Her Protector

Braxton Brothers #3

by Anne-Marie Meyer

Librarian's Note: This is an alternate cover edition for ASIN B07RNN65GK

Her Protector is Off Limits

James is broken and running from a past he can’t face. He’s fine living his solitary life, away from anyone who he could hurt. Love was the last thing he deserved.

Layla is finished with her no good, ex-fiancé. Just when she thought she’d rid him from her life, James shows up claiming that she’s in danger and must come with him.

Confused and hurt, Layla discovers that her world is destroyed. Despite warning bells, she agrees to travel with James down to his hometown of Honey Grove.

Determined to keep himself closed off, James tries to fight his feelings for Layla. But she’s sweet and gentle and just the thing that's been missing in his life.

If he could only find a way to forgive himself from his past mistakes, he’d love her like she deserves.

If you love broken heroes who are gruff but gentle, you’ll love Her Protector. A sweet romance where two broken hearts are trying to find love together.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Clean Romance

172 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 21, 2019

About the author

Anne-Marie Meyer is a USA Today Bestselling author who lives south of the Twin Cities in MN. She spends her days with her knight in shining armor, four princes, and a baby princess.

When she's not running after her kids, she's dreaming up romantic stories. She loves to take her favorite moments in the books and movies she loves and tries to figure out a way to make them new and fresh.

Join her newsletter at anne-mariemeyer.com

Reviews

[Julie Carpenter · Rating 4 out of 5]

*singing loudly while jumping up and down* "Braxtons' Back, Alright!!!" Hee Hee! Does anybody catch my musical reference there? Anyone, anyone.....??????

I just couldn't help myself. I guess I could have said, "They're back," instead. But I like the first reference I made. Lol! Ok, if you haven't figured it out it's the Backstreet Boys...you know...maybe. If not, no worries.

This Braxton family, or rather brothers series, has been a fun one to read and enjoy! And I was pretty excited when the author said there was a third book! Woot-woot. Which is of course, this one! And guess what...the epilogue is a sneak peek at Jackson's story. That's right...book #4! Plus throughout this book we get to keep seeing previous family members that we've met and loved. And if you've read any of these books, that includes Momma Braxton! Love her and her scheming ways, but I especially love how much she loves her family and is so welcoming to those outside of her family. Yep, she's amazing!

This book is James and Layla's story. And let me tell you, these two have had some heartaches and struggles. They're broken and trying to heal. They get shoved together in a very unlikely way. But they need each other. And the peace and healing they can help each other find.

I liked James and Layla. They were perfect for each other. I don't want to say much more because if I do then I'm going to spoil something and I really don't want to do that. So I'm going to stop rambling about these two and let you go enjoy their story on your own, if you so choose. You could read this as a stand alone if you're wondering. There are many references to previous books' characters and their stories that I think the author did a good job of tying them into the story and providing enough info to allow for readers to enjoy it without previously reading the other books. I would say that I like this series enough to recommend reading them all, but if you don't want to then you could read it as a stand alone.

Content: Clean. I'm pretty conservative and felt that this book was clean. There were no sex scenes but there was a scene where James and Layla have to share a hotel room and it ends up being the honeymoon suite with the shower exposed in the room. The characters didn't look at each other and it was written clean. But I know some readers may not want to read about that so a fair warning for you. There is a character who is pregnant out of wedlock and some references to drugs (nothing graphic or used by the main characters, just for a part of the storyline for suspense). Some underlying tension due to the situation of James and Layla being thrown together.

Happy Reading!!!

[Rina ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one is my favorite in the series so far! It pulled at my heartstrings and had me feeling all the feels in the best way. James and Layla are so sweet together. And having all the family come together was awesome!

[Pascale’s*ARC,Unwind,Read,Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

-‘“Seems like we both have secrets.”’-

-‘A desire to protect her surged through his chest as he let his gaze linger on her face.’-

James is ex-military. Layla is trying to live her life normally but can life ever be normal when you’re the ex-fiancée of a mobster? James owes Juan (the ex) a favour, so he agrees to protect Layla from unseen threats from criminals out seeking violent retribution. Only, Juan hasn’t told James much of the truth and Layla doesn’t trust either man. Besides, she’s got more than just herself to worry about...
This is a clean romance with no sex, no swearing. It reminded me of some of Bonnie Paulson’s books. I liked it.

[Lisa Swinton · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've been enjoying this series by Ms. Meyer.

The story gets its start under strange circumstances with James getting a cryptic phone call from his friend and impersonating a mondel to get to the girl who needs rescuing.

As always in romances, Layla and James must work through their own emotional baggage and share it with one another before they can discuss a future together.

An enjoyable installment in the series.

[Kailee Wood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Anne-Marie Meyer does such a great job with all of her books. She is one of my favorite authors. I love that her books are very relatable!

[JK · Rating 2 out of 5]

The sad truth is, I've never been as disappointed in an Anne-Marie Meyer book as I am about this one. The entire production fell completely flat.

Spoilers below:

1. The characters had no dimension. Everything about them was surface-level and not believable.
2. There was no depth to the story. I kept waiting for the mysterious secrets they were holding to be revealed, and when it was, Laylah was just hiding from James that she was pregnant (which we knew the whole time and there was no other secret to her), and James was in Afghanistan and told his girlfriend to check the perimeter and apparently she died in an explosion. James then thinks people will hate him for being a bad person because of that. Really? I thought there was going to be much more to the story.
2.b. And how does James know Juan? James said Juan saved his life in a fight. No more details were given. I thought maybe Juan was in the war with James and pulled him from a burning building with enemy fire raining down on them. Nope. simple bar fight. That doesn't lead to lifelong best friend with unquestioning loyalty in my book.
3. Layla played him dirty by flirting and making out with James. She led him on and basically manipulated him into wanting to be with her before telling him about the baby. So decietful.
4. Layla never told James about the baby! Kept it a secret until the medical emergency. Not a great start to a relationship if you can't even be honest with your partner.
5. After all that, James finally figures out she's pregnant and was wayyyyy too ok with it. Didn't act shocked or need time to process & figure out if he's ready to be a parent. Nothing. Just immediately excited about it. "the baby just added to the happiness." Give me a break! No single man says that about finding out the girl he's known for 2 days is pregnant with his friend's baby.
6.This line made my eyes roll back until I saw my brain: "if I can fall in love with you as much as I have in a few short days, I can only imagine how head over heels I'm going to be for you in the years to come." Um no. That's not how love works. Buddy, you're infatuated, not in love. Love comes by making a choice to stick together through everything and they had known each other for less time than it takes for a banana to digest through your intestines.
7. In the Epilogue of book #2, Juan is married. But in this book he's not. He's a drug-dealing, potentially murderous man who knocked up his fiance, never tells the truth to his "best friend", fleas the country, and never owns up to his mistakes. James and Layla are fools for wanting to associate with him, and flat out idiots for finding out everything and still wanting to keep him updated that they're getting married and Layla is having his baby. That just sounds like a stupid idea. Boundaries!

[MLG · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adore this series!!! The epilogue gives us an exhilarating sneak peek into Jackson's story, and I can hardly contain my excitement to dive into it! Throughout this captivating journey, we reconnect with beloved family members from previous books, and I just can't get enough of Mama B! Her warm, loving nature makes everyone feel at home, and she does an incredible job of guiding her boys on the right path.

This book centers on the incredible story of James and Layla. Layla, a talented fashion designer, and James, a former military man, come together in the most unexpected way. James has a friend who keeps him in the dark about his job, but sends him to protect Layla, unaware that she’s carrying a child. As James grapples with the haunting memories of his military past—especially the heartbreak of losing his spouse—you'll feel the depth of his struggles. The emotional ups and downs will truly resonate with you. Despite the odds that bring them together, James and Layla discover that they need each other to heal and move forward.

Their chemistry is undeniable! While I recommend reading the previous books in order for the full experience, this one can absolutely stand alone.

Content-wise, it’s clean and suitable for teenagers and adults alike, with no explicit scenes. There’s a moment when James and Layla find themselves sharing a space that turns out to be a honeymoon suite with an open shower—super romantic! There's also a storyline involving pregnancy out of wedlock and some references to drugs, but nothing graphic or directly involving the main characters. Trust me, you won't want to miss this emotional rollercoaster!

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of this book and I am voluntarily reviewing it.

