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Guarding Her
Guarding her is my duty.
And my desire.
Fate brought us back together.
Now that I’m her bodyguard…
Who’s going to guard her body from me?
Avery is a nightmare.
That smart spoiled mouth of hers turns me on.
Maybe that’s why she’s the only girl I’ve ever loved?
My contract with her famous parents has me on her ass 24-7.
But I’m not allowed to touch her.
She’s teasing me. She’s taunting me.
And soon I have her bent over my knee,
screaming my name.
No one will know.
It’s just a little fun.
Until player three enters the game.
There’s a baby on the way, and everything changes.
I’ll risk everything to guard her and keep what’s mine.
Guarding Her is a 77k standalone novel with lots of steam, a hot hero, and a feisty redheaded heroine! For a limited time, Guarding Her includes bonus content from author Lexi Whitlow. Enjoy!
And my desire.
Fate brought us back together.
Now that I’m her bodyguard…
Who’s going to guard her body from me?
Avery is a nightmare.
That smart spoiled mouth of hers turns me on.
Maybe that’s why she’s the only girl I’ve ever loved?
My contract with her famous parents has me on her ass 24-7.
But I’m not allowed to touch her.
She’s teasing me. She’s taunting me.
And soon I have her bent over my knee,
screaming my name.
No one will know.
It’s just a little fun.
Until player three enters the game.
There’s a baby on the way, and everything changes.
I’ll risk everything to guard her and keep what’s mine.
Guarding Her is a 77k standalone novel with lots of steam, a hot hero, and a feisty redheaded heroine! For a limited time, Guarding Her includes bonus content from author Lexi Whitlow. Enjoy!
488 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 30, 2017
518 people are currently reading
384 people want to read
About the author
Lexi Whitlow
22 books231 followersLexi Whitlow is a small-town girl with big dreams. She spent her early years growing up between Virginia and North Carolina, playing in the dark rich dirt of Eastern North Carolina at her granddaddy's farm. She's a Southern as can be, and she spends her days chasing her five-year-old and her puggle (that's a pug-beagle hybrid, folks) and writing her ass off.
She holds a master's degree in English literature, and her mom is so proud she's "using her degree."
Lexi harbors a not-so-secret love for bad boys. She loves fighters, tough-as-nails cowboys, bikers, and criminals. Her husband is a scientist... but he has the heart of a bad boy for sure. She spends what little free time she has crocheting, painting, and going on long walks with her family.
She holds a master's degree in English literature, and her mom is so proud she's "using her degree."
Lexi harbors a not-so-secret love for bad boys. She loves fighters, tough-as-nails cowboys, bikers, and criminals. Her husband is a scientist... but he has the heart of a bad boy for sure. She spends what little free time she has crocheting, painting, and going on long walks with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
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July 5, 2023💝 FREE on Amazon today (2/13/2018)! 💝
August 3, 2017
Totally in love and definitely checking Ms. Lexi Whitlow out.
January 27, 2018
I just wanted to turn her over my knee and spank her. She was just pure annoying. Her parents were absolute jerks. He really needed to come clean with her about the past earlier in the book. Nice ending, but it took a long time to get there.
September 21, 2017
Really good book
This was a really great book. The writing was excellent, the book grabs yeah from the beginning and keeps hold till the end. You meet a lot of great characters see what real friendship is, what real love is and of course pure evil. It was definitely a great ride. It's sad what some people will do for power and money. The ending is very sweet.
This was a really great book. The writing was excellent, the book grabs yeah from the beginning and keeps hold till the end. You meet a lot of great characters see what real friendship is, what real love is and of course pure evil. It was definitely a great ride. It's sad what some people will do for power and money. The ending is very sweet.
Want to read
November 12, 2018💝 FREE on Amazon today (11/12/2018)! 💝
September 17, 2018
Tldr: shitty unlikable characters who treat each other poorly replete with cringey sex scenes. Skip it
Jesus Christ will I ever be able to finish a book? I gave this one longer than it probably deserved. Both characters are assholes. She's self absorbed and doesn't seem to have much empathy or even awareness that others might be suffering. He's is completely dismissive of the actually valid issues she has with her life and is constantly poking at wounds he knows exist. He gives her pretty words but doesn't have her back when it counts, but thinks the worst about her when she gets upset about it or frankly just in general. The author didn't seem overly concerned with accuracy about the military stuff. For example no one can just..sign someone else up for military service and them just be shipped off to boot camp that night. Military service is a contract which means no one can sign you up for it except you. It also requires a lot of testing prior to boot camp. Some strings could maybe be pulled on some stuff but not all of it. The sex scenes were full of atrocious language: "Finger fuck her gently" "my nose humping her pubis" "'awah'"she cries as I punch in.
It's a cry of pleasure as much as anything else." "Shudders emanating from her snatch". Above and beyond a lot of scenes are rapey with rough sex occurring with dubious consent. There's literally one post sex scene where she says she doesn't know whether she's "in sick from an assault or from the most...pleasurable sexual encounter." If you have to consider whether something was an assault it probably was. Even then I was pressing on but they just kept treating each other so poorly yet still having this insane sex. I didn't like them as a couple and the idea of them having a child together was terrifying to me. Oh and all this and the entire premise of the book is shit. He's a terrible bodyguard and repeatedly either puts her him danger or misses it...he had no experience and even admits he was doing a terrible job. Dnf @ around 50%
Jesus Christ will I ever be able to finish a book? I gave this one longer than it probably deserved. Both characters are assholes. She's self absorbed and doesn't seem to have much empathy or even awareness that others might be suffering. He's is completely dismissive of the actually valid issues she has with her life and is constantly poking at wounds he knows exist. He gives her pretty words but doesn't have her back when it counts, but thinks the worst about her when she gets upset about it or frankly just in general. The author didn't seem overly concerned with accuracy about the military stuff. For example no one can just..sign someone else up for military service and them just be shipped off to boot camp that night. Military service is a contract which means no one can sign you up for it except you. It also requires a lot of testing prior to boot camp. Some strings could maybe be pulled on some stuff but not all of it. The sex scenes were full of atrocious language: "Finger fuck her gently" "my nose humping her pubis" "'awah'"she cries as I punch in.
It's a cry of pleasure as much as anything else." "Shudders emanating from her snatch". Above and beyond a lot of scenes are rapey with rough sex occurring with dubious consent. There's literally one post sex scene where she says she doesn't know whether she's "in sick from an assault or from the most...pleasurable sexual encounter." If you have to consider whether something was an assault it probably was. Even then I was pressing on but they just kept treating each other so poorly yet still having this insane sex. I didn't like them as a couple and the idea of them having a child together was terrifying to me. Oh and all this and the entire premise of the book is shit. He's a terrible bodyguard and repeatedly either puts her him danger or misses it...he had no experience and even admits he was doing a terrible job. Dnf @ around 50%
August 15, 2017
Wonderful interactions within the storyline with absolutely great characters. The pull of this story was so great that I finished it in one sitting, I just had to know what was going to happen!
When Maddox was shuttled off to the Marines at the insistence of General Richard Thomas, you just have that feeling that somewhere down the road he and the Generals daughter are going to cross paths again.
Even though Avery Thomas is told all the sordid things of Maddox Bryant's past, she still wants to talk with him, but he never responds leaving a gapping hole in both of their lives.
Avery's mother, Senator Evelyn Thomas has a plan for everything and this included her daughter. She expected her to finish her education at Stanford Law and become a prestigious Attorney. But Avery had her own ideas on what she wanted out of an education.
But life throws a monkey wrench into all of their lives after Avery is seriously attacked.
Avery is forced to take the security her parents have been trying to force on her for years, and surprise surprise who said Security is.
Seven years in the Marines and out on honorable discharge for an injury, Maddox becomes her new bodyguard. With secrets of his own on why he needs this job, the fight between the two is just beginning.
Tempers flair on all sides of this twisted situation, but who will be the winner and who is behind all the attempts and threats against Avery?
Grab your copy and follow along this tempestuous journey as they rise and fall as they may!
Well written, great interactions between all of the characters. I recommend this to all readers looking for a bit of intrigue with their romance.
Well Done🌺
When Maddox was shuttled off to the Marines at the insistence of General Richard Thomas, you just have that feeling that somewhere down the road he and the Generals daughter are going to cross paths again.
Even though Avery Thomas is told all the sordid things of Maddox Bryant's past, she still wants to talk with him, but he never responds leaving a gapping hole in both of their lives.
Avery's mother, Senator Evelyn Thomas has a plan for everything and this included her daughter. She expected her to finish her education at Stanford Law and become a prestigious Attorney. But Avery had her own ideas on what she wanted out of an education.
But life throws a monkey wrench into all of their lives after Avery is seriously attacked.
Avery is forced to take the security her parents have been trying to force on her for years, and surprise surprise who said Security is.
Seven years in the Marines and out on honorable discharge for an injury, Maddox becomes her new bodyguard. With secrets of his own on why he needs this job, the fight between the two is just beginning.
Tempers flair on all sides of this twisted situation, but who will be the winner and who is behind all the attempts and threats against Avery?
Grab your copy and follow along this tempestuous journey as they rise and fall as they may!
Well written, great interactions between all of the characters. I recommend this to all readers looking for a bit of intrigue with their romance.
Well Done🌺
March 11, 2018
In Guarding Her ex-Marine, Maddox Bryant takes on the job of being Avery Thomas's bodyguard after she is attacked one night on her way home from going out with a friend. This is a reunion for these two and soon Maddox realizes that he still have feelings for his high school crush.
Guarding Her takes on many twists and turns as her mother the California state senator and her retired military father manipulate and take over Avery's life. The two are on a course to use Avery and anyone else to further her mother's career by any means using their money and power.
Maddox gathers information on the parent's activities and how dangerous they are for Avery. Both Avery and Maddox are honest, honorable and in love with each other to make this a fun romance full of hot love scenes, fun and an happy ending where the bad parents get what they had coming.
Guarding Her takes on many twists and turns as her mother the California state senator and her retired military father manipulate and take over Avery's life. The two are on a course to use Avery and anyone else to further her mother's career by any means using their money and power.
Maddox gathers information on the parent's activities and how dangerous they are for Avery. Both Avery and Maddox are honest, honorable and in love with each other to make this a fun romance full of hot love scenes, fun and an happy ending where the bad parents get what they had coming.
August 9, 2017
I'm glad I stuck it out to the end. The beginning was interesting, and I spent most of the middle disliking all the characters. But, by the end I liked the way the mains turned out and felt like they deserved they're happy ending.
***I decided to review an ARC of this book.***
***I decided to review an ARC of this book.***
April 4, 2024
All I can think about after reading this is, her parents are pieces of 💩… they messed this girl up and continue even in her mid 20s. And not letting her have who her heart and soul loves is the worse and the corruption, omg…
August 12, 2017
Refer to Amazon.com for my review under Andrea M on 12/08/2017.
December 2, 2018
DNFed at 19%. Maybe I’ll give it another try in the future. It’s just not for me right now.
August 9, 2017
2.5 rounded up. Meh...Maddox is the star, Avery is blech. The steam is great, the romance felt unbalanced and lopsided.
I really loved Maddox. He was sweet, tender, strong, and committed to doing the best he can with what he was given. He doubts himself and what he has to offer. He goes all in with a girl he loved and is willing to protect her from everything she's trying to escape, even at his own peril. And then there's the bonus that he's smokin' hot. There was so much for him to offer even though he isn't sure he's worth it. He does know, however, that once he makes a decision, there's no stopping his determination to see it through. He worries for Avery and knows the part of her that she tries so hard to hide and sees her as worth so much more than she gives herself credit. When things get really rough he calls on the people he knows he can count on, even though their companionship was forced on him in the beginning, he did what he does best and turned straw into gold. He's the ultimate knight in tarnished armor, the one you really want in your corner and in your heart.
And then there's Avery. I didn't like her. There's a line between being feisty and just being a bitch. She crosses that line all the time. So what, a guy left with no word, you've got crappy parents, and your life is planned out for you...yes, those things are all terrible by themselves and even worse when piled on top of each other, but when push comes to shove, she just rolls and then has temper tantrums. Doing something to spite your hateful mother would be different if you were doing it for another, more genuine reason rather than just to piss her off. She chose her major and is excelling with it, awesome! But then when she chooses to follow her mother's demands for Maddox' sake, she goes against everything she says she believes in. That doesn't read as love and self-sacrifice, it reads like a whiny martyr who really had no true convictions in the first place. I saw no moment where she really grew up, she just realized that the world was a lot bigger than her problems. She didn't try to make changes, she just chose the easier road. No, her mom wasn't the easiest, it was just the easier of the two options she saw. No trying to think outside the box or be honest with Maddox, no using the intelligence Maddox praises, no using her own resources, contacts, and convictions to see other possibilities, just giving in in the name of love. But love is more than that.
But enough ranting...
The book was fine and Maddox was really the star of the whole show. Avery was okay, but her redeeming quality was really Maddox. Ella is a great friend to have and she's honest, sure of herself, and asks the hard questions. The villainous parents are suitably awful, and Salvatore is like the best friend and surrogate parent you could ever find. We read about Bebe peripherally and she even becomes a namesake later, but we don't actually meet her so I guess she's as great as everyone says. Overall, we have a relatively quick read with a really hot hero. And that was my takeaway.
Read and willingly reviewed an ARC from Hidden Gems.
I really loved Maddox. He was sweet, tender, strong, and committed to doing the best he can with what he was given. He doubts himself and what he has to offer. He goes all in with a girl he loved and is willing to protect her from everything she's trying to escape, even at his own peril. And then there's the bonus that he's smokin' hot. There was so much for him to offer even though he isn't sure he's worth it. He does know, however, that once he makes a decision, there's no stopping his determination to see it through. He worries for Avery and knows the part of her that she tries so hard to hide and sees her as worth so much more than she gives herself credit. When things get really rough he calls on the people he knows he can count on, even though their companionship was forced on him in the beginning, he did what he does best and turned straw into gold. He's the ultimate knight in tarnished armor, the one you really want in your corner and in your heart.
And then there's Avery. I didn't like her. There's a line between being feisty and just being a bitch. She crosses that line all the time. So what, a guy left with no word, you've got crappy parents, and your life is planned out for you...yes, those things are all terrible by themselves and even worse when piled on top of each other, but when push comes to shove, she just rolls and then has temper tantrums. Doing something to spite your hateful mother would be different if you were doing it for another, more genuine reason rather than just to piss her off. She chose her major and is excelling with it, awesome! But then when she chooses to follow her mother's demands for Maddox' sake, she goes against everything she says she believes in. That doesn't read as love and self-sacrifice, it reads like a whiny martyr who really had no true convictions in the first place. I saw no moment where she really grew up, she just realized that the world was a lot bigger than her problems. She didn't try to make changes, she just chose the easier road. No, her mom wasn't the easiest, it was just the easier of the two options she saw. No trying to think outside the box or be honest with Maddox, no using the intelligence Maddox praises, no using her own resources, contacts, and convictions to see other possibilities, just giving in in the name of love. But love is more than that.
But enough ranting...
The book was fine and Maddox was really the star of the whole show. Avery was okay, but her redeeming quality was really Maddox. Ella is a great friend to have and she's honest, sure of herself, and asks the hard questions. The villainous parents are suitably awful, and Salvatore is like the best friend and surrogate parent you could ever find. We read about Bebe peripherally and she even becomes a namesake later, but we don't actually meet her so I guess she's as great as everyone says. Overall, we have a relatively quick read with a really hot hero. And that was my takeaway.
Read and willingly reviewed an ARC from Hidden Gems.
August 2, 2017
Suspense and heat at a level that is sure to scorch you.
Avery has had it all except caring parents. They sent the one person away that wanted to help her and it left her trapped under their thumbs.
Maddox adored Avery and planned their get a way but with there was nothing you get get past them and her father pulled strings and sent him to the marines.
Years later, Maddox is back and gets pulled into being her bodyguard. It seems not much has changed. His feelings he thought he let go come back with a passion. If anything Avery's life is worse and he feels a need to once again help her.
This is more than a steamy romance. When politics come into play you never know who will come out on top. Maddox is a character that you can't help but liking. He is strong, reliable and honorable and so darn hot. This is a second chance book with great characters, lots of action and thank goodness a HEA.
Avery has had it all except caring parents. They sent the one person away that wanted to help her and it left her trapped under their thumbs.
Maddox adored Avery and planned their get a way but with there was nothing you get get past them and her father pulled strings and sent him to the marines.
Years later, Maddox is back and gets pulled into being her bodyguard. It seems not much has changed. His feelings he thought he let go come back with a passion. If anything Avery's life is worse and he feels a need to once again help her.
This is more than a steamy romance. When politics come into play you never know who will come out on top. Maddox is a character that you can't help but liking. He is strong, reliable and honorable and so darn hot. This is a second chance book with great characters, lots of action and thank goodness a HEA.
August 1, 2017
Guarding Her
Lexi J. Whitlow
A second chance romance of two kids each from other sides of the tracks. Even though they love each, they are torn apart again and again. Will they ever her their happy ending?
Maddox Bryant is just a kid when he dropped out of community college due to problems at home. Living on his own and has one best friend her name is Avery Thomas. She may be the sentor's daughter but she is nicer than anyone he had ever met. His plans of an escape route with her were shot when he's put on a plane to basic training with the Marines. Never getting to say goodbye to the girl he loved....
Avery Thomas daughter of a snobby sentor (her mother) and a four star General (her dad). She's not their dutiful daughter as they want her to be. She always sticks it to them even when the going gets tough. But what always what sticks in her mind is the nerdy skinny boy named Maddox, who left her without a word. Waking up to see him as her bodyguard was truly a shock and a half. Because the boy she knew is gone and in his place is a man that she can lust over, but he still the same boy she knew and loved underneath all that muscle?
Lexi J. Whitlow
A second chance romance of two kids each from other sides of the tracks. Even though they love each, they are torn apart again and again. Will they ever her their happy ending?
Maddox Bryant is just a kid when he dropped out of community college due to problems at home. Living on his own and has one best friend her name is Avery Thomas. She may be the sentor's daughter but she is nicer than anyone he had ever met. His plans of an escape route with her were shot when he's put on a plane to basic training with the Marines. Never getting to say goodbye to the girl he loved....
Avery Thomas daughter of a snobby sentor (her mother) and a four star General (her dad). She's not their dutiful daughter as they want her to be. She always sticks it to them even when the going gets tough. But what always what sticks in her mind is the nerdy skinny boy named Maddox, who left her without a word. Waking up to see him as her bodyguard was truly a shock and a half. Because the boy she knew is gone and in his place is a man that she can lust over, but he still the same boy she knew and loved underneath all that muscle?
July 31, 2017
Maddox and Avery are a sweet and spicy second chance story that will keep you on your toes. Avery is a unwilling pawn in her mother's political machine. Every breath, move, and moment is scrutinized and she is sick of it. These people ha already cost her so much in her life, and now they want to sadder her with a bodyguard, noway! Especially since the bodyguard in question is the knew man whom she had and lost once before the man whom ruined her for all others... no way! Maddox has no other options his mothers cancers makes this job a necessary otherwise he would never darken these peoples doorsteps again. They drove him away from the love of his life once with threats and manipulation. Guarding her needs to be just a job, he needs to lock down his heart. But thats easier said than done. The feelings they share have only grown and now they need each other more than ever. Second chances are rare and shouldn't be wasted!
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book
August 1, 2017
ARC review for honest review. Avery and Maddox are controlled by her parents . This story shows the strength and courage they have to fight back. Awesome story
August 6, 2017
Avery was the daughter of an army general and a senator mother. Her parents were distant and only cared how she could help their careers. Maddox was the boy from the wrong side of the tracks who did some messed up things until he got together with Avery. Now she is graduating from high school he plans of taking her away from it all to go to Mexico but her family finds out about his plans. They reveal his troubled past to Avery and have plans for Maddox. If he joins the Marines and leave Avery alone, they will give him thousands of dollars and a job when he gets out, If he doesn't they will destroy him and his family. Maddox has no choice but to give in.
It is years later now and Avery's mother is considering a run for president. Avery hates all that her parents stand for but they finance her schooling and lifestyle. There have been threats against Avery and they are demanding that Avery have a bodyguard/babysitter. They bring Maddox over who has left the marines with an injury. Avery is mad at Maddox for leaving her back after high school and not answering her calls and letters. She also hates the idea of someone following her and controlling her.
Maddox is between a rock and a hard place. His mother has brain cancer and Avery's parents got her in an experimental program and are paying for her treatment. They have also given him the only job he has been able to get after the military. To keep his job he must follow all her parents' rules and stay away from Avery. However he still has strong feelings for Avery and he hates the way his parents treat her.
I really despised Avery's parents in this book. They treated her like their personal slave. When Maddox meets Avery the second time she is self-absorbed and spoiled. She does risky things when she is being stalked and risks her life. I felt bad for Maddox being torn between his love for Avery and his love for his mother. I voluntarily received a copy of this story and this is my honest review.
It is years later now and Avery's mother is considering a run for president. Avery hates all that her parents stand for but they finance her schooling and lifestyle. There have been threats against Avery and they are demanding that Avery have a bodyguard/babysitter. They bring Maddox over who has left the marines with an injury. Avery is mad at Maddox for leaving her back after high school and not answering her calls and letters. She also hates the idea of someone following her and controlling her.
Maddox is between a rock and a hard place. His mother has brain cancer and Avery's parents got her in an experimental program and are paying for her treatment. They have also given him the only job he has been able to get after the military. To keep his job he must follow all her parents' rules and stay away from Avery. However he still has strong feelings for Avery and he hates the way his parents treat her.
I really despised Avery's parents in this book. They treated her like their personal slave. When Maddox meets Avery the second time she is self-absorbed and spoiled. She does risky things when she is being stalked and risks her life. I felt bad for Maddox being torn between his love for Avery and his love for his mother. I voluntarily received a copy of this story and this is my honest review.
August 6, 2017
What a great story. I love stories that are about young love and that was what Maddox Bryant and Avery Thomas were. There were young love that did not have a chance back when they were young. I love the fact that they get that second chance.
I felt sorry for Maddox. From the moment he was young until the moment he became a man he just took one blow after another. He was not given a chance because of the trash he father was. He was so in love with Avery when he was young but her parents felt like he was not good enough for her. He was forced to join the military and leave the girl he loved behind.
Avery for a rich girl had it rough. I truly do not think her parents loved her. She was just a pawn in their game of life. She truly did not have a life. I did love her rebellious streak. She was not going to be the prefect girl her parents wanted her to be. She wanted to give the imagine that she was a little wild. She longed for her freedom and her independence.
I truly did not like Avery’s parents. They were so focused on their lives that other people around did not matter to them. They were evil and corrupt. I did find it funny that they hired Maddox to guard over Avery. After reading the book I had to wonder why. Why did they chose Maddox? Was it to hurt Avery and Maddox? Was it to show Maddox something he could never have?
My heart broke for what Maddox was going through with his mother. He wanted to help Avery get from under the thumb of her parents but there was his mother to think of. I do wished we would of got to seen an interaction between Maddox and his mother. I would of loved to seen that tender mother and son moments.
I loved Lieutenant Lucas Salvatore. He was such a help and cared for Maddox. I think he truly cared about Avery as well. He wanted to see these two happy.
Things will get heated up and Maddox will not like the things he reveals about Avery’s stalker. He will do what ever it takes to protect the woman he loves.
Great story and glad I got a chance to read the book.
I felt sorry for Maddox. From the moment he was young until the moment he became a man he just took one blow after another. He was not given a chance because of the trash he father was. He was so in love with Avery when he was young but her parents felt like he was not good enough for her. He was forced to join the military and leave the girl he loved behind.
Avery for a rich girl had it rough. I truly do not think her parents loved her. She was just a pawn in their game of life. She truly did not have a life. I did love her rebellious streak. She was not going to be the prefect girl her parents wanted her to be. She wanted to give the imagine that she was a little wild. She longed for her freedom and her independence.
I truly did not like Avery’s parents. They were so focused on their lives that other people around did not matter to them. They were evil and corrupt. I did find it funny that they hired Maddox to guard over Avery. After reading the book I had to wonder why. Why did they chose Maddox? Was it to hurt Avery and Maddox? Was it to show Maddox something he could never have?
My heart broke for what Maddox was going through with his mother. He wanted to help Avery get from under the thumb of her parents but there was his mother to think of. I do wished we would of got to seen an interaction between Maddox and his mother. I would of loved to seen that tender mother and son moments.
I loved Lieutenant Lucas Salvatore. He was such a help and cared for Maddox. I think he truly cared about Avery as well. He wanted to see these two happy.
Things will get heated up and Maddox will not like the things he reveals about Avery’s stalker. He will do what ever it takes to protect the woman he loves.
Great story and glad I got a chance to read the book.
September 24, 2017
Bad boy romance novels aren't exactly the genre I tend to read the most, but the book was being offered for free for a few days and I do fancy a bodyguard romance novel. Luckily Guarding Her doesn't disappoint.
Avery is a feisty princess that lives in an ivory tower that wants to rebel against her horrid but politically well-connected parents but at the same time she can't fathom to live without the luxuries of their ill-attained wealth. All she ever wanted was to run away with her highschool sweetheart named Maddox to Mexico but for some mysterious reason, he vanished from her life and joined the Marines.
7 years later, she is busy as a perennial college student and after a string of senseless hookups with frat boys, she is attacked by a mysterious man and wakes up in a hospital room with a concussion and a reprieve from her demeaning parents. Oh, but there's another person standing in the back corner of the room, a handsome young man with a military haircut and a suave demeanor. Is that Maddox?
Avery's parents have decided to hire the condecorated veteran as Avery's personal bodyguard that will ascertain she behaves and permits her ambitious mother to win a critical reelection in the California Senate. After losing track of him for so long, she is expectedly furious and will make his life impossible, but old flickers of that once deceased romance start to emerge...
With a poignant writing style and humanely flawed characters, this story has a lot of swearing and somewhat steamy sex scenes but it also offers a thoughtful plot and a constant essence of danger that is lurking in each corner. Avery's life might be in real danger afterall and Maddox has to fight against his urges to separate work and romance to protect Avery from every danger, even her malignant parents.
I thoroughlyenjoyed this story and read it in one sitting. Good job!
Avery is a feisty princess that lives in an ivory tower that wants to rebel against her horrid but politically well-connected parents but at the same time she can't fathom to live without the luxuries of their ill-attained wealth. All she ever wanted was to run away with her highschool sweetheart named Maddox to Mexico but for some mysterious reason, he vanished from her life and joined the Marines.
7 years later, she is busy as a perennial college student and after a string of senseless hookups with frat boys, she is attacked by a mysterious man and wakes up in a hospital room with a concussion and a reprieve from her demeaning parents. Oh, but there's another person standing in the back corner of the room, a handsome young man with a military haircut and a suave demeanor. Is that Maddox?
Avery's parents have decided to hire the condecorated veteran as Avery's personal bodyguard that will ascertain she behaves and permits her ambitious mother to win a critical reelection in the California Senate. After losing track of him for so long, she is expectedly furious and will make his life impossible, but old flickers of that once deceased romance start to emerge...
With a poignant writing style and humanely flawed characters, this story has a lot of swearing and somewhat steamy sex scenes but it also offers a thoughtful plot and a constant essence of danger that is lurking in each corner. Avery's life might be in real danger afterall and Maddox has to fight against his urges to separate work and romance to protect Avery from every danger, even her malignant parents.
I thoroughlyenjoyed this story and read it in one sitting. Good job!
August 3, 2017
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book*
Absolutely loved it!
Who doesn't love a story that contains a former military who has some long lost history with a girl. Add a little spark and a job for MR HOT military man and Voila - fireworks - Or well not so much...
BUT gotta say author Lexi Whitlow - I LOVED THIS BOOK!
So lets dive into it...
This is a in some ways a second chance story (depends on how you look at it) full of frustration, hate towards each other, tension and lets just add some politics and family drama into the picture.
When your parents have their pockets full of money, they can do just about anything to get you in the palm off their hands.
What can you possibly do about that? Accept the way it is, rebel against everything your parents do? Avery goes through a lot including all of this, so will she stand up to herself and for the people she loves?
With your parents, mother being politician and father af retired/ former General, it can be hard to break through. Maddox is "from the wrong side f the tracks" no rich mom or dad, but with avery's family owe Maddox mom, they tolerate him and cuts him a deal.
Maddox and Avery has some exciting, tension history that have been kept in the back of their minds for YEARS, but is now time to talk it through and open up to one another, and boy are you in for a story or what - it AMAZING with this history and when its out in the open, there is not much to do rather then tell everything and lay ALL cards on the table.
At times I could be so frustrated with Avery, with her being so hardheaded instead of trusting the people who actually loved her a little more...
Absolutely loved it!
Who doesn't love a story that contains a former military who has some long lost history with a girl. Add a little spark and a job for MR HOT military man and Voila - fireworks - Or well not so much...
BUT gotta say author Lexi Whitlow - I LOVED THIS BOOK!
So lets dive into it...
This is a in some ways a second chance story (depends on how you look at it) full of frustration, hate towards each other, tension and lets just add some politics and family drama into the picture.
When your parents have their pockets full of money, they can do just about anything to get you in the palm off their hands.
What can you possibly do about that? Accept the way it is, rebel against everything your parents do? Avery goes through a lot including all of this, so will she stand up to herself and for the people she loves?
With your parents, mother being politician and father af retired/ former General, it can be hard to break through. Maddox is "from the wrong side f the tracks" no rich mom or dad, but with avery's family owe Maddox mom, they tolerate him and cuts him a deal.
Maddox and Avery has some exciting, tension history that have been kept in the back of their minds for YEARS, but is now time to talk it through and open up to one another, and boy are you in for a story or what - it AMAZING with this history and when its out in the open, there is not much to do rather then tell everything and lay ALL cards on the table.
At times I could be so frustrated with Avery, with her being so hardheaded instead of trusting the people who actually loved her a little more...
August 26, 2017
I personally enjoyed this book. Maddox's life has not been easy, he is from the wrong side of the tracks. Avery has been given everything and has never wanted for anything. These two meet when they were young. Avery's parents decide to remedy the issue by sending Maddox away against his will.Now Maddox is back and does not have a lot going for him and things are bad in all other areas of his life also. The opportunity to make a lot of money presents itself he takes it. So now Avery and Maddox are back together and neither is happy about it. Avery has become frustrated, angry and not in control of her life. She has never been given any options other than to do what her parents want. She is resigned to this she is not sure how to get out of her life. She has never been given the tools to that most of us learned to do, this is thanks to her parents, they are two pieces of work. Maddox has come back a better man he learned discipline and control, now he has to exercise both. Maddox and Avery's battle of wills is humorous and the way they butt heads. I felt the sexual tension, once the get together it's hot, steamy and explosive. Both Maddox and Avery have there doubts in themselves that is something they have in common. In my opinion Lexi Whitlow wrote a good suspenseful story, with humor and hot sex. At times Avery can be tedious and hard to like. I personally liked her. Lexit Whitlow was able to write a story I could feel both characters frustration. In my opinion this book is worth reading. I read it on Kindle Unlimited.
October 2, 2017
Avery is a young women who has never really know love from her parents, to her parents she was just the child they needed to be in Politics and be Senator and they needed to be a family to achieve that. Avery has loved once when she was younger but Maddox up and disappeared without a word and she wouldnt see him or know anything about him until he would show up seven years later to become her bodyguard. Avery did have one confidant named Ella that is her best friend that she could tell anything to, but what she wanted in life more then anything was to be loved and to love.
What I enjoyed most about Guarding Her is watching how Avery wont go with her parents bad ways without a fight and how she fights for what she wants and believes in. Watching Maddox come back into her life and watching her put him through hell when it comes to what she doesnt want to do that she is being forced into. Watching both Avery and Maddox give into the want and need and the love they feel for each other.
This book was a great read, This book has Avery a woman who is well know because of her mother but it messes alot up in her life because alot of people dont like her mother and take it out on her, Avery is a party girl and doesnt like the rules set out for her by her strict parents so when they get her a bodyguard to help force her hand it doesnt end the way they wanted, Maddox and man who needs this job more then anything to help care for his sick mom and to help make his life better after the Marines, a love story. If you like stories like this, then Guarding Her is a must!
What I enjoyed most about Guarding Her is watching how Avery wont go with her parents bad ways without a fight and how she fights for what she wants and believes in. Watching Maddox come back into her life and watching her put him through hell when it comes to what she doesnt want to do that she is being forced into. Watching both Avery and Maddox give into the want and need and the love they feel for each other.
This book was a great read, This book has Avery a woman who is well know because of her mother but it messes alot up in her life because alot of people dont like her mother and take it out on her, Avery is a party girl and doesnt like the rules set out for her by her strict parents so when they get her a bodyguard to help force her hand it doesnt end the way they wanted, Maddox and man who needs this job more then anything to help care for his sick mom and to help make his life better after the Marines, a love story. If you like stories like this, then Guarding Her is a must!
August 1, 2017
This book should come with a warning label! Little did I know that once Maddox and Avery grabbed hold of me they wouldn't let go until I'd read every single word of their incredible story! Separated by the political machinations of her parents, they each try to move on and build a life for themselves. Years later these parents-from-hell hire Maddox to be Avery's bodyguard because he's the one man they think they can completely control, and they soon find out he's controlled by one thing only - his love for Avery.
This is a complicated story of what Avery and Maddox have to endure in order to first carve out their individual freedom from her parents, then figure out how to build a life together. The story moves easily from gripping action to heart-stopping suspense to kindle-melting love scenes, all while narrated with a breathtaking dual POV that lets you see all the insecurities and doubts these two young people struggle with, as well as their fierce determination to find a way to make their HEA a reality.
My only complaint - and it is minor - is the "secret baby" tagline. The pregnancy and baby weren't figured into the storyline until the very end and there was no attempt to keep it secret from anyone, so it's a bit misleading. Ignore that, though, because this is one of the most amazing books I've read in a long time and you don't want to miss it (unless you absolutely have to have the baby secret part). I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
This is a complicated story of what Avery and Maddox have to endure in order to first carve out their individual freedom from her parents, then figure out how to build a life together. The story moves easily from gripping action to heart-stopping suspense to kindle-melting love scenes, all while narrated with a breathtaking dual POV that lets you see all the insecurities and doubts these two young people struggle with, as well as their fierce determination to find a way to make their HEA a reality.
My only complaint - and it is minor - is the "secret baby" tagline. The pregnancy and baby weren't figured into the storyline until the very end and there was no attempt to keep it secret from anyone, so it's a bit misleading. Ignore that, though, because this is one of the most amazing books I've read in a long time and you don't want to miss it (unless you absolutely have to have the baby secret part). I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
August 1, 2017
Second chances in love and being with the one you wanted years ago finally comes around for Maddox & Avery. In H.S. her parents basically gave him no choice but to join the Marines and now 7 years later they want him to protect Avery from a stalker who finally went to the next level and put her in the hospital. They are forbidden to be with each other, only as bodyguard and principal but even they can't deny the attraction and pull that still exists between them. Unfortunately her parents pull all the strings and when it finally comes to a head...who will she chose and will the stalker strike again?
A great read with a bit of suspense and steamy steamy scenes and a book I couldn't put down. The author does an amazing job of portraying her parents as evil and you can't but help hating them, thus rooting for these two right to the end. I also enjoyed the push and pull between the two, testing each other and then when Avery realizes what he is risking, taking the bullet and doing her mother's bidding to protect Maddox. Maddox vows to protect her at all costs and he does not breaking his promise and going after her when he can. I couldn't help cheering and smiling at the epilogue as everyone got what was coming to them especially Maddox and Avery and their HEA....finally.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*
A great read with a bit of suspense and steamy steamy scenes and a book I couldn't put down. The author does an amazing job of portraying her parents as evil and you can't but help hating them, thus rooting for these two right to the end. I also enjoyed the push and pull between the two, testing each other and then when Avery realizes what he is risking, taking the bullet and doing her mother's bidding to protect Maddox. Maddox vows to protect her at all costs and he does not breaking his promise and going after her when he can. I couldn't help cheering and smiling at the epilogue as everyone got what was coming to them especially Maddox and Avery and their HEA....finally.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*
August 3, 2017
Classic Forbidden Love, with a few twists...
Second chance story full of tension, frustration, politics, and danger. When your parents can control everyone with their money and you just feel like a pawn in their games, what are you to do? Rebel, fall in line, sabotage, accept defeat? Avery goes thru all the stages, will she ever stand up for herself? And now a bit about the story...
Avery's parents aren't just rich, her mother is a politician and her father a retired General from the Marines. Maddox is from the wrong side of the trust fund, but Avery's family owes his mom, so they tolerate him until Avery graduates high school. Maddox gets to watch her accept her diploma, give her speech, and start celebrating with friends. That is when her parents finally show up, they had a fund raiser after all... The General gives Maddox an ultimatum, leave now and join the Marines or they'll make his life miserable. 7 years later he is honorably discharged due to injury and now Avery's parents have hired him to protect her.
Favorite passages:
- “Sometimes you have to follow orders so you can stay safe.”
- The last part, she almost barks. She would have made a wonderful poodle — yappy, mean, and inclined to bite.
- “We’ve been summoned to the Dragon Lady’s lair. I think we’re in trouble.”
Second chance story full of tension, frustration, politics, and danger. When your parents can control everyone with their money and you just feel like a pawn in their games, what are you to do? Rebel, fall in line, sabotage, accept defeat? Avery goes thru all the stages, will she ever stand up for herself? And now a bit about the story...
Avery's parents aren't just rich, her mother is a politician and her father a retired General from the Marines. Maddox is from the wrong side of the trust fund, but Avery's family owes his mom, so they tolerate him until Avery graduates high school. Maddox gets to watch her accept her diploma, give her speech, and start celebrating with friends. That is when her parents finally show up, they had a fund raiser after all... The General gives Maddox an ultimatum, leave now and join the Marines or they'll make his life miserable. 7 years later he is honorably discharged due to injury and now Avery's parents have hired him to protect her.
Favorite passages:
- “Sometimes you have to follow orders so you can stay safe.”
- The last part, she almost barks. She would have made a wonderful poodle — yappy, mean, and inclined to bite.
- “We’ve been summoned to the Dragon Lady’s lair. I think we’re in trouble.”
August 1, 2017
i was gifted this book as an ARC for my honest opinion. Avery and Maddox meet as teenagers. Avery is the daughter of extremely overbearing, uncaring and ruthless parents. Her mom Evelyn is a politician (Senator) while her dad Richard a is retired military man. It is obvious her parents consider their only daughter a pawn in their life plans. She is basically there to further serve them. Because Maddox is considered beneath Avery and from the wrong side of the tracks, he is deemed unacceptable for their daughter. He is shipped off to the military, leaving Avery devastated and clueless as to why he left without any explanation. Years later, however after Avery's life is threatened by a stalker, her dad hires Maddox as her bodyguard. Maddox is left little choice because he really needs the money. Avery is unaware of his real motivation. Here the sparks fly. Years may have passed but the attraction is still there and it is explosive. It was an awesome book with plenty of steam and suspense. There is a twist you won't see coming so be prepared. I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Will Avery and Maddox get the happily ever after? You need to read the book to find out!! 5 stars!!!
August 5, 2017
Maddox found the one he wanted to be with and planned to run away with her. When he went to her graduation to run away with her, her parents interfered with his plans. They gave him no choice but to give her up for now, and he was sent into the Marines.
Avery never knew what happened when Maddox vanished from her life. Her life is controlled by her parents. She's not doing exactly as they want and her parents are not happy with her. She is almost through with college and is attacked by a stalker.
When Avery wakes up after her attack, she is surprised that her parents have hire her a bodyguard who is non other than Maddox.
Maddox reluctantly takes the job, because his mother is terminally I'll, and they were able to get her into a medical trial for accepting the job. But can he do the job, and still be attracted to Avery? It's in his contract to not have any contact with her.
Avery and Maddox cannot fight the fire that burns between them. They want to be together, but how can they when Averys parents control everything? What about the stalker? Is he someone close?
This book is a great read, and love all the characters. ❤️ Steamy sex scenes
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Avery never knew what happened when Maddox vanished from her life. Her life is controlled by her parents. She's not doing exactly as they want and her parents are not happy with her. She is almost through with college and is attacked by a stalker.
When Avery wakes up after her attack, she is surprised that her parents have hire her a bodyguard who is non other than Maddox.
Maddox reluctantly takes the job, because his mother is terminally I'll, and they were able to get her into a medical trial for accepting the job. But can he do the job, and still be attracted to Avery? It's in his contract to not have any contact with her.
Avery and Maddox cannot fight the fire that burns between them. They want to be together, but how can they when Averys parents control everything? What about the stalker? Is he someone close?
This book is a great read, and love all the characters. ❤️ Steamy sex scenes
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
August 7, 2017
Avery in the daughter of a well-known State Senator and the target of a violent stalker. After being attacked and knocked unconscious one night, she is assigned a bodyguard, Maddox. She’s not thrilled about having a glorified babysitter, but she’s absolutely pissed that her parents assigned the boy that broke her heart seven years ago to be said sitter. Despite the time that has passed, their chemistry hasn’t dwindled, making their interactions fraught with tension. Oh, how will they survive one another??
It takes a while for the characters to grow on you. Maddox is harsh and judgmental of Avery without trying to understand her. Avery is spoiled and hard on Maddox because she thinks he left her willingly all those years ago. They’re both stubborn and pretty bad a communicating, making their issues last a bit longer than I would’ve liked. Their physical chemistry was understandable, but they had a bit too much hate in their love-hate relationship. It made it hard to believe they really loved each other.
The plot is steadily paced with a good amount of suspense and a few low-grade thrills. I must say, though, that the Epilogue was probably my favorite part of the book. It was humorous and had a satisfying HEA.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It takes a while for the characters to grow on you. Maddox is harsh and judgmental of Avery without trying to understand her. Avery is spoiled and hard on Maddox because she thinks he left her willingly all those years ago. They’re both stubborn and pretty bad a communicating, making their issues last a bit longer than I would’ve liked. Their physical chemistry was understandable, but they had a bit too much hate in their love-hate relationship. It made it hard to believe they really loved each other.
The plot is steadily paced with a good amount of suspense and a few low-grade thrills. I must say, though, that the Epilogue was probably my favorite part of the book. It was humorous and had a satisfying HEA.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 11, 2017
This riveting drama had me staying up way too late reading, glued to the book turning the pages as fast as I could to see what would happen next with complex characters, family drama, suspense and spicy romance It's a great second chance romance with an unexpected baby twist. Maddox and Avery were high school sweethearts but from very different backgrounds. Avery's mother has high political ambitions and Maddox's background does not fit into them. Her father "arranges" for him to become a Marine and he disappears. it's seven years later and Avery is receiving threats and then is physically attacked. Maddox is hired to become her bodyguard as her mother is running for office again /still. He is forbidden to touch her by contract. She stil thinks he ran off on her. They are still in love and the sparks fly. The chemistry between Avery Thomas and Maddox Bryant was so electric you could feel it and I am glad they had a second chance at romance. You'll have to read the book to find out what happens but try it you'll like it. I couldn't put it down until I finished it! I received this book as an ARC and this is an independent review.
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