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The Protectors #1
Diplomat's Daughter
A covert operative. A life filled with secrets.
Jared Knight works with an elite group of agents trained to track down the worst criminals humanity has to offer. His career leaves no room for relationships.
On a dangerous assignment in Monaco he is captivated by a woman in a crowded ballroom. Disturbed by the uncharacteristic lapse, he is determined to forget her...
Five years later Jared offers Cecilia Benedict his protection when she becomes the object of an overzealous secret admirer. Unbeknown to Cecilia she is the woman who has haunted Jared’s thoughts. He can stay away no longer now her life is in danger.
Cecilia is intrigued by Jared’s serious manner and deep grey eyes. In the close confines they share she finds herself emotionally and physically drawn to him. An attraction grows...
But danger lurks in the shadows, threatening to destroy their relationship before it can even begin.
Jared Knight works with an elite group of agents trained to track down the worst criminals humanity has to offer. His career leaves no room for relationships.
On a dangerous assignment in Monaco he is captivated by a woman in a crowded ballroom. Disturbed by the uncharacteristic lapse, he is determined to forget her...
Five years later Jared offers Cecilia Benedict his protection when she becomes the object of an overzealous secret admirer. Unbeknown to Cecilia she is the woman who has haunted Jared’s thoughts. He can stay away no longer now her life is in danger.
Cecilia is intrigued by Jared’s serious manner and deep grey eyes. In the close confines they share she finds herself emotionally and physically drawn to him. An attraction grows...
But danger lurks in the shadows, threatening to destroy their relationship before it can even begin.
101 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2012
1 person is currently reading
74 people want to read
About the author
Carolyn Wren
43 books194 followersI was born in England. My parents loved to travel as my dad spent many years in the navy. By the time I reached the age of 12 we had traveled pretty much around the world on cruise ships.
This sounds fun and exciting unless like me you can get sea sick sitting in a bathtub. Lets just say boats do not feature highly in my books.
I still love to travel, but I use planes. All of my life I have written stories in my head. I would rewrite and add characters to TV shows, edit and change novels I was reading, invent scenarios and scenes to amuse myself on long journeys. But strangely I never wrote any of them down. About three years ago I woke up with a scene so clear in my head I knew I had to put it down on paper. Now, what should I do with this one page of prose? I know, I will email it to some friends. The friends approved, in fact they asked what book it was from. I shyly admitted it was my own work and the reaction was immediate...please write the next bit! I did and I have not stopped writing since.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
May 10, 2015
I read the other reviews that compared the book to the Bodyguard and I agree. The story is it's own thing but hold similarities. Jared Knight first sees Cecilia Benedict while he and his fellow agents are in pursuit of their target at an event she is at. He actually only catches a partial glimpse of her before his attention is back on his mission. His men are really funny with their light banter. Simon stands out and is described as a ridiculously, gorgeous man. He is also offended because all the other agents get to pose as guests and he has to pose as a waiter with polyester suit and vinyl shoes. It's always those little touches that give a story that extra something I enjoy.
Cecilia is sweet and thinks a lot of others and how she can help her father. She is getting letters that exhibit an obsessed stalker and her father wants the best. Jared is so taken by Cecilia and his brief encounter five years ago that he steps out of his usual detail to personally protect her. Cec and Jared have a special bond and get along straight away. There is one moment in particular that for all Cecilia's practiced speeches she can not dig her out of the hole she puts herself in. She is attempting to come across as charming and witty but it comes out as follows. "Well, Mr. Knight, I enjoyed being hard-ridden by your professional hands today." There is no recovery from that just a simple bowing out will suffice. LOL.
The book is short but complete and it has love scenes in it as well. It is well written with loveable characters and Simon's book has to be good. He is was funny in this one and likes to jerk Jared's chain. I can only imagine what kind of woman will end up catching his eye. Enjoy!
Cecilia is sweet and thinks a lot of others and how she can help her father. She is getting letters that exhibit an obsessed stalker and her father wants the best. Jared is so taken by Cecilia and his brief encounter five years ago that he steps out of his usual detail to personally protect her. Cec and Jared have a special bond and get along straight away. There is one moment in particular that for all Cecilia's practiced speeches she can not dig her out of the hole she puts herself in. She is attempting to come across as charming and witty but it comes out as follows. "Well, Mr. Knight, I enjoyed being hard-ridden by your professional hands today." There is no recovery from that just a simple bowing out will suffice. LOL.
The book is short but complete and it has love scenes in it as well. It is well written with loveable characters and Simon's book has to be good. He is was funny in this one and likes to jerk Jared's chain. I can only imagine what kind of woman will end up catching his eye. Enjoy!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 16, 2013
My Review:
*happy sigh* This is the kind of romantic suspense that I love. This is the first in a new series and writing debut from Carolyn Wren. Jump on this series now...I think it's going to be a winner. There are a group of men (and one woman) who make up this team. In this book, we get glimpses of them all, but mainly get to see Jared, Simon, and Lucien. And can I just say, YUMMY!! I'm feeling the need for some protection...
But seriously, this book is about Jared. Jared is an agent who is good at his job. Nothing gets in his way, until he catches his first glimpse of Cecilia when he is in pursuit of a national terrorist. He almost blew that capture because he became so distracted. As a result, he never got to meet her. This book takes place five years later and now Cecilia needs protection. She's the daughter of the diplomat and as a high-profile person has attracted a stalker.
Cecilia has no idea about Jared and their brush five years earlier, but she finds him very attractive. I liked her a lot. She's graceful, and poised, and real. She spends her days working with charities and the normal things that you would think a diplomat's daughter would do. She's great with other people and I love how she interacts with Jared to pull him out of his shell. He's a man of very few words, but she won't accept letting him sit quietly in the background. She's constantly pulling him into conversations and the events that she's participating in. I really liked them together. They just had an easy, happy repartee. It was definitely fun to read them together.
Then there's the whole suspense line. Cecilia's stalker is seriously crazy and obsessed. You get to see bits and pieces of him throughout the novel and yeah...he's nutso, but that makes for some great suspense because there's just no predicting what he's going to do or what's going to send him off the handle.
Like I said, this is the beginning of the series and from what I understand from the author, the entire series is slated to be released this year. I know I'm excited. The next book is called, The Scientist, and is slated for release February 4th. The first three books are novellas and then they will gradually increase in size as the series goes on. You can check out all the info on her website here: www.carolynwren.com
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
*happy sigh* This is the kind of romantic suspense that I love. This is the first in a new series and writing debut from Carolyn Wren. Jump on this series now...I think it's going to be a winner. There are a group of men (and one woman) who make up this team. In this book, we get glimpses of them all, but mainly get to see Jared, Simon, and Lucien. And can I just say, YUMMY!! I'm feeling the need for some protection...
But seriously, this book is about Jared. Jared is an agent who is good at his job. Nothing gets in his way, until he catches his first glimpse of Cecilia when he is in pursuit of a national terrorist. He almost blew that capture because he became so distracted. As a result, he never got to meet her. This book takes place five years later and now Cecilia needs protection. She's the daughter of the diplomat and as a high-profile person has attracted a stalker.
Cecilia has no idea about Jared and their brush five years earlier, but she finds him very attractive. I liked her a lot. She's graceful, and poised, and real. She spends her days working with charities and the normal things that you would think a diplomat's daughter would do. She's great with other people and I love how she interacts with Jared to pull him out of his shell. He's a man of very few words, but she won't accept letting him sit quietly in the background. She's constantly pulling him into conversations and the events that she's participating in. I really liked them together. They just had an easy, happy repartee. It was definitely fun to read them together.
Then there's the whole suspense line. Cecilia's stalker is seriously crazy and obsessed. You get to see bits and pieces of him throughout the novel and yeah...he's nutso, but that makes for some great suspense because there's just no predicting what he's going to do or what's going to send him off the handle.
Like I said, this is the beginning of the series and from what I understand from the author, the entire series is slated to be released this year. I know I'm excited. The next book is called, The Scientist, and is slated for release February 4th. The first three books are novellas and then they will gradually increase in size as the series goes on. You can check out all the info on her website here: www.carolynwren.com
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
February 4, 2013
Wow! I loved this book. Right off the bat it sucked me into the story. It was so suspenseful I couldn't put it down, waiting with baited breath for what was going to happen next. The romance and romantic tension built up slowly, sweetly. I loved how Cecilia and Jared got to know and appreciate each other naturally, for who they are. None of it was forced. The bedroom scenes were loaded with sexual tension building throughout the book. They were tastefully hot without being clinical or embarrassing. This is a terrific book I could read again. I'm so delighted to know it's the first in a series because I loved the supporting characters and I can't wait until the next book to find out which of the protectors will be the featured character. I hope Ms. Wren will bring back Jared and Cecilia as well. Love them. Loved this book. Great romantic suspense.
And the writing is excellent, too.
And the writing is excellent, too.
December 8, 2018
The Bodyguard
The dialogue was a little robotic, but this was still a good read. Diplomat's Daughter is a quick thriller romance. Because it's a novella, the relationship is instalove and the plot moves at a fast pace.
The dialogue was a little robotic, but this was still a good read. Diplomat's Daughter is a quick thriller romance. Because it's a novella, the relationship is instalove and the plot moves at a fast pace.
April 20, 2013
WARNING SPOILERS!!!
2 stars seems too harsh as this book was an easy read. This is a first novel and I think a lot of my complaints are easily explained by that. But anyway here goes.
Cecelia (our heroine) by virtue of being entirely too perfect - perfect daughter, perfect hostess, perfect body to guard - was made two dimensional. There was nothing about her with which I could identify. There was no reason for me to care for her. If she had a habit or flaw that was everyday and every-person this would have made her more human and less cardboard cut out. Something like a coffee addiction. A romance book reading habit (embarrassing covers or audio books of same could have lent themselves to some fun moments). A reality tv habit - the voice or similar. Something that cause her to be human - "'it's the finals tonight I need to see if X wins / vote for X to make sure he wins". A weakness for really good quality chocolate or pastries that can be indulged in Paris and the following guilt. Something that I might do or want to do.
I know Jared Knight (our hero) is meant to be a Bond / Chuck Norris type who you can drop in to any situation with a swiss army knife and a roll of lifesavers and he'll come out with it solved, sorted and information extracted. BUT. His perfect civility towards everyone gave him absolutely no personality. Every time I pictured him I saw Agent Colsen from SHIELD (Iron Man /Avengers) rather than any of the Bonds. In fact I thought this whole book would work as an Agent Colsen novel if you made Cecelia a cellist. And I don't think that's a good thing. Jared is meant to be the leader of his little band of specialists, but where was the kick ass quality?
The glimpses of the bad guy were well done. They were creepy as a result of the minimalist approached used with them. (Strangely enough I know a Gary Smith).
The actual abduction and rescue was just a little too fast given the build up. The set up was well done - taking out her father to get her in a hospital - but then it was a brief moment of panic on behalf of Jared, a phone call to Bryce and we're off to rescue her.
The post-kidnapping drama / happenings were too drawn out for my taste. I've no doubt it would be a horrible experience and some PTSD might be expected but maybe it was how this was presented - the loss of her hair.
The grief over her hair was a little misplaced. If she had never had short hair and this was the first cut (so to speak) it would have made sense and you could have made all sorts of allusions about the loss of innocence and the loss of her hair. BUT she had her hair that short five years ago. The scene of being upset, should have been about remembering, being powerless and maybe her having a temper tantrum but not about hair length. Yes it's a bitch to grow but she knows she can wear the style. The short hair option doesn't hold any mysteries for her so the upset seems misplaced.
And where is her anger. I would figure that at some point post-rescue once you're on the road to recovery, you're going to have a "mad at the world" stage. Where was her tantrum - even if it was about her hair. Again this would have humanised her and made her more identifiable.
The embassy part isn't well explained either. I don't know what country they represented. I assume it's a Western nation (eg: US / UK) but if that is the case then
1. If US and Jared is brought in as the specialist then why does he have a house (used and stocked not a "safe house") in the city. Security is insane at US embassies so there should have been more guards / cameras / etc. The same (except perhaps security) could be said for UK. This then gets further complicated as why is his "team" of specialist friends so easily ready and available at a call.
2. If they represent a little more exotic locale, then why wasn't this used and mentioned.
The setting felt very non-descript and sterile. It could be anywhere and this again alienates the reader.
Simon was the lone highlight for me. He had personality. In fact the scenes he was in, highlighted the lack of personality in the other characters for me. I've downloaded a sample of the next book (which is Simon's) and I'm seriously tempted to buy it. Both characters just in that small sample seem to have a lot more personality.
I'm considering the purchase.
2 stars seems too harsh as this book was an easy read. This is a first novel and I think a lot of my complaints are easily explained by that. But anyway here goes.
Cecelia (our heroine) by virtue of being entirely too perfect - perfect daughter, perfect hostess, perfect body to guard - was made two dimensional. There was nothing about her with which I could identify. There was no reason for me to care for her. If she had a habit or flaw that was everyday and every-person this would have made her more human and less cardboard cut out. Something like a coffee addiction. A romance book reading habit (embarrassing covers or audio books of same could have lent themselves to some fun moments). A reality tv habit - the voice or similar. Something that cause her to be human - "'it's the finals tonight I need to see if X wins / vote for X to make sure he wins". A weakness for really good quality chocolate or pastries that can be indulged in Paris and the following guilt. Something that I might do or want to do.
I know Jared Knight (our hero) is meant to be a Bond / Chuck Norris type who you can drop in to any situation with a swiss army knife and a roll of lifesavers and he'll come out with it solved, sorted and information extracted. BUT. His perfect civility towards everyone gave him absolutely no personality. Every time I pictured him I saw Agent Colsen from SHIELD (Iron Man /Avengers) rather than any of the Bonds. In fact I thought this whole book would work as an Agent Colsen novel if you made Cecelia a cellist. And I don't think that's a good thing. Jared is meant to be the leader of his little band of specialists, but where was the kick ass quality?
The glimpses of the bad guy were well done. They were creepy as a result of the minimalist approached used with them. (Strangely enough I know a Gary Smith).
The actual abduction and rescue was just a little too fast given the build up. The set up was well done - taking out her father to get her in a hospital - but then it was a brief moment of panic on behalf of Jared, a phone call to Bryce and we're off to rescue her.
The post-kidnapping drama / happenings were too drawn out for my taste. I've no doubt it would be a horrible experience and some PTSD might be expected but maybe it was how this was presented - the loss of her hair.
The grief over her hair was a little misplaced. If she had never had short hair and this was the first cut (so to speak) it would have made sense and you could have made all sorts of allusions about the loss of innocence and the loss of her hair. BUT she had her hair that short five years ago. The scene of being upset, should have been about remembering, being powerless and maybe her having a temper tantrum but not about hair length. Yes it's a bitch to grow but she knows she can wear the style. The short hair option doesn't hold any mysteries for her so the upset seems misplaced.
And where is her anger. I would figure that at some point post-rescue once you're on the road to recovery, you're going to have a "mad at the world" stage. Where was her tantrum - even if it was about her hair. Again this would have humanised her and made her more identifiable.
The embassy part isn't well explained either. I don't know what country they represented. I assume it's a Western nation (eg: US / UK) but if that is the case then
1. If US and Jared is brought in as the specialist then why does he have a house (used and stocked not a "safe house") in the city. Security is insane at US embassies so there should have been more guards / cameras / etc. The same (except perhaps security) could be said for UK. This then gets further complicated as why is his "team" of specialist friends so easily ready and available at a call.
2. If they represent a little more exotic locale, then why wasn't this used and mentioned.
The setting felt very non-descript and sterile. It could be anywhere and this again alienates the reader.
Simon was the lone highlight for me. He had personality. In fact the scenes he was in, highlighted the lack of personality in the other characters for me. I've downloaded a sample of the next book (which is Simon's) and I'm seriously tempted to buy it. Both characters just in that small sample seem to have a lot more personality.
I'm considering the purchase.
June 7, 2013
The Diplomat's Daughter is a sweet romance with a little spice. This is a very short novella length book. If you are looking for a quick read that will bring a smile to your face then this is it. The storyline will keep you engaged to the end. I had to finish reading this book in one sitting. I literally could not stop reading this book.
Jared Knight, an intelligence operative, is the hero of this story. He is the strong, silent type but he wins you over with his actions. He is a real gentleman and shows Cecilia Benedict the greatest respect. There is one scene where he interacts with children where I really burst out laughing. Trust me, if you've ever been around small children you will be able to identify with him and you'll see how much of a sweetheart he really is. I kept smiling as I read this story because he liked her but he was never overt about his attraction.
It's clear from the start that there is chemistry and an attraction between he and Cecilia. Cecelia is the heroine and daddy's girl of a very important diplomat. Cecilia is in danger, and Jared is determined to keep her safe. Cecelia has a pure heart and genuinely loves people. She innately feels safe with Jared and turns to him for comfort. I loved her strength, sense of humor, and humanity. She was the perfect complement to Jared and brought out the more lively side of his personality.
The romance shares the spotlight with the mystery and intrigue. There were several plot twists and turns. Jared used all of his resources to keep Cecelia safe but it took the help of special operatives to ultimately defeat the individual intent on harming her. I was on the edge of my seat as I read this story because I wanted everything to turn out right for Jared and Cecelia. Thankfully I got my happy ending but not without a little nail biting. I loved this book, and I will definitely read it again.
Reviewed by Michelle for Cocktails and Books
Jared Knight, an intelligence operative, is the hero of this story. He is the strong, silent type but he wins you over with his actions. He is a real gentleman and shows Cecilia Benedict the greatest respect. There is one scene where he interacts with children where I really burst out laughing. Trust me, if you've ever been around small children you will be able to identify with him and you'll see how much of a sweetheart he really is. I kept smiling as I read this story because he liked her but he was never overt about his attraction.
It's clear from the start that there is chemistry and an attraction between he and Cecilia. Cecelia is the heroine and daddy's girl of a very important diplomat. Cecilia is in danger, and Jared is determined to keep her safe. Cecelia has a pure heart and genuinely loves people. She innately feels safe with Jared and turns to him for comfort. I loved her strength, sense of humor, and humanity. She was the perfect complement to Jared and brought out the more lively side of his personality.
The romance shares the spotlight with the mystery and intrigue. There were several plot twists and turns. Jared used all of his resources to keep Cecelia safe but it took the help of special operatives to ultimately defeat the individual intent on harming her. I was on the edge of my seat as I read this story because I wanted everything to turn out right for Jared and Cecelia. Thankfully I got my happy ending but not without a little nail biting. I loved this book, and I will definitely read it again.
Reviewed by Michelle for Cocktails and Books
December 10, 2012
I really enjoyed this new debut novel by Carolyn Wren. The Diplomat’s Daughter’s name is Cecilia she is not spoiled or dramatic like most prominent women you read about.
Cecilia has a stalker; Jared takes the job personally after seeing her while on assignment in Monaco at a Ball, and does not forget the Beautiful daughter of a diplomat. 5 years later he accepts the assignment as her personal guard. Jared is part of a group of agent’s; you will get to know while reading this story.
I fell in love with the personalities of these characters in this story. Jarred Knight not to talkative calm cool manner adds that little bit of mysterious side to the story, but pared with an equally beautiful, sweet, Cecilia, their Chemistry is Dynamic. The other characters in this story are equally defined and well thought out and just as wonderful as the main characters. I can’t wait to read tall, hot and flirty Simon’s story, he is such a charmer. I am happy to hear that Carolyn Wren is releasing the next 6 series to this story over the next Year.
The Buildup to the passion between these two was Dynamic the chemistry and the sexy love scene was hot and steamy very well written.
I would highly recommend this Book if you are looking for a Beautiful Love Story, with a Little action and suspense, this is your book. It has been a long time since I’ve read a book that so well written professional and with real adult’s, that are courteous and kind, you can feel that they truly love each other.
Cecilia has a stalker; Jared takes the job personally after seeing her while on assignment in Monaco at a Ball, and does not forget the Beautiful daughter of a diplomat. 5 years later he accepts the assignment as her personal guard. Jared is part of a group of agent’s; you will get to know while reading this story.
I fell in love with the personalities of these characters in this story. Jarred Knight not to talkative calm cool manner adds that little bit of mysterious side to the story, but pared with an equally beautiful, sweet, Cecilia, their Chemistry is Dynamic. The other characters in this story are equally defined and well thought out and just as wonderful as the main characters. I can’t wait to read tall, hot and flirty Simon’s story, he is such a charmer. I am happy to hear that Carolyn Wren is releasing the next 6 series to this story over the next Year.
The Buildup to the passion between these two was Dynamic the chemistry and the sexy love scene was hot and steamy very well written.
I would highly recommend this Book if you are looking for a Beautiful Love Story, with a Little action and suspense, this is your book. It has been a long time since I’ve read a book that so well written professional and with real adult’s, that are courteous and kind, you can feel that they truly love each other.
September 16, 2013
I enjoyed reading this short, sparky thriller/romance quite a lot. The characters were very appealing, especially Cecilia who despite being a privileged and precious daughter, is not spoiled rotten. Instead she is thoughtful, sweet and considerate .. and has a slightly wicked sense of humour which comes in useful when she begins to fall for her stoic, serious and seriously hot bodyguard, Jared. Jared is a true hero and gentleman and its sweet to see these two come together when they are so well suited. A nasty threat overshadows their growing relationship but Jared soon sorts that out. We also get introduced to the main male character of the next book in 'The Protector's' series and he sounds like a lot of fun, and possibly, trouble. I look forward to reading more about the charming Simon soon.
March 4, 2015
LOVED this!!! This book will keep you scrolling and disrupt your sleep pattern, should you think you can 'read only a chapter or two before bed'. Wonderful characters and I'm looking forward to the next book in this series:)
October 8, 2013
An awesome novella! Quick, fast and thrilling!
May 1, 2017
Diplomat's Daughter by Carolyn Wren has everything I love about spy novels with kick-butt romance. LOVED it!!! Suspenseful, romantic, intriguing, high-action scenes and fast-moving plot. Highly recommend!
My Review: 5 stars
My Review: 5 stars
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews