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Contego Agency
Guarding Hope
After being injured on the battlefield, Daniel Escobar is forced to leave the Marines and try to find his place in the civilian world. He ends up back in his hometown of Detroit working for a personal security agency where he finds a new purpose in life when he is given the job of protecting Hope, the only woman he’s ever truly loved, from the mob. Hope Walker can’t believe it when she finds out Daniel is her bodyguard. She’s searched for him for years, wanting to know why he left her after that terrible night back in high school. But the sweet boy she loved with all her heart is long gone and she barely recognizes the dangerous, tormented man that he has become. For both Daniel and Hope the old memories and emotions come rushing back, and together they will have to fight to stay alive long enough to give their love a second chance.
255 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 5, 2013
6 people are currently reading
112 people want to read
About the author
Ann Mayburn
95 books1,973 followersAnn is Queen of the Castle to her wonderful husband and three sons in the mountains of West Virginia. In her past lives she's been an Import Broker, a Communications Specialist, a US Navy Civilian Contractor, a Bartender/Waitress, and an actor at the Michigan Renaissance Festival. She also spent a summer touring with the Grateful Dead(though she will deny to her children that it ever happened).
From a young age she's been fascinated by myths and fairytales, and the romance that often was the center of the story. As Ann grew older and her hormones kicked in, she discovered trashy romance novels. Great at first, but she soon grew tired of the endless stories with a big wonderful emotional buildup to really short and crappy sex. Never a big fan of purple prose, throbbing spears of fleshy pleasure and wet honey pots make her giggle, she sought out books that gave the sex scenes in the story just as much detail and plot as everything else-without using cringe worthy euphemisms. This led her to the wonderful world of Erotic Romance, and she's never looked back.
Now Ann spends her days trying to tune out cartoons playing in the background to get into her 'sexy space' and has learned to type one handed while soothing a cranky baby.
From a young age she's been fascinated by myths and fairytales, and the romance that often was the center of the story. As Ann grew older and her hormones kicked in, she discovered trashy romance novels. Great at first, but she soon grew tired of the endless stories with a big wonderful emotional buildup to really short and crappy sex. Never a big fan of purple prose, throbbing spears of fleshy pleasure and wet honey pots make her giggle, she sought out books that gave the sex scenes in the story just as much detail and plot as everything else-without using cringe worthy euphemisms. This led her to the wonderful world of Erotic Romance, and she's never looked back.
Now Ann spends her days trying to tune out cartoons playing in the background to get into her 'sexy space' and has learned to type one handed while soothing a cranky baby.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 15, 2013
Ann Mayburn has done it again! I have been a fan of hers for a long time. She is able to provide a perfect balance great characters you love and steamy sex scenes. "Guarding Hope" lives up to her standard wonderful read.
Daniel Escobar is a former Marine working with other Marine Buddiesat the Contego Agency providing security. He is surprised to find his new client is his high school girlfriend. He has carried a torch for her for years, but they were broken up by her father's lies.
Hope Walker is running a shelter for abused women and children to escape bad situations. After helping a mob boss's wife, her life is in danger. She must rely on a man that she has been in love with since high school that she thinks abandoned her.
Ann Mayburn sets up a perfect situation here with star crossed lovers, danger, and hot sex. The characters in the book are an interracial couple, but that does not distract from the story. You get drawn into Daniel's and Hope's story. I found myself rooting or them and wanting them to talk about the past and get through the lies that have been told. You can literally feel their attraction for each other come off the pages. The electricity between them sizzles. Their are times where they are trying to escape danger and get away from the mob boss that you can't read fast enough. The action is fast past and made my palms damp with anticipation.
As we met the Marine buddies, we can see how the other stories will get to build around them. I cannot wait to read Boden's story.
Daniel Escobar is a former Marine working with other Marine Buddiesat the Contego Agency providing security. He is surprised to find his new client is his high school girlfriend. He has carried a torch for her for years, but they were broken up by her father's lies.
Hope Walker is running a shelter for abused women and children to escape bad situations. After helping a mob boss's wife, her life is in danger. She must rely on a man that she has been in love with since high school that she thinks abandoned her.
Ann Mayburn sets up a perfect situation here with star crossed lovers, danger, and hot sex. The characters in the book are an interracial couple, but that does not distract from the story. You get drawn into Daniel's and Hope's story. I found myself rooting or them and wanting them to talk about the past and get through the lies that have been told. You can literally feel their attraction for each other come off the pages. The electricity between them sizzles. Their are times where they are trying to escape danger and get away from the mob boss that you can't read fast enough. The action is fast past and made my palms damp with anticipation.
As we met the Marine buddies, we can see how the other stories will get to build around them. I cannot wait to read Boden's story.
October 23, 2013
Some things just seem to work together.
Combining an ex-military/personal security man and a woman in need of those services story line does something to me as a male reader. I don’t know what it is; maybe it’s the damsel-in-distress syndrome that I love, but it’s hot as hell to me.
I think that’s why it drew me to Ann Mayburn’s Guarding Hope. I don’t regret reading this book at all!
Daniel and Hope were together in high school until an incident split them up and they ended up going their separate ways. Danny ended up going into the Marine Corps and Hope ended up becoming a psychologist at a woman’s shelter. Life goes on, of course, until other events conspire to bring them together.
The thing for me as a male reader when it comes to romantic suspense novels is I have to be enthralled with the suspense aspects of the story because I’m not a big romance enthusiast. With Guarding Hope, I got exactly what I wanted, and trust me that is a GOOD thing! There were some aspects that felt true to what I know from former “Jarheads” that are good friends of mine and Ann Mayburn nailed it for me.
Did I forget to mention the deliciously sexy and explicit sex scenes? Being that I write my own explicit scenes in my own books, I can appreciate when someone else writes them as hot and sensual and I-need-to-put-this-book-down-and-ravage-my-wife type of scenes.
I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone that loves hot guys and women who don’t act like they can’t function because a man is around them. I’ll definitely check out more of her work.
-Reviewed by Shakir
Combining an ex-military/personal security man and a woman in need of those services story line does something to me as a male reader. I don’t know what it is; maybe it’s the damsel-in-distress syndrome that I love, but it’s hot as hell to me.
I think that’s why it drew me to Ann Mayburn’s Guarding Hope. I don’t regret reading this book at all!
Daniel and Hope were together in high school until an incident split them up and they ended up going their separate ways. Danny ended up going into the Marine Corps and Hope ended up becoming a psychologist at a woman’s shelter. Life goes on, of course, until other events conspire to bring them together.
The thing for me as a male reader when it comes to romantic suspense novels is I have to be enthralled with the suspense aspects of the story because I’m not a big romance enthusiast. With Guarding Hope, I got exactly what I wanted, and trust me that is a GOOD thing! There were some aspects that felt true to what I know from former “Jarheads” that are good friends of mine and Ann Mayburn nailed it for me.
Did I forget to mention the deliciously sexy and explicit sex scenes? Being that I write my own explicit scenes in my own books, I can appreciate when someone else writes them as hot and sensual and I-need-to-put-this-book-down-and-ravage-my-wife type of scenes.
I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone that loves hot guys and women who don’t act like they can’t function because a man is around them. I’ll definitely check out more of her work.
-Reviewed by Shakir
July 24, 2013
***ARC***This is my first interracial romance read I have to say that I LOVED it!! What is there not to love about finding your true love. Once I started reading I couldn't put it. It was one of those "one more chapter" reads. And the last page...PRICELESS...lol I will be adding this series to my TBR and when book#2 comes out it will be bumped to the top.
December 3, 2013
Cute read. I like the fact the herione was not damaged, I mean the hero had enough realistic issues to deal with. They were high school sweethearts whose parents and life got in the way of. If you ever wondered what happened to that crush in high school or that guy/girl you were to scared to ask out I think you will find this one nice.
no-thank-you
September 19, 2018"She was one of the biker club's sluts. Normally, Daniel wouldn't use that word, but these bitches would open their legs for anyone friendly with the club, and it showed. [...] Still, they were females so he did his best to respect them even if they didn't respect themselves."
Oh, yes, I totally see how thinking of them as sluts and bitches is respectful. I have no interest in an HEA for this jackass.
Oh, yes, I totally see how thinking of them as sluts and bitches is respectful. I have no interest in an HEA for this jackass.
September 24, 2017
This story was included at the back of Bulldog's Girls (gotta love a 2fer). How I never fell across this series amazes me. One of my favorite romance tropes right here. The characters have stuck with me, and I'm definitely going to read another.
September 25, 2017
Interesting story.
October 10, 2017
3.5 stars
August 4, 2013
Daniel 'Danny' Escobar is a former Marine, now bodyguard with Contego Agency, all ex Marines. He was almost blown up by a suicide bomber which turned him into a war hero and his injury led him to permanently resigning from active duty. His shitty chilhood with an addict for a mother and his past mistakes made him into the hotheaded and guilt-ridden man.
Daniel and Hope were high school sweethearts until Daniel put her life in danger and wanted nothing to do with her anymore after she got engaged to someone else while he was in military bootcamp. At least that's what they both have been led to believe.
Hope Walker is a psychologist at a women's shelter. Danny was her first love and now when she's in need of protection because of a mob hit put out on her he returns into her life. Hope is stubborn and compassionate and believes in the good she does with her shelter. I found Danny's reaction to Hope's place of work a bit excessive. I understood his aversion to shelters but to me it was too easily used as the trigger for the conflict between Danny and Hope. To be honest I thought he was being unreasonable about it and didn't get why he was so upset and ready to put all the blame on himself and make it all about him without getting all the facts first. Hope is actually trying to make sure kids under her care don't have to suffer what he went through.
I love it when I try a new-to-me author, start reading and before I know it I'm halfway through the book. This is what happened to me with Ann Mayburn's GUARDING HOPE. I answered to a call for reviewers for this book because when I read the premise, blurb and an excerpt I felt this would be a book I'd like. And I really did. Not in the least because of Mayburn's agreeable and crisp writing. Her voice and style are perfectly suited for this I/R romantic suspense with a reunion romance trope. Once I started reading I couldn't stop and whenever I had to (pesky EDJ) I couldn't wait to get back to it.
In romantic suspense it's hard to find the balance between the romance and the suspense plot but Ann Mayburn nailed it. And on top of that she writes amazingly sexy love scenes. Explicit and laced with primal need they are exactly the sex scenes I love to read. I loved the dynamics and dialogues between Danny and his friends, Boden and Omar. Despite the trashtalking that they use as a coping mechanism you feel they would go through hell and back for each other. I look forward to the stories of these friends and hope they have their own books in the future.
In short: this first encounter with Ann Mayburn's writing was a big success and I have another author to add to my ever-growing favorites list.
Fave Scene:
- the guys doing tequila shots with hot sauce in it > priceless! What a way to introduce your hero and his friends
- the escape from Hope's house > I didn't realize I was holding my breath until I finished the scene!
- the shower scene at the safe house > holy smokes that was hot!
- the scene with Rebecca and Danny > so sweet! Kids in romance novels are my weakness
Fave Quotes:
Well, that settled it. She was an idiot, a masochistic fool who couldn’t wait to throw her heart back into the emotional food processor that was Danny.
She stopped so abruptly he ran into her, then stumbled back just as quickly. After glancing up and down the hall to make sure no one was around, she poked a finger into his chest. “Look, you don’t want to be here and I don’t want you here, but if you say or do one damned thing to upset anyone here, I swear to god, I will rip your balls off and shove them up your nose.”
Hope crawled over to Boden and a bright wave of relief washed through him as he reaffirmed that she was alive and in once piece. She placed her hand on his cheek. “Open your eyes, pretty boy. I want to see those baby blues.”
Boden smiled and said in a weak voice, “Only if you show me your tits.”
Hope gave a startled laugh and leaned back. “I thought you were dying. You survive this and I’ll find someone to show you their tits. I’m afraid if I did it Danny would shoot you.”
Daniel and Hope were high school sweethearts until Daniel put her life in danger and wanted nothing to do with her anymore after she got engaged to someone else while he was in military bootcamp. At least that's what they both have been led to believe.
Hope Walker is a psychologist at a women's shelter. Danny was her first love and now when she's in need of protection because of a mob hit put out on her he returns into her life. Hope is stubborn and compassionate and believes in the good she does with her shelter. I found Danny's reaction to Hope's place of work a bit excessive. I understood his aversion to shelters but to me it was too easily used as the trigger for the conflict between Danny and Hope. To be honest I thought he was being unreasonable about it and didn't get why he was so upset and ready to put all the blame on himself and make it all about him without getting all the facts first. Hope is actually trying to make sure kids under her care don't have to suffer what he went through.
I love it when I try a new-to-me author, start reading and before I know it I'm halfway through the book. This is what happened to me with Ann Mayburn's GUARDING HOPE. I answered to a call for reviewers for this book because when I read the premise, blurb and an excerpt I felt this would be a book I'd like. And I really did. Not in the least because of Mayburn's agreeable and crisp writing. Her voice and style are perfectly suited for this I/R romantic suspense with a reunion romance trope. Once I started reading I couldn't stop and whenever I had to (pesky EDJ) I couldn't wait to get back to it.
In romantic suspense it's hard to find the balance between the romance and the suspense plot but Ann Mayburn nailed it. And on top of that she writes amazingly sexy love scenes. Explicit and laced with primal need they are exactly the sex scenes I love to read. I loved the dynamics and dialogues between Danny and his friends, Boden and Omar. Despite the trashtalking that they use as a coping mechanism you feel they would go through hell and back for each other. I look forward to the stories of these friends and hope they have their own books in the future.
In short: this first encounter with Ann Mayburn's writing was a big success and I have another author to add to my ever-growing favorites list.
Fave Scene:
- the guys doing tequila shots with hot sauce in it > priceless! What a way to introduce your hero and his friends
- the escape from Hope's house > I didn't realize I was holding my breath until I finished the scene!
- the shower scene at the safe house > holy smokes that was hot!
- the scene with Rebecca and Danny > so sweet! Kids in romance novels are my weakness
Fave Quotes:
Well, that settled it. She was an idiot, a masochistic fool who couldn’t wait to throw her heart back into the emotional food processor that was Danny.
She stopped so abruptly he ran into her, then stumbled back just as quickly. After glancing up and down the hall to make sure no one was around, she poked a finger into his chest. “Look, you don’t want to be here and I don’t want you here, but if you say or do one damned thing to upset anyone here, I swear to god, I will rip your balls off and shove them up your nose.”
Hope crawled over to Boden and a bright wave of relief washed through him as he reaffirmed that she was alive and in once piece. She placed her hand on his cheek. “Open your eyes, pretty boy. I want to see those baby blues.”
Boden smiled and said in a weak voice, “Only if you show me your tits.”
Hope gave a startled laugh and leaned back. “I thought you were dying. You survive this and I’ll find someone to show you their tits. I’m afraid if I did it Danny would shoot you.”
September 23, 2013
So I have come to the understanding that books by Ann will more than likely be some of the best ones! I enjoyed this one for so many reasons! BUT let me start by saying jarheads have a special place in my heart and I have to say that she does such an awesome job portraying their wit, and just smack talking! Having been married to a Marine I know first hand how they can be when they are together! I can honestly say that this was another good one! Don't get me wrong she has done a great job of adding in some good steam but at the same time that isn't what this book is all about. There is a good mix of suspense as well as heartache.
I love that you are able to get a connection to almost everyone instantly! Before we get to even meet Hope I already loved all the guys Daniel was with at the bar at the beginning. I found myself reading and not wanting to put it down. I just wanted more, and for me that means something because I have read other books that have to do with Marines and it turns me off because I don't feel like they are portrayed in the way I know them to be. It is honestly hard for me to love a book that doesn't do them justice. Yes they are awesome guys who defend our country and work their asses off, their families sit at home worry and pray that they are safe any time they are away. So I know all that and how it works BUT what people have a hard time getting across...That would be the camaraderie, how they are when they are all together!
As I read I had many different emotions. I laughed more times than not when the guys were together. I hurt and even teared up at a few points. But for me I think what I enjoyed was the suspense of the storyline. I couldn't imagine having to be living in fear that something horrible would or could happen because of trying to do something good for another person.
There is so much to love about this book. The only thing that I wish we got more of was the issue as to why they had their "falling out". It is brought up and we get the gist of it all but I kind of wish we would have gotten more of Hope's dad. Him and Daniel having a face to face moment maybe. To be honest I had thought that some of the reason that her dad didn't like him was because he wasn't African-American. But that wasn't it at all.
I know some people enjoy reading books that have interracial couples, but for me this was like any other book as far as race goes. It wasn't an issue, I forgot at times that she was African-American and he wasn't, until there would be an explanation on how her body looked or whatnot. I kind of wish there was something a little more on that aspect. I know I love reading about a Latina heroine because of language used or mannerisms that just remind me of things I did growing up or things my mom did. So that would be the one and only thing that I can think of that I wish we would have gotten just a little piece of. I mean I would say I am well versed and can carry myself as a lady if need be but piss me off and you can watch the ghetto in me come out. :) In this story there was a moment that I thought for sure she is going to lose it and let that inner "bitch" out. But she really didn't. (not when I thought for sure she would) And it may be because she was raised better than that ;) but I think we all have it in us.
Overall it was a great start to what I am sure will be a good series. I am looking forward to getting more of these guys!
I love that you are able to get a connection to almost everyone instantly! Before we get to even meet Hope I already loved all the guys Daniel was with at the bar at the beginning. I found myself reading and not wanting to put it down. I just wanted more, and for me that means something because I have read other books that have to do with Marines and it turns me off because I don't feel like they are portrayed in the way I know them to be. It is honestly hard for me to love a book that doesn't do them justice. Yes they are awesome guys who defend our country and work their asses off, their families sit at home worry and pray that they are safe any time they are away. So I know all that and how it works BUT what people have a hard time getting across...That would be the camaraderie, how they are when they are all together!
As I read I had many different emotions. I laughed more times than not when the guys were together. I hurt and even teared up at a few points. But for me I think what I enjoyed was the suspense of the storyline. I couldn't imagine having to be living in fear that something horrible would or could happen because of trying to do something good for another person.
There is so much to love about this book. The only thing that I wish we got more of was the issue as to why they had their "falling out". It is brought up and we get the gist of it all but I kind of wish we would have gotten more of Hope's dad. Him and Daniel having a face to face moment maybe. To be honest I had thought that some of the reason that her dad didn't like him was because he wasn't African-American. But that wasn't it at all.
I know some people enjoy reading books that have interracial couples, but for me this was like any other book as far as race goes. It wasn't an issue, I forgot at times that she was African-American and he wasn't, until there would be an explanation on how her body looked or whatnot. I kind of wish there was something a little more on that aspect. I know I love reading about a Latina heroine because of language used or mannerisms that just remind me of things I did growing up or things my mom did. So that would be the one and only thing that I can think of that I wish we would have gotten just a little piece of. I mean I would say I am well versed and can carry myself as a lady if need be but piss me off and you can watch the ghetto in me come out. :) In this story there was a moment that I thought for sure she is going to lose it and let that inner "bitch" out. But she really didn't. (not when I thought for sure she would) And it may be because she was raised better than that ;) but I think we all have it in us.
Overall it was a great start to what I am sure will be a good series. I am looking forward to getting more of these guys!
October 5, 2014
Reviewed by Nadene R.
Book provided by the author for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I am new to Ann Mayburn’s work and so I never knew what to expect. The blurb sounded real exciting and so I thought what do I have to lose from reading Guarding Hope. Well I did lose my much needed sleep, however this was one of the few times when I believed it was absolutely worth it. This was an awesome read that pulled me in from the very first word. This is great start to what appears is going to be an amazing series.
Daniel, the male protagonist, had a troubled childhood that he found difficult to move past thereby affecting his ability to truly give himself wholly and completely to his one true love, Dr. Hope Walker. It was good to see eventually overcome his issues so that he and Hope could build a life together.
Dr. Hope Walker had loved Daniel Escobar since she was a teenager, however a tragic incident led to them being separated and lies further kept them apart. Due to a life changing incident Hope’s life was in danger and this led to Daniel re-entering her life. Daniel being a part of the Contego Agency was tasked with the duty of being her protector, a job which he did not take lightly. I love how hope was able to use her past to steer her future. She had become a successful psychologist running a shelter for battered and disadvantaged women.
The passion between these two was so hot and explosive. Even with the lies that had kept them apart all these years they were unable to resist each other.
The secondary characters helped to make the story even more entertaining. I absolutely loved Boden. He had me in stitches most of the time. He was just so humorous. I can’t wait to read his story.
Guarding Hope, which I consider to be story of enduring love, is filled with action and suspense and has just the right pace. It had me hanging on to the edge of my seat kindle and all. It held me until the end as I was eager to know what was coming next. It was definitely good to the last drop.
My advice to all those reading this review who, are lovers of romantic suspense, you need to get yourself a copy of this book and read it. I am sure you will not regret it.
Book provided by the author for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
I am new to Ann Mayburn’s work and so I never knew what to expect. The blurb sounded real exciting and so I thought what do I have to lose from reading Guarding Hope. Well I did lose my much needed sleep, however this was one of the few times when I believed it was absolutely worth it. This was an awesome read that pulled me in from the very first word. This is great start to what appears is going to be an amazing series.
Daniel, the male protagonist, had a troubled childhood that he found difficult to move past thereby affecting his ability to truly give himself wholly and completely to his one true love, Dr. Hope Walker. It was good to see eventually overcome his issues so that he and Hope could build a life together.
Dr. Hope Walker had loved Daniel Escobar since she was a teenager, however a tragic incident led to them being separated and lies further kept them apart. Due to a life changing incident Hope’s life was in danger and this led to Daniel re-entering her life. Daniel being a part of the Contego Agency was tasked with the duty of being her protector, a job which he did not take lightly. I love how hope was able to use her past to steer her future. She had become a successful psychologist running a shelter for battered and disadvantaged women.
The passion between these two was so hot and explosive. Even with the lies that had kept them apart all these years they were unable to resist each other.
The secondary characters helped to make the story even more entertaining. I absolutely loved Boden. He had me in stitches most of the time. He was just so humorous. I can’t wait to read his story.
Guarding Hope, which I consider to be story of enduring love, is filled with action and suspense and has just the right pace. It had me hanging on to the edge of my seat kindle and all. It held me until the end as I was eager to know what was coming next. It was definitely good to the last drop.
My advice to all those reading this review who, are lovers of romantic suspense, you need to get yourself a copy of this book and read it. I am sure you will not regret it.
August 7, 2013
Ann Mayburn just can't stop writing great stories. She gives us another one with Guarding Hope which I hope will be only the first in the Contego Agency series (Ann promises us Boden's story if a bunch of you wonderful readers buy this one.). This one is about Daniel and Hope, two childhood sweethearts who are separated not only by tragic circumstances but by the machinations of others. Years later they are thrown together when Hope's father hires the agency to protect her from a mob boss whose wife she helped escape his abuse. After discovering the truth about what happened years before they are offered another chance at love if the Crime Lord doesn't catch her first.
While I felt some of the background story of how they got separated was a little weak and there was flashback sequence that could have been structured better with in the context of the overall narrative, the story was a powerful and very well written. Ms. Mayburn's heroines are always strong, smart women who take an equal role in the action and whose presence helps the hero to discover hidden depths within himself. Her heroes are also human with their own flaws as well as strengths. The characters in this story are no different. Hope is a strong and powerful and is able to hold her own next to her troubled ex-marine hero. She rescues him as much as he rescues her. I also like that Ann injects humor into the narrative. Sub plots like the activities of Slasher the cat provide many chuckle worthy moments.
While the story is an interracial romance that piece of it takes a back seat to everything else going on. There seems to be no real tension over the fact that the heroine is black and the hero is white and they are involved with each other on anyone's part through out the entire book. Personally I felt this detracted in the way from the realism of the story. It might have made the background story somewhat more believable if the tensions of others over this were a factor in why they were separated. If you don't focus on that, however, the story in and of itself is a fun and exciting ride.
The Contego Agency gets a great beginning, and I'm look forward to #2.
While I felt some of the background story of how they got separated was a little weak and there was flashback sequence that could have been structured better with in the context of the overall narrative, the story was a powerful and very well written. Ms. Mayburn's heroines are always strong, smart women who take an equal role in the action and whose presence helps the hero to discover hidden depths within himself. Her heroes are also human with their own flaws as well as strengths. The characters in this story are no different. Hope is a strong and powerful and is able to hold her own next to her troubled ex-marine hero. She rescues him as much as he rescues her. I also like that Ann injects humor into the narrative. Sub plots like the activities of Slasher the cat provide many chuckle worthy moments.
While the story is an interracial romance that piece of it takes a back seat to everything else going on. There seems to be no real tension over the fact that the heroine is black and the hero is white and they are involved with each other on anyone's part through out the entire book. Personally I felt this detracted in the way from the realism of the story. It might have made the background story somewhat more believable if the tensions of others over this were a factor in why they were separated. If you don't focus on that, however, the story in and of itself is a fun and exciting ride.
The Contego Agency gets a great beginning, and I'm look forward to #2.
August 7, 2013
Just to cut to the chase - you want this book. You want it now. You want to stop what you're reading and read this instead.
I always know that when I buy an Ann Mayburn book, I'm getting quality. Her characters are strong and her storylines are always tight and believable. "Guarding Hope" was no different.
Danny Escobar is a former Marine now working as a security specialist who suffers from PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) relating to a horrid childhood as well as his service in the Middle East. Sounds cliche, right? Yet it's not. I totally related to Danny. Every step of the way, I felt his pain and panic as believable. And while both elements were an integral part of the story, neither was the focus.
Hope Walker is Danny's high school love and the one that got away. She is also now the target of a mob boss who wants revenge/information. Hope made me laugh. She didn't take any crap and she didn't whine about her situation. I prefer my female leads to be strong, adult women. Hope fit the bill perfectly.
Hope's father hires the agency Danny works for to protect her from the mob boss targeting her. The action really takes off from there. As you can imagine, the chemistry between Danny and Hope is off-the-charts from the get go and it pulls you in immediately. I don't want to give anything away, but the shower scene is original, hot enough to burst you in to flames, and detailed enough to make you smile. Every bit of this story kept me glued to the page and I really didn't want to see it end.
I understand that there was some hesitancy regarding this being an interracial story. Frankly, I don't see it. It's a LOVE story. The characters are likable and I don't really think anyone cares what their race was. (Though I will admit that I was tired of hearing Hope's skin described as 'cinnamon'. Once, fine. Twice, okay. More than that becomes repetitive.)
Bottom line - this is a great story filled with believable people. I REALLY want more Contego Agency. You will too.
I always know that when I buy an Ann Mayburn book, I'm getting quality. Her characters are strong and her storylines are always tight and believable. "Guarding Hope" was no different.
Danny Escobar is a former Marine now working as a security specialist who suffers from PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) relating to a horrid childhood as well as his service in the Middle East. Sounds cliche, right? Yet it's not. I totally related to Danny. Every step of the way, I felt his pain and panic as believable. And while both elements were an integral part of the story, neither was the focus.
Hope Walker is Danny's high school love and the one that got away. She is also now the target of a mob boss who wants revenge/information. Hope made me laugh. She didn't take any crap and she didn't whine about her situation. I prefer my female leads to be strong, adult women. Hope fit the bill perfectly.
Hope's father hires the agency Danny works for to protect her from the mob boss targeting her. The action really takes off from there. As you can imagine, the chemistry between Danny and Hope is off-the-charts from the get go and it pulls you in immediately. I don't want to give anything away, but the shower scene is original, hot enough to burst you in to flames, and detailed enough to make you smile. Every bit of this story kept me glued to the page and I really didn't want to see it end.
I understand that there was some hesitancy regarding this being an interracial story. Frankly, I don't see it. It's a LOVE story. The characters are likable and I don't really think anyone cares what their race was. (Though I will admit that I was tired of hearing Hope's skin described as 'cinnamon'. Once, fine. Twice, okay. More than that becomes repetitive.)
Bottom line - this is a great story filled with believable people. I REALLY want more Contego Agency. You will too.
August 7, 2013
If you've been following this blog for awhile, you'll know that I am a huge fan of Ann Mayburn's and never not liked anything she's written. Guarding Hope didn't disappoint! While it's not a 5 Star for me, it's a fabulous book and definitely one to add to your collection!
Hope needs help. She's pissed off a local mafia boss and now needs protection. Little does she know that the local agency has assigned her first love, Daniel, to protect her. There is a lot of anger and emotion between hope and Daniel as they navigate waters they never expected to be in. After years of not seeing each other and thinking the worst, fate tosses them into a sticky situation that could be life and death for each of them.
First, I love books with settings in Detroit ~ being a Detroiter at heart these are always great! Now, Hope and Daniel are characters with a lot of baggage ~ for a variety of reasons. Hope struggles with lost love but she is a brave woman who is a real asset to abused women each and every day. I really admired what she set out to do and how she sticks with it. Daniel faced some nasty things as a Marine, as a child, and still mourns the love he lost with Hope.
I can't really put my finger on a particular reason to give it 4 instead of 5 stars, except it just wasn't as compelling as some. I don't think I got as invested in the characters. Guarding Hope is a well written story with a bit of suspense, a lot of passion, and an overwhelming feeling of good within its pages. I highly recommend it if you are looking for a romance that will keep you on the edge of your seat with characters that don't back down from a fight.
~*~I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way.
The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this novel. ~*~
Hope needs help. She's pissed off a local mafia boss and now needs protection. Little does she know that the local agency has assigned her first love, Daniel, to protect her. There is a lot of anger and emotion between hope and Daniel as they navigate waters they never expected to be in. After years of not seeing each other and thinking the worst, fate tosses them into a sticky situation that could be life and death for each of them.
First, I love books with settings in Detroit ~ being a Detroiter at heart these are always great! Now, Hope and Daniel are characters with a lot of baggage ~ for a variety of reasons. Hope struggles with lost love but she is a brave woman who is a real asset to abused women each and every day. I really admired what she set out to do and how she sticks with it. Daniel faced some nasty things as a Marine, as a child, and still mourns the love he lost with Hope.
I can't really put my finger on a particular reason to give it 4 instead of 5 stars, except it just wasn't as compelling as some. I don't think I got as invested in the characters. Guarding Hope is a well written story with a bit of suspense, a lot of passion, and an overwhelming feeling of good within its pages. I highly recommend it if you are looking for a romance that will keep you on the edge of your seat with characters that don't back down from a fight.
~*~I received a copy of this book to review but I was not financially compensated in any way.
The opinions expressed are my own and are based on my observations while reading this novel. ~*~
October 9, 2013
Guarding Hope Ann Mayburn
Ann Mayburn's authentic writing style and story line of love, faith and sensuality blazes the pages of Guarding Hope.
Ms. Mayburn creative flair continues to manifest itself in Guarding Hope. This novel is a moving one of high school sweethearts who drifted into various tides of life's seas which separates them for ten years. However, they reconnect in somewhat usual circumstances. The characters are as always in Ms. Mayburn narratives are distinctive players who are realistic, intelligent, lovable, often a bit strong-willed and exudes raw sexiness with creative, energetic minds and agility. Ms. Mayburn breathes to life into the members of her cast that are irresistible and hard to ignore/dismiss or discount in any way.
Ms. Mayburn's writing style is always intriguing to me and her prose is never stale or mundane. Ms. Mayburn is a writer that I look forward to reading greedily from start to finish. Her balance of sensuality, romance, mystery and quick fire action makes for a fantastic read.
Hope Walker is a clinical psychologist who aids women who find themselves in unfortunate situations that require them to take refugee in a women's shelter. As you know there are heartbreaking stories behind each individuals' case and Hope assists them in working through each one with an empathetic ear and heart. It would be difficult for me to be Hope as she carries the burdens of the broken women in her mind and soul as she cares for their needs. One of her clients is the wife of a powerful mob and wants Hope's head on a platter for getting involved with his business and how he deals with his wife. The hit has been decreed and Hope is truly in danger.
Ann Mayburn's authentic writing style and story line of love, faith and sensuality blazes the pages of Guarding Hope.
Ms. Mayburn creative flair continues to manifest itself in Guarding Hope. This novel is a moving one of high school sweethearts who drifted into various tides of life's seas which separates them for ten years. However, they reconnect in somewhat usual circumstances. The characters are as always in Ms. Mayburn narratives are distinctive players who are realistic, intelligent, lovable, often a bit strong-willed and exudes raw sexiness with creative, energetic minds and agility. Ms. Mayburn breathes to life into the members of her cast that are irresistible and hard to ignore/dismiss or discount in any way.
Ms. Mayburn's writing style is always intriguing to me and her prose is never stale or mundane. Ms. Mayburn is a writer that I look forward to reading greedily from start to finish. Her balance of sensuality, romance, mystery and quick fire action makes for a fantastic read.
Hope Walker is a clinical psychologist who aids women who find themselves in unfortunate situations that require them to take refugee in a women's shelter. As you know there are heartbreaking stories behind each individuals' case and Hope assists them in working through each one with an empathetic ear and heart. It would be difficult for me to be Hope as she carries the burdens of the broken women in her mind and soul as she cares for their needs. One of her clients is the wife of a powerful mob and wants Hope's head on a platter for getting involved with his business and how he deals with his wife. The hit has been decreed and Hope is truly in danger.
September 11, 2013
I have long been a fan of Ann Mayburn’s BDSM novels but this is the first romantic suspense I have read by her, and I must say she doesn’t disappoint. But then I didn’t believe that she would. She is a master at building characters and story lines that will keep you enthralled. This book is no exception. I suffered a serious case of book hangover after reading it since I couldn’t put it down and was up to the wee hours of the morning reading it.
Hope and Danny were high school sweethearts but split after her father decided to get involved and spread lies to each of them about the other. Danny ran off to the military and changed his name & Hope was never able to find him again. Now years later Hope is in trouble and Danny works for the awesome Contego Agency (a personal Body Guard agency made up of former soldiers). Hope’s father hires Danny to protect her knowing that his daughter never stopped loving the man.
Some scorching sex scenes that will have you blowing smoke off your e-reader and some great action scenes will keep you entirely entertained. So to sum it up this is a fabulous book that you don’t want to pass up. I can’t wait for the next in the series !
Review by Michelle
**free copy provided for honest review**
For more reviews visit welovekink (dot)com
Hope and Danny were high school sweethearts but split after her father decided to get involved and spread lies to each of them about the other. Danny ran off to the military and changed his name & Hope was never able to find him again. Now years later Hope is in trouble and Danny works for the awesome Contego Agency (a personal Body Guard agency made up of former soldiers). Hope’s father hires Danny to protect her knowing that his daughter never stopped loving the man.
Some scorching sex scenes that will have you blowing smoke off your e-reader and some great action scenes will keep you entirely entertained. So to sum it up this is a fabulous book that you don’t want to pass up. I can’t wait for the next in the series !
Review by Michelle
**free copy provided for honest review**
For more reviews visit welovekink (dot)com
July 27, 2013
I really enjoy reading second chance love stories, add that this story was written by Ann Mayburn and you have an awesomely hot love story!
Daniel is newly out of the Marines and starts working for the Contego Agency along with several of his military friends. He is given a new assignment of guarding Hope, his onetime love, but who also crushed that love when she sent him away.
Hope has moved on also, she was in the midst of assisting a mob boss’s wife escape him, and puts herself in danger by doing so. In walks Daniel to provide bodyguard duties.
Their love for each is still there, they just have to let go of lies that were told to separate them. The sexual attraction is very hot and I just kept rooting for them to find a truce so they could make their bed sheets melt. Pick up this story which not only has amazing characters but a feline friend who made me smile every time he was mentioned.
*I received a copy from the author in return for an honest review
Daniel is newly out of the Marines and starts working for the Contego Agency along with several of his military friends. He is given a new assignment of guarding Hope, his onetime love, but who also crushed that love when she sent him away.
Hope has moved on also, she was in the midst of assisting a mob boss’s wife escape him, and puts herself in danger by doing so. In walks Daniel to provide bodyguard duties.
Their love for each is still there, they just have to let go of lies that were told to separate them. The sexual attraction is very hot and I just kept rooting for them to find a truce so they could make their bed sheets melt. Pick up this story which not only has amazing characters but a feline friend who made me smile every time he was mentioned.
*I received a copy from the author in return for an honest review
August 6, 2013
As posted on The Smutty Kitty reviewed by KittyKelly
5 out of 5 Licks
You can probably tell by now that I have become a huge Ann Mayburn fan. Her BDSM is amazing and as you will find with Guarding Hope, her romantic suspense is awesome too! I'm a sucker for a tortured hero and Danny certainly fits that bill. Danny and Hope were young sweethearts, but lies spread by her father after a terrible accident left them torn apart. Her father was attempting to make amends for the past when hiring Danny to protect Hope. Like most stubborn men, Danny tries to fight was is so obviously there between the two of them. They have a seriously hot session on a kitchen counter before being interrupted by Boden, another super sexy agent in the Contego Agency-his story better be next!! This book Is fast paced and the energy level is high throughout. Once I started reading I couldn't put it down. Full of excitement and explosive chemistry, Guarding Hope will leave you purring for more.
