Jake

The Protectors #22

by Teresa Gabelman

After a tragic accident, Jake, former Dark Guardian, not only mourned losing his wife but carried the burden of a secret that only one other living person knew. Confronting that secret was the only way Jake could fight his heavy guilt when a beautiful ballerina dances into his life.

Jessie Reed loves everything about dance, but it didn’t pay the bills. Getting a job working with Nicole Callahan, Jessie is thrown into the VC Warrior and Dark Guardian world where she meets Jake, who saves her life not once, but twice.

Tormented by his feelings for Jessie, Jake still can’t seem to stay away from her, not realizing she had battles of her own. Slowly they build a bond that is shaky at best. As Jake and Jessie fight against the guilt that weighs heavily on them, neither realizes that a message from beyond the grave can give them the freedom of happiness.

Genres: Paranormal, Paranormal Romance, Vampires, Vampire Romance

273 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 28, 2023

About the author

Teresa Gabelman is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the 'Protectors Series.' When not writing about sexy alpha vampires and the women who drive them crazy, she can be found on a lake with a fishing pole/Kindle, at an MMA event, or spending a fun evening with family.

Being a full-time writer has allowed Teresa to connect more with readers, which she loves most about writing. If you find the time, she would love to hear from you!

Website: www.teresagabelman.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Teresa...
Email: tgabelman@live.com

PARANORMAL

THE PROTECTORS/MATES SERIES
(Reading Order)

Damon - Book #1
Jared - Book #2
Duncan - Book #3
Sid - Book #4
Adam - Book #5
Slade - Book #6
A Warrior Wedding - Book #7
Jax - Book #8
Sloan - Book #9
Blaze - Book #10
The Invisible Warrior - Book #11
Ronan - Book #12
Nicole - Book #13
Viktor - Book #14
Tessa - Book #15
A Warrior Christmas - Book #16
Bishop - Book #17
Pam - Book #18
Charger - Book #19
A Warrior Halloween - Book #20
Lana - Book #21
Raven - Book #22
Ryker - Book #23
A Warrior Thanksgiving - Book #24
Angelina - Book #25
Jake - Book #26

LEE COUNTY WOLVES SERIES
Forbidden Hunger - Book #1
Forbidden Seduction - Book #2
Forbidden Desire - Book #3
Forbidden Temptation - Book #4
Forbidden Secrets - Book #5
Forbidden Destiny - Book #6
Forbidden Shadows - Book #7 (Coming Soon)

STONE'S WOLF SANCTUARY
Sanctuary - Book #1
Refuge - Book #2

THE ENFORCER SERIES
Maverick - Book #1
Dusty - Book #2

MAGIC & MAYHEM UNIVERSE
Wicked *itch - Book #1
Sinfully Wicked - Book #2
Blissfully Wicked - Book #3
Wicked Chaos - Book #4
Faithfully Wicked - Book #5
Wicked Relations - Book #6
Charmingly Wicked - Book #7
Wicked Obsession - Book #8
Wicked Endings - Book #9

CONTEMPORARY
Rodeo Romance
Blind Faith

Reviews

[Cathy Campbell Strickland · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW…All the feels and then some
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on July 1, 2023
Teresa Gabelman has once again rocked my world with her latest in The Protectors Series. I was expecting a rollercoaster ride of emotions with Jake but in true Teresa Gabelman fashion…she throws in some sharp twists and turns that you do not see coming until you’re right there…and you can do nothing but hold on for the ride of your life. And she will leave you wanting to ride it again and again. This book made me laugh (the ballet competition still has me laughing), cry (ugly cry), gasp (Jill)…it also made me want to kick some of the VC Warriors in the…nards (LOL). But as always it left me wanting more from this series…and from the small glimpse of what’s coming in the next book…well let’s just say, I’m preparing myself for another emotional ride….and I will love every minute of it.

[Nikki Pearce · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was scared reading Jake’s book. I thought he would brake me. He damn near did. What a ride.
Jake has lost the love of his life. He left the guardians and joined the warriors. Still he can’t let his hurt go. In comes Jessie. She brings out feelings in him, feelings he tries to ignore but is finding it harder everyday. Demons are coming. He needs to be alert. She is a distraction. He will not put her at risk.
Jessie is helping Nicole. She’s new to everything VC but is adapting fast. There is a big pull to Jake, an attraction she is trying hard to fight. She knows he’s hurting. She is put in danger when an old enemy of Jake’s pays a visit.
Catch up with all your favourite warriors and their mates in this sensational addition to the series. I devoured Jake.

[Ireadromancetoescape · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazeballs
Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on June 30, 2023
Well I am not surprised how much I loved Jake and Jesse story Jake had to do a lot of healing before He can go after his true mate.
Again with no surprise the story was written wonderfully that I could feel the emotions.

Jesse was definitely the perfect person for him to be his true mate a strong warrior inside that takes all challenges with Grace and quiet strength.
Along with them we get to see some our favorites Warriors Guardians and Mates. In true Teresa fashion we have laughs, to along with some tears you'll probably shed.
*WORTH IT!!!!

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome, this book has all the feels, be prepared for a rollercoaster. Can't wait for the next installment. KING you made me laugh so hard, Steve the man is off his cake and Jill I will kick ass with you girl.

[Lucinda Shaner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Complete story?

I absolutely love this series, but Jake and Jesse's story just wasn't complete. No build up to their romantic night. It was like sex then end of story, Bam! No closure with Gello. Nothing done about her ex. It just didn't seem finished. The ending just seemed rushed. I felt like I didn't get all the story.

[Denise Napolitano · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely love this series starting from Damon to all the mates and the latest Jake. All the books keep you wanting more. Can’t wait for the next book in this series.

[Sudie Taylor-mask · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sooo, worth the wait. Ms. Gabelmam hits it out over the park once again with this installment of the Protectors . I laughter so hard but cried just as hard . Don't miss this book

[Twinsie Talk Angie J · Rating 4 out of 5]

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Jake, The Protectors book 26 by Teresa Gabelman

I was given this book by the author for an honest review.

I am a big fan of this series. I have loved how Teresa keeps the series fresh by adding new elements IE Witches, demons, etc to the overall arc of the plot. Its not like Supernatural where they were just constantly saving the planet…get me?

We met Jake a few books ago when he was happily getting married/mated to Tracy, the love of his life and mate. When she was murdered, on their wedding day, I was like “Aint no coming back from that” only to discover there is a story for Jake.

Jessie we just met a book or so ago. She is Mitch’s niece. We all love Mitch for the bossy boss of Nicole who runs the social agency helping orphaned children. Jessie has seen Jake a time or two and is thankful he has saved her when she seemed to find trouble. She is also understanding about the loss she knows Jake has had with Tracy. However, she just FEELS something when he is around but certainly, he doesn’t feel that way….right???

I loved this story brings in another villain for the over all story named Gello not to be confused with Jell-O like Steve thinks. LOL Oh Steve. We also see a story for Daniel being percolated along with Jill’s storyline. I am so loving that totally. I want to know what is happening in Teresa’s mind.

What I didn’t love, not that I didn’t love the story was….I missed Jake and Jessie. Yes, they were in the story but I felt like their story was a secondary plot point. I also felt this way about Ryker and Susan. We saw both couples dancing around each other and then boom one chapter they are in love. I know there are many more couples and story lines to keep up with, but I miss the original books where the couple seemed more front and center vs a side story.

Will I continue the series? ABSOLUTELY!! It’s a great series with amazing plot twists and turns. The story never gets old and keeps you entertained 110%.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

********** Contains Spoilers**********

Another amazing addition to the Protectors Series by Teresa Gabelman. This book is about Jessie, Mitch’s niece (Nicole’s boss) and Jake. Wow, this was definitely an emotional roller coaster. Jake, is still grieving the loss of his wife Tracy and feeling so guilty for having feelings for Jessie. Jessie has feelings for Jake but is trying to be respectful of his loss. I thought the chemistry between Jessie and Jake was undeniable, and this was a slow burn book which makes complete sense. I thought that Teresa did their story justice, as well as being really respectful of Tracy and what she meant to Jake. This book also features Jill and the aftermath of nearly dying. She’s been given menial tasks by Sloan, as she hasn’t been put back on roster yet, since Slade hasn’t signed off on her going back to work. It’s fully understandable why she hasn’t been released for duty, but she’s finally been pushed to her limit with having to deal with all the VC Warriors misogynistic bullsh*t and quits.

It’s obvious that her book will be up next, and she has to find her own path. I’m glad that even though Slade is worried as f*ck about her and wants her safe. He respects her too much and doesn’t completely blow up when she tells him about her new job working with Lana and Susan’s team. Yes, he tries to talk her out of it but he listens to her reasoning and just tells her to be careful, and keep in touch. All I can say is Jill’s book is going to be interesting considering the deal she was approached with, and by who during this book. The ballet competition completely cracked me up. Especially with how much King enjoyed himself. I loved the bond formed with Joey, one of Jessie’s ballet students and Jake during this book. I’m really interested in reading the next book. I’d happily read as many books from this series, as well as the Lee County Wolves that Teresa decides to write. I’d definitely recommend this book, series, universe and author to everyone.

[Donna Bossert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well TG did it again! Only this time she made me obsessed over 2 warriors in the same book!
Jake is still coming to terms with his loss, I think it's safe to say we completely understand his pain. Watching a loved one die in front of you is devasting and not something you bounce back from quickly.

The 2nd warrior I am obsessed with, and you'll claim him as your own, is KING. We have met him in Angelinas book but know very little about him.. but in Jakes book he left a very lasting impression and made me almost forget my undying love for Jared.

Jessie is Mitch's niece, I love Mitch and hope 1 day he gets his story told, so when this quiet demure dancer decides she needs some extra money she joins Nicole in rescuing children form bad situations.
Well like we read in Angelinas book a bad situation found Jessie and almost took Jill out in the process!

Jake can not help his need to protect Jessie and trys to fight his feeling towards her but we all know it's going to be a losing battle.

The push and pull between Jessie and Jake while they both try to respect Tracy is heart breaking..
but in true TG fashion she writes their story with such respect that the slow burn is worth it.

Meanwhile Jill is having a really hard time coming to terms with not being put back into the field and is assigned menial jobs such as shopping, cleaning and being a gopher for Sloan that she hits her breaking point and makes a life altering choice.

While all this is going on The Demons are congregating and trying to figure out how to take out their biggest threat The Demon Slayer AKA Daniel!!

TG gives us everything we need but leaves us wanting more so so much more!!
I CAN NOT wait for the next Protectors book!!

[PepperP0t · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jake was still grieving Tracy’s death and though he knew the truth it didn’t stop him from loving her or from getting on with his life. Moving over from DG to VC was one change and Jessie Reed, the little ballerina that helped Nicole with the children was definitely what he wanted for Tracy and what she should’ve been for him.

Jill isn’t released for field work and the guys are being quiet about the reason putting a strain on her relationship with Slade. It becomes a battle of the sexes as Jill looks for a soft place to land. Working an assignment or two with Lana’s group, Jill’s surprised to get a visit from Daniel… he has a message just for her. And that isn’t the only message he’s delivering.

Meanwhile, demoness Gello didn’t stay in the hell Jake sent her, she’s determined he’ll be on her team. In demon news, Lucifer’s releasing demons as quickly as DG’s send them to hell and at least one enterprising dem thinks they have the perfect weapon to destroy Daniel before he gains full range of his demon slayer powers. All that said, this outing was heavily weighted to the romance side of the equation.
Rating: 4.25stars

[Lisa Hammond-ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have every book in this series and absolutely love them all! The characters draw you in and you become invested in them.
This one follows Jake dealing with the loss of his 1st mate Tracy and trying to learn to live again, along the way he meets Jessie ( Mitch's niece) who is a beautiful, ballet dance turn social worker. They have to each deal with their past and decide if their brave enough to give love a chance.
Jill ( who I love) is also prominent in this book ( her story is next ), and all I can say is WOW, did not see that coming, and my heart broke for all that this woman has been through, she has fought all her life to find her place in this world, only to have the rug pulled out from under her. Really I understand why it was happening, but absolutely felt like they all ( but Steve and Adam) let her down. Can't wait for her story. Thanks again Teresa for another wonderful world you pulled me into, Jake was worth the wait and you are a fantastic writer.
*Jake will steal your heart and Jillian will break it.

[Edna Podell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Story is as good as ever, but terrible sentence structure and poor grammar are distracting and pull the reader out of the narrative. Sloppy mistakes that could have been solved with a quick “Spelling and Grammar Check” or Grammarly-type program.
Ex #1: “Sloan would have found you jobs.” Slade countered his voice tinged with frustration.
Should read: “Sloan would have found you jobs,” Slade countered, his voice tinged with frustration.
Ex 2: “You do not have the same mortality as we do and I wish I could change that, but I cannot.”
Solution: There are not differing mortalities. There are different mortality rates. Or, go with Vampires are harder to kill than humans. Also, the un-contacted “cannot” sounds clunky.
I’m not nitpicking a few examples. There are 4-5 glaring errors on every page - so darn annoying! Even self-published books need an editor and proofreader.

[Rachel Stanley · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've loved The Protectors series since I stumbled across it many years ago and most of the books in the series are easily five-star reads, but Jake fell a little flat for me. First of all, there isn't really a complete story told in the book. Secondly, a lot of time is dedicated to other characters - primarily Jill and Sloan, who've already had their HEA but now the author seems to be pulling them apart. And lastly, the grammar in Jake is shocking. I don't usually comment if I spot the odd grammar mistake because no one's infallible, not even authors/editors, but several times throughout Jake the wrong word is used. The book needs a good scrubbing. I still enjoyed it and I will buy the next in the series, but I hope the author takes their time with the next in the series because Jake felt like it had been rushed.

[Shelley C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jake and Jessie😍

It was so nice to immerse myself back in the VC Warrior world, the banter between Steve as always is hilarious and now we have Jinx…who feels like a Steve 2.0.

It was also great to find out a little more about Jake and the secret surrounding his wedding and wife, who died. I loved Jessie, she’s a breath of fresh air in her dealings with Jake and the warriors but also has a spine of steel which she flaunts. I do feel as though their wasn’t much action in this one, almost like the calm before the storm…so intrigued to find out what Jill is up to and what’s on the horizon next❣️

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've been waiting for Jake to get his story, if any warrior deserved to get his HEA It's Jake, especially if you know his history.
I loved finding out more about him he's been a very mysterious and closed off character. I really liked Jessie too, she's strong, independent and sweet and I loved the slow burn between them.

This series still sucks me in with every book. I love the witty dry humour and the easy banter between the characters. I enjoy all the danger, drama and spice that these warriors and guardians never fail to deliver.

I already need more and I'm excited to see what happens next.

I have my eyes on King....I need more of his deliciousness.

[Gloria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good but different

Spoiler Alert I ❤️ love this series I’m always finding myself laughing out loud and waiting for what happens next. Fast read but this book was a heart breaker first Jake and then Jill wow she can’t go out like this why is she the only one being affected by the serum. Nooo not Jill she has to be alright her pride won’t let her stay and not be a warrior. I understand why they don’t want put her at risk but damn what’s a girl to do. QUIT YOU KNOW IT NOW WHAT . I hope the next books is sooner than later I felt like this could have been said in a few chapters not a whole book 📚 but keep ‘em coming I’m gone be waiting for the next one and the next one.

[Alyce Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding!!!!!

You know in some cases when a series of books goes on for so long, they can get dull and boring with the same things repeated over and over again. But that has never been the case with Teresa Gabelman, every book gets better and better and you fall more and more in love with the storyline and characters. I continue to be absolutely gobsmacked by her talent and eternally grateful for the world she creates for us.

If you have never read this series before, I highly suggest you do because it will be a decision you will never regret.

[Rebecca Willsie · Rating 5 out of 5]

quick ending

Loved the story. It wasn’t a Jake story it was a Jill and Jake story. The ending was pretty rushed with Jake’s part and unfinished with Jill’s.
With Jake and Jessie it was up in the air and then bam it wasn’t.
I really do love Teresa Gableman’s stories., so much to all the characters. Steve well he’s the lovable funny Steve . Kings character was pretty funny also. So much going on in this book it really needed a few hundred more pages I think.

[Judy Coates · Rating 5 out of 5]

Teresa Gabelman's books are always a fantastic read and " Jake (The Protectors #22" was exactly that, a fantastic read. I loved all of the protectors books each new one is better than the last one.
Be warned once you start reading, they are really hard to put down until you finish the book.
I don't know what I was expecting with this book, but it wasn't that.
The fated mate thing was a real surprise.

[Pam James · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Emotional Journey
This story took me through all the emotions. Made me laugh out loud! (King, just saying) Made me cry! Made me angry. I am always taken on a journey when I read about these VC Warriors. Jake and Jessie's story is so good, you will not want to put it down. From a True Forever Fan... Pam James

[Yetunde Monz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Unsatisfactory

I love Teresa Gabelman and this series is still as funny and interesting as the very first one. I however think Jake was cheated out of a good book here. You really couldn’t tell if the book was about Jake or a revisit of Jill. I feel like something good was missed here. The ending is also not up to the usual standard. It feels rushed but as a reader you’re expecting to turn the next page.

[Theresa Coronado · Rating 5 out of 5]

And then there was Jake......

Teresa, this book was totally awesome.
I like that you covered so many different story lines. Each book you write in this series seems to be a continuous from the last one which I love.. And damn it was so funny in some parts . Did shed a few tears in a few parts also...

[Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really, really need the next one!

Ok, so, I previously said this, but it remains true.... this series just keeps getting better and better... I love the interplay between the varying characters and look forward to more as this one can not seriously be the last... there are too many unresolved threads

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

What can I say about this book. Teresa does it again. Her books are always filled with a lot of action. I always want to read her books over and over again. As usual, I can’t wait for the next book. Please Teresa keep them coming

[Lori Glenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

So happy.

I love this series. I really like this author a lot I have read most everything she has put out, but this series is one of my favorites. I wish the books came out faster but can't wait for the next one. A true fan. Debra R

[Susan Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another brilliant warrior book

Well Teresa Gableman has done it again! Once I started this book I couldn't put it down. Slade has always been my favourite warrior but Jake has become my second. This is a must read. Can't wait for Jill's book.

[Ellen · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am disappointed with this one. First off why are we getting Jill and Sloan this is Jakes book. The build up with Jake and Jessie is not there, and the ending seem off. There was a lot left unresolved.

[Jodi King · Rating 5 out of 5]

Never disappointed

I have read all of the Protectors Series and can never get enough. I read them and get to the end and feel like I’m lost until the next one comes out. I also enjoy her other books as well. Absolutely one of my favorite authors!!

[Mg Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

One true mate

Exciting and action packed Teresa Gableman always delivers a swoon worthy reading experience with hot alpha males and the strong women who love them with a good easy to follow storyline.