Shield and Savior

by Meg Fitzpatrick

She feels unwanted and alone. He never thought he needed anyone. Will a simple job unlock a match made in mafia heaven?Izzy Marciano hates being the prodigal daughter. But with her ex getting too stalkery for comfort, the competitive single mom grabs her nine-year-old son and retreats to the safety of her mob-boss dad’s East Coast stronghold. And when her father hires a smoking-hot bodyguard, she has to constantly remind herself that the chiseled guardian is supposed to be totally off-limits. Lance is loyal to the core. So the skilled security specialist forces himself to ignore the sizzling attraction between himself and his adorable new assignment beyond some laid-back flirting. But when she erupts after being denied cake at a tension-filled wedding, amusement at her over-the-top frustration leads him to offer a delicious kiss as the perfect dessert. Delighted by the fierce man’s gentle embraces, Izzy is brought harshly down to earth by a disturbing message from the past. And while Lance would do anything to make her smile, he fears that continuing to break the rules could leave them both lethally exposed. Can they dodge an oncoming tragedy and arrive at happily ever after? Shield and Savior is the playful first book in the Mastodon Security bodyguard romance series. If you like page-turning chemistry, dark humor, and lighthearted suspense, then you’ll adore Meg Fitzpatrick’s forbidden love story. Buy Shield and Savior to put desire under protection today!

Genres: Mafia Romance, Romance, Contemporary

276 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 28, 2024

Reviews

[Helen Isabel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shield and Warrior is a heartwarming romance packed with cute family vibes and an irresistible dynamic between the leads. Izzy’s fiery personality and Lance’s steadfast loyalty create sparks that light up every scene they share, especially as they navigate the tension between duty and desire.

The addition of Izzy’s son and her protective instincts adds a touching layer to the story, making their journey feel genuine and emotional.

[Erica Oliver · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this as an ARC, but all opinions expressed are my own. When a mafia princess runs away only for her son's father to come back 10 years later she is forced back into the fold for protection. Lance is tasks with protected her, and he gets more than he bargained for in just another routine job. There is spice. However, it is not a prominent part of the book.This is the first book in a series, and I can genuinely not wait to read the next book.

-Single Mom
-Mafia Princess
-Protective MMC
-New Beginnings
-Spice
-Strong touch them and you won't live to regret it vibes

[Samantha (AK) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've said it before, and I'll say it again. I have no animosity for romance novels, but they're not my go-to genre and I'm never entirely sure what to say about them. I feel like a visitor in the foreign pages of Romancelandia, simultaneously intrigued and baffled by the local tropes.

(Example: "Oh no, he's hot" moments. Where does that come from?!?)

In any case, I got this months ago at a book signing because the setting was pitched as "the Sopranos are conned by the Golden Girls," but only got around to reading it in late October, when I needed a Plane/Hotel Room/Convention Line book. (For which purposes, it was marvelous).

It's a fairly lighthearted mafia/bodyguard/romcom kind of het romance novel. Single-mom (daughter of a mafia boss) is in danger, has a hot bodyguard, etc. Nothing too strenuous in the plot department, and the smart heroine is just the right side of petty, done-with-your-b.s. in the cathartic zinger department. She's also strikingly relatable. (Reading the words "Foot pain is never gradual" after several hours standing in line on bare concrete was An Experience).

All told, my romance-tourist self rates this "I was solidly entertained."

[Kassybetweenpages · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm sorry a rom-com mafia book with the single mom trope?!?!! sign me TF up!!! I am not someone who reached for mafia romances often idk why I enjoy them when I read them I just never reach for them.

This one however was such a fun and fluffy spin on mafia romances. it follows our fmc Izzy's family has hired a bodyguard for her and her son after she's assaulted by her ex. the mmc Lance is such a cinnamon roll and there are so many heart melting moments with Izzy's son.

this book just has those fluffy romance vibes with the perfect amount of action, humor and sprinkling of spice. I will definitely be continuing on with the series. I also recommend the audio book I both listened and read on my kindle but, the narrators did an excellent job.

[Lydia · Rating 4 out of 5]

(Audiobook) I had a great time with this story: a single mom who is a Mafia princess falls for her bodyguard. This was unique and felt more like a charming rom-com than a typical Mafia romance.

[Brandi B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I listened to the audio and loved it so much that I bought the trophy.
This book follows a mafia princess who accidentally gets pregnant and leaves the family because she feels she's a disgrace, but you never truly leave the mafia.
I have never read a twist on a mafia family like that. It is funny and shows a non dark twist on multiple families who come together. The FMC ends up in a dangerous situation, and the family brings her home for her and her sons safety and provides her with protection.. que the body guard of sexiness.
As they navigate their professional stance, they are placed in situations that solidify their dynamic.
There are ups and downs and damn amazing spice.
And just wait for the cake 👀.
I am not a romcom reader, but I am obsessed with the series and can't wait for the next books. This authors writing style is on point and now an insta buy for me. The narrators did a fantastic job with each character, and I never felt lost in who was being portrayed.

[Valerie Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has a little bit of everything! Single mom, protective bodyguard who falls for her immediately, comedy, romance, suspense, and spicy scenes too! The character development is strong and when I finished I was already wanting more from the series!!!!

[Sharlene Blanco-Eduarda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, let me start by saying that I'm super in love with this book. It has everything my heart desires. It has plot twists, bad guys galore, badass female characters, cinnamonrol Alpha, heroine that can handle herself, cute kids(love little Maria)
And there is also lots of humour. All in all I have to say Meg did an amazing job and I can't wait to read the next one in the series.

And ps: Someone better has chocolate cake. That is all I'm saying🥵

[Brayzen Bookwyrm · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unexpected and So Incredibly Fun

A romcom, a protector romance, and a mafia romance walk into a bar. They sit, they drink, they chat about all the amazing things that make them so great. And at the end of the night they form an alliance that looks a lot like Shield & Savior by Meg Fitzpatrick. Sound different from what you’re used to? Good. Because it is. And as different as those three subgenres are, they combine perfectly in this series debut.

So, here’s the thing, Shield and Savior hit me completely by surprise. I wasn’t sure what to expect, maybe a typical bodyguard MMC protecting a mafia princess FMC from some threat. But, that is not what I got. And I honestly couldn’t be happier. I mean, yes, the bodyguard MMC (Lance) does protect the mafia princess FMC (Izzy) and her son (Drew) from a threat, but there is nothing typical about how it all happens. The way Fitzpatrick weaves the suspense elements in with the humor is truly delightful. The characters are fun and authentic, genuine and easy to fall in love with. The plot moves quickly with excellent pacing, easily incorporating multiple plot arcs and characters.

And the banter. OMD, the banter. It is absolutely fantastic. It’s incredibly engaging, and completely pulled me into the conversations and the scenes created around it. The characters are larger than life, but so real at the same time. I know, like I said, completely different. And in addition to the suspense and humor elements layered within the plot, there is a very healthy helping of heat and heart. Your nonna would be proud of all the layers in this romance lasagna.

Bottom line, if you’re looking for a really great way to escape the chaos of life, this is a great place to do it. Do the hero and heroine get their HEA? Absolutely. Do they hit some roadblocks and pitfalls along the way? Definitely. Are you going to fall in love with them and their costars? 100% yes. Will you thank the author for your elevated heart rate and huge smile when you finish this book? Oh, yeah.

[Molly · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was such a confusing book. I understood the premise of it, bodyguard Lance falls for his client Izzy and her son Drew, but it really felt like I came in on the middle of a series. Every character mentioned seemed to have some sort of backstory that it felt like we should have already known about.

I went and looked to make sure I hadn’t missed any previous books, but nope this was the first one. I had no idea what was being referenced at times, and some of it was just plain silly. The code names for the security agency clients were the only ones used, and we got no real details about them. I honestly don’t even know why so many of these characters were even in the book or being mentioned. It’s supposed to be a light-hearted mafia romcom, but the focus was on other things.

