I knew the risks of this job when I signed on with Jameson Force Security. Knew my time as a marine would prepare me for the danger I would face. But no amount of training could have ever prepared me for the helplessness of watching my teammates die, the agonizing mental and physical pain of torture, or the despair of captivity. Returning home to Pittsburgh following a mission gone wrong, I am … riddled with guilt and haunted by nightmares. I spend my days trying to regain the parts of myself I lost in that desert, the pieces that made me the Malik Fournier I once was. While the physical effects of my torture are fading, the emotional ones are proving much more stubborn and I find solace from the last person I should ever seek such comfort. Anna Tate lost even more than I did in that mission. Now a widow and a single mom to the daughter she gave birth to shortly after her husband’s death, Anna offers me comfort I don’t deserve. As my feelings for Anna grow, I worry that once she learns the truth about what happened, she’ll turn her back on me. I pull her to me just as tightly as I push her away. Hoping this forbidden love will save me from the ghost I’ve become.
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This is a very mature book because Anna and Malik understand the enormity of the danger around their line of work. They have both suffered from it in different ways and they both appreciate the importance of ceasing a chance. Of having a confidante. Their honesty towards each other, their no nonsense attitude and their connection is beautiful. They are the strongest and honest characters you can find. Plus very family oriented which makes their connection very special. So this story leans more towards the serious side but it is very heartfelt. So if you like a good love story with second chances at life, this is the book for you. And I do have a feeling that the next one is going to be very entertaining.
Code Name: Ghost is the fifth book in the Jameson Force Security Series by Sawyer Bennett. You can read each book as standalone but I highly recommend reading the series since it’s badass and sexy. You are first introduced to Malik briefly in Code Name: Genesis and see if more until he goes missing in Code Name: Heist while on a mission. That is also where you met Anna, Jimmy’s wife and Malik’s coworker.
Anna lost her husband almost six months ago while he was on a mission is Syria. She is now a single mom to a four month old girl named Avery. She is also Kynan’s assistant at Jameson Force Security. She felt closer to Jimmy being there and with her background in the military she felt it was where she belonged. The group was like family to her. She only met Malik once and that was the night before flying out to Syria and now he was back. She was happy. It gave her hope. But, what she didn’t expect were the feelings she had towards him. It felt like a bond. A connection. She wasn’t sure if it was right or if it was wrong but she had to figure it out.
Malik went through hell over the last five months in a hole in the desert. He was now back and wanted to get back to work. But first he has to get cleared. The guilt was there. He feels he was at fault for Jimmy and Sal’s deaths. It should had been him and now he was working alongside Anna with thoughts he shouldn’t think. Feelings he shouldn’t have. She was beautiful, strong, funny, and didn’t hate him. He didn’t want to feel this way but it was undeniable but was it right?
Aw! I love their story. They are just so sweet together. It’s complicated and unexpected and beautiful. I wanted to hug them both and tell them everything was going to be ok. I can’t wait for the next book. Oh man, Cage is in so much trouble.
Quotes:
“You’re such a caveman.”
“Well, don’t make me conk you over the head and drag you to my cave,” I retort.
“Trust me, Malik.”
He then sends an especially sly smirk at my mom and adds, “And she came on to me first. Don’t let her tell you otherwise.”
This is the homecoming Jameson fans have been waiting for and it did not disappoint. Malik and Anna have a great story of loss, strength and healing. Lower on suspense than some of the other Jameson books but higher in emotion. Malik of course was sexy and swoony but I felt Anna’s character was exceptional in her strength and ability to move on in life. Beautiful story.
An emotionaly charged return finds Ghost fighting his guilt and Anna fighting for his love. What a heart thumping, page turning, love story for 2 people who’ve been through the lowest of lows. Loved it!!!
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads, so here is my review.
I have waited for this story since Malik went missing, it has been a struggle for him but he has now been rescued and is trying to get his life back on track.
As Malik adjusts at being back a Jameson Force, all he wants to do is get back in the field. He doesn’t want to talk about what happened or how he is feeling. He was not expecting Anna to come at him from out of the blue. As they grow closer, he has a feeling that when she learns how her husband died she will not want anything to do with him.
Anna is happy that Malik has been rescued, she didn’t know him before he left on the mission where he was kidnapped. Now he is back and they are working together. As they become close, she is beginning to have feelings for him.
What happens when Anna finds out just what happened when Malik was kidnapped and Jimmy died? Can their new relationship survive the guilt that Malik is feeling? What will happen when Malik is approved to go back on missions?
This is another great story for Jameson Force Security. It is filled with pain, heartache, heartbreak, and love to heal them both if given a chance. I can not wait for the next one. I hope you enjoy this one too.
**Wicked Reads Review Team**
This was such an emotional addition to the series! I’ve been eagerly awaiting Malik’s story and it did not disappoint. Fans of the series should note that there isn’t a suspenseful plot in Code Name: Ghost. Instead, the focus is purely on Malik and Anna and their struggles to reconcile their feelings and guilt, as well as move forward in a healthy way.
Both Malik and Anna have their own demons to conquer and I appreciated that Sawyer Bennett addressed both the physical and mental tolls that they faced. Anna and Malik recognize that what they share is unique and special, but they understandably have reservations about that incredible connection. I loved that there wasn’t any unnecessary drama or angst in this one and that they spoke about things maturely and honestly. They relied on their friends and family to help them through, but also on themselves. I admired Anna and thought she was a wonderful heroine. She was intelligent, driven, and understood when Malik needed her to push and when to pull back. They had amazing chemistry and all the build up between them was so delicious. I also loved the cameos from the Fournier siblings. It was great catching up with everyone and also seeing how close knit they all are. They were such an integral part of Malik’s healing. I’m excited for Cage’s story next, especially since he’s gotten himself into quite the predicament!
*I voluntarily read an advance review copy of this book*
4.5 Breathtaking Stars!
I loved Anna and Malik’s story so much! Their poignant story just sucked me in from the first page and I couldn’t stop reading until the last word. The mission that went so terribly wrong has played out in the background of several books now, making us become completely invested in their HEA. Anna lost her husband on the same mission that Malik was captured and held prisoner. The book starts with his heart pounding and heroic rescue, by Jameson Security to bring one of their own home. Anna has worked hard to be the strong soldiers wife and mother, her late husband expected of her. When Malik comes home they have a connection that no one else can understand. I loved how their friendship grew and the authenticity of emotions as they navigated through all the extreme complications that happen to survivors of such trauma. They are broken, but also strong, resilient, hopeful, and so devoted to each other. I felt their pain so strongly, that there were moments that I wanted to put the book down and cry for them, but then I couldn’t stop reading. I also love the close bond and support with the whole Jameson family and also Anna’s mom.
Narrators Virginia Rose, and Aaron Shedlock are phenomenal! They both brought out the range of emotions these characters went through as they discovered and made peace with their trauma, allowing us to see them with empathy and understanding. Rose and Shedlock compliment each other so perfectly, bringing this raw and poignant story to life and making it even better.
I really enjoy Bennett’s writing style and how she weaves in story lines that grow so organically. Even though this played out a little fast for me, this is another wonderful addition to the Jameson Force Security series. I am already waiting not so patiently for the next book; Code Name: Rook.
5 star Review Code Name: Ghost (Jameson Force Security #5) by Sawyer Bennett
I have been waiting, not so patiently, for Malik Fournier and Anna Tate’s story and it was everything that I was expecting and so much more. This is the fifth book in the Jameson Force Security series and I found myself just as entertained and riveted as I was with the first four books.
Finally being rescued and returning home after a mission gone horribly wrong, Malik lives with the guilt of surviving whilst others and in particular Anna’s husband, Jimmy, were killed.
Left pregnant and alone after her husband’s death, Anna has become an integral part of Jameson security.
Sawyer Bennett writes a story that is equal parts romance and suspense which makes for a well balanced exciting and intriguing read. The story is faced paced and you cannot help but be drawn into the story that Ms. Bennett weaves.
My emotions were all over the place whilst reading Ghost and I think that this one has earned the top spot as my favourite in the series. I loved Anna, what a strong, independent and loving woman she is and in my opinion the perfect woman for Malik. For Malik struggling with his grief, his guilt and coming to terms with surviving, he relates to Anna on on a number of levels. There is so much more to Malik than meets the eye and for me he was a swoon worthy hero devastated and haunted by his last mission and a man who deserves to find happiness.
Can Malik forge a bond with Anna, that will help heal both their souls or will the truth when revealed destroy their chance at happiness?
CODE NAME: GHOST by Sawyer Bennett. For fans of the Jameson Force Security Series, we have been waiting for this one. Malik, a/k/a Ghost, is finally rescued and returns home. He meets Anna, the widow of a peer that died on the same mission where he was captured. This was an enjoyable read that flowed smoothly and effortlessly. I truly liked both characters. Anna is strong and independent and Malik is a bit on the quiet side, but a genuinely good guy. Obviously, they both have issues due to that one mission and I loved that Ms. Bennett didn’t hide the emotions between these two. They had such an open and honest relationship from the start. It was such a pleasant change from the often used, secret keeping of emotions between couples. Being honest, I would have liked this book to last a bit more, maybe delve more extensively into both characters issues from that mission and how they learned to deal with the fallout. While this is addressed, it seemed to go a bit quick and easy. However, this is still a very enjoyable read with characters that were a breath of fresh air and not too much angst. If you are a fan of this series, (if not, I suggest checking it out), I wouldn’t miss this one! (received ARC for honest review)
This is my favorite book in this series, I loved it so much. Anna was great, she was so strong and her compassion was amazing. I am so happy Malik was found and brought home. He was also strong and his ability to deal with what happened to him was inspiring. The friendship these two developed was special and endearing. It also laid the perfect foundation for them to become more. But will the past get in the way to them getting their happily ever after?
*4 Stars*
ARC kindly received in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this book. I’ve been wanting Maliks story ever since we started hearing about him and the mission he was on, a little while ago. I’ve been dying to know what would become of him.
He and Anna were the perfect pair. They had such a comfortable relationship with each other, even though it was kind of born out of their common grief and healing process. They had a bond because of this one thing which helped them.
I really liked how they were with each other, and even though there is a lot of push and pull, and trying to decide what’s right, and how they feel – there’s also a lot of honesty, which is really refreshing.
A fantastic addition to this series and I can’t wait for more!
* A review copy was provided by the author *
Code Name : Ghost is different from the other books in this series. I thought it was just as enjoyable, but this more emotional. Also this book lacks the suspense we usually see in this series.
I feel like I have been waiting for Malik’s story for forever and I am so glad we finally got his story. Like I said this book is on the emotional side because we are following the story of Malik and Anna.
Malik has a lot to overcome now that he has been rescued from captivity and Anna needs to learn to move on and heal from the death of Jimmy (her husband). I loved watching these two form a bond that no one else could understand. Both facing grief and guilt, they truly understood what the other was feeling. I also loved that Sawyer started these two off as friends and then ventured into something more.
This book is a slow burn that is told in Dual POV. This is the 4th book in this series, but all of the books can be read as standalones. I think to truly appreciate Malik’s story you should read the previous books in this series first. But it not absolutely necessary. I thought the flow and pace of the story worked well and was perfect for Anna and Malik’s story.
I enjoyed that she set up the story for the next book in this series. I look forward to reading Cage’s story and seeing how he gets out of the pickle he got himself in 😉
If you are a fan of this series, then you don’t want to miss Malik’s story. I would definitely recommend this story/series to all romance readers!!
What a deep and all consuming read!! It had such a tenderness to it! Traumatizing events bring Malik and Anna together, facing difficulties and growing to love one another. So many emotions were experienced! Sawyer Bennett takes you on an emotional journey of healing and strength. I was mesmerized by Malik’s story! Such an extraordinary book!!
Yay! Finally, it’s Malik’s turn. Malik Fournier, brother to Cold Fury Hockey players Max and Lucas, a former marine now working for Jameson Force Security, held hostage for 5 months in the desert following an operation gone bad. Then we have the adorable, hard working and independent Anna Tate who lost her husband on that same mission, a widow with a baby on the way. When Malik is rescued and working back at Jameson, he and Anna quickly form a bond deeper than just friendship, but they both need to let go of their guilt if they have any chance of being more. Not a lot of action in this story, lots of romance though. A wonderful story, featuring many of my favourite Sawyer Bennett characters. Malik and Anna, don’t play games, they speak their minds and don’t mince their words. Truth all the way, even if it does hurt to hear. A match made in heaven, and true sole mates in my opinion. Wonderful writing, a great story and characters, and quite possibly one of my favourites in the series. I received an advanced copy of this book. This is my honest review.
Sawyer is such a master of story telling. Malik and Anna’s story is beautiful to see unfold. They’ve both been through such hurt and devastation that they seem to be drawn to each other. They deserve to find peace with what has happened, and it happens to be found in an instant friendship. The attraction is undeniable and both are hesitant to act upon it. Plus Anna has Avery to consider in everything she does. As imaginary obstacles begin to crumble, these two become very close and begin to heal each other.
I absolutely love how Sawyer brings characters in from other series and we continue to see the family dynamics which are an intricate part of her stories! This series is one of my favorites!!
ARC received for an honest review
Welcome to another installment of the Jameson Force series.
Ever since “that mission” I have been anxious for both Anna and Malik – we have met them in earlier books, and I have needed more.
And Ms Bennett has definitely come out hitting with Code Name: Ghost.
I don’t want to give anything away, but boy oh boy is this one a rollercoaster.
Feelings of grief and guilt play a big part in this story, and I felt it right to my core. So many tortured feelings and emotions, I just wanted to hug our lovelies so hard.
I loved getting more of the Jameson “family” dynamic and finding out where our previous couples are at, and have left me wanting more.
Please Ms Bennett, give me more.
Jameson Force Security is an Amazing Series and Malik Fournier story is the one we all have been waiting for. High Risk & Dangerous Missions are always at the forefront of Jameson but when Malik is captured and goes missing we all have been at the edge of our seats waiting to see his outcome.
Anna is a single mom working at Jameson after her husband was killed during a mission, she is doing amazing at doing it all but when she is brought face to face with the man who was with him she only feels that there is a reason for them to bond over everything together.
This story will pull at your heartstrings from the very first page and you will see two people who experienced tragedy in different ways come together to find healing together and it might just be what they both need to turn the page and create the next chapter of their lives.
I had been waiting to hear all about Malik since he first came on the scene. Initially because he is Max and Lucas’s younger brother (from the Cold Fury series) and secondly because of his mission with the Jameson Force Security group going sour. While reading the series, we know he was being held captive while trying to save some hostages and he had been missing for five months. This was a major reason why I needed to read this book, I was fully invested and desperate to know Malik was going to be ok and that he reaches a fulfilling HEA.
Malik returns to the States, and after a brief stay with his parents to heal, he arrives back to the Jameson compound to debrief. He is rattled with guilt and finds it hard to move on after two men were killed on his mission. One person that is relieved to see him, among many, is the widow of one of the fallen men, Anna. She feels a deep connection to Malik and they form a friendship from grief and loss and then acceptance. Anna is a compassionate woman that thinks things through before jumping the gun. She will look at every angle so she is fully informed to make a decision. Hence when Malik reveals what happened on that fateful night, she takes the time to investigate and absorb the information and then make her verdict.
I think what I loved most about this couple was their honesty and communication between each other. There was no games played, or back and forth of holding secrets. It was laid out on the table from the outset what they both wanted and expected. And the fact that Malik not only fell for Anna, but he adored her baby daughter Avery from the start as well. I was expecting more of a troubled sole from Malik on his return and that he would have problems settling back into his normal routine. That he might suffer from nightmares and deeper conflicting emotions of finally being rescued and survivors guilt. But the story has a lighter feel than my macabre wants and although Malik still battles through the emotions, just not as deep as I was anticipating. I also admired how they understood each others fears and could compromise when a situation arises. I was fully satisfied on how Malik got his HEA, and that he and Anna would be extremely happy together.
5 stars!
I have been waiting not so patiently for Malik Fournier aka Ghost’s story. He is ex-Marine Special Forces now in private security. We already knew he was captured during a mission and now we get to see what actually happened to him.
Once he returns home, he has to transition back to real life. He is a bit lost, self-isolating, anxious, and guilt-ridden. He has some physical and emotional work to do in order to move forward. His team welcomes him with open arms, including Anna whose husband, Jimmy did not make it home from the mission.
Anna gave birth to her daughter after her husband died on the mission. She is smart, independent-minded, and determined to make a good life for her daughter. She is happy to be working admin at Jameson security to have a purpose and help the team that supported her and her husband.
Anna and Malik strike up a friendship, but due to circumstances, there seems to be a bond and emotional attachment as well. They have this inherent need to have the other be okay due to the circumstances. But the new attraction they are feeling may make things more messy and complicated, especially for Malik who has such guilt and inner conflict. And even if they can find a way to move on, they also will have to consider how others might take their increasing closeness. And Malik lives for risky missions and making a difference, while Anna has already lost a husband on an assignment.
Will love be enough to overcome the challenges of a potential future?
I actually loved Anna and Malik. They are mature, communicate effectively, and truly try to understand and respect the other. Their friendship is sweet and their chemistry is hot. Her sibling type relationship with Cage is also fun. I enjoyed the return of the Fournier Cold Fury hockey family and the Jameson team. Even though the subject matter of this book could have made it a dark and extremely emotional or sad read, it is really not. There is humor, support, and friendship. It is hopeful and inspiring even after the most hopeless and difficult events. It does bring the feels and the swoon, but is not bogged down in negativity from the emotional situations. These two are survivors and there is this undeniable tether and true connection between them. It is more about overcoming the pain and trying to move forward. Malik totally stole my heart! This is my favorite book of this series.
I am looking forward to Cage’s book, Code Name: Rook next. He is dealing with a situation of his own creation.
I would say that Code Name: Ghost is one of my most anticipated reads of the year. I’ve been wanting to know what happened with Malik Fournier for quite some time and Sawyer Bennett definitely delivered with this emotional, and hopeful, story.
Malik Fournier has recently returned to Jameson Force after having been kidnapped in Syria while on a rescue mission. He certainly wasn’t sure if he was going to survive the ordeal, especially since he spent five long months in captivity. His Special Forces training helped while he was being held captive, but nothing could have prepared him for the guilt he was going to feel over the loss of two of his teammates the night he was abducted. Now that he’s back home, he’s trying to work through the emotional toll the ordeal took on him before he’s able to return to active duty.
Anna Tate has been grieving and struggling herself. The same night that Malik was captured, Anna’s husband, Jimmy was killed in the firefight. She was pregnant at the time and close to her due date, so not only was she grieving the loss of her husband, she gave birth and was learning to raise her infant daughter alone. Anna is resilient and in order to help herself, she went to work at Jameson Force as Kynan’s administrative assistant.
When Malik returns, he and Anna have an immediate bond. Much of it comes from how much they both lost that night in Syria, but in a way, they are a light for each other because there was some good that came out of it when Malik returned home. The two work together on a project since Malik is on desk duty and they grow closer still. Are they going to be able to fight the attraction growing between them or are the demons and guilt that both of them still fight going to create issues?
There was so much to love about this book. Both Anna and Malik are incredibly strong. Not even physically, but mentally and emotionally. They both went through horrible ordeals and they worked through them with the help of a professional and they weren’t afraid to talk about the hard times. I also enjoyed getting to see Malik’s brothers again, and I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention Anna’s friendship with Cage! They have quite the bond as well and I can’t wait to see what ends up happening with him. He’s got himself into quite a pickle!
As I said to start, this is one I had really been looking forward to and without a doubt, Sawyer Bennett delivered exactly what I was hoping for Malik. So well done!
**I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**