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Protector
The SEALs left me ruthless and hard … in more ways than one.
If you’re looking for a bodyguard, I’m the best there is. And no, I don’t sleep with clients—at least not while I’m on the clock.
Only one girl ever got more than a night out of me. Only one girl ever mattered. Makayla Pierson.
But she got away from me. She slipped through my fingers when I wasn’t looking, leaving me with nothing but regret..
So when I’m offered a job as her bodyguard, how can I refuse?
I can’t stop thinking about having her again, taking her like I used to, and wondering if she still twirls her hair around her finger when she’s embarrassed... Her cheeks turning that beautiful shade of pink.
This job requires 24/7 surveillance, I need to be on guard at all times.
Even if I have to stand outside the door while she showers.
Even if I want nothing more than to take a fistful of her hair and…
F**k. She’d be safer if I walked away. But I let her go once before and I’m never making that mistake again.
Protector is a full-length standalone romance with no cheating, no cliffhangers, and a guaranteed HEA.
If you’re looking for a bodyguard, I’m the best there is. And no, I don’t sleep with clients—at least not while I’m on the clock.
Only one girl ever got more than a night out of me. Only one girl ever mattered. Makayla Pierson.
But she got away from me. She slipped through my fingers when I wasn’t looking, leaving me with nothing but regret..
So when I’m offered a job as her bodyguard, how can I refuse?
I can’t stop thinking about having her again, taking her like I used to, and wondering if she still twirls her hair around her finger when she’s embarrassed... Her cheeks turning that beautiful shade of pink.
This job requires 24/7 surveillance, I need to be on guard at all times.
Even if I have to stand outside the door while she showers.
Even if I want nothing more than to take a fistful of her hair and…
F**k. She’d be safer if I walked away. But I let her go once before and I’m never making that mistake again.
Protector is a full-length standalone romance with no cheating, no cliffhangers, and a guaranteed HEA.
397 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 12, 2017
826 people are currently reading
671 people want to read
About the author
Penelope Bloom
68 books2,606 followersUSA Today, Wall Street Journal, and Amazon Charts Bestselling author Penelope Bloom is taking her first flight into romantasy—and yes, there are dragons. After years of contemporary romance, she's temporarily trading meet-cutes for magical academies and coffee shops for castles that reek of blood. She promises the banter is just as sharp, but now it comes with deadly consequences.
Fun fact: “Penelope Bloom” started as a tongue-in-cheek tribute to the family dog, Penelope—never meant to be anything serious. But then the books took off, and the name stuck. Behind the scenes, Penelope Bloom is actually a husband-and-wife team. He handles the writing; she edits, helps with brainstorming, and runs the reader-facing side of things (like social media and messages). So if you’ve chatted with “Penelope” online, you’ve likely been talking to her—with the author chiming in whenever needed. Together, they’ve built the voice readers know and love.
Fun fact: “Penelope Bloom” started as a tongue-in-cheek tribute to the family dog, Penelope—never meant to be anything serious. But then the books took off, and the name stuck. Behind the scenes, Penelope Bloom is actually a husband-and-wife team. He handles the writing; she edits, helps with brainstorming, and runs the reader-facing side of things (like social media and messages). So if you’ve chatted with “Penelope” online, you’ve likely been talking to her—with the author chiming in whenever needed. Together, they’ve built the voice readers know and love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews
January 20, 2023
DNF at 59%
The H is your typical I hurt/left you in order to protect you. He’s also a p*say eating god according to the h. 😂😂
The h is a new TV star.
The h is so reckless and her short-sighted decisions and actions made me roll my eyes. She is being targeted by kidnappers, yet, she kept doing dumb things like trying to run away or distracting the H in the middle of his fight. While fighting, the h was panicking and yelling at the H which nearly gave the assassin the upper hand. What a dumbassary move. After that, she tried to escape in the middle of the night after the H rejected her moves on him. Her embarrassment made her run away which consequently led her to getting kidnapped by some stalker. 🤡
We see the PTSD of the H post war. He was tortured and whipped during the time he served in the army. He believes that he does not deserve happiness as he wasn’t able to keep his men safe.
The H is your typical I hurt/left you in order to protect you. He’s also a p*say eating god according to the h. 😂😂
The h is a new TV star.
The h is so reckless and her short-sighted decisions and actions made me roll my eyes. She is being targeted by kidnappers, yet, she kept doing dumb things like trying to run away or distracting the H in the middle of his fight. While fighting, the h was panicking and yelling at the H which nearly gave the assassin the upper hand. What a dumbassary move. After that, she tried to escape in the middle of the night after the H rejected her moves on him. Her embarrassment made her run away which consequently led her to getting kidnapped by some stalker. 🤡
We see the PTSD of the H post war. He was tortured and whipped during the time he served in the army. He believes that he does not deserve happiness as he wasn’t able to keep his men safe.
February 7, 2017
2 Not feeling the love stars
Pro
1- The heroine moved on and was with other guys after the hero left her.
Con
1 -I never really connected with either character
2 - The Hero left the heroine TWICE
3 - The Hero never looked for the heroine after returning from war (the first time he left her). He lived in the same town as her but never looked her up or pursued her. The only reason they reconnected is because she unknowingly hired him as her bodyguard.
4 - The second time he left he hired someone to replace him and disappeared (yes, this time he was looking out for her by trying to track down the people who were trying to kill her...but he still LEFT HER AGAIN and didn't have plans to come back!!). She saw him a few weeks later at an event when he was the bodyguard for another actress.
5 - IMO the Hero never chased or pursued a relationship with the heroine. Twice she threw herself at him and he rejected her. Then he left for the second time - without a goodbye - and took a job protecting an actress that he let rub up on him and hit on him right in front of the heroine. Had the heroine not confronted him I don't believe that they would have come back together again.
6 - Pathetic bad guys. These have to be the worst bad guys I have ever read. The Hero would look at them or hit them a few times and they would just give up all the info.
7 - Weak heroine when it comes to the Hero. HE LEFT HER TWICE and she was all like "I want to hate him but I just can't....blah blah blah" Plus regardless of his "reasons" he never apologized.
8 - Me and the writing never really jived.
Overall
Pass
Pro
1- The heroine moved on and was with other guys after the hero left her.
Con
1 -I never really connected with either character
2 - The Hero left the heroine TWICE
3 - The Hero never looked for the heroine after returning from war (the first time he left her). He lived in the same town as her but never looked her up or pursued her. The only reason they reconnected is because she unknowingly hired him as her bodyguard.
4 - The second time he left he hired someone to replace him and disappeared (yes, this time he was looking out for her by trying to track down the people who were trying to kill her...but he still LEFT HER AGAIN and didn't have plans to come back!!). She saw him a few weeks later at an event when he was the bodyguard for another actress.
5 - IMO the Hero never chased or pursued a relationship with the heroine. Twice she threw herself at him and he rejected her. Then he left for the second time - without a goodbye - and took a job protecting an actress that he let rub up on him and hit on him right in front of the heroine. Had the heroine not confronted him I don't believe that they would have come back together again.
6 - Pathetic bad guys. These have to be the worst bad guys I have ever read. The Hero would look at them or hit them a few times and they would just give up all the info.
7 - Weak heroine when it comes to the Hero. HE LEFT HER TWICE and she was all like "I want to hate him but I just can't....blah blah blah" Plus regardless of his "reasons" he never apologized.
8 - Me and the writing never really jived.
Overall
Pass
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2017
So I read this because it was included in "Single dad next door" By Penelope Bloom.
This was a dark ride. First I read a review, with spoilers. I love to do that because that way I find things that are important for me, it doesn't really spoil anything for me. And in that review I found so much things that I thought oh no. But I'm glad I gave it a chance. Jesse go's off to war and when he returns he doesn't return to Mykala, but that's something I understood, because it's all explained in the book and his journal. He didn't come back as the man he once was, but he's harder (no pun intended) then before.
The story was a bit over the top and it left me with a bit more questions.. Like who are the masked men really? Is the other one alive too or just that one? But overall I enjoyed it! If it wasn't included in the other book and I would came across the blurb I would still buy it, because the blurb is intriguing.
This was a dark ride. First I read a review, with spoilers. I love to do that because that way I find things that are important for me, it doesn't really spoil anything for me. And in that review I found so much things that I thought oh no. But I'm glad I gave it a chance. Jesse go's off to war and when he returns he doesn't return to Mykala, but that's something I understood, because it's all explained in the book and his journal. He didn't come back as the man he once was, but he's harder (no pun intended) then before.
The story was a bit over the top and it left me with a bit more questions.. Like who are the masked men really? Is the other one alive too or just that one? But overall I enjoyed it! If it wasn't included in the other book and I would came across the blurb I would still buy it, because the blurb is intriguing.
July 23, 2017
Makayla is confronted in the stairway of her apartment building by a man wearing a golden goat mask. He scares her because of the recent murders mimicking the show she stars on Stalker. She tells her agent to hire the best in the business to guard her no matter what it costs. The next day on the set Makayla see someone from her past that she hadn't thought she would ever see again. It is Jesse her former high school sweetheart who broke her heart by leaving her behind when he left for boot camp. Makayla has never gotten over the heart ache Jesse left her with & isn't happy that he is the new body guard hired by her agent. Jesse has a few secrets of his own but vows to do everything it takes to protect Makayla because he is damn good at what he does. But seeing Makayla brings back everything that he tried to run from & he hasn't gotten over her yet either. It becomes necessary for Jesse to have Makayla at his place because he can better protector her there. While Jesse takes a shower, Makayla begins to snoop & comes across a hidden journal Jesse kept. What Makayla reads makes her have doubts about what she believed about why Jesse left. She also gathers that Jesse has some PTSD from his time as a Navy Seal. When Jesse starts to have a hard time keeping objective about Makayla's safety he decides to find her new protection. As the situation starts to unravel it becomes clear that someone close to Makayla has orchestrated all the murders & wants her dead.
I enjoyed reading The Bodyguard & look forward to reading more by Penelope Bloom. This is a second chance romance with two broken people who learn to put their lives back together with the help of the other. It is a sweet story with an unexpected HEA ending. I wish there was more because it seems as though Makayla & Jesse are just starting to make something of themselves once they find each other again.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
I enjoyed reading The Bodyguard & look forward to reading more by Penelope Bloom. This is a second chance romance with two broken people who learn to put their lives back together with the help of the other. It is a sweet story with an unexpected HEA ending. I wish there was more because it seems as though Makayla & Jesse are just starting to make something of themselves once they find each other again.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
June 27, 2023
Cute
This book was my first navy seal romance and it did not disappoint. I couldn't imagine hiring a bodyguard only to discover it's my ex boyfriend that I'm still not over and that I dislike. This book had some steamy parts and some action. I loved the epilogue and the double epilogue.
This book was my first navy seal romance and it did not disappoint. I couldn't imagine hiring a bodyguard only to discover it's my ex boyfriend that I'm still not over and that I dislike. This book had some steamy parts and some action. I loved the epilogue and the double epilogue.
March 4, 2017
Laugh out loud good! Jesse told Makayla a lie and then left her to go overseas and fight in the war against terrorism. She is so angry at how he just threw her away. But now he's back home feeling guilty about how he treated her and guilty about watching his men/platoon die. Then they go pick up his dog and Makayla discovers he missed her so much, he named his dog after her. Too funny! But what they don't realize is that there are people who want them dead for different reasons and Jesse and Makayla are quickly running out of places to hide.
November 3, 2019
3.5 Stars
August 9, 2017
I had just finished reading Single Dad Next Door and noticed that the book said I was only halfway through and I thought that was odd until I discovered it contained a second story - Protector. In Protector, we meet former Military man Jesse who is still head over heels in love with his high school girlfriend. Jesse though broke it off with her while he was stationed overseas. Ten years later, he is back home and working as a Private bodyguard in a Security Firm. He is the best of the best and worth every penny. He has been hired to protect TV celebrity, Makayla. Makayla happens to be the girl he loves and the one who he broke her heart ten years ago. Can Makayla forgive Jesse or will she want someone else protecting her? What happens though when danger strikes, and it looks like someone has put a hit on Makayla, someone she thought she could trust and loved? Can Jesse save her this time around or will this be another missed love opportunity? Can Jesse prove to Makayla that he never meant to hurt her and has always loved her? In Protector, there is also a couple of scenes with guys in goat masks. This reminded me of the harpies in Game of Thrones. Protector is a perfect read if you love hot guys, military, suspense and second chance romances.
September 29, 2020
Just the bit of action I was looking for!
Second chance romance with a dash of action! I love Penelope Bloom and I was browsing and saw this title and realized I had never read it so it was great to have something to throw on as an audiobook to listen while I do my work and stuff.
Aiden's growly performance as sexy as sin Jesse was perfect!
Jesse broke up with Makayla ten years ago. He broke her heart because he thought he was protecting her and saving her years of sadness. He wanted her to do great things with her future.
Well, he's back in her life unexpectedly. Both of them are surprised when they discover that her new bodyguard is him. Makayla needs protection from the stalker she seems to have picked up because of her hit TV show.
Their chemistry is palpable. And in the end neither can resist it.
All the things I love! Action, danger, a little mystery, hot hot hot steamy chemistry, and a HEA!
Second chance romance with a dash of action! I love Penelope Bloom and I was browsing and saw this title and realized I had never read it so it was great to have something to throw on as an audiobook to listen while I do my work and stuff.
Aiden's growly performance as sexy as sin Jesse was perfect!
Jesse broke up with Makayla ten years ago. He broke her heart because he thought he was protecting her and saving her years of sadness. He wanted her to do great things with her future.
Well, he's back in her life unexpectedly. Both of them are surprised when they discover that her new bodyguard is him. Makayla needs protection from the stalker she seems to have picked up because of her hit TV show.
Their chemistry is palpable. And in the end neither can resist it.
All the things I love! Action, danger, a little mystery, hot hot hot steamy chemistry, and a HEA!
June 1, 2020
I read this book as it was a bonus content. I read plenty of Bloom’s books and some left me hysterically laughing while others left me insanely emotional. I could say I am a fan. So I didn’t look into the book or read comments before I started reading. It was a big disappointment.
So here is a little summary:
Jesse (H):
An ex-seal. BUM BUM BUUUM! 🥁
A haunted soul. BUM BUM BUUM! 🥁
A (bodyguard) personal protector. BUM BUM BUUUM! 🥁
A rising television star. HOT DAMN! 🔥
He is also insanely attractive. Never loved anyone else except our heroine. And they were only together for 6 months. When they were 18. That was 10 years ago...
I mean, it does make a story, but is it really relatable? Not really. If an 18 year old read this book, they would definitely find it relatable. They’re still in the moment. When you love you think he is your one-true love. But, let’s say, a 25 year-old? Not so much. So the demographic target for this book might be just that.
Moving on...
He is THE best in his job, and in his first day on the job, he hears heroine’s step-dad talking about getting insurance money if the job is done. He suspects something going on. Later in the book when they learn from the “good stalkers” that somebody she trusts put up money for her head, and she says there are 3 people she trusts (her stepdad, her bff and himself) he doesn’t even think of connecting the dots. Yeah, the best my ... BUM BUM BUUUM! 🍑
He keeps making the same mistakes. But he doesn’t know what he wants. He leaves her for her protection. Then he sees her and goes into a jealousy fit. Announces she’s his girlfriend to a whole crowd. When he left her because the stalkers were after him and he wanted to protect her. And then does this.
🤦🏻♀️🤐
Oh, and also, he is quite wealthy, so this is a hero who’s got it all. VERY relatable.
Makayla (h):
She’s a lead actress on a hit tv show. Getting real famous! A group of copycats are murdering people with the show’s inspiration. She’s assaulted on her way home, and she tells her manager to hire her the best bodyguard money could buy 💵-meet our hero.
Except, they already met. He is the one she’s still in love with. The one that got away. She is still so angry at him, and when she realises he’s THE bodyguard, she starts acting like a 5 year-old, throwing temper tantrums left and right. I mean, she wasn’t the one who was scared s***less on the dark stairway just a few hours ago, life threatened, right?
At some point in the book, she runs away from our hero, by climbing down 30 stories through a flimsy ladder. She climbs out of the bathroom window in our hero’s apartment. Because he rejected to bang her.
There is a whole cult trying to kill her, she’s been threatened and all, scared enough to hire a bodyguard- and then she goes and does this.
A baby has got better survival instincts I swear. 👶🏻
Apart from unrealistically reckless behaviour and 5yo worthy temper tantrums, she isn’t so bad.
The book had multiple typos, but not too often, so it was easy to ignore. Sex scenes felt quite repetitive and for a quick-read book, too many.
Overall: 2/5
💁🏻♂️Hero: 1/5
💁🏼♀️Heroine: 2/5
📖Plot: 2/5
✏️Language/writing style: 3/5
I will still keep reading Bloom’s work, as I read some of her fantastic works! If this was your first book by her, don’t let it shape your opinions, give one more a shot.
So here is a little summary:
Jesse (H):
An ex-seal. BUM BUM BUUUM! 🥁
A haunted soul. BUM BUM BUUM! 🥁
A (bodyguard) personal protector. BUM BUM BUUUM! 🥁
A rising television star. HOT DAMN! 🔥
He is also insanely attractive. Never loved anyone else except our heroine. And they were only together for 6 months. When they were 18. That was 10 years ago...
I mean, it does make a story, but is it really relatable? Not really. If an 18 year old read this book, they would definitely find it relatable. They’re still in the moment. When you love you think he is your one-true love. But, let’s say, a 25 year-old? Not so much. So the demographic target for this book might be just that.
Moving on...
He is THE best in his job, and in his first day on the job, he hears heroine’s step-dad talking about getting insurance money if the job is done. He suspects something going on. Later in the book when they learn from the “good stalkers” that somebody she trusts put up money for her head, and she says there are 3 people she trusts (her stepdad, her bff and himself) he doesn’t even think of connecting the dots. Yeah, the best my ... BUM BUM BUUUM! 🍑
He keeps making the same mistakes. But he doesn’t know what he wants. He leaves her for her protection. Then he sees her and goes into a jealousy fit. Announces she’s his girlfriend to a whole crowd. When he left her because the stalkers were after him and he wanted to protect her. And then does this.
🤦🏻♀️🤐
Oh, and also, he is quite wealthy, so this is a hero who’s got it all. VERY relatable.
Makayla (h):
She’s a lead actress on a hit tv show. Getting real famous! A group of copycats are murdering people with the show’s inspiration. She’s assaulted on her way home, and she tells her manager to hire her the best bodyguard money could buy 💵-meet our hero.
Except, they already met. He is the one she’s still in love with. The one that got away. She is still so angry at him, and when she realises he’s THE bodyguard, she starts acting like a 5 year-old, throwing temper tantrums left and right. I mean, she wasn’t the one who was scared s***less on the dark stairway just a few hours ago, life threatened, right?
At some point in the book, she runs away from our hero, by climbing down 30 stories through a flimsy ladder. She climbs out of the bathroom window in our hero’s apartment. Because he rejected to bang her.
There is a whole cult trying to kill her, she’s been threatened and all, scared enough to hire a bodyguard- and then she goes and does this.
A baby has got better survival instincts I swear. 👶🏻
Apart from unrealistically reckless behaviour and 5yo worthy temper tantrums, she isn’t so bad.
The book had multiple typos, but not too often, so it was easy to ignore. Sex scenes felt quite repetitive and for a quick-read book, too many.
Overall: 2/5
💁🏻♂️Hero: 1/5
💁🏼♀️Heroine: 2/5
📖Plot: 2/5
✏️Language/writing style: 3/5
I will still keep reading Bloom’s work, as I read some of her fantastic works! If this was your first book by her, don’t let it shape your opinions, give one more a shot.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2018
Meh. Pretty unbelievable storyline but it's a quick and easy-read romance novel, so that's usually par for the course. The couple dated for a mere six months in high school and ten long years later they both still have a deep flame burning for "the one that got away?" Wow, those must've been some intense six months! Also, weird plot line with the Stalkers. Were they only after her all along, just to get his attention? So he would go save her?
Anyway, this was just meh.
Anyway, this was just meh.
November 2, 2018
This wasn’t for me. The h was weak. I expected her to have some real grudge holding- make the dude work for it- but she caved, and then spent her time basically begging for his attention. Meh.
April 18, 2020
Hot sexy ex-Seal who is now into Personal Protection!!
I received an advance copy and willingly read with no obligation for a review!
This book drew me in from the beginning. The chemistry between the characters is sizzling and hot. Jesse left for the Navy soon after graduating from High School, as he had no family left after his father is brutally murdered. He is dating Makayla and decides to leave her behind too. Makayla is devastated but tries to move on with her life. She is now the lead actress in a to series with her bestie Kennedy. A long line of celebrities are being attacked or killed, so after an incidence scares her she asked her agent to hire the best money can buy.....which ends up being Jesse!! Very intriguing storyline and I couldn't believe the betrayals that occurred!! Great read, definitely recommend this to fire up your kindle:)
I received an advance copy and willingly read with no obligation for a review!
This book drew me in from the beginning. The chemistry between the characters is sizzling and hot. Jesse left for the Navy soon after graduating from High School, as he had no family left after his father is brutally murdered. He is dating Makayla and decides to leave her behind too. Makayla is devastated but tries to move on with her life. She is now the lead actress in a to series with her bestie Kennedy. A long line of celebrities are being attacked or killed, so after an incidence scares her she asked her agent to hire the best money can buy.....which ends up being Jesse!! Very intriguing storyline and I couldn't believe the betrayals that occurred!! Great read, definitely recommend this to fire up your kindle:)
January 16, 2017
Read January 7th 2017
Jesse and Makayla high school loves, thought forever was the future for them, Jesse went away to become a Navy SEAL, brutally broke it off with her and hasn't seen her in 10 years, now he has been pushed back into her life as her personal protection, or as she calls it her bodyguard when the TV show she is working on is causing stalkers to come out of the woodwork, trouble is the stalkers want them both, Jesse will have to work out the turmoil of leaving her and why to protect them both can he do it and can she forgive him?
Love this book, full of alpha male hotness, with his overbearing protectiveness, emotional heart wrenching moments, a stubborn funny women, lots of sexiness, excellent plot twists fast paced read and a killer HEA, This is one of those books I will be reading over and over again! Love Penelope Bloom!
I voluntarily read a reader's copy of this book
Jesse and Makayla high school loves, thought forever was the future for them, Jesse went away to become a Navy SEAL, brutally broke it off with her and hasn't seen her in 10 years, now he has been pushed back into her life as her personal protection, or as she calls it her bodyguard when the TV show she is working on is causing stalkers to come out of the woodwork, trouble is the stalkers want them both, Jesse will have to work out the turmoil of leaving her and why to protect them both can he do it and can she forgive him?
Love this book, full of alpha male hotness, with his overbearing protectiveness, emotional heart wrenching moments, a stubborn funny women, lots of sexiness, excellent plot twists fast paced read and a killer HEA, This is one of those books I will be reading over and over again! Love Penelope Bloom!
I voluntarily read a reader's copy of this book
March 8, 2017
A second story included in the Single Dad next door so I needed to read this book also, this one is a second chance story with a little bad ass story in it. Seal Jessy leaves his girlfriend Makayla behind to protect her but instead of telling the truth he tells her a story about another girl he met overseas. After doing his duty he turns into security.
Makayla a young actress is approached by a masked man who treated to kill her. She needs protection now a wants the best bodyguard money can buy, if only she thought about it more carefully, because nothing prepared her to see that her bodyguard is the only man she couldn't forget her ex Jessy.
And who's behind all the treats to both of them?
A good story, enjoyable and steamy parts.
Makayla a young actress is approached by a masked man who treated to kill her. She needs protection now a wants the best bodyguard money can buy, if only she thought about it more carefully, because nothing prepared her to see that her bodyguard is the only man she couldn't forget her ex Jessy.
And who's behind all the treats to both of them?
A good story, enjoyable and steamy parts.
July 14, 2017
This is one of my all-time favorite second-chance romances. Jesse and Mykayla broke up right after high school when Jesse enlisted and told Mykayla not to wait for him. Years later, she's a TV star being stalked and he's a professional bodyguard hired to protect her. Their chemistry is still blazing hot, even after so many years apart, but they have a long way to go to understand the circumstances that kept them apart.
This story has lots of fast-paced action, deeply satisfying emotional impact, and enough humor to lighten the suspense. Jesse's feelings for her become immediately apparent upon meeting his dog, which was very sweet indeed. My favorite scene was near the end of the book when Jesse comes to reunite with Mykayla at her friend's house - that scene was not just hot and sexy, but it was also filled with a love so deep you could feel it in your bones.
This story is intelligently written and holds the reader from the very first paragraph. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
This story has lots of fast-paced action, deeply satisfying emotional impact, and enough humor to lighten the suspense. Jesse's feelings for her become immediately apparent upon meeting his dog, which was very sweet indeed. My favorite scene was near the end of the book when Jesse comes to reunite with Mykayla at her friend's house - that scene was not just hot and sexy, but it was also filled with a love so deep you could feel it in your bones.
This story is intelligently written and holds the reader from the very first paragraph. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
August 19, 2017
It had its moments, like mystery into who wanted who dead, does Jesse still feel the same towards Makayla or did he really mean the hurtful words he said 10 years ago before graduation. I felt their connection after their reunited new business partners/ bodyguard and client. The sex was lacking only 3 mediocre times, but the dominate alpha male he is supposed to be. The plot was predictable for me, there was no love between Makayla and the one wanting her dead. As for Jesse an ghost from his past is making Jesse's job and heart falter.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily reviewing
I received an ARC and am voluntarily reviewing
February 9, 2017
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader copy of this book.....
Wow! Jesse and Makayla - what a pair! The chemistry is hot between them. Their love never died and now they get a second chance. The plot was interesting. The storyline flowed fairly smoothly - there were some slow parts. While the characters were developed - they needed some adjusting - just wasn't quite there. I hope to have updates on Jesse and Makayla because, yes, Kennedy needs her story told!
Wow! Jesse and Makayla - what a pair! The chemistry is hot between them. Their love never died and now they get a second chance. The plot was interesting. The storyline flowed fairly smoothly - there were some slow parts. While the characters were developed - they needed some adjusting - just wasn't quite there. I hope to have updates on Jesse and Makayla because, yes, Kennedy needs her story told!
February 2, 2017
YES!
This is a great read. Drew me in from the start and kept me wrapped up in the characters. I didn't want to put the book down. Lots of action and sexy...sexy smutty goodness.
I loved the relationship between the H and h. They are perfect for each other even if they try to deny it. Swoon worthy with all the feels.
Four stars and four wet panties! A must read.
This is a great read. Drew me in from the start and kept me wrapped up in the characters. I didn't want to put the book down. Lots of action and sexy...sexy smutty goodness.
I loved the relationship between the H and h. They are perfect for each other even if they try to deny it. Swoon worthy with all the feels.
Four stars and four wet panties! A must read.
February 26, 2017
Read as bonus material included with Single Dad Next Door. Just okay. Choppy. Unrealistic at times with over-the-top action. Characters made head-scratching decisions. Occasional odd word choices would pull me out of story. As romantic suspense this had potential but could have used a few more passes through editing process.
July 19, 2017
I always love a second chance romance, and when it comes to coincidence, it's that much better. This is the first time I've read this author, and I liked the story. It was romantic, dangerous and held a bit of steam tucked in here and there. That being said, I am a huge fan of women who can write from a man's POV, and it thought this author fell a little short. Jesse's flashbacks were good, and I'm not knocking the SEAL memories, but I found him a little wishy washy for my tastes, especially after being in the service for so long. Throwing in the occasional swear word doesn't make the male POV more masculine, and that's where I was slightly disappointed. I love when the man realizes, in that soft place in his heart, that there is still room for the woman he left behind, but I thought he started a little too soft to begin with. There was no change or progression. I give her kudos for Makayla though. I like a tough heroine, and this one had the stuff it takes to defend herself, even without having the knowledge of how to use it. There were some moments that weren't as believable as others, but it is a work of fiction after all. I like her antagonist very much. He's creepy and delivers what we expect from him. The ending was good. And the fact that there are two bonus books at the end, and the author warned her readers ahead of time that she did this, gives her extra points in my book.
I think any author who writes from a serviceman's POV, whether he is currently or formerly in the service, needs to do an abundance of research or read other authors who specialize in that area of writing. An author can google actual stories being told by servicemen that are pretty intense. Most of these men are hard with a few soft edges, and I don't think the SEAL in this book portrays that image. Other than a few grammatical errors, these would be the only real problems I have with the book. The story is good and ends in an HEA, both items I like when reading a new author's book. I like it.
I think any author who writes from a serviceman's POV, whether he is currently or formerly in the service, needs to do an abundance of research or read other authors who specialize in that area of writing. An author can google actual stories being told by servicemen that are pretty intense. Most of these men are hard with a few soft edges, and I don't think the SEAL in this book portrays that image. Other than a few grammatical errors, these would be the only real problems I have with the book. The story is good and ends in an HEA, both items I like when reading a new author's book. I like it.
January 11, 2018
What a great story! I loved that there was an epilogue and loved it even more with the bonus epilogue. Funniest thing was naming his dog the same name of his high school sweetheart ..that cracked me up!
Ten years ago Jesse Slade walked out on his high school sweetheart, breaking both their hearts after telling her a load of lies to stop her waiting for him. He had joined the army in a tribute of his dad dying at war and felt the best way to protect her was to leave her altogether. Now ten years on, he has left the army and is working as a Protection Agent - the best in his field. Still pining for the woman he left behind all those years ago, he throws himself into work.
Makayla Pierson cannot seem to move on from her high school sweetheart despite him breaking her heart. After a few celebrities are stalked and hurt and then she is threatened by another in her apartment stairwell she reaches out and requests a bodyguard to ensure her safety. Low and behold, her agent gets her the best in the business and immediately her hurt turns to anger when she sees who it is.
Thrown together they must overcome their own personal issues and its not even a day before they are nearly back between the sheets! As they learn to slowly trust one another, they find there is more than one person whose life is at stake.
Ten years ago Jesse Slade walked out on his high school sweetheart, breaking both their hearts after telling her a load of lies to stop her waiting for him. He had joined the army in a tribute of his dad dying at war and felt the best way to protect her was to leave her altogether. Now ten years on, he has left the army and is working as a Protection Agent - the best in his field. Still pining for the woman he left behind all those years ago, he throws himself into work.
Makayla Pierson cannot seem to move on from her high school sweetheart despite him breaking her heart. After a few celebrities are stalked and hurt and then she is threatened by another in her apartment stairwell she reaches out and requests a bodyguard to ensure her safety. Low and behold, her agent gets her the best in the business and immediately her hurt turns to anger when she sees who it is.
Thrown together they must overcome their own personal issues and its not even a day before they are nearly back between the sheets! As they learn to slowly trust one another, they find there is more than one person whose life is at stake.
July 14, 2017
Loved it
The Bodyguard is a fast paced, steamy thriller. Makayla is a successful TV actress on a dark romance series about stalkers. There have been some celebrity abductions, assaults, and deaths that may be inspired by the show. Then Makayla is targeted and her agent hires her a bodyguard.
Jesse left the SEALS a year ago with a lot of demons. Working as an elite bodyguard has been the only thing keeping him together. His latest assignment may push him over the edge.
Jesse and Makayla were high school sweethearts. Jesse abruptly dumps her after graduation. Makayla was devastated, she thought they were soul mates. Now he is her bodyguard.
Loved Jesse and Makayla's story. I was sucked in and couldn't pur it down, I felt like I was watching a movie.. Loved the epilogue. It gave a satisfying ending to their story.
The author included 2 additional books that are also available individually.
Single Dad's Virgin and Punished. Looking forward to reading them next.
This is the first book I have read by this author. I received an ARC copy in exchange for and honest review. I bought a copy in support of the Author. This is a book I will read again.
The Bodyguard is a fast paced, steamy thriller. Makayla is a successful TV actress on a dark romance series about stalkers. There have been some celebrity abductions, assaults, and deaths that may be inspired by the show. Then Makayla is targeted and her agent hires her a bodyguard.
Jesse left the SEALS a year ago with a lot of demons. Working as an elite bodyguard has been the only thing keeping him together. His latest assignment may push him over the edge.
Jesse and Makayla were high school sweethearts. Jesse abruptly dumps her after graduation. Makayla was devastated, she thought they were soul mates. Now he is her bodyguard.
Loved Jesse and Makayla's story. I was sucked in and couldn't pur it down, I felt like I was watching a movie.. Loved the epilogue. It gave a satisfying ending to their story.
The author included 2 additional books that are also available individually.
Single Dad's Virgin and Punished. Looking forward to reading them next.
This is the first book I have read by this author. I received an ARC copy in exchange for and honest review. I bought a copy in support of the Author. This is a book I will read again.
July 24, 2017
Suspenseful, romantic and a second chance at love
I love this story. It has a great plot, second chance romance, and it kept me entertained and enthralled from the beginning until the end. I just love the sizzle between Makayla and Jesse, and all the emotions that go into their HEA.
Makayla Pierson’s kept a torch for her feelings of a first love, Jesse Slade. But Jesse left for the Navy SEALs and broke her heart. Ten years laters she’s a movie star. But there have been a rash of celebrity abductions, assaults and deaths might have been motivated by her show. Makayla finds she is in dire need of protection when her life becomes endangered. She’s surprised who shows up as her next bodyguard.
Jesse Slade never expected to see Makayla again. Now back from his tour as a Navy SEAL, Jesse is hired protection for the rich and famous. Just his luck he’s back in Makayla’s life and he’s not about to let her go again. But Makayla isn’t making things easy for Jesse, still the simmering chemistry never died. It’s steamy and wickedly sexy.
Great plot, and well written characters, steamy goodness. Loved the suspense and romance. Well done, Ms. Bloom.
I received and voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I love this story. It has a great plot, second chance romance, and it kept me entertained and enthralled from the beginning until the end. I just love the sizzle between Makayla and Jesse, and all the emotions that go into their HEA.
Makayla Pierson’s kept a torch for her feelings of a first love, Jesse Slade. But Jesse left for the Navy SEALs and broke her heart. Ten years laters she’s a movie star. But there have been a rash of celebrity abductions, assaults and deaths might have been motivated by her show. Makayla finds she is in dire need of protection when her life becomes endangered. She’s surprised who shows up as her next bodyguard.
Jesse Slade never expected to see Makayla again. Now back from his tour as a Navy SEAL, Jesse is hired protection for the rich and famous. Just his luck he’s back in Makayla’s life and he’s not about to let her go again. But Makayla isn’t making things easy for Jesse, still the simmering chemistry never died. It’s steamy and wickedly sexy.
Great plot, and well written characters, steamy goodness. Loved the suspense and romance. Well done, Ms. Bloom.
I received and voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
January 8, 2017
Mikayla has only ever loved one man, but he stole her heart and broke it, and she has never really trusted another man in the last ten years. Now an actress, she has been threatened by a stalker and decides to hire the best there is. Jesse hasn't been the same since he went to war, he left the love of his life and had to do things he can never forget. Jesse decided the best he could do is become a Personal Protector after watching his men die, Jesse is positive that he can never be good enough for Mikayla, even if she could forgive him. When he is assigned Mikayla as a client the chemistry and anger is instant. But as the stalkers become more threatening, both of them are hurt by who has betrayed them as they fight to survive.
I absolutely loved this book, the rawness of Jesse's guilt from his lies and the death of people he knew was beautifully portrayed. Mikayla's anger and hurt was also beautifully written. A great story, and definitely worth the read.
I received a free copy of this book and chose to VOLUNTARILY review it. My review is completely honest, and a non-incentivized review.
I absolutely loved this book, the rawness of Jesse's guilt from his lies and the death of people he knew was beautifully portrayed. Mikayla's anger and hurt was also beautifully written. A great story, and definitely worth the read.
I received a free copy of this book and chose to VOLUNTARILY review it. My review is completely honest, and a non-incentivized review.
July 17, 2017
I love my romance books but I never turn down a book that has anything to do with military men especially Seals. You know what you are going to get....action, suspense, lust, love and a man who is fierce and broken and needs a strong woman to bring him back. Penelope Bloom doesn't disappoint with this book, the chemistry and sparks coming off the pages between Jesse and Makayla is scorching.
Jesse left Makayla behind 10 years ago when he left to go to war and he has been missing her ever since. Makalya still misses Jesse and thinks about him all the time. When Makayla has to hire a bodyguard Jesse is hired because he is the best of the best in his field. As soon as she sees him she knows she still loves him but her anger gets in the way of how he left her all those years ago and makes her make stupid decisions thus putting her life in danger.
The book was a roller coaster ride of emotions and a page turner, rushing to the end to see if he can save her and their relationship. Along with the steamy scenes and the new epilogue at the end...WOW....deserves nothing less than 5 ++++ stars.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*
Jesse left Makayla behind 10 years ago when he left to go to war and he has been missing her ever since. Makalya still misses Jesse and thinks about him all the time. When Makayla has to hire a bodyguard Jesse is hired because he is the best of the best in his field. As soon as she sees him she knows she still loves him but her anger gets in the way of how he left her all those years ago and makes her make stupid decisions thus putting her life in danger.
The book was a roller coaster ride of emotions and a page turner, rushing to the end to see if he can save her and their relationship. Along with the steamy scenes and the new epilogue at the end...WOW....deserves nothing less than 5 ++++ stars.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*
August 5, 2017
I received an ARC and am voluntarily reviewing.
This was a great book with lots of suspense with someone stalking and trying to kill Mikayla. She hires a bodyguard who turns out to be Jesse, her only love that walked away from her 10 years ago without another word from him. The they find out that someone is after him also and wants to kidnap her to get to Jesse and torture him. They find out that it is someone close to her that wants her dead and the one after Jesse is someone he thought died years earlier in Afghanistan.
Jesse hires other bodyguards to protect her thinking that if he leaves her again he is protecting her again but doesn't realize that the bodyguards are double crossing him. He is still watching Mikayla from the shadows and when she is in danger he steps in to take her but they are both captured and taken to different places.
Can Jesse escape his fate and save Mikayla? Can Mikayla escape or does she just sit and wait for Jesse to come rescue her? Do they finally realize that they both still love each other or is it too late for them both?
This was a great book with lots of suspense with someone stalking and trying to kill Mikayla. She hires a bodyguard who turns out to be Jesse, her only love that walked away from her 10 years ago without another word from him. The they find out that someone is after him also and wants to kidnap her to get to Jesse and torture him. They find out that it is someone close to her that wants her dead and the one after Jesse is someone he thought died years earlier in Afghanistan.
Jesse hires other bodyguards to protect her thinking that if he leaves her again he is protecting her again but doesn't realize that the bodyguards are double crossing him. He is still watching Mikayla from the shadows and when she is in danger he steps in to take her but they are both captured and taken to different places.
Can Jesse escape his fate and save Mikayla? Can Mikayla escape or does she just sit and wait for Jesse to come rescue her? Do they finally realize that they both still love each other or is it too late for them both?
January 12, 2017
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book
Jesse has seen a lot of dark and damaging things while on deployment, He is damaged but was hurting badly even before he enlisted, He lost both parents on the 9/11 attack and then lost the one and only woman her could ever love, Makayla. On his first deployment he realized that he would never be good enough for her so he lied and told her he found someone else.
Makayla will never forget her first love Jesse, she really has never gotten over him, 10 years later and she has made something of herself, she is an actress on a famous tv program about Stalkers, the bad part is that now there is a movement of actual stalkers, they have kidnapped and murdered some famous people and now seem to be after Makayla, how this story plays out is absolutely awesome, it will surprise you and it will bring you to tears as well. I LOVED that Jesse and Makayla get a second chance at true love.
Jesse has seen a lot of dark and damaging things while on deployment, He is damaged but was hurting badly even before he enlisted, He lost both parents on the 9/11 attack and then lost the one and only woman her could ever love, Makayla. On his first deployment he realized that he would never be good enough for her so he lied and told her he found someone else.
Makayla will never forget her first love Jesse, she really has never gotten over him, 10 years later and she has made something of herself, she is an actress on a famous tv program about Stalkers, the bad part is that now there is a movement of actual stalkers, they have kidnapped and murdered some famous people and now seem to be after Makayla, how this story plays out is absolutely awesome, it will surprise you and it will bring you to tears as well. I LOVED that Jesse and Makayla get a second chance at true love.
August 5, 2017
The Bodyguard is an amazing second-chance romance. Jesse and Makayla were high school sweethearts. Jesse left behind a devastated Makayla when he suddenly dumps her. Ten years later Makayla is a successful television show actress. When fans starts emulating her show and stalking her Makayla asks her manager to get her the best security. After leaving the SEALs Jesse had become a well-known bodyguard. When he gets a new assignment the last person he expects to see is Makayla. The chemistry that was always there between them reignites and burns brighter. Once Jesse realizes that Makayla is in danger he will stop at nothing to keep her safe. Can Makayla and Jesse overcome their past? Will Makayla trust Jesse with her heart again? I highly recommend you pick up this sweet, steamy, and thrilling second-chance romance. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book but also purchased a copy as well.
July 14, 2017
Sparks flew in this story in more ways than one!
Makayla and Jesse had been High School sweethearts until he broke her heart by enlisting.
She's now a famous actress and he's a vet with PTSD, working in personal security.
When threats are made against Makayla, Jesse is hired to protect her.
And so it begins....she still hasn't forgiven him...he doesn't get involved with clients...
The relationship develops naturally (not insta forgiveness, falling straight into bed) and the suspense element is very well handled.
There is a lighthearted thread throughout the story, making it enjoyable despite the tension, and the ending is priceless!
The above was my original 4* review for "Protector".
In this reissue the writing has been tightened up and more heat has been added....it's now 5*
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Makayla and Jesse had been High School sweethearts until he broke her heart by enlisting.
She's now a famous actress and he's a vet with PTSD, working in personal security.
When threats are made against Makayla, Jesse is hired to protect her.
And so it begins....she still hasn't forgiven him...he doesn't get involved with clients...
The relationship develops naturally (not insta forgiveness, falling straight into bed) and the suspense element is very well handled.
There is a lighthearted thread throughout the story, making it enjoyable despite the tension, and the ending is priceless!
The above was my original 4* review for "Protector".
In this reissue the writing has been tightened up and more heat has been added....it's now 5*
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
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