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Alliez Security #1

Keeping Astrid

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Astrid Conway

Being a celebrity chef and influencer hadn’t been Astrid’s goal when she uploaded her first cooking video. She’d just wanted to share her love of cooking. Now she has it all—her own cooking show, cookbooks and cookware line. Her dreams are only growing…until the day she stumbles upon a murder in a dark parking lot, and her life gets turned upside down. The last thing she wants is a handsome bodyguard telling her what she can and can’t do.

Callum ‘Growler’ Taylor

Being a SEAL is all Callum has known—until it isn’t. Now he’s embarking on a new career in private security and his first job protecting a celebrity chef has him questioning if leaving the Navy was the right decision. Astrid is not the diva he imagined her to be. She’s funny, kind and beautiful. His instant, heated attraction to her is unexpected, but is it against the rules?

The danger surrounding Astrid increases and when her life is in jeopardy, Callum will use all his training to keep her safe. Turns out…that’s not enough.

338 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 26, 2024

649 people are currently reading
191 people want to read

About the author

Nicole Flockton

116 books506 followers
USA Today Bestselling author Nicole Flockton writes sexy contemporary romances, seducing you one kiss at a time as you turn the pages. Nicole likes nothing better than taking characters and creating unique situations where they fight to find their true love.

On her first school report her teacher noted "Nicole likes to tell her own stories". It wasn’t until after the birth of her first child and after having fun on a romance community forum that she finally decided to take the plunge and write a book.

Apart from writing Nicole is busy looking after her very own hero – her wonderfully supportive husband, and two fabulous kids. She also enjoys watching sports and, of course, reading.

VISIT ME ON FACEBOOK:
https://www.facebook.com/NicoleFlockton/

VISIT MY AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE:
https://www.amazon.com/Nicole-Flockton/e/B009MQPJNG

FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER:
https://twitter.com/NicoleFlockton

Also, stop by and check out my Reader Group: Nicole's Ninjas on Facebook!

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5 stars
322 (51%)
4 stars
173 (27%)
3 stars
97 (15%)
2 stars
26 (4%)
1 star
9 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
Profile Image for A.
793 reviews
January 26, 2024
Keeping Astrid is an awesome start to Nicole Flockton’s new Alliez Security Series. The story was acting packed and suspenseful. I couldn’t put it down. The romance part of the story was sweet and steamy. Callum (Growler) can’t resist his attraction to celebrity chef Astrid when he is sent to protect her after she sees a crime happen. Their chemistry is explosive, and they grow close quickly. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story, and I can’t wait for the next book!
2,357 reviews10 followers
January 30, 2024
Wow!!! Keeping Astrid by Nicole Flockton was a mind-blowing, exciting journey into the lives of Growler and Astrid. My oh my….where to start??? Astrid is a celebrity chef who witnesses something she shouldn’t have…and now, she’s a target. Growler is an ex-navy seal, starting his first stint in private security and Astrid the client. But, there’s a rumbling, low thrum between them…that they may not be able to stop!

I freaking LOVED this story!!! It’s the first I’ve read from this author…and I guarantee it won’t be the last!! Astrid tries sooooooo hard not to be afraid, to just continue life as usual. But, with each new threat, it becomes impossible. Growler tries to keep his professional demeanor with her and the job…it too, seems fruitless. Then, everything goes awry and things are happening that shouldn’t be…given all of their information. Aaaaamazing read!!!!
Profile Image for Gladys.
14k reviews163 followers
January 27, 2024
I thought that this was an awesome read and a great start to this new series. Growler and Astrid were an incredible couple. The chemistry between these two simply sparked and sizzled but there is also a wonderful underlying sweetness to their attraction that just makes all the feels that much bigger and the emotions more intense. Steam, action and drama along with plenty of swoon make this book hard to put down once you start it so plan accordingly. I look forward to reading more of this series.
Profile Image for Kari.
621 reviews2 followers
January 22, 2024
Keeping Astrid is the first installment of Alliez Security series by Nicole Flockton. The novel follows Growler on his adjustment to civilian life after leaving the Navy SEALS.

Astrid is a celebrity chef near the beginning of her career. She started with online videos and now has her own show. When she goes to donate one of her dishes after the filming of an episode, she inadvertently puts herself in danger.

Callum "Growler" is ready to take on his first assignment at Alliez Security. What he doesn't expect is Astrid.

I really enjoyed this series, and while I haven't read any of the other SEAL and security team novels by Nicole Flockton, I know now I've got a backlog of books to read! Wonderful novel with some great chemistry and characters!!
Profile Image for Erin Leigh .
67 reviews2 followers
January 29, 2024
I don't think it's a shock to myself or anyone who knows me, that I absolutely loved this book. Nicole Flockton has a writing style that instantly sucks you in, and before you know it, you're immersed in the story and haven't moved in 3 hours

Astrid and Growler are characters I very much became attached to very quickly. Astrid is an extremely likeable character, and I found myself almost instantly rooting for her.

Everything about this book was perfect; the suspense, the romance, and the spice. I highly highly recommend this book
Profile Image for Marie Evans.
571 reviews27 followers
January 30, 2024
There’s a whole lot more than Astrid’s famous cooking simmering and it’ll have you feeling the heat generated by these two!

Nicole Flockton brings another amazing story to life with Growler and Astrid and it’s a masterpiece!

Danger, an alpha military hero, and all the feels!!! Five stars and a must read!!!
Profile Image for Sara Jane.
545 reviews5 followers
June 25, 2024
There is "strong willed," and there is "stupid," and this bi**h is stupid.
FmC witnesses a murder so she hires a bodyguard.
She was constantly bickering with him and going against everything he said to protect her.
She yelled at him because he wanted to stay at her house at night. Well duh dumbass the bad guys dont just come out during the day. Yet roams around in a silk robe straight from the shower. **eyeroll**
The first night he stays, she looks out her window and sees a shadow in the yard. Instead of finding her bodyguard, she grabs a knife and goes outside!!! Lucky for her, it was the MMC doing a security check.

It didn't help that MMC was a sex starved SEAL who hasnt transitioned to civilan life yet, boasting about all his one night stands. Every time he sees her, all he thinks about is ripping her clothes off. How about focusing on the task at hand instead of getting your di*k wet.
Profile Image for Stephanie Harkness.
187 reviews
February 1, 2024
Alliez Security off to a great start!

Callum and Astrid lead off our lovely Alliez Security team in finding their HEAs. Astrid is a celebrity chef. Callum has left his Seal Team Tango back in ‘Diego to take a job with Alliez in LA. Now he is tasked with guarding Astrid, who is under threat for what she witnessed when a Ramirez Cartel (old enemies of Tango) enforcer murders someone in Skid Row. What is interesting is how these two are honest with each other. Callum doesn’t hide his feelings or the danger Astrid is facing. Astrid shares her fears regarding all the situations she finds herself in. All the conflict you expect in their relationship ISN’T from within, but from the forces out to get Astrid. I like that. A lot of times in this trope I find myself wanting to yell at the main characters to get their heads out of their a$$es! Don’t have to do that with this book! So I am most definitely looking forward to the rest of this series! A great introduction to the group. 11/10 recommend!
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
423 reviews
February 2, 2024
(4⭐️s)


“Keeping Astrid” effortlessly weaves love and suspense into an entertaining story.
As a bodyguard, Callum “Growler” Taylor is dedicated to keeping Astrid safe from a killer, but what he isn’t prepared for was the dance between duty and desire. The chemistry between MCs is palpable from the start, while adding a layer of tension that keeps a reader hooked.
Soo… if you’re in the mood for a delightful escape with just the right balance of suspense, romance, and an HEA, then this is the story for you.

Happy Reading Everyone🤓

P.S. We get a little snippet of whats to come in the next book, and yah…Oz and Evelines book is going to be exciting. Thankfully we don’t have to wait long for their story. March is just around the corner.

