What do you think?
Rate this book
The eagerly-awaited third book in the McIntyre Security, Inc. series is here!
Lia McIntyre
As a 22-year-old female professional bodyguard, Lia’s a rarity in a male-dominated field. She may be a petite, cute blond, but she’s a master of martial arts and Krav Maga, and she can render a man twice her size unconscious in just seconds. Lia hides a painful past behind a snarky, take-no-prisoners attitude. She was horribly betrayed by her first love, and she’s determined never to let anyone use her or hurt her again. To make sure that never happens again, she’s got rules. One, never sleep with a client. And two, never sleep with the same guy twice. The walls she’s built up to protect herself are rock solid. Until she meets her new client, Jonah Locke, a swoon-worthy rock star with a heart of gold.
Jonah Locke
Jonah Locke is the front man for the most popular rock band in the United States. His band dominates the charts, and he’s constantly hounded by crowds of fan-girls and paparazzi. The guy can’t sneeze without everyone on social media knowing. A bad break-up with the Queen of Pop sends him from LA to Chicago, where he just wants to lie low and write new songs. Unfortunately, trouble follows him to Chicago. When he meets his new bodyguard, he falls hard for her. But lust transforms into something more when he gets to know the woman beneath the kick-ass shell.
Broken can be read standalone, but it will be enjoyed more as part of the series, because there are lots of cameos of other beloved McIntyre Security characters. HEA, yes! Cliffhanger, no! Read this book only if you like smart-mouthed, feisty heroines who don’t take crap from anyone.
The McIntyre Security, Inc. Series:
Book 1 – Vulnerable
Book 2 – Fearless
Book 3 – Broken
368 pages, ebook
First published November 12, 2016
1659 people are currently reading
759 people want to read
About the author
April Wilson
50 books1,020 followersI write about alpha protectors who fall in love hard and unconditionally, through the good and the bad. My characters are strong, sexy, and slightly damaged... because no one is perfect. All of my novels have happy-ever-after endings. What else would you expect from a die-hard romantic? I'm the author of the McIntyre Security Bodyguard Series of contemporary romance novels.
I live in Ohio with my daughter and more than a few dogs and cats. When I'm not writing, I'm reading romance novels and watching movies with happy endings. I'd love to hear from you! You can e-mail me at aprilwilsonwrites@outlook.com. Or, visit my website: aprilwilsonauthor.com.
Thanks!
I live in Ohio with my daughter and more than a few dogs and cats. When I'm not writing, I'm reading romance novels and watching movies with happy endings. I'd love to hear from you! You can e-mail me at aprilwilsonwrites@outlook.com. Or, visit my website: aprilwilsonauthor.com.
Thanks!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 216 reviews
dnf
February 25, 2019I wanted a badass heroine and not the typical hormonal mess in denial 🙄
She was cool, when her estrogen level was low, but a needy girl, when it was up.
Let's toss hysterical fangirls with no pride, a bitchy beautiful ex, a kitchen sink and drama - voilà a book is made!
I DNFed at 34%, but I can probably predict what happens...
There will be a scandal about the sex-video her ex put online - who TF cares about 1 old video???! Let's don't exaggerate. He was a rock-god and her video was watched by everyone incl Elvis in heaven. Come on! No video of such content would ever gain that much attention! And no rock-god or whatever would be followed by that many fans. I believe women, and also young fans, have definitely more dignity than to follow a dude with ponytail. How many rock-gods are out there?! As if ppl have nothing to do but to watch an ancient sex-video and to throw themselves at some celebrity 🙄
Lucky me didn't get to the point they shared body-fluids. Yay!
I guess his ex will be trashed. Why not?! It's always 'smart' to trash an ex to emphasize heroine's worth.
Last but not least. Why TF did h's brother assigned her to a celebrity, when she needed to stay private, coz everyone and the neighbours' dog watch her sex-video??! 🙄
So many questions, so little intrest to get answers...
She was cool, when her estrogen level was low, but a needy girl, when it was up.
Let's toss hysterical fangirls with no pride, a bitchy beautiful ex, a kitchen sink and drama - voilà a book is made!
I DNFed at 34%, but I can probably predict what happens...
There will be a scandal about the sex-video her ex put online - who TF cares about 1 old video???! Let's don't exaggerate. He was a rock-god and her video was watched by everyone incl Elvis in heaven. Come on! No video of such content would ever gain that much attention! And no rock-god or whatever would be followed by that many fans. I believe women, and also young fans, have definitely more dignity than to follow a dude with ponytail. How many rock-gods are out there?! As if ppl have nothing to do but to watch an ancient sex-video and to throw themselves at some celebrity 🙄
Lucky me didn't get to the point they shared body-fluids. Yay!
I guess his ex will be trashed. Why not?! It's always 'smart' to trash an ex to emphasize heroine's worth.
Last but not least. Why TF did h's brother assigned her to a celebrity, when she needed to stay private, coz everyone and the neighbours' dog watch her sex-video??! 🙄
So many questions, so little intrest to get answers...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2019
The entire messy story took place within 3 weeks. From start to finish. Three weeks... and they're in love? 🙄
June 21, 2017
This is my first listen/read by April Wilson and I have to say this book was something of a gem. Although it is third in the series, it stands alone perfectly well. What immediately drew me into the story was the idea of a rather small but super-trained and strong, female bodyguard. Lia had prickles that screamed 'do not touch' but she was some woman and the true definition of a strong heroine.
Lia is body-guarding for a music sensation. This is not my favourite kind of hero but surprisingly, Jonah blew my preconceptions out of the water, with humility and a desire to be out of the spotlight and away from social media manipulations. In some ways Jonah was a beta kind of hero but he was likeable nonetheless.
The backstories to these two were interesting and Lia's in particular was compelling and somewhat tragic. I loved the story, the pace and writing. The chemistry was well written and tangible too.
The narration was single POV, single narration and Alice Parker was perfect for this. She narrated the male dialogue really well that I just slipped into the story seamlessly.
A copy of this audiobook was provided by the author in return for an honest review.
Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.
Lia is body-guarding for a music sensation. This is not my favourite kind of hero but surprisingly, Jonah blew my preconceptions out of the water, with humility and a desire to be out of the spotlight and away from social media manipulations. In some ways Jonah was a beta kind of hero but he was likeable nonetheless.
The backstories to these two were interesting and Lia's in particular was compelling and somewhat tragic. I loved the story, the pace and writing. The chemistry was well written and tangible too.
The narration was single POV, single narration and Alice Parker was perfect for this. She narrated the male dialogue really well that I just slipped into the story seamlessly.
A copy of this audiobook was provided by the author in return for an honest review.
Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.
dnf
October 4, 2019Copied and paste my bestie’s review! 🤣🤣
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
June 11, 2017
This book was sweet but the other women drama was so over the top. I really liked the hero but he came across to beta for my personal taste.
While the story line was ok I was left feeling this book was a hot mess. It never really amounted to anything.
While the story line was ok I was left feeling this book was a hot mess. It never really amounted to anything.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2018
Running into the man who betrayed her, Lia McIntrye is angry and feeling unsettled. She is conditioning her body until every zap of energy is drained. It is all part of her training she tells herself, but her brother and coworkers know differently. That is why they assign her to be the bodyguard to rock star Jonah Locke.
Lia didn't expect to be attracted to him. She wants to keep their business as professional but Jonah can see through her. He wants her with every fiber in his body, he knows she wants him too but her walls are up. Will Jonah discover what caused those walls and will he be able to break through some of the politics that go into being a rock star?
This was great. Very different for a bodyguard story and I liked Jonah. This is a bit of a slow burn romance but once you begin reading it you cant put it down.
Lia didn't expect to be attracted to him. She wants to keep their business as professional but Jonah can see through her. He wants her with every fiber in his body, he knows she wants him too but her walls are up. Will Jonah discover what caused those walls and will he be able to break through some of the politics that go into being a rock star?
This was great. Very different for a bodyguard story and I liked Jonah. This is a bit of a slow burn romance but once you begin reading it you cant put it down.
Read
June 2, 2020I loved this book. April you need to write more and more. Your stories are awesome and your characters are loved.
August 10, 2020
Good.
This was a good addition to the McIntyre Security Bodyguard Series being the first book in the series that wasn’t about Shane and Beth’s. I enjoyed the premise of kickbutt bodyguard, Lia, meeting and falling in love with artistic global rockstar Jonah, at a point where she’s closed off from love due to a past traumatic experience in high school.
This was good but there were some character inconsistencies with the manner in which the characters interacted and behaved- it sometimes requires some suspension of disbelief. This had some potentially triggering themes of revenge p0rn and being a victim of that at a young age, so reader beware. That said, overall, I liked this and look forward to seeing more of Jonah and Lia’s love story in future books.
This was a good addition to the McIntyre Security Bodyguard Series being the first book in the series that wasn’t about Shane and Beth’s. I enjoyed the premise of kickbutt bodyguard, Lia, meeting and falling in love with artistic global rockstar Jonah, at a point where she’s closed off from love due to a past traumatic experience in high school.
This was good but there were some character inconsistencies with the manner in which the characters interacted and behaved- it sometimes requires some suspension of disbelief. This had some potentially triggering themes of revenge p0rn and being a victim of that at a young age, so reader beware. That said, overall, I liked this and look forward to seeing more of Jonah and Lia’s love story in future books.
September 8, 2020
I really enjoyed Lia and Jonah's story. I thought they had a lot of chemistry together and I loved Jonah's patient nature when it came to dealing with Lia's insecurities. Although I thought there could have been a bit more romantic development between Lia and Jonah, I do enjoy April Wilson's writing and can't wait to carry on with with series!
January 5, 2020
I loved this book! Story was great. Writing is always good. Exciting, adventurous, and creative.
January 31, 2017
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review
I became an instant fan of April Wilson's writing from the moment I met Shane and Beth and was entangled in their world in the first book in the McIntyre Security Bodyguard series. She is eloquent, her characters are full of complexity with all their fears, dreams, and passion and her story telling skills are off the charts! So when I am given a chance to step back into the McIntyre fictional world and hang out with the family, I am ready and willing! Broken is a book that I have been pining for. I fell hard for Lia from the moment she was introduced in the first book in the series, Vulnerable and couldn't wait to get to know this feisty bodyguard and see her find her a man that can keep up with her every move! Lia and Jonah are intense, vibrant, and boiling over with untapped desire for one another.
Lia McIntyre intrigued me with her “I am just as good as any man” attitude and she backed it up with every strike of her fist and jump kick she delivered to her opponents with both her body and her words. After reading her and Jonah's story, my girl crush is even bigger and I cannot wait to visit her in future books. Lia is a kick ass chick with a huge heart filled with passion that can barely be contained in her petite little body. After having her heart broken and her trust destroyed by her first love Lia has huge walls built around her heart that only Jonah can tear down and I couldn't wait to see the walls crumble!
Jonah Locke is a “still waters run deep” type of hero that inspires a reader to dig deep to get to know the heart of this mysterious character. Once you get up close and chummy with Jonah, he is forever etched into your soul. He is the broody, silent, and misunderstood type that oozes sex appeal without even trying. I enjoyed every nail biting, lip licking moment with this rock star and couldn't get enough of him from his ratty t-shirts, ripped jeans, scuffed boots, and his down to earth persona.
April Wilson delivers another read in the McIntyre series that has her readership growing and deepens our love for the McIntyre family. I highly recommend Broken, along with the first two books Vulnerable and Fearless in the McIntyre Security Bodyguard series for romance that is sure to leave you dreaming about sexy bodyguards, courageous heroines that are full of sass, and drool worthy rock stars. I cannot wait to jump right back in and curl up with another novella and get cozy once more with Shane from Vulnerable. I am sure that it will be just as entertaining and steamy as the rest of April Wilson's books!
I became an instant fan of April Wilson's writing from the moment I met Shane and Beth and was entangled in their world in the first book in the McIntyre Security Bodyguard series. She is eloquent, her characters are full of complexity with all their fears, dreams, and passion and her story telling skills are off the charts! So when I am given a chance to step back into the McIntyre fictional world and hang out with the family, I am ready and willing! Broken is a book that I have been pining for. I fell hard for Lia from the moment she was introduced in the first book in the series, Vulnerable and couldn't wait to get to know this feisty bodyguard and see her find her a man that can keep up with her every move! Lia and Jonah are intense, vibrant, and boiling over with untapped desire for one another.
Lia McIntyre intrigued me with her “I am just as good as any man” attitude and she backed it up with every strike of her fist and jump kick she delivered to her opponents with both her body and her words. After reading her and Jonah's story, my girl crush is even bigger and I cannot wait to visit her in future books. Lia is a kick ass chick with a huge heart filled with passion that can barely be contained in her petite little body. After having her heart broken and her trust destroyed by her first love Lia has huge walls built around her heart that only Jonah can tear down and I couldn't wait to see the walls crumble!
Jonah Locke is a “still waters run deep” type of hero that inspires a reader to dig deep to get to know the heart of this mysterious character. Once you get up close and chummy with Jonah, he is forever etched into your soul. He is the broody, silent, and misunderstood type that oozes sex appeal without even trying. I enjoyed every nail biting, lip licking moment with this rock star and couldn't get enough of him from his ratty t-shirts, ripped jeans, scuffed boots, and his down to earth persona.
April Wilson delivers another read in the McIntyre series that has her readership growing and deepens our love for the McIntyre family. I highly recommend Broken, along with the first two books Vulnerable and Fearless in the McIntyre Security Bodyguard series for romance that is sure to leave you dreaming about sexy bodyguards, courageous heroines that are full of sass, and drool worthy rock stars. I cannot wait to jump right back in and curl up with another novella and get cozy once more with Shane from Vulnerable. I am sure that it will be just as entertaining and steamy as the rest of April Wilson's books!
August 8, 2019
I like you April Wilson. Seriously, it's me not you.
I like this series, I love Shane and Beth. But Lia....she's ok for a sidekick or secondary character but she's the kind of h I don't like.
She's "too bad-ass" and "tough" and "no man is ever going to get close to me because I was burned badly by one guy....blah, blah, blah". OY! She behaves in a way that I wouldn't tolerate from a hero, so why should the h get a pass? Frankly, I don't know what he saw in her. So I skimmed, sue me.
Look, I don't hate her she's just not for me and her H seemed wimpy though he was sweet.
Onward!
I like this series, I love Shane and Beth. But Lia....she's ok for a sidekick or secondary character but she's the kind of h I don't like.
She's "too bad-ass" and "tough" and "no man is ever going to get close to me because I was burned badly by one guy....blah, blah, blah". OY! She behaves in a way that I wouldn't tolerate from a hero, so why should the h get a pass? Frankly, I don't know what he saw in her. So I skimmed, sue me.
Look, I don't hate her she's just not for me and her H seemed wimpy though he was sweet.
Onward!
November 16, 2016
I wish Shane and Beth had a third book...
I read this book because I couldn't get enough of the first two, and while I'm glad I know Lia's history, I found myself caring more about Shane and Beth in the background then lia at all. I wanted to love it but I couldn't... I could read a million books about Shane and Beth but I'm glad Lia only got one. Looking forward to book 2.5 shane's perspective!!!
I read this book because I couldn't get enough of the first two, and while I'm glad I know Lia's history, I found myself caring more about Shane and Beth in the background then lia at all. I wanted to love it but I couldn't... I could read a million books about Shane and Beth but I'm glad Lia only got one. Looking forward to book 2.5 shane's perspective!!!
November 23, 2016
A good story, well developed and good plot. I just found Jonah a bit of a wimp, he was unable to fully stand up to people and it irritated me. He is great in other ways, caring, loyal and understanding but his issue is dealing with his ex and his manager but I just didn't like him for his lack of back bone in these instances.
August 24, 2017
The series that started so well has now flat lined. I honestly didn't enjoy this book. Bar that fact Lia wasn't paired with who I wanted her to be with, I just didn't all that much like Jonah. Then to find out that the next book is about Shane and Beth AGAIN. I mean come on let them have a HEA and write about one of the brothers!!!
November 13, 2016
I loved Lia's story!!!
I loved this book!! I also loves that Shane and Beth were in it as well. I can't wait for more!!
I loved this book!! I also loves that Shane and Beth were in it as well. I can't wait for more!!
January 12, 2022
I selected this book because it featured a female bodyguard, pretty unique in this genre and I was looking forward to reading it with great interest. Sadly, the book did not deliver.
It doesn’t take but a paragraph or two to figure out the bodyguard is one of the broken characters in this book. As it turns out, lots of characters in this book are broken so I think the title is apt and applies to a whole slew of primary and secondary characters in this story.
In general, I am not a fan of the rockstar trope. I love music and rock in particular, but I lived through a period of groupie-hood and most writers don’t get it right. This rocker was not awful, but his story was trite: rock star angst - heart of gold, hangers-on who want his star power - finds a woman who sees right into the true him. Sigh…. Still a trite storyline does not inevitably ruin a story.
Lia McIntyre is the bodyguard. She has been betrayed by the boy who took her virginity, then abused her and it marked her forever…at least for the six years it has been since the outrageous betrayal. She still has flashbacks and deep anger issues, so much so that she deliberately injures herself. OK. Now wait a second. She’s a mega-rich McIntyre; her family would have insisted on counseling and would have kept at it until Lia was dealing better with the horrible experience. AND…apparently, they went to court and lost. Really? Again, these tropes are too laissez-faire about Security companies who employ people with mad computer skills that can find anything on anybody…except…in this case where there was no evidence against the perpetrator. Doh….
There are a several discrepancies. At the onset of her job, Lia believes her boss (also her brother) has set her up with Jonah, the new rock star client, because her brother thinks they’d be a good match. A chapter or two later she is thinking about Jonah and is sure her brother would be angry if she hooked up with the rockstar. One or the other…or show that she is going back and forth in her mind. Here, it appears that the writer wasn’t paying attention to what she had already written.
And…her brother tells her to use the Cadillac Escalade as a business vehicle. She’s on the clock 24/7 as Jonah’s bodyguard, especially when she is driving him anywhere. Yet she takes her own jeep to get lunch with Jonah.
At 25% it was dreadfully apparent that the characters were puppets being manipulated rather than being allowed to grow and get to know each other. The betrayal incident from six years ago is too fresh and it is used to wrangle Lia in and out of bad situations. The betrayal is a tool the writer uses to move Lia around on this checkerboard of a story. It becomes boring and predictable. Something that bad (and yes, I’m being vague because it is a spoiler to indicate precisely what the perpetrator did) should be treated with more respect; six years have passed – a reader would think this betrayal had happened within the current year, it is so raw and vivid…too much so.
The book’s main characters, Lia and Jonah, could have been fascinating; instead, they are indecisive and passive-aggressive. They are not a good match. Lia is a stuck recording: she can’t move on from the incident. Again…she is from a wealthy family and would have had the best counseling available. The book is all about her internal angst and everything that happens is tainted by this horrible betrayal that occurred six years ago. Her brothers love her; her parents love her. They would have ensured that Lia got the best treatment possible. While there is no time limit to one’s reaction to extreme pain, she causes herself harm. Her brothers are aware of this. It is disturbing that there has been no intervention on her behalf. Again, the writer uses Lia’s painful betrayal as a device and that isn’t right.
At 50% completion, the reader will figure out that the writer will use Lia’s deep-seated neurosis to bring her to her knees. Truly, this was not essential to the story, but it appears the writer couldn’t help herself. Frankly, it was awful and awfully unnecessary.
The story did not end; it just stopped. It’s as if the writer got tired of writing (something I wholeheartedly can understand in this case) and went no further. Not a cliffhanger, per se, but just as irritating, nonetheless. What do you want to bet there will be another book we can buy to find out more...?
There were ubiquitous errors, such as these two:
“In find Esperanza in the kitchen….” Maybe that’s “I find Esperanza in the kitchen,” since it is being written from the narrator’s point of view.
“…making a lot of noise as goes through his drills.” Perhaps “…as HE goes through his drills?”
There were more errors, but I was in speed-read mode and noted them, but elected not to stop and wonder about them.
I gave this book a 2-star rating. I tend to finish books I start because I think if the writer has gone to the trouble of writing a book – an incredibly difficult and wonderful process – then I can go to the trouble of finishing what I’ve started. But, oh, this was difficult: the story was predictable; the characters were cardboard cutouts moved along by an ever-present writer. I was disappointed because I think this writer has talent; she writes well. However, this book doesn’t do her talent any justice.
It doesn’t take but a paragraph or two to figure out the bodyguard is one of the broken characters in this book. As it turns out, lots of characters in this book are broken so I think the title is apt and applies to a whole slew of primary and secondary characters in this story.
In general, I am not a fan of the rockstar trope. I love music and rock in particular, but I lived through a period of groupie-hood and most writers don’t get it right. This rocker was not awful, but his story was trite: rock star angst - heart of gold, hangers-on who want his star power - finds a woman who sees right into the true him. Sigh…. Still a trite storyline does not inevitably ruin a story.
Lia McIntyre is the bodyguard. She has been betrayed by the boy who took her virginity, then abused her and it marked her forever…at least for the six years it has been since the outrageous betrayal. She still has flashbacks and deep anger issues, so much so that she deliberately injures herself. OK. Now wait a second. She’s a mega-rich McIntyre; her family would have insisted on counseling and would have kept at it until Lia was dealing better with the horrible experience. AND…apparently, they went to court and lost. Really? Again, these tropes are too laissez-faire about Security companies who employ people with mad computer skills that can find anything on anybody…except…in this case where there was no evidence against the perpetrator. Doh….
There are a several discrepancies. At the onset of her job, Lia believes her boss (also her brother) has set her up with Jonah, the new rock star client, because her brother thinks they’d be a good match. A chapter or two later she is thinking about Jonah and is sure her brother would be angry if she hooked up with the rockstar. One or the other…or show that she is going back and forth in her mind. Here, it appears that the writer wasn’t paying attention to what she had already written.
And…her brother tells her to use the Cadillac Escalade as a business vehicle. She’s on the clock 24/7 as Jonah’s bodyguard, especially when she is driving him anywhere. Yet she takes her own jeep to get lunch with Jonah.
At 25% it was dreadfully apparent that the characters were puppets being manipulated rather than being allowed to grow and get to know each other. The betrayal incident from six years ago is too fresh and it is used to wrangle Lia in and out of bad situations. The betrayal is a tool the writer uses to move Lia around on this checkerboard of a story. It becomes boring and predictable. Something that bad (and yes, I’m being vague because it is a spoiler to indicate precisely what the perpetrator did) should be treated with more respect; six years have passed – a reader would think this betrayal had happened within the current year, it is so raw and vivid…too much so.
The book’s main characters, Lia and Jonah, could have been fascinating; instead, they are indecisive and passive-aggressive. They are not a good match. Lia is a stuck recording: she can’t move on from the incident. Again…she is from a wealthy family and would have had the best counseling available. The book is all about her internal angst and everything that happens is tainted by this horrible betrayal that occurred six years ago. Her brothers love her; her parents love her. They would have ensured that Lia got the best treatment possible. While there is no time limit to one’s reaction to extreme pain, she causes herself harm. Her brothers are aware of this. It is disturbing that there has been no intervention on her behalf. Again, the writer uses Lia’s painful betrayal as a device and that isn’t right.
At 50% completion, the reader will figure out that the writer will use Lia’s deep-seated neurosis to bring her to her knees. Truly, this was not essential to the story, but it appears the writer couldn’t help herself. Frankly, it was awful and awfully unnecessary.
The story did not end; it just stopped. It’s as if the writer got tired of writing (something I wholeheartedly can understand in this case) and went no further. Not a cliffhanger, per se, but just as irritating, nonetheless. What do you want to bet there will be another book we can buy to find out more...?
There were ubiquitous errors, such as these two:
“In find Esperanza in the kitchen….” Maybe that’s “I find Esperanza in the kitchen,” since it is being written from the narrator’s point of view.
“…making a lot of noise as goes through his drills.” Perhaps “…as HE goes through his drills?”
There were more errors, but I was in speed-read mode and noted them, but elected not to stop and wonder about them.
I gave this book a 2-star rating. I tend to finish books I start because I think if the writer has gone to the trouble of writing a book – an incredibly difficult and wonderful process – then I can go to the trouble of finishing what I’ve started. But, oh, this was difficult: the story was predictable; the characters were cardboard cutouts moved along by an ever-present writer. I was disappointed because I think this writer has talent; she writes well. However, this book doesn’t do her talent any justice.
August 16, 2023
Lia McIntyre is a force to be reckoned with. Believe me, you do not want to be, on her bad side. Let this be your public service announcement: Mess with someone, Lia cares for and see how far that gets you.
They don’t mess around at, McIntyre Security. She’s made it her mission to keep, her skills sharp. As the youngest of seven kids and the youngest girl, she was constantly being tested. Not so much by her two big sisters, but by her four hot-headed brothers, all pains in her ass. The eldest is her boss and the biggest pain of all.
Lia’s main detail consists of getting, Beth, to and from work safely, continuing training for herself, and helping others with theirs. However, this week has been hard for her, ever since running into her first, and last boyfriend. It has shaken the new, ‘I don’t give a f--k!’ An attitude built with thick walls. Walls that will keep her, safe from pain, fear, and A-holes. Telling herself, she needs thicker walls.
On this day, like most, men underestimate, Lia’s ability to handle herself physically. Shane had told her, he wanted her to help her twin, Liam with training for, just that reason. Guys underestimate someone so small, could overtake them, and get the upper hand, in a bad situation. Could she help that one of them just so, happened to look like her ex, and acted a little like him, too? But then, he winked and called her, Sugar. She didn't mean to knock him out, really, oops! I believe when she is remanded to, Shane’s office she told him, ‘Sorry, nope, not sorry!’ Although, on her own, she did apologize to the guy.
It's what, Shane tells her next that pisses her off. That she is being reassigned to a new case for a while. She is already saying no before he says who it’s for. When the subject walks in, Jonah Locke. Her biggest problem is, she found herself too attracted to, Jonah and that is not good for her walls. And she didn't like, Shane’s smile and meddling he’s up to something. She just knew it.
Opening up and sharing her feelings is, not her thing. When her ex brutality betrayed her, in the worst way. She never thought she would find anyone, for her. I love how this author keeps all of the original characters present, and active even if in a small role, in their lives for now. I loved seeing, Lia going hard plastic caterpillar, to this soft butterfly when she wants to be, translated - mean as an alley-cat badass woman, the rest of the time.
They don’t mess around at, McIntyre Security. She’s made it her mission to keep, her skills sharp. As the youngest of seven kids and the youngest girl, she was constantly being tested. Not so much by her two big sisters, but by her four hot-headed brothers, all pains in her ass. The eldest is her boss and the biggest pain of all.
Lia’s main detail consists of getting, Beth, to and from work safely, continuing training for herself, and helping others with theirs. However, this week has been hard for her, ever since running into her first, and last boyfriend. It has shaken the new, ‘I don’t give a f--k!’ An attitude built with thick walls. Walls that will keep her, safe from pain, fear, and A-holes. Telling herself, she needs thicker walls.
On this day, like most, men underestimate, Lia’s ability to handle herself physically. Shane had told her, he wanted her to help her twin, Liam with training for, just that reason. Guys underestimate someone so small, could overtake them, and get the upper hand, in a bad situation. Could she help that one of them just so, happened to look like her ex, and acted a little like him, too? But then, he winked and called her, Sugar. She didn't mean to knock him out, really, oops! I believe when she is remanded to, Shane’s office she told him, ‘Sorry, nope, not sorry!’ Although, on her own, she did apologize to the guy.
It's what, Shane tells her next that pisses her off. That she is being reassigned to a new case for a while. She is already saying no before he says who it’s for. When the subject walks in, Jonah Locke. Her biggest problem is, she found herself too attracted to, Jonah and that is not good for her walls. And she didn't like, Shane’s smile and meddling he’s up to something. She just knew it.
Opening up and sharing her feelings is, not her thing. When her ex brutality betrayed her, in the worst way. She never thought she would find anyone, for her. I love how this author keeps all of the original characters present, and active even if in a small role, in their lives for now. I loved seeing, Lia going hard plastic caterpillar, to this soft butterfly when she wants to be, translated - mean as an alley-cat badass woman, the rest of the time.
October 27, 2021
Missed the Mark
*spoilers ahead*
I’m honestly a little disappointed in this book. I’m currently going through and reading the stories of this series that I missed and this is one of them.
I felt like the plot was incredibly rushed with barely any buildup at all.
You’re introduced to Lia who is the youngest MacIntyre with a twin. Lia was taken advantage of by her first boyfriend years ago and has a hard time trusting men after her ex released a tape of them having sex online. She chooses to chase her problems away with alcohol and tries to have this tough girl image that I didn’t really buy at all. Then you have Jonah who is this rockstar who moves to Chicago briefly to work on new music. His band manager is trying to pressure him to take a new record deal and his trying to force him back with his ex who comes to town at the suggestion of the band manager Dwight. Lia is hired on to be his personal bodyguard.
There’s slight OW drama but it’s your typical Ow drama in that Jonah is saying no and the ex is showing up scantily dressed and is verbally attacking Lia left and right. But nothing really happens.
There’s not much build up to the relationship that ends up happening between Lia and Jonah. The chemistry between them fell flat a lot and the story feels like it was rushed through. The writing style is different than the style of April’s first two books of this series. I don’t really peg Lia as this broken individual that April tries to paint her as.
It was a struggle for me to finish the book but I was determined to.
*spoilers ahead*
I’m honestly a little disappointed in this book. I’m currently going through and reading the stories of this series that I missed and this is one of them.
I felt like the plot was incredibly rushed with barely any buildup at all.
You’re introduced to Lia who is the youngest MacIntyre with a twin. Lia was taken advantage of by her first boyfriend years ago and has a hard time trusting men after her ex released a tape of them having sex online. She chooses to chase her problems away with alcohol and tries to have this tough girl image that I didn’t really buy at all. Then you have Jonah who is this rockstar who moves to Chicago briefly to work on new music. His band manager is trying to pressure him to take a new record deal and his trying to force him back with his ex who comes to town at the suggestion of the band manager Dwight. Lia is hired on to be his personal bodyguard.
There’s slight OW drama but it’s your typical Ow drama in that Jonah is saying no and the ex is showing up scantily dressed and is verbally attacking Lia left and right. But nothing really happens.
There’s not much build up to the relationship that ends up happening between Lia and Jonah. The chemistry between them fell flat a lot and the story feels like it was rushed through. The writing style is different than the style of April’s first two books of this series. I don’t really peg Lia as this broken individual that April tries to paint her as.
It was a struggle for me to finish the book but I was determined to.
June 14, 2017
Listening to new authors is always fun for me, you never know if you are going to get. The latest of my new author reads is April Wilson, who delivers a wonderful new adult story about Lia McIntyre. This is the third book in the McIntyre Security Bodyguard series, but can be definitely read as a standalone. Lia is the youngest of 7 children and had an unfortunate situation happen to her when she was 16. Six years later, she is still reeling from the memories and is unable to put her trust in a new relationship. She works for the family security agency and has been assigned to guard Jonah Locke, rockstar. I have to say, I loved these two characters, the chemistry between them from the start was thick and their banter entertaining. Their attraction is unable to be ignored, and it is always fun when Jonah, who is supposed to be the one being protected becomes the protector. Lia's brothers are more than charming and you can feel the family ties envelope Lia whenever she needs them. This story definitely has some angst and emotions that keep you listening to the very end. Definitely worth the time, hoping the balance of the series comes out in audio too!
Alice Parker is a new narrator to me and provided the perfect narration for a new adult book. Her voice is young, but not childlike so it was more than believable and she has a very good range of character voices. I will definitely seek her out in the future.
Alice Parker is a new narrator to me and provided the perfect narration for a new adult book. Her voice is young, but not childlike so it was more than believable and she has a very good range of character voices. I will definitely seek her out in the future.
December 31, 2017
Lia is as tough as they come. This woman is a total badass. She can take down a guy twice her size. And she has no fear. She’s the youngest of the McIntyre’s and works as part of Shane’s security team.
Lia’s assigned temporarily to be the bodyguard for Jonah Locke from Locke, a famous rock band. He’s not your typical rocker. He’s hot, but down-to-earth. He’s no prima donna. He writes songs and works hard. He doesn’t take a minute of his success for granted. He’s good to his fans but hates the spotlight and all the attention it brings. But chasing your dream comes at a price.
And Jonah has it bad for Lia. The second he saw her, he knew she was what he wanted. But to get close to Lia, he’ll have his work cut out for him. The walls she has built around her heart are reinforced steel. Lia’s first love hurt her so badly, she’s just given up on a relationship. Now she just wants to scratch an itch and nothing more.
But keeping her distance from Jonah isn’t an option. Their attraction is incredibly hot and irresistible. And Jonah knows that it more than just scratching an itch. Getting Lia to let him in is not a job for just any man. Good thing Jonah’s got what it takes.
A wonderful story of finding love when you never thought you could. Finding your person who makes you your best you. And finding true happiness when you let yourself pursue your passion. And it was HOT!!!
Lia’s assigned temporarily to be the bodyguard for Jonah Locke from Locke, a famous rock band. He’s not your typical rocker. He’s hot, but down-to-earth. He’s no prima donna. He writes songs and works hard. He doesn’t take a minute of his success for granted. He’s good to his fans but hates the spotlight and all the attention it brings. But chasing your dream comes at a price.
And Jonah has it bad for Lia. The second he saw her, he knew she was what he wanted. But to get close to Lia, he’ll have his work cut out for him. The walls she has built around her heart are reinforced steel. Lia’s first love hurt her so badly, she’s just given up on a relationship. Now she just wants to scratch an itch and nothing more.
But keeping her distance from Jonah isn’t an option. Their attraction is incredibly hot and irresistible. And Jonah knows that it more than just scratching an itch. Getting Lia to let him in is not a job for just any man. Good thing Jonah’s got what it takes.
A wonderful story of finding love when you never thought you could. Finding your person who makes you your best you. And finding true happiness when you let yourself pursue your passion. And it was HOT!!!
May 2, 2018
Lia McIntyre is 22 years old and has lived through a public humiliation that I would not wish upon anyone. It’s a testament to her strength of character how she has handled it but one thing she has not been able to overcome is her fear of romantic relationships.
Jonah Locke, musician on the rise and the man Lia is assigned to guard, is attracted to Lia from the start and he is willing to work to break down the barriers between them. I enjoyed the slow burn romance between them.
Overall this was a solid read. It’s my first April Wilson book, so I had no set expectations. There are characters from previous books in the series, which I assume fans will enjoy, but at times I felt their continued story overshadowed Lia and Jonah’s story.
Alice Parker’s narration was very good. I enjoyed listening to her voice and her characterisations. However, my enjoyment was greatly hampered by the incredibly slow pace of the narration. The pauses between sentences was much too long. I listen to all audiobooks at 1.0 speed. This was the first book ever that I needed to listen at 1.25 speed (the next available option on my device).
Frustratingly, this was a touch too fast for my liking.
Jonah Locke, musician on the rise and the man Lia is assigned to guard, is attracted to Lia from the start and he is willing to work to break down the barriers between them. I enjoyed the slow burn romance between them.
Overall this was a solid read. It’s my first April Wilson book, so I had no set expectations. There are characters from previous books in the series, which I assume fans will enjoy, but at times I felt their continued story overshadowed Lia and Jonah’s story.
Alice Parker’s narration was very good. I enjoyed listening to her voice and her characterisations. However, my enjoyment was greatly hampered by the incredibly slow pace of the narration. The pauses between sentences was much too long. I listen to all audiobooks at 1.0 speed. This was the first book ever that I needed to listen at 1.25 speed (the next available option on my device).
Frustratingly, this was a touch too fast for my liking.
January 8, 2022
This was alright. It's my first time reading something by this author, and I like her style well enough.
Lia and Jonah were alright as characters and as a couple. They had decent chemistry and good development. They had the typical terrible pasts- Lia with her first boyfriend filming her for revenge porn and Jonah with his abusive father- but they got through it without too much back and forth drama.
I really don't like drama plots involving a very persistent love interest whose only personality traits are that she is obsessively in love with the hero and very rude, so I didn't like Makayla Hendricks and how she acted like just because she's *the* pop star in this book's world that she has to be with Jonah. It was also pretty obvious Makayla was going to figure out Lia's past and play the video at her concert with Jonah.
I'm glad, however, since this is a drama involving a celebrity, that there wasn't a huge drama plot involving Jonah or Lia pushing the other away because of Jonah's celebrity status. There was, however, a stingy manager (Dwight).
Overall, I liked this book well enough.
Lia and Jonah were alright as characters and as a couple. They had decent chemistry and good development. They had the typical terrible pasts- Lia with her first boyfriend filming her for revenge porn and Jonah with his abusive father- but they got through it without too much back and forth drama.
I really don't like drama plots involving a very persistent love interest whose only personality traits are that she is obsessively in love with the hero and very rude, so I didn't like Makayla Hendricks and how she acted like just because she's *the* pop star in this book's world that she has to be with Jonah. It was also pretty obvious Makayla was going to figure out Lia's past and play the video at her concert with Jonah.
I'm glad, however, since this is a drama involving a celebrity, that there wasn't a huge drama plot involving Jonah or Lia pushing the other away because of Jonah's celebrity status. There was, however, a stingy manager (Dwight).
Overall, I liked this book well enough.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2018
Book 3 of the McIntyre Security series. Lia and Jonah’s story. I like this book in spite of some minor criticisms.
The first couple of chapters are dedicated to recapping the last two books. I don’t think we need to recap the series history time and time again so I hope that I don’t have to keep reading a recap in every book. All this extra feels like filler.
The author has a serious issue with oral sex when the characters aren’t freshly showered. Book 3 is the third book in a row where one of the characters has objected to oral because they wanted to shower first. And I think this issue has been raised in every sex scene.
This book is first person from Lia’s POV. She’s a feisty and smart and sassy girl who is a physical power house. The author has given her some really smartass funny lines making the character fun sometimes. Not a great book but it’s a good story, an easy read without any angst.
The first couple of chapters are dedicated to recapping the last two books. I don’t think we need to recap the series history time and time again so I hope that I don’t have to keep reading a recap in every book. All this extra feels like filler.
The author has a serious issue with oral sex when the characters aren’t freshly showered. Book 3 is the third book in a row where one of the characters has objected to oral because they wanted to shower first. And I think this issue has been raised in every sex scene.
This book is first person from Lia’s POV. She’s a feisty and smart and sassy girl who is a physical power house. The author has given her some really smartass funny lines making the character fun sometimes. Not a great book but it’s a good story, an easy read without any angst.
September 10, 2019
Much Improvement!
Love love love this book! I’ll be honest the first two books in this series hadn’t sold me. I loved the idea behind them, but the writing wasn’t quite to my liking... until THIS BOOK. My problem with the prior books was repetition. The exact phrase mentioned earlier would be recited not even a page later. I don’t know why but this was a big turn off. I also understand some catch up for those who have not read the prior book is needed; but in the second book, it was overkill to me. This book though! She did a great job. Much more brief catch up and less repetition. In addition, April brings you in immediately with wanting to know Lia’s and Jonah’s backstories. She does great to tie you into their struggles specifically with Lia. I could not put this one down!
Love love love this book! I’ll be honest the first two books in this series hadn’t sold me. I loved the idea behind them, but the writing wasn’t quite to my liking... until THIS BOOK. My problem with the prior books was repetition. The exact phrase mentioned earlier would be recited not even a page later. I don’t know why but this was a big turn off. I also understand some catch up for those who have not read the prior book is needed; but in the second book, it was overkill to me. This book though! She did a great job. Much more brief catch up and less repetition. In addition, April brings you in immediately with wanting to know Lia’s and Jonah’s backstories. She does great to tie you into their struggles specifically with Lia. I could not put this one down!
March 25, 2021
Broken: The McIntyre Security Bodyguard Series Book 4 is by April Wilson. This is Lia’s story. Lia is the 22 year-old twin of Liam. She is used to being picked on by her brothers. In spite of being twins, she and Liam do not look alike except for their eyes. Where he is tall, she is short and petite. She doesn’t look like a bodyguard; but her size and looks are deceiving. When she and Beth walk into Shane’s office and disrupt a meeting between Shane, Jonah, and Jonah’s director, Lia is immediately drawn to Jonah and he is drawn to her. However, she is very upset in a couple of days when Shane tells her she is being pulled off Beth and she is to shadow Jonah while he is in town. Very reluctantly she agrees. Why doesn’t she want to be bodyguard to a handsome, talented man like Jonah Locke?
August 21, 2022
Characters. Genre: Romance
Lia/Jonah. Rating: 💙💙💙💙
Heat Rating: ❤️ ❤️ ❤️
Series: Yes
Length: 368 pages
This is the book that got me to start the series. When I came across this book the cover intrigued me and tge blurb drew me in. I wasn't disappointed. April Wilson has quickly become one of my favorite authors. There is great character building and a good backstory. Plus Lia is a damn badass so that helps. Jonah is great too. It's nice seeing the woman be the protector.
This is part of a series and eventhough this could be read as a standalone, I would read them in order.
"LSK Recommended"
Lia/Jonah. Rating: 💙💙💙💙
Heat Rating: ❤️ ❤️ ❤️
Series: Yes
Length: 368 pages
This is the book that got me to start the series. When I came across this book the cover intrigued me and tge blurb drew me in. I wasn't disappointed. April Wilson has quickly become one of my favorite authors. There is great character building and a good backstory. Plus Lia is a damn badass so that helps. Jonah is great too. It's nice seeing the woman be the protector.
This is part of a series and eventhough this could be read as a standalone, I would read them in order.
"LSK Recommended"
March 20, 2019
The other 2 books before this one come no where near as good as this one was. It was wonderful, exciting, and full of love. I loved loved loved how strong Lia is. She is the perfect role model to girls. Girls who probably have heard you shouldn't be strong or tough. That guys don't like that. That they want princesses and manners. This book just proves you can be whoever the fuck you want and you don't have to apologize for it. She made me want to learn boxing or martial arts. She's a complete badass. I loved that she found someone softer. A guy a little more romantic to really show her love and warmth. Their journey was definitely not an easy one, but their growth is undeniable. Pick up this book and fall in love. You won't be able to help yourself.
August 22, 2019
Excellent
Two themes I usually don't enjoy because they are rarely done right, female bodyguard and rockstar, combine in this story in a truly perfect way. Lisa has been a favorite since book one, and I was so happy for her story to keep her tough as nails attitude even though pockets of vulnerability peeked through. Jonah was no slouch, but he was also not bodyguard material and let Lia do her job. The author managed to pull off letting Lia's strength shine without emasculating Jonah. As for the rockstar part of the storyline, I can't say it wasn't front and center, because it was, but Jonah was so down to earth that I didn't mind it. I loved them as a couple and really enjoyed their story.
Two themes I usually don't enjoy because they are rarely done right, female bodyguard and rockstar, combine in this story in a truly perfect way. Lisa has been a favorite since book one, and I was so happy for her story to keep her tough as nails attitude even though pockets of vulnerability peeked through. Jonah was no slouch, but he was also not bodyguard material and let Lia do her job. The author managed to pull off letting Lia's strength shine without emasculating Jonah. As for the rockstar part of the storyline, I can't say it wasn't front and center, because it was, but Jonah was so down to earth that I didn't mind it. I loved them as a couple and really enjoyed their story.
May 3, 2023
Love this book. Love Lia and Jonah’s romance story. This book starts with Lia going to pick up Beth and dropping Beth off at Clancy’s. After Lia drops Beth off, she goes to the shooting range where she shoots 50 rounds of ammo. She then heads to the McIntyre Security building where she helps her twin brother, Liam train two new recruits. Outside of the door, Shane and Jonah are watching her. Lia then learns that she would be Jonah’s bodyguard. She isn’t happy about her new case. Jonah is a famous musician. He moved to get away from some stalkers in LA. Since meeting Lia, Jonah has a little crush on her. Shane noticed so he decides to play matchmaker. Throughout this book, Lia and Jonah’s manager end up clashing heads. Love how these two end up together. Worth the read
Displaying 1 - 30 of 216 reviews