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Lit U #1
Hide and Keep
My new bodyguard doesn’t know we met before…and kissed.
Our paths first crossed during a Halloween game of Hide and Keep. Concealed by costumes and cornstalks, players get to be whoever they want, as well as be with whoever they want. No names. No strings attached. One night only.
Just when things were heating up between me and the stranger in tactical gear, my father’s chopper showed up, forcing me to disappear without a word.
Months later, he walks into my life again, only this time as my bodyguard, tasked with keeping me safe…and in line.
Instead of the elusive girl he kissed in the dark, Crue Brantley only sees the spoiled brat everyone else does and treats me as such.
The more time we spend together, the more he starts to see beneath my mask. But there’s a lot Crue doesn’t know, like why my father really hired him.
And I can’t let him find out. No matter what it costs me.
Our paths first crossed during a Halloween game of Hide and Keep. Concealed by costumes and cornstalks, players get to be whoever they want, as well as be with whoever they want. No names. No strings attached. One night only.
Just when things were heating up between me and the stranger in tactical gear, my father’s chopper showed up, forcing me to disappear without a word.
Months later, he walks into my life again, only this time as my bodyguard, tasked with keeping me safe…and in line.
Instead of the elusive girl he kissed in the dark, Crue Brantley only sees the spoiled brat everyone else does and treats me as such.
The more time we spend together, the more he starts to see beneath my mask. But there’s a lot Crue doesn’t know, like why my father really hired him.
And I can’t let him find out. No matter what it costs me.
584 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 20, 2025
About the author
A. Marie
12 books463 followersA. Marie likes to paint her characters’ voices on to the blank canvas of a page using her own blend of quick wit and playfulness. She strives to bring readers entertaining yet powerful stories they’ll fall for time and time again. Born and raised in Washington State, she now resides in upstate New York with her husband and three kids.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
March 1, 2025
4 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️
I mean he is her bodyguard?! Do I even need to convince you more on why you should add this to your tbr. This was my first read by A. Marie and won’t be my last.
Every year there is this event called Hide and Keep and one year, that is how Crue & Ever met. She snuck out of her house and decided to kiss the man she met at Hide and Keep until her father came on his helicopter to take her home. However, Crue has no idea because she was wearing a butterfly mask. He never got her name or a real look at her face and he can’t get her off his mind. Ever has been acting out because she doesn’t want to go into her family's business after she graduates college. Her father has been going through bodyguards because Ever, the brat she is, keeps making them want to quit.
Here comes in Crue that really needs the money and will do everything in his power to keep this job. He has his family to take care of. She keeps trying to make him quit, but what happens when she actually starts to enjoy his company? Will she still try to get him to quit? I was hooked from the start. I love me a good bodyguard romance and enemies to lovers. It was hitting the spot in this book. The Hilarious banter?! LOVED IT.
Thank you A. Marie for this ARC in exchange for my honest review! 😊
Tropes:
🖤Hidden Identity
🧡Romantic Suspense
🖤Bodyguard MMC x Rich Cheerleader FMC
🧡Forced Proximity
🖤Hilarious Banter
🧡Enemies to Lovers
I mean he is her bodyguard?! Do I even need to convince you more on why you should add this to your tbr. This was my first read by A. Marie and won’t be my last.
Every year there is this event called Hide and Keep and one year, that is how Crue & Ever met. She snuck out of her house and decided to kiss the man she met at Hide and Keep until her father came on his helicopter to take her home. However, Crue has no idea because she was wearing a butterfly mask. He never got her name or a real look at her face and he can’t get her off his mind. Ever has been acting out because she doesn’t want to go into her family's business after she graduates college. Her father has been going through bodyguards because Ever, the brat she is, keeps making them want to quit.
Here comes in Crue that really needs the money and will do everything in his power to keep this job. He has his family to take care of. She keeps trying to make him quit, but what happens when she actually starts to enjoy his company? Will she still try to get him to quit? I was hooked from the start. I love me a good bodyguard romance and enemies to lovers. It was hitting the spot in this book. The Hilarious banter?! LOVED IT.
Thank you A. Marie for this ARC in exchange for my honest review! 😊
Tropes:
🖤Hidden Identity
🧡Romantic Suspense
🖤Bodyguard MMC x Rich Cheerleader FMC
🧡Forced Proximity
🖤Hilarious Banter
🧡Enemies to Lovers
Did Not Finish
February 18, 2025Thank you for the arc!
DNF 20%
I wanted to like it, I really did, but I think I will have to stop reading.
My issues were:
- nothing happens to drive the story forward or keep me engaged. Banter is good, but it cannot carry the entire story (for me)
- why does he take the job in the first place?
- the banter and bullying is one-sided. I'm not a huge fan of when bullying only goes one way. Maybe it's a personal preference, but it feels unsatisfying when she bullies him (probably to get him to quit) and he just takes it?
- I don't feel the chemistry between the characters and don't care about either of them. They have given very little backstory on either the FMC or MMC.
Why does she go to Littoral University. It just makes me think of something else 😅
I think if the book was a lot shorter, I'd be more on board, but 658 pages is quite lengthy when it doesn't suck you in.
DNF 20%
I wanted to like it, I really did, but I think I will have to stop reading.
My issues were:
- nothing happens to drive the story forward or keep me engaged. Banter is good, but it cannot carry the entire story (for me)
- why does he take the job in the first place?
- the banter and bullying is one-sided. I'm not a huge fan of when bullying only goes one way. Maybe it's a personal preference, but it feels unsatisfying when she bullies him (probably to get him to quit) and he just takes it?
- I don't feel the chemistry between the characters and don't care about either of them. They have given very little backstory on either the FMC or MMC.
Why does she go to Littoral University. It just makes me think of something else 😅
I think if the book was a lot shorter, I'd be more on board, but 658 pages is quite lengthy when it doesn't suck you in.
February 19, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️
🖤 Bodyguard MMC X Rich cheerleader FMC
🧡 Hidden identity
🖤 Romantic suspense
🧡 Different worlds
🖤 Emotional (and literal) scars
🧡 Forced proximity
🖤 Hilarious banter
🧡 HEA
This was my first book by A. Marie, but she solidified me as a fan with this one!!
📖 Crue and Ever met at the yearly Hide and Keep event and shared an incredible kiss, only for Ever to have to leave suddenly. She doesn’t expect to see him again until he shows up as her new bodyguard, appointed by her dad to keep her in line.
I was hooked from the beginning with Hide and Keep. I absolutely loved the way the author unraveled the characters’ personalities and the backstory, as well as the underlying suspenseful storylines.
Ever and Crue are like oil and water, in their personalities, interests, and upbringings. Ever is heiress of the Munreaux Motorcycles business. She has every material item she could ever dream of, but no love. Crue was always surrounded by a family loved him but he didn’t have a lot of material items. He’s also known as the outcast of the town. But ever doesn’t see that when she looks at him….
Once the two start to get to know each other, they learn there really is a fine line between love and hate. The way Crue is the first person to really love ever is so swoony, and the way Ever is the first person to make him feel like he’s worthy of love is equally as heartwarming.
The enemies to lovers spice was SO HOT omg… and the juxtaposition in their positions, with Crue being “the hired help” but being the only one to make her feel the way she does was ICONIC. I thought the frequency and quality of spice scenes were amazing.
The dry humor and way they fought with each other was comical. The insults were so creative and I was laughing out loud. Ever teaching Crue about the female anatomy was so great and the teddy bear… I cannot 🤣 that was hilarious.
Highly recommend this one if you love the listed tropes! I am definitely excited to read more from this author!
Thank you so much to A. Marie for the arc of Hide and Keep in exchange for my honest opinion! 🖤
🖤 Bodyguard MMC X Rich cheerleader FMC
🧡 Hidden identity
🖤 Romantic suspense
🧡 Different worlds
🖤 Emotional (and literal) scars
🧡 Forced proximity
🖤 Hilarious banter
🧡 HEA
This was my first book by A. Marie, but she solidified me as a fan with this one!!
📖 Crue and Ever met at the yearly Hide and Keep event and shared an incredible kiss, only for Ever to have to leave suddenly. She doesn’t expect to see him again until he shows up as her new bodyguard, appointed by her dad to keep her in line.
I was hooked from the beginning with Hide and Keep. I absolutely loved the way the author unraveled the characters’ personalities and the backstory, as well as the underlying suspenseful storylines.
Ever and Crue are like oil and water, in their personalities, interests, and upbringings. Ever is heiress of the Munreaux Motorcycles business. She has every material item she could ever dream of, but no love. Crue was always surrounded by a family loved him but he didn’t have a lot of material items. He’s also known as the outcast of the town. But ever doesn’t see that when she looks at him….
Once the two start to get to know each other, they learn there really is a fine line between love and hate. The way Crue is the first person to really love ever is so swoony, and the way Ever is the first person to make him feel like he’s worthy of love is equally as heartwarming.
The enemies to lovers spice was SO HOT omg… and the juxtaposition in their positions, with Crue being “the hired help” but being the only one to make her feel the way she does was ICONIC. I thought the frequency and quality of spice scenes were amazing.
The dry humor and way they fought with each other was comical. The insults were so creative and I was laughing out loud. Ever teaching Crue about the female anatomy was so great and the teddy bear… I cannot 🤣 that was hilarious.
Highly recommend this one if you love the listed tropes! I am definitely excited to read more from this author!
Thank you so much to A. Marie for the arc of Hide and Keep in exchange for my honest opinion! 🖤
February 21, 2025
This was definitely an interesting read that left me with mixed feelings.
I loved the concept of Ever, she was feisty and determined to live her life - at least as far as her evil father allowed her - and I loved how protective Crue was, once he stopped judging her and really got to know her. They were a really cute couple and were quirky and sweet in their own way.
What felt off to me was the OTT drama and suspense that didn't really pan out. Things were left in the dark for too long that when the truth finally comes out it felt too forced. All of things also happen, one after the other that also felt OTT and too quickly resolved. I needed a little more built up. The ending was cute and hopeful, which I loved.
All in all, a quick and suspense read that was entertaining and kept me guessing throughout.
SAFETY INFO:
I loved the concept of Ever, she was feisty and determined to live her life - at least as far as her evil father allowed her - and I loved how protective Crue was, once he stopped judging her and really got to know her. They were a really cute couple and were quirky and sweet in their own way.
What felt off to me was the OTT drama and suspense that didn't really pan out. Things were left in the dark for too long that when the truth finally comes out it felt too forced. All of things also happen, one after the other that also felt OTT and too quickly resolved. I needed a little more built up. The ending was cute and hopeful, which I loved.
All in all, a quick and suspense read that was entertaining and kept me guessing throughout.
SAFETY INFO:
Read
September 7, 202537% and it's a DNF for me.
IMO they are the example of enemies to lovers that makes people dislike enemies to lovers. This is not how this is done.
Also, the random WTF stuff in this book is just too much for me.
for example: A dude getting hired by a billionaire to protect his daughter is then reading a book on how to be a bodyguard a couple chapters later... Like, what?!
I could continue ranting but why lol. I'm out 🤷🏼♀️
IMO they are the example of enemies to lovers that makes people dislike enemies to lovers. This is not how this is done.
Also, the random WTF stuff in this book is just too much for me.
for example: A dude getting hired by a billionaire to protect his daughter is then reading a book on how to be a bodyguard a couple chapters later... Like, what?!
I could continue ranting but why lol. I'm out 🤷🏼♀️
February 14, 2025
This was SUCH a good book that captivated my attention immediately.
They always say don't judge a book by its cover, but that's exactly what I did when I signed up for this ARC lol. And I'm so grateful I had the chance to read this incredible whirlwind of a story.
Our MMC, Crue, accepts a job position as bodyguard for the daughter of Munreaux Motorcycles, a multi-billion dollar company owned by the nefarious Arthur Munreaux. What Crue doesn't expect is for daddy's little princess to be such a huge pain in his behind. Ever Munreaux is Crue's problem - er - protectee for the next 3 years, and he's definitely in for a rough time with this spoiled little princess. Ever is wealthy, popular, famous and a thorn in Crue's side. But what he doesn't understand is why the heck he's so drawn to this girl. There are layers to Ever that most people don't see. There's so many expectations and an incomprehensible amount of pressure resting on the shoulders of Munreaux Motorcycles heiress, but what she doesn't let people see is that she didn't ask for this life. She craves freedom - an escape - anything to make her feel like she's not trapped. And she'll do almost anything to achieve that freedom...
WOWEEE this was a wild ride! This is my first book by A. Marie and it was SO GOOD. I was captivated from the prologue, and my attention was held throughout the entire book. And let me tell, you this was a long read, but so dang worth it.
The tension, the BANTER, the hostility, and the chemistry between Ever and Crue was amazing. I was left wondering what the heck they were going to do to each other next - were they going to pull another prank on the other person, were they going to ignore each other and let the tension build, or were they finally going to give in to their inevitable chemistry and let that tether of tension snap?
There was not a dull moment in this book. I highlighted so many different sections, and I still want more of Ever and Crue even after 657 pages lol. Their secrets had me on the edge of my seat, and I could not wait to figure out what each of them was hiding regarding their tragic pasts (Crue) and distressing future (Ever).
I think A. Marie has a beautiful way of setting the scene and using descriptive imagery to really make you feel like you're in the book along with the characters. I could really picture everything that was happening as I read along.
Not only were the descriptions beautiful, but the spice was SPICIN'. PHEW, Crue is a man with an appetite if you know what I mean lol.
Highly, highly recommend this book, especially if you like:
- romantic suspense
- forced proximity
- hate to love
- secret identities
- cheerleader + heiress FMC x bodyguard MMC
- age gap (she's 19, he's 25)
- he gives her a nickname
- he gets a tattoo for her
- banter
- spice
- HEA
Thank you so much to A. Marie for my eARC!
They always say don't judge a book by its cover, but that's exactly what I did when I signed up for this ARC lol. And I'm so grateful I had the chance to read this incredible whirlwind of a story.
Our MMC, Crue, accepts a job position as bodyguard for the daughter of Munreaux Motorcycles, a multi-billion dollar company owned by the nefarious Arthur Munreaux. What Crue doesn't expect is for daddy's little princess to be such a huge pain in his behind. Ever Munreaux is Crue's problem - er - protectee for the next 3 years, and he's definitely in for a rough time with this spoiled little princess. Ever is wealthy, popular, famous and a thorn in Crue's side. But what he doesn't understand is why the heck he's so drawn to this girl. There are layers to Ever that most people don't see. There's so many expectations and an incomprehensible amount of pressure resting on the shoulders of Munreaux Motorcycles heiress, but what she doesn't let people see is that she didn't ask for this life. She craves freedom - an escape - anything to make her feel like she's not trapped. And she'll do almost anything to achieve that freedom...
WOWEEE this was a wild ride! This is my first book by A. Marie and it was SO GOOD. I was captivated from the prologue, and my attention was held throughout the entire book. And let me tell, you this was a long read, but so dang worth it.
The tension, the BANTER, the hostility, and the chemistry between Ever and Crue was amazing. I was left wondering what the heck they were going to do to each other next - were they going to pull another prank on the other person, were they going to ignore each other and let the tension build, or were they finally going to give in to their inevitable chemistry and let that tether of tension snap?
There was not a dull moment in this book. I highlighted so many different sections, and I still want more of Ever and Crue even after 657 pages lol. Their secrets had me on the edge of my seat, and I could not wait to figure out what each of them was hiding regarding their tragic pasts (Crue) and distressing future (Ever).
I think A. Marie has a beautiful way of setting the scene and using descriptive imagery to really make you feel like you're in the book along with the characters. I could really picture everything that was happening as I read along.
Not only were the descriptions beautiful, but the spice was SPICIN'. PHEW, Crue is a man with an appetite if you know what I mean lol.
Highly, highly recommend this book, especially if you like:
- romantic suspense
- forced proximity
- hate to love
- secret identities
- cheerleader + heiress FMC x bodyguard MMC
- age gap (she's 19, he's 25)
- he gives her a nickname
- he gets a tattoo for her
- banter
- spice
- HEA
Thank you so much to A. Marie for my eARC!
February 19, 2025
I struggled reading this book and found the storyline very slow moving and frustrating. Technically, I DNF’d this book and I’m only leaving a review because I feel other potential readers could have an idea of what to expect if they attempt o read a nearly 700 page book.
The unknown reason Ever feels her life is counting down to the end isn’t revealed for most of the book so her actions and comments just come across as bratty and mean.
The physical attraction between Ever and Crue is practically palpable, but he has just as must animosity for her.
Frankly, I started skimming the book at the 25% mark because I felt like the story was circling around the same frustrating block - pranks, snark and mean comments. A 650+ page book is daunting and unfortunately this book didn’t capture may attention and it certainly didn’t keep my interest.
This will likely be my one and only book to read by this author. If you enjoy the enemies to lovers tropes and don’t mind being kept in the dark about what’s really going on for most of the book, you may really enjoy this, but it’s not to my taste.
I received a free ARC from the author and The Author Agency; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
The unknown reason Ever feels her life is counting down to the end isn’t revealed for most of the book so her actions and comments just come across as bratty and mean.
The physical attraction between Ever and Crue is practically palpable, but he has just as must animosity for her.
Frankly, I started skimming the book at the 25% mark because I felt like the story was circling around the same frustrating block - pranks, snark and mean comments. A 650+ page book is daunting and unfortunately this book didn’t capture may attention and it certainly didn’t keep my interest.
This will likely be my one and only book to read by this author. If you enjoy the enemies to lovers tropes and don’t mind being kept in the dark about what’s really going on for most of the book, you may really enjoy this, but it’s not to my taste.
I received a free ARC from the author and The Author Agency; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
February 20, 2025
There is a lot of banter in this book. Spoiled Princess x Bodyguard, I did not realise how much I would love reading that trope. I found their relationship intriguing and the storyline was captivating. This book is long (658 pages) but if you can push through that, then do, because it is worth the read.
February 20, 2025
*ARC REVIEW*
Thank you for the ARC! Unfortunately I just could not stay engaged when reading and ended up stopping around 30%
The banter was enjoyable, but I couldn’t connect with the characters
Reading is subjective so I know there will be plenty of people who love this book! 🤍
Thank you for the ARC! Unfortunately I just could not stay engaged when reading and ended up stopping around 30%
The banter was enjoyable, but I couldn’t connect with the characters
Reading is subjective so I know there will be plenty of people who love this book! 🤍
April 12, 2026
I feel like crying my eyes out, this was actually so sweet
March 12, 2025
4/5 ⭐️ 3/5 🔥
February 22, 2025
Hide and Keep by A.Marie is an enemies to lovers, opposites attract, hate to love romance between Ever Munreaux and Crue Brantley. A rich girl and poor guy situation when he becomes her executive protection agent. It is a slow burn romance with lots of back and forth. A story full of lies and secrets, assumptions and accusations, betrayal and manipulation. Both have had their futures taken away from them so can they find a way to be together.
“We can’t change what we were born, only what we become.”
Ever is heir to the Munreaux Motorcycles and the princess of Sea Haven. She loves being a cheerleader and attending college but struggles with her father’s demands. Crue Brantley was a promising wrestler until a tragic incident changed his life. A future full of promise turned into a nightmare and left him full of guilt over his decisions that night. He has a scar under his eye as a constant reminder.
Hide and Keep is a wonderful memory for both of them. She was experiencing a night of total anonymity and loved the sense of freedom in her disguise. She loved the attention a guy showed her that night and felt safe with him. Crue was mesmerised by a girl and nearly risked his job to be with her. They kissed but he didn’t get her name before she disappeared. For the last five months he hasn’t stopped looking for his butterfly.
Crue never been a bodyguard before but the prospect of earning enough money to help his parents and be able to leave town is too tempting. He’s hired to protect the family’s reputation because she rebelling against her father and his plans for her futureShe furious her father has employed another body guard and is determined to make his life a misery so he’ll leave. However, when she sees who it is, she is shocked and annoyed. Why did it have to be him?
She’s a spoilt rich girl who never fully explains to him why she is misbehaving. Her reasons were a bit vague but some of her antics were quite funny. I didn’t like her bullying behaviour or her
attitude towards her friends or fellow teammates. She was very insulting and devious so I was pleased when she feels guilty over her comments to him. She doesn’t know if he likes her for who she is or who her family is, like everyone else. The things she does to him made me feel so sorry for him especially when she puts him in danger. He’s such a good guy that he covers for her constantly.
Crue hates how she is but falls quickly. It’s insta-love for him and he’s full of hope they can be together. All he wants to do is protect her because he knows she needs taking care of but she fights him at every turn. He is so sweet when protecting her means more than the job to him.
It’s a shame he can’t trust anything she says or does because she lies and manipulates everyone.
They become obsessed and possessive of each other which leads to some amusing incidents. Things turn steamy when they give into their feelings. She keeps accusing him of lack of stamina but the length of these scenes definitely answers that question!!
An interesting beginning with fun banter but then the story didn’t move forward quick enough for me. It is a long book that loses its way and leaves most of the reveals right to the end. I felt not everything is explained to help understand the characters and all that happened, especially with her father. I found it hard to connect with Ever and felt sorry for Crue. I know he was hoping she was his mystery girl but for someone who gave off confident vibes at the start, they didn’t seem to continue and she toyed with him. Whatever happens she will always be his butterfly and little bat, and he’s her Major Danger.
February 18, 2025
4 STARS
Confession time: the second I saw this cover, I knew this would be my first A. Marie book. Yes, the blurb definitely helped seal the deal but I am absolutely feral for a man in a ball cap. Swoony sigh. But I digress.
If you like a good hate to love situation, this one hits the spot so good. Let me paint the scene for you. You have Ever Munreaux, the daughter of the mogul owner of Munreaux motorcycles. On the surface, she has it all; wealth, popularity, looks, a talented flyer on her cheerleading team. But behind the veil, she craves independence, she craves acceptance, and she craves just one night of anonymity. All of which she can never have because of her despicable father. And oh the ways I LOATHED this man.
In a bid to get his daughter even further under his thumb and to stop her acting out, he hires her a babysitter in the guise of a bodyguard. Enter Crue Brantley.
Crue is everything that Ever is not. He comes from a happy home but with none of the wealth. Mostly stumbling his way through life, he takes gigs here and there, until an offer too good to pass up comes to him. Watch a wealthy man's daughter and last through her tantrums to get him to quit long enough to collect a paycheck that can change his life.
To say that these two butt heads is an understatement of epic proportions. Ever is a downright b*tch to him, who I wanted to hate in parts, if we also didn't get her internal monologue and understand how much it cost her to say and do the things that she does. I also loved the way that Ever was possessive and jealous over Crue just as crazed as he was for her. Admittedly, her penchant for saying "oh Goddess" took me out a bit, but this is also I recently came off of a romantasy binge. So this was a quirk that took me a bit to accept but it did grow on me with time.
Their chemistry was incendiary and I loved the slow burn romance that went from hate to lust to something so much more. This was a thick book but it read super quick and I didn't find it dragging or slowing down. I enjoyed the character and especially the romance development.
Having finished this, I'll be going back to A Marie's backlist because her writing definitely clicked hard for me and I enjoyed this quite a bit. If you're looking for a fun and steamy hate to lust, bodyguard, new adult romance, this one will definitely hit the spot.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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You need taken care of in every way.”
“That’s what our valet’s for.”
“Edwin doesn’t do for you what I do.”
“Ruin my life?”
“Make you so wet your thighs look like they’re crying.”
Confession time: the second I saw this cover, I knew this would be my first A. Marie book. Yes, the blurb definitely helped seal the deal but I am absolutely feral for a man in a ball cap. Swoony sigh. But I digress.
If you like a good hate to love situation, this one hits the spot so good. Let me paint the scene for you. You have Ever Munreaux, the daughter of the mogul owner of Munreaux motorcycles. On the surface, she has it all; wealth, popularity, looks, a talented flyer on her cheerleading team. But behind the veil, she craves independence, she craves acceptance, and she craves just one night of anonymity. All of which she can never have because of her despicable father. And oh the ways I LOATHED this man.
In a bid to get his daughter even further under his thumb and to stop her acting out, he hires her a babysitter in the guise of a bodyguard. Enter Crue Brantley.
Crue is everything that Ever is not. He comes from a happy home but with none of the wealth. Mostly stumbling his way through life, he takes gigs here and there, until an offer too good to pass up comes to him. Watch a wealthy man's daughter and last through her tantrums to get him to quit long enough to collect a paycheck that can change his life.
To say that these two butt heads is an understatement of epic proportions. Ever is a downright b*tch to him, who I wanted to hate in parts, if we also didn't get her internal monologue and understand how much it cost her to say and do the things that she does. I also loved the way that Ever was possessive and jealous over Crue just as crazed as he was for her. Admittedly, her penchant for saying "oh Goddess" took me out a bit, but this is also I recently came off of a romantasy binge. So this was a quirk that took me a bit to accept but it did grow on me with time.
Their chemistry was incendiary and I loved the slow burn romance that went from hate to lust to something so much more. This was a thick book but it read super quick and I didn't find it dragging or slowing down. I enjoyed the character and especially the romance development.
Having finished this, I'll be going back to A Marie's backlist because her writing definitely clicked hard for me and I enjoyed this quite a bit. If you're looking for a fun and steamy hate to lust, bodyguard, new adult romance, this one will definitely hit the spot.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
February 19, 2025
Ever is a spoiled, rich princess to all who know her, but behind closed doors is living an existence of loneliness with no chance of controlling or escaping the plan her father has made for her life. She crosses paths with Crue after a night of anonymity and a stolen kiss, only for him to later be assigned as another method of controlling every function of her life, as her bodyguard. Neither expect the rush of feelings that comes with close proximity and mutual destruction.
*****
This started out as a pretty interesting book, with steady pacing and entertaining banter. Unfortunately, the length of this book outdid the potential for it to be a more engaging read. A lot of the smaller scenes and back and forth that didn't progress the storyline could have been reduced in order to have a slightly more palatable length book for a bodyguard romance. It takes just over half of the almost 700 page long book for Ever and Crue to finally succumb to their feelings, yet as with everything else, they continue to push and pull. The entire book up until the last 5% is them being vulnerable and then shoving the other away with lies, horrible behaviour, and half truths. While the scenes were great, and interesting, they were very circular in plot. They open up, reveal some truths, and then Ever does something or reacts to something to ruin whatever they had and goes for the throat in the most devastating way that she can. It did keep my interest in how the book progressed, but it also started to make the pace drag as we weren't getting any answers.
I also struggled with the constant dropping of information that could have been revealed or easily corrected sooner. We hear about Crue assuming 3 years of bodyguarding, yet no one ever corrects him, and it's brought up a lot, despite the reader knowing from the get-go that he's wrong. Then we are constantly hinted at Ever's entire life and freedom as she knows it being over, but we only finally get a peek as to potentially why at 80%, and actual confirmation after 97%. Through that entire process she's so breathtakingly cruel to Crue, that I find it hard to want to wish for her redemption, and for them to sort their lives out, until right at the very end of the novel.
I also struggled to get behind Crue being in his 20's and existing in the world as we know it, but knowing close to nothing about reproductive health to an embarrassing degree. He's been with other women and never considered educating himself about anything until Ever, which feels like an odd plot point to include amongst everything else. I did find his interest in her passions to be sweet, but the way it was tied into an incredibly rushed ending was very corny and unbelievable. From the final confrontation scene, to them moving forward in their lives was a flash in the pan compared to how drawn out everything else was in the books. Also the double cupie at the end? Not the finish I would have expected, and kind of flopped the ending.
Otherwise, this was a good book if you want a longer read and lots of back and forth with a bully-esque vibe. If you're looking for faster pacing, multiple twists or a quicker conclusion, this one may not be the book for you.
*****
Thank you to The Author Agency for the digital ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
*****
This started out as a pretty interesting book, with steady pacing and entertaining banter. Unfortunately, the length of this book outdid the potential for it to be a more engaging read. A lot of the smaller scenes and back and forth that didn't progress the storyline could have been reduced in order to have a slightly more palatable length book for a bodyguard romance. It takes just over half of the almost 700 page long book for Ever and Crue to finally succumb to their feelings, yet as with everything else, they continue to push and pull. The entire book up until the last 5% is them being vulnerable and then shoving the other away with lies, horrible behaviour, and half truths. While the scenes were great, and interesting, they were very circular in plot. They open up, reveal some truths, and then Ever does something or reacts to something to ruin whatever they had and goes for the throat in the most devastating way that she can. It did keep my interest in how the book progressed, but it also started to make the pace drag as we weren't getting any answers.
I also struggled with the constant dropping of information that could have been revealed or easily corrected sooner. We hear about Crue assuming 3 years of bodyguarding, yet no one ever corrects him, and it's brought up a lot, despite the reader knowing from the get-go that he's wrong. Then we are constantly hinted at Ever's entire life and freedom as she knows it being over, but we only finally get a peek as to potentially why at 80%, and actual confirmation after 97%. Through that entire process she's so breathtakingly cruel to Crue, that I find it hard to want to wish for her redemption, and for them to sort their lives out, until right at the very end of the novel.
I also struggled to get behind Crue being in his 20's and existing in the world as we know it, but knowing close to nothing about reproductive health to an embarrassing degree. He's been with other women and never considered educating himself about anything until Ever, which feels like an odd plot point to include amongst everything else. I did find his interest in her passions to be sweet, but the way it was tied into an incredibly rushed ending was very corny and unbelievable. From the final confrontation scene, to them moving forward in their lives was a flash in the pan compared to how drawn out everything else was in the books. Also the double cupie at the end? Not the finish I would have expected, and kind of flopped the ending.
Otherwise, this was a good book if you want a longer read and lots of back and forth with a bully-esque vibe. If you're looking for faster pacing, multiple twists or a quicker conclusion, this one may not be the book for you.
*****
Thank you to The Author Agency for the digital ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 24, 2025
Hide and Keep is an enemies to lovers, slow burn romance that follows the story of Ever Munreaux, the daughter of the very wealthy owner of Munreaux Motorcycles and Crue Brantley, the man he hires to be her bodyguard.
The problem is, the pair couldn’t be any more different! Ever is a very pretty, wealthy, popular, college cheerleader that looks like she has it all, but can be quite cruel. Crue on the other hand is everything she’s not, he’s not had the best start to life after a tragic accident, ends up moving from job to job to make ends meet and has very little wealth. After Crue meets Ever for what he believes is the first time he can tell she’s not going to make his life easy but he’s determined to see it through regardless of how she treats him.
From the very start the pair continuously clash and spend their time throwing insults left, right and centre at each other but Crue is still very eager to do what he can to protect her and soon starts to see a side to Ever she’s been trying her hardest to hide.
I really struggled to like Ever’s character throughout most of this book, I know a lot of the way she acted was her way of trying to push Crue away from a life she didn’t really want to be part of and at times we got to see the guilt she felt, but I thought it was all just a little bit too much and I found her pretty annoying.
Crue’s character was more likeable for me, he had such a sweet side to him. Even though Ever was a complete and utter brat towards him most of the time, he was still able to see her for who she actually was and was so determined to be the protector she needed. I was pleased when their relationship eventually moved onto the next level, the way they couldn’t keep their hands off each other showed the chemistry that had been there from the start and I think the spice that accompanied it was written very well.
The book was also pretty lengthy, even though I did enjoy quite a bit of the story and found some parts pretty amusing, I did find myself skimming some of the pages at times to try and avoid the parts that I thought were beginning to drag. As it neared the end some bits felt a bit rushed and not so easy to believe.
I did like this book and I’m very sure others will too, it just didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
The problem is, the pair couldn’t be any more different! Ever is a very pretty, wealthy, popular, college cheerleader that looks like she has it all, but can be quite cruel. Crue on the other hand is everything she’s not, he’s not had the best start to life after a tragic accident, ends up moving from job to job to make ends meet and has very little wealth. After Crue meets Ever for what he believes is the first time he can tell she’s not going to make his life easy but he’s determined to see it through regardless of how she treats him.
From the very start the pair continuously clash and spend their time throwing insults left, right and centre at each other but Crue is still very eager to do what he can to protect her and soon starts to see a side to Ever she’s been trying her hardest to hide.
I really struggled to like Ever’s character throughout most of this book, I know a lot of the way she acted was her way of trying to push Crue away from a life she didn’t really want to be part of and at times we got to see the guilt she felt, but I thought it was all just a little bit too much and I found her pretty annoying.
Crue’s character was more likeable for me, he had such a sweet side to him. Even though Ever was a complete and utter brat towards him most of the time, he was still able to see her for who she actually was and was so determined to be the protector she needed. I was pleased when their relationship eventually moved onto the next level, the way they couldn’t keep their hands off each other showed the chemistry that had been there from the start and I think the spice that accompanied it was written very well.
The book was also pretty lengthy, even though I did enjoy quite a bit of the story and found some parts pretty amusing, I did find myself skimming some of the pages at times to try and avoid the parts that I thought were beginning to drag. As it neared the end some bits felt a bit rushed and not so easy to believe.
I did like this book and I’m very sure others will too, it just didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
February 19, 2025
I don't have a lot of patience for bratty FMCs and Ever is one of the brattiest ever written and completely unlikable. Add to that MMC Crue who is kind of a dingus and I found myself hoping this wouldn't be an HEA and they would both jump off the cliff on Ever's property in a double suicide. I know, it's dark, but that's how annoying they were for me.
The book was long, but it actually read really quickly thanks to the author's writing style. I only felt the pace slow just past the halfway mark, otherwise it moved really well. Spice didn't happen until that point also, but when it did start it was a 3.5 out of 5.
I was confused at how little Crue knew about female anatomy. I get that he was pretty sheltered due to his accident, but it still struck me as odd. Also, how was he hired as a bodyguard but had to literally Google "how to be a bodyguard." Seems like Ever's father had the resources to hire the best of the best, not some young guy with little to no experience.
Also, is Hide and Keep at real thing in CT? Now I need to look that up. Ha.
**SPOILERS BELOW THIS POINT**
I had A LOT of issues with the end of this book. I find it hard to believe that Ever's dad just let her go in the end and didn't sue Crue for breach of contract to, at the very least, get the million dollars back. I also find it hard to believe that he wasn't able to put two and two together and figure out where she ran off to when she was staying with Crue's family.
Crue joining cheer as a base...what? Like he's just all of a sudden as good as these people who have been doing this their whole lives? And he's the only one allowed to touch Ever - flyers have multiple people touching them during stunts. It came off a bit trite.
I noted this above, but Ever's behavior through the bulk of this book was just SO CRINGE. To the point that even when she finally let her walls down, she was beyond redemption for me. I didn't want a win for her and Crue was going to be collateral damage as far as I'm concerned.
The book was long, but it actually read really quickly thanks to the author's writing style. I only felt the pace slow just past the halfway mark, otherwise it moved really well. Spice didn't happen until that point also, but when it did start it was a 3.5 out of 5.
I was confused at how little Crue knew about female anatomy. I get that he was pretty sheltered due to his accident, but it still struck me as odd. Also, how was he hired as a bodyguard but had to literally Google "how to be a bodyguard." Seems like Ever's father had the resources to hire the best of the best, not some young guy with little to no experience.
Also, is Hide and Keep at real thing in CT? Now I need to look that up. Ha.
**SPOILERS BELOW THIS POINT**
I had A LOT of issues with the end of this book. I find it hard to believe that Ever's dad just let her go in the end and didn't sue Crue for breach of contract to, at the very least, get the million dollars back. I also find it hard to believe that he wasn't able to put two and two together and figure out where she ran off to when she was staying with Crue's family.
Crue joining cheer as a base...what? Like he's just all of a sudden as good as these people who have been doing this their whole lives? And he's the only one allowed to touch Ever - flyers have multiple people touching them during stunts. It came off a bit trite.
I noted this above, but Ever's behavior through the bulk of this book was just SO CRINGE. To the point that even when she finally let her walls down, she was beyond redemption for me. I didn't want a win for her and Crue was going to be collateral damage as far as I'm concerned.
February 20, 2025
Ever and Crue’s story certainly packs an emotional punch. Right from their first meeting there is mutual attraction and an undefinable connection, though their time together was cut short. Their next meeting serves to pit them against each other, attraction and connection forgotten or buried. She is the spoiled, wealthy heiress, and he is the man who agreed to be her bodyguard for the next three years. At first he only sees the spoiled tantrums, the meanness and uncaring attitude because she is trying to force him into quitting. The battle of wills between is, at times, very entertaining and rather intense. Crue eventually sees another side of Ever, the side that yearns to be free from her fathers control, to be shown some affection, to be out of the spotlight and to be allowed to follow her own interests instead of being used as a pawn by her father for the sake of business. Soon, they are both very aware of the intense chemistry between them, the pull toward each other and fighting their desires. They are no longer adversaries, but their feelings go deeper than friendship, something her father can never know. He has arranged for his daughter to marry a man who sees women as possessions or toys, and who doesn’t mind forcefully taking what he wants. Crue will do anything to keep Ever safe, even if he loses everything else. She makes him feel worthy of her love, despite his painful past and what others may think, and he does the same for her. They are both willing to fight for their love and to be together.
I loved their blazing hot chemistry, the initial battle of wills, the snark and the gradual realization that it wasn’t hate they felt for each other. Then there are their intimate moments together. The conversations, then the flirting , dirty talk and passion between them……captivating and insightful. The secrets between them, the twists in their story and the suspenseful moments make this book even more enjoyable.
I wholeheartedly recommend this fascinating and compelling book.
I loved their blazing hot chemistry, the initial battle of wills, the snark and the gradual realization that it wasn’t hate they felt for each other. Then there are their intimate moments together. The conversations, then the flirting , dirty talk and passion between them……captivating and insightful. The secrets between them, the twists in their story and the suspenseful moments make this book even more enjoyable.
I wholeheartedly recommend this fascinating and compelling book.
August 22, 2026
I was kicking my feet reading this book.
I loved the hidden identity trope. I wanted him to figure it out SO BAD. I was half expecting Eighmey to let it slip that Ever was his butterfly so that there could be a "they both know but don't know that the other knows" plot line, but I still really liked how they did the reveal.
Crue was so perfectly written. He was so kind and thoughtful - except for the times that he'd lose his head over Ever being petty. But even then, when he was calling Ever names and telling her to fuck off, he'd do it while taking her painful shoes off or learning cheer stunts so that she could fly or putting himself in between her and her dad. He was just constantly taking care of her while she bitched at him. He was effortlessly sweet to her.
You're my flyer. You're who I'm doing this for and you're the only one I'm gonna do this for.
Ever was mean as fuck LOL. She was actually so infuriating because, as you read her POVs, you find out she's completely enamored with Crue but continues her efforts to make him hate her and keep him at arm's length as a form of self preservation. Like, girl PLEASE show him you love him already. The slow burn KILLED me. I started thinking they'd never kiss. AND HER POSSESSIVENESS? She's so crazy, and I ate it the fuck up.
I did get a little bored towards the end because it almost felt like Ever wasn't going to be happy unless Crue had money, but then I realized she was just drowning in the guilt of feeling like a burden to Crue. But then Loved it.
I loved the hidden identity trope. I wanted him to figure it out SO BAD. I was half expecting Eighmey to let it slip that Ever was his butterfly so that there could be a "they both know but don't know that the other knows" plot line, but I still really liked how they did the reveal.
Crue was so perfectly written. He was so kind and thoughtful - except for the times that he'd lose his head over Ever being petty. But even then, when he was calling Ever names and telling her to fuck off, he'd do it while taking her painful shoes off or learning cheer stunts so that she could fly or putting himself in between her and her dad. He was just constantly taking care of her while she bitched at him. He was effortlessly sweet to her.
You're my flyer. You're who I'm doing this for and you're the only one I'm gonna do this for.
Ever was mean as fuck LOL. She was actually so infuriating because, as you read her POVs, you find out she's completely enamored with Crue but continues her efforts to make him hate her and keep him at arm's length as a form of self preservation. Like, girl PLEASE show him you love him already. The slow burn KILLED me. I started thinking they'd never kiss. AND HER POSSESSIVENESS? She's so crazy, and I ate it the fuck up.
I did get a little bored towards the end because it almost felt like Ever wasn't going to be happy unless Crue had money, but then I realized she was just drowning in the guilt of feeling like a burden to Crue. But then Loved it.
February 20, 2025
First and foremost thank you A. Marie for reaching out to me to ARC read this book! I devoured every inch of this book!
🧡 Age Gap
🖤 Nicknames
🦋 Bodyguard MMC x Rich Cheerleader FMC
🧡 Hidden Identity
🖤 Romantic Suspense
🦋 Different Worlds
🧡 Emotional (and literal) Scars
🖤 Forced Proximity
🦋 Hilarious Banter
🧡 HEA
So I had tears in my eyes and was sucked in since the dedication 😂
This was my first A. Marie book, and it did not disappoint one bit. She did a beautiful job captivating both Ever and Crue. Not just the two as characters but laying out their past and future traumas. This was a long read, but honestly it didn’t feel like it. It was a WILD RIDE from cover to cover!
Ever is our FMC who is rich college girly who rebelling against her father who is a total jacka$$.
Crue is our MMC bodyguard who was hired by Ever’s dad to keep her in line and out of trouble.
What kept me alive the whole time was Crue and Ever’s tension and BANTER! Omg the banter was PHENOMENAL. I was dying laughing at everything they pulled on each other.
Ever is very high strung and gave Crue a run for his money! But she is completely misunderstood by all. She’s always putting up an act. No one has ever taken the time to get the know the true Ever…
But let me tell you Crue (my man) 🤤 That man has a hunger I’ve never seen 🤭🙊
You have to be kidding me with how sweet and caring he is! Trust me if I was him I probably would’ve quit after day one 😂 so I give he some much props to holding his own!
The spice was SPICIN 🥵🌶️ Crue knows how to take care of a lady *fans self*
🧡 Age Gap
🖤 Nicknames
🦋 Bodyguard MMC x Rich Cheerleader FMC
🧡 Hidden Identity
🖤 Romantic Suspense
🦋 Different Worlds
🧡 Emotional (and literal) Scars
🖤 Forced Proximity
🦋 Hilarious Banter
🧡 HEA
So I had tears in my eyes and was sucked in since the dedication 😂
This was my first A. Marie book, and it did not disappoint one bit. She did a beautiful job captivating both Ever and Crue. Not just the two as characters but laying out their past and future traumas. This was a long read, but honestly it didn’t feel like it. It was a WILD RIDE from cover to cover!
Ever is our FMC who is rich college girly who rebelling against her father who is a total jacka$$.
Crue is our MMC bodyguard who was hired by Ever’s dad to keep her in line and out of trouble.
What kept me alive the whole time was Crue and Ever’s tension and BANTER! Omg the banter was PHENOMENAL. I was dying laughing at everything they pulled on each other.
Ever is very high strung and gave Crue a run for his money! But she is completely misunderstood by all. She’s always putting up an act. No one has ever taken the time to get the know the true Ever…
But let me tell you Crue (my man) 🤤 That man has a hunger I’ve never seen 🤭🙊
You have to be kidding me with how sweet and caring he is! Trust me if I was him I probably would’ve quit after day one 😂 so I give he some much props to holding his own!
The spice was SPICIN 🥵🌶️ Crue knows how to take care of a lady *fans self*
August 6, 2026
4.25 stars
Spoiled Brat X The Bodyguard romance. Enemies-to-lovers. ELITE Tension. Witty Banter. Off-the-charts spice. What else does a girl even want??
This book was sooo sooo good. As already mentioned, the tension was SO palpable; I was getting butterflies. And they did NOT hold back with the insults. They went for each other's throats. And Crue genuinely hated her. He didn't go "I hate her. She's got a nice ass though." And the transition from "brat" to "my little bat" was YUM.
Also, the chemistry between them?? ADORABLE. Ever and Crue both loved SO hard.
I also felt so bad for Ever because she genuinely didn't believe she deserved good things, and she was willing to sacrifice everything for Crue. TWICE. But damn if he didn't bring her back BOTH the times. (I love them so much)
I also think I loved the book because the author was a feminist at their core. I didn't see a single scene where a woman was treated inferior. And I saw Crue progress from "Cheerleading is not a sport. It's just boobs and skirts and pom-poms." To "Cheer is a sport. A really hard one at that"
It was a long book, but every second was worth it.
I’m lucky enough that Ever Munreaux’s the sun, but if she were the moon, I’d become nocturnal just to gaze at her every night.
Spoiled Brat X The Bodyguard romance. Enemies-to-lovers. ELITE Tension. Witty Banter. Off-the-charts spice. What else does a girl even want??
"It's a shame."
"What?"
"That you'll never get to see me hard."
"Because you're impotent?"
"Only around you."
This book was sooo sooo good. As already mentioned, the tension was SO palpable; I was getting butterflies. And they did NOT hold back with the insults. They went for each other's throats. And Crue genuinely hated her. He didn't go "I hate her. She's got a nice ass though." And the transition from "brat" to "my little bat" was YUM.
Also, the chemistry between them?? ADORABLE. Ever and Crue both loved SO hard.
I also felt so bad for Ever because she genuinely didn't believe she deserved good things, and she was willing to sacrifice everything for Crue. TWICE. But damn if he didn't bring her back BOTH the times. (I love them so much)
What’s the biggest threat to a patriarchal society? Empowered women.
I also think I loved the book because the author was a feminist at their core. I didn't see a single scene where a woman was treated inferior. And I saw Crue progress from "Cheerleading is not a sport. It's just boobs and skirts and pom-poms." To "Cheer is a sport. A really hard one at that"
It was a long book, but every second was worth it.
February 14, 2025
Spice 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
The love hate chemistry Ever and Crue have is top tier. I mean it is out of this world good. I loved their banter, and the angst. Crue was everything. The way he loves is the most beautiful thing in the world. I have never read a more complex and emotionally deep character than Ever. On the outside she is this “cheerleader” and a princess that seems to have it all. She seems like a shallow rich bitch, but she is so much more than that. She is actually nothing like her outside appearance. She enjoys things like crystals, and tarot, and butterflies and bats. Her POV was a joy to read, her transformation was astounding. She’s caring, passionate, selfless, and protective. She might be one of the most jealous and possessive FMC’s I have read. These two are so selfless, especially when it comes to each other, it almost becomes a problem. The author was descriptive enough that at times, I really felt like I was in the story. The way the author touches on trauma that Crue had was so good, and it made me so happy that it was discussed. I loved every single thing about this story. The characters were rich and complex, the environment was filled with detail, the story was heart breaking and beautiful…I loved it. This is a book I will not soon forget about and the characters will not soon be forgotten either.
The love hate chemistry Ever and Crue have is top tier. I mean it is out of this world good. I loved their banter, and the angst. Crue was everything. The way he loves is the most beautiful thing in the world. I have never read a more complex and emotionally deep character than Ever. On the outside she is this “cheerleader” and a princess that seems to have it all. She seems like a shallow rich bitch, but she is so much more than that. She is actually nothing like her outside appearance. She enjoys things like crystals, and tarot, and butterflies and bats. Her POV was a joy to read, her transformation was astounding. She’s caring, passionate, selfless, and protective. She might be one of the most jealous and possessive FMC’s I have read. These two are so selfless, especially when it comes to each other, it almost becomes a problem. The author was descriptive enough that at times, I really felt like I was in the story. The way the author touches on trauma that Crue had was so good, and it made me so happy that it was discussed. I loved every single thing about this story. The characters were rich and complex, the environment was filled with detail, the story was heart breaking and beautiful…I loved it. This is a book I will not soon forget about and the characters will not soon be forgotten either.
February 18, 2025
🔥 HIDE & KEEP – A. Marie 🔥
💔 She’s everything he hates.
🔥 He’s everything she craves.
💀 But secrets this deep don’t stay hidden forever…
Ever Munreaux is rich, beautiful, and untouchable—a cheerleader with a cruel streak and a life of luxury. Crue Brantley? He’s her exact opposite. A guy from the wrong side of the tracks, fiercely protective, and now? Her bodyguard.
Forced to live together under the same roof, they clash at every turn. But beneath the fiery insults and sharp glares, there’s something even more dangerous brewing…
💥 The problem? Ever isn’t who she seems.
💀 The bigger problem? Crue doesn’t just want to protect her—he wants to break every rule to keep her.
🖤 Why You’ll Be OBSESSED:
🔥 Enemies-to-lovers tension that BURNS
🎭 A heroine hiding dark secrets
🛡️ A hero who will fight for her at all costs
🎓 Dark academia + college sports vibes
💋 Slow-burn romance with all the angst
💣 Bodyguard + forbidden love = explosive chemistry
📖 If you love high-stakes passion, sizzling tension, and the kind of love that consumes—this book is your next obsession.
Drop a 🖤🔥 if you’re ready to move in with your enemy and fall for the one person you were never supposed to want.
#HideAndKeep #AMarie #EnemiesToLovers #BodyguardRomance #DarkAcademia #CollegeRomance #SportsRomance #AngstyReads #ForbiddenLove #SpicyBooks #Bookstagram #BookTok
💔 She’s everything he hates.
🔥 He’s everything she craves.
💀 But secrets this deep don’t stay hidden forever…
Ever Munreaux is rich, beautiful, and untouchable—a cheerleader with a cruel streak and a life of luxury. Crue Brantley? He’s her exact opposite. A guy from the wrong side of the tracks, fiercely protective, and now? Her bodyguard.
Forced to live together under the same roof, they clash at every turn. But beneath the fiery insults and sharp glares, there’s something even more dangerous brewing…
💥 The problem? Ever isn’t who she seems.
💀 The bigger problem? Crue doesn’t just want to protect her—he wants to break every rule to keep her.
🖤 Why You’ll Be OBSESSED:
🔥 Enemies-to-lovers tension that BURNS
🎭 A heroine hiding dark secrets
🛡️ A hero who will fight for her at all costs
🎓 Dark academia + college sports vibes
💋 Slow-burn romance with all the angst
💣 Bodyguard + forbidden love = explosive chemistry
📖 If you love high-stakes passion, sizzling tension, and the kind of love that consumes—this book is your next obsession.
Drop a 🖤🔥 if you’re ready to move in with your enemy and fall for the one person you were never supposed to want.
#HideAndKeep #AMarie #EnemiesToLovers #BodyguardRomance #DarkAcademia #CollegeRomance #SportsRomance #AngstyReads #ForbiddenLove #SpicyBooks #Bookstagram #BookTok
September 10, 2025
As far as enemies to lovers go, this one did it's job and then some. There is a lot of hatred, volatility, and rudeness, and at times I was cringing for the pair of them. Their edgy banter continuously built and destroyed the tension between them as the MMC tried to serve as good as he got from the cold-hearted FMC, and I admit I ate it up! I loved to hate the FMC, she was truly awful to the MMC for the first half of the book (for plot reasons, and with good intentions). And once the MMC gave in to figuring out her dynamic, he was all-in, which just charmed me through and through. I thought it was well written, pacing was excellent, and the action could be unpredictable. The characters were multi-faceted, especially the FMC who comes off as a real piece of work, but is fighting tooth-and-nail against being a product of her circumstances. Give her a chance, she's 19 and struggling against the absolute control she's under. I agree with some other reviewers that the MMC comes off a little more clueless and gullible at times than he needed to. Otherwise, I loved to see how hard he fought for her. Happy ending was happier than I expected, kudos to the author for tying the story up into a neat package without being overly trite or fanciful. I prefer blue collar MMCs stay blue collar, but I get why this one needed a boost.
February 17, 2025
All the good feels on this one! First, this book is BIG - check that page count before you start and block out your calendar accordingly.
I found both main characters to thankfully be really likeable. They were so alike in many ways - both hiding who they really are and self sacrificing. A few times I may have wanted to choke Ever myself though. And honestly there were some spots that I felt Crue missed some things he should have picked up on. Love that they both got growly and touch him/her and die vibes.
Overall the story is an easy read as it flows really well. The character development was topnotch and you get the whole backstory. I felt like I really knew who Crue and Ever were, and could predict a few of Ever's dumber decisions towards the end.
While some of the basic tropes are presented (rich girl with daddy issues and boy from the wrong side of the tracks) I was thankful there wasn't detailed abuse. The trigger warnings on this one should be pretty light, which was a nice change. There are definitely some spicy scenes though, so buckle up for that, but it didn't feel over used or misplaced either.
I found both main characters to thankfully be really likeable. They were so alike in many ways - both hiding who they really are and self sacrificing. A few times I may have wanted to choke Ever myself though. And honestly there were some spots that I felt Crue missed some things he should have picked up on. Love that they both got growly and touch him/her and die vibes.
Overall the story is an easy read as it flows really well. The character development was topnotch and you get the whole backstory. I felt like I really knew who Crue and Ever were, and could predict a few of Ever's dumber decisions towards the end.
While some of the basic tropes are presented (rich girl with daddy issues and boy from the wrong side of the tracks) I was thankful there wasn't detailed abuse. The trigger warnings on this one should be pretty light, which was a nice change. There are definitely some spicy scenes though, so buckle up for that, but it didn't feel over used or misplaced either.
September 19, 2025
It was good, but it could have been so much better.
- The MMC is drool worthy, and I love his attitude towards learning and caring for the FMC. However, sometimes it was too much or when the care he could provide was extremely obvious there was no reaction on anyone’s part. It also felt like the author was trying too hard? Like we love attentive men and men who are willing to learn, but tone it down? He doesn’t have to be every stereotype in one.
-The FMC is a lot. I get the character and even respect her, but she also did the most?? I know she’s a child, has serious daddy issues, trust issues, etc. but she took shit way too far.. often.
- The banter starts out cute enough, but it annoys after a while. It’d be nice if there was apparent growth, but it’s truly just childish the entire time.
-A lot of the scenes feel VERY unfinished to me. For the book to have 582 pages I expected this book to be more developed.
- The MMC is drool worthy, and I love his attitude towards learning and caring for the FMC. However, sometimes it was too much or when the care he could provide was extremely obvious there was no reaction on anyone’s part. It also felt like the author was trying too hard? Like we love attentive men and men who are willing to learn, but tone it down? He doesn’t have to be every stereotype in one.
-The FMC is a lot. I get the character and even respect her, but she also did the most?? I know she’s a child, has serious daddy issues, trust issues, etc. but she took shit way too far.. often.
- The banter starts out cute enough, but it annoys after a while. It’d be nice if there was apparent growth, but it’s truly just childish the entire time.
-A lot of the scenes feel VERY unfinished to me. For the book to have 582 pages I expected this book to be more developed.
February 20, 2025
I loved Crue and Ever! They were spectacular together and such a swoon-worthy duo. The story was a delectable slow burn with lots witty banter and loads of sexual tension.
I loved all the things that ran through Crue's head. He was hilarious and oh so sweet. He had such puppy dog energy while also not being afraid to bite. He had such a cute awkward way about him too, especially around Ever.
Ever was such a fun character. She was total black bat energy and I loved her for it. She was snarky and quick witted all while trying to hide her pain.
I really, really enjoyed this story!! I loved the characters and their undeniable chemistry. I thought it was well written and flowed nicely. It had my attention from start to finish and was just really happy while reading it. I would definitely recommend it!!
I loved all the things that ran through Crue's head. He was hilarious and oh so sweet. He had such puppy dog energy while also not being afraid to bite. He had such a cute awkward way about him too, especially around Ever.
Ever was such a fun character. She was total black bat energy and I loved her for it. She was snarky and quick witted all while trying to hide her pain.
I really, really enjoyed this story!! I loved the characters and their undeniable chemistry. I thought it was well written and flowed nicely. It had my attention from start to finish and was just really happy while reading it. I would definitely recommend it!!
February 20, 2025
In “Rise and Shine,” she’s the red flag. I really felt for Crue from all the things she put him through. Now, let me preface that she’s 19. First-year students in college. A cheerleader. A wealthy daughter of a motorcycle fortune. And he’s been hired as her bodyguard. I’m sure, intentionally written, her actions were very immature. However, the story eventually evolves to explain why she does what she does.
Hide and Seek is a hefty book and very much a slow burn. A good portion of the story is the push-and-pull between Crue and Ever. Readers will find that all of that brattiness coming from Ever and stuffiness coming from Crue is disguised with love. The steamy scenes do kick in later and are good. I was surprised towards the end and was relieved at the same time by Crue’s actions. Overall, I was entertained.
Hide and Seek is a hefty book and very much a slow burn. A good portion of the story is the push-and-pull between Crue and Ever. Readers will find that all of that brattiness coming from Ever and stuffiness coming from Crue is disguised with love. The steamy scenes do kick in later and are good. I was surprised towards the end and was relieved at the same time by Crue’s actions. Overall, I was entertained.
February 18, 2025
DNF at 30-40% - Normally I wouldn't even say I DNF'd or reviewed this, but I feel bad because the writing is not bad. It's the storyline, the FMC, and the length.
The FMC's antics were over the top, immature and annoying. For being 19, she acted worse than my 14 year old EVER would and I couldn't get past that. At 40% I thought we would have gotten somewhere, but it was the same....her trying to run away and pull pranks on him. I really tried to keep reading but I was too annoyed. He was way too good for her. I can't believe this is almost 700 pages. I get she didn't want to be controlled by her father.....but all she did was prove what an immature little girl she is who needs more than just to be loved to grow up emotionally.
The FMC's antics were over the top, immature and annoying. For being 19, she acted worse than my 14 year old EVER would and I couldn't get past that. At 40% I thought we would have gotten somewhere, but it was the same....her trying to run away and pull pranks on him. I really tried to keep reading but I was too annoyed. He was way too good for her. I can't believe this is almost 700 pages. I get she didn't want to be controlled by her father.....but all she did was prove what an immature little girl she is who needs more than just to be loved to grow up emotionally.
March 18, 2026
What a roller coaster 👏🏽👏🏽💕💕💕
I usually dislike long books, but I ate this up in less than 24 hourssssss 😆😆
Crue and Ever raised my standards to the skyyyyy🥹🥹 they were so good for eachother, even when Ever messed up (pissed me off at times) I still understood her perspective and why she did what she did. Crue kept loving her unconditionally from beginning to end and my heart was so filled and my lips were smiling every 5 mins.
Loved this book so much with its ups and downs, had me hooked even though this isn’t the type of book I’d typically enjoy, but broadening my horizons was a good change.
I hope they live the rest of their lives free of others tainted ways with their kids and small(huge) dog!!! 💕💕💕 MY BABIES😣😣😣💔💕💕💕
I usually dislike long books, but I ate this up in less than 24 hourssssss 😆😆
Crue and Ever raised my standards to the skyyyyy🥹🥹 they were so good for eachother, even when Ever messed up (pissed me off at times) I still understood her perspective and why she did what she did. Crue kept loving her unconditionally from beginning to end and my heart was so filled and my lips were smiling every 5 mins.
Loved this book so much with its ups and downs, had me hooked even though this isn’t the type of book I’d typically enjoy, but broadening my horizons was a good change.
I hope they live the rest of their lives free of others tainted ways with their kids and small(huge) dog!!! 💕💕💕 MY BABIES😣😣😣💔💕💕💕
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