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Made Marian #3
Jumping Jude
alternate cover edition of ASIN B01MU3O2MT
Jude: Reaching the top of the country music charts brings out the crazy, and there’s no one crazier than my ex. Unfortunately, his threats to out me are escalating. Enter the bodyguard of my dreams.
I’d probably chafe under his constant presence if his attention to my body wasn’t so… ah… thorough. Now I have to worry about outing myself to millions of fans if I can’t keep my hands off him in public.
Derek: Now I’m an ex-Marine turned babysitter. If I have to hear Jude sing his mega-hit Bluebells one more time, I might murder him myself, and after 6 years in special ops, I know my way around a weapon. Unfortunately, so does he. Except his arsenal includes washboard abs and a killer set of pipes.
I’ve faced guns, knives, explosives and yet it’s Jude Marian who may end up bringing me to my knees.
Fair warning: Jude and Derek's story contains frequent detailed scenes of man parts touching, little old ladies being inappropriate, and two lonely hearts coming together in perfect harmony.
While it can also be read on its own, Jumping Jude is the third in the Made Marian series. Each book tells the story of one of the Marian brothers' search for true love. The first in the series, Borrowing Blue, is available now on Amazon.
Jude: Reaching the top of the country music charts brings out the crazy, and there’s no one crazier than my ex. Unfortunately, his threats to out me are escalating. Enter the bodyguard of my dreams.
I’d probably chafe under his constant presence if his attention to my body wasn’t so… ah… thorough. Now I have to worry about outing myself to millions of fans if I can’t keep my hands off him in public.
Derek: Now I’m an ex-Marine turned babysitter. If I have to hear Jude sing his mega-hit Bluebells one more time, I might murder him myself, and after 6 years in special ops, I know my way around a weapon. Unfortunately, so does he. Except his arsenal includes washboard abs and a killer set of pipes.
I’ve faced guns, knives, explosives and yet it’s Jude Marian who may end up bringing me to my knees.
Fair warning: Jude and Derek's story contains frequent detailed scenes of man parts touching, little old ladies being inappropriate, and two lonely hearts coming together in perfect harmony.
While it can also be read on its own, Jumping Jude is the third in the Made Marian series. Each book tells the story of one of the Marian brothers' search for true love. The first in the series, Borrowing Blue, is available now on Amazon.
282 pages, ebook
First published December 11, 2016
884 people are currently reading
1202 people want to read
About the author
Lucy Lennox
94 books4,389 followersI write M/M romance with humor, heart, and heat. Check out my backlist here on GR for a selection of series and standalone or visit www.LucyLennox.com!
I only keep a small list of my very favorite books and series in my bookshelf here. I read A LOT and it's hard to keep the list updated!
I only keep a small list of my very favorite books and series in my bookshelf here. I read A LOT and it's hard to keep the list updated!
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April 28, 2021
Jumping Jude is book three in the Made Marian series by Lucy Lennox. I loved the first two books of this series but was not prepared at all for Jude. So far, of these three books, Jude is my favorite. I mean, first, just gaze at him on this cover. I pretty much fell in love right there. Then when you get to know him, well, there was no coming back from that. I was a goner.
Jude Marian is the youngest of the nine Marian children. I’m not sure of his exact age but I think late twenties. He’s the lead singer and song writer for Jude and the Saints, three time Grammy winning country music superstar. He’s used to his life in the spot light but unfortunately that can also bring out the crazies which requires him to need a body guard. Jude is gay, has always known he was gay as are most of his brothers. But he never told anyone. His only relationship six years ago was with a deeply closeted man so neither of them ever came out. Then when he made it big, he thought it would hurt his public image. So now, six years after his one and only relationship, he’s living a life of denial.
Derek Wolfe is an ex Marine special ops. He was injured while serving so now is working as a body guard. He’s also gay and also in the closet. His father and brothers are all military and he’s also deeply involved in charity work for wounded veterans. So he kept his secret well hidden. He’s been with Jude for six months now while on tour. He’s great at his job but in this case, he has to admit that staring at the beautiful Jude and practically living together month after month is not a hardship. He’s never let on that he is attracted to him. That would be completely inappropriate. Plus as far as he knows, Jude is straight. But looking at him, all day every day, will never get old.
As Derek gets to know Jude, his respect for him grows. He’s one person on stage, but in private, he’s a quiet, intelligent man who gives generously and privately to the causes he believes in. As Jude’s past comes back to haunt him, Derek and Jude become even more inseparable as Derek needs to step up his protection. Finally, their secrets are revealed and these two find they can’t keep their hands off each other. Neither wants a relationship, so maybe they can just enjoy the benefits of a no strings arrangement? In theory, this would be just fine. But those pesky hearts just can’t help but to want more, so much more.
“Wolfe was six and a half feet of pure delicious sex appeal. His body was a chiseled rock face and I wanted nothing more than to climb to the top.”
I loved this book so much. Jude was just so perfect! Both of these men made me swoon so big! And of course, we get bits of the crazy Marian family. Jude and Derek were so perfect together but you know they had to figure that out for themselves. I loved watching them grow together and fight for each other. There’s nothing like that light bulb moment when that switch is flipped and they finally figure it out, that this is it, they’ve found their one!
The next book in the series, book four, is Grounding Griffin. Also, I’m going to go right on to Made Marian Shorts. It’s a book of four short stories of some of the secondary characters from these first three books. I can’t wait to get started.
“Always watch over me like you do,
And I’ll watch over you.”
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
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September 3, 2025
This was pretty much like book one – way too many s*x scenes and some very inappropriate comments by the relatives.
June 4, 2019
Am I the only one or Lucy Lennox's cover models just keep getting cuter and cuter? 😁 I mean.. they are everything! 😱 I really loveeeeeeed both models here. So freaking gorgeous! 😍 The story was just as amazing as I expected. I knew that this one was going to be good since I read book 1.
Jude is a lonely but extremely successful musician who was on celibacy for six freaking years because he was so afraid of getting hurt by trusting someone and getting his heart broken. And Derick came from a very southern and conservative and homophobic family and has been living in the closet for his whole life. And things got interesting very quickly when these two closeted guys found out that they are gay and they decided to enjoy each other's hot bodies without the drama of emotions and keep it casual.
However, Jude can't resist falling for Derick since he's very protective, caring, loving and such a good listener and the same goes for Derick falling for Jude who's very kind, charitable, secretly-goofy and a VERY good cuddler.
I like that they don't get a HEA straight away and they had to fight with their inner fears and past traumas to realize what they really want in their life. 😌 Very well written, full of fun and humor, emotional and yet very sexy.🔥 Marians are just incorrigible and mischievous bunch of people and I just can’t get enough of this gang! 😁 I'm very glad that Lucy is able to carry off spark until the third book in this series. 😍 I can't wait to read the remaining books in this series though. 😉
5 sweetheart country singer and hunky protective bodyguard lovers stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Jude is a lonely but extremely successful musician who was on celibacy for six freaking years because he was so afraid of getting hurt by trusting someone and getting his heart broken. And Derick came from a very southern and conservative and homophobic family and has been living in the closet for his whole life. And things got interesting very quickly when these two closeted guys found out that they are gay and they decided to enjoy each other's hot bodies without the drama of emotions and keep it casual.
However, Jude can't resist falling for Derick since he's very protective, caring, loving and such a good listener and the same goes for Derick falling for Jude who's very kind, charitable, secretly-goofy and a VERY good cuddler.
I like that they don't get a HEA straight away and they had to fight with their inner fears and past traumas to realize what they really want in their life. 😌 Very well written, full of fun and humor, emotional and yet very sexy.🔥 Marians are just incorrigible and mischievous bunch of people and I just can’t get enough of this gang! 😁 I'm very glad that Lucy is able to carry off spark until the third book in this series. 😍 I can't wait to read the remaining books in this series though. 😉
5 sweetheart country singer and hunky protective bodyguard lovers stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 3, 2018
4.5 Stars
Jude Marian is a country music superstar. He’s talented, he’s sexy, he’s kind and gracious, and he has the best, most supportive family in the whole world. He’s also gay, but he’s deeply in the closet because of his fame; he’s sad and lonely, not having been with anyone since his career took off six years previously.
One night, during a heated argument, he reveals the truth to his personal bodyguard, Derek, and before he knows what’s hit him, Derek also admits to being gay and closeted, and in the heat of the moment, spurred on by loneliness and need, the two men begin a passionate affair that swiftly develops into love-you-until-the-end-of-time feelings that neither of them can deny.
Their feelings aren’t the problem though; it’s the rest of the world they fear. Jude tries to wrap his head around the possibility of coming out and finally being honest with himself, his family and his fans, especially when an escalating personal threat leads Jude to believe the only way to get ahead of the problem is to announce his sexuality to the world himself. Jude and Derek could have it all, living out, proud and madly in love, if only Derek wasn’t so afraid of coming out himself.
I enjoyed this installment to the eternally sweet, romantic and passionate Made Marian series. Jude and Derek are a fabulous couple, whose status is enhanced in my eyes due to their respective roles as a famous musician and his devoted bodyguard; this is a trope I never seem to tire of, nor do I believe I ever will.
I did struggle somewhat with the closeted issue, especially towards the end regarding Derek’s (initial) refusal to come out and live openly with Jude. I respect that each person’s sexual identity is their own, and how they wish to present themselves to the world is their personal choice, but when a grown man like Derek refuses to come out because his family are intolerant hillbillies, well, I just didn’t think that excuse was enough of a reason for me to sympathise with his choices. Perhaps if I gave a damn about his family I’d understand why he was scared to lose them, but they were such insufferable bastards that I believed from the start he was better off, therefore making me unsympathetic to his choice to hide himself, for decades, simply in an attempt to not rock the boat with people who were so clearly unworthy of his time and love. Easier said than done, though, right?
Having eagerly anticipated Jude and Derek’s story from the moment they were first introduced in Borrowing Blue, I was pleasantly surprised to start this third book and realise that it ran parallel to the events in the first two books. I loved that! Here, witnessing everything that was unfolding between Jude and Derek, and how it was overlapping with events from the previous stories, made me want to go back to the first two books and see if I could pick up on the subtleties I’d missed the first time around.
Overall, Jumping Jude was another fun, sexy and wildly romantic addition to this series that has unexpectedly nuzzled its way into a prime position in my heart. I look forward to continuing my journey with this family and the great loves of their lives.
Jude Marian is a country music superstar. He’s talented, he’s sexy, he’s kind and gracious, and he has the best, most supportive family in the whole world. He’s also gay, but he’s deeply in the closet because of his fame; he’s sad and lonely, not having been with anyone since his career took off six years previously.
One night, during a heated argument, he reveals the truth to his personal bodyguard, Derek, and before he knows what’s hit him, Derek also admits to being gay and closeted, and in the heat of the moment, spurred on by loneliness and need, the two men begin a passionate affair that swiftly develops into love-you-until-the-end-of-time feelings that neither of them can deny.
Their feelings aren’t the problem though; it’s the rest of the world they fear. Jude tries to wrap his head around the possibility of coming out and finally being honest with himself, his family and his fans, especially when an escalating personal threat leads Jude to believe the only way to get ahead of the problem is to announce his sexuality to the world himself. Jude and Derek could have it all, living out, proud and madly in love, if only Derek wasn’t so afraid of coming out himself.
I enjoyed this installment to the eternally sweet, romantic and passionate Made Marian series. Jude and Derek are a fabulous couple, whose status is enhanced in my eyes due to their respective roles as a famous musician and his devoted bodyguard; this is a trope I never seem to tire of, nor do I believe I ever will.
I did struggle somewhat with the closeted issue, especially towards the end regarding Derek’s (initial) refusal to come out and live openly with Jude. I respect that each person’s sexual identity is their own, and how they wish to present themselves to the world is their personal choice, but when a grown man like Derek refuses to come out because his family are intolerant hillbillies, well, I just didn’t think that excuse was enough of a reason for me to sympathise with his choices. Perhaps if I gave a damn about his family I’d understand why he was scared to lose them, but they were such insufferable bastards that I believed from the start he was better off, therefore making me unsympathetic to his choice to hide himself, for decades, simply in an attempt to not rock the boat with people who were so clearly unworthy of his time and love. Easier said than done, though, right?
Having eagerly anticipated Jude and Derek’s story from the moment they were first introduced in Borrowing Blue, I was pleasantly surprised to start this third book and realise that it ran parallel to the events in the first two books. I loved that! Here, witnessing everything that was unfolding between Jude and Derek, and how it was overlapping with events from the previous stories, made me want to go back to the first two books and see if I could pick up on the subtleties I’d missed the first time around.
Overall, Jumping Jude was another fun, sexy and wildly romantic addition to this series that has unexpectedly nuzzled its way into a prime position in my heart. I look forward to continuing my journey with this family and the great loves of their lives.
January 23, 2021
The best one in the series so far because we have known these two characters from the past books. Their romance, unlike the first books, built slowly and there was a friendship first. I liked that a lot. When things happened between them I believed it.
The problem in the book was believable in the way that a lot of people still feel forced in the closet, even though we have made great strides. Now I'm looking forward to the next book.
The problem in the book was believable in the way that a lot of people still feel forced in the closet, even though we have made great strides. Now I'm looking forward to the next book.
December 1, 2022
Bodyguard/musician is one of my favorite tropes and this book did not disappoint.
This whole series has been so good so far. I know this is only book 3 in the series, so it is probably too early to say it is my favorite in the series - but I really think it is going to be. I'll report back later, but I did enjoy this book so much!
This whole series has been so good so far. I know this is only book 3 in the series, so it is probably too early to say it is my favorite in the series - but I really think it is going to be. I'll report back later, but I did enjoy this book so much!
August 20, 2018
3.5 Stars
I have to say that the writing here did not slip, but this was a more serious entry, hence the slight drop in enjoyment factor. In my old age, I have a lot of anxiety when it comes to those MC’s in the closet because I’m sitting on tenterhooks waiting for the other shoe to drop, and it is gonna drop. My poor old heart can’t take so much stress.
Jude is at the top of his game. He’s made it big in country music and with such fame, he has to have protection. Enter Derek. He’s been guarding Jude for 6 long torturous months and is trying to reign in his attraction. However, work is work until one day Jude encounters someone from his past which opens up a big can of worms. Protective instincts go into overdrive and it’s just the impetus for these two to let down their guard and reveal some interesting truths to each other. I’ll give you one guess...
What ensues is a sexy coming together that only Lennox can write. Of course feelings evolve, but questions abound about whether they’re truly meant to be. Is their love strong enough to survive coming out? Should they come out? What does that mean for privacy in the midst of Jude’s immense fame? What about Derek’s bigoted family?
So as a warning, this is a lot more serious that its 2 predecessors. I kinda missed the silly antics and OTT dramatics, though we do get a good dose of Marian mischief at the end. On a side note, I listened to this as well, and Michael Pauley will forever be attached to this series. He is this series.
I’m still on a roll so we’ll see what the next brings!
I have to say that the writing here did not slip, but this was a more serious entry, hence the slight drop in enjoyment factor. In my old age, I have a lot of anxiety when it comes to those MC’s in the closet because I’m sitting on tenterhooks waiting for the other shoe to drop, and it is gonna drop. My poor old heart can’t take so much stress.
Jude is at the top of his game. He’s made it big in country music and with such fame, he has to have protection. Enter Derek. He’s been guarding Jude for 6 long torturous months and is trying to reign in his attraction. However, work is work until one day Jude encounters someone from his past which opens up a big can of worms. Protective instincts go into overdrive and it’s just the impetus for these two to let down their guard and reveal some interesting truths to each other. I’ll give you one guess...
What ensues is a sexy coming together that only Lennox can write. Of course feelings evolve, but questions abound about whether they’re truly meant to be. Is their love strong enough to survive coming out? Should they come out? What does that mean for privacy in the midst of Jude’s immense fame? What about Derek’s bigoted family?
So as a warning, this is a lot more serious that its 2 predecessors. I kinda missed the silly antics and OTT dramatics, though we do get a good dose of Marian mischief at the end. On a side note, I listened to this as well, and Michael Pauley will forever be attached to this series. He is this series.
I’m still on a roll so we’ll see what the next brings!
September 11, 2019
Squeee!! **happy sigh** **huge grin** I love Jude Marion. I love Derek Wolfe. I love the book Jumping Jude and I am now head over heals in love with Lucy Lennox. What an awesome Christmas present this book was. What an awesome present to give yourself anytime of the year this book is. My eyes were so tired but my brain was so wired after having finished Jumping Jude last night I couldn't sleep. I was feeling all the feels and just relishing in that adrenaline rush from being excited and in love. Now this morning I realize I have a major book hangover. I can't start reading a new book yet because I can't walk away from these guys. I may need to immediately re-read. I think I'm going to re-read Borrowing Blue first though. One, because I love Blue and Tristan, but two, because I'm so excited to re-visit the parts that Jude and Derek were in now that I know what was going on with them during those scenes.
If you're undecided about whether you want to spend the money on a new to you author or not all I can tell you is I've loved every book. Borrowing Blue was like meeting a new friend that you've felt like you've known forever. Taming Teddy was getting to know that person better and realizing that your feelings about that friend are real and not just the shiny of something new. Jumping Jude is falling madly in love with that friend and wanting to spend the rest of your life with them.
Both MC's were so likable/lovable. Secondary characters are also a joy. There's humor, wit, tenderness, honesty, depth, consistency in writing ability. To me it's a total package. Life has been like a flock of pigeons to my new shiny clean black car lately, but when I read these stories I put all of that behind me for a bit and find myself grinning like an idiot. What else can I say?
If you're undecided about whether you want to spend the money on a new to you author or not all I can tell you is I've loved every book. Borrowing Blue was like meeting a new friend that you've felt like you've known forever. Taming Teddy was getting to know that person better and realizing that your feelings about that friend are real and not just the shiny of something new. Jumping Jude is falling madly in love with that friend and wanting to spend the rest of your life with them.
Both MC's were so likable/lovable. Secondary characters are also a joy. There's humor, wit, tenderness, honesty, depth, consistency in writing ability. To me it's a total package. Life has been like a flock of pigeons to my new shiny clean black car lately, but when I read these stories I put all of that behind me for a bit and find myself grinning like an idiot. What else can I say?
April 2, 2017
This is the third book in this series and I enjoyed it more than book 2, though not as much as book 1, which is still my favorite.
Jude is a famous country singer and he has been deep in the closet for his whole life. His last relationship was 6 years ago and he has been celibate ever since, because he's too afraid someone will out him....being famous and all. The only one who knows that he's gay is his brother Blue and his ex boyfriend. Jude is also very lonely.
When Derek enters Jude's life as his new bodyguard, things get even harder (<- see what I did there) for Jude. There is an instant attraction and Jude would love to climb his new bodyguard like a tree.
What Jude doesn't know is that Derek is also gay and he's hiding even deeper in the closet than Jude.
A sudden threat from Jude's ex boyfriend, makes things very clear between the two of them and they start jumping each others bones....in secret ofcourse. These two were very hot together.
After a while though, Jude doesn't want to hide anymore. He knows his family will stand by him and he just wants to be himself. Problem is...Derek is not ready to leave the safety of his closet.
Derek pissed me off a bit. He was ready to let the love of his life go, because he didn't want to upset his family. I would have understood his reasoning better, if he would have been close with his family...but he wasn't. The only person who actually gave a shit about Derek was Jude. So yeah...
I enjoyed this story, but for me book 1 was still better. It dragged a bit in the second half and it wasn't as funny as book 1. I'm very curious to see who's book will be next.
This review has been posted on Dirty Books Obsession
December 26, 2016
3.5 Stars!
I really like this series. Skipped book 2 as it wasn't calling to me and some of the reviews had me a little worried. Plus after meeting Jude in book 1 I've been wanting to read his story.
All of these can be read as standalones IMO, even though there's some character cross-over.
These are very easy reads. Low angst. At times a little cheesy (though I didn't think this one had as many cheesy lines as book 1). Very sweet. Nice steam.
This one has a stalker-ish storyline but honestly it wasn't overdone and wasn't the sole focus. It was more about Jude and Derek falling in love and being in the closet. The stalker bit shows up here and there.
There's lots more gay Marian boys so I'm excited to see who's next and I really hope it's Griff!
I really like this series. Skipped book 2 as it wasn't calling to me and some of the reviews had me a little worried. Plus after meeting Jude in book 1 I've been wanting to read his story.
All of these can be read as standalones IMO, even though there's some character cross-over.
These are very easy reads. Low angst. At times a little cheesy (though I didn't think this one had as many cheesy lines as book 1). Very sweet. Nice steam.
This one has a stalker-ish storyline but honestly it wasn't overdone and wasn't the sole focus. It was more about Jude and Derek falling in love and being in the closet. The stalker bit shows up here and there.
There's lots more gay Marian boys so I'm excited to see who's next and I really hope it's Griff!
December 31, 2016
***Oh my, my ! I loved this addition to the series !***
Derek and Jude are spectacular together ! We get amazingly hot, sizzling sex scenes, and heartwarming true love.
Superstar Country Singer, Jude's life
requires a lot of security. That's where Derek, with his huge muscles, 6'6" frame, ex-Marine comes in, as Jude's new bodyguard.
The men have instant chemistry, snarky banter, and sassiness. There a a few people trying to get to Jude, including an ex from 6 years ago, but Derek keeps him safe on tour and at home on break, when Jude sees his family. We have loved the big Marian clan previously, and here again they shine. When the ex shows up, it shakes Jude. Derek wants nothing more than to hold Jude close and comfort him. They each get their wish when a kiss turns into an explosion of want, need passion and deep emotion.
Neither Jude nor Derek are "out", so their heated times with each other are private. Finally they each admit to the other they have fallen in love, and the men are so happy, totally dedicated, and caring. We even get some first times. After a stalker and the creepy ex continue to taunt, Jude decides to come out, but Derek's not ready.
This is beautifully written, very engaging, and super sexy ! You will be happy you read this lovely story !
This author rocks !
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
=============================
Each tale can stand alone.
Derek and Jude are spectacular together ! We get amazingly hot, sizzling sex scenes, and heartwarming true love.
Superstar Country Singer, Jude's life
requires a lot of security. That's where Derek, with his huge muscles, 6'6" frame, ex-Marine comes in, as Jude's new bodyguard.
The men have instant chemistry, snarky banter, and sassiness. There a a few people trying to get to Jude, including an ex from 6 years ago, but Derek keeps him safe on tour and at home on break, when Jude sees his family. We have loved the big Marian clan previously, and here again they shine. When the ex shows up, it shakes Jude. Derek wants nothing more than to hold Jude close and comfort him. They each get their wish when a kiss turns into an explosion of want, need passion and deep emotion.
Neither Jude nor Derek are "out", so their heated times with each other are private. Finally they each admit to the other they have fallen in love, and the men are so happy, totally dedicated, and caring. We even get some first times. After a stalker and the creepy ex continue to taunt, Jude decides to come out, but Derek's not ready.
This is beautifully written, very engaging, and super sexy ! You will be happy you read this lovely story !
This author rocks !
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
=============================
Each tale can stand alone.
February 9, 2017
I started off liking this one even more than Borrowing Blue, but just like BB, this one dragged at about 60%. A lot of the sex was fade-to-black at that point and I'm pretty sure there was only one more steamy sex scene after that.
Jude turned out to be one of those sweet, charitable men with a heart made of gold, which I dearly love, and there was a promise of healing/comfort, but it never happened.
The sex during the first half was smutty and dirty and super fun to read. Stars for first half: 4.5, starts for second half: 2.5. Book as it stands, 3.5 stars.
I can still recommend this one to my fellow smut-lovers!
Jude turned out to be one of those sweet, charitable men with a heart made of gold, which I dearly love, and there was a promise of healing/comfort, but it never happened.
The sex during the first half was smutty and dirty and super fun to read. Stars for first half: 4.5, starts for second half: 2.5. Book as it stands, 3.5 stars.
I can still recommend this one to my fellow smut-lovers!
December 21, 2023
4**** stars
As I predicted I didn’t love this as much as the others and so it’s pretty hard actually to rate a book that caters mainly to tropes that are not your favorites in the first place.
☆ Rockstar / celebrity
☆ love in secret / in the closet
Especially the second one makes me itchy somehow (even if some of my alltime favs cater to this one, too *lolll). Well, so I go with four stars, because the romance and the characters were lovely as always.
Rockstar Jude and his Bodyguard Derek truly were adorable even if I wasn’t that much into their story.
What I really like about LL’s books is how she makes the sparks flying so very hot between her characters while they being so tender and loving at the same time. It’s heartwarming and just makes me smile at her stories a lot.
And as for tropes, the next one in line, Grounding Griffin looks pretty promising to me, so I’m continuing with it right away. I’m really freaking in love with this whole family and this series. ♡
************
Made Marian Series:
Book 1 - Borrowing Blue - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - Taming Teddy - 4.5 stars ♡
Book 3 - Jumping Jude - 4 stars
Book 4 - Grounding Griffin - 4 stars
Book 5 - Moving Maverick
Book 6 - Delivering Dante
Book 7 - A Merry Marian Christmas - holiday tbr
Book 8 - Made Mine
As I predicted I didn’t love this as much as the others and so it’s pretty hard actually to rate a book that caters mainly to tropes that are not your favorites in the first place.
☆ Rockstar / celebrity
☆ love in secret / in the closet
Especially the second one makes me itchy somehow (even if some of my alltime favs cater to this one, too *lolll). Well, so I go with four stars, because the romance and the characters were lovely as always.
Rockstar Jude and his Bodyguard Derek truly were adorable even if I wasn’t that much into their story.
“If you throw me in the pool, I’ll kick your ass,”
“I’d like to see you try.” […] “Describe to me what that would look like exactly.”
“Okay, fine, but if you throw me in the pool there will be a severe shortage of nookie in your future.”
“Again, I’d like to see you try. You can’t resist me, and we both know it.”
“Okay, fine. But it will be nookie with attitude,”
What I really like about LL’s books is how she makes the sparks flying so very hot between her characters while they being so tender and loving at the same time. It’s heartwarming and just makes me smile at her stories a lot.
And as for tropes, the next one in line, Grounding Griffin looks pretty promising to me, so I’m continuing with it right away. I’m really freaking in love with this whole family and this series. ♡
************
Made Marian Series:
Book 1 - Borrowing Blue - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - Taming Teddy - 4.5 stars ♡
Book 3 - Jumping Jude - 4 stars
Book 4 - Grounding Griffin - 4 stars
Book 5 - Moving Maverick
Book 6 - Delivering Dante
Book 7 - A Merry Marian Christmas - holiday tbr
Book 8 - Made Mine
February 10, 2017
I liked this book better than the first in the series, even though it was still heavy on the melodrama and random plot points that went nowhere. What can I say? I'm a sucker for the bodyguard falling in love with his client trope.
The last half kind of dragged, but the ending was a really cute HEA, puppies and all.
Closer to 2.5 stars rounded up because smex.
The last half kind of dragged, but the ending was a really cute HEA, puppies and all.
Closer to 2.5 stars rounded up because smex.
March 21, 2017
3.5 stars rounded down to 3 stars, because I didn’t like it as much as book 1 and was expecting a plot more thrilling, because… a quiet star and a bodyguard !!
As for book 1, it was sweet, low-angst, with plenty of banter, a lot of hot moments and the crazy family is still there. Another enjoyable read.
As for book 1, it was sweet, low-angst, with plenty of banter, a lot of hot moments and the crazy family is still there. Another enjoyable read.
January 1, 2017
3.5 to 4* My first read of 2017
Having found 'Borrowing Blue' a breathe of fresh air with it being both funny and sweet yet hot and sexy I obviously wanted to continue on with this series. Jude and Wolfe had intrigued me in 'Blue' and I'll admit I was hoping their book was next but it was James's instead which turned out to be a nice easy read but missing the spark and humour of 'Blue' but now it's Jude's turn.
Despite the title (I mean seriously Jumping Jude?) I enjoyed this book, I loved both Jude and Wolfe two men living a lie who find each other and when it's just them it's perfect but when life intrudes Jude is the superstar once more and Wolfe the bodyguard relegated to the back of the room putting so much distance between them.
Jude is hiding his real self for several reasons, his status and a terrible breakup that hurt him to his core are the main ones.
Wolfe however has a homophobic family and always envisaged living the lie, never being able to openly love someone. He can't imagine coming out to his family or the media intrusion that would follow any hint of a relationship with Jude.
The question is can these two conqueror the insurmountable odds and find a way to make their relationship work?
This is a lovely sweet and yes hot romantic read, I still didn't like it as much as 'Blue' but I'm looking forward to seeing which Marion is next.
I have to add (just because it will bug me if I don't) that the 'baddie' part was a bit bizarre, I know it was just a means to an end but I still needed a bit more for it to work, I know I'm being picky here but still....
June 26, 2023
I've been looking forward to Jumping Jude ever since we met him in Borrowing Blue and got a hint of his bodyguard romance. And this did not disappoint!
Jude is a mega famous country music star. He's in the closet as he's afraid of backlash from being in the public eye, even from his family. After Jude gets jumped due to the negligence of his bodyguard, he gets a replacement in Derek, a musclebound ex-Marine.
Derek is also in the closet. For him it's due to the homophobic toxic masculinity of his family. Being in such close quarters with Jude is making it hard to keep his desires at bay.
Jude's and Derek's romance was so fun. From their bickering to banter that peaks in an explosive first (of many) kiss.
We get all the goodness that comes with a bodyguard romance. Constant contact, trying to keep it hidden from others, and Derek being protective and possessive when someone flirts with Jude.
Jude is a mega famous country music star. He's in the closet as he's afraid of backlash from being in the public eye, even from his family. After Jude gets jumped due to the negligence of his bodyguard, he gets a replacement in Derek, a musclebound ex-Marine.
Derek is also in the closet. For him it's due to the homophobic toxic masculinity of his family. Being in such close quarters with Jude is making it hard to keep his desires at bay.
Jude's and Derek's romance was so fun. From their bickering to banter that peaks in an explosive first (of many) kiss.
We get all the goodness that comes with a bodyguard romance. Constant contact, trying to keep it hidden from others, and Derek being protective and possessive when someone flirts with Jude.
April 13, 2023
"I love this book. This was book 3 in the
"Made Marian"
series. Jude Marian is a country music superstar he is also the youngest member of the Marian family. This was one of my favorite books in this series so far. Jude is in the closet he has been celibate for six long years his ex Ari told him that he would never make it as a country singer so he stayed in the closet because he didn't know who he could trust. I would have thought that it would have been easy with a family that had five gay brothers and a family that was gay friendly his mother volunteered at a shelter that helps gay youth. Derek Wolfe was in the Marines when he was injured in the Middle East he has shrapnel in his leg and hip with his military career over he goes to work his friend Joel who owns a personal security firm. When he is jumped outside of a club Jude demands a new bodyguard he meets Derek. Jude and Derek are both gay and both are in the closet one because of career and one because of family. When Ari returns to his life Jude doesn't know what to do or what he wants from him. When Jude and Derek begin having sex they both state that they don't want a relationship but as time goes on feelings start getting in the way and they don't want to lose each other. The sex between these two was hot and very sweet. As they grow close things begin to happen first a fan tries to kiss him and then someone breaks into his house and when the man that tried to kiss him shows up with pictures of him kissing Ari threatening him to release the photos he knows its time to come out. He also had to deal with Ari who paid 30 grand to have a guitar less so he can talk to him about managing his money to which he says no. When he and Derek break up they are both miserable when the band preforms at the superbowl Derek flies in to tell him how he feels when Ari's wife Britta attacks she gets Derek instead of Jude. This was a really good book both of them come out and Derek's family decides not to speak to him but he has the love and support of the Marian family. The grannies are also funny in this book with Tilly grabbing Derek's butt. This book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
December 24, 2016
Jesus Christ. It's like crack. Next please!
February 21, 2023
3.5 stars for this bodyguard/music star romance.
With Lucy’s books, it’s a bit hit and miss for me. Some I absolutely adore, and some are “only” good. This one falls into the second category.
I mean - we already sensed from the previous books that there’s something going on between Jude Marian, the country music superstar, and his brooding bodyguard Derek.
This book starts even before the things that happen in book 1 and 2: after a security incident, Jude gets assigned a new live-in bodyguard. Both Jude and Derek are gay, but both are deeply in the closet, Jude even has a “beard” (a girlfriend for the sake of publicity), so both think the other one is straight and try to stay professional.
As these things tend to go, as soon as they discover that the attraction they feel is mutual, they quickly become friends with benefits, and after a while, they become more than that.
The “drama”, if you want to call it like that, comes from their closeting, and especially from Derek’s fear to come out in front of his homophobic family. The other drama (the stalker, the ex …) isn’t really fleshed out, but Lucy’s Made Marian series usually focuses on the relationship and the huge Marian family and doesn’t bother with unnecessary misunderstandings or bad guys, and I love her books for that. It’s nice to know beforehand that you have an easy-to-read book, because sometimes that’s exactly what you want or need.
And here we come to one of the things that annoy me in this series: Aunt Tilly, Irene and her wife. Honestly, they’re a bit much with their incessant sex talk 🙄 but ok, the rest of the family love them, so I won’t complain too loudly.
It was entertaining, but not overwhelmingly good. I still had a good time reading it, and I’ll gladly round my 3.5 stars up because of that.
With Lucy’s books, it’s a bit hit and miss for me. Some I absolutely adore, and some are “only” good. This one falls into the second category.
I mean - we already sensed from the previous books that there’s something going on between Jude Marian, the country music superstar, and his brooding bodyguard Derek.
This book starts even before the things that happen in book 1 and 2: after a security incident, Jude gets assigned a new live-in bodyguard. Both Jude and Derek are gay, but both are deeply in the closet, Jude even has a “beard” (a girlfriend for the sake of publicity), so both think the other one is straight and try to stay professional.
As these things tend to go, as soon as they discover that the attraction they feel is mutual, they quickly become friends with benefits, and after a while, they become more than that.
The “drama”, if you want to call it like that, comes from their closeting, and especially from Derek’s fear to come out in front of his homophobic family. The other drama (the stalker, the ex …) isn’t really fleshed out, but Lucy’s Made Marian series usually focuses on the relationship and the huge Marian family and doesn’t bother with unnecessary misunderstandings or bad guys, and I love her books for that. It’s nice to know beforehand that you have an easy-to-read book, because sometimes that’s exactly what you want or need.
And here we come to one of the things that annoy me in this series: Aunt Tilly, Irene and her wife. Honestly, they’re a bit much with their incessant sex talk 🙄 but ok, the rest of the family love them, so I won’t complain too loudly.
It was entertaining, but not overwhelmingly good. I still had a good time reading it, and I’ll gladly round my 3.5 stars up because of that.
November 13, 2025
Why do all Marian brothers have shitty ex-boyfriends?
For this one, I don't get what the point of Jude's ex was in the story; it led to nowhere, but the random dramatic plot twist at the end, and for that, his presence in the book was not necessary.
It was fine, but Derek was annoying. I didn't really get his hesitation with coming out; it seems Jude's situation was harder than Derek's, just making excuses.
These books are all the same. Don't get me wrong, they are still entertaining, but just meh. I hope Griffin's book is better.
For this one, I don't get what the point of Jude's ex was in the story; it led to nowhere, but the random dramatic plot twist at the end, and for that, his presence in the book was not necessary.
It was fine, but Derek was annoying. I didn't really get his hesitation with coming out; it seems Jude's situation was harder than Derek's, just making excuses.
These books are all the same. Don't get me wrong, they are still entertaining, but just meh. I hope Griffin's book is better.
September 25, 2022
3.5 Stars
It was really cute, engaging, low angst and sexy. Suffice to say, I really liked Jude and Derek together and I can see why friends adore this!
I did have a few issues though that prevented me rounding up:
- Even though it was hot, I prefer a little less steam
- Certain anticipated scenes were off page/surface level
- Lechy older females make me uncomfortable
Nonetheless, it was a nice little freebie from the recent giveaway. I may check out the rest of the series when I’m in the mood for something light, fun and heartwarming!
It was really cute, engaging, low angst and sexy. Suffice to say, I really liked Jude and Derek together and I can see why friends adore this!
I did have a few issues though that prevented me rounding up:
- Even though it was hot, I prefer a little less steam
- Certain anticipated scenes were off page/surface level
- Lechy older females make me uncomfortable
Nonetheless, it was a nice little freebie from the recent giveaway. I may check out the rest of the series when I’m in the mood for something light, fun and heartwarming!
December 29, 2016
An enjoyable read but I think book 2 was my fav in this series. Jude & Derek were great together but it almost felt like the story was going through the motions and I was able to predict the plot and watch it unfold. This is not to take away from the characters- I liked Jude for all his vulnerability and Derek was smokin, but how does a big Alpha bodyguard stay so closed in the closet ? That annoyed the heavens out of me ! Worth the read if you enjoy sweet & fluffy with relatively low angst
November 17, 2020
Relisten Nov 2020: Still Stellar with tons o’ sex 🔥🔥
Original listen Feb 2017:
Wow! Just WOW!
This third installment in Lucy Lennox's "Made Marian" series is phenomenal. If you can, get the audiobook, Michael Pauley's narration is spot on and ridiculously sexy.
This novel follows the story of Jude and Derek. Chronologically, it runs parallel to the previous two books in the series. While we met country rock star Jude Marian and his bodyguard Derek Wolfe in "Borrowing Blue" we now get to see the beginning and development of their relationship.
I loved Borrowing Blue, yet Jumping Jude is my new favorite in the series. It is sexy, fun, has some angst and moves along at a good pace. And boy, Lucy Lennox can sure write the hell out of a sex scene. Jumping Jude has at least one that has made it into my top ten sex scenes ever!
Original listen Feb 2017:
Wow! Just WOW!
This third installment in Lucy Lennox's "Made Marian" series is phenomenal. If you can, get the audiobook, Michael Pauley's narration is spot on and ridiculously sexy.
This novel follows the story of Jude and Derek. Chronologically, it runs parallel to the previous two books in the series. While we met country rock star Jude Marian and his bodyguard Derek Wolfe in "Borrowing Blue" we now get to see the beginning and development of their relationship.
I loved Borrowing Blue, yet Jumping Jude is my new favorite in the series. It is sexy, fun, has some angst and moves along at a good pace. And boy, Lucy Lennox can sure write the hell out of a sex scene. Jumping Jude has at least one that has made it into my top ten sex scenes ever!
August 23, 2017
I just can't help it... I love this series. Jude was my favorite so far.
Sure the second half was not as good as the first but still highly enjoyable for reading during the holidays.
Gimme me the next.
August 26, 2017
Loved this one! It was incredibly hot and sweet. Jude and Derek were great together, and their sexual chemistry was off the charts! I also loved all the Sunday dinners we got to have with the family. A must read for fans of this series, and any m/m romance fans looking for a hot read.
December 24, 2016
I'm a reader, not a writer, so my reviews tend to be quick and painless. I buy a book, read it, love it or hate it. Leave a review.
I loved Jude and Derek's story. I absolutely, positively want a Derek Wolfe in my life. And even though I'm not a country music fan, I think I really want Jude's next album :)
This is the 3rd book in the series, and quite possibly my favorite. Highly recommend!
I loved Jude and Derek's story. I absolutely, positively want a Derek Wolfe in my life. And even though I'm not a country music fan, I think I really want Jude's next album :)
This is the 3rd book in the series, and quite possibly my favorite. Highly recommend!
February 24, 2017
This book had me in a book hangover for over a week and I still don't know what to say.
August 13, 2020
Third installment in this series, and I enjoyed it.
This series, so far, hasn't been as successful for me as other series by this author, but this was a definitely step up from the last book in this series for me.
Jude Marian has become a legit country music star, and when his last bodyguard drops the ball, in steps Derek, a former Marine, and for six months they both believe the other is straight, as Jude is in the closet because of his career and Derek is in the closet because of his homophobic family.
But when an ex from Jude's past comes back into his life, truths are revealed and the attraction these two feel for each other doesn't just get buried anymore.
They embark on a secret FWB relationship, although of course it soon morphs into something more.
I enjoyed these two together, although this did drag at times and the chemistry could have been better between these two. That said, near the end I enjoyed these two even more and enjoyed this story even more. The attitude towards coming out kind of frustrated me, as it's not always about not having the courage and is more than completely understandable in some cases. That doesn't mean who they're with should suffer in the closet with them, absolutely not, but I don't think it's cool to exactly disparage someone from coming out as well.
Sometimes it feels like people forget that it was only 60 years ago when stonewall happened and the AIDS crises happened only 30, 40 years ago, and attitudes have only really started to truly change since around the 2000's, and not until recently has it felt more common and okay to come out. So allowing people to get there and not disparage them is better, I think. A little compassion and understanding, at least. Jude was good, but his family members' comments were just a little much.
But these two got there in the end and they had their HEA and it was wonderful and adorable. These two were so great together.
So overall, thumbs up from me. Enjoyable and entertaining.
This series, so far, hasn't been as successful for me as other series by this author, but this was a definitely step up from the last book in this series for me.
Jude Marian has become a legit country music star, and when his last bodyguard drops the ball, in steps Derek, a former Marine, and for six months they both believe the other is straight, as Jude is in the closet because of his career and Derek is in the closet because of his homophobic family.
But when an ex from Jude's past comes back into his life, truths are revealed and the attraction these two feel for each other doesn't just get buried anymore.
They embark on a secret FWB relationship, although of course it soon morphs into something more.
I enjoyed these two together, although this did drag at times and the chemistry could have been better between these two. That said, near the end I enjoyed these two even more and enjoyed this story even more. The attitude towards coming out kind of frustrated me, as it's not always about not having the courage and is more than completely understandable in some cases. That doesn't mean who they're with should suffer in the closet with them, absolutely not, but I don't think it's cool to exactly disparage someone from coming out as well.
Sometimes it feels like people forget that it was only 60 years ago when stonewall happened and the AIDS crises happened only 30, 40 years ago, and attitudes have only really started to truly change since around the 2000's, and not until recently has it felt more common and okay to come out. So allowing people to get there and not disparage them is better, I think. A little compassion and understanding, at least. Jude was good, but his family members' comments were just a little much.
But these two got there in the end and they had their HEA and it was wonderful and adorable. These two were so great together.
So overall, thumbs up from me. Enjoyable and entertaining.
February 19, 2019
I keep coming back to this series whenever I'm in a book funk. Made Marian series guaranteed some great sex, likable character, the humor, crazy family members with minor angst and drama.
Jude is one of the Marian brothers we met since the beginning. A successful country singer who is definitely banging his sexy bodyguard, Derek. Jumping Jude's timeline overlapped with the first two books, so there are some time jump in between, which make the story not as smooth as I like. They didn't even acknowledge what actually happened to Simone's wedding.
Jude and Derek are fun to read. Both of them are closeted due to reasons.... they have mutual crush on each other and when they finally found out that they are both gay.... suffice to say they didn't waste anytime to engage in friends with benefits status. I like their interaction and their difference, with Jude being a health nut and Derek hates country music. Their banter is funny and entertaining. We also have some drama with a stalker and the reappearance of an ex. The drama was a nice touch in between the sex feast, but I thought find that the plot didn't have a solid resolution to it.
Nevertheless, Jumping Jude is still an enjoyable read that suits the tone of the series. I can to learn what to expect of the series and definitely looking forward to the rest of the brothers.
Jude is one of the Marian brothers we met since the beginning. A successful country singer who is definitely banging his sexy bodyguard, Derek. Jumping Jude's timeline overlapped with the first two books, so there are some time jump in between, which make the story not as smooth as I like. They didn't even acknowledge what actually happened to Simone's wedding.
Jude and Derek are fun to read. Both of them are closeted due to reasons.... they have mutual crush on each other and when they finally found out that they are both gay.... suffice to say they didn't waste anytime to engage in friends with benefits status. I like their interaction and their difference, with Jude being a health nut and Derek hates country music. Their banter is funny and entertaining. We also have some drama with a stalker and the reappearance of an ex. The drama was a nice touch in between the sex feast, but I thought find that the plot didn't have a solid resolution to it.
Nevertheless, Jumping Jude is still an enjoyable read that suits the tone of the series. I can to learn what to expect of the series and definitely looking forward to the rest of the brothers.
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