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Elite Guardians: Savannah #3

Guarding Truth: An Elite Guardians Novel

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The truth might destroy them both…

The one thing that Former Army Ranger turned elite bodyguard Juliette Montgomery regrets is never telling fellow solider Caleb Styles her true feelings. But how could she? They were co-workers, and then the guy went and saved her life. And that turned out to be the one thing that cost them their relationship.

So Juliette has moved on, trying to forget Caleb—and her feelings.

Caleb hasn’t forgotten her either. But he has no idea she now lives in Savannah, Georgia…especially since his life is full as guardian of his niece, Ivy, after her parents were killed.

And then he discovers that his brilliant niece’s computer skills have attracted a notorious hacker group. More, when Ivy tracks the hackers, she endangers Caleb's cyber-security company.

Enter his need for the Elite Guardians.

The last—very last—person Juliette thought she’d see again is Caleb Styles, let alone be assigned to protect him. And now, suddenly, the very last thing she needs is to let her heart take over. She must protect them both—which means ignoring…or trying to ignore—the attraction between them.

Caleb never understood why Juliette walked away from him…but he can’t deny that his feelings for her never died. Except maybe she doesn’t share those feelings because her only goal seems to be protecting Ivy. And, it’s probably for the best.

After all, they need all their wits about them to find the hackers and unravel their plans.

And then they discover the hackers’ true intent—and it becomes a race against time. But it too late to protect their hearts from the truth?

An electrifying blend of suspense, chemistry, and unbreakable bonds, this romantic thriller is a must-read for fans of the Elite Guardian series.

Elite Guardians: Savannah
Book 1: Vanishing Legacy
Book 2: Hunting Justice
Book 3: Guarding Truth

Elite Guardians Collection
Book 1: Driving Force
Book 2: Impending Strike
Book 3: Defending Honor
Book 4: Christmas in the Crosshairs

292 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2024

567 people are currently reading
392 people want to read

About the author

Kelly Underwood

10 books141 followers
Kelly Underwood’s favorite things are reading, writing, and drinking coffee. She was born in New Hampshire, but don’t ask her about snow, because she’s been a Florida girl since she was twelve. Her debut novel with Sunrise Publishing gave Kelly the incredible opportunity to work with Lynette Eason as her mentor and lead author. Defending Honor, part of the Elite Guardians series, was published in October 2022 and earned third place in the Selah Awards and was a finalist in the Carol Awards. Since then, Kelly has continued to captivate readers with multiple romantic suspense novels.

Beyond writing, Kelly shares her love of reading through her blog, Best in Suspense. She also served as the 2024 and 2025 president for the Central Florida chapter of American Christian Fiction Writers. When she’s not plotting twists and turns for her next novel, you’ll find her out and about with her therapy dog—a feisty golden retriever named Maizie—bringing joy to everyone from children to senior citizens. She also loves traveling and has recently fallen in love with Ireland and Scotland—maybe you’ll see these settings as the backdrop to one of her future novels.

Kelly is a sucker for a good suspense novel, the kind you must read cover-to-cover until the mystery is solved and the bad guys are in handcuffs. If you’re looking for her, she’s probably on her back patio with Maizie, a Kindle in one hand and a cup of coffee in the other.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
Profile Image for Sarita.
1,528 reviews655 followers
October 15, 2024
I think I will never get tired of the Elite Guardian series. I always find myself totally investigated in the story and love meeting new body guards and catching up with old friends.

This plot had a fresh new take on the danger level with hackers out to destroy and a twelve year old genius being in the middle of everything.

I must say I did suspect one person behind everything, but was caught off guard by the final revelation which I only started to suspect mere seconds before the reveal.

I do hope there is a lot more Elite Guardians to come.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*
Profile Image for Nikita Wells.
221 reviews
September 22, 2024
"I can’t guarantee safety, but I believe that God is ultimately in control, even when things don’t make sense. I’m choosing trust over fear.”

This book definitely makes my "most epic books of the year" list y'all!

It was a great read from start to finish, and an excellent addition to the Elite Guardians book universe. Smashing, in fact.

I loved the character of Juliette best. Although all the characters (villains excluded) were pretty great, Juliette had a unique tenacity and dedication to the protection of any innocent person in danger or need. Although she was a bit reckless, she cared fiercely about those around her and put their needs and safety above her own.

She also braved a battle with cancer
(mentioned only in a few brief paragraphs) which is why her hair on the cover is shorter than most of the other Guardian women because her hair was still growing back.

Caleb was a very cool character too. He was former Army, a current computer whiz/tech and security business co-owner, loving uncle to Ivy, and a Star Trek nerd. His strong yet gentle faith was one of my favorite character elements, and I loved the part it played in him helping Juliette conquer her giants.

Another thing I especially liked about the story was this mystery featured an investigation of a cyber crime rather than robbery, suspicious deaths, or other violent crimes.

It made this story fresh, unique and exciting!

Guarding Truth was an exquisitely written suspense tale that had me rooting for Juliette and Caleb as they learned to lean more fully on God when the stakes are very high.

Thank you to Sunrise Publishing for the complimentary e-book I received to review through Just Read Tours. I was not required to write a positive review, and the thoughts above are my own.
Profile Image for Kim - Inside the Wong Mind.
387 reviews30 followers
September 26, 2024
Book: Guarding Truth

Author: Lynette Eason, Kelly Underwood

Series: Book 3 in the Elite Guardians: Savannah series

Rating: 4.5/5

I am such a huge fan of this series. I was so happy when they decided to do another spinoff. This particular story was so fascinating and kept me reading until the wee hours of morning. You will lose sleep if you start reading this story in the evening. LOL. I have read all of the books in this series and they do NOT disappoint. The authors weave a thrilling mystery with nonstop action that keeps the reader guessing and on the the edge of their seat. The romantic aspects infuse more authenticity and humor into the story. The main characters are so interesting with not your average cookie-cutter backstories. The faith aspects woven throughout are encouraging and inspiring.

Highly recommend this action-packed, Christian romantic thriller with a little something for everyone to enjoy!

My thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an ARC of the book. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own. No positive review was expected and no compensation received.
Profile Image for DevotedToHope.
680 reviews101 followers
October 18, 2024
Guarding Truth by Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood had me racing through the pages faster than a hacker cracking a code! Juliette and Caleb's story is a thrilling ride filled with action, heart, and engaging characters!

Caleb, with his cybersecurity expertise, quickly became a character I rooted for as he faced the dangers of a notorious hacker group while juggling the complexities of family life. His role as a caretaker for his niece, Ivy, reveals how deeply he values what truly matters. One line that struck me was when he told her, “...we’ve got to make do with what God’s given us. We have each other.” This unwavering faith in God, even amid chaos, rings true. As he wisely puts it, “I can’t guarantee safety, but I believe that God is ultimately in control, even when things don’t make sense. I’m choosing trust over fear.”

And Juliette? What a character! She begins her journey feeling like she can only rely on herself to protect others. But as she teams up with Caleb, she learns to lean on God instead. One of the most poignant moments is when Caleb tells her, “God’s there, Jules. In the midst of our darkest times. You just need to rely on Him and not on your own strength and understanding.” Their interactions beautifully illustrate God’s design for relationships, and the way they navigate their shared past kept me glued to the pages, reflecting on how we all need support from others in our lives.

My favorite aspect of this story is the unique blend of suspense, faith, and romance. The investigation into cybercrimes feels fresh and relevant. The clever use of technology, including drones, adds an exciting twist, and the tech-savvy characters create a level of realism that resonates with me as a fellow techie. Eason and Underwood seamlessly weave in the challenges of trust and faith amidst the unfolding chaos, delivering a powerful message.

The narrative also beautifully illustrates how faith can guide us through turbulent times. Caleb reminds Juliette, “Without faith, the situations we can’t change will destroy us. Without hope that God’s in control, we wear ourselves out fighting battles we’re never going to win. Battles we weren’t meant to fight in the first place. Sometimes we just need to stand still and let God fight for us.” This sentiment left me contemplating my own challenges and the importance of letting go and fully trusting God as I let go of striving to be more and do more.

Guarding Truth is a thrilling adventure and an invitation for readers to reflect on their faith walk and the ways they navigate life’s challenges. If you love heart-pounding suspense infused with meaningful biblical insights, this book is a must-read!

I received a digital ARC of Guarding Truth from JustRead Publicity Tours, LLC. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
Profile Image for Brittany .
2,901 reviews208 followers
October 15, 2024
Guarding Truth is a second chance at love story wrapped up in the dangerous world of hacking. And the story is packed with danger, right from the start! Even though this is the last book in this series and is connected to another couple of series, as well, you can jump in and enjoy this book even if you haven’t read any other novels set in this world.

I liked seeing Caleb and Juliette reconnect, even though it was not under the best circumstances. Yet, these two friends from years earlier had a great tension between them that roused the romantic feelings that they both carried from their time in the military together.

I found myself frustrated with Caleb’s niece, Ivy, even as I realized that no matter how smart she was with computer code and numbers, she was still emotionally a child and very naive as to how she was being manipulated. As the story progressed, I liked the way Caleb, Juliette, and Ivy connected and it left me with a hopeful feeling at the end of the book that they all would finally find their happily ever after as a family.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Profile Image for Karen Baney.
Author 42 books450 followers
October 8, 2024
Eason & Underwood take the reader on a suspenseful journey where cybersecurity and real-life collide.

Caleb and Jules have a history from their Army days so when their worlds intersect a few years after leaving the Army, old feelings return. The romance between the two progressed at a satisfying pace and felt natural to the way the plot unfolded.

I loved the way the authors portrayed Caleb taking care of his niece who is somewhat of a savant. His protectiveness and her intelligence provided a nice level of added tension to the story.

I found the premise of criminals operating both cybercrimes and bank robberies interesting. Given how few companies still have their data centers on premise, the server room scene seemed far-fetched to me. Everything is in the cloud now. (Full disclosure, I’ve been a programmer for 20+ years so I’m harder to please when it comes to tech in fiction).

I liked the authors’ creative use of drones and the way they explained how the characters were being tracked even when they thought they weren’t—a pleasantly original idea.

Fans of Christian romantic suspense will enjoy this story. If you are a Star Trek fan or someone important to you is a programmer, I think you’ll definitely want to pick up this book as they captured many of the fun quirks of programmers.

Romance: Squeaky clean.
Faith: Both characters grew in their understanding and reliance on God.

I received an advanced copy of this book courtesy of the publisher through Just Read Tours. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Jo|Ruth Reads.
683 reviews86 followers
October 4, 2024
The last time Jules saw Caleb was when he had to choose between saving her life or his friends and he chose her! Faced with Caleb's loss and her recent cancer diagnosis Jules believes he's better off without her. But they were team mates, best friends, and technically they cared for each other. Fast forward 3 years and she's been contacted by Ivy, his niece ( who he is raising) because Caleb is in trouble. Jules is now a bodyguard and is used to keeping her clients safe. But this case hits close to home. It's Caleb, the man she left 3 years ago without even a word. And here he was now, a single parent to his niece and his life was in danger. Someone is targeting Ivy and Caleb, and Jules will do everything in her power to keep them safe.

Caleb is thrown completely off guard when Jules is on his doorstep after 3 years and she's been hired by his niece. And as much as he is determined to face this issue alone, he can't pass up this time to reconnect with Jules. They fell apart 3 years ago, he doesn't know why, but he's finding that he may have feelings beyond friendship... and he wants to explore that. But there is no time for all that as drones, explosives, gums, and hacking are all zeroing in on Caleb and Ivy and even Jules is becoming a target. Can they find out who is after them and why? Can they unpack the 3 year break they had from each other? Can they take a chance on something more than friendship?


I loved this story, it was action packed to say the least and I loved the chemistry between Caleb and Jules. They had a special bond that held firm even after 3 years apart. This story is perfect for someone wanting a Christian Romantic Suspense that has you at the edge of your seat with the action, but also tapped into the love story occurring all along for Jules and Caleb. For me, it was a 4.5 read that I rounded up to 5 stars! I totally recommend it!
4 reviews
October 20, 2024
Kelly Underwood delivers another masterpiece! If you liked Defending Honor, you will love Guarding Truth. It has everything from action to suspense to laugh out loud witty one-liners. And just the perfect amount of romance. Kelly’s character development is spot on and I enjoyed every moment of this book. Can’t wait to see what Kelly writes next!
Profile Image for Lisa.
335 reviews18 followers
October 15, 2024
The action kicks in from the beginning and the characters have one harrowing moment after another until the final chapter. If you like red herrings, you’ll find plenty of them in Underwood’s story. Pay attention, though, because she gives you subtle clues. If you’re into technology and cybersecurity, you’ll enjoy this story. An additional element I’ve enjoyed in the whole series is the inclusion of neurodivergent characters. Caleb and his niece, Ivy, have eidetic memories, which is quite fascinating. I liked Juliette and Caleb and adored little Ivy. I found the story premise very believable and could see it happening in our very vulnerable cyber world. The romance is a slow burn, but enjoyable. Guarding Truth is a page-turner that kept me engaged throughout.
Profile Image for Jeanne Alfveby Crea.
983 reviews108 followers
October 15, 2024
Edge of your seat romantic suspense! I thoroughly enjoyed this story of former army friends and co-workers who always liked each other but the timing was never right. Former Army Ranger now an elite bodyguard Juliette Montgomery and former solider, and cyber-security company business owner Caleb Styles find themselves settled in the same town and their paths cross again, when Caleb's brilliant 12-year-old niece Ivy wants to hire Juliette to guard her uncle.

I could not put this captivating, page-turning story down! Cyber crimes, nerd jokes (I know what the Kobayashi Maru is!), dangerous situations, and second chances. Loved it!

I also enjoyed the wonderful cameos from many characters in the Elite Guardians stories!

I highly recommend Guarding Truth for lovers of romantic suspense; it would make a great suspense movie!
Profile Image for Ethelann.
435 reviews
September 27, 2024
Guarding Truth is another winner by Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood.
This 3rd book in the Elite Guardians Savanah series is such an exciting book.
It tells the story of Juliette, one of the Elite Guardians, and her job as a bodyguard to Caleb.
With past history, kidnapping, murder threats, and more this book keeps you on the edge of your seat. And the ending? You won't believe it!!!
Profile Image for Wren.
432 reviews5 followers
October 20, 2024
This is a new favorite of one of my own favorite series--the Elite Guardians from Lynette Eason! Now, Eason has partnered with Kelly Underwood to create a fabulous heroine and hero in Guarding Truth, set in Savannah, Georgia. Juliette (former Army Ranger) and Caleb (soldier/technician) are on a race to protect Caleb, his brilliant niece Ivy, and his business from hackers who might be out to do more than find information.

Caleb and Juliette served together in the Middle East. But an insurgent attack nearly killed them both, and set back their military careers. Due to Juliette's choice to run, she and Caleb haven't seen each other in years. And suddenly, Ivy brings the two face to face; because she's sure that Caleb needs protection. (Caleb thinks the reverse--that Ivy needs to be kept safe!) But the attacks keep coming. Can the three of them hold on to each other--and God--long enough to stay alive? (And maybe explore Caleb's and Juliette's feelings for each other?)

Kelly's and Lynette's combined voice makes a compelling story--with amazing characters. Highly recommend!
Profile Image for Heather Pickett.
391 reviews27 followers
October 15, 2024
Three years after her best friend, Army intelligence analyst Caleb Styles, saved her life, former Army Ranger Juliette Montgomery is now in Savannah as an Elite Guardian. She walked away from him those years ago, hiding her true feelings for him, and never expected to see him again.
Caleb is now out of the Army and in Savannah, legal guardian of his brilliant young niece, Ivy. When a series of crimes puts Caleb and his cyber security firm in danger, Ivy finds and hires Juliette and the Elite Guardians to protect him. Seeing each other after three years is jarring for them both. He never understood why she disappeared.
Now they have to work together to protect young Ivy, whose hacking skills have also attracted the dangerous criminal group, and find the criminals before it’s too late. Can the Lord work in each of their hearts to be open to a future together?
I loved this fast paced, heart pounding story of faith and trust. I also loved how even after three years, Caleb and Juliette were so in sync with one another it was like no time passed at all. You’ll want to grab this one immediately!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but my opinion is entirely my own.
Profile Image for Kelly Bridgewater.
1,209 reviews62 followers
Read
October 15, 2024
Guarding Truth by Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood was a captivating tale of cybercrimes, featuring a 12-year-old girl. I like how the story revolved around the skills of a 12 year old. She was smart, yet the authors showed how immature that she could be with some of her decisions too. The plot was typical of a romantic suspense. This time the hero and heroine had a past that they had to come to terms with while chasing the bad guys who wanted to create havoc on the hero's company. There was plenty of action. Not non-stop. There were moments of down time where the characters had to time to reflect on the case, the next move, or the budding emotions they shoved down in the past. Eason and Underwood crafted an interesting story with characters that cared about their family. Overall, Guarding the Truth was a wonderful story to spend time with. I do recommend fans of cybercrime stories or a good romantic suspense story read this novel.

I received a complimentary copy of Guarding the Truth by Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood from Sunrise Publishing through JustRead Tours, but the opinions stated are all my own.
Profile Image for Lauren Acosta.
466 reviews4 followers
November 6, 2024
This was good. It actually had a very different storyline than typical.
152 reviews5 followers
October 16, 2024
Kelly Underwood hits it out of the park with Guarding Truth, the fantastic action-packed conclusion to the Elite Guardian Savannah trilogy.

Juliette and Caleb met in the army and, despite serving in different sections, stayed friends. But after their world crashed down after that, they walked away from each other. After running into trouble, Caleb's niece Ivy is worried about her uncle and decides to find his old friend Juliette.

In the story that follows, Juliette and Caleb are thrown together while trying to protect both Ivy and each other.

This is a wonderful action-packed romantic suspense novel, and I would highly recommend it.

I received an ARC from the author, but this doesn't impact my thoughts or opinions on this book
Profile Image for Lizzy Hite.
266 reviews
October 7, 2024
This book was so good! I absolutely did not want to put it down from the minute I started reading, and I loved Caleb and Juliette’s story so much. Definitely recommend this series if you’re looking for fantastic suspense with lots of humor mixed in!

~~I received an early copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to leave a positive review.~~
Profile Image for Crystal.
102 reviews
October 7, 2024
Guarding Truth was another great installment in the Elite Guardians: Savannah series! I can always count on an entertaining and action-packed story from Lynette Eason’s group of talented writers!

In this story, Juliette is hired by a young girl to protect her uncle from danger. Little does Juliette know that uncle is a former soldier who saved her life, and one she walked away from at a vulnerable place in both of their lives.

I loved the reunion of Juliette and Caleb. Both needed help trusting and opening their hearts after painful pasts. Ivy was a wonderful addition to the story and I just wanted to hug her and shake her at the same time! Sometimes adults need to remember that smart, gifted children are still just children.

I recommend this to anyone who likes a little suspense with their romance! This entire series delivers both.

Thank you to the author and publisher for the opportunity to read the book. My positive review was not required.
Profile Image for Colletta Miller.
248 reviews9 followers
October 17, 2024
Wow! What a roller coaster ride this book was! There was jam packed action from beginning to end. Just when I thought the story-line was settling down a bit...WHAM!... there was another suspenseful situation that made me stay up way past my bedtime.

Juliette and Caleb were so good together. I loved how they could communicate with just a look! It was so much fun to read about a female main character being the "protector". Ivy, Caleb's niece, was a great character in and of herself, as well.

I've loved everything I've ever read by Lynette Eason and now Kelly Underwood is a favorite as well.

Guarding Truth is a contemporary, Christian, suspense novel that ticked all the boxes for me. Most definitely deserving of a 5 star rating!

I am very excited and thankful to review this book today!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Allyson Anthony.
1,179 reviews52 followers
September 17, 2024
I couldn't put Guarding Truth down. This was an awesome thrilling read. I loved how Juliette and Caleb, who had known each other from their time in the Army, were in sync with each other. Both of them have baggage from their past.
The story was engaging and fast-paced, the characters were enjoyable, and the plot had twists and turns and kept me guessing who the hackers' identities were. This story is faith-filled with suspense, danger, and romance snd will keep you turning the pages until the end.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Iman.
584 reviews16 followers
November 11, 2024
Meh , can’t be bothered to write a review, I got bored and did not care for anyone in the book :(
Profile Image for Meagan Myhren-Bennett.
Author 30 books162 followers
October 22, 2024
Guarding Truth
Elite Guardians: Savannah #3
Lynette Eason presents
Kelly Underwood

Juliette Montgomery thought she had left the life of an army ranger behind when she was injured and received an unsettling diagnosis. But when a young girl hires her to guard her Uncle Caleb, Juliette's past is about to collide with her present.

Caleb Styles never saw Juliette after he saved her life. Juliette walked away from the army and Caleb because of the decisions of that day. But Caleb always thought of Jules as the one who got away. He was confused by her decision to leave without a single word.

But with a group of cyber terrorists threatening Caleb and his niece Ivy, Juliette can't say no to a protection detail that may, in a small way, repay all that Caleb lost when he saved her.

This is a fast-paced read from the beginning. Juliette is driven to succeed in everything she does, while Caleb is more laid back as fits his abilities as a coder and cyber security analyst. But when Caleb's niece is targeted by the increasingly volatile anarchist cyber terrorists Juliette and Caleb must learn to change their thinking and work as a team to stop the threats. If they can't they will die.

Juliette is an interesting character she's drive to fulfill a role she feels she has to fill. When she doesn't act she feels as if she's failed. She has trouble with the team mentality that the Elite Guardians need to have to do their best. When we get deeper into the book her motivations become clear, which is actually rather sad. I'm not saying wasn't good at what she did but her reasons removed her from the equation of her own life and its choices.

This was a good read and perfect for an October release with October being Cyber Security Month. I liked how there were second chances throughout the story. This was a great ending to this cycle of Elite Guardian books. The characters were relatable even if their exact circumstances were outside my personal experiences. I like how each of these books is complete in and of itself and able to be read as a standalone title. Fans of Love Inspired Suspense should enjoy this book as it is similar just a bit longer. But no over-the-top graphic violence, romance, or language proving that you can have suspense that reads clean!

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

Profile Image for Lisa.
606 reviews66 followers
October 22, 2024
Juliette Montgomery and Caleb Styles defended their country together. They were comrades in arms, with the potential to be more to each other. But a life-changing medical diagnosis drives Juliette to slip away, leaving Caleb no way to find her when he recovers from the injuries he suffered saving Juliette's life.

So imagine Juliette's surprise when she learns that she and Caleb have both ended up in Savannah - Juliette as an elite bodyguard, Caleb as a cybersecurity expert raising his orphaned 12-year-old niece Ivy. Some unsavory characters are coming after Caleb, and Ivy's concern for him drives her to hire Juliette.

This was a bang-up good book, y'all! Ivy has mad computer skills, and she and Caleb both have eidetic memories. She often finds herself in hot water with her uncle for doing things she shouldn't. She's 12. Her frontal lobe isn't fully developed, she doesn't always think things through, and common sense doesn't always accompany towering intelligence. She was absolutely believable as an incredibly precocious preteen. Her hacking skills have landed both her and Caleb in the sights of some nasty folks, and Juliette and her team have their hands full trying to keep their clients safe. It feels like the bad guys are always one jump ahead of them (sometimes maybe two). The action starts early and tension mounts with each new twist, and I started to wonder if they'd make it through!

And then you've got the romantic tension between Caleb and Juliette. This is a low spice read, but the chemistry between these two may still have you fanning yourself a bit. There were times I wanted to shake both of them when it seemed like they were struggling to let go of their baggage, their reasons why they thought a romantic relationship just couldn't work. I liked them both and I wanted them to be happy together! (Does that happen? Read and find out!)

If you like a book that keeps you on the edge of your seat, that encourages you with characters working through their faith, that has that sweet, sweet romance, then you will love Guarding Truth!

Disclaimer: All opinions here are mine, and I don't say nice things about books I don't actually like.
Profile Image for Carol R Gehringer.
343 reviews25 followers
October 15, 2024
Best-selling author Lynette Eason with author Kelly Underwood continue the romantic suspense Elite Guardians series featuring female bodyguards, originally written by Eason.

In Guarding Truth, former Army Ranger (now elite bodyguard) Juliette Montgomery is assigned to protect former Army cyber-intelligence analyst Caleb Styles and his teenage niece Ivy whose computer skills attracted the attention of a notorious group of hackers. Not only is Ivy in danger, but the hackers are targeting Caleb’s cybersecurity company. Can they discover those involved before it is too late? Can Caleb and Juliette overcome the hurts of the past to face a future together?

Complete with twists and turns, Guarding Truth recreates the Elite Guardian storyworld with its relatable characters, clean romance, faith elements, and action-packed, excellent crafted suspenseful plot. Readers will be engaged from the first page to the thrilling conclusion – and surprised at the mastermind behind the incidents! Characters from earlier Elite Guardian books make an appearance, to the delight of the reader. Although this is the third book in this series, one doesn’t need to read the earlier books (Vanishing Legacy, & Hunting Justice) to understand and appreciate this book. However, this reviewer will now go back and read those earlier books because this one was so good!

Elite Guardians: Savannah, and its earlier Elite Guardians Collection will be of interest to those who read romantic suspense books by Lynette Eason, Lynn Blackburn, and Irene Hannon.

Disclaimer: Book reviews are my honest opinion of books I either purchased or received free of cost from the publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write reviews, nor to even post positive reviews.
1,016 reviews33 followers
October 17, 2024
When Juliette ghosts Caleb after a tragic accident overseas, he doesn't expect to see her again, but somehow can never forget her. But when Ivy, the orphaned niece Caleb has become guardian of, decides he's in danger and needs his old army friends to help, she tracks Juliette down nearby - and finding she works as bodyguard, hires her to protect him. It's clear some organisation has it in for Caleb, or at least his cybersecurity company - but how far will they go to get what they want? Can Juliette protect Caleb while they uncover the truth? And can this be the second chance they never dared hope for, or is it too late?

A fast-paced read with a good mix of action, romance and character development - with a too-smart-for-her-own-good pre-teen thrown in for good measure. Juliette and Caleb have both endured tragedy (as has Ivy, I guess), and have a lot more thrown at them now, but I loved watching them work together to care for each other and Ivy, and gradually come to be more at peace with the past. The questions of who the boss was and what would come next, not to mention their motivations, kept me guessing, too, and Ivy really did play an important part in it all too, which was an unusual but well done addition. I really can't imagine trying to bring up a kid as smart as that... All in all, a good read with plenty of action but also downtimes when they can develop both individually and as a couple. Recommended.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
Profile Image for Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy.
2,071 reviews66 followers
October 15, 2024
If you are an adrenaline junkie who enjoys living vicariously through the lives of fictional characters in books, you have found the perfect book. It is everything I adore in a suspense book. Action packed and heart pounding scenes will increase your heart rate as you run along aside them.

The Elite Guardians are one of my favorite group of characters. Juliette Montgomery is the star in this installment. She is a former Army Ranger who has dedicated her life to saving lives. She has some pain in her past, but some victories as well. Her one regret is that she never let Army Ranger Caleb Styles know how she felt about him.

Caleb is living in Savannah raising his niece. Someone is after him, and his precocious, highly intelligent niece decides to take things into her own hands, which is how she visits Juliette and the Elite Guardians.

This high flying mystery will keep you guessing while also taking your breath away. This crime involved cyber crime, which was very interesting to me. There is a wonderful faith message intertwined into the plot. As I have come to expect in this series, the characters are fantastic and the authors do a great job of fleshing out the characters so that they are human and realistic. This is another winner in this series. If you have not read the other books, it is not necessary, but it is highly recommended just because of enjoyment.

Thank you to Sunrise Publishing for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Kendra Neal.
1,799 reviews49 followers
October 22, 2024
I have truly come to enjoy Mystery and Suspense novels and Lynette Eason has become one of my favorite authors in this genre. Guarding Truth by Lynette Eason and Kelly Underwood is the latest book that I have read. It is Book 3 in the Elite Guardians Savannah series.

WOW, this book was action packed from the first chapter and it never stopped. The 2 main characters in this book are Juliette and Caleb. They met in the Army as Soliders and they both have Civilian jobs now. Juliette is a Bodyguard and Caleb works in Cyber Security. They had not seen each other in a few years, until Caleb's 12yrs old wants to hire Juliette to be Bodyguard to Caleb. Caleb and his niece, Ivy, Juliette immediately agrees to take on the job. The reconnection proves that the feelings they had for each other before are still there. I enjoyed seeing Juliette stay focused on keeping Caleb and Ivy safe, and subsiding her feelings toward Caleb. I also LOVE that they both knew there was more then a friendship there. I really LOVE how they both cling to their Faith, even Caleb who wasn't as strong in the faith. The book has so many twists and turns, Romance, Mystery, LOTS of Action and Faith. I have been truly enjoying this series so far. I hope there will be more to come! I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Christian Suspense with Romance. FANTASIC BOOK!
Profile Image for Connie Saunders.
1,847 reviews159 followers
October 18, 2024
Just when I thought this series couldn't get any better...this book happens! Authors Kelly Underwood and Lynette Eason have created an intriguing scenario for this third book in the Elite Guardians: Savannah series. Technology and cybersecurity are front and center in an engaging story that's filled with suspense and non-ending action, and there's one scene that is worthy of a Tom Cruise movie! I felt like I was there myself, hanging on for dear life!

Guarding Truth is an adrenaline-packed story with two compelling characters who were meant to be together years ago but couldn't seem to make it happen! It can be enjoyed if you haven't read any of the previous books, but you'll probably want to go back to learn what you've missed! I recommend this captivating book to all who enjoy romantic Christian suspense!

I received a copy from the publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review, and I am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.

I invite you to check out my full review @ https://connie-oldersmarter.blogspot....
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