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Tempt

Redemption

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Sailing the Caribbean solo was supposed to be an escape. Instead, I’m trapped on a thirty-five-foot boat with my new bodyguard—an overprotective alpha male who was my first love.

Loving Jackson Shaw in secret almost cost me my relationship with my best friend—his younger sister.
Losing him nearly broke me.

It took years to put the pieces of my heart back together. To find some semblance of happiness.
And while a lot has changed since the last time I saw him over a decade ago, the way my body reacts to him has not.

Jackson’s a former Navy SEAL, and when he puts his mind to something, he won’t let anything stand in the way.
So when he sets his sights on me, I’m both anxious and thrilled. My body might crave his touch, but my heart is another matter entirely.

Jackson wants a second chance, and I’m beginning to wonder if I’m too focused on our past to see our future.


396 pages, Paperback

Published July 19, 2024

183 people are currently reading
465 people want to read

About the author

Jenna Hartley

23 books962 followers
Jenna Hartley is USA Today bestselling author who writes forbidden romance that feels good, much like her own real life love story. Her stories feature strong women and swoon-worthy men, as well as sexy, sweet, and laughable moments that reflect real love.

When she's not reading or writing romance, Jenna can be found tending to her growing indoor plant collection (pun intended), decluttering (just ask her husband about "The Great Purge of 2015" as he calls it), and hiking. She lives in Texas with her family and loves nothing more than a good book and good chocolate, except maybe a dance party with her husband and daughter.

Connect with Jenna and keep up with the latest news ➜ https://bit.ly/JennaHartleyNews

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 204 reviews
265 reviews7 followers
July 14, 2024
Redemption is the third book in the Tempt series and can be read as a standalone.

Redemption is as expected, sexy and romantic. But it is also intricately layered, unpredictable, and deliciously satisfying. It stands out in the vast ocean (get it 😉) of contemporary romance. I was brimming with excitement to get my hands on this book; it was undoubtedly one of my most anticipated reads of 2024.

Sloan is 37, an independent, strong business woman/ billionaire, who with two of her brothers, runs an international luxury hotel chain. We first see Sloan arguing with her four overprotective older brothers (two of which are Knox (from Temptation) and Nate (from Reputation)) about the threatening notes she’s been receiving. This causes her to take her annual sailing trip early and for her brothers to insist she takes a bodyguard with her.

Jackson is 44, an ex navy SEAL and now a bodyguard.
Hartley breathes life into Jackson and Sloan’s characters through insightful flashbacks and well-placed hints into their shared past, which gives them dimension and makes them relatable. We quickly learn that Jackson is Sloan’s best friend’s brother and that they had a secret relationship fourteen years ago!
I particularly appreciated how Hartley expertly weaved the past with the present. I liked how Jackson was such a strong person, but also had insecurities shown in the past about his worth, while in the present, he fights for Sloan. I love how even though he was Sloan’s bodyguard and is naturally very protective, he was still confident enough in his masculinity to empower her. I’m not even going to say how hot his dirty talk made me feel…

The chemistry between Sloan and Jackson simmers and Hartley masterfully turns up the heat. She builds both the sexual and emotional connection between them, drawing and investing us into their relationship. Both Sloan and, especially, Jackson fight their mutual attraction and attempt to keep their guards up for the obvious reason that any relationship between them would be forbidden for many reasons. But they also have more complicated reasons for their reluctance to drop their defenses, open up, and give into the magnetic pull between them.

What amazed me the most was Jackson and Sloan had so many obstacles and complications they had to overcome to be together. Each interaction, moment, and exchange slowly created a picture and told a story that was mesmerising, brilliant and unexpected. I could not put this book down, waiting for each twist, turn and revelation. When they finally got their well deserved HEA, I was so pleased for them I was tearing up. The giddiness and joy I felt at seeing them so happy at end was unmeasurable.

I really enjoyed reading about the sailing trip, it sounded so magical and interesting. Hartley described it so vividly, I actually considered if I should learn how to sail before I quickly vetoed the idea when I came back to reality 😂.
When they pretended to be in a relationship on the sailing trip for safety reasons, I almost burst out laughing, Hartley really did add so many little details to this book. Honestly there are so many things I want to talk about but I don’t want to spoil it. I will say when he calls her “hayati” = instant swoon.

Redemption is a fun, sexy, entertaining, heartfelt and beautiful romance with a complex and layered plot that is truly original. This book has it all, and I look forward to re-reading and taking the journey again.

This books contains sensitive content such as mention of past death of parents and grandparents (including mention of plane crash), mention of parent having a stroke, threatening letters/ death threats, physical aggression, blackmail while being held at gunpoint.

🚫 Forbidden romance
🩷 First (and only) love
🛍️ Billionaire and her bodyguard
💋 Second chance
⛵ Road trip - sailing
❤️‍🔥 Best friend's older brother
✨ Forced proximity
🥵 Protective alpha
👑 Strong FMC
🎖️ Former military
🤫 They were in a secret relationship 14 years ago…
🪭 When he calls her “Hayati”
🥰 Angst, longing, adventure, so much steam and ALL THE FEELS!

Plot: 📚📚📚📚📚
Character rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sexiness: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Feels: 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
Writing style: 🖊🖊🖊🖊🖊
Profile Image for Amy .
3,131 reviews
July 16, 2024
14 years ago, Sloan fell hard and fast for Jackson. Their relationship, a secret from their families. Losing Jackson nearly broke Sloan and it took years for her to piece herself back together. Now, 14 years later, thanks to a threat on Sloan’s life, Sloan and Jackson’s past and present collide. Jackson has one task and that’s to keep Sloan safe…

Redemption is a sexy and smartly written second-chance romance. From the moment you meet Sloan and Jackson, you will be desperate to learn more. Sloan is fierce and independent. She’s determined to live her own life and handle things on her own. But, when there is a threat to her life, she’s forced to take help from the one person she thought she’d never see again. Which brings us to Jackson. Jackson has changed a lot since Sloan saw him last, but the one thing that hasn’t changed is his love and devotion for Sloan. Jackson knows he’s made mistakes and is determined to make up for the past.

The chemistry and connection between Sloan and Jackson just oozes off the pages. These two characters are in no way perfect and are no strangers to regrets. Despite all the reasons they shouldn’t be together, the pull between these two is impossible to ignore. You can’t help but root for them to overcome their past mistakes and take another chance at romance.

Now, obviously, Sloan and Jackson’s romance was not all hearts and flowers. I mean, they did have a threat to extinguish and secrets to reveal. But, let me tell you, I loved watching Sloan and Jackson navigate their way through everything life wanted to throw at them. I loved seeing the two of them grow and fight for what they wanted.

In the end, Redemption is a second-chance romance that will hit all of the boxes for readers. If you’re a fan of forced proximity and bodyguard romances with just the right amount of drama and spice, you won’t want to miss Redemption by Jenna Hartley.

*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Sarah.
591 reviews28 followers
July 19, 2024
What’s this… ME loving a second chance romance? Yes, yes it is. Second chance romances and I don’t always get along, but this was done so well and I was fully invested and rooting for these two right from the start. The characters, their history, the storyline, the incredible tension and chemistry, it ticked all the boxes for me!

I’ve loved the previous books in the series but this one completely surprised me by taking top place. It was a captivating, emotional, steamy and heartwarming story of redemption and second chances.

Years ago, Jackson + Sloan had a whirlwind, secret romance but secrets and choices tear them apart, leaving them both heartbroken. Now fourteen years later, Sloan is receiving threats and decides to head off on her sailing boat to escape. She reluctantly agrees to let her brother’s organise a bodyguard to go with her, who happens to be Jackson. Forced together, old feelings begin to resurface as they face their past and try to ignore the magnetic pull between them.

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁: second chance romance, bodyguard, billionaire, best friend’s brother, forced proximity, road trip (but sailing), ex-military hero, secret tattoo.

I loved the way the flashbacks were sprinkled throughout the book which helped to build their history and beautifully added to their story. Despite their history, hurt and regret, the pull between them is stronger, with the palpable tension and chemistry sizzling between them you could feel through the pages. They had so much to overcome but I loved how they grew and fought for what they wanted, working together to navigate everything that came their way as a team.

I really love this entire tribe, the brothers especially! The way they come together to support one another is special and I really enjoy their dynamic and banter. I adored the way they accepted Jackson into their family, giving off all the warm and fuzzy found family vibes.
Profile Image for arn barn .
400 reviews12 followers
July 29, 2024
Now I’m in the desperate mood for a sailing trip— need to find a billionaire.

My favorite in this series so far!

Jackson workeddddd for a second chance.

Bodyguard X forced proximity.

I loved that there was a splash of suspense.

Reading the past snippets were cute — glad it wasn’t full past chapters.

I’m just sad it took them FOURTEEN whole ass years to reconnect 💔💔

Anyone else hoping for a Jasper + Greer book????
Sounds like Graham and Lily are next which i am SO here for a grumpy graham 👏
Profile Image for Debbie.
1,176 reviews105 followers
August 3, 2024
Sloan and Jackson had a secret relationship in college until he messed it up. Fourteen years later, he is a bodyguard and asked to go on an eight week sailboat with her to protect her. She's been receiving threats, and her four brothers won't hear of Her going on the trip by herself as She usually does every year.
Both of them have major issues with it, but they give in for various reasons and set sail. What will transpire on the boat with nobody around but the two of them?
I love every minute of this second chance. Spicy romance I'm a sucker for forced proximity, so this is an immediate yes from me. Jenna Hartley showed such growth in the flashbacks of the two in college versus their character now. She kept me glued to my screen way past my bedtime. It's a romance I will be recommending for a long time to come.
Profile Image for Angela.
293 reviews7 followers
July 26, 2024
4.5 ⭐️

Forbidden romance ✅ forced proximity ✅ second chance ✅ best friends brother ✅

Jenna Did it again! She brought the spice too! I really enjoyed this and loved the suspense aspect of it as well.

Sloan is a successful billionaire buisness Woman and Jackson (her best friends brother) is an ex navy seal and now security for Hudson Security. Sloan started recieving anonymous threats, so her brothers help convince her she needed security for her upcoming solo sailing trip. Bring in the Forced proximity.

I loved there dynamic together. The connection was so good!
So good!
Profile Image for Katie.
495 reviews22 followers
July 27, 2024
4.5/5 Stars
2.5/5 Spice
Whenever I see a FMC who is a Billionaire with a prior military bodyguard romance it is an auto read for me and Redemption did not disappoint.

I really loved Sloan! She was a strong FMC and very determined to do what she feels is best for her. Even with her life in danger she still wants to take her sailing trip alone but her brothers convince her to at least have one bodyguard with her so she relents and accepts that. But what Sloan didn’t expect was for that bodyguard to be her ex Jackson.

Jackson accepted a job working private security when he was discharged from the Military. When Jackson is given an assignment he doesn’t expect it to be for the woman he loved whose heart he also broke 14 years prior.

I LOVED Jackson and Sloan together so much! I think I loved them because these two are older (37 and 44) so they were mature and communicated what each of them wanted and what had happened years prior. I also love how Jackson is protective of Sloan but also allows her to be independent like she always has been. I appreciated Jackson and how he knew what he wanted to do with Sloan his second chance and he went for it…Jackson never once doubted or second guessed his decisions with her this time around and you could tell it was what Sloan had always wanted with him but the time apart helped them both to grow and heal.

I will add Jackson…Oh this man and his mouth in the bedroom! Sloan and Jackson already had an undeniable connection and chemistry but add on the physical chemistry between these two and it was the perfect cherry on top.

Thank you to the Author Agency for the arc of this book
Profile Image for ❀ Tayla ❀.
428 reviews24 followers
July 20, 2024
Jenna delivered the sexual tension on a silver platter!
Sloan and Jackson had me BLUSHING oh lord! The flirting, the banter, the push and pull but the chemistry! Yes it was all there

I love second chance romance and after falling hard and fast but ultimately getting the timing wrong, Sloan and Jackson reunite after 14 years apart. Jackson hired as Sloans personal bodyguard to accompany her on her annual sailing trip after she has been sent threats. I loved the sprinkles of flashbacks getting a glimpse into the beginning of them.
Now I don’t like the ocean but I would gladly spend two months sailing the Caribbean with Jackson Shaw, hello?!

Our main characters are both so passionate, fiercely loyal and strong and they have the most electric and magnetic connection that helps them overcome any obstacles that may come in their way.
The timing is now perfect for them and it’s time to fight for their love and waste no more time

I love this family and their dynamic and seeing daddy Nate again just made my day 👌🏼

🛥️ Billionaire X bodyguard
🛥️ Second chance romance
🛥️ Sailing trip
🛥️ Best friends brother
🛥️ Forced proximity
🛥️ Alpha male
🛥️ Ex Navy seal
🛥️ He gives her a nickname in another language
Profile Image for lowkeyreader.
5,576 reviews51 followers
July 27, 2024
I recently finished Redemption, and I have to say, it was a captivating read that really drew me in. This second-chance romance centers around Sloan and Jackson, and their complex relationship kept me engaged from the very first page.

Jenna Hartley's writing is both sexy and smart, and I loved how she crafted relatable characters who navigate the ups and downs of love and personal growth. The chemistry between Sloan and Jackson is absolutely palpable, and I found myself rooting for them as they confronted their past mistakes and worked toward building a future together.

While I appreciated the engaging plot, I did notice that some moments felt a bit predictable, which is something I often find in romance novels. However, Hartley's skillful character development and emotional storytelling really elevated the experience for me.

Overall, I would give Redemption a solid four stars. It's a well-crafted romance that strikes a great balance between steamy moments and emotional depth. If you're looking for a story that explores themes of love, forgiveness, and the power of second chances, I highly recommend picking this one up!
Profile Image for Mary (Marysnoveljourney).
394 reviews16 followers
July 25, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

⛵️Billionaire and her Bodyguard
❤️Second Chance
⛵️"Road trip" - sailing
❤️Forced Proximity
⛵️Best Friend's Older Brother
❤️Protective Alpha
⛵️Former Military

I just loved this book! This was my first Jenna Hartley read and definitely won’t be my last. Although Redemption is the 3rd book in the Tempt series it can be read as a stand alone with no problem.

Redemption is Jackson and Sloan’s story. Sloan, along with her brothers and cousins, runs a super successful hotel chain. She’s been getting threats so her family decide she needs her own bodyguard. Enter Jackson, a former Navy Seal and also a former flame of Sloan’s.

This book was so fun to read in part because there were a few different tropes that I happen to love. Bodyguard, forced proximity, second chance romance, best friend’s older brother…plus the mystery of the threats. I mean, you it name and this book has it!!!

Thank you to Jenna Hartley and The Author Agency for the ARC of this book.
Profile Image for Kylie Taylor.
718 reviews23 followers
July 26, 2024
This is book 3 in the Tempt series and I am just loving it! I absolutely loveddd Sloan and Jackson’s story! Sloan and her best friend’s older brother were secretly in love back in college. He broke her heart when he moved away for a job. 14 years later, Sloan is getting threatening notes and her family assigns her a body guard while she leaves on her 2-month sailing trip. When Jackson shows up as the new security, she can’t believe she is seeing him again and has to spend the next two months with him.
I love a second chance love story, and how the story told their past in flashbacks, made me feel so emotionally connected to the characters. I felt so much angst throughout the book because you could feel how much these two still loved one another but were fighting an internal battle. This book sucked me in and kept me up so late because I couldn’t get enough!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Elise Hernandez.
107 reviews24 followers
July 26, 2024
Picking up this book was one of the best decisions I have ever made. This is my second Jenna Hartley book and she blew me away once again.

If you like forced proximity and second chance romances, then you are going to devour this book. Who doesn’t want to be stuck on a tiny boat with a man that you both hate and love at the same time? 😂

Redemption follows Jackson and Sloan as they sail the seas and attempt to fight their desire to reconnect. Jackson broke her heart 10 years ago. Now, Sloan must decide if Jackson truly deserves a second chance.

One thing that I absolutely love about Jenna’s books is that she writes characters who know how to communicate with each other. That’s one thing that I loved about Jackson and Sloan’s relationship. They may have not been the best at communicating their feelings when they first met, but the time that they spent apart allowed them to grow and mature into adults who learned not to assume your partner knows what you want. You gotta tell them straight up.

Also we need to take a moment to talk about those spicy scenes 🥵 The shower head 👀 Jackson in his bed and Sloan by the door 😩 I swear the scenes where they weren’t even touching were hotter than the scenes where they were.

Overall, this book had a plot that kept you engaged, characters that felt realistic, and smut that got you needing a fan 😂

Thank you so much Jenna and The Author Agency for sending me an ARC of this book!
Profile Image for cristina g .
237 reviews
September 2, 2024
My first ever Jenna Hartley read. I really enjoyed this. It’s a second chance romance, which usually, i am not the biggest fan of. That’s mostly because I find that trope to be riddled with miscommunication and a whole lot of angst. Plus they always have a third act break which to me computes as two breakups (bc of the initial one that made this second chance) and I hate two breakups. I didnt find any of those in this and for that I am super grateful. It made for an incredibly fun read. I will admit I feel it lost a little steam towards the last quarter of the book for me. But love love love the low angst, no 3AB!!!!!
Profile Image for Stacey Kelley.
378 reviews29 followers
July 19, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️

Redemption is the thief book in Jenna Hartley’s tempt series. These can all be read in any order as interconnected stand alones.

A threat to Sloane brings Jackson back into her life after their relationship ended on not so great terms 14 years earlier. This story is told in dual point of view in both past and present. Jenna dies a good job in weaving in the past to explain the present in a way that’s clear and interesting.

The chemistry between Sloan and Jackson is intense. It’s almost as if no time has passed when they’re forced together again. I did feel their reconnection was a bit rushed, but overall I enjoyed the story. The characters are well developed and the banter among them is great.
Profile Image for Adanna.
927 reviews
July 30, 2024
If you are a fan of second chance romances, then Redemption is just the book for you. In addition to plenty of angst and undeniable chemistry, Sloan and Jackson's story has a touch of suspense and growth for both characters.

"She's my past, my present, and my future. Nothing matters more than Sloan."

I loved how Jackson is determined to earn a second chance with Sloan and never lose her again. He does everything he can to empower her and support her. He's grown from a young, recently discharged Navy SEAL who doubted if he was worthy of Sloan to the confident man who isn't intimidated by fiercely independent Sloan or her wealth. He's no longer willing to accept any excuses as to why they can't be together.

It was also great to see their families involved, particularly Sloan's brothers. I can't say more without spoilers but it is so sweet! Fans of this series will enjoy glimpses of the previous couples.

I received an early copy of this book.
Profile Image for Brenda.
500 reviews5 followers
August 5, 2024
Loved Jackson and Sloan

Redemption is the 3rd book in The Tempt Series, but can be read as a standalone.
Jenna is knocking it out of the park with this series. I loved Jackson and Sloan’s story. Nothing like a good alpha, ex military, body guard, second chance romance with a twist of romantic suspense to keep me flipping the pages.
Jackson and Sloan’s story is complex. With their history, it’s hard to trust. But, what happens when the only person you truly loved and hurt you is the only person that can save you.
They have this underlying tension, chemistry, banter and layered love that is just so well written. Nothing like throwing them on a sailing trip to spice things up. The plot twist with in the story were definitely unexpected and kept me on my toes. Redemption is a fun, sexy, romantic suspense story with a beautiful undertone of hope, love and understanding. Great read! Can’t wait for the next book in the series.
Profile Image for sahls .
74 reviews1 follower
June 3, 2025
I started excited but I was hit with the usual situation in romance books where the reason these two can’t be together is ridiculous. He was discharged from the Navy bc he got in a fight and with his dad being this decorated member he had a lot of shame with what happened and then he comes back to work as a bouncer but doesn’t tell his family until the FMC sees him out and from there on they’re in this secret relationship and ofcourse she’s best friends with his little sister so they can’t tell her bc he’s dated a friend of hers before and it went south. Then blah blah he finds out she’s uber rich and he decides to move away for this new bodyguard job he gets which then he breaks up with her abruptly. They have this period of 14 years that they’re apart and maybe they’ve seen each other 2-3 times but now she needs a body guard and they’re living on a small boat for 2 months sailing around. I just feel like the reasons they weren’t together and the deep resistance didn’t make sense to me. Second chance romances can be amazing but sometimes I’m like things need to make sense.
Profile Image for Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog).
5,888 reviews213 followers
July 28, 2024


Amazon



Once upon a time, Jackson was Sloan's everything. He left and broke her heart, though, and she's spent the time since they last saw each other, working her way up through her family's company, doing fine thank you very much. But when her overprotective brothers tell her she needs a bodyguard to protect her from a relentless threat, she balks. And she flat out turns them down when Jackson walks in as that bodyguard. Her brothers may not know what she and Jackson were to each other, but she's never forgotten. There's no way she can take the sailing trip she was planning on, with only Jackson as her companion. Her heart can't possibly take it again.



Sloan's not the only one whose heart was broken when Jackson left. Now that he's going to be around her again, he's really not sure how long he'll be able to resist telling her how he still feels about her, even if he could lose everything if he tells her.



Second chance is one of my favorite tropes, especially when the couple involved is so deserving of that second chance the way Sloan and Jackson are. I was rooting them on so hard, from their very first reunion where the tension was so thick, down to the last page of their sweet ending. They had a time of it opening back up to each other, figuring out what had gone wrong and how to be together in their present, but they did it with passion and the love they both had never lost for each other. Sloan's brothers and Jackson's family make a great secondary cast, making me impatient for all her brother's stories now.



ARC provided by The Author Agency for an honest review.

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Profile Image for Cigi cini.
685 reviews49 followers
July 15, 2024
🌊Billionaire and her Bodyguard
🌊Second Chance
🌊"Road trip" - sailing
🌊Forced Proximity
🌊Best Friend's Older Brother
🌊Protective Alpha
🌊Former Military

Star: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.75
Spice: 🌶️

"Redemption" by Jenna Hartley is a poignant and deeply emotional romance that explores the complexities of love, forgiveness, and second chances. The story centers around a solo sailing trip in the Caribbean that becomes anything but solitary for Sloan, as she finds herself unexpectedly reunited with her first love and new bodyguard, Jackson Shaw.

Jenna Hartley expertly captures the raw, unresolved emotions that come with a reunion of past lovers. Sloan's journey from heartbreak to potential reconciliation is fraught with tension and introspection. Her initial resistance to Jackson's presence is both understandable and relatable, given their shared history and the pain it caused her. This internal conflict is a key strength of the novel, as it adds depth to her character and allows readers to connect with her on a personal level.

Jackson Shaw, a former Navy SEAL, is portrayed as the quintessential alpha male—strong, protective, and determined. His unwavering resolve to win back the love he lost adds an element of intensity to the narrative. Jackson's character is multifaceted, showing both his tough exterior and the vulnerability that comes with loving someone deeply. This duality makes him a compelling and sympathetic figure.

The setting of a 35-foot sailboat in the Caribbean provides a unique and intimate backdrop for the unfolding drama. The confined space forces them to confront their feelings head-on, leading to moments of both high tension and tender vulnerability. Jenna Hartley's descriptive writing brings the serene yet isolating beauty of the Caribbean to life, enhancing the emotional weight of the story.

One of the novel's standout features is its exploration of the theme of redemption. Both characters have undergone significant growth since their initial relationship, and the story delves into their efforts to move past old wounds and rebuild trust. Sloan's struggle to reconcile her body's reaction to Jackson with her heart's reservations adds a realistic layer to the narrative, highlighting the often-complicated nature of love.

Jenna Hartley also excels in depicting the chemistry between the characters. The physical and emotional connection between them is palpable, creating a sense of inevitability that keeps readers invested in their journey. The dialogue is sharp and authentic, reflecting the history and familiarity between the characters while also showcasing their growth.

"Redemption" is a beautifully crafted romance that tackles the challenges of second chances with sensitivity and depth. Jenna Hartley delivers a story that is both heart-wrenching and hopeful, filled with moments of intense emotion and genuine connection. Fans of contemporary romance will find much to love in this engaging and heartfelt novel.

"Redemption" is a testament to the enduring power of love and the possibility of new beginnings, making it a must-read for those who enjoy stories of reconciliation and personal growth.
Profile Image for  •Cici• Theory of A Dreamer Book Blog♥.
3,445 reviews155 followers
July 26, 2024
4.25 Stars!! 💛🌊⛵💙

After having read Temptation and Reputation I immediately started looking forward to more from this series and author! From the moment I found out about this third installment to every teaser for it, I wanted to read it. I picked it up and got right back into the Tempt world! I really enjoyed this story so very much!

Sloan and Jackson's journey pulled me in! Sloan is best friends with Jackson's sister. Sloan and Jackson had something special between them until it all ended in heartbreak. Years later, Sloan's safety is at risk and Jackson is hired to be her bodyguard. It isn't going to be easy. As the two set sail together, could this trip lead Sloan and Jackson back to each other?

Sloan and Jackson had my heart and I invested in their story from beginning to end! As soon as these two were reunited I couldn't wait to see how everything would unfold for them. I didn't know how they'd tackle their past, the present, being around each other again, sailing, danger, and the feelings still shining bright in both of their hearts.

I loved that Sloan and Jackson had to go sailing together. I admired Sloan from her strength to her role in her family's Hotel business. I was wanting to keep her safe just like Jackson and her family. I loved Sloan so much! Jackson made sure to keep others away from harm in his job and oh was he ever determined to protect Sloan. He was tough, but had such heart. I loved how Jackson was all about Sloan. He had me falling for him. I adored Sloan and Jackson together!

I so enjoyed getting both Sloan and Jackson's realness and the ways in which they connected on so many levels. The chemistry that these two shared was undeniable and definitely blushworthy! From their pain to their love and everything in between, I felt every bit with Sloan and Jackson! I went through such a range of emotions with these two for sure. They got me right in the chest!

It was so lovely reuniting with familiar faces and being back in the Tempt world! Just like with the two previous installments, I could picture everything so clearly in my mind and did it ever make me want to take a sailing trip of my own!

With Redemption, Ms.Hartley has created such an addictive second chance romance that brought depth, heart, suspense, steam, and so many feels! This author always takes us on such memorable journeys and did she ever with this book! I can't wait for more from her! If you haven't dived into the Tempt Series yet, you so should this summer! 💛🌊⛵💙

Be sure to read the author's note about the content.

*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from the author*
Profile Image for Cat Nunez.
1,055 reviews83 followers
September 13, 2024
I've loved reading this series by the author, so I was excited to read Sloan and Jackson's story after seeing them in the previous book. Sloan and Jackson met in college thanks to Sloan's best friend and roommate who was Jackson's sister. Jackson was discharged from the Navy, and when Sloan found out, they became close and began a secret relationship. They spent a lot of time together, but things ended when Jackson found out about Sloan's family and took a job in another city without telling Sloan. Now, fourteen years later, Sloan was receiving threats, so she decided to go on her annual sailing trip, and thanks to her brothers, Jackson went with her as her bodyguard.

Sloan and her brothers had a hotel empire, so she had been receiving threats without knowing who was behind them. Being the only girl, her brothers were protective of her, so she decided to go on a sailing trip to get away. Her brothers were worried about her safety, so they decided to hire a bodyguard to go with her, but she never imagined that Jackson would be that guy.

Jackson worked for a security company, and he had been working for Sloan's cousin/brother for a while, so when she decided to go on her trip, her brother knew that Jackson would be perfect as her bodyguard, unaware of their history. Things were tense between them at first, but Jackson was determined to get a second chance with Sloan and make things right. Their attraction and connection were still there, so it was nice to read about their interactions and how they were finally able to talk about their past and move on from the pain of their breakup.

Their chemistry was obvious from the beginning, and I loved reading about their moments together and how they couldn't stay away from each other despite how things ended between them in the past. Jackson didn't want to make the same mistakes he made in the past, so he kept showing Sloan how he felt about her and that their love for each other was all that mattered. I loved how they came back to each other and how they didn't waste another second being away from each other.

Sloan's brothers have been captivating from book one, and I loved reading about how they protected her and the people they loved. We've already read Know and Nate's stories, so I can't wait to read Graham and Jasper's stories and see how they get their happy endings.
Profile Image for Patricia Brioux.
Author 1 book47 followers
November 27, 2024
STOP…was this not the perfect blend of heart-pounding romance, sizzling chemistry, and emotional depth. With its second-chance romance and sisters' best-friend tropes, this book had me hooked from the start. The story centers around Jackson, a fiercely loyal and intelligent billionaire heiress’ bodyguard, and Sloan, the heiress who defies expectations and captures Jackson’s heart. These two have undeniable chemistry—soul-bonding, even—and you can feel the love they share with every page.

Jackson is everything you could want in a hero: strong, protective, and utterly devoted, but beneath that tough exterior is a man who worries about disappointing others and living up to the expectations placed on him. His character is complex, and I loved seeing his vulnerable side come through. Sloan, on the other hand, is the definition of a modern heroine—smart, kind, hardworking, and fiercely independent. She’s been hurt in the past, so trust doesn’t come easily, but her heart belongs to one man and one man only: Jackson. Together, they make an unstoppable couple.

The chemistry between them is electric, especially in some of the more steamy scenes (the hot tub scene? Just wow). Their relationship feels so authentic, full of passion, tenderness, and tension that it kept me turning the pages.

But what really elevated this book for me was the rich cast of secondary characters. Sloan’s brothers —Graham, Knox, Nate, and Jasper—bring so much depth to the story, and I’m already dying to see what’s in store for them, yes—I f*cked up and didn’t realize this lovely little read belonged to a series, so I will be back-reading before our man’s Graham book—who I believe is up next; Mr. Anti-Social and little Ms. Influencer. That’s going to be fun. Also, side note, the mysterious Logan and Greer? What was that? So many questions. Anyways, there’s a lot of potential for more twists and turns in this series, and I’m all in for whatever comes next.

Jenna Hartley’s writing is impeccable—engaging, emotionally charged, and just the right balance of sweet and steamy. Redemption is a compelling, beautifully crafted story that kept me invested from start to finish. If you’re a fan of second-chance romance, strong characters, and sizzling chemistry, this book is a must-read!
60 reviews5 followers
August 13, 2024
Arc Book Review – Redemption: A Bodyguard Romance (Tempt Series) by Jenna Hartley is available on Amazon.

Redemption is the third book in the Tempt Series and centers around the relationship between Sloane and Jackson. Jackson, is an ex-Navy Seal, fresh home from serving overseas but is too ashamed to tell his family that he was discharged. Jackson’s little sister and Sloane are college roommates living in a tiny apartment and working hard to pay the bills. Jackson and Sloane have an instant attraction to each other and begin dating but keep it a secret from his sister. Jackson interviews with a security firm based in LA and accepts the job. Sloan for obvious reasons is upset to learn that he is leaving but he reveals that Sloan isn’t who she represented herself to be, as she comes from an incredibly wealthy family and is heir to an affluent family business. This is your classic case of two people who have insecurities and don’t know how to communicate and work through their issues. This leads to the demise of their relationship, leaving both Jackson and Sloane brokenhearted.

14-years later, Sloane is now the head of her family’s office based in London but has been receiving numerous threats to her life. Jackson has become a seasoned security specialist and has been working for Sloane’s brother. As Sloane’s safety is being discussed, Jackson is assigned as her personal security guard while she takes an annual solo sailing trip. Neither, Jackson or Sloane are in accord with this plan but decide that her safety is paramount while the threat is found and neutralized. As you can imagine, tempers flare and the spice heats up as the two set sail in close quarters.

Can Sloane and Jackson find redemption from their past mistakes or will the threat to Sloane’s safety find her first?

*ARC courtesy of the author and all thoughts and opinions are my own. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. Thank you to the valued author and publisher for providing a copy.*
Profile Image for Miancka.
209 reviews4 followers
July 25, 2024
Oh wow, "Redemption" by Jenna Hartley is a whirlwind of emotions and second chances that had me hooked from the first page!

Sailing the Caribbean solo was supposed to be an escape for our heroine, but instead, she's trapped on a thirty-five-foot boat with her new bodyguard—none other than Jackson Shaw, her overprotective alpha male and first love. Talk about an intense setup!

Loving Jackson in secret almost cost her the relationship with her best friend, who happens to be his younger sister. Losing him nearly broke her. It took years to piece her heart back together and find happiness again. Yet, despite all the changes over the past decade, her body's reaction to Jackson hasn’t changed one bit.

Jackson, a former Navy SEAL, is as determined as ever. When he sets his sights on something, nothing stands in his way. So when he decides he wants a second chance with her, I couldn’t help but be both anxious and thrilled for them. Her body might crave his touch, but her heart? That's a whole different story.

The chemistry between these two is off the charts! Jenna Hartley did an amazing job of bringing the tension, passion, and unresolved feelings to life. The push and pull between their past and potential future kept me on the edge of my seat. I was rooting for them so hard, hoping they could overcome their past and see the beautiful future that might be waiting for them.

This book is a perfect blend of romance, suspense, and heartfelt moments. The way Jackson's protective nature clashes with her desire for independence makes for some seriously steamy and emotional scenes. I laughed, I cried, and I swooned—sometimes all in the same chapter.

If you haven't picked up "Redemption" yet, you're in for a treat. It's a beautiful story about second chances, healing, and finding love where you least expect it. I can't wait to see what Jenna Hartley has in store next!

Profile Image for Jackie Gonyer.
170 reviews1 follower
July 29, 2024
Recently Jenna Hartley released this book and I have previously read Reputation (that one’s my favorite) and I was so excited for this one. This time it’s about two people who were together once and ended in heartbreak. 14years later and these two are brought back. But this time Sloane and Jackson are in a different situation. They’re on a sailing trip just the two of them with Jackson as her bodyguard and doing everything he can to protect Sloane and fight the constant want he has for her that never went away. Once upon a time he walked away because it was the best thing for her. This time though, it’s now 14yrs later and they both have been able to learn and heal from the previous heartbreak and grow as two people. These two not only have great chemistry but it made me blush when these two finally got together. While they are fighting their feelings I was constantly reading and asking “how much longer?”. Along with the steamy moments it’s also a great story about how these two connect even after so much time when they were once together. Jenna writes a beautiful story that has a great couples story but also makes Jackson so like able because he will do whatever it takes to protect the ones he loves. And Sloan she can hold her own and if she is determined of wanting something or to go or do she will do it.
This book has a great plot, characters and we even get to see some familiar faces. When they do get back together can they stay together this time and be what they’ve always supposed to be or were they supposed to grow up first like they did? Jenna has written a very addictive series and I will recommend this series to anyone and each story has its elements and makes each one I get excited to read when released. So get ready for Sloane and Jackson’s story, there is angst and heartbreak but who knows with only the two of them on a sailboat on a “road trip” who knows maybe they can put the pain away and work on something even better forever this time.
Profile Image for Adrianne.
100 reviews
August 1, 2024
Jenna Hartley’s Redemption, the third book in her captivating Tempt series, is a thrilling and emotionally rich addition to the series that successfully combines romance and suspense. This installment brings together Jackson and Sloane, whose past and present intertwine on a sailing adventure.

Jackson and Sloane’s story is both compelling and heartwarming. Jackson, who has always been a steadfast protector, is tasked with the role of keeping Sloane safe from a menacing stalker. His deep-seated love for Sloane and his natural inclination to protect her are central to the narrative, creating a powerful dynamic that drives the story forward. Jackson’s character is portrayed with a blend of strength and vulnerability, making him an endearing and relatable hero.

Sloane, on the other hand, is a strong, independent woman who has built a successful career and is deeply connected to her family. Her character is portrayed with depth and nuance, reflecting her resilience and close-knit family ties. Sloane’s independence and determination add layers to her character, making her both admirable and relatable.

The sailing trip serves as a perfect backdrop for their reconnection, offering both a literal and metaphorical voyage as they navigate their emotions and history. The suspense element, with the threat of a stalker looming over them, adds a gripping edge to the romance.

One of the highlights of Redemption is the incorporation of flashbacks that offer glimpses into Jackson and Sloane’s shared past. These flashbacks are not merely nostalgic but crucial to understanding the depth of their relationship and the reasons behind the current dynamic. They enrich the story by providing context and emotional weight to their present interactions, making their journey towards rekindling their romance even more poignant.

Jenna Hartley’s skillful storytelling ensures that Redemption is a thrilling and heartwarming journey from beginning to end.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
921 reviews8 followers
August 5, 2024
Sloan and Jackson’s second chance love story.
Ms. Hartley has outdone herself with this, probably the best second chance love story I’ve read this year! Sloan and Jackson are fabulous characters that you will just love.
They meet through his sister Greer, Sloan’s best friend, while Sloan is in college and after Jackson’s time in the SEAL’s has come to an end. Their relationship is conducted in secret, ultimately lying to the people around them and keeping things about themselves from each other. Their insecurities and immaturity break them apart.
The story finds them 14 years later, Sloan is getting threats, and her brothers insist she needs protection, Jackson works for the company they use and is assigned to be her bodyguard.
Off we go on a sailing vacation, just the two of them on a small yacht!
The events of their younger years are told throughout the story via memories from both characters, little snippets and longer stories, this really paints a picture of their character growth. What we learn about them, between the present and the past, we see how much they've grown as individuals, and why now they’re so right for each other.
Jackson is this protective, possessive, former Navy SEAL, but his insecurities of the past are long gone, and he is confident and comfortable with who he is, and absolutely swoon worthy!! He's not intimidated by Sloan's wealth or position and while protective, he is also empowering of her. Sloan has grown into this independent and driven woman, yet we get to see her vulnerable side as well.
The writing is strong and flowed easily, pacing of the story perfect, and I loved how they teased each other, the banter between them is on point. Their chemistry sparks off the pages and when they get together, the steam is hot.
This time he’s fighting for her; he says it best when he says, “There was never anyone else but you."
Fantastic read!!
Profile Image for TheQDB.
281 reviews
July 25, 2024
Sloan is the youngest of her siblings and is a SVP of her family owned hotel empire. She's been receiving threats that have her older brothers being even more overprotective than usual. She decides to extend her annual solo sailing trip with one catch — her brothers insist on a personal executive agent (aka: bodyguard) to go along with her. She'll be sailing for 2 months and that will give the authorities time to track down the threat. Lo and behold, her bodyguard is her best friend's older brother — the man who broke her heart over a decade ago. They're both grown now but that flame still burns as bright as ever despite how hard they want to fight it. 

Not only is the overall story arc interesting but the world building elements really make you feel like you're along with the characters for their voyage across the Caribbean sea. The characters are well fleshed out and behave like the adults they are. Their history is explained in a way that makes sense and the chemistry is not only hot but organic. Throw in a few elements of suspense and you have a solid contemporary romance 5 star read. Sloan and Jackson is my new favorite Hartley couple! 

Come for the:
➺ Second chance
➺ Forbidden romance/best friend’s older brother
➺ Forced proximity (on a sailboat)

Stay for the:
✵ Strong billionaire FMC
✵ Ex-Navy Seal bodyguard MMC
✵ First and only love
✵ Chemistry/spice
________________
Overall: 5/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Steam: 🔥🔥🔥
Feels: 😬😮⛵️😏😰💗

~QD STORY DETAILS~
Location: Predominantly Caribbean Sea
FMC: Sloan Mackenzie (37yo)
MMC: Jackson Shaw (44yo)
Tear jerker: No
HEA: Yes

~QD BOOK INFO~
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Paperback page count: 394 pages
Publisher: Self published
Series: Tempt
Sex/kink type: manual, oral, penetrative, voyeurism

*All opinions above are my own.*
Profile Image for Elizabeth Satala (ElizaJayneReads).
453 reviews8 followers
July 26, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️.5

This is the third book in the Tempt series and my absolute favorite! I love second chance romances, and this one between Jackson and Sloan was angsty and heartbreaking, but also healing and exciting. Jackson and Sloan met while she was in college and roommates with his sister, Greer. They can’t help but be drawn to one another even though Greer asked Jackson not to get involved with his friend. They hang out in secret and fall in love, but when insecurities and secrets come out, they end things and are both devastated. Fast forward 14 years, Sloan is being stalked and threatened and decides to take her annual sailing trip to get away from the chaos, and her brothers insist she take a bodyguard, and that bodyguard turns out to be Jackson. No one knows about their past, so Sloan agrees to take him with. The forced proximity of the sailboat forces old feelings to arise. Both Sloan and Jackson realize that they’ve never lost feelings for one another. Jackson broke Sloan’s heart, and she is trying to tread carefully with her feelings. Jackson knows that Sloan is a once-in-a-lifetime woman, and he’s not about to lose her again. He does things differently this time around, and Sloan slowly starts to open her heart to Jackson. I loved the flashbacks both of the characters had to when they were together all those years ago. It showed how deep their feelings were and what happened when things fell apart. Sloan is such a down to earth person and cares deeply for people. She is a billionaire but doesn’t act like one. Jackson is hard on the outside from him being in the military and what happened in his past, but he has a huge heart! I loved them as a couple and how electric their chemistry was. Such a great read!
Profile Image for Stacey.
1,051 reviews41 followers
July 26, 2024
Sloan & Jackson have a history together. Jackson’s sister Greer is Sloan’s best friend from college. They met when he came to visit and ended up bumping into each other in the NY city at a club. They secretly started dating until Jackson took a job in LA and ended things abruptly. He never thought he was good enough for her.

Sloan is the heiress of a world wide hotel chain. Being a Billionaire she has a lot of eyes on her but recently she’s been getting aggressive and death threats. Her family hires a bodyguard for the future. Shes planning a 6-8 week sailing trip and she will be in tight quarters with this bodyguard. When he arrives she’s shocked to see Jackson… her ex!

Jackson has been a bodyguard and loves his job. He’s good at it. Especially since he was a SEAL and all his training gave him a good eye.

Being on the sail boat, it’s definitely awkward. You feel the tension and the pain from Sloan. You see and understand Jackson’s then mind set. You also feel the angst for the chemistry that surrounds these two. These two are soul mates to the core and when you see their personal narrative and their actions, you just wait on the edge of the seat to see them come together.

There are a lot of dark clouds that follow these two on their sailing adventure. They have to explain their relationship to Greer, Sloan’s family, Jackson having to confess his relationship to his boss and also the person behind the letters.

This book was so good!! I love a good travel trope but on a sail boat hopping from one island to another just makes me want to book a vaca!!!

Tropes:
Second Chance
Bodyguard
Travel
Billionaire
Forced Proximity
Best Friend's Older Brother
Protective Alpha
Former Military
Tattoo for Her
Romantic Suspense
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