CONTRACTED DEFENSE by Piper J. Drake is third book in the Safeguard series. I enjoyed reading the first two books in this series and when I saw this one I knew I had to read it. While this is the third book it can easily be read as a standalone novel.

The story is fast-paced from the very beginning and continues that way until the very end. Victoria and Adam are both Safeguard Agents. When they meet they cannot deny their attraction for each other and have a one night stand. The next morning all the drama and tension builds as they discover they are now working partners. I did find this to be expected and typical for a novel such as this. However, despite the obvious beginning you soon will discover a story that is full of action, mystery, steamy romance, and unexpected suspense.

Victoria is newly divorced. She is not so easy with giving away her heart and letting anyone in. A creature of habit who has a hard time delegating, always wanting to be in control, and very organized. She has a hard time trusting anyone regardless of who they are. Adam is easy going with a laid-back personality. He was honorably discharged from the United States Marines. The characters are well established and there is an interesting ground story. Even the secondary characters are well thought out and mesh lovely with the story. The background is detailed and works perfectly with the overall story line. Drake took a typical romantic suspense story and created a world that is unlike any other. A great read that I highly recommend. I cannot wait for the next book in this series.