What do you think?
Warrior Peak Sanctuary #4
Protective Warrior
She helps wounded warriors heal.
He wants her to heal herself.
Psychologist Sarah Peterson is proud of her work with traumatized veterans. She knows how to handle PTSD—even when it’s her own. Her boss, Lawson Davies, isn’t so sure. The former CIA operative wants her to take some time off. His insistence that she get away only intensifies when a crime boss who’s trafficking women threatens revenge on everyone at Warrior Peak Sanctuary. Are Lawson’s motives purely professional, or is his desire to keep Sarah out of harm’s way motivated by the irresistible connection they share?
From Harlequin Seek thrills. Solve crimes. Justice served.
Discover more action-packed stories in the Warrior Peak Sanctuary series. All books are stand-alone with uplifting endings but were published in the following
Book 1: Protective Assignment
Book 2: Protective Lawman
Book 3: Protective Refuge
Book 4: Protective Warrior
He wants her to heal herself.
Psychologist Sarah Peterson is proud of her work with traumatized veterans. She knows how to handle PTSD—even when it’s her own. Her boss, Lawson Davies, isn’t so sure. The former CIA operative wants her to take some time off. His insistence that she get away only intensifies when a crime boss who’s trafficking women threatens revenge on everyone at Warrior Peak Sanctuary. Are Lawson’s motives purely professional, or is his desire to keep Sarah out of harm’s way motivated by the irresistible connection they share?
From Harlequin Seek thrills. Solve crimes. Justice served.
Discover more action-packed stories in the Warrior Peak Sanctuary series. All books are stand-alone with uplifting endings but were published in the following
Book 1: Protective Assignment
Book 2: Protective Lawman
Book 3: Protective Refuge
Book 4: Protective Warrior
221 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 28, 2026
About the author
Janie Crouch
235 books2,060 followersUSA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author Janie Crouch writes what she loves to read: passionate romantic suspense.
After a lifetime on the East Coast—and a six-year stint in Germany due to her husband's job as support for the U.S. Military—Janie has settled into her dream home in Front Range of the Colorado Rockies. She loves engaging in all sorts of adventures (triathlons! 200-mile relay races! mountain treks!), traveling, and surviving life with four kids.
Heroes exist. Let a Janie Crouch book prove it to you.
Check out Janie's updates and more on her website at http://www.janiecrouch.com
After a lifetime on the East Coast—and a six-year stint in Germany due to her husband's job as support for the U.S. Military—Janie has settled into her dream home in Front Range of the Colorado Rockies. She loves engaging in all sorts of adventures (triathlons! 200-mile relay races! mountain treks!), traveling, and surviving life with four kids.
Heroes exist. Let a Janie Crouch book prove it to you.
Check out Janie's updates and more on her website at http://www.janiecrouch.com
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡ (I feel like maybe it started in prior books?)
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑 (for kisses)
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): only kisses on page
Humor: A bit, but it’s a romantic suspense so not too much comedy
Perspective: third person from both the hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? plot
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: pretty soon in – ch 1
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after for the mains
Epilogue: Yes, I don’t think too far in the future
Format: voluntarily listened to an advanced listener copy from NetGalley in audio form
Why I chose this book: I was looking for more audiobook ARCs and was curious how this one would be
Mains: Lawson Davies and Sarah Peterson – This is a M/F relationship between a cishet hero and heroine
Audiobook available (as of posting)? Yes narrated by Jennifer Jill Araya
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
So...this was my first by this author. And I kind of felt like maybe these two’s story started in prior books. I’m wondering if I would have liked it more if I read in order. The other characters all have page time here too. I think overall it’s readable alone, but I think you might know the mains better if you read it in order.
Basic plot:
Working together has brought Lawson and Sarah closer together – but they don’t realize the depth of their affection until danger comes too close
Give this a try if you want:
- contemporary romance
- romantic suspense
- therapist heroine
- employer / employee – he’s her boss
- he’s former CIA
- low steam – only kisses on page and a fade to black intimate scene
Ages:
- didn’t catch any...would guess later 20s or early 30s
First line:
“Those are only going to last for a few days, you know.”
My thoughts:
Sadly this one wasn’t a fave for me.
I wonder if I would have liked it more if I read in order? This is book 4 and it’s readable alone in that you will understand the story and the flow of it, but I felt like things happened in the prior books that probably would have helped me enjoy this one more.
Events are referenced that I think happened on page earlier in the series, and I also felt like the spark between the mains had already occurred – so I walked in on Lawson and Sarah who were dancing around each other a bit but fell into each other really easily like the build up (that is my favorite part!) had already happened.
This is obv just me and how I like my romance – I know my mom would love a series like this so I’m going to recommend to her but overall I’m not sure if it’s for me (If I am reading no sex romance I really want longing and tension!)
As for the narration – there were a few parts that grated me. When she was doing an excited and playful voice, she kind of came off as a crazy person – like someone smiling too big with wild and crazy eyes? But I only sensed that a few lines in the beginning and then it leveled out for me. Overall I liked the narration.
Few random reading stats for this author
# of books read: This is my first
Average rating from me: 3 stars
Favorite book: This one by default
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes, safe sex aspects, consent, pregnancy/child in the story:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡ (I feel like maybe it started in prior books?)
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑 (for kisses)
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): only kisses on page
Humor: A bit, but it’s a romantic suspense so not too much comedy
Perspective: third person from both the hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? plot
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: pretty soon in – ch 1
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after for the mains
Epilogue: Yes, I don’t think too far in the future
Format: voluntarily listened to an advanced listener copy from NetGalley in audio form
Why I chose this book: I was looking for more audiobook ARCs and was curious how this one would be
Mains: Lawson Davies and Sarah Peterson – This is a M/F relationship between a cishet hero and heroine
Audiobook available (as of posting)? Yes narrated by Jennifer Jill Araya
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
So...this was my first by this author. And I kind of felt like maybe these two’s story started in prior books. I’m wondering if I would have liked it more if I read in order. The other characters all have page time here too. I think overall it’s readable alone, but I think you might know the mains better if you read it in order.
Basic plot:
Working together has brought Lawson and Sarah closer together – but they don’t realize the depth of their affection until danger comes too close
Give this a try if you want:
- contemporary romance
- romantic suspense
- therapist heroine
- employer / employee – he’s her boss
- he’s former CIA
- low steam – only kisses on page and a fade to black intimate scene
Ages:
- didn’t catch any...would guess later 20s or early 30s
First line:
“Those are only going to last for a few days, you know.”
My thoughts:
Sadly this one wasn’t a fave for me.
I wonder if I would have liked it more if I read in order? This is book 4 and it’s readable alone in that you will understand the story and the flow of it, but I felt like things happened in the prior books that probably would have helped me enjoy this one more.
Events are referenced that I think happened on page earlier in the series, and I also felt like the spark between the mains had already occurred – so I walked in on Lawson and Sarah who were dancing around each other a bit but fell into each other really easily like the build up (that is my favorite part!) had already happened.
This is obv just me and how I like my romance – I know my mom would love a series like this so I’m going to recommend to her but overall I’m not sure if it’s for me (If I am reading no sex romance I really want longing and tension!)
As for the narration – there were a few parts that grated me. When she was doing an excited and playful voice, she kind of came off as a crazy person – like someone smiling too big with wild and crazy eyes? But I only sensed that a few lines in the beginning and then it leveled out for me. Overall I liked the narration.
Few random reading stats for this author
# of books read: This is my first
Average rating from me: 3 stars
Favorite book: This one by default
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes, safe sex aspects, consent, pregnancy/child in the story:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Release Date: 7/28/2026
Thank you so much to Harlequin Audio & Janie Crouch for a copy of this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
~ Summary ~
She helps wounded warriors heal. He wants her to heal herself.
Psychologist Sarah Peterson is proud of her work with traumatized veterans. She knows how to handle PTSD, even when it’s her own. Her boss, Lawson Davies, a former CIA operative, isn’t so sure, and wants her to take time off. Sarah insists there’s no reason to leave the sanctuary. Then someone from Lawson’s past arrives with news of a dangerous trafficking ring nearby, hoping he can help bring it down. Lawson wants Sarah gone for her own safety now because he’s in love with her and can’t risk losing her. But Sarah feels the same and wants to stay and help. But when danger hits closer to home, there may be nowhere safe left to run.
~ Thoughts ~
An intriguing thriller set in an isolated part of North Carolina, which only added to the tension. There’s some sweet romance woven in too, which gives you just enough to breathe before being thrown back into the action. Fast-paced from the start, this one kept me on edge until the final confrontation.
The romance between Sarah and Lawson opens as they recover from a past traumatic incident (I’d probably understand more if I’d read earlier books in the series), but danger returns fast, putting both their lives at risk. I love a good romantic suspense, and while the suspense outweighed the romance here, I loved every minute, even though it kept me up way too late. Now I need to go back and read the rest of the series.
Thank you so much to Harlequin Audio & Janie Crouch for a copy of this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
~ Summary ~
She helps wounded warriors heal. He wants her to heal herself.
Psychologist Sarah Peterson is proud of her work with traumatized veterans. She knows how to handle PTSD, even when it’s her own. Her boss, Lawson Davies, a former CIA operative, isn’t so sure, and wants her to take time off. Sarah insists there’s no reason to leave the sanctuary. Then someone from Lawson’s past arrives with news of a dangerous trafficking ring nearby, hoping he can help bring it down. Lawson wants Sarah gone for her own safety now because he’s in love with her and can’t risk losing her. But Sarah feels the same and wants to stay and help. But when danger hits closer to home, there may be nowhere safe left to run.
~ Thoughts ~
An intriguing thriller set in an isolated part of North Carolina, which only added to the tension. There’s some sweet romance woven in too, which gives you just enough to breathe before being thrown back into the action. Fast-paced from the start, this one kept me on edge until the final confrontation.
The romance between Sarah and Lawson opens as they recover from a past traumatic incident (I’d probably understand more if I’d read earlier books in the series), but danger returns fast, putting both their lives at risk. I love a good romantic suspense, and while the suspense outweighed the romance here, I loved every minute, even though it kept me up way too late. Now I need to go back and read the rest of the series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
If like me, you have not read and/or listened to any of the stories in this series, rest assured that you’ll have no problems following the storyline and getting to know the characters from previous stories.
The Warrior Peak Sanctuary was created by a team of former elite soldiers as a place those that served and need a peaceful place to recover from the not only physical but also traumatizing injuries they suffered while serving , can feel safe .
Working there is psychologist Sarah Peterson. But at the moment she too is recovering from her own trauma which at first seemed to hinder her work. While her boss, former special forces warrior and later CIA operative Lawson Davies thinks she needs to take a break , Sarah is determined to prove him wrong. Underlying the relationship, is an attraction they are trying to hide.
When a former colleague from his days in the CIA comes to him for help as she is trying to track down a man who is kidnapping and trafficking young women, Lawson finds himself and his team back in danger .
What happens when Sarah is kidnapped?
This action packed audiobook is filled with suspense and romance. Thus keeping the listeners on edge all through the story.
The narrator, Jill Araya, brings the story to life.
I was entrusted a copy of this audiobook by Netgalley, and Harlequin Audio. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
The Warrior Peak Sanctuary was created by a team of former elite soldiers as a place those that served and need a peaceful place to recover from the not only physical but also traumatizing injuries they suffered while serving , can feel safe .
Working there is psychologist Sarah Peterson. But at the moment she too is recovering from her own trauma which at first seemed to hinder her work. While her boss, former special forces warrior and later CIA operative Lawson Davies thinks she needs to take a break , Sarah is determined to prove him wrong. Underlying the relationship, is an attraction they are trying to hide.
When a former colleague from his days in the CIA comes to him for help as she is trying to track down a man who is kidnapping and trafficking young women, Lawson finds himself and his team back in danger .
What happens when Sarah is kidnapped?
This action packed audiobook is filled with suspense and romance. Thus keeping the listeners on edge all through the story.
The narrator, Jill Araya, brings the story to life.
I was entrusted a copy of this audiobook by Netgalley, and Harlequin Audio. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
July 29, 2026
Warrior Peak Sanctuary is a place for recovering and peace for those who have served. Sarah works as a therapist and thinks she is doing well with her own PTSD until she freaks out on a client. Lawson wants Sarah to take a break to deal with her trauma but she takes his caring the wrong way. Luckily, her friends talk her down but make her see that she and Lawson need to really talk. Before this can happen, a former colleague of Lawson's comes to him and his team for help with human trafficking that is happening in their area. They agree to set up a sting but it doesn't go as planned and the danger to all becomes immediate. The intensity and action ramp up and everyone must work together to save all the women and take down the cartel. It is during this time that Lawson and Sarah realize that it's past time for them to acknowledge their feelings for each other. The story is fast paced and a good blend of suspense, action with a touch of romance. I listened to the audio and the narrator, Jill Araya does a really good job. I have not read or listened to the others in this series and still enjoyed it, but do plan on going back and catching up.
I did receive an advanced copy but the opinions are my own. Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio.
I did receive an advanced copy but the opinions are my own. Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio.
August 13, 2026
☕️📚✨ If you are a fan of protector romance, forced proximity, and characters with deep, soulful healing journeys, this emotional and thrilling romantic suspense story is going to give you all the feels! 💖
Lawson Davies is giving absolute “I will burn the world to keep you safe” energy as the intense former CIA operative, completely unable to hide how much he cares about Sarah, even when he tries to hide behind professional motives. ❤️
Meanwhile, Sarah Peterson is such a tender, dedicated heroine who gives everything to heal wounded warriors, making it so moving to watch her realize that she deserves space to heal, too. 🌸 Just when you think you’re in for a quiet romance, a dangerous crime boss threatens Warrior Peak Sanctuary, ramping up the high stakes and pushing Lawson and Sarah together in the absolute best way!
Lawson Davies is giving absolute “I will burn the world to keep you safe” energy as the intense former CIA operative, completely unable to hide how much he cares about Sarah, even when he tries to hide behind professional motives. ❤️
Meanwhile, Sarah Peterson is such a tender, dedicated heroine who gives everything to heal wounded warriors, making it so moving to watch her realize that she deserves space to heal, too. 🌸 Just when you think you’re in for a quiet romance, a dangerous crime boss threatens Warrior Peak Sanctuary, ramping up the high stakes and pushing Lawson and Sarah together in the absolute best way!
Review of advance copy
The most important mission of his life
Sarah and Lawson have been resisting their attraction, they finally act on their chemistry only to find themselves pulled into their most dangerous mission to date....and Sarah becomes a target.
They cannot escape the danger and Lawson struggles with placing Sarah in danger. We see so many sides of Lawson's personality here, tough Lawson, sweet Lawson, cold Lawson, playful Lawson, guilty Lawson and warrior Lawson. But my favourite has to be "in love Lawson".
This has been a great series, with fantastic characters and support cast.
Sarah and Lawson have been resisting their attraction, they finally act on their chemistry only to find themselves pulled into their most dangerous mission to date....and Sarah becomes a target.
They cannot escape the danger and Lawson struggles with placing Sarah in danger. We see so many sides of Lawson's personality here, tough Lawson, sweet Lawson, cold Lawson, playful Lawson, guilty Lawson and warrior Lawson. But my favourite has to be "in love Lawson".
This has been a great series, with fantastic characters and support cast.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A fast paced suspense with a side of workplace romance. I enjoyed the found family aspect of the story! The narrator did a good job bringing this story to life!
*note- you don't have to read the other stories in the series first for this story to make sense
I received an audio ARC through Netgalley and all opinions are my own.
*note- you don't have to read the other stories in the series first for this story to make sense
I received an audio ARC through Netgalley and all opinions are my own.
August 9, 2026
This is the final book in the series and I have read them all. While it could be read stand alone, without the previous books which explain everyone’s background in more depth, you might think that Larson is crazy to take on such a large profile criminal. The story is well paced with lots of action and the “made family” I enjoy but this was not my favorite in the series.
August 1, 2026
Romance
Thank you for sharing these wonderful romance novel series books. Please keep writing more of these wonderful books. Thank you
Thank you for sharing these wonderful romance novel series books. Please keep writing more of these wonderful books. Thank you
August 9, 2026
A thoroughly enjoyable read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a Romantic Suspense, and this is the fourth book in the Warrior Peak Sanctuary series. I have not read the other books in this series before picking up this book, and I do not think that took anything away from my enjoyment of this book. I did not feel lost at any time while reading this book. I read this book by listening to the audiobook for this book, and I really enjoyed this audiobook. This book is filled with suspense, and it had a good mix of romance. I enjoy reading this book so much. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews