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The Bodyguards of L.A. County #7
Saving Sophie
Jewelry designer Sophie Burke has fled Maine for the anonymity of the big city. She’s starting over with a job she tolerates and a grungy motel room she calls home on the wrong side of town, but anything is better than the nightmare she left behind.
Stone McCabe is Ethan Cooke Security’s brooding bad boy more interested in keeping to himself than anything else—until the gorgeous blond with haunted violet eyes catches his attention late one rainy night.
Stone reluctantly gives Sophie a hand only to quickly realize that the shy beauty with the soft voice and pretty smile has something to hide. Tangled up in her secrets, Stone offers Sophie a solution that has the potential to free her from her problems once and for all—or jeopardize both of their lives.
Stone McCabe is Ethan Cooke Security’s brooding bad boy more interested in keeping to himself than anything else—until the gorgeous blond with haunted violet eyes catches his attention late one rainy night.
Stone reluctantly gives Sophie a hand only to quickly realize that the shy beauty with the soft voice and pretty smile has something to hide. Tangled up in her secrets, Stone offers Sophie a solution that has the potential to free her from her problems once and for all—or jeopardize both of their lives.
451 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 4, 2014
154 people are currently reading
876 people want to read
About the author
Cate Beauman
22 books537 followersCate Beauman is the multi-award-winning, international bestselling author of The Bodyguards of L.A. County series and the Carter Island Novels. She is known for her full-length, action-packed romantic suspense and contemporary stories.
Cate's novels have been named Readers' Favorite Five Star books and have won the Booksellers' Best Award, Maggie Award for Excellence, the Holt Medallion Award, two-time Aspen Gold Medal, two-time Readers' Favorite International Gold Medal, three-time Readers' Favorite International Silver Medal, and the Readers' Crown Award.
Cate makes her home in New Hampshire with her family and their St. Bernards, Bear and Jack.
Subscribe to Cate's monthly newsletter and receive Morgan's Hunter for FREE! Subscribe here: http://www.catebeauman.com/getmyfreeb...
Cate can be reached at www.catebeauman.com and www.facebook.com/CateBeaumanAuthor.
You can follow Cate on Instagram at www.instagram.com/realcatebeauman
Cate's novels have been named Readers' Favorite Five Star books and have won the Booksellers' Best Award, Maggie Award for Excellence, the Holt Medallion Award, two-time Aspen Gold Medal, two-time Readers' Favorite International Gold Medal, three-time Readers' Favorite International Silver Medal, and the Readers' Crown Award.
Cate makes her home in New Hampshire with her family and their St. Bernards, Bear and Jack.
Subscribe to Cate's monthly newsletter and receive Morgan's Hunter for FREE! Subscribe here: http://www.catebeauman.com/getmyfreeb...
Cate can be reached at www.catebeauman.com and www.facebook.com/CateBeaumanAuthor.
You can follow Cate on Instagram at www.instagram.com/realcatebeauman
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
August 1, 2017
I always enjoy Ms. Beauman’s writing style. The story and characters in her book are well developed and a pleasure to read this book was no different but all in all I can still only give it 3 ‘Blondie and Mr. Dark, Buff & Broody’ Stars.
Sophie is on the run from her soon to be husband. He is after her trust fund, he is also abusive. She runs fast and she runs far. Well to Los Angeles to be exact where she gets a job at Cooke Security as a cleaner but she is actually a jewelry designer.
Stone doesn’t care for most people, well actually hardly anyone unless he is pestered by Abby to do something. In this case Abby pesters him into taking a closer look at Sophie.
“Do you know her name?” “Nope” He picked up his trowel, sliding more grout among the empty spaces where the new pedestal sink would eventually go. “Well, what do you know about her?” “Not much.” “Wow, two words. You actually said two words in a row. I think this might be a record” He grinned. “What do you want, Abby?” “Holy crap a whole question. I’m going to pass out.” “I’m hanging up.”
Stone caves and keeps an eye on Sophie. After Abby caught Sophie in the women’s shelter home, Sophie moved to a seedy part of a LA and to an even seedier motel. Stone tries to tell himself that he doesn’t care but in the meantime, Eric the abusive ex is planning revenge.
In the end Stone gets Sophie to move in with her. They start decorating the house together, they are basically in a relationship and they don’t know it there just isn’t any sex at the moment.
He brings her an abandon puppy home. So that she doesn’t leave. To top it off they get married so that Eric doesn’t get the trust money but Stone finds out on a business trip that Sophie lied but she actually didn’t know about the arrest warrant. That Stone didn’t believe her and that cut the most.
The ending did drag on a bit and I think that Sophie could have come to the realization sooner that a.) Stone wasn’t interested in Amber, b.) She needed to get her head out of her arse in regards to the ex and last but not least c.) that Stone frigging adored her.
What really got to me was the about of times ‘stupid, stupid Sophie’ were said. I also felt that Sophie wasn’t the same person at the end of the book and I really liked her at the beginning but alas at the end I wanted to slap her into next week or even year.
I enjoy this series and will continue with the rest of them to come.
Book received by author in exchange for an honest review.
Can also be found at http://jerisbookattic-reviewblog.blog...
Sophie is on the run from her soon to be husband. He is after her trust fund, he is also abusive. She runs fast and she runs far. Well to Los Angeles to be exact where she gets a job at Cooke Security as a cleaner but she is actually a jewelry designer.
Stone doesn’t care for most people, well actually hardly anyone unless he is pestered by Abby to do something. In this case Abby pesters him into taking a closer look at Sophie.
“Do you know her name?” “Nope” He picked up his trowel, sliding more grout among the empty spaces where the new pedestal sink would eventually go. “Well, what do you know about her?” “Not much.” “Wow, two words. You actually said two words in a row. I think this might be a record” He grinned. “What do you want, Abby?” “Holy crap a whole question. I’m going to pass out.” “I’m hanging up.”
Stone caves and keeps an eye on Sophie. After Abby caught Sophie in the women’s shelter home, Sophie moved to a seedy part of a LA and to an even seedier motel. Stone tries to tell himself that he doesn’t care but in the meantime, Eric the abusive ex is planning revenge.
In the end Stone gets Sophie to move in with her. They start decorating the house together, they are basically in a relationship and they don’t know it there just isn’t any sex at the moment.
