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Isthmus Alliance #2
Unexpected Protector
Everyone makes mistakes in life. Unfortunately, Holly Richards has become an expert at taking the wrong path in life. This time, she may have gone so far that she has alienated the one person who has always been there for her. Will she be able to make the right decision for once in her life?
Tommy Reed’s world shifted the night he found Holly Richards lying in a pool of blood on the ground. For reasons he can’t explain, he feels the need to protect Holly from her own past. In the process, he’s hoping to also teach her that there is more to D/s than releasing pent up emotions.
Life isn’t easy for the former-junkie and the cop. Some of those closest to Tommy are less than thrilled with his devotion to Holly. Those who pressured Holly into her former life are worried she’ll share what she knows. Is there any way for both of them to come away from the situation unscathed?
Tommy Reed’s world shifted the night he found Holly Richards lying in a pool of blood on the ground. For reasons he can’t explain, he feels the need to protect Holly from her own past. In the process, he’s hoping to also teach her that there is more to D/s than releasing pent up emotions.
Life isn’t easy for the former-junkie and the cop. Some of those closest to Tommy are less than thrilled with his devotion to Holly. Those who pressured Holly into her former life are worried she’ll share what she knows. Is there any way for both of them to come away from the situation unscathed?
235 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 26, 2013
13 people are currently reading
925 people want to read
About the author
Sloan Johnson
26 books836 followersSloan Johnson is a big city girl trapped in a country girl’s body. While she longs for the hustle and bustle of New York City or Las Vegas, she hasn’t yet figured out how to sit on the deck with her morning coffee, watching the deer and wild turkeys in the fields while surrounded by concrete and glass.
When she was three, her parents received their first call from the principal asking them to pick her up from school. Apparently, if you aren’t enrolled, you can’t attend classes, even in Kindergarten. The next week, she was in preschool and started plotting her first story soon after.
Later in life, her parents needed to do something to help their socially awkward, uncoordinated child come out of her shell and figured there was no better place than a bar on Wednesday nights. It’s a good thing they did because this is where she found her love of reading and writing. Who needs socialization when you can sit alone in your bedroom with a good book?
Now, Sloan is a tattooed, purple haired mom of two kids, one of which was a thank you present to her husband for letting her get a Staffordshire Terrier with more anxiety issues than Sloan has, which is saying something. She’s been kicked out of the PTA in two school districts and is no longer asked to help with fundraisers because she’s been known to lose herself in a good book and forget that she has somewhere to be.
When she was three, her parents received their first call from the principal asking them to pick her up from school. Apparently, if you aren’t enrolled, you can’t attend classes, even in Kindergarten. The next week, she was in preschool and started plotting her first story soon after.
Later in life, her parents needed to do something to help their socially awkward, uncoordinated child come out of her shell and figured there was no better place than a bar on Wednesday nights. It’s a good thing they did because this is where she found her love of reading and writing. Who needs socialization when you can sit alone in your bedroom with a good book?
Now, Sloan is a tattooed, purple haired mom of two kids, one of which was a thank you present to her husband for letting her get a Staffordshire Terrier with more anxiety issues than Sloan has, which is saying something. She’s been kicked out of the PTA in two school districts and is no longer asked to help with fundraisers because she’s been known to lose herself in a good book and forget that she has somewhere to be.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
November 15, 2013
OMG!!! I actually read this RIGHT after it came out. I want you to know I absolutely love this series and I love Slone Johnson's writing. She's created a world that I adore.
I've read many (we won't talk numbers)of BDSM stories...Slone's are the most positive, uplifting, and empowering BDSM stories I've ever read! I want more like this...it is GREAT!
The characters are so in depth. I truly feel like I know Tommy and Holly, Dylan and Tasha, Jeff and Mary, and the whole group...
I'm not happy with the end of this book, but not upset enough to take away a WELL DESERVED star...Slone deserves all 5 if not MORE!
(It was enough, my upsetedness, to PM the author and give her a piece of my mind!) But, truthfully, that was meant partially in jest...as she said, Karma is a B**** and apparently she thought I deserved it??? I don't get that???
Nevertheless, I LOVE this book, but first read Unexpected Angel and get to know Dylan and Tasha...then Unexpected Protector will make more sense!!
I PROMISE I will read anything Sloan writes!!!
I've read many (we won't talk numbers)of BDSM stories...Slone's are the most positive, uplifting, and empowering BDSM stories I've ever read! I want more like this...it is GREAT!
The characters are so in depth. I truly feel like I know Tommy and Holly, Dylan and Tasha, Jeff and Mary, and the whole group...
I'm not happy with the end of this book, but not upset enough to take away a WELL DESERVED star...Slone deserves all 5 if not MORE!
(It was enough, my upsetedness, to PM the author and give her a piece of my mind!) But, truthfully, that was meant partially in jest...as she said, Karma is a B**** and apparently she thought I deserved it??? I don't get that???
Nevertheless, I LOVE this book, but first read Unexpected Angel and get to know Dylan and Tasha...then Unexpected Protector will make more sense!!
I PROMISE I will read anything Sloan writes!!!
November 9, 2013
Unexpected Protector is Tommy and Holly’s story. We first meet Holly and Tommy in Unexpected Angel and we see the characters from book #1 in Unexpected Protector.
The book picks up where book #1 finishes with Holly in a hospital bed after the show down with Nick.
Holly has had a rough life, turned to drugs to get through it and made some seriously poor decisions that almost got her and her best friend killed.
Tommy is a cop and a Dom who is drawn to Holly and although he should stay away from her due to his obsession he finds he simply can’t.
I love the way the relationship between Tommy and Holly develops through the book. Tommy attempts to teach Holly the true ways of a D/s relationship in order to gain her trust in him. The book does have some element of BDSM in it but it is more about the storyline and character development than the BDSM and it works really well. I read this book in one sitting and as I was coming to the end of the book I had a sinking feeling that we were going to be left with a cliff-hanger and boy is it a cliff-hanger. I normally don’t mind them but with Unexpected Angel giving us a HEA and this book being about other characters I really didn’t see the cliff-hanger coming and if I’m being completely honest I’m slightly disappointed in it. Other than the cliff-hanger I really did enjoy reading the book which is why it’s getting 4*.
I’m now sat here impatiently waiting for the next book hehe
The book picks up where book #1 finishes with Holly in a hospital bed after the show down with Nick.
Holly has had a rough life, turned to drugs to get through it and made some seriously poor decisions that almost got her and her best friend killed.
Tommy is a cop and a Dom who is drawn to Holly and although he should stay away from her due to his obsession he finds he simply can’t.
I love the way the relationship between Tommy and Holly develops through the book. Tommy attempts to teach Holly the true ways of a D/s relationship in order to gain her trust in him. The book does have some element of BDSM in it but it is more about the storyline and character development than the BDSM and it works really well. I read this book in one sitting and as I was coming to the end of the book I had a sinking feeling that we were going to be left with a cliff-hanger and boy is it a cliff-hanger. I normally don’t mind them but with Unexpected Angel giving us a HEA and this book being about other characters I really didn’t see the cliff-hanger coming and if I’m being completely honest I’m slightly disappointed in it. Other than the cliff-hanger I really did enjoy reading the book which is why it’s getting 4*.
I’m now sat here impatiently waiting for the next book hehe
November 9, 2013
Tommy and Holly.
I liked them both - which surprised me after how Holly was in book 1.
I liked this book, it is a good series. I like how the author has portrayed the D/s relationships.
I liked them both - which surprised me after how Holly was in book 1.
I liked this book, it is a good series. I like how the author has portrayed the D/s relationships.
November 6, 2013
Let me start by saying that Sloan is a genius by bringing together two things I love erotica and the depth of a dom/sub relationship. I mean Sloan had me on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading Holly and Tommy's story. I loved Holly from Unexpected Angel even though people were mad at her for betraying her family and friends but she had her reasons and let me tell you addiction is no joke to kick so I commend her for trying and keeping clean even though she has all this chaos going on in her life.
Right off the bat we start where Unexpected Angel left off with Holly lying in a pool of her blood and taken to the hospital. She realizes she needs to get her shit straight before she kills herself. But life is so hard and difficult and what adds to it is she is not sure she is worthy to be living because of all the pain she has caused and all the hurt she has done to her family and friends. But the one light at the end of the tunnel for her is her savior Tommy. She knows she is done living the wrong life but what can Tommy do to save her?
Tommy has lived a tough life and sometimes it has shown him things he rather have not seen but he takes it day by day. So when he sees Holly he decides to help her and wants to get to know her because she pulls something in his heart. Tommy is not sure what it is or why but he is determined to help Holly. In the process of helping her out he falls for her and wants to explore this dom/sub relationship. But what happens when the past collides with the future and Tommy's demons come back? Can he stand strong or will he walk away? Is Holly strong enough to face his demons and heal him just like he is healing her?
Sloan the ending just cruel I need book three like ASAP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Right off the bat we start where Unexpected Angel left off with Holly lying in a pool of her blood and taken to the hospital. She realizes she needs to get her shit straight before she kills herself. But life is so hard and difficult and what adds to it is she is not sure she is worthy to be living because of all the pain she has caused and all the hurt she has done to her family and friends. But the one light at the end of the tunnel for her is her savior Tommy. She knows she is done living the wrong life but what can Tommy do to save her?
Tommy has lived a tough life and sometimes it has shown him things he rather have not seen but he takes it day by day. So when he sees Holly he decides to help her and wants to get to know her because she pulls something in his heart. Tommy is not sure what it is or why but he is determined to help Holly. In the process of helping her out he falls for her and wants to explore this dom/sub relationship. But what happens when the past collides with the future and Tommy's demons come back? Can he stand strong or will he walk away? Is Holly strong enough to face his demons and heal him just like he is healing her?
Sloan the ending just cruel I need book three like ASAP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
October 29, 2013
4 stars.
In Unexpected Angel, I fell in love with Dylan and Tasha. Tasha is betrayed by her long time friend Holly and I must admit, I totally hated her for what she did to Tasha. I mean, how could she???
In Unexpected Protector, we get the story of Tommy and Holly. It is easy for me to fall in love with Tommy. I swear, I could totally go for this flavor of D&S if I had my very own Dylan or Tommy. Tommy feels drawn to Holly and knows that she messed up because of her dependence on drugs. He sees something good inside of her and wants to help that goodness pull through. He opens up his home to Holly to help her heal.
Holly. I must say it was much harder for me to like Holly because I hated her so much in the first book. It's pretty tough to make a character everyone likes to hate into one that everyone likes. I realize that we all make mistakes. I sympathize with what a poor upbringing she had, but I didn't connect with Holly.
What starts out as Holly staying with Tommy because she has no place else to go ends with them being drawn to each other and exploring D&S together. The scenes are not too harsh and I love that about this series. It's more about the power exchange. I really wouldn't mind changing places with Holly (or Tasha!!). Yummy!!!
But heads up, we have a CH!!!!! I totally did not see that coming and I HATE CH's! Especially one's like this one. Heads up!!
Definitely like the series - Can't wait to read about Zeke and I hope Liam gets a book too. Maybe Jeff?
Recommend Unexpected Angel and Unexpected Protector!
In Unexpected Angel, I fell in love with Dylan and Tasha. Tasha is betrayed by her long time friend Holly and I must admit, I totally hated her for what she did to Tasha. I mean, how could she???
In Unexpected Protector, we get the story of Tommy and Holly. It is easy for me to fall in love with Tommy. I swear, I could totally go for this flavor of D&S if I had my very own Dylan or Tommy. Tommy feels drawn to Holly and knows that she messed up because of her dependence on drugs. He sees something good inside of her and wants to help that goodness pull through. He opens up his home to Holly to help her heal.
Holly. I must say it was much harder for me to like Holly because I hated her so much in the first book. It's pretty tough to make a character everyone likes to hate into one that everyone likes. I realize that we all make mistakes. I sympathize with what a poor upbringing she had, but I didn't connect with Holly.
What starts out as Holly staying with Tommy because she has no place else to go ends with them being drawn to each other and exploring D&S together. The scenes are not too harsh and I love that about this series. It's more about the power exchange. I really wouldn't mind changing places with Holly (or Tasha!!). Yummy!!!
But heads up, we have a CH!!!!! I totally did not see that coming and I HATE CH's! Especially one's like this one. Heads up!!
Definitely like the series - Can't wait to read about Zeke and I hope Liam gets a book too. Maybe Jeff?
Recommend Unexpected Angel and Unexpected Protector!
November 13, 2013
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.*
“Too bad there’s no prescription out there that can fix what’s inside. I’ve known that for a long time, which is why I turned to the drugs. They numb me so I don’t feel the pain that has been eating away at me since I can remember.”
This is book #2 in the Isthmus Alliance series. Tommy Reed and Holly Richards are two characters we meet in the first book Unexpected Angel. This story pretty much picks up where book one left off. Tommy is a sweet, loveable cop who has an indescribable pull towards Holly. Some pretty bad crap went down in book one which left Holly lying in a pool of blood. Being the natural protector that Tommy is, he feels the need to save her from her demons and fix her. This won’t come easy considering that the reason she’s in this predicament is from her own horrible actions. She basically betrayed her best friend Tasha, and ruined any sort of reputation she possibly had. This story is about Holly’s redemption, and whether or not she can build herself into a new life with this seemingly stranger of a man. And possibly gain the respect back from a friend who she’s probably not worthy of.
This plot is sweet in context, although I had a really hard time connecting to certain aspects of the story. I’m by no means an expert in BDSM or DOM/SUB relationships, but I just felt a disconnection to that part of this couple’s story specifically. Tommy was not very DOM like AT ALL, and even though our main character Holly pointed that out on a few occasions, I honestly thought the whole book could have gone without it. The Story– Her story is strong enough with the drugs, betrayal, growth, and love. I understand the Author’s meaning of adding in the submission tactics in order to help Holly, but it didn’t need to be labelled. I believe that these two were mild enough to just be considered submitting to vulnerability. The technicalities just didn’t work for me. But don’t get me wrong, I really love Tommy and the connection towards progress he made with Holly, but I feel it’s something a lot of couples would have done with each other. Again, the labels were unnecessary.
That being said, I was really looking forward to this book. I really enjoyed book one, and I want to emphasize that the actual flow and writing of the story was truly great. I just felt something was missing. I did really enjoy seeing Holly transform from junkie to woman, and I loved that her friend Tasha never turned her back on her. The connection between Tommy and Holly felt really natural and totally heart warming, any woman would be lucky to have a man like Tommy. Dylan who is Tasha’s boyfriend is also a pretty big part of the story. These four have quite the complicated friendship until they finally figure out how to make it work, and forgive one another.
The best part of the story was the sweet love that developed between these two characters. They both really seemed to need each other and want to protect one another from everything and everyone. There is some stuff in Tommy’s past as well, and Holly returns his graciousness by being his rock—his saviour. Tommy, Dylan & Liam who is Dylan’s brother have a bit of a past as well, and the ending which happens to be a cliffhanger is in the hands of Liam. So we shall see…
“He promised me I won’t have to deal with the hard things in life alone anymore. I owe him the same in return.”
“Too bad there’s no prescription out there that can fix what’s inside. I’ve known that for a long time, which is why I turned to the drugs. They numb me so I don’t feel the pain that has been eating away at me since I can remember.”
This is book #2 in the Isthmus Alliance series. Tommy Reed and Holly Richards are two characters we meet in the first book Unexpected Angel. This story pretty much picks up where book one left off. Tommy is a sweet, loveable cop who has an indescribable pull towards Holly. Some pretty bad crap went down in book one which left Holly lying in a pool of blood. Being the natural protector that Tommy is, he feels the need to save her from her demons and fix her. This won’t come easy considering that the reason she’s in this predicament is from her own horrible actions. She basically betrayed her best friend Tasha, and ruined any sort of reputation she possibly had. This story is about Holly’s redemption, and whether or not she can build herself into a new life with this seemingly stranger of a man. And possibly gain the respect back from a friend who she’s probably not worthy of.
This plot is sweet in context, although I had a really hard time connecting to certain aspects of the story. I’m by no means an expert in BDSM or DOM/SUB relationships, but I just felt a disconnection to that part of this couple’s story specifically. Tommy was not very DOM like AT ALL, and even though our main character Holly pointed that out on a few occasions, I honestly thought the whole book could have gone without it. The Story– Her story is strong enough with the drugs, betrayal, growth, and love. I understand the Author’s meaning of adding in the submission tactics in order to help Holly, but it didn’t need to be labelled. I believe that these two were mild enough to just be considered submitting to vulnerability. The technicalities just didn’t work for me. But don’t get me wrong, I really love Tommy and the connection towards progress he made with Holly, but I feel it’s something a lot of couples would have done with each other. Again, the labels were unnecessary.
That being said, I was really looking forward to this book. I really enjoyed book one, and I want to emphasize that the actual flow and writing of the story was truly great. I just felt something was missing. I did really enjoy seeing Holly transform from junkie to woman, and I loved that her friend Tasha never turned her back on her. The connection between Tommy and Holly felt really natural and totally heart warming, any woman would be lucky to have a man like Tommy. Dylan who is Tasha’s boyfriend is also a pretty big part of the story. These four have quite the complicated friendship until they finally figure out how to make it work, and forgive one another.
The best part of the story was the sweet love that developed between these two characters. They both really seemed to need each other and want to protect one another from everything and everyone. There is some stuff in Tommy’s past as well, and Holly returns his graciousness by being his rock—his saviour. Tommy, Dylan & Liam who is Dylan’s brother have a bit of a past as well, and the ending which happens to be a cliffhanger is in the hands of Liam. So we shall see…
“He promised me I won’t have to deal with the hard things in life alone anymore. I owe him the same in return.”
August 22, 2013
OMG, OMG, OMG, NO, NO, NO, Sloan Johnson how could you or better yet, why did i not know that you were going to hang me out to dry???
This is the second book in the Isthmus Alliance Series, if you haven't read Unexpected Angel (Dylan and Tasha's story) yet, I highly recommend you do so before reading Unexpected Protector (Tommy and Holly's story).
This book picks up where the first one left off with Holly lying in a hospital bed and none of us knowing if she will live or die.
Tommy an ex marine, now a cop (on leave pending an investigation), and Dylan's best friend finds himself at a loss. He really doesn't know Holly (Tasha's best friend), but since he found her bleeding to death on the sidewalk and he shot her attacker, he can't seem to leave her hospital bedside. No one including himself can understand why, yet everyday he sits there and talks to her, rubs lotion on her arms, and prays that she will wake up.
Holly can hear Tommy, but has no clue who he is or why he's sitting with her daily. Holly has not had an easy life and always seems to take the wrong path. She chose drugs to dull the pain, but this path caused her to betray her best friend Tasha and almost causes both of their deaths.
Once Holly wakes up and learns who Tommy is and remembers what her actions almost did, she decides that she needs to get her act together and since Tommy is willing, she accepts his help.
I am not going to get into full details, but please note that this book is AWESOME!!! All of the characters are into light BDSM, they are more like family than friends, all have their share of problems, but will ALWAYS be there for each other.
This book has just enough of everything...HOT, HOT, Alpha Dudes, kinky sex scenes, tear inducing scenes (YES, I cried), scenes that made me want to scream, scenes that made me want to reach through my kindle and bitch-slap someone, tender-loving scenes, some moments I didn't see coming, and reader-grabbing scenes.
Tommy, Dylan, Zeke, Jeff, Tasha, Holly, and Mary will stay with me for a long, long, time and I can't wait to read Zeke, Jeff, and Mary's stories.
Reader beware this is a HUGH cliffhanger, but so, so, worth the read.
I LOVE Sloan Johnson and can't wait for the next book in this series.
This is the second book in the Isthmus Alliance Series, if you haven't read Unexpected Angel (Dylan and Tasha's story) yet, I highly recommend you do so before reading Unexpected Protector (Tommy and Holly's story).
This book picks up where the first one left off with Holly lying in a hospital bed and none of us knowing if she will live or die.
Tommy an ex marine, now a cop (on leave pending an investigation), and Dylan's best friend finds himself at a loss. He really doesn't know Holly (Tasha's best friend), but since he found her bleeding to death on the sidewalk and he shot her attacker, he can't seem to leave her hospital bedside. No one including himself can understand why, yet everyday he sits there and talks to her, rubs lotion on her arms, and prays that she will wake up.
Holly can hear Tommy, but has no clue who he is or why he's sitting with her daily. Holly has not had an easy life and always seems to take the wrong path. She chose drugs to dull the pain, but this path caused her to betray her best friend Tasha and almost causes both of their deaths.
Once Holly wakes up and learns who Tommy is and remembers what her actions almost did, she decides that she needs to get her act together and since Tommy is willing, she accepts his help.
I am not going to get into full details, but please note that this book is AWESOME!!! All of the characters are into light BDSM, they are more like family than friends, all have their share of problems, but will ALWAYS be there for each other.
This book has just enough of everything...HOT, HOT, Alpha Dudes, kinky sex scenes, tear inducing scenes (YES, I cried), scenes that made me want to scream, scenes that made me want to reach through my kindle and bitch-slap someone, tender-loving scenes, some moments I didn't see coming, and reader-grabbing scenes.
Tommy, Dylan, Zeke, Jeff, Tasha, Holly, and Mary will stay with me for a long, long, time and I can't wait to read Zeke, Jeff, and Mary's stories.
Reader beware this is a HUGH cliffhanger, but so, so, worth the read.
I LOVE Sloan Johnson and can't wait for the next book in this series.
July 12, 2016
My Rating: ★★★★
Anyway...with my angst being released, I will confess that the story was a sweet and sexy one about love and redemption. For all of my extreme dislike of Holly in Unexpected Angel, it was nice to see her battle her way back from the darkness with Tommy and Tasha's help. It was even nicer to see the tentative accord she struck with Dylan. But man, so much happened at the end of the story that I was on pins and needles and with that ending, I'm still on them.
I can't wait to see what Sloan does next and what she does with Liam. I hope he gets a HEA with a sweet girl.
VERY GOOD: The characteristics of a 4 star book include: a great story; I loved the characters; and there was an interesting plot and unique story elements; there may have been a few odd things kept the story from being amazing. I would read it again and I would recommend it to a friend.I cannot believe this story ended this way. I mean seriously...I'm just happily reading along noticing that my Kindle is getting closer and closer to 100% with no resolution and the WHAM. THE. END. Nonononono! So. Wrong. I feel like I have just experienced the literary version of the end of one of the original Batman episodes.
Anyway...with my angst being released, I will confess that the story was a sweet and sexy one about love and redemption. For all of my extreme dislike of Holly in Unexpected Angel, it was nice to see her battle her way back from the darkness with Tommy and Tasha's help. It was even nicer to see the tentative accord she struck with Dylan. But man, so much happened at the end of the story that I was on pins and needles and with that ending, I'm still on them.
I can't wait to see what Sloan does next and what she does with Liam. I hope he gets a HEA with a sweet girl.
January 10, 2020
Having loved the premise of Isthmus Alliance and also Unexpected Angel, this was one eagerly anticipated book. Carrying on from Dylan and Tasha’s story, this book picks up where Unexpected Angel ended with Holly in hospital fighting for her life.
Recovering from her ordeal, Holly finds herself being supported by Tommy Reed, Dylan’s friend and the off duty police officer who helped to rescue her and Tasha. Unexpectedly drawn to Holly, Tommy finds himself helping her to turn her life around and he shows Holly that life is worth fighting for.
I really enjoyed this book but I must admit I hated the ending. Cliff-hangers are all good and well but only if the next book is in sight otherwise they are just an unnecessary cruelty for readers!
As much as I love these books something is still not gelling. The characters are magical but I felt that the storyline needed more time to evolve to ensure the book didn’t leave any questions unanswered. The dynamic between Jeff, Holly’s doctor, Mary, Holly’s attorney and Zeke left me confused and I hope this becomes clear in the next book. That said, I can’t wait for the next instalment.
Recovering from her ordeal, Holly finds herself being supported by Tommy Reed, Dylan’s friend and the off duty police officer who helped to rescue her and Tasha. Unexpectedly drawn to Holly, Tommy finds himself helping her to turn her life around and he shows Holly that life is worth fighting for.
I really enjoyed this book but I must admit I hated the ending. Cliff-hangers are all good and well but only if the next book is in sight otherwise they are just an unnecessary cruelty for readers!
As much as I love these books something is still not gelling. The characters are magical but I felt that the storyline needed more time to evolve to ensure the book didn’t leave any questions unanswered. The dynamic between Jeff, Holly’s doctor, Mary, Holly’s attorney and Zeke left me confused and I hope this becomes clear in the next book. That said, I can’t wait for the next instalment.
March 8, 2014
Could this series get any hotter? Absolutely! If you thought book 1 was hot this was scorching. It delved more into the characters private lives in the bedroom then the first book. We saw more of Holly and Tommy's chemistry and sexual preferences.
How Holly grew from that scared once junky to a confident woman ready to start her life. And Tommy was there every step to help her, protect her and love her.
They were on the road to happier times. They were making amends and forgiving themselves and others for past mistakes. Then bam! We're left wanted more. Never saw the cliffhanger coming.
After that ending I'm glad I started this series recently since I don't have to wait long for the next book. I need to know what happens and can't wait to read Zeke's story.
Sloan Johnson writes sexy, hot books that grab you and keep you wanting more.I look forward to more from her.
How Holly grew from that scared once junky to a confident woman ready to start her life. And Tommy was there every step to help her, protect her and love her.
They were on the road to happier times. They were making amends and forgiving themselves and others for past mistakes. Then bam! We're left wanted more. Never saw the cliffhanger coming.
After that ending I'm glad I started this series recently since I don't have to wait long for the next book. I need to know what happens and can't wait to read Zeke's story.
Sloan Johnson writes sexy, hot books that grab you and keep you wanting more.I look forward to more from her.
April 15, 2014
This one didn't really work for me. I'm not sure whether it was the multiple shifting pov or something else but I didn't really feel the insta-love connection between Holly and Tommy. I was hoping that Tommy would do more for me as he's supposed to be a natural Dom who's devoted to his woman but he didn't interest me really.
It ends on the mother of all cliffhangers; had I have known that I wouldn't have touched this until the series is complete.
It ends on the mother of all cliffhangers; had I have known that I wouldn't have touched this until the series is complete.
November 8, 2013
ARC received for honest review
You will need to read Unexpected Angel before Unexpected Protector to get the full impact of this series.
Unexpected Protector starts off directly after Unexpected Angel finishes, but is not a continuation of Dylan and Tasha's story. They are in this book, but as secondary characters.
Unexpected Protector is about Dylan's best friend and Tasha's best friend, Dylan and Holly.
Holly has made mistakes in her life - but haven't we all, Drug addict, in with a bad crowd. This last mistake nearly costs her her life, and puts Tasha in danger. And now there is a price to pay for her mistakes.
Tommy is a cop. It's all he's wanted to be since he was a kid.
He has met Holly before through Tasha and through the "club", He has never really had much to do with her. Until now.
He is unexpectedly drawn to her. He knows there is more to her than what she is now. He just needs those around her to see it. And more importantly, he need her to see it in herself.
As they grow closer, they draw more into the BDSM world and see how good they can be for each other
Excerpt:
“ Spanking, ” I say, my voice barely audible.
“ What was that? You need to speak up. ”
“ I want you to spank me, ” I whisper a little bit louder. I don ’ t recognize my strained voice.
“ Spanking how? You said you weren ’ t into pain, but now you ’ re saying you want me to spank you. Do you mean lightly, teasing you as I run my fingers through your pussy. Or are you willing to let me push you to your limit, spanking you hard with my bare hand or possibly a belt, thrusting my fingers into your throbbing core until you come so hard your juices are dripping down your thighs? ”
Hearing him list the different ways he could turn my ass red brings my body to life. I feel myself growing wetter with every suggestion, not wanting but needing to feel the sensations he describes.
“ I want that, ” I admit meekly. As I sit next to him, our bodies barely touching, I resist the urge to climb into his lap, pushing fabric to the side and taking what I need at this moment. “ I need you to show me that pain can be pleasure. ”
“ Are you sure? ” He asks sincerely. “ I can respect the fact that you said you don ’ t want pain. I won ’ t lie and say I don ’ t enjoy inflicting it to an extent, but if that ’ s not something you crave, it won ’ t be fun for either of us. ”
I look him in the eye, wanting him to see and feel the sincerity of my words. “ You might be the only man I have ever trusted enough to explore that with. ”
He wraps his arms around me, nearly pulling me off my stool. “ I ’ m honored that you feel that way, babygirl. What else? ” He urges me to continue. I shift in my seat, feeling a damp spot forming in my panties. If the thought of him doing these things to me affects me so deeply, I ’ m going to be slipping over myself when he ’ s actually touching my body.
As with Unexpected Angel, this is not just a BDSM book. It is not constant sex and BDSM for the sake of it. It goes deeper into the D/s relationship. It is about how the lifestyle and the relationship can be used to heal someone so emotionally broken she doesn't understand why anyone cares what happens to her.
I was a litte confused with the relationships between a few of the secondary characters. I had to go back a couple of times and reread a bit to get my head around who was who and what was what. t maybe that was just me and my head wasn't in it at the time?
I really do enjoy this series, and I like Sloan Johnson's writing. Then it happened
and this was a doozie. Cliffhangers may not bother you, but if I know there is a cliffhanger I try to hold off and read the series straight through.
Now I have to wait for more :'(
I am looking forward to reading more on Zeke though, so I will just have to be patient!
You will need to read Unexpected Angel before Unexpected Protector to get the full impact of this series.
Unexpected Protector starts off directly after Unexpected Angel finishes, but is not a continuation of Dylan and Tasha's story. They are in this book, but as secondary characters.
Unexpected Protector is about Dylan's best friend and Tasha's best friend, Dylan and Holly.
Holly has made mistakes in her life - but haven't we all, Drug addict, in with a bad crowd. This last mistake nearly costs her her life, and puts Tasha in danger. And now there is a price to pay for her mistakes.
Tommy is a cop. It's all he's wanted to be since he was a kid.
He has met Holly before through Tasha and through the "club", He has never really had much to do with her. Until now.
He is unexpectedly drawn to her. He knows there is more to her than what she is now. He just needs those around her to see it. And more importantly, he need her to see it in herself.
As they grow closer, they draw more into the BDSM world and see how good they can be for each other
Excerpt:
“ Spanking, ” I say, my voice barely audible.
“ What was that? You need to speak up. ”
“ I want you to spank me, ” I whisper a little bit louder. I don ’ t recognize my strained voice.
“ Spanking how? You said you weren ’ t into pain, but now you ’ re saying you want me to spank you. Do you mean lightly, teasing you as I run my fingers through your pussy. Or are you willing to let me push you to your limit, spanking you hard with my bare hand or possibly a belt, thrusting my fingers into your throbbing core until you come so hard your juices are dripping down your thighs? ”
Hearing him list the different ways he could turn my ass red brings my body to life. I feel myself growing wetter with every suggestion, not wanting but needing to feel the sensations he describes.
“ I want that, ” I admit meekly. As I sit next to him, our bodies barely touching, I resist the urge to climb into his lap, pushing fabric to the side and taking what I need at this moment. “ I need you to show me that pain can be pleasure. ”
“ Are you sure? ” He asks sincerely. “ I can respect the fact that you said you don ’ t want pain. I won ’ t lie and say I don ’ t enjoy inflicting it to an extent, but if that ’ s not something you crave, it won ’ t be fun for either of us. ”
I look him in the eye, wanting him to see and feel the sincerity of my words. “ You might be the only man I have ever trusted enough to explore that with. ”
He wraps his arms around me, nearly pulling me off my stool. “ I ’ m honored that you feel that way, babygirl. What else? ” He urges me to continue. I shift in my seat, feeling a damp spot forming in my panties. If the thought of him doing these things to me affects me so deeply, I ’ m going to be slipping over myself when he ’ s actually touching my body.
As with Unexpected Angel, this is not just a BDSM book. It is not constant sex and BDSM for the sake of it. It goes deeper into the D/s relationship. It is about how the lifestyle and the relationship can be used to heal someone so emotionally broken she doesn't understand why anyone cares what happens to her.
I was a litte confused with the relationships between a few of the secondary characters. I had to go back a couple of times and reread a bit to get my head around who was who and what was what. t maybe that was just me and my head wasn't in it at the time?
I really do enjoy this series, and I like Sloan Johnson's writing. Then it happened
and this was a doozie. Cliffhangers may not bother you, but if I know there is a cliffhanger I try to hold off and read the series straight through.
Now I have to wait for more :'(
I am looking forward to reading more on Zeke though, so I will just have to be patient!
November 2, 2013
absolutely loved this book! holy cliff hanger!
January 14, 2024
I was loaned this series by a friend and this second one was even better than the first. I will warn you, it ends on a cliffy, but since I have the third one ready to go, it's not a huge hardship.
November 7, 2013
http://ripeforreader.blogspot.com/201...
My rating: 4 of 5 ⭐️
A messed up junkie, Holly Richards can only think of herself in those terms. She almost had her best friend badly hurt, who does that? She doesn't understand why that man keeps coming to her hospital room, half the time she keeps her eyes closed, not wanting to acknowledge anyone. She doesn't deserve any kindness and she will never admit that hearing his voice makes her feel safe.
Suspended from his job, Tommy Reed spends his days sitting by Holly's bedside, even though he doesn't really know the woman. Something happened when he saw her hurt and defenseless on the ground, there is something good there, something pure inside her still despite all the things she has done for the sake of drugs. He is determined to dig deep and find that goodness, and help her battle her demons, if she'll let him.
Other than Holly's best friend, no one seems particularly pleased with Tommy's quest to help Holly. Most of his friends, including his best friend, are pissed off at him for even trying, seemingly sure that she will inevitably screw up again and get someone other than herself hurt for real this time. But Tommy stands strong and slowly eases Holly into trusting him.
Having mostly been under the numbing influence of drugs in recent memory, Holly finds it difficult at first to adjust to actually feeling again. Especially the pain of disgust and derision at what she has done, some from others but mostly her own is what hurts most. But she also slowly learns how to feel pleasure, real pleasure at the hands of a masterful and patient Dom. Strange, she never had pegged herself as a submissive.
The adjustments are not easy, but slowly Holly starts fighting for herself and Tommy can ease back and let her fly. The effort she is putting in is not going unrecognized by Tommy's friends either. But before things get too comfortable, Tommy's past suddenly comes back to haunt him. It starts with a chance encounter and then is followed by the nighmares........
*****
AAAARRRRRGGGGHHHHH!!!!! So good!!! And yet.......... a cliffhanger of sorts!!!! NOOOOOOO........
Silly, I know, but since Sloan's first book Unexpected Angel, I was kind of expecting a fully completed story with this one...... Don't get me wrong, I know it's a series, but you can't really read this book without whatever book follows. It isn't a standalone, like Unexpected Angel could be. Tommy and Holly's story isn't quite done yet.......well......I hope not!! There are loose ends that need some serious tying up in a next book, please!
However, Sloan's writing is again, beyond reproach. It is delicious and hot and raunchy and yet still tender and sweet. The importance she puts on friendship and the depth of it, is evident again in this book, something I really appreciate since a lot of us see friends (at least some of them), as the family of our choosing.
Especially in an organisation like the Isthmus Alliance, where all is based on trust, Tommy's position is a difficult one. He has an instinctive faith, a belief in Holly, that no one else seems to see or share and despite the fact that his closest circle is not supportive of his choice to stand by her, he holds onto that belief and to her and just will not let go. Here is an ex-junkie who has caused nothing but harm, and he still puts his trust in her.
On the other hand there is Holly who, other than her best friend, has never had reason to believe or trust anyone. Everyone in her world always has an alterior motive. Until Tommy proves her wrong, over and over again he proves his faith in her until she starts believing in herself and trusting in him. Always she has given herself in return for something, but with Tommy she gives herself because she trusts him.
What irony. The whole story is one of contrasts and conflicts, and the most unlikely couple that battles through it all.
I missed the suspense that I suspect may have been intended for Holly and Tommy's story, if not in this book then certainly in the next. I am not specifying what suspence, on purpose, since I don't want to give everything away, but I hope we see some closure on that front in the next book in The Isthmus Alliance Series.
✨Provocative, sharply insightful and fiercely arousing!✨
**ARC provided in return for an honest review.**
My rating: 4 of 5 ⭐️
A messed up junkie, Holly Richards can only think of herself in those terms. She almost had her best friend badly hurt, who does that? She doesn't understand why that man keeps coming to her hospital room, half the time she keeps her eyes closed, not wanting to acknowledge anyone. She doesn't deserve any kindness and she will never admit that hearing his voice makes her feel safe.
Suspended from his job, Tommy Reed spends his days sitting by Holly's bedside, even though he doesn't really know the woman. Something happened when he saw her hurt and defenseless on the ground, there is something good there, something pure inside her still despite all the things she has done for the sake of drugs. He is determined to dig deep and find that goodness, and help her battle her demons, if she'll let him.
Other than Holly's best friend, no one seems particularly pleased with Tommy's quest to help Holly. Most of his friends, including his best friend, are pissed off at him for even trying, seemingly sure that she will inevitably screw up again and get someone other than herself hurt for real this time. But Tommy stands strong and slowly eases Holly into trusting him.
Having mostly been under the numbing influence of drugs in recent memory, Holly finds it difficult at first to adjust to actually feeling again. Especially the pain of disgust and derision at what she has done, some from others but mostly her own is what hurts most. But she also slowly learns how to feel pleasure, real pleasure at the hands of a masterful and patient Dom. Strange, she never had pegged herself as a submissive.
The adjustments are not easy, but slowly Holly starts fighting for herself and Tommy can ease back and let her fly. The effort she is putting in is not going unrecognized by Tommy's friends either. But before things get too comfortable, Tommy's past suddenly comes back to haunt him. It starts with a chance encounter and then is followed by the nighmares........
*****
AAAARRRRRGGGGHHHHH!!!!! So good!!! And yet.......... a cliffhanger of sorts!!!! NOOOOOOO........
Silly, I know, but since Sloan's first book Unexpected Angel, I was kind of expecting a fully completed story with this one...... Don't get me wrong, I know it's a series, but you can't really read this book without whatever book follows. It isn't a standalone, like Unexpected Angel could be. Tommy and Holly's story isn't quite done yet.......well......I hope not!! There are loose ends that need some serious tying up in a next book, please!
However, Sloan's writing is again, beyond reproach. It is delicious and hot and raunchy and yet still tender and sweet. The importance she puts on friendship and the depth of it, is evident again in this book, something I really appreciate since a lot of us see friends (at least some of them), as the family of our choosing.
Especially in an organisation like the Isthmus Alliance, where all is based on trust, Tommy's position is a difficult one. He has an instinctive faith, a belief in Holly, that no one else seems to see or share and despite the fact that his closest circle is not supportive of his choice to stand by her, he holds onto that belief and to her and just will not let go. Here is an ex-junkie who has caused nothing but harm, and he still puts his trust in her.
On the other hand there is Holly who, other than her best friend, has never had reason to believe or trust anyone. Everyone in her world always has an alterior motive. Until Tommy proves her wrong, over and over again he proves his faith in her until she starts believing in herself and trusting in him. Always she has given herself in return for something, but with Tommy she gives herself because she trusts him.
What irony. The whole story is one of contrasts and conflicts, and the most unlikely couple that battles through it all.
I missed the suspense that I suspect may have been intended for Holly and Tommy's story, if not in this book then certainly in the next. I am not specifying what suspence, on purpose, since I don't want to give everything away, but I hope we see some closure on that front in the next book in The Isthmus Alliance Series.
✨Provocative, sharply insightful and fiercely arousing!✨
**ARC provided in return for an honest review.**
September 9, 2016
Reviews on Love, Words and Books blog
To be honest, I found Holly pretty obnoxious in Unexpected Angel, book one of the Isthmus Alliance Series (links below). For someone’s best friend she was doing a pretty shitty job of it. She sacrificed her best friend’s (Tasha’s) safety and life to clear her own drug debts that have accrued. It’s just the drugs I hear you say…. Drugs will make a person do things, unthinkable things, but is there a point at which the person must be responsible for their own actions? Don’t you think they need to accept their part in the situation? Well that’s exactly where Holly finds herself; trying to atone for her mistakes. I liked the way Ms Johnson allowed the character to develop, she wasn’t one I was particularly fond of, but slowly warmed to as she became the person Tommy knew her to be all along; the person she now accepts she can be.
Tommy Reid… Oh Tommy, hot and dreamy Tommy! Honestly, I felt very much in agreement with his mother, he’s attracted to the fixer-upper girls. He sees something in them and needs to help them and in Holly’s case can’t help falling for her. At the start, I felt there could be a little more to the build-up of his relationship with Holly. It felt a little odd, his total devotion to her. But as time went on we get to see all the facets that combine to make Tommy the strong, caring, Dom he is now. He has more demons than he lets on. As the story unfolds we begin to see that he isn’t the optimistic, has-his-shit-together 28 year old fella that we were lead to believe and that in itself brings more suspense, angst and drama. I liked that throughout their journey together, both Holly and Tommy have a positive effect on each other, both growing together and healing together through their love and affections for each other.
Similar to her writing in Unexpected Angel, Ms Johnson gives us the alternating point of views from the main characters, Tommy and Holly with a few surprises towards the end. I loved how Ms Johnson writes both POV’s into the one scene allowing us to see and feel how they react to each other and the situations they find themselves in. I found it heightened the emotion and intensity of the scenes.
As with Unexpected Angel, this book is filled with great supporting characters. I liked getting to see more of Tasha, Dylan and Zeke. From the great characters these whom we go to know in the first book to the exciting ones we are introduced to in this one, I know there are going to be a few interesting plot lines to come with the new characters, something I’m really looking forward to! They are all such an important part of each other’s lives, like a little family of sorts, granted a little dysfunctional at times! I suppose that is was the Isthmus Alliance is, a family and also its something I’d like to know a little more about, like how it came to be or how the characters came to be a part of it. Maybe that’s just me being nosey, but it’s something that is on my mind.
I’m not exactly sure why but I really didn’t feel the connection to Holly and Tommy as I did with Tasha and Dylan. But for me Holly took a backseat. I just wasn’t sucked in as much guess. I was still dying to hear about Tasha and Dylan and I have the biggest soft spot for Zeke! He is hot, sexy, often the voice of reason and funny! I’m really looking forward to reading his book, Unexpected Consequences!
I love the sensual, emotional aspect Ms Johnson adopts for her male Dom characters. She utilises D/s relationship on a more intimate, intellectual level than in the physical, though we are not left without a few spankings! Though Tommy and Holly she illustrates how this can bring about personal growth and shows how through its proper use, it can heal people and entwine souls in love forever.
All in all, Unexpected Protector was an enjoyable read with a twist I didn’t see coming, I was expecting something but blindsided by what happened. Ms Johnson ramped up the suspense towards the last 15% leaving us with a very big cliffhanger… There was just so much going on in the last part of the book that the pages kept turning quicker and quicker. I was left with a lot of questions and look forward to these being dealt with in Unexpected Consequences.
To be honest, I found Holly pretty obnoxious in Unexpected Angel, book one of the Isthmus Alliance Series (links below). For someone’s best friend she was doing a pretty shitty job of it. She sacrificed her best friend’s (Tasha’s) safety and life to clear her own drug debts that have accrued. It’s just the drugs I hear you say…. Drugs will make a person do things, unthinkable things, but is there a point at which the person must be responsible for their own actions? Don’t you think they need to accept their part in the situation? Well that’s exactly where Holly finds herself; trying to atone for her mistakes. I liked the way Ms Johnson allowed the character to develop, she wasn’t one I was particularly fond of, but slowly warmed to as she became the person Tommy knew her to be all along; the person she now accepts she can be.
Tommy Reid… Oh Tommy, hot and dreamy Tommy! Honestly, I felt very much in agreement with his mother, he’s attracted to the fixer-upper girls. He sees something in them and needs to help them and in Holly’s case can’t help falling for her. At the start, I felt there could be a little more to the build-up of his relationship with Holly. It felt a little odd, his total devotion to her. But as time went on we get to see all the facets that combine to make Tommy the strong, caring, Dom he is now. He has more demons than he lets on. As the story unfolds we begin to see that he isn’t the optimistic, has-his-shit-together 28 year old fella that we were lead to believe and that in itself brings more suspense, angst and drama. I liked that throughout their journey together, both Holly and Tommy have a positive effect on each other, both growing together and healing together through their love and affections for each other.
Similar to her writing in Unexpected Angel, Ms Johnson gives us the alternating point of views from the main characters, Tommy and Holly with a few surprises towards the end. I loved how Ms Johnson writes both POV’s into the one scene allowing us to see and feel how they react to each other and the situations they find themselves in. I found it heightened the emotion and intensity of the scenes.
As with Unexpected Angel, this book is filled with great supporting characters. I liked getting to see more of Tasha, Dylan and Zeke. From the great characters these whom we go to know in the first book to the exciting ones we are introduced to in this one, I know there are going to be a few interesting plot lines to come with the new characters, something I’m really looking forward to! They are all such an important part of each other’s lives, like a little family of sorts, granted a little dysfunctional at times! I suppose that is was the Isthmus Alliance is, a family and also its something I’d like to know a little more about, like how it came to be or how the characters came to be a part of it. Maybe that’s just me being nosey, but it’s something that is on my mind.
I’m not exactly sure why but I really didn’t feel the connection to Holly and Tommy as I did with Tasha and Dylan. But for me Holly took a backseat. I just wasn’t sucked in as much guess. I was still dying to hear about Tasha and Dylan and I have the biggest soft spot for Zeke! He is hot, sexy, often the voice of reason and funny! I’m really looking forward to reading his book, Unexpected Consequences!
I love the sensual, emotional aspect Ms Johnson adopts for her male Dom characters. She utilises D/s relationship on a more intimate, intellectual level than in the physical, though we are not left without a few spankings! Though Tommy and Holly she illustrates how this can bring about personal growth and shows how through its proper use, it can heal people and entwine souls in love forever.
All in all, Unexpected Protector was an enjoyable read with a twist I didn’t see coming, I was expecting something but blindsided by what happened. Ms Johnson ramped up the suspense towards the last 15% leaving us with a very big cliffhanger… There was just so much going on in the last part of the book that the pages kept turning quicker and quicker. I was left with a lot of questions and look forward to these being dealt with in Unexpected Consequences.
November 4, 2013
I am going to dive right into this review! I loved Holly in Unexpected Angel – yes she messed up and betrayed the people who loved her the most but I saw a beautiful messed up woman who needed help and needed someone to fight for her no matter what. Drugs have a way of changing a person – turning them into someone you won’t recognize and with the right kind of love and determination that person can become the person she once was.
Unexpected Protector picks up where Unexpected Angel leaves off – battered and bruised Holly finds herself in the hospital hanging on to what’s left of her life. Thinking everyone that she loved yet betrayed would no longer be at her side she is craving something, needing someone. Life is about to throw her a very determined, very sexy man named Tommy that will stop at nothing to get her the help she needs. He will do whatever he can do to show her that she is worth so much more than she thinks she is yet he doesn’t know what is pulling him to her. He is entranced and captivated by everything that is Holly and he wants her in all the ways that scare him.
Sloan Johnson gave me such a beautiful love story and a story about finding who you truly are and fighting tooth and nail to achieve the life you want. Recovery isn’t easy but Holly is a fighter and she showed just how much she is willing to fight in Unexpected Protector.
Let’s not forget that Sloan cannot only bring out the frustrated side of me with her stories that leave me feeling…
But she sure knows how to get my juices flowing when she gives me all her sexiness in her stories too. The chemistry and the need that flows between Holly and Tommy were beyond sexy. She gave us so many moments that were slow and sensual like this…
Although Tommy knows how to be sweet and passionate he has a dominate side and he wants to explore so much of that with Holly. She is hesitant about a lot of the things he wants to share with her but he is patient and will wait until she is ready. You will get to see his dominate side and oh boy do I want his dominate side focused on me. As I am sitting here writing this I have a wonderful mental picture in my head that would go a little something like this…
My heart ached for Holly because of all the struggles she faced with getting clean and showing the people she hurt the most that she was trying. It wasn’t easy when there were people in her life that didn’t trust her and were waiting for her to screw up again. I found myself wanting her to show them all she could do it. She can fight her way back and make something of herself especially with Tommy at her side. Holly for sure made me proud of her and she put the biggest grin on my face…
Just when you think everything is running smooth and beautiful Sloan throws a curve ball that left me….
Will Holly fall back to her old life and ruin her future? Will Tommy let his fears stop him from having a future with Holly? Or will Holly fight to get her life back and find that Tommy is not someone she wants to spend the rest of her life with but also her one true Unexpected Protector……
Beautiful story Sloan! Can’t wait to get to know the other characters in the next book!
Unexpected Protector picks up where Unexpected Angel leaves off – battered and bruised Holly finds herself in the hospital hanging on to what’s left of her life. Thinking everyone that she loved yet betrayed would no longer be at her side she is craving something, needing someone. Life is about to throw her a very determined, very sexy man named Tommy that will stop at nothing to get her the help she needs. He will do whatever he can do to show her that she is worth so much more than she thinks she is yet he doesn’t know what is pulling him to her. He is entranced and captivated by everything that is Holly and he wants her in all the ways that scare him.
Sloan Johnson gave me such a beautiful love story and a story about finding who you truly are and fighting tooth and nail to achieve the life you want. Recovery isn’t easy but Holly is a fighter and she showed just how much she is willing to fight in Unexpected Protector.
Let’s not forget that Sloan cannot only bring out the frustrated side of me with her stories that leave me feeling…
But she sure knows how to get my juices flowing when she gives me all her sexiness in her stories too. The chemistry and the need that flows between Holly and Tommy were beyond sexy. She gave us so many moments that were slow and sensual like this…
Although Tommy knows how to be sweet and passionate he has a dominate side and he wants to explore so much of that with Holly. She is hesitant about a lot of the things he wants to share with her but he is patient and will wait until she is ready. You will get to see his dominate side and oh boy do I want his dominate side focused on me. As I am sitting here writing this I have a wonderful mental picture in my head that would go a little something like this…
My heart ached for Holly because of all the struggles she faced with getting clean and showing the people she hurt the most that she was trying. It wasn’t easy when there were people in her life that didn’t trust her and were waiting for her to screw up again. I found myself wanting her to show them all she could do it. She can fight her way back and make something of herself especially with Tommy at her side. Holly for sure made me proud of her and she put the biggest grin on my face…
Just when you think everything is running smooth and beautiful Sloan throws a curve ball that left me….
Will Holly fall back to her old life and ruin her future? Will Tommy let his fears stop him from having a future with Holly? Or will Holly fight to get her life back and find that Tommy is not someone she wants to spend the rest of her life with but also her one true Unexpected Protector……
Beautiful story Sloan! Can’t wait to get to know the other characters in the next book!
January 18, 2015
Unexpected Protector is book 2 of the Isthmus Alliance. In book one we learned that Isthmus Alliance is a group made up of members who participate in the BDSM lifestyle. The author’s main focus is the actual relationships of the characters so some categorize this series as BDSM-lite.
The actual theme of Unexpected Protector, in my opinion, is forgiveness with a undercurrent of getting past life’s hardships.
There are many characters. Some have already had their own book and some will have their own in future books to the series. The two main individuals of this book are Tommy and Holly.
Tommy is a cop. He’s strong, loyal and steady.
Holly is a recovering drug addict with a hard road ahead of her. She was somewhat a villain in book 1.
After one look at Holly, Tommy is hooked and will stop at nothing to save her. Holly is on a mission to make up for past mistakes. Both have heartbreaking pasts that haunt them and come into their present possibly destroying their future.
Am I being coy by my last sentence? No, I’m not because the book is a CH so I don’t know the outcome either. Looking forward to book 3 and all the history that comes with it! I believe we’ve barely touched the surface.
toni
My review
http://divasdiscussions.blogspot.com/...
November 3, 2013
ARC Was Given To Blog For An Honest Review
The perfect life. We all want it. No one has it but we still pursue it even though we know it’s impossible to achieve or we believe we don’t deserve it. Holly’s life resume isn’t not a glowing one. The shame she feels because of the choices she has made, she feels she doesn’t deserve happiness in her life. Her addiction had her making choices that had her in a situation where her integrity, friendships and future are in question. Can she be saved from herself?
“She’s not yours to save.”
Tommy Reed is an ex-military, an ex-police officer and a member of the Isthmus Alliance. Life for him hasn’t been as glowing as his resume would appear. He has had struggles in his past that aren’t staying in his past. He finds himself drawn to this girl. A girl he knows is trouble but his heart ignores the warning signs all around her that says she is “…bad news and he should walk away.” He makes it his mission to protect her and have her see what she fails to. Can he help her repair the damage she has caused to herself and those around her and in the process find the purpose for his life?
“I asked you a question.”
I have made it no secret that I love the first book in this series, Unexpected Angel. If you haven’t seen the sky writing then it’s time to look up! This series is a fresh take on the BDSM stories that I have become accustomed to reading in Erotica. The philosophy of don’t judge a book by its cover holds true with this series. The members of the Isthmus Alliance have you wanting to experience this high level of intimacy and sensuality for yourself. The purpose of the Doms of the Isthmus Alliance is to make sure the woman in their life is cared for in every aspect, even if the woman doesn’t realize it or want it. Every decision they make is in the pursuit of this one goal, to anticipate and fulfill their every need. He will try push her to her hard limit but she can stop it at any time. So in reality, the woman is in control not the man. Shocking huh?!
“Now do you want to keep going or do need (me) to stop?”
If what I have already told you isn’t enough for you to want to experience this off the charts type of intimacy that only these Doms can deliver, then let me leave you with this. The storyline is engaging, fresh, unique and realistic. It is easy to fall in love with these characters yourself so it’s not a stretch for the women in these stories to fall hard and fast as well. I don’t push recommendations on very many books but this series is in a class all its own. Even if you usually do not read BDSM/erotica, this has a touch of that but not really about that. It’s all about the intimacy.
“Regardless of the history, our lives are twisted together like two trees in an overgrown forest. I know deep in my heart that I’m to do everything in my power to make sure that, God willing, he and I fix our friendships so we can create a strong bond that will only help our respective relationships.”
AMEN!
The perfect life. We all want it. No one has it but we still pursue it even though we know it’s impossible to achieve or we believe we don’t deserve it. Holly’s life resume isn’t not a glowing one. The shame she feels because of the choices she has made, she feels she doesn’t deserve happiness in her life. Her addiction had her making choices that had her in a situation where her integrity, friendships and future are in question. Can she be saved from herself?
“She’s not yours to save.”
Tommy Reed is an ex-military, an ex-police officer and a member of the Isthmus Alliance. Life for him hasn’t been as glowing as his resume would appear. He has had struggles in his past that aren’t staying in his past. He finds himself drawn to this girl. A girl he knows is trouble but his heart ignores the warning signs all around her that says she is “…bad news and he should walk away.” He makes it his mission to protect her and have her see what she fails to. Can he help her repair the damage she has caused to herself and those around her and in the process find the purpose for his life?
“I asked you a question.”
I have made it no secret that I love the first book in this series, Unexpected Angel. If you haven’t seen the sky writing then it’s time to look up! This series is a fresh take on the BDSM stories that I have become accustomed to reading in Erotica. The philosophy of don’t judge a book by its cover holds true with this series. The members of the Isthmus Alliance have you wanting to experience this high level of intimacy and sensuality for yourself. The purpose of the Doms of the Isthmus Alliance is to make sure the woman in their life is cared for in every aspect, even if the woman doesn’t realize it or want it. Every decision they make is in the pursuit of this one goal, to anticipate and fulfill their every need. He will try push her to her hard limit but she can stop it at any time. So in reality, the woman is in control not the man. Shocking huh?!
“Now do you want to keep going or do need (me) to stop?”
If what I have already told you isn’t enough for you to want to experience this off the charts type of intimacy that only these Doms can deliver, then let me leave you with this. The storyline is engaging, fresh, unique and realistic. It is easy to fall in love with these characters yourself so it’s not a stretch for the women in these stories to fall hard and fast as well. I don’t push recommendations on very many books but this series is in a class all its own. Even if you usually do not read BDSM/erotica, this has a touch of that but not really about that. It’s all about the intimacy.
“Regardless of the history, our lives are twisted together like two trees in an overgrown forest. I know deep in my heart that I’m to do everything in my power to make sure that, God willing, he and I fix our friendships so we can create a strong bond that will only help our respective relationships.”
AMEN!
May 19, 2014
4.5 STARS
Received a complimentary copy from the author for an honest review.
I had seen this book on a lot of posts from different blogs and I loved the cover, but never 1 clicked ONLY because every time I came across it, I had just bought more books that I didn't need! These are stories of BDSM, so if anyone is not comfortable with this, don't read. But if can give this a chance, it's a wonderful story.
This is book 2 in the Isthmus Alliance series. Book 1 Unexpected Angel
Book 1 is about Dylan & Tasha.
Book 2 is about Tommy & Holly
This is a story of Tommy seeing past Holly's struggles with addiction to drugs & alcohol. He is willing to go against what all his close friends/family believe to give Holly this chance when nobody else has in the past including her own parents.
One night of desperation from Holly lands her in the hospital and inpatient rehab after being released. Also she's facing criminal charges as well.
Tommy Reed is a local cop who has been struggling with the meaning of his job, for which he has wanted since he was 8 years old. Tommy comes from a very loving family. But has a tragedy of his own that shaped him early in life.
The events from the night Holly was injured and put in a coma by the hands of Tasha's ex-husband Nick Romero will change him forever. Tommy was put on administrative leave from the shooting that night and with Holly being released from in patient rehab, Tommy was asked by Holly's friend Tasha to help put Holly up so she won't go back to her old ways.
Holly has been the "wild" friend of Tasha's for the last 20 years. Polar opposite in every way. Tasha's family welcomed Holly into the family for which Holly has always appreciated, since she really didn't have very loving/caring parents. Holly was there for Tasha when she decided to divorce her husband, Nick Romero.
So here is a story of a nice guy trying to help a girl (who he knows is capable of being nice) come back from the darkness that sucked her in. Even though he has felt something for Holly since she was in the hospital, he tries to just bring out the feisty, charismatic person he sees in her. During this time, Holly finds a lot about giving yourself up to someone else doesn't mean you have lost control of yourself. And some pain can lead to pleasure in the hands of the right man.
I LOVED this story. I so want my own Tommy Reed!!! I could so see giving myself up to a man like this 100%! And for Holly, I felt her sense of having no self worth and how could anyone LOVE her??? And if she gives herself to this man, one day Tommy is going to realize this and leave her. They complement each other wonderfully.
I can't wait to read #3, Unexpected Consequences. This is the story of Zeke (Tommy's cousin) Jeff (Holly's therapist at one time) & Mary (Holly's attorney at one time). This description alone of these 3 people is enough to want to read!!!!!!!!!!
Great job Sloan Johnson!!!
Received a complimentary copy from the author for an honest review.
I had seen this book on a lot of posts from different blogs and I loved the cover, but never 1 clicked ONLY because every time I came across it, I had just bought more books that I didn't need! These are stories of BDSM, so if anyone is not comfortable with this, don't read. But if can give this a chance, it's a wonderful story.
This is book 2 in the Isthmus Alliance series. Book 1 Unexpected Angel
Book 1 is about Dylan & Tasha.
Book 2 is about Tommy & Holly
This is a story of Tommy seeing past Holly's struggles with addiction to drugs & alcohol. He is willing to go against what all his close friends/family believe to give Holly this chance when nobody else has in the past including her own parents.
One night of desperation from Holly lands her in the hospital and inpatient rehab after being released. Also she's facing criminal charges as well.
Tommy Reed is a local cop who has been struggling with the meaning of his job, for which he has wanted since he was 8 years old. Tommy comes from a very loving family. But has a tragedy of his own that shaped him early in life.
The events from the night Holly was injured and put in a coma by the hands of Tasha's ex-husband Nick Romero will change him forever. Tommy was put on administrative leave from the shooting that night and with Holly being released from in patient rehab, Tommy was asked by Holly's friend Tasha to help put Holly up so she won't go back to her old ways.
Holly has been the "wild" friend of Tasha's for the last 20 years. Polar opposite in every way. Tasha's family welcomed Holly into the family for which Holly has always appreciated, since she really didn't have very loving/caring parents. Holly was there for Tasha when she decided to divorce her husband, Nick Romero.
So here is a story of a nice guy trying to help a girl (who he knows is capable of being nice) come back from the darkness that sucked her in. Even though he has felt something for Holly since she was in the hospital, he tries to just bring out the feisty, charismatic person he sees in her. During this time, Holly finds a lot about giving yourself up to someone else doesn't mean you have lost control of yourself. And some pain can lead to pleasure in the hands of the right man.
I LOVED this story. I so want my own Tommy Reed!!! I could so see giving myself up to a man like this 100%! And for Holly, I felt her sense of having no self worth and how could anyone LOVE her??? And if she gives herself to this man, one day Tommy is going to realize this and leave her. They complement each other wonderfully.
I can't wait to read #3, Unexpected Consequences. This is the story of Zeke (Tommy's cousin) Jeff (Holly's therapist at one time) & Mary (Holly's attorney at one time). This description alone of these 3 people is enough to want to read!!!!!!!!!!
Great job Sloan Johnson!!!
November 16, 2013
ARC Was Given To Blog For An Honest Review
Protecting. Sacred. Resistant. Passionate. Lustful. Hot. Sensual. Loving. UNEXPECTED!!
That in a nutshell is every emotion and word that, for me, describes Unexpected Protector. As all of you know I absolutely loved book one Unexpected Angel. Well let me say, if it’s at all possible, I loved this one even more. The story and connections Sloan captures in Unexpected Protector surpasses what she accomplished in Unexpected Angel.
Book Two of the Isthmus Alliance Series is Tommy and Holly’s story. I will totally admit Sloan had me worried at first. Book one was where we were first introduced to Holly, Tasha’s best friend. She ends up turning to drugs, getting herself into a horrible situation and unfortunately betrays Tasha. Saying I hated Holly would not be putting it nicely, but would also be a MAJOR understatement. It’s not at all an easy feat. Taking such a popularly hated character and making your readers empathize and ultimately fall in love with her, or at the very least like her. Well, this is where I tip my proverbial hat to Sloan because she totally pulled it off. I did a complete 180. I not only love Holly, I actually felt for her. I understood her in certain ways. Battling addiction is no easy task by any means. Add on internal demons on top of insecurities and that is one hell of a start to a long journey to recovery. I found myself connecting with her on some levels and really understanding her. The REAL her.
Tommy, Dylan’s best friend and also another member of IA, is an ex military, ex cop DOM who just sweats sex and is illegally orgasmically sexy. He’s a real genuine caring man who lives by the definition of family values with a massive heart. He’s also ALPHA and possessive. Though commitment scares him, he’s not afraid to pursue it because for Tommy, the alternative is NOT an option.
For some reason unbeknownst to Tommy he feels a deep connection to Holly. A primal need to protect her and save her in any way he can. Holly, on the other hand, is not used to anyone except for Tasha ever helping her or protecting her . She is a very resilient independent female who besides Tasha trusts no one. But Holly can’t fight her feelings for Tommy anymore. How Tommy treats Holly, how he cares for her and protects her is just unlike anything. The care he gives her is so sweet. And when they finally give in to their sexual chemistry (which is through the roof I might add), it is dripping between your legs, you will need your B.O.B. type hot. Also WARNING HOLY HUGE CLIFFY TEASE MAN!!!!!!!
What I love about this BDSM series is that finally, there’s a series where you finally learn, realize and understand that there is more to this lifestyle than whips and chains.
http://bookfri-ends.com/unexpected-pr...
Protecting. Sacred. Resistant. Passionate. Lustful. Hot. Sensual. Loving. UNEXPECTED!!
That in a nutshell is every emotion and word that, for me, describes Unexpected Protector. As all of you know I absolutely loved book one Unexpected Angel. Well let me say, if it’s at all possible, I loved this one even more. The story and connections Sloan captures in Unexpected Protector surpasses what she accomplished in Unexpected Angel.
Book Two of the Isthmus Alliance Series is Tommy and Holly’s story. I will totally admit Sloan had me worried at first. Book one was where we were first introduced to Holly, Tasha’s best friend. She ends up turning to drugs, getting herself into a horrible situation and unfortunately betrays Tasha. Saying I hated Holly would not be putting it nicely, but would also be a MAJOR understatement. It’s not at all an easy feat. Taking such a popularly hated character and making your readers empathize and ultimately fall in love with her, or at the very least like her. Well, this is where I tip my proverbial hat to Sloan because she totally pulled it off. I did a complete 180. I not only love Holly, I actually felt for her. I understood her in certain ways. Battling addiction is no easy task by any means. Add on internal demons on top of insecurities and that is one hell of a start to a long journey to recovery. I found myself connecting with her on some levels and really understanding her. The REAL her.
Tommy, Dylan’s best friend and also another member of IA, is an ex military, ex cop DOM who just sweats sex and is illegally orgasmically sexy. He’s a real genuine caring man who lives by the definition of family values with a massive heart. He’s also ALPHA and possessive. Though commitment scares him, he’s not afraid to pursue it because for Tommy, the alternative is NOT an option.
For some reason unbeknownst to Tommy he feels a deep connection to Holly. A primal need to protect her and save her in any way he can. Holly, on the other hand, is not used to anyone except for Tasha ever helping her or protecting her . She is a very resilient independent female who besides Tasha trusts no one. But Holly can’t fight her feelings for Tommy anymore. How Tommy treats Holly, how he cares for her and protects her is just unlike anything. The care he gives her is so sweet. And when they finally give in to their sexual chemistry (which is through the roof I might add), it is dripping between your legs, you will need your B.O.B. type hot. Also WARNING HOLY HUGE CLIFFY TEASE MAN!!!!!!!
What I love about this BDSM series is that finally, there’s a series where you finally learn, realize and understand that there is more to this lifestyle than whips and chains.
http://bookfri-ends.com/unexpected-pr...
June 2, 2014
I had seen this book on a lot of posts from different blogs and I loved the cover, but never 1 clicked ONLY because every time I came across it, I had just bought more books that I didn't need! These are stories of BDSM, so if anyone is not comfortable with this, don't read. But if can give this a chance, it's a wonderful story.
This is book 2 in the Isthmus Alliance series. Book 1 Unexpected Angel
Book 1 is about Dylan & Tasha.
Book 2 is about Tommy & Holly
This is a story of Tommy seeing past Holly's struggles with addiction to drugs & alcohol. He is willing to go against what all his close friends/family believe to give Holly this chance when nobody else has in the past including her own parents.
One night of desperation from Holly lands her in the hospital and inpatient rehab after being released. Also she's facing criminal charges as well.
Tommy Reed is a local cop who has been struggling with the meaning of his job, for which he has wanted since he was 8 years old. Tommy comes from a very loving family. But has a tragedy of his own that shaped him early in life.
The events from the night Holly was injured and put in a coma by the hands of Tasha's ex-husband Nick Romero will change him forever. Tommy was put on administrative leave from the shooting that night and with Holly being released from in patient rehab, Tommy was asked by Holly's friend Tasha to help put Holly up so she won't go back to her old ways.
Holly has been the "wild" friend of Tasha's for the last 20 years. Polar opposite in every way. Tasha's family welcomed Holly into the family for which Holly has always appreciated, since she really didn't have very loving/caring parents. Holly was there for Tasha when she decided to divorce her husband, Nick Romero.
So here is a story of a nice guy trying to help a girl (who he knows is capable of being nice) come back from the darkness that sucked her in. Even though he has felt something for Holly since she was in the hospital, he tries to just bring out the feisty, charismatic person he sees in her. During this time, Holly finds a lot about giving yourself up to someone else doesn't mean you have lost control of yourself. And some pain can lead to pleasure in the hands of the right man.
I LOVED this story. I so want my own Tommy Reed!!! I could so see giving myself up to a man like this 100%! And for Holly, I felt her sense of having no self worth and how could anyone LOVE her??? And if she gives herself to this man, one day Tommy is going to realize this and leave her. They complement each other wonderfully.
I can't wait to read #3, Unexpected Consequences. This is the story of Zeke (Tommy's cousin) Jeff (Holly's therapist at one time) & Mary (Holly's attorney at one time). This description alone of these 3 people is enough to want to read!!!!!!!!!!
Great job Sloan Johnson!!!
This is book 2 in the Isthmus Alliance series. Book 1 Unexpected Angel
Book 1 is about Dylan & Tasha.
Book 2 is about Tommy & Holly
This is a story of Tommy seeing past Holly's struggles with addiction to drugs & alcohol. He is willing to go against what all his close friends/family believe to give Holly this chance when nobody else has in the past including her own parents.
One night of desperation from Holly lands her in the hospital and inpatient rehab after being released. Also she's facing criminal charges as well.
Tommy Reed is a local cop who has been struggling with the meaning of his job, for which he has wanted since he was 8 years old. Tommy comes from a very loving family. But has a tragedy of his own that shaped him early in life.
The events from the night Holly was injured and put in a coma by the hands of Tasha's ex-husband Nick Romero will change him forever. Tommy was put on administrative leave from the shooting that night and with Holly being released from in patient rehab, Tommy was asked by Holly's friend Tasha to help put Holly up so she won't go back to her old ways.
Holly has been the "wild" friend of Tasha's for the last 20 years. Polar opposite in every way. Tasha's family welcomed Holly into the family for which Holly has always appreciated, since she really didn't have very loving/caring parents. Holly was there for Tasha when she decided to divorce her husband, Nick Romero.
So here is a story of a nice guy trying to help a girl (who he knows is capable of being nice) come back from the darkness that sucked her in. Even though he has felt something for Holly since she was in the hospital, he tries to just bring out the feisty, charismatic person he sees in her. During this time, Holly finds a lot about giving yourself up to someone else doesn't mean you have lost control of yourself. And some pain can lead to pleasure in the hands of the right man.
I LOVED this story. I so want my own Tommy Reed!!! I could so see giving myself up to a man like this 100%! And for Holly, I felt her sense of having no self worth and how could anyone LOVE her??? And if she gives herself to this man, one day Tommy is going to realize this and leave her. They complement each other wonderfully.
I can't wait to read #3, Unexpected Consequences. This is the story of Zeke (Tommy's cousin) Jeff (Holly's therapist at one time) & Mary (Holly's attorney at one time). This description alone of these 3 people is enough to want to read!!!!!!!!!!
Great job Sloan Johnson!!!
November 13, 2013
Sometimes things have to fall apart to fall together. Rock bottom. There are times you need to hit that bottom to realize what you have and what it is that you want. Your life has to shatter to force you to want to fix it. You have to drown to want to live. For Holly Richards that's exactly what happened. She hit the bottom. She's hit it hard.
In the second book of the Isthmus Alliance, Sloan Johnson has given us an amazing look into a life that is unknown and taboo for many. This second book of the series again explores the lives of those entwined and living a BDSM lifestyle. What's refreshing about this book is that the focus is on the relationship and the trust that is required to partake in this way of life. It's not about intimidation, but it's about the emotional connection, the journey of two people and the love that grows from their exploration. It's about their letting go, and in a sense, letting in.
Tommy Reed is drawn to Holly after finding her lying in a pool of her own blood. Unsure of the why of the situation, he finds himself sitting vigil at her hospital bedside daily. She's a junkie. He's a cop. Even though he knows he shouldn't, and everyone in his life is telling him he shouldn't, he feels a strong inclination to help and protect her.
Holly doesn't believe she is worth it. She refuses to forgive herself. She surely doesn't feel that anyone should care about her. She doesn't believe she is worthy of any type of happiness. Tommy knows otherwise, he sees the good in her. He sees through her lack of confidence. He recognizes her innocence. He knows in his soul, she is someone to take a chance on, that she is someone to believe in.
This is an amazingly touching story of love and an unexplained connection. It's a beautiful narration of two people crossing paths and going on an unexpected journey. These two characters are awesome together. The story of the D/s is told in a compelling and relatable way. The use of both of their POV's is superb. You can't help but fall in love with everyone involved and you find yourself pulling for their love.
"I have to," I state firmly. "He promised me I won't have to deal with the hard things in life anymore. I owe him the same in return."
I can't wait for the next installments of this series. I hate a cliffhanger, but in this situation I'm selfish. I hated this one because I don't want to wait to see what's next. I'm already counting the days to see what's in store with Zeke and Liam. So please, please, please, Sloan write fast!!!!
In the second book of the Isthmus Alliance, Sloan Johnson has given us an amazing look into a life that is unknown and taboo for many. This second book of the series again explores the lives of those entwined and living a BDSM lifestyle. What's refreshing about this book is that the focus is on the relationship and the trust that is required to partake in this way of life. It's not about intimidation, but it's about the emotional connection, the journey of two people and the love that grows from their exploration. It's about their letting go, and in a sense, letting in.
Tommy Reed is drawn to Holly after finding her lying in a pool of her own blood. Unsure of the why of the situation, he finds himself sitting vigil at her hospital bedside daily. She's a junkie. He's a cop. Even though he knows he shouldn't, and everyone in his life is telling him he shouldn't, he feels a strong inclination to help and protect her.
Holly doesn't believe she is worth it. She refuses to forgive herself. She surely doesn't feel that anyone should care about her. She doesn't believe she is worthy of any type of happiness. Tommy knows otherwise, he sees the good in her. He sees through her lack of confidence. He recognizes her innocence. He knows in his soul, she is someone to take a chance on, that she is someone to believe in.
This is an amazingly touching story of love and an unexplained connection. It's a beautiful narration of two people crossing paths and going on an unexpected journey. These two characters are awesome together. The story of the D/s is told in a compelling and relatable way. The use of both of their POV's is superb. You can't help but fall in love with everyone involved and you find yourself pulling for their love.
"I have to," I state firmly. "He promised me I won't have to deal with the hard things in life anymore. I owe him the same in return."
I can't wait for the next installments of this series. I hate a cliffhanger, but in this situation I'm selfish. I hated this one because I don't want to wait to see what's next. I'm already counting the days to see what's in store with Zeke and Liam. So please, please, please, Sloan write fast!!!!
November 13, 2013
I must admit, I haven’t read the first book in this series YET, but it is a sure bet I am going to. I say this to let you know this book Unexpected Protector could be a stand alone read and you wouldn’t be lost in the story, but it will leave you wanting to run to the first book as soon as possible. Another warning, if you hate fantastic cliff hanging moments that leave you breathless and screaming for more now, you might want to avoid this book. I am already dying for the next book after how this one ended.
The author wrote an engaging story of Holly and Tommy. I want a Tommy, he is such a fantastic man. Holly is trying to come to terms with her past mistakes, learning to forgive herself for what she had done while on drugs. She was trying to find a reason that she deserves the love and compassion that Tommy freely gives her. After her past, how could her best friend forgive her and offer so much help to get Holly back on track?
Tommy couldn’t explain his connection to Holly. Being in law enforcement, he had seen her type on the streets. High on drugs, willing to do what she had to so she could get her next high, but as the book starts he is sitting by her hospital bed seeing what is underneath the actions and tattoos. He sees a broken woman begging to be cared about and loved. With no explanation, he knew he was the man to love her back to life. Tommy was also determined to show Holly that she had a submissive need and he was the dom to teach her.
Unexpected Protector is a story of forgiveness, love, healing and dealing with the baggage Holly and Tommy carry from their past. They have to make life changing decisions and find a way to still be there for each other. The author has developed a story that will suck you in and make you a part of the action. There are times that some might consider this story slow-paced, but we must remember recovery isn’t fast, it is a process of one step in front of the other.
The author gives us a group of characters that often reminded me of Cherise Sinclair’s Shadowland series. A group of people who love some kink in their sex, doms and subs all coming together to create a family that is always there for each other. When one member asks for help, there are no questions other than what can we do. They bring in new members and show them acceptance and support. For me this made the story even more special and raised the enjoyment level.
The author wrote an engaging story of Holly and Tommy. I want a Tommy, he is such a fantastic man. Holly is trying to come to terms with her past mistakes, learning to forgive herself for what she had done while on drugs. She was trying to find a reason that she deserves the love and compassion that Tommy freely gives her. After her past, how could her best friend forgive her and offer so much help to get Holly back on track?
Tommy couldn’t explain his connection to Holly. Being in law enforcement, he had seen her type on the streets. High on drugs, willing to do what she had to so she could get her next high, but as the book starts he is sitting by her hospital bed seeing what is underneath the actions and tattoos. He sees a broken woman begging to be cared about and loved. With no explanation, he knew he was the man to love her back to life. Tommy was also determined to show Holly that she had a submissive need and he was the dom to teach her.
Unexpected Protector is a story of forgiveness, love, healing and dealing with the baggage Holly and Tommy carry from their past. They have to make life changing decisions and find a way to still be there for each other. The author has developed a story that will suck you in and make you a part of the action. There are times that some might consider this story slow-paced, but we must remember recovery isn’t fast, it is a process of one step in front of the other.
The author gives us a group of characters that often reminded me of Cherise Sinclair’s Shadowland series. A group of people who love some kink in their sex, doms and subs all coming together to create a family that is always there for each other. When one member asks for help, there are no questions other than what can we do. They bring in new members and show them acceptance and support. For me this made the story even more special and raised the enjoyment level.
October 28, 2013
I'm going to start with what I love about this book and this series so far.
I love that the author doesn't make these books into a "How To" BDSM, D/s book. I love that she makes the reader really understand why a person would enjoy being a submissive, and not merely alluding to some "draw" she feels towards a man using a "Dom Voice". I like that not once did I say to myself, why would she do this to herself? I read a lot of BDSM books, and I don't think there's been one that really made me understand the non sexual side of it so well. And I love that the reader is able to see inside the Dom's head as well, and we find out why it's so important to him and how it makes him feel when she does things he wants her to do.
I really like the interaction between Holly and Tommy. I like how he never was like "I'm the Dom, I'm in charge, you do what I want, not what you want." I liked that he asked her opinions and her wants and needs to really listened to her. I liked that Holly opened herself up, but didn't change over night. I hate when in a book, someone messes up bad, and the other person is telling them to forgive themselves and they're just like "OK, I forgive myself." It was nice to see the progression.
OK, Now for what I didn't like. "Throbbing core." It's one thing to have a character think of it as that, but it's entirely different for the man to say the words out loud. I was waiting for her to laugh.
And here's the biggie. Please don't read it unless you've read the book.
Overall, I love this author's books and cannot wait for the next one!
I love that the author doesn't make these books into a "How To" BDSM, D/s book. I love that she makes the reader really understand why a person would enjoy being a submissive, and not merely alluding to some "draw" she feels towards a man using a "Dom Voice". I like that not once did I say to myself, why would she do this to herself? I read a lot of BDSM books, and I don't think there's been one that really made me understand the non sexual side of it so well. And I love that the reader is able to see inside the Dom's head as well, and we find out why it's so important to him and how it makes him feel when she does things he wants her to do.
I really like the interaction between Holly and Tommy. I like how he never was like "I'm the Dom, I'm in charge, you do what I want, not what you want." I liked that he asked her opinions and her wants and needs to really listened to her. I liked that Holly opened herself up, but didn't change over night. I hate when in a book, someone messes up bad, and the other person is telling them to forgive themselves and they're just like "OK, I forgive myself." It was nice to see the progression.
OK, Now for what I didn't like. "Throbbing core." It's one thing to have a character think of it as that, but it's entirely different for the man to say the words out loud. I was waiting for her to laugh.
And here's the biggie. Please don't read it unless you've read the book.
Overall, I love this author's books and cannot wait for the next one!
November 2, 2013
Unexpected Protector is book two in the Isthmus Alliance series. My usual disclaimer is this: I don’t give spoilers to the book I am reviewing, but it is virtually impossible for me NOT to give spoilers to the first book in the series, Unexpected Angel. Unexpected Angel was an awesome book, so if you haven’t read it yet, just stop reading this review, because I guarantee, I’m going to ruin it for you. Go buy it, read it, THEN come back and read the review. If you have read Unexpected Angel, read ahead for my awesome review of Unexpected Protector.
We met the main characters Holly and Tommy in Unexpected Angel. Tommy was Dylan’s friend who helped him with advice and other friendly/Dom duties. He is a police officer who was there to protect Dylan’s lady, Tasha, when she needed help. Holly is Tasha’s best friend, who has a history of drug use. Her bad choices led up to a bad decision that left her in a coma after betraying her best friend, Tasha.
For some reason, Tommy feels a connection to Holly, and is locked to her bedside, and determined to help her recover, not only on physically, but emotionally as well. Holly is truly damaged. Years of drug abuse, and the issues that led her there has left her a total mess. Tommy is a natural born Dom, and while Holly had been playing at D/s, she had also been playing on the Domme side. While this book does focus on BDSM, I think it does a good job of focusing on the emotional aspects as much as the physical.
There are some other surprises thrown into the mix that leave you holding your breath and saying WHAT? At this point, I have to say it... Sloan Johnson did something here that I usually hate. I’ll admit it, when I got to the end of the book, I wanted to find her, bitch slap her, then hold her gently as I wiped away the boo boo. She left one hell of a cliff hanger. How could you do this to me??? Why? WHYYYYY? Ok, I got it all out.
It was really hard to deal with for a few minutes. I did PM the person that asked me to read and review the book, and yell at her. Then I waited a day to write the review, and I kind of got over it. On a scale of 1-10, I rate this cliff as a 7. It was pretty intense. But really, life goes on. Or DOES it????
I’m giving it 4 stars!
We met the main characters Holly and Tommy in Unexpected Angel. Tommy was Dylan’s friend who helped him with advice and other friendly/Dom duties. He is a police officer who was there to protect Dylan’s lady, Tasha, when she needed help. Holly is Tasha’s best friend, who has a history of drug use. Her bad choices led up to a bad decision that left her in a coma after betraying her best friend, Tasha.
For some reason, Tommy feels a connection to Holly, and is locked to her bedside, and determined to help her recover, not only on physically, but emotionally as well. Holly is truly damaged. Years of drug abuse, and the issues that led her there has left her a total mess. Tommy is a natural born Dom, and while Holly had been playing at D/s, she had also been playing on the Domme side. While this book does focus on BDSM, I think it does a good job of focusing on the emotional aspects as much as the physical.
There are some other surprises thrown into the mix that leave you holding your breath and saying WHAT? At this point, I have to say it... Sloan Johnson did something here that I usually hate. I’ll admit it, when I got to the end of the book, I wanted to find her, bitch slap her, then hold her gently as I wiped away the boo boo. She left one hell of a cliff hanger. How could you do this to me??? Why? WHYYYYY? Ok, I got it all out.
It was really hard to deal with for a few minutes. I did PM the person that asked me to read and review the book, and yell at her. Then I waited a day to write the review, and I kind of got over it. On a scale of 1-10, I rate this cliff as a 7. It was pretty intense. But really, life goes on. Or DOES it????
I’m giving it 4 stars!
November 21, 2013
Seriously Sloan!! Seriously!! I have read a lot of books, a lot. But I can't remember one that had that kind of freaking cliffhanger ending. The kind that has your stomach in knots, dropped to the ground, your heart beating a mile a minute. Yeah?
That's what happened here. Anyone who knows me knows I love this kind of book, especially a D/s book. I love a good Dom, and I loved Dylan, so figured I would love Tommy Though I think Zeke is my new BBF. Don't ask me why, but I dig that man something fierce.
Anyway. The majority of this book was Tommy showing Holly true support and love. How to submit, how it doesn't have to be nasty and vile, it is a beautiful thing. Something to treasure and appreciate. He is there for her through her getting clean. And I am so glad that some people stopped holding her mistakes against her. Tommy's her support system she didn't think she wanted but came to need. And she does a fabulous job getting herself clean and staying clean, gettin back on the right track. Is it weird I kind of was proud of her.
Weird- yeah, I thought so too. The evolution of their relationship was nothing short of spectacular and beautiful. I don't just mean how far she comes in sobriety, but I also mean in her trust with Tommy Trusting him enough to submit. Trusting him enough to love again. He's her rock.
Then Liam comes back and rocks the boat with a truly heartbreaking story that Tommy had suppressed. Something he hasn't dealt with after all this time. Holly tried to be his rock like he is hers, but he just pushes away. So she does what any of us would do. She cheats to get him what he needs. Not cheating like that, she's a good girl now. Okay, maybe finagles the truth a little...then it happens.
The cliffhanger of 2013. And I'm left with my freaking jaw on the ground reading the note from the author thinking Wtf!?!? Really?? Really??? Whyyyyyyy!! Oooohhhh the horror.
This really is a beautiful book in so many ways. I loved it, much like I did Dylan and Tasha's story. But I beg you Sloan, can I be Zekes girl?? Pretty pretty please with handcuffs on top? Handcuffs, ropes, blindfolds, floggers, wands, crops.. maybe? yes? no? dang...Oh well...
That's what happened here. Anyone who knows me knows I love this kind of book, especially a D/s book. I love a good Dom, and I loved Dylan, so figured I would love Tommy Though I think Zeke is my new BBF. Don't ask me why, but I dig that man something fierce.
Anyway. The majority of this book was Tommy showing Holly true support and love. How to submit, how it doesn't have to be nasty and vile, it is a beautiful thing. Something to treasure and appreciate. He is there for her through her getting clean. And I am so glad that some people stopped holding her mistakes against her. Tommy's her support system she didn't think she wanted but came to need. And she does a fabulous job getting herself clean and staying clean, gettin back on the right track. Is it weird I kind of was proud of her.
Weird- yeah, I thought so too. The evolution of their relationship was nothing short of spectacular and beautiful. I don't just mean how far she comes in sobriety, but I also mean in her trust with Tommy Trusting him enough to submit. Trusting him enough to love again. He's her rock.
Then Liam comes back and rocks the boat with a truly heartbreaking story that Tommy had suppressed. Something he hasn't dealt with after all this time. Holly tried to be his rock like he is hers, but he just pushes away. So she does what any of us would do. She cheats to get him what he needs. Not cheating like that, she's a good girl now. Okay, maybe finagles the truth a little...then it happens.
The cliffhanger of 2013. And I'm left with my freaking jaw on the ground reading the note from the author thinking Wtf!?!? Really?? Really??? Whyyyyyyy!! Oooohhhh the horror.
This really is a beautiful book in so many ways. I loved it, much like I did Dylan and Tasha's story. But I beg you Sloan, can I be Zekes girl?? Pretty pretty please with handcuffs on top? Handcuffs, ropes, blindfolds, floggers, wands, crops.. maybe? yes? no? dang...Oh well...
November 16, 2013
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Holy Smokes!! That was not what I was expecting, it was so much better.
I meant to read Unexpected Angel, book 1 before beginning Unexpected Protector but then I started reading Unexpected Protector and I was hooked. Even though I jumped in with book 2 it in no way made me enjoy the story less and I will definitely be going back to read book 1 cuz' this book was amazing.
I thought that I had read every type of Dom but wow, I guess I really haven't cuz ' Sloan Johnson's Doms are completely unexpected and sweet. Don't get me wrong they are still all alpha doms but they are that in a sweet way.
When Holly wakes up in the hospital after the events of the previous book, she wakes up to a mess of a legal situation, her best friend Tasha, being supportive and her Tasha's boyfriend, Dylan, hating her but the biggest surprise is Tommy. And when Tommy ends up taking her in and giving her a place to stay while she gets back on her feet, it gives them an opportunity to get to know one another and that is where the romance begins.
Tommy is absolutely, positively, freaking amazing - new book boyfriend alert!! I loved him, super sweet while being a swoon worthy dom, he has all of the bookish qualities that I look for in men in a book like this. Loved him.
Holly was utterly unique and neverendingly fascinating. A junkie with a very hard past, she's made some very bad mistakes and she's making up for them slowly but surely. It was great to see things from her perspective and to see her pull herself up by her bootstraps. A great character that I couldn't help but root for to get her own HEA.
Now, here is my one and only warning/complaint - it's both - it has a huge cliffhanger that literally had me verbally cussing out my Kindle. But even if I had known that it would end that way I would still have read it.
I am totally in love with this relatively new series, the characters are completely awesome and I can not wait to see what will happen next. Need book 3 NOW!! :)
Originally posted on Me, Myself & Books Blog
http://memyselfandbooksblog.blogspot.com
Holy Smokes!! That was not what I was expecting, it was so much better.
I meant to read Unexpected Angel, book 1 before beginning Unexpected Protector but then I started reading Unexpected Protector and I was hooked. Even though I jumped in with book 2 it in no way made me enjoy the story less and I will definitely be going back to read book 1 cuz' this book was amazing.
I thought that I had read every type of Dom but wow, I guess I really haven't cuz ' Sloan Johnson's Doms are completely unexpected and sweet. Don't get me wrong they are still all alpha doms but they are that in a sweet way.
When Holly wakes up in the hospital after the events of the previous book, she wakes up to a mess of a legal situation, her best friend Tasha, being supportive and her Tasha's boyfriend, Dylan, hating her but the biggest surprise is Tommy. And when Tommy ends up taking her in and giving her a place to stay while she gets back on her feet, it gives them an opportunity to get to know one another and that is where the romance begins.
Tommy is absolutely, positively, freaking amazing - new book boyfriend alert!! I loved him, super sweet while being a swoon worthy dom, he has all of the bookish qualities that I look for in men in a book like this. Loved him.
Holly was utterly unique and neverendingly fascinating. A junkie with a very hard past, she's made some very bad mistakes and she's making up for them slowly but surely. It was great to see things from her perspective and to see her pull herself up by her bootstraps. A great character that I couldn't help but root for to get her own HEA.
Now, here is my one and only warning/complaint - it's both - it has a huge cliffhanger that literally had me verbally cussing out my Kindle. But even if I had known that it would end that way I would still have read it.
I am totally in love with this relatively new series, the characters are completely awesome and I can not wait to see what will happen next. Need book 3 NOW!! :)
Originally posted on Me, Myself & Books Blog
http://memyselfandbooksblog.blogspot.com
November 2, 2013
I had been eagerly awaiting Sloan Johnson's Unexpected Protector and I was thrilled to be given the honor of reading it prior to its release. I am a HUGE fan of Unexpected Angel, the first book in the Isthmus Alliance series and was so curious to see where Sloan took us in this next adventure. This second book is Tommy and Holly's story. It picks up essentially where book one left off, only this time we are seeing everything from their POV's.
The story is great! It's hot, it's sexy, it's emotional. Tommy is clearly another member of IA and there is once again the BDSM element throughout the story which I loved. The author teaches us a lot about BDSM relationships and doesn't just throw actions at us as much as thoughts, feelings and the meanings behind them. Again, this is something I think she does really well and it makes these books very enjoyable to read. Hotness factor is once again top of the charts!
For some reason, this time around I did not feel the same connection with the characters that I felt when reading Book One. I just didn't feel for Tommy the way I did for Dylan Caprese, where I just had him pictured in my mind the entire time I was reading the book. I didn't really connect much with Tommy in UA and so perhaps that made it harder to sustain my interest in his story here in Unexpected Protector. Same with Holly. I just did not like all that she represented and her actions and behaviors, and so I think I just didn't have it in me to care enough what happened to her. Call me crazy, it's possible I am. I am sure I'm in a minority here. But I just didn't feel the writing grabbed me the way it did in the first book of the series. I just found myself more excited about scenes where Dylan and Tasha actually came into the storyline than the main characters of the story.
Don't get me wrong, it's a great book and if you loved the first book, you should absolutely read this one. And once again I want to thank Sloan Johnson for creating and sharing Isthmus Alliance and all its hot guys with us.
The story is great! It's hot, it's sexy, it's emotional. Tommy is clearly another member of IA and there is once again the BDSM element throughout the story which I loved. The author teaches us a lot about BDSM relationships and doesn't just throw actions at us as much as thoughts, feelings and the meanings behind them. Again, this is something I think she does really well and it makes these books very enjoyable to read. Hotness factor is once again top of the charts!
For some reason, this time around I did not feel the same connection with the characters that I felt when reading Book One. I just didn't feel for Tommy the way I did for Dylan Caprese, where I just had him pictured in my mind the entire time I was reading the book. I didn't really connect much with Tommy in UA and so perhaps that made it harder to sustain my interest in his story here in Unexpected Protector. Same with Holly. I just did not like all that she represented and her actions and behaviors, and so I think I just didn't have it in me to care enough what happened to her. Call me crazy, it's possible I am. I am sure I'm in a minority here. But I just didn't feel the writing grabbed me the way it did in the first book of the series. I just found myself more excited about scenes where Dylan and Tasha actually came into the storyline than the main characters of the story.
Don't get me wrong, it's a great book and if you loved the first book, you should absolutely read this one. And once again I want to thank Sloan Johnson for creating and sharing Isthmus Alliance and all its hot guys with us.
November 7, 2013
A Copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 Stars.
Okay so I have been thinking about how to write this review for a few days now. I think I am just going to say it the way I feel and in no particular order.
#1 – I really like Sloan Johnson’s stories and alpha men.
#2 – The BDSM is not heavy, but just right for me. Sometimes, I like heavy, sometimes lighter. I know with Sloan’s alpha men what I am going to get. Hot and protective.
#3 – I think Sloan Johnson writing is smooth. The story flows, etc.
#4– I am going to say it because this is the only thing that bothered me about the book. I wish the heroine was anyone but Holly. When I started this book, I was open to accepting her for Tommy, but after the few chapters, I just couldn’t handle her. I just did not like her and I did not feel the connection between Tommy and her. Holly did nothing in Unexpected Angel (in my opinion) for Tommy to want to help her and stay by her side. Nothing. And then Holly is just spoiled. Sorry. To me she still sounded unappreciative. Yes, I know her “excuses” for doing what she did, but I don’t care. Too little, too late. I wish that the heroine in this book was someone else.
It could have been another women who had problems with substance abuse or anything that Tommy wanted to help. Someone who was worthy of Tommy. I just felt like he could do so much better.
So the story and writing I give a solid 4 if not higher. I mean I love the fact that Tommy was so loving and so alpha, but I could not feel or understand the connection.
I will definitely without a doubt read more books by Sloan Johnson. I love her men. They are strong, protective, loving and so alpha, but in this one the connection between the characters did not work for me. This is just my opinion. However, I recommend you read it and read any of Sloan Johnson’s books. I think it would be nice to get different people’s opinion about the relationship with Holly and Tommy.
3.5 Stars.
Okay so I have been thinking about how to write this review for a few days now. I think I am just going to say it the way I feel and in no particular order.
#1 – I really like Sloan Johnson’s stories and alpha men.
#2 – The BDSM is not heavy, but just right for me. Sometimes, I like heavy, sometimes lighter. I know with Sloan’s alpha men what I am going to get. Hot and protective.
#3 – I think Sloan Johnson writing is smooth. The story flows, etc.
#4– I am going to say it because this is the only thing that bothered me about the book. I wish the heroine was anyone but Holly. When I started this book, I was open to accepting her for Tommy, but after the few chapters, I just couldn’t handle her. I just did not like her and I did not feel the connection between Tommy and her. Holly did nothing in Unexpected Angel (in my opinion) for Tommy to want to help her and stay by her side. Nothing. And then Holly is just spoiled. Sorry. To me she still sounded unappreciative. Yes, I know her “excuses” for doing what she did, but I don’t care. Too little, too late. I wish that the heroine in this book was someone else.
It could have been another women who had problems with substance abuse or anything that Tommy wanted to help. Someone who was worthy of Tommy. I just felt like he could do so much better.
So the story and writing I give a solid 4 if not higher. I mean I love the fact that Tommy was so loving and so alpha, but I could not feel or understand the connection.
I will definitely without a doubt read more books by Sloan Johnson. I love her men. They are strong, protective, loving and so alpha, but in this one the connection between the characters did not work for me. This is just my opinion. However, I recommend you read it and read any of Sloan Johnson’s books. I think it would be nice to get different people’s opinion about the relationship with Holly and Tommy.
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