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Redleg Security #5
Unexpected Hero
No one ever saw me or cared to look. Until her.
But the man she sees is a lie. And if I reveal who I am, I’ll lose her – the only woman who ever made me feel alive.
Five Steps to Covertly Protecting my Boss’s Secret Daughter
By Tomer Stillman, a hacker and secret Dom with a psych eval full of red flags. Fortunately, nobody cares to notice.
1. Get her a safe job and place to live.
2. Make sure she has plenty of food.
3. Protect her from her overly-trusting self, even if that means crossing lines.
4. Daily checks of her location, phone, and devices for suspicious activity, following her when necessary.
5. Fulfill all her sexual desires.
No. Scratch that last one.
Not only because she’s too young and inexperienced. But because I need to keep my distance.
The more I watch her, the more the lines blur between protection and obsession.
I never intended to come face to face with her, but in a moment of weakness, I intervened. And it changed everything.
She makes me feel things. Things I’m not ready to feel. I never thought I had a heart, but the more I'm with her, the faster it beats.
Now, I’m left wondering, will she forgive me for the things I’ve done to protect her? Or will the only woman I’ve ever cared for leave me like everyone else?
But the man she sees is a lie. And if I reveal who I am, I’ll lose her – the only woman who ever made me feel alive.
Five Steps to Covertly Protecting my Boss’s Secret Daughter
By Tomer Stillman, a hacker and secret Dom with a psych eval full of red flags. Fortunately, nobody cares to notice.
1. Get her a safe job and place to live.
2. Make sure she has plenty of food.
3. Protect her from her overly-trusting self, even if that means crossing lines.
4. Daily checks of her location, phone, and devices for suspicious activity, following her when necessary.
5. Fulfill all her sexual desires.
No. Scratch that last one.
Not only because she’s too young and inexperienced. But because I need to keep my distance.
The more I watch her, the more the lines blur between protection and obsession.
I never intended to come face to face with her, but in a moment of weakness, I intervened. And it changed everything.
She makes me feel things. Things I’m not ready to feel. I never thought I had a heart, but the more I'm with her, the faster it beats.
Now, I’m left wondering, will she forgive me for the things I’ve done to protect her? Or will the only woman I’ve ever cared for leave me like everyone else?
526 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 15, 2024
201 people are currently reading
891 people want to read
About the author
Jackie Walker
17 books448 followersBe sure to follow me on BookBub so you don't miss out on news about my sales or releases: https://tinyurl.com/JackieWalkerBookBub
You can also sign-up for my newsletter or follow me on my socials by viewing my link tree: https://linktr.ee/authorjackiewalker
***
Jackie brings you stories featuring her signature blend of comedy, spice, suspense, multi-faceted characters, and romantic, heartwarming moments. A voracious romance reader herself, Jackie writes stories featuring the four
Ss: Suspense, Swoons, Steam, and Sarcasm.
Her heroines are badass, and her heroes are easy on the eyes and heavy on the charm. She loves writing characters with real emotions, flaws, and mental health issues and is known to send them to therapy where they belong. Let’s normalize that shit.
When she is not writing stories about swoony heroes and the women who get to play with them, she is avoiding life with an audiobook in her ears or taking care of her army of cats and peacocks or hanging with her teenage son (who also speaks fluent sarcasm).
You can also sign-up for my newsletter or follow me on my socials by viewing my link tree: https://linktr.ee/authorjackiewalker
***
Jackie brings you stories featuring her signature blend of comedy, spice, suspense, multi-faceted characters, and romantic, heartwarming moments. A voracious romance reader herself, Jackie writes stories featuring the four
Ss: Suspense, Swoons, Steam, and Sarcasm.
Her heroines are badass, and her heroes are easy on the eyes and heavy on the charm. She loves writing characters with real emotions, flaws, and mental health issues and is known to send them to therapy where they belong. Let’s normalize that shit.
When she is not writing stories about swoony heroes and the women who get to play with them, she is avoiding life with an audiobook in her ears or taking care of her army of cats and peacocks or hanging with her teenage son (who also speaks fluent sarcasm).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
January 15, 2024
On the heels of Mia and Cal's hotter than hot love story, comes Tomer and Violet. And while these two have sizzling chemistry and a connection too perfect, it's also a tough read, for several reasons. I was not totally prepared for the intensity of this read. It is troubling, dangerous, scintillating, addictive, sad, and fantastic. Yup - all of that!!
Tomer has always been a favorite of mine - always keeping the Redleg men and women safe. I had no idea his backstory would be so heartbreaking! Made me love him even more. Violet, although not as horrific, was just compelling to read. I think that's what kept these pages furiously flipping... the need to see their happiness. Oh yeah, and let's not forget the scorching hot scenes either! Whew!!
Annnd then - the drama!! I was screaming Nooooo!! (when you get to that part, you'll scream too.) This does end on a cliffhanger, but there's a bit of a happy for now feeling at the end, to carry us over until we get the second part. Which I absolutely need - right now!
I was thrilled to receive a free ARC of this story from the author (thank you) and voluntarily leave my review. This series is best enjoyed in order, to avoid spoilers and is the best way to enjoy and understand each character. I highly recommend this author and this series.
Tomer has always been a favorite of mine - always keeping the Redleg men and women safe. I had no idea his backstory would be so heartbreaking! Made me love him even more. Violet, although not as horrific, was just compelling to read. I think that's what kept these pages furiously flipping... the need to see their happiness. Oh yeah, and let's not forget the scorching hot scenes either! Whew!!
Annnd then - the drama!! I was screaming Nooooo!! (when you get to that part, you'll scream too.) This does end on a cliffhanger, but there's a bit of a happy for now feeling at the end, to carry us over until we get the second part. Which I absolutely need - right now!
I was thrilled to receive a free ARC of this story from the author (thank you) and voluntarily leave my review. This series is best enjoyed in order, to avoid spoilers and is the best way to enjoy and understand each character. I highly recommend this author and this series.
January 15, 2024
Jackie Walker is at it again with the latest installment of the Redleg series, Unexpected Hero!
In addition to the sizzling hot spice and chemistry between Tomer and Lettie, you get heartbreaking backstories, drama, sass and sarcasm, and all the feelings!
Unexpected Hero is your small town girl meets neurodivergent Dom story.
Unexpected Hero can be read as a standalone but is even better if you read the rest of the Redleg series first. It does end on a cliffhanger, but don’t worry, part 2 is coming soon!
Check trigger warnings before diving in.
In addition to the sizzling hot spice and chemistry between Tomer and Lettie, you get heartbreaking backstories, drama, sass and sarcasm, and all the feelings!
Unexpected Hero is your small town girl meets neurodivergent Dom story.
Unexpected Hero can be read as a standalone but is even better if you read the rest of the Redleg series first. It does end on a cliffhanger, but don’t worry, part 2 is coming soon!
Check trigger warnings before diving in.
January 12, 2024
4 ⭐️
Tomer and Lettie’s romance was full of heart, heat, love, and secrets. A truly addicting read.
You get your first glimpse of them in the previous redleg book, Rival Hero, and because Unexpected Hero is set in the timeline before the previous book, i already knew where it was heading. This in my opinion, is a double-edged sword because while I, as a reader, was gaining insight into their lives, I was also waiting for the other shoe to drop. However, Jackie wrote this story commendably well and allowed me to be hooked into the book completely with her brand of humour and romance.
I gave this 4 stars because I felt that for a romance, this could’ve been shorter and I felt that their relationship was based more on a physical connection rather than an emotional one—but I still highly enjoyed it nonetheless.
I definitely recommend giving this one a go if you love:
♡ *light* stalker romance
♡ boss’ daughter
♡ age gap
♡ secret identity
♡ dom mmc || virgin fmc
*Also, this book deals with some heavy topics, so please read the trigger warnings before going into it*
💜 Thank you to Jackie for gifting me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Tomer and Lettie’s romance was full of heart, heat, love, and secrets. A truly addicting read.
You get your first glimpse of them in the previous redleg book, Rival Hero, and because Unexpected Hero is set in the timeline before the previous book, i already knew where it was heading. This in my opinion, is a double-edged sword because while I, as a reader, was gaining insight into their lives, I was also waiting for the other shoe to drop. However, Jackie wrote this story commendably well and allowed me to be hooked into the book completely with her brand of humour and romance.
I gave this 4 stars because I felt that for a romance, this could’ve been shorter and I felt that their relationship was based more on a physical connection rather than an emotional one—but I still highly enjoyed it nonetheless.
I definitely recommend giving this one a go if you love:
♡ *light* stalker romance
♡ boss’ daughter
♡ age gap
♡ secret identity
♡ dom mmc || virgin fmc
*Also, this book deals with some heavy topics, so please read the trigger warnings before going into it*
💜 Thank you to Jackie for gifting me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
January 15, 2024
5⭐️ *Arc Review*
Well, well, well....Tomer Stillman you dog. Four books into this series, never expecting this man to be this. I knew something was up, but really did not see this coming. Unexpected, get it?
Tomer is the genius brains behind Redleg Security and knows everything about everyone even things they don't know about theirselves. He is always watching. Violet "Lettie" on the other hand is an innocent naive mess with a squirrel chasing ADHD mind that left her small town and very religious upbringing after her papa, that raised her, passed away. She is lost and has no idea what to do with her life, enter this mysterious stranger that grabs her attention and helps her out. Little does she know this was not a chance encounter. Dun, dun, duuuuun!!!!
I went through an array of emotions reading this book. I was angry for the pasts they had. I felt sad and may or may not have shed a few tears over the shame and self doubt they experienced and I rejoiced when things clicked into place, I bet more joy is going to be felt when I read the second part of this duet, because "warning" this book does end on a cliffhanger, but luckily we don't have to wait too long.
There are a few things I want to point out:
1. The banter in this book was phenomenal especially between Lettie and her friend Stella. I cannot begin to explain to you how funny this book was outside of the serious parts. Perfect balance.
2. There was a Zade Meadows & Emerson Grant reference in this book.
3. Taylor Swift was mentioned by him. Sold.
4. Tomer was entirely obsessed with Lettie. He would do anything for her.
5. I LOVED how supportive Tomer was towards Lettie in everything she did.
6. I'm obsessed with how Jackie writes inner monologue, I have never seen it like this. Sounds like my head.
7. The spice was on point in true Jackie fashion.
To sum up I love this book, I cannot wait for the next book, it's going to slay, as all Jackie's books do!!!
Well, well, well....Tomer Stillman you dog. Four books into this series, never expecting this man to be this. I knew something was up, but really did not see this coming. Unexpected, get it?
Tomer is the genius brains behind Redleg Security and knows everything about everyone even things they don't know about theirselves. He is always watching. Violet "Lettie" on the other hand is an innocent naive mess with a squirrel chasing ADHD mind that left her small town and very religious upbringing after her papa, that raised her, passed away. She is lost and has no idea what to do with her life, enter this mysterious stranger that grabs her attention and helps her out. Little does she know this was not a chance encounter. Dun, dun, duuuuun!!!!
I went through an array of emotions reading this book. I was angry for the pasts they had. I felt sad and may or may not have shed a few tears over the shame and self doubt they experienced and I rejoiced when things clicked into place, I bet more joy is going to be felt when I read the second part of this duet, because "warning" this book does end on a cliffhanger, but luckily we don't have to wait too long.
There are a few things I want to point out:
1. The banter in this book was phenomenal especially between Lettie and her friend Stella. I cannot begin to explain to you how funny this book was outside of the serious parts. Perfect balance.
2. There was a Zade Meadows & Emerson Grant reference in this book.
3. Taylor Swift was mentioned by him. Sold.
4. Tomer was entirely obsessed with Lettie. He would do anything for her.
5. I LOVED how supportive Tomer was towards Lettie in everything she did.
6. I'm obsessed with how Jackie writes inner monologue, I have never seen it like this. Sounds like my head.
7. The spice was on point in true Jackie fashion.
To sum up I love this book, I cannot wait for the next book, it's going to slay, as all Jackie's books do!!!
November 5, 2024
"If I'm but a particle swirling aimlessly in the darkness of space, then she's the sun."
I want to scream my love for this book from the dang rooftops. Five stars is clearly not enough. This hero and Lettie's story is so much more than I was expecting. After finishing Rival Hero and getting a glimpse at them in the present I needed the story of their beginning and Ms. Walker delivered ten fold on this one. Yes, it is only book one of a duet and yes it may not end as an HEA but it was totally worth the panic attacks I had while reading...lol!
Finally getting to see who the hero (aka Chuck Nofunf**k) is proves that he is capable of fun...in his own way. It broke my heart to learn why he is the way that he is but to see Lettie bring him out of his shell was stunning. Speaking of Lettie, this poor small town girl is finally getting the chance to live, to explore who she is, escape from the chains that have held her down her entire life. So many times I felt she was too hard on herself but thank heavens she had her unexpected hero there to comfort her and show her her worth.
So many more things I would love to say about these two but I do not want to ruin even a word of the story for anyone. If you are familiar with Jackie's writing you get all of the things we all love...the ultra protective man, the snarky lady, inner monologue that will leave you giggling, and of course the "fun times" that she writes so well. A little extra with this one is the things that happen to Lettie...let's just say she is a bit accident prone.
If you are new to the Redleg Security series do yourself a favor and catch up FAST!!! While this can be read as a standalone take my advice and at least read Rival Hero first to get the full effect of Tomer's story. You have to know the hero's character to understand why this story is written so beautifully, heart-wrenching at times, and then back to beautiful. There are definitely some rough spots that will have your heart in panic mode but just trust Jackie's writing. Also, please make sure to check her trigger warning list. Now, to sit and wait for the rest of their story.
********AUDIO REVIEW********
Jackie always picks the narrators best fit for her characters and she did it again with Tomer and Lettie. Aaron and Kelsey pair well together. Jackie's characters (especially the FMC) are not always easy, they love to go on long tangents and Kelsey handled Lettie's ramblin's exquisitely. Aaron Shedlock is always good at is performances. This is definitely one of my favorites of his.
I want to scream my love for this book from the dang rooftops. Five stars is clearly not enough. This hero and Lettie's story is so much more than I was expecting. After finishing Rival Hero and getting a glimpse at them in the present I needed the story of their beginning and Ms. Walker delivered ten fold on this one. Yes, it is only book one of a duet and yes it may not end as an HEA but it was totally worth the panic attacks I had while reading...lol!
Finally getting to see who the hero (aka Chuck Nofunf**k) is proves that he is capable of fun...in his own way. It broke my heart to learn why he is the way that he is but to see Lettie bring him out of his shell was stunning. Speaking of Lettie, this poor small town girl is finally getting the chance to live, to explore who she is, escape from the chains that have held her down her entire life. So many times I felt she was too hard on herself but thank heavens she had her unexpected hero there to comfort her and show her her worth.
So many more things I would love to say about these two but I do not want to ruin even a word of the story for anyone. If you are familiar with Jackie's writing you get all of the things we all love...the ultra protective man, the snarky lady, inner monologue that will leave you giggling, and of course the "fun times" that she writes so well. A little extra with this one is the things that happen to Lettie...let's just say she is a bit accident prone.
If you are new to the Redleg Security series do yourself a favor and catch up FAST!!! While this can be read as a standalone take my advice and at least read Rival Hero first to get the full effect of Tomer's story. You have to know the hero's character to understand why this story is written so beautifully, heart-wrenching at times, and then back to beautiful. There are definitely some rough spots that will have your heart in panic mode but just trust Jackie's writing. Also, please make sure to check her trigger warning list. Now, to sit and wait for the rest of their story.
********AUDIO REVIEW********
Jackie always picks the narrators best fit for her characters and she did it again with Tomer and Lettie. Aaron and Kelsey pair well together. Jackie's characters (especially the FMC) are not always easy, they love to go on long tangents and Kelsey handled Lettie's ramblin's exquisitely. Aaron Shedlock is always good at is performances. This is definitely one of my favorites of his.
September 23, 2024
Tomer & Lettie have stolen the show. After the jaw dropping revelation at the end of Rival Hero, I couldn’t wait to dive in to the story of these two. But these two have so much more to give than what is on the surface.
Unexpected Hero starts off the trilogy of Tomer & Lettie with a bang. We get to see where they started and quickly find that true love can come in the most unexpected ways. Their chemistry is undeniable & off the charts. But while I found myself fanning myself from the heat often, I also found myself wiping away the tears as they both suffer from a sheltered and heart-wrenching past.
Buckle up for a wild ride of secrets, mystery, & intrigue.
Audiobook Review:
Aaron Shedlock & Kelsey Navarro Foster are so absolutely perfect for these characters, it’s unreal. They have literally brought Tomer & Lettie to life! Their overall characteristics are captured impeccably by the narration from these two! I cannot wait for the deep dive into the emotional journey that is yet to come with the rest of Tomer & Lettie’s story.
Unexpected Hero starts off the trilogy of Tomer & Lettie with a bang. We get to see where they started and quickly find that true love can come in the most unexpected ways. Their chemistry is undeniable & off the charts. But while I found myself fanning myself from the heat often, I also found myself wiping away the tears as they both suffer from a sheltered and heart-wrenching past.
Buckle up for a wild ride of secrets, mystery, & intrigue.
Audiobook Review:
Aaron Shedlock & Kelsey Navarro Foster are so absolutely perfect for these characters, it’s unreal. They have literally brought Tomer & Lettie to life! Their overall characteristics are captured impeccably by the narration from these two! I cannot wait for the deep dive into the emotional journey that is yet to come with the rest of Tomer & Lettie’s story.
January 1, 2025
Adding a note: Tomer is my favorite book boyfriend of 2024!
Story rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️(0-5)
Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧 (0-5)
Overall: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 (0-5)
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 (0-5) mild bdsm and voyeurism
What I’m Starry-Eyed Over:
🤩 The trilogy can be read alone, but I highly recommend the whole Redleg Security series, especially the perfectly cast audiobooks!
🤩 Jackie has the most amazing way of giving a truly all the feels experience with the added suspense in the Redleg Security series plots along with her witty charm and humor even among difficult topics.
🤩 Aaron Shedlock gives us his all as the many sides to Tomer, and I’m so in love and lust. Kelsey Navarro Foster is the perfect Lettie, giving us her sweetness, her strength, and all the sass in between.
🤩 I’m here for the good guy stalker vibes (tagged as stalker light by the author). When Tomer finds a way to call Lettie and check on her.
🤩 The heart-wrenching flashbacks are so well written and captivating.
🤩 The protector plus DOM combo is everything. 🥵
🤩 Secret pining, ok actually obsession, and self-pleasuring. 😮💨
🤩 The characterization is so developed and fabulous. But the inner dialogue by these MCs is laugh-out-loud hilarious.
🤩 The plot is so full of feels and written so believably.
🤩 When I highlight almost everything in chapter 34 because it is just so perfect. Tomer’s sweet dirty talk works on me too, Lettie baby!
🤩 Inexperienced FMC, but she’s a very good girl!
🤩 And Tomer is 100% book boyfriend material because of his tender after-care and his ability to teach Lettie open communication.
What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About:
💫 My heart doesn’t like a cliffhanger, but Jackie’s been honest about it being a trilogy, so I’m okay with it! For her, I’m okay with it. I have mild bookish depression here at the end, but it’s fine. I’m fine. Everything is fine. My heart is ready to heal with them in Unexpected Heroine and Unexpected Redemption.
🔬Caution/Trigger warnings: flashback memories of childhood mental abuse, on-page drink drugging and abduction. Jackie does a tasteful job of leaving out the icky details during and after the abduction, thank goodness.
Story rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️(0-5)
Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧 (0-5)
Overall: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 (0-5)
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 (0-5) mild bdsm and voyeurism
What I’m Starry-Eyed Over:
🤩 The trilogy can be read alone, but I highly recommend the whole Redleg Security series, especially the perfectly cast audiobooks!
🤩 Jackie has the most amazing way of giving a truly all the feels experience with the added suspense in the Redleg Security series plots along with her witty charm and humor even among difficult topics.
🤩 Aaron Shedlock gives us his all as the many sides to Tomer, and I’m so in love and lust. Kelsey Navarro Foster is the perfect Lettie, giving us her sweetness, her strength, and all the sass in between.
🤩 I’m here for the good guy stalker vibes (tagged as stalker light by the author). When Tomer finds a way to call Lettie and check on her.
🤩 The heart-wrenching flashbacks are so well written and captivating.
🤩 The protector plus DOM combo is everything. 🥵
🤩 Secret pining, ok actually obsession, and self-pleasuring. 😮💨
🤩 The characterization is so developed and fabulous. But the inner dialogue by these MCs is laugh-out-loud hilarious.
🤩 The plot is so full of feels and written so believably.
🤩 When I highlight almost everything in chapter 34 because it is just so perfect. Tomer’s sweet dirty talk works on me too, Lettie baby!
🤩 Inexperienced FMC, but she’s a very good girl!
🤩 And Tomer is 100% book boyfriend material because of his tender after-care and his ability to teach Lettie open communication.
What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About:
💫 My heart doesn’t like a cliffhanger, but Jackie’s been honest about it being a trilogy, so I’m okay with it! For her, I’m okay with it. I have mild bookish depression here at the end, but it’s fine. I’m fine. Everything is fine. My heart is ready to heal with them in Unexpected Heroine and Unexpected Redemption.
🔬Caution/Trigger warnings: flashback memories of childhood mental abuse, on-page drink drugging and abduction. Jackie does a tasteful job of leaving out the icky details during and after the abduction, thank goodness.
January 15, 2024
Cliffhanger Anyone!!
Tomer has a huge secret he’s been keeping. When the Boss finds out watch out.
Redleg Security will keep you on your toes.
“Violet Anastasia Holt,” has had the shock of her life. She makes a choice to uproot and move from the small town where she was raised.
I don’t want to give anything away so I’m just going to say this story was funny and on the edge. This author keeps this series interesting and bold.It ends in a cliffhanger to beware. Grab it now!!
Tomer has a huge secret he’s been keeping. When the Boss finds out watch out.
Redleg Security will keep you on your toes.
“Violet Anastasia Holt,” has had the shock of her life. She makes a choice to uproot and move from the small town where she was raised.
I don’t want to give anything away so I’m just going to say this story was funny and on the edge. This author keeps this series interesting and bold.It ends in a cliffhanger to beware. Grab it now!!
October 19, 2024
Audiobook and Book Review
💜 Age gap
🖤 Boss’s daughter
💜 V card FMC
🖤 Dominant MMC
💜 K!nk club
🖤 ADHD rep
💜 Growls
🖤 Sp@nking
💜 K!dnapping
🖤 St@lking
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Each time Jackie Walker releases a book I swear it’s her best one. Then she has the mother plucking audacity TO COME OUT WITH AN EVEN BETTER BOOK! 😂 I say that with the utmost love and respect because Holy Shirtballs. Tomer and Lettie are FIRE. This book is a slow burn, until it isn’t. It has tension and SPICE, and just when you think you know where it’s going….NOPE! (Insert Fast and the Furious screeching tires) Totally goes in a new direction. I read Rival Hero, and I knew, I Freaking KNEW what happened, and I was still blindsided by it. But having it narrated by the perfect freaking duo of Kelsey Navarro Foster and Aaron Shedlock!? Geeeeezzzzzz. There aren’t two better humans to perform these two amazing characters.
I don’t know how many times I messaged/commented to Jackie how much I loved Kelsey and Aaron. (And yes, I’m using first names instead of last because I feel that close to them now. We’re freaking besties apparently, even though I’ve never met them in person and I know without a doubt they’re going to shred my heart in Unexpected Heroine. But I’m expecting it…so. Yeah, super punny here lol) For real, these two gave STUNNING performances, hit every single vibe to the utmost perfection, and I shirked all other ARCs/ALCs so that I could spend every moment of my time listening to this book!
This story starts around the time Forbidden Hero begins, and runs parallel with the timeline over the course of a year until it matches up with Rival Hero. Does it end on a bit of a cliffy? Yes. Do you know where it’s going? Sort of. If you’ve read/listened to Rival Hero then you have a general idea. But that isn’t where this book ends. I knew the ending was coming, and then it did, and I was still like WHAT?! That’s where you’re leaving me hanging?! Mind you, I have the entire trilogy sitting on my shelf, so I absolutely could have picked it up, but I had to “adult” and go to work so…BOO! But as of writing this, Jackie sent those of us on her ALC team the Unexpected Heroine audiobook so guess what I’m freaking doing today!!
Ok. Back to the review. Lettie was raised by her grandparents, but it wasn’t until her grandfather was passing that he admitted it. Because of her strict religious upbringing, thanks to her mom, well, grandmother, she was looking for a fresh start. That religious guilt took over her whole life and she wanted to finally experience life on her own away from the constrictions. However, she finds herself in a bit of a pickle when she is running out of money and can’t land a job. Enter Tomer Stillman, I mean, James the Dominant. What a nice guy to offer her some money at the gas pump and then take her out to lunch, and stock her up on food, and secretly get her a job and an apartment. Ok, so he’s a bit of a stalker. But like, a well intentioned one. 😬😅 Ever since he found out Boss has a secret daughter he’s been keeping tabs on her. But especially since she showed up in Clearwater, Florida all the way from Climax, Georgia. Yes, you read that right. Straight outta Climax.
He’s like her knight in shining rope bondage. Well, he’s the one topping, so it could be the other way around. Tomer, aka James, may be withdrawn and reserved, thinking critically and logically about everything (stemming from his own heartbreaking childhood trauma), but when it comes to Lettie, all of that flies out the window. He gets incredibly wrapped up in her, providing for her in ways she is clueless about. They grow close over the course of a year, he supports her in every single way. The two are it for each other. Tomer teaches her about her body, helps her to open up and start to overcome/work through some of the guilt that is so burdensome. But his guilt is boiling over, until the secrets Tomer is keeping gets to Lettie and she is fed up to a point she just can’t stand. Things take a turn for the absolute worst. It is both of their nightmares come to life. Can either of them ever recover from the devastating events? (I don’t know, can they?? I haven’t read the next book yet! 😅)
Though this review was a bit of a roller coaster, I want to thank Jackie for letting me be on her ALC team. I am so honored. Her writing style, wit, creative genius, characters, just freaking everything about her is my absolute favorite. I hope everyone at reads this story, but you DEFINITELY need to listen to it. This whole Redleg Security series is AMAZING and one of my all time favorites! PLEASE go read or listen right meow!
🪢“Her smile is everything. It radiates the warmth of a hundred suns, and I can only imagine what it would feel like if she aimed it at me.”
💻“If my emotions are too much to handle, then I’m too much to handle. And I deserve someone who can treat me the way I can them—with strength, compassion, loyalty, and understanding.”
🪢“I’m paper, and she’s an origami master. One touch and she makes me fold.”
💻“His external awkwardness pairs nicely with my internal awkwardness.”
🪢“I like that you’re a good girl, but I want to make you a bad girl too. That stunt you pulled tonight proved there’s a naughty girl in you. I’m going to pull her to the surface—one org**m at a time.”
💻“It’s okay, sugar. It’s okay. Just don’t give up on me when I say the wrong things. Don’t quit on me, and I’ll never quit on you.”
🪢“Get comfortable, sugar bear. I’m going to be down here a while.”
💻“It’ll be my f***ing pleasure to corrupt her.”
🪢“Lettie baby, if you don’t stop giving me orders, I’ll have to f*** that sinful mouth of yours to shut you the hell up.”
💻“I’m going to f*** your throat before I take your p***y.”
🪢“Excellent choice. Your v@g!na has a sophisticated palette.”
💻“I got you, sugar bear. I got you.”
🪢“If they didn’t want me to become a monster, they shouldn’t have made me that way. Actions have consequences.”
💜 Age gap
🖤 Boss’s daughter
💜 V card FMC
🖤 Dominant MMC
💜 K!nk club
🖤 ADHD rep
💜 Growls
🖤 Sp@nking
💜 K!dnapping
🖤 St@lking
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Each time Jackie Walker releases a book I swear it’s her best one. Then she has the mother plucking audacity TO COME OUT WITH AN EVEN BETTER BOOK! 😂 I say that with the utmost love and respect because Holy Shirtballs. Tomer and Lettie are FIRE. This book is a slow burn, until it isn’t. It has tension and SPICE, and just when you think you know where it’s going….NOPE! (Insert Fast and the Furious screeching tires) Totally goes in a new direction. I read Rival Hero, and I knew, I Freaking KNEW what happened, and I was still blindsided by it. But having it narrated by the perfect freaking duo of Kelsey Navarro Foster and Aaron Shedlock!? Geeeeezzzzzz. There aren’t two better humans to perform these two amazing characters.
I don’t know how many times I messaged/commented to Jackie how much I loved Kelsey and Aaron. (And yes, I’m using first names instead of last because I feel that close to them now. We’re freaking besties apparently, even though I’ve never met them in person and I know without a doubt they’re going to shred my heart in Unexpected Heroine. But I’m expecting it…so. Yeah, super punny here lol) For real, these two gave STUNNING performances, hit every single vibe to the utmost perfection, and I shirked all other ARCs/ALCs so that I could spend every moment of my time listening to this book!
This story starts around the time Forbidden Hero begins, and runs parallel with the timeline over the course of a year until it matches up with Rival Hero. Does it end on a bit of a cliffy? Yes. Do you know where it’s going? Sort of. If you’ve read/listened to Rival Hero then you have a general idea. But that isn’t where this book ends. I knew the ending was coming, and then it did, and I was still like WHAT?! That’s where you’re leaving me hanging?! Mind you, I have the entire trilogy sitting on my shelf, so I absolutely could have picked it up, but I had to “adult” and go to work so…BOO! But as of writing this, Jackie sent those of us on her ALC team the Unexpected Heroine audiobook so guess what I’m freaking doing today!!
Ok. Back to the review. Lettie was raised by her grandparents, but it wasn’t until her grandfather was passing that he admitted it. Because of her strict religious upbringing, thanks to her mom, well, grandmother, she was looking for a fresh start. That religious guilt took over her whole life and she wanted to finally experience life on her own away from the constrictions. However, she finds herself in a bit of a pickle when she is running out of money and can’t land a job. Enter Tomer Stillman, I mean, James the Dominant. What a nice guy to offer her some money at the gas pump and then take her out to lunch, and stock her up on food, and secretly get her a job and an apartment. Ok, so he’s a bit of a stalker. But like, a well intentioned one. 😬😅 Ever since he found out Boss has a secret daughter he’s been keeping tabs on her. But especially since she showed up in Clearwater, Florida all the way from Climax, Georgia. Yes, you read that right. Straight outta Climax.
He’s like her knight in shining rope bondage. Well, he’s the one topping, so it could be the other way around. Tomer, aka James, may be withdrawn and reserved, thinking critically and logically about everything (stemming from his own heartbreaking childhood trauma), but when it comes to Lettie, all of that flies out the window. He gets incredibly wrapped up in her, providing for her in ways she is clueless about. They grow close over the course of a year, he supports her in every single way. The two are it for each other. Tomer teaches her about her body, helps her to open up and start to overcome/work through some of the guilt that is so burdensome. But his guilt is boiling over, until the secrets Tomer is keeping gets to Lettie and she is fed up to a point she just can’t stand. Things take a turn for the absolute worst. It is both of their nightmares come to life. Can either of them ever recover from the devastating events? (I don’t know, can they?? I haven’t read the next book yet! 😅)
Though this review was a bit of a roller coaster, I want to thank Jackie for letting me be on her ALC team. I am so honored. Her writing style, wit, creative genius, characters, just freaking everything about her is my absolute favorite. I hope everyone at reads this story, but you DEFINITELY need to listen to it. This whole Redleg Security series is AMAZING and one of my all time favorites! PLEASE go read or listen right meow!
🪢“Her smile is everything. It radiates the warmth of a hundred suns, and I can only imagine what it would feel like if she aimed it at me.”
💻“If my emotions are too much to handle, then I’m too much to handle. And I deserve someone who can treat me the way I can them—with strength, compassion, loyalty, and understanding.”
🪢“I’m paper, and she’s an origami master. One touch and she makes me fold.”
💻“His external awkwardness pairs nicely with my internal awkwardness.”
🪢“I like that you’re a good girl, but I want to make you a bad girl too. That stunt you pulled tonight proved there’s a naughty girl in you. I’m going to pull her to the surface—one org**m at a time.”
💻“It’s okay, sugar. It’s okay. Just don’t give up on me when I say the wrong things. Don’t quit on me, and I’ll never quit on you.”
🪢“Get comfortable, sugar bear. I’m going to be down here a while.”
💻“It’ll be my f***ing pleasure to corrupt her.”
🪢“Lettie baby, if you don’t stop giving me orders, I’ll have to f*** that sinful mouth of yours to shut you the hell up.”
💻“I’m going to f*** your throat before I take your p***y.”
🪢“Excellent choice. Your v@g!na has a sophisticated palette.”
💻“I got you, sugar bear. I got you.”
🪢“If they didn’t want me to become a monster, they shouldn’t have made me that way. Actions have consequences.”
January 24, 2024
Unexpected feelings, unexpected growth, unexpected Hero and I am here for it....
Unexpected Hero is the fifth entry in the Redleg Security series, its the first part of a duet, so there is a mild cliffhanger, especially for loyal readers who read book 4, Rival Hero, but the second book should be out soon and the cliffhanger was a mild ehen compared to other stories with cliffhangers that I've read. I typically seriously dislike cliffhangers but this one didn't bother me and just whets my appetite for the next book. As I always say after I read the next installment of the Redleg series or really any of this author's series, I can say without a doubt it is my new favorite. Although the first four books in this series and the author's other series are pretty great, too.
This book is a little different from previous books in the series as it covers events briefly from each of the other books in this series and picks up before where the previous book left off, so I highly recommend reading the entire series prior to this, but especially Rival hero first. This could be read as a standalone since the author provides enough backstory throughout for you to be able to follow along, but I want to reiterate, it would be best to read at least Rival Hero first.
Unexpected Hero features our heroine (h) Lettie who is a young woman recovering from long standing religious trauma due to being indoctrinated in purity culture and more recently grief over losing the only father she's ever known. Our hero (H) Tomer, known to Lettie as James, is a genius IT guru at Redleg by day and BDSM Dom and Dungeon Master by night. Our H also has trauma of his own related to his childhood and parents. Some of the flashbacks into his childhood were hard to read but critical for understanding our hero and how he operates. There are themes of mild obsession with and light stalking of the h by the H. I would call the H morally grey, but the actions taken by the H to keep an eye on the h led to him protecting her, often from herself, and we see his internal struggles with crossing boundaries with her in this way, so I was okay with it, but if any type of stalking is a dealbreaker probably best to skip this book duet.
With the excellent handling of BDSM in this book, and the scenes between the H and h, this is in my opinion the spiciest entry in the Redleg series yet and I am here for it. It's clear the author did her research on BDSM and the kink community and I'm impressed and pleased with the handling of these topics.
Throughout the book we see our H go from "emotionless robot" to falling in love with the h, something the H that often causes struggles between the couple as he doesn't have much practice engaging emotionally with others and it shows. Throughout the book also see the h's liberation from her upbringing in purity culture and her daily struggles with ADHD. I loved the growth of the h, and seeing her grow a backbone and shed her people pleasing tendencies. Both the liberation from purity culture and associated trauma, and the h's ADHD are handled well and realistically, which is no surprise with this author. I have never related to an h as much as I did Lettie (with her clumsiness and the things that happen with her ADHD, I felt very seen.) Also sidenote, the relationship between Lettie and her BFF Stella and the interactions between Lettie and her new friend Freya give me life and are filled with lots of humor and women supporting women.
The majority of this hefty book is the development of the relationship between the H and h. We see our h bring the H out of his shell, we see the H help the h overcome the trauma from her upbringing in purity culture and throughout it all they are both falling in love with the other but afraid to admit it, each for their own reasons. It was delightfully frustrating watching them. I'll admit to Tomer being my new favorite hero and I didn't think anyone could replace Hudson and Klein. Hudson now shares my top spot with Tomer. The last quarter of Unexpected Hero starts with an unexpected event between the H and h that leads to some poor decision making on both their parts and sets up the circumstances that result in the events covered in the 2nd half of Rival Hero. This part picks up on the main events of the 2nd half of the previous book and explore in detail the kidnapping and trafficking ring plotline from Lettie and Tomer's perspective. This part was particularly hard to read but handled with great care. Again, if these topics are triggers for you, I suggest skipping this section or this book. The book ends on the H and his team rescuing the h and everyone else who was taken and the reunion between the H and h.
At this point I cannot wait for the second installment as I need my full HEA with these two. I would absolutely recommend this book and can guarantee I'll feel the same way about the next book finishing out this story.
One thing I particularly want to note, I really appreciate about this author is her consistent treatment of difficult topics with both a content/trigger warning at the beginning as well as just the general sensitivity in the way they were handled in all her stories. The BDSM and kink aspects were handled realistically and in a way that is honest and a bit humorous.
This one does have a cliffhanger, but not one I would say was painful or rage inducing like I've experienced with other duets with cliffhangers. The cliffhanger felt like a natural stopping point for this book. No cheating or other woman plotlines or anything like that.
Tropes/Themes Include: Morally Grey Hero, Age Gap, BDSM and Kink, Neurodivergent MCs, Forbidden Love (Boss's Daughter), Wounded Hero, Secret Identity, Stalker Light
Unexpected Hero is the fifth entry in the Redleg Security series, its the first part of a duet, so there is a mild cliffhanger, especially for loyal readers who read book 4, Rival Hero, but the second book should be out soon and the cliffhanger was a mild ehen compared to other stories with cliffhangers that I've read. I typically seriously dislike cliffhangers but this one didn't bother me and just whets my appetite for the next book. As I always say after I read the next installment of the Redleg series or really any of this author's series, I can say without a doubt it is my new favorite. Although the first four books in this series and the author's other series are pretty great, too.
This book is a little different from previous books in the series as it covers events briefly from each of the other books in this series and picks up before where the previous book left off, so I highly recommend reading the entire series prior to this, but especially Rival hero first. This could be read as a standalone since the author provides enough backstory throughout for you to be able to follow along, but I want to reiterate, it would be best to read at least Rival Hero first.
Unexpected Hero features our heroine (h) Lettie who is a young woman recovering from long standing religious trauma due to being indoctrinated in purity culture and more recently grief over losing the only father she's ever known. Our hero (H) Tomer, known to Lettie as James, is a genius IT guru at Redleg by day and BDSM Dom and Dungeon Master by night. Our H also has trauma of his own related to his childhood and parents. Some of the flashbacks into his childhood were hard to read but critical for understanding our hero and how he operates. There are themes of mild obsession with and light stalking of the h by the H. I would call the H morally grey, but the actions taken by the H to keep an eye on the h led to him protecting her, often from herself, and we see his internal struggles with crossing boundaries with her in this way, so I was okay with it, but if any type of stalking is a dealbreaker probably best to skip this book duet.
With the excellent handling of BDSM in this book, and the scenes between the H and h, this is in my opinion the spiciest entry in the Redleg series yet and I am here for it. It's clear the author did her research on BDSM and the kink community and I'm impressed and pleased with the handling of these topics.
Throughout the book we see our H go from "emotionless robot" to falling in love with the h, something the H that often causes struggles between the couple as he doesn't have much practice engaging emotionally with others and it shows. Throughout the book also see the h's liberation from her upbringing in purity culture and her daily struggles with ADHD. I loved the growth of the h, and seeing her grow a backbone and shed her people pleasing tendencies. Both the liberation from purity culture and associated trauma, and the h's ADHD are handled well and realistically, which is no surprise with this author. I have never related to an h as much as I did Lettie (with her clumsiness and the things that happen with her ADHD, I felt very seen.) Also sidenote, the relationship between Lettie and her BFF Stella and the interactions between Lettie and her new friend Freya give me life and are filled with lots of humor and women supporting women.
The majority of this hefty book is the development of the relationship between the H and h. We see our h bring the H out of his shell, we see the H help the h overcome the trauma from her upbringing in purity culture and throughout it all they are both falling in love with the other but afraid to admit it, each for their own reasons. It was delightfully frustrating watching them. I'll admit to Tomer being my new favorite hero and I didn't think anyone could replace Hudson and Klein. Hudson now shares my top spot with Tomer. The last quarter of Unexpected Hero starts with an unexpected event between the H and h that leads to some poor decision making on both their parts and sets up the circumstances that result in the events covered in the 2nd half of Rival Hero. This part picks up on the main events of the 2nd half of the previous book and explore in detail the kidnapping and trafficking ring plotline from Lettie and Tomer's perspective. This part was particularly hard to read but handled with great care. Again, if these topics are triggers for you, I suggest skipping this section or this book. The book ends on the H and his team rescuing the h and everyone else who was taken and the reunion between the H and h.
At this point I cannot wait for the second installment as I need my full HEA with these two. I would absolutely recommend this book and can guarantee I'll feel the same way about the next book finishing out this story.
One thing I particularly want to note, I really appreciate about this author is her consistent treatment of difficult topics with both a content/trigger warning at the beginning as well as just the general sensitivity in the way they were handled in all her stories. The BDSM and kink aspects were handled realistically and in a way that is honest and a bit humorous.
This one does have a cliffhanger, but not one I would say was painful or rage inducing like I've experienced with other duets with cliffhangers. The cliffhanger felt like a natural stopping point for this book. No cheating or other woman plotlines or anything like that.
Tropes/Themes Include: Morally Grey Hero, Age Gap, BDSM and Kink, Neurodivergent MCs, Forbidden Love (Boss's Daughter), Wounded Hero, Secret Identity, Stalker Light
September 30, 2024
I need the second book like now. The cliffhanger was brutal. Especially because Tomer and Lettie are amazing. The Dom in Tomer is hot. Their story worries me but I can't wait for the rest. The chemistry was great and it was well written
October 29, 2024
🎧ALC REVIEW🎧
📚Unexpected Hero by Jackie Walker
🎤Kelsey Navarro-Foster & Aaron Shedlock
Redleg Security #5
If there's something that Jackie Walker knows how to do well is pick the perfect narrators for her stories & write the heck out of a face paced, twisty-turny story that's filled with unexpected plot drops & heartfelt characters. This was a terrific audio!🙌
This is a delightful & raucous romp that's filled with humor & heart. Lettie & Tomer were such a fun couple to listen to. Their story is fast paced & full of comical & challenging situations. They're like your everyday "underdogs," who you're cheering on from the get-go!
After Lettie's grandfather's death, she yearns for a fresh start & to experience life on her own. She ventures out but eventually finds herself backed into a corner, needing money & help. She meets Tomer Stillman AKA James. He helps Lettie get on her feet with some cash, food, housing & a job. Tomer has a secret though. He's learned that Lettie is his bosses daughter & ever since this realization, he's been keeping track of her. It's slightly stalky but his intentions actually come from a well-intentioned place. Tomer seems a little reserved or even withdrawn but he's completely devoted to Lettie & her safety.
Over the course of a year, these two get to know each other. There's tension & attraction between the two & they finally give into their desires. Tomer takes care of her, teaches her & begins to open up to her, all while carrying the burden of knowing her true identity. Jackie knows how to write the spice ya'll & this book is no exception.🥵
Both of these MC's have past trauma they are dealing with & working through. We get some flashbacks & back story as to why they are they way they are. Lettie's character goes through a liberation from her upbringing in a purity culture. Because of Tomer's past, he's become a DOM & he helps Lettie work through her past trauma through BDSM & Jackie handles these plot lines with care & sensitivity.
This audio is on the longer side & the majority of the book is devoted to the development of the relationship between these two which is important. 3/4 in Lettie gets fed up after finding out Tomer knows about her true identity. Things take a turn for the worst & Lettie needs help. Tomer becomes her unexpected hero. As a side note, there is a cliffy on this one but the next book is dropping soon.
🎧Let's talk narration...Kelsey & Aaron are such great narrators & their performances are nothing short of terrific! This story has a mix of heavy & light all while mixed with humor & fun banter. These two deliver all the emotions you want from this wild ride. Aaron is the perfect broody, quiet & somewhat awkward Tomer that has a heart of gold. Kelsey gives an amazing performance voicing Lettie with the sweetest Southern accent. A woman whose working through her trauma showing bravery & resilience. These two brought the story & characters to life. Amazing work!
This book delivers laughter alongside life lessons. It's a light-hearted adventure that proves sometimes the biggest heroes come from the most unexpected places--often with a healthy dose of humor along the way!😂 Fans of Jackie's will absolutely LOVE this book! PLEASE check TW before heading into this one.
Thanks to Jackie Walker for a copy of the ALC & opportunity to review. All thoughts are my own.
TW's
🖤Age gap
🖤Bosses daughter
🖤Virgin FMC
🖤Dominant MC
🖤Kinks
🖤ADHD Rep
🖤BDSM
🖤Kidnapping & light stalking
📚Unexpected Hero by Jackie Walker
🎤Kelsey Navarro-Foster & Aaron Shedlock
Redleg Security #5
If there's something that Jackie Walker knows how to do well is pick the perfect narrators for her stories & write the heck out of a face paced, twisty-turny story that's filled with unexpected plot drops & heartfelt characters. This was a terrific audio!🙌
This is a delightful & raucous romp that's filled with humor & heart. Lettie & Tomer were such a fun couple to listen to. Their story is fast paced & full of comical & challenging situations. They're like your everyday "underdogs," who you're cheering on from the get-go!
After Lettie's grandfather's death, she yearns for a fresh start & to experience life on her own. She ventures out but eventually finds herself backed into a corner, needing money & help. She meets Tomer Stillman AKA James. He helps Lettie get on her feet with some cash, food, housing & a job. Tomer has a secret though. He's learned that Lettie is his bosses daughter & ever since this realization, he's been keeping track of her. It's slightly stalky but his intentions actually come from a well-intentioned place. Tomer seems a little reserved or even withdrawn but he's completely devoted to Lettie & her safety.
Over the course of a year, these two get to know each other. There's tension & attraction between the two & they finally give into their desires. Tomer takes care of her, teaches her & begins to open up to her, all while carrying the burden of knowing her true identity. Jackie knows how to write the spice ya'll & this book is no exception.🥵
Both of these MC's have past trauma they are dealing with & working through. We get some flashbacks & back story as to why they are they way they are. Lettie's character goes through a liberation from her upbringing in a purity culture. Because of Tomer's past, he's become a DOM & he helps Lettie work through her past trauma through BDSM & Jackie handles these plot lines with care & sensitivity.
This audio is on the longer side & the majority of the book is devoted to the development of the relationship between these two which is important. 3/4 in Lettie gets fed up after finding out Tomer knows about her true identity. Things take a turn for the worst & Lettie needs help. Tomer becomes her unexpected hero. As a side note, there is a cliffy on this one but the next book is dropping soon.
🎧Let's talk narration...Kelsey & Aaron are such great narrators & their performances are nothing short of terrific! This story has a mix of heavy & light all while mixed with humor & fun banter. These two deliver all the emotions you want from this wild ride. Aaron is the perfect broody, quiet & somewhat awkward Tomer that has a heart of gold. Kelsey gives an amazing performance voicing Lettie with the sweetest Southern accent. A woman whose working through her trauma showing bravery & resilience. These two brought the story & characters to life. Amazing work!
This book delivers laughter alongside life lessons. It's a light-hearted adventure that proves sometimes the biggest heroes come from the most unexpected places--often with a healthy dose of humor along the way!😂 Fans of Jackie's will absolutely LOVE this book! PLEASE check TW before heading into this one.
Thanks to Jackie Walker for a copy of the ALC & opportunity to review. All thoughts are my own.
TW's
🖤Age gap
🖤Bosses daughter
🖤Virgin FMC
🖤Dominant MC
🖤Kinks
🖤ADHD Rep
🖤BDSM
🖤Kidnapping & light stalking
October 4, 2024
I am honestly struggling to find the words to write a worthy review for this book,I am not even sure I can..I am scared of giving too much away because there is so much more to this story than just a simple romance.
Unexpected Hero by Jackie Walker is the first book in a trilogy of books telling the love story of Tomer and Violet,we get to know both characters so much better in this book.
I was not expecting to be hit so hard from this story I wasn't prepared for it to be so powerful.
Jackie's books are always laced with humour alongside all the drama,so even though this book is still filled with her signature wit and is amusing at times,it is also a very deep heart wrenching story,that is the epitome of a rollercoaster.Because that is what my emotions were doing through-out this book I was sad,happy,flushed,upset..etc.
Another thing about Jackie's books is that she writes her characters who are not perfect they have their flaws and challenges and she treats each subject delicately and realistically.I can always relate to her characters because of this and see myself in alot of them.
Tomer and Violet have immeasurable chemistry and are so scorchingly hot together,incinerating in fact.
In this book we go back to the start of the love between Lettie and Tomer,it is an intense tale and you really begin to understand just the depth of Tomer and Lettie..Uncovering their childhoods and the scars that it has left behind and reiterates why they behave the way they do.
I loved the banter between them,the emotion and the humour..There are scerets and drama jaw dropping moments and two people who are trying to help eachother heal.
The Audiobook of Unexpected Hero is perfectly narrated by Aaron Shedlock and Kelsey Navarro Foster I could not have chosen a more a better pair to tell Tomer and Lettie's story.
They both made this story so much more 3 dimensional,more animated,more alive.
The emotions they both expressed as they related the passion and sadness of Tomer and Lettie's experiences was impeccable...and there were times I got so choked up listening to them.
Kelsey and Aaron's talent really shines as they voice this story and I thoroughly enjoyed their perfomances.
Unexpected Hero is an incredible book and it mystifys me how more readers haven't discovered the wonderful writing of Jackie Walker.I am so thankful that I found her books and she is a exceptional story teller.
Remember there are 3 books in this series so this does end on a cliffhanger...But don't let that deter you from reading or listening to this book...because you will be missing out on a brilliant story.
I LOved Listening and I can't wait for book 2.
Superb.!!
5 Stars.
Unexpected Hero by Jackie Walker is the first book in a trilogy of books telling the love story of Tomer and Violet,we get to know both characters so much better in this book.
I was not expecting to be hit so hard from this story I wasn't prepared for it to be so powerful.
Jackie's books are always laced with humour alongside all the drama,so even though this book is still filled with her signature wit and is amusing at times,it is also a very deep heart wrenching story,that is the epitome of a rollercoaster.Because that is what my emotions were doing through-out this book I was sad,happy,flushed,upset..etc.
Another thing about Jackie's books is that she writes her characters who are not perfect they have their flaws and challenges and she treats each subject delicately and realistically.I can always relate to her characters because of this and see myself in alot of them.
Tomer and Violet have immeasurable chemistry and are so scorchingly hot together,incinerating in fact.
In this book we go back to the start of the love between Lettie and Tomer,it is an intense tale and you really begin to understand just the depth of Tomer and Lettie..Uncovering their childhoods and the scars that it has left behind and reiterates why they behave the way they do.
I loved the banter between them,the emotion and the humour..There are scerets and drama jaw dropping moments and two people who are trying to help eachother heal.
The Audiobook of Unexpected Hero is perfectly narrated by Aaron Shedlock and Kelsey Navarro Foster I could not have chosen a more a better pair to tell Tomer and Lettie's story.
They both made this story so much more 3 dimensional,more animated,more alive.
The emotions they both expressed as they related the passion and sadness of Tomer and Lettie's experiences was impeccable...and there were times I got so choked up listening to them.
Kelsey and Aaron's talent really shines as they voice this story and I thoroughly enjoyed their perfomances.
Unexpected Hero is an incredible book and it mystifys me how more readers haven't discovered the wonderful writing of Jackie Walker.I am so thankful that I found her books and she is a exceptional story teller.
Remember there are 3 books in this series so this does end on a cliffhanger...But don't let that deter you from reading or listening to this book...because you will be missing out on a brilliant story.
I LOved Listening and I can't wait for book 2.
Superb.!!
5 Stars.
October 6, 2024
🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Performance: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️️
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️️
By now I've become an avid fan of the Redleg Security series, so I was looking forward to this book. Unexpectet Hero is the first of three books about Tomer and Lettie.
I listened to the audiobook and the 18+ hours flew by.
Once immersed in the story, I found it hard to pause the audiobook.
This was partly due to the author's writing style, which is wonderful, light-hearted and humorous. On the other hand, it was due to the deeply developed and likeable characters Tomer and Mattie.
The story is very intense, but really good. It is told alternately from the point of view of the two protagonists and there are flashbacks to the past. And the flashbacks to their childhood in particular are quite something. Tomer's childhood was anything but happy and carefree. The more I learned about his childhood, the sadder I became. No wonder Tomer is very withdrawn, that suits him. He very rarely shows emotion, at least until he realizes while working for Redleg Security in IT that his boss has a daughter he doesn't know about. When this daughter, Violet, called Lettie, also happens to move to the city where his boss lives and his company is based, Tomer's protective instinct kicks in. Because Lettie only arrives with the bare necessities. And when the two meet by chance from Lettie's point of view, Tomer can no longer forget Lettie. Lettie can't get the handsome Tomer out of her head either. But Tomer knows that he's playing with fire and that he shouldn't, but he just can't resist.
Lettie is open-hearted and I really liked her from the start. She also fights against the demons of her past. She has that in common with Tomer.
The chemistry between the two is fantastic, you can feel it straight away. Tomer is a Dom in a BDSM club, while Lettie has had nothing to do with this lifestyle so far.
The book is pretty much perfect for my reading tastes. If you like a mix of great characters, romance, drama, charming humor, exciting suspense, lots of emotion, mystery and hot scenes, this is the book for you.
The audiobook was narrated by Aaron Shedlock and Kelsey Navarro Foster and I think they are a perfect choice. They portrayed the two protagonists brilliantly. They made me as a listener experience every little emotion. Be it passion, insecurity, warmth, happiness, anger or fear, they portrayed it all perfectly and brought the story to life. Brilliant job! It was a pleasure to listen to the two of them!
The story ends with a cliffhanger and I'm already looking forward to the next volume and am very excited to see what happens next!
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Performance: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️️
Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️️
By now I've become an avid fan of the Redleg Security series, so I was looking forward to this book. Unexpectet Hero is the first of three books about Tomer and Lettie.
I listened to the audiobook and the 18+ hours flew by.
Once immersed in the story, I found it hard to pause the audiobook.
This was partly due to the author's writing style, which is wonderful, light-hearted and humorous. On the other hand, it was due to the deeply developed and likeable characters Tomer and Mattie.
The story is very intense, but really good. It is told alternately from the point of view of the two protagonists and there are flashbacks to the past. And the flashbacks to their childhood in particular are quite something. Tomer's childhood was anything but happy and carefree. The more I learned about his childhood, the sadder I became. No wonder Tomer is very withdrawn, that suits him. He very rarely shows emotion, at least until he realizes while working for Redleg Security in IT that his boss has a daughter he doesn't know about. When this daughter, Violet, called Lettie, also happens to move to the city where his boss lives and his company is based, Tomer's protective instinct kicks in. Because Lettie only arrives with the bare necessities. And when the two meet by chance from Lettie's point of view, Tomer can no longer forget Lettie. Lettie can't get the handsome Tomer out of her head either. But Tomer knows that he's playing with fire and that he shouldn't, but he just can't resist.
Lettie is open-hearted and I really liked her from the start. She also fights against the demons of her past. She has that in common with Tomer.
The chemistry between the two is fantastic, you can feel it straight away. Tomer is a Dom in a BDSM club, while Lettie has had nothing to do with this lifestyle so far.
The book is pretty much perfect for my reading tastes. If you like a mix of great characters, romance, drama, charming humor, exciting suspense, lots of emotion, mystery and hot scenes, this is the book for you.
The audiobook was narrated by Aaron Shedlock and Kelsey Navarro Foster and I think they are a perfect choice. They portrayed the two protagonists brilliantly. They made me as a listener experience every little emotion. Be it passion, insecurity, warmth, happiness, anger or fear, they portrayed it all perfectly and brought the story to life. Brilliant job! It was a pleasure to listen to the two of them!
The story ends with a cliffhanger and I'm already looking forward to the next volume and am very excited to see what happens next!
July 29, 2025
🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
🎤 Dual narration by Kelsey Navarro-Foster and Aaron Shedlock
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Performance: 🎤🎤🎤🎤 🎤
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🌶️
👀POV: Dual, first person, present tense
📖 What to expect: age gap, virgin heroine, forbidden love, secret identity, wounded hero, military hacker, light stalking, dom/sub, suspense
I think it took me so long to start this trilogy because I subconsciously knew it would cause emotional damage. This book is the darkest of the series so far - mind you, it's a romantic suspense with a comedic element, not a dark romance - so you should definitely check the trigger warnings. Both characters have been through childhood trauma that's left a mark. Lettie, the FMC also goes through an ordeal that is the most distressing we've seen in this series. Thankfully, the descriptions aren't very graphic.
While this trilogy can be read as a standalone from the rest of the series, as can the other individual books- each features a different couple, you're going to want to read them in order because the suspense subplot runs through the whole series and you'll be missing context if you read out of order. I started with book 4 and while it was enjoyable, when i went back to read the first three books, i could appreciate some of the events of book 4 more. Alsos the end of each book overlaps with the beginning of the next book so you'll get mini spoilers if you read out of order.
The timeline of this book overlaps with books 2, 3 and 4 - and events from those books are mentioned briefly - m so we already knew what was going to happen to Lettie, but it was still painful to watch. with this being a trilogy, this first book was focused on the development of the relationship between Lettie and Tomer. I've been intrigued by Tomer since I met him in book 4 (he's in all of them but I read 4 first - don't do that. Read them in order.) and I really enjoyed getting a deep dive into his background and what makes him tick.
I loved watching the relationship between Tomer and Lettie. They're two broken people finding a home in each other. Their relationship is messy - but not toxic - and a work-in-progress, and I'm looking forward to seeing how it develops in the next book, especially with the aftereffects of what happens at the end of this one. I love how he patient and understanding he is in helping her work through some of her trauma and how self aware he is. He knows his shortcomings and he basically says, "I'm not good at this thing. This is what I need you to do to help me do better." His maturity stands out in their relationship (he's 36 and she's 24). The romance is the focus of this book and it’s the least suspenseful book in the trilogy.
This book is the spiciest in the series so far. Tomer is a dom and dungeon master at a kink club and introduces Lettie to the lifestyle. There are a lot of spicy lessons and a few kinks involved.
While I found this book really engaging, I noticed that around the 60% mark, my focus started to drift. (Totally a me problem). I kept wondering, "when is the Lettie thing going to happen?" Because we got a glimpse of it in the last book, I was eager to see the aftermath, but we don't get actually get to see that until Unexpected Heroine.
The narration was really good. Both are narrators that I enjoy and they really brought the story to life with their performance. I particularly enjoyed Kelsey Navarro Foster's southern accent, it brought more personality to Lettie's character and she also brought out the humour in the story. Aaron Shedlock played the broody, dominant to a T. They both did a good job voicing the characters of the opposite sex. The range of voices Aaron Shedlock gave the female characters particularly stood out to me.
I binged book 1 and 2 in a weekend (I wrote this review between book 1 and 2) and recently finished book 3. I haven’t written a review for book 2 (I don’t know if I will) but you can check out my review for book 3 here.
I highly recommend this series if you like love stories that nurture and celebrate self-acceptance, romantic suspense laced with comedy, a strong found family element with loveable supporting characters who are messy, endearing, and deeply bonded through shared experience.
🎤 Dual narration by Kelsey Navarro-Foster and Aaron Shedlock
Story: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Performance: 🎤🎤🎤🎤 🎤
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 🌶️
👀POV: Dual, first person, present tense
📖 What to expect: age gap, virgin heroine, forbidden love, secret identity, wounded hero, military hacker, light stalking, dom/sub, suspense
I think it took me so long to start this trilogy because I subconsciously knew it would cause emotional damage. This book is the darkest of the series so far - mind you, it's a romantic suspense with a comedic element, not a dark romance - so you should definitely check the trigger warnings. Both characters have been through childhood trauma that's left a mark. Lettie, the FMC also goes through an ordeal that is the most distressing we've seen in this series. Thankfully, the descriptions aren't very graphic.
While this trilogy can be read as a standalone from the rest of the series, as can the other individual books- each features a different couple, you're going to want to read them in order because the suspense subplot runs through the whole series and you'll be missing context if you read out of order. I started with book 4 and while it was enjoyable, when i went back to read the first three books, i could appreciate some of the events of book 4 more. Alsos the end of each book overlaps with the beginning of the next book so you'll get mini spoilers if you read out of order.
The timeline of this book overlaps with books 2, 3 and 4 - and events from those books are mentioned briefly - m so we already knew what was going to happen to Lettie, but it was still painful to watch. with this being a trilogy, this first book was focused on the development of the relationship between Lettie and Tomer. I've been intrigued by Tomer since I met him in book 4 (he's in all of them but I read 4 first - don't do that. Read them in order.) and I really enjoyed getting a deep dive into his background and what makes him tick.
I loved watching the relationship between Tomer and Lettie. They're two broken people finding a home in each other. Their relationship is messy - but not toxic - and a work-in-progress, and I'm looking forward to seeing how it develops in the next book, especially with the aftereffects of what happens at the end of this one. I love how he patient and understanding he is in helping her work through some of her trauma and how self aware he is. He knows his shortcomings and he basically says, "I'm not good at this thing. This is what I need you to do to help me do better." His maturity stands out in their relationship (he's 36 and she's 24). The romance is the focus of this book and it’s the least suspenseful book in the trilogy.
This book is the spiciest in the series so far. Tomer is a dom and dungeon master at a kink club and introduces Lettie to the lifestyle. There are a lot of spicy lessons and a few kinks involved.
While I found this book really engaging, I noticed that around the 60% mark, my focus started to drift. (Totally a me problem). I kept wondering, "when is the Lettie thing going to happen?" Because we got a glimpse of it in the last book, I was eager to see the aftermath, but we don't get actually get to see that until Unexpected Heroine.
The narration was really good. Both are narrators that I enjoy and they really brought the story to life with their performance. I particularly enjoyed Kelsey Navarro Foster's southern accent, it brought more personality to Lettie's character and she also brought out the humour in the story. Aaron Shedlock played the broody, dominant to a T. They both did a good job voicing the characters of the opposite sex. The range of voices Aaron Shedlock gave the female characters particularly stood out to me.
I binged book 1 and 2 in a weekend (I wrote this review between book 1 and 2) and recently finished book 3. I haven’t written a review for book 2 (I don’t know if I will) but you can check out my review for book 3 here.
I highly recommend this series if you like love stories that nurture and celebrate self-acceptance, romantic suspense laced with comedy, a strong found family element with loveable supporting characters who are messy, endearing, and deeply bonded through shared experience.
October 7, 2024
Unexpected Hero
Redleg Security, Book 5
By: Jackie Walker
Narrated by: Aaron Shedlock, Kelsey Navarro Foster
Get ready for an action packed, spicy start to this duet! Tomar works at Red Leg, and as the others there comes with his own set of skills and baggage. As he tries to help with issues at Red Leg, he learns his boss, Alex has a daughter he doesn't know about. It's not the right time to bring it to him, so he decides he will do what it best and keep her protected. But watching out for and being with her are two different things. Helping her find a job and a place to live, this secret dom finds out she is his perfect match, and being with her is what he wants. But as the lies keep building about her father and his own work and past, it becomes increasingly difficult to protect her! What happens next? Well things are getting real! I loved this first part of their story. Tomar is a fantastic character and he had caught my attention in previous books. Damaged and flawed, he is interesting, but most of all his heart is gold. Lettie is sweet, a bit naive, but shows her strength in this book. I love her tenacity, experiences and will to survive. It's a fantastic story and I cannot wait to hear the next book to find out what happens next.
Aaron Shedlock and Kelsey Navarro Foster could not have been better in this romantic suspense. Shedlock is a favorite, and as Tomar he is spot on! That alpha tendency comes through not only in the club, and his protectiveness is like a hug overtop of Lettie. Lettie while a bit innocent is spunky and curious. Foster's voice pulls out all those qualities and gives her strength and confidence when needed. Love this pairing and looking forward to the next part.
Redleg Security, Book 5
By: Jackie Walker
Narrated by: Aaron Shedlock, Kelsey Navarro Foster
Get ready for an action packed, spicy start to this duet! Tomar works at Red Leg, and as the others there comes with his own set of skills and baggage. As he tries to help with issues at Red Leg, he learns his boss, Alex has a daughter he doesn't know about. It's not the right time to bring it to him, so he decides he will do what it best and keep her protected. But watching out for and being with her are two different things. Helping her find a job and a place to live, this secret dom finds out she is his perfect match, and being with her is what he wants. But as the lies keep building about her father and his own work and past, it becomes increasingly difficult to protect her! What happens next? Well things are getting real! I loved this first part of their story. Tomar is a fantastic character and he had caught my attention in previous books. Damaged and flawed, he is interesting, but most of all his heart is gold. Lettie is sweet, a bit naive, but shows her strength in this book. I love her tenacity, experiences and will to survive. It's a fantastic story and I cannot wait to hear the next book to find out what happens next.
Aaron Shedlock and Kelsey Navarro Foster could not have been better in this romantic suspense. Shedlock is a favorite, and as Tomar he is spot on! That alpha tendency comes through not only in the club, and his protectiveness is like a hug overtop of Lettie. Lettie while a bit innocent is spunky and curious. Foster's voice pulls out all those qualities and gives her strength and confidence when needed. Love this pairing and looking forward to the next part.
January 11, 2024
If you read the book before this one, Rival Hero, you know just a little bit of what is to come in this one. Unexpected Hero is a standalone in an interconnected series.
That being said, you will go on a ride with this one. Yes I knew a little about what was to come but it took me by a whole different surprise! Tomer, aka James, and Violet(Lettie) are not your typical couple. I mean with how they “meet”🧐, not your typical helping a damsel in distress. But I gotta say I loved how Tomer was and what he did. He didn’t know any better, it is in his nature…you find out more about that too😏.
Lettie, this girl, I gotta say I freaking loved her and her southern drawl. I loved how she is determined to found out who she is outside of her upbringing. And let me tell you, what she finds out I was not expecting her to be that person but I loved it for her!
I loved these two so much. Not only did Lettie find out who she truly was but Tomer also found new things out about himself that he didn’t think would ever be possible til Lettie came into his life. They both are good for each other in their own ways.
Now it DOES end in a cliffy but I gotta say for as much as I don’t enough cliffhangers, this one wasn’t bad. It ends on a kind of more of a more to come other than a WHAT JUST HAPPENED!? Lol
I also want to say to be sure to check the TW the author has before you start reading. She gives you the chapters that certain topics will be discussed and how much detail goes into that discussion.
.
.
.
5️⃣🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️(almost 5 on the spice meter. With the MFC being a virgin too, the spice in here is 🤌🏻🔥🤌🏻🔥)
🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻
10/10 recommendation‼️
That being said, you will go on a ride with this one. Yes I knew a little about what was to come but it took me by a whole different surprise! Tomer, aka James, and Violet(Lettie) are not your typical couple. I mean with how they “meet”🧐, not your typical helping a damsel in distress. But I gotta say I loved how Tomer was and what he did. He didn’t know any better, it is in his nature…you find out more about that too😏.
Lettie, this girl, I gotta say I freaking loved her and her southern drawl. I loved how she is determined to found out who she is outside of her upbringing. And let me tell you, what she finds out I was not expecting her to be that person but I loved it for her!
I loved these two so much. Not only did Lettie find out who she truly was but Tomer also found new things out about himself that he didn’t think would ever be possible til Lettie came into his life. They both are good for each other in their own ways.
Now it DOES end in a cliffy but I gotta say for as much as I don’t enough cliffhangers, this one wasn’t bad. It ends on a kind of more of a more to come other than a WHAT JUST HAPPENED!? Lol
I also want to say to be sure to check the TW the author has before you start reading. She gives you the chapters that certain topics will be discussed and how much detail goes into that discussion.
.
.
.
5️⃣🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️(almost 5 on the spice meter. With the MFC being a virgin too, the spice in here is 🤌🏻🔥🤌🏻🔥)
🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻
10/10 recommendation‼️
October 21, 2024
AUDIO REVIEW
Story rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Overall: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
*Check your triggers*
This book currently holds the title of favorite in the series. I cannot believe how utterly obsessed I am with Tomer and Lettie. Jackie has the natural ability to "show-not-tell" and it gives this book a life of its own. I often forget how long I've been reading when I'm in this world.
Narration: Jackie Walker really knows how to pair narrators well! I am so impressed by her ability to cast not only talent but talent that complements others! Aaron is and will always be a favorite of mine, and Kelsey is always a warm welcome.
Tropes:
💜 Age gap
🖤 Boss’s (secret) daughter
💜 Virgin FMC
🖤 Dom MMC (part of a sex club)
💜 BDSM
🖤 Stalking/Obsession
Tomer, played by Aaron Shedlock: Dear God, does a more perfect stalker-y man exist?! Now that I know Tomer well, it makes me want to go back through the other 4 books and beat all the other guys who give Tomer a hard time up. SUGAR BEAR?! Jackie Walker it us with a SUGAR BEAR, and I thought I was going to combust at how perfect it was. I can't describe why it's so perfect, but it is.
Lettie, played by Kelsey Navarro Foster: This POOR GIRL. I can't even really say all the things I want to say, but I am also in love with her spunk and her spirit.
I completely understand why this couple's series got 3 books. I want to sit locked up in a room and finish the other two, but I have to wait until the audio comes out! I will be in such a book ole after I finish this run up.
Story rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
Overall: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
*Check your triggers*
This book currently holds the title of favorite in the series. I cannot believe how utterly obsessed I am with Tomer and Lettie. Jackie has the natural ability to "show-not-tell" and it gives this book a life of its own. I often forget how long I've been reading when I'm in this world.
Narration: Jackie Walker really knows how to pair narrators well! I am so impressed by her ability to cast not only talent but talent that complements others! Aaron is and will always be a favorite of mine, and Kelsey is always a warm welcome.
Tropes:
💜 Age gap
🖤 Boss’s (secret) daughter
💜 Virgin FMC
🖤 Dom MMC (part of a sex club)
💜 BDSM
🖤 Stalking/Obsession
Tomer, played by Aaron Shedlock: Dear God, does a more perfect stalker-y man exist?! Now that I know Tomer well, it makes me want to go back through the other 4 books and beat all the other guys who give Tomer a hard time up. SUGAR BEAR?! Jackie Walker it us with a SUGAR BEAR, and I thought I was going to combust at how perfect it was. I can't describe why it's so perfect, but it is.
Lettie, played by Kelsey Navarro Foster: This POOR GIRL. I can't even really say all the things I want to say, but I am also in love with her spunk and her spirit.
I completely understand why this couple's series got 3 books. I want to sit locked up in a room and finish the other two, but I have to wait until the audio comes out! I will be in such a book ole after I finish this run up.
January 15, 2024
I am kind of at a loss for words. Don’t get me wrong, I loved the unexpectedness of Unexpected Hero. The way that James (Tomer) is able to give Lettie what she needs to be able to grow and experience not just her kinks but how getting comfortable in those kinks helps her become comfortable with who she is. Helping her slowly unravel the trauma of her religious past. Yet, she is not confident in James’ love for her – and for good reason. He is hiding things, important things from her. She loves him so much she knows he isn’t being 100% with her. If you have read the other books in the Redleg series, you know what those secrets are and as the reader we learn ever so tragically why Tomer (James) physically can’t – not won’t – can’t tell Lettie the truth. His deep-rooted abandonment issues are palatable. His inner monologue and flash backs of his father literally broke me. There is a warning about chapter 4 in the book. It didn’t think it would bother me but that damn teddy bear almost did me in. I had to put the book down for a couple of days. I knew Jackie was going to work it out as she always does but knowing this book was a duet and reading the past Redleg books, I knew that wasn’t going to get resolved in the first book. As duets do, Unexpected Hero has left us with a cliffhanger. James (Tomer) no longer has a choice and will have to tell Lettie the truth. Not only about who he is but also about who she is. Will the truth be enough to make Lettie walk away and what will become of Tomer if she does?
January 16, 2024
I was not expecting to be so moved and emotional while reading this. Yes, I had an idea that my emotions would be tested but not to the point that I was holding my breath, my stomach was in knots and my heart was beating a mile a minute. Ms. Walker has outdone herself with Unexpected Hero. The story is beautifully written, one that is impossible to put down and has a lot of steam but also heartbreaking scenes that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat.
omer was a wonder in the previous books and I loved his caring character, but my heart broke for him. His childhood was not what I expected, and to survive it was a miracle. Having to live with a secret that only he knows is very difficult and possibly has him feeling conflicted about what to do. Lettie, Violet, and who she is related to is the secret he is keeping. Now add in the fact that he is so drawn to her and feels that he is responsible for keeping her safe, he crosses so many lines. Violet's life has been one that sees her living a sheltered life and one that she was mentally abused. Leaving her hometown, she finds herself in Tomer's town. Was their meeting a chance one? The chemistry that they had was off the charts. Tomer keeps the fact that he knows her as well as being Dom. Can these two opposite people find love and connection? When danger enters their lives will they survive? Can Lettie get over what happened?
I highly recommend picking up Unexpected Hero but be prepared for a cliffhanger and another ride on the rollercoaster of emotions.
omer was a wonder in the previous books and I loved his caring character, but my heart broke for him. His childhood was not what I expected, and to survive it was a miracle. Having to live with a secret that only he knows is very difficult and possibly has him feeling conflicted about what to do. Lettie, Violet, and who she is related to is the secret he is keeping. Now add in the fact that he is so drawn to her and feels that he is responsible for keeping her safe, he crosses so many lines. Violet's life has been one that sees her living a sheltered life and one that she was mentally abused. Leaving her hometown, she finds herself in Tomer's town. Was their meeting a chance one? The chemistry that they had was off the charts. Tomer keeps the fact that he knows her as well as being Dom. Can these two opposite people find love and connection? When danger enters their lives will they survive? Can Lettie get over what happened?
I highly recommend picking up Unexpected Hero but be prepared for a cliffhanger and another ride on the rollercoaster of emotions.
January 25, 2024
I have been waiting for Tomer’s book since I first met him and this book did not disappoint! However, don’t let that line make you think that you cannot just jump right into this book. This is truly a series of interconnected romance that has everything you need inside the book.
This book has the unexpected, and welcome, surprise of being a duet so there is so much more that I will learn in book two and this allows for a wonderful use of an emotional cliffhanger for me as a reader -- do not worry, the main action of the book was completed but now we are left wondering about where the fallout from that story will take our pair (but no spoilers from me on what happens ;-). Watching Tomer and Violet’s relationship establish itself and grow was amazing. Seeing how they both supported each other, pushed their boundaries, and experienced their relationship’s physical side gave me all the feels that I expect from this author. This book has all the spice you are looking for along with a beautifully developed story and a group of protective Alpha Males who take turns stealing scenes from one another. I know that Tomer and Violet did not get their Happily Ever After yet, and there is a wonderful tease for what Walker is developing for future books, but if you enjoy reading books that have the perfect blend of sweet and ghost chili pepper spice, just the right amount of tension and suspense, and a MMC who is the definition of Who Hurt You, then this is a book you have to check out.
This book has the unexpected, and welcome, surprise of being a duet so there is so much more that I will learn in book two and this allows for a wonderful use of an emotional cliffhanger for me as a reader -- do not worry, the main action of the book was completed but now we are left wondering about where the fallout from that story will take our pair (but no spoilers from me on what happens ;-). Watching Tomer and Violet’s relationship establish itself and grow was amazing. Seeing how they both supported each other, pushed their boundaries, and experienced their relationship’s physical side gave me all the feels that I expect from this author. This book has all the spice you are looking for along with a beautifully developed story and a group of protective Alpha Males who take turns stealing scenes from one another. I know that Tomer and Violet did not get their Happily Ever After yet, and there is a wonderful tease for what Walker is developing for future books, but if you enjoy reading books that have the perfect blend of sweet and ghost chili pepper spice, just the right amount of tension and suspense, and a MMC who is the definition of Who Hurt You, then this is a book you have to check out.
January 12, 2024
Unexpected Hero is book 5 in the Redleg Security series, a Jackie Walker’s Love and Laughter series spin-off. In this edition, we meet Tomer, the unemotional and anti-social tech guru of Redleg Security, and Violet (Lettie), a young woman set on reinventing herself.
I genuinely don’t believe in spoilers, so this review is difficult for me to write because I want someone to discuss all of the details, thoughts, and feelings that keep rolling through my head. There are so many feels…. So many thoughts… and so many details that I need to break down. This book hasn’t left my thoughts alone since I finished it.
With every book, Ms. Walker’s storytelling gets better and better. Unexpected Hero sets the bar insanely high. Tomer and Lettie are believable, almost living, breathing characters I wish to meet.
Tomer was not a character I particularly cared about in the previous books. He was like a shadow or a spoof. His unknown depths and personality make this story even more thrilling for anyone who has read the Redleg series in order. You’re like… BAM! Wait! What?! Tomer?! Holy Cow! The story that surrounds Tomer and Lettie, and the story arch of the Redleg Security series, sucks you into their world in such a vivid way that everything plays out like a movie rather than words on a page. At least, that’s what I experienced.
This book is suspenseful, insightful, and oh-so spicy! I can’t wait for the next one… and the next… and the next.
I genuinely don’t believe in spoilers, so this review is difficult for me to write because I want someone to discuss all of the details, thoughts, and feelings that keep rolling through my head. There are so many feels…. So many thoughts… and so many details that I need to break down. This book hasn’t left my thoughts alone since I finished it.
With every book, Ms. Walker’s storytelling gets better and better. Unexpected Hero sets the bar insanely high. Tomer and Lettie are believable, almost living, breathing characters I wish to meet.
Tomer was not a character I particularly cared about in the previous books. He was like a shadow or a spoof. His unknown depths and personality make this story even more thrilling for anyone who has read the Redleg series in order. You’re like… BAM! Wait! What?! Tomer?! Holy Cow! The story that surrounds Tomer and Lettie, and the story arch of the Redleg Security series, sucks you into their world in such a vivid way that everything plays out like a movie rather than words on a page. At least, that’s what I experienced.
This book is suspenseful, insightful, and oh-so spicy! I can’t wait for the next one… and the next… and the next.
January 17, 2024
Tomer aka James is a smart, loyal man that lacks social skills, and a past that will shatter your heart. As the main IT guy, it’s the secrets he keeps that truly haunt him now. He has known about Lettie for a while, keeping it from everyone, but when she comes to his town things start to get interesting. Tomer’s intrigue with Lettie becomes too much and his curiosity overwhelms him, he can’t stay away, yet he knows he should. Lettie is funny, incredibly lovable, and a tad naïve. This past year has had her struggling with a lot of emotions leading her to break free and become her own person. She may not understand or get everything now, or her mind will run away with her jumping from conclusion to conclusion, but she is the most loyal and kindhearted person. Tomer/James tries to fight his attraction, but Lettie just takes his breath away and when things come to a boiling point there is no turning back. They both have insecurities that constantly have them on edge and pasts that haunt them, but you can see these two are meant to be, only if the outside world and secrets will let them. It ends with a cliffhanger leaving your mind constantly wondering where we go from here and “why do I have to wait?” anxiety, but the emotions in this story are extreme and beautiful so it is worth the journey.
January 12, 2024
Omg I loved this book…. I have liked Tomer since book 1 of this series. He was always the nerdy boy who sits on the sidelines while everyone else is having fun. Tomer appears in the other books as a soft guy, who although was in the Rangers is more IT guy than anything. How untrue that was……. This book allows Dominant Tomer entry the story. And my god I do love a Dominant Tomer 🥰
This books runs along the background of books 2 - 4 (might include 1 as well but not 100% sure) it takes place over a 12 month period.
Lettie who we meet in one of the earlier books (not giving away who she is and to whom 🤪) she is a sheltered girl who has had a very strict religious upbringing.
Their story is beautiful. Tomer helps Lettie work through her massive insecurities and she in turn brings him out of his shell while attempting to help him understand emotions.
The one thing I love about Jackie’s writing is although it is an interconnected series where the books overlap in time, she does not rehash the other couples getting together or backgrounds. I love an interconnected series…… but I hate having to hear about every person in the friend groups story from different points of view. Thank you Jackie. However I am seriously upset at that cliffhanger!!!!! Part 2 cannot come quick enough.
This books runs along the background of books 2 - 4 (might include 1 as well but not 100% sure) it takes place over a 12 month period.
Lettie who we meet in one of the earlier books (not giving away who she is and to whom 🤪) she is a sheltered girl who has had a very strict religious upbringing.
Their story is beautiful. Tomer helps Lettie work through her massive insecurities and she in turn brings him out of his shell while attempting to help him understand emotions.
The one thing I love about Jackie’s writing is although it is an interconnected series where the books overlap in time, she does not rehash the other couples getting together or backgrounds. I love an interconnected series…… but I hate having to hear about every person in the friend groups story from different points of view. Thank you Jackie. However I am seriously upset at that cliffhanger!!!!! Part 2 cannot come quick enough.
January 16, 2024
My new favorite trope has got to be a good st@lker romance. Not like a creepy one because that’s a red flag no one needs IRL or in a book - but the protective kind that turns obsessive -the red flag is actually more of a thin line, I know.
Tomer peeked my interest when I first met him in a different series by the Goddess Jackie Walker - and then when introduced in his element in the Redleg series I knew I found him - my other half - my Book-soulmate. He’s reserved and quiet - and IYKYK - those are the kinky ones. And in Unexpected Hero the Dom comes out to play!
I loved getting the “full” story of Tomer and Lettie - the bread crumbs of their story from Rival Hero has been like months of edging!
I love how Tomer wraps Lettie up (literally and figuratively) and protects her even when she doesn’t know it, making her life easier and anticipating her needs. Through the bumps of their relationship he doesn’t steamroll her, he shows her his vulnerability and as Lettie finds her footing he helps her stand firm with encouraging words and undying support.
This ends in a HFN cliffhanger (which I knew going into but was still swiping looking for the rest of the book because like Veruca Salt, I WANT IT NOW!)
Tomer peeked my interest when I first met him in a different series by the Goddess Jackie Walker - and then when introduced in his element in the Redleg series I knew I found him - my other half - my Book-soulmate. He’s reserved and quiet - and IYKYK - those are the kinky ones. And in Unexpected Hero the Dom comes out to play!
I loved getting the “full” story of Tomer and Lettie - the bread crumbs of their story from Rival Hero has been like months of edging!
I love how Tomer wraps Lettie up (literally and figuratively) and protects her even when she doesn’t know it, making her life easier and anticipating her needs. Through the bumps of their relationship he doesn’t steamroll her, he shows her his vulnerability and as Lettie finds her footing he helps her stand firm with encouraging words and undying support.
This ends in a HFN cliffhanger (which I knew going into but was still swiping looking for the rest of the book because like Veruca Salt, I WANT IT NOW!)
November 21, 2024
4.5 Stars! Jackie Walker does it again, her writing is so addictive… and it’s finally Tomer’s time to shine!
So excited to be back in this world and back with our guys and girls in the Redleg Security Team. This time, it’s Tomer’s time to shine! I have been intrigued by Tomer and his relationship with Lettie since the last book (Rival Hero) and I’m so happy to be finally getting (some of) the full story here in this book!
So, unto the review… Unexpected Hero begins and runs timeline wise parallel to Forbidden Hero and Rival Hero. We meet Lettie who recently moved to Florida. She recently found out the parents who raised her were actually her grandparents after her grandfather admitted it on his deathbed. Due to her strict religious upbringing and the religious trauma experienced because of it, she wants a fresh start. But she quickly finds herself running out of money when she can’t find a job. This is when she meets Tomer/James. He offers to pay for her gas and takes her out for coffee, he even buys her some groceries. Eventually, he helps get her a job working at the *club* 😉 he frequents. Meanwhile, in the background, Tomer is a part of the Redleg Security Team and we find out that he found out that Lettie is actually his boss’ daughter and has been keeping an eye on her for 5 years now. In order to keep her safe, he offers her a job as a receptionist at the safest place he can think; a place where he literally has his eyes on her at most times. There they get to know each other a little bit more and grow closer over the course of a year. He supports her in every way and helps her learn more about her body, including processing all the trauma and guilt she feels through BDSM. But he feels so much guilt over all the secrets he has to keep, both from her, as well as his family at Redleg Security. This all comes to a head and Lettie gets fed up. Things eventually take a turn for the worst, I’m not going to spoil the ending of the book, but just know that it's bad.
Unexpected Hero was such a joy to listen to. It was an emotional and heartfelt read, with a great mix of heaviness and lightness. It had drama to keep me hooked and entertained, as well as some witty banter to aid in some of that lightness. And, let’s not forget the spice! A lot of their time is spent in a smex club 😉 teaching Lettie the BDSM lifestyle, so you know the spice is all the way turned up! It’s also slow-burn, so I was salivating for their romance the entire time. 🤣 It does end on a cliffhanger and I usually don’t like cliffhangers, but this one has me on the edge of my seat…but patiently waiting for the next book to get more of Tomer and Lettie’s story. Jackie Walker really knows how to write an interesting story with interesting characters. She is just so creative and has a way of telling a story that is captivating. Tomer is the quiet, broody guy. Unfortunately, thanks to his childhood trauma, he is a bit awkward and unable to show much emotion and finds socialising very difficult. Misunderstood by his friends, but nonetheless, would do anything for them. Lettie has been through so much, coming from a traumatic and oppressive background, yet fought to be free… she is truly brave. I loved seeing these two begin their journey of healing separately, but also the way they came together and helped each other out. And, their slow-burn romance was everything! Looking forward to (and about to jump into) the next book, Unexpected Heroine!
Narrated by Aaron Shedlock and Kelsey Navarro Foster, they were exceptional in their performances. Aaron Shedlock was perfect in his role as the broody, socially awkward, yet kind man that is Tomer. Kelsey Navarro Foster also gave an amazing performance in her role as the brave woman that was Lettie, working through her traumas. Plus, they worked so well together. They brought the story and characters to life and it was an incredible listen. Highly recommend!
Thanks to the author, Jackie Walker, for letting me be on her audio arc team and providing me with a review copy of this book. All opinions provided in this review are entirely my own.
So excited to be back in this world and back with our guys and girls in the Redleg Security Team. This time, it’s Tomer’s time to shine! I have been intrigued by Tomer and his relationship with Lettie since the last book (Rival Hero) and I’m so happy to be finally getting (some of) the full story here in this book!
So, unto the review… Unexpected Hero begins and runs timeline wise parallel to Forbidden Hero and Rival Hero. We meet Lettie who recently moved to Florida. She recently found out the parents who raised her were actually her grandparents after her grandfather admitted it on his deathbed. Due to her strict religious upbringing and the religious trauma experienced because of it, she wants a fresh start. But she quickly finds herself running out of money when she can’t find a job. This is when she meets Tomer/James. He offers to pay for her gas and takes her out for coffee, he even buys her some groceries. Eventually, he helps get her a job working at the *club* 😉 he frequents. Meanwhile, in the background, Tomer is a part of the Redleg Security Team and we find out that he found out that Lettie is actually his boss’ daughter and has been keeping an eye on her for 5 years now. In order to keep her safe, he offers her a job as a receptionist at the safest place he can think; a place where he literally has his eyes on her at most times. There they get to know each other a little bit more and grow closer over the course of a year. He supports her in every way and helps her learn more about her body, including processing all the trauma and guilt she feels through BDSM. But he feels so much guilt over all the secrets he has to keep, both from her, as well as his family at Redleg Security. This all comes to a head and Lettie gets fed up. Things eventually take a turn for the worst, I’m not going to spoil the ending of the book, but just know that it's bad.
Unexpected Hero was such a joy to listen to. It was an emotional and heartfelt read, with a great mix of heaviness and lightness. It had drama to keep me hooked and entertained, as well as some witty banter to aid in some of that lightness. And, let’s not forget the spice! A lot of their time is spent in a smex club 😉 teaching Lettie the BDSM lifestyle, so you know the spice is all the way turned up! It’s also slow-burn, so I was salivating for their romance the entire time. 🤣 It does end on a cliffhanger and I usually don’t like cliffhangers, but this one has me on the edge of my seat…but patiently waiting for the next book to get more of Tomer and Lettie’s story. Jackie Walker really knows how to write an interesting story with interesting characters. She is just so creative and has a way of telling a story that is captivating. Tomer is the quiet, broody guy. Unfortunately, thanks to his childhood trauma, he is a bit awkward and unable to show much emotion and finds socialising very difficult. Misunderstood by his friends, but nonetheless, would do anything for them. Lettie has been through so much, coming from a traumatic and oppressive background, yet fought to be free… she is truly brave. I loved seeing these two begin their journey of healing separately, but also the way they came together and helped each other out. And, their slow-burn romance was everything! Looking forward to (and about to jump into) the next book, Unexpected Heroine!
Narrated by Aaron Shedlock and Kelsey Navarro Foster, they were exceptional in their performances. Aaron Shedlock was perfect in his role as the broody, socially awkward, yet kind man that is Tomer. Kelsey Navarro Foster also gave an amazing performance in her role as the brave woman that was Lettie, working through her traumas. Plus, they worked so well together. They brought the story and characters to life and it was an incredible listen. Highly recommend!
Thanks to the author, Jackie Walker, for letting me be on her audio arc team and providing me with a review copy of this book. All opinions provided in this review are entirely my own.
October 21, 2024
Protect her, nothing else, easy or so I thought!
OMG, I love to hear Aaron Shedlock narrate! He is one of my favorite and he is perfect for Tomer! He fits the mold and the character so well that the storyline just flows so smoothly! Kelsey Navarro Foster is new to me so I really enjoyed being able to listen to a new character with a new voice. Both of these combined gave this book more than just words being read, it gives us feelings that you can hear in their tones as they speak! A great combination!
Tropes:
• Age gap
• Off limits
• Secret Identity
• BDSM
We meet Tomer and Lettie in earlier books but now we get theirs.
Tomer has been content living his life the way he has but when he finds himself protecting his boss’ daughter, he begins to feel things, things he shouldn’t. Alex doesn’t know he has a daughter and Tomer can’t seem to find the right time to tell him so until then, he will keep an eye out for her to make sure she is safe and has everything she needs to survive.
Lettie, raised by her grandparents and very religiously, was sheltered but now she is ready to experience life on her own. In comes Tomer or James, to the rescue determining to keep an eye on her at all costs.
OMG, I love to hear Aaron Shedlock narrate! He is one of my favorite and he is perfect for Tomer! He fits the mold and the character so well that the storyline just flows so smoothly! Kelsey Navarro Foster is new to me so I really enjoyed being able to listen to a new character with a new voice. Both of these combined gave this book more than just words being read, it gives us feelings that you can hear in their tones as they speak! A great combination!
Tropes:
• Age gap
• Off limits
• Secret Identity
• BDSM
We meet Tomer and Lettie in earlier books but now we get theirs.
Tomer has been content living his life the way he has but when he finds himself protecting his boss’ daughter, he begins to feel things, things he shouldn’t. Alex doesn’t know he has a daughter and Tomer can’t seem to find the right time to tell him so until then, he will keep an eye out for her to make sure she is safe and has everything she needs to survive.
Lettie, raised by her grandparents and very religiously, was sheltered but now she is ready to experience life on her own. In comes Tomer or James, to the rescue determining to keep an eye on her at all costs.
November 1, 2024
Unexpected Hero is a captivating start to the Tomer & Lettie trilogy, weaving a tale of romance, mystery, and emotional depth. The story revolves around Tomer, the mastermind behind Redleg Security, and Lettie, a sheltered small town girl seeking direction after her father’s death. Their fateful meeting sets off a chain of events laden with secrets and intrigue. Tomer's enigmatic presence and Lettie's innocence create an electric dynamic, and the chemistry between them is magnetic drawing us readers into an emotional whirlwind. As secrets unravel, Lettie discovers their meeting was no accident, adding layers of intrigue to their story. The narrative skilfully balances moments of intense chemistry with sizzlingly hot scenes of light BDSM, to explorations of the characters' pasts, evoking a spectrum of emotions from anger to joy.
The audiobook performances by Aaron Shedlock and Kelsey Navarro Foster enhance the experience, breathing life into the characters with remarkable authenticity. With elements like a boss's daughter, age gap, secret identity, and Dom-sub dynamic, this book offers a blend of romance, heartbreak, and suspense that leaves you eagerly anticipating the next installment, especially since it ends on a tantalising cliffhanger.
The audiobook performances by Aaron Shedlock and Kelsey Navarro Foster enhance the experience, breathing life into the characters with remarkable authenticity. With elements like a boss's daughter, age gap, secret identity, and Dom-sub dynamic, this book offers a blend of romance, heartbreak, and suspense that leaves you eagerly anticipating the next installment, especially since it ends on a tantalising cliffhanger.
January 18, 2024
When I was introduced to Tomer in Rival Hero, I knew I was going to like him. I just didn’t realize I was going to fall so hard! Maybe I’m partial to the quiet, mysterious ones? Or maybe it’s his Dom personality and stalker tendencies? How he worships the ground Lettie walks on? Who am I kidding, it’s all of it!
Lettie was another mystery that Jackie left us dangling with at the end of Rival Hero. Homegirl is a character! Despite her religious upbringing, she is so independent and sassy. Jackie did a bang up job on Lettie’s inner monologue too. There were many times I cracked up at some of her southern sayings.
I was starting to go a little crazy waiting for Lettie and Tomer to finally get their sh*t together, and of course once they finally do, all hell breaks loose. Even though I lived it once in Rival Hero through Klein and Mia’s perspectives, it was like reading it new all over again with Tomer and Lettie. I actually had to remind myself I already *kinda* knew what the outcome was going to be 🤣.
Having to wait now for Unexpected Hero redeemed is going to make me antsy. I want my HEA for Tomer and Lettie 🫶🏻
Lettie was another mystery that Jackie left us dangling with at the end of Rival Hero. Homegirl is a character! Despite her religious upbringing, she is so independent and sassy. Jackie did a bang up job on Lettie’s inner monologue too. There were many times I cracked up at some of her southern sayings.
I was starting to go a little crazy waiting for Lettie and Tomer to finally get their sh*t together, and of course once they finally do, all hell breaks loose. Even though I lived it once in Rival Hero through Klein and Mia’s perspectives, it was like reading it new all over again with Tomer and Lettie. I actually had to remind myself I already *kinda* knew what the outcome was going to be 🤣.
Having to wait now for Unexpected Hero redeemed is going to make me antsy. I want my HEA for Tomer and Lettie 🫶🏻
February 13, 2024
This is the first book I've read of this author and honestly, I don't even know ......I'm so......I don't know what to say. I have never read a book like this before. First off, I loved the characters. Tomer and Lettie were both very well developed. I felt I knew them early on and boy did I identify with Lettie in SO MANY WAYS. I loved the story as a whole. I have to say in the first part of the book I laughed harder than I have laughed with any other book. The 'southern' take the author had on different situations and the language she used was hilarious. I loved that. Then the story turned darker, and dragged my aching heart through the mire and mud and I had to put the book down because it hurt me to see the characters going through such anguish. I read little bits and pieces here and there but it just continued to grow darker and darker it literally was hard for me to read and then............time for the new book. OH MY GOSH.........I have never read a book that has had me laughing hysterically then hurting so bad I can barely get through it. Talk about running the gamut on the emotional spectrum. I give the story 5 stars for that!
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