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I ran from my cruel fiancé...and found myself in the arms of three powerful shifters.When I throw myself at the mercy of the Ringmaster in No Man's Land, I'm only seeking temporary refuge. A place to hide from the corruption and death that waits for me back home. Three months. That's all I have until the protection the circus provides me expires. My bodyguards? Three shifters who look at me like they want to eat me for dinner. They want my body. My heart. And even as the attraction I feel for them is stronger than anything I've ever felt, neither of those are mine to give. Not anymore. The past I'm running from still holds me captive. But in the arms of my protectors, I've never felt more free.
378 pages, Hardcover
First published July 31, 2023
566 people are currently reading
1599 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Wayne
84 books694 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author of steamy PNR and fantasy romance.
Ever since my grandmother first handed me a Nora Roberts novel, I KNEW I wanted to write romance.
I love love. Crave it. For me, genre doesn't matter as long as there is a beautifully epic love story woven into the storyline.
Which is exactly why I chose to write across so many genres. Paranormal, fantasy, contemporary, suspense...no matter which of my books you choose you always know what you're getting: a love story for the ages.
And before I was an author, I was a reader! Please be sure to follow me here, or add me as a friend! I love to connect!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
November 12, 2023
This was such fun trash!!! It was fairly insta-lovey, but I honestly didn’t mind because the MMCs were all so obsessed with the FMC that it was adorable. Circus setting was also an interesting change to usual.
Men who are simps >>>
Men who are simps >>>
October 4, 2024
The audiobook narrators were phenomenal! My only complaint was that the male narrator spoke more slowly than the female one. (I didn't feel like switching the audiobook speed every time the POV changed, so I just got used to it.)
Funny quote:
"I'm going to throat-punch you both."
"Now that's downright swoony."
Funny quote:
"I'm going to throat-punch you both."
"Now that's downright swoony."
September 16, 2023
R͎e͎a͎d͎ ͎d͎a͎t͎e͎:͎ 9•15•23 - 9•16•23 (12:00 AM)
R͎a͎t͎i͎n͎g͎:͎ 5 stars
O͎w͎n͎e͎d͎ ͎s͎i͎n͎c͎e͎: September 1st 2023
P͎u͎r͎c͎h͎a͎s͎e͎d͎ ͎a͎t͎:͎ Goodwill
P͎r͎i͎c͎e͎:?? 99¢
LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS BOOK!!!
I want more from these characters 😊😊🫣
R͎a͎t͎i͎n͎g͎:͎ 5 stars
O͎w͎n͎e͎d͎ ͎s͎i͎n͎c͎e͎: September 1st 2023
P͎u͎r͎c͎h͎a͎s͎e͎d͎ ͎a͎t͎:͎ Goodwill
P͎r͎i͎c͎e͎:?? 99¢
LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS BOOK!!!
I want more from these characters 😊😊🫣
July 30, 2023
Do you like the "Why Choose" trope?
What about shapeshifting MMC?
A kickass FMC?
And when all this is mixed with a circus atmosphere?
Then you must read this.
A girl runs away from her boyfriend's abuse, desperate for help. And there's a man who can give it to her. She runs straight into the Ringmaster's territory to get a place to hide and a job contract as a guarantee.
But first she has to get it past her hunters. Somehow she does, and crashes into the Ringmaster's security--three lion shapeshifters.
The bond is instant--mates bound by destiny--, but she can't allow herself to trust men again.
With the contract signed, she thinks everything will be okay. But hunters are making their way to her and danger is closer than ever.
She has three months to find a way to fix herself and not fall in love with the lion shapeshifters.
A lot of secrets to look over her shoulder, a lot to lose.
Don't miss this book!
What about shapeshifting MMC?
A kickass FMC?
And when all this is mixed with a circus atmosphere?
Then you must read this.
A girl runs away from her boyfriend's abuse, desperate for help. And there's a man who can give it to her. She runs straight into the Ringmaster's territory to get a place to hide and a job contract as a guarantee.
But first she has to get it past her hunters. Somehow she does, and crashes into the Ringmaster's security--three lion shapeshifters.
The bond is instant--mates bound by destiny--, but she can't allow herself to trust men again.
With the contract signed, she thinks everything will be okay. But hunters are making their way to her and danger is closer than ever.
She has three months to find a way to fix herself and not fall in love with the lion shapeshifters.
A lot of secrets to look over her shoulder, a lot to lose.
Don't miss this book!
July 17, 2023
This was a really fun and entertaining read, it had a great story that kept you hooked , I loved the setting of the circus, it really fit in, especially with lion protectors , who are amazing, they’re definitely alpha males but ones who show Shay what she’s worth in life, when she doubts herself.
Fantastic.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Fantastic.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 12, 2023
I read this book in one sitting and it was 🔥🔥🔥. I absolutely adored every page. The steam, the shifters, the sass... Fantastic!
July 12, 2023
Protect Me is a standalone addition to the Vices and Virtues series and OMG! Grab. This. Book!!! Do not miss out on it! I've not read D's story, but I'm wishing that I had because anything with a circus...yeah, I'm on-board especially when it comes to the paranormal and romance angle. LOL!
Sway is on the run. Her fiance has plans for her that she's just no on board with. Thing is? Things got really nasty this last time and she did the only thing she could - run. No Man's Circus is in "no man's land." If she can get accepted inside - she'll be safe. But only briefly. All she needs is time, but she's not expecting to fall for three gorgeous lion shifters who call the circus home.
I ate this book up! I wasn't expecting it to sweep me away that it does, but boy howdy! The minute the authors gave us lion shifters - I couldn't have been happier. LOL! And there's a butterfly shifter in this story?! Only briefly mentioned, but I nearly hit the roof. LOL! I loved it. I want more "rare" species please!!! I'm begging! LOL!
Sway is a complex character. She's been hurt, and she has a ton of secrets. I get it. But forewarned is forearmed. Her refusing for so long to tell the guys anything at all gets to be frustrating. Especially when she wants others to reveal their past/secrets to her.
Brace for steamy scenes! I'm glad they take their time happening because it's always great to build things up first.
I couldn't put this book down. It's so good! I can't wait for more from these authors!
4.5 out of 5 stars
Sway is on the run. Her fiance has plans for her that she's just no on board with. Thing is? Things got really nasty this last time and she did the only thing she could - run. No Man's Circus is in "no man's land." If she can get accepted inside - she'll be safe. But only briefly. All she needs is time, but she's not expecting to fall for three gorgeous lion shifters who call the circus home.
I ate this book up! I wasn't expecting it to sweep me away that it does, but boy howdy! The minute the authors gave us lion shifters - I couldn't have been happier. LOL! And there's a butterfly shifter in this story?! Only briefly mentioned, but I nearly hit the roof. LOL! I loved it. I want more "rare" species please!!! I'm begging! LOL!
Sway is a complex character. She's been hurt, and she has a ton of secrets. I get it. But forewarned is forearmed. Her refusing for so long to tell the guys anything at all gets to be frustrating. Especially when she wants others to reveal their past/secrets to her.
Brace for steamy scenes! I'm glad they take their time happening because it's always great to build things up first.
I couldn't put this book down. It's so good! I can't wait for more from these authors!
4.5 out of 5 stars
September 18, 2023
Protect Me
Sweet and bloody adorable. I enjoyed the story and loved the characters. They were perfect for each other. It was easy to get swept in this romantic tale of suspense, danger, romance, magic, sexy deadly shifters and so much more!
Sweet and bloody adorable. I enjoyed the story and loved the characters. They were perfect for each other. It was easy to get swept in this romantic tale of suspense, danger, romance, magic, sexy deadly shifters and so much more!
July 16, 2023
I loved Sway, Duncan, Bracken and Killian story especially these 3 lions that when they first meet her and there’s a instant attraction there’s also a lot of wondering what happened to her to make her this way, well a lot happened to poor Sway which is why I can overlook some of the things that bothered me about her but all of them together, whew get ready for that one!!!!
December 24, 2024
protect me
This is the second book in the Immortal Vices and Virtues series. This one has a slightly different vibe than the first. While the first was dark, and the female a bad@ss, Sway is a damsel who needed saving. This book is not nearly as dark as the first and I found the bad guy to be a little flat if I’m being honest. All the talk of how big and bad he was and how scared everyone was, I thought him lacking 🤷♀️. I actually thought for sure when they thought him ☠️ he would come back and raise h3ll…. But nope.
*Lion shiifters*
This is the second book in the Immortal Vices and Virtues series. This one has a slightly different vibe than the first. While the first was dark, and the female a bad@ss, Sway is a damsel who needed saving. This book is not nearly as dark as the first and I found the bad guy to be a little flat if I’m being honest. All the talk of how big and bad he was and how scared everyone was, I thought him lacking 🤷♀️. I actually thought for sure when they thought him ☠️ he would come back and raise h3ll…. But nope.
*Lion shiifters*
July 9, 2024
was so excited to see that this story was going to be written. I have been wanting to read about these guys from the very first time they were mentioned, and this book does not disappoint. Killian, Duncan, and Bracken are all amazing men, and Sway is the perfect person for them. Once she let's them in, there is no stopping them.
I absolutely love this world and I look forward to more. This book will draw you in and not let you go. It is so much fun going back to the big top
I absolutely love this world and I look forward to more. This book will draw you in and not let you go. It is so much fun going back to the big top
April 10, 2024
Love
Love the immortal vices and virtues world. Each of these stories is a standalone in the same world with some crossover and this season is all RH
Love the immortal vices and virtues world. Each of these stories is a standalone in the same world with some crossover and this season is all RH
July 11, 2023
Worldbuilding:
We're back in No Man's Circus and meet up with some familiar people, yay!
It was pretty cool seeing more of D and Liv, amongst others (go read "Slay Me" if you're unfamiliar with them... you won't regret it!!).
But yeah, we're in No Man's Land, particularly the circus again for this one, and we're staying for the book's duration. That doesn't mean that the scenery gets stale because there is enough going on to keep you on your toes :D
All scenes and environments are well described and clear, so sit back and enjoy!
Character development:
Sway is running from her fiancé, that is trying to use and manipulate her into hurting others. Finally getting away from him, she runs for the circus. Bloody and on the verge of collapse, she hopes she will be granted asylum there in return for her performances with the silks (omg, I could picture this in my head while reading, I loved it!).
Saying that she has trust issues is an understatement, but something pulls her towards the three lion shifters...
Duncan, Bracken, and Killian are the circus' security team, we've met them before (if I'm correct), but this time, it's their turn to have a woman getting under their skin. Keeping her safe is fast becoming their top priority.
Will Sway be able to overcome her distrust and fear? Will the lions be able to keep her safe?
We learn a bit about the main characters' past throughout the book. They are well-written, feel lifelike, and believable. They aren't perfect, they're broken, and they've done things they're not proud of in the past, but they're trying not to let that get in the way of their happiness.
I hope we get more stories from the other performers in the future!
Pacing and flow:
Yeah, I read this book in one sitting; I was hooked and just wanted to know what happened next :D (it's sneaky like that). Good balance between all the action and the conversations.
The ending felt maybe a bit rushed, with all the build-up towards it, but honestly, it was still very good, and this would be the only thing I can say that might have been improved upon.
The story and the characters were interesting and kept my attention throughout (well, duh, I read it in one go, lol).
