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Brother's Keeper #1
Declan
Alternate cover edition of ASIN B0748NW74B
304 pages, ebook
Published August 24, 2017
381 people are currently reading
553 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie St. Klaire
51 books940 followersAbout Stephanie St. Klaire
USA Today Best-Selling Author Stephanie St. Klaire is multifaceted romance writer that has found her calling making readers bite their nails in suspense and hang on the edge of their seats with baited breath, as they wait for the next startling mystery to be unveiled.
Whether she’s off the grid hunting her diabolical killer’s next victim or plotting gritty crime thrillers that will leave you questioning her sanity, she always brings the chaos and the heat. (Watch yourself or you just might end up a character in one of her stories!)
Equal parts Hallmark and Criminal Minds, SSK balances her dark side by writing rom-com as her alter ego Stephie Klaire.
The Pacific Northwest native currently resides in Portland, Oregon with her husband, five children, and two ferocious lap dogs— where every day is Taco Tuesday and Christmas isn’t just a season... it’s a state of mind.
Follow Stephanie St. Klaire on Social media to learn more about her, and to keep up with her work.
Website: www.stephaniestklaire.com
Newsletter: www.stephaniestklaire.com/newsletter
Facebook page: http://bit.ly/2l27QeK
Facebook profile: http://bit.ly/2kdNBa1
Twitter: https://twitter.com/StephStKlaire
Instagram: http://bit.ly/2lxwtgn
BookBub Author Page: http://bit.ly/2kuPnV5
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/1UccbW6
USA Today Best-Selling Author Stephanie St. Klaire is multifaceted romance writer that has found her calling making readers bite their nails in suspense and hang on the edge of their seats with baited breath, as they wait for the next startling mystery to be unveiled.
Whether she’s off the grid hunting her diabolical killer’s next victim or plotting gritty crime thrillers that will leave you questioning her sanity, she always brings the chaos and the heat. (Watch yourself or you just might end up a character in one of her stories!)
Equal parts Hallmark and Criminal Minds, SSK balances her dark side by writing rom-com as her alter ego Stephie Klaire.
The Pacific Northwest native currently resides in Portland, Oregon with her husband, five children, and two ferocious lap dogs— where every day is Taco Tuesday and Christmas isn’t just a season... it’s a state of mind.
Follow Stephanie St. Klaire on Social media to learn more about her, and to keep up with her work.
Website: www.stephaniestklaire.com
Newsletter: www.stephaniestklaire.com/newsletter
Facebook page: http://bit.ly/2l27QeK
Facebook profile: http://bit.ly/2kdNBa1
Twitter: https://twitter.com/StephStKlaire
Instagram: http://bit.ly/2lxwtgn
BookBub Author Page: http://bit.ly/2kuPnV5
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/1UccbW6
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
August 28, 2017
Great start to a new series! Brother’s Keeper is a spin off to the McKenzie Ridge series, which I devoured and loved. Declan and Lydia were first introduced in Hidden, the second book in the McKenzie Ridge series. Lydia is the sister to Megan Johnson (Colton Sparks love interest). So of course, I was chomping at the bit to read this because there were hints of something going on between Declan and Lydia when I read Hidden.
This book is an intense ride! Wow! I was on the edge of my seat and was holding my breath as they were on the run. There are so many twists and turns! There is suspense, intrigue, murder, mayhem, romance, sexy times, emotional reunions, and shoot outs. I was kept guessing as to what was going to happen next! Loved it!
There is a mole in Declan’s government agency he works for leaking information to Lydia’s criminal husband and Declan can’t rely on his government team so he turns to his family business run by his brothers, Brother’s Keeper Security. His brother’s try to stay one step ahead of the criminals and are trying to keep Lydia and Declan safe. All the while Lydia and Declan are trying to deny the sparks that are there between them. Declan has had feelings for Lydia for a long time and he really tried hard to keep those feelings to himself. Until one day they could no longer be denied.
Lydia and Declan had off the charts chemistry and were amazing together. The reunion of Lydia and her son was so emotional when they returned to McKenzie Ridge. I loved her son and Declan together. He was just a baby when he had to go live with Lydia’s sister to protect him from his father and it had been years since Lydia had seen him. The secondary characters were the McKenzie Ridge gang and I loved they were involved.
This series has so much promise and I can’t wait for the Brother’s Keeper’s boys to get their own books.
ARC kindly provided for an honest review.
This book is an intense ride! Wow! I was on the edge of my seat and was holding my breath as they were on the run. There are so many twists and turns! There is suspense, intrigue, murder, mayhem, romance, sexy times, emotional reunions, and shoot outs. I was kept guessing as to what was going to happen next! Loved it!
There is a mole in Declan’s government agency he works for leaking information to Lydia’s criminal husband and Declan can’t rely on his government team so he turns to his family business run by his brothers, Brother’s Keeper Security. His brother’s try to stay one step ahead of the criminals and are trying to keep Lydia and Declan safe. All the while Lydia and Declan are trying to deny the sparks that are there between them. Declan has had feelings for Lydia for a long time and he really tried hard to keep those feelings to himself. Until one day they could no longer be denied.
Lydia and Declan had off the charts chemistry and were amazing together. The reunion of Lydia and her son was so emotional when they returned to McKenzie Ridge. I loved her son and Declan together. He was just a baby when he had to go live with Lydia’s sister to protect him from his father and it had been years since Lydia had seen him. The secondary characters were the McKenzie Ridge gang and I loved they were involved.
This series has so much promise and I can’t wait for the Brother’s Keeper’s boys to get their own books.
ARC kindly provided for an honest review.
August 13, 2017
Declan and Lydia
Is there anything you wouldn't do to protect the ones you love most? Even breaking the rules you've sworn to uphold??
Ms. St. Klaire has taken it to a whole new level with this superbly written novel! Their story kept me up reading til I finished the last word. Filled with smoldering sexy romance and passion, hot sex, suspense, intrigue, love, laughter, a few old friends, lots of new ones, bad guys going down, a funny dog named Dick lol, and a HEA. This lady can write!! LOVED IT! Great start to a new series by a fantastic authoress.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily reviewing the story.
Is there anything you wouldn't do to protect the ones you love most? Even breaking the rules you've sworn to uphold??
Ms. St. Klaire has taken it to a whole new level with this superbly written novel! Their story kept me up reading til I finished the last word. Filled with smoldering sexy romance and passion, hot sex, suspense, intrigue, love, laughter, a few old friends, lots of new ones, bad guys going down, a funny dog named Dick lol, and a HEA. This lady can write!! LOVED IT! Great start to a new series by a fantastic authoress.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily reviewing the story.
August 13, 2017
This book will keep you on the edge of your chair chewing your nails off! Declan and Lydia's story is everything you could want in a book. Crime, Compassion, Evil, love, hot guys and lots of guns. Lydia was married to a crime boss and witnessed something she shouldn't have. Declan helps her run. With the help of his and his brother's security company, Brother's Keeper Declan hopes to keep Lydia safe until the crime boss she was married to is caught and she can testify against him. Secret places, secret identities, and growing feelings between Declan and Lydia. This is a really suspenseful, well-written novel that will keep you guessing until the very end. I cried a lot, I laughed in places and bit my nails to the bone. Stephanie's writing is really smart and insightful. I love her all her books.
December 3, 2017
OMG, great book and beginning to a brand new series by Stephanie St Klaire. Declan is wrking undercover to get the criminal Esteban but feels overprotective of Esteban's wife Lydia and young son.
Lydia witnesses a murder committed by her husband and Declan goes after her to protect her.
They soon are trying to stay two steps ahead of Esteban and his long reach.
While Declan fights his feelings for Lydia.
Can they survive, can they get past everything. This is a fabulous book and look forward to the other books in this brand new series.
Lydia witnesses a murder committed by her husband and Declan goes after her to protect her.
They soon are trying to stay two steps ahead of Esteban and his long reach.
While Declan fights his feelings for Lydia.
Can they survive, can they get past everything. This is a fabulous book and look forward to the other books in this brand new series.
August 13, 2017
Declan O'Reilly is an undercover agent for a government agent. He's managed to become a trusted member of Esteban Valdez's crew. Esteban has put him in the position of being chauffeur & bodyguard to his wife, Lydia & his son, Jax. Lydia thought Esteban was having an affair & followed him only to witness him killing another man. Declan followed her when she took off & began protecting her until they could pick Esteban up & she could testify in his trial. He knew enough to go dark since he was sure there was a traitor on his government team. He could only trust his brothers & their business, Brother's Keeper.
Lydia Prescott-Valdez was a spoiled heiress before her world crashed around her. Suddenly, she sent her son off with her sister to hide & is driving across the country trying to hide from her husband & his goons. She's not sure she can trust Declan but he's the only thing keeping her alive right now. After she screwed up & led the goons to them, they had to pick up & run again. Everytime she thinks they're safe, something happens.
At the beginning, I really didn't like Lydia. Her character was spoiled, entitled & arrogant. Everything Declan put on the line for her was jeopardized when she threw a temper tantrum, hot drunk & led the bad guys right to them. As the book goes on, I not only began to like her, I admired her for the way she made the best of everything & put herself on the line. Declan was hot, sexy & intense. He's the type that could take a high strung woman, calm her down & make her see sense. The interactions between him & his family add another dimension to the story. The reader sees how protective they all are of the family. The addition of the dog & the name Jax gives it give a moment of humor to a tense situation. The plot moves fairly quickly & just when you think you know everything, it takes twists & turns you aren't expecting! I can't wait for the next book in the series!
Lydia Prescott-Valdez was a spoiled heiress before her world crashed around her. Suddenly, she sent her son off with her sister to hide & is driving across the country trying to hide from her husband & his goons. She's not sure she can trust Declan but he's the only thing keeping her alive right now. After she screwed up & led the goons to them, they had to pick up & run again. Everytime she thinks they're safe, something happens.
At the beginning, I really didn't like Lydia. Her character was spoiled, entitled & arrogant. Everything Declan put on the line for her was jeopardized when she threw a temper tantrum, hot drunk & led the bad guys right to them. As the book goes on, I not only began to like her, I admired her for the way she made the best of everything & put herself on the line. Declan was hot, sexy & intense. He's the type that could take a high strung woman, calm her down & make her see sense. The interactions between him & his family add another dimension to the story. The reader sees how protective they all are of the family. The addition of the dog & the name Jax gives it give a moment of humor to a tense situation. The plot moves fairly quickly & just when you think you know everything, it takes twists & turns you aren't expecting! I can't wait for the next book in the series!
August 13, 2017
Book 1 in The Brother's Keeper Series...
Ms. St. Klaire has hooked me. From the beginning to the end it grabbed me. Lydia wasn't sure what to expect to find when she went to her husbands office late at night, but what she did made her take a step back and run so fast. She was stunned to say the least. That's when Jason her bodyguard found her. What he did next took her by surprise. Her life and her sons were about to change drastically.
This book was a roller coaster of suspense, and emotions like no other. Surprises along the way. The ending blew my mind.
Highly recommended, and the McKenzie Ridge series too. Don't miss those. Looking forward to the other brothers.
Love them all.
Ms. St. Klaire has hooked me. From the beginning to the end it grabbed me. Lydia wasn't sure what to expect to find when she went to her husbands office late at night, but what she did made her take a step back and run so fast. She was stunned to say the least. That's when Jason her bodyguard found her. What he did next took her by surprise. Her life and her sons were about to change drastically.
This book was a roller coaster of suspense, and emotions like no other. Surprises along the way. The ending blew my mind.
Highly recommended, and the McKenzie Ridge series too. Don't miss those. Looking forward to the other brothers.
Love them all.
December 3, 2017
This book has it all: a crime boss hiding under a reputable facade, an undercover smoking hot agent and an innocent wife until she decides to make a late night visit to the office where she suspects her husband is having an affair. Unfortunately, she witnesses her unassuming businessman husband commit murder and she runs for her life. Thus enters her bodyguard and the undercover agent working for a ghost team of law enforcement that no one knows exists. This was an intense, suspenseful, sinful and steamy sexy hotness of a story. There were parts that I cried, parts that I laughed and parts that I sighed in romantic bliss. Declan's story is a definite must read and I can't wait for the next book in the Brother's Keeper series to come out.
August 21, 2020
This is a new series by Stephanie St. Klaire that branches off from her McKenzie Ridge series. When Lydia sees her husband murder a man, she runs to the police only to be taken by her bodyguard whom she learns his real name is Declan and was actually working undercover. Declan had been so close to having Lydia’s husband arrested and charged. As they run across the country in hiding, Lydia has a hard time accepting him and realize she can trust him. With twists and surprises throughout the book, it is one you won’t want to put down and I can’t wait for the next one.
I am happy I got to read Lydia’s side of the story. Brother’s Keeper is destined to become a great series!
I am happy I got to read Lydia’s side of the story. Brother’s Keeper is destined to become a great series!
August 14, 2017
Wow! What can I say but wow! Another fabulous book and a great start to a spinoff series. Declan was such an alpha guy and I loved him! Lydia was a great match for him. Even though she started off her life spoiled she definitely adapted to her new life and actually seemed happier. Her son Jax was just a cutie and brought out a different side to her. But it was definitely Declan that helped her and vice versa. I liked how this book "overlapped" the Mackenzie Ridge series where we saw the other side of Lydia's story with her sister Megan (Trinity). I liked meeting Declan's brothers and look forward to all of their stories.
August 5, 2018
This book was okay. It is clear I’m in the minority, so please take this with a grain of salt.
1. I didn’t feel the romance between the main characters. Ever.
2. There are a lot of supporting characters, but I never got enticed enough by any of them to care to continue the series.
3. I usually read a book in a day. This one took me a week, not because I was busy, but because it just didn’t hold my interest.
1. I didn’t feel the romance between the main characters. Ever.
2. There are a lot of supporting characters, but I never got enticed enough by any of them to care to continue the series.
3. I usually read a book in a day. This one took me a week, not because I was busy, but because it just didn’t hold my interest.
December 5, 2019
I saw you look...
Dec and Lydee
The story started off really strong. I was interested in reading about them navigating the intrigue of the whole situation. Then I had questions, why did they run away? Why not have her stay and investigate from both angles. Okay, she has to run away, but why leave her kid? She barely left the hide out anyway. The vegan temper tantrums were just odd and then the time jump and I lost in interest, but the book was well written.
Dec and Lydee
The story started off really strong. I was interested in reading about them navigating the intrigue of the whole situation. Then I had questions, why did they run away? Why not have her stay and investigate from both angles. Okay, she has to run away, but why leave her kid? She barely left the hide out anyway. The vegan temper tantrums were just odd and then the time jump and I lost in interest, but the book was well written.
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August 22, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (8/22/2019)! 🎁
August 18, 2017
I have been reading Ms. St. Klaire's books since the first one came out. I adore her writing and how she weaves her tales. She has a way to tell you about intrigue and romance interlaced so well that the pages just seem to turn themselves. This one is no different. Declan O'Riley and Lydia Prescott are a match years in the making.
This is a two part story and really could be two seperate books. The first part is about how Lydia has witnessed a crime committed by her husband, Esteban. He is a crime lord and she never knew it. But when she tries to surprise him, she's the one shocked to the core. Declan had been working undercover in Esteban's organization and had fallen for Lydia the first time he laid eyes on her. He just couldn't act on any of that while he, as well as she, was in danger. Getting her safe after the crime was his number one priority to the point where Lydia, her sister, her son and Declan were all declared dead. They split up to ensure some sort of safety for everyone and Declan and Lydia are paired together. Declan knows there's a leak in his government organization so he trusts no one but his own brothers. They run an elite security agency that Declan will eventually retire to when he leaves the government work.
Declan and Lydia spend all their time together and the feelings that they develop are pure and true. Oh and HOT! But once Esteban is delta with, Declan must cleanse his past so that Lydia and Jax, her son, will never be threatened again. He leaves her to do just that.
The second part takes place two years later. Lydia has settled in the same town as her sister, MacKenzie Ridge. She has started her own business and is as happy as she can be while hating Declan for leaving. Until he returns. She is still extremely angry with him, but how he shows her and Jax that he is there to stay makes her think twice about her true feelings. But she's scared that he'll walk away again. Then a new threat comes back to her doorstep and Declan vows never to leave her or Jax unprotected. The town, being as it is, helps in any way they can. The O'Riley brothers along with cousins come back too to find the threat. It takes Lydia and Declan on a new journey of being together this time with Jax. And Jax takes to Declan as only a toddler can. Jax calls Declan his buddy and talks his ear off. They even adopt a dog together that Jax names. Everyone hates the name but I love it! Made me laugh out loud while reading in bed so that I almost woke up my husband.
I loved Lydia and Declan. They were minor characters in the MacKenzie Ridge series and I'm so glad they got their own story. You do not have to read the other series but the minor characters in this one are fully explored there. And I recommend reading them because they are just as good. I can't wait to read the rest of the Brothers Keeper series. The brothers seem to love fast and hard.
This is a two part story and really could be two seperate books. The first part is about how Lydia has witnessed a crime committed by her husband, Esteban. He is a crime lord and she never knew it. But when she tries to surprise him, she's the one shocked to the core. Declan had been working undercover in Esteban's organization and had fallen for Lydia the first time he laid eyes on her. He just couldn't act on any of that while he, as well as she, was in danger. Getting her safe after the crime was his number one priority to the point where Lydia, her sister, her son and Declan were all declared dead. They split up to ensure some sort of safety for everyone and Declan and Lydia are paired together. Declan knows there's a leak in his government organization so he trusts no one but his own brothers. They run an elite security agency that Declan will eventually retire to when he leaves the government work.
Declan and Lydia spend all their time together and the feelings that they develop are pure and true. Oh and HOT! But once Esteban is delta with, Declan must cleanse his past so that Lydia and Jax, her son, will never be threatened again. He leaves her to do just that.
The second part takes place two years later. Lydia has settled in the same town as her sister, MacKenzie Ridge. She has started her own business and is as happy as she can be while hating Declan for leaving. Until he returns. She is still extremely angry with him, but how he shows her and Jax that he is there to stay makes her think twice about her true feelings. But she's scared that he'll walk away again. Then a new threat comes back to her doorstep and Declan vows never to leave her or Jax unprotected. The town, being as it is, helps in any way they can. The O'Riley brothers along with cousins come back too to find the threat. It takes Lydia and Declan on a new journey of being together this time with Jax. And Jax takes to Declan as only a toddler can. Jax calls Declan his buddy and talks his ear off. They even adopt a dog together that Jax names. Everyone hates the name but I love it! Made me laugh out loud while reading in bed so that I almost woke up my husband.
I loved Lydia and Declan. They were minor characters in the MacKenzie Ridge series and I'm so glad they got their own story. You do not have to read the other series but the minor characters in this one are fully explored there. And I recommend reading them because they are just as good. I can't wait to read the rest of the Brothers Keeper series. The brothers seem to love fast and hard.
August 17, 2017
Brother’s Keeper 1: Declan
is the newest release from Stephanie St. Klaire. It is book 1 in a new crossover series. We meet the O’Reilly brothers (as well as some cousins) which sets up this new series. This is Declan’s story. We met him near the end of Hidden (McKenzie Ridge series, book 2). Do not worry, it is written so that if you haven’t read the McKenzie Ridge series you won’t be lost (though that series is fantastic and you should read it). Declan, basically is two stories in one! Part 1 of this story has Declan and Lydia on the run (which takes place prior to the story Hidden) and the second part of this book picks up 2 years after part 1 which is current day (and takes place after Fearless book 4 of McKenzie Ridge series). This is a big meaty book with over 100k words and 43 chapters. There is a lot of action and edge of your seat suspense. Stephanie St. Klaire consistently delivers well written books with developed storyline and characters. A very suspenseful read that keeps you guessing. Twist and turns with an impressive ending you won’t see coming.
November 15, 2020
The plot had potential but the writing fell short for me. Undercover agent infiltrates mobster's gang, becomes trusted bodyguard & falls for the society girl who is married to his target. Assuming her husband is having an affair, she follows him & sees him kill a man. Bodyguard sweeps her out along with her son & sister, fakes their deaths, sets up false identities and everybody goes into protective custody until mobster-husband can be captured.
For me, the writing was weak and the characters were just okay. I almost gave up at 55% but opted to suffer through it and hope that the writing would improve. I was wrong. Many times I had to wonder about the age & life experience of the author as the phrases used were simply juvenile. Where a small part of me would like to know why Declan left, whether he'll return for his HEA, and what happens with the secondary characters, I don't think I care enough to read any more in this series.
For me, the writing was weak and the characters were just okay. I almost gave up at 55% but opted to suffer through it and hope that the writing would improve. I was wrong. Many times I had to wonder about the age & life experience of the author as the phrases used were simply juvenile. Where a small part of me would like to know why Declan left, whether he'll return for his HEA, and what happens with the secondary characters, I don't think I care enough to read any more in this series.
August 24, 2017
From twists and turns to laughter and tears, Stephanie St. Klaire has delivered her best yet in Brother's Keeper I: Declan. We first fell in love with Declan and all of the O'Reilly Brothers in St. Klaire's McKenzie Ridge Series and now she has given them their own series! Be prepared for this intense journey because once you think you have it figured out, YOU DON'T! This is what I love about St. Klaire and her writing style. I love a book that keeps me guessing and makes me realize I am wrong in the end. You won't be disappointed in this new series and I hope you enjoy Declan as much as I did!
August 23, 2017
A must read!! If you like love stories mixed in with some suspense and sarcasm then this book is for you! The book follows the McKenzie ridge series, as it is a spin off; one of the main characters Lydia must go on the run , and Declan has the job of keeping her safe. This book will definitely keep you on your toes!
August 24, 2017
Stephanie St. Klaire has done it again. Just when you didn't think she could top herself, she did. Brothers Keeper's I: Declan is beyond EPIC.
You think you know the story, but you have no clue. Twist and turns at every corner. Intensity at every level. Don't miss this one. Declan and Lydia... the missing years to the now. A must read.
You think you know the story, but you have no clue. Twist and turns at every corner. Intensity at every level. Don't miss this one. Declan and Lydia... the missing years to the now. A must read.
August 16, 2019
Slow and sluggish
Good storyline but from the start Lydia was portrayed as a selfish, stupid woman and the sluggish storyline perpetuated this. Not a fan and started skimming, never a good sign.
Good storyline but from the start Lydia was portrayed as a selfish, stupid woman and the sluggish storyline perpetuated this. Not a fan and started skimming, never a good sign.
March 15, 2021
This book was like food without salt. All the elements of a good story were there but somehow it was missed by the author. Ends with a cliffhanger but honestly I'm fine without reading the next book.
May 14, 2022
Declan is a wonderful story full of love and edge of your seat action. The pages just keep turning to find out what's going to happen next and you won't want to stop until the very last page. With an ending that will shock and surprise you. I look forward to reading more from this author.
June 6, 2022
This thrilling story immediately captivated me and had me on the edge of my seat through a forbidden love, ups and downs, suspense, family drama, and more. I loved the raw honesty of this story. I loved the chemistry. I loved watching Lydia & Declan navigate a life on the run. An entire gamut of human emotions fill these pages...from loss, to life and love. And, happiness and grief are also featured. I let out an audible GASP several times while reading this. And that speaks to just how well this author gets her readers wrapped up in the story. Amazing compilation of events make this an excellent read. If you love good, romantic suspense you need to read this book!!
freebies
April 5, 2021Also in boxed set - "Brother's Keeper Series Box Set: Books 1-3"
May 2, 2021
Romance
Thank you for sharing these wonderful romance novel series books. Please keep writing more of these wonderful books . Thank you
Thank you for sharing these wonderful romance novel series books. Please keep writing more of these wonderful books . Thank you
May 5, 2024
⛔️(in notes)
August 21, 2017
A sensational story!!
Ms. St. Klaire has gone above and beyond with this one! All of the men in McKenzie Ridge and the O’Reilly family are considered HOT but, combine hot with sweet, sexy, protective, and bad-assery and you have Declan! So much goes on in this book with so many great details, twists and turns. I don’t want to spoil anything for anyone getting ready to read it but you NEED to read it! It won’t disappoint!
Declan is larger than life in both stature and presence. He is a take charge kind of guy and keeps a close eye on every detail. He seems to always be one step ahead of everything. When Lydia witnesses her husband, Esteban, commit cold blooded murder, his right hand man, Jason sees her as she is running away and he rushes to find her to intercept her before Esteban realizes what she saw and takes action.
Declan is an undercover agent working for the government to take Esteban and his cartel down permanently. He has been with Esteban for a couple of years and is a trusted member of his inner circle. He is so trusted that he was appointed as Lydia’s bodyguard and also the baby when she gave birth to Esteban’s son, Jax.
Lydia realizes that Jason is more than her husband’s right-hand man when he immediately takes her to her sister, Trinity’s apartment in downtown New York City where his team quickly packs for Trinity while Declan explains to her that Trinity and Jax are both vulnerable to Esteban using them to find and hurt her. Through her tears and anguish, he finally convinces her that they are all safer if they disappear immediately. They all waste no time leaving the City in different cars and heading in different directions.
It takes time for Lydia to accept Jason as Declan and that he is still there to keep her safe. Life on the run, new identities and being separated from her loved ones makes their new life sad and stressful. Settling in temporary houses in small sleepy towns, never getting to know anyone becomes the new normal. They have to be able to leave at a moment’s notice if danger finds them. Always on the lookout, but it still comes as a surprise when Declan accidentally discovers Esteban’s men in town. Narrowly escaping before they are discovered, he and Lydia escape and are on the run once more.
Lydia comes from a family of prestige and wealth. It is extremely hard for her to live on the run, without the comforts that money and privilege can buy. She is resentful and treats Declan accordingly and behaves like a spoiled brat. Declan has his hands full keeping Lydia calm and convincing her that running is keeping them alive at this point and that it won’t be forever, just until an arrest and trial for Esteban is over. In addition to the stress living on the run entails, Declan has the unfortunate complication of his growing feelings for Lydia. He has always had feelings for her but respected her marriage vows. Now, with the circumstances surrounding her and her marriage, he can’t help but feel that he might have a chance with her when this is all over. Lydia slowly comes to realize that she has unexpected feelings for Declan which complicates everything. When all hell brakes loose and Esteban finds Trinity, the entire town of McKenzie Ridge and the whole group of the Brother’s Keeper Security firm rally to put an end to this evil murderer and his entire enterprise.
This story is intense! It has you right there feeling the fear and urgency of their escape into the night as well as the anguish and pain Lydia feels when she has to hand over her baby to her sister to protect and raise for the unforeseeable future. Those things invoke real emotional responses in anyone reading this. When Declan & Lydia finally acknowledge their feelings for one another, you also feel real happiness for them and it helps that they are hot together! Declan’s sensitivity to Lydia’s needs and wants is so surprising for such a macho, by-the-rules, professional, special agent. He makes sure she is as comfortable and happy as he can make her given the circumstances.
Each character of McKenzie Ridge is familiar from previous stories situated all around this little town so it’s a comfort to know these people and makes it feel like family. These people are dedicated and loyal to those they love and would do and have done, whatever it takes or is needed to see to each other’s safety and well being. This story has the characters you have come to know as well as a new cast of characters, some very HOT, for a new series of adventure, love, hotness and HEAs!! I absolutely loved it and can’t wait for the next one!
Ms. St. Klaire has gone above and beyond with this one! All of the men in McKenzie Ridge and the O’Reilly family are considered HOT but, combine hot with sweet, sexy, protective, and bad-assery and you have Declan! So much goes on in this book with so many great details, twists and turns. I don’t want to spoil anything for anyone getting ready to read it but you NEED to read it! It won’t disappoint!
Declan is larger than life in both stature and presence. He is a take charge kind of guy and keeps a close eye on every detail. He seems to always be one step ahead of everything. When Lydia witnesses her husband, Esteban, commit cold blooded murder, his right hand man, Jason sees her as she is running away and he rushes to find her to intercept her before Esteban realizes what she saw and takes action.
Declan is an undercover agent working for the government to take Esteban and his cartel down permanently. He has been with Esteban for a couple of years and is a trusted member of his inner circle. He is so trusted that he was appointed as Lydia’s bodyguard and also the baby when she gave birth to Esteban’s son, Jax.
Lydia realizes that Jason is more than her husband’s right-hand man when he immediately takes her to her sister, Trinity’s apartment in downtown New York City where his team quickly packs for Trinity while Declan explains to her that Trinity and Jax are both vulnerable to Esteban using them to find and hurt her. Through her tears and anguish, he finally convinces her that they are all safer if they disappear immediately. They all waste no time leaving the City in different cars and heading in different directions.
It takes time for Lydia to accept Jason as Declan and that he is still there to keep her safe. Life on the run, new identities and being separated from her loved ones makes their new life sad and stressful. Settling in temporary houses in small sleepy towns, never getting to know anyone becomes the new normal. They have to be able to leave at a moment’s notice if danger finds them. Always on the lookout, but it still comes as a surprise when Declan accidentally discovers Esteban’s men in town. Narrowly escaping before they are discovered, he and Lydia escape and are on the run once more.
Lydia comes from a family of prestige and wealth. It is extremely hard for her to live on the run, without the comforts that money and privilege can buy. She is resentful and treats Declan accordingly and behaves like a spoiled brat. Declan has his hands full keeping Lydia calm and convincing her that running is keeping them alive at this point and that it won’t be forever, just until an arrest and trial for Esteban is over. In addition to the stress living on the run entails, Declan has the unfortunate complication of his growing feelings for Lydia. He has always had feelings for her but respected her marriage vows. Now, with the circumstances surrounding her and her marriage, he can’t help but feel that he might have a chance with her when this is all over. Lydia slowly comes to realize that she has unexpected feelings for Declan which complicates everything. When all hell brakes loose and Esteban finds Trinity, the entire town of McKenzie Ridge and the whole group of the Brother’s Keeper Security firm rally to put an end to this evil murderer and his entire enterprise.
This story is intense! It has you right there feeling the fear and urgency of their escape into the night as well as the anguish and pain Lydia feels when she has to hand over her baby to her sister to protect and raise for the unforeseeable future. Those things invoke real emotional responses in anyone reading this. When Declan & Lydia finally acknowledge their feelings for one another, you also feel real happiness for them and it helps that they are hot together! Declan’s sensitivity to Lydia’s needs and wants is so surprising for such a macho, by-the-rules, professional, special agent. He makes sure she is as comfortable and happy as he can make her given the circumstances.
Each character of McKenzie Ridge is familiar from previous stories situated all around this little town so it’s a comfort to know these people and makes it feel like family. These people are dedicated and loyal to those they love and would do and have done, whatever it takes or is needed to see to each other’s safety and well being. This story has the characters you have come to know as well as a new cast of characters, some very HOT, for a new series of adventure, love, hotness and HEAs!! I absolutely loved it and can’t wait for the next one!
February 4, 2021
3... maybe 3.5? But not 4. Never 4.
Just what the heck is going on here, with the flip flopping between POV in each paragraph? How odd a thing to encounter... the mind had a hell of a time reconciling with this and I’m still not over it. The biggest offence was when Tom’s POV was tossed into the mix randomly -
“Tom rolled his eyes and cut to the chase. The nurturing, I love you shit was getting annoying”.
Like wtf? Declan and Lydia - fine. But Tom?? FOR WHY?
Another thing that really bugged me was the addition of SO MANY NAMES in the final chapters. I honestly couldn’t tell you who Dec’s siblings are aside from... Luke? Wiley? Carigan... Dace??????? Like there were SO MANY people involved and named in the “big show down”. The McRidge crew, Dec’s team, Dec’s brothers, Megan’s boyfriend and friends of the town, the sheriff, the firefighter........... It was a hot mess, a huge jumble of names that I just. could. not.
Irritant #3 - which ties into above: who TF is Louise Shaw? She was just dropped into a new paragraph starting with “The elderly woman...” as if an “elderly woman” was previously mentioned. NO. She most definitely was not.
Cringe #4: “...his smouldering provocative touch. Lying back slowly, she arched her back in an alluring come-hither way, inviting him to take more of her.”
OMG ew wtf is THAT? “Come-hither” 😉😉😉😉
🤦🏾♀️ no. Just no. The image that popped into my head with this god-awful line made me want to scrub my brain.
#5: the part where Lydia goes into town and gets wasted and literally throws caution to the wind when they run into the town’s sheriff and she starts saying how she’s in prison and her real name is this, and she’s on the run and blah blah blah. Like, what? No. This part made me want to throat punch Lydia. And the. To later find out her even BIGGER fuck up prior to doing that?! Oh my god. What an idiot.
After saying all that... there is one part I’d like to point out that made me LOL because it was something that I would totally do IRL because ya girl’s mind is forever in the gutter!
“‘It’s fine. This isn’t easy. I get it. We just need to work together, not against each other’. He couldn’t help but get caught up in his own words again, taking them somewhere his mind didn’t belong - like working against each other - in bed, against a wall - on that beach.”
🤣👏🏾 YES.
The premise of the book is a good one. I guess the writing style needs some improvement, as well as character development.
I guess I’ll go on to read the next since I got books 1-3 in a free box set............. fingers crossed for something a little better written.
Wait.... Declan’s book is in two parts. Oh boy. Let’s continue...
Just what the heck is going on here, with the flip flopping between POV in each paragraph? How odd a thing to encounter... the mind had a hell of a time reconciling with this and I’m still not over it. The biggest offence was when Tom’s POV was tossed into the mix randomly -
“Tom rolled his eyes and cut to the chase. The nurturing, I love you shit was getting annoying”.
Like wtf? Declan and Lydia - fine. But Tom?? FOR WHY?
Another thing that really bugged me was the addition of SO MANY NAMES in the final chapters. I honestly couldn’t tell you who Dec’s siblings are aside from... Luke? Wiley? Carigan... Dace??????? Like there were SO MANY people involved and named in the “big show down”. The McRidge crew, Dec’s team, Dec’s brothers, Megan’s boyfriend and friends of the town, the sheriff, the firefighter........... It was a hot mess, a huge jumble of names that I just. could. not.
Irritant #3 - which ties into above: who TF is Louise Shaw? She was just dropped into a new paragraph starting with “The elderly woman...” as if an “elderly woman” was previously mentioned. NO. She most definitely was not.
Cringe #4: “...his smouldering provocative touch. Lying back slowly, she arched her back in an alluring come-hither way, inviting him to take more of her.”
OMG ew wtf is THAT? “Come-hither” 😉😉😉😉
🤦🏾♀️ no. Just no. The image that popped into my head with this god-awful line made me want to scrub my brain.
#5: the part where Lydia goes into town and gets wasted and literally throws caution to the wind when they run into the town’s sheriff and she starts saying how she’s in prison and her real name is this, and she’s on the run and blah blah blah. Like, what? No. This part made me want to throat punch Lydia. And the. To later find out her even BIGGER fuck up prior to doing that?! Oh my god. What an idiot.
After saying all that... there is one part I’d like to point out that made me LOL because it was something that I would totally do IRL because ya girl’s mind is forever in the gutter!
“‘It’s fine. This isn’t easy. I get it. We just need to work together, not against each other’. He couldn’t help but get caught up in his own words again, taking them somewhere his mind didn’t belong - like working against each other - in bed, against a wall - on that beach.”
🤣👏🏾 YES.
The premise of the book is a good one. I guess the writing style needs some improvement, as well as character development.
I guess I’ll go on to read the next since I got books 1-3 in a free box set............. fingers crossed for something a little better written.
Wait.... Declan’s book is in two parts. Oh boy. Let’s continue...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2017
Those of us who love the McKenzie Ridge series have been dying to find out what's going on with Declan and Lydia and where they fit into the big picture. He's sexy and brooding, and we knew that backstory was going to be bittersweet. This book happens to be a two-fer, which makes it even more exciting. Part 1 tells us how Declan met Lydia when he was working as a government agent and was assigned to protect her and her son from her mob boss husband. We get a taste of this situation from Megan's and Colton's point of view in Hidden (A McKenzie Ridge Novel Book 2). But the first Brother's Keeper novel gives us a front row seat to what took place that sent Lydia and Declan hightailing it to McKenzie Ridge and their journey there. Part 2 gives us a new threat to Lydia's life from a direction no one could have predicted. It's intense with danger around every turn, and just when we think we've got it all figured out, the author blows our minds with a twist we didn't see coming.
This story is non-stop action along with all of the angst of two people who work hard not to breach the impossible chasm of attraction for each other. Mob boss or not, she is a married woman, and he knows better than to break the rules and get involved with a client. But the connection between them sizzles until it grows into a full fledged flame. Situations change, and hearts are broken, leaving everyone, including the reader, wondering how they are going to find a way to bridge that painful gap.
Ms St. Klaire's writing continues to improve and her mastery over the subtle and not so subtle workings and connections between her characters is a sometimes humorous and sometimes a frightening tapestry of of color, texture and emotions that makes you want to curl right up inside of it and ride the romantic waves. I'm looking forward to reading more of this new series.
This story is non-stop action along with all of the angst of two people who work hard not to breach the impossible chasm of attraction for each other. Mob boss or not, she is a married woman, and he knows better than to break the rules and get involved with a client. But the connection between them sizzles until it grows into a full fledged flame. Situations change, and hearts are broken, leaving everyone, including the reader, wondering how they are going to find a way to bridge that painful gap.
Ms St. Klaire's writing continues to improve and her mastery over the subtle and not so subtle workings and connections between her characters is a sometimes humorous and sometimes a frightening tapestry of of color, texture and emotions that makes you want to curl right up inside of it and ride the romantic waves. I'm looking forward to reading more of this new series.
August 30, 2017
5 Keeper Stars
With each and every book, Stephanie St. Klaire just gets better and better. She has quickly become one of my favorite romantic suspense authors. Declan O’Reilly, an undercover agent that has infiltrated criminal Esteban Valdez’s organization and quickly risen among the ranks to become his right hand man entrusted with his wife and son’s safety. Lydia Prescott-Valdez is a spoiled heiress that suspects her husband is having an affair due to the late hours he keeps. The surprise is on her though when she sneaks into his office only to discover that it’s much worse than an affair...she witnesses him commit murder. Running for her life, she quickly discovers that her bodyguard Jason (Declan), is not who she thought he was when he not only helps her, her son and sister escape, but he runs with her to protect her as well. I admit in the beginning I didn’t care for Lydia. She was spoiled, entitled, and didn’t seem to really appreciate what Declan had put on the line for her. I just didn’t get what he saw in her, but being on the run without her son (not sure I could’ve done that), she learned to adapt and the slow connection smoldering between them caught and spread like wildfire.
Stephanie St. Klaire knows how to weave mystery in her words and keep you on the edge of your seat wondering what the hell is going to happen next and just when you think you may have it figured out, the story twists again and leaves you scratching your head. One of her best stories yet, it definitely has the suspense along with a raw intensity, love, a smexy Alpha man, and huge dog named Dick. Declan is book one in the new Brother’s Keeper series, one-click it today.
Angela - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
With each and every book, Stephanie St. Klaire just gets better and better. She has quickly become one of my favorite romantic suspense authors. Declan O’Reilly, an undercover agent that has infiltrated criminal Esteban Valdez’s organization and quickly risen among the ranks to become his right hand man entrusted with his wife and son’s safety. Lydia Prescott-Valdez is a spoiled heiress that suspects her husband is having an affair due to the late hours he keeps. The surprise is on her though when she sneaks into his office only to discover that it’s much worse than an affair...she witnesses him commit murder. Running for her life, she quickly discovers that her bodyguard Jason (Declan), is not who she thought he was when he not only helps her, her son and sister escape, but he runs with her to protect her as well. I admit in the beginning I didn’t care for Lydia. She was spoiled, entitled, and didn’t seem to really appreciate what Declan had put on the line for her. I just didn’t get what he saw in her, but being on the run without her son (not sure I could’ve done that), she learned to adapt and the slow connection smoldering between them caught and spread like wildfire.
Stephanie St. Klaire knows how to weave mystery in her words and keep you on the edge of your seat wondering what the hell is going to happen next and just when you think you may have it figured out, the story twists again and leaves you scratching your head. One of her best stories yet, it definitely has the suspense along with a raw intensity, love, a smexy Alpha man, and huge dog named Dick. Declan is book one in the new Brother’s Keeper series, one-click it today.
Angela - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
August 24, 2017
5 Keeper Stars
With each and every book, Stephanie St. Klaire just gets better and better. She has quickly become one of my favorite romantic suspense authors. Declan O’Reilly, an undercover agent that has infiltrated criminal Esteban Valdez’s organization and quickly risen among the ranks to become his right hand man entrusted with his wife and son’s safety. Lydia Prescott-Valdez is a spoiled heiress that suspects her husband is having an affair due to the late hours he keeps. The surprise is on her though when she sneaks into his office only to discover that it’s much worse than an affair...she witnesses him commit murder. Running for her life, she quickly discovers that her bodyguard Jason (Declan), is not who she thought he was when he not only helps her, her son and sister escape, but he runs with her to protect her as well. I admit in the beginning I didn’t care for Lydia. She was spoiled, entitled, and didn’t seem to really appreciate what Declan had put on the line for her. I just didn’t get what he saw in her, but being on the run without her son (not sure I could’ve done that), she learned to adapt and the slow connection smoldering between them caught and spread like wildfire.
Stephanie St. Klaire knows how to weave mystery in her words and keep you on the edge of your seat wondering what the hell is going to happen next and just when you think you may have it figured out, the story twists again and leaves you scratching your head. One of her best stories yet, it definitely has the suspense along with a raw intensity, love, a smexy Alpha man, and huge dog named Dick. Declan is book one in the new Brother’s Keeper series, one-click it today.
Angela - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
With each and every book, Stephanie St. Klaire just gets better and better. She has quickly become one of my favorite romantic suspense authors. Declan O’Reilly, an undercover agent that has infiltrated criminal Esteban Valdez’s organization and quickly risen among the ranks to become his right hand man entrusted with his wife and son’s safety. Lydia Prescott-Valdez is a spoiled heiress that suspects her husband is having an affair due to the late hours he keeps. The surprise is on her though when she sneaks into his office only to discover that it’s much worse than an affair...she witnesses him commit murder. Running for her life, she quickly discovers that her bodyguard Jason (Declan), is not who she thought he was when he not only helps her, her son and sister escape, but he runs with her to protect her as well. I admit in the beginning I didn’t care for Lydia. She was spoiled, entitled, and didn’t seem to really appreciate what Declan had put on the line for her. I just didn’t get what he saw in her, but being on the run without her son (not sure I could’ve done that), she learned to adapt and the slow connection smoldering between them caught and spread like wildfire.
Stephanie St. Klaire knows how to weave mystery in her words and keep you on the edge of your seat wondering what the hell is going to happen next and just when you think you may have it figured out, the story twists again and leaves you scratching your head. One of her best stories yet, it definitely has the suspense along with a raw intensity, love, a smexy Alpha man, and huge dog named Dick. Declan is book one in the new Brother’s Keeper series, one-click it today.
Angela - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
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