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Mine To Protect
Becca
For years, I had been searching for a home that is truly mine. When I bought a dilapidated house in our quaint town, Axel, the town's notorious grump, stepped in without hesitation. He offered his expertise and a bond I didn't expect. As we navigated the renovations together, that bond deepened into a love I never saw coming. Our happiness was rocked when a man with a sinister agenda targeted me for taking something of his.
Axel
When she asked for help with an old house, I never expected it would lead to so much more. But beneath the newfound love, shadows lurked. Someone was determined to take something from her. With each new threat, I found myself not only fighting to safeguard her home but also guarding the love blossoming between us. I would stop at nothing to protect what is mine.
For years, I had been searching for a home that is truly mine. When I bought a dilapidated house in our quaint town, Axel, the town's notorious grump, stepped in without hesitation. He offered his expertise and a bond I didn't expect. As we navigated the renovations together, that bond deepened into a love I never saw coming. Our happiness was rocked when a man with a sinister agenda targeted me for taking something of his.
Axel
When she asked for help with an old house, I never expected it would lead to so much more. But beneath the newfound love, shadows lurked. Someone was determined to take something from her. With each new threat, I found myself not only fighting to safeguard her home but also guarding the love blossoming between us. I would stop at nothing to protect what is mine.
351 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 30, 2024
111 people are currently reading
331 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
November 7, 2024
Cute story, very predictable, good spice, not very realistic. Also lots of errors - needs better editing.
January 19, 2025
This debut novel was an absolute delight! Julia Eichenlaub weaves a heartfelt story about Becca, an independent woman searching for a place to call her own, and Axel, the grumpy-but-swoon-worthy hardware store owner who can’t resist helping her rebuild her fixer-upper—and her life.
The book shines with cozy found-family vibes, a budding romance that had me rooting for them from the start, and just the right sprinkle of mystery and intrigue to keep the pages turning. Becca’s determination and Axel’s gruff yet tender care made their love story so satisfying to watch unfold. And let’s not forget the small-town charm—each character felt like they belonged to a community I’d love to visit.
If you love grumpy/sunshine pairings, cozy mysteries, and small-town romances, this book will warm your heart. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the next books in the series!
💕✨
The book shines with cozy found-family vibes, a budding romance that had me rooting for them from the start, and just the right sprinkle of mystery and intrigue to keep the pages turning. Becca’s determination and Axel’s gruff yet tender care made their love story so satisfying to watch unfold. And let’s not forget the small-town charm—each character felt like they belonged to a community I’d love to visit.
If you love grumpy/sunshine pairings, cozy mysteries, and small-town romances, this book will warm your heart. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the next books in the series!
💕✨
August 14, 2024
Love, Restoration, and Suspense.
In Mine To Protect, we follow Becca as she embarks on a journey of restoration, both of a dilapidated house and her own life. The chance encounter with Axel, the town's grumpy yet endearing character, sets off a chain of events that explores unspoken feelings, unexpected challenges, and the power of community.
What sets this book apart is its ability to capture the essence of small-town life with a touch of realism that resonates deeply with readers. The author's knack for portraying ordinary moments with extraordinary depth makes the narrative both relatable and captivating.
As Becca and Axel navigate the complexities of their budding relationship amidst the backdrop of restoration and mystery, the reader is drawn into a world filled with charm, suspense, and heartfelt moments. The author's writing style, laced with humor and tenderness, creates a delightful reading experience that keeps you engaged till the very end.
While the storyline may follow some familiar tropes, the genuine emotions, well-developed characters, and clever banter make this book a delightful addition to the romantic suspense genre. With a promising display of talent and potential, the author leaves readers eager for more, showcasing a bright future ahead in the literary world.
In Mine To Protect, we follow Becca as she embarks on a journey of restoration, both of a dilapidated house and her own life. The chance encounter with Axel, the town's grumpy yet endearing character, sets off a chain of events that explores unspoken feelings, unexpected challenges, and the power of community.
What sets this book apart is its ability to capture the essence of small-town life with a touch of realism that resonates deeply with readers. The author's knack for portraying ordinary moments with extraordinary depth makes the narrative both relatable and captivating.
As Becca and Axel navigate the complexities of their budding relationship amidst the backdrop of restoration and mystery, the reader is drawn into a world filled with charm, suspense, and heartfelt moments. The author's writing style, laced with humor and tenderness, creates a delightful reading experience that keeps you engaged till the very end.
While the storyline may follow some familiar tropes, the genuine emotions, well-developed characters, and clever banter make this book a delightful addition to the romantic suspense genre. With a promising display of talent and potential, the author leaves readers eager for more, showcasing a bright future ahead in the literary world.
September 20, 2024
Never Judge a Book by its cover!
First I’d like to say that I’m one of those people who like to “raw dog” her books, meaning, I don’t read what the book is about before I read it. I took a look at the cover and thought “this looks like a very sweet, small town romance” and it was, yes it was, but it was also very spicy, and it had a touch of thrill. It was set on a small town, with a sunshine girl and a grumpy guy. Not a slow burn since they were mature enough to talk their intentions from almost the beginning but the thrilling part was a bit of a slow burn and not disappointing at all, I liked that, something different at last! I definitely loved the relationship she developed with his family since she tragically lost hers years ago. I’m sensing a second book coming and I’m totally here for it! The only trigger warning that I could tell was an assault towards the female character. Overall I give this a 5 stars because it surprised me to my core! Also a 3.5 on the spice level, that scene though… you’ll see! Thank you Julia Eichenlaub for sharing this baby with us!
First I’d like to say that I’m one of those people who like to “raw dog” her books, meaning, I don’t read what the book is about before I read it. I took a look at the cover and thought “this looks like a very sweet, small town romance” and it was, yes it was, but it was also very spicy, and it had a touch of thrill. It was set on a small town, with a sunshine girl and a grumpy guy. Not a slow burn since they were mature enough to talk their intentions from almost the beginning but the thrilling part was a bit of a slow burn and not disappointing at all, I liked that, something different at last! I definitely loved the relationship she developed with his family since she tragically lost hers years ago. I’m sensing a second book coming and I’m totally here for it! The only trigger warning that I could tell was an assault towards the female character. Overall I give this a 5 stars because it surprised me to my core! Also a 3.5 on the spice level, that scene though… you’ll see! Thank you Julia Eichenlaub for sharing this baby with us!
April 23, 2025
Becca has owned the local bookstore for a few years. Axel has been her customer. When she buys a fixer upper, he volunteers to help.
Editing could be better.
Editing could be better.
November 7, 2024
It was ok.. simple, surface level, read.
My only pet peeve is a book description not lining up with the story.
Book description
"When I bought a dilapidated house in our quaint town, Axel, ......stepped in without hesitation. He offered up his expertise and bond I didn't expect."
She literally relied on everyone but him until he begged her to depend on him.
FMC fell through her porch and hurt her ankle. MMC and his brother snuck over and started replacing the porch because he couldn't stand the thought of her getting hurt again. Of course, it pisses her off because it is her house and should have been her decision. He helps her clear out a room from all the trash and asks her to dinner. After dinner, they have a make-out session, and he leaves.
They texted all week, but when he showed up at the house, she had asked EVERYONE BUT HIM for help. She had MMCs brother, MMCs parents, someone elses grandsons, and her friend gut the drywall, demolish the bathroom, and remove the rest of the trash. She even hired out an electrician, and they had just shown up to start.
He confessed his feelings and basically begged her to depend on him.
My only pet peeve is a book description not lining up with the story.
Book description
"When I bought a dilapidated house in our quaint town, Axel, ......stepped in without hesitation. He offered up his expertise and bond I didn't expect."
She literally relied on everyone but him until he begged her to depend on him.
FMC fell through her porch and hurt her ankle. MMC and his brother snuck over and started replacing the porch because he couldn't stand the thought of her getting hurt again. Of course, it pisses her off because it is her house and should have been her decision. He helps her clear out a room from all the trash and asks her to dinner. After dinner, they have a make-out session, and he leaves.
They texted all week, but when he showed up at the house, she had asked EVERYONE BUT HIM for help. She had MMCs brother, MMCs parents, someone elses grandsons, and her friend gut the drywall, demolish the bathroom, and remove the rest of the trash. She even hired out an electrician, and they had just shown up to start.
He confessed his feelings and basically begged her to depend on him.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2024
The plot was good, the idea was there. Execution not so much. The language was so repetitive and didnt flow at all. I liked the characters but they seemed too perfect and ”in sync” for each other. The smut was really good but overall the book needs a lot of editing.
September 27, 2024
Mine to Protect is a small town romance novel by an Indie author. It didn’t take long for me to fall in love with the characters and the friend group that is made in this book! The book is told in two POVs. Becca-she owns a small used bookstore and is bubbly and Axel-town grump who works at the local hardware store. The story revolves around Becca and Axel finding love while dealing with a mysterious vandal. I think what I didn’t like the most was the stalker nature of Axel and later in the book his brother, Troy. I like both characters but they definitely raise red flags for some behaviors. That epilogue was super cute too!! I would recommend if you like romance or some spice!
September 19, 2025
This was a great debut romance novel overall. The spicy scenes were particularly well-written 🥵 and didn't distract from the rest of the story. She did a great job conveying the small town feel as well.
All the characters were likeable, and the author did a good job of developing their personalities and back stories. I am very curious to learn more about Justin and Troy, because there were some loose ends that the author intentionally (I think?) left untied with Justin's past, and there were some *ahem* questionable actions from Troy toward the very end of the book that left me with a different impression of him than I had at the beginning and middle of the story. I won't give details away; you'll just have to see for yourself. 😊
My only critical feedback is that the author needs a stronger copyeditor to help review her drafts before publication. There were several spelling and grammatical errors throughout the book that distracted from the storyline itself. I still plan to check out the 2nd installment because I liked the plot, and the character development left me wanting to know more about a few of them.
I know the author personally, and I know how much publishing her first book means to her. I am excited to see where she takes this series next!
All the characters were likeable, and the author did a good job of developing their personalities and back stories. I am very curious to learn more about Justin and Troy, because there were some loose ends that the author intentionally (I think?) left untied with Justin's past, and there were some *ahem* questionable actions from Troy toward the very end of the book that left me with a different impression of him than I had at the beginning and middle of the story. I won't give details away; you'll just have to see for yourself. 😊
My only critical feedback is that the author needs a stronger copyeditor to help review her drafts before publication. There were several spelling and grammatical errors throughout the book that distracted from the storyline itself. I still plan to check out the 2nd installment because I liked the plot, and the character development left me wanting to know more about a few of them.
I know the author personally, and I know how much publishing her first book means to her. I am excited to see where she takes this series next!
May 13, 2025
Julia Eichenlaub has a way of writing characters that feel so real—messy, intense, protective in the most unhinged yet beautiful way. This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster, and I didn’t want to get off.
The dynamic between the main characters is everything. It’s raw, obsessive, and deeply loyal. You feel their tension, their need for each other, and the way their broken pieces somehow fit together perfectly. It’s not your average small-town romance—it’s deeper, more intense, and filled with so much heart.
And yes… the spice? Absolutely delivered. It’s emotional, heated, and adds to the depth of their connection instead of just being there for the sake of it.
If you love a small-town romance with emotional tension, a fiercely protective love interest, and spice that hits just right, Mine to Protect is one you’ll fly through and think about long after.
The dynamic between the main characters is everything. It’s raw, obsessive, and deeply loyal. You feel their tension, their need for each other, and the way their broken pieces somehow fit together perfectly. It’s not your average small-town romance—it’s deeper, more intense, and filled with so much heart.
And yes… the spice? Absolutely delivered. It’s emotional, heated, and adds to the depth of their connection instead of just being there for the sake of it.
If you love a small-town romance with emotional tension, a fiercely protective love interest, and spice that hits just right, Mine to Protect is one you’ll fly through and think about long after.
October 17, 2024
F**K girl. This book slays all day every day. You don’t even want to know the kind of things this book does to me. I am not on social media or anything and frankly only on this app because an author I adore told me to review book so I try to I really so. I found her book at this store in MT and I follow her so like I saw she read this and so I read it and it looked like this saucy kitten needed some reviews so here it is. I know I suck at this. This book was cute and sexy. Get it.
November 14, 2024
This book was a really easy read and I was hooked from page 1. I found myself enthralled with connecting with the MC and enjoyed the suspense later in the book. I don’t want to give any spoilers, but this book has it all if you’re looking for a classic romance with a touch of suspense. Truly it was a lovely escape from day to day stress and I couldn’t put it down. Looking forward to the next book in this Author’s series!
March 14, 2025
This is a sweet, spicy small town romance. Contemporary romance isn't usually my favorite, but the little sprinkles of suspense in the plot kept me engaged throughout. I love a male main character who's grumpy on the outside and soft on the inside, and Axel definitely delivered on that front. Becca is a refreshing female main character, she's brave and capable and no one's damsel in distress. Definitely interested to see where the story goes from here!
November 14, 2024
Loved this book!
The author mixed thrill and chills very well! The plot and storyline was just as exciting as the spice! Which is great for my ADHD brain! I love a protective man with good communication and no BS. READ THIS BOOK!
The author mixed thrill and chills very well! The plot and storyline was just as exciting as the spice! Which is great for my ADHD brain! I love a protective man with good communication and no BS. READ THIS BOOK!
October 28, 2024
It was a good grumpy X sunshine and I’d be happy to read the next!
March 17, 2025
Spicy enough to make you blush but still sweet enough to make you kick your feet & giggle like a teenager. Loved it!
Read
June 1, 2025Cute, small town romance with he falls first (and hard), found family, and a suspense subplot. This was a quick read!
Read
July 31, 2025Not for me. Didn't finish it
August 26, 2025
This was cute! The writing wasn’t the best, but interested to see where the rest of the series goes.
January 11, 2025
Mine to Protect was a fun read that felt reminiscent of a Hallmark movie, infused with added spice and a touch of darkness. While I haven't explored many books featuring 'smut,' I found the content might come across as somewhat immature for the characters' ages. However, I acknowledge that I’m not an expert in this genre. Overall, if you're seeking a quick and entertaining read for a trip, this book is definitely worth considering!
December 10, 2024
Decent Smut, Obvious Storyline
The storyline was predictable but sweet. An easy read to cleanse the pallet between more intense books. The smut scenes were decent and full of praise.
The storyline was predictable but sweet. An easy read to cleanse the pallet between more intense books. The smut scenes were decent and full of praise.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews