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NEXTUS Security #1
Jon: Damaged Protector
He took my V-card, marking him as my first .
But in a town ruled by a brutal gang, he could be my last . Jon is my older brother's best friend, a seasoned ex-Navy SEAL who was hired to do what he does best - get rid of the ruthless gang terrorizing our small community. In a place where danger lurks around every corner, giving into the magnetic pull of his haunting blue eyes could be the last thing I ever do. I know I should resist him. But he makes my heart race, and I yearn to feel his lips on mine, to explore every inch of his chiseled body. Wrapped in his strong arms, I finally feel safe in this tumultuous world. But with enemies lurking in the shadows, we're playing a dangerous game - and our very lives are at risk. Our love story is just beginning… With the threat of danger escalating with each passing moment, I can only hope that our passion isn't snuffed out before it has a chance to ignite… Get lost in the heat and suspense of this seductive romance, where the line between love and danger is as thin as a whisper.
*Damaged Protector is the prequel to the NEXTUS SECURITY Series.
Immerse yourself in the scorching hot and suspenseful world of NEXTUS Security. Join the men and women who live and breathe for the peace of Grove Rock as they battle through their trials and temptations. Their stories will keep you on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning each page, with no idea what's coming next. Each book in the series is a standalone masterpiece, but the characters and their stories intertwine, building toward an explosive finale.
**It was originally distributed through BookFunnel.
But in a town ruled by a brutal gang, he could be my last . Jon is my older brother's best friend, a seasoned ex-Navy SEAL who was hired to do what he does best - get rid of the ruthless gang terrorizing our small community. In a place where danger lurks around every corner, giving into the magnetic pull of his haunting blue eyes could be the last thing I ever do. I know I should resist him. But he makes my heart race, and I yearn to feel his lips on mine, to explore every inch of his chiseled body. Wrapped in his strong arms, I finally feel safe in this tumultuous world. But with enemies lurking in the shadows, we're playing a dangerous game - and our very lives are at risk. Our love story is just beginning… With the threat of danger escalating with each passing moment, I can only hope that our passion isn't snuffed out before it has a chance to ignite… Get lost in the heat and suspense of this seductive romance, where the line between love and danger is as thin as a whisper.
*Damaged Protector is the prequel to the NEXTUS SECURITY Series.
Immerse yourself in the scorching hot and suspenseful world of NEXTUS Security. Join the men and women who live and breathe for the peace of Grove Rock as they battle through their trials and temptations. Their stories will keep you on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning each page, with no idea what's coming next. Each book in the series is a standalone masterpiece, but the characters and their stories intertwine, building toward an explosive finale.
**It was originally distributed through BookFunnel.
159 pages, Paperback
Published November 25, 2024
79 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
January 30, 2024
This contemporary romance is page-turning with exceptional world-building and characters that are realistic and captivating. Their journey is enthralling with the damage protector-Jon, mature explicit romance that is engulfed by steamy sizzling, passion, desire, lust, and spice with all the feelings have readers' toes curling, ex-military, virgin, small-town, suspenseful romance, an age-gap, brother's best friend, security romance, protector, relentless claws, the possibility of love blooming, secrets, shadows, heroes, tale of healing, second chances, finding light in the deepest corners, danger simmering below every smile, heartfelt emotions, suspense, thriller, excitement, drama, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book to find out if there is a happily ever after by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with the damaged protector and explicit romance that is an exhilarating roller coaster ride that is wild, dangerous, and unforgettable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 31, 2024
Damaged Protector - Jon is an intriguing and sweet romance set in a small town hounded by a vicious gang. Jon is an ex-SEAL with major PTSD who is brought into the fold of a group determined to save the town from the terrible force terrorizing the people. The story is poignant with some sweet moments, the supporting characters interesting, and the overall series plot is just beginning. While one puzzle resolves, another one pops up, and the author keeps you guessing. This was an entertaining and fun read, and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 3, 2024
Jon and Cecilia’s story has them coming together when the gang that’s terrorizing the small town, but their are a few of the towners want the gang gone. So they get together and see how they can get their town safe along with the good citizens. Along the way CeCe is in danger and Jon comes forward to make sure she’s safe and secure in his arms.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 31, 2024
This in a very good book that has a plot that will keep you glued to each page. Jon is ex-military hero who is having difficult moments with ptsd, and when he meets Cecelia he feels delayed, but decides to stay away until someone threatens and she is in danger. This is the first book in this new series that will be very good.
January 29, 2024
A good book with suspense, drama and more. Jon and CeCe made me root for them to get what they deserved. Received a free copy.
March 6, 2024
4.5 ⭐s Can they solve the mystery of the Hounds?
Jon Carlson is a former SEAL and member of Delta Company. He was injured, and his fiancée, Lorna, was killed on their last mission. He never planned on ever loving anyone again. Marcus, his friend and also a former SEAL, has arranged a job interview at Nexus for him.
Cecelia Drake is a waitress at a cafe in the NEXTUS headquarters building. Her older brother, Eli, is Jon's new boss. When she was ten, her father, an investigative reporter, was doing stories on the Hounds. The group was just starting to establish itself in the town. In front of her, he was purposely run down by a car, and he has been in a wheelchair ever since then.
Cece hates what the town of Grove Rock has become. The town has lost many of its residents, and stores are boarded up. Crime rates for robberies, theft, assaults, and rape have soared since the Hounds moved into the town. Retired Admiral Freeman established NEXTUS in his hometown to not only give former military personnel jobs but to counteract the Hounds. As Cece sees it, the town is filled with men dressed in military uniforms who seem to do little other than drink and party with the townspeople. While the Hounds, a ruthless gang, continue to thrive.
When Jon got his first glimpse of Cece, he thought he had seen an angel. She, too, was attracted to him when she first saw him. After he didn't speak to her, she wasn't too impressed, but when he knocked into her hand, causing her to upend a platter of tacos onto her clean white uniform without apologizing, she was irate. However, their attraction overrides every objection. They decide to work together to end the reign of the Hounds. Can they succeed where others failed?
I received an ARC of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Jon Carlson is a former SEAL and member of Delta Company. He was injured, and his fiancée, Lorna, was killed on their last mission. He never planned on ever loving anyone again. Marcus, his friend and also a former SEAL, has arranged a job interview at Nexus for him.
Cecelia Drake is a waitress at a cafe in the NEXTUS headquarters building. Her older brother, Eli, is Jon's new boss. When she was ten, her father, an investigative reporter, was doing stories on the Hounds. The group was just starting to establish itself in the town. In front of her, he was purposely run down by a car, and he has been in a wheelchair ever since then.
Cece hates what the town of Grove Rock has become. The town has lost many of its residents, and stores are boarded up. Crime rates for robberies, theft, assaults, and rape have soared since the Hounds moved into the town. Retired Admiral Freeman established NEXTUS in his hometown to not only give former military personnel jobs but to counteract the Hounds. As Cece sees it, the town is filled with men dressed in military uniforms who seem to do little other than drink and party with the townspeople. While the Hounds, a ruthless gang, continue to thrive.
When Jon got his first glimpse of Cece, he thought he had seen an angel. She, too, was attracted to him when she first saw him. After he didn't speak to her, she wasn't too impressed, but when he knocked into her hand, causing her to upend a platter of tacos onto her clean white uniform without apologizing, she was irate. However, their attraction overrides every objection. They decide to work together to end the reign of the Hounds. Can they succeed where others failed?
I received an ARC of this book from the author via Booksprout. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
September 21, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Damaged Protector is everything I want in a romantic suspense and more. Lacey Kendrick pulled me in from the very first page and didn’t let go. Cecelia is a heroine you can root for—strong yet vulnerable, hiding her scars while still fighting to survive in a dangerous town. Jon, the broody, scarred ex-SEAL, completely stole my heart. He’s protective without being overbearing, tender while still carrying that edge of danger. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the slow-burn buildup made every moment between them sizzle.
The tension from the Hounds kept me on edge, and the way Jon steps in to shield Cecelia had me flipping the pages late into the night. This book isn’t just about romance—it’s about healing, second chances, and finding light in the darkest corners.
This is the perfect kickoff to the NEXTUS Security series, and I already can’t wait to read the rest of the stories set in Grove Rock. If you love protective heroes, strong heroines, small-town suspense, and a romance that makes you feel every beat of your heart, Damaged Protector is a must-read.
Lacey Kendrick has a new fan in me—this book deserves all the stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The tension from the Hounds kept me on edge, and the way Jon steps in to shield Cecelia had me flipping the pages late into the night. This book isn’t just about romance—it’s about healing, second chances, and finding light in the darkest corners.
This is the perfect kickoff to the NEXTUS Security series, and I already can’t wait to read the rest of the stories set in Grove Rock. If you love protective heroes, strong heroines, small-town suspense, and a romance that makes you feel every beat of your heart, Damaged Protector is a must-read.
Lacey Kendrick has a new fan in me—this book deserves all the stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 30, 2024
Wow I have to say this book was absolutely fantastic and it's a wonderful start to the new series Nextus Security book 1 Jon. He was a navy seal until his life got destroyed and now he's plague with nightmare, but now his military brothers are working with this new Security company and he joins . Cecelia witnessed a traumatic experience that happened to her dad . Now she and her mom work to pay bills but when a nasty group tries to harm her its Jon to her rescue. Can they stop the group and leader before its to late and someone gets hurt worse? When feelings start between them will he shut them down? This book is definitely a must read .it's compelling and captivating and tantalizing and filled with suspense and action packed and chemistry and romance and heartbreak. It's a very great story that has you connecting to the characters emotions and pain and feel like you are apart of the story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 4, 2024
Cece and Jon both struggle with things from their past. However, its the fight to save their town that brings them together. Jon is drawn to Cece the moment he sees her, and things don't go as well as they could've. he runs into her again when she and her little brother are being bothered by a local gang on their way home. He walks them home and its a start of something between them. Can they deal with what's going on within their town? Will they take a risk on each other?
This is an amazing story that once I started it I couldn't put it down. This is a well written and very entertaining story. Its a book that any book lover would enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is an amazing story that once I started it I couldn't put it down. This is a well written and very entertaining story. Its a book that any book lover would enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 26, 2024
Cece and Jon are a match made in heaven.
Cece as a child witnessed a tragedy that scars and leaves her trusting no one. Jon blames himself for the love he lost.
Nextus Security gives him purpose and saves him from himself. In turn, he literally saves Cece and her little brother from the Hounds.
Their vulnerability and insecurities give them the empathy and a way to trust and heal in the relationship that unfolds between them.
Their common enemy is the Hounds and together they are determined to find out who they are.
A perfect blend of passion, suspense and mystery.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Cece as a child witnessed a tragedy that scars and leaves her trusting no one. Jon blames himself for the love he lost.
Nextus Security gives him purpose and saves him from himself. In turn, he literally saves Cece and her little brother from the Hounds.
Their vulnerability and insecurities give them the empathy and a way to trust and heal in the relationship that unfolds between them.
Their common enemy is the Hounds and together they are determined to find out who they are.
A perfect blend of passion, suspense and mystery.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 3, 2024
Jon is a SEAL who had to retire because of PTSD, and also the best friend of Cecelia’s older brother. He joins his former military brothers in a new security company, which has been tasked with keeping the small town where they are based safe from a violent gang terrorizing it. This is the first of six planned books in the series, and if they all keep your attention and have you turning the pages to see what happens next like this one then we have a great series to look forward to. Thoroughly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 5, 2024
This is the first in a new series and this is Jon and CeCe’s story.
Jon is an ex-Navy Seal, who is gruff and broody, and he is new in town, CeCe is a waitress. There is a gang which is terrorizing the town, and everyone must work together to stop the threats.
This is a well written story which is an action packed, emotional roller coaster with enemies / lovers, danger, suspense, intrigue, trust, humor, witty banter, angst, romance, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, twisted, haunting, and steamy page turner.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jon is an ex-Navy Seal, who is gruff and broody, and he is new in town, CeCe is a waitress. There is a gang which is terrorizing the town, and everyone must work together to stop the threats.
This is a well written story which is an action packed, emotional roller coaster with enemies / lovers, danger, suspense, intrigue, trust, humor, witty banter, angst, romance, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, twisted, haunting, and steamy page turner.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 24, 2024
A great start to a new series. Jon is a veteran who is still dealing with PSTD and accepts a job to help find the 'Hounds' who are terrorizing the town. He rescues Cecelia from the 'Hounds' and their attraction for each other developes as Jon wishes to protect her. This book has you quessing who is leading the 'Hounds' and will surprise you in the end. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.t start to a new series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.t start to a new series.
February 9, 2024
A quick suspense filled military hero story. Deals with PTSD and other trauma from violence. Jon has been invited to join NEXTUS to try and get his life back on track. Weird gang like activity in a small town is their focus. He is instantly attracted to CeCe but fights the attraction. Finding her in danger changes his focus. A bit of mystery, violence, danger, and steamy moments keeps you focused on the plot. Kind of a quick abrupt ending but overall a good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 16, 2023
Love is hard work
When you pay the highest price for your country not everyone will say thank you for your service!
Someone who thinks that they are better than you are then I think you are the better person!
The person who is in control of the hounds is not what they seem to be.
Who is safe?
The ones who don't go against the leader of the hounds?
A must read to find the answers!
When you pay the highest price for your country not everyone will say thank you for your service!
Someone who thinks that they are better than you are then I think you are the better person!
The person who is in control of the hounds is not what they seem to be.
Who is safe?
The ones who don't go against the leader of the hounds?
A must read to find the answers!
January 24, 2024
Damaged Protector is the 1st book/prequel in the NEXTUS Security series, introducing the town and some of the team members. I found the plot to be somewhat reminiscent of gang terror in a suburb, but a bit too far-fetched to be believable. There's quite a bit of action and a fast-blooming romance between the really young heroine and her war-damaged hero, with a happy ending for the couple and the town.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 29, 2024
A great afternoon read
If you love steamy ex-military romance then I recommend reading Jonathan & Cecelia's story. Their story may be slow burn but there is no denying the connection that is there from the first moment they see each other. Will they get a chance to explore that connection or will the danger lurking in the shadows of the town destroy it all?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
If you love steamy ex-military romance then I recommend reading Jonathan & Cecelia's story. Their story may be slow burn but there is no denying the connection that is there from the first moment they see each other. Will they get a chance to explore that connection or will the danger lurking in the shadows of the town destroy it all?.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 3, 2024
Damaged Protector: Jon - An Enemies to Lovers Suspenseful Romance story of Jon and Cece..An ex seal and broken and a damsel in distress who needs of protection from the bad guys who turned the town unsafe..The two join forces and investigate and put the bad guys behiund bars..A great read,intense,intriguing,with angst,action,suspense and steam..
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 21, 2024
Wow the things he had seen and had to overcome I couldn't imagine. For her to watch what happened to her father is so much. They both just want to move forward in life but seem to be stuck. They make a great team and are able to accomplish so much in a short time. I would love to know what happens next for them.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 15, 2024
Good effort:
This was a fairly good novella and the start to a new romantic suspense series. It was a little predictable and not everything added up, however the series has potential. I was happy for Cecelia & Jonathan, however I didn't really like the fact that she was only 18 and he was so much older at 30, however their large age gap wasn't ever really discussed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was a fairly good novella and the start to a new romantic suspense series. It was a little predictable and not everything added up, however the series has potential. I was happy for Cecelia & Jonathan, however I didn't really like the fact that she was only 18 and he was so much older at 30, however their large age gap wasn't ever really discussed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 29, 2024
WOW, 😯 WOW, WOW what a wonderful book that’s has a storyline that will blow you away. The HEAT is amazing and HOT 🔥❤️in this book Lacey has written. This is a great book to start a new series. I am so excited to see what comes next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 29, 2024
This was a slow burn story, but one that kept your attention. We follow Cecelia and Jonathan, an ex-military. They have a chemistry and attraction from the first moment they saw each other. If you like some tension, drama, danger, romance and steamy moments then this book is a must read.
I received an Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 11, 2024
This is a new to me author ans series. Jon is a vetern who joins forces with other brothers in arms to protect a town from gangs. In this story he and Cecelia ( a brothers sister) get together amongst the danger and suspense surrounding them. Wonderful start to a new series. I could not put it down.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 28, 2024
A prequel to all the NEXTUS series. How everything begins and how plays out. Very good. Brings to light some of the answers to some of the questions I have had about the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 5, 2024
A compelling page turner...
This is the first book in a new series & it delivered on so many levels. I'm keen to read more. Won't cover the story itself as it's been outlined in the blurb & by prior reviewers but I do highly recommend. I received an arc & this is my honest & voluntary review.
This is the first book in a new series & it delivered on so many levels. I'm keen to read more. Won't cover the story itself as it's been outlined in the blurb & by prior reviewers but I do highly recommend. I received an arc & this is my honest & voluntary review.
February 24, 2024
This is the prequel to the Nextus Security series and what a story it is. Chaos goes on everywhere. But when it happens in your own backyard, you gotta take the bull by the horns .
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 21, 2024
Allow a long afternoon for this steamy contemporary age-gap damaged-protector enemies-to-lovers suspenseful coming-of-age mystery second-chance romance in Grove Rock City between 18-year-old Cecelia Drake and 30-year-old Jonathan Carlson. 4 1/2*
May 5, 2025
Great
Jon and Cece.
I enjoyed reading the first book in the NEXTUS Security.
I loved the characters, plot and storyline.
I thought it a little slow at times.
I loved the ending.
Read it
Jon and Cece.
I enjoyed reading the first book in the NEXTUS Security.
I loved the characters, plot and storyline.
I thought it a little slow at times.
I loved the ending.
Read it
December 22, 2023
I Enjoyed It
This was a very pleasant read. Sometimes it got a little convoluted, but I hung in there and it was worth it. I plan to read the next book in this series.
This was a very pleasant read. Sometimes it got a little convoluted, but I hung in there and it was worth it. I plan to read the next book in this series.
February 1, 2024
Who Is the Enemy?
Jon joined his ex seal friends in a protection agency to save a town being destroyed by gangs. In doing so he found love with the sister of a fellow officer.
Jon joined his ex seal friends in a protection agency to save a town being destroyed by gangs. In doing so he found love with the sister of a fellow officer.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews