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Spotlight Collection #2
Protect Me
Who will you be when no one is watching... when the lights go down?
Penny
I don’t know who I am anymore. It’s been so long since I’ve been allowed to think for myself. And now that I can, all I can think about is him. My protector. His massive build which should frighten me but makes me feel safe. And his intense eyes that linger on me when he thinks I’m not looking. But why would he want me? I’m broken.
Shapiro
I vowed never to get close to anyone again. Do the job, get paid and survive. That’s all. Then she’s thrown into my life, needing a place to hide. She thinks she’s damaged, but she just needs someone to show her how strong she really is. Damn if I don’t want to be that man. But I’ve got a past of my own, and no good deed goes unpunished.
Penny
I don’t know who I am anymore. It’s been so long since I’ve been allowed to think for myself. And now that I can, all I can think about is him. My protector. His massive build which should frighten me but makes me feel safe. And his intense eyes that linger on me when he thinks I’m not looking. But why would he want me? I’m broken.
Shapiro
I vowed never to get close to anyone again. Do the job, get paid and survive. That’s all. Then she’s thrown into my life, needing a place to hide. She thinks she’s damaged, but she just needs someone to show her how strong she really is. Damn if I don’t want to be that man. But I’ve got a past of my own, and no good deed goes unpunished.
ebook
Published September 21, 2018
12 people are currently reading
404 people want to read
About the author
Cary Hart
36 books1,573 followersCary Hart hails from the Midwest. A sassy, coffee drinking, sometimes sailor swearing, Spotify addict, lover of all things books!
When not pushing women down the stairs in the fictional world, Cary has her hands full. Soccer mom in all sense of the word to two wild and crazy, spoiled kiddos, and wife to the most supportive husband. In addition to writing full time, she enjoys binge watching Netflix, laying around in her hammock and baking up cookies for her family and friends.
Cary writes real, raw romance! In her stories the characters deal with life's everyday struggles and unwanted drama, they talk about the ugly and they become the broken. Everyone deserves a happy ending, but sometimes before you can appreciate the light, there has to be darkness.
Growing up, if someone would have told her she would become a writer, she wouldn't have believed them. It wasn't until she got her hands on her first romance novel, that the passion grew. Now she couldn't imagine her life any other way - she's living her dream.
When not pushing women down the stairs in the fictional world, Cary has her hands full. Soccer mom in all sense of the word to two wild and crazy, spoiled kiddos, and wife to the most supportive husband. In addition to writing full time, she enjoys binge watching Netflix, laying around in her hammock and baking up cookies for her family and friends.
Cary writes real, raw romance! In her stories the characters deal with life's everyday struggles and unwanted drama, they talk about the ugly and they become the broken. Everyone deserves a happy ending, but sometimes before you can appreciate the light, there has to be darkness.
Growing up, if someone would have told her she would become a writer, she wouldn't have believed them. It wasn't until she got her hands on her first romance novel, that the passion grew. Now she couldn't imagine her life any other way - she's living her dream.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
October 18, 2019
This book was so hard to put down. Penny was in a toxic relationship that she was able to escape from with the help of family. She is taken to Shapiro who helps her disappear to start over with her life. Their journey to happiness was not easy because they both have issues in their past that they need to work on. With the help of each other, they were able to overcome and find what they have been looking for all along, real love. I love these characters so much. This book was so good. I can’t wait to read more of her work.
September 21, 2018
Cary Hart has penned another stunning and soul-shattering romance. Protect Me is sheer brilliance from beginning to end. This book took me on an emotional journey with the highest highs and the lowest lows. Angsty, beautiful and addictive, Protect Me will touch every part of your heart and soul.
This is the thing that Cary Hart does so well, writing stories with purity and heart. This is hands down Hart's best book to date.
This is the thing that Cary Hart does so well, writing stories with purity and heart. This is hands down Hart's best book to date.
September 21, 2018
This book is as fun and crazy as the author. Dancing and singing. Baking and living. This is a great read with all kinds of elements that make it a great read. The author blends in some suspense and intrigue with abuse and rescue. We have a hunk who is immediately smitten and has all kinds of protection issues along with being alpha male and having a past. You have a girl who is finally realizing there is more to life that the abuse she is dealing with. What follows is emotional, with a few growing pains and new friends, plenty of laughs and tears follow. But the lies and half truths, unspoken words and old fears may just be what destroys them.
I love this author and have loved reading each book. Her female characters are sexy, damaged, with an inner strength that always shines through when needed. Her males are alpha, controlling but loving, protective and damaged. With this combination it is always a ride to remember.
I love this author and have loved reading each book. Her female characters are sexy, damaged, with an inner strength that always shines through when needed. Her males are alpha, controlling but loving, protective and damaged. With this combination it is always a ride to remember.
September 19, 2018
This book is so different and I LOVED IT!! If you're a Tijan fan then this book will grip you hard and not let go!
I absolutely loved the style of writing of this author, it's gripping, gritty and sucks you right in! The storyline flowed perfectly, leaving a trail of breadcrumbs to piece the story together. I could NOT put it down!
These characters...I wanted to hug and protect them all!! Penny was incredibly relatable and even though most would see her as damaged, I found her lovable. I really enjoyed watching her flourish independently, as well as with Shapiro!
I have absolutely found a new must-read author! I am truly excited about this book and the writing style. It's different from the norm, but so, SO worth reading!
I absolutely loved the style of writing of this author, it's gripping, gritty and sucks you right in! The storyline flowed perfectly, leaving a trail of breadcrumbs to piece the story together. I could NOT put it down!
These characters...I wanted to hug and protect them all!! Penny was incredibly relatable and even though most would see her as damaged, I found her lovable. I really enjoyed watching her flourish independently, as well as with Shapiro!
I have absolutely found a new must-read author! I am truly excited about this book and the writing style. It's different from the norm, but so, SO worth reading!
September 23, 2018
5 crazy good stars!! This book went straight to the favorites list!!!
This is book two of the “Spotlight Collection” and can definitely be read as a stand alone.
💕💕 PENNY & SHAPIRO 💕💕
Penny just wanted to make right. Make it better. She knew this was just a “bad time”. He could change. Until he couldn’t and she needed help. Little did she know help would come from one crazy ass baker and a man that is the definition of S•E•X•. Can she move forward or always be trapped in the past?!?!
Shapiro has secrets, an addiction to Kool Aid and a past. But one crazy ass singing baker helped him so he is going to pay it forward. Of course he will help anyone who needs it. Little did he know the one who needed his help is a fiery beautiful strong woman. Will she break his walls down or will she break him?!?!
💭 LETS TALK ABOUT IT..
This book blew me away. I loved every page of it. I could have read it in one sitting but life... Shapiro is everything. I mean like he is my new book honey. I don’t even know of any book boyfriends recently that even compare. Yes these two rocked my world. Every single word (and sometimes I read them TWICE!!).
This story has triggers. I think what hooked me was the triggers. The very first page drew me in. For survivors all over the world this books is beauty. I relate to this story and to Penny.
The author did an excellent job of emoting feelings and emotions. Those who have never been in this kind of situation play with words like victim, accident, change, one time only, etc.. and Penny played that part. But as you read you saw her grow. You saw the “survivor” emerge. She had a great crew of friends and one hot ass man to help, but this woman did it on her own. And I felt it.
She also wrote this book impeccably. The flow was beautiful and the back story was on point. I loved this book. This is a MUST read of 2018!!
**I received this book as an ARC and in return gave my honest late (I am so sorry) review**
This is book two of the “Spotlight Collection” and can definitely be read as a stand alone.
💕💕 PENNY & SHAPIRO 💕💕
Penny just wanted to make right. Make it better. She knew this was just a “bad time”. He could change. Until he couldn’t and she needed help. Little did she know help would come from one crazy ass baker and a man that is the definition of S•E•X•. Can she move forward or always be trapped in the past?!?!
Shapiro has secrets, an addiction to Kool Aid and a past. But one crazy ass singing baker helped him so he is going to pay it forward. Of course he will help anyone who needs it. Little did he know the one who needed his help is a fiery beautiful strong woman. Will she break his walls down or will she break him?!?!
💭 LETS TALK ABOUT IT..
This book blew me away. I loved every page of it. I could have read it in one sitting but life... Shapiro is everything. I mean like he is my new book honey. I don’t even know of any book boyfriends recently that even compare. Yes these two rocked my world. Every single word (and sometimes I read them TWICE!!).
This story has triggers. I think what hooked me was the triggers. The very first page drew me in. For survivors all over the world this books is beauty. I relate to this story and to Penny.
The author did an excellent job of emoting feelings and emotions. Those who have never been in this kind of situation play with words like victim, accident, change, one time only, etc.. and Penny played that part. But as you read you saw her grow. You saw the “survivor” emerge. She had a great crew of friends and one hot ass man to help, but this woman did it on her own. And I felt it.
She also wrote this book impeccably. The flow was beautiful and the back story was on point. I loved this book. This is a MUST read of 2018!!
**I received this book as an ARC and in return gave my honest late (I am so sorry) review**
September 19, 2018
I was fortunate enough to be on the arc team as such my review is unbiased and was made solely based on the authors work.
I found the cover to be visually pleasing.
As well as true to the authors style.
Now I gave the book a 5 star review due to the fact that the overall storyline was genuinely relatable for me. I have personally experienced similar life scenarios. That was why I had a hard time reading certain aspects as they triggered some emotional issues from my past that I have to deal with daily due to having ptsd.
However when I came to parts of the book where I began to become overwhelmed and would start to feel a panic attack starting I would set the book down and get myself to relax both emotionally and physically before continuing with reading. I found the book helpful since it shows two very different aspects of life choices or situations where a single person can find themselves in. The part that was of most help to me was changes I could read that penny was able to have a chance to choose which path she was going to go down. It is inspiring to see that a book can emulate the emotional experience that it has with me especially it helps to encourage me to make choices to protect me.
I found the cover to be visually pleasing.
As well as true to the authors style.
Now I gave the book a 5 star review due to the fact that the overall storyline was genuinely relatable for me. I have personally experienced similar life scenarios. That was why I had a hard time reading certain aspects as they triggered some emotional issues from my past that I have to deal with daily due to having ptsd.
However when I came to parts of the book where I began to become overwhelmed and would start to feel a panic attack starting I would set the book down and get myself to relax both emotionally and physically before continuing with reading. I found the book helpful since it shows two very different aspects of life choices or situations where a single person can find themselves in. The part that was of most help to me was changes I could read that penny was able to have a chance to choose which path she was going to go down. It is inspiring to see that a book can emulate the emotional experience that it has with me especially it helps to encourage me to make choices to protect me.
September 17, 2018
Everyone has their Kool-Aid and this story shows that love wins through it all!! Ashley @ Carolina Chic’s Read
OMG is all I can say about this book!!! It was absolutely awesome page turner. Penny and Shapiro’s story is one of love, loss, protection and unexpected relationships. Penny “I never knew how much you could be healed by a person’s touch until Shapiro put his hands on me” Shapiro’s has me swooning as he takes care of Penny and try’s to help make her whole again.
Cary awesome job with this book and this series I cannot wait to see what the next book brings.
OMG is all I can say about this book!!! It was absolutely awesome page turner. Penny and Shapiro’s story is one of love, loss, protection and unexpected relationships. Penny “I never knew how much you could be healed by a person’s touch until Shapiro put his hands on me” Shapiro’s has me swooning as he takes care of Penny and try’s to help make her whole again.
Cary awesome job with this book and this series I cannot wait to see what the next book brings.
September 21, 2018
This is the second book in a series. I've been intrigued by Shapiro since the beginning. The personification of strong and silent, Shapiro is a fascinating man. I also really liked Penny. I enjoyed seeing her come into her own. This was a really enjoyable book, and I can't wait to read the next one in the series.
Reviewed by: Clare M.
Reviewed by: Clare M.
January 28, 2019
Angst and abuse along with Kool aid and cupcakes, what a crazy and unique combination. Cary Hart has brought together a very unique couple. Penny is running from abuse and it brings her to the arms of Shapiro. No stranger to the subject of abuse, Shapiro pledges to protect Penny but security comes at a price. How can you find and fulfill your dreams if you are forced to live in hiding to maintain your safety? A tale of learning to trust again that will warm your heart and bring a tear to your eyes.
September 18, 2018
4.5 Cranky Stars
I knew I liked Shapiro from the glances we got of him in book one, but little did I know he would steal my heart. Under all that manly protective interior is just a regular guy who really enjoys Kool-Aid. I think Shapiro is my soul mate because I secretly love Kool-Aid as well. He is my Kool-Aid (read the book you’ll get the reference)
Penny flees an abusive relationship she keeps going back to time and time again. The promises of I’ll be better on repeat. You see Tyler uses his love of Penny against her and breaks her time and time again. She lands in the arms of Shapiro who just wants to help her out. When they reunite months later it’s under dire circumstances. It’s in the confines of his apartment she starts to heal and find herself again.
Shapiro has had a rough start in life. He finds himself turning to the one woman who was always there when his mom had to work countless jobs a woman he calls Mama Ang. He is content with his life of staying out of trouble and is a bouncer at Spotlight. Penny digs in deep and he does all he can to protect this sweet beautiful girl. They spend countless hours watching Netflix and drinking all his special occasion Kool-Aid. I don’t mean that in the creepy Jim Jones way either.
The second installment in this book you can see Cary Hart has grown by leaps and bounds. I adored Shapiro and his Kool-Aid addiction. He such a teddy bear and his need to protect her Is heartwarming and not overbearing. At times I wanted Penny to grow a pair, but I guess you need to really want to leave and that sometimes you just need to give up on certain people and let them fall. Their slow burn was well worth the wait. Phew!!
I can’t wait to see who might be next in this series. Kudos to you on a job well done.
I knew I liked Shapiro from the glances we got of him in book one, but little did I know he would steal my heart. Under all that manly protective interior is just a regular guy who really enjoys Kool-Aid. I think Shapiro is my soul mate because I secretly love Kool-Aid as well. He is my Kool-Aid (read the book you’ll get the reference)
Penny flees an abusive relationship she keeps going back to time and time again. The promises of I’ll be better on repeat. You see Tyler uses his love of Penny against her and breaks her time and time again. She lands in the arms of Shapiro who just wants to help her out. When they reunite months later it’s under dire circumstances. It’s in the confines of his apartment she starts to heal and find herself again.
Shapiro has had a rough start in life. He finds himself turning to the one woman who was always there when his mom had to work countless jobs a woman he calls Mama Ang. He is content with his life of staying out of trouble and is a bouncer at Spotlight. Penny digs in deep and he does all he can to protect this sweet beautiful girl. They spend countless hours watching Netflix and drinking all his special occasion Kool-Aid. I don’t mean that in the creepy Jim Jones way either.
The second installment in this book you can see Cary Hart has grown by leaps and bounds. I adored Shapiro and his Kool-Aid addiction. He such a teddy bear and his need to protect her Is heartwarming and not overbearing. At times I wanted Penny to grow a pair, but I guess you need to really want to leave and that sometimes you just need to give up on certain people and let them fall. Their slow burn was well worth the wait. Phew!!
I can’t wait to see who might be next in this series. Kudos to you on a job well done.
September 18, 2018
A wonderfully written story that will grab your attention right away and not let loose until you reach the very end. Penny's life is hell. Her life with Tyler is anything but perfect. As a matter of fact, it's unbearable. He's abusive. Not physically in the since of beating her, but he has managed to isolate her, to take away everything that meant anything to her. To put her down, to take what he wants from her with no regard to her or her feelings what so ever. With a little help, she is able to escape him. Her friend brings her to Spotlight where they climb the stairs to an apartment above the club. When they enter, she meets Shapiro, Nina's brother and finds out that she will be staying with him that night until he can take her somewhere safe. That place is Mama Ang's home, his great-aunt. The welcoming older woman envelopes Penny in a warm hug and takes her in. Finding out that Penny loves baking, Mama Ang finds a baking buddy. The two are set. But as months pass, Shapiro doesn't call to check on her anymore, and next thing he knows, Mama Ang is gone and Penny has been terribly hurt and is on her way to the hospital. When he arrives, he realizes that he made a terrible mistake. He should never have left without checking on her, he should have kept contact with Mama Ang. Now she is gone and Penny is terribly hurt. His mistake will never happen again. He vows to do everything to protect the beauty lying in that hospital bed. This time he will do it right.
The characters are well written and well defined. I loved Mama Ang, although she was only in the story for a short while. Penny is beautiful, broken and fighting to find normal. Shapiro is handsome, built and a protector. He also has secrets of his own that are threatening to take away the happiness he has finally found.
An amazing story and I highly recommend this book!
The characters are well written and well defined. I loved Mama Ang, although she was only in the story for a short while. Penny is beautiful, broken and fighting to find normal. Shapiro is handsome, built and a protector. He also has secrets of his own that are threatening to take away the happiness he has finally found.
An amazing story and I highly recommend this book!
September 21, 2018
5 Spotlight Stars
Review by Lisa
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night w/Books Blog
The second installment of the Spotlight Collection is finally here!! Protect Me by Cary Hart could not be named anymore appropriately. What a story we get! Ms. Hart has kicked it a up notch with this one. Bringing us more of everything. More depth, more emotion, more drama, more fun, more love, just all around MORE.
This can be read as a standalone but it will be more enjoyable reading the series in order as we get our first glimpse of Shaprio in book 1 and yes, we get those glimpses of Ellie and Lee in book 2.
Penny has lost herself to a toxic relationship. At rock bottom and with the help of a new friend, she finds herself in the apartment of Shapiro. Now, that she finally can breath and be free, she can't stop thinking of her protector.
Shapiro has not had an easy life and has sworn off relationships. But when Penny needs a place to hide, he sees the light within her and is attracted to the light like a moth to the flame. But will his past keep him in check, or not?
Don't forget about Mama Ang, everyone needs a Mama Ang in their life.
This story follows Penny and her life of being abused. Ms. Hart has done an amazing job at bringing this abuser full circle. Some aspects may cause triggers.
I truly enjoyed reading about these characters from the Spotlight collection. From The fun, flirty, sexy women and the top alpha males to the friends this book cannot be any better.
**ARC received in exchange for an honest review**
Review by Lisa
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night w/Books Blog
The second installment of the Spotlight Collection is finally here!! Protect Me by Cary Hart could not be named anymore appropriately. What a story we get! Ms. Hart has kicked it a up notch with this one. Bringing us more of everything. More depth, more emotion, more drama, more fun, more love, just all around MORE.
This can be read as a standalone but it will be more enjoyable reading the series in order as we get our first glimpse of Shaprio in book 1 and yes, we get those glimpses of Ellie and Lee in book 2.
Penny has lost herself to a toxic relationship. At rock bottom and with the help of a new friend, she finds herself in the apartment of Shapiro. Now, that she finally can breath and be free, she can't stop thinking of her protector.
Shapiro has not had an easy life and has sworn off relationships. But when Penny needs a place to hide, he sees the light within her and is attracted to the light like a moth to the flame. But will his past keep him in check, or not?
Don't forget about Mama Ang, everyone needs a Mama Ang in their life.
This story follows Penny and her life of being abused. Ms. Hart has done an amazing job at bringing this abuser full circle. Some aspects may cause triggers.
I truly enjoyed reading about these characters from the Spotlight collection. From The fun, flirty, sexy women and the top alpha males to the friends this book cannot be any better.
**ARC received in exchange for an honest review**
September 18, 2018
This was another emotional read. But I was hooked from the beginning and couldn’t but the book down.
Penny is in a toxic relationship and can’t get out of it on her own. Someone finally “sees” her and helps her escape. She makes a friend in Niki, Nina and Shapiro. They are going to help her get away from her boyfriend and start over. Shapiro leaves her in the care of a family member and pretty much leaves her alone because he is attracted to her and he knows that in her current state he can’t act on it. When Shapiro checks in he finds out she left the care of his family member and went back to her boyfriend and that the cycle started again.
Shapiro brings Penny back to his apartment over Spotlight where he can keep a better eye on her and help her get back on her feet. Luckily Niki and Nina are there to help Penny start to feel normal again. Shapiro and Penny spend a lot of time talking and they learn things about each other. Penny loves to bake and dreams of having a bakery to call her own. Shapiro is kind of obsessed with Kool Aid and that it is like a security blanket for him. It takes him back to a time in his life when he was happy and it has become a habit for him to always have Kool Aid on hand. Penny’s baking is the same, it calms her and brings her peace.
After a particularly difficult talk that Shapiro has with Penny about his past she finally comes to terms with what was happening to her in her relationship with her ex boyfriend. She knew what was happening but couldn’t accept that it was what it was.
I loved the epilogue. It was exactly what this couple needed. I had a smile on my face while I read it because Shapiro and Penny finally found what they both were searching for.
Penny is in a toxic relationship and can’t get out of it on her own. Someone finally “sees” her and helps her escape. She makes a friend in Niki, Nina and Shapiro. They are going to help her get away from her boyfriend and start over. Shapiro leaves her in the care of a family member and pretty much leaves her alone because he is attracted to her and he knows that in her current state he can’t act on it. When Shapiro checks in he finds out she left the care of his family member and went back to her boyfriend and that the cycle started again.
Shapiro brings Penny back to his apartment over Spotlight where he can keep a better eye on her and help her get back on her feet. Luckily Niki and Nina are there to help Penny start to feel normal again. Shapiro and Penny spend a lot of time talking and they learn things about each other. Penny loves to bake and dreams of having a bakery to call her own. Shapiro is kind of obsessed with Kool Aid and that it is like a security blanket for him. It takes him back to a time in his life when he was happy and it has become a habit for him to always have Kool Aid on hand. Penny’s baking is the same, it calms her and brings her peace.
After a particularly difficult talk that Shapiro has with Penny about his past she finally comes to terms with what was happening to her in her relationship with her ex boyfriend. She knew what was happening but couldn’t accept that it was what it was.
I loved the epilogue. It was exactly what this couple needed. I had a smile on my face while I read it because Shapiro and Penny finally found what they both were searching for.
September 21, 2018
Penny Reid is on the run from her abusive boyfriend, Tyler Bradford, and she is taken in by Frances Shapiro who brings her to Mama Ang to keep her safe.
Shapiro knows he has to stay away from Penny as she needs time to heal from the abuse she suffered under Tyler. Yet when Penny doesn't show up for Mama Ang's funeral, Shapiro knows something must have happened.
When Shapiro learns what has happened to Penny again will he continue to support her and keep her safe? When the two of them start receiving threatening notes will Shapiro be able to find Tyler before he gets to Penny again?
This was such a great read!
My heart broke for Penny with what she went through before getting to Mama Ang and then it killed me to see what happened next. I was glad that Shapiro was able to get to her again but I was so frustrated!
Shapiro was absolutely awesome and just so kind underneath his hard exterior. He wanted to make sure that Penny was safe and was going to do whatever it took. I loved how he tried to bring so much happiness to Penny without crossing any boundaries.
Both Penny and Shapiro had feelings for each other but Shapiro needed to wait until he knew Penny had healed from what went on with her before. He did not want to cause any extra stress to her life and it was awesome.
So I never saw the twist coming but I can totally understand it now with certain hints!!
The end was awesome with the bakery and I am excited for more from this author!
Shapiro knows he has to stay away from Penny as she needs time to heal from the abuse she suffered under Tyler. Yet when Penny doesn't show up for Mama Ang's funeral, Shapiro knows something must have happened.
When Shapiro learns what has happened to Penny again will he continue to support her and keep her safe? When the two of them start receiving threatening notes will Shapiro be able to find Tyler before he gets to Penny again?
This was such a great read!
My heart broke for Penny with what she went through before getting to Mama Ang and then it killed me to see what happened next. I was glad that Shapiro was able to get to her again but I was so frustrated!
Shapiro was absolutely awesome and just so kind underneath his hard exterior. He wanted to make sure that Penny was safe and was going to do whatever it took. I loved how he tried to bring so much happiness to Penny without crossing any boundaries.
Both Penny and Shapiro had feelings for each other but Shapiro needed to wait until he knew Penny had healed from what went on with her before. He did not want to cause any extra stress to her life and it was awesome.
So I never saw the twist coming but I can totally understand it now with certain hints!!
The end was awesome with the bakery and I am excited for more from this author!
September 18, 2018
After years of abuse, Penny was finally leaving her boyfriend Tyler with the help of her sister Niki and her fiancee. Penny didn't know who she was anymore. She just wanted a normal life. But could she after the threats Tyler had made as she was leaving?
Once safely in the hands of Shapiro, her protector, he took her to Mama Ang so she could help Penny rebuild her life. Thus he convinced himself to move on and try to forget about Penny.
Mama Ang is one colorful and delightful character. She and Penny became close. The Bakery Bandit and the Bakery Buddy.
Evil is lurking in the shadows stalking its prey. Is Penny or Shapiro the prey?
Will Penny rekindle her relationship with Tyler?
Shapiro is a protector who could make any woman swoon. Loved the ending!
Protect Me hit close to home. Once a victim of an abuser, it's hard to become a survivor but with the support of others, you find the courage to face the world head on making you a stronger person. Some of us are lucky and escape our abuser. Even though the victim seeks out counseling and support, rarely does an abuser. I'm glad Cary Hart touched that subject.
I love this series. The characters are flawless. The plot was brilliant.
Once safely in the hands of Shapiro, her protector, he took her to Mama Ang so she could help Penny rebuild her life. Thus he convinced himself to move on and try to forget about Penny.
Mama Ang is one colorful and delightful character. She and Penny became close. The Bakery Bandit and the Bakery Buddy.
Evil is lurking in the shadows stalking its prey. Is Penny or Shapiro the prey?
Will Penny rekindle her relationship with Tyler?
Shapiro is a protector who could make any woman swoon. Loved the ending!
Protect Me hit close to home. Once a victim of an abuser, it's hard to become a survivor but with the support of others, you find the courage to face the world head on making you a stronger person. Some of us are lucky and escape our abuser. Even though the victim seeks out counseling and support, rarely does an abuser. I'm glad Cary Hart touched that subject.
I love this series. The characters are flawless. The plot was brilliant.
September 17, 2018
Protect me by Cary Hart
“Starting over, 4 stars”
Penny is on her way out of a horrible abusive relationship thanks to some friends and Shapiro. Thanks to them she finds a friend who ends up like a mother to her. Then she falls back into that abusive relationship and finds herself needing help once again. Shapiro is there for her all the way and along the way she starts to develop feelings for her guardian angel. Does he feel it too?
Shapiro has wanted Penny from the moment he met her, but he knew she needed time to get over/past her past. Then the unthinkable happens, he finds out she went back and needs his help again. Will he be able to set his feelings for her aside and help her? Or will he show her he’s the right one for her?
These two were super sweet and Protect Me is the perfect title because there is no denying the fact that Shapiro is a protector. The story was really good and went by fast. Even with the heavy topic in it Hart still managed to keep it fairly light. I enjoyed these two and you may too.
Plot-4/5
Characters-4/5
Heat-4/5
Writing style-4/5
Overall-4/5
“Starting over, 4 stars”
Penny is on her way out of a horrible abusive relationship thanks to some friends and Shapiro. Thanks to them she finds a friend who ends up like a mother to her. Then she falls back into that abusive relationship and finds herself needing help once again. Shapiro is there for her all the way and along the way she starts to develop feelings for her guardian angel. Does he feel it too?
Shapiro has wanted Penny from the moment he met her, but he knew she needed time to get over/past her past. Then the unthinkable happens, he finds out she went back and needs his help again. Will he be able to set his feelings for her aside and help her? Or will he show her he’s the right one for her?
These two were super sweet and Protect Me is the perfect title because there is no denying the fact that Shapiro is a protector. The story was really good and went by fast. Even with the heavy topic in it Hart still managed to keep it fairly light. I enjoyed these two and you may too.
Plot-4/5
Characters-4/5
Heat-4/5
Writing style-4/5
Overall-4/5
September 21, 2018
Protect Me by Cary Hart was a fast paced read surrounding the touchy topic of abuse & rising above your past. With the support of her friends Penny decides to leave her abusive/toxic relationship and they bring her to Shapiro the man who is going to help her disappear. Penny immediately knows Shapiro will keep her safe. When she is dropped off with Mama Ang she doesn't know when or if she'll see Shapiro again but is ready to take the chance to heal. After a series of traumatic events over a bit of a time hop (which was a bit confusing if I'm being honest)..We find Penny in the hospital and Shapiro stepping up again to keep her safe. The connection between these two is immediate but is it too soon? Can Penny move on from her abusive relationship for good and see what's right in front of her? Will Shapiro finally admit his true feelings and protect Penny? Pour yourself a glass of Kool-Aid, Read Protect Me & Find Out 💋
***ARC provided in exchange for an honest review- Megan/Scandalous Book Blog***
***ARC provided in exchange for an honest review- Megan/Scandalous Book Blog***
September 26, 2018
Tender and Triumphant
Protect Me is a beautiful love story about forgiving yourself and finding joy. Penny and Sharipo engage in a deep friendship that builds and blossoms. The banter and empathy between them is exceptional. Theirs is a slow burning passion that culminates into reverence and pleasure and love.
Penny is lost in the beginning. A shell of herself. She is given a chance to start over and try to rebuild her life. She meets Mama Ang who is a strong, comforting force of hope. As she starts to gain confidence and move forward, her past pulls her back. The consequences are brutal and leave her in shambles. Shapiro is front and center in trying to help her pick up the pieces.
Shapiro is strong and gentle. Intense and considerate. Protective and supportive. I fell for him hard! He is enlisted to help protect Penny. The connection he feels towards Penny is magnetic and he is determined to help her flourish. However, Shapiro is harboring a secret from his past. One that threatens not only himself but Penny too.
Penny and Shapiro must fight both internal and external battles. They have to build trust within themselves and with each other. There are some wonderful moments of intimacy and vulnerability between them. I laughed and cried and felt their yearning. If I have a complaint, it is that I felt a conflict in the story was resolved too neatly and quickly for my taste. I wanted more drama and/or depth to the resolution. Protect Me will pull you in and wrap you up tight in its embrace.
Protect Me is a beautiful love story about forgiving yourself and finding joy. Penny and Sharipo engage in a deep friendship that builds and blossoms. The banter and empathy between them is exceptional. Theirs is a slow burning passion that culminates into reverence and pleasure and love.
Penny is lost in the beginning. A shell of herself. She is given a chance to start over and try to rebuild her life. She meets Mama Ang who is a strong, comforting force of hope. As she starts to gain confidence and move forward, her past pulls her back. The consequences are brutal and leave her in shambles. Shapiro is front and center in trying to help her pick up the pieces.
Shapiro is strong and gentle. Intense and considerate. Protective and supportive. I fell for him hard! He is enlisted to help protect Penny. The connection he feels towards Penny is magnetic and he is determined to help her flourish. However, Shapiro is harboring a secret from his past. One that threatens not only himself but Penny too.
Penny and Shapiro must fight both internal and external battles. They have to build trust within themselves and with each other. There are some wonderful moments of intimacy and vulnerability between them. I laughed and cried and felt their yearning. If I have a complaint, it is that I felt a conflict in the story was resolved too neatly and quickly for my taste. I wanted more drama and/or depth to the resolution. Protect Me will pull you in and wrap you up tight in its embrace.
October 1, 2018
Book 2 of the Spotlight series. This can be read as a standalone but i would read Play Me too. I couldn't put this book down once I started reading. The characters in this book are all written. Penny comes from an emotionally abusive relationship with her long time boyfriend. She finally escapes him and meets Shapiro, well works at spotlight. He takes her to someplace safe which is Mama Ang. There she starts building her life until she passes and finds herself back to the one person she escaped from. When she lands in serious harm, Shapiro is there once again to protect her. They build a great friendship through Kool-Aid and Greys tv series. Penny is a beautiful, broken woman trying to find her normal. Shapiro is handsome, built, and a protector. He is also hiding his own secrets that could threaten to take the one happiness that he had finally found. Will these two survive the outcome of what's to come. I enjoyed reading this and would recommend it.
September 20, 2018
I'm absolutely in love with this couple and their story! This story deals with a painful issue that is so prevalent that most people know someone who has been affected. From the very beginning I found myself excited for what was to come. Shapiro and Penny begin their bond through the mutual love of another wonderful character who is his aunt. I loved her character and wish so much that she was a real part of my life. The love story began with some angst but the author timed each new level of their relationship perfectly. Every emotion is felt while reading the words and to me that always means a truly enjoyable book. By the end, my heart felt lighter and I had happy tears in my eyes. I was so proud of the strength that Penny found and the dance that Shapiro chose to be a part of. This will definitely be a story I return to often.
September 21, 2018
This book was amazing, one of the main characters, Penny just didn’t really have anyone to show her love growing up and then finds herself in a really abusive relationship with her boyfriend Tyler. Penny’s friend helps her to escape the abuse and ends up getting help from Sharpiro who wants to Protect her and keep her safe from her ex-boyfriend Tyler. Sharpiro with his obsession for Kool-aid, muffins and his Mama Ang will leave you wanting him all the more. The story has a twist and makes it very hard to put down because as a reader you will just want more and more. I was working 12+ hour days when I started reading this story which made it hard for me to read in one day. This is a must read. Hope you enjoy it as must as I have. Thank you Cary Hart for sharing your amazing talent with all us readers.
September 17, 2018
Penny is finally leaving an unhealthy relationship that she had been in for 5 yrs. With the help of friends she finds the courage to try for a better life. Shapiro is one of the people helping her during this process. He feels drawn to her but knows she is not ready for a new relationship. After some time has passed and due to some bad decisions that were made, Shapiro steps in again to help Penny. Will her ex continue to cause her issues? Shapiro needs to do what he can to keep her safe but is he now becoming overly protective? Can she trust another man after being held down by her ex for so long? Will Penny get a happily ever after or will her world continue to be unacceptably controlled?
September 17, 2018
It was an interesting story. Shapiro shelters Penny for one night and only realizes too late that she is the one for him. Penny has an abusive boyfriend that she has run from and some friends and Shapiro help Penny by sending her to family. Shapiro stays away and the unthinkable happens, actually more than one thing. Penny is back, but at what cost to herself. Kool-aid is awesome as well as Grey's! The stalker is not revealed until the end but it was not really clear what happened to him. Penny's dream is realized and she didn't even know she had a dream. It was a very special journey the Penny and Shapiro went on and I thoroughly enjoyed the story.
I received this advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received this advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 21, 2018
I could not put this book down - not even when my Kindle died and I had to use the app on my phone. Penny and Shapiro were meant to be together. Too bad it took Shapiro a while to figure it out. In that time, Penny faced hardships no one should have to face alone. Thank goodness Shapiro got his act together and helped Penny so that she could recover and see that they were meant for each other. I went through all the "feels" with this one. I even bought baked goods, shared a little, and looked for Kool-Aid at the store. I am sad that I didn't find any packets of Kool-Aid - I really wanted some grape. :) Thank you, Cary Hart, for another great book. I can't wait to read the next one.
September 18, 2018
Very enjoyable read. Shapiro through when the it comes to protecting Penny from her ex- boyfriend. I felt at times he was a little to overbearing when it came to keeping her safe. Penny starts to come alive and out of the shell she has created for herself , when she meets Mama Ang. Mama Ang is like the cool grandmother Penny never had , I smiled so much when I read about Penny and her baking .Shapiro has two addictions , special koolaid and Penny's kisses. Penny 's addiction quickly becomes Shapiro and of course baking . I started and didn't want to put the book down. I can't wait to see what is next for the author.
September 20, 2018
4.5 swoon-tastic stars.
Protect Me is the second book in the ‘Spotlight Collection’ series by Cary Hart. It features Penny whom we met in book 1, Play Me, and Shapiro, the man who will bring her out of the darkness her abusive husband has held her in for so long.
This was such a great read, Shapiro made a few mistakes to begin with but when faced with the results he vows to make it right… and he will. There’s some suspense, love and laughter and just living life to the fullest. Shapiro will make you swoon with how he gets this emotionally damaged woman back to how she should be. Singing, dancing and baking up a storm.
These two made a wonderful sweet and sexy couple. Loved them both.
Protect Me is the second book in the ‘Spotlight Collection’ series by Cary Hart. It features Penny whom we met in book 1, Play Me, and Shapiro, the man who will bring her out of the darkness her abusive husband has held her in for so long.
This was such a great read, Shapiro made a few mistakes to begin with but when faced with the results he vows to make it right… and he will. There’s some suspense, love and laughter and just living life to the fullest. Shapiro will make you swoon with how he gets this emotionally damaged woman back to how she should be. Singing, dancing and baking up a storm.
These two made a wonderful sweet and sexy couple. Loved them both.
September 21, 2018
Meet Shapiro. He has this tough protective, but sensitive, nature to him. You can’t help but want him to wrap his arms around you and never let go. He might even let you try some of his Kool-aid if you’re lucky!!
Then there’s Penny. She is a lost soul looking for the way back to the light at the end of the tunnel. After everything she’s been through, she needs to find herself again and Shapiro just might be the way to do that.
Nikki and Nina are back with some great antics! These sisters crack me up!
Great edition to the Spotlight world that the author has created! I love that this book has a serious tone to it but still has the comedy and sexiness that I love about these books!
Then there’s Penny. She is a lost soul looking for the way back to the light at the end of the tunnel. After everything she’s been through, she needs to find herself again and Shapiro just might be the way to do that.
Nikki and Nina are back with some great antics! These sisters crack me up!
Great edition to the Spotlight world that the author has created! I love that this book has a serious tone to it but still has the comedy and sexiness that I love about these books!
October 2, 2018
OMG!!!!!! This book was everything and more! I absolutely floved Penny and Shapiro's story! Their chemistry was absolutely stunning to read! Penny being a broken girl gets brought to Shapiro for help and protection. What neither of them expected while she recuperated was finding love with each other. Their love was sweet and enduring to read and see blossom into something so incredible! This story melted my heart something fierce. And I developed a major love for Shapiro! Ahh swoon. Amazingly job Cary! Amazingly done!. I can't wait to read what's in store next.
September 21, 2018
Protect me is book 2 in the Spotlight Series, but can be read as a standalone. I love discover new authors and this is my first read by Cary Hart and it will not be my last.
Once I started the story, I did not want to put it down. I was captured from the very beginning and I loved watching Shapiro and Penny’s journey unfold. Their story is full of heartache, loss, tragedy and learning to overcome. Shapiro has come home after being away for five years, but he is not the same as he left.
This is a must read! I loved watching Penny grow and fight for Shapiro.
Once I started the story, I did not want to put it down. I was captured from the very beginning and I loved watching Shapiro and Penny’s journey unfold. Their story is full of heartache, loss, tragedy and learning to overcome. Shapiro has come home after being away for five years, but he is not the same as he left.
This is a must read! I loved watching Penny grow and fight for Shapiro.
September 17, 2018
This story really hit home for me. In so many ways it reminded me of my life. The ups and downs and the feeling of "Not Being Worthy" of any good. Cary Hart was able to tell this story with so much heart and soul, you actually feel what is going on and understand it completely.
Shapiro is One in a Million, to support and protect Penny thru it all. Reminds me of someone I Love Deeply..
Beautifully written Cary Hart.
Shapiro is One in a Million, to support and protect Penny thru it all. Reminds me of someone I Love Deeply..
Beautifully written Cary Hart.
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