Book Review: Pitch Black: A Romantic Thriller (Blackwood Security Book 1) by Elise Noble
I stumbled upon Pitch Black while browsing for my next adventure, drawn in by its intriguing premise: “What happens when an assassin has a nervous breakdown?” Elise Noble’s evocative storytelling instantly piqued my interest, and I found myself eagerly diving into this thrilling blend of suspense and romance.
Noble introduces us to Ashlyn Hale, a woman buried under the weight of her husband’s mysterious murder. As she sheds her old identity, she creates a new life in the quiet English village of Lower Foxford. What I admired was how Ashlyn, aka Diamond, is crafted as a morally grey heroine. Her layers are peeled back throughout the story, revealing a complex character grappling with grief, guilt, and eventually, a glimmer of hope in the form of the charming local, Luke Halston Cain.
The narrative moves beautifully between light-hearted moments—often courtesy of Ashlyn’s interactions with her new friends and a cheeky golden retriever—and intense suspense that keeps you flipping pages. Noble excels in mixing dark humor with tangible emotions, making it impossible not to chuckle while also feeling the weight of Ashlyn’s struggles. The pacing struck a lovely balance, slowly drawing you into the charming countryside before plunging into a whirlwind of action and danger. I often found myself reflecting on how quickly one’s life can change—something that Ashlyn embodies perfectly.
One aspect that particularly resonated with me was Ashlyn’s journey of self-discovery. Her relationship with Luke challenges her emotional barriers, allowing room for vulnerability in an otherwise robust exterior. Noble captures her internal conflict vividly: “Even a diamond can be shattered.” It’s a poignant reminder of our fragility, encapsulating both the strength and the scars we carry.
Customer testimonials echo this sentiment, with one reader mentioning how they felt like they were living alongside Ashlyn in her world, noting the “captivating storyline” and “emotional depth.” Their insights reaffirmed my own feelings of being drawn into a dizzying yet intimate experience.
However, the book is not without its complexities. Some readers found the multiple identities Ashlyn employs a bit confusing. This multilayering of character does add depth, but I can see how it may also feel overwhelming for some. Personally, I felt it added to the character’s authenticity—as she navigates the trauma from her past, the various names serve as masks she hides behind.
As I closed the final page, I felt a deep sense of satisfaction tinged with longing for more. Nobel has set the stage for what promises to be a thrilling series, and I can’t wait to follow Ashlyn and Luke on their continued journey.
In conclusion, Pitch Black is a compelling read for fans of romantic thrillers, strong female protagonists, and stories rich with emotional conflict. If you enjoy a blend of action, humor, and romance—with a side of character development that is both relatable and thought-provoking—this book is definitely for you. So grab a cozy blanket, a cup of tea, and prepare to be swept into Ashlyn’s world—you won’t regret it!
You can find Pitch Black: A Romantic Thriller (Blackwood Security Book 1) here >>