She has a target on her back… And a protector who won’t leave her side

Sheriff’s deputy Royal Campbell knows he’s been assigned to quiet little Hope Town because he’s the rookie.

Things get interesting when Franny Perkins witnesses a kidnapping, and the FBI takes over Royal’s investigation.

The sheriff wants Royal to stay close to Franny for her safety and because of Royal’s experience with the feds—even though that experience was on the other side of the law.

Staying close to Franny gets more complicated once it’s clear that she’s in danger. And after she and Royal share one reckless kiss…

Titles in the Bent County Protectors series include:  Vanishing Point* ~ Killer on the Homestead* ~ Fatal Deception* ~ Eyewitness in Danger** ~

This story may contain language, violence, and/or sexual situations intended for an adult 18+ audience.

Title:  Eyewitness in Danger
Series:  Bent County Protectors #4
Author:  Nicole Helm
Published:  February 24, 2026
Publisher:  Harlequin Intrigue
My Rating:  4.5 stars

Eyewitness in Danger is the fourth title in the Bent County Protectors series.  I have the earlier books in this series on my TBR.  I, frankly, don’t know how I missed starting this series, but that is definitely on my to-do list.  So, I believe, with that firsthand knowledge, that you “could” read this one on its own and go back for the earlier ones without any trouble at all.  Right now, that’s my plan.  Even though I recommend reading in order if possible, it sometimes just isn’t.  I’ve been reading Nicole Helm’s work for several years now, so I can comfortably say it’s easy to pick up any of her books and get lost in her worlds, whether you read them in order or on their own.

Franny has decided to move out of the shared apartment into a small one of her own; it was time.    As an author, she hopes this small “ghost town” will spark her imagination for new stories.  What she didn’t expect was to witness a kidnapping… and become a target for someone who needs her to be silenced.  Royal is the rookie cop assigned to this small town to start earning his place.  Things get interesting and a bit odd when he’s assigned to watch over Franny after the FBI takes over the case.  Neither expected the attraction or the connection they felt for each other, and if they ever hope to find a happy ending, they’ll have to solve a kidnapping case first.

I loved everything about Eyewitness to Danger.  But I especially enjoyed Royal.  This man has been through so much, rebuilt his life almost from the ground up.  His unique knowledge, his determination, and his feelings for Franny will not only have you firmly on his side but also rooting for this couple to find their happy-ever-after, drawing you into their world.  Their story is well-written, intense, emotional, and full of danger, keeping readers on edge throughout.  If that sounds like your kind of Romantic Suspense adventure, then you’ll love this one.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

This title is available at Amazon