P.S.S. I just wanted to say that I’ve waited 4yrs 3mos and 15days for Dylan “Irish” O’Reilly to get a book (I pretty much claimed him as my book boyfriend back in 2019 after reading Rescuing Samantha) ….and it’s FINALLY COMING!!! I know Ms Flockton will probably torture me some more by making his book last, but thats okay, I’ll just sit back and enjoy the teasers until I can place that beauty in my hands. “I’ve got your six, Irish”♥️☘️
Profile Image for Liz.
2,131 reviews15 followers
January 28, 2024
A great start to a new series from Nicole Flockton as Astrid Conway witnesses a murder. When she begins to think she’s being followed she turns to Alliez Security for protection in the shape of Callum “Growler” Taylor. A former navy seal and now on his first assignment for his new job in private security.

This was my first read from this author and, if Keeping Astrid was anything to go by, it won’t be my last. The story was action filled and engaged my attention right from the start. The characters were well rounded and likeable and the romance element between Astrid and Callum, although it was maybe a case of instalove, was still believable with just the right amount of chemistry between them. I also loved the secondary characters who have left me looking forward to reading more books from this series.
1,214 reviews
January 30, 2024
Astrid Conway is Celebrity Chef with working show on tasty Network.
Callum “ Growler” Taylor former Navy Seal now work of Allies Security.
Penni is AstridPR Goddess.

Astrid witnessed a murder and people are after her.
Penni her PR person insisted she needed protection and where to go to for it
(Allies Security).
Growler and Astrid meet , when she comes to Alliez Security for help.
Growler is assigned her bodyguard. At first there was tension and issue between them.
Can Growler and his teammates from Alliez Security keep her safe? Can they have a Happily Ever After?

This book has suspense, danger, intrigue and romance.

Great Job Nicole Flockton !!!!
3,193 reviews28 followers
January 30, 2024
I loved Keeping Astrid Book 1 of Alliez Security. Astrid witnessed something and now someone is after her. Callum left the SEALS and now works for Alliez. Meeting Astrid has flipped his life, he can’t fall for his ward but it’s happening. He will do anything to keep her safe. When danger slimes after her, Astrid, knows she has to trust Callum and his team ti keep her safe. She wants ti keep Callum forever. This has lots of drama and suspense. I loved the storyline and the characters. I can’t wait to read more in this series. I would definitely recommend this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Dana Busenbark.
2,801 reviews29 followers
January 31, 2024
Who is Astrid? What is her profession? How does she know Penni? When she finally tells Penni what she saw going back to her car one night, what happens? Who is Growler? What does he do for a living? How does he get involved? Who ar Pedro, Javier, and Mr. Ross? Who do they work with or for? Things got interesting when Cass found information on something Astrid saw. What happens on the way to Astrid's work one day? I loved the nickname she was given. You will have to read to find out what it is. Enjoy the book!!!
Profile Image for Barbara.
19.2k reviews8 followers
January 31, 2024
The start of the Alliez Security, Astrid Conway a celebrity chef and influencer and Callum ‘Growler’ Taylor's story. the story is well written with a very good storyline that kept me turning pages and held my interest. I want to read the next book. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Didi.
1,943 reviews
January 31, 2024
I enjoyed the start of this new series. Just the right blend of suspense, danger, action, humor, brotherhood, and steamy romance to keep you turning the pages. Loved reading about Growler and Astrid’s growing relationship amidst the chaos of keeping her safe. Looking forward to the next story. HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for CAH - malphrusc.
706 reviews6 followers
January 31, 2024
I really enjoyed this book - it was a special treat from a new-to-me author. I loved the plot twists and the romance/relationship building that evolved as the lot did. This was just the right mix of alpha/protector and independent female characters.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Shannon Marcos.
49 reviews3 followers
February 1, 2024
This is my first Nicole Flockton book and I will definitely read more.

Astrid is a celebrity chef and Callum "Growler" is a retired SEAL team member. They meet after Astrid witnesses a murder and Callum is hired to protect her. Can Callum stick to just bodyguarding Astrid or is there more to the story? You'll have to read and see.
Profile Image for Christy Warthen.
851 reviews9 followers
January 21, 2024
Fabulous!

Growler and Astrid are wonderfully written characters with a palpable connection. Their journey pulls you in and engages your heart.

I voluntarily read an advanced copy.
Profile Image for Nathalie.
171 reviews
March 2, 2024
Keeping Astrid ist the first Book in Nicole Flockton's new ALLIEZ SECURITY Series.

This Book is so full of Action, Suspense, heart-warming Moments... WHOW!

Astrid & "Growler" make a phantastic Couple! loved watching them fall for each other.

oh, and the Guys from SEAL TEAM TANGO make a Cameo Appearance, as well.

5/5 ⭐️
looking forward to the next Book!
Profile Image for Devons book corner.
1,423 reviews40 followers
February 12, 2024
Keeping Astrid was a phenomenal start to the new Alliez Security series by Nicole Flockton. We follow Growler and how he is adjusting to the everyday life after leaving the Navy Seals. Astrid is a celebrity chef who started out by doing online videos, but now has her very own show. Things happen and she finds herself in danger. Growler is working for Alliez Security, and his first assignment just so happens to be Astrid. I loved this book so much, from the characters, to how easy it flowed, and the plot. I enjoyed the style of writing and I'm looking forward to the next book.
1,795 reviews6 followers
February 9, 2024
This is a brilliant new to me author.
Astrid is a self made celebrity chef but when she witnesses a murder her life is in danger. Her PR Penni points her in the direction of Alliez Security.
Callum has just got out of the military and his first job working for Alliez Security is protection for a celebrity chef.
The chemistry between them is instant and they both try to fight it but it doesn't work.
When the danger against Astrid ramps up Callum knows that he will do anything to keep her safe.
Plenty of drama and suspense but also so much more. Absolutely loved the ending.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Profile Image for Fiona  Rae.
100 reviews2 followers
January 23, 2024
This is the first book in the series it was nice to see growler get his happily ever after with Astrid, can't wait for the next book.
Profile Image for Curvy Girl Book Nerd   (Jen S).
4,620 reviews63 followers
February 7, 2024
Keeping Astrid is a steamy, instalust, slow-burn, celebrity chef gets her hunky bodyguard protector romance. Astrid is a celebrity chef with a heart of gold. Callum (Growler) is a hunky ex-seal turned bodyguard. When Astrid witnesses a murder, Callum is hired to be her bodyguard. The two feel an instant connection, but his first priority is keeping her safe? Who is after her? Can he keep her safe? Their chemistry was so hot 🔥. Callum is completely swoon-worthy. After the drama is resolved, we get a happy ending. This was my first Nicole Flockton book, but not my last. I'm looking forward to this series!!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jaime.
100 reviews6 followers
February 10, 2024
I really enjoyed Callum and Astrid's story and I think it is a great start to the Alliez Security series. It had some murder, some action, some forbidden love. It ends in a HEA, and I'm looking forward to the next book!
869 reviews3 followers
February 7, 2024
This turned out to be a really fun, thrilling romance and anyone who is looking for some adventure with spicy romance will enjoy this book. The characters really kept me engaged and quite frankly I was surprised how the ending turned out. Thanks for the fun read!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
190 reviews3 followers
February 5, 2024
What a fantastic start to the new series.! Can hardly wait for the next book to come out. I loved the characters Growler and Comet. They were great together. Almost feel like there should be a recipe book to accompany the story. It was also enjoyable the way characters from previous series were connected to this.
Profile Image for Sue.
4,366 reviews5 followers
January 3, 2024
This was a suspenseful, dangerous read. Astrid heard more than witnessed a murder. But there was more going on behind the scenes than they are aware of. Callum (Growley), is trying to get used to be out of the Navy, so he thinks being a bodyguard will be boring, not likely. Great read. HEA. Can't wait for book 2.
1,074 reviews
March 21, 2024
enjoyable

An enjoyable read with enough to keep you turning the pages.

Very instalove but the characters are engaging and the storyline not overly dramatic or intense but pleasant to read

Unfortunately the nickname Growler was an issue for me, as a UK reader it meant something I’m not sure the author intended and I (personally) found it amusing, but distracting.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews

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