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Betrayed by the Plot
He’ll give his life to protect her.But what happens when the thing he’s at risk of losing is his heart?
It started as a favor - protect the sister of an acquaintance and find out who has an unhealthy obsession with her.
Easy. Straightforward.
Except all I want to do from the moment I meet her is claim her.
Make her mine.
Kat Harrington might be a sweet children’s book author by day, but at night she’s known by a different name.
Sloane Daniels.
No one knows her alter ego as the bestselling author of romantic suspense novels.
Until now.
Someone has discovered Kat’s secret, the one she’s worked so hard to protect both for herself and the people she loves most.
What starts as an online campaign to sabotage and sully her name quickly takes an unexpected and dangerous turn.
Everyone’s a suspect and without any solid leads, I’m forced to hide Kat away where no one will find her.
But now there’s a new problem.
Having her in my space is tempting me in ways I wasn’t prepared for and suddenly,
the only one she needs protection from is me .
One night of passion turns into an insatiable need for the woman I’ve sworn to protect.
With lines crossed, and more questions than answers, it’s a race against the clock.
A set up.
A betrayal.
And a plot twist no one saw coming…
Betrayed by the Plot is a small town, bodyguard, heroine in danger, forced proximity standalone romance filled with tension and banter and a happily ever after you won't want to miss.
It started as a favor - protect the sister of an acquaintance and find out who has an unhealthy obsession with her.
Easy. Straightforward.
Except all I want to do from the moment I meet her is claim her.
Make her mine.
Kat Harrington might be a sweet children’s book author by day, but at night she’s known by a different name.
Sloane Daniels.
No one knows her alter ego as the bestselling author of romantic suspense novels.
Until now.
Someone has discovered Kat’s secret, the one she’s worked so hard to protect both for herself and the people she loves most.
What starts as an online campaign to sabotage and sully her name quickly takes an unexpected and dangerous turn.
Everyone’s a suspect and without any solid leads, I’m forced to hide Kat away where no one will find her.
But now there’s a new problem.
Having her in my space is tempting me in ways I wasn’t prepared for and suddenly,
the only one she needs protection from is me .
One night of passion turns into an insatiable need for the woman I’ve sworn to protect.
With lines crossed, and more questions than answers, it’s a race against the clock.
A set up.
A betrayal.
And a plot twist no one saw coming…
Betrayed by the Plot is a small town, bodyguard, heroine in danger, forced proximity standalone romance filled with tension and banter and a happily ever after you won't want to miss.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 30, 2026
21 people are currently reading
130 people want to read
About the author
Alexandra Hale
34 books522 followersAlexandra Hale is a small town girl living with her family in Upstate New York. She routinely runs on caffeine, dry shampoo and thrives on procrastination.
A romance lover and reading enthusiast, Alexandra finally began putting pen to paper shortly after graduating college. An unobtainable dream has slowly become a reality with the love and support of her friends and family and the romance community.
She currently writes steamy, small town romance with a dash of lighthearted fun and happily ever afters that will make you swoon.
A romance lover and reading enthusiast, Alexandra finally began putting pen to paper shortly after graduating college. An unobtainable dream has slowly become a reality with the love and support of her friends and family and the romance community.
She currently writes steamy, small town romance with a dash of lighthearted fun and happily ever afters that will make you swoon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 198 reviews
March 27, 2026
ARC REVIEW
3.5-3.75?⭐️
🌶️🌶️
This was a really fun, suspenseful but also sweet and spicy bodyguard X author romance story! It was so easy to read and I was constantly trying to guess who the culprit was, with a plot twist I did not see nor guess making the revelation so shocking!
Kat is a 34 year old children’s author with a secret identity, that has caused her to be in danger. Her brother Colt, a very famous baseball player and really amazing younger brother is worried for her safety and hires Tom, a 47 year old personal security guard for Kat. You see where I’m getting at right?! The sexy age gap and the forced proximity all mixed in with some damn steamy scenes and a whole lotta romantic suspense!! 🥵🤭
I think Kat and Tom were enjoyable characters, but I felt like the way Kat was written she came off younger for her age. I also don’t feel like there was a good description of how the characters looked it so it made it harder to visualize what this couple looked like. The slight hints or descriptions were given only towards the end of the book, but I prefer to know what these characters look like earlier on in a book! I found that the couple were slightly to into eachother with a lack of tension build up even if things didn’t happen around 60-70% of the book. Like too much too fast without actual lust if that makes sense? But the remainder of the progression of their relationship and them getting to know eachother evolved really really nicely 🥰
It was otherwise a fun ride, especially trying to figure out the culprit, and Tom and Kat are really sweet together! 🥰
Thank you Alexandra and Luna Literally for this ARC opportunity!! 🥰
3.5-3.75?⭐️
🌶️🌶️
This was a really fun, suspenseful but also sweet and spicy bodyguard X author romance story! It was so easy to read and I was constantly trying to guess who the culprit was, with a plot twist I did not see nor guess making the revelation so shocking!
Kat is a 34 year old children’s author with a secret identity, that has caused her to be in danger. Her brother Colt, a very famous baseball player and really amazing younger brother is worried for her safety and hires Tom, a 47 year old personal security guard for Kat. You see where I’m getting at right?! The sexy age gap and the forced proximity all mixed in with some damn steamy scenes and a whole lotta romantic suspense!! 🥵🤭
I think Kat and Tom were enjoyable characters, but I felt like the way Kat was written she came off younger for her age. I also don’t feel like there was a good description of how the characters looked it so it made it harder to visualize what this couple looked like. The slight hints or descriptions were given only towards the end of the book, but I prefer to know what these characters look like earlier on in a book! I found that the couple were slightly to into eachother with a lack of tension build up even if things didn’t happen around 60-70% of the book. Like too much too fast without actual lust if that makes sense? But the remainder of the progression of their relationship and them getting to know eachother evolved really really nicely 🥰
It was otherwise a fun ride, especially trying to figure out the culprit, and Tom and Kat are really sweet together! 🥰
Thank you Alexandra and Luna Literally for this ARC opportunity!! 🥰
April 2, 2026
This book had me hooked from the very first page and honestly never let go. If you love a possessive, morally gray bodyguard who falls hard while trying to keep things strictly professional… yeah, this one’s for you.
The tension? Immaculate.
The slow burn? Absolute torture in the best way.
Our MMC walks in thinking this is just another job—protect the girl, find the threat, move on. Simple. Except Kat completely wrecks that plan. Their chemistry is instant, but the restraint? That’s where the magic is. Every look, every bit of banter, every moment in close quarters just builds and builds until it finally snaps.
And Kat?? I loved her. Sweet, creative, and quietly strong—but with this hidden, powerful side as Sloane Daniels that adds such a cool layer to her character. The secret identity mixed with the growing danger gave the story that edge-of-your-seat feel.
The suspense element was done SO well. Just when you think you have it figured out—boom. Twist. Betrayal. Chaos. I genuinely didn’t see it coming, and I lived for that.
But what really sold this book for me:
• The forced proximity 👀
• The protective, slightly unhinged bodyguard vibes
• The “I shouldn’t want her… but I need her” energy
• And that delicious shift from control → obsession
When the lines finally blur between duty and desire? Yeah… you won’t recover.
Overall:
A perfectly balanced mix of romance, tension, and suspense with characters you can’t help but root for. The banter keeps it fun, the danger keeps it gripping, and the romance? Addictive.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Highly recommend if you love protective heroes, hidden identities, and a slow burn that turns into an all-consuming fire.
April 5, 2026
ꍏꋪꏳ ꋪꏂ꒦ꀤꏂꅐ
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - 𝖳𝗈𝗆
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - 𝖪𝖺𝗍
3 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘗𝘭𝘰𝘵 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧
Kat, she loved her job as an author. Creating and bringing joy to children filled her with happiness. But she also craved writing romance and this is were her alter ego came to life. Sloane Daniels. A well known romance author, and a side that brought out her writing skills to another level. And she loved it.
But now the secret that has been most guarded, as been found out by someone and they want to reveal it to the world to destroy her image.
Tom, he is former military. But when he gave up that life, he couldn't just relax, it wasn't in his nature. So he started working for Andrews International, as the head of security. He is the best, he makes no mistakes, he doesn't get involved. He always follows the rules.
Until he meets his newest client, Kat Harrington. The time spent with her supposed to be professional, but as the days go on it becomes more. He feels more. And the lines are blurring.
This was the first book in An Andrews International series. I loved the storyline, the characters were great and I can't wait to read their books. The suspense was weaved in perfectly, I had my guesses, and I thought I was right! But man was I wrong!
The tension and chemistry between the main leads was felt in every page.
But, unfortunately, I also couldn't connect with the female lead. She came off as absolutely childish at times 🙈
𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
Royce ❤️
Emerson & Garrett???
Colt & Bailey???
Roan, Grimm, Jace, Ozzy! (I hope they are getting books🤭)
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 💻📚💻
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 🥵🌶️
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚📚📚
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - 𝖳𝗈𝗆
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - 𝖪𝖺𝗍
3 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘗𝘭𝘰𝘵 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧
Kat, she loved her job as an author. Creating and bringing joy to children filled her with happiness. But she also craved writing romance and this is were her alter ego came to life. Sloane Daniels. A well known romance author, and a side that brought out her writing skills to another level. And she loved it.
But now the secret that has been most guarded, as been found out by someone and they want to reveal it to the world to destroy her image.
Tom, he is former military. But when he gave up that life, he couldn't just relax, it wasn't in his nature. So he started working for Andrews International, as the head of security. He is the best, he makes no mistakes, he doesn't get involved. He always follows the rules.
Until he meets his newest client, Kat Harrington. The time spent with her supposed to be professional, but as the days go on it becomes more. He feels more. And the lines are blurring.
This was the first book in An Andrews International series. I loved the storyline, the characters were great and I can't wait to read their books. The suspense was weaved in perfectly, I had my guesses, and I thought I was right! But man was I wrong!
The tension and chemistry between the main leads was felt in every page.
But, unfortunately, I also couldn't connect with the female lead. She came off as absolutely childish at times 🙈
𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
Royce ❤️
Emerson & Garrett???
Colt & Bailey???
Roan, Grimm, Jace, Ozzy! (I hope they are getting books🤭)
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 💻📚💻
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 🥵🌶️
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚📚📚
April 2, 2026
Book Review
Betrayed By The Plot
A Novel Written By Alexandra Hale
Fiction - Romance
Published March 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book is a romance with mystery and suspense. This is new for this author, and she nailed it.
Kay Harrington is the sister of a Major League Baseball player. She is also a best selling children’s book author. She has started to write dirty and dangerous romantic suspense books using the pen name Sloane Daniels. Someone has uncovered that Kat and Sloane are the same person and is leaving her threats.
Tom Oakden is a military veteran. He is also head of security for Andrew’s International. Kay’s brother, Colt, has hired him to be Kat’s bodyguard. Tom has always been loyal to his job and has acted professionally.
Tom is working hard to keep Kat safe while not crossing the line of professionalism. Can Kat and Tom keep their relationship professional as danger looms?
I liked the two main characters. It was hard not to like Tom. He actually cooks for her. The mystery and suspense made this book a page turner.
“It shouldn’t have been a surprise that the messiest, most beautiful love story I’d ever write would be my own.”
Betrayed By The Plot
A Novel Written By Alexandra Hale
Fiction - Romance
Published March 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book is a romance with mystery and suspense. This is new for this author, and she nailed it.
Kay Harrington is the sister of a Major League Baseball player. She is also a best selling children’s book author. She has started to write dirty and dangerous romantic suspense books using the pen name Sloane Daniels. Someone has uncovered that Kat and Sloane are the same person and is leaving her threats.
Tom Oakden is a military veteran. He is also head of security for Andrew’s International. Kay’s brother, Colt, has hired him to be Kat’s bodyguard. Tom has always been loyal to his job and has acted professionally.
Tom is working hard to keep Kat safe while not crossing the line of professionalism. Can Kat and Tom keep their relationship professional as danger looms?
I liked the two main characters. It was hard not to like Tom. He actually cooks for her. The mystery and suspense made this book a page turner.
“It shouldn’t have been a surprise that the messiest, most beautiful love story I’d ever write would be my own.”
April 10, 2026
Rating: 4.75/5
Thanks to @authoralexandrahale for the #gifted copy of this book.
My Thoughts: I am loving Alexandra's romantic suspense era. This book had me on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading. The twists and turns throughout had me guessing until the big reveal. 👀 When everything came to light, I gasped out loud.
Aside from the amazing suspense elements, Betrayed by the Plot had all the best parts of an Alexandra Hale romance—tension 🔥, banter 😂, found family 🫶, and the best spice 🌶️😍. Though the attraction between Kat and Tom was there from the beginning, they tried to stay professional until the tension became too hot for them to ignore. And deliver they did... But aside from that, I loved how Tom cooked for Kat, actually read her books, and set up spa dates for her with a new friend.
Alexandra is one of the best at writing found family, and I loved seeing some familiar characters, as well as some new ones that felt like they'd always been there. I loved Tom and Royce's interactions in this book, as you can see the love and banter between uncle and nephew. 🥹💙 I'm excited to see where this series will go.
What You'll Find:
🕶️Bodyguard Romance
🔥Forced Proximity
💖Slow Burn
💞Age Gap
😱Elements of Suspense
🫶Found Family
🌶️😍Spicy + Swoony
Thanks to @authoralexandrahale for the #gifted copy of this book.
My Thoughts: I am loving Alexandra's romantic suspense era. This book had me on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading. The twists and turns throughout had me guessing until the big reveal. 👀 When everything came to light, I gasped out loud.
Aside from the amazing suspense elements, Betrayed by the Plot had all the best parts of an Alexandra Hale romance—tension 🔥, banter 😂, found family 🫶, and the best spice 🌶️😍. Though the attraction between Kat and Tom was there from the beginning, they tried to stay professional until the tension became too hot for them to ignore. And deliver they did... But aside from that, I loved how Tom cooked for Kat, actually read her books, and set up spa dates for her with a new friend.
Alexandra is one of the best at writing found family, and I loved seeing some familiar characters, as well as some new ones that felt like they'd always been there. I loved Tom and Royce's interactions in this book, as you can see the love and banter between uncle and nephew. 🥹💙 I'm excited to see where this series will go.
What You'll Find:
🕶️Bodyguard Romance
🔥Forced Proximity
💖Slow Burn
💞Age Gap
😱Elements of Suspense
🫶Found Family
🌶️😍Spicy + Swoony
April 2, 2026
Kat a famous children’s book author that moonlights as a romance novelist, is in need of protection; when a smear campaign on social media threatens her security and identity.
Tom is hired by Kat’s brother to protect and find out who is threatening her. He is immediately drawn to her, and he is struggling to remain professional in the situation.
The chemistry between these two is undeniable from the start, which is why they banter back and forth about how she needs to stay protected. He wants her to stay safe and watched over, but she has a mind of her own and being hold up feels like freedom has been taken away.
The suspense is perfectly created in this story, as is the slow burn from the MC’S forced proximity. You just need to know what is going on, who is threatening her; and obviously you just want to see what happens between Kat and Tom. Great read no doubt, Alexandra keeps you on your toes the whole time with the intrigue and all the colorful characters, very much recommend this book!
Tom is hired by Kat’s brother to protect and find out who is threatening her. He is immediately drawn to her, and he is struggling to remain professional in the situation.
The chemistry between these two is undeniable from the start, which is why they banter back and forth about how she needs to stay protected. He wants her to stay safe and watched over, but she has a mind of her own and being hold up feels like freedom has been taken away.
The suspense is perfectly created in this story, as is the slow burn from the MC’S forced proximity. You just need to know what is going on, who is threatening her; and obviously you just want to see what happens between Kat and Tom. Great read no doubt, Alexandra keeps you on your toes the whole time with the intrigue and all the colorful characters, very much recommend this book!
April 22, 2026
Kat a children’s author who has a scary event happen. After her over protective younger brother hires her a body guard & security team. Insert Tom. He may be a little bit older, but boy is the attraction off the charts between the two of them!! Watching their banter, cheeky responses and his watchful eyes makes this romance such a page turner. However, once you add in the suspenseful piece you literally can not put this down! I read this book in one day. I could not put it down until I knew what happened.
April 8, 2026
A cozy suspense is what I would call it.
While it wasn’t one of those can’t-put-it-down, on-the-edge-of-my-seat books, it was a fun, lighthearted read, perfect for a lazy afternoon when you just want to unwind.
While it wasn’t one of those can’t-put-it-down, on-the-edge-of-my-seat books, it was a fun, lighthearted read, perfect for a lazy afternoon when you just want to unwind.
April 4, 2026
This was such a good story!
I loved going back to the Clementine Creek roots for Tom and blending that with Blackstone Falls! Now we have so many new characters to get stories from! Emerson, Garrett, Roan, Colt (not sooo new but …) lol!
But seriously this was a great Rom-suspense book with some delicious falling in love while in danger! Yum!
She has been getting threats that worry her brother to the point of hiring a bodyguard for her. Enter this hot, broody, older man. She trips over his looks, he trips over her sweetness. They both end up falling hard while trying to sort out the root of evil going after her.
This book wove the plot and the romance so well it was so seamless that it wasn’t like either one took prescendent and it was delicious!
I loved going back to the Clementine Creek roots for Tom and blending that with Blackstone Falls! Now we have so many new characters to get stories from! Emerson, Garrett, Roan, Colt (not sooo new but …) lol!
But seriously this was a great Rom-suspense book with some delicious falling in love while in danger! Yum!
She has been getting threats that worry her brother to the point of hiring a bodyguard for her. Enter this hot, broody, older man. She trips over his looks, he trips over her sweetness. They both end up falling hard while trying to sort out the root of evil going after her.
This book wove the plot and the romance so well it was so seamless that it wasn’t like either one took prescendent and it was delicious!
April 15, 2026
Betrayed by the Plot is a small town, bodyguard, heroine in danger, forced proximity standalone romance filled with tension and banter and a happily ever after you won't want to miss.
Alexandra outdid herself with the romantic suspense that was in this book and the plot twist that I am sure no one saw coming holy Hannah, my mouth hit the floor. But I had this hunch, I had three suspects but couldn’t figure out who it was. Until it clicked with the many interactions and things that this person said to Kat. But then when the truth of the why and who it was, it was twisted that someone could do that.
Kat is a 34 year old children's author with a secret identity, that has caused her to be in danger. And her younger brother Colt, who happens to be a very famous baseball player is worried for her safety and hires Tom, a 47 year old personal security guard for Kat without her knowledge. The first meeting with all of them is a bit awkward and tense but once Kat sees wha she is up against she gives into having Tom be her shadow. And this is the perfect age gap and the forced proximity all mixed in with some damn steamy scenes and a whole lotta romantic suspense!!
The attraction between Tom and Kat was magnetic and Tom had his rules and he has yet to break them, will Kat be the one who he finally breaks all his rules for to get the happily ever after that he never thought would happen until this woman and their connection that they share.
These two fight but she’s feels caged and one two many twist occur until they are whisked away to the cabin away from danger and this is where the last straw is broken by Tom….
The affection that this man had for Kat. Total book boyfriend.
“I don’t get attached, Kitten,” he murmurs, his palms sliding up my thighs and over my hips. “I don’t break my rules.” His mouth is hot on my neck, his teeth nipping and licking up the column of my throat. “And now I’m setting the God damn rule book on fire. Do you understand?”
"I'm going to ruin us both and you'll let me, won't you, kitten?"
I’ve never been loved so thoroughly. And maybe this isn’t exactly love just yet, but it’s getting there.
Because I haven’t been the main character in my own life, and it’s time to change that. Right now.
“You’re awfully sweet, Tom Oakden. You try to convince people you’re made of stone but you’re not. Not even close.”
Because no one could ever truly understand the way Tom and I had imprinted on each other. Danger had brought us together, but what happened between us was everlasting.
Alexandra blew my mind with this one and k can’t wait to see what more comes with this new series. Especially with the cliffhanger at the end with Emerson asking for help from Tom.
Alexandra outdid herself with the romantic suspense that was in this book and the plot twist that I am sure no one saw coming holy Hannah, my mouth hit the floor. But I had this hunch, I had three suspects but couldn’t figure out who it was. Until it clicked with the many interactions and things that this person said to Kat. But then when the truth of the why and who it was, it was twisted that someone could do that.
Kat is a 34 year old children's author with a secret identity, that has caused her to be in danger. And her younger brother Colt, who happens to be a very famous baseball player is worried for her safety and hires Tom, a 47 year old personal security guard for Kat without her knowledge. The first meeting with all of them is a bit awkward and tense but once Kat sees wha she is up against she gives into having Tom be her shadow. And this is the perfect age gap and the forced proximity all mixed in with some damn steamy scenes and a whole lotta romantic suspense!!
The attraction between Tom and Kat was magnetic and Tom had his rules and he has yet to break them, will Kat be the one who he finally breaks all his rules for to get the happily ever after that he never thought would happen until this woman and their connection that they share.
These two fight but she’s feels caged and one two many twist occur until they are whisked away to the cabin away from danger and this is where the last straw is broken by Tom….
The affection that this man had for Kat. Total book boyfriend.
“I don’t get attached, Kitten,” he murmurs, his palms sliding up my thighs and over my hips. “I don’t break my rules.” His mouth is hot on my neck, his teeth nipping and licking up the column of my throat. “And now I’m setting the God damn rule book on fire. Do you understand?”
"I'm going to ruin us both and you'll let me, won't you, kitten?"
I’ve never been loved so thoroughly. And maybe this isn’t exactly love just yet, but it’s getting there.
Because I haven’t been the main character in my own life, and it’s time to change that. Right now.
“You’re awfully sweet, Tom Oakden. You try to convince people you’re made of stone but you’re not. Not even close.”
Because no one could ever truly understand the way Tom and I had imprinted on each other. Danger had brought us together, but what happened between us was everlasting.
Alexandra blew my mind with this one and k can’t wait to see what more comes with this new series. Especially with the cliffhanger at the end with Emerson asking for help from Tom.
Review of advance copy
I devoured Betrayed by the Plot like it personally owed me money and let me tell you… I am STILL not over Kat and Tom. Not even a little bit.
This book had me hooked from the first chapter because the setup?? Elite bodyguard + secret identity author + unhinged stalker vibes = I was already pacing like a gremlin before they even got to the forced proximity. And once they did?? Game over. I was DONE. No productivity, no responsibilities, just me aggressively turning pages.
Kat Harrington is everything. Sweet, creative, a literal children’s author by day, but secretly out here writing bestselling romantic suspense under another name?? The duality?? I ate that UP. She’s soft but not weak, vulnerable but still has this quiet strength that makes you root for her instantly.
And Tom… TOM. Sir. Please. A man whose whole job is control and protection, immediately losing his grip the second he meets her?? Inject it directly into my veins. The way he goes from “this is just a job” to “I will burn the world down for you” energy was chef’s kiss. And the internal battle?? Because he KNOWS he shouldn’t cross that line?? Yeah, that tension was doing laps around my sanity.
The chemistry is not subtle. It’s not gentle. It’s a full-body experience. Every glance, every argument, every moment they’re forced into the same space just builds and builds until it snaps. And when it does… I was staring at the page like I needed to be supervised.
But what really got me was the suspense. This wasn’t just romance with a sprinkle of danger, it was constant unease. The online attacks escalating, the paranoia, the “literally anyone could be behind this” feeling… I was side-eyeing EVERY character. Trust issues were at an all-time high.
And that plot twist?? EXCUSE ME??? I had to physically pause and process because I did NOT see it coming. The betrayal hit hard and made everything before it feel even more intense.
Also forced proximity done RIGHT is my kryptonite. One safe house. Too many feelings. Zero personal space. Emotional chaos. Sign me up every time.
By the end I was emotionally wrung out but in the best way. Satisfied, a little feral, and deeply attached to fictional people who do not know I exist.
5 stars, no hesitation. If you like protective, slightly unhinged heroes, heroines with secrets, and tension so thick you could trip over it, read this immediately.
This book had me hooked from the first chapter because the setup?? Elite bodyguard + secret identity author + unhinged stalker vibes = I was already pacing like a gremlin before they even got to the forced proximity. And once they did?? Game over. I was DONE. No productivity, no responsibilities, just me aggressively turning pages.
Kat Harrington is everything. Sweet, creative, a literal children’s author by day, but secretly out here writing bestselling romantic suspense under another name?? The duality?? I ate that UP. She’s soft but not weak, vulnerable but still has this quiet strength that makes you root for her instantly.
And Tom… TOM. Sir. Please. A man whose whole job is control and protection, immediately losing his grip the second he meets her?? Inject it directly into my veins. The way he goes from “this is just a job” to “I will burn the world down for you” energy was chef’s kiss. And the internal battle?? Because he KNOWS he shouldn’t cross that line?? Yeah, that tension was doing laps around my sanity.
The chemistry is not subtle. It’s not gentle. It’s a full-body experience. Every glance, every argument, every moment they’re forced into the same space just builds and builds until it snaps. And when it does… I was staring at the page like I needed to be supervised.
But what really got me was the suspense. This wasn’t just romance with a sprinkle of danger, it was constant unease. The online attacks escalating, the paranoia, the “literally anyone could be behind this” feeling… I was side-eyeing EVERY character. Trust issues were at an all-time high.
And that plot twist?? EXCUSE ME??? I had to physically pause and process because I did NOT see it coming. The betrayal hit hard and made everything before it feel even more intense.
Also forced proximity done RIGHT is my kryptonite. One safe house. Too many feelings. Zero personal space. Emotional chaos. Sign me up every time.
By the end I was emotionally wrung out but in the best way. Satisfied, a little feral, and deeply attached to fictional people who do not know I exist.
5 stars, no hesitation. If you like protective, slightly unhinged heroes, heroines with secrets, and tension so thick you could trip over it, read this immediately.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars.
I thoroughly enjoyed "Betrayed by the Plot" by Alexandra Hale, a small-town bodyguard romance with forced proximity, a secret identity, and an age gap. This is my first time reading this author, but it certainly won't be my last. I was thrilled and engaged by this book from start to finish. Romantic suspense has been my jam lately, and I found this one to be massively successful and even a little jaw-dropping. Kat is a children's author who has recently gained notoriety under a pen name where she writes steamy romances. She's about to start her book tour, but has been targeted in person and online with threats. So, her older brother, who is a famous baseball player, steps in and hires a bodyguard named Tom to keep her safe. Despite their insta-lust/insta-love with one another, I bought into their pairing wholeheartedly. I honestly loved them as a couple. Tom is swoon-worthy, protective, and falls HARD for Kat. He's older than her, a silver fox, and is hot as heck. He supports Kat and wants her to succeed and be independent, but also wants to do everything he can to keep her safe. Kat is the kind of woman who is soft but feisty and definitely not vulnerable. She's used to being the master of her own universe, so having an "overbearing" bodyguard like Tom really puts a damper on her life and plans. Over time, though, Kat begins to soften toward Tom beyond just a physical attraction to him. They have terrific back-and-forth banter with one another. He has never, *ever* fallen for someone he has been hired to watch, so this is all new territory for him. The forced proximity only heightens the temptation for both of them!! The suspenseful elements of this story kept me guessing from start to finish. They kept me turning the page rapidly, too. Twists, turns, betrayals, this book has it all. I didn't think this book was overly long or had any unnecessary elements that I found extraneous. Seriously, check this book out. It's got tons of tropes you're going to love!
Thank you to Alexandra Hale and Luna Literary for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
I thoroughly enjoyed "Betrayed by the Plot" by Alexandra Hale, a small-town bodyguard romance with forced proximity, a secret identity, and an age gap. This is my first time reading this author, but it certainly won't be my last. I was thrilled and engaged by this book from start to finish. Romantic suspense has been my jam lately, and I found this one to be massively successful and even a little jaw-dropping. Kat is a children's author who has recently gained notoriety under a pen name where she writes steamy romances. She's about to start her book tour, but has been targeted in person and online with threats. So, her older brother, who is a famous baseball player, steps in and hires a bodyguard named Tom to keep her safe. Despite their insta-lust/insta-love with one another, I bought into their pairing wholeheartedly. I honestly loved them as a couple. Tom is swoon-worthy, protective, and falls HARD for Kat. He's older than her, a silver fox, and is hot as heck. He supports Kat and wants her to succeed and be independent, but also wants to do everything he can to keep her safe. Kat is the kind of woman who is soft but feisty and definitely not vulnerable. She's used to being the master of her own universe, so having an "overbearing" bodyguard like Tom really puts a damper on her life and plans. Over time, though, Kat begins to soften toward Tom beyond just a physical attraction to him. They have terrific back-and-forth banter with one another. He has never, *ever* fallen for someone he has been hired to watch, so this is all new territory for him. The forced proximity only heightens the temptation for both of them!! The suspenseful elements of this story kept me guessing from start to finish. They kept me turning the page rapidly, too. Twists, turns, betrayals, this book has it all. I didn't think this book was overly long or had any unnecessary elements that I found extraneous. Seriously, check this book out. It's got tons of tropes you're going to love!
Thank you to Alexandra Hale and Luna Literary for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
April 11, 2026
ARC REVIEW
"Betrayed by the Plot"
(An Andrews International Novel)
by Alexandra Hale
Tropes:
Writer x bodyguard
Age gap (47/34)
Forced proximity
Suspense/mystery
Slow Burn
Kat Harrington is a children's books author by day. And by night she becomes Sloane Daniels, a smut books writer.
And with writing adults books, she sees herself in danger while someone threatens her life.
Enters Tom Oakden, ex military and now hired to be her bodyguard, to protect her at all costs.
But what both didn't expect was to fall in love for each other while trying to survive.
This book is filled with secret identities, suspense, tension, mystery, angst, banter, great side characters, a plot twist I did not see was happening, and slow burn until it starts getting hotter and then it spices the spice.
I can't wait for the next book in the series.
Thank you to the author for this ARC.
-----
some of my favorite quotes:
A stunningly gorgeous man.
Tom Oakden is the quintessential hero - older man with graying hair, strong cheekbones, and chiseled jaw.
From all outward appearances, Kat is a pillar of strength and perceived sunshine.
But there's something different about the way my body responds to Kat Harrington, something I have to shut down immediately.
Kat Harrington has a certain vulnerability to her that gets to me in a way I've never experienced before.
I've never wanted to wage a war just to see someone smile, but I can't think of much I wouldn't do to see the lightness return to her gorgeous face.
"Go woo Kat with your cooking skills."
"I'm not wooing her; we're eating."
"Yeah, but women like a man who can cook."
I write and I lose myself in stories where extravagance is king and pleasure is sacred. The love is sensual and passionate and hot. So very hot.
Kat Harrington is the one I didn't know I was waiting for.
Kat Harrington has changed me on a cellular level, chipped away at my walls, and burrowed under my skin.
"Betrayed by the Plot"
(An Andrews International Novel)
by Alexandra Hale
Tropes:
Writer x bodyguard
Age gap (47/34)
Forced proximity
Suspense/mystery
Slow Burn
Kat Harrington is a children's books author by day. And by night she becomes Sloane Daniels, a smut books writer.
And with writing adults books, she sees herself in danger while someone threatens her life.
Enters Tom Oakden, ex military and now hired to be her bodyguard, to protect her at all costs.
But what both didn't expect was to fall in love for each other while trying to survive.
This book is filled with secret identities, suspense, tension, mystery, angst, banter, great side characters, a plot twist I did not see was happening, and slow burn until it starts getting hotter and then it spices the spice.
I can't wait for the next book in the series.
Thank you to the author for this ARC.
-----
some of my favorite quotes:
A stunningly gorgeous man.
Tom Oakden is the quintessential hero - older man with graying hair, strong cheekbones, and chiseled jaw.
From all outward appearances, Kat is a pillar of strength and perceived sunshine.
But there's something different about the way my body responds to Kat Harrington, something I have to shut down immediately.
Kat Harrington has a certain vulnerability to her that gets to me in a way I've never experienced before.
I've never wanted to wage a war just to see someone smile, but I can't think of much I wouldn't do to see the lightness return to her gorgeous face.
"Go woo Kat with your cooking skills."
"I'm not wooing her; we're eating."
"Yeah, but women like a man who can cook."
I write and I lose myself in stories where extravagance is king and pleasure is sacred. The love is sensual and passionate and hot. So very hot.
Kat Harrington is the one I didn't know I was waiting for.
Kat Harrington has changed me on a cellular level, chipped away at my walls, and burrowed under my skin.
April 5, 2026
This ARC from author, Alexandra Hale was intriguing from the get-go. I knew I wanted to read BETRAYED BY THE PLOT as soon as I read the synopsis. If you like multi-talented and multifaceted main characters with some romance (a bit of spice) and some suspense, this one is for you.
Kat is a writer of children’s books AND an author, under a pen name, of bestselling spicy romances. Only a handful of people know she is one in the same. When Kat begins to receive scary threats and some of her books literally go up in flames, her brother goes behind her back to hire a pro to get to the bottom of it and keep his sister safe. Tom usually keeps his expertise to big time security jobs, but agrees, as a favor, to act as bodyguard to Kat while he and his team investigate.
Kat isn’t a fan of having people constantly in her space, or staying at her house for that matter, but she relents as the sabotage pointed at her grows more dangerous and steady. Tom might be 10 years older than Kat, but at least he is easy on the eyes. She also knows without a doubt that he will keep her safe…even if some lines are in danger of being crossed.
I absolutely enjoyed this book. I started it and read it one night until my eyes burned and I had to go to bed; I finished it the next day. These are the markers of a good read! I enjoyed the characters and the banter between the two main characters. I enjoyed the incongruity of Kat’s double life of sorts and seeing her character develop. It was fun to see Tom go from buttoned-up serious guy to a being a little softer and one who could loosen up. In addition to the characters, main and supporting, the plot twists kept me turning pages. It’s no giveaway to say that a steamy romance ensues but make sure to pay attention to the breadcrumbs trickled throughout the story to see if you can uncover Kat’s obsessed saboteur. Something tells me you will be surprised. Something also tells me that if you’re a reader of suspense and romance, you will not be disappointed by BETRAYED BY THE PLOT.
Kat is a writer of children’s books AND an author, under a pen name, of bestselling spicy romances. Only a handful of people know she is one in the same. When Kat begins to receive scary threats and some of her books literally go up in flames, her brother goes behind her back to hire a pro to get to the bottom of it and keep his sister safe. Tom usually keeps his expertise to big time security jobs, but agrees, as a favor, to act as bodyguard to Kat while he and his team investigate.
Kat isn’t a fan of having people constantly in her space, or staying at her house for that matter, but she relents as the sabotage pointed at her grows more dangerous and steady. Tom might be 10 years older than Kat, but at least he is easy on the eyes. She also knows without a doubt that he will keep her safe…even if some lines are in danger of being crossed.
I absolutely enjoyed this book. I started it and read it one night until my eyes burned and I had to go to bed; I finished it the next day. These are the markers of a good read! I enjoyed the characters and the banter between the two main characters. I enjoyed the incongruity of Kat’s double life of sorts and seeing her character develop. It was fun to see Tom go from buttoned-up serious guy to a being a little softer and one who could loosen up. In addition to the characters, main and supporting, the plot twists kept me turning pages. It’s no giveaway to say that a steamy romance ensues but make sure to pay attention to the breadcrumbs trickled throughout the story to see if you can uncover Kat’s obsessed saboteur. Something tells me you will be surprised. Something also tells me that if you’re a reader of suspense and romance, you will not be disappointed by BETRAYED BY THE PLOT.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🌶️🌶️/5
✨I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Betrayed by the Plot by Alexandra Hale. Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review! 🩷
This one had me at bodyguard romance + forced proximity 🤭
We follow Kat, a children’s book author (with a secret spicy book side hustle 👀) who starts receiving threats. Her overprotective brother steps in and hires her a bodyguard, the MMC Tom.
And honestly? I had a really good time with this.
The suspense was just enough to keep me hooked without being overly complicated and the ending had a solid payoff.
As far as the romance goes, there’s definitely an instant attraction, maybe even a little insta-lust. It takes them a bit to actually get together as the story unfolds, but the overall timeline is short, so things still move quickly. Just something to keep in mind if that’s not your thing. That said, it worked for me. The intensity of their situation made the quick connection feel believable. Once they got together, I really enjoyed them as a couple.
Tom? Elite protective MMC energy. Attentive, supportive, never overbearing. A green flag man. I loved how in tune he was with Kat and always anticipated her needs even when she couldn’t articulate them herself.
Kat was a solid FMC. I was a little unsure at first only because she was riding the denial bus hard about what was happening to her, but she grew on me quickly. She’s down to earth, not a doormat and I found myself really rooting for her. The poor girl just wants to write spicy books in peace!
🌶️ Speaking of spice, the balance here was great. Not over the top, but definitely there and it fit the story without taking over.
Overall, this is a quick, well-written, easy read with tension, banter, suspense, and a solid love story. If you like romantic suspense, I’d definitely pick this one up!
✨I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of Betrayed by the Plot by Alexandra Hale. Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review! 🩷
This one had me at bodyguard romance + forced proximity 🤭
We follow Kat, a children’s book author (with a secret spicy book side hustle 👀) who starts receiving threats. Her overprotective brother steps in and hires her a bodyguard, the MMC Tom.
And honestly? I had a really good time with this.
The suspense was just enough to keep me hooked without being overly complicated and the ending had a solid payoff.
As far as the romance goes, there’s definitely an instant attraction, maybe even a little insta-lust. It takes them a bit to actually get together as the story unfolds, but the overall timeline is short, so things still move quickly. Just something to keep in mind if that’s not your thing. That said, it worked for me. The intensity of their situation made the quick connection feel believable. Once they got together, I really enjoyed them as a couple.
Tom? Elite protective MMC energy. Attentive, supportive, never overbearing. A green flag man. I loved how in tune he was with Kat and always anticipated her needs even when she couldn’t articulate them herself.
Kat was a solid FMC. I was a little unsure at first only because she was riding the denial bus hard about what was happening to her, but she grew on me quickly. She’s down to earth, not a doormat and I found myself really rooting for her. The poor girl just wants to write spicy books in peace!
🌶️ Speaking of spice, the balance here was great. Not over the top, but definitely there and it fit the story without taking over.
Overall, this is a quick, well-written, easy read with tension, banter, suspense, and a solid love story. If you like romantic suspense, I’d definitely pick this one up!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of Advanced Reader Copy received from the Author. Thank you for sharing this with me.
Betrayed by the Plot by Alexandra Hale is a Small Town, Forced Proximity, Bodyguard Romance, and is an Andrews International Novel. Tom Oakden - stoic and sexy- is asked as a favour to guard Kat Harrington – a beloved children’s author- following a series of increasingly dangerous events. There’s more to Kat than meets the eye, as she is equally talented at writing romantic suspense novels, under a secret pen name, which someone has discovered, and they are out to destroy her all aspects of her life. From the explosive beginnings, this story of romance and mystery draws you in as Tom and his team try to keep Kat safe and unmask the perpetrator who is ruining Kat’s life.
Alexandra Hale is rapidly becoming one of my favourite authors and this story did not disappoint. Tom was such a good old school character and his attraction to Kat was immediate from their first interactions. He was cool, calm and collected but the people he loved in his life such as his nephew, Royce, he loved fully. He was a good man and a good leader to his team. I really liked that when he decided he wanted Kat that he was all in and genuinely did everything he could to make her life better, even if it wasn’t part of his job. Kat was a perfect match for him and their mutual chemistry and attraction was palpable. When they finally crossed that line and get together, it is very spicy and it also very sweet. Their relationship was perfect and I enjoyed their banter! I also really liked Kat’s journey to self-coincidence having to some extent lived in the shadow of her brother’s, Colt Harrington, success. With the support of Tom and her good friends, Bailey and Emerson, she was able to find herself and emerged stronger from the harrowing events. I also really enjoyed reading the interactions between Tom and his team of bodyguards, including Royce, and how they all worked together to protect Kat.
I thought the pacing and the plot worked brilliantly, the mystery element held until relatively close to the end and the revelation was very good. I have not read books previously connected to this series and I was still able to follow the storyline, although it is probably a good idea to go back and read Royce’s story. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it 4.8/5.
I would like to thank the Author for giving me the opportunity to review the ARC.
Betrayed by the Plot by Alexandra Hale is a Small Town, Forced Proximity, Bodyguard Romance, and is an Andrews International Novel. Tom Oakden - stoic and sexy- is asked as a favour to guard Kat Harrington – a beloved children’s author- following a series of increasingly dangerous events. There’s more to Kat than meets the eye, as she is equally talented at writing romantic suspense novels, under a secret pen name, which someone has discovered, and they are out to destroy her all aspects of her life. From the explosive beginnings, this story of romance and mystery draws you in as Tom and his team try to keep Kat safe and unmask the perpetrator who is ruining Kat’s life.
Alexandra Hale is rapidly becoming one of my favourite authors and this story did not disappoint. Tom was such a good old school character and his attraction to Kat was immediate from their first interactions. He was cool, calm and collected but the people he loved in his life such as his nephew, Royce, he loved fully. He was a good man and a good leader to his team. I really liked that when he decided he wanted Kat that he was all in and genuinely did everything he could to make her life better, even if it wasn’t part of his job. Kat was a perfect match for him and their mutual chemistry and attraction was palpable. When they finally crossed that line and get together, it is very spicy and it also very sweet. Their relationship was perfect and I enjoyed their banter! I also really liked Kat’s journey to self-coincidence having to some extent lived in the shadow of her brother’s, Colt Harrington, success. With the support of Tom and her good friends, Bailey and Emerson, she was able to find herself and emerged stronger from the harrowing events. I also really enjoyed reading the interactions between Tom and his team of bodyguards, including Royce, and how they all worked together to protect Kat.
I thought the pacing and the plot worked brilliantly, the mystery element held until relatively close to the end and the revelation was very good. I have not read books previously connected to this series and I was still able to follow the storyline, although it is probably a good idea to go back and read Royce’s story. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it 4.8/5.
I would like to thank the Author for giving me the opportunity to review the ARC.
April 5, 2026
Kat is a bestselling children's book author but also a spicy romantic suspense author under a secret pen name. So far, she has been able to keep the two names separated for fear that her spicier alter ego will bring bad publicity to her celebrity baseball player brother, Colt Harrington, as well as lose her faithful children's book following. "What would the parents of my young readers think if they found out I also write smut?"
Kat has had trolls and "harmless" threats made to her online for years but while on a writing retreat, there is a burning package left for her at the doorstep of the rental. Even worse, the package was filled with copies of your spicy books and the word SINNER left behind.
This is where we meet Tom Oakden. He, and his team, have been hired to protect Kat while they investigate who is behind the threats and the packages (yes, plural!). In order to protect, that also means that Tom will be occupying the guest room at Kat's house - much to her displeasure.
At first meet, Kat and Tom seem to have a physical reaction to each other. But OBVIOUSLY, they cannot act on those desires... and this becomes the constant reason why they fight each other throughout the story. I wish there was something else but not even the age gap was a playing factor in the "this won't work."
Although I wish there was more intimacy and getting to know each other, once they do cross the line (around the 65% mark), the spice is exactly what I come to expect from an Alexandra Hale story - hot! Also, Tom telling Kat to tell him what she wants like her characters do in her stories...
Overall, I really liked the story and I didn't see the twist at the end playing out the way it did, which made this a good story. I would absolutely recommend this to someone who is branching out to romantic suspense or is new to Alexandra's writing.
Kat has had trolls and "harmless" threats made to her online for years but while on a writing retreat, there is a burning package left for her at the doorstep of the rental. Even worse, the package was filled with copies of your spicy books and the word SINNER left behind.
This is where we meet Tom Oakden. He, and his team, have been hired to protect Kat while they investigate who is behind the threats and the packages (yes, plural!). In order to protect, that also means that Tom will be occupying the guest room at Kat's house - much to her displeasure.
At first meet, Kat and Tom seem to have a physical reaction to each other. But OBVIOUSLY, they cannot act on those desires... and this becomes the constant reason why they fight each other throughout the story. I wish there was something else but not even the age gap was a playing factor in the "this won't work."
Although I wish there was more intimacy and getting to know each other, once they do cross the line (around the 65% mark), the spice is exactly what I come to expect from an Alexandra Hale story - hot! Also, Tom telling Kat to tell him what she wants like her characters do in her stories...
Overall, I really liked the story and I didn't see the twist at the end playing out the way it did, which made this a good story. I would absolutely recommend this to someone who is branching out to romantic suspense or is new to Alexandra's writing.
March 30, 2026
𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Betrayed by the Plot (Book 1)
𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀: Andrews International
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Alexandra Hale
𝗠𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀: Tom Oakden & Kat Harrington
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀:
- Small Town
- Romantic Suspense
- Bodyguard x Writer
- Age Gap
- Forced Proximity
- Secret Identity
- Found Family
- Slow Burn
- Spicy + Swoony
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄:
I have been a long time Alexandra Hale fan and I loved getting to see her dip her toe into the romantic suspense world! She took her normal swoony, small town vibes and added a layer of mystery and suspense. The mystery element was present throughout the book keeping me engaged and wanting to know what happened next. The ending wasn’t predictable which can happen a lot with romantic suspense! I thought I knew what was going to happen until the twist at the very end.
Tom and Kat had an instant connect. Kat was a beloved children’s author but also wrote romantic suspense novels under a different pen name. Someone found this out and was now trying to destroy every aspect of her life. Tom and his team come in to try to find the perpetrator and protect her. Tom became Kat’s personal bodyguard.
I loved the dynamic between Tom and Kat. Tom was the straight lace guy whose whole purpose was to be in control and protect people, but once Kat was in the picture he looses all semblance of control.
My only gripe is that I haven’t read the Clementine Creek series and Royce’s story so I felt like I was missing pieces / background knowledge that would have improved my overall experience. Other than that, I would highly recommend check this one out!! Especially if you love romantic suspense!
𝗖𝗪: 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝗼𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗯𝘂𝗹𝗹𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵 (𝗼𝗳𝗳 𝗽𝗮𝗴𝗲, 𝗿𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼), 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗻 𝗽𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻 𝗶𝗻𝗷𝘂𝗿𝘆 (𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗯𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗼 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗲)
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘈𝘭𝘦𝘹𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘳𝘢 𝘏𝘢𝘭𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸.
𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀: Andrews International
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Alexandra Hale
𝗠𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀: Tom Oakden & Kat Harrington
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀:
- Small Town
- Romantic Suspense
- Bodyguard x Writer
- Age Gap
- Forced Proximity
- Secret Identity
- Found Family
- Slow Burn
- Spicy + Swoony
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄:
I have been a long time Alexandra Hale fan and I loved getting to see her dip her toe into the romantic suspense world! She took her normal swoony, small town vibes and added a layer of mystery and suspense. The mystery element was present throughout the book keeping me engaged and wanting to know what happened next. The ending wasn’t predictable which can happen a lot with romantic suspense! I thought I knew what was going to happen until the twist at the very end.
Tom and Kat had an instant connect. Kat was a beloved children’s author but also wrote romantic suspense novels under a different pen name. Someone found this out and was now trying to destroy every aspect of her life. Tom and his team come in to try to find the perpetrator and protect her. Tom became Kat’s personal bodyguard.
I loved the dynamic between Tom and Kat. Tom was the straight lace guy whose whole purpose was to be in control and protect people, but once Kat was in the picture he looses all semblance of control.
My only gripe is that I haven’t read the Clementine Creek series and Royce’s story so I felt like I was missing pieces / background knowledge that would have improved my overall experience. Other than that, I would highly recommend check this one out!! Especially if you love romantic suspense!
𝗖𝗪: 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝗼𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗯𝘂𝗹𝗹𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗱𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗵 (𝗼𝗳𝗳 𝗽𝗮𝗴𝗲, 𝗿𝗲𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼), 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗻 𝗽𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻 𝗶𝗻𝗷𝘂𝗿𝘆 (𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗯𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗼 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗼𝗶𝗻𝗲)
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘈𝘭𝘦𝘹𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘳𝘢 𝘏𝘢𝘭𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸.
March 22, 2026
I will always read and recommend Alexandra’s books, there is just something about her writing that I find such comfort in. I easily fall in love with the characters and stories!
Kat and Tom were just fantastic and I was hooked in the first chapter! This book was full of great romance, intrigue and suspense that kept the pages turning and me on the edge of my seat.
I knew I would love Tom even more than I already did-I was dying to get his book. The sexy silver fox-protective, sweet and melts just for her! I loved Kat, she was fierce, fiesty and strong-but being in an impossible and scary situation had her guard up.
The attraction between these two was so good, they had instant chemistry, great banter and an easy comfort between them. Their connection was strong and I loved all of their interactions, I couldn’t help but smile at how they both found exactly what they were missing in life when they had least expected it.
I think I’m going to keep the rest vague because you do not want any spoilers for this one! I will say when Kat and Tom finally gave into their attraction, it was hot! And there was no going back with their feelings.
The plot and little twist was fantastic, keeping me guessing as it all unfolded.
I love that we were able to get to see so many other characters throughout this book! This is a great group and seeing them all together really has me excited for all this author has planned next!
5⭐️
**thank you to the author for the copy of this book. This review and its opinions are my own
Kat and Tom were just fantastic and I was hooked in the first chapter! This book was full of great romance, intrigue and suspense that kept the pages turning and me on the edge of my seat.
I knew I would love Tom even more than I already did-I was dying to get his book. The sexy silver fox-protective, sweet and melts just for her! I loved Kat, she was fierce, fiesty and strong-but being in an impossible and scary situation had her guard up.
The attraction between these two was so good, they had instant chemistry, great banter and an easy comfort between them. Their connection was strong and I loved all of their interactions, I couldn’t help but smile at how they both found exactly what they were missing in life when they had least expected it.
I think I’m going to keep the rest vague because you do not want any spoilers for this one! I will say when Kat and Tom finally gave into their attraction, it was hot! And there was no going back with their feelings.
The plot and little twist was fantastic, keeping me guessing as it all unfolded.
I love that we were able to get to see so many other characters throughout this book! This is a great group and seeing them all together really has me excited for all this author has planned next!
5⭐️
**thank you to the author for the copy of this book. This review and its opinions are my own
April 2, 2026
5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
2/5 🌶️🌶️
What to Expect:
📖Age Gap
💪Romantic Suspense
📖Small Town
💪Forced Proximity
📖Bodyguard x Writer
💪Forbidden Romance
📖Secret Identity
💪Slow Burn
📖Found Family
The way these books are speaking to my soul recently—another to add to my list of I FLEW through this one. Betrayed by the Plot by Alexandra Hale follows Kat, a successful children’s author who’s secretly writing romantic suspense under a hidden pen name, when someone discovers her secret and starts sending threats that quickly escalate into real danger. Her brother is forced to step in and hires a bodyguard to keep her protected. Enter Tom… like HELLOOOOO TOM!!! Older, stoic, and completely committed to his job of being her bodyguard, and absolutely determined to keep things strictly, 100% professional even as he and Kat are thrown into constant closeness. As the threats intensify, Kat is forced to confront both the danger around her and the truth she’s been trying to ignore.
The story blends romance and suspense soooo seamlessly, with a strong undercurrent of tension as Kat and Tom struggle to the extreme against their undeniable attraction to one another. Their connection builds soooo quick under pressure, and is fueled by the constant forced proximity consistently coming. While the mystery keeps everything moving, it also delivers the drama with twists that make it hard to trust anyone. As the truth finally comes to light, the reveal 100% hits and makes the drama, tension, and work Kat and Tom have both been through, SOOOO worth it..
2/5 🌶️🌶️
What to Expect:
📖Age Gap
💪Romantic Suspense
📖Small Town
💪Forced Proximity
📖Bodyguard x Writer
💪Forbidden Romance
📖Secret Identity
💪Slow Burn
📖Found Family
The way these books are speaking to my soul recently—another to add to my list of I FLEW through this one. Betrayed by the Plot by Alexandra Hale follows Kat, a successful children’s author who’s secretly writing romantic suspense under a hidden pen name, when someone discovers her secret and starts sending threats that quickly escalate into real danger. Her brother is forced to step in and hires a bodyguard to keep her protected. Enter Tom… like HELLOOOOO TOM!!! Older, stoic, and completely committed to his job of being her bodyguard, and absolutely determined to keep things strictly, 100% professional even as he and Kat are thrown into constant closeness. As the threats intensify, Kat is forced to confront both the danger around her and the truth she’s been trying to ignore.
The story blends romance and suspense soooo seamlessly, with a strong undercurrent of tension as Kat and Tom struggle to the extreme against their undeniable attraction to one another. Their connection builds soooo quick under pressure, and is fueled by the constant forced proximity consistently coming. While the mystery keeps everything moving, it also delivers the drama with twists that make it hard to trust anyone. As the truth finally comes to light, the reveal 100% hits and makes the drama, tension, and work Kat and Tom have both been through, SOOOO worth it..
April 8, 2026
I picked up Betrayed by the Plot by Alexandra Hale thinking it would be a light, easy read… and ended up way more invested than I expected.
Kat is a writer who suddenly finds herself in real danger, and that’s where Tom comes in—her bodyguard, ex-military, and very much the “strong, silent type.” I’ll admit, I’m a sucker for this kind of setup, but it was done in such a fun, engaging way that it didn’t feel overdone.
Kat felt really relatable to me—she’s a bit chaotic, says exactly what she’s thinking, and doesn’t always make the smartest choices (especially when she should probably just listen to her very capable bodyguard). And Tom? He definitely grew on me. At first he’s all business, focused on keeping her safe, but you slowly see that softer, more human side come through.
Their dynamic is what really made the book for me. The tension between “I need to protect you” and “I don’t need protecting” leads to some great banter and a few moments where I was thinking, “okay, now kiss… or at least stop arguing for five minutes.” It felt natural though, not forced, which I appreciated.
I also loved that underlying sense of danger running through the story—it gave it just enough edge to keep things interesting without losing that light, slightly cheeky tone. It’s like the plot is constantly nudging them together while they’re both pretending they’re in control.
By the end, I realised I’d gotten properly attached to both of them. It’s fun, a little tense, a bit emotional, and full of personality—definitely one of those reads that sneaks up on you in the best way.
Kat is a writer who suddenly finds herself in real danger, and that’s where Tom comes in—her bodyguard, ex-military, and very much the “strong, silent type.” I’ll admit, I’m a sucker for this kind of setup, but it was done in such a fun, engaging way that it didn’t feel overdone.
Kat felt really relatable to me—she’s a bit chaotic, says exactly what she’s thinking, and doesn’t always make the smartest choices (especially when she should probably just listen to her very capable bodyguard). And Tom? He definitely grew on me. At first he’s all business, focused on keeping her safe, but you slowly see that softer, more human side come through.
Their dynamic is what really made the book for me. The tension between “I need to protect you” and “I don’t need protecting” leads to some great banter and a few moments where I was thinking, “okay, now kiss… or at least stop arguing for five minutes.” It felt natural though, not forced, which I appreciated.
I also loved that underlying sense of danger running through the story—it gave it just enough edge to keep things interesting without losing that light, slightly cheeky tone. It’s like the plot is constantly nudging them together while they’re both pretending they’re in control.
By the end, I realised I’d gotten properly attached to both of them. It’s fun, a little tense, a bit emotional, and full of personality—definitely one of those reads that sneaks up on you in the best way.
April 11, 2026
Right from the first page, Betrayed by the Plot had me in its grip — like a bodyguard with laser focus on his charge. What starts as a straight-up protect-the-client gig quickly morphs into something hotter and far more complicated, and honestly? I loved every minute of it. The premise — a professional protector suddenly tempted to protect more than just life — is taut with tension and intrigue, and Hale delivers it with flair and heart.
The slow burn between Kat and her guarded bodyguard is nothing short of brilliant. Every glance, every quip, that delicious forced-proximity tension — it’s like sitting right on the edge of a cliff, waiting for that spark to land. The chemistry is immaculate, simmering just below the surface until it finally erupts in all the right ways. When Kat’s secret identity as bestselling author Sloane Daniels comes into play, it adds an unpredictable layer that kept me guessing and eager for the next twist.
What really sold me? The characters. Kat is sweet and creative, with a quiet strength you can’t help but root for, while Tom’s fierce protectiveness — plus thoughtful moments like cooking for her and caring about her passions — grounded their connection in something real. And the suspense? Just when you think you’re ahead of the plot, Hale flips the script with twists that made me literally gasp. It’s romantic suspense at its most fun, clever, and addictive.
Overall? Five stars easily. This book had tension, banter, heart, and spice — a perfect blend that makes for an unforgettable read. I can��t wait to see where this series goes next!
The slow burn between Kat and her guarded bodyguard is nothing short of brilliant. Every glance, every quip, that delicious forced-proximity tension — it’s like sitting right on the edge of a cliff, waiting for that spark to land. The chemistry is immaculate, simmering just below the surface until it finally erupts in all the right ways. When Kat’s secret identity as bestselling author Sloane Daniels comes into play, it adds an unpredictable layer that kept me guessing and eager for the next twist.
What really sold me? The characters. Kat is sweet and creative, with a quiet strength you can’t help but root for, while Tom’s fierce protectiveness — plus thoughtful moments like cooking for her and caring about her passions — grounded their connection in something real. And the suspense? Just when you think you’re ahead of the plot, Hale flips the script with twists that made me literally gasp. It’s romantic suspense at its most fun, clever, and addictive.
Overall? Five stars easily. This book had tension, banter, heart, and spice — a perfect blend that makes for an unforgettable read. I can��t wait to see where this series goes next!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
** Received as an ARC, Thank you**
Let me start by saying this is my first book from this author and this is much different then my usual reads.. after figuring that out I had to change the way I planned to review.
This is a great story, with a good FMC and a perfect book boyfriend MMC.. You don’t get a lot of background on the MC’s because they are introduced in other books. It’s important to know that because other wise you might think there is some missing facts but there aren’t if you are familiar with the author and other works.
This is not super spicy… by my standard. There are some spicy scenes but there are more that happen off page than are described in detail… that is so thing I’m not usually reading a reviewing. But this story was so good and had enough twists and turns that I was still engaged!
I loved the tough topics she addressed. Workaholic MMC, FMC with imposter syndrome and living in a siblings shadow. It was done so well and showed these MC’s how much they need each other.
I did not guess the plot twist and I love when it’s done so well you don’t know too soon!!
I am giving it a 4 star because the story was really good but if I was rating with my smut loving heart it was a 3.75 because I need more spice and more descriptions and filth LOL but that is a personal preference.. if you are new to romance or aren’t a fan of anything dark I think you will love this!! If you want the dirtier the better… you wont love this..
Let me start by saying this is my first book from this author and this is much different then my usual reads.. after figuring that out I had to change the way I planned to review.
This is a great story, with a good FMC and a perfect book boyfriend MMC.. You don’t get a lot of background on the MC’s because they are introduced in other books. It’s important to know that because other wise you might think there is some missing facts but there aren’t if you are familiar with the author and other works.
This is not super spicy… by my standard. There are some spicy scenes but there are more that happen off page than are described in detail… that is so thing I’m not usually reading a reviewing. But this story was so good and had enough twists and turns that I was still engaged!
I loved the tough topics she addressed. Workaholic MMC, FMC with imposter syndrome and living in a siblings shadow. It was done so well and showed these MC’s how much they need each other.
I did not guess the plot twist and I love when it’s done so well you don’t know too soon!!
I am giving it a 4 star because the story was really good but if I was rating with my smut loving heart it was a 3.75 because I need more spice and more descriptions and filth LOL but that is a personal preference.. if you are new to romance or aren’t a fan of anything dark I think you will love this!! If you want the dirtier the better… you wont love this..
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Betrayed By the Plot delivers exactly what I crave in a romantic suspense, it’s a simmering slow burn, with a protective MMC who tries (and fails) to keep things professional, and an FMC whose life is unraveling just as she’s finally stepping into her own power.
Kat(34) is an established children’s book author who’s recently ventured into her spicy romance era under a pen name. Just as her new career direction starts gaining traction, she becomes the target of a stalker who seems to know far too much about her. The fear is palpable, but so is her determination not to let anyone dictate her life.
Her brother hires Tom (47) who is ex‑military, steady, observant, and the definition of controlled strength. From the moment he steps into Kat’s world, the dynamic shifts. Tom is considerate in a way that feels grounded, not performative. He listens. He notices. He respects every boundary she sets. And despite his ironclad rule about never getting involved with clients, he falls for her anyway.
The slow burn between them is perfection. It’s built on trust, late‑night honesty, and the kind of emotional intimacy that sneaks up on both of them. Their chemistry grows in these quiet, charged moments that make the eventual “finally” moment so explosive between them.
The suspense keeps you engaged, running through a list of suspects closest to Kate all with their own motives. Tom is on high alert with his team and does anything and everything to ease Kat’s stress. The plot twist near the end is shocking. It’s sharp, surprising, and exactly the kind of reveal that makes you rethink earlier chapters in the best way.
By the final pages, I wasn’t just invested in uncovering who was behind the attacks toward Kat; I was also fully rooting for Kat and Tom to stop resisting the connection that had been building between them from the start.
Such a good blend of tension, heart, and heat. As a lover of age‑gap slow burns with protective MMC’s and resilient FMC’s this was one had it all and then some!
A huge thank you to Alexandra Hale and Luna Literary for the early copy!
Kat(34) is an established children’s book author who’s recently ventured into her spicy romance era under a pen name. Just as her new career direction starts gaining traction, she becomes the target of a stalker who seems to know far too much about her. The fear is palpable, but so is her determination not to let anyone dictate her life.
Her brother hires Tom (47) who is ex‑military, steady, observant, and the definition of controlled strength. From the moment he steps into Kat’s world, the dynamic shifts. Tom is considerate in a way that feels grounded, not performative. He listens. He notices. He respects every boundary she sets. And despite his ironclad rule about never getting involved with clients, he falls for her anyway.
The slow burn between them is perfection. It’s built on trust, late‑night honesty, and the kind of emotional intimacy that sneaks up on both of them. Their chemistry grows in these quiet, charged moments that make the eventual “finally” moment so explosive between them.
The suspense keeps you engaged, running through a list of suspects closest to Kate all with their own motives. Tom is on high alert with his team and does anything and everything to ease Kat’s stress. The plot twist near the end is shocking. It’s sharp, surprising, and exactly the kind of reveal that makes you rethink earlier chapters in the best way.
By the final pages, I wasn’t just invested in uncovering who was behind the attacks toward Kat; I was also fully rooting for Kat and Tom to stop resisting the connection that had been building between them from the start.
Such a good blend of tension, heart, and heat. As a lover of age‑gap slow burns with protective MMC’s and resilient FMC’s this was one had it all and then some!
A huge thank you to Alexandra Hale and Luna Literary for the early copy!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
"I'm going to ruin us both and you'll let me, won't you, kitten?"
Review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Kat Harrington has a secret - she's not only a famous children's author, but she's also the anonymous face behind Sloane Daniels, queen of romantic suspense novels. It's been her secret, but it's threatened when her rental goes up in flames, and her brother hires her a bodyguard - the older, serious (and seriously swoon-worthy) Thomas Oakden.
I sped through this, the writing really sucks you in, and there's such a good blend of suspense and romance. Kat and Tom have an instant spark, though he swears he hasn't - and never would - compromise his mission. I loved how he had to work so hard to stay professional, all while they're thrown into close proximity, and they both are so tempted.
The suspense in this is great, as well - Tom takes his job so seriously and there's so many good moments of spark and tension between them because of it. His competency and self-control had me swooning with Kat The mystery in this was satisfying, I was definitely caught by surprise by the reveal, and I am usually pretty good at picking up clues. They're so carefully added that they will keep you guessing, like I was!
If you enjoy spicy romantic suspense and characters with an electric attraction, you will love this! I had such a great time reading.
Tropes:
📖 romantic suspense
🔥 bodyguard x writer
💖 small town
📖 secret identity
🔥 slow burn
💖 forced proximity
📖 child-free hea
🔥 found family
💖 age gap
[I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review, thank you so much Alexandra Hale & Luna Literary Management!]
Review: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Kat Harrington has a secret - she's not only a famous children's author, but she's also the anonymous face behind Sloane Daniels, queen of romantic suspense novels. It's been her secret, but it's threatened when her rental goes up in flames, and her brother hires her a bodyguard - the older, serious (and seriously swoon-worthy) Thomas Oakden.
I sped through this, the writing really sucks you in, and there's such a good blend of suspense and romance. Kat and Tom have an instant spark, though he swears he hasn't - and never would - compromise his mission. I loved how he had to work so hard to stay professional, all while they're thrown into close proximity, and they both are so tempted.
The suspense in this is great, as well - Tom takes his job so seriously and there's so many good moments of spark and tension between them because of it. His competency and self-control had me swooning with Kat The mystery in this was satisfying, I was definitely caught by surprise by the reveal, and I am usually pretty good at picking up clues. They're so carefully added that they will keep you guessing, like I was!
If you enjoy spicy romantic suspense and characters with an electric attraction, you will love this! I had such a great time reading.
Tropes:
📖 romantic suspense
🔥 bodyguard x writer
💖 small town
📖 secret identity
🔥 slow burn
💖 forced proximity
📖 child-free hea
🔥 found family
💖 age gap
[I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review, thank you so much Alexandra Hale & Luna Literary Management!]
March 30, 2026
5/5 ⭐️
2.5/5 🌶️
This book follows an author that writes children’s book and secretly writes spicy romantic suspense book under a different pen name. Author Kat receives an alarming threat and hate which makes her younger brother hire a bodyguard for her, Tom. Kat and Tom start off on a rocky path because of Kat refusing to think she needs a bodyguard.
Throughout the book Kat is struggling with showing the world her true self and stepping out of the shadows and publicity from her younger brother, Colt, a sunshiney baseball player. Kat also struggles with making friends and the feeling of loneliness because of her not being able to share this other spicy side of herself. Tom is a rock on the outside but instantly seems to swoon over Kat. He wants to protect her no matter the cost and not just because that’s his job.
I really enjoyed this book! The plotting was great and quick, it made this book a real page turner for me. The plot twist at the end was definitely a shock that I didn’t see coming. The spicy scenes were also well written and I love an MMC with great dirty talk. The growth of both MCs was believable and helped add to their chemistry. Highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys romantic suspense books.
I received this ARC from Alexandra Hale and Luna Literary. Thank you for allowing me to review this book with my honest opinions.
Tropes:
- Bodyguard romance
- Forbidden
- Forced Proximity
2.5/5 🌶️
This book follows an author that writes children’s book and secretly writes spicy romantic suspense book under a different pen name. Author Kat receives an alarming threat and hate which makes her younger brother hire a bodyguard for her, Tom. Kat and Tom start off on a rocky path because of Kat refusing to think she needs a bodyguard.
Throughout the book Kat is struggling with showing the world her true self and stepping out of the shadows and publicity from her younger brother, Colt, a sunshiney baseball player. Kat also struggles with making friends and the feeling of loneliness because of her not being able to share this other spicy side of herself. Tom is a rock on the outside but instantly seems to swoon over Kat. He wants to protect her no matter the cost and not just because that’s his job.
I really enjoyed this book! The plotting was great and quick, it made this book a real page turner for me. The plot twist at the end was definitely a shock that I didn’t see coming. The spicy scenes were also well written and I love an MMC with great dirty talk. The growth of both MCs was believable and helped add to their chemistry. Highly recommend this book for anyone who enjoys romantic suspense books.
I received this ARC from Alexandra Hale and Luna Literary. Thank you for allowing me to review this book with my honest opinions.
Tropes:
- Bodyguard romance
- Forbidden
- Forced Proximity
April 7, 2026
"It shouldn’t have been a surprise that the messiest, most beautiful love story I’d ever write would be my own."
Diving into suspense for the first time, Alexandra Hale has successfully written a story that keeps you entralled from the beginning to the epilogue.
I fell in love with Tom and Kat. The chemistry and tension between them was strong from the start. Their banter is spectacular and leads to flirting that is initially subtle but oh so swoony. And when things heat up... the spice is spicing!
I loved the softness and care that Tom showed Kat, especially recognising her
vulnerability and the lack of control she felt as they tried to find who was threatening her.
Alexandra Hale has stepped into suspense and put her own stamp on it. The pacing is well executed, suiting the narrative so well. The suspense gets your heart racing and keeps you on the edge of your seat, while still having that found family warmth of her other series. The twist was a brilliant surprise, and looking back the clue crumbs were scattered throughout.
I loved so many of the side characters; as always Alexandra Hale leaves you hoping that they all eventually get their HEA.
Tom and Royce's relationship is everything, it's beautiful and soft, like a warm hug.
Now that Alexandra Hale has added suspense to her repertoire I hope to see more stories for this security team in the future.
Diving into suspense for the first time, Alexandra Hale has successfully written a story that keeps you entralled from the beginning to the epilogue.
I fell in love with Tom and Kat. The chemistry and tension between them was strong from the start. Their banter is spectacular and leads to flirting that is initially subtle but oh so swoony. And when things heat up... the spice is spicing!
I loved the softness and care that Tom showed Kat, especially recognising her
vulnerability and the lack of control she felt as they tried to find who was threatening her.
Alexandra Hale has stepped into suspense and put her own stamp on it. The pacing is well executed, suiting the narrative so well. The suspense gets your heart racing and keeps you on the edge of your seat, while still having that found family warmth of her other series. The twist was a brilliant surprise, and looking back the clue crumbs were scattered throughout.
I loved so many of the side characters; as always Alexandra Hale leaves you hoping that they all eventually get their HEA.
Tom and Royce's relationship is everything, it's beautiful and soft, like a warm hug.
Now that Alexandra Hale has added suspense to her repertoire I hope to see more stories for this security team in the future.
April 13, 2026
"He's the kind of hero I write about. The one that will level a city to avenge the wrongs done to his girl."
Kat & Tom. Kat's so sweet, Tom never had a chance. Tom is her bodyguard appointed against her will by her baseball playing brother. Kat is an author who has attracted a stalker who means to do her harm. It's close proximity at its finest - he HAS to live with her to protect her! These two clashed and then burned bright when they finally gave in and let me tell you, it was a quick turnaround. The best thing about this is that it's a quick read - 297 pgs on my Kindle and everything happens fast. It's so satisfying. Both these MMCs were hiding behind their jobs and not really being totally true to themselves. I love that Tom felt it and rolled with it. There is no miscommunication here (woo hoo!).
Romantic suspense is one of my new favorite genres (is it a genre? forgive me if it's not) and this one was so good! There were so many possibilities of who it could be and it was exciting to watch Tom's team go through each one and explain why the person is or isn't a suspect.
what to expect:
*romantic suspense
*forced proximity
*he's her bodyguard
*banter
*small town
"He's imposing when he needs to be, and he's also graciously aware of what I need, even before I know."
*I received a complimentary eARC and my review is voluntary. Thank you to the author.
Kat & Tom. Kat's so sweet, Tom never had a chance. Tom is her bodyguard appointed against her will by her baseball playing brother. Kat is an author who has attracted a stalker who means to do her harm. It's close proximity at its finest - he HAS to live with her to protect her! These two clashed and then burned bright when they finally gave in and let me tell you, it was a quick turnaround. The best thing about this is that it's a quick read - 297 pgs on my Kindle and everything happens fast. It's so satisfying. Both these MMCs were hiding behind their jobs and not really being totally true to themselves. I love that Tom felt it and rolled with it. There is no miscommunication here (woo hoo!).
Romantic suspense is one of my new favorite genres (is it a genre? forgive me if it's not) and this one was so good! There were so many possibilities of who it could be and it was exciting to watch Tom's team go through each one and explain why the person is or isn't a suspect.
what to expect:
*romantic suspense
*forced proximity
*he's her bodyguard
*banter
*small town
"He's imposing when he needs to be, and he's also graciously aware of what I need, even before I know."
*I received a complimentary eARC and my review is voluntary. Thank you to the author.
April 19, 2026
ARC Review: 4.5 ⭐️
Betrayed by the Plot is book 1 in the Andrews International Security Series featuring Tom Oakden & Kat Harrington.
Kat is a successful author of children’s books but also has a secret pen name where she writes spicy romance stories and only a handful of people know it’s her. She has been the recipient of some online bullying and things take a drastic turn when boxes of her spicy books are set on fire outside of her rental property.
Kats brother is a famous football player and after the fire he hires Kat a private body guard until they can get to the bottom of who is behind the threats. Kat is less then thrilled with her new shadow, but after discovering a hand delivered threat in her mail box agrees to go along with Tom’s plans.
Tom hasn’t done private security for a while but accepts the job and is determined to get to the bottom of it quickly. What he doesn’t anticipate is developing feelings for Kat in the process.
One day when Kat sneaks out on her own she is almost ran off the road by another car. When Tom is able to track her down he whisks her away to his remote cabin while they reorganize their plans. The close proximity will cause the tension to finally snap between them, but will they be able to figure out who’s been targeting Kat before its to late ?
The suspense-fulness of this story kept me hooked from the start and I was shocked with how it played out in the end! I loved the relationship that develops between Tom & Kat and I can’t wait to see who may get a story next !
Thank you Alexandra for the ARC!
Betrayed by the Plot is book 1 in the Andrews International Security Series featuring Tom Oakden & Kat Harrington.
Kat is a successful author of children’s books but also has a secret pen name where she writes spicy romance stories and only a handful of people know it’s her. She has been the recipient of some online bullying and things take a drastic turn when boxes of her spicy books are set on fire outside of her rental property.
Kats brother is a famous football player and after the fire he hires Kat a private body guard until they can get to the bottom of who is behind the threats. Kat is less then thrilled with her new shadow, but after discovering a hand delivered threat in her mail box agrees to go along with Tom’s plans.
Tom hasn’t done private security for a while but accepts the job and is determined to get to the bottom of it quickly. What he doesn’t anticipate is developing feelings for Kat in the process.
One day when Kat sneaks out on her own she is almost ran off the road by another car. When Tom is able to track her down he whisks her away to his remote cabin while they reorganize their plans. The close proximity will cause the tension to finally snap between them, but will they be able to figure out who’s been targeting Kat before its to late ?
The suspense-fulness of this story kept me hooked from the start and I was shocked with how it played out in the end! I loved the relationship that develops between Tom & Kat and I can’t wait to see who may get a story next !
Thank you Alexandra for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Hello Tom Oakden, thank you for being the best bodyguard that we can fall for. I somehow knew that this book would end up being a favorite of mine by Alexandra. It started with knowing this was a bodyguard protecting someone and then finding out she is an author?! There is something about a little suspense to our romance and Alexandra did such a great job adding it to this story. You are kept guessing who it could be and then trying to figure out when the next thing to happen to Kat comes. Kat might be the sister to major league baseball player Colt Harrington, but she is also a children’s author with a special pen name as another type of author. After someone finds out her other identity, she finds herself with security until they figure out who is out there trying to harm her. We get FANTASTIC push and pull between Tom and Kat. Tom is trying to stay professional, even though he truly feels something for her and Kat seeing how he is the perfect book boyfriend material from the little things he does for her. You get a dose of humor with the supporting cast of characters and the plot is perfect. Spice rounds out everything because when Tom drops that professional mask, all counters are available and he makes use of them. A perfect read when you want a good romance story that grabs hold and doesn’t let go.
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