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Bodyguard #3

Chain Reaction

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SHE NEEDS A LOVER AND A FIGHTER

Blonde. Beautiful. Talented. Alexa Fairfax is practically Hollywood royalty. But growing up in a family of legendary movie stars also puts her in the spotlight for danger. And after she discovers a plot more deadly than any movie script, Alexa desperately needs a bodyguard. A man like Zack De Luca. A true friend with a good heart, a protective nature—and the hard, chiseled muscles to back it up.

Zack has always been wildly attracted to Alexa. But since he’s training day and night to be an MMA fighter, he’s afraid his gorgeous friend will only distract him from his goal. Indescribably sweet and irresistibly sexy, Alexa needs Zack to pretend to be her boyfriend after her life is threatened. Now this fighter-in-training will have to fight his own intense feelings—to keep their little charade from turning into a major disaster . . .

384 pages, Paperback

First published February 28, 2017

16 people are currently reading
665 people want to read

About the author

Tara Wyatt

52 books667 followers
Tara Wyatt is a Canadian contemporary romance author. Known for her humor and steamy love scenes, Tara's writing has won several awards, including the Golden Quill Award and the Booksellers' Best Award. In addition, she was a 2018 RITA® Finalist for her novella, Until the Sun Sets.

When she's not hanging out with your next book boyfriend, she can be found reading, bingeing Netflix, or playing way too much Among Us. Tara lives in Hamilton, Ontario with the world's cutest dog, her daughter, and a husband who makes all her of her heroes look like chumps.

Sign up for her newsletter to get a FREE story here: www.tara-wyatt.com/newsletter

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
Profile Image for Briar's Reviews.
2,295 reviews578 followers
October 15, 2019
If you're looking for a slow burn romance with action and suspense woven throughout, Tara Wyatt's Chain Reaction is the book for you!

Why didn't I read this book sooner? Romance, a Canadian author, and a sexy man on the cover are three awesome traits of this book that make it a must have in my collection. This book has it all - drama, suspense, thrills, romance and some incredibly sexy scenes. Zack is mega hot, Alexa is a Hollywood star looking for something different and they are a match made in heaven! It helps that they've been pining after each other in secret for the past year.

This Bodyguard series seems to be centered on, you guessed it, bodyguards protecting a woman and then falling in love with them. It's kind of the damsel in distress narrative, but with a little more 'umph'. The duo seem to fall in love way too quickly, but it's a romance novel so it's easy to suspend reality on that front. But, the falling in love fast story line makes this book feel passionate and sexy. While it won't work for all readers, it sure worked for me!

I liked Tara's writing style - it was fast enough to keep me hooked, it was descriptive enough to make me feel like I'd been whisked away from reality, and it was easy to read. I found myself binging the whole book because I felt for Zack and Alexa and needed to know how it ended. She also wrote Alexa, a character with obvious flaws, really well. I honestly wanted her to have the happy ending she deserves. Buuuuut... yep, a but, I would have loved to have seen her past fleshed out a bit more. She's a really interesting character who I want to follow more of. Unfortunately, I don't think we'll be getting anymore epic side stories about Alexa and Zack (at least... not yet!).

The plot itself is exciting and full of soap opera like turns. Alexa's Dad is a bad guy, and there's many more reveals to come. Alexa and Zack decide to 'fake' a relationship to not tip off any of the bad guys, but we all know how well that goes in romance novels.

On a side note: This book was easily read as a stand alone. I had no idea what happened in the past books, even though the novel hinted at them along the way, but that didn't affect the quality of this book. As a reader, I was able to nod along and follow the plot without needing to search up the prequels. I absolutely want to read the two previous books now because this book was just so darn good!

Overall, I really enjoyed this book! I can easily recommend this to romance lovers who like a little action mixed in with their story.

Four out of five stars!

I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
Profile Image for Michelle.
2,103 reviews1,414 followers
February 25, 2017
ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review

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Chain Reaction by Tara Wyatt is the first book that I have read from this author and it surely won’t be my last after I got a taste of Wyatt’s suspenseful storytelling. Although Chain Reaction is part of the Bodyguard Series, it most definitely can be read as a standalone as the author did a great job introducing previous characters.

Alexa Fairfax is considered Hollywood royalty since she comes from a family of actors. The Fairfax name should be something that Alexa should be proud of but it was a burden that she carries. Alexa’s parents aren’t your typical parents as she never felt their love but only as their pawn in their Hollywood games. So when she overhears something about her father, Alexa is shocked and scared of what she has learned of the criminal activities that he has done. In need of protection, her friend, Zack De Luca volunteers.

Zack De Luca has always carried a torch for Alexa. He wants her but he never felt the need to cross the line that is until he finds himself protecting Alexa from danger. As Alexa and Zack spend more time together, she informs Zack that she has always loved him too. So what happens when danger threatens to tear them apart? Will Zack be able to protect Alexa in time? Or will Alexa find herself facing the consequences of turning her back on her dad?

Chain Reaction is a sexy, fast romance love story that was layered with action, friendship, trust, and passion. Wyatt did an amazing job integrating a bit of drama as she slowly showcased a passionate love story in the backdrops. So if you are looking for a sexy romantic tale with a protective bodyguard then this book might be for you.

 photo MICHELLE1_zps3515xymk.jpg Tara Wyatt

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Profile Image for Briar's Reviews.
2,295 reviews578 followers
October 15, 2019
If you're looking for a slow burn romance with action and suspense woven throughout, Tara Wyatt's Chain Reaction is the book for you!

Why didn't I read this book sooner? Romance, a Canadian author, and a sexy man on the cover are three awesome traits of this book that make it a must have in my collection. This book has it all - drama, suspense, thrills, romance and some incredibly sexy scenes. Zack is mega hot, Alexa is a Hollywood star looking for something different and they are a match made in heaven! It helps that they've been pining after each other in secret for the past year.

This Bodyguard series seems to be centered on, you guessed it, bodyguards protecting a woman and then falling in love with them. It's kind of the damsel in distress narrative, but with a little more 'umph'. The duo seem to fall in love way too quickly, but it's a romance novel so it's easy to suspend reality on that front. But, the falling in love fast story line makes this book feel passionate and sexy. While it won't work for all readers, it sure worked for me!

I liked Tara's writing style - it was fast enough to keep me hooked, it was descriptive enough to make me feel like I'd been whisked away from reality, and it was easy to read. I found myself binging the whole book because I felt for Zack and Alexa and needed to know how it ended. She also wrote Alexa, a character with obvious flaws, really well. I honestly wanted her to have the happy ending she deserves. Buuuuut... yep, a but, I would have loved to have seen her past fleshed out a bit more. She's a really interesting character who I want to follow more of. Unfortunately, I don't think we'll be getting anymore epic side stories about Alexa and Zack (at least... not yet!).

The plot itself is exciting and full of soap opera like turns. Alexa's Dad is a bad guy, and there's many more reveals to come. Alexa and Zack decide to 'fake' a relationship to not tip off any of the bad guys, but we all know how well that goes in romance novels.

On a side note: This book was easily read as a stand alone. I had no idea what happened in the past books, even though the novel hinted at them along the way, but that didn't affect the quality of this book. As a reader, I was able to nod along and follow the plot without needing to search up the prequels. I absolutely want to read the two previous books now because this book was just so darn good!

Overall, I really enjoyed this book! I can easily recommend this to romance lovers who like a little action mixed in with their story.

Four out of five stars!

I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
Profile Image for Dianne.
6,815 reviews631 followers
February 5, 2017
She needs a hero and her heart can’t hold out any longer, either. Alexa is beautiful in mind and body and now this young princess of Hollywood has discovered a horrible secret that could cost her her life. When she confides in her secret heartthrob and good friend, Zack De Luca, he becomes the undercover bodyguard she needs and the pretend boyfriend she wishes were real. Zack is more than a handsome man in a well-muscled body, he is a fighter, a man on a mission to protect the woman he has secretly loved for some time now, and this is his chance. How do you protect a person from their own family?

Fate works in strange ways, even deadly ways, but for Alexa and Zack, no matter what, they have each found a safe place to land and a place their hearts can call home.

Take a look at the darker side of stardom and celebrity. See how far a crazed monster will go to achieve fame, fortune and control, who he will use, who he will abuse, then watch that monster be brought to his knees when someone loves his daughter enough to protect her, no matter the cost.

Tara Wyatt’s CHAIN REACTION is a suspense-filled romance that is equal parts love story and a dark and brutal game of cat and mouse. The devotion these two hold for each other as friends and their insecurities as a romantic couple are endearing, but their chemistry behind closed doors? Once unleashed is raw, passionate and feels so right. Tara Wyatt has brought the perfect couple together!

I received an ARC edition from Forever in exchange for my honest review.

Series: Bodyguard - Book 3
Publisher: Forever (February 28, 2017)
Publication Date: February 28, 2017
Genre: Contemporary Romantic Suspense
Page Count: 336
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Profile Image for Julie.
583 reviews68 followers
February 28, 2017
Check out the giveaway for a copy of this one - link at the bottom

description

I was lucky enough to get to beta-read this book. Which was really awesome because I had devoured the first two books in the series and it felt like this 3rd one wasn't going to come out for eons and I'm not known for my patience. And I really adored the first two in the Bodyguard series so to say that the bar was set extremely high for this 3rd one would be a massive understatement.

One of the first things you'll notice when you pick up a couple of books by Wyatt is that she doesn't forget characters. It's nice to have an author that doesn't forget about previous characters and actually actively includes them in the the current book. It's cool to see how their stories continue to play out.

Flawed characters are the absolute best in my mind. Our main character, Alexa, is the perfect example of this. She's so unsure of herself and you can see how her parents really did a number on her. Being able to watch the progression of personal growth is one of my favorite things to experience while reading. Sometimes they flounder and sometimes they succeed, you just never know what will happen but the ride you're taken on while the characters go through these changes isn't something that you'll soon forget. Wyatt did such an amazing job with Alexa. I adored her right from the beginning until the very last sentence. She was such a beautiful disaster.

Now on to Zack. I had this love/hate relationship with Zack from the very first Bodyguard book. And I REALLY hated him at one point. But that definitely changed with this one. He's this protective and super attentive pretend boyfriend for Alexa. The love and absolute adoration he showed Alexa was almost heart-breaking. You just root for this handsome man - hoping that somehow, things can work out with Alexa because he kind of seems absolutely perfect for her. Ugh. I could just go on and on about Zack. Dude. I can't believe how quickly I changed my tune about him.

I think the thing that really struck me with this book is how the suspense was kicked up quite a few notches from Wyatt's previous books. You can absolutely see and feel the growth that she's had as an author and oh my gosh, the villain in this book!! Perfect. I wouldn't have changed one thing about the villain.

In case you didn't guess, I am a massive fan of the series and of Wyatt. She's one of those authors that you just go out and buy their book without reading the blurb or anything because you know you're in for an amazing ride. Make sure you read the series from the beginning because you'll find a new favorite.

* I received this novel in exchange for an honest review *

Check out more of my reviews at Little Miss Bookmark!
Profile Image for Catherine (The Sassy Bookster).
719 reviews63 followers
March 9, 2017
I have enjoyed every book in this series but I think this is the most intense one yet. CHAIN REACTION is filled with suspense, easy chemistry and passion between the main characters and got a very strong reaction from me because of who the villains were.

Alexa Fairfax seems to have it all. She's Hollywood royalty and grew up with the very best that money can buy, but all that money can't buy her happiness. Getting her own place away from her parents was her first stab at independence and life that does not include being a pawn in her parents' quest for more of everything. Stumbling into a life and death conspiracy only confirms that getting out was a really good idea, but it also highlights her need for personal security and she knows just the right people to help with that.

Zack De Luca has always had a thing for Alexa but the timing between them was never right. Now she's in danger, he won't trust her safety to anyone else, even if it throws a wrench into his own future. Besides, playing boyfriend will give him a taste of what he's always wanted but never thought he could get.

Zack and Alexa have always had feelings for each other and the circumstances and close proximity made hard for them to avoid the sizzling chemistry between them or their feelings for each other. In spite of all that she had been through and growing up as she had, Alexa was a genuinely sweet, kind and easygoing person. Zack was a perfect fit for the work of a bodyguard, but with Alexa he was whole more - very protective and possessive.

I really enjoyed the friendships among the entire crew and how unreservedly supportive of Alexa the group was. They gave her a sense of belonging that she had always lacked with her own family.

This was some really great suspense from Ms. Wyatt and to be honest, it gave me a pause for a minute. The pursuit for power and money really sank to the lowest level, everything was expendable in the quest for more and nothing was off-limits.

This story combines a sweet friendship and passionate romance with deadly intrigue and suspense and I really can't wait for more from Ms. Wyatt.

Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely mine.

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Profile Image for Book Him Danno.
2,399 reviews78 followers
February 10, 2017
3 1\2 Stars out of 5

I read the first book in the series and while it was interesting I found the story lacking.
I love the backstory of Hollywood Mob family and how it came to power. I enjoyed that Tara Wyatt connect her books together with a string you can follow and see how it all connect together.
Reader will not get lost she creates enough backstory that it keeps the story flowing at a good place. Chain Reaction can be read as a stand alone.
If someone called me sweet as many times Zack called Alexa Fairfax I would punch him. I get it she is too good to be true specially considering the world she was raised in. Come on how many times in a book do we need to be reminded she is too sweet, too good and too nice.
This book has suspense but most of it is predictable but the author keeps the reader reading with her ability to pull at the readers desire to see Zack and Alexa together. I will admit what gave this a 1\2 star more than the first book is that Zack seem to knew what he wanted but couldn't figure out how to get it. They did a quite friendship and straight to romance with the cliche Boyfriend who is a bodyguard but it worked well enough for the story.

I have hard time that this one friend had so many amazingly hot girlfriends who are all falling in love with the body guards. Its a little much for me.

Thank you to the publisher, Netgalley and the author for the advance copy.
Profile Image for Dísir.
1,734 reviews187 followers
March 28, 2017
It’s my first read by Tara Wyatt and I’ve going to sheepishly admit that the whole bodyguard gig thing is one of my guiltiest not-quite-secrets. ‘Chain Reaction’ is a sweeter read than I expected and from the onset, I’m going to say it isn’t a bad read. More focused on the romance than suspense, it’s got so much of the sheen of the famous Bodyguard movie, but there aren’t any complaints from me here.

My mixed feelings probably stem from the characterisation which felt at times, a bit clichéd for this genre, especially in the beginning chapters.

Alexa’s evil parents are just that: evil, manipulative and hell-bent on Hollywood domination with some kind of mafia backing, while the sweet, innocent daughter is made to follow in the family’s supposed thespian interests. I expected a more kickass heroine, but got one who puts herself down too much, is considered way ‘too sweet’, good and naive for these bad things to happen to her. That she doesn’t like sex—because of the abuse she’s suffered in the past—until Zack shows her what it really means simply made her out to be too much of a stereotype rather than a multifaceted character. Admittedly, it’s easy to empathise with her insecurities but too many shades of the fanfic Mary-sue simply loom large in Alexa Fairfax, whose ‘stronger’, sensual side needed to be coaxed out by Zack. He in turn, is protective but feels he’s way out of her league as he nurses that growing crush he has on her. The denial is mutual, but when Zack becomes Alexa’s pretend boyfriend, the chemistry explodes…well, at least after several deliberate cock-blocking scenes.

There isn’t any wavering on both sides however; Alexa/Zack remain fully committed to each other when they both finally give into their feelings and it’s a refreshing change from the usual pushing-away technique that a main character does to the other in too many books. I liked that no one had to do grand grovelling gestures or affect a huge lifestyle change in sacrifice, but that both their paths took different turns together somehow. The action and the climax are predictable (it’s pretty much how I think a Hollywood-produced romantic suspense movie would play out), but the HEA is solid and guaranteed, reinforced with tears, cheese and a proposal.
Profile Image for Michelle .
2,128 reviews304 followers
February 28, 2017
**You can see this full review and more at Book Briefs: https://bookbriefs.net**

My Thoughts

Chain Reaction is the third book in the adult romantic suspense, Bodyguard series by Tara Wyatt. I have not read either of the first two books in the series, however; I have a thing for bodyguard stories, so when I saw Chain Reaction float into my email, I couldn't pass it up. The books can be read as standalones, and I had no problem picking up with this installment. The plot sounds yummy, and it totally was! I really enjoyed this steamy bodyguard tale. There is lots of bickering, plenty of action and a sexy romance. Yes, please.

Chain Reaction is Alexa and Zack's story. This book has so many things going for it. First, a bodyguard. Second, an undercover bodyguard and third a fake turned real romance. Bodyguards and fake romances, I am all over this book. It was such a fun read. However; with as many fun and sexy elements as this book had, the actual plotline of the story was also pretty creepy. The suspense part of the story certainly kept me on the edge of my seat and more than a little creeped out. Tara Wyatt hit the atmospheric writing out of the ball park. This is the first book I have has the pleasure of reading by her and I was super impressed. The suspense and the romance were on pretty equal footing, which is tough to do. And even tougher to do so well.

Bottom line: If you like romantic suspense read, the Bodyguard series is going to be a great one for you. whether you start with Chain Reaction, or start with book 1, you can't go wrong. I fyou like your romances to be on equal footing with the suspense plotline, you will love Tara's writing. Plus, who can say no to a hot bodyguard?

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THE BODYGUARD SERIES

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Profile Image for Adria's Musings.
843 reviews41 followers
April 8, 2017
Originally posted on Adria's Romance Reviews
* A copy of this book was and provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review. All conclusions are my own responsibility and I was not compensated for this review.

What’s it About? Actress Alexa Fairfax grew up in what outsiders would consider the perfect family with legendary parents but to her it was a nightmare and when she overhears a conversation at her parents’ home she goes to the only person she knows she can trust: Zack DeLuca. Zack has always had a thing for Alexa but he’s trying to put his MMA career first but when her life is threatened and she asks for his help Zack doesn’t hesitate to say no. He pretends to be her boyfriend in order to keep her safe and all sorts of sexy goodness starts to happen.





Overall reaction to the story? I’ve read Tara Wyatt before and I really enjoy her stories. But Chain Reaction was just “okay” in my opinion. The plot was strong and interesting, bringing a bit of Old Hollywood scandal into the modern era. There was no end to the suspense and action which is what I enjoy. However, to me Alexa was just too innocent and “cute” for my tastes and definitely gave off the helpless damsel vibe which I’m not a fan of. That was the major issue for me and it did make an impact on how I viewed the story.


Describe the hero in five words: Committed. Brave. Compassionate. Stubborn. Irresistible.

Did you like him? Yes.

Why? Zack was a different kind of alpha male. The kind, considerate alpha. He had a way with Alexa that was equal parts sexy and sweet. I loved his empathy for Alexa and how gentle he was without being patronizing. He respected Alexa as a person but at the same time he could see how much strain she was under so he stepped in to help her in some of the simplest ways but all those little moments added up to make Zack totally irresistible and lovable. Make no mistake though, he wasn’t a pushover. He was deadly and had the training to prove it.



Describe the heroine in five words: Kind. Innocent. Shy.

Did you like her? Sort of.

Why? Alexa grew up kind of sheltered and isolated from the real world which contributed to her shy, quiet personality but even with the parents she had, Alexa still managed to come out kind and considerate of others. For the most part she was smart about her situation and let the more experienced characters guide her through her life threatening ordeal so that wasn’t the problem. My hangup when it came to Alexa was that she was a little too sweet and innocent for my tastes and for a romantic suspense. I wanted to see her become a harder, tougher version of herself, maybe even learn how to defend herself in case she had to. To me she came off as a sweet, poofy kitten, you know, those ones who are really pretty to look at but for the most part can’t hurt a fly?



How convincing were the main characters as a couple? There was a pretty fierce attraction between Zack and Alexa from the very beginning and there was a pretty great push and pull between them but Alexa’s innocent personality, sweetness and the fact that Zack described her as “cute,” (Which to me is a word used to describe friends, a pet, or a kid) put a damper on that adult chemistry. Sometimes I felt like Zack was guarding a kid instead of a grown woman just by the way he spoke to her and how defenseless she seemed. I think Alexa needed to grow up more, gain some more life experience. She wasn’t a bad character just underdeveloped to me.


Click It or Skip It? Overall, Chain Reaction wasn’t a bad read. I expected much more from the heroine though and that did bring down my enjoyment of the story. However, Tara Wyatt is a talented author who shouldn’t be missed. I would recommend Primal Instinct to new readers.


Profile Image for books are love.
3,153 reviews24 followers
February 28, 2017
First love how Zack was the one Alexa first felt safe and comfortable telling what happened to. It shows that they had a connection and that she trusted him. I also love how Zack felt a need to protect her and keep her safe from the moment she walked in the door. He could tell her emotions and wanted to ease her sadness and fear. He didn’t push her or try to tell her what to do only sooth her.
These two are so adorable together. The chemistry wowza. They fought their attraction due to so many reasons. For Alexa she didn’t think Zack would like someone like her and also he dated her best friend and didn’t want to cross a line. But she couldn’t deny her feelings and how he made her feel safe and loved. How he treated her with respect, honesty and as an equal. How he showed her love and gave her comfort and a safe place. Zack because he was her bodyguard but also because he felt Alexa deserved better. As they got to know one another attraction and desire overrode the fears they had. As they got closer we get to see how protective, loyal and loving Zack is. How fierce he protects those he loves. With Alexa we see her shine and gain strength. She begins to get comfortable with who she is and stand up for herself and those her father wronged. She became a force to reckon with.
Watching them unravel their love and all her father did was fun and heartbreaking. The depths of how bad her dad was is a hard pill to swallow especially with some of the things he did to Alexa so so sad a parent is that way. The fight of Zack’s I felt fear for him. Tara Wyatt wrote it like you were there and feeling the energy from the room. And afterwards when Zack sacrificed for Alexa I felt the love those two had for each other. I was glad that we see such a tender, suspenseful and action packed story for Zack and Alexa.
Their story is written so you feel the energy and emotions of the moments. You feel the love and protectiveness of Zack. You feel the fear from Alexa and see her gain strength and courage. The love between these two is sweet and heartwarming. This is the wonderfully written, action packed, sexy at times story of how Zack and Alexa fall in love and all they went through to be together. How they fought for one another and how Alexa gained strength and love. How their love got them through some dark and dangerous time and how it brought them to some amazing times as well in the end.  
Profile Image for Misty (Reds Romance Reviews).
3,402 reviews6 followers
February 28, 2017
Zack DeLuca is stuck between a rock and a hard place, he wants to protect Alexa from the danger that is looming in her life, but being that close to her day in and out is a temptation he is certain he won't be able to fight for long. He has harbored a bone deep crush for a while now, but his history with relationships has always kept him from making a move, full well knowing it wouldn't end well for either of them. But with her life in danger, and her safety at risk, there is no way he can walk away now...

Alexa Fairchild has been surrounded by the glitz and glamour of Hollywood all her life, and while some would think that it was a wonderful life to live, she couldn't disagree more. She has never really wanted to be a leading lady on the big screen, but from an early age it was made known that she didn't have a choice in the matter, she was expected to follow in her parents footsteps come hell or high water. She has always known that her father is a man who gets what he wants, no matter the cost, but after overhearing some details of one of his shady business deals she finds herself in a little danger of her own. Now with a price tag hanging over her head, and danger lurking around every corner, she is forced to put her personal safety in her friend Zack's hands... and oh my what fine hands they are!

The moment I started this one it grabbed a hold of my attention and had me dying to know more, with every page I swiped the more I craved to see how it would all end... and oh my what a satisfying ending it was! The instant Zack and Alexa lives started to intertwine, the sparks started to fly, and it became pretty evident these two were meant for one another, no matter how hard Zack tried to fight it! Their story was packed with edge of your seat intensity, finger searing love scenes that nearly melted my tablet screen, and brimming with heartfelt romance... which made for on hell of a literary escape! Definitely one the best reads that I have settled down so far this year, it was the perfect blend of suspense and romance and I loved every minute of it!! Highly recommend this one, Zack will totally steal your heart, and leave you wishing for a bodyguard of your very own!!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this title.
Profile Image for Alex (HEABookNerd).
2,438 reviews
May 22, 2023
The fake couple is probably my favorite romance trope so I really enjoyed watching Alexa and Zack go from pretending to real love. I liked that they were friends to begin with so that really increased the success of pretending to be a couple. Of course, it felt all too real for both of them since they had feelings involved. They moved from pretending to real pretty fast but it was still an interesting set up. I do wish that the Alex-Zack-Taylor dynamic of Zack being Taylor’s ex wasn't included. I personally just get ewww about two friends sleeping with the same guy.

Zack was a great hero, always protective and strong for Alexa. I thought his side story of training to be a MMA fighter was very interesting, and though I'm not a fan of the sport, I enjoyed how Tara Wyatt incorporated it into the story. Once Zack realized he had a chance with Alexa he went all in and I loved how dedicated he was to her, even at the risk of his MMA career.

One of the things that bothers me is that Alexa never really acknowledges that her father forcing her to sleep with other men was rape. She gets that she was forced and she understands her father is a criminal but she never seems to recognize that this was a crime. She even says at one point that her father hurt her, but it wasn't anything illegal.

**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**

Content Warning: Alexa's father made her sleep with his business associates
Profile Image for Lisa Richards.
298 reviews105 followers
March 1, 2017

I love romantic suspense and though I haven't read the earlier books in this series, I had no problem keeping up. This was a fun read and mixing in suspense with romance really upped the ante. I'm not overly fond of books told from multiple POVs as I find this jars me out of my reading bubble but managed to adjust.
I love the Fake Couple Trope, it's probably my favorite plot device that authors use in a romance novel. It was a lot of fun watching Zack and Alexa's romance develop for real. The chemistry between these two was explosive. Now to go back and read the earlier books in this series.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley
2,710 reviews5 followers
March 23, 2017
Zach and Alexa were fun to read, dynamic characters, and hot, hot, hot!
Profile Image for Romancing the Book.
4,420 reviews221 followers
October 12, 2019
Reviewed by Lori
Book provided by NetGalley

This is the third book in the Bodyguard series, and reading the other books is not necessary to understand the plot of the book. I read her first book in this series, which I loved and I loved this one as well.

Contemporary romance is a genre I love because it’s set in the here and now, the author uses frames of reference that most women will understand, the clothes and slang the characters use are something we can all relate to. It’s fun to get swept away in a fantasy that is close to real life, and play pretend. If the author throws a bunch of action into the mix, a hot bodyguard, some guns and explosives, and I’m a goner; which is exactly what happened to me with this book.

Both of the main characters really spoke to me and touched my heart as they both had their weaknesses and strength that I could identify with.  Alexa had so much inner strength that she didn’t even know she possessed, which helped her get through a difficult childhood. She’s been beaten down throughout most of her life and has learned to hide in the shadows. She’s just starting to understand herself, what she wants out of life, and what she wants to do with her life.  Zack has a ton of inner strength, as well as physical and knows how to use each to his advantage. He knows who he is, what he wants out of life and is going for it.  They both have their own insecurities which they learn how to deal with individually as well as a couple. They both learn and grow and it’s awesome to see their relationship blossom throughout this book.

The secondary characters were superb. Ms. Wyatt nailed the selfish personalities of Alexa’s poor excuse of her mother and father and I felt no pity for neither one of them. They were both actually scary to be honest.

Give Tara Wyatt’s Facebook and Amazon page a like, and check out her books. I think the readers out there will really enjoy her work.
Profile Image for Kate Anders.
Author 2 books24 followers
March 8, 2017
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So this is book 3 in the series, and I haven't read the first two, or any other book written by Tara before, but I have to say I enjoyed this book. I have really been in the mood for some suspense in my romance lately, and this book definitely brings the suspense. It also brings with it a pretty hefty dose of family drama and angst.

I figured out pretty quickly that this series seems to revolve around a group of friends, and the guys all seem to work for one guys security company, so basically the dudes are hot, muscley, bodyguards (woot woot, sign me up). So Alexa and Zach obviously know each other before this book beginnings. And when we meet Alexa, man, let's just say I am more than happy that I don't have to sit through family dinners like that. It would be bad enough dealing with controlling parents who put her down, but it turns out they are really, really bad parents and people. Alexa overhears something at dinner and when Zach sees her he knows something is up.

So I really liked that Alexa didn't try to handle things on her own. She tells her friends and the people she loves right away. And when she realizes that she has knowledge that could help keep people safe, she steps up, and I like that. She definitely gave me kind of a nervous vibe throughout the book, even when the scenes weren't necessarily about the suspense plot line, she seems like a worrier to me. But she's sweet, and easily likable, and honestly the more I found out about her life with her family, the more I wanted her to have a happy ending with Zach.

Zach is pretty likable too. He's a good guy, he takes his job seriously, but he has bigger dreams then just to be a bodyguard, he wanted to be an MMA fighter in the big leagues. So he trains hard, a lot, which costs a lot of money, so basically he has no life. But Alexa is a big time temptation for him to want more then just eat, sleep, work, train, repeat. It's very clear he has feelings for Alexa before the book even picks up. These two are just easy to like together, plus they really have some great hot and heavy moments too.

I liked the suspense in this book. I liked that the bad guy was Alexa's dad, because it made things all the more complicated. I also liked that I knew right up front that he was the bad guy, which normally would ruin some of the suspense, but in this case I was always trying to figure out what his next move was going to be, and how it was all going to unfold. If you like suspenseful romances books, then this might just be the one you are looking for.

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Profile Image for ✰  BJ's Book Blog ✰Janeane ✰.
3,028 reviews12 followers
February 28, 2017
*Cue Whitney Houston singing "I Will Always Love You" as this MMA-fighter-slash-bodyguards meets Hollywood royalty in this 3rd installment of The Bodyguard Series.

Though this is the 3rd in the Bodyguard series, each can be read as stand alones, and there is enough back information that you won't get lost if you jump in now.

Alexa and Zack's story is a fast paced and adrenaline packed one. The Hollywood mob, MMA fighters, twists and intrigues. So much happening all the time.

I loved the pull between our lovelies, you can't help but want them to get together, stuff the consequences.

One thing though - the "you're so sweet" comment from Zack to Alexa every 5 minutes was a bit much. We got it. Despite everything she is going through and her upbringing, she was sweet - but this might just irk me.

Zack is a great hero. Yes he is protective, but I liked that he wasn't too OTT with is. Sometimes those alpha tendancies can be a too much, but I didn't feel that with him.

Alexa I found it a little harder to connect with. Can't quite put my finger on what it was, so is it probably just a me thing.

I have really been enjoying this series, and now I need more (Ian's story need to be told, right away!)



Smokin Hot Book Blog Email
Profile Image for Candy Laine.
Author 7 books8 followers
May 12, 2021
Zack was first spotted in Sierra's bodyguard team rotation in the series. The hint at Alexa's crush was also planted there. In book two of the series he was the bad guy who dumped Taylor, but in this book we find out just how protective he is of little Alexa.
Profile Image for Marsha Keeper Bookshelf.
4,290 reviews88 followers
February 28, 2017
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf

Alexa has always been a pawn for her famous Hollywood royalty family. This time she’s fighting back, this time it’s going to go too far to ignore, this time people will be killed.

Zane has had a soft spot for Alexa for a while now but he’s a bodyguard, an up and coming MMA fighter and he truly believes that he’s not good enough for the beautiful woman in the constant spotlight of her talents and her family. Yet when Alexa turns to him for help and protection from a deadly plot, Zane cannot turn away. Keeping the woman he’s come to love takes top priority over everything else, and keeping her in his life is a foregone conclusion.

Chain Reaction will glue you to the pages in this fast paced romance where family is not always the loving unit we’ve come to expect… sometimes they are wickedly deadly. Two people who are attracted to each other will move from friends, a pretend couple into a true love that will defy the odds and take down a man who so richly deserves to fall from his throne. With secrets revealed, we’ll come to realize that not everything in Hollywood glitters, some actions are downright nasty in the struggle for power where the weak and innocent are the first victims.

I liked this couple, within the situation they were realistic, certainly had the sizzle and chemistry and became believable in spite of the crazy power hungry man they battled. It was enjoyable to watch Alexa grow into a strong woman, one who finally had enough and would not tolerate anymore. With threads flowing through the story from the overarching story lines of the series, we are reminded of what has gone and what may yet come in this series. Do you have to have read the entire series to enjoy this one… no, not really. There is enough mention and short introductions when necessary. Yet I feel you’ll enjoy this one, and the stories to come, more if you been there for the entire journey. In my opinion.

If you enjoy Romantic Suspense then you’d like Chain Reaction or any of the stories in the Bodyguard series. I’d recommend this one for any reader who enjoys a bit of suspense mixed in with their romance, a good solid story and likable characters.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Profile Image for Deanna.
3,679 reviews56 followers
March 1, 2017
Original review: A Novel Glimpse

Note: I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.

Romantic suspense is one of those tricky genres for me. I either find myself deeply involved in the storyline or completely bored with it. In the case of Chain Reaction, it was deeply involved.

Tara Wyatt's writing quickly pulled me into the story. It was fast-paced and moved the story along quickly. Nothing was too drawn out or boring. The story contained just the right amount of suspense, and was entertaining. I found myself easily connecting to the characters.

Alexa and Zach were so adorable! I loved how the author set up their back story. It turned what could have felt like insta-love into a believable romance. They way they tried to avoid a romantic relationship but couldn't was cute. And once they acted on their feelings for each other -- dang! The story took a super steamy turn. The last third of the book was over the top sexy times. I loved it!

The only slight issue I had with Chain Reaction was that it was written in third person dual points of view. This isn't my favorite style of narration, but it worked for the most part in this story. The only problem I had with it was at the beginning when Zack is introduced. His character is presented in the middle of a party and his name kind of got lost in the mix of other male characters to me. It took me a while to remember who he was. That could be related to the fact I hadn't read the previous two books in the series and had no idea who all of the other characters I was being quickly introduced to were. Had the story been told in first person, it might have been easier for me to navigate.

Overall, Chain Reaction was a great romantic suspense novel. It kept my attention the entire time, and had me invested in the characters' lives. I highly recommend it to readers who like a series with interconnected characters.
Profile Image for Mandy.
1,073 reviews93 followers
December 18, 2017
4.5 Stars
Tara Wyatt has become an auto-read author for me and this is the series that started my love affair with her writing. This is the third book in the Bodyguard Series and while it can be read alone there are some threads that have been woven through the previous books, mainly Alexa and the growing danger that her family represents. I’ve been waiting for what feels like forever for Zack and Alexa’s book and can honestly say that I was not disappointed one single bit.

I’m pretty particular when it comes to the bodyguard trope and I’ve read a fair amount of bodyguard romances. I can see how it could be a challenging trope to write because the main conflict will almost always be that protector and protectee fall in love even though it is ill advised and could compromise the safety of the protectee. With this series, I’ve never felt like it was a read one, read them all deal. I think that is because Wyatt develops the chemistry between the H/h so well, I’ve never felt like the attraction was forced or weak.

Due to Alexa being in danger thanks to her huge jerk of a father (and mother to an extent) she realizes that even though she maintains her distance from them, she is in danger, I’ll leave the why to you to find out on your own. Enter Zack and Virtus Security and there begins some forced proximity and Zack and Alexa pretend to be in a relationship. The kicker is that both have had feelings for each other for a while and this only forces them to face those feelings.

I loved every single bit of this book. Zack and Alexa had an easy chemistry and some freaking explosive passion for each other as well. We also get Zack and his MMA fighting and that was super exciting and enjoyable too!

I really, really, really hope that there is more coming in this series as there are other guys that clearly have stories that need to be told.

If you’re looking for a bodyguard romance, this series is my number one recommendation!
Profile Image for Books and Spoons.
1,612 reviews32 followers
March 6, 2017
Chain Reaction is an intense, vigorous, and ardent romantic suspense story with a mix of Hollywood drama, MMA fighting, mobsters ready to do anything to keep their secrets, and swoon-worthy romance that made me sigh.
I loved how the intensity was built in the story from several different sources, keeping it constantly on the rise. The plot is well constructed, giving the romance a chance to grow and develop in the midst of the tension and terror from the mob.
The danger and fear in the story come so close to home to the characters, it gave me the chills. The one place where you are supposed to be safe was violated, and Alexa Fairfax has lived in a constant state of alert most of her life.
Alexa was a complex character, whose life behind the closed doors and away from the limelights wasn't what you would expect. She has a heart of gold, she is kind, generous, always putting others first. She loves to help and give her time and energy to a good cause. She has a certain unexpected innocence in her, yet she is undoubtedly smart and capable, brave enough to overcome things most can't imagine facing. I loved watching her grow and flourish through the story, like dried out flower garden finally getting some rain.
Zack De Luca was a true alpha character, in charge, protective, ready to face the worst enemy if that kept his woman safe.
I adored Zack and Alexa together. The chemistry they have is amazing, their connection is palpable, and they share something rare and beautiful in between them. There's passion that is so hot it could set you on fire, yet it is mixed with a tenderness that took my breath away.
I enjoyed the story immensely, it is a great mix a vehement action and furious suspense that put you to the edge. With charming and lovable characters and delectable, adorable romance that set the heat factor high, it is surely an entertaining tale
~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Profile Image for Judy.
1,791 reviews
February 25, 2017
Holy smokes what a story!!

Alexa Fairfax's parents are both actors and lead the perfect life....so it seems on the outside. But, on the inside there's so much more going on with both of them. Alexa is tired of trying to be the perfect Hollywood child and moves out on her on. One evening she goes to her parents house for dinner and the conversations along with the lusting of her dad's friends and her mother's snide comments get to her, so she goes to her secret place just off the library that she used to escape to as a child. However, when her dad comes in with one of his associates, the things that he says have her shocked to say the least. She must get out of here now and she heads to Sean's house.

Zack De Luca works for Virtus Security as a bodyguard and also is in training for MMA for the biggest fight of his life and hopefully the beginning of his career as a fighter. He goes to his friend and boss, Sean's, house for a party. Alexa shows up pale as a ghost and he immediately knows somethings wrong and tries to help. The things Alexa tells him she overheard he knows she needs protection and now!

As Zack is guarding Alexa she opens up about her childhood and the things her parents allowed to happen to her. Zack wants nothing more than to kill her dad and hopefully will get that chance, but his main goal is to protect her. These two had no idea the danger that was about to embark on them!

This was such a great story! So much suspense and so many super hot encounters between Zack and Alexa! I loved that even though Alexa wasn't raised by kind, loving parents, she turned out so sweet. Zack was super hot and boy did I fall in love with him and his hot self along with his protectiveness! Alexa's parents, yea they were just pieces of trash!

Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha
Profile Image for Christie72 (Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews).
1,450 reviews32 followers
February 28, 2017
Great Romantic Suspense! Alexa is the daughter of Hollywood royalty. She’s beautiful and intelligent, and it appears, on the surface that her life is perfect. Underneath that façade, lie dark secrets and a life of pain not joy. When she accidentally stumbles upon a dangerous plot, her life is in danger. She turns to her friend, Zack who is an MMA fighter in training, to protect her. He agrees to be her boyfriend to protect her. They have always been attracted to each other, and now those feelings are getting harder to ignore. As their feelings grow, so do the dangers to both of their lives.

I always enjoy a romantic suspense with just the right amount of spice, romance, and thrills. Chain Reaction definitely had that! The sex was definitely HOT, but the romance between them was sweet too. Zack definitely took his job seriously protecting Alexa and making sure she never doubted his feelings for her. There were definitely a lot of twist, turns, and action.

The characters also helped make the book as good as it was too. It was told in a dual POV which I love! I like knowing what the characters are thinking and feeling. It also makes me feel more connected to the characters when I know what they are thinking. Zack was everything I love in a lead male character. Of course, he was sexy. However, his love and loyalty to those he loves is what truly made me love him. I felt so sorry for Alexa. Her family is the worst. Readers will learn that from the very first chapter. I admire the woman Alexa grew up to be despite her family. Zack and Alexa complete each other!

I have not read anything by Tara Wyatt, but I’m looking forward to reading her other books in the series. She definitely knows how to catch readers’ attention and keep them on the edge of their seats until the final page!!!!

***Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***
Profile Image for Book Lover.
552 reviews43 followers
February 19, 2017
Alexa grew up Hollywood elite. Her parents are both actors and her dad owns/runs a movie production company with lots of power. She was raised to be the perfect child, doing exactly what her parents told her to until recently. She has moved out of her parent’s home and is happy to be out of the limelight. Alexa is working on figuring out who she wants to be on her own when she over hears a conversation between her father and his right hand man she was never meant to hear, and everything changes.

Zack de Luca is a bodyguard with Virtus Security and an up and coming MMA fighter. Zack sees Alexa arrive at a mutual friend’s party and notices she is pale and shaky. They slip out to the gardens and she tells him what she heard. Naturally, Zach, who has had a thing for her for a year, jumps into protective mode. He goes undercover as her bodyguard, pretending to be her boyfriend.

Her parents are truly despicable human beings. Despite growing up as she did, Alexa managed to turn herself into a kind, caring human being. Zach’s family is a tight knit, caring group and envelops her quickly and easily into their fold.

While this is a romantic suspense, it is more romance than suspense. Zack and Alexa have great chemistry and heat. I liked watching these two figure out how to be together and get what they each wanted/needed from the other. However, him calling her “so damn sweet” over and over got old quick.

Loved the reference to “the Costner effect”!

This is the third book in the series but my first. While I am curious about the two previous books, the author did a pretty good job of filling in the blanks enough that you can read this as a standalone. I look forward to the next one.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley.
Profile Image for Leone (She Reads too Much Romance).
355 reviews17 followers
March 9, 2017
"Chain Reaction," undeniably gave me mixed emotions as I was reading the novel. It was a fun, heart-pulsing action packed book that I would not recommend for the more timid readers. In other words, if you are easily offended by explicit content that involves both sexual tensions as well as the language this story is not for you. In truth, I am not so easily offended by such uncensored material, but there were times when enough was far too much. The author, Tara Wyatt could have cut back just a little with the hero being a tough guy, I got the memo from my first introduction.

I really liked the fiery spark of pure adrenaline attraction that both Zack and Alexa shared. It wasn't just about sensual connection it was actually a love-to-the-death type of chemistry. I was excited to find this in a contemporary novel because I find that sometimes the modern era stories can lack chemistry. This story was a true exception and made this book immensely entertaining.

The romance, however, was a different story as it took a long time to just move forward from attraction to something with much more depth. I was patient, but I have to admit those same patients were really pushed to the limits as I waited for those three letter words to be revealed, thankfully the chemistry more than made up for the lack of actual romance interactions between the duo.

-This review was written by myself as part of my NOR review critique. All copyrights of this review belong to Night Owl Reviews and therefore meets the NOR copyright policy. If you enjoy this review and would like to read more I have provided a link to the full review: https://www.nightowlreviews.com/v5/Re...
Profile Image for Lynn Reynolds.
1,698 reviews39 followers
February 28, 2017
Rating: 4.5 Stars

Alexa Fairfax has given up trying to impress her mother. But her mother is a pussycat compared to her father. Zach De Luca has the same circle of friends as Alexa. He also has the expertise that she is in need of. Can a man who is all about protecting people find happiness with someone that is considered part of tinseltown royalty?

This author created the right combination that had me glued to my ereader. I just had to remember to blink. I’m all about the romance but this author gives me plenty of passion, suspense, and action. Can you imagine thinking you know your family only to learn it’s all a lie? Ms. Wyatt has created a group of men that you would want to have around should you get into trouble. At times Alexa seems vulnerable and timid but by creating Zach and his friends, she is willing to fight for her survival. And also willing to take a chance on a relationship.

This was the first book in the Bodyguard series that I have read. At no time did I feel that I needed to read the first two books in order to understand anything that was going on here. But with how the author had me transfixed with Alexa and Zach’s story, I feel the need to know more about their friends. One thing that caught my attention was how both Alexa and Zach seemed to have a light bulb moment but found it interesting the moment that light bulb went on. The ending left me happy and with a smile on my face. It certainly gives hope to those that feel opposites attract.

I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
1,330 reviews10 followers
March 13, 2017
Oh my freaking god. What a book. This is the first book by Tara
Wyatt. And the first in the series I have read. But now I have to go
read the rest. The book is so masterfully written. And it had me
hooked, reading on to see what happened next. Causing me to read,
till I finished this book in the wee hours of the morning.

This story is about Alexa and Zach. They met a year ago but were
dating other people. Neither believing they deserved the other. I felt
so bad for Alexa. Her family may have wealth but they sure as hell
did not know what love was. The things he had done had me
wanting to kill her father myself. Thank god for Zach now that he
is no longer dating Alexa's friend he is free to be with her but now
as he is assigned as her bodyguard she is now off limits. But this
playing at being her boyfriend may actually work out for them.
He is also training for a big fight as a MMA fighter. When all of
a sudden his opponent is changed they know something is up.
Even though they are not sure what is going on. When they are
confronted by this evil after her, they now they just have to keep
each other alive and then they can focus on other things. But man
that ending had me in sad and happy tears so be prepared.

Now before I ruin this for you I will leave off here. I hope
you enjoy this book as much as I did. If you do like this
book, please consider leaving a review. The Authors really like
it when you do; they value your opinions too.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
927 reviews24 followers
February 28, 2017
To look at Alexa Fairfax you would think she had it all, fame, fortune and beauty but the reality is she is being held hostage by her life. Bodyguard and rising MMA star Zack De Luca has his eye on the prize even though the real prize he longs for is out of his league, Alexa. As ugly secrets and dark conspiracies threaten the well being of Alexa when she seeks shelter in Zack's arms she finds that they offer more than a safe haven but a place to invest her heart.

Chain reaction was full of suspense and story pieces coming together rapidly. Alexa and Zack's self restraint while dealing with an omnipresent sexual tension kept the pages of this work steamy. Even as Ms. Wyatt's leads were surrounded by corruption and sordid circumstances their attraction maintained a true and pure quality to it that did not get derailed but rather intensified when challenged. This author does a great job at creating custom pairings that fit perfectly. Accomplished storytelling and savvy writing make Chain Reaction a book that will have you wishing for a bodyguard all your own a la Tara Wyatt!

*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own.*
*While part of a series this work can be read as a stand alone.*
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