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Doctors in Danger #3
Her Lieutenant Protector
A mysterious outbreak propels a doctor and a wounded veteran into deadly danger on the high seas in this suspenseful medical romance.
After a traumatic incident years before, Dr. Mallory Watkins doesn’t trust easily. As the resident doctor aboard the Abigail Adams cruise ship, she’ll be able to focus on her work and escape her troubled past. She’ll just have to be wary of sexy security chief Everest LeBeau . . .
But when passengers suddenly fall sick and a dead body is uncovered, Mallory must turn to the handsome veteran for help. Wary of intimacy since suffering a life-changing military injury, Everest recognizes a kindred spirit in Mallory. His beautiful coworker stirs tender feelings in him he’d long forgotten. While Everest and Mallory close in on a lethal saboteur, trust is at a premium as their lives—and their hearts—are in peril.
After a traumatic incident years before, Dr. Mallory Watkins doesn’t trust easily. As the resident doctor aboard the Abigail Adams cruise ship, she’ll be able to focus on her work and escape her troubled past. She’ll just have to be wary of sexy security chief Everest LeBeau . . .
But when passengers suddenly fall sick and a dead body is uncovered, Mallory must turn to the handsome veteran for help. Wary of intimacy since suffering a life-changing military injury, Everest recognizes a kindred spirit in Mallory. His beautiful coworker stirs tender feelings in him he’d long forgotten. While Everest and Mallory close in on a lethal saboteur, trust is at a premium as their lives—and their hearts—are in peril.
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published July 1, 2017
About the author
Lara Lacombe
76 books172 followersLara Lacombe is a recovering research scientist turned college professor who now spends her days writing and wrangling a toddler. She lives in Texas with her family and two entitled cats, and loves chocolate and her Crock Pot. She uses Facebook to procrastinate--stop by Lara Lacombe Books if you'd like to chat!
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
September 23, 2017
Excellent book with a terrific blend of romance and suspense. Mallory is the ship's doctor for the maiden voyage of a brand new cruise ship. This is a great thing for her career and one more step to getting her life back on track after the trauma she experienced several years earlier. This same trauma has made her wary of men and pretty much put an end to her dating life. Everest is the head of security on the ship. He is fighting his own demons after surviving an IED attack while in the military but losing part of his leg. His fiancée's inability to handle his injuries dealt a blow to his confidence with the opposite sex and he has avoided getting close to a woman ever since then.
I loved the initial meeting between the two of them. Everest was definitely intrigued by Mallory, both by her beauty and by the flare of emotion he saw in her eyes. He suspected there was a story there, but between his issues and the fact that they were coworkers, he knew he shouldn't pursue it. However, that knowledge didn't stop him from wanting to know more. Mallory was surprised by her reaction to Everest. Though she had initially been wary, there was something about him that put her at ease, and that surprised her. Their next encounter cemented their interest in each other, as Everest is impressed by Mallory's handling of two drugged out passengers, and Mallory realizes that she is relieved by Everest's presence. We also get our first indication that this cruise is not going to be uneventful.
The tension increases for Mallory when passengers begin falling ill with what appears to be a highly contagious illness. Things get stranger when a crewmember begins to exhibit signs of something much more disturbing. I loved how Mallory and Everest worked together to discover the cause, and in doing so grew closer. Though Mallory had already decided to stop letting her past control her, putting it into practice still wasn't easy. It took a great deal of courage and faith to open up to Everest about what happened to her. I loved the sensitivity that had already made him suspect what had happened, and his understanding and support were not what she expected. I also loved how Everest's growing feelings for Mallory enabled him to share what had happened to him. Mallory's easy acceptance of his injuries surprised him. There was a very sweet and humorous scene involving her getting distracted by specifics that made me both sigh and laugh. I really liked the way that they took the time to get to know each other before taking the next step. The ending was great as both were able to let go of their fears and truly open their hearts to each other.
The suspense of the story was fantastic. The premise of how the terrorists recruited locals, and their plan to use the ship was all too believable in today's society. It added an extra layer of intensity to the whole story. I felt the fear, right along with Mallory and then Everest, as they uncovered just how insidious the preparations were. I ached for Everest as he discovered the involvement of a trusted colleague. The attacks on Mallory were scary, and I loved Everest's increasing need to protect her. As the tension built to its climax, I couldn't put the book down until I knew how it turned out. The final confrontation was intense, and I loved how it played out.
I also enjoyed seeing Olivia and Logan (Enticed by the Operative) and Avery and Grant (Dr. Do-or-Die) as they joined Mallory on the cruise. I loved the surprise that Olivia and Avery showed as they witnessed Mallory's growing relationship with Everest and their happiness for her. I also loved how both couples provided backup to protect Mallory when she needed it. I loved seeing all three couples together in the epilogue.
I loved the initial meeting between the two of them. Everest was definitely intrigued by Mallory, both by her beauty and by the flare of emotion he saw in her eyes. He suspected there was a story there, but between his issues and the fact that they were coworkers, he knew he shouldn't pursue it. However, that knowledge didn't stop him from wanting to know more. Mallory was surprised by her reaction to Everest. Though she had initially been wary, there was something about him that put her at ease, and that surprised her. Their next encounter cemented their interest in each other, as Everest is impressed by Mallory's handling of two drugged out passengers, and Mallory realizes that she is relieved by Everest's presence. We also get our first indication that this cruise is not going to be uneventful.
The tension increases for Mallory when passengers begin falling ill with what appears to be a highly contagious illness. Things get stranger when a crewmember begins to exhibit signs of something much more disturbing. I loved how Mallory and Everest worked together to discover the cause, and in doing so grew closer. Though Mallory had already decided to stop letting her past control her, putting it into practice still wasn't easy. It took a great deal of courage and faith to open up to Everest about what happened to her. I loved the sensitivity that had already made him suspect what had happened, and his understanding and support were not what she expected. I also loved how Everest's growing feelings for Mallory enabled him to share what had happened to him. Mallory's easy acceptance of his injuries surprised him. There was a very sweet and humorous scene involving her getting distracted by specifics that made me both sigh and laugh. I really liked the way that they took the time to get to know each other before taking the next step. The ending was great as both were able to let go of their fears and truly open their hearts to each other.
The suspense of the story was fantastic. The premise of how the terrorists recruited locals, and their plan to use the ship was all too believable in today's society. It added an extra layer of intensity to the whole story. I felt the fear, right along with Mallory and then Everest, as they uncovered just how insidious the preparations were. I ached for Everest as he discovered the involvement of a trusted colleague. The attacks on Mallory were scary, and I loved Everest's increasing need to protect her. As the tension built to its climax, I couldn't put the book down until I knew how it turned out. The final confrontation was intense, and I loved how it played out.
I also enjoyed seeing Olivia and Logan (Enticed by the Operative) and Avery and Grant (Dr. Do-or-Die) as they joined Mallory on the cruise. I loved the surprise that Olivia and Avery showed as they witnessed Mallory's growing relationship with Everest and their happiness for her. I also loved how both couples provided backup to protect Mallory when she needed it. I loved seeing all three couples together in the epilogue.
June 28, 2017
Perilous danger is cleverly entwined with a very moving love story, making the third book in the Doctors in Danger miniseries riveting from beginning to end. I was instantly caught up in what was secretly occurring on the cruise ship, and the more I learned, the more I worried over the final outcome if the frightening plot was successful. In today’s society, terrorists come in many forms and have various beliefs, so the premise of the story is definitely conceivable. The heartbreaks suffered by the two main characters all too often happen to good people, and the author had me experiencing the many highs and lows of this couple with much believability. Lara Lacombe has written scenarios that are chillingly realistic, causing HER LIEUTENANT PROTECTOR to be enthralling all the way through.
Being chosen as the chief medical doctor on a new cruise ship is a great career move for Mallory Watkins, and she feels that her life is back on track after a distressing event took place several years ago. Determined to put the tragedy behind her, she looks forward to the day when her mistrust of men will be overcome and dating is once more enjoyable. Before the ship sets sail, Everest LeBeau introduces himself to her as the head of security. Though Mallory seems friendly enough, there is something about her cautious glances that makes the former soldier interested in uncovering the reason.
When Mallory begins to feel comfortable anytime Everest is around, she is surprised by her reaction. But before she can discover what the significance of her response to him means, passengers on the east coast cruise began to fall ill and the possible cause of the sickness could be alarming. As Everest and Mallory work together in trying to expose who is behind the sinister plot, they find relying on one another brings them closer.
Since I have had the pleasure of being on a cruise ship before, the situation envisioned by Lara Lacombe is absolutely terrifying. I can only hope this story written with lots of realism never comes true, but it certainly made for a gripping story with all its possibilities. From unanticipated incidents to sinister thoughts, I often expected the worst to take place while hoping for things to end well. Ms. Lacombe kept escalating the threats, which made me read the story in one setting as I just had to know what would be the resulting consequences.
HER LIEUTENANT PROTECTOR is emotionally stirring. Whether there will be a relationship between Mallory and Everest is a big question in the story, and the author puts many bumps in their road to ever being truly happy. Both have lived through painful episodes in their lives, and their compassionate natures are very evident when truths are revealed. Doubts have kept them from getting personally intimate with anyone in a long time, and Ms. Lacombe has created several scenes where their conversations are very touching, while their actions often speak loudly about their personalities. I was genuinely moved by the sincere honesty depicted by Mallory and Everest, and this made their romantic story even more satisfying. Also, the two previous couples in the miniseries make an appearance, and it was great catching up with these four delightful individuals.
I voluntarily reviewed the book and all comments are my honest opinion
Being chosen as the chief medical doctor on a new cruise ship is a great career move for Mallory Watkins, and she feels that her life is back on track after a distressing event took place several years ago. Determined to put the tragedy behind her, she looks forward to the day when her mistrust of men will be overcome and dating is once more enjoyable. Before the ship sets sail, Everest LeBeau introduces himself to her as the head of security. Though Mallory seems friendly enough, there is something about her cautious glances that makes the former soldier interested in uncovering the reason.
When Mallory begins to feel comfortable anytime Everest is around, she is surprised by her reaction. But before she can discover what the significance of her response to him means, passengers on the east coast cruise began to fall ill and the possible cause of the sickness could be alarming. As Everest and Mallory work together in trying to expose who is behind the sinister plot, they find relying on one another brings them closer.
Since I have had the pleasure of being on a cruise ship before, the situation envisioned by Lara Lacombe is absolutely terrifying. I can only hope this story written with lots of realism never comes true, but it certainly made for a gripping story with all its possibilities. From unanticipated incidents to sinister thoughts, I often expected the worst to take place while hoping for things to end well. Ms. Lacombe kept escalating the threats, which made me read the story in one setting as I just had to know what would be the resulting consequences.
HER LIEUTENANT PROTECTOR is emotionally stirring. Whether there will be a relationship between Mallory and Everest is a big question in the story, and the author puts many bumps in their road to ever being truly happy. Both have lived through painful episodes in their lives, and their compassionate natures are very evident when truths are revealed. Doubts have kept them from getting personally intimate with anyone in a long time, and Ms. Lacombe has created several scenes where their conversations are very touching, while their actions often speak loudly about their personalities. I was genuinely moved by the sincere honesty depicted by Mallory and Everest, and this made their romantic story even more satisfying. Also, the two previous couples in the miniseries make an appearance, and it was great catching up with these four delightful individuals.
I voluntarily reviewed the book and all comments are my honest opinion
June 19, 2017
I was intrigued right away with the name of the main character, Everest, just like the mountain Everest and I can see that he is one great man, despite his life changing injuries, he remained positive and strong, although the injury did scarred him of the idea to fall in love.
And then he met Mallory, of course, who is battling her own traumatic experience, I would have done the same if I experienced a similar traumatic experience.
A great book with lots of twists and suspense. Definitely would love to see this book come alive in a tv movie just like what Harlequin have just done with Naked Pursuit: The Wrong Bed (Jill Monroe) and I am planning to watch Deadly Secrets By The Lake later this weekend (have it in my PVR).
And then he met Mallory, of course, who is battling her own traumatic experience, I would have done the same if I experienced a similar traumatic experience.
A great book with lots of twists and suspense. Definitely would love to see this book come alive in a tv movie just like what Harlequin have just done with Naked Pursuit: The Wrong Bed (Jill Monroe) and I am planning to watch Deadly Secrets By The Lake later this weekend (have it in my PVR).
March 23, 2022
Mallory Watkins is a doctor on the cruise ship Abigal Adams. She is also a rape survivor. She feels her first ever stirrings for a man when she starts talking with security chief, Everest LeBeau, a war vet with a prosthetic leg.
Some passengers present with typical novovirus symptoms, and Mallory first suspects a virus. But one of the patients also has nasty burns on his hand. When Mallory investigates his story, and finds a ball of putty in a communication hub in a cabin, she suspects she's actually dealing with radiation poisoning! This sees her working with Everest to find out what's going on. Then a dead body is discovered inside a cabin, and it's clear that an evil plot is afoot.
Dumb title for what is, for the most part, a really good book. The ending really sucks, though! It was so bad I nearly dropped this to three stars! But I had to remind myself that up until then, I really enjoyed reading this. In what is rare for this category line, the suspense and tension escalated slowly, surely and consistently from the get-go. There were barely any lulls, so the time-outs to focus on Mallory and Everest's burgeoning romance went down mostly smoothly. (In real life, if I was working on a cruise ship and what was going down here was going down, exploring my feelings with the hot security chief would be the last thing on my mind! Well...maybe!)
Mallory and Everest's relationship builds believably, even if they don't have the most scintillating of conversations. The portrayal of Mallory as a rape survivor especially rang true. It's eight years later, and she's still not past it. She has trouble trusting men. She isn't throwing herself at Everest simply because he's the first man she's been attracted to since the attack. The eventual discussion between Mallory and Everest about her attack and his trauma over his war injury was a key point in making me believe these two could trust one another and develop a relationship.
But man, this one really flunked out when it came to the ending! I found the sex scene in the epilogue squicky. I was happy to know Mallory and Everest had made a pledge to be together and work together as a couple to move past their traumas. A five page sex scene was unnecessary.
As I said, the ending really, really let this one down. But what came before it was so good, I decided to stick with the four star rating I had in mind for most of the book. The protagonists were brave and level-headed, and sorted through their relationship hurdles related to past traumas as rational adults. In particular, the suspense was terrific. The tension was constant throughout.
Harlequin's Romantic Suspense is a strange category line. You can get filler rubbish like The Colton Marine, or ones like this that, despite this one's terrible ending, feel like proper, fleshed out books. I'm currently on a mission to work through all the ones I've collected over the years.
Some passengers present with typical novovirus symptoms, and Mallory first suspects a virus. But one of the patients also has nasty burns on his hand. When Mallory investigates his story, and finds a ball of putty in a communication hub in a cabin, she suspects she's actually dealing with radiation poisoning! This sees her working with Everest to find out what's going on. Then a dead body is discovered inside a cabin, and it's clear that an evil plot is afoot.
Dumb title for what is, for the most part, a really good book. The ending really sucks, though! It was so bad I nearly dropped this to three stars! But I had to remind myself that up until then, I really enjoyed reading this. In what is rare for this category line, the suspense and tension escalated slowly, surely and consistently from the get-go. There were barely any lulls, so the time-outs to focus on Mallory and Everest's burgeoning romance went down mostly smoothly. (In real life, if I was working on a cruise ship and what was going down here was going down, exploring my feelings with the hot security chief would be the last thing on my mind! Well...maybe!)
Mallory and Everest's relationship builds believably, even if they don't have the most scintillating of conversations. The portrayal of Mallory as a rape survivor especially rang true. It's eight years later, and she's still not past it. She has trouble trusting men. She isn't throwing herself at Everest simply because he's the first man she's been attracted to since the attack. The eventual discussion between Mallory and Everest about her attack and his trauma over his war injury was a key point in making me believe these two could trust one another and develop a relationship.
But man, this one really flunked out when it came to the ending! I found the sex scene in the epilogue squicky. I was happy to know Mallory and Everest had made a pledge to be together and work together as a couple to move past their traumas. A five page sex scene was unnecessary.
As I said, the ending really, really let this one down. But what came before it was so good, I decided to stick with the four star rating I had in mind for most of the book. The protagonists were brave and level-headed, and sorted through their relationship hurdles related to past traumas as rational adults. In particular, the suspense was terrific. The tension was constant throughout.
Harlequin's Romantic Suspense is a strange category line. You can get filler rubbish like The Colton Marine, or ones like this that, despite this one's terrible ending, feel like proper, fleshed out books. I'm currently on a mission to work through all the ones I've collected over the years.
July 23, 2017
Her Lieutenant Protector is a Doctors In Danger series by Lara Lacombe. If you want romance, suspense then you're got it in this book. A leg amputee detective, Everest LeBeau and a raped doctor, Mallory Watkins. Both working on a cruise ship headed to New York. Bad guy on board who planted uranium in several rooms and later added small bombs in the same rooms. In order to blow up the cruise ship when it arrives in New York City. But not under Everest and Mallory's watch. A romance happens here.
July 1, 2017
I read this book in one sitting - it kept me engaged, wanting to know what was going to happen. The ending felt a little rushed compared to the rest of the book but it didn't detract from my enjoyment. Great character development with the main characters, I could really picture them in my mind and their interactions felt very real. Good book.
January 5, 2023
Well, this romantic suspense romance kept me on the edge of my seat! It was fast-paced, like a good mystery should be. I loved the heroine's friends, and since I ended up with book 3, I now have to read books 1 & 2. Mallory was an awesome heroine, and Everest was her perfect book boyfriend. Patient, kind, and protective. The only question I have is, what happened with the captain? I can't wait to read more from this author.
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July 2, 2017Miniseries: Doctors in Danger
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews