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She’s always looked out for herself.
Cassie Edwards became Crimson Point Security’s first female bodyguard to make a fresh start. New state. New career. New life. She’s determined not to let the past define her or repeat the painful mistakes that brought her here. But now it seems someone is out to ruin her, and her intensifying attraction to a fellow bodyguard has disaster written all over it. As the threat against her escalates, things quickly slide out of control. With her life at risk, she reluctantly turns to the man she’s placed strictly off limits—her gorgeous coworker who wants far more than she can give.

He’s determined to prove he’s got her back.
Tristan Abrams never thought a woman would bring him to his knees—until he met Cassie. But for months she’s made it clear she only wants a professional relationship, despite his efforts to break through her walls and earn her trust. Now that she’s being targeted, however, her safety is all that matters. He’s ready to stand between her and anything or anyone who threatens her. No matter the cost.

296 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 30, 2025

77 people are currently reading
85 people want to read

About the author

Kaylea Cross

99 books1,802 followers
New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Kaylea Cross writes edge-of-your-seat military romantic suspense. Her work has won many awards and has been nominated for both the Daphne du Maurier and the National Readers’ Choice Awards. A Registered Massage Therapist by trade, Kaylea is also an avid gardener, artist, Civil War buff, Special Ops aficionado, belly dance enthusiast and former nationally-carded softball pitcher. She lives in Vancouver, BC with her husband and family.

Kaylea loves to hear from readers, so please feel free to drop me a line and say hello.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
Profile Image for Shelley C.
2,959 reviews64 followers
July 6, 2025
Guarding Cassie❤️‍🩹

Guarding Cassie is the final book in the Crimson Point Security series and it’s really a bittersweet moment for me. I love these characters and feel like I’m entrenched in the community of Crimson Point, to the point I don’t want to leave it😢 But as they say, when one closes a door, another one opens and I’m excited for what is on the horizon next by this wonderful author.

Cassie and Tristan’s story is one I’ve been intrigued to read as Cassie is a tough nut to crash, which Tristan discovers. But finding out more about her past, I could understand why she was the woman she is today. But that’s okay, as Tristan has determination and confidence on his side to win her over…even with the danger surrounding her🥹

Loved it, read it FARRRRR TOOOOOO QUICKLY and wait patiently for the next book🙌 I received an advanced copy and willingly leave my honest review❣️
Profile Image for Sandy S.
8,278 reviews207 followers
October 1, 2025
4.25stars-GUARDING CASSIE is the fifth and final instalment in Kaylea Cross’ contemporary, adult CRIMSON POINT SECURITY romantic suspense series, a spin off, set in the author’s CRIMSON POINT worlds.. This is former US Marine Tristan Abrams and former police detective Cassie Edwards’ story line. GUARDING CASSIE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Tristan is CPS agents Decker and Gavin’s brother (guarding Teagan 1 / Guarding Autumn 3)

Told from several omniscient third person perspectives including Cassie and Tristan GUARDING CASSIE follows in the wake of an assignment that went all to h*ll. CPS (Crimson Point Security) Agent Cassie Edwards’ has been struggling in the wake of the murder of her latest charge but as the team begins to circle around our story line heroine, Cassie finds herself the target of her past. Enter fellow CPS Agent Tristan Abrams, and the man with whom Cassie will fall in love. As the threats against Cassie become more dangerous and dark, Tristan becomes Cassie’s guardian and protector, a man who is about to be targeted himself. As Cassie’s past returns, our heroine struggles to trust the most important people in her life.

The world building focuses on the search a killer; a man seeking revenge against our story line heroine – a man who is determined to end her life. Cassie’s left her former position in the wake of betrayal, and in this, the past is taking aim.

The relationship between Cassie and Tristan is one of mutual attraction but Cassie is struggling with issues of trust, as Tristan battles between head and heart, fearing rejection at every turn. Tristan is determined to protect the woman with whom he is falling in love but Cassie continues to struggle with letting go. The $ex scenes are passionate and provocative without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of familiar, colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters including Tristans’ brother Gavin and his partner Autumn, TJ and Bristol, and their older brother Decker.

GUARDING CASSIE is a story of betrayal and vengeance, power and control, secrets and trust, family and friendships, relationships and love. The fast paced, character driven premise is intriguing and dramatic; the romance is impassioned and seductive; the characters are determined and charismatic.


copy supplied for review
Profile Image for Jo Cooper.
245 reviews4 followers
September 5, 2025
GUARDING CASSIE by KAYLEA CROSS

Guarding Cassie is the final book (book 5 (#5)) in the Crimson Point Security series.

Following a disastrous relationship and betrayal that cost Cassie Edwards her former career she’s starting fresh working for Crimson Point Security. As the only female bodyguard working for CPS she feels pressure to be the very best agent she can be and that includes avoiding any and all relationships- especially with her coworkers.

Tristan Abrams has long felt feelings towards Cassie but knows that it’s going to be almost impossible to break down her walls. He doesn’t know why she’s such a closed book but with issues of his own accepts that he has to be patient if he’s to gain her trust.

When events start to indicate that someone’s out to ruin Cassie’s career however she turns to her coworker for support and their relationship slowly starts to evolve. Tristan is determined to keep her safe no matter the cost….

——————————-




Bang, bang, bang!- with fast paced action scenes hitting one straight after another, this pulse pounding, heart racing, final book in the series will literally steal your breath and refuse to let you catch another one!! I absolutely LOVED all the action and the pages were turning themselves.
Tristan’s ability to patiently break through all of Cassie’s tightly wound issues was so delicious. I loved his character, so patient, kind and protective. Cassie and Tristan’s relationship has been teased throughout the series and it was great to see them finally get their HEA.

There were also many characters from CPS+ included and I especially loved Ivy’s appearance. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this entire series and am sad it’s coming to a close but am SO excited for Kaylea’s upcoming ‘Skeleton Island’ series.

I read an ebook copy of the book. At 308 pages it is the perfect length, the cover is in the same delightful style as all the other books in the series and the editing is spot on. I highly recommend this book and series.

Thanks to Kaylea Cross for an early copy of the book. All comments are my own, honest, unbiased opinion.

🥧 Super Protective MMC
🥧 Reserved But Strong MFC
🥧 Action Packed
🥧 Small Town Romance
🥧 HEA
Profile Image for Linda Carlson.
483 reviews
September 26, 2025
Cassie & Tristan

I have enjoyed this Crimson Point Series. I swear you can smell and taste the baked goods when described from the local bakery/coffee shop, Whale’s Tale and also the pie shop outside of town. This author make you feel like part of this family and you can join right in to all the chaos that seems to find them. Her descriptions of the town, the area and the scenery brings it all to life.

I like how independent Cassie is, even if she appears cold and distant most times. Plain and simple, she’s a bad-ass. In previous stories in this series Tristan is the more reserved twin, but here, we see him open up more and reveal his inner softness encased in a tough outer shell, but in reality, he can’t help his feelings for Cassie and she has a hard time hiding her feelings for him.

Their journey is anything but easy. They both have a lot of pride and the need for a certain outward appearance to preserve their reputations, both personally and professionally. Cassie has had to fight for her place in her employment against the male dominated field of security and she can’t appear as the weak female or else she loses all credibility and therefore, her job. Men don’t have that struggle to just be seen as competent to do their job, instead, they just have to be able to handle the skills required for a job.

Dangerous action fuels this fantastic story. Many twists and turns keep you riveted as this story plays out. You don’t expect the enemy that is revealed. It takes a life and death situation to get our required HEA, but it is so worth it in the end. Love this!
3,558 reviews40 followers
September 5, 2025
We are back with the Crimson Point Security group and this time the story belongs to operatives Tristan Abrams and Cassie Edwards.
After leaving the Las Vegas PD, it’s corruption, the betrayal of an ex and her life’s worse nightmare, Cassie has found Crimson Point the right place to restart her new life. But the mental and emotional scars are yet to heal.
After a devastating childhood , Tristan never thought or wanted to commit to anyone. But in comes Cassie. A woman he wants to know better, but knows he has to tread careful.
When an ambush almost kills Cassie and it appears danger is pounding down her door, Tristan is determined to keep her safe. In doing so, can these two realize they are stronger together? Will they survive the danger and find their HEA or will Cassie’s past eliminate any hope?
This was another engaging, edge of your seat, well written suspens romance by this talented author.
As this is the last of the series and maybe the last visit to Crimson Point, I confess i will truly miss the characters I have come to love not only in this series, but also in the others based in Crimson Point. I was happy to “see” an appearance by Molly, whom we met in book 5 of the original Crimson Point series.
Thank you to the author for sharing her talent and giving the readers wonderful stories.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Profile Image for NICUnurse Stephanie .
936 reviews34 followers
October 7, 2025
I’m a long-time fan of romantic suspense books and Kaylea Cross. She writes edge-of-your-seat romantic thrillers I can’t seem to stop devouring. She’s on the short list of authors I 1-click without reading a blurb. With Guarding Cassie, we’re once again transported back to Crimson Point, in an edge-of-your-seat romantic suspense. It’s the conclusion to her Crimson Point spinoff, Crimson Point Security, and you’d better believe I’ve been here for all of them! You can read it as a standalone title; however, some crossover characters and references to previous storylines may confuse you, so I recommend reading them in order. Honestly, I can’t help but encourage you to read all the Crimson Point books before this one because they are just that good. This book was suspenseful, emotional, and action-packed: the perfect trifecta. I’ve been low-key invested in this couple’s story for a while, and it did not disappoint. I’m genuinely sad to have to leave this idyllic Pacific Northwest coastal town, but I’m excited to jump into what she has next for us. As usual, I didn’t want to walk away from this story until I finished. Guarding Cassie is just one more reason in a long (back)list of reasons that Kaylea Cross is a top favorite of mine!

NICUnurse’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Profile Image for Reading Addict.
1,087 reviews21 followers
September 9, 2025
It's bittersweet that the Crimson Point Security series has come to an end but Guarding Cassie was a great way to wrap up the series! Cassie Edwards and Tristan Abrams have been dancing around each other for months. They both work for CPS and both have their own insecurities as well. Cassie is a former Las Vegas police officer and has vowed not to make the same mistakes that she left behind in Vegas. Tristan knows in his heart that he and Cassie can have something amazing together if she would just lower her walls and let him in. Strange things have been happening to Cassie and now she's forced to spend more time with Tristan until the mystery of why someone is targeting her is uncovered. These two really are great together but there's someone out there that doesn't want Cassie to have any happiness in her life Guarding Cassie was an excellent romantic suspense story full of action, laughter, love and heat. It was told from dual POV and stands alone in the series however there are many interconnected characters so I recommend reading the rest of the CPS series too.
Profile Image for Reading  In the  Red Room .
3,219 reviews72 followers
September 13, 2025
Crimson Point Security does not disappoint…and this final book proved that! This book was everything we needed it to be and sooo much more! Cassie and Tristan both work together at CPS. They both have feelings for each other but have yet to act on them. Cassie is extremely independent and at the same time extremely closed off…but she definitely has her reasons. This is a slow burn that was soo worth the wait. These two definitely belong together…they just needed to figure it out first. Cassie had a few secrets that came knocking on her door and not only was Tristan there for her..but the full team had her back. This well layered book did not disappoint. There was page turning suspense and chemistry that had me wanting more. One thing I love about a Kaylea Cross book is that she gives the view point of the villain…that always makes me so happy. I love How we get into all the characters heads…good and bad. I am so sad to see this series go but can’t wait to see what is to come for us next.
3,128 reviews
September 7, 2025
Cassie Edwards is the first woman bodyguard at Crimson Point Security. She was a cop in Vegas until she revealed corruption on the police force. Now she’s in a new place with a new job and she refuses to let her past define her. She was in a relationship that she should have left sooner than she did. She’s on the job when she’s ambushed and shots are fired. Threats start escalating and it seems someone is out to ruin her. Tristan Abrams is her partner and has been half in love with her since the first day. Tristan had a rough childhood and has some insecurities. He is determined to break through the walls around her heart.
This is the last book in the Crimson Point Series 😢. There’s action and suspense. Also it’s steamy. Tristian is a twin but has abandonment issues. Cassie is beautiful but was “blind” in her last relationship and doesn’t want to be hurt again. This book is a must read.

* VOLUNTARILY READ AND REVIEWED FOR THE AUTHOR *
Profile Image for Nikki Brooks.
3,558 reviews54 followers
September 26, 2025
A heart-pumping conclusion to a great series! Crimson POint has gone out with a bang.

Cassie and Tristan have been leaking chemistry all over Crimson Point. Just about everyone can see the sparks except them. Well...they do see the sparks but neither appears to be willing to step over that friend/colleague line. Carrie has some baggage from her previous life as a cop and Tristan and his siblings essentially brought themselves up after the death of their parents.

These two were perfect for each other and after they finally removed their heads from their collective a$$es, they finally went full throttle. The interwoven suspense of investigating who wants Cassie or her protectee dead was handled well. I had the big bad narrowed down to two and I was so glad it wasn't who I thought it was!

Tristan really fought to get over the fear of being left behind and Cassie had to be brave and allow herself to be vulnerable with a partner. The found family vibes were superb and I hope some of these characters pop in future books just like the Valkyries!

TW: Domestic violence/gaslighting/emotional abuse/police corruption/death of parents (off page)
Profile Image for Imogen Dior.
937 reviews7 followers
September 27, 2025
I loved Guarding Cassie! The plot, main and secondary characters and suspense were done so well. Getting to know both Cassie and Tristan on a deeper level and what they’d been through and how they’d dealt with it was enlightening. Cassie had been through so much and found it super hard to trust, Tristan tried so hard to show her he was trustworthy but she just found it so hard to believe in after what she’d been through. Tristan had his own demons he was facing and when they collided they both found it hard to believe in their love but once they did it was beautiful. Their chemistry was off the charts from the start and i loved their interactions. They were such a great team and Cassie was such a strong woman. The suspense was done very well and i enjoyed the plot as a whole. This was a great way to end the series and i hope we still see some pop ups from my favourite characters and their futures.
Profile Image for Just Read and Imagine.
525 reviews3 followers
September 9, 2025
Cassie Edwards left Las Vegas and her corrupt police department behind when she discovered the PD and her ex were involved in criminal activities, but not before putting several of them behind bars. Now working with Crimson Point Security and starting to relax a little, it looks like someone has decided it’s time to get even. CPS agent Tristan Abrams has always taken a step back from getting romantically involved but one look at Cassie changed all that. He just needs her to give him a chance but she was burnt in the past and not sure about giving her heart away again. When he finally breaks down the walls and earns her trust, the attacks escalate and he and the CPS team are all in to protect their own.
59 reviews1 follower
September 11, 2025
as able to read the ARC of the last book of the series. Again Kaylea Cross has given us another outstanding read. The plot had all the usual twists and turns with some surprises along the way. This is my personal opinion that running through all of this series is that the women have a stubbornness and individual personalities that shine.I like the independence that the H has and how she dealt with the DV situation, how she was able to recognise this, find the strength to leave and rebuild her life .I found it was sad coming to the end of the book as we wouldn't be able to catch up with our favourite characters, unless the author sneaks Ivy into the next series Thank you for another great series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Vanessa LeBlanc.
469 reviews4 followers
September 26, 2025
Guarding Cassie is the last book in the crimson point series and I have to say I’m sad to see it end. I adored every single one of these characters.

I have been intrigued with Tristan since the moment him and his twin Gavin were introduce so I was happy when I saw he was getting his own story.

Cassie and Tristan story was so beautiful. Tristan, in love with Cassie for as long as he can remember but Cassie having the biggest wall build up. Tristan however fighting his hardest to get those bricks down one by one as he knows Cassie is it for him.

The were moment in this story that broke my heart due to their past and having it effect their adult life. The story was beautifully written and it was a great ending to the series.

⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️
3,189 reviews47 followers
September 28, 2025
Both Cassie and Tristan have been avoiding their feelings for each other for months. Working together and also having neutral friends and past doesn’t help them. Cassie used to be a police officer in Las Vegas until an incident makes her leave and finds a new home and job. Tristan past has not been easy his siblings are his life line.
The two of them are working together when Cassie is ambushed, this time Tristan is not holding back any more.
I loved how Tristan loved the strong and independent woman Cassie is and doesn’t want to change her but to help her keep the brilliant woman she is.
Cassie slowly learns that allowing Tristan be her rock doesn’t change her. Family is both their strengths.
This book has full on action, drama, emotion, humour, chemistry and full on spice

.
Profile Image for Melissa May.
333 reviews4 followers
October 3, 2025
Guarding Cassie is the fifth and final installment in the Crimson Point Security series by Kaylea Cross.
I had mixed feelings before reading this book because I was so excited to read it but also sad knowing it was the last one in the series.
I absolutely loved Cassie and Tristan’s story!
It’s an emotional story about trust, love, secrets and revenge. The plot is very well done and the characters are intriguing and I adored them!
It always feels like coming home and seeing old friends again when reading a Crimson Point story. The author makes you feel like you’re part of them and because of that I re read the books many times.
Protecting Cassie is one of the best!
Highly recommended!
I received this Arc from the author and this review is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Deborah.
435 reviews5 followers
September 8, 2025
This final book of the series had all the drama, angst, some good twists and turns and a red hot romance. Cassie was definitely a once bitten twice shy no nonsense gal, and she did not want to cross the line with a co-worker, regardless of how sexy and handsome he was, and given the fact that she truly wanted to cross the line. Tristan was going to prove to Cassie that he was the guy for her no matter the circumstance. Of course all the secondary characters only rounded out this well written story and it was a page turner to the very end. Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review her work.
Profile Image for Didi.
1,927 reviews
September 30, 2025
What an action packed thrilling conclusion to the Crimson Point Security series. Sad to see it end but looking forward to my next adventure with this talented author. Being the only female on CPS and trying to put the past behind her, Cassie tries to keep her walls high even though she feels attraction to Tristan. When danger targets Cassie, Tristan plans to be there for her. As always there was perfect pacing, suspense/danger build and strong relationship growth. Tristan was swoonworthy with his determination, patience, and protectiveness. I highly recommend this series! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
1,062 reviews
October 9, 2025
In this book we will know why Cassie built up walls that high. A betrayal from his ex, and how it ends her previous career. She learned from her mistakes, and didn't trust herself with her feeling towards Trista since they're partnering.

But the weird things keep happening in Cassie's life, almost like somebody wanted to ruin her career and life. Tristan can't do nothing and proceed to get close to Cassie with caution. His patience rewarded by Cassie starts to opening up.

It's a beautiful story, to see Tristan patiently wait for Cassie. Cassie, despite everything, still stand and do what she thought the best.
Profile Image for Anja.
1,261 reviews8 followers
September 8, 2025
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
Tristan‘s all over Cassie - but she doesn’t trust him yet to get the ball rolling. Until an assignment went horribly wrong and the odds are, someone wants to get to her. Silencing her. Forever, if need be. With lots of twists and turns, her past catching up on her, will she be able to open up towards Tristan or will there be no „them“? A great story that, unfortunately is the last one in the series. But it concludes with a huge bang. Great story, greater series.
Profile Image for Debbie Tinder.
163 reviews4 followers
September 21, 2025
Guarding Cassie, another amazing story in the Crimson Point Series. The past has caused Cassie to put up walls, walls she refuses to let down. Until Tristan. Brick by brick, stone by stone Tristan slowly works away at that wall. Cassie doesn't want to let him in. She doesn't want to appear weak. But the past creeps back in dangerous ways and Tristan will be her anchor and safe harbor in the coming storm. Suspenseful, heartbreaking, action packed story that grips you from page one. Kaylea Cross ALWAYS delivers an amazing read.
Profile Image for Sophie Ruthven.
2,328 reviews146 followers
September 30, 2025
This book was the perfect way to wrap Crimson Point hence it's a no brainer top read.
As a long time reader of this must read author it's always sad when we say goodbye to characters or one of her fictional places but I love that it's not always forever with cameos etc.
Just because this was the final book doesn't mean it was any less action packed or emotional, in fact in some ways it was more so as you'll finish feeling nostalgic yet fully satisfied nothing is left unanswered.
That feeling is credit to this talented author and speaks volumes more than any review could.
569 reviews3 followers
October 4, 2025
I liked this book. However, going back to the previous book, calling a grown man Trissy is just not good. I hate the nickname. Carly is too old to call Tristan, Trissy. If she was still a toddler, okay. I did not like Tristan calling Carly, cutie. If Carly was still a baby or toddler, again okay. But she is too old for cutie. In other works, stop with the baby nicknames.

There was suspense all the way through. The romance did not go overboard. It took awhile for Cassie and Tristan to fall into bed.

All in all, the book was a good read.
158 reviews1 follower
September 12, 2025
I am very sad to see the end of this series and our time in Crimson Point, but this story was a great end to it. Cassie is strong, independent, guarded and determined not to get involved with Tristan who is all in and wants what his siblings have found. He keeps showing up for her time and time again, proving he is different and getting under her skin. When her past comes calling, he stands with her to handle the danger and in the process wins her heart. Great story!
Profile Image for BecReadReview.
1,894 reviews34 followers
September 22, 2025
Tristan & Cassie bring the series to a close with unrelenting tension, danger, & suspense woven into a hesitant chance at love. Tristan’s frustration leaps off the page, while Cassie’s reluctance has you wanting to shout for her to take that leap of faith. Just as their romance begins to spark with hope, danger crashes in to take center stage. Through every twist & threat, family, camaraderie, & love stand strong, giving this finale both grit & heart.
Profile Image for Antionette Timm.
43 reviews1 follower
September 30, 2025
Guarding Cassie is the final book on the Crimson Point Security series and I didn’t want it to end. I’ve been waiting for Tristan to finally get his happy ending and it didn’t disappoint. Cassie is the perfect choice of love interest for him. What’s better than a bad ass man? An equally bad ass woman and watching said man fall for her is chef’s kiss. Action, suspense, romance and heat, this book has it all. Kaylea Cross never disappoints and this book continues to prove that.
Profile Image for Helen (Blissfully Bookish Besties).
691 reviews
October 1, 2025
Guarding Cassie is the final book in the Crimson Point Security series, so this is a bitter sweet moment as I have loved this series. I couldn't wait to get my hands on Cassie and Tristan's story, and it certainly didn't disappoint! I was hooked from the first page and just couldn't put it down. It had everything I was hoping for and more. I can't wait to see what Kaylea Cross has in store for us next..
2,673 reviews2 followers
October 5, 2025
Omg!! That was freaking crazy!! I can't believe how she lasted so long cause of her past in vegas. When she moved 2 crimson point 2 start fresh there was a few other things that were fresh 2. But when strange things happening she couldn't figure out answers 2 unanswered questions but when she figures out the past and 1 in particular she knew hell was coming 4 her but who was behind it and how 2 prove it was 2 different things... Can she get answers b4 it's 2 late? I loved it!!
1,793 reviews6 followers
October 21, 2025
Brilliant ending to a brilliant series.
Cassie and Tristan work together at Crimson Point Security but he wants more with her.
When her past comes for her he will do anything to protect her and keep her safe.
Cassie starts to let her walls down around him and they soon get close. They are perfect together but her past won't stop.
Plenty of suspense and so much drama but also a love that they can't deny.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews

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