What do you think?
Rate this book
Galactic Gladiators #4
Protector
Fighting for love, honor, and freedom on the galaxy’s lawless outer rim…
Cool and driven Madeline Cochran made a successful career for herself as civilian commander of a space station orbiting Jupiter…until the day it was attacked and she was abducted by alien slavers.
Her organized existence shattered, Madeline suffered during her captivity, but since her rescue by the tough gladiators of the House of Galen, she’s struggling to assimilate to her new life. As she navigates the desert world of Carthago and the gladiator city of Kor Magna, she desperately misses her teenage son back on Earth and throws herself into finding another human, space marine Blaine, still kept captive by the slavers. She also finds herself working harder than ever to avoid a certain charming showman gladiator who is far too attractive and far too tempting.
Gladiator Lore Uma-Xilene is a protector at heart and a sucker for a damsel in distress…although he’s well aware that the hard-shelled and sad-eyed Madeline wouldn’t appreciate the title. He knows what it feels like to be ripped from the family you love and have your life destroyed, and he wants to help Madeline heal. As the two of them go undercover into the dangerous world of underground gambling, Lore knows he’ll need all his patience, passion, and a whole lot of stubbornness to not only keep Madeline safe but to melt the icy shell around her heart.
Cool and driven Madeline Cochran made a successful career for herself as civilian commander of a space station orbiting Jupiter…until the day it was attacked and she was abducted by alien slavers.
Her organized existence shattered, Madeline suffered during her captivity, but since her rescue by the tough gladiators of the House of Galen, she’s struggling to assimilate to her new life. As she navigates the desert world of Carthago and the gladiator city of Kor Magna, she desperately misses her teenage son back on Earth and throws herself into finding another human, space marine Blaine, still kept captive by the slavers. She also finds herself working harder than ever to avoid a certain charming showman gladiator who is far too attractive and far too tempting.
Gladiator Lore Uma-Xilene is a protector at heart and a sucker for a damsel in distress…although he’s well aware that the hard-shelled and sad-eyed Madeline wouldn’t appreciate the title. He knows what it feels like to be ripped from the family you love and have your life destroyed, and he wants to help Madeline heal. As the two of them go undercover into the dangerous world of underground gambling, Lore knows he’ll need all his patience, passion, and a whole lot of stubbornness to not only keep Madeline safe but to melt the icy shell around her heart.
242 pages, Paperback
First published February 26, 2017
568 people are currently reading
424 people want to read
About the author
Anna Hackett
162 books2,901 followersI’m a USA Today bestselling romance author who’s passionate about fast-paced, emotion-filled romantic suspense and science-fiction romance. I love writing about people overcoming unbeatable odds and achieving seemingly impossible goals. I like to believe it’s possible for all of us to do the same.
I love hearing from readers and you can find me on Facebook, Instagram and my website: www.annahackett.com
I love hearing from readers and you can find me on Facebook, Instagram and my website: www.annahackett.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews
January 17, 2020
Protector is book four in the Galactic Gladiators series by Anna Hackett.
I love this series. It’s got an amazing storyline and marvelous characters. Each book gives us someone new to fall for and the world keeps expanding. Galactic Gladiators series should be read in order.
Lore Uma-Xilene is a protector, a Gladiator for the House of Galen, and a bit of a therapist. I love Lore. His protectiveness, compassion, and patience with Madeline melted my heart. He took his time breaking down Madelines prickly exterior. It was just perfect and sweet.
Madeline was a civilian commander on the space station until the day it was attacked and she was captured by alien slavers. She suffered greatly during her captivity until she was rescued. Now, she’s having a hard time adjusting to this new world; because she can’t go home to her teenage son, doesn’t know where she belongs, and so she’s got guilt and depression.
The story is non stop danger, surprises, and passion. I was captive by the first page and loved Madeline and Lore together. Their time together was sweet and I can't say enough have much I love Lore.
Hackett has created a world that is entertaining with characters that captivate. Protector was an emotional and action-packed story.
Rated: 4 Stars
I love this series. It’s got an amazing storyline and marvelous characters. Each book gives us someone new to fall for and the world keeps expanding. Galactic Gladiators series should be read in order.
Lore Uma-Xilene is a protector, a Gladiator for the House of Galen, and a bit of a therapist. I love Lore. His protectiveness, compassion, and patience with Madeline melted my heart. He took his time breaking down Madelines prickly exterior. It was just perfect and sweet.
Madeline was a civilian commander on the space station until the day it was attacked and she was captured by alien slavers. She suffered greatly during her captivity until she was rescued. Now, she’s having a hard time adjusting to this new world; because she can’t go home to her teenage son, doesn’t know where she belongs, and so she’s got guilt and depression.
The story is non stop danger, surprises, and passion. I was captive by the first page and loved Madeline and Lore together. Their time together was sweet and I can't say enough have much I love Lore.
Hackett has created a world that is entertaining with characters that captivate. Protector was an emotional and action-packed story.
Rated: 4 Stars
March 10, 2017
While I liked both Lore and Madeline, their story felt rushed.
Madeline was rescued after being held as slave, drugged and mistreated for a long while by the slavers, so it was difficult for me to buy that she's fallen in Lore's arms after such a short time.
Yes, I know, Lore was a dear. Tender and understanding of how women's minds work since he comes from a matriarcal society... but, still... a woman who suffers from a case of PTSD, from being ripped from her child and for knowing that she'll never, ever return to Earth... mmm... I'm not convinced of how the things were explained...
Everything clicked in its right place too easily...
Still, I'm a sucker for alien abduction-heart mates, etc,. stories, so for me this was a 3,5 stars rounded to 4. :)
Madeline was rescued after being held as slave, drugged and mistreated for a long while by the slavers, so it was difficult for me to buy that she's fallen in Lore's arms after such a short time.
Yes, I know, Lore was a dear. Tender and understanding of how women's minds work since he comes from a matriarcal society... but, still... a woman who suffers from a case of PTSD, from being ripped from her child and for knowing that she'll never, ever return to Earth... mmm... I'm not convinced of how the things were explained...
Everything clicked in its right place too easily...
Still, I'm a sucker for alien abduction-heart mates, etc,. stories, so for me this was a 3,5 stars rounded to 4. :)
September 30, 2019
Gah! I love this series! Such a great storyline and all the characters are stellar! I had thought Hackett had introduced all her characters but what a happy surprise that more were brought to life in book 4!
Lore was not a dominate alpha type character. He is loving, understanding, and a bit of a therapist which completely shocked me. Typically I would not care for an MC of this nature but he was perfect for the heroine. The compassion and patience he shows Madeline melts your heart. There were so many moments I verbally said "Awe" and at times that garnered some unwanted attention. Lol!
Madeline is a complete type A personality, but you can tell immediately the dash of bee-otch is a protective measure. She was tortured and drugged for months. After being rescued she finds out that she can never go back home to her teenage son. All of these circumstances finds her fighting to overcome the guilt, depression, and the need to find her place on this new planet. Lore is there the whole way *sigh*
Exciting storyline! Fantastic character! Can not wait for book 5!
Happy reading! DD
Lore was not a dominate alpha type character. He is loving, understanding, and a bit of a therapist which completely shocked me. Typically I would not care for an MC of this nature but he was perfect for the heroine. The compassion and patience he shows Madeline melts your heart. There were so many moments I verbally said "Awe" and at times that garnered some unwanted attention. Lol!
Madeline is a complete type A personality, but you can tell immediately the dash of bee-otch is a protective measure. She was tortured and drugged for months. After being rescued she finds out that she can never go back home to her teenage son. All of these circumstances finds her fighting to overcome the guilt, depression, and the need to find her place on this new planet. Lore is there the whole way *sigh*
Exciting storyline! Fantastic character! Can not wait for book 5!
Happy reading! DD
May 17, 2019
3.5-4.5
February 28, 2017
Speechless is the word I have to use after finishing this book. I've really enjoyed the books in this series but this one just knocked this series out of the stratosphere ! Such a emotional, action packed story that I'm simply left reeling.
As Madeline struggles to come to terms with her new circumstances her grief over the knowledge that she will never see her son again tears her apart but Madeline prides herself on her icy control. It's just too bad that the entertaining gladiator Lore would like nothing more than to get Madeline to show her softer side . Sure he's gorgeous but Madeline isn't interested in men although her spiky exterior just challenges Lore more and more . This lady is no pushover though and is dead set on tracking down one of her former officers who is a slave in the underground fighting pits. Clearly she needs help and there's one man with very protective instincts but will Madeline let Lore in and if she does will what simmers between them combust and finally raise her temperature ?
This story was a non stop miasma of danger, surprises and of course red hot passion. I was captivated from the first page and loved seeing the charming Lore woo Madeline. It was so interesting and such a change to see a male who adored women just as they are. He's a character who has been teasing readers since the beginning so learning of his past and just how and why he can do what he does felt very satisfying.
Madeline is a more mature heroine ( hurrah ) , a woman who has pulled herself up by her bootstraps to gain her position but along the way unfortunately she has missed so much. Well fear not because Lore is about to burn his way into her heart!
I have no hesitation in recommending this book but to be fair the series is probably best read in order. The author has invented characters that captivate the readers imagination set in a world that's continuing to grow with each book. I'm beyond curious about new characters introduced here and I'm so happy that this series has found its feet. Definitely my favourite so far and even a little touch of sweetness at the end that made me smile because we all need hope!
A copy of this was provided for me and I have voluntarily read it which means my comments are my own honest opinion
As Madeline struggles to come to terms with her new circumstances her grief over the knowledge that she will never see her son again tears her apart but Madeline prides herself on her icy control. It's just too bad that the entertaining gladiator Lore would like nothing more than to get Madeline to show her softer side . Sure he's gorgeous but Madeline isn't interested in men although her spiky exterior just challenges Lore more and more . This lady is no pushover though and is dead set on tracking down one of her former officers who is a slave in the underground fighting pits. Clearly she needs help and there's one man with very protective instincts but will Madeline let Lore in and if she does will what simmers between them combust and finally raise her temperature ?
This story was a non stop miasma of danger, surprises and of course red hot passion. I was captivated from the first page and loved seeing the charming Lore woo Madeline. It was so interesting and such a change to see a male who adored women just as they are. He's a character who has been teasing readers since the beginning so learning of his past and just how and why he can do what he does felt very satisfying.
Madeline is a more mature heroine ( hurrah ) , a woman who has pulled herself up by her bootstraps to gain her position but along the way unfortunately she has missed so much. Well fear not because Lore is about to burn his way into her heart!
I have no hesitation in recommending this book but to be fair the series is probably best read in order. The author has invented characters that captivate the readers imagination set in a world that's continuing to grow with each book. I'm beyond curious about new characters introduced here and I'm so happy that this series has found its feet. Definitely my favourite so far and even a little touch of sweetness at the end that made me smile because we all need hope!
A copy of this was provided for me and I have voluntarily read it which means my comments are my own honest opinion
May 8, 2025
3.5✨ (rounded to 4 for GR)
1.5🌶️
Spontaneous alien showman gladiator woos a tightly-controlled, out-of-place human woman struggling to break free from the past and embrace a new and uncertain future.
⚔️alien gladiator planet
⚔️human x alien romance
⚔️space commander fmc x entertainment gladiator mmc
⚔️[single] mom, but forever physically separated from her son through space
⚔️healing from the past
⚔️somewhat grumpy x sunshine
Protector is the fourth entry to the Galactic Gladiators series, and it continues to impress me how Anna Hackett is able to consistently produce such varied yet connected stories of such quality. They are honestly just plain fun, and I always look forward to picking up a book by her. I particularly loved the MMC Lore in this book.
True to the book's name, Lore does become a protector, of Madeline the FMC's physical safety, yes, but also of her heart, and of determining the shape of her future - a future he's increasingly hoping will include him. Madeline wasn't quick to thaw to Lore's affections, but the flashy yet kind gladiator won her over in the end, and the gift he presents to Madeline at the end of the book was truly heartwarming, and a hopeful note to end on.
Will continue to devour this series and anything else AH writes!
1.5🌶️
Spontaneous alien showman gladiator woos a tightly-controlled, out-of-place human woman struggling to break free from the past and embrace a new and uncertain future.
⚔️alien gladiator planet
⚔️human x alien romance
⚔️space commander fmc x entertainment gladiator mmc
⚔️[single] mom, but forever physically separated from her son through space
⚔️healing from the past
⚔️somewhat grumpy x sunshine
Protector is the fourth entry to the Galactic Gladiators series, and it continues to impress me how Anna Hackett is able to consistently produce such varied yet connected stories of such quality. They are honestly just plain fun, and I always look forward to picking up a book by her. I particularly loved the MMC Lore in this book.
True to the book's name, Lore does become a protector, of Madeline the FMC's physical safety, yes, but also of her heart, and of determining the shape of her future - a future he's increasingly hoping will include him. Madeline wasn't quick to thaw to Lore's affections, but the flashy yet kind gladiator won her over in the end, and the gift he presents to Madeline at the end of the book was truly heartwarming, and a hopeful note to end on.
Will continue to devour this series and anything else AH writes!
July 21, 2017
Another hit!!
Lore and Madeleine's story was amazing! It kept me on my toes and I didn't want to put it down!
Lore and Madeleine's story was amazing! It kept me on my toes and I didn't want to put it down!
March 18, 2023
Protector is the 4th installment in the "Galactic Gladiators" series. I absolutely adored this one here, it was just so wonderful and seeing these two come together was endearing. The more I read of this series, the more I end up falling in love with it if I am being honest. I am really liking what Anna Hackett delivers on this one. We get some real emotion on the trauma of the women being taken from their home. Our heroine, Madeline, left behind a son. So you really feel for her and her grief knowing she will never see him again. Then we have our hero, who is one of the gladiators "Lore" but also have some mysterious abilities. He is inherently protective and wants to be a protector for Madeline. But Madeline is determined to find her friend who is being forced to fight into "to the death" bloody fights that are underground. As Madeline and Lore search for these fights to rescue him, they will come across a underhanded plot in the world they now live in and will have to work together to survive...
This book was just so action packed and had me at the edge of my seat! I just fell so hard for Lore and Madeline so quickly. I did think Madeline was a bit "blind" to the dangers and Lore had to get her out of it haha and then she complains about being a damsel in distress, well if a heroine makes not the smartest decisions, you might need a brawny fighter to save your life lol But what I love about Anna Hackett, is even when a character makes some reckless decisions, she makes it feel relatable and you can so easily connect with the characters. She really fleshes them out and they become so endearing. The romance between these two is pretty superbly written and I easily got behind them as a pair. Definitely eager to continue with the series.
This book was just so action packed and had me at the edge of my seat! I just fell so hard for Lore and Madeline so quickly. I did think Madeline was a bit "blind" to the dangers and Lore had to get her out of it haha and then she complains about being a damsel in distress, well if a heroine makes not the smartest decisions, you might need a brawny fighter to save your life lol But what I love about Anna Hackett, is even when a character makes some reckless decisions, she makes it feel relatable and you can so easily connect with the characters. She really fleshes them out and they become so endearing. The romance between these two is pretty superbly written and I easily got behind them as a pair. Definitely eager to continue with the series.
March 3, 2017
I keep trying with this series, I truly do, but at times I’m struggling. On the one hand, I love the setting of the alien world, the gladiatorial arenas and the various aliens, but the plot is getting repetitive after four books of the freshly rescued heroine starting out grieving for lost Earth, unable to imagine she will ever find her place in this new world, looking askance at her fellow Earthlings who have fallen for aliens, while lusting after an alien, then launching into various missions to save the latest spotted enslaved Earthling. The couples are pre-matched in the previous book to whoever gets to them first in a rescue, and to be honest it might be nice if there was a little more mystery about everything. Or at least a longer getting-to-know-you period.
I’m also tired of heroines who have absolutely no fighting experience and refuse to follow orders insisting to go on dangerous missions where they will just get in the way. This is not a strength, it’s verging on too stupid to live. And no, an afternoon of laser sword training does not a Jedi master make. It’s okay to admit you are weaker than someone who has spent most of their life training to fight. Equality is formed in many ways. There is nothing wrong with using your brain occasionally.
So yeah, Madeline got on my nerves at times. I had sympathy for her having a son left back on Earth, but I was not impressed with the way she seemed to dismiss Lore’s own grief because a mother losing her child trumps the loss of his entire family at a very young age. I’m also baffled by the way these heroines apparently forget all about their captivity within a couple of chapters, save for an understandable wariness around certain aliens.
Lore is a bit better, except I wanted to know more about him. Particularly his illusions and how they work, where he learnt them, how he makes up his powders and maybe see him practising with it all, testing out what he could do. I wanted to know more about how he got to where he is too. We get the barest bones of what happened to his family, but that’s about it. Because this book is all about Madeline – but sadly for me, I didn’t like her enough to care.
Away from these two, the rescue missions veered from undermanned to bafflingly overpopulated, but at least it introduced a few extra characters. I’m certainly intrigued enough by the blue creature to want to find out more.
Overall this was okay. It’s not the worst in the series, but it’s not my favourite either and not a patch on the Phoenix Adventures or Hell Squad books. I’d really love for this series to surprise me in some way, or at least make me feel more invested in the characters involved. Perhaps the next book, which pits a human hero against an alien heroine for the first time, might shake things up enough to finally get me falling in love with this series.
(ARC provided by the author.)
I’m also tired of heroines who have absolutely no fighting experience and refuse to follow orders insisting to go on dangerous missions where they will just get in the way. This is not a strength, it’s verging on too stupid to live. And no, an afternoon of laser sword training does not a Jedi master make. It’s okay to admit you are weaker than someone who has spent most of their life training to fight. Equality is formed in many ways. There is nothing wrong with using your brain occasionally.
So yeah, Madeline got on my nerves at times. I had sympathy for her having a son left back on Earth, but I was not impressed with the way she seemed to dismiss Lore’s own grief because a mother losing her child trumps the loss of his entire family at a very young age. I’m also baffled by the way these heroines apparently forget all about their captivity within a couple of chapters, save for an understandable wariness around certain aliens.
Lore is a bit better, except I wanted to know more about him. Particularly his illusions and how they work, where he learnt them, how he makes up his powders and maybe see him practising with it all, testing out what he could do. I wanted to know more about how he got to where he is too. We get the barest bones of what happened to his family, but that’s about it. Because this book is all about Madeline – but sadly for me, I didn’t like her enough to care.
Away from these two, the rescue missions veered from undermanned to bafflingly overpopulated, but at least it introduced a few extra characters. I’m certainly intrigued enough by the blue creature to want to find out more.
Overall this was okay. It’s not the worst in the series, but it’s not my favourite either and not a patch on the Phoenix Adventures or Hell Squad books. I’d really love for this series to surprise me in some way, or at least make me feel more invested in the characters involved. Perhaps the next book, which pits a human hero against an alien heroine for the first time, might shake things up enough to finally get me falling in love with this series.
(ARC provided by the author.)
August 13, 2018
3.75 stars.
This one is a relationship between the stiff, bitchy (from the heroine own words) of the spaceship commander and the showman of the gladiators! I know, see how is folded. Also, the only heroine who left behind a teenage son on Earth and how wonderful hero was to do something special for her.
This one is a relationship between the stiff, bitchy (from the heroine own words) of the spaceship commander and the showman of the gladiators! I know, see how is folded. Also, the only heroine who left behind a teenage son on Earth and how wonderful hero was to do something special for her.
April 7, 2019
O.M. Lore!
Okay, THIS book is my favourite Galactic Gladiators book!! I cant say anything without spoiling it aside from read this! And fall in love with Lore, cuz I sure did.
Okay, THIS book is my favourite Galactic Gladiators book!! I cant say anything without spoiling it aside from read this! And fall in love with Lore, cuz I sure did.
July 13, 2017
3.5 stars.
The fourth installment to the series and the formula is still working for me. We found out that there are illegal fight rings operating underground and that some more Earth captives are trapped there.
When we met Madeline in the first book, she was the cold, unfeeling civilian commander of the Space Station. I liked how the author managed to give her a sympathetic background story that made me understand why she's made like that. I also liked how Lore's persistence wore down her outer shell.
Another enjoyable installment. I'm looking forward to reading Blaine and Saff's story next.
The fourth installment to the series and the formula is still working for me. We found out that there are illegal fight rings operating underground and that some more Earth captives are trapped there.
When we met Madeline in the first book, she was the cold, unfeeling civilian commander of the Space Station. I liked how the author managed to give her a sympathetic background story that made me understand why she's made like that. I also liked how Lore's persistence wore down her outer shell.
Another enjoyable installment. I'm looking forward to reading Blaine and Saff's story next.
November 15, 2017
5 for Scifi fluff romance.
This one was really good with a prickly female with good reason. I love how Lore comes from matriarchal society and is very understanding of the women. There is always something hidden in one or both of the character. Lore definitely has tricks up his sleeves and at one point I wanted to cry for Madeline. My main complaint is she put herself in sticky situations only because she wanted to be "in charge" and direct everyone. That is what she does and is trained to do, I get that but, not when it is beyond her skill set, then you delegate.
This one was really good with a prickly female with good reason. I love how Lore comes from matriarchal society and is very understanding of the women. There is always something hidden in one or both of the character. Lore definitely has tricks up his sleeves and at one point I wanted to cry for Madeline. My main complaint is she put herself in sticky situations only because she wanted to be "in charge" and direct everyone. That is what she does and is trained to do, I get that but, not when it is beyond her skill set, then you delegate.
March 2, 2017
Originally published at Reading Reality
Protector is the fourth book in the author’s sun, sandals and stars series, Galactic Gladiators. The series begins with Gladiator, and the story there sets the stage. A temporary wormhole opens in the vicinity of the Jupiter Research Station in a near-future version of our solar system. A shipload of intergalactic slave traders takes advantage of the wormhole and the relatively low-tech Terrans to capture as many humans as possible, whipping back through the wormhole before it closes. It’s a one-way trip.
The slave-traders have unfortunately found out that human slaves are profitable, if only because they are rare. But once the surprisingly noble gladiatorial House of Galen buys the contract of the first human available to them, one after another the stranded humans have been rescued – even if they can’t return home.
Protector is Madeline Cochran’s story. On the Jupiter Station, she was the commander. Now on Kor Magna, her life has been reduced to one purpose – rescue the other human that she saw in the slave pits, Blaine. Not because there’s any relationship there, but because she can’t bear to leave anyone in the clutches of the slave trade.
And she’s so focused on that mission because her other reason for living was left behind back on Earth. Unlike the other heroines so far, Madeline left someone dear to her back home. Her teenaged son. That she knows she can never see him again eats at her like acid. She’s closed herself off to feeling anything else.
That’s where Lore comes in. One of the premier gladiators of the House of Galen, Lore can’t stop what Madeline makes him feel. And he doesn’t want to. What he wants is to give her a reason to keep living, and a reason to open her heart.
If she’s not too scared, and too guilt-ridden, to reach for it.
Escape Rating B: I enjoyed this story a lot, but there wasn’t anything that made it rise to the level of Hero. Maybe every story needs a robotic pet? (Just kidding)
But Protector felt a bit formulaic. There’s a pattern to this series, and that pattern was on full display here, along with a whole lot of muscled flesh. At the very end of the previous book, Madeline is rescued, and Lore is the one that she briefly clings to during that rescue. Neither of them can forget those moments, and thus this book becomes their story.
In case you’re wondering, the pattern repeats at the end of Protector. Blaine and three more human women are rescued, and they are all set to fall in love with their rescuers.
As part of Madeline’s story, we see even more of the dark underbelly of Kor Magna. And it is very dark indeed. The remaining unrescued humans (that we know about) have been swallowed up by the illegal pit fighting underworld. That the illegal pits are entered by way of the sewers is a perfect metaphor for what is going on there.
The humans are expected to die in that underworld. That Blaine has managed to survive and even become a sort of champion is a surprise to everyone. It’s a surprise that brings the organizers even more money than they expected, and they don’t want to lose their source of revenue.
And some of them are just plain evil.
We also learn more about the above-board (ish) side of Kor Magna, particularly the information broker Zhim. He’s an interesting character I’d like to see more of. And he’s the creator of an event that changes the tenor of the series. It’s an event that reminds me of the Pathfinder Project in Star Trek Voyager, and I’m still not sure if it is a good plot device in this case or not. Time (and more books) will undoubtedly tell.
This series is great fun if you like science fiction romance, action-adventure romance, human/non-human romance, or just a good story with Big Damn Heroes. I can’t wait to see if my guesses turn out to be true in the next book, Champion.
Protector is the fourth book in the author’s sun, sandals and stars series, Galactic Gladiators. The series begins with Gladiator, and the story there sets the stage. A temporary wormhole opens in the vicinity of the Jupiter Research Station in a near-future version of our solar system. A shipload of intergalactic slave traders takes advantage of the wormhole and the relatively low-tech Terrans to capture as many humans as possible, whipping back through the wormhole before it closes. It’s a one-way trip.
The slave-traders have unfortunately found out that human slaves are profitable, if only because they are rare. But once the surprisingly noble gladiatorial House of Galen buys the contract of the first human available to them, one after another the stranded humans have been rescued – even if they can’t return home.
Protector is Madeline Cochran’s story. On the Jupiter Station, she was the commander. Now on Kor Magna, her life has been reduced to one purpose – rescue the other human that she saw in the slave pits, Blaine. Not because there’s any relationship there, but because she can’t bear to leave anyone in the clutches of the slave trade.
And she’s so focused on that mission because her other reason for living was left behind back on Earth. Unlike the other heroines so far, Madeline left someone dear to her back home. Her teenaged son. That she knows she can never see him again eats at her like acid. She’s closed herself off to feeling anything else.
That’s where Lore comes in. One of the premier gladiators of the House of Galen, Lore can’t stop what Madeline makes him feel. And he doesn’t want to. What he wants is to give her a reason to keep living, and a reason to open her heart.
If she’s not too scared, and too guilt-ridden, to reach for it.
Escape Rating B: I enjoyed this story a lot, but there wasn’t anything that made it rise to the level of Hero. Maybe every story needs a robotic pet? (Just kidding)
But Protector felt a bit formulaic. There’s a pattern to this series, and that pattern was on full display here, along with a whole lot of muscled flesh. At the very end of the previous book, Madeline is rescued, and Lore is the one that she briefly clings to during that rescue. Neither of them can forget those moments, and thus this book becomes their story.
In case you’re wondering, the pattern repeats at the end of Protector. Blaine and three more human women are rescued, and they are all set to fall in love with their rescuers.
As part of Madeline’s story, we see even more of the dark underbelly of Kor Magna. And it is very dark indeed. The remaining unrescued humans (that we know about) have been swallowed up by the illegal pit fighting underworld. That the illegal pits are entered by way of the sewers is a perfect metaphor for what is going on there.
The humans are expected to die in that underworld. That Blaine has managed to survive and even become a sort of champion is a surprise to everyone. It’s a surprise that brings the organizers even more money than they expected, and they don’t want to lose their source of revenue.
And some of them are just plain evil.
We also learn more about the above-board (ish) side of Kor Magna, particularly the information broker Zhim. He’s an interesting character I’d like to see more of. And he’s the creator of an event that changes the tenor of the series. It’s an event that reminds me of the Pathfinder Project in Star Trek Voyager, and I’m still not sure if it is a good plot device in this case or not. Time (and more books) will undoubtedly tell.
This series is great fun if you like science fiction romance, action-adventure romance, human/non-human romance, or just a good story with Big Damn Heroes. I can’t wait to see if my guesses turn out to be true in the next book, Champion.
April 14, 2025
Protector is the fourth exciting book in the Galactic Gladiators series. I am rereading this series and remembered how much I enjoyed it the first time around.
Being abducted by aliens has damaged her, but she was strong, sassy and takes no prisoners. All she wants is freedom to return home to her son. Unfortunately that is not an option.
Protector has captured all the elements of a great SciFi story, creatures of all sorts, gladiators, deadly trials, secret agendas, mystery, action, frustrations, pain, suffering, romance, and much, much more.
The story is told in multiple POV which I think makes or breaks a story as you get inside their thoughts, feelings etc that make the story feel more rounded.
The life of a gladiator is a dark and dangerous place full of secrets and lies and is brutal and deadly it will either make or break them.
I recommend this if you are looking for an enjoyable read.
Being abducted by aliens has damaged her, but she was strong, sassy and takes no prisoners. All she wants is freedom to return home to her son. Unfortunately that is not an option.
Protector has captured all the elements of a great SciFi story, creatures of all sorts, gladiators, deadly trials, secret agendas, mystery, action, frustrations, pain, suffering, romance, and much, much more.
The story is told in multiple POV which I think makes or breaks a story as you get inside their thoughts, feelings etc that make the story feel more rounded.
The life of a gladiator is a dark and dangerous place full of secrets and lies and is brutal and deadly it will either make or break them.
I recommend this if you are looking for an enjoyable read.
February 20, 2025
Лор (гладиатор) и Маделин (човек)
📣🚨🛑РЕВЮ СЪДЪРЖАЩО СПОЙЛЕРИ🛑🚨📣
Маделин е директор на галактическа космическа станция. След като бива отвлечена от извънземни и продадена в робство, всичко за което може да мисли е как да избяга и да се върне отново на земята. Когато е само на 16 тя ражда син. Сега сина й е тийнейджър и живее с баща си, а Маделин е работила много, за да му осигури добър живот. Щом научава обаче, че няма как да се върне на земята сърцето й е разбито. За да не мисли за това, че никога повече няма да види сина си, тя влага всичките се усилия, за да помогне да открият и спасят Блейн, един от шефовете на охраната на космическата й станция, който е отвлечен заедно с останалите жени и е принуждаван да се бие до смърт на незаконни кървави арени под повърхността на Кор Магна.
Лор е гладиатор. Изгубил семейството си много млад и продаден в робство на гладиаторската планета, той е извоювал свободата си, но още усеща силно загубата на семейството си и се измъчва от това, че не знае какво се е случило със сестра му отвлечена преди много години. Сега той вижда как Маделин се опитва да бъде силна и не иска нищо друго освен да я утеши, да я вземе в обятията си и да разбие стените с които се е обградила.
Лор и Маделин с помощта на останалите гладиатори претърсват планетата в опит да намерят Блейн, а когато го откриват заедно с още три жени от Земята и научават за ужасяващите планове, които имат за тях търговците на роби, решават да обединят усилията си с останалите гладиаторски домове на планетата, за да сложат край на незаконните боеве.
Книгата беше хубава. Давам 4 звезди защото на моменти ми липсваха по-силни емоции. Но беше наистина интересна. Появата на другите три жени беше изненадваща макар и леко очаквана. Дори мога д апредвидя какво следва. Уинтър ще е с Неро. Това не е изненада тъй като вече има книга за тях. Очаквам Дейна да бъде с Гейлан, вече време за неговата книга. И се надявам да има книга за Миа и новото попълнение синия извънземен. Сега ми предстои книгата за Блейн и Сав, за това се заемам с нея.
📣🚨🛑РЕВЮ СЪДЪРЖАЩО СПОЙЛЕРИ🛑🚨📣
Маделин е директор на галактическа космическа станция. След като бива отвлечена от извънземни и продадена в робство, всичко за което може да мисли е как да избяга и да се върне отново на земята. Когато е само на 16 тя ражда син. Сега сина й е тийнейджър и живее с баща си, а Маделин е работила много, за да му осигури добър живот. Щом научава обаче, че няма как да се върне на земята сърцето й е разбито. За да не мисли за това, че никога повече няма да види сина си, тя влага всичките се усилия, за да помогне да открият и спасят Блейн, един от шефовете на охраната на космическата й станция, който е отвлечен заедно с останалите жени и е принуждаван да се бие до смърт на незаконни кървави арени под повърхността на Кор Магна.
Лор е гладиатор. Изгубил семейството си много млад и продаден в робство на гладиаторската планета, той е извоювал свободата си, но още усеща силно загубата на семейството си и се измъчва от това, че не знае какво се е случило със сестра му отвлечена преди много години. Сега той вижда как Маделин се опитва да бъде силна и не иска нищо друго освен да я утеши, да я вземе в обятията си и да разбие стените с които се е обградила.
Лор и Маделин с помощта на останалите гладиатори претърсват планетата в опит да намерят Блейн, а когато го откриват заедно с още три жени от Земята и научават за ужасяващите планове, които имат за тях търговците на роби, решават да обединят усилията си с останалите гладиаторски домове на планетата, за да сложат край на незаконните боеве.
Книгата беше хубава. Давам 4 звезди защото на моменти ми липсваха по-силни емоции. Но беше наистина интересна. Появата на другите три жени беше изненадваща макар и леко очаквана. Дори мога д апредвидя какво следва. Уинтър ще е с Неро. Това не е изненада тъй като вече има книга за тях. Очаквам Дейна да бъде с Гейлан, вече време за неговата книга. И се надявам да има книга за Миа и новото попълнение синия извънземен. Сега ми предстои книгата за Блейн и Сав, за това се заемам с нея.
April 25, 2017
Anna Hackett's Galactic Gladiator series has been so entertaining, that I'm just a wee bit disappointed in Protector, the latest Gladiator novel. This is the story of Lore and Madeline, both of whom appeared in earlier books. Madeline was introduced in book one as the icy-demeanored boss of the ill-fated Fortuna Station. Lore, as one of the House of Galen's top gladiators, has had minor appearances in each book. Lore never struck me a a very "alpha" kind of guy. With his flashy illusions and theatrics in the arena, he put me in mind of a rodeo clown - those brave and skilled folk who wrangle enraged animals when things go south - as he distracts the opposing gladiators while amazing the audience. As the hero in Protector, he still doesn't seem very alpha, and his sudden overprotective streak with Madeline doesn't really ring true for me. Madeline in this book is every bit the Ice Queen she was from book one. Despite the author's detailed backstory about her son, her capture and enslavement, etc. I just couldn't feel any real thaw in Madeline, and I couldn't warm up to her either. Suffice it to say I couldn't generate any enthusiasm for them as a couple. The best of this book is in the action sequences, where the good guys kick butt and take names in satisfyingly descriptive detail. Another positive is the well-paced over-arching plot of the series - the slavers and illegal traffickers vs. the House of Galen and its allies - Protector does a great job of maintaining interest and advancing that storyline. Add the rescue of Blaine, the introduction of more captive human females, and a big blue feral alien fighter, and it's clear there is more to come from the arena at Kor Magna. I want a front-row seat.
March 7, 2017
Good book
Very entertaining story. Good action and hiss worthy villains. I found lore hot and a great hero. I recommend this book
Very entertaining story. Good action and hiss worthy villains. I found lore hot and a great hero. I recommend this book
November 4, 2018
This is the telling of Madeline and Lore. Madeline was the commander of the space station and has only recently been rescued by the Galactic Gladiators crew. She is matched with Lore Uma-Xilene. He is what might think of the heart of the group. His fighting specialty is distracting magical tricks.
Madeline is quite prickly and cold on the outside, as head of the space station she's kind of had to be. Meanwhile Lore is much more light-hearted and this is an opposites attract kind of story. I enjoyed it and it kept me wanting to keep reading this entertaining series.
Madeline is quite prickly and cold on the outside, as head of the space station she's kind of had to be. Meanwhile Lore is much more light-hearted and this is an opposites attract kind of story. I enjoyed it and it kept me wanting to keep reading this entertaining series.
May 6, 2019
Entertaining, action filled series
Lore is a showman gladiator in the House of Galen on the alien planet of Carthago. Madeline is the former director of the Earth space station invaded by hostile slavers. She has been one of the hardest to find of the abducted women. She's now obsessed with recovering the one man among those abducted. He's been fighting for his life in hard to find illegal underground competitions. The story is part adventure mystery and part love story as Lore seeks to seduce the isolated, closed off Madeline while helping her find the missing space marine; the tale is a great balance of the two.
Lore is a showman gladiator in the House of Galen on the alien planet of Carthago. Madeline is the former director of the Earth space station invaded by hostile slavers. She has been one of the hardest to find of the abducted women. She's now obsessed with recovering the one man among those abducted. He's been fighting for his life in hard to find illegal underground competitions. The story is part adventure mystery and part love story as Lore seeks to seduce the isolated, closed off Madeline while helping her find the missing space marine; the tale is a great balance of the two.
June 28, 2022
UPDATE: Looking for a fun, escapism, Pick-Me-Up, “Kick Butt” read, I reread PROTECTOR, #4 in Anna Hackett’s Galactic Gladiators series. It was exactly what I wanted - Action, Adventure, Danger/Proximity with the antagonists getting their butts kicked (ending with a sweet HEA). I love it when Justice wins. Another fun read.
5 Stars upgrading from 4.5 Stars. Perfect for my mood.
ORIGINAL POST:
Lore’s family were space nomads before being attacked in their ship years ago. Lore/MMC found his way to the gladiator House of Galen by first earning his freedom through fighting and winning - as a slave arena fighter. Now, years later, he fights as a gladiator and is known for his showmanship and flare as well as his excellent fighting skill. Lore adores the ladies in any shape, size, or attitude.
FMC/Madeline was the civilian commander of the earth Fortuna Space Station which was orbiting Jupiter prior to its attack and destruction by Thraxian slavers months earlier (in Galactic Gladiator, bk#1). Madeline was finally freed from the slavers and the underground fighting rings at the end of the previous bk (Hero, #3). Known before captivity as being an aloof and unfriendly commander, PROTECTOR is Madeline’s journey toward embracing freedom, letting go, and learning to love.
PROTECTOR can be read as a standalone title yet the complete 12 book series includes an over-reaching story arc that is best enjoyed when they are all read in order (especially after the 1st three books). The world building in this series is fascinating, the characters unique, and the storylines keep my interest - not wanting to stop reading until I finish each book. I have purchased and am looking forward to reading the rest of this series. My only exception to this fun series, is the amount & detail of the steamy scenes.
READER CAUTIONS -
VIOLENCE - Yes. Sci-Fi and Gladiator action/fighting scenes (think Star Wars/SG-1 mixed with The Gladiator) but not written in an extremely graphic/dark manner.
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language is used.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Yes. Steamy sexual intimacy is present between the 2 main characters, plus other relationships; antagonists’ vices are mentioned.
Not recommended to readers who prefer Clean fiction or to YA readers.
5 Stars upgrading from 4.5 Stars. Perfect for my mood.
ORIGINAL POST:
Lore’s family were space nomads before being attacked in their ship years ago. Lore/MMC found his way to the gladiator House of Galen by first earning his freedom through fighting and winning - as a slave arena fighter. Now, years later, he fights as a gladiator and is known for his showmanship and flare as well as his excellent fighting skill. Lore adores the ladies in any shape, size, or attitude.
FMC/Madeline was the civilian commander of the earth Fortuna Space Station which was orbiting Jupiter prior to its attack and destruction by Thraxian slavers months earlier (in Galactic Gladiator, bk#1). Madeline was finally freed from the slavers and the underground fighting rings at the end of the previous bk (Hero, #3). Known before captivity as being an aloof and unfriendly commander, PROTECTOR is Madeline’s journey toward embracing freedom, letting go, and learning to love.
PROTECTOR can be read as a standalone title yet the complete 12 book series includes an over-reaching story arc that is best enjoyed when they are all read in order (especially after the 1st three books). The world building in this series is fascinating, the characters unique, and the storylines keep my interest - not wanting to stop reading until I finish each book. I have purchased and am looking forward to reading the rest of this series. My only exception to this fun series, is the amount & detail of the steamy scenes.
READER CAUTIONS -
VIOLENCE - Yes. Sci-Fi and Gladiator action/fighting scenes (think Star Wars/SG-1 mixed with The Gladiator) but not written in an extremely graphic/dark manner.
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language is used.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - Yes. Steamy sexual intimacy is present between the 2 main characters, plus other relationships; antagonists’ vices are mentioned.
Not recommended to readers who prefer Clean fiction or to YA readers.
May 11, 2018
Flashy, illusionist Lore is up this time and the human lady he's interested in is the (seemingly) uptight commander of the space station. Seemingly, because Madeline does figure out how to unwind. Eventually. You know, with Lore's attentive help and all that.
Honestly, Madeline needs A LOT of convincing to let down her walls. She blames herself for not being able to protect the people under her on the space station and she's still battling the demons that came part and parcel with her time spent in captivity. She's a bit of a mess, but she's finding her way again. Knowing Blaine is trapped in the underground fight rings she was rescued from gives her something to focus on. Lore gives her something to focus on. The friendship blossoming between her and the other stranded earth women gives her another.
Finding out there are more Humans being held captive only spurs her desire to get them all out.
Have I mentioned how much I like Lore? The guy comes from a matriarchal culture and he's not afraid of all the messy emotions that sometimes send other men into hiding. He's upfront and honest and I like that in an alien gladiator.
Frankly, while these gladiators are undefeated in the arena, they fall hard and fast once they meet their special someone. WHAT'S NOT TO LIKE ABOUT THAT?!?!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Honestly, Madeline needs A LOT of convincing to let down her walls. She blames herself for not being able to protect the people under her on the space station and she's still battling the demons that came part and parcel with her time spent in captivity. She's a bit of a mess, but she's finding her way again. Knowing Blaine is trapped in the underground fight rings she was rescued from gives her something to focus on. Lore gives her something to focus on. The friendship blossoming between her and the other stranded earth women gives her another.
Finding out there are more Humans being held captive only spurs her desire to get them all out.
Have I mentioned how much I like Lore? The guy comes from a matriarchal culture and he's not afraid of all the messy emotions that sometimes send other men into hiding. He's upfront and honest and I like that in an alien gladiator.
Frankly, while these gladiators are undefeated in the arena, they fall hard and fast once they meet their special someone. WHAT'S NOT TO LIKE ABOUT THAT?!?!
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
October 26, 2020
Can we just cast aside some of our realistic expectations. We’re reading a series about aliens in space who fight as gladiators. It is the most lovely ridiculous thing I’ve read in a while. This is my favorite of the series thus far. Lore is an absolutely dream. He has a swag but is so kind, tender, and charming! Omyword, I swooooonnn! Madeline’s story is wrapped up a little too neatly too quickly. But I was still swept away in it and wanted a HEA for her. Lord goes out of his way to care for and protect her. He makes a really grand gesture in the end that is just amazing! There’s a little bit of everything here! Great action sequences, a marvelous connection to the series, romance, steamy scenes, and even some drama. You feel for all Madeline’s lost and endured while still hoping for her happiness here. I love this novel so much! ANNNNA HACKETTTT YOU GET ME! You are my people!!!
April 21, 2018
Protection was no illusion for him
I didn't think that I would ever come to like Madeline's character. She really wasn't very nice to Harper while they were on the Fortuna. I think that you can run a business efficiently while still being friendly. So I was glad that I saw a different side to her. And Lore was a great character to bring out her better side too. She needed his light-headedness as well as knowing that he was serious. I borrowed this book through the Kindle Unlimited program.
I didn't think that I would ever come to like Madeline's character. She really wasn't very nice to Harper while they were on the Fortuna. I think that you can run a business efficiently while still being friendly. So I was glad that I saw a different side to her. And Lore was a great character to bring out her better side too. She needed his light-headedness as well as knowing that he was serious. I borrowed this book through the Kindle Unlimited program.
February 28, 2017
It was entertaining but Anna failed to keep the illusion of an alien environment. Sometimes I felt like I was ready about an office romance; you know the kind between a bossy boss and a confuse and hard headed secretary (common! Does E.T needs a filing system?). If it wasn't for the times when Anna described some alien creature I would have been OK vizualizing all the scenes somewhere on planet earth, maybe in New York or Chicago (because of the sewer setting)
July 4, 2017
Good story but not my favorite in the series. Madeline and Lore made for a sexy couple yet there was just something missing from them that keep me from really connecting with them. However over all the book was good.
- -Gifted copy by author - -
L
- -Gifted copy by author - -
L
September 1, 2021
Wow
This book had me on the edge of my seat and my heart racing a lot. I am amazed at how she is able to create such interesting characters that don't feel redundant. I think this one is my favorite book in the series so far.
This book had me on the edge of my seat and my heart racing a lot. I am amazed at how she is able to create such interesting characters that don't feel redundant. I think this one is my favorite book in the series so far.
April 11, 2018
Good read.
I enjoyed reading this book and watching as Madeline let down her restrictive walls and started showing everyone who she truly is on the inside, not just the stuffy business woman she portrays.
I enjoyed reading this book and watching as Madeline let down her restrictive walls and started showing everyone who she truly is on the inside, not just the stuffy business woman she portrays.
March 5, 2017
Gladiator
Lor the illusion gladiator is next to find love with Madeline. Who was the boss on the space center . A great book 4
Lor the illusion gladiator is next to find love with Madeline. Who was the boss on the space center . A great book 4
May 5, 2017
Love it!
Can't wait for the other stories!
Can't wait for the other stories!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews