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Protected by the Ex-Military Sheriff: A Single Mom Age Gap Instalove Romance
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Protected by the Ex-Military Sheriff by Zoey Rose is a heartfelt small-town romance that beautifully captures the journey from fear to freedom. Blending suspense, healing, and unwavering devotion, this story delivers a protective sheriff, a courageous mother, and a close-knit community that proves sometimes the safest place to land is exactly where you never planned to stop.
Claire arrives in Blackwater Falls with her four-year-old son, Jackson, hoping to disappear from an abusive past and start over. Instead of finding the safe home she expected, she discovers a rental that should never have been offered in the first place. Enter Sheriff Tom Harris—a former military man whose first instinct is simply to help. From that first meeting, his kindness stands in sharp contrast to everything Claire has endured, and it's impossible not to root for the quiet trust that slowly begins to grow between them.
Tom is the kind of protective hero who lets his actions speak louder than his words. He never pressures Claire or expects anything in return for his kindness. Instead, he patiently proves that genuine care is built on respect, consistency, and putting others first. His growing bond with Jackson is especially touching. Their shared moments, fueled by Jackson's love of dinosaurs, add warmth, humor, and sweetness that make this little family impossible not to fall in love with.
One of the story's greatest strengths is its supportive community. Blackwater Falls feels like a place where people truly look out for one another, creating an atmosphere of hope that perfectly complements Claire's fresh start. The suspense surrounding her abusive ex keeps the tension high, while Tom's steady presence offers reassurance that she no longer has to face life's battles alone.
If you enjoy protective sheriffs, ex-military heroes, single-mom romances, found family, small-town settings, and stories where hope shines brighter than fear, Protected by the Ex-Military Sheriff is a wonderful addition to the Curvy Wives of Blackwater Falls series. It's a tender, uplifting romance that reminds us healing often begins with one act of kindness—and sometimes the person who rescues your future is the one who first makes you feel safe enough to believe you deserve one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Claire arrives in Blackwater Falls with her four-year-old son, Jackson, hoping to disappear from an abusive past and start over. Instead of finding the safe home she expected, she discovers a rental that should never have been offered in the first place. Enter Sheriff Tom Harris—a former military man whose first instinct is simply to help. From that first meeting, his kindness stands in sharp contrast to everything Claire has endured, and it's impossible not to root for the quiet trust that slowly begins to grow between them.
Tom is the kind of protective hero who lets his actions speak louder than his words. He never pressures Claire or expects anything in return for his kindness. Instead, he patiently proves that genuine care is built on respect, consistency, and putting others first. His growing bond with Jackson is especially touching. Their shared moments, fueled by Jackson's love of dinosaurs, add warmth, humor, and sweetness that make this little family impossible not to fall in love with.
One of the story's greatest strengths is its supportive community. Blackwater Falls feels like a place where people truly look out for one another, creating an atmosphere of hope that perfectly complements Claire's fresh start. The suspense surrounding her abusive ex keeps the tension high, while Tom's steady presence offers reassurance that she no longer has to face life's battles alone.
If you enjoy protective sheriffs, ex-military heroes, single-mom romances, found family, small-town settings, and stories where hope shines brighter than fear, Protected by the Ex-Military Sheriff is a wonderful addition to the Curvy Wives of Blackwater Falls series. It's a tender, uplifting romance that reminds us healing often begins with one act of kindness—and sometimes the person who rescues your future is the one who first makes you feel safe enough to believe you deserve one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 1, 2026
He serves and protects...and she needs it more than she can say
Protected by the Ex-Military Sheriff is the eighth book in the Curvy Wives of Blackwater Falls series by Zoey Rose. This story is well written, holds your attention, and makes your heart swoon. Claire Donovan has arrived in Blackwater Falls with her young son Jackson. She fled from her abusive boyfriend four years ago when he went out and she saw her chance. She travelled around by bus and now has arrived in town and is standing in front of an old Victorian house she rented after seeing it on the internet. Tom Harris spent fifteen years in the Army before being discharged early. He moved to Blackwater Falls and is now the Sheriff. He sees it as still serving and protecting, only now it is his community and not the country. When he receives a text that the old Harlow place has been rented again he ends up driving to it because he knows there will be trouble. The place is a death and health trap that anyone who rents it quickly finds out does not match the pictures they saw. When he pulls up he finds a young woman trying to carry four duffel bags and two backpacks. When a small voice comes from behind her he also discovers there is a young boy who looks like her. Tom feels something immediately he has never felt before in his forty-three years, and he not sure what it is. As it turns out Claire and Jackson needs protection and Tom is the man ready to give it to them.
Protected by the Ex-Military Sheriff is the eighth book in the Curvy Wives of Blackwater Falls series by Zoey Rose. This story is well written, holds your attention, and makes your heart swoon. Claire Donovan has arrived in Blackwater Falls with her young son Jackson. She fled from her abusive boyfriend four years ago when he went out and she saw her chance. She travelled around by bus and now has arrived in town and is standing in front of an old Victorian house she rented after seeing it on the internet. Tom Harris spent fifteen years in the Army before being discharged early. He moved to Blackwater Falls and is now the Sheriff. He sees it as still serving and protecting, only now it is his community and not the country. When he receives a text that the old Harlow place has been rented again he ends up driving to it because he knows there will be trouble. The place is a death and health trap that anyone who rents it quickly finds out does not match the pictures they saw. When he pulls up he finds a young woman trying to carry four duffel bags and two backpacks. When a small voice comes from behind her he also discovers there is a young boy who looks like her. Tom feels something immediately he has never felt before in his forty-three years, and he not sure what it is. As it turns out Claire and Jackson needs protection and Tom is the man ready to give it to them.
Review of advance copy
Tom is the sheriff of Blackwater Falls, he's been there for four years, fitting in and making friends, and collaborating with the local MC, who are trying to make sure their chapter is legal and doesn't take the law into their own hands.
He gets a call on his radio that a rundown house has been rented out again, the owner uses photos from years ago to make it look habitable. When he arrives he meets Claire and her four year old son, Jackson, who loves dinosaurs. He realises they are running from something or someone, he persuades her to stay at the motel for one night and then reappraise her options.
Claire is unused to anyone helping for the sake of it, she's expecting Tom to want something in exchange, he's not like that.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Another great short story from Zoey.
He gets a call on his radio that a rundown house has been rented out again, the owner uses photos from years ago to make it look habitable. When he arrives he meets Claire and her four year old son, Jackson, who loves dinosaurs. He realises they are running from something or someone, he persuades her to stay at the motel for one night and then reappraise her options.
Claire is unused to anyone helping for the sake of it, she's expecting Tom to want something in exchange, he's not like that.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Another great short story from Zoey.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“Protected by the Ex-Military Sheriff” by Zoey Rose
-A small-town romance filled with suspense, healing, and second chances. Claire and her four-year-old son, Jackson, arrive in Blackwater Falls hoping to escape an abusive past, where Sheriff Tom Harris quickly becomes the protector they never expected. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing honest thoughts.
Tom’s patience, kindness, and growing bond with dinosaur-loving Jackson makes this story especially touching. Watching Claire slowly learn to trust again while finding safety, love, and a true sense of family was both emotional and uplifting.
This fast-paced read blends protective hero vibes, found family, and a supportive community with just the right amount of steam. A sweet, satisfying addition to the Curvy Wives of Blackwater Falls series.
-A small-town romance filled with suspense, healing, and second chances. Claire and her four-year-old son, Jackson, arrive in Blackwater Falls hoping to escape an abusive past, where Sheriff Tom Harris quickly becomes the protector they never expected. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing honest thoughts.
Tom’s patience, kindness, and growing bond with dinosaur-loving Jackson makes this story especially touching. Watching Claire slowly learn to trust again while finding safety, love, and a true sense of family was both emotional and uplifting.
This fast-paced read blends protective hero vibes, found family, and a supportive community with just the right amount of steam. A sweet, satisfying addition to the Curvy Wives of Blackwater Falls series.
July 14, 2026
I could not put this book down! Tom is the ultimate book boyfriend—a rugged, 43-year-old ex-military sheriff who is fiercely protective but has the absolute gentlest heart, especially when it comes to 27-year-old Claire and her dinosaur-loving son, Jackson.
The slow-burn trust and healing between Tom and Claire felt incredibly earned and beautiful. My heart melted seeing Tom step in to rescue them from that terrible rental house, and the way he instantly bonded with little Jackson over dinosaurs was just pure sweetness.
When Claire’s abusive ex, Derek, finally tracks them down, the confrontation is incredibly satisfying. Tom handles him with total authority, ensuring he will never be a threat again.
This story is a beautiful reminder of how found family and the right love can heal even the deepest wounds. And that epilogue? Tears of pure joy! Highly, highly recommend!
The slow-burn trust and healing between Tom and Claire felt incredibly earned and beautiful. My heart melted seeing Tom step in to rescue them from that terrible rental house, and the way he instantly bonded with little Jackson over dinosaurs was just pure sweetness.
When Claire’s abusive ex, Derek, finally tracks them down, the confrontation is incredibly satisfying. Tom handles him with total authority, ensuring he will never be a threat again.
This story is a beautiful reminder of how found family and the right love can heal even the deepest wounds. And that epilogue? Tears of pure joy! Highly, highly recommend!
Review of advance copy
Protected by the Ex-Military Sheriff by Zoey Rose is a fast-paced, heartwarming small-town romance that delivers an instalove story that I adored. In this novel, we are introduced to a vulnerable single mother escaping her past and a Blackwater Sheriff who is a compassionate former soldier whose protective instincts quickly turn into something much deeper. One of the things that I felt made this novella strong was its emotional core. Rather than focusing solely on the romance, Rose explores themes of trust, safety, and learning to love again after trauma. Overall, Protected by the Ex-Military Sheriff was an engaging addition to the Curvy Wives of Blackwater Falls series that offers a comforting blend of romance, healing, and protective love that makes for an enjoyable escape.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Great addition to Curvy Wives of Blackwater Falls series - emotional short read.
It was her luck when Blackwater Falls happened to be the place she ended up on the run from her previous life. To get out of controlling relationships.
It was his lucky day when he went to check on new people renting old house. He stepped in once and continued to do so. Because he payed attention, he cared and needed to protect.
Emotional, heartwarming romance. Well written, sweet and comforting, with supportive and protective community, young dinosaurs’ fan and “educational programs” for abusive men. Engaging short read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
It was her luck when Blackwater Falls happened to be the place she ended up on the run from her previous life. To get out of controlling relationships.
It was his lucky day when he went to check on new people renting old house. He stepped in once and continued to do so. Because he payed attention, he cared and needed to protect.
Emotional, heartwarming romance. Well written, sweet and comforting, with supportive and protective community, young dinosaurs’ fan and “educational programs” for abusive men. Engaging short read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Tom Harris is the sheriff of Blackwater Falls, ex-military, 43 and lonely. Claire is 27 and her 4 year old son, Jackson are running from her abusive ex- Derek. Tom steps in when Claire rents a house that should be condemned. Tom is protective over both of them and develops feelings for Claire and her dinosaur loving son Jackson. When Derek finds them, Tom makes sure he will not be an issue going forward. Tom and Claire find each other at the exact right time, they heal each other, find a deep love, a real family, and found family. Great and sweet epilogue!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The author has given us a fast-paced story that pulls us into the lives of Tom, Claire and her son, Jackson. The heartwarming story keeps us turning the pages with fears, connection, protection, realizations and steam.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2026
Trust is everything.
Claire arrives at Blackwater Falls running away from a bad relationship. Tom is there to help since he is the sheriff. I have been reading this series and this one was a little different, but I like how is such a short read, Tom was able to do all to earn trust just by showing up and the wait took control was so good, about time.
Claire arrives at Blackwater Falls running away from a bad relationship. Tom is there to help since he is the sheriff. I have been reading this series and this one was a little different, but I like how is such a short read, Tom was able to do all to earn trust just by showing up and the wait took control was so good, about time.
August 5, 2026
Sparked to Life
Clio and her son are finally beginning to settle down when she meets Sam. Their connection is instantaneous and full of chemistry as fate has destined them to be together. The emotional pull between them was magnetic. This story was exciting and left me wanting more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Clio and her son are finally beginning to settle down when she meets Sam. Their connection is instantaneous and full of chemistry as fate has destined them to be together. The emotional pull between them was magnetic. This story was exciting and left me wanting more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 5, 2026
Hopeless Romantic 🥰
Tom and Clairs’s love ❤️ story is so good. He helps her get away from abusive controlling boyfriend. Tom the sheriff a Black waterfalls. With the help of his friends when her boyfriend show up. With him scaring her to death and her little boy Jackson. Great story line and Characters.
Tom and Clairs’s love ❤️ story is so good. He helps her get away from abusive controlling boyfriend. Tom the sheriff a Black waterfalls. With the help of his friends when her boyfriend show up. With him scaring her to death and her little boy Jackson. Great story line and Characters.
July 16, 2026
Tom and Claire’s story is a protective ex-military sheriff/ single-mom, found family, small-town setting, abusive ex, trust, kindness, strength, growth, faith, hope.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 25, 2026
Saved by the Small Town
She escaped, her son is safe and she’s exhausted. The sheriff helps and keeps helping. She’s suspicious but he keeps showing up. I loved this story. Small town with big hearts, a sheriff who cares and a love that will melt your heart.
She escaped, her son is safe and she’s exhausted. The sheriff helps and keeps helping. She’s suspicious but he keeps showing up. I loved this story. Small town with big hearts, a sheriff who cares and a love that will melt your heart.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews