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At six foot four, muscles for days, and a take charge attitude, Duncan Hawkins is exactly my type and everything I've sworn to avoid... So when I find myself in trouble, why is he my first call?
Mika has run before—first from trouble at home, then from an abusive ex.
For the past two years, he’s built a quiet, safe life in Vesper, Texas, determined to never run again. But when his past comes knocking, he needs protection. And there’s only one man he trusts to keep him safe—Hawk.
Hawk is ex-military, a seasoned bodyguard, and the very type that man Mika has spent years avoiding—big, tough, and in charge. Exactly his type. Exactly the kind of man who once broke him.
But Hawk is different. He’s protective, patient, and unwavering in his promise to stand between Mika and danger. As Hawk teaches Mika to fight back—both in his self-defense classes and in life—sparks fly.
But trusting a man like Hawk means risking everything, including his heart. And with his ex growing more dangerous by the day, Mika must keep running, or stand and fight—with Hawk by his side.
Mika has run before—first from trouble at home, then from an abusive ex.
For the past two years, he’s built a quiet, safe life in Vesper, Texas, determined to never run again. But when his past comes knocking, he needs protection. And there’s only one man he trusts to keep him safe—Hawk.
Hawk is ex-military, a seasoned bodyguard, and the very type that man Mika has spent years avoiding—big, tough, and in charge. Exactly his type. Exactly the kind of man who once broke him.
But Hawk is different. He’s protective, patient, and unwavering in his promise to stand between Mika and danger. As Hawk teaches Mika to fight back—both in his self-defense classes and in life—sparks fly.
But trusting a man like Hawk means risking everything, including his heart. And with his ex growing more dangerous by the day, Mika must keep running, or stand and fight—with Hawk by his side.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 7, 2025
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June 3, 2026
POSSIBLE TRIGGER WARNING: Past domestic abuse, and a little trauma
At six foot four, muscles for days, and a take charge attitude, Duncan Hawkins is exactly my type and everything I've sworn to avoid... So when I find myself in trouble, why is he my first call? Mika has run before—first from trouble at home, then from an abusive ex. For the past two years, he’s built a quiet, safe life in Vesper, Texas, determined to never run again. But when his past comes knocking, he needs protection. And there’s only one man he trusts to keep him safe...Hawk. Hawk is ex-military, a seasoned bodyguard, and the very type that man Mika has spent years avoiding—big, tough, and in charge. Exactly his type. Exactly the kind of man who once broke him. But Hawk is different. He’s protective, patient, and unwavering in his promise to stand between Mika and danger. As Hawk teaches Mika to fight back—both in his self-defense classes and in life, sparks fly. But trusting a man like Hawk means risking everything, including his heart. And with his ex-boyfriend growing more dangerous by the day, Mika must decide; keep running or stand and fight; with Hawk by his side.
In some previous books by this author, we've been with the firefights of the town, but this time we're with the security experts at Three Bears Tactical Service. I waited for this first book in this series to arrive from Amazon, and I couldn't wait to start it. I'm happy to say that it did not at all or in any way, disappoint...but Jacki James has never disappointed me. Mika and Hawk are just perfect together; they 100% compliment and deserve each other. Mika has been through a lot. He was young and made a bad choice in a boyfriend, but he planned and executed a clever escape and thought he had run far enough way that his ex would never find him. Wrong! This guy didn't like to lose or be told "no", so when his past shows up again in the form of this brutish ex-boyfriend that he thought he had escaped from...Hawk is there to help out and protect him.
Daniel Hawkins; (Hawk), loves what he does. He's part owner of the Three Bears Technical, a Security firm. While teaching a self-protection class that Mika was taking to help him better defend himself...especially if his ex should show up.... Hawk becomes very interested in the young man. Later while Hawk is providing protection for Mika, they both became "interested" in one another. Hawk was trying to give Mika time to be more comfortable around him, but when Mika is scared and reaches out there's just no more time or space between them. Hawk & Mika are so perfect for each other. They each have something to offer one another; something besides sex.... but of course, sex is on the table also! Hawk shows Mika how strong he really is, and Mika helps Hawk feel more connected to his new life. There are also some really great side characters. You can't help but love Mika's elderly friend, Mrs. Thompson, who taught him to crochet, and of course all the men that make up Three Bears Tactical. Is anyone surprised that I read the books out of order? With this series, it really doesn't matter all that much. An added benefit of this one is that there is a really, really cute dog!
If you like the M/M romance genera and a story that is engaging and filled with action, chemistry, healing and fun I can highly recommend this one or any other books by Jacki James.
At six foot four, muscles for days, and a take charge attitude, Duncan Hawkins is exactly my type and everything I've sworn to avoid... So when I find myself in trouble, why is he my first call? Mika has run before—first from trouble at home, then from an abusive ex. For the past two years, he’s built a quiet, safe life in Vesper, Texas, determined to never run again. But when his past comes knocking, he needs protection. And there’s only one man he trusts to keep him safe...Hawk. Hawk is ex-military, a seasoned bodyguard, and the very type that man Mika has spent years avoiding—big, tough, and in charge. Exactly his type. Exactly the kind of man who once broke him. But Hawk is different. He’s protective, patient, and unwavering in his promise to stand between Mika and danger. As Hawk teaches Mika to fight back—both in his self-defense classes and in life, sparks fly. But trusting a man like Hawk means risking everything, including his heart. And with his ex-boyfriend growing more dangerous by the day, Mika must decide; keep running or stand and fight; with Hawk by his side.
In some previous books by this author, we've been with the firefights of the town, but this time we're with the security experts at Three Bears Tactical Service. I waited for this first book in this series to arrive from Amazon, and I couldn't wait to start it. I'm happy to say that it did not at all or in any way, disappoint...but Jacki James has never disappointed me. Mika and Hawk are just perfect together; they 100% compliment and deserve each other. Mika has been through a lot. He was young and made a bad choice in a boyfriend, but he planned and executed a clever escape and thought he had run far enough way that his ex would never find him. Wrong! This guy didn't like to lose or be told "no", so when his past shows up again in the form of this brutish ex-boyfriend that he thought he had escaped from...Hawk is there to help out and protect him.
Daniel Hawkins; (Hawk), loves what he does. He's part owner of the Three Bears Technical, a Security firm. While teaching a self-protection class that Mika was taking to help him better defend himself...especially if his ex should show up.... Hawk becomes very interested in the young man. Later while Hawk is providing protection for Mika, they both became "interested" in one another. Hawk was trying to give Mika time to be more comfortable around him, but when Mika is scared and reaches out there's just no more time or space between them. Hawk & Mika are so perfect for each other. They each have something to offer one another; something besides sex.... but of course, sex is on the table also! Hawk shows Mika how strong he really is, and Mika helps Hawk feel more connected to his new life. There are also some really great side characters. You can't help but love Mika's elderly friend, Mrs. Thompson, who taught him to crochet, and of course all the men that make up Three Bears Tactical. Is anyone surprised that I read the books out of order? With this series, it really doesn't matter all that much. An added benefit of this one is that there is a really, really cute dog!
If you like the M/M romance genera and a story that is engaging and filled with action, chemistry, healing and fun I can highly recommend this one or any other books by Jacki James.
May 7, 2025
This is a bodyguard romance, featuring Duncan Hawkins and Mika, and is book one in the Protector Daddies series.