He brings her an abandon puppy home. So that she doesn’t leave. To top it off they get married so that Eric doesn’t get the trust money but Stone finds out on a business trip that Sophie lied but she actually didn’t know about the arrest warrant. That Stone didn’t believe her and that cut the most.
The ending did drag on a bit and I think that Sophie could have come to the realization sooner that a.) Stone wasn’t interested in Amber, b.) She needed to get her head out of her arse in regards to the ex and last but not least c.) that Stone frigging adored her.
What really got to me was the about of times ‘stupid, stupid Sophie’ were said. I also felt that Sophie wasn’t the same person at the end of the book and I really liked her at the beginning but alas at the end I wanted to slap her into next week or even year.
I enjoy this series and will continue with the rest of them to come.
Book received by author in exchange for an honest review.
Can also be found at http://jerisbookattic-reviewblog.blog...
Read
July 21, 2020DNF.
Cate Beauman must love the movie Sleeping with the Enemy. It has all the hallmarks from a runaway with a bad wig,
evil villain signature mood music (Rachmaninoff - Prelude in C Sharp Minor),https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCtix...
and a villain that just won’t stop.
What derailed a fun romantic suspense was just frank, out and out idiotic maneuvers on the part of the heroine. Yeah, yeah, she probably has PTSD from the abuse, but still.
Cate Beauman must love the movie Sleeping with the Enemy. It has all the hallmarks from a runaway with a bad wig,
evil villain signature mood music (Rachmaninoff - Prelude in C Sharp Minor),https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCtix...
and a villain that just won’t stop.
What derailed a fun romantic suspense was just frank, out and out idiotic maneuvers on the part of the heroine. Yeah, yeah, she probably has PTSD from the abuse, but still.
September 16, 2014
The first half of the book was wonderful. If I could give the first half 5 stars I would. I was loving this book. Then at about 50% the heroine started having TSTL moments. One right after another.
She has this guy following her. Taking pictures & pulling tricks on her. What does she want to do about it? Ignore it. Just pretend he's not there. Then gets furious when the hero tries to talk to her about doing something to stop it (I mean this is what he does for a living).
Ok then hero gets angry at her for getting angry at him, & starts staying away from her.
Acts like a jerk to her & spends time with another women (innocently on his part) but still!!! When hero try's to connect with her we spend the rest of the book reading about the heroine constantly pushing the hero away. They dance around each other never talking about what was really going on. I was so frustrated. She had the right to be mad at him a couple of times when he was a jerk, & those were the times she decides NOT get furious with him!!! Why? When he's trying to help her she throws a fit. When she really has a reason to throw down she acts like a wimp & a martyr. She thinks he wants another women so she just takes herself out of the picture.
Then he finds out that this is what's wrong with her. Instead of settling things right then, he puts it off. I just don't get it. There was plenty of moments he could have told her.
I would have loved to seen more action. Maybe them running from the bad guy & bad guy actually doing some of the dirty work himself. Maybe even Sophie standing up for herself & knocking the heck out of the him with a bat. Any of those would have been better than wasting my time reading the silliness that was the last half of this book. By the time they started acting like they had some sense, I just didn't care anymore. I just wanted it to be over.
As you can tell by reading this, I'm not a writer, but I know what I like. This is just my opinion. These dislikes might not be a big deal to other readers.
I absolutely loved Abby's story & would read more from this author.
She has this guy following her. Taking pictures & pulling tricks on her. What does she want to do about it? Ignore it. Just pretend he's not there. Then gets furious when the hero tries to talk to her about doing something to stop it (I mean this is what he does for a living).
Ok then hero gets angry at her for getting angry at him, & starts staying away from her.
Acts like a jerk to her & spends time with another women (innocently on his part) but still!!! When hero try's to connect with her we spend the rest of the book reading about the heroine constantly pushing the hero away. They dance around each other never talking about what was really going on. I was so frustrated. She had the right to be mad at him a couple of times when he was a jerk, & those were the times she decides NOT get furious with him!!! Why? When he's trying to help her she throws a fit. When she really has a reason to throw down she acts like a wimp & a martyr. She thinks he wants another women so she just takes herself out of the picture.
Then he finds out that this is what's wrong with her. Instead of settling things right then, he puts it off. I just don't get it. There was plenty of moments he could have told her.
I would have loved to seen more action. Maybe them running from the bad guy & bad guy actually doing some of the dirty work himself. Maybe even Sophie standing up for herself & knocking the heck out of the him with a bat. Any of those would have been better than wasting my time reading the silliness that was the last half of this book. By the time they started acting like they had some sense, I just didn't care anymore. I just wanted it to be over.
As you can tell by reading this, I'm not a writer, but I know what I like. This is just my opinion. These dislikes might not be a big deal to other readers.
I absolutely loved Abby's story & would read more from this author.
July 21, 2016
WOW, on the edge of my seat, white knuckled reading. Action from the beginning to the end for Saving Sophie by Cate Beauman. This is the seventh book in the stand alone series and I didn’t find anything lacking by reading out of order, though now that I have read it I would have loved to have started at the beginning.
Eric is a wife beating bully…worse than the scum on the bottom of the pond. He knows just how to beat Sophie without it showing. I was only 7% in and ready to jump into my Kindle and beat the crap out of him myself! I love a book that gets my blood pumping and my emotions raging.
With the help of her only friend, Dylan, Sophie’s making a run for it.
The storyline is predictable…a damsel in distress and a hunky hero meet and fall in love. Sophie finds a janitor job at Cooke Security where Stone works. Of course, they will hook up, but the twists and turns, with the wonderful peripheral characters bring the story to life in a fantastic way that keep me reading…and reading…and reading…
Being with Stone, Sophie began to feel safe, able to trust a man again. Even though they are quickly thrown together, their relationship develops slowly, each enjoying the small things they learn about each other and do for each other. There will be some communication issues, but isn’t that real life?
A sense of danger and suspense lurks in the back of my mind, even as I get all warm and fuzzy with Sophie and Stone. Sometimes I almost forgot about HIM, though I know they will meet again, because Eric is pissed and he wants Sophie to pay. I can hardly wait until Stone meets him. LOL
At 39%, Cate threw a twist in there I didn’t see coming. Great job. I can hardly wait to see what other surprises are in store for me. All the juicy details and pacing kept the suspense at a high level, whether dealing with their relationship or the upcoming face to face meeting with Eric.
When Stone asked Sophie to kiss him, I almost melted into my lounger. So sweet and sexy.
My eyes teared up when I came to the happy ever after, even though I knew it was coming. That just shows me how fantastic the writing is and Cate Beauman’s ability to bring her characters to life make me totally invested in their outcome.
Saving Sophie by Cate Beauman contains everything required for a top of the line romantic suspense novel: passion, love, danger and death.
I received a copy of Saving Sophie by Cate Beauman in return for an honest review.
To see more visit http://www.fundinmental.com
Eric is a wife beating bully…worse than the scum on the bottom of the pond. He knows just how to beat Sophie without it showing. I was only 7% in and ready to jump into my Kindle and beat the crap out of him myself! I love a book that gets my blood pumping and my emotions raging.
With the help of her only friend, Dylan, Sophie’s making a run for it.
The storyline is predictable…a damsel in distress and a hunky hero meet and fall in love. Sophie finds a janitor job at Cooke Security where Stone works. Of course, they will hook up, but the twists and turns, with the wonderful peripheral characters bring the story to life in a fantastic way that keep me reading…and reading…and reading…
Being with Stone, Sophie began to feel safe, able to trust a man again. Even though they are quickly thrown together, their relationship develops slowly, each enjoying the small things they learn about each other and do for each other. There will be some communication issues, but isn’t that real life?
A sense of danger and suspense lurks in the back of my mind, even as I get all warm and fuzzy with Sophie and Stone. Sometimes I almost forgot about HIM, though I know they will meet again, because Eric is pissed and he wants Sophie to pay. I can hardly wait until Stone meets him. LOL
At 39%, Cate threw a twist in there I didn’t see coming. Great job. I can hardly wait to see what other surprises are in store for me. All the juicy details and pacing kept the suspense at a high level, whether dealing with their relationship or the upcoming face to face meeting with Eric.
When Stone asked Sophie to kiss him, I almost melted into my lounger. So sweet and sexy.
My eyes teared up when I came to the happy ever after, even though I knew it was coming. That just shows me how fantastic the writing is and Cate Beauman’s ability to bring her characters to life make me totally invested in their outcome.
Saving Sophie by Cate Beauman contains everything required for a top of the line romantic suspense novel: passion, love, danger and death.
I received a copy of Saving Sophie by Cate Beauman in return for an honest review.
To see more visit http://www.fundinmental.com
July 12, 2016
After I read ‘Falling For Sarah’ I was desperate to read more in the Bodyguards of LA County series. So I was more than excited to start reading ‘Saving Sophie’, book seven in the Bodyguards of L.A. County series. Thankfully this book can also be read as a standalone.
‘Saving Sophie’ is the story of Sophie and Stone, two very different people who find each other. Sophie has fled the world she lived in, and Stone is just living his life trying to feel as little as possible. When their paths cross Sophie and Stone soon find something in each other they haven’t found in anyone else before. And boy did I love reading about these two characters.
At times, it was really sad to read Sophie’s story. Not because she was a sad person, but because what she had to go through. I especially think of all the people in real life that go through the things Sophie went through. It was heartbreaking and I was really rooting for her.
At the same time, I felt frustrated sometimes because I didn’t understand the things Sophie said or did. But I guess fear can do strange things to a person. And in the end I loved getting to know Sophie’s character. And above all I loved the romance between Sophie and Stone.
The romance between Sophie and Stone was really slow-paced at first. This fitted the story perfectly and it made this read very addicting. I loved the way the shy and scared Sophie, and the hard and still Stone connected with each other and found love. I loved every page of this book.
After reading two book in the Bodyguards of L.A. County series, I can honestly say I’m a huge fan of Cate Beauman. Not only are these books sexy and romantic, they are also very pure, sweet and touching. And I can’t wait to read the other books in this series.
‘Saving Sophie’ is the story of Sophie and Stone, two very different people who find each other. Sophie has fled the world she lived in, and Stone is just living his life trying to feel as little as possible. When their paths cross Sophie and Stone soon find something in each other they haven’t found in anyone else before. And boy did I love reading about these two characters.
At times, it was really sad to read Sophie’s story. Not because she was a sad person, but because what she had to go through. I especially think of all the people in real life that go through the things Sophie went through. It was heartbreaking and I was really rooting for her.
At the same time, I felt frustrated sometimes because I didn’t understand the things Sophie said or did. But I guess fear can do strange things to a person. And in the end I loved getting to know Sophie’s character. And above all I loved the romance between Sophie and Stone.
The romance between Sophie and Stone was really slow-paced at first. This fitted the story perfectly and it made this read very addicting. I loved the way the shy and scared Sophie, and the hard and still Stone connected with each other and found love. I loved every page of this book.
After reading two book in the Bodyguards of L.A. County series, I can honestly say I’m a huge fan of Cate Beauman. Not only are these books sexy and romantic, they are also very pure, sweet and touching. And I can’t wait to read the other books in this series.
September 8, 2014
I loved this book! I can't wait to keep reading these books they just keep getting better and better!!
December 30, 2016
FIRST IMPRESSION:
First Impressions are moot points when you have read books from a series. You have an idea of some of the characters who are going to make an appearance and of course follow a pattern that emerges out of the other books in the series. Just three books old, and I am already finding out the major highlights the Bodyguards of LA County series would have. Not that it would make the book any less interesting.
The summary just about confirmed my suspicions and I settled down for a mild read filled with romantic suspense.
REVIEW:
Sophie is in an abusive relationship with Eric. She works up her courage and finally escapes him, having slipped him a sleeping dose. Morbid fear about him finding her out plagues her and she attains sanctuary in Ethan Cooke's wing - with Stone McCabe, one of his security agents. Brooding, silent Stone tries hard not to care about shy, jumpy Sophie until he sees the dilapidated conditions she is living in. Offering her a rental place in his home, he tries to get to know her more. The Sophie he sees is greatly different from the Sophie who comes out when she is relaxed. The book follows the frustrating line where they both could be the best solutions to each other's problems but don't talk about it.
Eric, suave, domineering, controlling freak who has a sadistic and abusive side, could not get over the fact that Sophie outsmarted him. She had run away from him, cheated his intelligence and had made it. While the villain is surely meant to have a frightening effect, what I get instead is a creepy feeling. He is not who he claims to be, and my frustration with Sophie grew as I realised what a nincompoop Eric actually was, in trying to be domineering and abusive, having belted her out. But accepting the fact that this was probably a representation of stories of thousands of women, I read through, trying not to roll my eyes and spit out at Eric - him being the representation of the very type of men I despise and who disgust me - creepy, controlling and abusive, thinking they can command over anyone.
I really liked the narration, where the author carefully brought out Sophie's hesitation and fear, the unshakeable feeling that even though she was miles away from him, Eric controlled her reactions and how she talked to other people around her. The romantic angle was very present while the suspense angle was not so obvious. While I have read other works from this author, with the suspense element taking a front seat, this was more of a romantic novel about a woman who had escaped an abusive relationship and finding her footing.
Strong characters, women coming out of their dark pasts to live a good life, men being heroic without meaning to, a typical Cate Beauman novel, the familiarity of it all was comforting. I am glad to read about old characters who made a reappearance and about a new protagonist who had been trying to come out an abusive relationship.
Romantic? Yes. Suspenseful? You could call it so.
WHAT I LIKED:
The story overall was interesting enough to read in one sitting
The familiarity of a Cate Beauman novel
The thrilling first chapter
WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN BETTER:
The villain - though realistic, just didn't cut it for me
The story leaned more towards the romantic than the suspense element.
VERDICT:
A good story, interesting in many parts.
RATING: 4/5
First Impressions are moot points when you have read books from a series. You have an idea of some of the characters who are going to make an appearance and of course follow a pattern that emerges out of the other books in the series. Just three books old, and I am already finding out the major highlights the Bodyguards of LA County series would have. Not that it would make the book any less interesting.
The summary just about confirmed my suspicions and I settled down for a mild read filled with romantic suspense.
REVIEW:
Sophie is in an abusive relationship with Eric. She works up her courage and finally escapes him, having slipped him a sleeping dose. Morbid fear about him finding her out plagues her and she attains sanctuary in Ethan Cooke's wing - with Stone McCabe, one of his security agents. Brooding, silent Stone tries hard not to care about shy, jumpy Sophie until he sees the dilapidated conditions she is living in. Offering her a rental place in his home, he tries to get to know her more. The Sophie he sees is greatly different from the Sophie who comes out when she is relaxed. The book follows the frustrating line where they both could be the best solutions to each other's problems but don't talk about it.
Eric, suave, domineering, controlling freak who has a sadistic and abusive side, could not get over the fact that Sophie outsmarted him. She had run away from him, cheated his intelligence and had made it. While the villain is surely meant to have a frightening effect, what I get instead is a creepy feeling. He is not who he claims to be, and my frustration with Sophie grew as I realised what a nincompoop Eric actually was, in trying to be domineering and abusive, having belted her out. But accepting the fact that this was probably a representation of stories of thousands of women, I read through, trying not to roll my eyes and spit out at Eric - him being the representation of the very type of men I despise and who disgust me - creepy, controlling and abusive, thinking they can command over anyone.
I really liked the narration, where the author carefully brought out Sophie's hesitation and fear, the unshakeable feeling that even though she was miles away from him, Eric controlled her reactions and how she talked to other people around her. The romantic angle was very present while the suspense angle was not so obvious. While I have read other works from this author, with the suspense element taking a front seat, this was more of a romantic novel about a woman who had escaped an abusive relationship and finding her footing.
Strong characters, women coming out of their dark pasts to live a good life, men being heroic without meaning to, a typical Cate Beauman novel, the familiarity of it all was comforting. I am glad to read about old characters who made a reappearance and about a new protagonist who had been trying to come out an abusive relationship.
Romantic? Yes. Suspenseful? You could call it so.
WHAT I LIKED:
The story overall was interesting enough to read in one sitting
The familiarity of a Cate Beauman novel
The thrilling first chapter
WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN BETTER:
The villain - though realistic, just didn't cut it for me
The story leaned more towards the romantic than the suspense element.
VERDICT:
A good story, interesting in many parts.
RATING: 4/5
July 28, 2016
I received a free copy via CBB Book promotions in exchange for an honest review.
I had previously read Falling for Sarah so I was eagerly awaiting to read this book. When I finished, I had more admiration for the author since this one surpassed even Falling for Sarah . I believe this is my new favourite in this series.
Sophie had my heart from the beginning. Her daring escape and her indomitable spirit to better herself had my attention and my wishes. She was spirited and vulnerable and she touched my heart easily. Stone, on the other hand, didn't make that good an impression at the story's beginning with his uninvolved attitude. But Sophie softened him up and this made me like and near the end love his character.
And did the author leave out the other familiar characters? No! all the beloved people are included and make their appearance as per the story and I had fun reading all the developments in their lives. This family of people sure do know how to lift up the readers' spirit. The antagonist was perfectly crafted for Sophie and I was intrigued by this character. I felt he could have been given more scenes in the tale.
The plot and the story were all planned well and the scenes flowed well. There were a couple of scenes near the end which had me banging my head because of Sophie's actions. I was literally groaning while reading that part and this has made me revise my opinion about Sophie a bit. The story touched all my soft spots. The author's writing style had me identifying with the emotions of the protagonists. It was a very fast read and except for the foolish actions near the end, it was a fantastic read too. This has further increased my appetite for this series. I am looking forward to checking out the other book. In the meantime,I recommend this book to contemporary romance lovers with a dash of intrigue and thrill.
My rating : 4/5
I had previously read Falling for Sarah so I was eagerly awaiting to read this book. When I finished, I had more admiration for the author since this one surpassed even Falling for Sarah . I believe this is my new favourite in this series.
Sophie had my heart from the beginning. Her daring escape and her indomitable spirit to better herself had my attention and my wishes. She was spirited and vulnerable and she touched my heart easily. Stone, on the other hand, didn't make that good an impression at the story's beginning with his uninvolved attitude. But Sophie softened him up and this made me like and near the end love his character.
And did the author leave out the other familiar characters? No! all the beloved people are included and make their appearance as per the story and I had fun reading all the developments in their lives. This family of people sure do know how to lift up the readers' spirit. The antagonist was perfectly crafted for Sophie and I was intrigued by this character. I felt he could have been given more scenes in the tale.
The plot and the story were all planned well and the scenes flowed well. There were a couple of scenes near the end which had me banging my head because of Sophie's actions. I was literally groaning while reading that part and this has made me revise my opinion about Sophie a bit. The story touched all my soft spots. The author's writing style had me identifying with the emotions of the protagonists. It was a very fast read and except for the foolish actions near the end, it was a fantastic read too. This has further increased my appetite for this series. I am looking forward to checking out the other book. In the meantime,I recommend this book to contemporary romance lovers with a dash of intrigue and thrill.
My rating : 4/5
April 29, 2015
This was an amazing story. The characters were so richly developed as they usually are in a Cate Beauman book. The way she takes the time to develop their relationship is a pleasant change from so many stories where it seems their main goal is to get in bed as quickly as possible. In the opening pages we learn Sophie is running from an abusive boyfriend. Sounds familiar, I know. Then she meets Stone, a drop-dead gorgeous bodyguard that barely acknowledges her existence. As she's cleaning the offices of Ethan Cooke Security, the most she's likely to get is a grunt. Then one night everything changes when he gives her a ride after she misses her bus in a downpour. He's appalled at where she lives, in a dingy motel in the worst part of town. He vows not to get involved but before he knows it he's offering her a place to stay. As they get to know one another, Sophie slowly learns to trust him and before long a whole new world is opening up to her, one where she actually has friends, can make her own decisions for once and finally start to live again. Then her ex finds her. I don't want to give anything away. I prefer to let you discover on your own what happens. However, I will say I fell in love with these characters and their story. They are so well developed, as is the relationship between then. The author did a bang-Up job of writing a highly entertaining love story, tucked in just enough suspense to add to its richness and left me wanting more. Can't wait for the next book in the series to come out!
April 30, 2016
Another good book in the series. Sophie escapes an abusive relationship with a man who steals her inheritance after her mother's illness. Abby asks Stone to keep an eye on Sophie after she arrives at a women's shelter and is hired to clean the Cooke Security offices at night. Stone offers Abby a room in the house he is renovating after the coroner shows up at the motel she is staying at. Stone finds a wanted poster for Abby when her ex accuses her of stealing $5000 from him. This book was a little hard to take in the beginning but grew on me as it went on. Abby is strong enough to leave an abusive relationship but seems weak a lot of the time. Stone offers Abby marriage as a way of getting away from her ex but she soon files for divorce even though she knows it's not what she wants. Stone has his own ex to deal with but it certainly doesn't rival her maniacial ex-fiance. The ex is a skilled manipulator and sends his hired goons to kill Abby. Great suspense and it was great to see the Cooke Security family getting bigger.
September 5, 2014
Saving Sophie is another excellent book in the Bodyguards of L.A. County series, I've read them all and I could not put this book down until the end (stayed up way past my bedtime). Cate Beauman always includes a good mix of steam and intrigue with a happy ending!
I like to write reviews but I like to keep them simple and not tell you the whole story in my review…so here it is, would I tell my two best friends to read this book yes or no…YES, I would most definitely tell them to read Saving Sophie (The Bodyguards of L.A. County, #7)!
I read over 100 books in 2013, from Bikers, Military Ops and Serial Killers to Shifters, Vamps and Fairies…I don’t discriminate as long as there is a sexiness, mystery and a story line that keeps me up past my bedtime! I’ll try anything!
I wish you good reading!
I like to write reviews but I like to keep them simple and not tell you the whole story in my review…so here it is, would I tell my two best friends to read this book yes or no…YES, I would most definitely tell them to read Saving Sophie (The Bodyguards of L.A. County, #7)!
I read over 100 books in 2013, from Bikers, Military Ops and Serial Killers to Shifters, Vamps and Fairies…I don’t discriminate as long as there is a sexiness, mystery and a story line that keeps me up past my bedtime! I’ll try anything!
I wish you good reading!
April 2, 2021
Stone and Sophie
Sophie Burke is a jewelry makes and an abused woman. She escapes her nasty fiancé and heads across the country to LA to one of Abby’s safe houses. She finds a job cleaning offices at night and cleans the offices for Ethan Cooke Security. Sexy, broody Stone McCabe is often still working when she goes in to empty his trash. She catches Abby and her hubby making out in his office and the perky fashion designer introduces herself. When she catches sight of Abby in the shelter she leaves and moves into a dangerous pay by the hour motel. Stone offers the pretty cleaning woman a ride when she misses her bus and he is surprised and worried about her living arrangements. When he gives her a ride again and rolls up to a murder investigation he insists she stay at his place. He is fixing up a house on the cliffs above the ocean and lives in his travel trailer. He offers Sophie a place to stay if she cooks and cleans for him. She is able to make her jewelry and live free from the beatings and constant belittling. But her ex fiancé is not at all happy. He has a PI looking for her because their wedding day is approaching and if he wants her trust fund money the wedding has to happen now. This book is emotional and suspenseful. It has a perky best friend, cute kids, the Cook Security family, freedom, some seriously hot steamy scenes and two people who begin as friends and grow into something wonderful.
Sophie Burke is a jewelry makes and an abused woman. She escapes her nasty fiancé and heads across the country to LA to one of Abby’s safe houses. She finds a job cleaning offices at night and cleans the offices for Ethan Cooke Security. Sexy, broody Stone McCabe is often still working when she goes in to empty his trash. She catches Abby and her hubby making out in his office and the perky fashion designer introduces herself. When she catches sight of Abby in the shelter she leaves and moves into a dangerous pay by the hour motel. Stone offers the pretty cleaning woman a ride when she misses her bus and he is surprised and worried about her living arrangements. When he gives her a ride again and rolls up to a murder investigation he insists she stay at his place. He is fixing up a house on the cliffs above the ocean and lives in his travel trailer. He offers Sophie a place to stay if she cooks and cleans for him. She is able to make her jewelry and live free from the beatings and constant belittling. But her ex fiancé is not at all happy. He has a PI looking for her because their wedding day is approaching and if he wants her trust fund money the wedding has to happen now. This book is emotional and suspenseful. It has a perky best friend, cute kids, the Cook Security family, freedom, some seriously hot steamy scenes and two people who begin as friends and grow into something wonderful.
November 27, 2018
5 stars. I absolutely adore this series and this book didn't disappoint. Sophie a jewellery designer flees an abusive relationship and moves across country to start fresh. Living and working under the radar as a cleaner at Ethan Cooke Security. She is noticed by Abby who recognises she may be in trouble and asks Stone one of Ethan's men to check on her. As Sophie's life and career get back on track the danger she fled follows her. Will Stone be able to save her and can their relationship survive? Another great read although this one did have moments where the heroine made some choices that almost landed her in the TSTL category, still loved it though. Highly recommended read.
July 17, 2017
I have read books 1 thru 7 of The Bodyguards of LA County. I am hooked. Living in LA County it is fun to be able to recognize areas but it is also great to read stories in other areas.
Sophie is an abused survivor, she is strong and continues to love life dispite the underlying fear. Stone is the silent, loner who finds his softer side thanks to Sophie.
Sophie's past does not stay away so she finds she must rely on this man for help.
The love story is sweet and frustrating at times. The chemistry is hot.
Can't wait to read next book.
Sophie is an abused survivor, she is strong and continues to love life dispite the underlying fear. Stone is the silent, loner who finds his softer side thanks to Sophie.
Sophie's past does not stay away so she finds she must rely on this man for help.
The love story is sweet and frustrating at times. The chemistry is hot.
Can't wait to read next book.
January 10, 2018
This book follows the typical Bodyguards books. Although I will say that I liked the fact that Sophie and Stone went to Eric instead of Eric pouncing on Sophie like I had thought would happen.
It's funny because I KNOW that these books will have a happily ever after. I know that the two main characters will end up together, yet Cate Beauman still has a way of creating edge of your seat drama where you still find yourself questioning how they will get out of the trouble. I like this.
It's funny because I KNOW that these books will have a happily ever after. I know that the two main characters will end up together, yet Cate Beauman still has a way of creating edge of your seat drama where you still find yourself questioning how they will get out of the trouble. I like this.
April 28, 2018
This was a great read! I���ve read all of this series and have enjoyed every book!
January 27, 2022
Men who abuse women are awful. This was another great book and I liked how it progressed.
February 7, 2024
Not a great story, told better in “ safe harbor” but still good romantic fluff
September 3, 2025
Its my 3rd time reading this book and I always enjoy reading. Through the whole series Sophie and Stone remain my favorite.
March 18, 2016
Sophie has escaped an abusive relationship with a man who used her vulnerability during her mother’s illness to steal her inheritance. With the help of friend she finds her way to a women’s shelter in Los Angeles, and a night job cleaning the offices of Ethan Cooke Security, where she comes to the attention of Abby Quinn, who recognizes a kindred spirit. Abby asks Stone McCabe to keep an eye on Sophie, probably because he is usually the only who sticks around the office late enough to see her.
One evening after she misses her bus and the coroner is at the motel where she is staying, Stone offers her the use of a room in the house he is renovating on his days off. She thrives in her new environment and slowly remembers that she is a capable person with the right to her own feelings.
Stone stumbles across a wanted poster for Sophie, finding out her ex has accused her of stealing $5000 from him. Stone comes up with a plan where he and Sophie get married and deal with the warrant together. However, the jilted ex, not liking to lose, has plans of his own and sends his men to harass and later to kill Sophie.
I can definitely say that Cate Beauman has entered into my favorite authors list. That said, this book didn’t quite fit the series for me. Sophie was incredibly brave to leave Eric, her abusive ex. However, as the story went on rather than continue to show her strength, she became wishy washy and static. On the surface, I understand why she would choose to not antagonize Eric, and therefore allow him to stalk and harass her, however for her to completely disregard Stone’s advice on the matter seemed not only idiotic, but out of character with the woman who was smart enough to find a way to get out in the first place. After all, Stone’s job is to provide security, it seems to me that he might know the right thing to do about a stalker. Her obsession with Amber also seemed a bit misplaced. Obviously it was her own insecurities, but it was not dealt with on that level, so the issue didn’t seem quite finished for me. Her decision to cut and run from Stone also seemed a bit extreme. The other thing that is different is that the bad guy, after Sophie leaves, is not the problem, it is his men. I have kind of gotten used to the confrontation and vanquishing of the big bad by the shining hero of Cooke Security. Marriage and lawyers made for a great story, but not much for action in the story. Though, the ending was quite satisfying.
This may not have a typical ‘Bodyguards’ story, however it is well written with humor and heart. Once again, I enjoyed being in this world. It is wonderful to continue to see the characters from the past books, it is like catching up with old friends. I read it in a single sitting, knowing that I wouldn’t put it down until Sophie was safe and truly Mrs. McCabe.
5 stars
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
One evening after she misses her bus and the coroner is at the motel where she is staying, Stone offers her the use of a room in the house he is renovating on his days off. She thrives in her new environment and slowly remembers that she is a capable person with the right to her own feelings.
Stone stumbles across a wanted poster for Sophie, finding out her ex has accused her of stealing $5000 from him. Stone comes up with a plan where he and Sophie get married and deal with the warrant together. However, the jilted ex, not liking to lose, has plans of his own and sends his men to harass and later to kill Sophie.
I can definitely say that Cate Beauman has entered into my favorite authors list. That said, this book didn’t quite fit the series for me. Sophie was incredibly brave to leave Eric, her abusive ex. However, as the story went on rather than continue to show her strength, she became wishy washy and static. On the surface, I understand why she would choose to not antagonize Eric, and therefore allow him to stalk and harass her, however for her to completely disregard Stone’s advice on the matter seemed not only idiotic, but out of character with the woman who was smart enough to find a way to get out in the first place. After all, Stone’s job is to provide security, it seems to me that he might know the right thing to do about a stalker. Her obsession with Amber also seemed a bit misplaced. Obviously it was her own insecurities, but it was not dealt with on that level, so the issue didn’t seem quite finished for me. Her decision to cut and run from Stone also seemed a bit extreme. The other thing that is different is that the bad guy, after Sophie leaves, is not the problem, it is his men. I have kind of gotten used to the confrontation and vanquishing of the big bad by the shining hero of Cooke Security. Marriage and lawyers made for a great story, but not much for action in the story. Though, the ending was quite satisfying.
This may not have a typical ‘Bodyguards’ story, however it is well written with humor and heart. Once again, I enjoyed being in this world. It is wonderful to continue to see the characters from the past books, it is like catching up with old friends. I read it in a single sitting, knowing that I wouldn’t put it down until Sophie was safe and truly Mrs. McCabe.
5 stars
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 14, 2016
We all enjoy a hot read about exciting characters who live fascinating lives and accomplish things we only dream of doing. In the process the meet and fall in love with really hot, sexy men who understand them and take care of them. Men who are the “fantasy” men of women’s dreams. But unlike the damsels in distress of the childhood princess and knights in shining armors, these knights have foibles. These maidens in distress and knights in shining armor have fights, they have differing opinions. They live in a real world that is imperfect.
Just like in the fairytales of our youth, there are horrid monsters that threaten the lives and existence of the fair young maiden. But unlike the fairytales, the monsters do not have scales or breathe fire. The monsters are very human. They prey on the defenseless, the young and innocent. They bully, they terrorize, the beat, berate and threaten with death. To live under the shadow of such a monster is to live the very terror of one of Grimm’s fairy tales.
Keeping this in mind, Cate Beauman and her novel very much had the feel of a fairy tale, full of monsters and nightmares, knights in shining armor who weren’t aware of their own glow and effect on those they rise up to protect.
If you are looking for a book with great depth that has layers and layers of stories within stories and complicated characters that need hours and days to dissect and struggle to understand, this is not your book. This is a modern fairy tale that whisks you away into a land of enchantment and sighs and other adult adulations. An entertaining and delightful weekend read.
I would give the author and the novel a good 4 star rating for the story and the telling of the tale.
Just like in the fairytales of our youth, there are horrid monsters that threaten the lives and existence of the fair young maiden. But unlike the fairytales, the monsters do not have scales or breathe fire. The monsters are very human. They prey on the defenseless, the young and innocent. They bully, they terrorize, the beat, berate and threaten with death. To live under the shadow of such a monster is to live the very terror of one of Grimm’s fairy tales.
Keeping this in mind, Cate Beauman and her novel very much had the feel of a fairy tale, full of monsters and nightmares, knights in shining armor who weren’t aware of their own glow and effect on those they rise up to protect.
If you are looking for a book with great depth that has layers and layers of stories within stories and complicated characters that need hours and days to dissect and struggle to understand, this is not your book. This is a modern fairy tale that whisks you away into a land of enchantment and sighs and other adult adulations. An entertaining and delightful weekend read.
I would give the author and the novel a good 4 star rating for the story and the telling of the tale.
April 13, 2015
Reviewed on behalf of Readers' Favorite
Saving Sophie by Cate Beauman is the seventh book in The Bodyguards of L.A. County series. After fleeing an abusive man, Sophie Burke turns up as a part time cleaner at Ethan Cooke Security. She wants to start over, but lives with the constant fear of the man she was engaged to, Eric, coming to find her. Stone McCabe is one of the bodyguards with the agency. A self-proclaimed bachelor for life, Stone has no idea why the petite blonde has drawn his attention. After driving her home one night and seeing her living conditions, Stone makes the impulse decision to ask Sophie to move in with him in a house he’s renovating on the coastal cliffs. As feelings intensify between the pair, will Stone be able to handle Sophie’s secrets?
Miss Beauman’s book does not disappoint for those who love romantic suspense. As with her previous novel, Justice for Abby, the sixth book in the Bodyguard series, Beauman provides a deliciously torturous build-up to an explosive relationship (in a good way!). I loved Stone’s broody nature, and how he softened over time to Sophie. Even though this is part of a series, it stands alone. I appreciated the subtle tie-ins with the previous book though, especially Sophie going to work with Abby. It was a nice way to make the two relatable, and keep the other characters alive. I definitely need to get my hands on other books in this series. The writing flows nicely and you find yourself lost in the story. Saving Sophie by Cate Beauman is a novel you will not want to put down. I certainly couldn’t!
Saving Sophie by Cate Beauman is the seventh book in The Bodyguards of L.A. County series. After fleeing an abusive man, Sophie Burke turns up as a part time cleaner at Ethan Cooke Security. She wants to start over, but lives with the constant fear of the man she was engaged to, Eric, coming to find her. Stone McCabe is one of the bodyguards with the agency. A self-proclaimed bachelor for life, Stone has no idea why the petite blonde has drawn his attention. After driving her home one night and seeing her living conditions, Stone makes the impulse decision to ask Sophie to move in with him in a house he’s renovating on the coastal cliffs. As feelings intensify between the pair, will Stone be able to handle Sophie’s secrets?
Miss Beauman’s book does not disappoint for those who love romantic suspense. As with her previous novel, Justice for Abby, the sixth book in the Bodyguard series, Beauman provides a deliciously torturous build-up to an explosive relationship (in a good way!). I loved Stone’s broody nature, and how he softened over time to Sophie. Even though this is part of a series, it stands alone. I appreciated the subtle tie-ins with the previous book though, especially Sophie going to work with Abby. It was a nice way to make the two relatable, and keep the other characters alive. I definitely need to get my hands on other books in this series. The writing flows nicely and you find yourself lost in the story. Saving Sophie by Cate Beauman is a novel you will not want to put down. I certainly couldn’t!
March 24, 2016
I'm lucky these books can be read as a stand alone, because I started out with this one.
Anyways, I was surprised at how much I liked this book. I may or may not have read it in a few hours straight because I had forgotten, but that's besides the point. Sophie and Stone's story definitely kept me waiting to see what turn it was going to take. I experienced the emotions that both were feeling at times. The hurt, the heartache, the joy, etc. There were a lot of good aspects of this book, and I'm definitely glad I read it.
The characters were well done too, and there was background given to each of them in a subtle way that gave them a little more "life" to them. I would have liked to know a little more about Stone and Eric though. The characters were likable (well, most of them), and it wasn't too cliche. There was a twist that I didn't see coming until a chapter or so ahead of when it did, so only a little bit expected.
However, there was nothing extraordinary about this book. It was good, yes, but it's not going to be a book that I remember for the best of my life. It's a bit predictable, and parts of it are definitely a typical romantic suspense novel. I don't think I'll ever read it again, but I definitely did enjoy it.
There's quite a bit of language and sexual scenes, so I would suggest 17+
Anyways, I was surprised at how much I liked this book. I may or may not have read it in a few hours straight because I had forgotten, but that's besides the point. Sophie and Stone's story definitely kept me waiting to see what turn it was going to take. I experienced the emotions that both were feeling at times. The hurt, the heartache, the joy, etc. There were a lot of good aspects of this book, and I'm definitely glad I read it.
The characters were well done too, and there was background given to each of them in a subtle way that gave them a little more "life" to them. I would have liked to know a little more about Stone and Eric though. The characters were likable (well, most of them), and it wasn't too cliche. There was a twist that I didn't see coming until a chapter or so ahead of when it did, so only a little bit expected.
However, there was nothing extraordinary about this book. It was good, yes, but it's not going to be a book that I remember for the best of my life. It's a bit predictable, and parts of it are definitely a typical romantic suspense novel. I don't think I'll ever read it again, but I definitely did enjoy it.
There's quite a bit of language and sexual scenes, so I would suggest 17+
November 12, 2014
Another good story. Sophie has run from one end of the country to the other to escape a brutal fiance. She has connected with Stowers House, a battered women's shelter in Los Angeles. She has gotten a job (I smell a setup) at Ethan Cooke Security Offices, cleaning at night. She catches the eye of the silent and self-contained Stone McCabe.
When he finds that she is living in a hellhole, he insists on bringing her to his house. She insists on paying him. He does not do a very good job of figuring out what's wrong and prefers to mind his own business. BIG MISTAKE...
Her abuser wants her back, and Stone finds that he has to step up his assistance, no matter how little Sophie wants it. The clash of these two wills makes up a good part of this story, and the HEA takes a good while to arrive. There's also a good light moment here to relieve the tension; I like this trend by Beauman.
Recommended.
When he finds that she is living in a hellhole, he insists on bringing her to his house. She insists on paying him. He does not do a very good job of figuring out what's wrong and prefers to mind his own business. BIG MISTAKE...
Her abuser wants her back, and Stone finds that he has to step up his assistance, no matter how little Sophie wants it. The clash of these two wills makes up a good part of this story, and the HEA takes a good while to arrive. There's also a good light moment here to relieve the tension; I like this trend by Beauman.
Recommended.
February 5, 2020
I swear, this series is getting better and better!
I love the main characters, Stone and Sophie. I love how Stone is man of few words but is different when it comes to Sophie. How with Sophie, he just becomes one giant, fluffy marshmallow. It made me feel so warm and fuzzy inside. Sophie was a great heroine who has been through a lot but still was able to pick-up the pieces of her life with the help of Stone and her close friends. That being said, there were moments I wanted to shake some sense into her. You don't just ignore your tormentor and hope he will go away! And I love Abby in this one, she was such a good friend and so supportive. Sophie is really lucky to have her.
This one was full of suspense and drama, with danger lurking just around the corner. It really had you at the edge of the seat, anxious to see what happens next.
I love the main characters, Stone and Sophie. I love how Stone is man of few words but is different when it comes to Sophie. How with Sophie, he just becomes one giant, fluffy marshmallow. It made me feel so warm and fuzzy inside. Sophie was a great heroine who has been through a lot but still was able to pick-up the pieces of her life with the help of Stone and her close friends. That being said, there were moments I wanted to shake some sense into her. You don't just ignore your tormentor and hope he will go away! And I love Abby in this one, she was such a good friend and so supportive. Sophie is really lucky to have her.
This one was full of suspense and drama, with danger lurking just around the corner. It really had you at the edge of the seat, anxious to see what happens next.
March 25, 2016
This is the first book by Cate Beauman that I have read. It definitely won’t be the last. This is book seven in the Bodyguards of LA County series. They don’t need to be read in order. I didn’t feel like I was missing anything at all. As soon as I get a chance, I will be reading the others though.
This book starts out sad. What Sophie went through, damn. I’m glad she did what she did to get out of Eric’s grasp. But that now puts her on the run and constantly looking over her shoulder.
She has no confidence in herself, but that slowly starts to change, and it all starts with Stone and then Layla’s friendship.
There is a lot that happens in this book. I don’t want to give anything away though.
I loved seeing the changes in Sophie, and in Stone.
I loved these characters.
This book starts out sad. What Sophie went through, damn. I’m glad she did what she did to get out of Eric’s grasp. But that now puts her on the run and constantly looking over her shoulder.
She has no confidence in herself, but that slowly starts to change, and it all starts with Stone and then Layla’s friendship.
There is a lot that happens in this book. I don’t want to give anything away though.
I loved seeing the changes in Sophie, and in Stone.
I loved these characters.
July 25, 2016
The reader can immediately discern that this author considers every word and phrase for the power of the scene. Beauman creates a psychologically unnerving scenario with captivating prose, then uses the same talent to bring a gentle rain of romance into her characters' lives. In just a few paragraphs, I was involved with Sophie so completely that I wanted her to escape and start a new life. Sophie is sweet and naive and her abusive partner is a despicable man just as hate-able as Sophie is loveable. Sophie's metal is tested constantly as she is constantly checking over her shoulder, always afraid of being found. Building trust with anyone, especially a man, proves to be difficult. Illustrated in words, Sophie's tenuous relationships bloom with realism.
September 13, 2014
Yay
Sophie and Stone what a couple ...Sophie a women on the run from an abusive relationship, wants nothing but to be free. Stone a man with few words in between wonders of the mystery behind those stunning violet eyes telling himself to stay away while feeling the forces of nature pulling himself towards her.
this story really got to me Cate has a way to pull me into the story each and every time I pick up her books. Everyone of her books has me wanting more, and craving a peak on the next book. this story I recommend it along with all her other books.
Sophie and Stone what a couple ...Sophie a women on the run from an abusive relationship, wants nothing but to be free. Stone a man with few words in between wonders of the mystery behind those stunning violet eyes telling himself to stay away while feeling the forces of nature pulling himself towards her.
this story really got to me Cate has a way to pull me into the story each and every time I pick up her books. Everyone of her books has me wanting more, and craving a peak on the next book. this story I recommend it along with all her other books.
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