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.
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
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.
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
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.
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.
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. 🖋
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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, 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.
This is book number 1 in the Protector Daddies series by Jacki James. I was so excited to finally read HAWK since the first blurb I got in Jacki James' newsletter and I was not disappointed. So let's get to it with my likes and dislikes. I received this book as an arc for an honest review.
Dislikes: I will say the POV switching was a bit confusing for me when I was reading, that did take me out of the story in a few places because it would switch back and forth within the chapter. So that is something to take note of when going into this book. That is about the only complaint I have as this book was exactly what I needed and delivered on what I expected!!
Likes: Something about very burly, rugged men who are teddy bears hits all the right notes for me. This story held fluff, romance, suspense and some right but kicking and I was happily along for the ride. I felt so much for Mika as it's so hard to navigate abuse and come out the other end unscathed, but Hawks continued support, love, and protection helped him find himself again. Loved this story!
We are back in Vesper. This time we are not with the firefighters but with the security experts at Three Bears Tactical. I’ve been excitedly waiting for this story and it did not disappoint! I love Mika and Hawk so much!! Mika has been through a lot and when his past shows up again Hawk is there to help. Hawk loves what he does, but he has a crush on Mika. He’s trying to give him time to get comfortable around him, but when Mika is scared and reaches out there is no more time for space. These two are perfect for each other. Hawk shows Mika how strong he really is and Mika helps Hawk feel more connected to his life. There are also some great side characters in this story. I love Mrs. Thompson and all the other guys at Three Bears Tactical. I can’t wait for their stories. Plus there are some cute dogs! If you want a story that is engaging and full of action, chemistry, healing and fun I highly recommend this one. I can’t wait for more stories!
Thank you for the book, here is my honest opinion: I like Hawk and Mika together. It’s light on the Daddy/boy dynamics but I don’t mind too much. Hawk is impressive in protective mode and I loved Mika’s strength in fighting for a better and safer life for himself. The characters are excellent but the book feels so very long with a lot of stuff that didn’t enhance the romance, the plot, or the characters. Lot of talking about crochet, self defense techniques, and other side characters not involved in the plot - really made this drag on a bit. The suspense side is good, it’s a good take on evil ex, even if that is a plot I see a lot. I really liked the characters and I’m sure Three Bears Tactical will have lots of good stories to tell. Plus, I absolutely loved Mika’s relationship with his employer Mary Ellen, she is awesome and they were lovely together.
It was a refreshing shift of focus for this author, delving into the (little bit) grittier side of Vesper. Hawk was so patient, supportive, protective, and bada$$, exactly what Mika needed. Mika is one tough cookie in his own right, all he had to deal with, unpack, work through, and overcome - past AND present - thanks to his (bad word here) ex. Loved getting to know the guys surrounding both MCs, Three Bears Tactical & Mika's friend group, and all the cameos from the previous series. These two just worked, fit together perfectly. As for the overall plot; the darker, heavier issues were handled well, and I'm curious to see where the rest of the series goes. Love the banter & camaraderie among the TBT employees. Steamy, sweet, has some intense subject matter & action at times, excellent series start, looking forward to more!
Hawk introduces us to a new series, in which we already know some of the characters if you've read the author's Station 69 series, although we only knew them by passing in that one. I liked the suspense in the plot and that any problems were outside of the characters' relationship (we stan adults who actually communicate!). Although I usually like possessive MC, I'm not entirely sure it's the healthiest thing for Mika after what he's lived through, but he is super into it and Hawk always puts him first, his needs and wants, so it's completely different from Mika's past. I loved the crochet bits, as I follow the author adventures in crochet and have absolutely loved seeing the small references to her own adventures in Mika's!
I will be looking forward to the next book in the series.
Thank you for the opportunity to read this ARC and give my honest opinion!
I really wanted to love this story, the characters were intriguing, and I was invested in seeing Hawke and Mika come together to take down Butch. However, despite me liking Mika and Hawk as characters, and then being a couple, I just wasn't in love with this book. For me, the writing just felt off and a bit.. clunky. For instance, while some of the chapters were marked when the POV switched, some weren't. And in the middle of one of Mika's POV chapters, halfway through it without mentioning it was switching, it switched to Hawk's POV, then a few pages later switched back to Mika's again without noting it. That chapter was very confusing to read because there were so many POV switches without them being marked, and because of that it left me feeling a bit lost.
I did like both Mika and Hawk, I just couldn't get into this story as much as I was hoping I would. I also enjoyed Hawk's fellow co-workers and friends, they were great side characters! I loved the end of the book, Mika not only got a dog of his own but Hawk and the guys who live in the same building as him, renovated the roof to be an area specifically for the dog. Which is so sweet and very cute!
While I didn't love this story, it doesn't mean you won't. You could end up loving this, so please give it a chance if it sounds interesting to you.
Hawk by Jacki James is book 1 in the Protector Daddies series. We first met the men from Three Bears Tactical in the Station 69 series. I was intrigued then and I really enjoyed reading about Hawk and Mika. Two years ago, Mika left his abusive motorcycle club boyfriend. When his ex finds and threatens him, Hawk steps up. He’s always wanted Mika and is afraid to lose him before he gets him.
I loved how Hawk was willing to be patient and wait for Mika to be ready. He didn’t know the particulars of Mika’s past, but he realized there was something holding him back. He is a good man. These two were really well suited for each other. Mika bloomed under Hawk’s care. I am looking forward to reading Gator and Wolf’s stories. I know they will be just as entertaining!
I received an ARC from the author for my honest review>
I was truly surprised when I read this. I’m not sure why because Jacki James is an amazing author. Maybe it’s just me with reading so many books that I was thinking this book would be the same as a lot of the others. But I was thoroughly wrong and shocked. I don’t think I even put this book down for to long. Hawk and Mika are off the charts. Hawk with all his sexy military experience plus a sweet daddy heart and Mika an intelligent young man who entered into a toxic relationship, and had to escape, set for a wonderful story. After two years of escaping abuse, Mika’s ex appears in town to seek revenge on Mika. But Mika has help. Daddy Hawk and all his peeps that work for him and with him go out of their way to make Mika’s life better. This book gets 5 stars ⭐️ on the ratings.
In this great story there is one nasty , abusive biker gang member. A man, Mika, who is sweet and caring and doesn't deserve to be treated like he had been for 6 months. Pain, anger but also escape , peace and forged friendships. Self defense classes that lead to not only learning how to defend yourself but also love and acceptance for Mika with Hawk. Hawk is a man who knows how to care for his man. To give him what he needs and to protect him. The story was very well written . Lots of heat, sexy times, turtle brownies and Seph a dog who knows how to protect her friend Mika from the bad guy. I don't want to give the whole book away. Just know this, you'll find great group of guys who are the vest friends anyone could ask for, a wonderful love story with some kick ass guys who know how to protect their own. I give 5/5 stars for this book.
Mika is on the run from his abusive ex, a member of a dangerous motorcycle club, and trying to start over in a new town. When his past catches up to him, he turns to the one person he’s come to trust—Hawk, his self-defense instructor and co-owner of a security agency.
The chemistry between Mika and Hawk builds naturally as danger looms, and Mika’s courage to ask for help becomes a turning point. With Hawk’s team and Mika’s loyal friend stepping in, the stakes rise—but so does the emotional connection.
A gripping mix of suspense, healing, and romance, this story delivers both tension and tender moments that will keep you hooked.
I received this ARC from NRR and voluntarily leaving my review. Monica
Mika was such a sweetie and had such a tender loving heart. And Hawk was Mika's kryptonite; unfortunately, Mika didn't trust his judgement in men anymore. His traumatic past left him wary and unable to trust. But Hawk was exactly the Daddy Mika needed to heal his soul and heart. Hawk was so patient, protective, and loving but never pushy or demanding. He knew Mika was strong and brave enough to confront his demons, even though Mika didn't think so. There was also suspense and action when Mika's ugly past came back to haunt him. But plenty of steam, humor, and sweet moments intertwined to perfectly balance everything out. Also, the secondary characters were intriguing and definitely made me want their stories. I'm already itching to get my hands on their books, lol.
I liked the idea of it but by the end of it I just couldn't care less. Also the number of side characters is a little overwhelming. Technically you can read it as a standalone because they don't matter much to the plot but with all the name dropping and references to past events it still feels like you're missing something. Or at least I hope it's a spin off of something since I haven't checked yet. If it's not it's even more confusing.
I wish authors who create their own universe would state explicitly at the beginning of the book if it's a spin off from another series. A character glossary at the end of the book to tell us in which book/series these characters wouldn't hurt either, especially if their world starts getting big.
Mika and Hawk was interesting, and I was really curious about who they'll end up with since the first time they were mentioned. They are so cute and adorable together, and Mika really needed a thoughtful and caring daddy after all the trauma and suffering he endured. I liked how they bonded, how they got to know each other, and how they eliminated the threat Mika got in his life. Hawk was so perfect for Mika, with his protectiveness and supportive nature, as well as with his nurturing and loving attitude. They had a well-deserved happiness, and I’m looking forward to the next adventure.
I hate losing the men of Station 69, but Hawk of Three Bears Tactical was a fantastic segue into a new group in Vesper, Texas. We met Mika in the previous series, so he was a perfect choice for a new beginning, because that’s what he needed. It was a privilege watching Hawk and Mika find their way together, overcoming obstacles to find strength, safety, and love. This book was spicy without being the type of scorching that leaves damages, and it was the kind of lovely that leaves you feeling content. It was a perfect rainy day read and an escape from a world of responsibilities—I can’t wait for the next one!
I love Hawk and Mika’s book. I have been waiting for Mika to have someone to keep him safe, and Hawk is the perfect man for the job. They met in the Station 69 series, and you don’t have to have read that series to know what’s happening in this book (but you should read that series because it’s great). When Mika needs help and protection the first person he thinks to call is Hawk, and that’s one Daddy that won’t let anything happen to his boy. I love how patient and calm Hawk is, and how protective he is without being smothering. The whole book is well written and sweet, you should definitely read it.