The book:
The book was well written with no (noticeable) errors. There are spicy scenes described (if that is important to you). I would rate it 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ out of 5.
It has 297 pages, is spread over 30 chapters, and is told from multiple points of view.
Final thoughts:
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book, and I really enjoyed this story. It was nice to see familiar faces and know how they're doing. Sway and her lions were interesting and fun, even when they were fighting their attraction to each other, knowing it was a lost cause :D I can't wait for the next installment; this series is so good!
We're back in No Man's Circus and meet up with some familiar people, yay!
It was pretty cool seeing more of D and Liv, amongst others (go read "Slay Me" if you're unfamiliar with them... you won't regret it!!).
But yeah, we're in No Man's Land, particularly the circus again for this one, and we're staying for the book's duration. That doesn't mean that the scenery gets stale because there is enough going on to keep you on your toes :D
All scenes and environments are well described and clear, so sit back and enjoy!
Character development:
Sway is running from her fiancé, that is trying to use and manipulate her into hurting others. Finally getting away from him, she runs for the circus. Bloody and on the verge of collapse, she hopes she will be granted asylum there in return for her performances with the silks (omg, I could picture this in my head while reading, I loved it!).
Saying that she has trust issues is an understatement, but something pulls her towards the three lion shifters...
Duncan, Bracken, and Killian are the circus' security team, we've met them before (if I'm correct), but this time, it's their turn to have a woman getting under their skin. Keeping her safe is fast becoming their top priority.
Will Sway be able to overcome her distrust and fear? Will the lions be able to keep her safe?
We learn a bit about the main characters' past throughout the book. They are well-written, feel lifelike, and believable. They aren't perfect, they're broken, and they've done things they're not proud of in the past, but they're trying not to let that get in the way of their happiness.
I hope we get more stories from the other performers in the future!
Pacing and flow:
Yeah, I read this book in one sitting; I was hooked and just wanted to know what happened next :D (it's sneaky like that). Good balance between all the action and the conversations.
The ending felt maybe a bit rushed, with all the build-up towards it, but honestly, it was still very good, and this would be the only thing I can say that might have been improved upon.
The story and the characters were interesting and kept my attention throughout (well, duh, I read it in one go, lol).
The book:
The book was well written with no (noticeable) errors. There are spicy scenes described (if that is important to you). I would rate it 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ out of 5.
It has 297 pages, is spread over 30 chapters, and is told from multiple points of view.
Final thoughts:
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book, and I really enjoyed this story. It was nice to see familiar faces and know how they're doing. Sway and her lions were interesting and fun, even when they were fighting their attraction to each other, knowing it was a lost cause :D I can't wait for the next installment; this series is so good!
July 12, 2023
Original review
This book was provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Jessica Wayne and Heather Hildenbrand!
This book was provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Jessica Wayne and Heather Hildenbrand!
Protect Me
is the second standalone book in the second season of the
Immortal Vices and Virtues: Her Monstrous Mates,
and tells the story of Sway, Bracken, Duncan, and Killian.
I was so excited when I got my hands on another book in the Immortal Vices and Virtues world. I’m such a big fan of this Fantasy Romance series because I love the characters, the world and all the spice! Every book in the first Immortal Vices and Virtues season is about one mate, and every book in the second season is about multiple mates. So the second season is perfect for lovers of Why Choose/Reverse Harem!
Protect Me is the second standalone book, and it was so good! I loved reading in all perspectives, Sway is such a strong character and the men, Bracken, Duncan and Killian are so handsome and sexy. I want a lion shifter for myself! I also really like that the cover has three lions on them, it fits the story so well! Something I also really loved about this book was reading about some characters we met in the first season. Protect Me takes place in the same place as Jessica Wayne’s Slay Me, and we get to read about Liv and Dante again. I really missed them!
Protect Me was another amazing book in the Immortal Vices and Virtues series, and I didn’t expect anything else! All of these books have the perfect amount of romance, spice, banter and action. It was so nice to read about familiar characters and I just couldn’t get enough of Sway, Bracken, Duncan and Killian. I truly enjoyed reading about them, and I’m going to miss them! I’m also already excited for the next book in the Immortal Vices and Virtues: Her Monstrous Mates series because I know I’m going to love it!
July 13, 2023
Welcome back to the circus. Her Monstrous Mates is the second season in the Immortal Vices and Virtues series. Jessica first took us to the circus in Slay Me and now she's back and teaming up with Heather Hildenbrand for the second season with Protect Me. This story centers on a new leading lady but has a lot of the characters we got to know from the previous story.
Sway (love the name) is the mfc, she's a rare supernatural and because of her power, she has been used and abused by so many people that it's hard for her to trust. I loved that she still was able to find good things in life and discover true friendship but at times when it seemed like she was giving in, I did get a little frustrated. She needs help seeing things clearly.
Three brutal lion shifters have set their sites on Sway. Duncan is the leader and has a dominating nature and a need for control. In no way is Bracken gentle but he is the gentlest of the three, the care and attention he gives Sway is the sweetest. Then there's Killian, the playful but open wildcard. The guys all have pasts that changed them making them dark but they each adore Sway even if it took Mr. Control a while to get there. Killian and Bracken were in from the start but Duncan refused to admit his feelings, I wanted to strangle him at timed but boy did he come through. This is most definitely the type of book where the guy(s) have to convince their girl. I loved that while there was obviously an instant connection between Sway and the guys, they were still trying to "woo" her. There was a good balance between angst, steam, and romance.
There were lots of parallels between Sway's story and Liv's (from Slay Me), they were eerily similar so Sway really did have a friend that could understand her. I loved that the characters from Slay Me had good supporting roles and I was able to catch up with them. I was a good way in before finding out what type of supernatural Sway was. I was pleasantly surprised because I've rarely read about them and not only that but the authors highlighted not only the traditional way this particular supernatural use their powers but they also highlighted brand new ways to utilize their abilities, things that I never thought of but now I want more.
Protect Me is a great addition to the IMVaV series. I love that in a way readers got to revisit one story while simultaneously getting a brand-new one. I'm addicted to this series so of course I'm ready for the next one and I'm hoping that more familiar faces continue to pop up.
Sway (love the name) is the mfc, she's a rare supernatural and because of her power, she has been used and abused by so many people that it's hard for her to trust. I loved that she still was able to find good things in life and discover true friendship but at times when it seemed like she was giving in, I did get a little frustrated. She needs help seeing things clearly.
Three brutal lion shifters have set their sites on Sway. Duncan is the leader and has a dominating nature and a need for control. In no way is Bracken gentle but he is the gentlest of the three, the care and attention he gives Sway is the sweetest. Then there's Killian, the playful but open wildcard. The guys all have pasts that changed them making them dark but they each adore Sway even if it took Mr. Control a while to get there. Killian and Bracken were in from the start but Duncan refused to admit his feelings, I wanted to strangle him at timed but boy did he come through. This is most definitely the type of book where the guy(s) have to convince their girl. I loved that while there was obviously an instant connection between Sway and the guys, they were still trying to "woo" her. There was a good balance between angst, steam, and romance.
There were lots of parallels between Sway's story and Liv's (from Slay Me), they were eerily similar so Sway really did have a friend that could understand her. I loved that the characters from Slay Me had good supporting roles and I was able to catch up with them. I was a good way in before finding out what type of supernatural Sway was. I was pleasantly surprised because I've rarely read about them and not only that but the authors highlighted not only the traditional way this particular supernatural use their powers but they also highlighted brand new ways to utilize their abilities, things that I never thought of but now I want more.
Protect Me is a great addition to the IMVaV series. I love that in a way readers got to revisit one story while simultaneously getting a brand-new one. I'm addicted to this series so of course I'm ready for the next one and I'm hoping that more familiar faces continue to pop up.
July 16, 2023
A Steamy, Why Choose Return to No Man’s Circus
Jessica Wayne and Heather Hildenbrand are familiar-to-me authors, so I was extremely happy to see them partner on a story for the second season of Immortal Vices & Virtues (IV&V). These two are a practiced author duo, and their talent and smooth writing blend are showcased in this book. For fans of the IV&V Universe, Protect Me returns readers to No Man’s Circus where we catch-up with old friends and learn more about several minor characters from season one’s Slay Me, also by Jessica Wayne.
Protect Me follows on-the-run, Sway, and the circus’s lion pride, security team (Bracken, Killian, & Duncan). Wayne and HIldenbrand, really put care into developing the multiple leads, fleshing out each individual instead of losing them in the mix. This is especially admirable because the story is a standalone, so there is limited time to really get to know each character. I do have a minor critique of Sway. I know this is a fated mates storyline, but I still find it difficult when a character recovers from an abusive situation as quickly as she does. I think this added to my feelings that most of the book was well-paced, but the ending felt rushed. That said, I again want to acknowledge that a standalone book, by its nature, pushes the pace. Overall, the authors are respectful and tactful of some dark themes, and the characters grew in a mostly realistic manner with a good balance of showing and telling readers about the journey.
A preview of the show:
🎪Length: Novel
🦁Genre: Paranormal, reverse harem romance – shifters, fae, berserkers, etc.
🤸POV: First person, multiple points-of-view (both the male and female main characters)
🎪Age: Adult
🦁Warnings: Language, violence (includes mental and physical abuse in the past), and explicit sexual content
🤸Spice: Hot, hot, hot, on page, detailed, multi-partner loving
🎪Violence: Includes past traumas, torture, and fight/battle scenes
🦁Editing: Great blend of the author’s voices – no noticeable errors
🤸World: Post-supernatural-apocalypse Earth
🎪Series: Immortal Vices and Virtues: Her Monstrous Mates (interconnected, reverse harem, standalones in a shared universe)
🦁Tropes: Fated mates, why choose, on the run, rare supernatural type, who did this to you, touch her and die, family of choice
🤸Ending: Complete, standalone story
🎪Re-read? Yup
Jessica Wayne and Heather Hildenbrand are familiar-to-me authors, so I was extremely happy to see them partner on a story for the second season of Immortal Vices & Virtues (IV&V). These two are a practiced author duo, and their talent and smooth writing blend are showcased in this book. For fans of the IV&V Universe, Protect Me returns readers to No Man’s Circus where we catch-up with old friends and learn more about several minor characters from season one’s Slay Me, also by Jessica Wayne.
Protect Me follows on-the-run, Sway, and the circus’s lion pride, security team (Bracken, Killian, & Duncan). Wayne and HIldenbrand, really put care into developing the multiple leads, fleshing out each individual instead of losing them in the mix. This is especially admirable because the story is a standalone, so there is limited time to really get to know each character. I do have a minor critique of Sway. I know this is a fated mates storyline, but I still find it difficult when a character recovers from an abusive situation as quickly as she does. I think this added to my feelings that most of the book was well-paced, but the ending felt rushed. That said, I again want to acknowledge that a standalone book, by its nature, pushes the pace. Overall, the authors are respectful and tactful of some dark themes, and the characters grew in a mostly realistic manner with a good balance of showing and telling readers about the journey.
A preview of the show:
🎪Length: Novel
🦁Genre: Paranormal, reverse harem romance – shifters, fae, berserkers, etc.
🤸POV: First person, multiple points-of-view (both the male and female main characters)
🎪Age: Adult
🦁Warnings: Language, violence (includes mental and physical abuse in the past), and explicit sexual content
🤸Spice: Hot, hot, hot, on page, detailed, multi-partner loving
🎪Violence: Includes past traumas, torture, and fight/battle scenes
🦁Editing: Great blend of the author’s voices – no noticeable errors
🤸World: Post-supernatural-apocalypse Earth
🎪Series: Immortal Vices and Virtues: Her Monstrous Mates (interconnected, reverse harem, standalones in a shared universe)
🦁Tropes: Fated mates, why choose, on the run, rare supernatural type, who did this to you, touch her and die, family of choice
🤸Ending: Complete, standalone story
🎪Re-read? Yup
July 7, 2023
4.75 stars! Loved this fantastic, spicy, urban fantasy, why choose romance in the Immortal Vices and Virtues universe! Sway is a great character, and her arc and development in this story are fantastic. While she starts the story trying to take control of her own life and escape and abusive relationship, there is a component to her that is pretty broken. She was gaslit and abused for a long time, and her journey to overcome that and become a total bada$$ is pretty great. And the fact that she has three lion shifter mates to protect and boost her along the way, well no one is going to complain about that.
We get to go back to No Man’s Circus for this story, and it’s always an intriguing backdrop for any of these stories, with such a variety and menage of characters and back stories floating around the big top. The found family aspect here is very strong, and one of my favorites. The “who did this to you?” vibe from Sway’s shifter mates, Declan, Killian, and Dylan is absolutely fantastic, while still getting such fantastic and unique personalities from each of them. We also get a wonderful their squishy centers, the way they soften around Sway and how actually cute they get when they contemplate her as their mate. I just absolutely loved the way they each were with her, but also with each other. And when Sway finally gives in and the spice kicks into high gear…..it’s incendiary! And on top of that, we get a great story, with plenty of tension leading to a completely satisfying resolution. As Sway comes into her own with her magic, and finds her place with her mates, everything culminates beautifully.
We also get yet another glimpse into the Ringmaster, D, and Liv’s lives after we got their story in the first series of IVAV, which is just another reason to love these books. Not to mention Nikki and her mates from Covet Me. I love these interconnected but standalone stories, and these little connections are a lot of fun to see pop up.
We get to go back to No Man’s Circus for this story, and it’s always an intriguing backdrop for any of these stories, with such a variety and menage of characters and back stories floating around the big top. The found family aspect here is very strong, and one of my favorites. The “who did this to you?” vibe from Sway’s shifter mates, Declan, Killian, and Dylan is absolutely fantastic, while still getting such fantastic and unique personalities from each of them. We also get a wonderful their squishy centers, the way they soften around Sway and how actually cute they get when they contemplate her as their mate. I just absolutely loved the way they each were with her, but also with each other. And when Sway finally gives in and the spice kicks into high gear…..it’s incendiary! And on top of that, we get a great story, with plenty of tension leading to a completely satisfying resolution. As Sway comes into her own with her magic, and finds her place with her mates, everything culminates beautifully.
We also get yet another glimpse into the Ringmaster, D, and Liv’s lives after we got their story in the first series of IVAV, which is just another reason to love these books. Not to mention Nikki and her mates from Covet Me. I love these interconnected but standalone stories, and these little connections are a lot of fun to see pop up.
January 9, 2025
Good
Sway, Bracken, Killian, and Duncan.
NOTE: We first met the trio of lion shifters in Slay Me, (IV&V book 9); this book, like that one, is set in the Ringmaster’s Circus in No Man’s Land. It is a standalone story, but there are some spoilers in this book for Slay Me, and lots of character cross-overs. Since that book can be hard to find, this is just a warning!
Sway is escaping the abusive relationship she had with her former fiancé when she seeks asylum at the Circus.
Protected by the three lion shifters responsible for security, she is healed and given a three month contract- but is that long enough for her to find a way out of the danger posed by her ex?
Duncan, Bracken and Killian know there is more to Sway’s story than she likes to tell, but they all feel drawn to the mysterious woman, and want to protect her.
Another enjoyable tale in the Immortal Vices and Virtues (IV&V) world, this one brings us back to the Circus in No Man’s Land where we get to see a few familiar faces as well as couple of new ones.
It’s an insta-love story, only at least a couple of the mate group are a little resistant to admitting as much, and there is also the annoying issue of the danger hunting Sway.
With plenty of steamy scenes, as well as a few action scenes, this is an entertaining read for the RH fantasy romance lover, as well as for those who are enjoying the complexity of this multi-author shared universe.
Sway, Bracken, Killian, and Duncan.
NOTE: We first met the trio of lion shifters in Slay Me, (IV&V book 9); this book, like that one, is set in the Ringmaster’s Circus in No Man’s Land. It is a standalone story, but there are some spoilers in this book for Slay Me, and lots of character cross-overs. Since that book can be hard to find, this is just a warning!
Sway is escaping the abusive relationship she had with her former fiancé when she seeks asylum at the Circus.
Protected by the three lion shifters responsible for security, she is healed and given a three month contract- but is that long enough for her to find a way out of the danger posed by her ex?
Duncan, Bracken and Killian know there is more to Sway’s story than she likes to tell, but they all feel drawn to the mysterious woman, and want to protect her.
Another enjoyable tale in the Immortal Vices and Virtues (IV&V) world, this one brings us back to the Circus in No Man’s Land where we get to see a few familiar faces as well as couple of new ones.
It’s an insta-love story, only at least a couple of the mate group are a little resistant to admitting as much, and there is also the annoying issue of the danger hunting Sway.
With plenty of steamy scenes, as well as a few action scenes, this is an entertaining read for the RH fantasy romance lover, as well as for those who are enjoying the complexity of this multi-author shared universe.
July 11, 2023
Sway knew that she was dangerous, and she wouldn’t let anybody control her again. Requesting asylum and hiding among many other non-normal seemed to be her only alternative. She distrusted her fate, and she was full of doubts, however, destiny gave her protectors that offered her much more than she would have expected. But her fears were always present because she seemed not to control her powers and she was sure that danger would come back and try to subdue her, endangering all that was dearest to her. I was curious about Sway's power and the interesting way it worked. The Silks and the Lyra caught my attention. I hadn't read about this before and I was picturing Sway's performance through the descriptions and narrations, and it was something different and beautiful. I also liked the fact that we had Killian, Duncan and Bracken's points of views and more information about their pasts and their motivations. As a supporting character I found Liv's interventions meaningful, emotional, and relevant in helping with Sway's inner conflict. Drama, suspense, strong and conflicting emotions, magic, violence, romance, a lot of passion and the evil and unhinged villain that threatens everyone. This is the second story I've read of the entire Immortal Vices and Virtues series, and I'm hooked up.
July 23, 2023
“It’s hard to see that you’re safe when mentally you’re still wrapped in the nightmare. Sometimes our worst enemy is our own inability to let go and move forward.”
I devoured this book in about 2 hours—it kept me interested, it’s fast-paced and it packs just the right amount of action, drama and angst without getting dull or going overboard. I do recommend this read, though I’d read Covet Me first, if possible, as you’ll understand the world a bit better. (And if you do read Covet Me, there’s a slight spoiler in this one, so I suggest reading in order.)
• Lion shifters.
• Muse
• Circus setting.
• Heroine on the run.
• Dangerous / abusive / power-hungry ex.
• Lots of fight scenes.
• Magic, both dark and otherwise.
• Lots of action.
• Instalove
• Reverse harem.
• Group scenes.
It’s set in the future, but felt like it could take place right now. Not a ton of world-building, but that kept it quick and relatable. Some of the dialogue could be cheesy at times, but it was good most of the time and it even made me laugh aloud once.
Overall, this was good and based on this, I’d read more from Jessica Wayne, who I hadn’t read prior to this book.
4 stars.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
I devoured this book in about 2 hours—it kept me interested, it’s fast-paced and it packs just the right amount of action, drama and angst without getting dull or going overboard. I do recommend this read, though I’d read Covet Me first, if possible, as you’ll understand the world a bit better. (And if you do read Covet Me, there’s a slight spoiler in this one, so I suggest reading in order.)
• Lion shifters.
• Muse
• Circus setting.
• Heroine on the run.
• Dangerous / abusive / power-hungry ex.
• Lots of fight scenes.
• Magic, both dark and otherwise.
• Lots of action.
• Instalove
• Reverse harem.
• Group scenes.
It’s set in the future, but felt like it could take place right now. Not a ton of world-building, but that kept it quick and relatable. Some of the dialogue could be cheesy at times, but it was good most of the time and it even made me laugh aloud once.
Overall, this was good and based on this, I’d read more from Jessica Wayne, who I hadn’t read prior to this book.
4 stars.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
November 7, 2025
#BOOKREVIEW
This is one of those books I bought forever ago, and then let sit on my me shelf for an unreasonable amount of time only to immediately regret it. This book was AMAZING. Everything my little shifter fanatic heart desired. I picked up a personalized Kickstart copy, loving the foiling, edges, and end paper heart. It was fast paced and addictive. Spoilers ahead!! Mate bonds, 3 lion shifters, danger, forbidden power, asylum in a circus 🎪. Everything I needed! The spice was great, open door, reverse harem. The MMC were growly, obsessive, caring, attentive, protective ex mercenaries. 10/10 work! 5 star read!
My top quotes:
“Because I’m going to kill him, Sway. When I find him—and I will find him—he will suffer. There will be pain. And torture. And he’ll beg for death before I give it. So, I need to know, do you love him? Are you going to blame me for all the horrible things I intend to do to the monster who hurt you?”
“I don’t want a transaction. I want to worship you like you deserve to be worshipped.”
“Just because you don’t fear something doesn’t mean it’s not dangerous.”
#paranormalromance
#lionshifter
#reverseharem
#theyfallfirst
#protectivemmc
#whohurtyou
#bodyguardromance
#shesontherun
#hermonstrousmates
#immortalvicesandvirtues
#heatherhildenbrand
This is one of those books I bought forever ago, and then let sit on my me shelf for an unreasonable amount of time only to immediately regret it. This book was AMAZING. Everything my little shifter fanatic heart desired. I picked up a personalized Kickstart copy, loving the foiling, edges, and end paper heart. It was fast paced and addictive. Spoilers ahead!! Mate bonds, 3 lion shifters, danger, forbidden power, asylum in a circus 🎪. Everything I needed! The spice was great, open door, reverse harem. The MMC were growly, obsessive, caring, attentive, protective ex mercenaries. 10/10 work! 5 star read!
My top quotes:
“Because I’m going to kill him, Sway. When I find him—and I will find him—he will suffer. There will be pain. And torture. And he’ll beg for death before I give it. So, I need to know, do you love him? Are you going to blame me for all the horrible things I intend to do to the monster who hurt you?”
“I don’t want a transaction. I want to worship you like you deserve to be worshipped.”
“Just because you don’t fear something doesn’t mean it’s not dangerous.”
#paranormalromance
#lionshifter
#reverseharem
#theyfallfirst
#protectivemmc
#whohurtyou
#bodyguardromance
#shesontherun
#hermonstrousmates
#immortalvicesandvirtues
#heatherhildenbrand
July 16, 2023
Steamy and action packed!
I love this world more and more with each book!! Protect Me is part of the Immortal Vices and Virtues series. Specifically, it's the second season of this series. Season one was M/F and season 2 is RH.
With Protect Me we are back in No Man's Land at D's Circus!! I was curious about his lion shifter bodyguards in season 1 and now we get their story! Duncan, Bracken and Killian!! Wow!!! They are tough, growly, super protective, dark and twisty! And we meet their fated mate- Sway! I loved her!! She's their equal - strong, smart, feisty and someone who refuses to be used. While I loved their instant connection, what I loved even more was the slow burn! Sway has been through so much, and her men recognize and respect this. They would burn the world down for her, but are so patient for her to realize this on her own. They are happy with whatever relationship and gives them. While they are cinnamon rolls for her, they give off the whole "touch her and die" vibe to everyone else. LOVED it!!
And I was so happy to see more of D and Liv! This is a world I could never get enough of!
I love this world more and more with each book!! Protect Me is part of the Immortal Vices and Virtues series. Specifically, it's the second season of this series. Season one was M/F and season 2 is RH.
With Protect Me we are back in No Man's Land at D's Circus!! I was curious about his lion shifter bodyguards in season 1 and now we get their story! Duncan, Bracken and Killian!! Wow!!! They are tough, growly, super protective, dark and twisty! And we meet their fated mate- Sway! I loved her!! She's their equal - strong, smart, feisty and someone who refuses to be used. While I loved their instant connection, what I loved even more was the slow burn! Sway has been through so much, and her men recognize and respect this. They would burn the world down for her, but are so patient for her to realize this on her own. They are happy with whatever relationship and gives them. While they are cinnamon rolls for her, they give off the whole "touch her and die" vibe to everyone else. LOVED it!!
And I was so happy to see more of D and Liv! This is a world I could never get enough of!
July 30, 2023
i’m back to writing bullet points of things i don’t like about the books i read…
- PLS stop having mmcs get turned on two seconds after the fmc goes through something traumatic it’s so ridiculous and it happened so much in this book like it almost made me dnf bc it kept happening in the beginning
- the relationship started to build way too quickly considering what she had just gone through like why was she kissing them literally hours after she arrived covered in bruises and cuts from escaping her abusive fiancé
- there were a lot of contradictions - ex. when duncan comes to visit sway the first time (after she fell in the shower) he says she’s wearing an oversized shirt but in the next chapter sway says she’s naked bc she never put on any clothes after the fall
- the smut and a lot of the dialogue was cringey (especially the shit they were saying during the fight with robert lmao)
- this is a me thing and it didn’t impact my rating at all but i hate when the guys in a rh have been with the same woman in the past and the fmc isn’t the first woman they share
overall it wasn’t bad but i was expecting a lot more
- PLS stop having mmcs get turned on two seconds after the fmc goes through something traumatic it’s so ridiculous and it happened so much in this book like it almost made me dnf bc it kept happening in the beginning
- the relationship started to build way too quickly considering what she had just gone through like why was she kissing them literally hours after she arrived covered in bruises and cuts from escaping her abusive fiancé
- there were a lot of contradictions - ex. when duncan comes to visit sway the first time (after she fell in the shower) he says she’s wearing an oversized shirt but in the next chapter sway says she’s naked bc she never put on any clothes after the fall
- the smut and a lot of the dialogue was cringey (especially the shit they were saying during the fight with robert lmao)
- this is a me thing and it didn’t impact my rating at all but i hate when the guys in a rh have been with the same woman in the past and the fmc isn’t the first woman they share
overall it wasn’t bad but i was expecting a lot more
July 8, 2023
Oh I loved this book! Set in the Ringmasters circus from Slay Me, Protect Me picks up a few months after Slay me ends.
Sway is running for her life, broken and beaten she makes it to the circus where Duncan, Killian and Bracken the lion shifter pride find her. With nowhere safe for her to go she signs a 2 month contract with The Ringmaster and soon finds that Lions can be very determined and the circus is a family that looks after it’s own.
The whole book is well written and has a lovely flow to it. It is written from all 4 of the mc’s perspective and I love knowing what the other characters are thinking and seeing how quickly and completely these bad boy shifters fall for Sway. The chemistry between them is incredible and there is plenty of spice and extra large beds required!
This is the second release from the Immortal Vices and Virtues - my monstrous mates series. They are standalone books but characters and events from other books are mentioned and pop up so I would recommend reading them in release order.
Sway is running for her life, broken and beaten she makes it to the circus where Duncan, Killian and Bracken the lion shifter pride find her. With nowhere safe for her to go she signs a 2 month contract with The Ringmaster and soon finds that Lions can be very determined and the circus is a family that looks after it’s own.
The whole book is well written and has a lovely flow to it. It is written from all 4 of the mc’s perspective and I love knowing what the other characters are thinking and seeing how quickly and completely these bad boy shifters fall for Sway. The chemistry between them is incredible and there is plenty of spice and extra large beds required!
This is the second release from the Immortal Vices and Virtues - my monstrous mates series. They are standalone books but characters and events from other books are mentioned and pop up so I would recommend reading them in release order.
July 18, 2023
I absolutely loved the dive back into the IVV world! This second "season" has been amazing so far and Sway's story is no different. I love her character + the overall development throughout her story. She is strong, and when we first meet her, she is wanting to escape an abusive relationship and take back control over her own life. She has been in such a low place for so long that she is bruised and almost broken.
Her and her mate's story is set in No Man's Circus, and if you've read the other IVV books, you know this makes for an interesting 'world'. Back to her mates, Killian, Dylan & Declan are Lion Shifters, ugh they're so good for and to Sway. I liked that even though she's gone through so much, we see her grow but it doesn't fully focus on that part of her story. We also get plenty of fun times when she breaks those walls down, and it is GOOD.
I also liked that we saw a few characters come back into the world we love from previous books! But if you've never read anything from the IVV world, you won't be lost at all and now you've got a backlog to read!
Her and her mate's story is set in No Man's Circus, and if you've read the other IVV books, you know this makes for an interesting 'world'. Back to her mates, Killian, Dylan & Declan are Lion Shifters, ugh they're so good for and to Sway. I liked that even though she's gone through so much, we see her grow but it doesn't fully focus on that part of her story. We also get plenty of fun times when she breaks those walls down, and it is GOOD.
I also liked that we saw a few characters come back into the world we love from previous books! But if you've never read anything from the IVV world, you won't be lost at all and now you've got a backlog to read!
July 5, 2023
The circus is here to entertain not only with beauty but with danger. The dynamic between the lion shifters Killian, Bracken, and Duncan is down right comical at times. They truly are like brothers in the way that they will pick at one another but they would also fight to the death for each other. Sway meets all these me when she runs from the man that wants to only use her power for his own personal gain and he doesn't care at what cost to Sway that he gets it. The circus in no man's land offers her the protection she needs but it is only temporary or at least that is what she keeps telling herself. Don't let them know who is after you, don't get attached and above all don't let anyone know what your true power is. The only problem she doesn't count on is these lions digging their claws into her heart and she doesn't want to let them go, but how can she keep them and protect them from the man who might just kill her.
July 6, 2023
This was a such a good paranormal romance standalone story. There will definitely be characters in this story that you will love and hate. Sway is trying to seek asylum in No Man's Circus hoping it will offer her some protection in exchange for performing. She has to keep her power a secret as there are those that are willing to use her for them or kill her trying. Killian, Duncan, and Bracken whom I love, are protective of Sway from the moment they find her bruised, scared and battered. They are caring, charming and funny and they swear to Sway that they will keep her safe. Time is not on their side as enemies are looking for Sway and threats are everywhere. This story was filled with mystery, suspense, betrayal, revenge, laughs, love, romance, friendships, family, steamy scenes and more. I wished there was an epilogue at the end because even though I enjoyed the story, I thought the ending was a bit rushed. However, I do look forward to reading more books from this author.
July 10, 2023
This is such a great story!! Paranormal RH Romance with Lion Shifters! I guess I should have read Slay Me first, but I didn’t feel as though I missed anything. But now that I’ve been introduced the the Ringmaster’s Circus of paranormals, I’m hooked!! I need more of this world, so I’m definitely reading Slay Me next!!!
Sway is the FMC and she is such a great character!! She has been abused in so many ways and has run away to seek protection at the circus. There she is taken in and helped by a healer and protected by three gorgeous Lion Shifters! I loved them all, with their horrible pasts and their broken, damaged minds. The Ringmaster took them in and gave them family and a place to heal, as he has many others. But it is Sway that truly helps them to heal.
Such any awesome world filled with so many great characters!! I hope we get more stories in this world!! Highly recommend if you love RH Paranormal Romance, Shifters, and lots of spice!!
Sway is the FMC and she is such a great character!! She has been abused in so many ways and has run away to seek protection at the circus. There she is taken in and helped by a healer and protected by three gorgeous Lion Shifters! I loved them all, with their horrible pasts and their broken, damaged minds. The Ringmaster took them in and gave them family and a place to heal, as he has many others. But it is Sway that truly helps them to heal.
Such any awesome world filled with so many great characters!! I hope we get more stories in this world!! Highly recommend if you love RH Paranormal Romance, Shifters, and lots of spice!!
July 11, 2023
I waited patiently for the second book in this shared world and wasn't disappointed at all. Devoured the book in two days - only because I had to work... Sway ran for her life to flee her abusive so-called fiancee, and steers herself to the No-Mans-Land and the Circus, where she manages - despite her shaken up state - to get herself asylum for three months. Her three bodyguards seam to want her and it get's clear throughout the book - for more than just her body.
But her ex doesn't give up, so throughout the book, there are suspenseful situations where you hold your breath and can't wait for the situation to get resolved... All mixed up with increasingly steamy moments between Sway and her three lion shifters that makes it a pleasure to read. The final encounter at the end just about takes your breath away, but the happy end for Killian, Duncan and Dylan with their Sway is worth the nail biting!
But her ex doesn't give up, so throughout the book, there are suspenseful situations where you hold your breath and can't wait for the situation to get resolved... All mixed up with increasingly steamy moments between Sway and her three lion shifters that makes it a pleasure to read. The final encounter at the end just about takes your breath away, but the happy end for Killian, Duncan and Dylan with their Sway is worth the nail biting!
July 11, 2023
I loved what was given, but feel there was room for so much more. One of the biggest issues with RH is letting us get to know enough about everyone. More often than not, it is very difficult to pull off with one book.
Maybe it is because I was very much looking forward to our Lions, that I set the bar to high. For me the guys mostly blended together and their personalities were not very distinguishable. We were more told the differences between them, as opposed to being shown.
I would have also liked to see more involving Sway's power.
It just feels like so much was left on the table, their relationship developing ect. She was there for three months and it was over in the blink of an eye. It just felt rushed.
That being said I still devoured what was offered and was completely sucked in.
Protect Me is completely worth the read and you get to revisit the Circus again and characters we already know and love!!!
Maybe it is because I was very much looking forward to our Lions, that I set the bar to high. For me the guys mostly blended together and their personalities were not very distinguishable. We were more told the differences between them, as opposed to being shown.
I would have also liked to see more involving Sway's power.
It just feels like so much was left on the table, their relationship developing ect. She was there for three months and it was over in the blink of an eye. It just felt rushed.
That being said I still devoured what was offered and was completely sucked in.
Protect Me is completely worth the read and you get to revisit the Circus again and characters we already know and love!!!
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