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Mine to Protect is a friends to lovers, second chance at love, later in life romance between a single mother and the man she always secretly loved.

Ignoring David Black was one of the hardest things to do, but where I come from, family comes first. Now my husband was dead and there was no one else I trusted to protect me or my boys except my ex-best friend. Too bad we didn’t know what I needed protection from.

As the owner of Blackguard Security, it was my job to protect the people who hired me. But Kassandra Bennett was once my best friend. The one person I shared everything with. Protecting her and her children wasn’t just a job. It was personal. I would do anything to bring her closure about her husband’s suicide. Except every answer only brought more questions. Ones that weren’t easy to solve.

Can Kassandra and David trust those in their lives or was someone out to stab them in the back?

192 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 11, 2025

252 people are currently reading
47 people want to read

About the author

Elizabella Baker

79 books933 followers
Elizabella Baker has always dreamed of being a writer. As an avid book lover who has read thousands of books, she finally decided to pursue that dream and become a published author. She published her first book in January 2021.

Elizabella is a mother of two and a fan of all things romantic. She enjoys spending time with her family and making as many memories as she can.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
Profile Image for Julie Booklover.
2,108 reviews104 followers
February 11, 2025
4.5 stars

Introducing David Black. He is the founder of Blackguard Security. This is the book I have been building this series up to and hinted at in the previous book Overlooking the Past. I was not disappointed.

I was hooked from page one, the book is short enough to be read on an afternoon, and I did. Be prepared for secrets, danger, suspense, and drama. Kassandra and David had been friends, but her husband caused a rift between them. Well, he is now gone and left her and her boys with a bunch of trouble. She calls upon her friend to help.

Can David and his team help? Will old feelings resurface?

Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Profile Image for Stephanie Harkness.
187 reviews
January 30, 2025
David and Kassandra waited years for their HEA

And Elizabella Baker didn’t disappoint. By now, those of us who have read all her existing material know David Black. The stalwart founder of Blackguard Security.

In the last few books we learned more about his past, and the arrival of his adult daughter, Addison. While staying in New Mexico to get to know her better and form a strong bond with her, he gets a message from his high school best friend, Kassandra. She needs help after her husband dies and she finds out he was involved with some shady characters.

Kassandra is the one who apparently, got away. As we move through the story we find out many things that have been in the shadows regarding Mr. Black. I’m not giving away any spoilers, but Elizabella has written such amazing characters for this story.

Kassandra is super strong, a great mom, and has been holding her family together for years. She is raising two incredible boys who thankfully take after her and not their dad. She has also been in love with David since high school. When they come back together, they realize they have a chance at the happily ever after they deserve, as long as David and the team at Blackguard Security can unravel the mess Kassandra’s husband left behind when he died.

While not quite as high octane, fast and furious adventure as her other stories have been, this was the perfect pace and story for David and Kassandra. It just worked for two mature characters. Yes, there was danger and dastardly villains, yes, things explode and people get kidnapped, but it was such a setting as to make you wish you had a handsome protector in your past who has always looked out for you and always wanted to claim you as his own.

As always, Elizabella gives us a fantastic glimpse in to the world she creates, while leaving us begging for more! (I mean really, the ending??? Elizabella, why do you do this to us?!)

15/10 recommend!
Profile Image for Kelchickbooklover.
2,057 reviews67 followers
February 7, 2025
We finally get David Black's book and it is one that kept me on the edge of my seat. When I read the teaser in the previous book, Overlooking The Past, I knew this one was going to be a nail-biter. Ms. Baker keeps giving us books where I get pulled in and so engrossed that I lose all track of time.
Mine to Protect is book six in her Blackguard Seciruty series and is filled with suspense, danger, secrets and a love that has been hidden in the hearts of David and the one woman that he has loved as a friend, Kassandra. They were the best of friends but life and love say them or should I say, saw Kassandra break that friendship. Now that she and her sons are in danger, the only person she can rely on is David. When they are face to face, we see the instant attraction they have for one another but there are complications. The twists and turns that were thrown at us and me thinking about who could be involved but the outcome was not what I was expecting.
The love that they shared and the way that David would do anything for Kassandra and her two teen sons was beautiful. The connection David had with her sons and how they knew he was the right man for their mother had my heart all warm.
I can't wait to read the next book in this series after reading the epilogue at the end of this book regarding Graham.
737 reviews1 follower
February 2, 2025
Received as an ARC and leaving my honest review voluntarily. Have been looking forward to reading David Black's story and it did not disappoint! The story captured me from page 1 and ticked all the protective, sexy boxes of the enigmatic owner of Blackguard Security. Despite the years apart, the relationship between David and Kassandra from best friends to lovers transition was smooth and natural, given their history. Compared to the earlier books in the series, the pace is less intense and less high adventure, but it was the perfect pace and setting as they reconnect and learn more about each other all over again and to grow closer. I appreciated that both acted their age and knew what was at stake and what they wanted so there was no unnecessary drama, coyness and angst. David's natural protectiveness comes to the forefront when the woman he loves and her sons he has come to see as his, are threatened and he pulls out all the stops to keep them safe. The epilogue ending was just heartstopping and now I can't wait for the next book in this exciting series!
68 reviews1 follower
January 30, 2025
LOVE IT! With this book we are finally getting David Black's story. The FMC is Kassandra. He and Kassandra were best friends in high school. Kassandra's husband was a horrible person and banned her from talking to David despite the fact they all were friends at one point. At the start of the book Kassandra's husband dies and left her a lot of trouble, and in debt. They have 2 boys, and they are even in trouble. There was shady people after them all. Thankfully David Black was there to help them. There is a lot of craziness in this story, and An explosion, and we are reminded not everyone is whom they say they are. There is a lot of twists and turns, and I would say maybe it was a little less insane as her books usually are, but it was excellent otherwise. There is a cliff hanger at the end of the story, which is going to drive me nuts! Only negative to this story, but she writes books A LOT so hopefully we will get a continuation to this cliff hanger soon.
Profile Image for Jenn the Readaholic.
2,181 reviews72 followers
February 1, 2025
Is it a second chance at friendship? At what could’ve been? Or is it just two once-friends trying to find their way, only to drift apart again? This is actually sort of a wonderful way to mix it all together. They were friends. One had unrequited love. But still friendship above all. Until jealousy forced the hand of one, leaving the friendship to die. But when Kassandra needs help, David is there in a heartbeat because she was always the one he looked to in life. And he was always the one Kassandra wished would’ve just looked at her first.

This is somehow filled with twists and turns, deep conversations and spice, and the perfect segue into the next story of the series. Once the mystery of Kassandra’s dead husband’s dealings is solved, a special team is off to unravel the next ball of danger. But it seems that some danger is closer than ever anticipated, and I can’t wait to find out how this all goes!
Profile Image for love2read.
84 reviews
February 6, 2025
I have been eagerly waiting for David Black's story and Ms. Baker did not disappoint. I absolutely loved this book.  As the owner of Blackguard Security David has been quite the enigma throughout this series. In this book we get to know and understand his character. How he was missing his best friend Kassandra, never knowing why she abandoned their friendship. I loved how David was always there watching over her from the shadows. If friends to lover's stories with mystery and suspense are your jam, jump on this one because you’ll love it. On a side note, among the other members of Blackguard Security, we are introduced to Rhett in this story.  For those who have read the Charlie Team series, he is Zack's brother (Zack's Redemption). Oh, how I love the co-mingling of characters throughout these stories!
Profile Image for Marie.
5,179 reviews52 followers
February 25, 2025
Black finally gets his woman

And what a woman she is!
They should always have been together but self absorbed people consumed by greed cost them everything. Now 30 years later Kassandra finally calls, David returns to help her and they get their second chance. I love David and Kassandra, but I love Mikey and Nate more, I am sad that they had such an ass for a father, but it is so beautiful to see the joy and love they have for their mum and for her future happiness. They have been forced to grow up too soon, but they are already protectors, are a credit to Kassandra and will be awesome guys with David and Cobra team to look up to as they transition into adulthood.
I love the Blackguard series and cannot wait for Graham's book, he is one of the most broken of Cobra Team, due to his vile ex, but under his scars and his shields he has the biggest heart.
I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
Profile Image for Jenn O'Leary.
1,019 reviews22 followers
February 3, 2025
Mine to Protect was such a great read.
David & Kassandra had been best friends since middle school. Until Kassandra is forced to choose her husband and growing family over her best friend.
David now owns and runs Blackguard Security. And when Kassandra calls him out of the blue, letting him know her husband has died and something strange is going on. David is on the first plane out to help her.
Kassandra is a strong, smart, funny single mom to 2 teenage boys that she always puts first.
When they are in danger because of her late husband, David will stop at nothing to keep them safe.
This was an emotional read, that I could not put down. I did not see the twist coming!
And those Epilogues! Wow...I need the next book now!!!
2,693 reviews33 followers
February 8, 2025
Wow great book! Thoughtful and emotional.

This was about Kassandra who's husband commits suicide and leaves her and her two sons in financial trouble, when childhood friend, David Black and his security team turns up to help.

The history between David and Kassandra was very strong and a pleasure to get involved in. The way he gets absorbed into her life and the boys too is sweet but protective. It's that history that makes the way so easy for them all but David is very easy going and loves the family, probably because he missed out on that with his only daughter.

So well done. Real life characters and a plot that was suspenseful, dramatic and easy to read. I very much enjoyed the whole experience and can't wait for the next in the series. Brilliant book!!
Profile Image for Lana Humphress.
121 reviews1 follower
February 12, 2025
Elizabella Baker has truly outdone herself once again with an enchanting story about David Black, the wonderful Bossman of Blackguard Security! This delightful journey is filled with unexpected twists and turns that will keep you engaged from start to finish. The heartwarming second chance love story is simply captivating, and you'll find it hard to put down. We finally get to know the incredible man behind Blackguard Security, and it truly tugged at my heartstrings! Now, I'm absolutely buzzing with excitement to see what happens to Graham in the next book. That's the magic of a fantastic read – you just can't wait for the next installment! A huge round of applause for you, Elizabella, and thank you for sharing such a delightful story!
Profile Image for Carmela Dimattia.
1,909 reviews22 followers
February 16, 2025
This was the perfect second chance romance. David and Kassandra were so wonderful to read and their romance, although many years later, was fueled by their friendship and attraction which had never truly died even after not seeing each other or having contact for many years. Kassandra is basically a single mum struggling to do everything on her own and when her husband dies suddenly enter David and he shows her how she doesn’t have to be on her own and she can lean on him to help her with her boys and her life. When danger comes calling David is right there to protect his new found family. Could not put this book down. I was caught up in the story and the characters and I am excited for the next book in the series.
Profile Image for Alexa Jaye.
398 reviews15 followers
February 17, 2025
Woah! Hold on for the ride!

It's possibly the second most anticipated Elizabella Baker book ever...

Not since Wes has everyone collectively been sitting on the side of their seats waiting with so much anticipation... and let me tell you... I love Elizabella Baker books and own all of them. Some books are just in a whole other class of their own! Wow! Just Wow! It was so worth the wait!

Anything I say about David and Kassandra will be a spoiler, so I won't. Just... you will experience every emotion intensely! Snacks, drinks, and tissues required for this party. Hold on to the side of your seat cause the roller-coaster is just about to begin.

What are you waiting for?

❤️ Happy Reading! ❤️
Profile Image for Shari Jahn.
361 reviews10 followers
February 24, 2025
OMG! David Black finally gets his HEA! What a great story of love between David and his best friend from high school! Kassandra married her high school flame but she doesn’t know all the bad things he has been up to. He got himself in too deep with some bad people and decided the best thing for him to do is end his miserable life and leave his 2 teenage boys in the next room to possibly find his dumb butt. When Kassandra comes home from work, she finds him hanging in his office. She calls the only person she knows she can trust. David will help her!

This book was hot and sweet and everything I was needing in a story! The twists and turns in this book are fabulous! I loved every thing about David’s love story. He is my new favorite character!
Profile Image for Shannon Fissel.
143 reviews5 followers
February 16, 2025
That was incredible!!! I am a hard one to stump, but I did NOT see that coming at all! Wow. And then that epilogue - well freaking done Elizabella! I would be mad if I wasn't so impressed, haha!
I love David. I love Kassandra. And I absolutely loved their story soooooo much! I have a feeling I will be saying this on a regular basis but this is my new favorite from this author. She is proving to be highly addicting!!
I must mention this is my first of this particular series and it easily stands alone. The only problem is I now have a burning desire to go back and read the rest of the series like, right now, haha! Is sleep really necessary?
Profile Image for Judy.
2,007 reviews13 followers
February 5, 2025
David and Kassandra were best friends until she got married. Her husband made her choose between them. Now, years later, chaos has entered her life . A suicide, threatening notes, and so much more. She thinks she's alone, but a call to David has him rushing to her side. Can he keep her and her two boys safe and just maybe get the girl his has always wanted. I read this in one day . Just couldn't put it down. I am anxiously waiting for the next one because it sounds like it's gonna knock your socks off. I received a free copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
430 reviews7 followers
February 7, 2025
I absolutely loved this book, I have been looking forward to Black's story for a while now and wow this book certainly did not disappoint. This book is a thrilling read that twists and turns its way towards an HEA for David and Kassandra. I have loved this entire series but this is my favourite. I love being able to catch up with old friends and Ms Baker always offers a tantalising look at what is coming next! If you like a fast paced exciting romance then look no further than this brilliant book. I am impatiently awaiting to see what this excellent author has in store next.
1,205 reviews
February 10, 2025
David Black is owner of Blackguard Security.
Kassandra was David’s best friend.

David and Kassandra were friends that drifted apart ( due to Kassandra’s husband’s jealousy of David’s success.

David and Kassandra still have chemistry and attraction after all these years.
Can they solve who is after Kassandra and her family due to the mess her husband was involved in before he died.
Can they have a Happily Ever After? You will have to read the book to see what happens.

This book has edge of your seat suspense, danger, intrigue.

Great a job Elizabella Baker !!! you never disappoint !
Profile Image for NanaX8.
2,489 reviews66 followers
February 3, 2025
OMG…grab this fear filled, heart racing, shocking whodunnit and follow along as David Black reunites with his best friend, Kassandra, and feels what he has never felt for any woman before…only to find her dead husband has left her and her 2 sons in trouble for the things he has done. Can he pull his team together to follow all of the twists & turns to find the evilness after them and finally get the love of his life and the family he has always wanted? Loved it!!
1,925 reviews5 followers
February 8, 2025
Black has known Kassandra since high school. They were best friends back then.
Kassandra had married Michael and had 2 sons. She has just found her husband hanging in his office. Now Black is back.
Michael had gotten himself in trouble and bailed the easy way and left the fall out for Kassandra to deal with. Black pulls his teams in to help.
Black and Kassandra finally admit they want to be together. They just need to solve this mess first.
Profile Image for Jess Bohanick.
326 reviews7 followers
June 23, 2025
This is my first book by Elizabella Baker but it will not be my last! I blew through this book in hours, I couldn't put it down. I really related to Kassandra, being a mom with teenagers. What she endured in her marriage, her resilience, strength, was compelling. David was her best friend from high school.
I'm a sucker for second chance and man, did this one hit all the feels, with some drama to keep me wanting to turn the pages.
Profile Image for BecReadReview.
1,888 reviews34 followers
January 31, 2025
Elizabella created Black & gave us a strong powerful man to respect & adore. I enjoyed seeing him fumble & find love. The sweet & steamy attraction was adorable. Kass & her boys were absolutely brilliant. I loved that the boys were all about her happiness. Throw in some danger, the gang there to protect & we get a sweet read to enjoy.
Profile Image for Suzanne Ault.
288 reviews3 followers
January 31, 2025
Get ready for the ride of your life. From chapter 1 through epilogue 2 you will want this book. Great characters, action and romance. This ride has twists and turns that you couldn't have expected. This book has a second chance love story that you won't be able to put down. We finally get to really meet the man behind Blackgaurd security. I was worth the wait!!
Profile Image for Sue.
4,356 reviews5 followers
January 31, 2025
This was an excellent book. David and Kassandra were friends during high school, but they ended up marrying the other best friends, Michael and Madalyn. When Kassandra finds herself and her boys in trouble because for Michael, she calls David for help. There's a lot of danger, kidnappings, heat and second chances. HEA.
213 reviews4 followers
January 31, 2025
Are you ready to meet your next book boyfriend? David Black is here! If you have read the previous books in the series then you have Black the owner of Blackguard Security. Elizabella does it again with this book. From page 1 to the end of epilogue 2 I was hooked. I had a crush on Black before this book but fell more in love with him. So grab your beverage and be ready to be blown away.
89 reviews1 follower
February 1, 2025
I have loved all of Elizabella Baker’s books. I have especially loved the Blackguard Security Series. Having the story revolve around David Black was long awaited for me. I loved her book Westley about the Bravo and Charlie team owner/founder. Kassandra is a great character and glad she finally was able to get her HEA. These stories are well written and always keep me guessing
Profile Image for Barbara Lack.
1,639 reviews20 followers
February 2, 2025
What a roller coaster ride this book was. I loved Kassandra. She was snarky and a wonderful mother. I so enjoyed getting to know David Black better. He was a such a different person with Kassandra. The identity of the criminals was very surprising. No one writes surprising epilogues as a lead in to the next book like Elizabella Baker. I highly recommend this book!
Profile Image for Teresa Reitnauer.
955 reviews5 followers
February 17, 2025
It is a suspenseful page-turner that has an unpredictable ending. The main characters were a perfect couple. After Kassandra's husband left her in a difficult situation after his suicide, she called David for help. This is an enjoyable friends-to-lovers story with an intense plot. I enjoy Elizabella Baker and recommend this book. These are my opinions given voluntarily.
Profile Image for Heather.
11 reviews
February 7, 2025
Elizabella Baker knocked it out of the park on this book. David and Kassandra got their happy ever after years of being apart. We got to see more than David as the boss we were introduced to the caring feeling man he was on the inside.
908 reviews3 followers
February 13, 2025
I loved everything about this story.
Well written with great characters.
Action and suspense that keep you turning the page.
Can't wait to read more.
I was given a copy and I voluntarily leave this review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews

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