A fast paced reunion with old friends, and from the first page forward you will wonder if they are going to survive.

This is Tessa's story and Zane, friends that really care about one another, and there maybe more if one of these can forgive themself!

This is a story of the agencies job to protect the president, but it becomes so much more, especially when one of them is having their life threatened.

Come along and page turn as the author has us journey for answers, great Christian suspense, along with some sweet romance, danger, and true friendship!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.

There was a lot in this book I loved, one thing being this is Zane and Tessa's story that we finally get the scoop on lol! Also, all the action, the planning, the intrigue, the elusive villain, the hilarious shutdown of a certain character who thought way too much of himself..

It definitely made for a story I could hardly put down except to pause because the action and pace was so intense!

The team banter was a riot as usual, and we got to see more of the couples we met in the previous two books, Luke and Faith, and Gil and Ivy. The relationship and romance of both couples was realistic, but not the Hallmark cheesy "perfection" that I loathe because it's honestly just not true to life.

I really liked the way the group worked through the problems that were thrown their way, not trying to do it all on their own but realizing they had teammates and friends in high places for a reason.

Thank you to the author and publisher for the complimentary paperback and launch team goodies I received as part of her launch team. It's been a pleasure to serve on the team.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for the complimentary e-book I received. A positive review was not required of me and the thoughts above and below are my own.

Negative elements & trigger warnings

In the opening scene, a female character wakes up in a roach motel with no shirt on, but otherwise she's clothed. This was not of her choosing, as we later find out she was drugged.

an iffy idea- Tess mentions when a job was finished that she wants to curl up on the couch with her bodyguard and sleep till Monday. It doesn't actually though. While they're friends, and he's been looking out for her, that just isn't quite right and can compromise your reputation as a Christian.

mild language- cr*p, scr*w up

Under Fire is the third book in the Defend and Protect series set in Raleigh, North Carolina where we get a glimpse into the lives of the local US Secret Service agents. The president is heading to town for a fundraiser at the home of a friend and there is much to take care of to prepare. SS Agent Tessa Reed is heading up the preparation. They have possible threats to vet as well as getting the site and route ready. Her best friend SS Agent Zane Thackery is in town from DC for the event. Just friends but both are interested in more. This brings on some stress in addition to the stress of the president's visit. The threats are not just directed at the president, but it seems that someone from her past has it out for Tessa. Something only Zane and Tessa's boss know about. This is a book with a multilayered plot, mystery, suspense, danger, and romance interspersed with faith and friendship. This series is about a group of close friends who work and play together and have each other's backs. That is evident in each book and even crosses over with friends from the Dive Team Investigations series. Another winner for Lynn Blackburn and recommended for those who enjoy romantic suspense with a faith thread. I received a copy for the purpose of an honest review. These are my thoughts.

Zane and Tessa captured my heart in this suspense novel. I'm always intrigued with the "protect the president" story line and this was no exception. Great pace and the perfect amount of romance made this a fun read. Recommended.
I was provided a free copy of this book from the publisher for review purposes. All of the opinions expressed are my own.

Under Fire is the newest book in the Defend and Protect series by Lynn H. Blackburn. Once again, she has written an amazing story full of adventure, danger and romance. This book is third in the series, but it does fine as a stand alone novel.

Special Agent Zane Thacker has never forgotten his crush Special Agent Tessa Reed. He thinks she is beautiful inside and out. So he is glad to walk back into her life and work alongside her. Tessa and Zane team up to investigate threats against the President of the United States. And while both would like their friendship to be more, they will need to work through their problems and hesitations while keeping the President safe.

This book deals with some real-life issues. Tessa has a drinking problem and was almost date-raped before she finally sought help. Part of Zane's hesitation is his own mother was an alcoholic and he doesn't want to see Tessa go down the same path. Tessa gets sober and has to deal with the fact that battling addiction is a life-long battle.

Overall, I think Under Fire is a great read! Any fans of Lynn Blackburn, Lynette Eason, or Elizabeth Goddard will enjoy this book!

Under Fire features Zane and Tessa! I have wondered what their relationship was about, and now I have the answers. This pulse pounding romantic thriller has someone after Tessa and not sure why. Zane and Tessa have feelings for each other, but can't quite get it together for one reason or another. At the same time, the team is preparing for the President of the United States to come to Raleigh for a fundraiser with his old college buddies. Let me just say that the book was really good and the ending was the best. The kind I love!! (Oh my romantic heart)
*I was given a copy of the book from the publisher and this is my honest opinion.

The story of Zane Fletcher and Tessa Reed is one that had to be told. Their attraction to each other in previous books in the series was apparent but they had decided just to remain friends. Their decision is brought into question in this final book in the series in which Tessa is the lead agent in charge of protecting the President when he plans a trip to Raleigh. The President’s plans bring Zane back to Raleigh in order to liaison with Tessa. The chemistry between these two alternated between humorous and deadly serious as Tessa’s life is endangered because of events from her past. The characters are realistic, presenting a fascinating character study that pulled me into the story quickly. The plot is well-crafted with multiple layers involving the keeping the President safe, the President’s old friendships and reason for his visit and Tessa’s past that she thought was buried but has come to haunt her. The twists are clever and satisfyingly complex, creating a plot that is tightly woven and constantly crackling with tension between Zane and Tessa. With a fast pace and witty dialogue, this book kept me engaged with its intricate plot threads that were brilliantly woven together into one action-packed book. This is an addictive suspense that includes a developing romance that sparkles with laugh-out-loud banter between the two protagonists. Filled with warmth, humor and the creative complications that add to the pleasure of reading, this book is one not to be missed by fans of action-packed romantic suspense. Although it is part of the Defend and Protect series, this book can be read and enjoyed as a standalone.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author as part of her launch team. I also received an e-copy of the book from Revell via Netgalley as part of the Revell Reads Blogger Program. I was not required by either entity to publish a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”

For fans of Lynn Blackburn's outstanding Defend and Protect series, Under Fire brings readers an exciting plot full of danger, mystery, and edge-of-your-seat suspense. If you are looking for an excellent and exciting read, look no further than Under Fire. Although this book could be read as a stand alone, the context and history shared between characters would be better understood from the previous and also outstanding two books in the Defend and Protect series by Ms. Blackburn, Unknown Threat and Malicious Intent.

Zane Thacker's latest job promotion is to the protection detail of the president of the United States. As a United States Secret Service Special Agent, Zane is used to dealing with difficult and highly sensitive assignments. When Zane's assignment brings him back to his previous Raleigh coworkers and friends, can he maintain his focus on his duty to protect the president when his best friend is threatened? Special Agent Tessa Reed has battled alcoholism, but with her loyal and supportive best friend, Zane she has come away healthy and healing. As the liaison between the Raleigh office and the protection detail, Tessa takes her role as leader and responsibility very seriously and pushes herself to the extreme. When Tessa is specifically threatened and her past failures threatened to be brought to light can she maintain her focus and perform to her best ability? Tessa and Zane stubbornly refuse to step away from their jobs, but can they keep their focus split and keep both the president and Tessa safe? Can they keep their friendship from being severed by the past? Read Under Fire to discover for yourself.

Some of my favorite aspects of this book were the characters themselves, Zane and Tessa, the way their relationship developed from coworkers to friends, to possibly even a romantic relationship. Zane's loyalty and protection of Tessa was sweet as well as how he was the only one who could call her "princess". I also appreciated how Ms. Blackburn cleverly wove in several flashbacks throughout the book to explain and connect the dots in Zane and Tessa's lives, relationships, and their shared history. I recently realized that I particularly enjoy when an author brings their widespread characters from various series or books together into one book. I love how Ms. Blackburn has created an overarching network of friends and family made from her well-known and well-loved characters. It is almost like having a sneak peek past the epilogue from the previous books in the series. Finally, Ms. Blackburn's honest dealings with several difficult situations and struggles of her characters makes this book very real and applicable to readers across many generations, cultures, and genres. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed Under Fire, even though I am selfishly saddened that this is the conclusion of an excellent series.

This book is the third installment in Ms. Blackburn's Defend and Protect series, which just so happens to be one of my favorite book series of all time. I have enjoyed the intense action-filled plots that Ms. Blackburn brings, as well as her web of deep, relatable, and unique characters throughout her writings. I appreciate how Ms. Blackburn doesn't water down her plots, but makes the web of mystery and crime more complicated than the reader realizes. Although the plots are complex and intriguing to read, Ms. Blackburn's genius for developing genuine and intriguing characters creates the perfect suspense fiction read that readers are searching for. Under Fire was a much anticipated read and I was not disappointed. I give my high recommendation to this book and truly hope that you have the opportunity to read it and enjoy it. Happy readings!

Disclaimer: Revell graciously provided me with a copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions are my own and part of an unbiased review.

Under Fire is the third book in the Defend and Protect series by Lynn H. Blackburn. I have read and enjoyed every book in this Christian fiction series and I am sorry to see it come to an end.

The main thing I appreciate about this book is the fact that it isn't Christian fiction in name only. The characters pray in their everyday lives, not just when things are going totally downhill. I also appreciate that the two main characters have had to face addiction in their lives. Tessa struggled with alcoholism and Zane's mother was addicted. This caused a secondary issue between the two since Tessa really wanted a relationship with Zane, but as much as he cared about her, he hesitated to take their friendship to the next level since he grew up around an alcoholic and was concerned about Tessa's ability to stay sober.

On the professional level, they are both employed as special agents and are tasked with protecting the president while he visits Raleigh. Along with the rest of the secret service agents, and other members of law enforcement, they encounter problems with security and other challenges.

The entire series was excellent.

Under Fire is a suspense novel written by Lynn H. Blackburn. It is book three in the Defend and Protect series, but it is not necessary to have read the previous books in order to read this one.

Summary: Special Agent Tessa Reed has a big job ahead of her. She and her team are preparing Raleigh for a visit from the president himself.

She is ready for the challenge and doesn’t mind the chance to get to work with her best friend USSS Special Agent Zane Thacker who recently transferred to the president’s detail.

But when she discovers someone’s got a target on her back, things start to get dicey.

It’s all coming down to the wire. Can Tessa keep the president safe-and stay alive doing it?

My Thoughts: I thought this book had a lot of great action and suspense, with a pretty healthy dose of romance as well.

I enjoyed the plot line, and I really liked how the characters had each others’ backs and were such great friends.

The ending felt a bit rushed and thrown together, but overall, it was a fun read and I enjoyed it.

I would like to thank Revell for providing me with a free digital copy of this book in exchange for my review. Thank you!

The author is so talented in taking the reader on a thrill ride until you can't stand it, then let you rest a bit in the human side of the story. The action can be intense at times, but Lynn intersperses the human side of the story to let your emotions take a rest. To me, the balance is perfect. I loved how she threw in some "red herrings" to put you off the track. It was a good clean read that was very enjoyable.

This is the third book in the Defend and Protect series and I found it a great way to wrap it up with Zane and Tessa’s story. I struggled with most of this book, but I also could not put it down.

While, the previous books, “Unknown Threat, and Malicious Intent”, talked about Zane and Tessa, it wasn’t until now we learn more of their backstories. From the moment we meet these two in Unknown Threat, you know there is a connection between them. After understanding more about their background and their hesitant nature, it was good to see them connecting more in this book.

As I am been intrigued with learning more about the Special Agent task force, I really felt the threats that were talked about in this were not really a focus of this book. It was more thrown in and the ending was a bit confusing as I had to keep reading it to make sure I understood what I was reading.

Towards the end of the book, there were also a lot of other characters from previous books that I had to try and remember who they were and their relationship to this story. I felt the ending was a bit confusing with the epilogue.


I would like to thank NetGalley, Revell, and Lynn H. Blackburn for this advance copy for my honest review.

I was very much looking forward to Zane and Tessa's story and Lynn Blackburn did not disappoint! I love how she incorporated real topics that people deal with. Some Christian authors tend to shy away from the more messy topics but she covered them beautifully. Most of the action was toward the end of the novel but it was definitely great. Since we've been waiting since book one to see Zane and Tessa become a couple it was nice to have a little bit more of the novel focused on their relationship. It was really a beautiful story and I'm sad to see this series end.

Lynn Blackburn does it again. Another thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat guessing and the same time is clean and pure and full of stories of faith and love. If you've read other books in the series you'll enjoy hearing about familiar characters from the past.

Under Fire is the perfect wrap up to a fantastic series! I have been waiting patiently for Tessa and Zane’s story and this book did not disappoint! It is touching while also being filled with heart-pounding suspense. This storyline caught me completely off guard and was exquisitely written. You feel every emotion the characters are feeling as if you are living it keeping you pulled into the story.

Zane and Tessa have had electricity zinging between them since book one building a great anticipation. As the last of their friends to remain single, everyone is cheering for these two to get together despite their constant answers that they are only friends. This book gives us insight into some of their history we never knew and sets the stage for the story.

With danger increasing around the President’s visit, the Carrington police force is called in to assist in the Investigation. This gives us a chance to catch up with our favorite characters from the Deep Divers series. I loved being able to reconnect with these wonderful characters.

Lynn Blackburn is one of my favorite suspense authors and her books never disappoint! This book and entire series are a must read!

I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

I received an arc from NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.

I was waiting for this story as we got peaks into Zane and Tessa’s attraction. As the story starts to unwind we find why Zane was hesitant to start anything with Tessa but love prevailed and they took steps to move forward cautiously.

The suspense of the book is off the charts and I couldn’t wait until the end to find out what truly happened to Tessa that night three years ago.

Great read that I would definitely recommend.

This book is full of mystery and action. It had me hooked from page 1. I have not read the other books in this series and felt like this could definitely be read as a stand alone. But I do want to read the others since this was such a fun read. The characters are well written and the story is well developed. I definitely recommend this book for anyone looking for an action read with wholesome romance wrapped in.
#UnderFire #NetGalley

An app had been given to put on their phones, if an agent needed to be found.
Tessa unaware of what happened after going to the bar, thankfully Zane answered this early. They were friends, never could be more.
President coming to town, along with threats, now Tessa is also a target, for the team to protect. The romance between Tessa and Zane showed the maturity to keep friendship while they worked out their problems.
The story was full of action, great characters, that readers will enjoy, and the series
Given ARC by Net Galley and Revel for my voluntary review .

**4.5/5 Stars.**

You want high stakes? How about the president coming to your city for an event, and you’re responsible for his protection? Oh, and by the way, people have threatened him…and you. What was never simple becomes even more complicated as the threats turn into intense action. Under Fire by Lynn H. Blackburn is the perfect rainy-day read. Or…well, any day read, really. It is exhilarating with depth unlike few romantic suspense novels I have read. All of the books in this particular genre seem to feature tragic backstories, and Under Fire does, too. But Zane and Tessa stand apart. They have been my favorite characters in Blackburn’s “Defend and Protect” series from the beginning, and Under Fire just further solidified that status.

I appreciated Tessa and Zane’s maturity and their friendship over anything else. Tessa needed to work through her issues, and they agreed friendship was best for a time. Blackburn developed that much-needed history. Not just in Under Fire but throughout the “Defend and Protect” series. Zane supports Tessa when she needs it most, and Tessa does the same for Zane. I struggle with the romance aspect of most romantic suspense novels. The development from acquaintances to “I love you” feels rushed, but that is not the case with Tessa and Zane’s relationship. It’s real. It’s intense, and I am so happy they finally have their happiness together.

Under Fire by Lynn H. Blackburn is multifaceted. It does not have only one plot but a few small ones that combine into an overall, cohesive story. I devoured this book, and that wasn’t only because of the rainstorm. I absorbed it because I did not want to put it down. It mixed humor with intensity, romance, and faith. I could not give the novel five stars, however, because of a couple things. The main one: Under Fire had a lot of characters, and I sometimes forgot who people were. That tripped me up, particularly closer to the end of the novel.

If you decide to read Under Fire, you will not be disappointed. But Lynn? If I don’t get to spend more time with Tessa and Zane, I will be!

Thank you to #NetGalley, Revell Books and Lynn H. Blackburn for the opportunity to read an advance copy of UNDER FIRE, to be published 7 March 2023. This was a Christian Romance novel that was a little slow paced throughout. The characters were very real and certainly human, which was proved by the mistakes they made. Anyone who enjoys a good Christian Romance mystery would probably be happy with this book. #NetGalley. #RevellBooks. #UnderFire. #LynnH.Blackburn