5 out of 5 Licks
You can probably tell by now that I have become a huge Ann Mayburn fan. Her BDSM is amazing and as you will find with Guarding Hope, her romantic suspense is awesome too! I'm a sucker for a tortured hero and Danny certainly fits that bill. Danny and Hope were young sweethearts, but lies spread by her father after a terrible accident left them torn apart. Her father was attempting to make amends for the past when hiring Danny to protect Hope. Like most stubborn men, Danny tries to fight was is so obviously there between the two of them. They have a seriously hot session on a kitchen counter before being interrupted by Boden, another super sexy agent in the Contego Agency-his story better be next!! This book Is fast paced and the energy level is high throughout. Once I started reading I couldn't put it down. Full of excitement and explosive chemistry, Guarding Hope will leave you purring for more.
August 6, 2013
I loved this book, it was awesome, amazing and delicious, yep all of those things. Ms. Mayburn creates characters that have a shared painful history and their own histories that shape them. I enjoyed watching two strong characters come together and fall in love again.
Hope Walker is pretty awesome because of the way she fights for what she believes in and the way she fights for Daniel. Daniel is a damaged hero but he’s perfect for her. When these two get together it’s explosive and Ms. Mayburn can definitely write a smoking hot sex scene.
I loved the suspense elements of this story, the made this story great. It was already set up to be a great romance but the suspense made this story all the more interesting and kept me reading until the very last line.
I highly recommend this book for everyone. Really anything Ms. Mayburn writes is a treat and Guarding Hope is a strong new contender for best Ann Mayburn book ever.
Hope Walker is pretty awesome because of the way she fights for what she believes in and the way she fights for Daniel. Daniel is a damaged hero but he’s perfect for her. When these two get together it’s explosive and Ms. Mayburn can definitely write a smoking hot sex scene.
I loved the suspense elements of this story, the made this story great. It was already set up to be a great romance but the suspense made this story all the more interesting and kept me reading until the very last line.
I highly recommend this book for everyone. Really anything Ms. Mayburn writes is a treat and Guarding Hope is a strong new contender for best Ann Mayburn book ever.
February 26, 2014
Have to say that I loved that this book was not just an erotic romance book. It made me think about a variety of issues and that I loved. Don't get me wrong, I love erotic romance but sometimes I want a little bit more and Ann Mayburn delivers that with Guarding Hope. The characters of Hope and her Danny Boy were so real that I felt I was a part of their story. This book has romance, hot sex, star crossed lovers, and an underlying storyline filled with danger and adventure. Loved it and I highly recommend it. Ann Mayburn is onto a winner with this series and I cannot wait to read her next installment.
Reviewed on behalf of
Jezabell Girl & Friends
http://jezabellgirlandfriends.weebly.com
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Reviewed on behalf of
Jezabell Girl & Friends
http://jezabellgirlandfriends.weebly.com
http://facebook.com/jezabellgirlandfr...
August 7, 2013
This was the first interracial book that I've read. I wasn't sure how I would like it, but I wound up loving it! Ann Mayburn really captured my interest and kept me wanting more. Daniel and Hope had such great chemistry. You could feel the passion coming off the pages. The action and story were just as entrancing. I really enjoyed Gaurding Hope and can't wait to read the next book in the series.
**ARC** This was my honest opinion after reading this book.
**ARC** This was my honest opinion after reading this book.
January 25, 2014
I won this one as a contest prize so I wasn't really sure what to expect but it turned out to be a great prize.
Nothing like running into the one you never forgot and the one who shut you out when you needed them the most. But seems the truth isn't what you expect and life deals you a new reality. And in the middle of dealing with this new truth you have to make sure you don't get yourself killed. Great blend of intrigue and romance.
Nothing like running into the one you never forgot and the one who shut you out when you needed them the most. But seems the truth isn't what you expect and life deals you a new reality. And in the middle of dealing with this new truth you have to make sure you don't get yourself killed. Great blend of intrigue and romance.
October 5, 2013
The story Guarding Hope was a funny sweet romance novel to read. The romance between Daniel and Hope started when they were teenagers but because of certain people they are torn apart. The reason you my love this story is Daniel and Hope get a second chance at love and healing old wounds. with a few bumps in the road will they find a way to forgive and find love again?
December 5, 2013
I received a copy of this book from the author to provide a honest review.
This is a story of enduring love that is filled with action and suspense. For the full review visit
http://romancing-the-book.com/2013/10...
This is a story of enduring love that is filled with action and suspense. For the full review visit
http://romancing-the-book.com/2013/10...
August 5, 2013
Ann Mayburn is quickly becoming another favorite author of mine... I LOVED Guarding Hope!!! FULL REVIEW TO FOLLOW
July 13, 2016
This was an exciting cat & mouse read- I enjoyed the complexity of Hope and Danny's characters - the had a ton of chemistry. I also like Boden - I hope there is a follow up novel with his story.
October 19, 2013
Review to come later...highly recommended read!
October 21, 2024
2021 Interracial Romance A to Z Challenge
Round 2
Guarding Hope
Round 2
Guarding Hope
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews