Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Steele Guardians #4

Made of Steele:

Rate this book
She keeps her feelings to herself…
When Teagan Steele faces her hardest challenge since taking over her family’s security company, she has to dig deep to figure out how one of their clients smuggled antiquities into this country, and what they did with them. And she has to clear Steele Guardians of any charges of collusion and wrongdoing.

But a bold undercover agent changes everything.
When she comes face-to-face with undercover ICE agent, Drew Collier, who is deep in the smuggling ring, she has to work hard to keep her emotions in check and herself professional at all times. Despite her best efforts, Teagan and Drew grow closer, but a new threat soon puts their budding relationship to the test and their lives in grave danger.

324 pages, Paperback

Published October 27, 2022

261 people are currently reading
120 people want to read

About the author

Susan Sleeman

130 books808 followers
SUSAN 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

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
711 (72%)
4 stars
210 (21%)
3 stars
48 (4%)
2 stars
6 (<1%)
1 star
4 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
3,918 reviews1,763 followers
December 6, 2022
Honestly, I don't know how Susan Sleeman manages to apply fresh twists to each romantic suspense novel she writes. The antiquity smuggling is interesting all on its own but then she throws in another angle and I was, like, whhhaaatttt?! Gobsmacked all the way through. :-)

And her meet-cutes are some of the best. This one had me alternately wincing and laughing. Love hot-headed Teagan and the way she contrasts with easy going Drew...until she starts getting under his skin. There's some great banter as well as soul-searching dialogue about faith that made these characters vibrant and memorable. Oh...and there's a bit of a fake relationship trope in here as well which was all kinds of fun!

Of course, all the sisters and cousins provide a side of comic relief and angst, just to stir things up even more. This is the fourth book in the Steele Guardians series but reads really well as a standalone. Fans of the author will thrill at some cameos from previous series as well (Nighthawk Security and Truth Seekers) which had me in full bibliophile fan-girling mode.

I listened to the audible edition narrated by Whitney Dykhouse. I've come to associate her voice with Susan Sleeman's books so I always get a real sense of homecoming the second I start to listening.

https://bestreads-kav.blogspot.com/20...
Profile Image for Susan Snodgrass.
2,002 reviews273 followers
November 1, 2022
I am a huge fan of this author. Susan Sleeman does not fail to captivate her readers with her edge-of-the-seat inspirational suspense stories. Her well researched books not only entertain, but teach the reader. I love them! The Steele family of former and current law enforcement turned security specialists are ones for the keeper shelf.

My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book. The opinion here is my own.
Profile Image for Lisa G. Hudson.
697 reviews62 followers
October 31, 2022
ANOTHER SUPERLATIVE STEELE!

“Teagan froze, her mind locked with choices, her heart racing.”

Susan Sleeman is one of my favorite authors because she always writes first lines that grab my attention and make me want to read more. In Sleeman’s latest release, Made of Steele, that opening sentence captures the essence of the entire book, as it is only the first of many times that “Teagan will freeze, her mind locked with choices, her heart racing.” Sleeman has devised a super plot that involves stolen antiquities being smuggled into the US. Unfortunately, they are being passed through by one of the Steele Guardians' clients and stored in a property that they Secure. Teagan Steele has her career on the line if this situation goes from bad to worse. As she is investigating, she stumbles across an ICE Agent, Drew Collier, who has been embedded with the smuggling ring for some time. Teagan convinces Drew to allow her to participate in the investigation and Sleeman takes these two through an intense investigation that will have you on the edge of your seat! As they grow closer to the capture, they find themselves growing closer to each other. Only, they both have vowed to not be in any relationships. You will not want to miss the grand conclusion that wraps up with a beautiful Christmas Celebration! I highly recommend this book!

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by the author/publisher. The opinions expressed are completely my own and without influence.
1,758 reviews33 followers
October 24, 2022
This series is amazing! Tegan and Drew are fantastic characters in this installment of Steele Guardians. The reason I like this series so much is that each book covers something a little different than your run of the mill crime story. In this book, we get to see the world of antiquities theft. It's a fascinating crime! I remember hearing a lot about it during the Iraq war but haven't heard much since although I do run across news articles about it now and then. Tegan is running her family's security firm and when a guard calls her to tell her that he has seen something at one of the businesses where they provide security that isn't right, she investigates. This sets her on a path that turns into the world of antiquities theft and a whole lot more! There are so many twists and turns, you will love the action! When she stumbles across a man undercover for ICE (Drew), she ends up working with him to bring down the thieves. I love Tegan's family and enjoy touching base with them in each book! Another stellar story by this wonderful author.
Profile Image for Kim.
321 reviews12 followers
January 5, 2023
Made of Steele by Susan Sleeman is the fourth book in her Steele Guardians series. When Teagan Steele stumbles on a smuggling ring she has no idea how it will affect her family’s security business. Undercover ICE agent Drew Collier does his best work alone and he doesn’t want to have to work with Teagan but he has no choice in the matter. Another intense, edge-of-your-seat read! This author has never disappointed! She knows how to deliver a first-rate suspense story. Teagan was a very strong individual; you could say she was made of Steele! Drew was her perfect counterpart. They complemented each other so well. I love a series about different family members; you always get to re-connect with previous friends!


I received this e- book from the author for my honest review.
Profile Image for Edward Arrington.
1,173 reviews12 followers
October 19, 2022
The Steele Guardians security firm was started by the Steele brothers after they retired as Law Enforcement Officers. They both have three daughters, and several work for the firm. Teagan took over as chief operating officer when her cousin Thomas was murdered. Getting a call from one of their security guards working at a major client’s facility late one evening, Teagan is suddenly thrown into deep water. Going to the warehouse, she finds the guard tied up and within a matter of moments, she is as well. She has no idea who their assailant is nor how he got the drop on them but the wheels are turning as she seeks to sort things out. Drew is also in a difficult situation and has to act fast to keep them from causing all of his hard work over the past year from getting flushed down the drain. Time is running out and he is determined to wrap up his case before it does. I enjoyed all the action, suspense, and mystery in the story. I also enjoyed the family camaraderie between the Steele sisters, their cousins, and other family members. They interacted more like one big family than two separate families. The story takes place in the days leading up to Christmas. Their family traditions were something that many people can only dream of: things like a competition to see which team could find the best Christmas tree and their big Christmas dinner in the barn for the family and many of the local Law Enforcement Officers who were unable to be with their own families. The Steele family believed in putting action into their faith. I received an advance copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.The Steele Guardians security firm was started by the Steele brothers after they retired as Law Enforcement Officers. They both have three daughters, and several work for the firm. Teagan took over as chief operating officer when her cousin Thomas was murdered. Getting a call from one of their security guards working at a major client’s facility late one evening, Teagan is suddenly thrown into deep water. Going to the warehouse, she finds the guard tied up and within a matter of moments, she is as well. She has no idea who their assailant is nor how he got the drop on them but the wheels are turning as she seeks to sort things out. Drew is also in a difficult situation and has to act fast to keep them from causing all of his hard work over the past year from getting flushed down the drain. Time is running out and he is determined to wrap up his case before it does. I enjoyed all the action, suspense, and mystery in the story. I also enjoyed the family camaraderie between the Steele sisters, their cousins, and other family members. They interacted more like one big family than two separate families. The story takes place in the days leading up to Christmas. Their family traditions were something that many people can only dream of: things like a competition to see which team could find the best Christmas tree and their big Christmas dinner in the barn for the family and many of the local Law Enforcement Officers who were unable to be with their own families. The Steele family believed in putting action into their faith. I received an advance copy of this book from the author. This is my honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
Profile Image for Marylin.
1,303 reviews45 followers
October 25, 2022
Book four in this wonderful series focuses on Teagan Steele and her story. I loved how she strives to appear strong and in control, but underneath she’s struggling with feelings of not making the mark. Is she really able to hold this company together and not disappoint her family?
This story was sort of fun because it had more tension between the two main characters and put them in a fun undercover role. I loved the banter they had and also the way they worked together to solve this case.
I’m one who prides myself in thinking I can figure out the story before I finish a book. HA! I was thinking I knew “who done it” but I was so totally wrong.
This story has many of the same suspense, drama, action, and intrigue that are in all of this author’s books, and it kept me reading until I finished.
When reading this story, I enjoyed being able to envision exactly where it’s all happening, because this author has set it in my home state. I know of many of the places she mentioned in this book and her descriptions are spot on.
One of the reasons I love reading books by Susan Sleeman. She paints the picture of what is out there and what we as people need to be aware of. Susan Sleeman doesn’t sugarcoat her stories. They are hard-hitting and gritty.
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 series 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.
3,544 reviews40 followers
October 17, 2022
Once again in this latest addition to the series, the author delivers another engaging, clean, Christian suspense romance that will keep you on the edge of your seats.
Teagan Steele , a former police detective is now COO of Steele Guardian, the family’s security company. She is alerted by one of her employees that something fishy is happening at one of their contract locations. When she and the guard investigate, they find themselves manhandled and restrained by a man who later she discovers is an undercover ICE agent.
Drew Collier has spent almost a year in this mission and will not let anything or anyone get him sidetracked.
But things change when she is recruited to help in the investigation of possible antiquity and drug smuggling. The attraction between them intensifies , but both have their reservations. Plus now is not the time to start a relationship.
The story grabs the reader from beginning to end. Will they be able to solve the mystery of what the bad guys are doing? What about the murders they discover? Will they end up together, or will each go their separate ways?
We get another strong female character whose faith and family keeps her heart filled.
And if the reader is familiar with previous series and characters, the author lets us “visit” with them and catch up with their lives.
This one was another winner in the series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
2,354 reviews164 followers
November 17, 2022
3.5 stars
"Forget the immense attraction. Keep your mind in the game. Do your job and live to fight another day."

Talk about bad timing. When Teagan Steele answers the call to surveil some questionable activity at one of Steele Guardian's customer's warehouses, she had no idea that she would be manhandled, gagged, and zip-tied by a stranger who was almost . . . . . gentle in his approach? Who in the world?

" . . . He hated putting her through this . . . . one of the greatest challenges of undercover work."

Undercover ICE Agent Drew Collier had to stay in character . . . this assignment was too important. . . . . especially when there was a suspected international smuggling ring working right under Teagan Steele's nose. But when his higher-ups decided to read her into the case, Drew had no idea how difficult it was going to be to remain professional, when his personal radar kept screaming "attraction, attraction, attraction" at an obnoxious pitch.

Taking the reader in one, possibly two directions at first, this story unexpectedly veers off into uncharted territory, even for the characters. Talk about plot twists! And faith struggles! Will truth and justice find a way to prevail?

"She loved that he was a fellow believer, even if he was struggling. She'd been a Christian her entire life and knew there were times she relied on her faith less. . . . But God always came through. Always. . . . . . Please, God. Do the same thing for Drew."
Profile Image for Glenda Parker.
Author 14 books21 followers
November 9, 2022
My review today is on the Romantic Suspense, Made of Steele. This is book four in the series, Steele Guardians. This is an amazing series, I can't wait until the next book comes out. This story is well-written, action-packed, and full of intrigue. You will enjoy the characters and revisiting characters from past stories. I know you will love this book.

Teagan Steele is the COO of Steele Guardians. She is called by one of their best guards. Something suspicious is going on at one of their biggest clients' warehouses. Teagan heads out but sends a text to her sisters before she enters the building. She hears voices, urgent voices. A hand cups her mouth and a strong arm wraps around her. He whispers he won't hurt her before he gags her and ties her up.

Undercover ICE Agent Drew Collier has been on an undercover investigation for the last year. He is investigating the Conti brothers and illegal smuggling. Teagan's arrival would mess up his cover. He ties her up knowing it would cause trouble with his investigation. His boss brings Tegan into the investigation and has them appear to be dating. Can he pull this off?

A complicated journey into the world of corruption. God has a plan for these two, a plan for hope and for a future. God has a plan for you too, a good plan for peace and well-being and not for disaster to give you an expected end.
Profile Image for Danielle.
Author 27 books617 followers
November 18, 2022
Made of Steele by Susan Sleeman is the fourth book in her Steele Guardians romantic suspense series.

Drew Collier is undercover with ICE when he has to detain Teagan Steele for her own protection. It’s a great meet-cute that launches a whirlwind investigation.

Antiquities, murder, and fake dates make this a page-turning suspense. I especially enjoyed the relationship between Drew and Teagan. The give and take, not to mention the sparks as the two independent law enforcement officers attempt to work together, and protect each other.

The investigation itself was one of discovery and danger than unexpected twists and turns. But that doesn’t take away from the suspense of the story—because Drew could be found out as an undercover cop at any time! The only thing I wish we could have seen more of is Teagan’s grandparents. I enjoy them.

If you haven’t read the rest of the Steele Guardians series, don’t worry. You can pick up the series here without feeling as if you’re missing anything. However, it’s a fun series you won’t want to miss.

---
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.
Profile Image for Marilyn Johnson.
601 reviews1 follower
October 23, 2022
This is book four in the Steele Guardians series, however it is a stand alone. You do miss history of the Steele family, but not necessary in understanding what is going on. 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. If you have read the Night hawk security series and the truth seekers series, you will reconnect with characters from those books as well. I love how Sleemans books bring characters from previous series, yet you do not have to read any of those to enjoy this book. (they are all amazing, just saying)
Teagan Steele feels the weight of the family business, When she suspects someone is threatening their family business and breaking the law she is forced to work with the handsome, ICE agent, Drew Collier. I love the honesty of Teagan and the unique way Drew and Teagan meet. Both must risk hurt to see if there is more than just a working relationship between them. I love this series and look forward to reading more.
I was given a copy of this book for my honest opinion.
930 reviews1 follower
November 9, 2022
With plenty of action, suspense, inspiration, and satisfying romance, this addition to the Steele Guardians series by Susan Sleeman is sure to captivate those who enjoy contemporary romantic suspense. Sleeman is one of my must-read authors in this genre because she never fails to grab my attention from the first page, and I enjoy learning more about crime-solving techniques and new advances in that field while reading a fascinating tale. Her attention to detail and obvious careful research show in her stories.

This book stars Teagan Steele and Drew Collier as they work together to uncover a smuggling ring and bring them to justice. When the plot thickens and twists and turns occur, they end up with more troubles than they started with and their lives in peril. Teagan and Drew are wonderful, engaging characters, and I loved seeing them interact and their relationship grow.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Holly.
708 reviews22 followers
December 27, 2022
Another really good book by Susan Sleeman. The characters were good, the action was good. I don't understand why I struggled to get it finished. Never have I taken almost 2 months to finish a Sleeman book!

Teagan Steele had to take on a lot more responsibilities when Thomas was killed and she let those responsibilities eliminate any type of social life. But when she accidently overhears information of illegal activities by one of their biggest clients, she knows she has to act. Before she can, she is held at knife point, gagged and tied up by Dylan who works for the Conti Brothers.

I loved how Teagan body slams Dylan aka Drew the next day in the sheriff's office. She's tough as well as smart. The sparks start to fly between Teagan and Drew from that point on.

The action and suspense were very good and I loved the ending.

Maybe not my favorite book in the Steele Guardians series, but still very good and I look forward to the next one!

Profile Image for Judy.
3,275 reviews
November 21, 2022
Made of Steele by Susan Sleeman
Steele Guardians Series Book Four
ICE Agent Drew Collier has been undercover for a year. He’s getting close to finding out who is behind the antiquity thefts, and he can’t let the security guard or the beautiful Teagan Steele get in his way.
Teagan Steele, the COO of Steele Guardians, has to save her company. So after Patrick, one of their guards, sees something suspicious at one of the warehouses of their client, she goes to check it out…and gets blindsided by some guy. Teagan is spitting mad and will get revenge until she’s read in on the operation.
This story is intense. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough to find out what would happen. Another surprise ending after this roller coaster story. Susan Sleeman is a fabulous suspense/romance writer.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...
Profile Image for Mary Hake.
Author 4 books414 followers
November 10, 2022
The Steele Guardians face another serious crime spree in the latest edition in this thrilling series. The novel engages readers from the inciting incident to the heartwarming conclusion. Teagan Steele takes the lead in this book, trying to determine just what is going on with one of their clients and whether they are involved in international crime. Plus, she and undercover ICE agent Drew Collier discover some strange murders. Could these all be connected? Once again, the author offers an intriguing tale, with some of the latest tech tools used to help solve these cases. I enjoy these mysteries set in my home state with believable characters, exciting plots, and fast-paced action. I received a copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Laura Hamby.
190 reviews12 followers
November 14, 2022
This is book 4 in the series but works well as a stand alone. Teagan Steele has had failed relationships because of her long hours and strong personality. D watched his mother fall apart after the death of his father when he was 10. The pain of the past has them both gun shy of committing to a serious relationship. They are put in a position to work together to solve a series of crimes. They have no time to spare as time is running out. I must warn you that once you read this book you will want to read all of this series and the other series this series builds on. I am working my way through all of Susan Sleeman’s work and I am always intrigued! She weaves the cutting edge crime solving techniques in that fascinate crime solving addicts like me.
222 reviews1 follower
February 20, 2023
Antiquities, Drugs and Murder

Teagan Steele is in charge of the Steele Guardians. Then she meets Drew who is undercover for ICE. He's working with the three Conti Brothers trying to find evidence that they are smuggling antiquities from the Middle East. Steele Guardians runs the security for the Conti Brothers' warehouse. One of the guards overheard a conversation about a big deal coming down and calls Teagan. She comes, but Drew in his undercover persona takes care of both the Guardian and Teagan and zip ties and puts covers their mouths. He has to later explain who he is. Teagan insists on joining Drew in his hunt. Suspense and romance combined make this a great readers as Susan Sleeman no doubt intended.
944 reviews9 followers
November 29, 2022
Another great suspenseful story! As Teagan is called about a security job at a crafts warehouse that have employed her company, little does she realize the door it was opening to danger, smuggling, and so much more! And when she checks out the warehouse, she's captured, gagged and zip tied by a polite man--what was going on?!? As clues are uncovered, Teagan and Drew are in a race against time to uncover the plot and capture the smugglers. What a great adventure, and it was great to reacquaint with the Veritas team once more!
I highly recommend this clean romantic suspense, as well as the entire Steele Guardians series! I can't wait until the next book is released!
Profile Image for Allyson Anthony.
1,140 reviews47 followers
December 23, 2022
Made of Steele focuses on Teagan who doesn't want to miss the mark and fail regarding her family's business, Steele Guardians.
Susan Sleeman did a great job crafting this story that includes smuggling of antiquities, an undercover ICE agent, fake dating, suspense, romance, and an unexpected twist. I enjoyed seeing familiar characters from Susan Sleeman's past series appear in this story as well as the banter and angst between Teagan, her sisters, and her cousins.
If you enjoy suspense and fake dating trope, I recommend reading Made of Steele.
Profile Image for Deena.
1,183 reviews
November 6, 2022
Made of Steele is Teagan’s story, and I was hooked from the first page! From the first encounter with Dylan to the epic conclusion, Sleeman has once again crafted an edge of your seat novel.

The overall case is intense, but when an unexpected twist appears…well, I’m in awe of the talent it takes to create a detailed story that works on multiple levels.

I’m very excited for the next book in the series!
5 reviews
November 12, 2022
Great series continues

I love this series and this was another win. Susan Sleeman understands the law enforcement community and does a great job with her stories. After being married to a law enforcement officer for 46 years and living in Salem, Oregon for 20 years I really enjoy her series. Thank you. I can't wait for the next one in this series. I think I will have to go back and read the Nighthawk series and all the others.
14 reviews
October 11, 2023
Great plot

The plot of "Made of Steel" made for a quick reading and intrigue. I love the characters, especially the protagonist Teagan. She wasn't afraid of showing her weaknesses while capitalizing on her strength. I anticipated the ending, but the nice twist was great! I also loved the minor characters, especially the grandparents! It is always wonderful reading Sleeman's Christian novels without having to worry about language or inappropriate scenes!
762 reviews4 followers
November 2, 2022
TEagan and Drew

I had forgotten how much I have enjoyed all of the Steele Guardians mysteries. They just take my breathe away with every situation thy are put in and come out stronger on the other side. Enjoy reading from the very first paragraph to the very last. Start reading NOW!!!!!!
Profile Image for Erin Biernacki.
36 reviews5 followers
November 3, 2022
i Love the Steele Family

Susan Sleeman and the Steele family are a wonderful pairing. Lots of action, adventure and police work mixed with great faith and family to solve a crime. I love that she brings in previous characters from other series so you get an update but if you haven’t read those you are not confused or lost.
511 reviews1 follower
November 28, 2022
I was afraid this was going to be another damsel in distress

I enjoy the books (series), but usually it's a strong, independent woman who makes an incredibly stupid mistake. I like the twist that the author usually has, making it difficult to guess the culprit.
In this case, the culprit wasn't a mystery, and Reagan stumbled into a situation.
288 reviews1 follower
February 1, 2023
Clean romantic suspense

I enjoyed reading this story about a young man working undercover who meets young woman who works for the family security business. They work together on a case of drugs smuggling, plus antiquities smuggling. They both have issues from the past. I look forward to reading more by this author.
241 reviews
June 22, 2024
Great series

I've really been enjoying reading this series, and I love how she intertwines it with characters from her previous series....not in such a way that you need to read them to understand what's going on, but, for those of us who have read the previous series, it's like being reacquainted with some old friends. Can't wait to read the next one in the series!
Profile Image for Brenda.
270 reviews5 followers
November 1, 2022
Great characters. Great read. Love this series. Love that you can catch up on previous characters. Love how close the family is. Highly recommend reading.

I received an advance ebook and I am voluntarily leaving my review.
21 reviews1 follower
November 6, 2022
Another good read

I enjoy how Susan's books overlap with other series she has written. I love hearing how others characters are doing even when not focused on them. Great read held me to the end. Thank you
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.