Tough as Steele by Susan Sleeman

 

Londyn Steele and her family protection company are trying to get the protection contract of a prominent family. But when the woman they are supposed to be protecting disappears right under their noses it doesn't look good for their company. Londyn is determined to find Mimi even if it means stepping out of her jurisdiction to do it. Nate was practically raised by Mimi's daughter and son-in-law and he has no intention of letting Londyn step into the investigation that rightly falls in his jurisdiction. Can the two of them play nice in order to rescue and bring home Mimi before the kidnappers decide she is no longer valuable to them? 

This is the first in the Steele Guardians series and I'll tell you what, it lives up to what I expect from a Susan Sleeman romantic/suspense story! I enjoyed the introduction of all of the characters of the Steele family. They all seem like strong women with competent skills. I love that it is tied in with the other series that this author writes so we get a glimpse into those characters again as well. Londyn and Nate work well together and I loved how they complimented each other. Londyn is independent but yet knows how to step back instead of being overbearing and insisting on her way. Nate's nature as an ex SEAL has him wanting to protect but yet he doesn't ever belittle Londyn because she is a woman. They are both willing to work together without having to have their ego's stroked constantly in order to bring Mimi back. The pace kept the story moving and exciting. The spiritual content was important to both characters and both grew stronger in their faith. I'm excited to continue reading this series!