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The Protector
What if the woman you loved was the one person you could never be with? Elizabeth Grayson doesn't want a bodyguard. She's worked hard for her normal life, but her father, the founder of a booming seafood empire, is a prime target for his unethical competitors. When her father hires a bodyguard for Elizabeth, she’s less than enthusiastic...that is, until she meets the mysterious Layne O'Connell. Sarcastic, charming and secretive, Layne is hired to keep Elizabeth safe. But protecting her heart wasn't in the job description. Elizabeth’s father has been keeping secrets from her, and she’s soon going to find out that her family is stranger than she could ever have she’s descended from vampires. When Layne reveals her true nature, Elizabeth's world is thrown upside down. Because Elizabeth has fallen for the one person she can't be the brooding werewolf who was charged with keeping her alive. Part heart-pounding mystery, part epic romance, the novel THE PROTECTOR will leave you spellbound.
376 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 26, 2014
127 people are currently reading
354 people want to read
About the author
Bridget Essex
54 books461 followersMy name is Bridget Essex, and I write about werewolves, vampires and lady knights; about two strong, courageous women who fall deeply in love with one another, living love stories that transcend time. I'm married to the love of my life, author Natalie Vivien.
I'm best known for my Knight Legends series, stories about women knights, real world hi-jinks and love stories that are out of this world. My Sullivan Vampire novellas are a popular series lauded as "TWILIGHT for women who love women," and I have several other series and stand-alone novellas, and I'm always putting out something new. Learn more at http://bridgetessex.wordpress.com
I'm best known for my Knight Legends series, stories about women knights, real world hi-jinks and love stories that are out of this world. My Sullivan Vampire novellas are a popular series lauded as "TWILIGHT for women who love women," and I have several other series and stand-alone novellas, and I'm always putting out something new. Learn more at http://bridgetessex.wordpress.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
February 18, 2019
3.5 Stars for this fast paced paranormal, action packed book. I really enjoy books with musician characters. In this case we have Elizabeth, who is the violist of the Boston Philharmonic. She worked very hard to get where she is, practicing hours each day, on top of performing. You get the impression that she is first chair, which is huge, but it’s not mentioned. She comes from a very wealthy family, her Father is the owner of the largest seafood company in the northeast, if not the country. When we meet her, she is deliberately run off the road. Her father insists she accept Layne as her bodyguard. Layne, described as attractive, tall dark, exuding power with grace. Elizabeth later discovers that she has descended from vampires (she is fully human) and her protector is a werewolf.
There is a power struggle amongst the vampires and Elizabeth becomes a pawn. She and Layne fall for each other though Layne knows a relationship would be impossible.
Will Layne be able to protect Elizabeth?
A few of questions not answered - why Layne? Because Vampires & Werewolves don’t have a good relationship. I understand Elizabeth’s Father wanted the best, but why did Layne agree? Why doesn’t Elizabeth question Layne when she was clearly shot, but showed no ill effects? Was it cheating at the climax?
I enjoyed reading this action packed romance. The backstage and concerts were well described as well as how hard Elizabeth worked to get to where she is at. I haven’t read her Sullivan Sister’s series, who makes an appearance in this book. I may check it out but I learned I can’t binge on Essex as my enjoyment diminishes. It’s been years since my last Essex book. I’m glad I picked a good one! I’m also glad she did a re-write on this book. It was initially was published to be the first in a series but later Essex re-wrote it as a single.
There is a power struggle amongst the vampires and Elizabeth becomes a pawn. She and Layne fall for each other though Layne knows a relationship would be impossible.
Will Layne be able to protect Elizabeth?
A few of questions not answered - why Layne? Because Vampires & Werewolves don’t have a good relationship. I understand Elizabeth’s Father wanted the best, but why did Layne agree? Why doesn’t Elizabeth question Layne when she was clearly shot, but showed no ill effects? Was it cheating at the climax?
I enjoyed reading this action packed romance. The backstage and concerts were well described as well as how hard Elizabeth worked to get to where she is at. I haven’t read her Sullivan Sister’s series, who makes an appearance in this book. I may check it out but I learned I can’t binge on Essex as my enjoyment diminishes. It’s been years since my last Essex book. I’m glad I picked a good one! I’m also glad she did a re-write on this book. It was initially was published to be the first in a series but later Essex re-wrote it as a single.
February 27, 2017
I enjoyed “The Protector”, but I think the book should have been named “Needs a Protector”.
Layne may be mysterious, sexy and a fun MC, but she’s a REALLY bad bodyguard! On her watch, Elizabeth is attacked at home by a vampire, nearly attacked at a concert by another vampire (saved only by a friendly vampire), kidnapped by a vampire and saved by Layne only because the vampire spends more time talking than biting, and finally is killed on a beach the morning after sex. Yes – killed. After she’s then turned into a vampire to be undead instead of permanently dead, Elizabeth continues to rely on Layne for protection. Overall, Layne seems to be as accountable for job performance as a TV weatherperson!
While “The Protector” is better written than Essex’s “Knight” series, her MC Elizabeth is so blithely ignorant of events around her that she does remind me of Essex’s more adolescent-sounding MC Holly in the “Knight” series. Even after FINALLY becoming aware of vampires and werewolves and her own likely future as a vampire, Elizabeth somehow takes everything in stride. She reacts more strongly to Layne having a silly phone ringtone than she does to Layne being a werewolf! Sent by her father to a hotel filled with vampires to learn about vampires and make a decision on her own fate, she uses her time entertaining the vamps playing violin, getting drunk and heading down to a secluded beach with a vampire of then-uncertain motives.
We move through the book from Elizabeth’s POV, and while I rolled my eyes at much of her being unaware and uncritical of things around her and happening to her, I did find her adventures entertaining. Several sections of the book are particularly well-written, and the narrator did a really good job, keeping the book entertaining even during eye-rolling moments.
We don’t have much character development at all of Layne. Why she was hired to be Elizabeth’s bodyguard is a mystery; she’s the only werewolf featured in the book and there is no backstory of the relationship between Elizabeth’s father and Layne. Also, as much as Essex wrote about the numbing coldness Elizabeth felt from vampires such as her father and Mikagi, no mention is made of Elizabeth's presumed coldness once she became a vampire, and how that affected Layne and their sex life.
Elizabeth’s friend Tracey also could have been put to more use; her character has a few plot lines that seem to drift off into nowhere (the new boyfriend, for example). I was waiting for the new boyfriend to be a vampire or a werewolf and he never was more than a mysterious mention.
While I think I will relisten to “The Protector”, the weak MCs, instalove trope and the overall unbelievability of Layne being regarded as a fantastic protector keep me from giving this 5* which I often do for any book I plan to revisit. So this one is a strong 4*, and I think you will enjoy it more than the weaker “Knight” books.
Layne may be mysterious, sexy and a fun MC, but she’s a REALLY bad bodyguard! On her watch, Elizabeth is attacked at home by a vampire, nearly attacked at a concert by another vampire (saved only by a friendly vampire), kidnapped by a vampire and saved by Layne only because the vampire spends more time talking than biting, and finally is killed on a beach the morning after sex. Yes – killed. After she’s then turned into a vampire to be undead instead of permanently dead, Elizabeth continues to rely on Layne for protection. Overall, Layne seems to be as accountable for job performance as a TV weatherperson!
While “The Protector” is better written than Essex’s “Knight” series, her MC Elizabeth is so blithely ignorant of events around her that she does remind me of Essex’s more adolescent-sounding MC Holly in the “Knight” series. Even after FINALLY becoming aware of vampires and werewolves and her own likely future as a vampire, Elizabeth somehow takes everything in stride. She reacts more strongly to Layne having a silly phone ringtone than she does to Layne being a werewolf! Sent by her father to a hotel filled with vampires to learn about vampires and make a decision on her own fate, she uses her time entertaining the vamps playing violin, getting drunk and heading down to a secluded beach with a vampire of then-uncertain motives.
We move through the book from Elizabeth’s POV, and while I rolled my eyes at much of her being unaware and uncritical of things around her and happening to her, I did find her adventures entertaining. Several sections of the book are particularly well-written, and the narrator did a really good job, keeping the book entertaining even during eye-rolling moments.
We don’t have much character development at all of Layne. Why she was hired to be Elizabeth’s bodyguard is a mystery; she’s the only werewolf featured in the book and there is no backstory of the relationship between Elizabeth’s father and Layne. Also, as much as Essex wrote about the numbing coldness Elizabeth felt from vampires such as her father and Mikagi, no mention is made of Elizabeth's presumed coldness once she became a vampire, and how that affected Layne and their sex life.
Elizabeth’s friend Tracey also could have been put to more use; her character has a few plot lines that seem to drift off into nowhere (the new boyfriend, for example). I was waiting for the new boyfriend to be a vampire or a werewolf and he never was more than a mysterious mention.
While I think I will relisten to “The Protector”, the weak MCs, instalove trope and the overall unbelievability of Layne being regarded as a fantastic protector keep me from giving this 5* which I often do for any book I plan to revisit. So this one is a strong 4*, and I think you will enjoy it more than the weaker “Knight” books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2016
3 1/2 Stars. This is the new version of The Protector, where Essex continued the story that used to be 170 to 365 kindle pages. I found the book to be slightly better than OK, some parts I enjoyed, others drove me a bit nuts. It's the kind of book that makes you yell at the characters "Why are you doing that!" So some of the stupidity could be frustrating at times. The story-line was alright, the twists were pretty easy to guess, but I did like that one of the mains was a violinist in the Boston orchestra. I don't remember reading another lesfic book were a main was a violinist, so I enjoyed that. Also, for fans of Essex Sullivan Vamp series, many of the vamps have cameos, with Kane playing a larger role.
All and all not too bad, entertaining enough to make a descent rental if you have Kindle Unlimited.
All and all not too bad, entertaining enough to make a descent rental if you have Kindle Unlimited.
November 19, 2017
The second time around I listened to the audiobook.
I must say that I liked the story also the first time around, although I have to say that I do not so much like the insta-love in Bridget Essex's books. The same applies here, but as I like Romeo and Juliet and the theme of star-crossed lovers, falling instantly in love despite everything society throws at them, I guess I have to reassess this dislike.
The star-crossed lover's motif is a good segue by the way. As this book basically has the same conflict. Werewolf hired to protect the offspring of a vampire dynasty. Of course from the beginning protector and protected feel the electricity between them, but apparently, there is a deep hatred between both species. There are other conflicts in this story, but I'd say this is the main obstacle to their love.
The story is fast-paced, there is a lot happening and I'd call it action-laden with quite a bit suspense.
I liked the narration alright, although I sometimes didn't like the rendering of Elizabeth's voice. Of course, it's a matter of interpretation, but does she have to sound so whiny so often. She is described as headstrong, confident and then her voice is often very high pitched and grating and breaking in stressful situations. I didn't really dislike it, I just could have done with less.
I must say that I liked the story also the first time around, although I have to say that I do not so much like the insta-love in Bridget Essex's books. The same applies here, but as I like Romeo and Juliet and the theme of star-crossed lovers, falling instantly in love despite everything society throws at them, I guess I have to reassess this dislike.
The star-crossed lover's motif is a good segue by the way. As this book basically has the same conflict. Werewolf hired to protect the offspring of a vampire dynasty. Of course from the beginning protector and protected feel the electricity between them, but apparently, there is a deep hatred between both species. There are other conflicts in this story, but I'd say this is the main obstacle to their love.
The story is fast-paced, there is a lot happening and I'd call it action-laden with quite a bit suspense.
I liked the narration alright, although I sometimes didn't like the rendering of Elizabeth's voice. Of course, it's a matter of interpretation, but does she have to sound so whiny so often. She is described as headstrong, confident and then her voice is often very high pitched and grating and breaking in stressful situations. I didn't really dislike it, I just could have done with less.
April 12, 2017
This is the second novel I've read by Essex and it was much better than the other (Beauty and the Wolf). It's a rather long novel which is a huge plus for me because there is time to develop the characters and their relationships. I initially saw Liz as an immature, egotistical rich girl but the character grows and evolves and I loved her by the end. Layne is that strong, hero type character who rescues the damsel in distress multiple times. It's a rather predictable character in lesbian fiction but I couldn't care less. I love it! This was definitely a page turner for me.
May 6, 2016
Wow!
I read this book when Bridget first bought it out as the first part of a series. I loved it then and hoping part two would happen quickly. Instead she extended the book. However I think the book definitely deserves a sequel. I'd definitely be happy to read it and experience the continuing tales of Elizabeth and Layne. So Bridget I beg you please I need more :).
I read this book when Bridget first bought it out as the first part of a series. I loved it then and hoping part two would happen quickly. Instead she extended the book. However I think the book definitely deserves a sequel. I'd definitely be happy to read it and experience the continuing tales of Elizabeth and Layne. So Bridget I beg you please I need more :).
March 24, 2017
3.75 stars on this one.
The writing and story telling are good. The author has a really natural ability and following the narrative is interesting and easy. Though it's not revealed until the end what Layne is, it's pretty clear from the start that she's a werewolf. That's not really the mystery part of this book. The intrigue is around why Elizabeth is getting attacked, who is behind it, and what is her father hiding? Essex does a good job of dropping hints along the way for the reader like breadcrumbs in Hansel and Gretel's forest. I was able to guess some of these but it was still intriguing to get the confirmation and there was also a big twist at the end I wasn't expecting.
I also really like the musical elements that the author used around Elizabeth. It felt authentic.
This story would definitely be in the four star category if some elements were cleaned up.
What brought the book down is, firstly, I didn't feel editing was the tightest. I'm not a grammar nazi and I do overlook a lot but there was a combination of incorrect words or the same word being used too many times, "sidelong" being one example. Also, it seemed like sometimes the same thoughts and ideas repeated a couple of paragraphs after they were already said. Not a big deal but just something I noticed.
Secondly, I agree with the others that the cliffhanger doesn't help. Do I want to know what will happen in the next book? Absolutely. That being said, there's some disservice to the reader to leave them completely hanging and it makes this not be a stand-alone book. If the reader has to wait for the 2nd book to come out, we'll probably forget a lot before we get to it or lose the intensity of the intrigue. If others have read Gill McKnight's werewolf series, the 3rd book more or less sets up the 4th book BUT the 3rd book completed itself and wrapped up its own story while pushing off a new conflict for the 4th. I wish this book had done that.
Despite any issues, I think this is still a good read. Again, the author has a really natural writing ability that I enjoy. I would say, though, to either completely expect to be left hanging OR wait until the 2nd book is published and then go for it.
The writing and story telling are good. The author has a really natural ability and following the narrative is interesting and easy. Though it's not revealed until the end what Layne is, it's pretty clear from the start that she's a werewolf. That's not really the mystery part of this book. The intrigue is around why Elizabeth is getting attacked, who is behind it, and what is her father hiding? Essex does a good job of dropping hints along the way for the reader like breadcrumbs in Hansel and Gretel's forest. I was able to guess some of these but it was still intriguing to get the confirmation and there was also a big twist at the end I wasn't expecting.
I also really like the musical elements that the author used around Elizabeth. It felt authentic.
This story would definitely be in the four star category if some elements were cleaned up.
What brought the book down is, firstly, I didn't feel editing was the tightest. I'm not a grammar nazi and I do overlook a lot but there was a combination of incorrect words or the same word being used too many times, "sidelong" being one example. Also, it seemed like sometimes the same thoughts and ideas repeated a couple of paragraphs after they were already said. Not a big deal but just something I noticed.
Secondly, I agree with the others that the cliffhanger doesn't help. Do I want to know what will happen in the next book? Absolutely. That being said, there's some disservice to the reader to leave them completely hanging and it makes this not be a stand-alone book. If the reader has to wait for the 2nd book to come out, we'll probably forget a lot before we get to it or lose the intensity of the intrigue. If others have read Gill McKnight's werewolf series, the 3rd book more or less sets up the 4th book BUT the 3rd book completed itself and wrapped up its own story while pushing off a new conflict for the 4th. I wish this book had done that.
Despite any issues, I think this is still a good read. Again, the author has a really natural writing ability that I enjoy. I would say, though, to either completely expect to be left hanging OR wait until the 2nd book is published and then go for it.
May 11, 2016
Heroine is both oblivious, foolish and tstl, which is a mind boggling combo of fail.
This might have been a good effort, but it feels like the heroine must act like an idiot to advance the plot, and further, do real people turn down immortality while people are trying to kill them, and while they age towards 40?
Ludicrous.
This might have been a good effort, but it feels like the heroine must act like an idiot to advance the plot, and further, do real people turn down immortality while people are trying to kill them, and while they age towards 40?
Ludicrous.
March 6, 2021
Good
I do love this type of novel and adored those by G Knight, Jae and H McVae. However, I did try reading Twilight and didn't finish, I think this might not be too dissimilar apart from the fact that it is F/F and the quality of the storytelling is 100% better. A really enjoyable read.
I do love this type of novel and adored those by G Knight, Jae and H McVae. However, I did try reading Twilight and didn't finish, I think this might not be too dissimilar apart from the fact that it is F/F and the quality of the storytelling is 100% better. A really enjoyable read.
May 8, 2017
This was ok. The narrator wasn't my favorite and at times she spoke so soft I had difficulty hearing.
May 25, 2016
Intriguing plotline, but it's about time the author stops mention how utterly handsome and gorgeous Layne is. One to three times is okay, but then it became really tiring, as if almost
every time Layne makes an appearance, our protagonist would just totally head over heel, with her heart beating, staring, blushing, and in every of those moments, she would describe how incredibly attractive Layne is. The only thing I remember about the protagonist's appearances is her green eyes, that pretty much it. There is barely any description about Elizabeth at all. Despite how Elizabeth is the main protagonist, the story is in her point of view, but it felt like things revolved around Layne, how mysterious she is, how incredible she is, how amazing she is etc. Layne basically made up 90% of Elizabeth's thoughts. But I'm glad Elizabeth got some of the action near the end, I would hate it very much to see her as a complete damsel in distress even if Layne is her bodyguard.
There are some major loopholes in this story that bothered me.
The romance is pretty solid, I just wished there is more depth to the whole story.
every time Layne makes an appearance, our protagonist would just totally head over heel, with her heart beating, staring, blushing, and in every of those moments, she would describe how incredibly attractive Layne is. The only thing I remember about the protagonist's appearances is her green eyes, that pretty much it. There is barely any description about Elizabeth at all. Despite how Elizabeth is the main protagonist, the story is in her point of view, but it felt like things revolved around Layne, how mysterious she is, how incredible she is, how amazing she is etc. Layne basically made up 90% of Elizabeth's thoughts. But I'm glad Elizabeth got some of the action near the end, I would hate it very much to see her as a complete damsel in distress even if Layne is her bodyguard.
There are some major loopholes in this story that bothered me.
The romance is pretty solid, I just wished there is more depth to the whole story.
Read
October 27, 2019I was enjoying the book then a effing cliffhanger & most inopportune time as far as im considered.
I dont know how to rate the book because of this. I would have given the book 4 stars but im just too mad
I dont know how to rate the book because of this. I would have given the book 4 stars but im just too mad
June 8, 2018
You know when you really really really want to like a book but like... it's bad? So you don't?
Yeah. :(
I'll start with the good. This is an f/f paranormal romance where the love interest is a hot butch werewolf i.e. CATNIP TO MY LESBIAN ASS. There were a couple cute jokes, and I didn't hate any of the characters.
The bad gets spoilery.
I listened to the audiobook as read by Stephanie Murphy and while there was nothing bad about her narration, there was nothing particularly good about it either. Coming down to the end her voice started to irritate me, but probably only because I felt like I'd been listening to it for ages.
Like... you have no idea how much I wanted to like this book. I WANTED TO SO BADLY. But it's not particularly well written or plotted, and the paranormal elements were... meh. I'm willing to give Briget Essex another try (I remember really liking A Knight to Remember, though who knows how I'll feel if I revisit it) but man. This one just didn't work for me.
Yeah. :(
I'll start with the good. This is an f/f paranormal romance where the love interest is a hot butch werewolf i.e. CATNIP TO MY LESBIAN ASS. There were a couple cute jokes, and I didn't hate any of the characters.
The bad gets spoilery.
I listened to the audiobook as read by Stephanie Murphy and while there was nothing bad about her narration, there was nothing particularly good about it either. Coming down to the end her voice started to irritate me, but probably only because I felt like I'd been listening to it for ages.
Like... you have no idea how much I wanted to like this book. I WANTED TO SO BADLY. But it's not particularly well written or plotted, and the paranormal elements were... meh. I'm willing to give Briget Essex another try (I remember really liking A Knight to Remember, though who knows how I'll feel if I revisit it) but man. This one just didn't work for me.
March 28, 2020
Fur, Fangs, Fiddles & fight for the future
“You ever have one of those kisses? You’ve wanted it for so long, and you’ve imagined it so many times, but imagination can only do so much. And then the kiss happens, and it’s so much better than anything your imagination could have come up with. The kiss is so perfect, so savage and powerful and beautiful, that you forget everything else: how to breathe, how to stand, how to feel anything other than the connection that makes you not a single person but this perfect tandem thing, and you’re one body, not two. You’re so connected that you have no real knowledge of where you begin or where she ends. You’re just one together.
Yeah. This was one of those kisses.”
+ • + • + • +
Its unique & captivating storyline, spectacular in its complexity, fluidity & intensity creates a very compelling & entertaining book. With a nice flowing effortless progression, engaging narrative incorporating such formidably vulnerable & passionately flawed characters made it an easy read.
Continuing with a good, entertaining story with interesting characters & hot sex scenes extremely well written. Few dull moments or lack of intensity as this action-packed fantastical battle for power, control & dominance all wrapped up in the racist & discriminatory behavior that poisons humanity &, ironically, still hasn't been evolved beyond even by the supposed "superior" species.
“You ever have one of those kisses? You’ve wanted it for so long, and you’ve imagined it so many times, but imagination can only do so much. And then the kiss happens, and it’s so much better than anything your imagination could have come up with. The kiss is so perfect, so savage and powerful and beautiful, that you forget everything else: how to breathe, how to stand, how to feel anything other than the connection that makes you not a single person but this perfect tandem thing, and you’re one body, not two. You’re so connected that you have no real knowledge of where you begin or where she ends. You’re just one together.
Yeah. This was one of those kisses.”
+ • + • + • +
Its unique & captivating storyline, spectacular in its complexity, fluidity & intensity creates a very compelling & entertaining book. With a nice flowing effortless progression, engaging narrative incorporating such formidably vulnerable & passionately flawed characters made it an easy read.
Continuing with a good, entertaining story with interesting characters & hot sex scenes extremely well written. Few dull moments or lack of intensity as this action-packed fantastical battle for power, control & dominance all wrapped up in the racist & discriminatory behavior that poisons humanity &, ironically, still hasn't been evolved beyond even by the supposed "superior" species.
April 12, 2018
I enjoyed this very much, my first by this author. Enjoyed it enough to be willing to read some others. My main criticism is that it could really have benefited from some more editing. Many things seemed to be said over and over, but the story was engaging enough that I was able to look beyond that.
I liked her take on vampires, that sun doesn't kill them, it just makes them uncomfortable and they sunburn easily. I'd have liked a little more explanation about werewolves and their weaknesses or vulnerabilities in this world. Maybe this has been explained in previous novels in this world, and I'm late to the story.
I liked her take on vampires, that sun doesn't kill them, it just makes them uncomfortable and they sunburn easily. I'd have liked a little more explanation about werewolves and their weaknesses or vulnerabilities in this world. Maybe this has been explained in previous novels in this world, and I'm late to the story.
April 21, 2018
Omg Omg😍😍😍💞💞💞
This Book is Everything I need in a book Mmmhmmm and Layne She is one Badass wolf and Elizabeth She is as well I love that they got together but I want more of them Where did Layne come from will her pack accept Elizabeth I need more of These two This Book Sucked me in I fell asleep reading it and woke up reading it This is a Book That draws you In and You can't get enough you just want more and more of it lock the door to your room and put up a door not disturb sign Thank You Excellent work here Beautifully written
This Book is Everything I need in a book Mmmhmmm and Layne She is one Badass wolf and Elizabeth She is as well I love that they got together but I want more of them Where did Layne come from will her pack accept Elizabeth I need more of These two This Book Sucked me in I fell asleep reading it and woke up reading it This is a Book That draws you In and You can't get enough you just want more and more of it lock the door to your room and put up a door not disturb sign Thank You Excellent work here Beautifully written
May 3, 2020
Another winner!
Beautifully written with angst, treachery, deceit, and such profound love. Such powerful women and a man who truly loves his daughter. I especially loved knowing the mother. Music is a powerful conveyor of intense feelings and it provide a perfect backdrop for this story. The melding of wolf and vampire was lovely and necessary for a united world. All of us must be free to love anyone we choose. A very good read. I enthusiastically and unequivocally recommend this book. Ms. Essex, your talent is potent and entertaining. Thank you. Peace
Beautifully written with angst, treachery, deceit, and such profound love. Such powerful women and a man who truly loves his daughter. I especially loved knowing the mother. Music is a powerful conveyor of intense feelings and it provide a perfect backdrop for this story. The melding of wolf and vampire was lovely and necessary for a united world. All of us must be free to love anyone we choose. A very good read. I enthusiastically and unequivocally recommend this book. Ms. Essex, your talent is potent and entertaining. Thank you. Peace
May 22, 2018
Bridget Essex is becoming one of my favorite authors. I love all characters in this book! I like how she pulled in characters from her other books.
The plot isn’t over complicated but the author weaves a beautiful love story.
I loved being able to escape into this world the author created. Escapism is why I read and every book I have read by Essex allows me to fully immerse into the world she creates.
The plot isn’t over complicated but the author weaves a beautiful love story.
I loved being able to escape into this world the author created. Escapism is why I read and every book I have read by Essex allows me to fully immerse into the world she creates.
December 9, 2018
I don't usually read werewolf or vampire stories but the premise of this book was intriguing. A daughter of a wealthy man doesn't know her family's lineage. Oh the story starts with a bang and ends with a whoosh! Near death experiences and a bodyguard who's muscular, lithe, strong to the extreme and is...I'm not going to reveal. Just read a story about a 33 year old violinst coming into her own in a very cynical disbelieving and sometimes just too dense sort of way.
It'll get your hackles up.
It'll get your hackles up.
December 25, 2017
Spellbinding!
Part heart-pounding mystery, part epic romance, this is a very well written tale about finding love and fighting to hold on to it thru everything that threatens to tear it apart. The characters are well developed and the storyline flows from the pages. You'll definitely want to put this book on your must-read list.
Part heart-pounding mystery, part epic romance, this is a very well written tale about finding love and fighting to hold on to it thru everything that threatens to tear it apart. The characters are well developed and the storyline flows from the pages. You'll definitely want to put this book on your must-read list.
February 11, 2020
A violinist who finds out her father is not who she thinks he is!
A Boston first string violinist finds out that her father is not the man she she thought. A threat against her sends her a bodyguard who moves very fast and is very strong. So the story goes when the violinist discovers she cannot remain a human. Enjoy!
A Boston first string violinist finds out that her father is not the man she she thought. A threat against her sends her a bodyguard who moves very fast and is very strong. So the story goes when the violinist discovers she cannot remain a human. Enjoy!
September 6, 2018
Perfection
This book rocked from beginning to end. Best werewolf/vampire story I’ve read. The characters are so well developed they’re believable. The connection to the symphony and description of the dueling violins was a treat. Essex knows her stuff and will pull you in. Enjoy!
This book rocked from beginning to end. Best werewolf/vampire story I’ve read. The characters are so well developed they’re believable. The connection to the symphony and description of the dueling violins was a treat. Essex knows her stuff and will pull you in. Enjoy!
November 6, 2017
Enjoyed the story, werewolves and vampires. A good read.
March 7, 2018
Awesome storyline This book was wonderful I mean Vampires and Werewolves entangled in a everlasting romance what more could you want
February 26, 2019
🔥🌈DRAMA AT IT'S BEST🌈🔥
This e-book will capture you and enthrall with the riveting story so much that you will struggle with stopping for any reason !💞
Remember you were warned .
This e-book will capture you and enthrall with the riveting story so much that you will struggle with stopping for any reason !💞
Remember you were warned .
July 14, 2019
Loved this one. Full of vampire drama and lovely werewolf and love that combines 2 different entities into one. Awesome combination!
July 11, 2021
Great book
Love the book one of my favorites couldn't put the book down..... A wonderful read and a great pick for you
Love the book one of my favorites couldn't put the book down..... A wonderful read and a great pick for you
June 15, 2016
If I had the option to give half stars I would give 3 &1/2 stars to this book. I love Bridget Essex's work and have read her Knight series and her Sullivan series, both of which I loved.
Now I don't like writing reviews that are negative and I don't think this is a particularly negative review, although unfortunately this book did not have the same impact on me as her other books. I'm not by any means saying it was all bad! I just don't think it lived up to my opinion of her previous works.
I felt that it took a long time for this story to get going, and then when it did, it felt like it was rushed. Bridget spent a lot of time setting the scene for us in this novel, which is not necessarily a bad thing, but I felt that the second half of the book was extremely rushed and more detail could have gone into it. We had a great understanding of who Elizabeth was and what drove her and Bridget does a great job of telling the story from the first person perspective. Layne was a little more "secretive" which works well for the story line. And there is a build up to who this Layne character is and what it is about her that she is hiding.
Despite what some other reviewers have said, I actually like when an author brings some elements of another series across to a novel. So when the Sullivan's entered the story I was excited. I think if you have read the Sullivan series then this will bring a little excitement for you. I also think that it perhaps opens the opportunity for Ms Essex to use these characters more extensively later on down the line if she decides to extend the Sullivan story.
I felt that the love scene was spoilt by the fact that Elizabeth was drunk. I don't know many people in my circle of friends that would like reading about "drunk" sex. Maybe it's just a personal thing but I think that the love scene could be written without this and to think that Layne who was so patient to be with Elizabeth would take advantage of a situation when she is drunk doesn't strike me as being something she would do. Writing this scene when both characters were sober would have made for a much better set up for these two characters.
Like I said, I don't like writing negative reviews and I don't want Bridget to think that this is a particularly negative review because it isn't. Over all the book was very enjoyable and I couldn't put it down. But there are just a few things I think could have made it so much better. Still I would recommend this book, just not as one of the best that Ms Essex has written.
Now I don't like writing reviews that are negative and I don't think this is a particularly negative review, although unfortunately this book did not have the same impact on me as her other books. I'm not by any means saying it was all bad! I just don't think it lived up to my opinion of her previous works.
I felt that it took a long time for this story to get going, and then when it did, it felt like it was rushed. Bridget spent a lot of time setting the scene for us in this novel, which is not necessarily a bad thing, but I felt that the second half of the book was extremely rushed and more detail could have gone into it. We had a great understanding of who Elizabeth was and what drove her and Bridget does a great job of telling the story from the first person perspective. Layne was a little more "secretive" which works well for the story line. And there is a build up to who this Layne character is and what it is about her that she is hiding.
Despite what some other reviewers have said, I actually like when an author brings some elements of another series across to a novel. So when the Sullivan's entered the story I was excited. I think if you have read the Sullivan series then this will bring a little excitement for you. I also think that it perhaps opens the opportunity for Ms Essex to use these characters more extensively later on down the line if she decides to extend the Sullivan story.
I felt that the love scene was spoilt by the fact that Elizabeth was drunk. I don't know many people in my circle of friends that would like reading about "drunk" sex. Maybe it's just a personal thing but I think that the love scene could be written without this and to think that Layne who was so patient to be with Elizabeth would take advantage of a situation when she is drunk doesn't strike me as being something she would do. Writing this scene when both characters were sober would have made for a much better set up for these two characters.
Like I said, I don't like writing negative reviews and I don't want Bridget to think that this is a particularly negative review because it isn't. Over all the book was very enjoyable and I couldn't put it down. But there are just a few things I think could have made it so much better. Still I would recommend this book, just not as one of the best that Ms Essex has written.
April 17, 2016
An impressive new improved version. A real page turner.
The unthinkable happens, an attack that changes her life forever. An evil puts her live and everyone around her in jeopardy. The protector is not only gorgeous but is also made of kick ass toughness and is strong willed. She will stop at nothing to protect her. A passionate magnetism draws them to one another but she has a dark secret and she is not the only one who keeps secrets from Elizabeth. Elizabeth is determined to find out the truth behind the secrets. Not knowing what other seriously darker forces are emerging. Not only secrets can keep them apart but the races have been blood enemies for centuries. The scene on the beach was pulse-pounding, it was a very sinister scene. Happen a lot of hair-raising things that makes your heart beat faster. I loved meeting up with old friends again and how they become a part of the story. The plot was excellent, the story moves right along at a quick pace and is definitely a page turner. It just gets more riveting and exciting with every chapter. This book has everything you could want; love, romance, passion, action, suspense and extremely thrilling. In case anyone gets confused, this is the new improved version. No cliffhanger and an ending that makes me very very happy. I would like to congratulate the author who, with this improved version has once again produced an excellent story.
The unthinkable happens, an attack that changes her life forever. An evil puts her live and everyone around her in jeopardy. The protector is not only gorgeous but is also made of kick ass toughness and is strong willed. She will stop at nothing to protect her. A passionate magnetism draws them to one another but she has a dark secret and she is not the only one who keeps secrets from Elizabeth. Elizabeth is determined to find out the truth behind the secrets. Not knowing what other seriously darker forces are emerging. Not only secrets can keep them apart but the races have been blood enemies for centuries. The scene on the beach was pulse-pounding, it was a very sinister scene. Happen a lot of hair-raising things that makes your heart beat faster. I loved meeting up with old friends again and how they become a part of the story. The plot was excellent, the story moves right along at a quick pace and is definitely a page turner. It just gets more riveting and exciting with every chapter. This book has everything you could want; love, romance, passion, action, suspense and extremely thrilling. In case anyone gets confused, this is the new improved version. No cliffhanger and an ending that makes me very very happy. I would like to congratulate the author who, with this improved version has once again produced an excellent story.
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