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Some fires can't be fought with water. Some battles require faith.

Firefighter Samantha Williams thought she knew who she could trust with her life.
For six years, she's fought fires alongside her crew in Renegade, Colorado, building the family she never had while hiding from a deadly past that forced her and her sister into witness protection. When a string of arsons threatens the community, the danger is only beginning…

Then walks in the one man who could save her... or break her heart.

Deputy US Marshal Liam Roberts has made it his mission to protect people whose lives are in danger. Newly named guardian to his niece, Liam battles the challenge of balancing his new role in Renegade with family responsibility. Professional duty quickly develops to more as both Sam and Liam navigate raising teens and the growing threat.

As their enemies close in, nowhere is safe.

When the final trap is set, and escape seems impossible, Sam will discover that sometimes the greatest rescue comes from the One she thought had abandoned her long ago.

When love means putting everything on the line, how far will they go?

As Sam and Liam race against time to unmask a killer hiding in plain sight, their partnership becomes something deeper, more dangerous than either expected. But when Sam's teenage sister Isabella and Liam's niece Sophia disappear, their growing feelings are put to the ultimate test. Someone is collecting the people they love most—and using them as bait for the final trap.

Caught between a killer who knows her every secret and a man whose love she never dared hope for, Sam must keep running from her past or fight for the future her heart is beginning to crave.

Perfect for fans Faith-based romantic suspenseFirefighter heroines with hidden pastsUS Marshal protective heroesFound family dynamicsWitness protection storylinesSmall-town settings with big secretsRedemption and forgiveness themes

Faith Under Fire Betrayal & Trust Found Family Forgiveness Second Chances God's Protection Healing from Trauma Choosing Love Over Fear Identity & Purpose

Book 3 in the Renegade County series, written by Jennifer Pierce, created by Susan May Warren and Lisa Phillips. Complete story with swoon-worthy HEA that will leave you breathless!

Continue the series that readers can't put down—where faith, family, and love triumph over the deadliest odds.

343 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 12, 2026

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Jennifer Pierce

22 books422 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
Profile Image for theliterateleprechaun (on an Alaskan cruise).
2,715 reviews205 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
April 6, 2026
Words can’t express how much I loved this one!

I was giddy with excitement at finding a new-to-me author this week - one who writes what and how I like to read. I love the happily ever afters of romances (not the fluffy insta-love), but I also need the pacey, adrenaline rush of the suspense. While those are the essentials, I also enjoy characters who face a challenge, step outside their comfort zone, and/or push the boundaries. If the author can ‘burrow’ me (not just place me) into the setting, I’m hooked! Jennifer Pierce has met all my requirements for a great read … and then some.

Do you enjoy a character-driven novel? How about the WITSEC trope? If so, you’ll enjoy Madison Johanson. Madison, 29, was just an innocent victim, a private nurse, in the wrong place, at the wrong time, trusting the wrong person. Now, she’s in the WITSEC program with her 14-year-old sister, Anna Johanson. You’ll learn about how she’s adjusted to being in the program for the past 6 years, the sacrifices she’s made, and the mental and emotional effects that a life of hiding has caused. You’ll be glad when she finds someone to share the burden…and cheer them on as they jump through the hoops in their ‘forbidden’ relationship! Her ‘protector’ is the perfect hero; a real gentleman and a faith-forward man. Pierce does a great job of building suspense and tension and balancing it with tender, faith-focused moments.

Do you enjoy teenage characters? There are two in this novel and Pierce has captured them perfectly; their mindset, how WITSEC is so difficult for a teen, how people this age perceive threats differently and push boundaries. It was fantastic.

Pierce hooked me with this fascinating trope, made it easy for me to connect on an emotional level to multiple characters, and capably built the twists, suspense, and tension, keeping me engaged in her narrative. I loved that the faith element wasn’t an afterthought, but a thread that ran through the entire story. I enjoyed seeing her characters’ spiritual growth after overcoming challenges through prayer.

This was a fantastic addition to the series! I’m coming for your backlist, Jennifer Pierce.

I know I’m gushing. Find out for yourself why I love this book. It’s book three in the Heroes of Renegade series, but it can stand alone.

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
851 reviews16 followers
May 15, 2026
This story grabbed me from the beginning and wouldn't let me go. The involvement of the teenage girls made it even more personal for me!

My favorite character by far was Liam. He was such a calm and steady presence for Sam and the girls. I enjoyed that he encouraged Sam in her faith and was a steadfast uncle.

The hits kept coming to the characters from the start to the finish and I was left guessing throughout as to who was involved. This definitely kept me reading.

Thanks so much to Sunrise Publishing for the arc. The opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Reading in the Heartland (Michaela).
3,810 reviews100 followers
April 6, 2026
I was about a fifth of the way through this book when I picked it back up last night and I couldn’t put it down until I finished it. This is a great installment in this no spice Christian romantic suspense.

Liam has just moved to Renegade. He’s now the guardian for his teenage niece and he’s a US Marshall. Samantha has been living in Renegade as a firefighter for 6 years with her teenage sister. They are both in WITSEC.

I really enjoyed this read with its twists and its turns. Having the layers of firefighting and teenage issues really added depth to this read. I love that we are still untangling the mysteries with the underbelly of this city. This romance has forced proximity and fake dating intertwined with faith, found family, and more.

I cannot wait to read more in this series. Each book, though written by a different author, flows seamlessly into the next. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 1.

TW: Child Abuse (past)

I received an eARC of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Profile Image for Deena Peterson.
1,242 reviews6 followers
May 12, 2026
What a rush! This high octane suspense grabs you by the heart and won’t let go until the last page turns! Buckle up, ‘cause it’s about to get real!

Firefighter Samantha Williams is a pro at fighting fires…except for the one flaring in her own home. Raising your teenage sister is tough enough, but throw in WITSEC and your average rebellious behavior and life gets more than complicated.

Marshal Liam Roberts is battling his own home fire: he’s suddenly guardian to his teenage niece and he’s in way over his head. And now he’s charged with keeping Sam and her sister safe. A job made difficult by the two teens.

Perfectly dangerous storyline, perfectly flawed characters, and perfectly tense reading. That’s what you’ll find in these pages. I’m still not over it all!

I received an advance copy from the publisher. I’m under no obligation and my review has not been solicited. Very highly recommend!
Profile Image for Tina Lowery.
323 reviews
May 20, 2026
Author EMT/Firefighter Samantha Williams was in had been in Renegade about 6 years living a protected life, with her sister, under the care of the US Marshals. Deputy US Marshal Liam Roberts simply stepped away from his constantly dangerous position into a safer role in Renegade office. Now, he was able to be more consistent for the care of his niece. As he became involved in Sam's case, danger opens up around them. More fires occur, and other actions place danger where it really doesn't belong. As investigating becomes a dangerous action, Liam and Sam do their best to figure out who is behind it all. Naturally, more dangerous incidents occur and then the pieces begin to fall in place as the perpetrator begins to show his hand. As the chips fall, the truth and reality slams into place. Throughout it all can love build a strong foundation? Can a bridge of trust of love, peace and joy throughout the rest of their days? I give this book 5 out of 5 stars and it is a book that I will be reading again someday.
Profile Image for Dana.
256 reviews
April 19, 2026
This is my first book by this author Jennifer Pierce. I’m loving this fast paced series so much and Protect was very very good. I’m currently watching the tv series called Marshals and so anytime I read a book that’s about Marshals I get excited. This had me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end.

Madison Johanson, now Samantha and her 14-year-old sister, Anna Johanson now Isabella are in the WITSEC. Samantha was an innocent victim, she was a private nurse but ended up at the wrong place at the wrong time where it cost her. They have been living in Renegade now for 6 years under the radar but recent events has caused her to question were they found out by the mob? Liam is raising his niece, Sophia, trying to be father and being a US Marshal. Sam & Liam are in a race with time to figure out who is setting fires all around Renegade. I will let you read it so I spoil anything but you will love it!
Here are some of the tropes:

• Faith-based romantic suspense
• Firefighter heroines with hidden pasts
• US Marshal protective heroes
• Found family dynamics
• Witness protection storylines
• Small-town settings with big secrets
• Redemption and forgiveness themes

I received a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are all my own.
Profile Image for Alyssa Amey Madjeski.
381 reviews29 followers
April 14, 2026
I loved every single thing about this book. No notes. The characters were incredible and felt so real. Each scene just felt authentic with honest reactions and responses. The suspense kept building and growing in all the best ways. I never saw the reveal coming. Not once.

I adored Sam. I loved how she was so strong and capable while fighting doubt in herself. I loved that she also allowed Liam to step up and protect her. How she graciously accepted help even though her penchant for self-sufficiency fought it. I loved how she both loved and disciplined her sister. I loved her journey of returning to faith.

Liam, Liam, Liam. Those protector heroes get me, and I was a goner for Liam from the start. Masculine, strong, intentional, and honorable, he’s also not afraid to go on a shopping trip or to bake spaghetti. The first time he says “my girls” just melted me into a puddle of happiness.

Sophia and Bella were such great additions to this book, bonding Sam and Liam in ways they never could have imagine. They felt so real I feel like the author has to have teenagers or work with teenagers in real life.

This book! I can’t stop gushing. Their initial animosity and being convinced that the other’s teenager was a bad influence. The “fake” dating that was doomed to become real in 4.5 seconds. The adrenaline pumping through my body through the suspense scenes. That reveal…

I especially appreciated how faith was intricately woven into this story and how organic but intentional it was. This story doesn’t shy away from the truth.

While connected into the overall Renegade storyline, this one backs up a bit. Where in Warrior the shadow syndicate was the focus, this one just subtly threads a small piece of it in, as these characters aren’t involved in that investigation. Actually, none of the previous MCs in the series are even in this book. Protector could stand completely on its own.

I received a complementary copy of this book from Sunrise Publishing. I was not asked to leave a positive review. My opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Courtney Dawn.
855 reviews15 followers
May 22, 2026
If you love romantic suspense that keeps your pulse racing and your heart fully invested, this one absolutely delivers.

Protector by Jennifer Pierce pulled me in from the very first page and never let go. Between the witness protection storyline, the firefighter heroine, the protective US Marshal, and the emotional family dynamics, this book had so many layers I loved.

Samantha Williams has spent years building a life in Renegade, Colorado while hiding from a dangerous past. As a firefighter, she’s used to running toward danger—but when arsons begin escalating and the threats become personal, the walls she’s carefully built start crumbling fast.

Enter Liam Roberts: US Marshal, reluctant guardian to his teenage niece, and the kind of steady, protective hero you can’t help but root for.

And wow… these characters carried so much emotional weight.

What I loved:
🔥 high-stakes suspense that kept escalating
❤️ found family + healing from trauma
🚒 firefighter heroine + protective marshal hero
✨ strong faith thread woven naturally throughout

One of my favorite parts was how realistic the relationships felt—especially the teens. The story didn’t shy away from the emotional impact of living in hiding, carrying fear, or trying to protect the people you love while barely holding yourself together.

The faith element also stood out to me because it wasn’t just sprinkled in as an afterthought—it shaped the characters’ growth, healing, and choices in such a meaningful way.

Jennifer Pierce balanced adrenaline-filled suspense with tender emotional moments so well, and the result was a story that felt both intense and deeply heartfelt.

This series continues to impress me, and I already can’t wait to return to Renegade County again.
Thank you to the publisher for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Ashley.
1,212 reviews51 followers
May 12, 2026
I really enjoyed this heart-pounding romantic suspense. It’s my first book by Jennifer Pierce, but it definitely won’t be my last.

I really liked the characters. Sam is a firefighter and in witness protection with her sister, Bella. US Marshal Liam is new to town and taking care of his niece, Sophia, while his sister’s in jail. Sophia and Bella were fast friends, but getting into trouble together at school. I was very curious about what was going on with them. I loved seeing Liam’s strong faith in the face of adversity. It was really inspiring.

With an arsonist starting fires all over town and getting bolder and more dangerous at every turn, the suspense just kept ramping up. By the end, I was flying through the pages as fast as I could. I had my suspicions about who the arsonist was, but I was totally wrong. I was shocked by the reveal.

While this is book three in the Heroes of Renegade series, it can stand alone just fine. I highly recommend it to fans of romantic suspense with a strong thread of faith.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Beth.
508 reviews1 follower
May 18, 2026
I am still waiting for my heartbeat to return to normal!

I loved this story! Sam and Liam made the perfect pair. I loved seeing them navigate not only the danger they faced, but their relationship with each other and not to mention the parenting of two teenage girls! Everything about their relationship was so raw and real and I loved that they found a happily ever after together.

This mysterious arsonist and the entire plot of the novel kept me guessing throughout the whole book! I promise no spoilers here, but I will say that when the person behind it all was revealed...my jaw hit the floor! I had no idea!!! Which just makes this book even more of an incredible suspense story!

This Renegade Heroes series has been so jam-packed with action! I cannot wait to see where it takes me next!
Profile Image for Dianne Sidebottom.
1,458 reviews20 followers
May 14, 2026
Liam and Sam's story.
The role of "Marshal's" is not something we have in my country, so is somewhat foreign. But am aware of the "cowboy era", then in recent times Dee Henderson's book called Protector's. Another area involving a career person was a first responder response as a fire fighter.
This story integrates the daily Christian walk, where we depend and trust in God to get us through the dramas and relationships.

The series continues with the thread of who are the baddies in the town of Renegade? "Guardian next.
Profile Image for Maxine Burns.
255 reviews2 followers
June 8, 2026
Book 3 in the Heroes of Renegade series, Protector was a gripping read. There was Liam, a US Marshall and his teenage niece; and Samantha (Sam), living in Renegade for the past 6 years with her younger sister - both in WITSEC; along with some other interesting characters. It had twists and turns, high suspense; and even mystery and murder. A great addition to the series, but it could also be read alone.
1 review
May 17, 2026
characters coming back to God

How you brought the characters one by one back to God. One character who had already been down that path to speak truth into the ones who gave up on GOD. Thought they had to do everything for themself instead of trusting God.
137 reviews3 followers
June 3, 2026
a fast paced page turner!

A fast paced page turner!! Loved the US Marshal angle and the FMC as a firefighter. Really clever story with an unexpected plot twist! Highly recommend
115 reviews3 followers
May 19, 2026
Loved it!

I enjoy books that have a faith element, romance, action and danger, suspense, and realistic characters dealing with relatable issues and doubts, and this book ticked all the boxes. Add in a few twists and a fast paced storyline and you have a book you won’t be able to put down. I sure couldn’t!
527 reviews1 follower
May 31, 2026
Good Mystery/Romance

It's got mystery, suspense, and romance. It was sad that the man most trusted betrayed Sam. The teen rebellion reflects what we see today.
3,498 reviews14 followers
May 23, 2026
A very good mystery. I had an inkling something was going on with one individual, but I did not expect him to be as involved as he was.
57 reviews
May 25, 2026
Great Story

Very realistic story!
I found it hard to stop reading.
Great research done to be so precise in the context.
Onto the next story!!
Profile Image for Emily.
608 reviews15 followers
May 8, 2026
Protector is the third book in the Heroes of Renegade series, and every last book in this series has been amazing. They can be read as a standalone. This story did not disappoint. It had me on the edge of my seat, and I could not put the book down. I can not wait for the next book in this series.

Samantha is a firefighter who is in the Witness Protection program along with her teen sister, whom she has custody of. Until recently, they were thriving in Renegade. When a new girl shows up in class, Samantha thinks she is the cause of all the problems.

US Marshall Liam has moved to Renegade to try and give his niece a fresh start. He has recently been given custody and is trying to tone down his wild career a little to create a more stable environment for his niece. When Liam is given Samantha’s case, he checks in and makes sure everything is ok. But not everything is going as easily as planned.
With a sudden uptick in fires, things seem to point to arson and not just random arson, but targeted at Samantha. Samantha and Isabella are healing together from their past hurts while rebuilding their life.  

This fake dating romance was perfect with kisses only.

Jennifer Pierce did a great job of intertwining faith throughout the story. It was a great look at healing a relationship with God.

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy.
2,217 reviews78 followers
May 12, 2026
The tagline for this book is pure genius and spot on for everything this book encompasses. "Some fires can't be fought with water. Some battles require faith." That one gives me cold chills because the two main characters in this book have been tested and tried in more than one way, and to a limit that some people simply could not handle. But they were strong-willed and willing to fight for their family, which gave them the upper hand.

Samantha Williams is a firefighter in Renegade. She is raising her sister. These two have been in witness protection for six years, always living on the edge wondering if they will have to move again. Then you add a teenage girl with raging hormones to the mix, and it is volatile living.

US Marshal Liam Roberts has been transferred to Renegade. He, like Samantha, is raising a teenager. The only difference is that his teenager is actually his niece. His woes are just beginning, but his love for his niece and his faith will see him through.

These two are thrown together in a situation that was not of their choosing. Someone is causing havoc in Renegade with fires, which is enough in and of itself. Now both Samantha and Liam are dealing with teenage girls who are getting into trouble as well.

I could write a book about everything that was so good about this one, but I do not want to give anything away. The author pulled me into the story and made me feel for the characters from the beginning pages. The action was non-stop and brings up more questions than answers. It was a wild and fiery ride that was twisty as well. But the most important aspect of this story was found faith. Samantha had left her faith behind after being dealt so many hard blows in life. Whereas, Liam's faith is strong. He is not perfect, but he knows who is in control.

This series is fantastic. I hate to pick favorites, but this one might be my favorite so far. The characters and the story touched a place in my heart.

Inspirational romantic suspense/mystery is displayed at its finest in this incredible book.

Thank you to Sunrise Publishing for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
24 reviews
May 23, 2026
✨Book Review✨

“This woman, with her tough exterior, worked a physically demanding and often heart-wrenching job. But she hadn't let it make her callous. She still cared about the people she loved.”

We are back in Renegade County for this book review. What do you do when you have a teenager and intense job on top of it? The question gets answered in Protector, the third book in the Heroes of Renegade series.

Samantha Williams, who is a firefighter and also the guardian to her teenage sister Isabelle. Not all is what it seems with these two, they’re in WITSEC and things are about to get chaotic. Liam Roberts, he’s a US Deputy Marshall and happens to be the new agent in charge of Samantha and Isabelle’s case. On top of his day job, Liam just became his niece’s guardian. When the two teenagers start getting in trouble at school together, Samantha and Liam must work together to figure out what’s going on with them.

This was the first book I’ve ever read by Jennifer Pierce and I think it was great! She did a good job at weaving in the stress of raising a teenager and having a full time job on it. I love that we got one step closer to figuring out what’s the Shadow Syndicate is planning.

This book is filled with suspense and a little mystery. I couldn’t put it down and finished it in a night. It has good chemistry and banter between the characters. I can’t wait to see what happens next in the series and for the author.

These thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Amy.
583 reviews11 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
April 9, 2026
The latest installment in the Heroes of Renegade series is fierce, fast, and fiery! The stakes are intense and the action never stops, so you're in for a wild ride from the very beginning.

The combination of tropes in this story is super fun and collide to spark an inferno of protectiveness. (Was that too much?) Seriously, when you throw together witness protection, guardian/child relationships, and firefighter + law enforcement, you'll get some massive protective vibes, and with the danger in this story, it's all needed. I love the angle, though: that you can change, you can grow, and you can improve your community by reaching out and helping others - and protecting them in a variety of ways.

Of course, it takes a great cast of characters to pull off that kind of plot, and Protector has them. From the mighty woman firefighter to the strong-and-silent Federal Marshall - plus a few clueless teens - I loved following their story.

And I mostly followed it, because I couldn't figure it out before it happened. There are some major plot twists in this one, but that just makes it better!

So if high octane stories are your jam, you don't want to miss Protector.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Jeanne Alfveby Crea.
1,028 reviews112 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
April 15, 2026
SO good! I couldn't put it down! If you like romantic suspense that keeps you guessing and has depth to it, you will love this!

Firefighter Samantha Williams and her 14 year old sister Isabella (Bella) have been in town in the Witness Protection Program for six years. She tries desperately to live under the radar. She thought Isabella was on the same page until she has a new friend and they get in trouble together. Samantha has been taking care of her sister since she was born. She has felt that God hadn't answered her prayers in difficult moments so she refuses to believe and only relies on herself.

"Deputy US Marshal Liam Roberts has made it his mission to protect people whose lives are in danger. Newly named guardian to his niece, Sophia." Liam is thrown in the deep end when he takes over custody of his 14 year old niece, moves to a new town, and takes less dangerous jobs.

Beautiful story of coming to know God is with you always, especially in difficult moments. There is an arsonist on the loose and lots of mystery, intrigue, danger, and an ending I did not see coming!

Lovers of inspirational romantic suspense will love Protector by Jennifer Pierce. I could not put it down.

Thank you to Sunrise Publishing for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.

36 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
April 9, 2026
Samantha Williams is a firefighter in Renegade, Colorado, but she has a secret--she is in the witness protection program after sending a man to prison. She is also the guardian of her little sister. Deputy US Marshal Liam Roberts left a job in fugitive aprehension to become the guardian of his niece and provide a stable life for her. Liam is assigned to protect Sam and her sister Bella, and soon they are working together to stop a killer. They decide to start a ruse of dating, but soon they do not have to pretend. It's clear that someone is after Sam and after her sister and Liam's niece disappear, Sam and Liam race to find them before it's too late. Someone wants Sam dead and is willing to go to any lengths to silence her. Will Sam learn to let go and trust God? And will she trust Liam and find love again? This was a great story of letting go and regaining trust in others and in the God who controls every circumstance. The identity of the killer was a complete surprise, and the drama kept me reading to the very last page. This is a great series for fans of clean faith-filled romantic suspense!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Sarita.
1,574 reviews656 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
April 28, 2026
This new-to-me-suspense author delivered a strong suspense plot with characters who brought chemistry, concerns and fear to wrap up the plot successfully.

Though this story is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone as this plot is not directly linked to the Shadow Syndicate plot which is an ongoing story line in this series.

Sam’s backstory in witness protection added to the high suspense with who is behind everything and what is actually going on. There were also twists included at just the right moment to question everything you think you knew.

The plot line with the teens also felt realistic with what teenagers face daily with wanting to fit in but also wanting to do what is right. I loved how Liam was able to talk to them and get to the truth.

I suspected the person behind it but did not want to be correct. Even though that reveal was not a surprise, there was enough action, suspense and questions which kept me reading to see what was going to happen.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*
Profile Image for Betti.
1,431 reviews37 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
May 8, 2026
She had been through so many hard things that she couldn’t see beyond them to what God had done in the midst of it. Samantha Williams is a paramedic and a firefighter. Her past is hidden in WITSEC. Currently her life is in her job and in taking care of her 15yr old sister, Isabella. What could possibly go wrong? Will she finally realize that God is in control?

US Marshal Liam Roberts’ job changed when he became guardian of his 15 yr old sister, Sophia. Needing to have a less dangerous job, he is now on court duty and security of witnesses. Interesting how things can change. Arson, murder, shots fired and more will keep you wondering if Sam’s past has found her or is the Shadow Syndicate back to create more problems all of which culminates in a surprise ending.

An early copy of Heroes of Renegade Book 3 was received through Sunrise Publishing and BookFunnel. These thoughts are my own and were in no way solicited.
314 reviews12 followers
May 15, 2026
This book was another great installment in the Renegade series. I was glad that this book was a little different, yet it still continued the overarching story and involved the underlying threat of the shadow syndicate operating in Renegade. The way Liam protected and cared for Sam, Bella, and Sophie was so sweet and selfless. I felt like they could all be real people since the descriptive writing brought them to life from the pages. The wicked, heartless attitude of the perpetrator was horrifying, and it was difficult to pin down what the actual threat was. That twist at the end was brutal and involved something I never saw coming. I appreciated and was encouraged by the biblical truths presented, and I loved the scene at the end of the book. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series!
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book for the publisher. A positive review was not required, and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Profile Image for Jeanloves2read.
55 reviews6 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
April 24, 2026
Protector is my first book by Jennifer Pierce and it definitely won’t be my last.

Sam Williams aka Madison Johanson has a secret so big that failing to keep it could be deadly for her and her sister, Isabella, aka Anna. For six years the pair has been living in Renegade under the protection of the U.S. Marshal’s WITSEC program.

Deputy Marshal Liam Roberts is new to Renegade and is assigned to Sam and Isabella’s interim handler . He gave up a job he loved for a more stable (read mostly boring) position so that he can provide a more consistent environment for his niece, Sophia, whom he is raising.

When Sam finds her life in danger, she fears that her past has come back to haunt her. Sam and Liam decide fake dating will be the perfect excuse for them to be spending a lot of time together without raising suspicions.

Even though i figured out who “the bad guy” was before it was revealed, I really enjoyed this book. There are so many of my favorite tropes.

Faith-based
WITSEC
Protective hero
Fake dating
Redemption

I can’t wait for the next book in this series and my next book by Jennifer Pierce.

I received an arc of this book from the publisher. My opinions are my own.

Profile Image for Naomi Shores.
564 reviews11 followers
May 14, 2026
Sometimes only God can bring you through the fires. Samantha is a firefighter but also in the WITSEC program. She is fighting fires set by an arsonist in Renegade who is trying to kill her but for what reason? have the criminals she put behind bars found her or is it more of the Shadow Syndicate? Liam is a US Marshall assigned to protect her and her sister, he is also guardian over his niece so the two girls become friends. Liam's faith is strong but Samantha doesn't believe God will save her because of her past. I like the characters, female firefighter, US Marshall, two teens to keep them on their toes. The action and suspense are pretty steady. I would have liked more of the Shadow Syndicate since it was very prevalent in the first two books in the series but maybe it will show up more in the next book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews