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The Lawkeepers - Kelly
Lawfully Protected
A Law Enforcement Romance. An Inspirational Christian Contemporary.
He loves dogs. She loves cats. Can the two ever come together?
He loves dogs. She loves cats. Can the two ever come together?
Allison McBride only meant to purchase a cute outfit for her cat when she left home one Friday evening. Since she’d never done drugs in her life, she didn’t count on getting mixed up in a drug bust. She didn’t count on being questioned by Bronson Murphy, a handsome K-9 police officer with the bluest eyes she’d ever seen. And she certainly never counted on falling for him.
Meanwhile, strange things began to happen, leading Allison to believe she might have a stalker on her hands. Bronson was the most logical person to turn to for help, and after being thrown together a few times, Allison and Bronson felt a strong connection. There was only one problem: They wanted very different things.
Allison wanted marriage and a family one day, while Bronson was skittish after a relationship that sucked him dry. Content with casual dating, he didn’t see a need to put a label on their budding relationship.
With two different outlooks, a future with Bronson seemed doomed. Allison had to make a choice that felt right for her future.
The big question: What would Bronson do about that?
The Lawkeepers is a world like no other; a world where law keepers and heroes are honored with unforgettable stories, characters, and love.
** Note: Each book in The Lawkeepers series is a standalone book, a mini-series of sorts, and you can read them in any order.
This novella is approximately 37,000 words.
136 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 7, 2018
215 people are currently reading
67 people want to read
About the author
Evangeline Kelly
44 books215 followersEvangeline Kelly is the pen name I use to write contemporary Christian romance books. When I was a kid, I had two dreams. One was to work with at risk youth and the other was to write books. After pursuing my passion of working with foster children for over twenty years, I finally decided to pursue my childhood dream of writing.
I love a good book that draws you in and takes hold of your heart. When I write, I hope to show real life situations people go through and how God uses those situations to draw us closer to Himself.
I’ve witnessed suffering in my line of work, but I’ve also witnessed God’s redeeming love. A good Christian romance features both hardship and delight. My hope is that my stories not only entertain, but encourage, and most of all, that they bring glory and honor to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Visit my Amazon Author Page!
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Sign-up for my newsletter and receive my book, Matchmaker for free.
http://eepurl.com/cQsCTb
Visit my Author Facebook Page
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I love a good book that draws you in and takes hold of your heart. When I write, I hope to show real life situations people go through and how God uses those situations to draw us closer to Himself.
I’ve witnessed suffering in my line of work, but I’ve also witnessed God’s redeeming love. A good Christian romance features both hardship and delight. My hope is that my stories not only entertain, but encourage, and most of all, that they bring glory and honor to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Visit my Amazon Author Page!
https://www.amazon.com/Evangeline-Kel...
Sign-up for my newsletter and receive my book, Matchmaker for free.
http://eepurl.com/cQsCTb
Visit my Author Facebook Page
https://www.facebook.com/EvangelineKe...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
April 26, 2018
“Animals have come to mean so much in our lives. We live in a fragmented and disconnected culture. Politics are ugly, religion is struggling, technology is stressful, and the economy is unfortunate. What’s one thing that we have in our lives that we can depend on? A dog or a cat loving us unconditionally, every day, very faithfully.” –Jon Katz
This is part of the Lawkeepers series. It is a multi-author group writing across the ages and genres [historical western and contemporary] featuring law enforcement heroes and the women who love them. This story featured a K-9 unit in a faith-based story. It was clean, short at 14-chapters, with a prologue and an epilogue.
Allison is a modern woman living on her own, with a job that she loves, she has responsibilities, loves the Lord, has a cat that she adores [Snowball] and seems to have a penchant for getting herself into trouble. On a typical day she nearly got arrested on drug charges… that will teach her to use her cat’s name [Snow] in a conversation with a drug dealer. She had her house burglarized… someone was in her panties… em… drawer that is… ewww. Yeah, that’s what she said too. Someone was calling her and breathing heavy… no, it wasn’t a wheezy grandparent. She was nearly kidnapped, received a plant with a vulgar name from a stranger, someone punctured her tire, had a tracking device planted on her, was stalked by a sleaze bag creepy guy, had several guys trying to date her… horrors… and fell in love with Ace… a K-9 Police dog… oh and his handler Bronson wasn’t bad to look at either. Yeah… saw that one coming a mile away. I just loved him. Our author didn’t waste the adjectives in describing him.
“Fix your eyes on Jesus and the plans he has for your life. Look ahead and run after him with all your heart. Then look around. Whoever has kept up with you, marry that person.” –Debra Fileta, True Love Dates: Your Indispensable Guide to Finding the Love of your Life
Oh, what a cute story. It was short, cute and very predictable. The author was tricky as she used smoke and mirrors to hide the villain. There were three possibilities and each had good reason to cause trouble. I was a bit fearful for our heroine but she had good people on her side. The climax and resolution came quickly and we were given our hero moment for our K-9 to show off his skills. That was good. I was hoping for something like that and I was not disappointed.
Religious element: This was a faith-based story so expect people of faith to discuss their relationship with the Lord. This was not preachy and was mainly generalities. When our heroine was stressed, she uttered a quiet prayer to her God for guidance, deliverance, strength to endure and hope for a future. This was completely consistent within her religion. It was gently done as any believer would respond in a conversation with their God.
I volunteered to read an ARC [advanced reader copy] with no expectations of a review. The views expressed are my own. Estimated publication date… May 8, 2018. [3.5-stars rounded to 4-stars]
This is part of the Lawkeepers series. It is a multi-author group writing across the ages and genres [historical western and contemporary] featuring law enforcement heroes and the women who love them. This story featured a K-9 unit in a faith-based story. It was clean, short at 14-chapters, with a prologue and an epilogue.
Allison is a modern woman living on her own, with a job that she loves, she has responsibilities, loves the Lord, has a cat that she adores [Snowball] and seems to have a penchant for getting herself into trouble. On a typical day she nearly got arrested on drug charges… that will teach her to use her cat’s name [Snow] in a conversation with a drug dealer. She had her house burglarized… someone was in her panties… em… drawer that is… ewww. Yeah, that’s what she said too. Someone was calling her and breathing heavy… no, it wasn’t a wheezy grandparent. She was nearly kidnapped, received a plant with a vulgar name from a stranger, someone punctured her tire, had a tracking device planted on her, was stalked by a sleaze bag creepy guy, had several guys trying to date her… horrors… and fell in love with Ace… a K-9 Police dog… oh and his handler Bronson wasn’t bad to look at either. Yeah… saw that one coming a mile away. I just loved him. Our author didn’t waste the adjectives in describing him.
“Fix your eyes on Jesus and the plans he has for your life. Look ahead and run after him with all your heart. Then look around. Whoever has kept up with you, marry that person.” –Debra Fileta, True Love Dates: Your Indispensable Guide to Finding the Love of your Life
Oh, what a cute story. It was short, cute and very predictable. The author was tricky as she used smoke and mirrors to hide the villain. There were three possibilities and each had good reason to cause trouble. I was a bit fearful for our heroine but she had good people on her side. The climax and resolution came quickly and we were given our hero moment for our K-9 to show off his skills. That was good. I was hoping for something like that and I was not disappointed.
Religious element: This was a faith-based story so expect people of faith to discuss their relationship with the Lord. This was not preachy and was mainly generalities. When our heroine was stressed, she uttered a quiet prayer to her God for guidance, deliverance, strength to endure and hope for a future. This was completely consistent within her religion. It was gently done as any believer would respond in a conversation with their God.
I volunteered to read an ARC [advanced reader copy] with no expectations of a review. The views expressed are my own. Estimated publication date… May 8, 2018. [3.5-stars rounded to 4-stars]
April 29, 2018
The book Lawfully Protected is a romance and also has suspense. It is well written and makes the reader want to know what will happen next. Allison McBride is the main character. She goes to purchase clothing for her cat and ends up involved in a drug bust . She was questioned by Officer Bronson Murphy. She was caught off guard by her attraction to him. In her daily life there is a man by the name of Barry who continues to intrude on her life in various ways. He first puts a rather odd plant at her front door. He then continues to follow her all over. She feels very intruded by his advanced and violated. She is introduced to Bronson again later by her friend Emily as a blind date. They have a good date and Allison makes her intentions known to Bronson but he does not want to continue moving forward to a more serious relationship so they stop seeing each other. Barry continues to bother her and at a street fair when she was on a date with Bronson Barry gets her to herself and attacks her. Bronson arrests her. Allison had confronted Barry at the fair since there was a restraining order placed on him after all of is violations and He was not to be near her. What will happen with Officer Bronson and Allison? The story has some wonderful Christian elements weaved in and verses . The point is made on how we look for people to fill our void for God and people can not fill the void that only God can fill .
