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Guardsmen Security #1
The Operative
Hunted for her discovery, only one man can protect her.
Marine biologist Alina Andersen has loved sharks since she was a little girl. So, when she suspects decaying nuclear submarines are polluting their Arctic breeding grounds, she sets out on a mission to find proof.
Only, someone is intent on stopping her—by any means necessary.
When her boat is attacked and her research stolen, former Russian Special Forces operative Zak Bychkov and his team at Guardsmen Security step in to provide protection. Carrying survivor’s guilt after a suicide mission killed his entire team, the last thing Zak wants is an emotional entanglement with an opinionated and passionate woman like Alina, especially when she’s been hurt in the past and seems to want to fight him on everything.
But as hostile forces pursue them to the wilds of Norway, the combustible attraction is too much to ignore, no matter how badly they might get burned.
Zak vows to protect the woman who has made his heart beat again, but will it be enough to keep her alive?
The Operative is the first book in this series. Each book is a standalone romance, but there is also an overarching story. They can be read in isolation but for maximum enjoyment are best read in sequence.
Marine biologist Alina Andersen has loved sharks since she was a little girl. So, when she suspects decaying nuclear submarines are polluting their Arctic breeding grounds, she sets out on a mission to find proof.
Only, someone is intent on stopping her—by any means necessary.
When her boat is attacked and her research stolen, former Russian Special Forces operative Zak Bychkov and his team at Guardsmen Security step in to provide protection. Carrying survivor’s guilt after a suicide mission killed his entire team, the last thing Zak wants is an emotional entanglement with an opinionated and passionate woman like Alina, especially when she’s been hurt in the past and seems to want to fight him on everything.
But as hostile forces pursue them to the wilds of Norway, the combustible attraction is too much to ignore, no matter how badly they might get burned.
Zak vows to protect the woman who has made his heart beat again, but will it be enough to keep her alive?
The Operative is the first book in this series. Each book is a standalone romance, but there is also an overarching story. They can be read in isolation but for maximum enjoyment are best read in sequence.
326 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 31, 2022
394 people are currently reading
278 people want to read
About the author
Theresa Beachman
26 books44 followersIf you're the kind of reader who loves high-stakes romance grounded in real-world research—with damaged military heroes, complex plots, and women who won't be rescued—hello. You're my people.
I write intense, tightly plotted protector romance with covert ops, real-world threats, and hard-won love. My heroes have protection in their bones and loyalty in their hearts. My heroines are smart, self-reliant, and ready to fight—for others, for justice, for love.
Still mad Ripley never got with Hicks? Me too. So I fix that—with heat and redemption.
Find bonus epilogues and more at theresabeachman dot com.
I write intense, tightly plotted protector romance with covert ops, real-world threats, and hard-won love. My heroes have protection in their bones and loyalty in their hearts. My heroines are smart, self-reliant, and ready to fight—for others, for justice, for love.
Still mad Ripley never got with Hicks? Me too. So I fix that—with heat and redemption.
Find bonus epilogues and more at theresabeachman dot com.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
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November 23, 2025🎁 FREE on Amazon today (11/22/2022)! 🎁
December 9, 2025
4 stars
The Operative is the first book by Theresa Beachman in the Guardsmen Security series.
Zak and team, who are each damaged in their own way from time in the forces and their pasts have became part of a protection company. Xavier finds himself in the middle of the icy mountains when his plane is sabotaged, and a beautiful woman needs his help.
These are formidable alpha males, balancing their bravery with deep emotional struggles, and headstrong women who prove to be their undoing. It is charged with tension as they navigate this new environment as bodyguards under fire. Along this journey, we encounter a diverse cast of characters, including resilient women who exude strength and empathy, showcasing their remarkable tenacity in the face of adversity.
Xavier's Mission is an exciting tale of loyalty and courage, where looming threats jeopardise their lives and the lives they swore to protect. This story not only highlights the fierce devotion of its alpha heroes but also emphasises the importance of connection and resilience against a backdrop of uncertainty and danger.
The Operative is the first book by Theresa Beachman in the Guardsmen Security series.
Zak and team, who are each damaged in their own way from time in the forces and their pasts have became part of a protection company. Xavier finds himself in the middle of the icy mountains when his plane is sabotaged, and a beautiful woman needs his help.
These are formidable alpha males, balancing their bravery with deep emotional struggles, and headstrong women who prove to be their undoing. It is charged with tension as they navigate this new environment as bodyguards under fire. Along this journey, we encounter a diverse cast of characters, including resilient women who exude strength and empathy, showcasing their remarkable tenacity in the face of adversity.
Xavier's Mission is an exciting tale of loyalty and courage, where looming threats jeopardise their lives and the lives they swore to protect. This story not only highlights the fierce devotion of its alpha heroes but also emphasises the importance of connection and resilience against a backdrop of uncertainty and danger.
July 29, 2024
This was a little crazy, very cliche and nothing too special - but I simply had a fun time. There were some fun scenes, it was quick and easy to read and overall ok. Nothing specific to criticize - just a bit too crazy for me…
2.75⭐️ 🌶🌶🌶🌶.5
2.75⭐️ 🌶🌶🌶🌶.5
September 30, 2025
4/5 ⭐️ 2.5/5🌶
This book is so worth reading, Alina just wants to protect and tag sharks (first time I've read a book with MFC having this job), Zak just wants to do his job and protect the team that is being hunted for want they discovered.
Zak and Alina's relationship is so cute and slow burn, but not 90% of the book, the relationship is a part of the story, not the whole story, and I LOVE books like that. There is not much smutt, but the smutt is good.
Even the relationship between main characters and the side characters is so well-rounded. I highly recommend this book.
This book is so worth reading, Alina just wants to protect and tag sharks (first time I've read a book with MFC having this job), Zak just wants to do his job and protect the team that is being hunted for want they discovered.
Zak and Alina's relationship is so cute and slow burn, but not 90% of the book, the relationship is a part of the story, not the whole story, and I LOVE books like that. There is not much smutt, but the smutt is good.
Even the relationship between main characters and the side characters is so well-rounded. I highly recommend this book.
November 28, 2025
Really enjoyed this until she went off on her own to the train station. After everything that’d happened, they just 1) let her go, and 2) that happens to be the only time she’s suddenly safe despite it being a prime opportunity to capture her or something. It made no sense other than to have a moment where Zak could chase after her/she could come running back. Aside from that, I thought this was pretty good and the storyline was engaging. Definitely reading the next one.
April 20, 2022
This was a new author for me, and man I was not disappointed.
The Operative was a very fast paced, suspenseful book! I loved the chemistry between Alina and Zak
And the secondary characters were great!
If you are looking for a intriguing story with romance, danger and suspense this is a good choice.
I am looking forward to the rest of the Guardsmen Security series
The Operative was a very fast paced, suspenseful book! I loved the chemistry between Alina and Zak
And the secondary characters were great!
If you are looking for a intriguing story with romance, danger and suspense this is a good choice.
I am looking forward to the rest of the Guardsmen Security series
May 10, 2023
I so much enjoyed reading Zak's and Alina's story. The storyline is so intriguing and keeps you on edge (in a good way). It is a fast, full of action story, emotional and sexy. I loved it!
The Operative is the first book in the Guardsmen Security series and the first I read of Theresa Beachman. Already got the second book in the series and can't wait to start reading it.
The Operative is the first book in the Guardsmen Security series and the first I read of Theresa Beachman. Already got the second book in the series and can't wait to start reading it.
July 29, 2023
Alina and Zak had a sizzling connection that surprised both of them. Each had baggage to bury before they could relax enough to enjoy each other. Having a big alpha male protecting her, suited Alina more than she wanted to admit, but being hunted down by crazy killers made her appreciate him.
A good read!
A good read!
November 25, 2025
Can I just say i was pleasantly surprised by this book. It is not your typical romance. It has a good plot that is well written. The FMCs job is unusual and fascinating and the author did an excellent job of world building making you feel like you are really there. I can honestly say this is the first time I've felt sorry for a shark!
August 14, 2023
What a fabulous read!
This book has everything. Danger, intrigue, sex, romance, sexy alpha males and sharks!!
Alina is a scientist. Zak is a security operative. From their very first meeting the attraction is evident!
I really enjoyed this book!
This book has everything. Danger, intrigue, sex, romance, sexy alpha males and sharks!!
Alina is a scientist. Zak is a security operative. From their very first meeting the attraction is evident!
I really enjoyed this book!
July 3, 2024
Great Story!
This was a great story with a good plot and interesting characters. A few unexplained things here and there, probably for future books in the series. I really liked Alina and Zak. The scientist's name was an amusing homage. I highly recommend the read!
This was a great story with a good plot and interesting characters. A few unexplained things here and there, probably for future books in the series. I really liked Alina and Zak. The scientist's name was an amusing homage. I highly recommend the read!
November 26, 2024
Author write the book easy to read, love getting to know the story and people in each of her books. Fine myself not wanting to put the book down,this is the second
Book of hers that I've read in two days.
Book of hers that I've read in two days.
January 18, 2025
Hot...
This high quality action romance is hot, hot, hot, and loaded with interesting characters, scary danger, and a very intelligent plotline. I'll definitely read more books by this author!
This high quality action romance is hot, hot, hot, and loaded with interesting characters, scary danger, and a very intelligent plotline. I'll definitely read more books by this author!
December 13, 2025
Alina, female lead character, had numerous TSTL moments. Too many internal dialogues with herself. Multiple paragraphs of her thoughts, feelings, etc. I skipped over most of it at the halfway point. Zack was very stereotypical.
November 28, 2022
Amazing
Love this storyline. Who wouldn’t want an alpha male to protect them… definitely a must read. You’re going to love it…❤️
Love this storyline. Who wouldn’t want an alpha male to protect them… definitely a must read. You’re going to love it…❤️
September 9, 2024
Love this series! I read the second book first and fell in love with the guardsmen security! Can't wait to read the rest.
January 31, 2025
bodyguard romantic with a shark scientist set in norway? yeah sign me TF up
June 26, 2025
Great read. Zak and Alina.
March 30, 2022
Compelling:
I enjoyed this slow burn romance which was full of intrigue, mystery and suspense. There was lots of fast paced action and plenty of drama. I did however find myself getting a little annoyed with the characters as they kept ignoring obvious facts and some things didn't completely line up.
I thought Zak and Alina made a good couple and I was glad that they were able to find happiness and love together.
It was interesting and unique with the setting being in the Arctic around Greenland and with a cast of multinational characters. The only thing a little jarring was that even though the characters were supposedly from different countries, they all spoke and used phrases as if they were from North America.
It looks like some threads will be carried over into future books and I would be interested in seeing what happens next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed this slow burn romance which was full of intrigue, mystery and suspense. There was lots of fast paced action and plenty of drama. I did however find myself getting a little annoyed with the characters as they kept ignoring obvious facts and some things didn't completely line up.
I thought Zak and Alina made a good couple and I was glad that they were able to find happiness and love together.
It was interesting and unique with the setting being in the Arctic around Greenland and with a cast of multinational characters. The only thing a little jarring was that even though the characters were supposedly from different countries, they all spoke and used phrases as if they were from North America.
It looks like some threads will be carried over into future books and I would be interested in seeing what happens next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 1, 2022
The Operative is a fast past, engaging story with amazing character. I recommend this story for anyone who is a fan of romantic suspense.
I like how that even though both the characters were attracted to each other from the start there was time to develop their attraction throughout the story. Once they gave over to their feelings the sparks flew. I enjoyed seeing the controlling doctor loose her control and trust.
This story had unique qualities I haven't seen in other books. The lengths the antagonist went through to silence them kept me engaged until the end.
The characters seemed real to me with understanding emotions that left me rooting for them and wishing for the demise of the corrupt and greedy corporation. I was pleased with the outcome and hope to see more of the characters in future books.
I like how that even though both the characters were attracted to each other from the start there was time to develop their attraction throughout the story. Once they gave over to their feelings the sparks flew. I enjoyed seeing the controlling doctor loose her control and trust.
This story had unique qualities I haven't seen in other books. The lengths the antagonist went through to silence them kept me engaged until the end.
The characters seemed real to me with understanding emotions that left me rooting for them and wishing for the demise of the corrupt and greedy corporation. I was pleased with the outcome and hope to see more of the characters in future books.
March 30, 2022
Protecting Alina . . .
This high-action fast-paced story line will quickly pull the reader in for a wild adventure that keeps the heart racing. Alina Andersen is a marine biologist, always fascinated by sharks. It appears that their Arctic breeding grounds may be getting polluted, and the likely cause is the decaying nuclear submarines. Now she has to find proof of that. But not everyone wants her to be successful.
Alina is attacked and her research is taken. She needs to be protected. Can Zak Bychkov and his team at Guardsmen Security keep her safe while she pursues her proof? The chase is on and the danger is great with such high stakes involved. Her enemy is ready to let nothing stop them from keeping her away from the truth.
This high-action fast-paced story line will quickly pull the reader in for a wild adventure that keeps the heart racing. Alina Andersen is a marine biologist, always fascinated by sharks. It appears that their Arctic breeding grounds may be getting polluted, and the likely cause is the decaying nuclear submarines. Now she has to find proof of that. But not everyone wants her to be successful.
Alina is attacked and her research is taken. She needs to be protected. Can Zak Bychkov and his team at Guardsmen Security keep her safe while she pursues her proof? The chase is on and the danger is great with such high stakes involved. Her enemy is ready to let nothing stop them from keeping her away from the truth.
May 8, 2022
Alina is a marine biologist fascinated with sharks and their breeding ground has been contaminated with decomposing nuclear submarines. Now she just needs to get the proof but someone is against her finding it. Guardsmen Security is called in and Zak is there to keep her safe. This roller coaster ride of high tension and danger coincides with the steam these two characters have to each other. The storyline has mystery, surprises, twists, steam, entertaining situations and much more that keep you riveted to the pages until you reach the end. The ending fits in perfectly and I can not wait to read more of this group of protective heroes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 25, 2022
This was the first book I’ve read by this author and I was incredibly impressed. The storyline is an adrenaline rush, with non-stop action and incredible shifts that left my brain spinning as the action continued.
Alina and Zak are wonderful characters with emotional baggage to work through. Their romance was sweet and the alpha protector was incredibly sweet and tender with Alina. He was so swoon worthy!
I’m really intrigued with where this series will go next. I’m assuming Zak’s brothers are likely leads for the next book, and would enjoy learning more about them.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Alina and Zak are wonderful characters with emotional baggage to work through. Their romance was sweet and the alpha protector was incredibly sweet and tender with Alina. He was so swoon worthy!
I’m really intrigued with where this series will go next. I’m assuming Zak’s brothers are likely leads for the next book, and would enjoy learning more about them.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 30, 2022
This was a new author for me and I enjoyed the book so much that I actually went and started her earlier series which is always a good sign.
A fast paced read with quite a few twists and turns I was thoroughly involved in this tory all set in the Arctic Circle around Greenland. There was enough drama and suspense to keep me engaged and I loved the slow build romance between Elena and Zac There was a hint of future stories with some threads not completely closed and I can't wait for those books
A fast paced read with quite a few twists and turns I was thoroughly involved in this tory all set in the Arctic Circle around Greenland. There was enough drama and suspense to keep me engaged and I loved the slow build romance between Elena and Zac There was a hint of future stories with some threads not completely closed and I can't wait for those books
April 1, 2022
❄🌊🦈 A great discovery.
In the middle of the Arctic Ocean, aboard a small boat, Alina Andersen was on the lookout for the Greenland shark, an extremely rare species.
She hoped to be able to complete her study mission...
Suddenly the water stirred, a seal appeared torn apart, then further: the shark...
-----------
A great discovery that this adventure novel, exotic to read, full of action, sensations and suspense.
I didn’t know the author at all.
She has an energetic and captivating writing style.
I will read more of her books.
A must read for lovers of original action romances❄🌊🦈
In the middle of the Arctic Ocean, aboard a small boat, Alina Andersen was on the lookout for the Greenland shark, an extremely rare species.
She hoped to be able to complete her study mission...
Suddenly the water stirred, a seal appeared torn apart, then further: the shark...
-----------
A great discovery that this adventure novel, exotic to read, full of action, sensations and suspense.
I didn’t know the author at all.
She has an energetic and captivating writing style.
I will read more of her books.
A must read for lovers of original action romances❄🌊🦈
March 30, 2022
The first book in the Guardsmen Security series, I will be reading the next book. Marine biologist Alina Andersen and former Russian Special Forces operative Zak Bychov's story kept me turning pages. I was not putting this book down until I was finished. Suspense, drama, danger, villains and romance. The story is well written and well worth reading. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 1, 2022
This has so much going on. Alina is studying a rare shark and its habits. Zak and his brothers have a security firm. Things start getting scary and dangerous for her and her team. He is a loner or is he. Wonderful action and a HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews