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Ruthless Defenders #2

Her Brutal Guardian

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A standalone bodyguard romance.

He’s my brutal guardian, the weapon I need in this world, but he’s about to become so much more.

My world changed overnight with the arrival of a bunch of flowers.
They were from a man who would become a dangerous stalker. Terrified and victimized, I needed a protector.
My friend put me in touch with a security agency, and they sent me more than a bodyguard.

They sent a brutal guardian.
A man who would do whatever it took to keep me safe.
Scarred, detached, and hardened, Marcus is everything I shouldn’t want, but he might be all that I need.
The barbed wire tattoo that runs over his scars might as well be wrapped around his heart for how closed off he is at first, but as I get to know him, I realize he’s not cold at all.
Marcus is burning hot, and he might just be about to set my world alight…
If I dare to let him.

The big question is, can I trust in this?
Turns out, he’s not the only one who closed himself off due to the pain from the past. I did too.
Now, we must decide if what we have is enough for us both to face our fears of intimacy and fight for something more.
It isn’t the only fight we face. We also have to defeat the man who is determined to make me his or end my life trying.
It’s time for my brutal guardian angel to flex his wings.

Author This is a fast paced, bodyguard romance with a battle hardened, military hero, fighting secrets and health issues he feels make him less than, and a heroine who thinks she isn’t capable of love.
If you like your romantic suspense with plenty of spice, then I hope you will love Marcus and Jade.

189 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 11, 2023

148 people are currently reading
439 people want to read

About the author

S.R. Jones

77 books744 followers
Redeeming dark and dangerous heroes one book at a time.
Skye Jones is an award winning and USA Today Bestselling Author.
She writes dark mafia and contemporary romance as SR Jones, and angsty paranormal romance as Skye.

When not writing Skye can be found reading, dog herding, or watching gritty dramas on Netflix with her husband. She lives in the grey, windswept north of England, which fuels her taste for the dramatic and the gothic.

For a free read sign up for her reader club here: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/ca20ewxx71

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5 stars
255 (45%)
4 stars
164 (29%)
3 stars
113 (20%)
2 stars
25 (4%)
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4 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
Profile Image for Wishy Reads.
373 reviews21 followers
May 18, 2023
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Protector
Spice: 🥵yes
Series: The Defenders, book 2

Thoughts - oh hello there Marcus, you huge, tattooed, scarred, hunk who needs someone to look after him, and someone to look after. This is a fast paced beauty and along with a bigger introduction to the other men (which I hope will be featured in the rest of the series), really sends you on an emotional roller coaster. And the end 😅, had me sweating there for a second. Definitely recommend if your after a fast paced, Insta love type protector story 🥰

Plot - on the outside Jade appears to have it all, except her ex boyfriend won’t leave her alone. It’s gotten to the point she so scared she hired a bodyguard. The only problem is he’s hot, huge and a bit of a dick, not her type at all… until he is .

* Forced Proximity
* Stalker
* Fake relationship
* Found family

“I’d love to mark her as mine. Claim her. Which I don’t even examine because what the hell? I don’t know her. Yet I feel already as if somehow, she’s mine.”
Profile Image for DeeReads.
2,284 reviews
May 21, 2023
Opposite attracts in this one and I was all for it!

When antisocial Marcus takes an assignment to protect Jade, well he knows his assignment from the start.. not knowing he would fall hard for the business owner. And she him! Yes, opposites do attract in this one but along the way, you get to see the other major characters in this very satisfying read as well!

5 satisfying stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Profile Image for Zoe-Amelia Harris.
553 reviews16 followers
May 12, 2023
I just knew I was going to fall in love with Marcus, I just didn't realise HOW MUCH!

Marcus finally gets his first job, to protect Jade, a graphic designer, from her stalker ex, all he's got to do is be her close protection, easy right? Well yeah, but she's the first woman (except Maya but come on even I'd roll over for her 😂) to make his head turn in a long long time

And Jade, she was SO relatable! Her inner thoughts and the way she carried herself, I don't think I could possibly love her anymore than I do!

This story will have you on the edge of your seat, full of angst, sizzling chemistry, and forbidden desires.

Well done Skye! Another phenomenal read 😍
Profile Image for Maria11.
2,003 reviews46 followers
May 11, 2023
Very fast read. Crazy stalker enter hero bodyguard. It is kinda a instant attraction, because he doesn’t hold out for long. Also a visit from my favorite Russian, Andrius. Good all around read that you will keep,you reading it the end. Our villain did surprise at the end.

Good addition to the series. Received an AR from the author.
Profile Image for Ana Rita.
1,773 reviews41 followers
July 15, 2023
It's been quite a while since I've read a book from this lady, and I missed her words.
I know that these last months had been hard for her and when she announced that a new book was coming out, I was out of this world happy.
SR Jones is a super-talented author that will make you grab her books and read them in one go.
Been there, done that, and got the badge to prove it.
Her writing is raw and wild hot, dangerous, and brutal...
Her Brutal Guardian is her latest release and explores the lives of Jade and Marcus.
Marcus is one badass man. He's a former special forces and a very dangerous man.
He has his past demons, his struggles every day, but that doesn't put him down.
When he's given the task of becoming a bodyguard...
Jade is in need of a bodyguard.
She's currently being stalked by he ex and that is a scary thing.
She's a successful businesswoman with a not-so-good past.
When she sees her life in danger her only thought is to get a bodyguard but...
Let me just say that this book was so freaking good that once I started to read it it was impossible to stop.
The plot was super engaging, intense, and beautiful with a touch of darkness and so much more.
The way the story progressed left me on edge and waiting for the other shoe to drop.
The characters worked perfectly with each other and you can feel the chemistry they shared.
You might want to close yourself off to love, but when the time comes you won't be able to run from it or deny your heart's true desire.
The danger lurked in the shadows and will make reading this book so much more intense.
And the hot stuff is out of this world...
There is no such thing as friends with benefits without getting your heart involved.
Loved every single chapter and was super happy to get glimpses from the other characters from this series, I missed K and Andrius.
Oh SR Jones, I missed you so much. This book was perfection and I can't wait for the next one.  
Profile Image for Brooke.
8 reviews
January 12, 2024
Rating: ⭐⭐.4/5

I was excited to read this after seeing a blurb on TikTok (my mistake for trusting it, I know), but I was unfortunately let down from the jump. It wasn't my first darker romance, and I hope it's not the last, but I keep getting disappointed by them.

I think it was just too short for me to really feel attached to these characters, as well as the way they were written. Jade had a massive chip on her shoulder at the start and was, frankly, annoying to read from. She kept saying the same things over and over again and was incredibly bitter. I like when authors choose a different FMC than the bubbly personality, but this felt like she picked one personality trait and tried to make Jade into a 3D character from that. The ending helped a little, but not enough to boost my rating.

Marcus was a very baseline ex-military man. His trauma isn't unique in the scope of service in general, but his specific experience with mafia made it more interesting to read about. I usually like the grumpy tattooed MMC, but for some reason I just could not get into Marcus. He just felt a little flat compared to some other characters I've read in similar books, like he was missing parts of his personality.

Also, another thing I think I just couldn't get into was the writing style. The first page alone had several typos, which continued throughout the book; maybe that was just the digital copy's fault, I don't know, but it threw me off a little. The author didn't really use contractions, which I found to be a strange stylistic choice? It got a little tiring to constantly be reading something without contractions; I read/write scientific papers for a living, I'm always reading stuff fully written out.

It's a fine book if you like this sort of thing or if you enjoy this author, it just sadly wasn't for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 17, 2023
3.5 ⭐️I think romantic suspense is my favorite genre to read, so when this puppy appeared in one of my newsletters I decided to give it a go. It was different in that we knew from the beginning who the villain (stalker) was. I kept waiting for the ‘twist’ where it turned out to be someone else, but it was actually the guy everybody thought it was 🤷‍♀️
This book is relatively short, and you notice that in the romance aspect. It isn’t really developed very much, but it was enough to satisfy me (that sounds dirtier than it is ;-) ). The action part was decent. I think I would’ve enjoyed it more if I had read other books by this author and had known the other characters and couples mentioned. Steam was good!

Safety:
OW: in the beginning H crushes on h of another couple / book. He knows he can’t have her though. She is not an issue later in the book after H meets h.
OM: h’s ex is stalking her and wants her to be his. He is a big part of this story.
No cheating
No separation
No third act break up.
613 reviews11 followers
May 11, 2023
I loved this book! The author takes us back to Corfu, an island in the Ionian Sea, and the men with their women who live there. These are the wealthy, good-looking, tough men and their women whom Skye Jones has written about in her previous books. This story is about Marcus and Jade. Marcus is tough and brutal when needed. He's hardened and his body shows it from the scars he has hidden. Jade is gorgeous, has her own successful business, but has a STALKER. She meets Marcus when she reaches out for security, and he is sent to protect her. From then on, it's a page-turner. The story is riveting, waiting on the stalker and how Marcus is going to keep Jade safe. And of course, it's hot and steamy! I highly recommend the book to you, and you should definitely go back and read the other books if you haven't already.
Profile Image for Catlou.
1,420 reviews15 followers
May 12, 2023
HER BRUTAL GUARDIAN is an apt description of Marcus when it comes to protecting Jade. You can tell from the very first time he lays eyes on her that she touches something in him, he thought long dead. Even though their initial interactions are rough, it doesn’t take long before they discover a mutual desire that has been missing from their lives. Although Jade’s stalker poses a problem, it’s not something Marcus can’t handle, or so he thinks. The dynamic of their relationship and the intensity of their passion alone is enough to capture your interest and keep you reading. But when the potential threat to Jade’s safety brings the danger to the forefront with an unexpected twist, things really become an exciting, edge-of-your-seat adventure that will carry you through until you’re riding on the wind right alongside them to the very end.
370 reviews2 followers
May 16, 2023
I was anxiously waiting for Marcus' story. He was always this enigmatic figure in the background. It was great to fully understand this man. His layers and pain. You knew that he would only be would only be tempted by someone special. Jade was just the woman for him. The sexual attraction between them was instantaneous. She had the understanding, compassion and spirit to love and challenge him.

I was a bit disappointed in the whole stalker plot. There was great introduction and lead up, but I felt that the ending was a bit quick. I wanted to see more of Marcus' bad ass moves. The other characters we love made a brief appearance. They are always appreciated! This world that SR Jones has created is full of delicious men whose stories are nicely intertwined so we always stay in touch.
3,421 reviews19 followers
October 14, 2023
Her Brutal Guardian is the dark suspenseful romance between Marcus, who accepts his first bodyguard assignment while employed with the security organization started by Konstantin and Andrius, and Jade, his graphic designer client who is being stalked and victimized. Marcus and Jade have intimacy issues from their past but both find a steamy attraction to the other which makes them question if love is possible. This well written and quick read suspenseful romance takes place in the Bratva Blood world where many previous characters make brief appearances within the storyline. I highly recommend this book.

I received a free copy of this book via the author and have voluntarily left an honest review.
Profile Image for GKP2460 .
4,326 reviews73 followers
May 8, 2023
❤️❤️❤️I LOVE THIS WORLD, THESE CHARACTERS AND THESE STORIES!!!❤️❤️❤️
Her Brutal Guardian is Marcus's story and what a story it is. He gets a job to protect Jade Wallace a graphic designer. Of course things withe these guys are never easy and it's certainly never easy for their women. A stalker is making life terrifying for Jade and Marcus is exactly what she needs to be safe. Their journey is every bit as intense, dark, exciting and dangerous as the others. Especially when Marcus gets hurt. Jade is at a loss and the other women are what helps her through. Her Brutal Guardian is absolutely fantastic!
3,072 reviews17 followers
May 15, 2023
Absolutely Adored This!!

Jade is a successful graphic designer, who needs personal protection due to a creepy ex. Marcus is English, former MI6, and is known through a friend of a friend and specifically requested.

A rocky, and rather humorous beginning for these two who must live in close proximity for at least a month. To escalate the ex’s reaction they “pretend” to be boyfriend/girlfriend.

The reader gets under these characters' skin. Personal and up-close as we learn their backstory and watch them get incinerated by the chemistry created. A tremendous, exciting and captivating read.

***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****
Profile Image for Zelda.
1,464 reviews
May 12, 2023
This is the second book in the Ruthless Defenders series. Marcus’ first job for Andrius & Konstantin: to provide protection for a woman with a stalker. Jade is a successful graphic designer who follows her gut instinct when she receives unwanted gifts. The stakes get raised and then the action really begins. This story is set in the same world as the author’s Bratva Blood series—I love catching up with the characters. The women partners were hilarious in this story and brought some light relief to the suspense & tension. Great story.
8,849 reviews63 followers
May 9, 2023
When Jade receives some flowers her world is about to change with a stalker in the shadows. Her friends tell her about a security firm who send out Marcus, scarred by his battles both physically and mentally, he will go to any length to protect Jade, but can they both open their hearts to love when Jade's was burnt before? Well written a great addition to the series, fast paced, steamy, protective romance with visits from our old favourites too!
916 reviews7 followers
May 11, 2023
Marcus is one of my favorite characters of Skye Jones. I have encountered him in another book I have read by Skye Jones, but this is Marcus' story. He gets drawn out of his comfort zone to protect Jade because she is in danger. This book was a really exciting read and I could not get enough, I definitely felt compelled to read this book in one sitting. This book was perfectly done and I loved reading Markus and Jade's story.
Profile Image for Tammy.
9,119 reviews49 followers
May 11, 2023
This is the second book in this series but it can be read as a standalone. Jade is a graphic designer with the stalker and Marcus has been sent to be her bodyguard. What will happen when sparks fly between them. Can they break through the walls each of them has constructed for themselves? Fast-paced read with loads of drama, suspense and steam. Great characters with intense chemistry and plenty of emotion. I was hooked from beginning to end. I loved it.
Profile Image for Donna reads Romance.
1,049 reviews42 followers
May 28, 2023
So darn GOOD!!

This book is very engaging, gripping and enticing.
I really enjoyed it and I do recommend it.
Marcus and Jade are intense, inviting and alluring characters with a story that will have you hooked from beginning to end. It’s so entertaining and captivating!!

Skye’s men are always so very dominant , intriguing and HOT!

A wonderful book to escape into and just enjoy.

Congratulations Skye🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻This is a REMARKABLE story.
2,611 reviews8 followers
May 12, 2023
This is the second book of the series and it does not disappoint at all. Marcus is sent to protect Jade from a stalker. Jade is a graphic designer that reaches out for help. They have serious chemistry and it adds to the tension around them. There is some light relief that balances well with the drama.
Profile Image for Deb.
7,562 reviews36 followers
May 16, 2023
The interactions between these characters were so compelling, I couldn’t help but wonder just where the author would take these characters. I found their chemistry believable and it definitely added to my enjoyment. I loved how their relationship evolved and the story progressed. I couldn’t wait to see what would happen next. Great story.
165 reviews1 follower
May 22, 2023
This book was great! It has everything you need: romance, angst, past resurfacing, and unexpected twists. They may start out as body guard and client but it quickly heats up to more and like all the books in this series and previous related series it has an HEA. Can’t wait to see what happens in their world next. S.R. Jones never disappoints!
4 reviews
June 11, 2023
This has quite a few mistakes in it. The biggest ones being 1. Marcus mentions his own name instead of the actual stalker Duncan. 2. The name of the woman who was allegedly murdered by Duncan previously changed from Rosalind to Celia which is confusing to the point I had to flip back and reread. It’s okay. I don’t think I would recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Jill Badker.
790 reviews7 followers
May 11, 2023
Marcus is assigned to protect Jade. Her ex is stalking her. She's frightened for her life, but the more time she spends with Marcus she afraid to loose her heart too. This is a very fast paced military romance that keeps you on the edge. Love including the gang from the past series!
2,895 reviews4 followers
May 13, 2023

Jade needs help as she’s gotten a stalker and is scared! Enter Marcus who’s instantly interested in Jade but he’s got a job to do. But she’s there and interested too! will he get his man? I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
532 reviews9 followers
May 14, 2023
fairly interesting

Good read. Fairly decent plot and I loved the fmcs outlook on life and children. Felt like I was reading about me. The spice left me wanting more but overall an enjoyable read
Profile Image for DKH.
100 reviews2 followers
May 15, 2023
Jade and Marcus

Jade’s ex has become her stalker, and Marcus is brought in as her Personal Close Protection. As usual Ms Jones creates a wonderful and intriguing story line with new characters as well as ones from precious books. I highly recommend this book.
48 reviews
May 18, 2023
Another page turner!!

I was hooked from the first page.
I finished this story in 10hrs.
Thank heaven I'm now retired so I can do things like that without worry. I need more Skye Jones. I hate finishing a good book I miss the characters so much.
More please Skye.
Profile Image for Diane Born in UK, now living on Spain.
694 reviews12 followers
May 20, 2023
I usually like this type of storyline, but tbh I didn’t like Jade.

Marcus was typical dark, mean and broody, but I couldn’t take to Jade at all. Especially when he was trying to save her from a physco ex.

Not as good as other books of this nature.

350 reviews2 followers
May 22, 2023
Another hit.

So glad Marcus finally, finally got his "happy". We need a list of all these stories in the order they happened so I can read them again.

Thank you for having this on Kindle Unlimited.
2,853 reviews18 followers
May 31, 2023
Marcus and Jade are caught in complete and instant heat and attraction even though they both have baggage from their pasts.
A stalker, danger , desire, friends, death and new beginnings await them!!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews

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