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Rescue Ops #2

Promise to Defend

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The next sexy and suspenseful standalone in the Rescue Ops series.

By saving her, he might just save himself...

I'm broken. I have been for seven years. Ever since my wife was murdered while I was deployed overseas. I was protecting our country, but I should have been protecting her. I haven't looked at another woman since--but then Olive Alexander crossed my path. She stirs up feelings I thought were long dead. So when her house is ransacked after she receives a threatening message, I know I have to step in and keep her safe. I failed my wife, but I won't fail Olive. Unfortunately, Olive isn't exactly ready to accept my help...

With her sexy-as-sin pencil skirts and sleek ponytails, Olive clearly doesn't let anything--or anyone--mess up her perfectly ordered life. But years spent working as a special ops soldier has taught me how to read people... and I know Olive is hiding something. When my covert mission for Night Eagle Security collides with Olive's past, I'll have to get her to open up-or risk losing her. And losing Olive is not an option. If she's in danger, I'll defend her...even if it costs me my life.

304 pages, Paperback

First published September 12, 2017

34 people are currently reading
193 people want to read

About the author

Diana Gardin

24 books270 followers

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
Profile Image for Dawn ♥ romance.
1,830 reviews29 followers
August 13, 2018
I don't like this style of writing where most of the story is told through the characters thoughts. After a few pages I started skimming everything but dialogue. There was very little action so I skipped ahead a few chapters. It still didn't capture my interest so I gave up. Special ops ex-soldier Ronin comes to the aid of his buddy's sister-in-law Olive when someone breaks into her apartment.
Profile Image for Tina.
824 reviews23 followers
September 13, 2017
Another 5 star read from Diana Gardin. She absolutely wows me every time. With her rugged alpha males with major protective instincts to woman who land themselves in major trouble. These men will stop at nothing to keep them safe, even if sacrifices their own life.

Ronin has a tragic past that causes him to keep feelings bottled up and blames himself for what happened with his wife even though he was over seas serving his country. He has one night stands here and there, but Olive comes out of nowhere and makes his heart start beating again.

Olive just returned from Paris where her client passed away. She is a plain Jane and keeps her entire life organized, even down to the men she dates. She dates boring men that will put you to sleep hearing them talk. Olive, however, can't stop thinking about the rough and rugged man that is Ronin!!

They are in for the fight of their lives and you will feel that way too as Diana once again gives us a completely and utterly brilliant story!
Profile Image for A Book Lover's Emporium Book Blog.
2,816 reviews171 followers
September 12, 2017
Promise To Defend was a great read. This book is a quick read and had me on the edge of my seat through the whole book. I love Diana's writing style and I loved the characters and the way the story flowed perfectly. The book has some suspense, some stubbornness and chemistry mixed all in one, which made for a great read.

Ronin and Olive have this chemistry that anyone can see; these characters are perfect. Ronin is a hot man that knows what he wants and is determined to get it. After losing his wife years before, he was not going to lose Olive too. Olive is a stubborn woman that does not want to rely on anyone…and then Ronin comes in the picture.

This is my second book by Diana Gardin and will not be my last. Promise To Defend is the second book in the Rescue Ops series but can be read as a standalone.
Profile Image for Jessica Cox.
697 reviews13 followers
August 11, 2017
This author never disappoints me, I know that I am getting a over the Alpha, tough guy, who falls hard and completely with his women. Ronin is doing a solid for his best friend, Jeremy and keeping his eyes on Olive , Jeremy's sister in law while he is on his honeymoon. Ronin got more than he bargained for in Olive,miss independent, fiery feisty red head, who relies on no one. When her past comes back to claim her she finally calls Ronin to protect her.
I loved these characters Olive and her attitude towards life is very straightforward, and to watch her defenses coming down especially because of Ronin it was so amazing. This two had chemistry for days. Ronin was in so much pain and was just out for revenge, he broke my heart dealing with everything. Olive was his perfect match. I did feel like this story line was a lot like her sisters in the first of the book in the series, the suspense and action was very similar just with different people coming after them. A great read I couldn't put down, and I can't wait for more.
Profile Image for Sandy S.
8,275 reviews207 followers
September 14, 2017
4 stars-


ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 12, 2017

By saving her, he might just save himself...

I'm broken. I have been for seven years. Ever since my wife was murdered while I was deployed overseas. I was protecting our country, but I should have been protecting her. I haven't looked at another woman since--but then Olive Alexander crossed my path. She stirs up feelings I thought were long dead. So when her house is ransacked after she receives a threatening message, I know I have to step in and keep her safe. I failed my wife, but I won't fail Olive. Unfortunately, Olive isn't exactly ready to accept my help...

With her sexy-as-sin pencil skirts and sleek ponytails, Olive clearly doesn't let anything--or anyone--mess up her perfectly ordered life. But years spent working as a special ops soldier has taught me how to read people... and I know Olive is hiding something. When my covert mission for Night Eagle Security collides with Olive's past, I'll have to get her to open up-or risk losing her. And losing Olive is not an option. If she's in danger, I'll defend her...even if it costs me my life.

•••••••••••

REVIEW: PROMISE TO DEFEND is the second installment in Diana Gardin’s contemporary, adult RESCUE OPS romantic, suspense series focusing on the men and women who work for Night Eagle Security. The Rescue Ops series is a spin-off from the author’s Battle Scars series and several characters cross over for cohesion and familiarity. This is former US Army Ranger Ronin ‘Swagger’ Shaw, and interior designer Olive Alexander’s story line. PROMISE TO DEFEND can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line or series is revealed where necessary. Olive Alexander is best friends and business partner with Berkley Connors (Last True Hero-Battle Scars #1).

Told from dual first person points of view (Olive and Ronin) PROMISE TO DEFEND follows the building relationship between security specialist Ronin Shaw, and interior designer Olive Alexander. Having met months earlier, Ronin and Olive have circled one another for weeks until the fateful day Olive calls Ronin for help. Someone from Olive’s past is demanding a second chance using threatening texts and physical violence. When the threats become personal and familiar, Ronin becomes guardian and protector for our story line heroine. What ensue is the building relationship between Ronin and Olive, as the search for a killer comes full circle threatening the woman that Ronin loves.

Ronin Shaw is a broken man; a widower whose wife was murdered while our hero was serving his country over seas. For seven years Ronin has struggled to move on with his life including the mind numbing guilt that haunts him day and night. Meeting Olive places temptation at arm’s length but the death of his wife keeps Ronin battling between his heart and his mind. The relationship between Ronin and Olive is one of immediate attraction although Olive keeps secret a tempestuous past. The $ex scenes are intimate and intense.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Berkley and Dare Conners (Last True Hero), Grisham Abbot (Saved by the Seal), and Drake Sullivan (Man of Honor)-all leading characters from the author’s Battle Scars series. The requisite evil has many faces including a major connection to the Margiano mob.

PROMISE TO DEFEND is a fast paced, action packed story of intrigue and romance. The premise is engaging; the romance is passionate and seductive; the characters are colorful and dynamic but saying that, in true romantic suspense fashion, I have to question the heroine’s constant disregard for her own safety including the distinct lack of sense as she willingly offers herself up to the mob…..*sigh*.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

www.thereadingcafe.com
Profile Image for Jesey ~ Schmexy GIrl~.
404 reviews744 followers
September 15, 2017
Promise to Defend brings us another story of a sexy man from NES in Diana Gardin’s Rescue Ops series. I am seriously in love with these men and think I need to find some trouble to get into, just so that one of them will rescue me!

This time around we meet Ronin Shaw as he attempts to find closure on his past as it tangles with his present. He’s spent seven years mourning his wife and looking for answers and revenge. Ronin is NOT prepared for the whirlwind that ensues when Olive Alexander comes into his life.

There’s something about Olive that calls out to me whether I want to acknowledge it or not.

Olive has survived over the years by burying her darkness and her problems in order to move on. She is such a strong woman and I envied her strength. Just like Ronin, she isn’t looking for anything serious, she just wants to live her life and leave her past behind her. When trouble comes for her that all changes.

While reading I wasn’t really sure how this was all going to play out…little surprises caught me throughout and kept me on the edge of my seat. There were so many playful moments that were well balanced with the seriousness of it all. The passion between Ronin and Olive was intense and so natural. I loved that their relationship wasn’t forced and that it all seemed to fall together naturally, making them both realize what was going on between them.

Our connection was too strong, he was too much for me to handle while simultaneously being exactly what I needed.

Be sure to grab this one and meet some amazing heroes!
Profile Image for Jo-Anne.
1,758 reviews38 followers
October 10, 2017
Ronin Shaw started working for Night Eagle Security after leaving the military. His best friend and teammate, Jeremy, asked him to keep an eye on his sister-in-law while he was on his honeymoon. So, of course, he agreed. How hard could it be? Much harder than he thought with Olive being so independent; wanting to handle everything herself. But when an ex is threatening her, she asks Ronin for help and protection.

Ronin is determined to keep her safe. This is especially important to him after not being able to keep his wife safe. The main purpose in his life for the last 7 years was searching for her killer so he wasn't expecting his immediate attraction to Olive. The more time they spent together the stronger their feelings for each other got.

I liked how protective Ronin was of Olive. It was second nature for him to do whatever it took to protect her. But Olive really didn't want to admit she needed help at first. Finally, she realized that she needed his help if she was going to get rid of her ex with his ties to the mob. It was nice to see such an independent woman as Olive, though she took her 'I can do it myself' attitude a bit too far in the beginning. The secondary characters were super. Especially Bennett.

I won this book and enjoyed reading it. It kept me on my toes with the drama while having me sighing at times by this couple's relationship. I recommend this action-packed romantic suspense.
367 reviews15 followers
October 10, 2017
Two broken souls. One that was given away without consent and the other died with his wife. When Olive and Ronin paths cross, their souls are given new life.

When Ronin was asked to watch over his best friends sister in law, he didn’t think it would be figuratively. With a few encounters with Olive, Ronin was drawn to Olive like a moth to a flame. Something attracted him to her. Olive was always self sufficient, organized and has a five date rule. With arriving back in the States, she thought she was ok. But she should have known better with her quick departure to Paris, her troubles would still be at her doorstep.

Ronin’s goal was to find his wife’s killer. With being deployed, he felt helpless when she passed away years ago. The case went cold until a new murder occurred. Dots were connected. With new clues coming in, Ronin received a disturbing call from Olive. His new goal was to protect. With her moving in with him, he just wasn’t her rescuer. He was so much more. Their hearts started to be alive again. She was his girl. His everything. But their lives were intertwined with the same evil. Will the evil prevail or will the heart win?

4.5 Stars
Received arc for an honest review
Profile Image for Jeanne Stone.
941 reviews4 followers
August 6, 2017
Gardin’s Rescue Ops series continues with book two, Promise to Defend. What’s not to love with sexy these former special ops military guys who’ve moved on to Night Eagle Security (NES) and the strong women they are drawn to?

Olive and Ronin haven’t had easy lives They’re both still deeply affected by their pasts. Neither is looking for “the one”. Ronin is convinced he’s already lost the only woman he’ll ever truly love. Olive uses her supreme control to insulate herself from life’s pains which makes it unlikely she’ll be open to love. Though they are attracted, neither plans to act on it.

Ronin’s promise to his best friend to watch after Olive and a break at her home, bring the two together. In the midst of a supremely intense situation where several worlds collide, the two begin to fall deeply for each other and it’s hot as hell.

Sure this is standard romance fare but Gardin’s writing makes it much more interesting than most. She writes complex characters, realistic dialog and creates intense, suspenseful situations for interesting, fast-paced reads. The kidnappings of the NES men’s girlfriends are becoming predictable, though.

Promise to Defend is another pleasurable read and I look forward to the next in the series which I hope involves one seriously clueless female nerd and a super capable spec ops bartender.
Profile Image for Liz F.
719 reviews
July 24, 2017
Review copy courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley.

This is a new-to-me author and while I may not have loved this book, I think I'd give this author another chance.

Olive was a decent enough heroine. Like so many heroines in security company and military-style romances, Olive has a man in her past who was a bad person. In this iteration, Olive's former boyfriend is associated with the mob. He was controlling, etc etc and she finally got away but now he's back and attempting to terrorize her. As always, the heroine is hesitant to tell anyone about this because she's embarrassed that she made a bad decision when she was in college... I never understand this trope because holy cow, who HASN'T done something stupid during their college years?!?! But here, it moves the story and the romance between the heroine and hero a little further.

Ronin was also a decent enough hero. He's former special forces because of course he is. And now he's employed as a member of an elite security company made up of..... former special forces guys. Because this is Book 2 in a series, only one other security company dude is in a relationship, which happened in Book 1. Ronin is a little unique because he actually had a wife at one point. She was murdered and her murder was never solved. Now, Ronin has started getting interested in someone and his wife's murderer has come back and killed someone else.

There's plenty going on in this book and everything will keep you pretty busy AND entertained. Ronin is a wealthy guy, I guess because he wouldn't be interesting enough if he wasn't? So when Olive has to go stay with him, she's safe and protected in the penthouse of an exclusive building from all the threats that are emerging at once. I wouldn't say that there was Insta-Lust or Insta-Love but they both had "that feeling" when they saw each other/met each other for the first time.

This wasn't a bad book but I've read way too many books that were extremely similar. The problem was that this one didn't really distinguish itself from the others enough for me to give it more than 2.5 stars. I think this would be a perfectly good book for a reader who hasn't read a lot of the former military/elite security force romances but I think readers who HAVE read a bunch of these might be a little bored. The characters were mildly interesting and while I'd read this author again, I don't think I'd read a different book in this series.
332 reviews
August 7, 2017
Another hit! Diana has quickly become one of my favorite authors! I loved Ronin's story, finally getting his HEA, discovering love after loss. I could not put this book down! My only wish was that I could get my hands on the next book faster to see what happens to the others sooner <3 You will NOT be disappointed with this book or any in the series!
Profile Image for Bunny.
368 reviews1 follower
August 9, 2017
Omg! I absolutely loved this book. Ronin and Olive were perfect and the drama was amazing!
Profile Image for Stephanie.
737 reviews6 followers
August 1, 2017
Diana Gardin NEVER fails to floor me with her books! Action-packed, kindle-melting stories are what she does best! Both Ronin and Olive had some heavy baggage they desperately needed to release. But it is amazing how peoples lives intertwine and they never even know it. Awesome read! I volunteered to read an ARC in order to provide an honest review.
580 reviews9 followers
July 26, 2017
Love this series! I loved Ronin and Olivia...its a can't put down...edge of your seat read! I love that he is alpha male but not over the top and loved that she wasn't the wishy washy let him walk all over her kinda woman! I can't wait to see what's next!
Profile Image for Misty (Reds Romance Reviews).
3,408 reviews6 followers
November 19, 2017
After leaving the military Ronin Shaw took his hard earned skills and found a new place to put them to good use, Night Eagle Security, where he works alongside his band of brothers helping to protect the innocent. They of course also run into a lot of trouble along the way too, often helping to put criminals behind bars where they belong, but there is one criminal that they haven't been able to capture. One that turned Ronin's life upside down, after he took the life of Ronin's wife and then vanished without a trace, but now he has made an reappearance and this time Ronin doesn't plan on letting him get away. But, before he can sink too deeply into his plan to catch the killer, he finds himself protecting another important woman in his life, his best friends sister-in-law Olive Alexander. She has gotten herself into to some trouble, and wound up catching the attention of an world class loser who can't take a hint, and Ronin plans on helping him to see the error of his ways... but things might not be that simple!

Olive Alexander is a strong, independent woman who doesn't like to depend on others for much of anything, she feels as though she is capable of handling anything that comes her way. But when an overbearing ex wanders back into her life, she realizes she might not be able to handle him on her own and she turns to her brother-in-laws best friend, Ronin Shaw. While she isn't too proud of needing his help, she also knows her ex isn't so good at taking no for an answer, so she is hoping that Ronin can help rid him from her life. She knows it isn't going to be an easy fight, but she is certain the gorgeous, and sometimes bossy, alpha can bring a little peace back into her orderly life... and maybe a little much needed heat too!

Ahh...once again Ms. Gardin has left me in a state of complete literary bliss, this story was nothing short of amazing! The instant my eyes landed on the page I found myself being pulled into Ronin and Olive's world and completely mesmerized by what I found, both of these wounded souls needed saving and their story damn near wrecked me in the best possible way! The chemistry between them was electric, each encounter they shared was fueled with so much power and intensity, there were several times I swear I could literally feel the sparks between them jumping off the page!! The story line was engaging, soulful, suspenseful, and packed with so much raw emotion that it took my breath away more than a few times! This is one of those reads that will hit you deep, have you feeling the intended emotion behind every word and is sure to linger in your thoughts long after the last page is turned!!

Highly recommend this one, Ms. Gardin's endearing characters are sure to leave an indelible impression on your heart and take you on an truly unforgettable literary escape!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this title.
Profile Image for Shayna.
1,812 reviews615 followers
September 9, 2017
When it comes to the genre of Romantic Suspense, I review a little more carefully because it’s one of my favorite genres. I feel like the author has to do more to thrill me, excite me, and get my heart beating faster and faster with each turn of the page. With Diana Gardin being a new-to-me-author, along with her most recent romantic suspense, PROMISE TO DEFEND, I was anxious and excited to start reading. During my read I found that Ms. Gardin is a pretty damn good storyteller. Not only did she hook me right away, but she kept my eyes from straying the entire way through. It was sexy and exciting. It was sweet and swoony. It was suspenseful and seductive. This installment of Ms. Gardin’s Rescue Ops Series was a great addition to the series and it definitely enticed me to check out the first book in the series and start from the beginning. 

“I want to get you home."

”What are you going to do with me when we get there?"

”Red...there’s no telling. But it’s probably going to be very, very dirty.”


I love a good ALPHA MALE and Diana gives us a spectacular one in Ronin Shaw. He was sexy, protective, gruff, possessive, and did I say sexy? But in the end he had a tender touch, as well as a tender heart and I think that is what eventually won me over. Olive Alexander, our heroine of this story was a very strong character indeed. She was the absolute perfect match for our hero in every way. Together they broke down the walls surround their hearts and let each other in. The two both have a haunting past. They have ghosts. For our hero, his ghost still haunts him to this day. For our heroine, her ghost might be closer than you think.

This suspenseful romance definitely had my blood pumping. This author has made her mark on me with this delicious story and I can’t wait to see what she brings to the table next. If you are looking for an alpha-licious hero who will do anything to protect the woman he loves, pick up PROMISE TO DEFEND. I promise you, you won’t be disappointed. 

Promise To Defend Teaser

Unknown
89 reviews4 followers
September 12, 2017
Promise To Defend...

Promises to keep you on the edge of your seat!
Promises to have you not wanting to put the book down!
Promises to make you melt with the sweet moments!
Promises to have you blushing at sexy scenes!
Promises to give your heart a jump start with emotion!
Promises to keep bringing non-stop action
Promises to have seriously amazing Alpha men
Promises to bring friendship,laughter and love

Promise To Defend...promises to have you falling in love once again with a book,it's characters,their story,the writing and promises to have you wanting more! Diana once again brings you so much with this book which had me working through so many emotions and honored to get to read such a extraordinary story! Of course I am so ready for more too💕💕
Profile Image for Heather andrews.
9,520 reviews162 followers
September 12, 2017
Ronin likes to voice his plans to his woman, “I’m going to eff you on this island, and everywhere else in this house, but not tonight. Tonight I need you in my bed.” I liked this book, Ronin was protective and all about his girl.
Profile Image for Bec.
1,659 reviews42 followers
September 12, 2017

Seven years ago was a tough time for Ronin Shaw when he lost the love of his life and they never found her murderer. Yet now, he's found another woman to help him move on from his painful past, Olive Alexander. Except she's facing trouble from her own past, and unless Ronin can keep her safe, he might just lose her. However, when Ronin discovers his past collides with Olive's trouble, will he be able to keep her safe or will their happy ever after never happen?

What a wonderfully-written, fast-paced, spellbinding read Ms. Gardin has penned in this story, which encompasses a marvellous blend of romance and suspense, two fantastic main characters with harrowing back stories that had me wanting to discover more about them and whether the hero would ever learn the truth of who killed his wife; and riveting dialogue that made this story an absolute page turner, because of the danger these two face that kept me on the edge-of-my-seat. Why does the heroine's ex want her back?

The way this story started had me totally hooked, as the heroine is determined to avoid getting close to the hero, especially when all she wants is to feel safe and to her, the hero is anything but safe because he makes her feel things she's never felt with another man. Will the hero win her over? Will he be able to keep her safe when he discovers what's going on with her and how her life may be in danger? Moreover, the heroine is resilient, courageous, hard-working, determined to prove she can take care of herself because of what happened to her in her past, and I liked how she let the hero in since she knows there's no way she can go up against her ex and his family without having someone on her side that's capable of helping her. I also liked that the heroine was just as protective of the hero as he was of her.

While the hero, he's confident, determined to do whatever it takes to protect the heroine, and I liked how fearless Ronin was when it comes to facing the danger that they face that had me thinking they may not be able to get out of it without one or both of them ending up hurt. I also liked how determined he was to discover who killed his wife, and how tight he was with his teammates that were willing to help him with whatever he needed. Will they be able to keep Olive safe?

Overall, Ms. Gardin has penned an incredible read in this book that was every bit as good as the first book of this series; and where the chemistry and romance was special and what both the hero and heroine needed in their lives to be completely happy in life. The way this story ended had me concerned for one of the main characters, but I really enjoyed how everything worked out for the hero and heroine, as they deserve every bit of happiness that they've found together. However, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up nicely, because of the surprise the hero had for the heroine. I would recommend Promise to Defend by Diana Gardin, if you enjoy romantic suspense or books by authors Zoe Dawson, Susan Stoker, Elle James and Tonya Burrows.
Profile Image for Lara .
366 reviews88 followers
September 10, 2017
*I received an ARC from Forever & Forever Yours | Grand Central Publishing for a honest review*
Promise to Defend is the second book in the Rescue Ops series. You could probably get away with reading it and not having read book 1, Sworn to Protect; however, there are some spoilers that explain what the couple in that book, Jeremy and Rayne, went through. That being said, Promise to Defend is going to be one of those books you will not want to put down. I read it in a day, which for someone who reads slower than a snail's pace, that's saying something.

Ronin a member of the Night Eagle Security (NES) team has been through a lot in his life, including surviving the loss of his wife while he was deployed over seas. Never one to think he'll find that kind of love again, or even be capable of it with the weight of guilt he holds for not being there for her, he works and lives a life of casual encounters. That is until, Olive. Olive is the sister of Rayne who is coupled with Jeremy from Sworn to Protect. Ronin is best friends with Jeremy and when Jeremy asks Ronin to keep an eye on the controlled and put together Olive while he and Rayne head out of town, Ronin of course says yes. But what he quickly discovers it that Jeremy's concern for Olive is valid and something has set Olive's very planned out existence on its head. As he delves into Olive's past, his own comes back to haunt him and he must work to balance the loyalty he feels to his past and the very real threat to his and Olive's future.

I LOVED Ronin and Olive. Loved, loved, loved. They were so perfect for each other. Right from the beginning you were rooting for them. As their stories came out and began intertwining you just rooted for their love to conquer even more. Olive has her reasons for being so controlled in her life. She needs it to protect herself. But when she meets Ronin, the smart, sassy, beauty can't help but notice he not only doesn't fit in one of her neat little boxes but he is everything she needs and wants. Aside from the chemistry heating between Ronin and Olive keeping you turning page after page, there is action that will keep you thoroughly engrossed. Ronin is a strong, sexy man on a mission and nothing and no on will get in his way to protect Olive and close a long ago chapter in his life.

In addition to these two are the rest of the NES team and a friend of Ronin's, Bennett, who gets caught up in Ronin and Olive's story. I love all these characters and I can't wait to see who's story is next.
Profile Image for books are love.
3,163 reviews23 followers
September 12, 2017
Ronin and Olive are great together. The chemistry was phew just sizlzling. And Ronin with his honorability and wanting to right by his best friend just has you gaga for him. He is alpha all the way and sexy as sin. Also has a fun sweet side too.

Olive is independent and stubborn. She doesn’t turn to anyone until it get almost to late. She is passionate and dedicated. I love the banter and interactions between her and Ronin. These two you know are attracted so watching them is a hoot because of the brother that is like a elephant in the room. when they do finally come together wow that smoke from the kindle. IT’s explosive. But they are more than just sex-they are intimate in knowing one another outside of the sheets. He is there for her when needed. He comforts her and makes her feel safe and secure. Something she needs with all that danger in her life.

The danger and who is behind it keeps you on your toes and edge of the seat. Wondering who is it and why? Diana Gardin does a great job mixing in the suspense and have it help to get these two to act on their feelings. Fear is a great motivator when it comes to assessing life and love. It propels them to act and be together. I also love how all the men around Ronin are there for them as well. Also how Ronin keeps Olive’s secrets and listens to her until he needs to let her brother know. He respects her and that is so sexy.Olive helps Ronin to heal and move on. I loved how the theme of his past intertwines into the danger Olive is in. So seemless. And his struggles with the past are so real and heartbreaking. Glad Olive was there to help him through his guilt and anger. Also that it helped him show himself he could be there for someone and help them.

A story with heat in and out of the sheets. Where the characters fight attraction until they can’t anymore but also give us their sides of independence and stubbornness. We see ronin protect with all that he is but also show support, love and respect. Olive stays strong and shows Ronin her trust and faith. The love story is explosive and tender as well because they talk to one another and show us it isn’t just lust that they have for one another. The danger is exciting and exhilarating. A wonderfully written and exhilarating book of love, trust and friendship.


Profile Image for Marie-Elizabeth Dohar.
47 reviews1 follower
September 12, 2017
Disclaimer: ARC received in exchange for an honest review

Promise to Defend is Diana Gardin’s second installment in her Rescue Ops series (which is a spinoff of her Battle Scars series). Set in coastal Wilmington, North Carolina, Promise to Defend is the story of ex-Special Forces now Night Eagle Securities bad@ss with a hero complex, Ronin Shaw, and interior designer with some skeletons in her walk-in closet, Olive Alexander; it picks up right where its predecessor, Sworn to Protect, leaves off.

What's in the water at NES that the men of the high-profile security firm have a proclivity for damsels in distress? And why are Gardin's heroines always mixed up in some kind of trouble? These former military men seem overwhelmingly drawn to beautiful, strong women with targets on their backs, and this scenario again plays out in Promise to Defend. Despite being willful and extremely independent, Olive’s past has come back to haunt her, becoming a problem far too large for her to handle on her own. Her issues are unknowingly intertwined with the crippling pain of Ronin’s past, which, when added to her pride and his alpha-male protective tendencies, makes their coupling quite compelling.

Again, Gardin spins a romantic suspense yarn unlike any other. Her work is often fast-paced, complex, and engaging, and Promise to Defend certainly checks all these boxes. Ronin and Olive’s relationship is a little insta-love-y, but remains authentic and genuine in Gardin's deft and capable hands. She has a gift for developing likable, empathetic characters who undergo significant personal growth often as a result of the romantic relationships she cultivates for them. I highly recommend this series, which continues later this year with Mine to Save, to readers looking for a sexy, sensual, suspenseful romp that absolutely does not disappoint.
Profile Image for Judy.
1,792 reviews
September 19, 2017
Promise To Defend is book 2 in the Rescue Ops series and is just as intense and hot as book 1!

Ronin Shaw aka Swagger works with Jeremy Teague (from book 1) at Night Eagle Security. Our story begins with Jeremy and Rayne getting married. In book 1 we learned that Jeremy and Rayne had a son together, which Jeremy had no idea but once he found out he learned a few things about his heart. Ronin is happy for his best friend, but at the same time he can't help but to travel down memory lane of his wife. She was taken from him way too early and her murderer was never caught. It's become his life goal to find her killer. He's been very focused on finding his wife's killer until he sees Olive (Rayne's sister) at the wedding. She's a huge distraction and now there are feelings inside him that he hasn't experienced since his wife's death.

The chemistry between Ronin and Olive is off the charts, but he's got a murder to solve...can he stay the course or will he give in? He also knows that Olive is hiding something big and has made it his job to find out why. When Jeremy appoints him temporary guard of Olive while him and Rayne are on their honeymoon it's the perfect opportunity to see what she's hiding.

Diana Gardin has quickly become one of my "go to" authors! Her books always have me on the edge of my seat! This book was intense, suspenseful, hot, funny and sweet! I absolutely loved how the characters from book 1 were a big part of this book as well. It was like visiting with old friends!! I don't throw around 5 star ratings very often, and this one was a definite 5 star!!

Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha
1,105 reviews
September 12, 2017
book 2 of the rescue ops series, promise to defend, delivers just the right mix of suspense and romance. ronin and olive have known each other for a while, and while they've noticed each other they haven't paid close attention to how being in each other's orbit makes them feel. this changes at jeremy and rayne's wedding reception.

jeremy asks ronin to keep an eye on olive, in part because she's been acting strange since she got back from a job in france, and also because he knows that rayne will worry about her sister regardless. at first ronin is skeptical that there is any need for this. but quickly his spidey senses start tingling.

and when olive comes home from a date to discover someone has broken into her house, all bets are off. there is no way ronin will let her out of his sight after that. his reaction makes sense because one, he is a total alpha and of course would not stand for a woman to remain in danger, but two because his wife was murdered and he can't handle the idea of someone he's promised to protect to be in mortal danger.

given the heightened emotions, things between ronin and olive get serious pretty quickly. but the way she makes him feel, it's given him new life. and ronin touches the parts of herself that olive has kept behind a wall. they are both broken and battered and together they heal. it's not a new story, but it's one that works for me. i liked both ronin and olive, they aren't forced to behave like morons for the plot to work. even when olive is endangered, her rationale for behaving the way she does is completely understandable.

and all's well that end's well, right?

**promise to defend will publish on september 12, 2017. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/grand central publishing (forever yours) in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Nikki Brooks.
3,558 reviews54 followers
December 13, 2017
Ronin, aka Swagger, is the best when it comes to interrogation. he is still running from his painful past - one where he couldn't save his wife from a tragic end. He cruises through life, not investing in any relationships he may have, with the exception of those with his fellow soldiers. But when he finally gets up close and personal with Olive at Rayne and Jeremy's (book 1) surprise wedding, he is dropped head first into lust, which fast becomes something deeper!

Olive returned from Paris before her contract was up due to the sad death of her employer. But now she is back and her sleazy ex is back to haunt her. But not content with making her life a misery, he is also involved with his mobster uncle! She doesn't accept help from the NES guys easily and she has a real self esteem problem, even tough she has own real-life Ken doll!!! She just can't wrap her head around Ronin wanting her. MJ did such a number on her, she just doubts everyone.

OOOh another keeper! Olive is great as the former larger than average girl, who has her life tightly controlled and under control Ronin, however, makes her lose hold on that control and she's not sure she can survive it. Loved how the strands of the story wove together and the interplay between this buttoned up "good girl" and the fly by the seat of his pants former soldier!
Profile Image for Ree.
2,518 reviews53 followers
August 20, 2017
I am in love with Diana Gardin's Night Eagle Security heroes so far.

I read through this book in a few hours - I couldn't put it down. Jeremy Teague was sexy, but then I wasn't prepared for the sexy package that was Ronin Shaw, and his pain & determination to protect Olive Alexander from danger at all costs. Olive is no shrinking violet; she's been through a lot herself to be the woman that she is, and it takes a lot for her to accept that she can't solve all her problems without help. Their chemistry is hot, and the character development is well done.

Ms. Gardin writes exciting fiction in a way that gives you a front seat to the action. One minute you think you know what's going to happen, the next, there appears a twist that sends you in another direction. I honestly will be eagerly awaiting Book 3.

I voluntarily read & reviewed an ARC of this book - provided to me via NetGalley - and wholeheartedly recommend it.
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
20.1k reviews257 followers
September 11, 2017
This is the 2nd book in this awesome series, and is Ronin and Olive’s story. As with all of the other sexy former special ops alphas, Ronin has moved on to Night Eagle Security. Olive is a sassy, feisty, independent woman, who is convinced that she does not need anyone in her life. Both of these characters have pasts which haunt them, and the chemistry between them is explosive. When Olive’s past reappears, Ronin is determined to protect her at all costs. No spoilers; this is an absolute must read, you will not be disappointed!
This author had written a truly beautiful storyline, and I was hooked and intrigued throughout. Diana is one of my favourite authors, and I highly recommend her work for all readers. Looking forward to reading more from this series. Brilliant work Diana!!
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book!
Profile Image for Mel.
644 reviews8 followers
September 12, 2017
I fell for this series with the first book with Jeremy and Rayne. But in this book with Rayne's sister Olive and Jeremy's best friend Ronin I love the series even more! This cast of characters are eclectic and highly irresistible. I want more of them the more I get to know of each one. This book was high in heat and romance as well as having a good dose of suspense. The plot was a fun one that kept a reader on their toes. Ronin is a dream man. He is alpha to the max but not in an over the top way. Olive has a very strong character. Her inner strength is alluring. These two butt heads and make sparks.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am very much looking forward to more in this series. I highly recommend it to all who enjoy a hot suspense.
Profile Image for Connie.
1,670 reviews6 followers
September 10, 2017
I received a complimentary copy of this book and I am voluntarily reviewing it.

Five stars isn't good enough for this. I just love it. The book is written from a dual POV but more from Ronin's. The book is so compelling and thought provoking. Once you start, you will not want to stop. You really get into the characters and feel a part of them. The connection is so great that you don't want the story to end. All the prior characters are included as usual so you still a connection with them as well. I hope Bennett becomes a part of the NES team. I can't wait for the next book.

I HIGHLY recommend this book and the entire series to anyone who loves a well written romance.
3,247 reviews27 followers
September 12, 2017
I loved Ronan's story and how we got to see in to his past and dealing with his demons for all those years.He is asked by Jeremy to watch over Olive his sister in law both need control of all things and are not looking for any type of relationship so the banter between these two was so good and yummy at the same time.There are a lot of emotions and secrets that come out as these two become closer and the two of them heal each other a little at a time.
I really liked seeing the whole team together and having each others backs no matter what and them having a big part of the story and I cant wait for the next one.I voluntarily read a readers copy of this book
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