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Stealth Security #2.5

Ruthless Peril

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Can Hunter Davis rescue her from a ruthless kidnapper?

She’s grabbed by a vindictive killer.

Tessa Pate manages the Stealth Security office, as support for the former SEALs turned bodyguards. She’s tough, fit, and quick witted. Plus, the team has taught her some moves to use against any aggressor. On a personal level, it’s not so easy to find the right man for her. But she accepts an invitation from Hunter, a loyal member of the team. Before he arrives to escort her to dinner, she’s thrown into a car trunk and whisked away. But her captor has his hands full, and likely regrets choosing her. He has mistaken her for another woman, but there’s no turning back.

>>>Will her captor get the revenge he seeks?

Former SEAL Hunter Davis is on the Stealth team. He is drawn to Tessa’s strength and beauty. When he finally asks her out to dinner, the evening turns into a nightmare. Late, and at a disadvantage, he fears for Tessa’s life. Her captor wields a gun and is out for revenge. No matter the stakes, Hunter vows to save her.

>>>Can Hunter rescue her, before it’s too late?

Tessa refuses to be intimidated, and fights back. She’s a challenge for her captor, but without Hunter, she may be doomed. It’s a first date gone terribly wrong. But will she have another chance?

Kindle Edition

Published January 1, 2017

309 people are currently reading
69 people want to read

About the author

Emily Jane Trent

94 books473 followers
Emily Jane Trent is a true romantic at heart. She writes steamy romantic stories about characters you'll get to know and love. If you like a love story with sex scenes that sizzle and a story that involves you both intellectually and emotionally, you'll find her books are for you.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
Profile Image for Elizabeth Neal.
1,752 reviews146 followers
September 1, 2017
Tessa, the office manager/Jill of all trades at Stealth Security, is enjoying a relaxing break at the beach on her way to work prior to starting a new week. Her peace is interrupted by a man  assuming her to be someone else. However, not only does he appear like a creeper, his attempt at an explanation sounds suspicious. As she quickly informs him to leave her alone, her respite now ruined, she makes her way to the offices.

Hunter, a former SEAL, left the military a year prior after surviving numerous deployments. He spent some time with his mom in his hometown readjusting to civilian life, but he grew restless with the inactivity and traveled the states. On his last stop, he reunited with a former teammate who introduced him to Travis, his new boss.

Though Hunter and Tessa have flirted casually since his recent hiring, neither have acted on it. But as Hunter's role within the company grows, so does his contact with Tessa, and his attraction. After some friendly advice from Rip, another Stealth employee, Hunter decides to ask Tessa out, and she accepts.

Tessa has been trying to get through the rest of the work day without letting her nervousness take root, but some seeps through regardless. As she's waiting for Hunter to pick her up, he's stuck in traffic, she's approached by the weird man from the beach. But for some reason he's calling her Melanie, her boss, Travis's, wife.

Hunter arrives, stupid LA traffic, in time to see a man standing over a woman laying on the ground, then watches helplessly as he places her in a trunk. He tries to stop the obvious kidnapping, and ends up giving chase. His worst fears are confirmed upon realizing the victim is Tessa.

Can Hunter save Tessa? Who took her and why? What does it have to do with Travis and Melanie? Will Hunter and Tessa try for another first date? Did this experience, and the potentially fatal consequences, bring them closer together? What does the future hold for them? Which employee will find happiness next? Psst...I hope it's Rip.

One-click now and read this short, though action packed and full of twists, burgeoning romance.

**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
Profile Image for Gloria Herrera for As You Wish Reviews.
2,181 reviews62 followers
August 29, 2017
Hunter Davis is one of the ex-SEAL retirees working for Stealth Security. He is all about the work, but yet he has a lighter side that comes out to play every time he is around Tessa. He is attracted to her but it has been so long since he dated anyone, he is a fish out of water when it comes time to act on it.

If you have been reading the Stealth Security series, you know Tessa. She is independent, efficient, and take no prisoners kind of gal. All at Stealth protect and cherish her for her kind heart and dedication to their safety but boys will be boys and they cannot help but notice the chemistry that ripples when Tessa and Hunter are together.

This is a story of a first date gone wrong by a prick looking for revenge. Mistaking her identity, Tessa is kidnapped. Only Tessa will not go down easily. You must read this story to enjoy how she takes charge of her destiny. I could not help laughing and crying at the same time!

I am voluntarily reviewing this book. It is awesome and more readers should know about it. I thank the author for sharing a copy with me.
9,375 reviews133 followers
April 12, 2021
This is a short fast paced story with strong characters and an action packed story line. The author packs a ton in this quickie and paints her scenes perfectly. It's a sweet story and a great addition to the Stealth Security series. I loved and would recommend this book/series.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
Profile Image for Jenn Allen.
3,153 reviews45 followers
August 24, 2017
Wow! This was non-stop, on the edge of your seat intensity! Tessa is so strong willed, tough and loveable. I loved her fight, but she has this softness for Hunter. He's strong, amazing and someone you want on your side. Love that spark! Enjoyed the read, I hope we get a bit more of them in the future.

I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Profile Image for Mary Clark.
799 reviews8 followers
August 29, 2017
This book had an excellent storyline and it was one I thoroughly enjoyed reading. The author always writes interesting stories and this book is no exception. Tessa is a strong character, who doesn’t like tardiness, and Hunter knows this, so why is he late for their date? What happens next is totally unexpected and takes Tessa by surprise; but is she up for the challenge.

Jared was a violent man, but when he began stalking and threatening one of Travis’ clients, Travis was left with no choice. Now his younger brother Caleb is out for revenge, trying to get back at Stealth Security; but he has picked the wrong woman. Tessa manages the office for Stealth Security and while she takes no nonsense from anyone, she is friends with Travis and all the men. Having agreed to go on a date with Hunter, Tessa is waiting for him to turn up, but he is late. This gives Caleb the opportunity to make his move; he has been watching Tessa for weeks and when he sees her alone, kidnaps her and takes her hostage. While Caleb is a dangerous man, Tessa is not prepared to go willingly and puts up a fight; then continually taunts him. Caleb thinks Tessa is Travis’ wife Melissa, but nothing she says can convince him otherwise and he intends to go through with his dastardly plan. Caleb wants justice for his brother, but will Travis agree to his terms. Meanwhile, Tessa is left to contemplate her predicament. A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book and my comments here are my honest opinion.

Profile Image for Kaye.
7,177 reviews73 followers
April 16, 2021
⚔️⚔️ONE COMPELLING ADVENTURE⚔️⚔️
Blazing bloomers boo! Emily whips out this incredibly tumultuous, tantalizing, side-widing, rock-my-world delight, delivering up some cruel facts, callous lessons and ruthless choices, breaking out the heavy artillery and ammo aplenty, catapulting this gem to staggering heights. One action packed, hard hitting, pulse racing, adrenaline pumping, block busting dynamo, bringing all the badassery and moxie, kicking this gem into the eye of the storm, booting it into a tailspin with mind-blowing impacts, wrapping this jewel up sleek, shiny and tight. Hurled head-long into unfamiliar territory chocked-full of riveting drama, gripping intrigue, brutal tactics, escalating danger, electrifying suspense and intense situations ensue as heart pounding struggles and challenging triumphs roll while attentive to the perilous twists and nailbiting turns unfolding, reaching deep for every ounce of strength in a fierce surge of determination, futures are forged and promises are pledged, blasting this bad boy to life flawlessly. The characters, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits, blend and flow adding depth and diversity, transforming into outstanding personalities. Throw in 100% on point realism, raising the stakes with such graphic scenarios that are so colorfully descriptive and vividly detailed its like you're living it with them instead of on the sidelines, feeling everything the characters feel. Amazing job Emily, thanks for sharing this little treasure with us.
1,073 reviews13 followers
April 11, 2021
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Tessa Pate is managing the office at Stealth Security. The business provides protection by retired SEALs. She keeps the office going and keeps all of the guys in line. Spending time with the guys she has picked up a few self defense tips that will help save her life. Hunter Davis is the newest the the team. His specialty is tactical planning and reconnaissance. When Hunter is late to his first date with Tessa she is kidnapped, thrown in the trunk of a car and then duck taped to a chair. With Hunter on her tail will he be able to rescue her?

Ruthless Peril is a quick read that apparently refers back to an earlier case. This being my first read by Emily Jane Trent, I am not sure. Not having read the other books in the series, I didn't feel like I was missing anything in the story that wasn't explained.

I loved how spirited Tessa is. She can hold her own with the guys in her team and slows her kidnapper down. The character of Hunter came across as younger than his age. He seemed like he could laugh, have a good time and be very protective. I just wish we would have had a chance to get to know him better. Maybe in other books we do because I want to. Overall the story pace moved well and had likeable characters. I will be reading more from this author.
1,020 reviews9 followers
August 29, 2017
Tessa Pate is office manager, accountant, and all around organizer of the men of Stealth Security, and the only woman that works there. She flirts in a healthy way with all the guys and she loves her job. Lately she seems to notice her body having a different and unusual reaction every time she is in the same room with their newest guy, Hunter Davis, and it's pretty obvious it isn't just her. But when tough and sassy Tessa finds herself being kidnapped while waiting for Hunter to pick her up for their first date all the techniques the guys have taught her may not be enough to keep her alive until help arrives.

Hunter is a wiz at research and planning but trying to get up enough nerve to ask out the stunning office manager at Stealth is almost more than he can handle. Dating has taken a backseat to his career but recently that has all changed and he's fairly certain the blond beauty that runs their office has something to do with that. When Hunter arrives late to pick up Tessa and sees a scuffle on the street as he arrives it only takes him seconds to realize it is Tessa that has been taken.

A crazy race against the clock has Hunter and the rest of the Stealth team in a battle to find and rescue Tessa before a vindictive madman realizes he has nothing left to lose in this battle. Will Hunter find Tessa in time? And will they finally get that first date?

I don't want to give away anything so I'll just say that I wished the book had been longer. I read this one in just a couple of hours and although it was great, I wanted a lot more of Hunter and Tessa's story now. I figure we will be getting that soon, most likely in the next installment of the Stealth Security novels. I can't wait!
Profile Image for Linda Quick.
1,318 reviews30 followers
August 21, 2017
LOVED this book! Tessa is a spitfire full of sass when she is kidnapped from in front of her office. A loon with an ax to grind against her boss took her thinking she was his wife instead of his office manager. Unlucky for him, Tessa is trained and knows what to do. She does everything right, but sometimes that's just not enough, so she's doing whatever she can to buy time and keep the kidnapper distracted.

I loved Tessa and how sassy she is - she's a fun character that made me feel invested in her story. Add in Hunter who's just a whole lot of sexy and fiercely protective and you've got wonderful characters that you just can't help but fall in love with them. The story itself is compelling, and, while a popular premise, the author made it fresh and new with twists being the characters themselves.

This is a fast paced novella that I loved and found myself turning pages just as quickly as possible. As a novella, this is a quick read, but still long enough for a substantial story. While this is part of a series, this is a stand alone book, however, the series is so good that you really owe it to yourself to read them all.
3,892 reviews19 followers
April 19, 2021
I have recently been introduced to this series and am really loving it! Tessa is the office manager at Stealth Securities and is a strong-willed, independent woman. She is dedicated to the safety of the Stealth staff. Hunter is one of the ex-SEAL retirees working there. He and Tessa have been casually flirting with each other since he's been working there, but it hasn't gone beyond that. Both are very attracted to each other, but have not acted upon it. They finally plan to go on a date, and when he goes to pick her up, he discovers she has been kidnapped. The race is now on to save her, and Hunter is on her tail. Will he be able to save her? This book is filled with suspense, adventure, and danger and will have you on the edge of your seat. Ms Trent does a great job of bringing the story to life and I could really feel all the action. Great characters had me rooting for them the whole time. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the next one.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Terri Eaches.
571 reviews9 followers
August 29, 2017
Date Gone Bad

This may be a novella but it is packed with action, suspense and a date gone bad. Tessa Pate has worked for Stealth Security since college and knows a thing or two about taking care of herself. Hunter Davis is an ex seal that works for Stealth and has finally worked up the nerve to ask Tessa out, with a little nudge from team member Rip. While waiting for Hunter, who is late, Tessa is kidnapped by a physo hell bent on revenge but has the wrong woman. Tessa does not go down without a fight and kidnapper has definitely opens the wrong can of worms. Will Tessa be able to escape or will she push too far?? Where is Hunter and will he find Tessa in time??? Emily Jane Trent will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat until the end. A great story to add to your collection!! His/her POV and no cliffhanger. I am sooo looking forward for Rip's story.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book
Thank you Emily Jane Trent
2,128 reviews46 followers
August 30, 2017
Tessa Pate is in charge of the office at Stealth Security. She's good at her job and dedicated to the men who work there. When Hunter asks her to dinner, she agrees. Little do they know that Tess will be in mortal danger. Will they survive their first date? This story is action packed. I was hooked when I watched Tessa stand strong against a madman. It's good to see a powerful woman. She and Hunter make an unbeatable couple. I loved their flirty dialogue. Hunter, a former Seal, is powerful and protective. He won't let anyone harm Tessa. Her psycho kidnapper doesn't know who he's messing with. I was on the edge seat as the drama played out. Emily Jane Trent Did an excellent job. I cared for Tessa and Hunter. Also, it was good to see other members of Stealth Security. I'm enjoying this romantic suspense series.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
2,198 reviews11 followers
April 10, 2021
KIDNAPPER TAKES THE WRONG GIRL
Hunter is ex military and works in security with Tessa. Hunter finally asks Tessa for a date. While waiting for him she is kidnapped for revenge. Caleb the kidnapper thinks she is the wife of Travis her boss. Hunter gets there to pick her up just as Caleb is putting her in his trunk. He follows them and sees he has gun so he has to be careful and take his time to get the drop on him. He finally gets the drop on him and while fighting with him he's shot and stabed and Tessa has been roughed up a bit too. But after he rescues her and Caleb is taken away by the police Tessa tells Hunter that if he hadn't been late that this wouldn't have happened. They decide to stay in and cook for their next date. This is a short thriller that will have you wondering what is taking so long.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
3,638 reviews38 followers
March 30, 2021
This is book three in The Stealth Security Series and it is Tessa and Hunter's story. This book has great character's and a action packed storyline that pulls you in right from the first page and I couldn't put it down as I had to see what would happen next between Tessa and Hunter. There are many twists and turns along with danger, kidnapping, mistaken identity, hope, emotional and a strong and sassy spirits female and that is what makes this book so addictive. Even though this is a short story there is so much going on that you have to keep turning the pages. Emily Jane Trent is an amazing author and writer and she certainly knows how to keep her reader's attention. I definitely recommend you read this book,series and other books by her and you will definitely not be disappointed.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Floraljoy.
1,074 reviews
April 9, 2021
Short yet action filled:
This was a short novella about Stealth Securities office manager, Tessa and her colleague Hunter.
It was actually the 3rd book in the series but as someone who hasn't read the previous books, I can attest that it can be enjoyed as a standalone. However it does follow up on the main case from the first book and I may have felt more connected to the story had I already read that.
Rather violent and a little far fetched, it was still gripping and I was curious to find out what was going to happen next. Overall this was well written and good for a quick escape but overall much too short and I wasn't able to form a strong connection to either of the characters within this abbreviated time period.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
6,026 reviews38 followers
April 20, 2021
Talk about bad first dates. Our heroine is kidnapped while our hero is late. He better not do that again or this first date will be the last.

This is book three of the series, but it is written as a standalone. No prior reading is required to enjoy this book.

This is a romantic suspense story and it comes out strong right from the start. I love this genre because of the mix of action and romance and this one certainly works on all accounts. The story is well written, easy to read and has a fast paced plot. The characters are well developed and both are tough and smart, which is what I like in my leads. This one drew me in right at the start and ever let go. I really enjoyed the story and am definitely looking forward to more in the series.

Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes
Profile Image for Niken Widyastuti.
380 reviews1 follower
August 26, 2017
I know that there’s a reason I loved novellas and short stories. The good ones are SO good and fulfilling. This one is no different. This book is one of those good short stories.

A good short story just like Ruthless Peril is always packed full of good stuff. In this case, action-packed, full of suspense, race against time, with dash of sweet time. Well, everyone has their own definition of sweet, right?

Hunter finally able to gather his gut to ask Tessa out. Yet the date didn’t turn out as they hoped. Hunter was late, and Tessa got kidnapped. Will he be able to be her saviour? Will Tessa be strong enough until cavalry arrive? You’ve gotta read this to know!

I was provided a complementary copy by the author / publisher, but this in no way influenced my thoughts or opinions.
Profile Image for Trish.
1,617 reviews7 followers
April 12, 2021
This is book three in the Stealth Security series. It's a fast-paced sweet novella, with a little suspense and Tessa and Hunter's story. Tessa is Stealth Security’s office manager and has pretty much been around since Stealth open their doors. The office would pretty much fall apart without her. She keeps the guys in line, the paperwork taken care of, clients sorted and even helps with the security plans for clients. Hunter is one of the newer guys to the team and the only one that doesn't view her as a sister. She agrees to a date with Hunter but things go horribly wrong before the date can even begin. Will Hunter find Tessa before it’s too late?

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
115 reviews3 followers
April 22, 2021
This is the story of two of Stealth's staff members, Tessa and Hunter.

Hunter tends to tease Tessa until, one day, he is challenged by his colleagues to face up to the feelings he has for her. He then plucks up the courage to ask Tessa out.

Big mistake though, he was late to collect Tessa from work on date night. Tessa is tough and refused to make things easy for her captors while she's waiting for Hunter to rescue her.

I liked the storyline but the book was so short that I didn't get to know the characters like we do in other books of the series. Irrespective, I await the next book with baited breathe.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
5,665 reviews62 followers
April 22, 2021
Hunter is new at Stealth Security and Tessa is the office manager, but she is also had some training. Hunter asked her for a date, but while he is late getting there, she is taken accidentally. The guy is out for revenge and thinks he has the wife of the guy who killed his brother. I love her sass as he points a gun at her, explaining himself and giving Hunter enough time to help her. The characters and storyline were terrific. The action and banter, along with the twists and surprises were right on for this great story. Loved the ending and how it all came down. Can not wait to read more of this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,035 reviews16 followers
March 30, 2021
This is the 3rd book in the Stealth Security series and is a very intriguing page turner. The story is very well written, and the characters believable. This is Tessa Pate and Hunter Davis (former SEAL and loyal member of Stealth Security) story. They were to have a 1st date until she was kidnapped! A case of mistaken identity. Hunter is coming to her rescue, will there be a happy ending? Can she be rescued safely? In this book you will find that it has suspense, danger, twists, and turns and a beautiful romance. Enjoy

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sue.
4,244 reviews5 followers
April 1, 2021
I really like this series. The story is written in detail and keeps you on the edge of your seat. It has a humorus side, but has all the danger element, heat and intrigue. Tessa works at Stealth Security in administration and works at keeping all the guys straight with their assignments. Hunter is new to the group of ex military men, he's funny, but strong when he needs to be. When Tessa is in trouble, he will stop at nothing to help her. Excellent series so far. HEA. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,309 reviews24 followers
April 12, 2021
I really liked this romantic suspense!! The suspense gets started pretty early on and doesn’t let up until the end. Hunter is supposed to take coworker Tessa out on their first date. He’s running late and instead she is kidnapped. The kidnapper has messed with the wrong people though. Tess is intense and can put up a fight. Hunter is more than willing to do what’s necessary to track her down and save her. Their story is a good one. I would love to read more about this couple!!

I received an advance copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Ingrid Vermeulen-Quakernaat.
1,230 reviews10 followers
April 22, 2021
A nice but short story in which Hunter and Tessa are in the picture of the series about the company Stealth Security.

Tessa has been working for Travis Hewitt, founder of Stealth Security, for quite a few years. Hunter is an ex-SEAL who works for the company. Finally he dares to give in to the attraction between them and asks her out on a date. He does not make it on time and therefore cannot prevent Tessa from being kidnapped by a man who thinks Tessa is Traviss wife.
But Tessa is a badass woman who does not helplessly allow her to be taken. And while she fights the kidnapper with words, Hunter tries to save her.

A strong role that Tessa plays. Not a woman to touch without gloves as the kidnapper soon discovers. Nice story

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Claudia.
792 reviews25 followers
August 30, 2017
Hunter is the new guy in Stealth Security and Tessa is the woman that organizes the men and makes sure that everything runs smoothly. Hunter and Tessa are playful and flirty and even the other Stealth guys know that there is more to it than just that. So Hunter puts his anxieties aside and with the encouragement from a fellow Stealth member calls Tessa for a date. This date will be a date that neither of them will ever forget. An exciting, flirty, and intense read.
333 reviews5 followers
August 30, 2017
As with all of Emily's book the storyline is so gripping that you get sucked in, her character are always likeable and you wish them everything that they need to be happy.
I have enjoyed reading the Stealth security series.
Tessa has a lot of sass and that could be because she works with big, hot men who need putting in their place from time to time.
Hunter well what can we say about him but hot! Like all the Stealth me he will do anything to keep his woman safe.
235 reviews1 follower
April 14, 2025
Mistaken Identity

This book was a fast-paced story of danger and suspense. The plot was solid with some surprises. The characters were typical Stealth Security types, meaning they were strong, brave, and in Tessa's case, a smartmouth. Hunter and Tessa are just beginning the romance, but everyone at Stealth already knows. This continues to be a great series. It's military/romamce/protection themes are great and will appeal to any high adrenaline action fan.
Profile Image for Tami czenkus.
1,551 reviews24 followers
August 23, 2017
Angst and suspense RIGHT. OUT. OF. THE. GATE!!!
I was blown away by Ruthless Peril and I was so wrapped up in all of the angst and suspense I didn't realize I was at the end until I couldn't go any further!!!
My attention was held the entire way and I love that Emily Jane Trent Make her Female L.C feisty and strong willed!!! LOVED it and want more.
Profile Image for Linda Rimer-Como.
1,264 reviews4 followers
August 28, 2017
This series is a really enjoyable and this story is a great addition. It is a fast paced, action packed read with strong, determined characters. Remarkable connections between characters help bring the criminal to justice. Loved it!

I voluntarily read and reviewed this book; all opinions expressed are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews

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