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For beautiful, pampered Lauren Grant, the idea of love without strings is a fairy tale and a trap. Though she’s skillfully maintained her image as the carefree celebutante, for years she’s been systematically stalked by the richest—and most ruthless—golden boy of the Jet Set. To stay one step ahead, she’s used every resource at her disposal. But now, stuck in Garronia with the whole world watching, she’s finally cornered by her nemesis, with no way out.

Well, no way out but one: the stubborn, forceful, impossibly gorgeous captain of the Garronia National Security Force, Dimitri Korba. The first man she’s ever trusted… which makes him the most dangerous man of all.

Dimitri Korba’s greatest duty is to keep those in his care safe. Since losing his closest friend, he's vowed that he will not fail another. Not even the haughty, foolhardy American blonde whom he can’t get out of his mind. And once Dimitri glimpses the terror Lauren hides behind her icily perfect façade, protecting her becomes his only goal.

Dimitri has no idea how far his commitment will take him, however, nor how powerful his need for Lauren will flare when she’s not only in his care, but in his arms. With each stolen moment, the danger around them intensifies, burning away every doubt…until all that remains is their fierce, unexpected passion. But will that be enough to save them?

274 pages, ebook

First published January 19, 2016

720 people are currently reading
798 people want to read

About the author

Jennifer Chance

32 books484 followers
Jennifer Chance is the award-winning author of contemporary magical romance and romantic fantasy. Her series include the Boston Magic Academies (written as DD Chance), the Gatekeepers of the Gods series (an update of her Gowns & Crowns series) and the contemporary (non-magical) RuleBreakers Series. A lover of books, romance, and happily-ever-afters, she lives and writes in Ohio. You can find her online at www.JenniferChance.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authorJenniferChance.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
Profile Image for Somia.
2,071 reviews171 followers
Want to read
October 24, 2019
Freebie on amazon 24th October 2019
Profile Image for Kristin.
1,036 reviews109 followers
January 22, 2016
 

Well, I wasn't expecting that!

The first book in Jennifer Chance's Gowns & Crowns series was all about the Prince finding his Princess and all that fairytale romance mushy stuff, with a bit of intrigue added in.  Well holy smokes did Ms. Chance ramp up the intrigue.  She added in a whole lot of suspense to this second book in the series.  It was almost as if Intrigue walked up to Romance and asked it to dance.

And it's a slow, sultry dance in a small pub on a small island in the Aegean Sea.

If only Lauren could have that carefree life.  She's been groomed since birth to be front and center in the limelight to represent her family and all their billions of dollars.  Unfortunately, someone from her past is coming to collect her to be his trophy wife - someone who apparently has the blessing of her parents.  Lauren is afraid of this guy but is doubly afraid of what the guy might do to her sister if Lauren doesn't play his games.

For Lauren's safety (and the Crown's reputation), Dimitri Korba, the captain of the Garronia National Security Force, is assigned to shadow Lauren to the Prince's engagement party.  Even though Lauren and Dimitri don't seem to get along, there is definitely some sort of opposites attract chemistry happening between them.

Besides this series continuing to be on the hotter side of the romance scale, Ms. Chance writes romances that start off as impossibilities and writes them to their possible happily ever afters.  Oh, each book has a definite HEA, but there's an overall ARC to the series that is kind of obvious and if it plays out, it will change everything and give EVERYONE their final HEA....  err, I hope?

An interesting thing to note is that this second book picks right up after the first book.  So we are talking only a matter of 2 weeks plus 3 days for the entire time frame of both books so far.  Just an interesting piece of trivia...

Even though Emmaline (from the first book) and Fran were only "mentions" in this book, most all the other characters were back.  One of my favorites, the Queen, was in especially rare form ;)  She is an adorable force to reckon with.  But more than anything, I enjoyed getting set up for the next book which will be Claimed in June 2016.  I can't freakin' wait for Nicki to get Stefan-the-spy's stick out of his butt.

On that classy note I'll just stop right there... I had such high hopes for this review :|



 Review appears on Addicted to Happily Ever After
Profile Image for Char Sowers.
674 reviews20 followers
January 21, 2016
The Crowns and Gowns series is entirely Enchanting! "Captured", the second novel in the series, is a thrilling Love-on-the-Run, Protector-Protected, and Love-Hate Romance. The Hero and Heroine have chemistry ricocheting off every surface and their heat level is magma, bubbling just below the surface. In this novel Jennifer Chance ratchets up the action by adding, not only, overly involved meddling parents, but a dangerous villain into the mix. The Heroine, Lauren Grant, is the strong-willed, caustic "celebutante" who initiated the European vacation that brought her, Emmaline, Nicki, and Fran to the small country of Garronia. Her reckless independence and scathing remarks rankle the stubborn and dedicated Captain of the Garronian Military, Dimitri Korba. He, unfortunately, is often the one who must wrangle her back to the safety of the Castle. In the first book of the series we got a really good sense of the magnetism and captivation that Dimitri and Lauren have for each other. Though they are so very loathe to admit it. So in "Captured", their relationship has already been primed, so they leap into the story amped with considerable Sexual Tension. They do a lot of growing up and trusting the other. But just not trusting each other completely with their hearts. The Queen - as usual is the consummate matchmaker with the best "get your head out of your ass" line in the book. Nicki comes out of nowhere as the break-out secondary character, and she is AWESOME! Stefan is the other one to watch. The cast of characters is very tight in this novel, the action is thrilling, the sex is steamy, and the romance is complex yet languid - tense but also laid back. Dimitri and Lauren have a really intriguing relationship.
Jennifer Chance weaves another grand Crowns and Gowns story! But "Captured" is fraught with danger, hope, fear, doubt, and romance. The setting is different and very important as a catalyst to the rest of the series. "Captured" is definitely a lynchpin to the entire series, it starts up the "long game set-up", not only of the next couple "on deck" but of the building blocks to the story as a whole. and you can see "the forest through the trees". Lauren shows so much dimension - her strength, her vulnerability, self-doubt, and craving of an independent future. Dimitri is already strong but grows to appreciate Lauren's strength, appreciate his ability to offer himself as her safe place, and be someone that can let her be free. The characters are fabulous. The story is thrilling and dynamic. And the romance has oodles of chemistry and sexual tension!
To read the entire review please visit: http://bit.ly/1T75XqV

This novel was provided by the Publisher for an honest review.
Profile Image for LadyTechie.
784 reviews52 followers
January 22, 2016
Captured is Lauren's story in the Gowns & Crowns series. I have to admit I loved Emmaline's story and was really looking forward to seeing what was next in this series. The group of friends meet Prince Kristos and his fellow military friends in the first story. In this story the ladies are still on the island because of the huge media storm that started in the Courted so this is a direct continuation of the story but from a different perspective. I received an early release copy of Captured in exchange for review. I have to admit that Lauren was the one I liked the least of the friends. The ladies have very diverse backgrounds and personalities.

Lauren is the wealthy friend who has been having a problem for many years but it appears to be coming to a head in Captured. She is being stalked by a very wealthy man. She has stayed on the move and out of his reach for quite some time. With Lauren and her friends being "sequestered" on Garronia her stalker has her cornered. Dimitri is captain of the security force of Garronia and he has taken on the role that Kristos previously had before his role in the royal family changed. Dimitri and Lauren appear to severely dislike each other. They snipe constantly but, Dimitri is thrown into keeping Lauren safe, sometimes from herself. They both recognize that there is a physical attraction but it is something they keep internalized. Though Dimitri wants to stay as far away from Lauren as possible the dangerous situation she faces throws Dimitri into the danger to keep her from a man who wants to control her physically, mentally and financially.

Captured is a great addition to the Gowns & Crowns series. Though I started out the read gritting my teeth every time Lauren said something rude or disrespectful towards the end of the book I did feel for her situation, especially her relationship with her parents. But, seeing how the story was resolved for not only Lauren's fight against her stalker but also her tenuous relationship with her parents, I did begin to cheer for her and want her to be safe and accept the love and help that her friends, both old and new, offered her both emotionally and physically. Review can also be seen at http://LadyTechiesBookMusings.blogspo....
Profile Image for Paula  Phillips.
5,684 reviews342 followers
April 20, 2020
I enjoyed Emmaline's story about how she ended up with the prince. Book #2 features her friend Lauren - the American Princess. I have to admit I had high hopes as I enjoyed the first book, but I just couldn't connect with the main characters as Lauren is spoiled and guarded, which I could see why as we learn later in the book but she just frustrated me as it's like freaking hell, Lauren it's alright to show some love and compassion and stop being a snobby cow. Then we have Dmitri the bodyguard as our male lead and I wanted to whack him around the head and say wake up, look she cares about you and you like her so stop being a jerk and accept the reality in front of you instead of thinking that you are more important to be a bodyguard as he kept freaking exerting his Army rank. It was like nobody cares, just do what you are told. While stuck on the island and getting prepared for Emmaline's upcoming nuptials to Prince Kristoff, the royal family is having a ball and coming is Lauren's parents and Henry Smithison. Henry is a pervert and reminded me of a Mr. Elton type character - I wanted to strangle him. Henry is a good friend of Lauren's family and when she was little, he played the role of a dutiful Uncle but once she turned 18 - he wanted to marry her and started sending her gifts to keep her under his thumb. He is a sadistic alpha who wants what's his and that's Lauren. The thing is though that Lauren doesn't want to marry Henry and wishes she could finally be free. With Lauren and Henry now on the same small island, Dmitri will do anything he can do to save Lauren from Henry's clutches and along the way their mutual frenemy hate for one another will start to fade and in its place will be fiery passion and chemistry. However, will the American Princess be able to live happily with the Bodyguard from Garronia or will she be the dutiful daughter in the end and be thrust into an arranged marriage she never wanted with Henry? Find out in Book #2 Captured by Jennifer Chance.
417 reviews3 followers
May 29, 2024
I loved this one as much as the first book! This one is about Lauren and Dimitri story! I honestly loved their story. It was action pack, full of love story, and sadness. You learn so much more about Lauren when you read this book. It's sad what she went through and how she decided to handle everything. But you do get more of the story about Ari and some hope. I honestly can't wait for the third one because you got a small snippet of it but this story is so good and I'm going to be reading the next two!
Profile Image for Jennifer.
1,018 reviews
June 23, 2017
Awesome

Jennifer Chance is a great writer. I think I liked book two better than one. Great characters, H/h, villain and supporting.
A little danger and mystery too. And of course passion and love.
Profile Image for Coral.
776 reviews31 followers
September 19, 2018
Plot: 3.5/5
Characterisation: 4/5
Prose: 3/5
How much I enjoyed it: 4/5
Profile Image for Amanda Siegrist.
Author 64 books746 followers
January 21, 2019
Great story

This story was easy to get sucked into! I enjoyed both Lauren and Dimitri! They definitely had the sparks. But it was frustrating how Lauren kept her secrets so long, or so I thought. I was expecting more to be revealed at the end the way hints kept dropping, but there really wasn’t. So I guess you could say I was a bit confused, but regardless, I enjoyed this story and I can’t wait to read Nicki’s story!
Profile Image for 2kasmom.
1,448 reviews52 followers
January 22, 2016
This is book # 2 in the Gowns & Crowns series. This book can be read as a standalone. After reading the books in the series I am of the mindset that it should be read as the author intended. The reader can find more joy and understanding by reading the books in order.

Lauren has come to Garronia, with her best friends while on holiday. While there, one of her friends falls in love with the Prince. This makes all of them fall into the spotlight. The news for Lauren, is not good.

Dimitri is the head of security for the country the girls are currently visiting. They run into one another often, since he is most trusted. With all that is going on, can they fight the attraction? After a possible tragedy begins to occur, Dimitri uses a plan to protect Lauren.

This story has fairy tale magic all its own. After reading the first book in the series, I was not sure how the author could keep it going - but she has. This book is every bit as good as the last. I am super excited to see where she takes us next!


***This ARC copy was given in exchange for an honest review.
123 reviews
May 21, 2024
Captured is the second book in the Gatekeepers of the Gods series and it tells Lauren’s story. We met Lauren in Courted, the first book in the series, and while this book can be read as a standalone, the first book is just as good, so I recommend reading it too. Lauren appears to be the perfect socialite, but is hiding a secret. Her life may look perfect on the outside, but in reality, she’s living in fear being stalked by someone who enjoys playing mind games. Dimitri is captain of the Ouros national security force, but he’s been tasked with keeping Lauren safe. When he’s forced to rescue her from her stalker their forced proximity sends sparks flying!

I really enjoyed this book, it was interesting seeing Lauren put on her socialite face when she felt it was necessary to keep up appearances. Dimitri was awesome and the perfect person to break through Lauren’s outer façade. I also liked that we learned more about what happened when Ari disappeared, which I think will continue to be part of the overall series arc. The supporting characters are great as well, and I loved getting to see more of Queen Catherine, especially when she bosses around all the tough military men in her life. This story sets up the next book perfectly and I’m very glad that it will be released soon. Both books so far have been great stories and they just made me feel happy after reading them. I highly recommend this series!
Profile Image for Judi.
298 reviews6 followers
May 27, 2024
Surprised as I was that I'd actually enjoy lighthearted HEA books, I wasn't surprised that it was one of Jenn's. I have loved her writing since the first book of her's that I read. And this was no different.

Watching Lauren and Dmitri tangle, fighting every step of the way to avoid a romantic entanglement was a gas. The fact that it became a dangerous adventure only ramped up the excitement.

Lauren suffered from bad ex-boyfriend syndrome. Dmitri suffered from heroic boyfriend syndrome. Between the two, things got dicey. But, isn't that what makes life interesting? Well, maybe interesting isn't the right word. Harrowing? Yeah, that's better.

So much was packed into their story, so much excitement, romance, laughter, and love, that I was thoroughly taken aback. I never expected to enjoy this type of book. HEA books give me hives. Yet, this series has me completely captivated. That can only be attributed to Jennifer Chance's (and we all know who that is!) writing abilities. No other author has been able to get me to enjoy reading HEA books. Or, I should say, light-hearted, fun, yet mushy HEA books.

I have nothing but kudos for Jenn. She did the impossible, and I can't say enough good about this series. You'll need to read it for yourself.

So incredibly well done, Jenn! You have my reader's heart forever!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Stephenee.
1,892 reviews47 followers
April 20, 2020
This is my newest favorite series! I love the characters, the land of Garronia and the hot men that they produce!! This book is book 2 in the series, but could technically be read as a stand alone (although you won't want to miss any of them).

This book centers on the captain of the military (Dimitri) and Lauren Grant (an American on vacation). Lauren is in trouble and only one person can help! Dimitri is the head of the military in Garronia, and seems like he is the one who can save Lauren in more ways than one...will they succumb to their desires? Will Lauren have to marry Henry? Will she finally be safe?

This book takes the reader on a roller coaster ride of emotions as well as a looping, curving, twisting, turning ride that has surprises at every turn of the page! The reader can't help but keep reading, as there is no good stopping point! The story keeps the readers attention and never lets it go.

This is an epic addition to the series and I am ready to start reading book 3 to see what happens next to the four American tourists and their vacation...Add this one and all of the others to your TBR list - you won't be disappointed! This is a must read series!
Profile Image for Heather.
749 reviews1 follower
February 23, 2020
This is the second book in this series and as much as I liked book one, I wanted to like this one more. I had a hard time with the characters in this book. The author tried to garner sympathy and understanding, but I couldn’t buy into it.

Mainly my issues were with Lauren. She is one of Emmaline’s close friends from book one. She comes from an affluent family and has had to put up a front her whole life. She doesn’t know how not to manipulate situations and people and that bothered me. We learn more about why she is this way throughout the story, but I still couldn’t get past it.

Dimitri is likable, handsome and a good leading man. He is a member of the royal family’s army, but has been tasked with becoming Lauren’s bodyguard as a favor to them. He handles Lauren well, can read into why she is the way she is and of course falls for her.

There is some mystery, suspense, romance and a HEA. I liked to overall storyline, but just wish I could have liked the characters more. ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Beth.
2,916 reviews27 followers
March 8, 2018
Enjoyed this second book in the series. Once again the character development is a little uneven so the reader is left wondering about the motivations or actions of one of the main characters. Lauren doesn’t come through clearly enough...we don’t really get a chance to know and understand her. The same is true of Dmitri...there’s a line that says he met Ari when he was 16 but did it know he was the crown prince. Really?! How would that even be possible.

The crisis/suspense part of the story is predictable and once again we are presented with a heroine who does the stupid thing. The resolution is a little too pat and out of left field though.

But overall I still enjoyed the book and will read book three. And I have a strange suspicion where book four is going.
81 reviews
May 20, 2024
Jennifer Chance knows how to write enthralling stories with imagination and heart. Captured is Lauren and Dimitri's story, and is a far cry from the fairytale romance told in the first book of this series, Courted. Fighting his attraction for Lauren, but contually drawn into her company, Dimitri begins to realise that Lauren's pampered, shallow, socialite personality is a well practised mask, hiding who she really is and what is really happening in her life. Join the adventure as the net draws tighter around her, the challenges keep coming and secrets come to light. This is an entertaining read filled with interesting characters and part of an overarching storyline told across 4 books. Perfect for a bit of escapism.
2,983 reviews30 followers
November 6, 2019
Wow. Stalking of women is such an ignored issue in our society, mostly because it is legal! There is very little that can be done until it is too late for the woman to be safe. I appreciated that this story addressed this issue, showing that it is a real and present danger for women at all socioeconomic levels, just like domestic abuse. I particularly appreciated the contrast between the male lead, providing options and choices to the female lead where possible, and the villain.

Whilst the romance stands alone, there is enough backstory for the arc that i do not believe it will make sense if the first one has not been read.
Profile Image for Sharon.
14 reviews2 followers
May 22, 2024
I loved the story between Dimitri and Lauren.
He's my fave demi-god so far.
Yes, there is the obligatory villain, but he is not the centre of the story. Dimitri can see straight through Lauren's bravado and the act she puts on to protect herself from hurt.
The descriptions of the Island they stay on are stunning and it's somewhere on my bucket list to visit 😜😂.
I just felt that the ending of the book was quite abrupt, but I see from the authors end comments that there may be further storyline ahead.
Very enjoyable and absolutely can't wait for the next book in the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,235 reviews15 followers
June 5, 2024
Entertaining, Fantasy Romance

You would think that Lauren and Dimitri are enemies, but Lauren is hiding behind a mask. She does not want people to see the real her. In this entertaining story, we have a protective demigod and a woman who hides behind barriers. It turns out that Lauren is frightened of a stalker who does not understand the word “no.” Can Dimitri protect Lauren from a man, determined to have her at any cost? Do Dimitri and Lauren give up their animosity and take a chance on love? This story has mystery, suspense, and romance. I enjoyed it and would recommend it to those who like fantasy romances with mystery and suspense.
Profile Image for Linda Thomas.
842 reviews9 followers
July 15, 2024
Dimitri is a modern Demi god guarding his royal family from the bad Gods and their minions

Dimitri and several other Demi gods have taken on the job of guarding the old gates. They must protect the royals from incursions through the gate. His prince has fallen in love with a girl from California while she and three friends were doing their world tour. The King has put Demitri on guard of Lauren one of the princesses friends. She has become a victim of One of the Typhoons minions. Her life is in terrible danger but she thinks she can handle it. He knows better. Lots of action and tension.
Profile Image for Holly.
7 reviews
September 6, 2024
In book 2 of The Gatekeepers of the Gods series, Dmitri's and Lauren's story expands. The search for answers into what happened to Prince Kristos on the fateful night his plane crashed into the sea continues. Dmitri must deal with keeping Lauren safe from things she doesn't know exist, all while trying to locate Prince Kristos' plane or any clues that would explain what happened to the crown prince the previous year. He doesn't want to believe that the prince isn't still alive, but the amount of time that has elapsed since the plane crashed with only Prince Kristos aboard, as well as the few clues Dmitri has been able to find don't point to a positive ending.
Profile Image for Liz.
137 reviews
June 8, 2025
Part of it was good…

But the rest? Nope. Once again the love part was so hollow. There was nothing natural about it. It was forced and weird. The hooking up, that part was fine. Then suddenly he’s told he’s in love with her and he turns around and makes those crazy declarations? It was just not believable.

And her situation with the guy? FFS. That was weak. The whole way it played out. Her response and reaction to him. Give me a break.

The only decent part was while the two were on the island. Up until the stalker contacted her.

Like the last, there were numerous grammatical errors. Punctuation. It could use a good editor.

Profile Image for Annette.
3,167 reviews9 followers
May 25, 2024
Absolutely love Dimtri, almost instantly. I didn't read the first book so I didn't completely understand the Gatekeeper concept but it was interesting, entertaining and unique to me. I didn't warm up to Lauren as quickly but they have great chemistry, make a great team and in the end I think I understood some of her actions a bit better. Mysterious paranormal elements, emotional moments and paranormal activity all blended well with the mission and the unexpected love. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
75 reviews
May 30, 2024
I absolutely adored the chemistry between Lauren and Dimitri.... you could feel it in the first book and it played out nicely in this book. The continued world building was phenomenal I love the tie in with the God's and Dimitri definitely gives a deeper look into this side of Ouros. I truly enjoyed the push pull between these two. Their story is full of everything that creates a great romance. I highly recommend this book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Whitney.
494 reviews
June 9, 2024
This book felt spicier than the previous book in this series, which I enjoyed. The chemistry between Lauren and Dimitri felt gritty and real. While the first book felt more about the emotions this book felt more suspenseful. There were major clues but you weren't quite sure about where and how things would play out. It was also great to see the continuation of the Greek mythology sub-theme. Overall really enjoyed the book and cannot wait for book three.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jane.
442 reviews1 follower
October 19, 2019
4 stars

The continuing story of 4 American girls stuck in a small Europeon country. This is book 2, but all are stand-alone. This is a contemporary romance that picks up where book one ends. I like the continuing story, but if u haven’t read book 1 it would matter. But it’s a great read too, so just read it. This one has suspense and continues the intrigue and mystery surrounding prince ari.
Profile Image for Lindsey Anderle.
Author 1 book8 followers
November 2, 2019
This was...not good. Like supposedly the bad guy is this super horrible guy, but nothing bad with him ever happens? He sends dead animal gifts but I'm pretty sure Lauren said he's done worse - it's never explained. He just wasn't a villain like they wanted him to be.

Dimitri claims to love her by the end (of course) and they spent....what 2, 3 days together? Just not believable, even if it is a romance novel.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews

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