Mika has built a quiet life after escaping his past, but when danger returns, he turns to Hawk—a strong, protective ex-soldier he’s tried to avoid because he is just Mika’s type. As Hawk helps keep him safe, Mika starts to fall for him and must decide whether to keep running or finally give in to his feelings.
This book was a slow burn but it was quite gentle because of Hawk. He is this giant guy and super protective but he just exudes this claiming presence. There is a little drama with the horrible ex, but they tackle it together.
They get a HEA but the book ended on a series cliffhanger of sorts and it is going to make me think about it over and over until book two to find out what the heck happened.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 1 in series
MM bodyguard romance
Protector x Protectee
Slow burn
Small town
Hurt/Comfort
Living with past trauma
Horrible ex
Grumpy x Sunshine
Opposites Attract
Size difference
Calls him mouse
Daddy / baby boy
Spicy times & dirty talk
Found Family
HEA
Mika has built a quiet life after escaping his past, but when danger returns, he turns to Hawk—a strong, protective ex-soldier he’s tried to avoid because he is just Mika’s type. As Hawk helps keep him safe, Mika starts to fall for him and must decide whether to keep running or finally give in to his feelings.
This book was a slow burn but it was quite gentle because of Hawk. He is this giant guy and super protective but he just exudes this claiming presence. There is a little drama with the horrible ex, but they tackle it together.
They get a HEA but the book ended on a series cliffhanger of sorts and it is going to make me think about it over and over until book two to find out what the heck happened.
Things to expect in this book are:
Book 1 in series
MM bodyguard romance
Protector x Protectee
Slow burn
Small town
Hurt/Comfort
Living with past trauma
Horrible ex
Grumpy x Sunshine
Opposites Attract
Size difference
Calls him mouse
Daddy / baby boy
Spicy times & dirty talk
Found Family
HEA
May 11, 2025
3.5
Nice sweet story. I loved how these two were with each other. Hawk was so patient and understanding, and I loved how Micha actually listened to directions to keep himself safe. These two worked really well together. It was nice visiting with other couples from other books. This is very Daddy lite if you want to dip your toes in.
For future me:
Dual pov
No cheating/sharing
Strict role on page
No clear on diversity
Not a super suspenseful
No smexy before relationship
Nice sweet story. I loved how these two were with each other. Hawk was so patient and understanding, and I loved how Micha actually listened to directions to keep himself safe. These two worked really well together. It was nice visiting with other couples from other books. This is very Daddy lite if you want to dip your toes in.
For future me:
Dual pov
No cheating/sharing
Strict role on page
No clear on diversity
Not a super suspenseful
No smexy before relationship
May 2, 2025
from reading the station 69 series , was already in love with Mika, and when Three Bears Tactical (TBT) came into the picture, I needed more from their world. Was very happy to see Jacki went in this direction and showed us the inner workings of TBT and their men. With each new team member we meet, you need another story.
knowing Mika had a rough past was nice to see Hawke took his time easing into things with Mika. These two had a spark from day one. They just needed the time to become comfortable. it was nice to see how protective Hawke was but at the same time not overbearing that wouldn't have worked in this dynamic. As usual, I loved seeing cameos from past Daddies and boys to see how they are going along with life after their stories were completed. I am looking forward to seeing who tames our Gator in the next installment.
knowing Mika had a rough past was nice to see Hawke took his time easing into things with Mika. These two had a spark from day one. They just needed the time to become comfortable. it was nice to see how protective Hawke was but at the same time not overbearing that wouldn't have worked in this dynamic. As usual, I loved seeing cameos from past Daddies and boys to see how they are going along with life after their stories were completed. I am looking forward to seeing who tames our Gator in the next installment.
August 13, 2026
2.5 ⭐️ (rounded up to 3 for that fabulous adoption at the end 😍)
Mika and Hawk are light and sweet together. They had good communication and no third act breakup. Mika actually listened to those who were trying to protect him. All of the side characters were sweet guys and I loved Mary Ellen! Love all the doggos. This was a quick, easy book to read.
The writing was just very…bland. For a daddy/boy book, the only daddy/boy elements were use of the terms “daddy” and “boy”. There is no discussion of feelings for each other or a sexual relationship between the two MCs for the first half of the book, and then at 50%, they have sex. No build up, no talking about it, no anything before the act. It was very jarring. The sex scenes throughout were stilted and bland. The conversations between the two MCs felt very…scripted? It reminded me of the educational videos about closed-loop communication in BLS and ALS (CPR 🤣). I also get super frustrated when book 1 of a series (this book) is actually book 1 of a spin-off series from some other series, so I didn’t know who most of the many side characters were, and there were a lot of references to an event that happened in that other series but I didn’t know what it was. Maybe I should have done more research before picking this one up in regards to that.
Mika and Hawk are light and sweet together. They had good communication and no third act breakup. Mika actually listened to those who were trying to protect him. All of the side characters were sweet guys and I loved Mary Ellen! Love all the doggos. This was a quick, easy book to read.
The writing was just very…bland. For a daddy/boy book, the only daddy/boy elements were use of the terms “daddy” and “boy”. There is no discussion of feelings for each other or a sexual relationship between the two MCs for the first half of the book, and then at 50%, they have sex. No build up, no talking about it, no anything before the act. It was very jarring. The sex scenes throughout were stilted and bland. The conversations between the two MCs felt very…scripted? It reminded me of the educational videos about closed-loop communication in BLS and ALS (CPR 🤣). I also get super frustrated when book 1 of a series (this book) is actually book 1 of a spin-off series from some other series, so I didn’t know who most of the many side characters were, and there were a lot of references to an event that happened in that other series but I didn’t know what it was. Maybe I should have done more research before picking this one up in regards to that.
May 13, 2025
4.5 stars, rounded up.
Hawk and Mika were introduced in the Station 69 series. I was interested in Hawk, but I was really eager to learn Mika's story because he was somewhat guarded, mysterious.
I loved these two guys together. Hawk is such a Daddy, and he's determined to protect Mika at all costs. Mika is a sweetheart. He may have depended on Hawk, but he was also very independent with his job, his friends, and his hobbies.
There's some drama with Mika's violent ex. I love how all that came together.
I'm eager to read Gator's story.
Full review can be found at -
Hawk and Mika were introduced in the Station 69 series. I was interested in Hawk, but I was really eager to learn Mika's story because he was somewhat guarded, mysterious.
I loved these two guys together. Hawk is such a Daddy, and he's determined to protect Mika at all costs. Mika is a sweetheart. He may have depended on Hawk, but he was also very independent with his job, his friends, and his hobbies.
There's some drama with Mika's violent ex. I love how all that came together.
I'm eager to read Gator's story.
Full review can be found at -
May 7, 2025
Hawk is the first book in the Protector Daddies series. This is the story of Mika and Hawk. I love that this continues on from the Station 69 series. I loved Mika and wanted to know more about him. I also wanted to know more about the guys from Three Bears Tactical (TBT) where Hawk is from. I love watching these two work together and figure things out. They are just perfect for each other. I loved this book and can't wait for the next book in the series. I would definitely recommend this book.
Did Not Finish
March 21, 2026I think it’s me. I wasn’t feeling the flow of the book. I wasn’t feeling the chemistry between the mc’s. I called it quits at 73%
July 6, 2026
Daddy/boy. Bodyguards. Bikers and DV. Wasn’t half bad. Easy read.
September 28, 2026
All of this happened way too fast and although this is the first book it felt more like the middle book with so many references to previous couples. The characters were also written like they already had a prior relationship to the novel and it was hard to root for them.
![Profile Image for Java [I DNF a *lot*].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1480277127i/22652976.jpg)
July 22, 2026
I was going to give this 3 stars and go on about my day. Forgettable, sweet, nothing objectionable. But than I started to think about this.
The pacing was uneven. There were inane conversations that dragged on and on but brought nothing to the plot or to the characters. The scenes that moved the plot forward were glossed over.
The characters were inconsistent. The classes that the Three Bears Tactical run, showcased their competence but when doing the actual bodyguarding, Hawk was in turn very good at his job and the next moment unplausibly clueless. Mika waffled between believing in him and Hawk and then the next moment acting like Hawk hadn't shown any signs of romantic interest.
All that time spent inside the character's heads and still by the end of the book they had as much dimension as cardboard cutouts.
And the sex scenes were meh.
This is the most vanilla daddy/boy I've read in recent memory.
At least Mika understood pretty quickly that he was in danger and worked with his bodyguards and not against them.
Actually, I'm still going to give this 3 stars because there was no third act separation and no stupid misunderstandings the romance genre is plagued with.
The pacing was uneven. There were inane conversations that dragged on and on but brought nothing to the plot or to the characters. The scenes that moved the plot forward were glossed over.
The characters were inconsistent. The classes that the Three Bears Tactical run, showcased their competence but when doing the actual bodyguarding, Hawk was in turn very good at his job and the next moment unplausibly clueless. Mika waffled between believing in him and Hawk and then the next moment acting like Hawk hadn't shown any signs of romantic interest.
All that time spent inside the character's heads and still by the end of the book they had as much dimension as cardboard cutouts.
And the sex scenes were meh.
This is the most vanilla daddy/boy I've read in recent memory.
At least Mika understood pretty quickly that he was in danger and worked with his bodyguards and not against them.
Actually, I'm still going to give this 3 stars because there was no third act separation and no stupid misunderstandings the romance genre is plagued with.
Did Not Finish
September 24, 2026It was about 100 pages way too long. 70% was where I called it quits.
August 6, 2026
I've only just started listening, literally only 9mns in, but they should've gotten a different narrator &/or 2 narrators!
Liam di Cosimo is not a bad narrator, but he can't do voices to save his life. Why do so many authors seem to love him?! Frankly, he's one of the worst narrators out there IMO, his voice is too robotic/monotone, without any real inflection nor emotion... again, I don't mind him in a dual/duet narration, but he does NOT have the capabilities to narrate an entire book by himself!
He's basically using the same voice (his normal voice) to voice both characters, so unless you already know both character's names... which of COURSE I don't, I've only just started the damned book FFS. There's no way to know WHICH F'ing character's POV he's voicing! 🤬🤬
I'm having to use my grey cells to deduce that he's narrating the other MC who hasn't just escaped his abusive BF, seeing as he's talking about having employees...but again, that's simply an assumption on my part, for all I know, this is months down the line & the escapee MC has completely changed his life around... who TF knows 🤷♀️
But seriously... who thought it was a good idea to use a narrator who CAN'T do any other voice besides his own to narrate TWO characters on the same book?!
Authors... trust me, narrators can make or break your stories, don't just use a well known name... use somebody who will do justice to your books!
I've listened to many a crap book that had a good narrator & I carried on listening because although the story IS beyond crap... that narrator is so good, that they've actually improved it!
& the same goes the others way, I've listened to books where the narrator is crap... apologies, but the ones that I honestly can't stand are Mary Sarah & her weird ass British English pronunciation & purposefully breathless cadence 😬🤢 . Justine Eyre's equally weird assed British English accents, how she elongates some vowels... grating AF 🫥, Guy Veryzer, James Talbot & a few others, are names that will ensure that I won't even consider listening to that book under any circumstances.
So, I GENUINELY wish that authors actually trialled narrators rather than just trying to get a popular narrator, especially if it's a single narrator for dual POV... PLEASE get someone who CAN do different voices &/or even accents at least, so we as listeners can easily differentiate between the MCs 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
Liam di Cosimo is not a bad narrator, but he can't do voices to save his life. Why do so many authors seem to love him?! Frankly, he's one of the worst narrators out there IMO, his voice is too robotic/monotone, without any real inflection nor emotion... again, I don't mind him in a dual/duet narration, but he does NOT have the capabilities to narrate an entire book by himself!
He's basically using the same voice (his normal voice) to voice both characters, so unless you already know both character's names... which of COURSE I don't, I've only just started the damned book FFS. There's no way to know WHICH F'ing character's POV he's voicing! 🤬🤬
I'm having to use my grey cells to deduce that he's narrating the other MC who hasn't just escaped his abusive BF, seeing as he's talking about having employees...but again, that's simply an assumption on my part, for all I know, this is months down the line & the escapee MC has completely changed his life around... who TF knows 🤷♀️
But seriously... who thought it was a good idea to use a narrator who CAN'T do any other voice besides his own to narrate TWO characters on the same book?!
Authors... trust me, narrators can make or break your stories, don't just use a well known name... use somebody who will do justice to your books!
I've listened to many a crap book that had a good narrator & I carried on listening because although the story IS beyond crap... that narrator is so good, that they've actually improved it!
& the same goes the others way, I've listened to books where the narrator is crap... apologies, but the ones that I honestly can't stand are Mary Sarah & her weird ass British English pronunciation & purposefully breathless cadence 😬🤢 . Justine Eyre's equally weird assed British English accents, how she elongates some vowels... grating AF 🫥, Guy Veryzer, James Talbot & a few others, are names that will ensure that I won't even consider listening to that book under any circumstances.
So, I GENUINELY wish that authors actually trialled narrators rather than just trying to get a popular narrator, especially if it's a single narrator for dual POV... PLEASE get someone who CAN do different voices &/or even accents at least, so we as listeners can easily differentiate between the MCs 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
May 8, 2025
Duncan Hawkins (1m93) et Mika Simpson (1m65)
Ancien Militaire/Garde du corps
Daddy
Vesper (ville au Texas)
Butch (ex de Mika)
Perséphone (Steph, chienne de Andy)
Andy (meilleur ami de Mika, pompier)
Mars (meilleur ami de Mika, proprietaire d'un magasin)
Zeva (Gestionnaire du magasin de Mars)
Jesse (Daddy de Andy, propriétaire du bar)
Samuel (Daddy de Mars, pompier, chef de caserne)
Caleb et Keith (ami de Andy et Mika, et son Daddy)
Mary Ellen Thompson (Patronne de Mika)
M. Thompson (mari de Mary Ellen, mort)
Gator, Rylan, Tucker, Axel, (equipe de Three Bears et amis de Hawk)
Three Bears (Agence de securité)
Interessant. Belle relation amicale et amoureuse.
J'adore leur team.
📖
Avec ses 1,93 m, ses muscles à revendre et son attitude responsable, Duncan Hawkins est exactement mon type et tout ce que j'ai juré d'éviter... Alors, quand je me retrouve en difficulté, pourquoi est-il mon premier appel ?
Mika a déjà fui, d'abord pour échapper à des problèmes familiaux, puis à un ex violent.
Ces deux dernières années, il s'est construit une vie tranquille et sûre à Vesper, au Texas, déterminé à ne plus jamais fuir. Mais lorsque son passé le rattrape, il a besoin de protection. Et il n'y a qu'un seul homme en qui il a confiance pour le protéger : Hawk.
Hawk est un ancien militaire, un garde du corps chevronné, et le type même d'homme que Mika a passé des années à éviter : grand, costaud et autoritaire. Exactement son genre. Exactement le genre d'homme qui l'a brisé un jour.
Mais Hawk est différent. Il est protecteur, patient et inébranlable dans sa promesse de se dresser entre Mika et le danger. Alors que Hawk apprend à Mika à se défendre, aussi bien dans ses cours d'autodéfense que dans la vie, les étincelles fusent.
Mais faire confiance à un homme comme Hawk, c'est tout risquer, y compris son cœur. Et face à son ex de plus en plus dangereuse, Mika doit choisir : continuer à fuir ou se battre, avec Hawk à ses côtés.
📚
🖋
Mon visage était enflé et commençait déjà à se couvrir de bleus. Ses gars allaient adorer ça. Je les entendais maintenant. « Tellement remis ta meuf à sa place, Butch. Ça lui apprendra le respect. »
J'ai posé mes mains sur le bord du lavabo et me suis penchée vers lui, fixant ses yeux tristes. La dernière fois qu'il avait été violent, je m'étais promis que si cela se reproduisait, je partirais. Je savais qu'il ne changerait jamais, car, pour lui, il avait parfaitement le droit de me traiter ainsi. C'était la culture du club de motards dont il faisait partie, et ils partageaient tous ce sentiment.
Je secouai la tête et m'écartai du lavabo. En fait, j'avais une décision à prendre. Je pouvais rester ici jusqu'à ce qu'il me tue, ou partir tant que c'était encore possible. Ce ne serait pas facile. Je ne pouvais pas rentrer chez moi. Non pas que mes parents ne seraient pas ravis de me voir revenir – ils le seraient – mais il savait où ils habitaient et il n'allait pas me laisser partir aussi facilement. Pour lui, j'étais sa propriété – j'avais le tatouage pour le prouver – et s'il me retrouvait, il paierait le prix fort.
Je n'avais pas d'argent. Bon sang, je n'avais même pas de compte en banque à ce moment-là, mais je savais où il cachait son argent, et ça me suffirait pour m'éloigner de lui et repartir à zéro. Je me suis précipitée dans la chambre et j'ai attrapé mon sac à dos que j'avais caché au fond du placard. Il ne contenait pas grand-chose, mais je n'avais pas le temps d'emporter autre chose. De toute façon, je ne voulais rien qui me rappelle les six derniers mois.
Butch gardait la majeure partie de l'argent provenant des activités illégales du club dans une boîte en métal, cachée dans un trou dans le sol, mais il en cachait aussi une plus petite quantité dans une canette de café dans le placard de la cuisine. Je voulais sortir, mais je n'avais pas envie de mourir, alors hors de question que je touche à la boîte. La petite somme dans la canette aurait suffi. Je l'ai ouverte et j'ai sorti l'argent. Cinq mille dollars. Bon, je pouvais faire avec. C'était là qu'il gardait sa bière et son argent de poche, alors je doutais vraiment qu'il sache combien il y avait dedans. J'ai pris la moitié et laissé le reste, espérant qu'il ne se rendrait pas compte que je l'avais pris.
Je l'ai fourré dans la poche de mon sac à dos et me suis faufilé par la porte de derrière. Je n'avais pas de voiture, alors je suis parti à pied, en restant dans l'ombre et en espérant que personne ne me verrait. J'avais besoin d'un moyen rapide et économique de quitter la ville, et la seule chose qui me venait à l'esprit était le bus. Je n'en avais jamais pris, mais j'avais repéré une gare routière sur Walnut Street, alors c'est là que j'allais.
Il m'a fallu près d'une heure pour y arriver, et le temps d'arriver à la gare, j'étais à bout de nerfs. Butch était-il déjà rentré ? D'habitude, il rentrait tard pour aller boire un verre avec les copains, mais ce n'était pas le cas ce soir-là. S'il savait que j'étais partie, il me chercherait, et s'il me retrouvait, impossible de savoir ce qu'il ferait.
Une femme âgée aux cheveux gris bouclés se tenait derrière le guichet, l'air fatigué, grincheux et pas du tout content d'être au travail. J'ai attendu mon tour, puis je me suis approché du guichet et j'ai jeté un coup d'œil à son badge. « Euh, excusez-moi, Marge. Je dois prendre un ticket pour le prochain bus qui part de la ville. »
Elle leva les yeux, l'air agacé, mais ses yeux s'écarquillèrent en voyant mon visage, et ses traits s'adoucirent. « Oh, ma puce, on dirait que ça fait mal. »
J'ai tendu la main, touché ma joue et hoché la tête.
« Bon, alors, où veux-tu aller ? »
« Je m'en fiche, je m'en fiche de la destination du prochain bus quittant la ville. »
.
Hawk était le mec le plus canon que j'aie jamais vu. « J'imagine. Mais il n'est vraiment pas mon genre. » C'était un mensonge.
J'ai toujours été attirée par les gars qui étaient plus grands et plus forts que moi, et s'ils avaient une petite mauvaise attitude, c'était encore mieux.
Mais c'était l'ancienne moi. L'expérience m'avait appris que ce genre de gars n'était que source d'ennuis. Si jamais je décidais de tenter une nouvelle relation, je choisirais un homme gentil et doux. Ce genre d'homme ne me plairait peut-être pas, mais ils étaient sûrs – et il y avait du bon dans la sécurité.
🖋
Ancien Militaire/Garde du corps
Daddy
Vesper (ville au Texas)
Butch (ex de Mika)
Perséphone (Steph, chienne de Andy)
Andy (meilleur ami de Mika, pompier)
Mars (meilleur ami de Mika, proprietaire d'un magasin)
Zeva (Gestionnaire du magasin de Mars)
Jesse (Daddy de Andy, propriétaire du bar)
Samuel (Daddy de Mars, pompier, chef de caserne)
Caleb et Keith (ami de Andy et Mika, et son Daddy)
Mary Ellen Thompson (Patronne de Mika)
M. Thompson (mari de Mary Ellen, mort)
Gator, Rylan, Tucker, Axel, (equipe de Three Bears et amis de Hawk)
Three Bears (Agence de securité)
Interessant. Belle relation amicale et amoureuse.
J'adore leur team.
📖
Avec ses 1,93 m, ses muscles à revendre et son attitude responsable, Duncan Hawkins est exactement mon type et tout ce que j'ai juré d'éviter... Alors, quand je me retrouve en difficulté, pourquoi est-il mon premier appel ?
Mika a déjà fui, d'abord pour échapper à des problèmes familiaux, puis à un ex violent.
Ces deux dernières années, il s'est construit une vie tranquille et sûre à Vesper, au Texas, déterminé à ne plus jamais fuir. Mais lorsque son passé le rattrape, il a besoin de protection. Et il n'y a qu'un seul homme en qui il a confiance pour le protéger : Hawk.
Hawk est un ancien militaire, un garde du corps chevronné, et le type même d'homme que Mika a passé des années à éviter : grand, costaud et autoritaire. Exactement son genre. Exactement le genre d'homme qui l'a brisé un jour.
Mais Hawk est différent. Il est protecteur, patient et inébranlable dans sa promesse de se dresser entre Mika et le danger. Alors que Hawk apprend à Mika à se défendre, aussi bien dans ses cours d'autodéfense que dans la vie, les étincelles fusent.
Mais faire confiance à un homme comme Hawk, c'est tout risquer, y compris son cœur. Et face à son ex de plus en plus dangereuse, Mika doit choisir : continuer à fuir ou se battre, avec Hawk à ses côtés.
📚
🖋
Mon visage était enflé et commençait déjà à se couvrir de bleus. Ses gars allaient adorer ça. Je les entendais maintenant. « Tellement remis ta meuf à sa place, Butch. Ça lui apprendra le respect. »
J'ai posé mes mains sur le bord du lavabo et me suis penchée vers lui, fixant ses yeux tristes. La dernière fois qu'il avait été violent, je m'étais promis que si cela se reproduisait, je partirais. Je savais qu'il ne changerait jamais, car, pour lui, il avait parfaitement le droit de me traiter ainsi. C'était la culture du club de motards dont il faisait partie, et ils partageaient tous ce sentiment.
Je secouai la tête et m'écartai du lavabo. En fait, j'avais une décision à prendre. Je pouvais rester ici jusqu'à ce qu'il me tue, ou partir tant que c'était encore possible. Ce ne serait pas facile. Je ne pouvais pas rentrer chez moi. Non pas que mes parents ne seraient pas ravis de me voir revenir – ils le seraient – mais il savait où ils habitaient et il n'allait pas me laisser partir aussi facilement. Pour lui, j'étais sa propriété – j'avais le tatouage pour le prouver – et s'il me retrouvait, il paierait le prix fort.
Je n'avais pas d'argent. Bon sang, je n'avais même pas de compte en banque à ce moment-là, mais je savais où il cachait son argent, et ça me suffirait pour m'éloigner de lui et repartir à zéro. Je me suis précipitée dans la chambre et j'ai attrapé mon sac à dos que j'avais caché au fond du placard. Il ne contenait pas grand-chose, mais je n'avais pas le temps d'emporter autre chose. De toute façon, je ne voulais rien qui me rappelle les six derniers mois.
Butch gardait la majeure partie de l'argent provenant des activités illégales du club dans une boîte en métal, cachée dans un trou dans le sol, mais il en cachait aussi une plus petite quantité dans une canette de café dans le placard de la cuisine. Je voulais sortir, mais je n'avais pas envie de mourir, alors hors de question que je touche à la boîte. La petite somme dans la canette aurait suffi. Je l'ai ouverte et j'ai sorti l'argent. Cinq mille dollars. Bon, je pouvais faire avec. C'était là qu'il gardait sa bière et son argent de poche, alors je doutais vraiment qu'il sache combien il y avait dedans. J'ai pris la moitié et laissé le reste, espérant qu'il ne se rendrait pas compte que je l'avais pris.
Je l'ai fourré dans la poche de mon sac à dos et me suis faufilé par la porte de derrière. Je n'avais pas de voiture, alors je suis parti à pied, en restant dans l'ombre et en espérant que personne ne me verrait. J'avais besoin d'un moyen rapide et économique de quitter la ville, et la seule chose qui me venait à l'esprit était le bus. Je n'en avais jamais pris, mais j'avais repéré une gare routière sur Walnut Street, alors c'est là que j'allais.
Il m'a fallu près d'une heure pour y arriver, et le temps d'arriver à la gare, j'étais à bout de nerfs. Butch était-il déjà rentré ? D'habitude, il rentrait tard pour aller boire un verre avec les copains, mais ce n'était pas le cas ce soir-là. S'il savait que j'étais partie, il me chercherait, et s'il me retrouvait, impossible de savoir ce qu'il ferait.
Une femme âgée aux cheveux gris bouclés se tenait derrière le guichet, l'air fatigué, grincheux et pas du tout content d'être au travail. J'ai attendu mon tour, puis je me suis approché du guichet et j'ai jeté un coup d'œil à son badge. « Euh, excusez-moi, Marge. Je dois prendre un ticket pour le prochain bus qui part de la ville. »
Elle leva les yeux, l'air agacé, mais ses yeux s'écarquillèrent en voyant mon visage, et ses traits s'adoucirent. « Oh, ma puce, on dirait que ça fait mal. »
J'ai tendu la main, touché ma joue et hoché la tête.
« Bon, alors, où veux-tu aller ? »
« Je m'en fiche, je m'en fiche de la destination du prochain bus quittant la ville. »
.
Hawk était le mec le plus canon que j'aie jamais vu. « J'imagine. Mais il n'est vraiment pas mon genre. » C'était un mensonge.
J'ai toujours été attirée par les gars qui étaient plus grands et plus forts que moi, et s'ils avaient une petite mauvaise attitude, c'était encore mieux.
Mais c'était l'ancienne moi. L'expérience m'avait appris que ce genre de gars n'était que source d'ennuis. Si jamais je décidais de tenter une nouvelle relation, je choisirais un homme gentil et doux. Ce genre d'homme ne me plairait peut-être pas, mais ils étaient sûrs – et il y avait du bon dans la sécurité.
🖋
August 28, 2026
DNF @50%. Main DNF reason is that there's no fun or banter. But also...
Was not prepared for the "daddy" and "boy"...kink? Lifestyle? Unearned pet names are not my thing, and Hawk uses them A LOT. Which is also a characteristic of being a daddy?
Heads up: this first book reads like a spin off of another series. It doesn't seem to matter to the plot so much, but events prior to the current book are frequently referenced.
Was not prepared for the "daddy" and "boy"...kink? Lifestyle? Unearned pet names are not my thing, and Hawk uses them A LOT. Which is also a characteristic of being a daddy?
Heads up: this first book reads like a spin off of another series. It doesn't seem to matter to the plot so much, but events prior to the current book are frequently referenced.
June 7, 2026
A cute and easy read. It was kinda shallow though and I kept feeling like this series is a spin off from something else that I really should have read first to fully understand the plot and the characters. However, as far as I understand it this is not a spin off, it just reads like one which felt a bit strange. The daddy kink also showed up in a very weird way in this one. Overall the plot just felt extremely underdeveloped.
March 24, 2026
Solid fine. A lot of named characters for very little payoff through the story. Comfortably predictable subplot. Writing was ok tho needlessly repetitive. MC in love ridiculously fast which felt rushed, plot and character development a little shaky.
August 1, 2026
Wasn’t aware this was a Daddy/boy kink book. Did I miss that description somewhere? Spice scenes were luke warm at best. Heavy subject plot outline with little execution to make you feel invested in it.
January 1, 2026
this was just whatever I guess..oh lord somebody get me out of this terrible book slump of sorts..this sucks
May 5, 2025
Hawk by Jacki James is the first book in her Protector Daddies series. It is the story of two men, one on the run from something awful and the other willing to do anything to protect him as they find love. Mika Simpson was living in Kansas when he met a strong, bad boy motorcycle gang member. At first Butch seemed like a good man but when he got him to leave with him and move to Las Cruces, New Mexico, Mika realized his mistake as he became controlling and abusing and he was scared of what would happen to him. This caused him to take some money and get on a bus which eventually led him to Vesper, Texas. There he found good friends and their Daddies, a job he loved with being a caretaker and to 80 year old Mary Ellen, and a place to call home. But Butch was always in the back of his mind and he was worried that he would eventually find him, even after 2 years. This led him to take a self-defense class led by Duncan Hawkins otherwise known as Hawk. Hawk was the ex-military owner of 3 Bears Tactical Security along with his friends Wolfe and Gator. They owned a large building that was originally a home improvement store that now housed their offices, a gym, classroom space, and apartments for people who worked there if they wanted them. The three of them also had condos on the top floor. Hawk had first seen Mika at Kirby’s, a club owned by his friend Jesse, and had an instant attraction to him but saw that he was skittish so he bided his time. Mika had always been attracted to big guys with a bad attitude but after Butch he was only looking for nice, gentle, and safe ones. One day on a walk he thinks he sees Butch which scared him but then he thought he might be mistaken. However, when a note was left on his car he knows something is not right. When he goes to self-defense class that night Hawk knows something is wrong and gives Mika his card and phone number and says to call him any time. Then Mika was dog sitting for his best friend Andy and Butch shows up at his door. Luckily Seph scared him long enough for Mika to call Hawk. Butch leaves before he gets there and when he does it begins the start of his protection at all costs because he knows Mika is his and he just has to convince him of that. He has his security company checking out Butch and his club The Jackels and they find out they aren’t good people, dealing in drugs, guns, and trafficking. Hawk gives Mika a panic watch and he stays at his house on his couch which soon moves to his bed. When another gang member shows up Mika hits his panic watch and Hawk takes him back to 3 Bears Headquarters where he stays to be safe. Then Hawk realizes that now would be a good time to tell Mika he has feelings for him which leads to a kiss and then to a hot love scene as Hawk tells him he wants to be his Daddy. They realize there may be a huma trafficking ring led by the Jackels in Vesper so they get the FBI involved which leads to an epic scene involving Mika and Hawk where everything comes together to take them down. When it’s all over and they return to their condo they declare their love for each other and it’s a wonderful feeling for Mika to know he is finally free. I really enjoyed this book. Mika is a sweet man who made some bad choices when it came to men and now he is paying for them. He tries to go on with his life by making friends and having a good job but he is always looking behind him and this gets in the way of his happiness. Hawk is the ultimate protective Daddy who cautiously approaches Mika until he finds out the trouble he is in and then goes full force to take care of him. He is a good man who makes Mika feel safe and he’s there when he needs him, especially when they find out Butch is after him. Mika’s friends, Mary Ellen, and everyone at 3 Bears Tactical Services are ready and able to help them whenever they can. Butch and the other bikers are really not good men so it’s nice to see them get what is coming to them. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like stories about a boy in trouble and the Daddy who wants to be there to protect him and does when it comes their way and how they find love together.
May 21, 2025
The blurb sets this book up well, and I found myself reading non-stop, unable to put it down. Mika was a very relatable character, still affected by trauma from his ex two years ago (although he thought he was pretty over it most of the time). He was proactive enough to attend self defense classes (taught by Hawk), and developed a sense of trust and safety with Hawk which stood him in good stead when danger actually arrived. He was attracted to Hawk, but leery due to size similarities with his ex, which caused him to avoid too many interactions with the man, but once he felt threatened, Hawk was the first one he thought of for help. When confronted by his ex and the reason behind his appearance in Vesper, Mika discovered a strength and resilience he didn’t realize he had, all supported by Hawk in the background.
Hawk is a big, tough, muscular guy, intimidating Mika due to his size, but also calming Mia due to his protective and caring nature. Hawk was drawn to Mika from their first meeting, but he could read the fear and trepidation in Mika and followed a plan of moving slowly as he quietly pursued the young man he wanted to claim as his. Hawk is a Daddy and he recognized Mika’s need for someone to care for him and give him the structure and support he needed. Fiercely protective, he will do anything to keep Mika safe.
There was a smaller Daddy/boy dynamic in the book than I expected, more emphasis being put on the threats to Mika and the protective side of Hawk than the Daddy/boy interactions. There were a few steamy scenes, but to me it was more a Daddy attitude and “voice” in more intimate situations than a more structured 24/7 Daddy relationship. Nothing wrong with that, much of Hawk’s “Daddy-ness” was his protective mode. It worked well for them and met the needs of both.
World building was good, the supporting characters really added to the story (along with offering more chances for additional couple stories in the series). I adored Mary Ellen and Mika’s interactions with her, she was a feisty old thing who really cared for Mika and his well being, and the mutual respect and care for each other came through loud and clear. I could vividly picture their interactions in my mind’s eye. Mika’s joy with Milly was another vivid section for me.
I was engaged in the story the entire time, invested in Hawk’s care and protection of Mika, impressed with Mika’s fortitude in following through with something he didn’t want to do to shut down Butch and the gang, and was very satisfied with the conclusion to Hawk and Mika’s story. I look forward to Gator’s book, to see who will be the one for him and what adventure will unfold as their relationship develops. This is a good series with action and romance, one I would recommend.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my voluntary review.
Hawk is a big, tough, muscular guy, intimidating Mika due to his size, but also calming Mia due to his protective and caring nature. Hawk was drawn to Mika from their first meeting, but he could read the fear and trepidation in Mika and followed a plan of moving slowly as he quietly pursued the young man he wanted to claim as his. Hawk is a Daddy and he recognized Mika’s need for someone to care for him and give him the structure and support he needed. Fiercely protective, he will do anything to keep Mika safe.
There was a smaller Daddy/boy dynamic in the book than I expected, more emphasis being put on the threats to Mika and the protective side of Hawk than the Daddy/boy interactions. There were a few steamy scenes, but to me it was more a Daddy attitude and “voice” in more intimate situations than a more structured 24/7 Daddy relationship. Nothing wrong with that, much of Hawk’s “Daddy-ness” was his protective mode. It worked well for them and met the needs of both.
World building was good, the supporting characters really added to the story (along with offering more chances for additional couple stories in the series). I adored Mary Ellen and Mika’s interactions with her, she was a feisty old thing who really cared for Mika and his well being, and the mutual respect and care for each other came through loud and clear. I could vividly picture their interactions in my mind’s eye. Mika’s joy with Milly was another vivid section for me.
I was engaged in the story the entire time, invested in Hawk’s care and protection of Mika, impressed with Mika’s fortitude in following through with something he didn’t want to do to shut down Butch and the gang, and was very satisfied with the conclusion to Hawk and Mika’s story. I look forward to Gator’s book, to see who will be the one for him and what adventure will unfold as their relationship develops. This is a good series with action and romance, one I would recommend.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my voluntary review.
May 8, 2025
When I reviewed Smoke Screen I mentioned that I wanted Mika's story, so I was really excited to read Mika's story in this new series.
Mika already had my heart and reading what he went through to get to Vesper, he was so brave. But after 2 years he wanted to take full control of his life and signed up for self defence classes.
We were first introduced to Hawk when Three Bear Tactical was hired in Hot Zone, part owner of the company, a big friendly giant of a man and ex military he was good at making folk feel safe.
Whilst there was instant attraction Mika had vowed to stay away from the bad boy image and whilst Hawks instincts screamed to keep Mika safe, he knew he had to take it slowly. But when Mika's past came knocking at his door, Mika knew there was only one man that could keep him safe.
Whilst the romance was a slow burn, it never felt slow as we watch Mika learn to trust Hawk. Hawk so gentle with Mika, gentle and overprotective, his only mission to keep the man he was falling in love in safe. I loved Hawk's possessiveness, when he got all growly, usually at the expense of his team who had a great camaraderie and laughed at some of the comments from Maddox and Axel, but it showed how close they all were. Good to see the firefighters and their partners and catching up with them.
There was tension running through this story as Mika was in danger with his past making me want to read it in one sitting.
With Gator's story teased I am curious to see what danger he will be in
Mika already had my heart and reading what he went through to get to Vesper, he was so brave. But after 2 years he wanted to take full control of his life and signed up for self defence classes.
We were first introduced to Hawk when Three Bear Tactical was hired in Hot Zone, part owner of the company, a big friendly giant of a man and ex military he was good at making folk feel safe.
Whilst there was instant attraction Mika had vowed to stay away from the bad boy image and whilst Hawks instincts screamed to keep Mika safe, he knew he had to take it slowly. But when Mika's past came knocking at his door, Mika knew there was only one man that could keep him safe.
Whilst the romance was a slow burn, it never felt slow as we watch Mika learn to trust Hawk. Hawk so gentle with Mika, gentle and overprotective, his only mission to keep the man he was falling in love in safe. I loved Hawk's possessiveness, when he got all growly, usually at the expense of his team who had a great camaraderie and laughed at some of the comments from Maddox and Axel, but it showed how close they all were. Good to see the firefighters and their partners and catching up with them.
There was tension running through this story as Mika was in danger with his past making me want to read it in one sitting.
With Gator's story teased I am curious to see what danger he will be in
August 2, 2026
Mika’s dream relationship sours when his biker boyfriend turns abusive and Mika’s forced to hide in the small town of Vesper, Texas. He builds a comfortable life there but he’s never really felt safe, despite the self-defence classes run by the hunky Duncan Hawkins, one of the owners of Three Bears Tactical. Duncan has his eye on the cute Mika, but he doesn’t want to come on strong and scare him off. However, when his vengeful ex comes banging on Mika’s door, Duncan is the first person he turns to for help. Duncan goes into protection mode, moving in with Mika and engaging the resources of his security company. But Mika’s ex isn’t the only biker in town and the Feds seem pretty interested in their activities. Should Mika agree to being used as bait?
This was sweet daddy / boy fluffiness mixed with mild suspense and violence. Despite the occasional life-threatening situations, the tone was generally feel-good with minimal angst. Duncan is part of a group of older daddies, each on the lookout for a boy to lavish their praise and affection on. Mika had built a new life but he’s still in survival mode so he’s the perfect person to be rescued and pampered by Duncan. I didn’t mind this but never felt fully engaged—I’ve encountered lots of these tropes before and didn’t feel there was anything new. 🎧 Liam DiCosimo’s light voice really suited Mika; less so Duncan, but it wasn’t a deal-breaker.
This was sweet daddy / boy fluffiness mixed with mild suspense and violence. Despite the occasional life-threatening situations, the tone was generally feel-good with minimal angst. Duncan is part of a group of older daddies, each on the lookout for a boy to lavish their praise and affection on. Mika had built a new life but he’s still in survival mode so he’s the perfect person to be rescued and pampered by Duncan. I didn’t mind this but never felt fully engaged—I’ve encountered lots of these tropes before and didn’t feel there was anything new. 🎧 Liam DiCosimo’s light voice really suited Mika; less so Duncan, but it wasn’t a deal-breaker.
October 14, 2026
'Hawk' (Three Bears Tactical series) by Jackie James, (Audible) narrated by Liam DiCosimo
September 2026
This is a DNF for me.
I got to 50% and just couldn't stand to listen to this tripe one more minute! It's partly due to a predictable and not very well written storyline, and partly due to the really lame narration, one where it's mostly difficult to differentiate between the characters... except when the narrator attempts to do a "tough guy" voice, which gets on my last nerve it's so bad!
Throw in a failure for the bodyguard to remain professional, which could be fun in other circumstances, but Hawk needs to be thinking clearly in order to protect Mika.
Personally, I'm not a fan of a "Daddy-Boy" tilt in a storyline anyway, especially not now in this newly developing "not-a-relationship" situation, it's creepy. Plus, in my opinion it's way too soon for Mika to jump into bed with Hawk anyway since he's still dealing with a deranged biker-boy ex-boyfriend who's stalking him and trying to kidnap him... maybe even sell him to human traffickers! Or worse!
The only parts I could get behind was the tactical gear, like that watch that allowed Mika to push a button to send an alert to Guardians headquarters so they could find him with GPS. That was cool.
Otherwise, I'm just not that into it; it all seems shallow and not very well written, and SO predictable; it's not making a whole lot of sense.
So I decided to cut this book loose and read something better!
September 2026
This is a DNF for me.
I got to 50% and just couldn't stand to listen to this tripe one more minute! It's partly due to a predictable and not very well written storyline, and partly due to the really lame narration, one where it's mostly difficult to differentiate between the characters... except when the narrator attempts to do a "tough guy" voice, which gets on my last nerve it's so bad!
Throw in a failure for the bodyguard to remain professional, which could be fun in other circumstances, but Hawk needs to be thinking clearly in order to protect Mika.
Personally, I'm not a fan of a "Daddy-Boy" tilt in a storyline anyway, especially not now in this newly developing "not-a-relationship" situation, it's creepy. Plus, in my opinion it's way too soon for Mika to jump into bed with Hawk anyway since he's still dealing with a deranged biker-boy ex-boyfriend who's stalking him and trying to kidnap him... maybe even sell him to human traffickers! Or worse!
The only parts I could get behind was the tactical gear, like that watch that allowed Mika to push a button to send an alert to Guardians headquarters so they could find him with GPS. That was cool.
Otherwise, I'm just not that into it; it all seems shallow and not very well written, and SO predictable; it's not making a whole lot of sense.
So I decided to cut this book loose and read something better!
July 4, 2025
DNF @ 53%
Tons of named characters, Jesus. I assumed they were MCs from associated books, but that never excuses dropping 5+ different names and relationships in a single chapter.
The POV swaps mid chapter got a little annoying. I'm not particularly sure they were needed (like Mika and Hawk's conversation over breakfast would've been perfectly fine if we'd seen it through just one of their POVs. I'm not sure we gained anything worth the disruption of flow)
Why the fuck did Mika try and act normal right after he just ran away from Butch's friend? He was literally assaulted and finally got to a place with tons of people around. WHY DIDN'T HE ASK FOR HELP or draw attention to the fact that someone literally just tried to snatch him away?
DNF-ing primarily because I couldn't get over the numerous POV swaps that interrupted what was already feeling like a chore to read and the romance wasn't very satisfying since both Mika and Hawk had already expressed attraction to one another and there wasn't enough romantic tension to make it enjoyable to read. Also, the dialogue and exposition just felt super clunky. Mika and Hawk's conversations about their lives was fine as a way to show that they were getting to know each other, but having long winded conversations be the primary way they interacted mad it very tedious and dull to see their story develop.
Tons of named characters, Jesus. I assumed they were MCs from associated books, but that never excuses dropping 5+ different names and relationships in a single chapter.
The POV swaps mid chapter got a little annoying. I'm not particularly sure they were needed (like Mika and Hawk's conversation over breakfast would've been perfectly fine if we'd seen it through just one of their POVs. I'm not sure we gained anything worth the disruption of flow)
Why the fuck did Mika try and act normal right after he just ran away from Butch's friend? He was literally assaulted and finally got to a place with tons of people around. WHY DIDN'T HE ASK FOR HELP or draw attention to the fact that someone literally just tried to snatch him away?
DNF-ing primarily because I couldn't get over the numerous POV swaps that interrupted what was already feeling like a chore to read and the romance wasn't very satisfying since both Mika and Hawk had already expressed attraction to one another and there wasn't enough romantic tension to make it enjoyable to read. Also, the dialogue and exposition just felt super clunky. Mika and Hawk's conversations about their lives was fine as a way to show that they were getting to know each other, but having long winded conversations be the primary way they interacted mad it very tedious and dull to see their story develop.
September 2, 2026
I know I'm probably being nit picky about this so maybe take my opinions with a grain of salt. I did really enjoy this romance between Mika and Hawk. The characters, on their own and as a couple, worked really well to tell this story. The problems came down to a couple of things. Personally, I think I would have preferred to have just some indication that this would lean into the Daddy kink. It's not my cup of tea and every time it got mentioned (which is significant), I physically cringed. I'm not yucking anyone's yum, but I'm also not grabbing it from the buffet. You know what I mean?
Also, some of the dialogue in this felt so painfully stilted. Conversations between Mika and Hawk just felt awkward at times and it pulled me out of the story so hard, because they just felt fabricated (obviously they are since this is fiction, but you know what I'm talking about.)
The premise is well done. The pacing is a bit fast, especially with the romance. We went from almost zero to 100 within a couple of interactions. This is the first in a series, but it seems to be a spinoff for another series so I lost a lot of context to past events and friendships with secondary characters. Overall, it was fine but it wasn't something that fits with my personal tastes. I wouldn't count this author out.
Also, some of the dialogue in this felt so painfully stilted. Conversations between Mika and Hawk just felt awkward at times and it pulled me out of the story so hard, because they just felt fabricated (obviously they are since this is fiction, but you know what I'm talking about.)
The premise is well done. The pacing is a bit fast, especially with the romance. We went from almost zero to 100 within a couple of interactions. This is the first in a series, but it seems to be a spinoff for another series so I lost a lot of context to past events and friendships with secondary characters. Overall, it was fine but it wasn't something that fits with my personal tastes. I wouldn't count this author out.
May 13, 2025
Very Daddy lite but still good
I loved Mika in the previous series, Station 69, and Hawk seemed to be perfect for him on what little we saw.
I loved Mika's back story, bringing him to Vesper and the catalyst for taking self-defence classes where he can't avoid Hawk. Hawk was a sweetheart, waiting patiently until the obviously jumpy Mika might be ready for a relationship with him. The attraction between them was there but I respected Jacki for not having them jump into bed within the first few pages but keeping a professional distance between them while Hawk is protecting him. The drama around Mika's ex was well-written and made their story far more interesting.
Mika's relationship with his employer was wonderful, and I loved how feisty she was, especially with Hawk! Seeing him with his friends Andy and Mars was a nice bonus too.
I loved all the Three Bears Tactical men and hope that this is not just a trilogy as there's more than Hawk, Gator and Wolfe who need their stories told.
This really is very light on the Daddy side of the relationship, if that's what you're looking for. Yes, Mika calls Hawk Daddy but that's about it.
I loved Mika in the previous series, Station 69, and Hawk seemed to be perfect for him on what little we saw.
I loved Mika's back story, bringing him to Vesper and the catalyst for taking self-defence classes where he can't avoid Hawk. Hawk was a sweetheart, waiting patiently until the obviously jumpy Mika might be ready for a relationship with him. The attraction between them was there but I respected Jacki for not having them jump into bed within the first few pages but keeping a professional distance between them while Hawk is protecting him. The drama around Mika's ex was well-written and made their story far more interesting.
Mika's relationship with his employer was wonderful, and I loved how feisty she was, especially with Hawk! Seeing him with his friends Andy and Mars was a nice bonus too.
I loved all the Three Bears Tactical men and hope that this is not just a trilogy as there's more than Hawk, Gator and Wolfe who need their stories told.
This really is very light on the Daddy side of the relationship, if that's what you're looking for. Yes, Mika calls Hawk Daddy but that's about it.
May 23, 2025
This is the first book in the Protector Daddies series. Even though this is the first book, you will probably recognize a few characters from the Station 69 series. This is the story of Mika and Hawk. We meet Mika when he is escaping an abusive relationship. He ends up in Vesper because he wants to get as far away from his ex as he can. Slowly Mika rebuilds his life. He now his friends and a found family. Hawk is one of the owners at Three Bears Tactical Services. He is a security expert and is using that knowledge to run local self defense classes. Mika is attending one such class. Hawk and Mica meet through mutual friends and Hawk is immediately smitten. But he recognizes that Mika is running from something. As Hawk is fairly large and intimidating, he decides to bide his time and let Mika get used to him being around. But when Mica's ex shows up looking to get Mika back, all bets are off. Hawk knows Mika is his and is going to protect him at all costs. This is their story. The book is well written and easy to read. Both main characters are likeable as is their friends. I enjoyed this book. I am looking forward to book 2 in this series.
May 4, 2025
First in series (Protector Daddies). Daddy/boy. Hurt/comfort. Found family. Close proximity. Slow burn. Dual POV. There probably should be content warnings for past domestic abuse and violence.
Mika has run from an abusive ex and established a new life for himself, but he still doesn’t trust his judgement when it comes to big, confident men like security expert Hawk. He’s been patiently waiting to let Mika get to know him, but now Hawk has to protect Mika and there’s no hiding his desire to make Mika his boy.
It was easy to tell that Hawk had his Daddy hat on from the first moment he met Mika, and appointing himself as a bodyguard to Mika fit into his hopes of caring and protecting the other man. It was nice to see Mika be able to trust his instincts as Hawk is a cinnamon roll Daddy that is no stranger to danger and is willing to do anything to keep Mika in his life. I really enjoyed that once they started their relationship there was no hesitation from either man, and even though it seemed quick it felt natural for them to fall into a permanent future together.
Mika has run from an abusive ex and established a new life for himself, but he still doesn’t trust his judgement when it comes to big, confident men like security expert Hawk. He’s been patiently waiting to let Mika get to know him, but now Hawk has to protect Mika and there’s no hiding his desire to make Mika his boy.
It was easy to tell that Hawk had his Daddy hat on from the first moment he met Mika, and appointing himself as a bodyguard to Mika fit into his hopes of caring and protecting the other man. It was nice to see Mika be able to trust his instincts as Hawk is a cinnamon roll Daddy that is no stranger to danger and is willing to do anything to keep Mika in his life. I really enjoyed that once they started their relationship there was no hesitation from either man, and even though it seemed quick it felt natural for them to fall into a permanent future together.
May 11, 2025
Mika, who has a history of running from trouble and an abusive ex, has built a safe life in Vesper, Texas. However, when his past catches up to him, he reluctantly turns to Duncan "Hawk" Hawkins for protection. Hawk, an ex-military bodyguard, is physically Mika's type but also embodies the kind of dominant man Mika has sworn to avoid due to past trauma. Despite his reservations, Mika finds Hawk to be different—protective, patient, and dedicated to keeping him safe. As Hawk teaches Mika self-defense, a strong attraction develops between them. Mika is faced with a critical choice: continue running from his dangerous ex or risk his heart by trusting Hawk and standing to fight for his safety and a potential future together.
I loved this story with the two men who were drawn together and the situation with Mika's ex. Lots of danger and drama as the two men became closer to each other. Easy to feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content and a BDSM-like Daddy/boy dynamic.
I loved this story with the two men who were drawn together and the situation with Mika's ex. Lots of danger and drama as the two men became closer to each other. Easy to feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content and a BDSM-like Daddy/boy dynamic.
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