May 8, 2018
This was a cute light read; a really easy read.
Allison McBride had a cat, Snow, that she pampered. She had intended to meet a seller at a local restaurant to buy a cute new outfit for Snow but instead got wrapped up in a drug bust. Bronson Murphy was a K-9 officer who had a type about a drug bust going down at a local restaurant. He couldn't believe the beautiful woman who was caught up in the drug bust. He tended to believe her when she said she hadn't been there to buy drugs. She was even cuter when she got flustered during his questioning.
Allison wanted the white picket fence, happily ever after kind of relationship. Bronson was content to not have a committed relationship right now. He had been burned and was still stinging from the betrayal. But, Allison and Bronson's friend was convinced that they would be good for each other, so they kind of set them up. You'll have to read it yourself to find more details. Suffice it to say, it was a sweet, clean romance; my first by this author. I am sure it won't be the last, though.
Allison McBride had a cat, Snow, that she pampered. She had intended to meet a seller at a local restaurant to buy a cute new outfit for Snow but instead got wrapped up in a drug bust. Bronson Murphy was a K-9 officer who had a type about a drug bust going down at a local restaurant. He couldn't believe the beautiful woman who was caught up in the drug bust. He tended to believe her when she said she hadn't been there to buy drugs. She was even cuter when she got flustered during his questioning.
Allison wanted the white picket fence, happily ever after kind of relationship. Bronson was content to not have a committed relationship right now. He had been burned and was still stinging from the betrayal. But, Allison and Bronson's friend was convinced that they would be good for each other, so they kind of set them up. You'll have to read it yourself to find more details. Suffice it to say, it was a sweet, clean romance; my first by this author. I am sure it won't be the last, though.
May 7, 2018
Lawfully Protected by Evangeline Kelly is a wonderful story that will keep you turning pages. It is filled with humor from the first page. I loved the cat and the fact that Allison would by an outfit for it. I cannot imagine trying to put an outfit on a cat. The transaction turns into a fiasco when Allison tries to buy and outfit and almost gets arrested in a drug arrest. Next, Allison is being stalked by a secret admirer and needs intervention by a handsome policeman.
I loved how the different characters interacted with each other and how the plot unfolded. There is humor, drama, friendship, faith and romance throughout the book. I highly recommend it.
This book was a gift and I always review every book that I read.
I loved how the different characters interacted with each other and how the plot unfolded. There is humor, drama, friendship, faith and romance throughout the book. I highly recommend it.
This book was a gift and I always review every book that I read.
December 29, 2023
Lawfully Protected
A wonderful short story. When Allison agrees to meet a man at a nearby cafe to purchase her cat a cute outfit, she never imagined getting caught up in a drug raid. Then the same K-9 officer that almost arrested her is her blind date at her best friend’s home the next night. The awkward meeting was only the beginning. She certainly did not count on liking the man. Bronson had given up on dating after his failed engagement. That did not keep his friends from trying to set him up with their friends. Seeing Allison again was a pleasant surprise though. He had remained professional the night before but had felt drawn to her. Then the realization she has a stalker puts Bronson on high alert. Will Bronson be able to protect Allison from her stalker?
A wonderful short story. When Allison agrees to meet a man at a nearby cafe to purchase her cat a cute outfit, she never imagined getting caught up in a drug raid. Then the same K-9 officer that almost arrested her is her blind date at her best friend’s home the next night. The awkward meeting was only the beginning. She certainly did not count on liking the man. Bronson had given up on dating after his failed engagement. That did not keep his friends from trying to set him up with their friends. Seeing Allison again was a pleasant surprise though. He had remained professional the night before but had felt drawn to her. Then the realization she has a stalker puts Bronson on high alert. Will Bronson be able to protect Allison from her stalker?
May 8, 2018
"Sometimes you just know"
One of my favorite lines in the fantastic story. In this day and time it takes a great author to pen a "clean" story and still keep the reader engaged and excited. The plot is busy enough without clouding the main plot. I like Bronson, he is a good guy he is just a little burned or bombed out with dating. One of the things that I really like about Allison is although she is ready for marriage and kids, she is not desperate and instead prays. She is straight forward and has a calm demeanor. This is so realistic and the perfect example of a man not realizing what he had until he doesn't have it. Love their story!!!
I received a free copy of this book.
One of my favorite lines in the fantastic story. In this day and time it takes a great author to pen a "clean" story and still keep the reader engaged and excited. The plot is busy enough without clouding the main plot. I like Bronson, he is a good guy he is just a little burned or bombed out with dating. One of the things that I really like about Allison is although she is ready for marriage and kids, she is not desperate and instead prays. She is straight forward and has a calm demeanor. This is so realistic and the perfect example of a man not realizing what he had until he doesn't have it. Love their story!!!
I received a free copy of this book.
December 20, 2018
Rough start but got better
The beginning "meet cute" was funny in concept, but cringeworthy in implementation. Initially, the characters come across stiff and artificial. And it was also cringey that the heroine was so slow to pick up on Barry.
I considered not finishing it, but since I have liked several of the author's other books (esp The Ruthless Billionaire - one of my favorites), I decided to stick with it. Thankfully it got somewhat better from there. It does resolve a bit too quickly and neatly to believe, but it was a satisfying happily-ever-after and a fun epilogue.
Clean romance level: sweet kisses and virtuous Christian relationship
The beginning "meet cute" was funny in concept, but cringeworthy in implementation. Initially, the characters come across stiff and artificial. And it was also cringey that the heroine was so slow to pick up on Barry.
I considered not finishing it, but since I have liked several of the author's other books (esp The Ruthless Billionaire - one of my favorites), I decided to stick with it. Thankfully it got somewhat better from there. It does resolve a bit too quickly and neatly to believe, but it was a satisfying happily-ever-after and a fun epilogue.
Clean romance level: sweet kisses and virtuous Christian relationship
May 8, 2018
Allison loves her cat and doesn't casually date. Bronson loves his K9 dog and only casually dates. How will these two ever get together? I liked that Allison didn't compromise her values just because she was attracted to Bronson. It had to be hard because kept endearing himself to her and to me - he was such a protector. I usually don't like separations but this one had a point and I liked how they both were Christians seeking the Lord's will in their lives. This author is one of my favorites.
May 10, 2018
A fun read, with some mystery that turns potentially dangerous. Oh, yes—and, definitely romance!
Allison has a friend who likes to play matchmaker, a neighbor who is a little weird; and she runs into a couple of policeman, one with a trained dog (who’s tall & handsome!). Now, how is this going to work out? You will quickly be drawn in to this book, and will have some laughs, some wondering what’s going on, and definitely wanting to know how this is going to turn out! I loved the book, and highly recommend it.
Allison has a friend who likes to play matchmaker, a neighbor who is a little weird; and she runs into a couple of policeman, one with a trained dog (who’s tall & handsome!). Now, how is this going to work out? You will quickly be drawn in to this book, and will have some laughs, some wondering what’s going on, and definitely wanting to know how this is going to turn out! I loved the book, and highly recommend it.
June 7, 2018
Best of her books
I’ve read all of Evangeline Kelly’s books. She gets better with every release, and this one is definitely her best so far. Allison is quick witted and charming, and Bronson is just what a Christian romantic hero should be. Their chemistry is fantastic and I loved how much humor was injected into the story. Even the stalking storyline was well done, creepy and suspenseful but realistic.
Somewhat novella in length, but well developed, so if you’re in the mood for a one-afternoon read, this fits the bill perfectly!
I’ve read all of Evangeline Kelly’s books. She gets better with every release, and this one is definitely her best so far. Allison is quick witted and charming, and Bronson is just what a Christian romantic hero should be. Their chemistry is fantastic and I loved how much humor was injected into the story. Even the stalking storyline was well done, creepy and suspenseful but realistic.
Somewhat novella in length, but well developed, so if you’re in the mood for a one-afternoon read, this fits the bill perfectly!
October 21, 2023
Good read!
This is an easy-to-read story that moves quickly but sincerely as the attraction grows between Bronson and Allison. They each are waiting for the one God has for them and that just happens to be each other. Bronson is tough, good-looking, but a little scared to commit to a future because of the past. Allison knows she wants a marriage and family and will wait for the right one. Bronson comes around and the ending is sweet.
A clean, wholesome story that willing make you smile.
This is an easy-to-read story that moves quickly but sincerely as the attraction grows between Bronson and Allison. They each are waiting for the one God has for them and that just happens to be each other. Bronson is tough, good-looking, but a little scared to commit to a future because of the past. Allison knows she wants a marriage and family and will wait for the right one. Bronson comes around and the ending is sweet.
A clean, wholesome story that willing make you smile.
May 8, 2018
This is a quick and a delightful read. Evangeline’s unique humor will keep you chuckling! The small town feel flows throughout the book. Allison is a lovely heroine, someone the reader would want to be friends with. At times I found myself angry at Bronson for decisions he was making…LOL I’ve enjoyed the book!
I received an ARC of this book with no obligation to post a review. All opinions in this review are my own.
I received an ARC of this book with no obligation to post a review. All opinions in this review are my own.
May 9, 2018
Lawfully protected is a great, sweet, well written book. It is not just a run of the mill romance, it has depth and character and at times it is laugh out loud funny. Also if you love cats and dogs then this book has that extra appeal .. it's worth reading just for them. I definitely recommend this book to everyone.
May 19, 2018
Lawfully Protected
Sweet clean romance. Wonderful series of books. Each is a separate story. Allison is ready for a relationship that could lead to marriage. Bronson not so much. The attraction is there but not the commitment. Also Allison has a stalker. Bronson needs to step up to the plate but Allison will leave it up to him.
Sweet clean romance. Wonderful series of books. Each is a separate story. Allison is ready for a relationship that could lead to marriage. Bronson not so much. The attraction is there but not the commitment. Also Allison has a stalker. Bronson needs to step up to the plate but Allison will leave it up to him.
April 30, 2019
A great all-around story.
Evangeline Kelly can write the best way with the best characters. Officer Murphy, Allison, police dog Ace, cat, Snowball were my favorites. Fortunately Evangeline made short work of the negative part of the book. I do hope there is a sequel to this story.
Evangeline Kelly can write the best way with the best characters. Officer Murphy, Allison, police dog Ace, cat, Snowball were my favorites. Fortunately Evangeline made short work of the negative part of the book. I do hope there is a sequel to this story.
September 10, 2022
This was inoffensive but nothing memorable. The Christian aspect was fairly strong. I liked that Allison knew she didn’t want to waste her time on casual dating and that Bronson realized his error pretty quickly. This story was not very imaginative. The strongest originality centered around the cat and the dog.
November 18, 2022
love it
I love all the law keepers books but I think loved this one the most. …So far.
Mainly because I love a good laugh. And even though this one has a bit of mystery(which I also love) and romance, it’s the laugh out loud moments that hook me every-time.
All in all it’s a good clean suspense filled, laughter filled romance.
I love all the law keepers books but I think loved this one the most. …So far.
Mainly because I love a good laugh. And even though this one has a bit of mystery(which I also love) and romance, it’s the laugh out loud moments that hook me every-time.
All in all it’s a good clean suspense filled, laughter filled romance.
March 19, 2023
Fun, Christian Romance
I enjoyed this read. It was fun, with a little suspense and 2 delightful animal sidekicks.
The H & h are both Christians, clear-minded and forthright in their intentions.
It was just what I needed at just the time I needed it. I hope you'll find it as refreshing as I did. <3
-ncv
I enjoyed this read. It was fun, with a little suspense and 2 delightful animal sidekicks.
The H & h are both Christians, clear-minded and forthright in their intentions.
It was just what I needed at just the time I needed it. I hope you'll find it as refreshing as I did. <3
-ncv
April 29, 2018
This was such a good book! I laughed and was well entertained. I loved Allison, she was a hoot with her cat outfits! The story had a twist with the stalker and guessing who it might be. This is a definite must read! once again Evangeline Kelly does not disappoint!
April 29, 2018
Another GREAT Christian romance by Evangeline Kelly!!! Wonderful characters whose interactions are so real you'll forget you're reading fiction.
A fast read, perfect for a weekend or rainy day. You won't want to put it down.
A fast read, perfect for a weekend or rainy day. You won't want to put it down.
May 8, 2018
Admittedly I don’t usually read books that have pets as a main feature - I guess I’ve always thought it as more of a childish genre (apologies in advance) since that’s what my early primary school reading list featured. Having said that, when I saw this book & read it was about the law enforcements K-9 unit I was intrigued. I don’t know why but I’ve always had a soft spot for career dogs (e.g. guide dogs & law enforcement). I am also a cat & dog person. I like & have them both but I know the challenges so was interested to see how the author would play this out & what kind of depth she would give to the story. I was pleasantly surprised. Whilst this story hasn’t left me raving I did enjoy it. It was a fun, clean read with both humour & a serious side. A little bit of suspense & romance as well to keep us turning the pages.
This is the first novel I’ve read in the series & from what I can tell, can be read as a stand-alone or in any order. I’m interested in reading more of the series to see how the others compare.
I received my copy free in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first novel I’ve read in the series & from what I can tell, can be read as a stand-alone or in any order. I’m interested in reading more of the series to see how the others compare.
I received my copy free in exchange for an honest review.
May 8, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this new story from Evangeline Kelly. What's not to like. There is a costume wearing cat, a man in uniform and a K9 cop! I can imagine knowing Allison. .There is humor, suspense, a small town vibe and well written characters and plot. I read it straight through!
May 11, 2018
K-9 Lawkeeper Romance
Wonderfully fun romance. There are some laugh out loud moments and some suspense as well. Part of the story deals with a stalker which may make some readers uncomfortable. I received this book for free and voluntarily chose to post my honest review.
Wonderfully fun romance. There are some laugh out loud moments and some suspense as well. Part of the story deals with a stalker which may make some readers uncomfortable. I received this book for free and voluntarily chose to post my honest review.
November 21, 2018
Easy Read
The book was written in an easy to read style. It was Lost like sitting and listening to a friend recount her love story. I read a lot of high drama and Croon stories this was a refreshing change of pace.
The book was written in an easy to read style. It was Lost like sitting and listening to a friend recount her love story. I read a lot of high drama and Croon stories this was a refreshing change of pace.
May 29, 2018
Sweet! Loved it!
What a tender, sweet story! I loved how the book kept me guessing on who the bad guy could be... and I loved the twist in the middle (no spoilers here!). Another win!
What a tender, sweet story! I loved how the book kept me guessing on who the bad guy could be... and I loved the twist in the middle (no spoilers here!). Another win!
November 16, 2018
How these two met is hilarious, and one Officer Bronson Murphy gets a lesson in Christian dating from Allison. This is well-written and a lesson on how do deal with a stalker. I loved this story, and the wonderful characters, especially Allison's neighbor, Mrs. Spellman.
February 5, 2026
Really Great Series
I'm totally enjoying this series and all the characters. I loved Allison and Bronson 's story. These two are perfect for each other even though it took them a bit to figure it out. A wonderful read that left me with a smile.
I'm totally enjoying this series and all the characters. I loved Allison and Bronson 's story. These two are perfect for each other even though it took them a bit to figure it out. A wonderful read that left me with a smile.
May 3, 2018
i absolutely loved the book!! a must read for any fan of Christian Romance!
Not sappy at all !
Not sappy at all !
May 11, 2018
Cute, clean, Christian romance. I had to laugh as the married couple in the story share the names of my two children. A funny coincidence.
May 11, 2018
☺☺☺☺
A nice little romance, clean and sweet with a thread of faith and a villain. Not too heavy, a quick but enjoyable read.
A nice little romance, clean and sweet with a thread of faith and a villain. Not too heavy, a quick but enjoyable read.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews