Axel Svenson, aka Swede, a former teammate of Hank's (see book one for Hank and Sadie's story), is now an employee of the Brotherhood Protectors. His first assignment? Bodyguard to Allie, Hank's younger sister.
Of course, Allie doesn't feel she needs one and isn't at all intimidated by Swede's size or scars. But Allie's fiancé, Damien, is concerned due to some suspicious situations and feels she needs protection. It appears as though Damien has made some enemies, though I highly doubt Hank is surprised by that news. Psst...Hank, aka Montana, doesn't really care for Allie's fiancé, but he does adore his sister. Swede is still adjusting to civilian life and is missing the only family he had, his teammates. Although his new dog, an Australian shepherd named Ruger that he rescued from an animal shelter, does help combat the loss. *whispers* I have a feeling this SEAL team may be reunited soon, under a new brotherhood.
The more we follow along with Allie, the more it seems like all isn't sunshine and roses in her relationship with Damien. His ranch seems to be more of a gentlemen's retreat, as opposed to a working ranch, his hair is always perfectly coiffed, and there's been no follow through on one of the perks of a relationship...bow chick a wow wow has not happened at all between this couple. Nookie, denied. *shakes head* Not to mention, it's awfully convenient that he needs to go out of town on business for a few days, a week before the wedding. Of course, this also leaves room for Swede and Allie to fall madly in love. *eye waggle*
We quickly learn that hiring Swede is a good call as we hear an explosion on Damien's property at the barn, threatening the safety of the horses and a barn cat. *Suspicious behavior, not to mention not quite loving reactions, from Damien follows* Swede demonstrates more caring than Damien for all involved and so the spark ignites a little more *wrings hands gleefully* Allie is also starting to see that she truly doesn't know her fiancé, and is questioning her reasons for saying yes more and more as the wedding draws closer.
While Swede and Allie are almost constantly in each other's company, not only do the attempts on Allie continue, but their feelings for each other continue to grow as well. It's also becoming apparent that Allie is marrying the wrong man and he isn't quite an upstanding citizen.
How will Swede and Allie handle their ever strengthening feelings for each other? Will Allie follow her heart or will she feel obligated to her promise to marry Damien? What exactly is Damien involved in? If Allie does decide to call the wedding off, how can she tell Damien when she can't get a hold of him? Will Swede quietly watch as the woman he knows is the one for him marries someone else? Will Allie ever be safe? Will Swede and Allie get their HEA?
I recommend this book as it was a quick and enjoyable read. The premise and characters were intriguing and it was interesting to see Swede and Allie struggle with their feelings, while knowing they couldn't, or shouldn't, act on them while she's promised to another man. I thought this inner turmoil was handled quite nicely from the viewpoint of both characters. I loved Swede's dog, Ruger, and thought his name was perfect. We're also introduced to Tate Parker, aka Bear, the hero of book three, in this book and I'm looking forward to learning more about him and meeting his heroine.
**I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.**