What do you think?
Rate this book
Shifters Unbound #2.5
Garde rapprochée
Elizabeth Chapman est sauvée d’un braquage à main armée par un gigantesque ours kodiak qui se change en humain aux belles proportions, musclé et entièrement nu. Mais quand il s’avère que le voleur n’est autre que le frère d’un dangereux criminel, Elizabeth devient la cible d’une vendetta.
Ronan, l’ours métamorphe, l’emmène en sécurité au quartier garou, où Elizabeth apprend que le célibataire vit seul au monde et s’occupe d’autres garous que la vie a aussi abandonnés. Pour Elizabeth, qui a grandi dans des familles d’accueil, le caractère protecteur de Ronan est admirable.
Mais Ronan n’acceptera qu’Elizabeth quitte le quartier garou qu’à la condition qu’il devienne son garde du corps 24 heures sur 24. Si la jeune femme se rebiffe d’abord, elle finit par accepter. L’ennui, c’est que cette humaine pétillante réveille le besoin de Ronan de trouver une compagne.
Ronan, l’ours métamorphe, l’emmène en sécurité au quartier garou, où Elizabeth apprend que le célibataire vit seul au monde et s’occupe d’autres garous que la vie a aussi abandonnés. Pour Elizabeth, qui a grandi dans des familles d’accueil, le caractère protecteur de Ronan est admirable.
Mais Ronan n’acceptera qu’Elizabeth quitte le quartier garou qu’à la condition qu’il devienne son garde du corps 24 heures sur 24. Si la jeune femme se rebiffe d’abord, elle finit par accepter. L’ennui, c’est que cette humaine pétillante réveille le besoin de Ronan de trouver une compagne.
208 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 2, 2011
408 people are currently reading
2936 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Ashley
218 books7,338 followersNY Times Bestselling author Jennifer Ashley writes historical, contemporary, and paranormal romance, historical mysteries, and urban fantasy as Jennifer Ashley, Allyson James, and Ashley Gardner.
Jennifer's novels have been translated into many different languages, and earned starred reviews from Booklist and Publisher's Weekly. More about her books at http://www.jenniferashley.com and http://gardnermysteries.com.
Jennifer's novels have been translated into many different languages, and earned starred reviews from Booklist and Publisher's Weekly. More about her books at http://www.jenniferashley.com and http://gardnermysteries.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 429 reviews
June 29, 2015
4 Shifter Lovin' Stars
“I lived a long time alone. You learn to take life slowly when you live like that. Why worry about what terrible thing will happen tomorrow?”-Ronin
Bodyguard is a novella in the Shifters Unbound Series. I came across this series on audible.com and decided to give it a try. I liked the first two books so much it was a no brainer to continue this series. Anyone that enjoys a tender and steamy paranormal romance should give this series a try.
Elizabeth Chapman is an independent woman living in Austin, Texas. She runs a shop where every paycheck goes to support her and her little sister Mabel. Lizzy has always been accepting of the shifters and is happy to allow them to shop in her store. One night, a robber attempts to empty her cash till at her store. Unfortunately for him, he doesn't get far. Ronin (the sweet bear shifter from the previous books) happens to be in her shop that night. He attacks the robber and the plot really takes off. Although the robber was put in the slammer, his mafia brother is not so happy with the way events have unfolded. We are quickly reminded that shifters run this town.
As soon as Ronin protects Lizzy, the Shifters agree to take her and her sister in under their protection. Lizzy is hesitant to trust Ronin because she has always had to do everything on her own. All of a sudden she is surrounded by people that love each other and care for one another. As in the previous books, Ronin decides to "mate claim" Lizzy. This means that she is under his protection. She has the choice to accept or reject the claim. Until she makes her decision, she is committed to Ronin and he is committed to her.
“To me, you accepting my mate-claim means that I protect you, no matter what. If that includes protecting you from myself, then so be it. I take care of you, I cherish you."-Ronin
I found both Lizzy and Ronin to be completely different characters from the previous books. I really like that the author has explored so many avenues with this series. It is delightful to have the opportunity to glimpse into the future of the other main characters (that you have fallen in love with) all while experiencing the love blossom between Ronin and Lizzy.
Lizzy has a very typical damaged girl story and yet she was strong and confident and what we call here in Texas a "straight shooter". Ronin was a great compliment to her. He was big and soft and full of tenderness for her. Ronin was a bit less of an "alpha" (especially when you compare him to Sean and Liam) and yet, I enjoyed his character very much. The way he gave Lizzy space to navigate through these uncertain water, caused me to feel complete respect and adoration for him.
"He was giving her space, she realized. No man Elizabeth had gone out with had given her time to think things over. Elizabeth thought she could fall in love with Ronan for that alone."-Lizzy
The sexual chemistry is off the charts. I really appreciate the fact that Ms. Ashley can write such a steamy scene while maintaining the heart and tenderness of the characters.
“Goldilocks was pretty resilient, I guess.”-Lizzy
“I heard she shacked up with the papa bear, and they lived happily ever after.”-Ronin
“I don’t remember that version of the story.”-Lizzy
Overall, Ms. Ashley has truly gained a new fan. Not only is the series set in my home state but the character development continues to intertwine and weave through the series. I thoroughly enjoy spending time in this world! I want to know if the humans will ever accept the shifters. Will the collars every be banned? Who will be the next shifter to find love? Thankfully this series was released a few years ago and there are many more to read.
“I lived a long time alone. You learn to take life slowly when you live like that. Why worry about what terrible thing will happen tomorrow?”-Ronin
Bodyguard is a novella in the Shifters Unbound Series. I came across this series on audible.com and decided to give it a try. I liked the first two books so much it was a no brainer to continue this series. Anyone that enjoys a tender and steamy paranormal romance should give this series a try.
Elizabeth Chapman is an independent woman living in Austin, Texas. She runs a shop where every paycheck goes to support her and her little sister Mabel. Lizzy has always been accepting of the shifters and is happy to allow them to shop in her store. One night, a robber attempts to empty her cash till at her store. Unfortunately for him, he doesn't get far. Ronin (the sweet bear shifter from the previous books) happens to be in her shop that night. He attacks the robber and the plot really takes off. Although the robber was put in the slammer, his mafia brother is not so happy with the way events have unfolded. We are quickly reminded that shifters run this town.
As soon as Ronin protects Lizzy, the Shifters agree to take her and her sister in under their protection. Lizzy is hesitant to trust Ronin because she has always had to do everything on her own. All of a sudden she is surrounded by people that love each other and care for one another. As in the previous books, Ronin decides to "mate claim" Lizzy. This means that she is under his protection. She has the choice to accept or reject the claim. Until she makes her decision, she is committed to Ronin and he is committed to her.
“To me, you accepting my mate-claim means that I protect you, no matter what. If that includes protecting you from myself, then so be it. I take care of you, I cherish you."-Ronin
I found both Lizzy and Ronin to be completely different characters from the previous books. I really like that the author has explored so many avenues with this series. It is delightful to have the opportunity to glimpse into the future of the other main characters (that you have fallen in love with) all while experiencing the love blossom between Ronin and Lizzy.
Lizzy has a very typical damaged girl story and yet she was strong and confident and what we call here in Texas a "straight shooter". Ronin was a great compliment to her. He was big and soft and full of tenderness for her. Ronin was a bit less of an "alpha" (especially when you compare him to Sean and Liam) and yet, I enjoyed his character very much. The way he gave Lizzy space to navigate through these uncertain water, caused me to feel complete respect and adoration for him.
"He was giving her space, she realized. No man Elizabeth had gone out with had given her time to think things over. Elizabeth thought she could fall in love with Ronan for that alone."-Lizzy
The sexual chemistry is off the charts. I really appreciate the fact that Ms. Ashley can write such a steamy scene while maintaining the heart and tenderness of the characters.
“Goldilocks was pretty resilient, I guess.”-Lizzy
“I heard she shacked up with the papa bear, and they lived happily ever after.”-Ronin
“I don’t remember that version of the story.”-Lizzy
Overall, Ms. Ashley has truly gained a new fan. Not only is the series set in my home state but the character development continues to intertwine and weave through the series. I thoroughly enjoy spending time in this world! I want to know if the humans will ever accept the shifters. Will the collars every be banned? Who will be the next shifter to find love? Thankfully this series was released a few years ago and there are many more to read.
June 20, 2019
3.5 STARS
A cute, light little novella, which could have made a fab full-length book. The writing flows well, and the characters are entertaining and likable.
Elizabeth is cautious and does not trust easily, but when she finds herself saved from dying in an armed robbery by Bear shifter Ronan, she finally finds a person/place where she feels safe and secure. Ronan knows just how to get behind her defences, and he appreciates her for the smart and fiery woman she is.
The prejudice of some humans when it came to shifters made me want to hurl something, the judge for example could have done with a kick or two.
Olaf was sweet/adorable, and I liked all the shifters who popped into the story as secondary characters.
It’s been ages since I’ve re-read this, and I’m glad I decided to pick it up again, it’s definitely staying on my kindle.
A cute, light little novella, which could have made a fab full-length book. The writing flows well, and the characters are entertaining and likable.
Elizabeth is cautious and does not trust easily, but when she finds herself saved from dying in an armed robbery by Bear shifter Ronan, she finally finds a person/place where she feels safe and secure. Ronan knows just how to get behind her defences, and he appreciates her for the smart and fiery woman she is.
The prejudice of some humans when it came to shifters made me want to hurl something, the judge for example could have done with a kick or two.
Olaf was sweet/adorable, and I liked all the shifters who popped into the story as secondary characters.
It’s been ages since I’ve re-read this, and I’m glad I decided to pick it up again, it’s definitely staying on my kindle.
September 9, 2015
Written July 6, 2014
3.2 Stars - a sweet sexy big teddy fall in love...
Bodyguard is book #2.5 in the Shifter Unbound series about three species (big cats, wolves, and bears) of shape shifters in Shiftertown Austin. Romances I really enjoy to read now and then. This was the first one in this series I was listening to.
And? ~ Not the best one (not even comparable to the very good full-length books) in this series, but this is a nice enough in-between-in-the-series book. Easy and quick to read (...and nicely narrated by Cris Dukehart to listening to as well).
***********************************************************
Bodyguard is a shorter 'Shiftertown' novel about Elizabeth Chapman, a young human woman who is saved from an armed robber by a giant Alaska Kodiak bear. Ronan, the bear shifter (...a large, well-muscled man) takes later Elizabeth, and her younger sister, home to the Austin Shiftertown for safety and becomes with pleasure Elizabeth's 24/7 bodyguard.
In Ronan's house are there a wonderful mix of different kinds of bear (ursines) shifter (the cute polar bear cub Olaf is obviously a favorite) and they all more or less welcomes Elizabeth and her sister. But there are also enemies. The robber is related to a mafia man and he is not at all happy about Elizabeth testified against his nephew.
Soon is also the sassy (secretive and tattooed) Elizabeth triggering Ronan's long-buried need to find himself a mate. It starts to "steam & heat" in the corners...
At times it went a little too fast here. It was really witty insta love, and there was talk of mine, move in, my mate etc all already after a day or two. Not entirely believable but in these shifter worlds are always a good deal more permissible (and forgiven) than in a regular contemporary romance. Right?
***********************************************************
I will absolutely keep on to these books because Ms Ashley always write really enjoyable romantic tales. This Shifter Unbound 'world' is fascinating and thought-provoking as always. ~ At the bottom; for me is this a romantic PNR series but also a bunch of novels and novellas with some very interesting topics —with strong male (and female) heroes— about social issues, unique shifter communities and a horrible modern breed racism.
~ I close willingly and wholeheartedly in to the hitherto so weak choruses against this so heartbreaking heinous group racism in a modern contemporary society. ~
...Not to forget; it is always grand love with steamy hot moments here (..course) and a lot of well done suspense parts. So even in Bodyguard.
***********************************************************
I enjoyed to meet these old friends and shifters again, the lovely feline Morrissey's family and of course one of my favorites - the lupine shifter Ellison Rowe. This storie, with a bear shifter was a cuddly one, tender, sweet and new for me.
A Jennifer Ashley book always makes me happy. A simple short novel, like this one, or a much much better —more thoughtful and thorough— long one, as this book-series main books.
I LIKE - a nice audio book in a great series.
3.2 Stars - a sweet sexy big teddy fall in love...
Bodyguard is book #2.5 in the Shifter Unbound series about three species (big cats, wolves, and bears) of shape shifters in Shiftertown Austin. Romances I really enjoy to read now and then. This was the first one in this series I was listening to.
And? ~ Not the best one (not even comparable to the very good full-length books) in this series, but this is a nice enough in-between-in-the-series book. Easy and quick to read (...and nicely narrated by Cris Dukehart to listening to as well).
***********************************************************
Bodyguard is a shorter 'Shiftertown' novel about Elizabeth Chapman, a young human woman who is saved from an armed robber by a giant Alaska Kodiak bear. Ronan, the bear shifter (...a large, well-muscled man) takes later Elizabeth, and her younger sister, home to the Austin Shiftertown for safety and becomes with pleasure Elizabeth's 24/7 bodyguard.
In Ronan's house are there a wonderful mix of different kinds of bear (ursines) shifter (the cute polar bear cub Olaf is obviously a favorite) and they all more or less welcomes Elizabeth and her sister. But there are also enemies. The robber is related to a mafia man and he is not at all happy about Elizabeth testified against his nephew.
Soon is also the sassy (secretive and tattooed) Elizabeth triggering Ronan's long-buried need to find himself a mate. It starts to "steam & heat" in the corners...
At times it went a little too fast here. It was really witty insta love, and there was talk of mine, move in, my mate etc all already after a day or two. Not entirely believable but in these shifter worlds are always a good deal more permissible (and forgiven) than in a regular contemporary romance. Right?
***********************************************************
I will absolutely keep on to these books because Ms Ashley always write really enjoyable romantic tales. This Shifter Unbound 'world' is fascinating and thought-provoking as always. ~ At the bottom; for me is this a romantic PNR series but also a bunch of novels and novellas with some very interesting topics —with strong male (and female) heroes— about social issues, unique shifter communities and a horrible modern breed racism.
~ I close willingly and wholeheartedly in to the hitherto so weak choruses against this so heartbreaking heinous group racism in a modern contemporary society. ~
...Not to forget; it is always grand love with steamy hot moments here (..course) and a lot of well done suspense parts. So even in Bodyguard.
***********************************************************
I enjoyed to meet these old friends and shifters again, the lovely feline Morrissey's family and of course one of my favorites - the lupine shifter Ellison Rowe. This storie, with a bear shifter was a cuddly one, tender, sweet and new for me.
A Jennifer Ashley book always makes me happy. A simple short novel, like this one, or a much much better —more thoughtful and thorough— long one, as this book-series main books.
I LIKE - a nice audio book in a great series.
August 2, 2016
We had met Ronan the huge teddy bear in the previous book where he was almost killed twice. He is the bodyguard at shifters'bar. Elizabeth owns the store where Andrea shops underwear for Sean.
They were perfect for each other and I loved their story.
Ronan has to look after 3 more bears. The little polar bear was adorable. And their house was very homey and cosy. I wish I was invited at their breakfast table: 5 packages of bacon, 4 cartons of eggs, one loaf of bread and honey because "bears love their honey"! And nobody cares about calories. My kind of breakfast :-)
In this book shifters also saw their teeth to a very dangerous gangster.
And we see one more time how they play humans.
They were perfect for each other and I loved their story.
Ronan has to look after 3 more bears. The little polar bear was adorable. And their house was very homey and cosy. I wish I was invited at their breakfast table: 5 packages of bacon, 4 cartons of eggs, one loaf of bread and honey because "bears love their honey"! And nobody cares about calories. My kind of breakfast :-)
In this book shifters also saw their teeth to a very dangerous gangster.
And we see one more time how they play humans.
March 3, 2020
Bodyguard
is #2.5 in Jennifer Ashley
Shifters Unbound
series. Each novella can be read only, but they fit perfectly in the book series. I get goosebumps every time I read Bodyguard. It is my favorite novella next to Hard Mated in the Shifter Unbound series. I just want a sexy lovable bear shifter all too myself.
Jennifer Ashely knows how to write a story. The written flows, the characters are interesting, and the world building is exquisite. She knows how to pull you into her world and shows you that shifters have much more power then humans believe. The mate-bond is explained remarkably well. The Romance between Elizabeth and Ronan is sweet and there love making is sensual.
I just want to eat Ronan up. He is delicious and oh so caring! He adopted a bunch of cubs that have had traumatic experiences and are facing problems like Cherie with her PTSD, Rebecca's PMS, and the boys Olaf and Scott's night terror dreams. He knows just want to do to help each one out and makes a loving and caring home for them.
Olaf is adorable! When he is introduced you can’t help but fall in love with this cub. I just love seeing him and how he attaches himself to Elizabeth.
Elizabeth is cautious and does not trust easily, but when she meets Ronan he knows just what to do to break down her walls. Experience has taught her you don't trust anyone for any reason. People will turn on you once they are done with your problems. She longs for security and safety.
I loved this part in Bodyguard where Ronan is trying to make Elizabeth feel comfortable on their ride to shiftertown. She has just dealt with a man trying to robe and kill her, going to the courtroom to help Ronan out and getting a call that her sister is in danger.
""You've heard the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears?"
"Sure, but what has that got to do with--"
"That story is total bullshit." Ronan laughed, the rumble of it filling the truck. "At my house, nothing's too hard or too soft. Everything is just right.”"
I also adored how Elizabeth describes Ronan "He had one tatt, a Celtic interlocking pattern that laced across the small of his back. His buzzed short hair was dark brown, almost black, but highlights of light brown. His bear's fur had the same rippling, rich brown color.”
I recommend picking up Shifters Unbound series. The novellas are heartwarming and easy to read. We are introduced to shifters of all kinds in this series, we get heartwarming romances, and a little action. It’s a fun light romance read!
~ 5 Bodyguard Stars ~
Audio: March 2020 - For the first time I listened to the audio. It was enjoyable. The voices where ok. Not outstanding, but good enough for a nice listen. Still one of my favorite novellas.
Jennifer Ashely knows how to write a story. The written flows, the characters are interesting, and the world building is exquisite. She knows how to pull you into her world and shows you that shifters have much more power then humans believe. The mate-bond is explained remarkably well. The Romance between Elizabeth and Ronan is sweet and there love making is sensual.
I just want to eat Ronan up. He is delicious and oh so caring! He adopted a bunch of cubs that have had traumatic experiences and are facing problems like Cherie with her PTSD, Rebecca's PMS, and the boys Olaf and Scott's night terror dreams. He knows just want to do to help each one out and makes a loving and caring home for them.
Olaf is adorable! When he is introduced you can’t help but fall in love with this cub. I just love seeing him and how he attaches himself to Elizabeth.
Elizabeth is cautious and does not trust easily, but when she meets Ronan he knows just what to do to break down her walls. Experience has taught her you don't trust anyone for any reason. People will turn on you once they are done with your problems. She longs for security and safety.
I loved this part in Bodyguard where Ronan is trying to make Elizabeth feel comfortable on their ride to shiftertown. She has just dealt with a man trying to robe and kill her, going to the courtroom to help Ronan out and getting a call that her sister is in danger.
""You've heard the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears?"
"Sure, but what has that got to do with--"
"That story is total bullshit." Ronan laughed, the rumble of it filling the truck. "At my house, nothing's too hard or too soft. Everything is just right.”"
I also adored how Elizabeth describes Ronan "He had one tatt, a Celtic interlocking pattern that laced across the small of his back. His buzzed short hair was dark brown, almost black, but highlights of light brown. His bear's fur had the same rippling, rich brown color.”
I recommend picking up Shifters Unbound series. The novellas are heartwarming and easy to read. We are introduced to shifters of all kinds in this series, we get heartwarming romances, and a little action. It’s a fun light romance read!
~ 5 Bodyguard Stars ~
Audio: March 2020 - For the first time I listened to the audio. It was enjoyable. The voices where ok. Not outstanding, but good enough for a nice listen. Still one of my favorite novellas.
April 7, 2013
This story was about Elizabeth, a human who owns a store on the edge of Shiftertown and it gets robbed. What she doesn't know if while this is going on Ronan is behind watching this happen. Ronan is a Bear Shifter, and I gotta tell you I fell in love with this guy! Well the man who robbed her store is a member of a gang and soon the gang tries to threaten her and Ronan.
Well of course Ronan to the rescue along with the rest of the Shiftertown folk we know from previous books. It was wonderful to see them again and get find out what is happening in their lives now. And we meet some new ones, Ronan lives with other bear shifters he has more or less adopted. there stories are sad as well and I found myself wanting to comfort them....
And I discovered something about myself, I can so get into a hot, cuddly, protective, 7 foot tall bear shifter! Who knew! There wasn't a lot of steam in this book, but i sure got my cuddle need satisfied. I have a stuffed teddy bear that sits on my couch a dear friend gave to me years ago, not the same but I am going to hug it now!
April 4, 2018
Review posted on Got Fiction?
When Elizabeth's gift shop gets robbed late one night, the last thing she expects is a large bear to come to her rescue. Scratch that, the last thing she expects is to see a large bear shift into a naked hunk of a man. But that's what happens. In Jennifer Ashley's Shifters Unbound series, the shifters are second class citizens, so when Ronan backhands the kid holding the gun, he gets arrested for hurting a human.
Elizabeth goes with him to the police station to try to convince them that he was saving her life, and the robber had actually shot Ronan!
What Elizabeth doesn't know, is that punk kid who tried to rob her is part of a gang, and his big brother is the head honcho. Elizabeth's life is now in danger, so Ronan takes her to Shiftertown, where she and her younger sister will be safe. He accepts responsibility for her and Mabel. But Elizabeth is hiding something about her past-something that even the Morrisey brothers can't hack, and that worries the shifters. The last thing they need are the Feds breathing down their necks.
These two have more than just the shifter/human relationship to overcome, and the action is intense. There are underground shifter fight clubs, Elizabeth's past catches up with her, and to top it off, Ronan mate-claims her.
One thing I really loved is that Ronan wasn't your typical Alpha male. He was..gentle, and warm, and loving. He had such a soft heart. Ronan, who preferred solitude to crowds, was fostering young bear shifters. He was even helping a hot-head bear through his transition. Ronan was such a wonderful hero. There should be more heroes like Ronan out there.
I love this series, and lately, I've been in a reading funk. This novella was just the thing to pull me out! Hot shifters, a fight club, drug lords, and romance. This story has it all.
Bodyguard is a steal at only $.99, and it's a fantastic addition to the Shifters Unbound series.
http://www.gotfiction.com/bodyguard-b...
When Elizabeth's gift shop gets robbed late one night, the last thing she expects is a large bear to come to her rescue. Scratch that, the last thing she expects is to see a large bear shift into a naked hunk of a man. But that's what happens. In Jennifer Ashley's Shifters Unbound series, the shifters are second class citizens, so when Ronan backhands the kid holding the gun, he gets arrested for hurting a human.
Elizabeth goes with him to the police station to try to convince them that he was saving her life, and the robber had actually shot Ronan!
What Elizabeth doesn't know, is that punk kid who tried to rob her is part of a gang, and his big brother is the head honcho. Elizabeth's life is now in danger, so Ronan takes her to Shiftertown, where she and her younger sister will be safe. He accepts responsibility for her and Mabel. But Elizabeth is hiding something about her past-something that even the Morrisey brothers can't hack, and that worries the shifters. The last thing they need are the Feds breathing down their necks.
These two have more than just the shifter/human relationship to overcome, and the action is intense. There are underground shifter fight clubs, Elizabeth's past catches up with her, and to top it off, Ronan mate-claims her.
One thing I really loved is that Ronan wasn't your typical Alpha male. He was..gentle, and warm, and loving. He had such a soft heart. Ronan, who preferred solitude to crowds, was fostering young bear shifters. He was even helping a hot-head bear through his transition. Ronan was such a wonderful hero. There should be more heroes like Ronan out there.
I love this series, and lately, I've been in a reading funk. This novella was just the thing to pull me out! Hot shifters, a fight club, drug lords, and romance. This story has it all.
Bodyguard is a steal at only $.99, and it's a fantastic addition to the Shifters Unbound series.
http://www.gotfiction.com/bodyguard-b...
November 5, 2018
Originally posted at:
I came across this book because a few people on Goodreads that are in my feed recently re-read a few books in this series and were saying how amazing this series as a whole is. After reading a novella in the series (which in this type of series that feature a different couple in every book should be able to stand alone in my opinion) I don't see what everyone else saw in this book.
This novel (probably because it's a novella in the series) didn't do a good job educating me on how the universe the author built worked. My biggest grievance was with the collars. I wanted to understand how they came to be specifically and how they were built, how long they took to become a necessity. The heroine (for having lived in this world as long as she had) was no help whatsoever. She was just as uninformed as me (the reader) which made her come off as very dense and quite naive.
Ronan was an okay guy. Though he did get overly possessive way too quickly of Elizabeth. Which leads me to something else I disliked about this story: the insta-love. I understand it's a novella, but things getting that "deep" that quickly doesn't work for me.
The ending was rushed and way too easily resolved. Nothing made me feel like anything was a life-or-death situation so it didn't have the emotional impact the author probably wanted. Overall, I would have liked to have had more information on the universe the author created present in this novel, for people like me, who don't always start a standalone book series on the first book.
The Audio Book:
The overall narration was nice, but the story felt like it was missing something which made everything not so good. I will say that there were some words that, to me, were miss pronounced because I'm so used to hearing them spoken one way on tv shows, movies and other book narrations that every time they were said I would cringe a little.
I came across this book because a few people on Goodreads that are in my feed recently re-read a few books in this series and were saying how amazing this series as a whole is. After reading a novella in the series (which in this type of series that feature a different couple in every book should be able to stand alone in my opinion) I don't see what everyone else saw in this book.
This novel (probably because it's a novella in the series) didn't do a good job educating me on how the universe the author built worked. My biggest grievance was with the collars. I wanted to understand how they came to be specifically and how they were built, how long they took to become a necessity. The heroine (for having lived in this world as long as she had) was no help whatsoever. She was just as uninformed as me (the reader) which made her come off as very dense and quite naive.
Ronan was an okay guy. Though he did get overly possessive way too quickly of Elizabeth. Which leads me to something else I disliked about this story: the insta-love. I understand it's a novella, but things getting that "deep" that quickly doesn't work for me.
The ending was rushed and way too easily resolved. Nothing made me feel like anything was a life-or-death situation so it didn't have the emotional impact the author probably wanted. Overall, I would have liked to have had more information on the universe the author created present in this novel, for people like me, who don't always start a standalone book series on the first book.
The Audio Book:
The overall narration was nice, but the story felt like it was missing something which made everything not so good. I will say that there were some words that, to me, were miss pronounced because I'm so used to hearing them spoken one way on tv shows, movies and other book narrations that every time they were said I would cringe a little.
July 20, 2012
I really liked this I only wished that it was longer and more in depth. It would have been nice to have more interaction with the others sharing the household with Ronan. I loved little Olaf he was adorable and I would like to see more of him as he ages!!! Elizabeth and Ronan are good together and I hope that we will get updates on them in future stories..
January 18, 2016
Ronan was such a sweet, cuddily bear of a guy. Just loved him. Ronan happened to be in the right place at the right time to save Elizabeth from certain death. But the save has some far reaching consequences that could effect Elizabeth's life. Now does she take the offer of Ronan's protection, a tall shifter bear with the gentliest deep brown eyes on the planet or take her sister and run for their life? Ronan on the other hand has had his eyes on Elizabeth for awhile and felt that hopefully fate was shining his way. Also, Ronan is fostering three young changling bears, is Elizabeth going to want to take a chance on love with a shy shifter-bear with a big heart and a bigger capacity to love. The whole time Elizabeth was deciding whether she could love Ronan or not, in my heart I was screaming pick me Ronan, pick me...I can. :-) The was a wonderful installment to JA's shifter series. Ronan wasn't your typical alpha male shifter and the book was all the better for it. Not that I don't like my alphas, this was just a nice change of pace. I love the glimpses of some of our future reads??? Maybe???
January 23, 2012
This story was so much fun to read, a lot of that was due to Ronan, he makes me want to find my very own bear shifter. I loved that right away he was protective of Elizabeth, that as an acquaintance he did what he could to stop her from being robbed and killed. Of course all of this lead to Elizabeth hiding away in Shiftertown, being protected by them all. Being human, Elizabeth, had her eyes opened about Shifters.
I loved how Ronan seemed to be the foster home of choice for damaged bears. It left him with a house full of "cubs", who were both high maintenance and very loveable. When you heard their stories you couldn't help but have your heart break, Olaf especially.
I loved how all of the shifters kept coming to Elizabeth's defense even when things took a turn even worse. Things in the end finally came to a head and Elizabeth had to take a leap of faith to get what she has always wanted.
I loved how Ronan seemed to be the foster home of choice for damaged bears. It left him with a house full of "cubs", who were both high maintenance and very loveable. When you heard their stories you couldn't help but have your heart break, Olaf especially.
I loved how all of the shifters kept coming to Elizabeth's defense even when things took a turn even worse. Things in the end finally came to a head and Elizabeth had to take a leap of faith to get what she has always wanted.
August 20, 2016
As reviewed on Read Our Lips:
Elizabeth gets saved from a robbery in her store and a sure death when shifter Ronan brings out his Kodiak bear and stomps on the thug.
This good deed doesn´t go unpunished, of course, when the hooligans big brother turns out to be the mob boss of the town. Now Elizabeth is in need of a more permanent bodyguard and Ronan sure is up to the quest.
Shifters, alpha males and capable women. Love this series and i´m going back to read the first ones asap.
Elizabeth gets saved from a robbery in her store and a sure death when shifter Ronan brings out his Kodiak bear and stomps on the thug.
This good deed doesn´t go unpunished, of course, when the hooligans big brother turns out to be the mob boss of the town. Now Elizabeth is in need of a more permanent bodyguard and Ronan sure is up to the quest.
Shifters, alpha males and capable women. Love this series and i´m going back to read the first ones asap.
July 4, 2024
Sweet novella in Dark and Deadly boxed set. Huge bear shifter doing what he does best, protecting his family and the h. She's being threatened by a gang and he wants to keep her. She's wants to stay too, but she has secrets about her not so good past, and it catches up with her. Loved this H, he's a big softie who can't help but care for lost souls. He adored her.
November 25, 2020
2020: While this is still a good read, for me, I don't think it held up quite as well since the first time I read it. 3 stars
2011 review:
A fun and wildly charming hero! - 4 stars
2011 review:
A fun and wildly charming hero! - 4 stars
July 9, 2013
4/5/ 4 stars; A-
Enjoyed Ronan and Elizabeth's story.
Enjoyed Ronan and Elizabeth's story.
April 29, 2015
3.5 stars. Really liked all the characters and the story line.
December 22, 2011
OMG! I want an Alaskan Kodiak Bear so badly!
This is a way cute story! The first one I've read of this series - but I already see a few people that have been mated - probably from other books, so I should probably start from the beginning next :)
Awesome story! This story is about Elizabeth and Ronan -
When the book starts off, Elizabeth is being held at gun point by a big time gang member. The store is all she and her sister has, so giving up the cash meant giving up a lot more - Luckily the guy robbing the store didn't see Ronan in the back of the store. He was out trying to find a birthday present for a friend - in fact, he didn't think Elizabeth knew he was in the store either. It was late, and she it was close to closing time.
When she handed the money out of the cash register over to the guy, he asked for the money in the safe. Which was in the office at the back of the store.
As the guy grabbed her arm making her whimper from pain, Ronan vowed the guy was going to pay for that.
Silently he took off his books and pants and just as they reached the office, Ronan shifted into the biggest Kodiak Bear - and he was furious. This guy came in the store without a mask on his face, knowing he was going to kill Elizabeth anyways, Ronan silently stepped in behind the man and swiped at the gun. The gun went off just grazing his arm. Ronan then swiped at the man’s face with his big claw, and the man went down...
Walking over to the girl, still in Bear form, The collar on his neck was always uncomfortable in this form, but before he could shift, she sprayed him with pepper spray -
The bear blinks, drew back, blinked again, sat down on his hind legs and rocked his head all the way back. Then he Sneezed.
I LOVE bear shifters! lol
Well if it wasn't as if Elizabeth was afraid of the bear, he did save her life after all, but the way the collar was making him feel, she thought he was still in attack mode -
Once Elizabeth called the police, they came in, and put Ronan in handcuffs .. WHAT!?!? He tried to save her! But in this series, being a shifter isn't a big deal, in fact, it was illegal for a Shifter to hurt a human, and to kill a human resorted in death.
Didn't matter that he was helping her out, only the judge would be able to declare him not guilty.
He asked her to call the "shifter's" lawyer (Kim) and tell her what happened.
Elizabeth met Ronan at the police station, and spoke in behalf of him at his trial. Luckily she was able to convince the judge that he was inosent. He got sentenced to house arrest, but otherwise was free to go.
While in the courtroom, Elizabeth got a call from her sister saying there was a bunch of men at the door with guns trying to get in . Shifter hearing, Liam (Kim's mate) had taken Elizabeth's phone, told her sister to hide and his men would be there in 10 seconds to take care of the problem. Then hung up and made his call.
True to his word, his men took care of the men outside the building and brought Elizabeth's sister Mabel to Ronan's house where they would be safe.
That's where they met the rest of the family - The Sifter's are only allowed to live in "sifter town" where they all live happily ever after by species.
Ronan is the eldest in the bear house , living with Rebecca, a Kodiak Bear from his own clan, which made her his cousin, and off limits to mating - thank goodness :)
Then we meet Scott , a black bear shifter who was going to the pains of his Transition. Cherie, a grizzly bear, then Olaf - the only Polar Bear in shifter town who was only 9 years of age.
When Elizabeth agreed to stay the night in order to make sure the guy's friends didn't come back to finish her off, she knew it was only a matter of time until they did.
But Elizabeth had it rough as a kid, growing up in foster care, she knew how to take care of herself and her sister. She knew she couldn't rely on anyone to help out with her problems, so the best thing to do was to face her problems head on.
The next morning, Ronan TOLD Elizabeth how it was going to be.. they would stay there while the shifters took care of the problem.. HA! like that was going to sit well with Elizabeth. If he shop didn't open, they lost money.
But when Ronan found out that the kid who robbed her was Julio Marquez. The brother of the leader of one of the hardest gangs in Huston. and since she saw his face, she was a threat...
As feisty as she was, Ronan would only meet her half way. He would become her bodyguard at work, and watch over her to keep her safe.
When the situation had moved beyond the attempted robery and into wider realms, things start to get intense.
This was a really cute book - I love the shifter's side of this story. Elizabeth realizes that the shifters are really in control of the state, not the humans, and things can change at any given time. But the shifters CHOOSE to remain civilized.
Ronan is the sweetest, most caring man that is just as massive as the bear. There is something special about him that makes you just want to squeeze into his massive arms and not let go :)
Love this story - I can't wait to read the rest of the series :)
This is a way cute story! The first one I've read of this series - but I already see a few people that have been mated - probably from other books, so I should probably start from the beginning next :)
Awesome story! This story is about Elizabeth and Ronan -
When the book starts off, Elizabeth is being held at gun point by a big time gang member. The store is all she and her sister has, so giving up the cash meant giving up a lot more - Luckily the guy robbing the store didn't see Ronan in the back of the store. He was out trying to find a birthday present for a friend - in fact, he didn't think Elizabeth knew he was in the store either. It was late, and she it was close to closing time.
When she handed the money out of the cash register over to the guy, he asked for the money in the safe. Which was in the office at the back of the store.
As the guy grabbed her arm making her whimper from pain, Ronan vowed the guy was going to pay for that.
Silently he took off his books and pants and just as they reached the office, Ronan shifted into the biggest Kodiak Bear - and he was furious. This guy came in the store without a mask on his face, knowing he was going to kill Elizabeth anyways, Ronan silently stepped in behind the man and swiped at the gun. The gun went off just grazing his arm. Ronan then swiped at the man’s face with his big claw, and the man went down...
Walking over to the girl, still in Bear form, The collar on his neck was always uncomfortable in this form, but before he could shift, she sprayed him with pepper spray -
The bear blinks, drew back, blinked again, sat down on his hind legs and rocked his head all the way back. Then he Sneezed.
I LOVE bear shifters! lol
Well if it wasn't as if Elizabeth was afraid of the bear, he did save her life after all, but the way the collar was making him feel, she thought he was still in attack mode -
Once Elizabeth called the police, they came in, and put Ronan in handcuffs .. WHAT!?!? He tried to save her! But in this series, being a shifter isn't a big deal, in fact, it was illegal for a Shifter to hurt a human, and to kill a human resorted in death.
Didn't matter that he was helping her out, only the judge would be able to declare him not guilty.
He asked her to call the "shifter's" lawyer (Kim) and tell her what happened.
Elizabeth met Ronan at the police station, and spoke in behalf of him at his trial. Luckily she was able to convince the judge that he was inosent. He got sentenced to house arrest, but otherwise was free to go.
While in the courtroom, Elizabeth got a call from her sister saying there was a bunch of men at the door with guns trying to get in . Shifter hearing, Liam (Kim's mate) had taken Elizabeth's phone, told her sister to hide and his men would be there in 10 seconds to take care of the problem. Then hung up and made his call.
True to his word, his men took care of the men outside the building and brought Elizabeth's sister Mabel to Ronan's house where they would be safe.
That's where they met the rest of the family - The Sifter's are only allowed to live in "sifter town" where they all live happily ever after by species.
Ronan is the eldest in the bear house , living with Rebecca, a Kodiak Bear from his own clan, which made her his cousin, and off limits to mating - thank goodness :)
Then we meet Scott , a black bear shifter who was going to the pains of his Transition. Cherie, a grizzly bear, then Olaf - the only Polar Bear in shifter town who was only 9 years of age.
When Elizabeth agreed to stay the night in order to make sure the guy's friends didn't come back to finish her off, she knew it was only a matter of time until they did.
But Elizabeth had it rough as a kid, growing up in foster care, she knew how to take care of herself and her sister. She knew she couldn't rely on anyone to help out with her problems, so the best thing to do was to face her problems head on.
The next morning, Ronan TOLD Elizabeth how it was going to be.. they would stay there while the shifters took care of the problem.. HA! like that was going to sit well with Elizabeth. If he shop didn't open, they lost money.
But when Ronan found out that the kid who robbed her was Julio Marquez. The brother of the leader of one of the hardest gangs in Huston. and since she saw his face, she was a threat...
As feisty as she was, Ronan would only meet her half way. He would become her bodyguard at work, and watch over her to keep her safe.
When the situation had moved beyond the attempted robery and into wider realms, things start to get intense.
This was a really cute book - I love the shifter's side of this story. Elizabeth realizes that the shifters are really in control of the state, not the humans, and things can change at any given time. But the shifters CHOOSE to remain civilized.
Ronan is the sweetest, most caring man that is just as massive as the bear. There is something special about him that makes you just want to squeeze into his massive arms and not let go :)
Love this story - I can't wait to read the rest of the series :)
April 15, 2012
Meet Olaf. He's a cute, traumatised 9-year-old polar bear cub struggling to master English, his second language.
His past is so sad it brought out my maternal instincts, especially when he was too scared to sleep alone. And he's not the only vulnerable character in Ronan's informal foster home for abused bears. There are three others. Ronan's Papa Bear act is surprisingly sweet. He's a gentle giant who works as a bouncer, exuding a fierce and dangerous demeanor as a bulky 7ft shifter. His gentle treatment of Scott, who's in the midst of transition (shifter puberty) is a violently erratic mess, is heart-melting.Goldilocks Elizabeth isn't unaffected by this. She's an ex-resident of foster homes herself and knows just how bad they can be but the love she feels in Ronan's home encourages her trust of him. Understandably, due to her childhood and romantic past trusting someone is something she never wants to do again.
The romance didn't do it for me but the foster home deal did. I was disappointed that not all of the abused bears' stories were told in enough detail to satisfy my curiosity. I was hungry for more information on their histories, the resulting effects and how they'd grown since coming under Ronan's care. I even wanted more Olaf despite him getting the most page time.
I recommend all Shifter Unbound fans read this novella because it fills in some informational gaps on, for example, transition and shifter-human cubs, with a brief introduction to Kim and Liam's 3-month-old baby, Katriona Sinead Niamh Morrissey.
Favourite Quote
His past is so sad it brought out my maternal instincts, especially when he was too scared to sleep alone. And he's not the only vulnerable character in Ronan's informal foster home for abused bears. There are three others. Ronan's Papa Bear act is surprisingly sweet. He's a gentle giant who works as a bouncer, exuding a fierce and dangerous demeanor as a bulky 7ft shifter. His gentle treatment of Scott, who's in the midst of transition (shifter puberty) is a violently erratic mess, is heart-melting.
The romance didn't do it for me but the foster home deal did. I was disappointed that not all of the abused bears' stories were told in enough detail to satisfy my curiosity. I was hungry for more information on their histories, the resulting effects and how they'd grown since coming under Ronan's care. I even wanted more Olaf despite him getting the most page time.
I recommend all Shifter Unbound fans read this novella because it fills in some informational gaps on, for example, transition and shifter-human cubs, with a brief introduction to Kim and Liam's 3-month-old baby, Katriona Sinead Niamh Morrissey.
Favourite Quote
'Elizabeth brought her hand up, aimed the can of pepper spray at his face, and gave him a full dose. The bear blinked, drew back, blinked again, sat down on his hind legs, and rocked his head all the way back. Then sneezed.
The noise exploded into the room like a sonic boom, vibrating papers on the desk and rattling the Victorian prints on the wall in their prim and proper frames.'
January 7, 2016
I liked this book a lot. Trust issues are big for Elizabeth. One night at her shop she getting robbed by a drug sellers little brother. With a gun put in her face and the money being taken, she has had enough. But Elizabeth is not the only one in the store a shifter is their also looking for an chance to save her life. Ronan in saving her life gathers her problems as well. So at the end of this robbery Elizabeth and Mabel her sister are put in the shifter town for protection. And Elizabeth sees how these special people live, but the question now is can she trust them with her past? and can she learn to love Ronan the way she wants to and trust again?
December 11, 2011
A nice addition to the Shifters Unbound series. A little low on the steam, but an interesting story about one of my favorite characters, Ronan. Who wouldn't enjoy a real live "teddy bear", and hot one at that, to be your bodyguard?! That's what Ronan offers Elizabeth and more, lots more. It was fun to see her fall for him, and learn about the unique residents of Shiftertown. What I really enjoyed was the inclusion in the plot, and updates on characters from the previous books. Liam, Sean, Dylan, Connor, Ellison...all those yummy shifters together, WOW, I can't wait for the next one.
November 30, 2011
Nice addition to the Shifters Unbound world. Wish it had been longer but only because I really like this series, not because the story felt incomplete. Loved Ronan the Kodiak shifter. And it was nice to see a non Morrissey story. Not that I haven't loved both Liam's and Sean's stories. I can't wait until Wild Cat comes out. :-(
November 22, 2011
I enjoyed this book like I enjoyed all the rest of the books in this series. If you're a lover of shape-shifters this is the book for you. We all need to have a hot bear in our life. I'm just glad that I don't have to wait long until the next book.
May 30, 2012
I seriously loved Ronan! Liam is still my favorite from this series but Ronan is #2 for me. Elisabeth was perfect for him. I wish the story was longer cause I could read about him for a long time and not get bored.
December 16, 2011
Aaaawwww...i loved this!! I love Ronan! I love this series! Looking forward to book 3! :)
December 8, 2014
Great story. I forgot I had this in my e-books. Loved it. I love Ronan and Elizabeth's relationship. Can't wait to see what happens with Olaf. Very good book/very good series.
September 14, 2016
Ronan es un osito dulce.
November 6, 2021
What made this one work so well for me was that, as a novella, it was completely character-driven. It still had a lot of plot, but it wasn't as distracting and was tied into the romance really well. I also am just a sucker for bear shifters--like yes, a tiny polar bear cub as a charming side character, where do I sign on forever????
Elizabeth Chapman is a human, rescued by Ronan, the big soft bear shifter who works at the bouncer at the Morrissey's bar, during an armed robbery. We know Ronan from the first two books, and he isn't a natural paranormal hero, so I was so excited to see he got a book. When it turns out that the robber is the brother of a notoriously violent gang leader, Elizabeth has to move into Shiftertown temporarily with her little sister for protection while they await trial. But obviously she falls into sweet, sweet love with our big bear. What I love about Ronan is how soft he is--he isn't super dominant, just sweet, caring, and protective. A big ol' cinnamon role. It made for a nice change after the super-alpha Morrissey brothers in Books 1 and 2. There's lots of intrigue with Elizabeth's past--a scary ex boyfriend--and with the gang attempting to scare her off of testifying, but it is all tied into the main action. I just really like a bodyguard romance, so this was a slam dunk for me.
Elizabeth Chapman is a human, rescued by Ronan, the big soft bear shifter who works at the bouncer at the Morrissey's bar, during an armed robbery. We know Ronan from the first two books, and he isn't a natural paranormal hero, so I was so excited to see he got a book. When it turns out that the robber is the brother of a notoriously violent gang leader, Elizabeth has to move into Shiftertown temporarily with her little sister for protection while they await trial. But obviously she falls into sweet, sweet love with our big bear. What I love about Ronan is how soft he is--he isn't super dominant, just sweet, caring, and protective. A big ol' cinnamon role. It made for a nice change after the super-alpha Morrissey brothers in Books 1 and 2. There's lots of intrigue with Elizabeth's past--a scary ex boyfriend--and with the gang attempting to scare her off of testifying, but it is all tied into the main action. I just really like a bodyguard romance, so this was a slam dunk for me.
July 4, 2017
I think bears are in my top five of favorite shifters. They are so gruff, strong and protective. Ronan doesn't disappoint me. He's exactly what I like in a bear shifter. He has taken in the young bears of the town and is raising them.
Elizabeth owns a store that is pretty popular with the Austin Shiftertown. Not many stores allow shifters inside. It is a great thing that Elizabeth does, otherwise she wouldn't have had a bear in her store when a punk tries to rob her.
Unfortunately the little punk thief is the brother of a gang leader, who decides he is going to get Lizzy and Ronan for putting him in jail. Ronan is very protective, so he takes Lizzie and Mabel, Lizzy's sister to Shiftertown to keep them safe.
Ronan's place sounds so homey. He has all the bears that have nowhere to go living there. Even an absolutely adorable little polar bear.
Ronan and the others from Shiftertown work to try and make Lizzy safe at her store. Ronan does not want her alone. Eventually pieces all start falling together and Lizzy's past finally catches up to her.
I loved Ronan. He has a huge heart while at the same time being incredibly protective. I don't know who wouldn't fall in love with a shifter like that. He's amazing!
The ending had kind of a twist, where Lizzy's past comes to grab her, and the reason she was robbed in the first place is revealed. Ronan takes on the battle for Lizzy, to free her from her monsters. They make such a cute couple and Ronan even accepting Mable to live with them in Shiftertown was great.
Bodyguard is a great novella, giving us good action, along with some great romance, in a short amount of time. I loved it and am so glad I didn't skip this as I do a lot of novellas.
The Series
This review was originally posted on Rantings of a Reading Addict
Elizabeth owns a store that is pretty popular with the Austin Shiftertown. Not many stores allow shifters inside. It is a great thing that Elizabeth does, otherwise she wouldn't have had a bear in her store when a punk tries to rob her.
Unfortunately the little punk thief is the brother of a gang leader, who decides he is going to get Lizzy and Ronan for putting him in jail. Ronan is very protective, so he takes Lizzie and Mabel, Lizzy's sister to Shiftertown to keep them safe.
Ronan's place sounds so homey. He has all the bears that have nowhere to go living there. Even an absolutely adorable little polar bear.
Ronan and the others from Shiftertown work to try and make Lizzy safe at her store. Ronan does not want her alone. Eventually pieces all start falling together and Lizzy's past finally catches up to her.
I loved Ronan. He has a huge heart while at the same time being incredibly protective. I don't know who wouldn't fall in love with a shifter like that. He's amazing!
The ending had kind of a twist, where Lizzy's past comes to grab her, and the reason she was robbed in the first place is revealed. Ronan takes on the battle for Lizzy, to free her from her monsters. They make such a cute couple and Ronan even accepting Mable to live with them in Shiftertown was great.
Bodyguard is a great novella, giving us good action, along with some great romance, in a short amount of time. I loved it and am so glad I didn't skip this as I do a lot of novellas.
The Series
May 2, 2021
This is my second Jennifer Ashley book, another book from the same series but again read out of order. I loved this book! It started off with Elizabeth having a gun pointed at her and being robbed at her store. What a great first page to read. I was hooked from there. Ronan, is such a sweet guy that you are immediately rooting for him to win Elizabeth over despite her trust issues. Throw in that Ronan is a shifter and you have lots going on in this short book. I really need to read this series in order! I can't wait to read more.
June 26, 2024
A romance novella in this unique shifter series. It's been ages since I read any of the others, and it stands alone no problem, as the author has taken time with the plot and has really plotted out this world. Thete are some steamy romance scenes after a slow burn start and an interesting back story. There's hunky shifters, bad guys and fight scenes.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 429 reviews