This is the 3rd book in the “Arkansas Special Agents Series.” This is an entertaining read that is fast paced with drama, action packed, pager turner, mystery, mayhem, murder, killer on the loose, great characters and a plot that held me captive. Kayla who is a lawyer husband has been murdered and now she finds herself a target. With her husband dead Kayla finds herself the sole beneficiary to his fortune. Kayla’s needs protection for herself and her unborn child. Ryan who is from the Arkansas State Services has been tasked with keeping Kayla safe. When Ryan learns that Kayla is pregnant he knows that he not only has one person to protect but also Kayla’s unborn baby. As the are going from house to house to keep Kayla safe someone seems to keep learning where they are. Kayla informs Ryan that she needs to return to her home and get some added security. With Kayla and Ryan spending so much time together the couple seems to be developing feelings for each other.

Who is trying to kill Kayla and why, will Ryan be able to protect and keep Kayla safe, is there an HEA in store for Ryan and Kayla?

I received an ARC via NetGalley and Harlequin Intrigue and I am leaving my review voluntarily.

Kayla's late husbands killer seems to be after her and needs some protection. Special Agent Ryan is on the job to being her body guard until the killer is found.

This was a pretty good book I really enjoyed it. There was so many close calls to keep any readers interested. Then there was the characters which I really liked getting to know, I mean Kayla was a pretty head strong women who was the type to not back down and not want help until she really had no choice. Now she's got a child on the line and will do everything she can to stay protected and find that person who is behind this and find out why. Then there was the bit of attraction simmering between the two which I enjoyed. There was plenty of close calls and unexpected things happening that kept me on my toes and hooked till the every end. Overall great book I enjoyed it.

A Riveting Thriller Unfolding Amidst the Ozarks

Maggie Wells takes readers on a heart-pounding journey through the rugged terrain of the Ozarks in her gripping thriller, "Ozark Witness Protection." Filled with intense suspense, engaging characters, and a masterfully crafted plot, this book delivers a rollercoaster of emotions that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.

The story opens with Jane Lambert, a key witness in a high-profile criminal trial, being placed under the protection of the U.S. Marshals in the remote and secluded Ozark mountains. Wells's vivid descriptions bring the haunting beauty of the Ozarks to life, while also creating an eerie sense of isolation that adds to the book's tension. As Jane tries to navigate her new identity and a life in hiding, she quickly realizes that danger is lurking around every corner, and trust becomes a scarce commodity.

Wells does an exceptional job of character development, making Jane Lambert a protagonist worth rooting for. Her vulnerabilities and determination make her relatable, and readers will find themselves emotionally invested in her journey. Equally intriguing are the supporting characters, each with their own secrets and motives. The relationships and interactions between characters are realistic and provide depth to the narrative.

The author skillfully weaves together multiple plotlines, keeping readers guessing and second-guessing at every turn. The elements of mystery, betrayal, and unexpected alliances create a web of intrigue that will captivate thriller enthusiasts from start to finish. Wells flawlessly balances character-driven moments with heart-pounding action, ensuring a steady pace that holds the reader's attention throughout.

One of the standout features of "Ozark Witness Protection" is the authentic portrayal of the Ozark region. Wells has clearly done her research, depicting the local culture and its unique challenges with precision. This attention to detail enriches the story, making the setting a character in its own right.

In conclusion, "Ozark Witness Protection" is a compelling and atmospheric thriller that delivers a potent mix of suspense, emotion, and danger. Maggie Wells proves herself as a skilled storyteller with a talent for crafting an absorbing narrative that will linger in the minds of readers long after they've finished the book. If you're seeking a captivating tale of survival, trust, and betrayal in a breathtaking Ozark backdrop, this novel is an excellent addition to your reading list.

This is a Romantic Suspense, and this is the third book in the Arkansas Special Agents series. I have read the first book in this series before picking up this book, but I think you can read this book as a standalone without any problems. This book was super fast paced which I loved, and it had so much suspense and action. There was a little bit of romance, but this book was more about the action and suspense than the romance. I really loved getting to know these characters, and the mystery that was going on I loved to. I was pulled into this book, and I could not put it down. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Harlequin Intrigue) or author (Maggie Wells) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.

Terrific conclusion to the series. We met Kayla in the previous book, <i>Ozarks Double Homicide</i>, as the widow of one of the victims. Much to the dismay of her husband's other family members, Kayla inherited his entire estate and the family law firm. As this book opens, it is a few weeks later, and Kayla has taken time off from the business to grieve. Her friend Michelle, also from the previous book, is running the company.

Besides the death of her husband, Kayla has had an emotional few weeks. She spent time in rehab to overcome her alcohol problem, dealt with the scandal of a money-laundering associate, and is fending off challenges to her husband's will. Spending time at the family's lake house is all that's keeping her on an even keel. That serenity goes up in smoke when someone shoots her while she's out on a walk. Michelle and detective Ethan Scott insist that she needs 24/7 protection, and Ethan calls in his friend to do the job.

Ryan is a member of the Arkansas State Police Protective Services Division, currently on desk duty as he recovers from an injury. He's happy to return to the field until he runs up against the stubborn Kayla. The sparks flew between them as Kayla resisted every suggestion Ryan made for her safety. Kayla is strong-willed and used to making her own decisions as an attorney. Allowing someone else to take control is difficult; the push-and-pull over that control creates interesting situations.

I enjoyed watching Ryan and Kayla learn to deal with each other. Ryan respects her intelligence and resilience while frequently frustrated by her stubbornness and impatience. Kayla respects Ryan's experience and abilities but is frustrated by what she feels is his overprotectiveness. Underneath the contentiousness is a simmering attraction that both try to resist. Ryan won't let personal feelings interfere with his duty, and Kayla feels guilty about her interest in Ryan so soon after her husband's death. I liked the ending and the prospect of a relationship between Kayla and Ryan. I wish there had been an epilogue showing the three couples further down the road.

The suspense of the story kept me hooked from start to finish. This book carries on with the investigation into the murders from the previous book and adds the question of whether the attacks on Kayla are connected to the murders. A leading suspect is identified early in the book with the action involving trying to find him. The tension increases as the threats continue to pile up. Kayla's desire to end the search runs up against Ryan's need to keep her safe. It wasn't a surprise to see Kayla take matters into her own hands, and I felt Ryan's frustration and worry when she ditched him. The final confrontation was a nail-biter. I loved seeing Kyla pull off a terrific set-up and bring the bad guy down.

My favorite quote from this book is this one:
<i>"Mrs. Powers, you have to know by now the case involving the deaths of your husband and his son are the criminal investigation division's number-one priority at this time. If Ethan Scott told the higher-ups he needed a purple unicorn with a polka-dotted mane to close this case, they'd be out spray-painting a horse as we speak."</i>

Ozarks Witness Protection by Maggie Wells, book three in the Arkansas Special Agents series, is an emotional, suspenseful, and roller coaster ride of suspense. Widow Kayla Powers, once considered a suspect, is now being targeted by the person that likely murdered her husband and his son, when she is shot collecting her mail. She recently found her husband, and his son murdered, in their home and has since become responsible for her wealthy husband’s business as his sole beneficiary. Her friends Michelle, FBI agent/lawyer, and Ethan, former lawyer and currently a detective, convince her that she needs protection. Special Agent Ryan Hastings is assigned to protect Kayla. As they continue to evade the murderer, feelings develop. But professionalism on Ryan’s side and the unexpected surprise Kayla is carrying, as well as the danger has keeping Kayla alive, the primary goal. This action packed story, will keep you on the edge of your seats and while the romance is subtle, it will keep the romantics engaged. I highly recommend Ozarks Witness Protection to other readers.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

Terric romantic suspense. An engaging story that kept me turning the pages. This was the first book by the author that I have read. I am eager to read more of her tales. Thanks to the publisher for introducing me to her writing. My review is voluntary.

Another new to me author. I seem to be entering all of these series in the middle, which is definitely not my preference, however, these Harlequin authors seem to do a good job of both making the book work as a standalone while also tantalizingly dangling pieces of former stories for you to wish you had the back story! This isn’t the traditional WitSec story with a new life in a new place and no connections as you wait for a trial. It is a moving story with action and danger and grief and life.

Kayla Powers realizes that she has become a target when she is shot collecting her mail. She had recently found her husband and his son murdered in their home. She is now responsible for her wealthy husband’s business as his sole beneficiary, but surely it can’t be someone from the family who wants her dead? She needs protection and Sergeant Ryan Hastings from the Arkansas State Police Protective Services Division has been assigned to her case. Their first meeting is a bit contentious as she is strong willed, an attorney and used to making her own decisions. The situation become riskier when he learns that she is pregnant. He knows what protection is needed and believes that her home is not safe. He decides to move her to various homes, but it seems they are found each time. Kayla finally insists on returning home with added security. An attraction has slowly developed between them as he is determined to end the threat, but she wants to end this now and has a plan to do so. Will they finally be able to move on with their lives, hopefully together? I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)

Maggie Wells was a new-to-me author with Ozarks Missing Person, but she cemented herself on my watch for new releases list, and I had to continue the series as soon as I could. Thanks to my early love of Nora Roberts’ books, I’m a huge romantic suspense junkie and always looking for my next fave romantic suspense author. I’m always willing to give an author a try at least once, and sometimes I find a new one that I genuinely enjoy their style, which was the case with Ms. Wells.

This story concludes her Arkansas Special Agents series, and I can honestly say I’m sad to see it end. But I was more than happy with the way she wrapped everything up. It was more about the mystery/suspense than the budding romance secondary to the case but seemed to lean more into the relationship and growing feelings between the H &h than the previous books. There is no spice, so if you like your romantic suspense heavier on the heat, this may not be the book for you. As for me, the mystery was more than enough to keep me focused on the emerging plot and riveted to the story. If you like romantic suspense with strong heroines and flawed but honest heroes, don’t pass this one up!

NICUnurse’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

We are back in the Ozarks with another engaging story that follows the mystery of the death of a young woman from book one and the unsolved murder of two prominent lawyers in book 2.
Kayla Powers, the widow of the older Powers murdered, once considered a suspect, is now being targeted by the person that likely murdered her husband and his son.
Her friends Michelle, FBI agent/lawyer, and Ethan, former lawyer and nowadays a detective, convince her that a bodyguard is necessary.
Special Agent Ryan Hastings is assigned to protect Kayla. As they continue to evade the murderer, feelings develop. But professionalism on Ryan’s side and the unexpected surprise Kayla is carrying, as well as the danger has keeping Kayla alive, the primary goal.
This action packed story, will keep you on the edge of your seats and while the romance is subtle, it will keep the romantic in us engaged.
My one qualm is that the ending seemed abrupt and could have used an epilogue. Thus the 4 stars rating instead of 5.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley and Harlequin. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

Ozarks Witness Protection (Arkansas Special Agents #3) by Maggie Wells
Kayla and Ryan Strong H and h. There was a little romance, but more about the action and suspense. I really loved getting to know these characters, and the mystery.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Tragic Witty Unpredictable Informative Wonderful characters Action-packed Page-turner Great world building Easy-to-read.

I throughly enjoyed this well written romantic suspense. Great plot and character dynamics. I definitely recommend this book. My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my advance ebook. This is my unbiased review.