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Haven Ward only had one job as a personal bodyguard - keep Mackenzie Stiles alive and unharmed.
After making a monumental mistake, his billionaire boss is livid and ready to send him packing. Haven begs Mr. Stiles for a second chance to prove himself; and surprisingly enough, he gives him one...with one small catch.
Befriending Mr. Stiles' shy, recluse daughter seems like a piece of cake especially since Haven needs his job to provide for the people depending on him.
Mackenzie is a beautiful girl with an ugly darkness in her that Haven slowly begins to unravel. As he helps her slay her demons, she becomes an irresistible force he can't resist.
Despite the consequences, Haven believes Mackenzie was always meant to be his to protect. He'll do anything to be with her, even come clean to his boss about their relationship.
When Mackenzie finds out her father paid Haven to be her friend, the betrayal has her questioning every second with the man she thought loved her, sending her spiraling out of control.
In the end, Haven realizes too late that no matter how hard he tries, there's nothing he can do to keep Mackenzie safe from herself.
But that doesn't stop him from risking his life to save hers.
Haven can be read as a standalone, however it includes characters first mentioned in Alex (Cocky Cage Fighter, Book 9).
Warning: The characters in this fictional story struggle with serious emotional issues like depression and suicide which could be a trigger for individuals who have experienced similar situations.
After making a monumental mistake, his billionaire boss is livid and ready to send him packing. Haven begs Mr. Stiles for a second chance to prove himself; and surprisingly enough, he gives him one...with one small catch.
Befriending Mr. Stiles' shy, recluse daughter seems like a piece of cake especially since Haven needs his job to provide for the people depending on him.
Mackenzie is a beautiful girl with an ugly darkness in her that Haven slowly begins to unravel. As he helps her slay her demons, she becomes an irresistible force he can't resist.
Despite the consequences, Haven believes Mackenzie was always meant to be his to protect. He'll do anything to be with her, even come clean to his boss about their relationship.
When Mackenzie finds out her father paid Haven to be her friend, the betrayal has her questioning every second with the man she thought loved her, sending her spiraling out of control.
In the end, Haven realizes too late that no matter how hard he tries, there's nothing he can do to keep Mackenzie safe from herself.
But that doesn't stop him from risking his life to save hers.
Haven can be read as a standalone, however it includes characters first mentioned in Alex (Cocky Cage Fighter, Book 9).
Warning: The characters in this fictional story struggle with serious emotional issues like depression and suicide which could be a trigger for individuals who have experienced similar situations.
208 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 15, 2019
85 people are currently reading
238 people want to read
About the author
Lane Hart
138 books1,779 followersLane Hart is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author. She lives in North Carolina with her husband, D.B. West, and their two children. She loves all things beach related, especially sea turtles, and is a huge fan of the Carolina Panthers.
Connect with Lane:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WritingfromHart
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/lanehartbooks
Website: https://www.authorlanehart.com/
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Connect with Lane:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WritingfromHart
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/lanehartbooks
Website: https://www.authorlanehart.com/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/lane-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
July 4, 2019
Sexy bodyguard
Oh my God this book is so good. I adore lane Hart and her books are so hot and steamy. I loved Haven Ward as a bodyguard . The sex was amazing and very dirty.
Oh my God this book is so good. I adore lane Hart and her books are so hot and steamy. I loved Haven Ward as a bodyguard . The sex was amazing and very dirty.
June 15, 2019
Lane once again has given us a story that pulled me in from the very beginning and had me devouring this book in hours. Haven is the sexy as sin bodyguard asigned to Mackenzie, billionaires daughter who can't be trusted to be alone. Haven's assignment, befriend the recluse...Mackenzie; however, what happens when it becomes more than friends? The bond, the chemistry, the love these two form with one another was breathtakingly beautiful and a story that must be read.
June 1, 2019
All of the books in the Cocky Cage Fighters Series have been amazing, so I was excited to read this spin-off story. This book is about Alex's sister, Mackenzie, and her bodyguard, Haven. Mackenzie is a sad, solitary young lady who avoids people and rarely leaves her home, but things begin to change for her when Haven Ward gets assigned to her. He coaxes and encourages her to get out and start enjoying life. As their relationship develops, they're careful to keep it a secret from Mackenzie’s father. He's already kicked Alex out, so what will happen to Haven if her father finds out?
If you enjoyed Hart's cocky cage fighters, you’ll adore Haven because he's cut from the same cloth – big, strong, protective and tough with a gooey marshmallow heart. Mackenzie may be rich and privileged, but she has challenges and issues that she comes by honestly, and Haven is so amazing with her. I loved these two together and enjoyed every minute of their story.
Hart covers some tough subjects in this book, but she does so carefully and realistically, leaving the reader with the message that anyone can find love, flaws and all. We don’t have to be perfect, but perfect for that special someone. This was a quick read for me, and over far too soon, and I can’t wait to see what comes next in this series!
*I reviewed an advance copy of this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
If you enjoyed Hart's cocky cage fighters, you’ll adore Haven because he's cut from the same cloth – big, strong, protective and tough with a gooey marshmallow heart. Mackenzie may be rich and privileged, but she has challenges and issues that she comes by honestly, and Haven is so amazing with her. I loved these two together and enjoyed every minute of their story.
Hart covers some tough subjects in this book, but she does so carefully and realistically, leaving the reader with the message that anyone can find love, flaws and all. We don’t have to be perfect, but perfect for that special someone. This was a quick read for me, and over far too soon, and I can’t wait to see what comes next in this series!
*I reviewed an advance copy of this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
May 30, 2019
This is an exceptional book, Lane Hart is an amazing author that keeps surprising me with her books! Haven is a bodyguard hired to protect Mackenzie and keep her safe. They both have secrets they don’t want to share. This book has a hard fought for HEA! A definite must read!
June 14, 2019
What and awesome story and I throughly enjoyed it from beginning to end.The story was fun and flirty and funny and had amazing "oh," so love-able characters.
We loved the fun and flirty Haven who was sexy and all alpha. We loved his flirtatious nature and his crude sexy talk and demanding ways.We loved how cute he was always walking around with a constant hard on whenever he was around Mackenzie as his uneasiness made us constantly laugh out loud as his facial expressions were priceless!
Mackenzie was a complicated character who was suffering with her mental stability but, being around Haven has her coming out of her shell and slowly finding ways at being happy.Mack also could be fun and flirty and we loved seeing her that way because she has been in such a dark place for so long and it was so nice to see some lightness surround her we also loved that she was generous and kind and we loved how she teased her big brother.
What a cute love story that was built on friendship but, turned into something so much more.Haven and Mack were super hot in and out of bed together and they made one adorable couple.The story also had a serious tone to it as well because no matter how things were going for Mackenzie her father and Haven constantly worried about her mental state. Haven was getting to know Mack's well enough to know her tells and how she dealt with certain things and he was slowly finding out what made her tick hoping to be their when she needed him most.
Overall it was a heart felt tale that kept us interested and turning the pages.We loved that Mack found solace and love in the arms of her sexy hot bodyguard and the way the author ended the story seemed to be this couple fate whether it was good or bad it was theirs to conquer.
definitely swoon worthy...
5 stars from us
We loved the fun and flirty Haven who was sexy and all alpha. We loved his flirtatious nature and his crude sexy talk and demanding ways.We loved how cute he was always walking around with a constant hard on whenever he was around Mackenzie as his uneasiness made us constantly laugh out loud as his facial expressions were priceless!
Mackenzie was a complicated character who was suffering with her mental stability but, being around Haven has her coming out of her shell and slowly finding ways at being happy.Mack also could be fun and flirty and we loved seeing her that way because she has been in such a dark place for so long and it was so nice to see some lightness surround her we also loved that she was generous and kind and we loved how she teased her big brother.
What a cute love story that was built on friendship but, turned into something so much more.Haven and Mack were super hot in and out of bed together and they made one adorable couple.The story also had a serious tone to it as well because no matter how things were going for Mackenzie her father and Haven constantly worried about her mental state. Haven was getting to know Mack's well enough to know her tells and how she dealt with certain things and he was slowly finding out what made her tick hoping to be their when she needed him most.
Overall it was a heart felt tale that kept us interested and turning the pages.We loved that Mack found solace and love in the arms of her sexy hot bodyguard and the way the author ended the story seemed to be this couple fate whether it was good or bad it was theirs to conquer.
definitely swoon worthy...
5 stars from us
Want to read
December 11, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (12/11/2020)! 🎁
June 17, 2019
It's always an amazing feeling to have a new book from one of your favorite authors to read and it's the cherry on top of that cake having a book from a series that you truly love. Right?
Of course, I'm right... I mean to me I'm always right... But shhh, don't tell that to anyone because I don't want to sound too cocky... Lol
Lane Hart is this spectacular author that I'm talking about. The first book I've ever read from her was the first book from this series and girls? Guess what? After 9 books from this series and a Christmas boom she now has a Spin-off novel... Can I be happier?
Her writing is so freaking amazing that it doesn't matter which theme she chooses to write about... What matters the most is her ability to hook me up every single time...
Just like I said, Heaven is her latest release and it's a spin-off novel from the Cocky Cage fighter series... And what a series...
This new book explores the lifestyle of Haven and Mackenzie...
Haven is a personal bodyguard that scored the job of keeping Mackenzie alive and unharmed... But will he be protected?
Mackenzie has become a prisoner at her own home. She had endured so much that huffing is the best way to heal but can she?
When a mysterious man wants to befriend her, she can't quite understand it but when she sees that her father is behind...
I'm so in love right now... So happy.
This hook was perfect and so intense that made me devour it in one night...
Superb plot, very well written, super engaging and intense.
It was a story that I was waiting for so long and didn't disappoint. It was real, a perfect story that portrayed real situations we facebook daily basis... It was perfect.
Once I started to read it I simply couldn't put it down. I wanted to hold them, to promise better days.
And Jesus... The hot stuff is insane...
Dayum Lane Hart... Dayum woman... I'm so in love with this series and I can't wait for the next one...
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Of course, I'm right... I mean to me I'm always right... But shhh, don't tell that to anyone because I don't want to sound too cocky... Lol
Lane Hart is this spectacular author that I'm talking about. The first book I've ever read from her was the first book from this series and girls? Guess what? After 9 books from this series and a Christmas boom she now has a Spin-off novel... Can I be happier?
Her writing is so freaking amazing that it doesn't matter which theme she chooses to write about... What matters the most is her ability to hook me up every single time...
Just like I said, Heaven is her latest release and it's a spin-off novel from the Cocky Cage fighter series... And what a series...
This new book explores the lifestyle of Haven and Mackenzie...
Haven is a personal bodyguard that scored the job of keeping Mackenzie alive and unharmed... But will he be protected?
Mackenzie has become a prisoner at her own home. She had endured so much that huffing is the best way to heal but can she?
When a mysterious man wants to befriend her, she can't quite understand it but when she sees that her father is behind...
I'm so in love right now... So happy.
This hook was perfect and so intense that made me devour it in one night...
Superb plot, very well written, super engaging and intense.
It was a story that I was waiting for so long and didn't disappoint. It was real, a perfect story that portrayed real situations we facebook daily basis... It was perfect.
Once I started to read it I simply couldn't put it down. I wanted to hold them, to promise better days.
And Jesus... The hot stuff is insane...
Dayum Lane Hart... Dayum woman... I'm so in love with this series and I can't wait for the next one...
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
January 11, 2022
Argggh ... I had high hopes! The blurb was enticing and I went for it.
Alas, this book did not deliver.
Honest, I tried to like it, I kept on reading hoping things would pick up.
Although, I loved the h's character immensely - one that could be further explored, I did not feel the same for the H. He was supposed to be this big, tall, hot, handsome bodyguard.
I was hoping his character would match his appearance; aloof, distant, arrogant and rough.
Instead, he was this sweet guy who was lusting after his boss' daughter from the get go.
I mean, I loved some mystery (from the guy's perspective) - let the readers be kept guessing how the guy felt.
So, uhmm, no.
I did not finish this book. It felt like I was reading a bunch of teenage kids who were dating behind their parents. It was a bit childish.
Alas, this book did not deliver.
Honest, I tried to like it, I kept on reading hoping things would pick up.
Although, I loved the h's character immensely - one that could be further explored, I did not feel the same for the H. He was supposed to be this big, tall, hot, handsome bodyguard.
I was hoping his character would match his appearance; aloof, distant, arrogant and rough.
Instead, he was this sweet guy who was lusting after his boss' daughter from the get go.
I mean, I loved some mystery (from the guy's perspective) - let the readers be kept guessing how the guy felt.
So, uhmm, no.
I did not finish this book. It felt like I was reading a bunch of teenage kids who were dating behind their parents. It was a bit childish.
June 8, 2019
Haven is Mackenzie’s bodyguard, a tricky job at best. When he is asked to become her friend it becomes even harder. He soon realizes he’s there for Mackenzie for far more than just his pay check. They begin to get closer than friendly and Haven truly believes he feels a connection to Mackenzie and decides to tell her but something always happens. Will Haven be able to save Mackenzie and the day before it’s too late?
I liked how their relationship grew and matured. A great read!
I liked how their relationship grew and matured. A great read!
September 6, 2019
This was a great story and was very entertaining. Once I started I could not put it down. The chemistry between the hero and heroine is sizzling hot. I would recommend this to anyone that loves a great love story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 14, 2019
This book was really good. It's a book with a mean character that deals with mental health issues. I really liked that. It's not something you read a lot about. It was really well written.
February 20, 2022
The couple: Haven and Mackenzie
Romance genre: bodyguard
Series: Cocky Cage Fighter
Length: 208 pages
Plot: Haven is a bodyguard doing a job for the ridiculously wealthy Mr. Stiles. Normally, he guards the son, but for plot reasons, he has to guard the daughter now. Mackenzie is beautiful and sweet, but troubled. In the past, she has tried to commit suicide, and so part of Haven's duties is to watch her carefully so that she doesn't have the chance to harm herself again. Haven wasn't aware of just how difficult that would be, and makes some missteps along the way, but they also become closer, and start a relationship. Even though Mackenzie feels better when she is with Haven, he isn't a cure-all for her mental health issues, and it takes a while for everyone to realize that something more needs to happen.
Commentary: I really enjoyed this book. Haven is a like a lot of us - part of the life of someone with a serious mental health issue, while not fully understanding that issue. That's honest life right there. He didn't think about Mackenzie hurting herself because she seemed like everything was okay. Then it wasn't. He loved her though, and I appreciated that in the epilogue, he referenced how it wasn't easy. That made their HEA even sweeter.
Previous book in the series: Logan
Next book in the series:
Romance genre: bodyguard
Series: Cocky Cage Fighter
Length: 208 pages
Plot: Haven is a bodyguard doing a job for the ridiculously wealthy Mr. Stiles. Normally, he guards the son, but for plot reasons, he has to guard the daughter now. Mackenzie is beautiful and sweet, but troubled. In the past, she has tried to commit suicide, and so part of Haven's duties is to watch her carefully so that she doesn't have the chance to harm herself again. Haven wasn't aware of just how difficult that would be, and makes some missteps along the way, but they also become closer, and start a relationship. Even though Mackenzie feels better when she is with Haven, he isn't a cure-all for her mental health issues, and it takes a while for everyone to realize that something more needs to happen.
Commentary: I really enjoyed this book. Haven is a like a lot of us - part of the life of someone with a serious mental health issue, while not fully understanding that issue. That's honest life right there. He didn't think about Mackenzie hurting herself because she seemed like everything was okay. Then it wasn't. He loved her though, and I appreciated that in the epilogue, he referenced how it wasn't easy. That made their HEA even sweeter.
Previous book in the series: Logan
Next book in the series:
December 30, 2022
2+ It was OK, but not enough to really round up.
Haven (H) is a bodyguard assigned to Mackenzie (h), his employer's shut-in daughter. She deals with depression and suicidal thoughts, and part of Haven's job is protecting her from herself as much as from outside threats. In fact, his employer asks him to become her friend as part of his job. But of course, there's lots of sexual tension, leading to our stars sneaking around and eventually becoming much more than just employer/employee as Haven brings Mack into the larger world.
Basically, I thought it was a good premise that never really lived up to the potential. Haven and Mack (especially Mack, though she is just 21ish) are really juvenile. Their entire relationship is sex-based and sneaking around behind her father's and his bosses' backs. And while yes, she's a very young shut in, with no friends and no education... she's still ridiculously out of touch with reality. The way she acts when they visit her brother, the gift to Haven's family, and the way she talks to her brother's potential girlfriend when she comes to visit... just tone deaf and out of touch. While she's not malicious or bitchy or TSTL, any of those characteristics that will turn me off a character right away, I just found myself rolling my eyes a lot at her behavior. Add to that the age and experience differences, it made the relationship seem extra sex-driven with not much else to it.
The ending... oh dear. Just heavy handed and OTT angsty and melodramatic for my taste ()
As for the mental health issues. Yes, there is a TW label for depression and suicide and mental health issues faced by the characters. And it's warranted. She really is dealing with a lot. But it could have been a much better treatment of mental health issues and coming to terms with things. And I say this as someone who's dealing with depression and mental health care herself - I love seeing it treated well in fiction (continue the conversation, help normalize good mental health care, all that good stuff). It fell short here. Mackenzie was just - as mentioned in the spoiler above - self-medicating with orgasms rather than actually dealing with things for the majority of the book. Her father keeps secrets that would affect his daughter's health based on family history of mental illness. Really, no one is trying to actually take care of her. I did like in the epilogue that she got treatment, but that it was still an ongoing process, that she still had good and bad days and wasn't simply "cured."
Alternating 3rd person POV. No OW or OM drama. No love triangles. Technical cheating - he's married to his former (widowed) SIL so that she can keep health benefits for his nephews following his brother's death. They've never hooked up, so no love triangle nonsense, but on paper, it is cheating. So, depending on your threshold... Decent set-up and well written, but rather immature characters left me feeling flat overall on their romance. HEA with an epilogue a few months down the road.
Would I read more in this series/by this author? Maybe. The writing wasn't bad, so I might enjoy different characters as the focus instead. I'll see if another pops up as a free Kindle find.
Haven (H) is a bodyguard assigned to Mackenzie (h), his employer's shut-in daughter. She deals with depression and suicidal thoughts, and part of Haven's job is protecting her from herself as much as from outside threats. In fact, his employer asks him to become her friend as part of his job. But of course, there's lots of sexual tension, leading to our stars sneaking around and eventually becoming much more than just employer/employee as Haven brings Mack into the larger world.
Basically, I thought it was a good premise that never really lived up to the potential. Haven and Mack (especially Mack, though she is just 21ish) are really juvenile. Their entire relationship is sex-based and sneaking around behind her father's and his bosses' backs. And while yes, she's a very young shut in, with no friends and no education... she's still ridiculously out of touch with reality. The way she acts when they visit her brother, the gift to Haven's family, and the way she talks to her brother's potential girlfriend when she comes to visit... just tone deaf and out of touch. While she's not malicious or bitchy or TSTL, any of those characteristics that will turn me off a character right away, I just found myself rolling my eyes a lot at her behavior. Add to that the age and experience differences, it made the relationship seem extra sex-driven with not much else to it.
The ending... oh dear. Just heavy handed and OTT angsty and melodramatic for my taste ()
As for the mental health issues. Yes, there is a TW label for depression and suicide and mental health issues faced by the characters. And it's warranted. She really is dealing with a lot. But it could have been a much better treatment of mental health issues and coming to terms with things. And I say this as someone who's dealing with depression and mental health care herself - I love seeing it treated well in fiction (continue the conversation, help normalize good mental health care, all that good stuff). It fell short here. Mackenzie was just - as mentioned in the spoiler above - self-medicating with orgasms rather than actually dealing with things for the majority of the book. Her father keeps secrets that would affect his daughter's health based on family history of mental illness. Really, no one is trying to actually take care of her. I did like in the epilogue that she got treatment, but that it was still an ongoing process, that she still had good and bad days and wasn't simply "cured."
Alternating 3rd person POV. No OW or OM drama. No love triangles. Technical cheating - he's married to his former (widowed) SIL so that she can keep health benefits for his nephews following his brother's death. They've never hooked up, so no love triangle nonsense, but on paper, it is cheating. So, depending on your threshold... Decent set-up and well written, but rather immature characters left me feeling flat overall on their romance. HEA with an epilogue a few months down the road.
Would I read more in this series/by this author? Maybe. The writing wasn't bad, so I might enjoy different characters as the focus instead. I'll see if another pops up as a free Kindle find.
June 2, 2019
Haven Ward knows that he shouldn't look at his billionaire employer's daughter Mackenzie "that way," but as he gets to know this troubled girl, he just can't help himself.
Mackenzie has been living the life of a hermit - clinically depressed, she stays in her room and has withdrawn from most activities that she used to enjoy. When her brother leaves home, Haven is reassigned as her bodyguard. Forced into close proximity, Haven has trouble reconciling the girl he meets with the depressed and suicidal woman described by her father.
A two-dimensional character earlier in the Cocky Cage Fighter series, when Haven becomes his own fully imagined character, the reader finds him to be loyal, devoted and quite the alpha male. He will do anything to protect his Mackenzie, whether that is from himself or from her own inner demons.
The chemistry between Haven and Mackenzie is explosive, with Haven putting Mackenzie's well-being above his own desires. As he begins to see how thoroughly she has secreted herself away, Haven makes it his priority to help Mackenzie reenter the world. Their evolving relationship is a joyous read as Mackenzie begins to come out of her shell and try new things. Her struggles with her mental illness may be a trigger for some readers, however.
An enjoyable extension to the Cocky Cage Fighters series, four stars for Haven and Mackenzie's story.
This is an honest, voluntary review of an ARC of the story.
Mackenzie has been living the life of a hermit - clinically depressed, she stays in her room and has withdrawn from most activities that she used to enjoy. When her brother leaves home, Haven is reassigned as her bodyguard. Forced into close proximity, Haven has trouble reconciling the girl he meets with the depressed and suicidal woman described by her father.
A two-dimensional character earlier in the Cocky Cage Fighter series, when Haven becomes his own fully imagined character, the reader finds him to be loyal, devoted and quite the alpha male. He will do anything to protect his Mackenzie, whether that is from himself or from her own inner demons.
The chemistry between Haven and Mackenzie is explosive, with Haven putting Mackenzie's well-being above his own desires. As he begins to see how thoroughly she has secreted herself away, Haven makes it his priority to help Mackenzie reenter the world. Their evolving relationship is a joyous read as Mackenzie begins to come out of her shell and try new things. Her struggles with her mental illness may be a trigger for some readers, however.
An enjoyable extension to the Cocky Cage Fighters series, four stars for Haven and Mackenzie's story.
This is an honest, voluntary review of an ARC of the story.
June 18, 2019
The art of being a bodyguard
North Carolina author Lane Hart is a prolific erotica writer with over forty-five steamy stories that have a committed following. Lane draws from her background - a Masters in Criminal Justice and having spent ten years working as a paralegal for a criminal defense attorney – to keep her stories gritty. Her range of topics is extensive – from paranormal to her favored martial arts and football players to cops to vampires – and in this book she manages to focus on sports. She is married to fellow author D.B. West.
Lane has a talent for character development, not a trait we often see in erotica writers. While the theme for this novel – the 12th installment in her Cocky Cage Fighter Series – has been in other novels (complicated hired bodyguard for a person of complex background, i.e. family), in Lane’s hands the story becomes more credible. She is comfortable in pushing the limits to include states of significant depression and suicide ideation, but never simply for effect: these themes flesh out the story well. And Lane continues to flesh out palpable characters who are not shallow but instead share their deepest need and insecurities with us, the reader. It is a gift and it makes her romances intoxicatingly satisfactory.
Plenty of action and even more of steamy erotica to please the most demanding reader. Lane Hart is fine – just fine!
North Carolina author Lane Hart is a prolific erotica writer with over forty-five steamy stories that have a committed following. Lane draws from her background - a Masters in Criminal Justice and having spent ten years working as a paralegal for a criminal defense attorney – to keep her stories gritty. Her range of topics is extensive – from paranormal to her favored martial arts and football players to cops to vampires – and in this book she manages to focus on sports. She is married to fellow author D.B. West.
Lane has a talent for character development, not a trait we often see in erotica writers. While the theme for this novel – the 12th installment in her Cocky Cage Fighter Series – has been in other novels (complicated hired bodyguard for a person of complex background, i.e. family), in Lane’s hands the story becomes more credible. She is comfortable in pushing the limits to include states of significant depression and suicide ideation, but never simply for effect: these themes flesh out the story well. And Lane continues to flesh out palpable characters who are not shallow but instead share their deepest need and insecurities with us, the reader. It is a gift and it makes her romances intoxicatingly satisfactory.
Plenty of action and even more of steamy erotica to please the most demanding reader. Lane Hart is fine – just fine!
February 22, 2021
Haven Ward only had one job as a personal bodyguard – keep Mackenzie Stiles alive and unharmed.
After making a monumental mistake, his billionaire boss is livid and ready to send him packing. Haven begs Mr. Stiles for a second chance to prove himself; and surprisingly enough, he gives him one…with one small catch.
Befriending Mr. Stiles’ shy, recluse daughter seems like a piece of cake especially since Haven needs his job to provide for the people depending on him.
Mackenzie is a beautiful girl with an ugly darkness in her that Haven slowly begins to unravel. As he helps her slay her demons, she becomes an irresistible force he can’t resist.
Despite the consequences, Haven believes Mackenzie was always meant to be his to protect. He’ll do anything to be with her, even come clean to his boss about their relationship.
When Mackenzie finds out her father paid Haven to be her friend, the betrayal has her questioning every second with the man she thought loved her, sending her spiraling out of control.
In the end, Haven realizes too late that no matter how hard he tries, there’s nothing he can do to keep Mackenzie safe from herself.
But that doesn’t stop him from risking his life to save hers.
Haven can be read as a standalone, however it includes characters first mentioned in Alex (Cocky Cage Fighter, Book 9).
After making a monumental mistake, his billionaire boss is livid and ready to send him packing. Haven begs Mr. Stiles for a second chance to prove himself; and surprisingly enough, he gives him one…with one small catch.
Befriending Mr. Stiles’ shy, recluse daughter seems like a piece of cake especially since Haven needs his job to provide for the people depending on him.
Mackenzie is a beautiful girl with an ugly darkness in her that Haven slowly begins to unravel. As he helps her slay her demons, she becomes an irresistible force he can’t resist.
Despite the consequences, Haven believes Mackenzie was always meant to be his to protect. He’ll do anything to be with her, even come clean to his boss about their relationship.
When Mackenzie finds out her father paid Haven to be her friend, the betrayal has her questioning every second with the man she thought loved her, sending her spiraling out of control.
In the end, Haven realizes too late that no matter how hard he tries, there’s nothing he can do to keep Mackenzie safe from herself.
But that doesn’t stop him from risking his life to save hers.
Haven can be read as a standalone, however it includes characters first mentioned in Alex (Cocky Cage Fighter, Book 9).
June 14, 2019
Absolutely brilliant couldn’t put it down totally love this book
What a fantastic storyline Mackenzie struggled through life after the loss of her mother with deep depression trying to take her life. Her father is very protective of her. When Ward is set to be her security he can’t help but have feelings towards her but it isn’t until Mackenzie father pays him to be her friend that things start to go out of control. Being a friend to MacKenzie was easy . It wasn’t long until feelings got in the way. But ward has responsibilities his wage has to feed three people. He couldn’t lose this job. What would Mackenzie‘s father do when he finds out that he has feelings for MacKenzie? What would Mackenzie do when if/when she finds out about her father paying Ward to be her friend? . I absolutely love this book the storyline is strong the people are brilliant I found myself laughing out loud at times as well as my heart feeling heavy For the pain Mackenzie was going through. For the pain haven ward still feels after the loss of his brother. I just wanna restart this book again and again and again absolutely brilliant.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What a fantastic storyline Mackenzie struggled through life after the loss of her mother with deep depression trying to take her life. Her father is very protective of her. When Ward is set to be her security he can’t help but have feelings towards her but it isn’t until Mackenzie father pays him to be her friend that things start to go out of control. Being a friend to MacKenzie was easy . It wasn’t long until feelings got in the way. But ward has responsibilities his wage has to feed three people. He couldn’t lose this job. What would Mackenzie‘s father do when he finds out that he has feelings for MacKenzie? What would Mackenzie do when if/when she finds out about her father paying Ward to be her friend? . I absolutely love this book the storyline is strong the people are brilliant I found myself laughing out loud at times as well as my heart feeling heavy For the pain Mackenzie was going through. For the pain haven ward still feels after the loss of his brother. I just wanna restart this book again and again and again absolutely brilliant.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 17, 2019
This is steamy, intense, entertaining and romantic. Haven is a bodyguard for a rich man's son, Alex, until Alex gets thrown out. Then he becomes Alex's sister, Mackenzie's bodyguard. Haven is responsible, stubborn, bold and charming. He takes his job seriously, especially when he's told to get Mackenzie out of the house as much as he can. Mackenzie prefers to stay in her room, it's safer, and no one can take her picture without her permission. She's determined, sneaky, innocent and cheeky. Haven begins by making her swim every day, and builds up to going to his wife's house for a bbq. Along the way he goes from watching her in the pool to wanting to take her virginity once she tells him she is one. His main job is checking for anything she can hurt herself with. Sneaking around so that her father doesn't find out about them leads to some very interesting ways to be alone. The end is very intense and emotional dealing with her having a mental illness. Haven is the sweetest, most romantic and caring person in the end. Overall it's a beautiful story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
July 6, 2021
Loved Book 12 Even More than Book 1
“Haven” is the twelfth and final book in the Cocky Cage Fighters series by Lane Hart, and it is emotionally riveting. We first met Haven Ward and Mackenzie Stiles in Alex and Whitney’s book, and this was a wonderful way to answer the questions that may have come up for readers in the earlier story. Haven is tasked with guarding Alex’s younger sister, the vulnerable daughter of a tech billionaire. Mack is battling the pressure of being tabloid fodder for the masses and doesn’t trust easily. She’s also battling some internal demons that rear their ugly heads in this tale, and Hart deals with these sensitive issues so well - addressing them head-on with respect and honor. Haven is a protective, gorgeous military vet who puts the people he loves ahead of his own needs. Falling for the damaged heiress was never in his plan, but they soon begin a relationship that tests everything they know. In fact, he may be my favorite hero of the entire series. And holy crap! The last couple of chapters nearly broke me! As always, we are treated to all the feels with this one. Now onto the legacy spinoff. Cannot wait for more!
“Haven” is the twelfth and final book in the Cocky Cage Fighters series by Lane Hart, and it is emotionally riveting. We first met Haven Ward and Mackenzie Stiles in Alex and Whitney’s book, and this was a wonderful way to answer the questions that may have come up for readers in the earlier story. Haven is tasked with guarding Alex’s younger sister, the vulnerable daughter of a tech billionaire. Mack is battling the pressure of being tabloid fodder for the masses and doesn’t trust easily. She’s also battling some internal demons that rear their ugly heads in this tale, and Hart deals with these sensitive issues so well - addressing them head-on with respect and honor. Haven is a protective, gorgeous military vet who puts the people he loves ahead of his own needs. Falling for the damaged heiress was never in his plan, but they soon begin a relationship that tests everything they know. In fact, he may be my favorite hero of the entire series. And holy crap! The last couple of chapters nearly broke me! As always, we are treated to all the feels with this one. Now onto the legacy spinoff. Cannot wait for more!
June 15, 2019
Haven is a lot deeper than most of the Cocky Cage fighter books. Haven Ward has been working in security for Mr. Stiles and has screwed up a time or two. This is his last chance to keep the job that he desperately needs and keep a close watch on Mr. Stiles daughter Mackenzie. His boss wants him to befriend is daughter but keep an eye on her as well. This is going to be a hard job for Haven but he plans to keep his hands to himself no matter how attractive he finds his boss's daughter. Mackenzie is a quiet girl. She suffers from depression and self esteem issues. She wants to live a full life but with an over protective father, few real friends and depression dragging her down she just can't seem to climb out of the hole that she mentally finds herself in. I really enjoyed the depth of their story. There are a lot of happy moments but as anyone that suffers from depression knows that when it strikes all the happiness in the world cannot keep the sadness at bay. Their story is told from dual POV and as with all of Lane Hart's stories there is lust, laughter, angst, action and a HEA.
June 16, 2019
Have you been reading the "Cocky Cage Fighter" series? If so, then you've already Haven in book 9. Granted, he didn't show much of a personality then because it was someone else's story, but we were introduced and got to see a glimpse of the person.
Now we get to meet the fully developed Alpha bodyguard, Haven Ward. He was initially assigned to guard his billionaire boss' playboy son until he went off to college. Now he's be reassigned to the daughter Mackenzie, aka Mack. Unfortunately, she's in a dark place and mentally unstable because of it. Haven's job is not only to protect her at all costs but to befriend her and see if that will help. Easy, right? Yeah, til it blows up in his face.
This storyline is filled with a plethora of emotions which will keep you turning pages to find out what happens between these two. Enough angst to keep your sense of adventure moving and a heart melting chemistry between the hero and heroine. This was a great read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Now we get to meet the fully developed Alpha bodyguard, Haven Ward. He was initially assigned to guard his billionaire boss' playboy son until he went off to college. Now he's be reassigned to the daughter Mackenzie, aka Mack. Unfortunately, she's in a dark place and mentally unstable because of it. Haven's job is not only to protect her at all costs but to befriend her and see if that will help. Easy, right? Yeah, til it blows up in his face.
This storyline is filled with a plethora of emotions which will keep you turning pages to find out what happens between these two. Enough angst to keep your sense of adventure moving and a heart melting chemistry between the hero and heroine. This was a great read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 17, 2019
I recieved this book for Free to Give My True & Honest Review.
Oh heck what can I say except that Lane Hart has really gone DEEP in this emotional love story.
Where we have ex military man/Bodyguard Haven Ward, who's been set upon the daughter Mackenzie, of Billionaire wanna be congressional man Sligo Creed.
Haven was initially the guard for Mackenzie's older brother Alex until he suddenly was sent off his way.
But we see that though things seem to at first to be an easy gig, until that is when Haven sees how DEEP Mackenzie's tormoil is inside her & finds that the only person who can help her come out of it, is the person who thinks he'd be the worse person.
Heck we have such deep strong emotion & more areas that we see but then we also see the deep love connection that happens.
Lots of different emotions. Be careful as you could start streaming not just in your lower groin area but through the head & middle area of your body. All emotions will be exposed to you. Great Beautiful Emotional Love Story...
Oh heck what can I say except that Lane Hart has really gone DEEP in this emotional love story.
Where we have ex military man/Bodyguard Haven Ward, who's been set upon the daughter Mackenzie, of Billionaire wanna be congressional man Sligo Creed.
Haven was initially the guard for Mackenzie's older brother Alex until he suddenly was sent off his way.
But we see that though things seem to at first to be an easy gig, until that is when Haven sees how DEEP Mackenzie's tormoil is inside her & finds that the only person who can help her come out of it, is the person who thinks he'd be the worse person.
Heck we have such deep strong emotion & more areas that we see but then we also see the deep love connection that happens.
Lots of different emotions. Be careful as you could start streaming not just in your lower groin area but through the head & middle area of your body. All emotions will be exposed to you. Great Beautiful Emotional Love Story...
July 4, 2021
I recieved this book for Free to Give My True & Honest Review.
Oh heck what can I say except that Lane Hart has really gone DEEP in this emotional love story.
Where we have ex military man/Bodyguard Haven Ward, who's been set upon the daughter Mackenzie, of Billionaire wanna be congressional man Sligo Creed.
Haven was initially the guard for Mackenzie's older brother Alex until he suddenly was sent off his way.
But we see that though things seem to at first to be an easy gig, until that is when Haven sees how DEEP Mackenzie's tormoil is inside her & finds that the only person who can help her come out of it, is the person who thinks he'd be the worse person.
Heck we have such deep strong emotion & more areas that we see but then we also see the deep love connection that happens.
Lots of different emotions. Be careful as you could start streaming not just in your lower groin area but through the head & middle area of your body. All emotions will be exposed to you. Great Beautiful Emotional Love Story..
Oh heck what can I say except that Lane Hart has really gone DEEP in this emotional love story.
Where we have ex military man/Bodyguard Haven Ward, who's been set upon the daughter Mackenzie, of Billionaire wanna be congressional man Sligo Creed.
Haven was initially the guard for Mackenzie's older brother Alex until he suddenly was sent off his way.
But we see that though things seem to at first to be an easy gig, until that is when Haven sees how DEEP Mackenzie's tormoil is inside her & finds that the only person who can help her come out of it, is the person who thinks he'd be the worse person.
Heck we have such deep strong emotion & more areas that we see but then we also see the deep love connection that happens.
Lots of different emotions. Be careful as you could start streaming not just in your lower groin area but through the head & middle area of your body. All emotions will be exposed to you. Great Beautiful Emotional Love Story..
June 14, 2019
Haven takes Mackenzie out of her comfort zone and shows her how to live and to protect her from herself. The chemistry from these two is a time bomb waiting to blow. Haven just can't believe this slip of a woman feels like her father portrays but she does so it is his job and his mission to bring her out of her shell to live the life she deserves. It sizzles right off the pages and the play on words that Lane Hart writes these characters with is so engrossing that you know that the explosion is coming and it is going to be a doozy! This book was NO different. The author handled the issues very delicately and with great eloquence that it is a story for everyone. Although this book doesn't have the fight scenes that this series is known for it is a brilliant telling of a beautiful love story. VERY WELL WRITTEN!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 11, 2021
I liked it but, I had some problems with it tho that made me stop reading for a day, Mack was too dependent on other people, was very naive, and way too horny for a 21yo recluse with access to the internet an millions on the bank, she rubbed me the wrong way, Haven was Hot, cute and likeable, but he too was way too horny! and the relationship was mostly based on how horny they both were? Ah and plus she had depression, maybe bipolar disorder imo and was suicidal 😑 but it wasn't presented as deep as I would have wanted it as someone who also suffers from depression and is a recluse for the most part, and.... Also I didn't likes she ended up pregnant at 21 with her depression not completely taken care of, it was pushing it too far, I know haven will take care of her and the baby and loves her more than anything, but come on! Why make her on top of all of her problems pregnant?! Why! Give a girl a break! Still I enjoyed it hahaha
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 12, 2019
This was a very intense emotional romance. Haven and Mackenzie's story quickly captured my mind and heart. This book does deal with the sensative subjects of depression, anxiety, self-harm and suicide. I thought that the author did an admirable job and balanced the issues with respect and realism. Mackenzie was a character that truly touched my heart. Her struggle was both painful and heartbreaking but I thought she was incredibly real and likable. Haven might have had a white knight complex but that did nothing to negate how wonderful and perfect I thought he was for Mackenzie. Plenty of emotional turmoil, drama, twists and steamy chemistry are sprinkled throughout the captivating storyline will keep you fully invested as this romance unfolds. All thoughts and opinions in this review are totally my own.
June 15, 2019
This book is number twelve in the series, I have not read the complete series but found that it didn't impact the enjoyment of reading this book. Meet Haven, he is a bodyguard that is looking to fix a past screw up and willing to do anything for a second d chance. Mr. Stiles is a billionaire with a daughter - Mackenzie, that needs a bodyguard. Mackenzie is seen as shy and basically a recluse. Haven jumps at the chance to prove himself. Now Haven and Mackenzie are tossed into each others space. Of course, you know that they have got talk and get to know one another during this time. What they find is much more than a bodyguard/client relationship but can this ever be.more? Do they get a HEA? You have to read this great story to find out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 8, 2019
How does a Bodyguard protect someone who doesn't want to be saved? Haven Ward had what he thought was a cushy job protecting a Billionaire's Playboy son with days working out at the gym and nights drinking and going to strip clubs while "protecting". Suddenly, he is given the job of protecting Mackenzie from her dark thoughts and suicide attempts and life changes for him. What started out as a job soon becomes a life's mission as he finds himself too involved. Will they get their HEA or will Mackenzie's desire to end her life be the end of them both. A very emotional but poignant story about the power of love. Definitely a book that should be on everyone's TBR list.
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest and totally voluntary review.
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest and totally voluntary review.
June 12, 2019
Here we have a new story from Lane Hart who has written many good and great stories. This one seems like perhaps a beginning of a new series which we can all look forward to. This story is a bit different still as it is not clear if it will be a new series with this theme or vowing into the brother and his fighting ... whichever way it goes I look forward to it. Here we have a great storyine as per normal from this author and great character building. It is without a doubt that this one is really well deserving of four stars and almost five but there is this tiny touch that is missing to make this story absolutely fantastically great as actually many stories are from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 13, 2019
First I drooled over the cover. Then I was mortified for Mackenzie and Haven for her first room check. By the time I was 25% through the book, I was covered in goosebumps! I got all the feels from these two!!! And yes, there were times my throat was dry and I wished I was before an a/c vent blowing on high! That flippin’ HOT!!! I couldn’t get enough of Mack & Haven! I’ll even admit to needing a few tissues at some point. I thinks it great that mental health was a focal point in this story, and how it can affect others! Keeping things a secret only adds to the stigma. Definitely a fantastic read with some memorable characters!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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