The fact that the “Four Families” consisted of different nationalities where the respective mob bosses all got along and acted like a giant family was just weird. Again there was no context for it, and we only got a little bit of background information about the mob bosses mothers befriending each other so they all formed a coalition. I really don’t have anything good to say about the book, I got it for free thankfully and don’t plan on reading the other ones in the series.

No third act breakup

3/5 on the Spicy Scale

M/F

Contemporary/Mafia(ish)

[Celtic Chic Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where romance meets risk amid riotous laughs!

Discovering Meg Fitzpatrick's Shield and Savior was a captivating introduction to her work, combining romance, comedy, and suspense within the mafia backdrop. In this first installment of the Mastodon Security series, Izzy Marciano returns home with her son to escape a threatening ex, only to find herself under the protection of Lance, her formidable yet enticing bodyguard. Their dynamic, filled with witty exchanges and simmering tension, evolves into a compelling love story that blends light-hearted moments with thrilling mafia action.

Fitzpatrick's narrative keeps the pace brisk, balancing suspense with the deepening romance, ensuring that each enhances the other. The secondary characters, including Izzy’s son and Lance's enigmatic boss, enrich the story, adding depth and humor. This novel is not just engaging but a well-rounded journey into the complexities of love and loyalty.

Shield and Savior is a fantastic pick for anyone craving a blend of laughter and edge-of-your-seat action. Fitzpatrick delivers a multifaceted story that promises more thrilling adventures in the Mastodon Security series. I’m eagerly anticipating diving deeper into her captivating storytelling.

[Sara Swanson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shield and Savior is the first book in the Mastodon Security series, I would say this is a slow to medium burn contemporary romance. If you are looking for sweet, funny and slightly unhinged characters this book is for you. I was completely engrossed in the story and can’t wait for the rest of the series. Izzy, is the FMC who has some family issues and inner demons she has to work through, to lead a normal life for her and her son. Being a mafia princess and working for the four families is not easy. Lance her protector has a hard time remaining professional and completely falls for Izzy, and has to decide if love or work is more important. The dynamic between the characters is fantastic and leaves you guessing what will happen next. I love that the females in the story hold the power and are feared and respected by their male counterparts. You are introduced to multiple characters in the book, and while this book does end on a cliffhanger, I found the writing, characters and pace of the story was easy to follow. I look forward to reading the next book in the series and seeing how Izzy and Lance’s romance progresses.

[Rebecca Middleton · Rating 4 out of 5]

- Arc Review -

This book was well written but there is a lot to the storyline. This is understand considered there are expected to be 6 books in this series. Though there were many details about supporting characters and their connections to the main characters, the book was easy to follow.

The mmc falls for the fmc right away and has to choose between his personal and professional future. While the fmc isolated herself for 10 years before being forced to return home for protection under her family orders. There is great personal growth in the fmc. Their chemistry is clear from the beginning, even if they both deny the way they feel.

There is some violence described in this book but it’s not too dark or descriptive. Near the end of the book some important facts come to light which were great plot twists. There are also a few descriptive spice scenes. However this is a slow burn so they do not happen until mid novel and they are really quick reads.

The book ends on a cliffhanger which the main characters future’s in question. We will have to wait until the second book or later to get the full details on where these 2 end up sadly.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was fabulous! The main characters, Lance and Izzy, were like yin and yang. She was soft where he was all sharp and firm. She was sugar to his stanch and rigger. How long would it take her to weesel her way around those solid steel walls Lance has around his emotions? The secondary main characters, Drew and Alana, are also quite a trip in themselves. Izzy's 10-yr old, Drew, goes through quite the emotional rollercoaster in this book. It's moving and endearing. Definately shed a tear (or two). Now, Alana, Lance's boss/best friend/roommate. She's quite the mystic, this one. A hot mess one minute, and the picture of power and dominance the next! One thing's for sure, she keeps Lance on his toes, and honest. 😆

I can say without a doubt that you won't regret reading this book. There's something for everyone: romance, drama, Mafia, crime, action, revenge, passion (of various sorts 😉). Grab your copy, kick back, and enjoy the journey! Big thank you to Meg for an advanced copy. I loved it so much!

* This is my voluntarily, honest review.

[Mary Tilghman · Rating 4 out of 5]

A romance develops between the threatened daughter of a mob boss and the brick of a bodyguard assigned to protect her and her adorable son in Meg Fitzpatrick’s Shield and Savior.

I can recommend this book which started a little slowly for me —probably because it took time for me to get up to speed about who everybody is—but kept me up late at night so I could get to the very satisfying end.

There’s sizzle, sweetness, danger, and lots of suspense in this first book about the Mastodon Security Agency. Four Families joined in organized crime, other body guards, their colorful clients, the main characters, the head of the security agency work together to make this an enjoyable read.

Get it and be prepared to fall into a world of crime, drugs, violence, family unity. You may not know it but you’ll be welcomed here. Besides, the best part—the real reason to read— is the great love story between a woman who made difficult choices in her youth, the child she loves, and the handsome hunk of a bodyguard with the heart of gold.

[Janette Gellar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I picked this book up from a kickstarter campaign after meeting the author at RomantiConn and it was worth every penny! I'm so glad the kickstarter tier came with both books because I'd cry if I had to wait to read the next one! There is so much going on that I feel like this series will go on for many books. It takes place in a less blood thirsty mafia world than what you would expect but it's like being inside the family and not just seeing the bad guys from the outside. You see the more loving side of mafia men reserved for their family. Izzy is the disgraced mafia princess who got preggers at 16 and left the protection of the family. She's tough as nails and clawed her way to creating a life for herself and her son. And I loved her! Lance has his own personal issues but is the perfect book boyfriend. There are a lot of plot turns and I felt like the book got even better with every one!

[Tishana Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book reminds me of baking a cake. When you add all the right ingredients with exact measurements, you get a delicious cake. Meg did an incredible job putting different tropes and topics that I love in my books.
It had the mafia troupe that I LOVE (with a new twist having the mafia princess be a single mom), bodyguard troupe, suspense, thrills, romcom banter, a bit of spice and amazing characters. The storyline was probably one of the best ways I seen a mafia troupe be done in a new way.

Lance and Izzy made this book a great read. Seeing how Meg could write their story beautifully and show such great character development, was a 10/10. For my first book by her, she kept my attention all the way to the end and I was sad when it ended. Can the next book be released now? I’m ready for it!

[Suzy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this story! It checked all my Rom-Com boxes—witty banter, all the feels, swoon-worthy romance, and just the right amount of spice. Important to note: This is not a dark mafia romance. If that's what you're looking for, you’ll want to look elsewhere. This story feels more like the kind of comedy-mafia show I could easily see playing out on TV, and I'd binge every episode! The narrators are phenomenal, delivering multiple voices in a duet style, and they absolutely nailed it. The storyline was intriguing, and there’s clearly more to come. The only downside? As of now, only the next book is available in audiobook form. There are so many interesting side characters that I was hoping this was a spin-off from an established series... but no, this is the very beginning. (And what a strong start!) I cannot wait for book two! Highly recommend if you're in the mood for an excellent Rom-Com with a clever twist.

[Alyssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Spice: 🌶️1/2

This book follows Izzy, a single mom, daughter of a mafia boss who is being chased by her ex. Lance, is a hot personal protection agent *cough cough* bodyguard, assigned to protect her and her son. Izzy is very likable and Lance is very sweet with her and Drew. For me, this book got a little hard to follow at times because everyone has a code name while in protective custody. This means that there are a lot of character names flying around at all times. I wish we had more of a backstory on Lance. I would have loved to see what his life was like before he became a bodyguard. I felt like the ending was a little rushed but I know it was so that there was room for more books to follow a different couple in the series. Overall, this book was pretty good!

[Mandy Mcreads · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the plot and storyline of this book. However, some of the introductions to certain characters left me asking more questions instead of answering ones that were left unanswered. I feel like the potential for this to be a great story is there, the foundation has been laid. The writing just needed a little more work for me. The book was also left on a cliffhanger which bugged me a bit. So I will say that when the next book comes out, I will be reading it out of pure curiosity and in hopes that there will be slight improvement in the meat and potatoes of the writing. I really did enjoy the storyline and the relationship building of the main characters. I would like to see more background explanation to some of the characters that are introduced in the next book.

[Chaos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Omg I died laughing at the cake part with Izzy!!! I feel you, girl! 100%! Bitch can pay back the debt because she refused to serve cake at her wedding 🤣🤣🤣🤣 best scene ever! Never get between a foodie and her food. The best part of weddings is always the food and cake.

Ok, now the story itself I loved too! I thought Lance was hot, and I loved him. He was tough but had a soft spot. It was a breath of fresh air from most mafia romance stories! This story was sweet and funny and just adorable. I look forward to the next book in this series!

I was lucky enough and got to get a pretty edition of this book through the authors kickststarter! So glad I pledged

[Amanda M · Rating 5 out of 5]

A romcom and protector romance with a side of mafia romance. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this unexpected yet surprising story. I really liked how the details were weaved into the story, especially the tidbits of humor. I also liked the interactions between the main characters, their banter, and how things evolved for them. It's an engaging read that has a way to keep your interest no matter what's happening. It had me turning pages from start to finish. Loved the plot, the overall storyline, and the dynamics of the characters. An exceptional story and must read.

[Lillie · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5

Thank you to Megan Fitzpatrick for allowing me to read an ARC of this book. I really enjoyed my time, but there was times where I wish that there was more action and others where I wished that there was more slow time. But overall, I loved the experience. The pictures of the logo was so cute and such a nice touch. How Lance truly cared about Drew in a way that I haven't seen in a while touched my heart. I would definitely check any trigger warnings before going into this book, but definitely enjoy the read.

[Hannah Hill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super great read that kept me on my toes and needing to know what was going to happen next. Lance was the perfect protective bodyguard book boyfriend. I hope we get to see more of him in book 2! Izzy is an amazing mom to Drew and just wants to do what is best for them. Alana is a bad b and I love that her and lance are best friends. I hope we get to find out more of that backstory. There were so many pats of this book that had me laughing especially about Izzy and the cake 😂 great quick read of you love bodyguard mafia romance!

Twatburger is 100% going to be my new insult to use 😆

🌶️/5

[Sarah Havener · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book so much! I had the unique opportunity of reading the arc and listening to the audiobook at the same time, and it totally made the experience more immersive!
This was a pallet cleanser and a bingeable read. It was a fun mafia romance (yes I know that sounds weird but it's true). I snort laughed, had "aww" moments, and also felt the danger parts too. There was a little spice as well, and sometimes there were sweet moments mixed in.

[Liz Sadowsky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lance and Izzy’s story is a wonderful fast paced read. With lots of twists and turns throughout to keep you reading until the very end. What starts out as a simple bodyguard job for Lance turns into so much more. Izzy has been raising her son by herself. When her ex suddenly enters she needs help. Enter smokin hot Lance. As their relationship builds so does the danger. How this all works out is a super read for sure!

[Tina Sanson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not my usual

This book was exciting but not my usual reads. It was well written but there was alot of different people involved with code names and it was hard for me to keep straight. I guess if I was more involved in the story or was used to reading this type of story it would have been better. But I enjoyed the story line and the characters were well described and emotions were well defined.

[Lisa Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The only negative aspect of this book is that the sequel hasn't been released yet. Heck, I got this as an arc read, and it did not let me down at all! This book isn't even out yet! This page-turning novel was intense, but the tale was even more compelling than the heat—as a mother, I could really relate to her situation, aside from the life in the mob!

[Kim Concannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you like a mafia romance but maybe the dark parts make you nervous? Well well well this is the book for you. It’s funny, romantic, well written, full of suspense and story lines for days. If you love geeky security guards and abba loving mafia families then lease please take this book out for a spin. You will not regret it. And if you want check out more books by Meg she is phenomenal💛

[Dolores McCarthy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun, witty read!

I'm not one to write reviews, but this book was just remarkable. The story was delightful (witty dialog) with some intense scenes (bad guys) and interesting characters (main and supporting...the hilarious kids). I thoroughly enjoyed it, and I look forward to more books with all these characters.