attraction, Luca and MacKenzie’s separation to resume their regular lives ends on a sour note. Storm’s alive more determined than ever to involve MacKenzie in his plans for domination.
Rating: 4.5stars
January 5, 2023
Mackenzie Gallagher was abducted by her terrorist brother Storm and taken to Uganda intending to have a son with her before handing her over to his men. Before that could happen, the men of Prey Security attacked the building where Storm was reported to be and instead found Mackenzie in an underground hole Storm had locked her in. Luca 'Bear' Jackson finds her just before the team gets fired upon and he and Mackenzie are split from the rest of the team while dodging the terrorist group until both are rescued days later. Back home in Virginia, Storm’s men try to take her again only to be thwarted twice before the Prey men decide to literally move into Mackenzie’s house to protect her. Having been thrown together, Mackenzie and Luca are now dancing around their growing feelings for each other. Both have trust issues but Luca’s goes so deep he doesn’t want to give them a chance. When we finally does, will it be too late?
#janeblythe #givemebookspromotions #deadlyrisk
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
#janeblythe #givemebookspromotions #deadlyrisk
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 16, 2023
Oh I was so ready for the new series by Jane Blythe - Prey Security: Alpha Team. I have read her previous books and some of these characters come in and out from time to time. So when I saw this was Luca's "Bear" story - I was all over it.
Bear and Mackenzie made this story complete. There was a lot of drama, and a few times my heart cried/broke. Only Jane can pull those emotions from her reader. Her stories are unconventional - I would not normally read these kind of stories. But the way Jane pulls in the pain - the details - the characters at their most vulnerable moments - will have you sticking it out to make sure they make it out ok. So I have been hooked book after book.
Deadly Risk is a story that makes a perfect 1st book in a series. Believe me, you will fall over Bear.
January 17, 2023
Did someone say a Prey security spin off with a new security alpha team?? Yes please!!
And...
Once again from Jane Blythe what a start to a new series!
The characters which are instantly likeable and intriguing leave you desperate for all the series stories ASAP.
Deadly risk is Luca (aka Bear) and Mackenzie's story and damn these two slayed me. Mackenzie's childhood / life was absolutely heartbreaking and our big broody 'bear' doesn't trust easy thanks to his past.
But... Among all of the darkness and chaos Bear and Mackenzie manage to find trust and love in each other.
However, before they reach their version of a rainbow what a fast paced, suspenseful and action-packed journey they go through.
I mean who doesn't love a crazy and obsessed brother that refuses to let you go??
With a continuing storyline brewing, I can't wait to see what happens next and how the team deal with it.
Really enjoyed and highly recommend!!
And...
Once again from Jane Blythe what a start to a new series!
The characters which are instantly likeable and intriguing leave you desperate for all the series stories ASAP.
Deadly risk is Luca (aka Bear) and Mackenzie's story and damn these two slayed me. Mackenzie's childhood / life was absolutely heartbreaking and our big broody 'bear' doesn't trust easy thanks to his past.
But... Among all of the darkness and chaos Bear and Mackenzie manage to find trust and love in each other.
However, before they reach their version of a rainbow what a fast paced, suspenseful and action-packed journey they go through.
I mean who doesn't love a crazy and obsessed brother that refuses to let you go??
With a continuing storyline brewing, I can't wait to see what happens next and how the team deal with it.
Really enjoyed and highly recommend!!
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