This is an awesome story. The male protagonist, James, is a military veteran. He feels like he is broken. The woman he loved was killed following his orders to patrol the fence. He is devastated. The urge to protect is strong in him. After he is discharged from the service, he goes to New York. There he meets Juan and becomes friends. Right before leaving to go home to Honey Grove, Juan asks him to pick up Layla and bring her to the airport. Juan is in danger and needs to get Layla away from it. Layla and Juan have broken up and she has a secret.

In the subsequent, journey to Honey Grove, Layla and James become close. The plot is a wonderful tender story of two broken people. How they come together and overcome their secrets. By dealing with the past, can these two forge together into the future. Their journey is one that is just heartbreaking. James is such a fantastic male protagonist. I absolutely fell in love with him. While being the protector and a strong man, he has such a tender side with his family and Layla.

This is a story that I couldn't put down. I was hooked from the beginning. As the pages flew by, the story just got better and better. I really hated to see the end of this couple's story but from the Epilogue, I look forward to the next story in this series.

I highly recommend this story to anyone!

[Sonya Wasden · Rating 4 out of 5]

Layla was done with men. Her ex-fiance, Juan, was an idiot and didn't put her first. She is ready to move on until James shows up at her work telling her that she is in danger and he has been sent by Juan to keep her safe. James seems like nice guy but she isn't sure she can trust him but when she finds her apartment in shambles, she doesn't have much choice. She agrees to let James take her to his hometown, Honey Grove.

James is a broken man. He served in Afghanistan and returned broken. He is determined to take care of Layla. He owes Juan for saving him at a time when he was lost. The problem is that the more time he spends with Layla, the more he wants to spend time with her, like maybe forever.

Is it possible for these two to find happiness and be able to trust that they can have a happy ever after together?

This book is a clean romance with no foul language or descriptive intimate scenes. This is the third in The Braxton Brothers series. I loved James' character. He was so sweet and loyal. I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a quick fun read that also dealt with some hard issues. It is the third in the series but the first for me. It is a stand alone but so think I would have preferred reading the other two stories first. It is a clean read with swoon worthy kisses. James is a bit lost. After personal tragedy struck for James in Afghanistan James is having difficulty connecting with people. He blames himself for events that took place during his tour. Due to his PTSD he was honorably discharged from the marines. Layla is a fashion designer who has had her own heart break and problems. Her ex fiancé has botched a drug deal and people are after him and he has put Layla in danger. She is also pregnant with his child and doesn’t want her ex to know. James is charged by her ex to protect her. While her ex goes on the run James keeps Layla with him and gets her out of the city. Feelings quickly develop between the two but they each have their secrets and their demons. Neither of them feel that they can bring their past baggage into a new relationship. This is a story of healing.

[Lori R · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this next book in the series. This one focused on the story of two souls fighting demons and secrets together. I enjoyed the main characters. James is an edgy, sexy , ex-marine who is suffering from guilt and PTSD. His best friend, Juan needs him to get his sister, Layla our of town, only it is not his sister but his ex-fiancee.

Layla is a strong willed fashion designer who has broken up with her fiance and has recently learned that she is pregnant.n Unfortunately his past has put her life in danger and she needs to leave New York City as soon as possible.

It was interesting to watch how these two characters met and how their lives would be changed forever after their road trip to Honey Grove, South Carolina. I liked that they brought out the best in each other and were able to help each other through their problems. I also liked the rest of the Braxton gang in Honey Grove and how they are a close knit family. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series. I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest review.

[Vibliophile · Rating 3 out of 5]

Enjoyed the story but a trifle thin on substance

I really liked the premise, liked the protagonists, and wanted them to be together in a happily-ever-after.

It's a really sweet story, but it spends most of its time focused on the emotions they're struggling with and rather little on actual connections that develop between the two. So they're clearly attracted to each other & I loved the way they wanted to help & care for each other, but there needed to be a little more to transition from that sympathetic connection to "let's get married".

And while a positive, loving relationship will help someone dealing with issues like depression & PTSD, the story made it seem like he was miraculously cured.

Then the story stops abruptly, leaving a final plot line unresolved and the epilogue isn't actually one - it's the sneak preview of the next book in the series - which is fine but don't call it an epilogue & then not provide one. Let me savor the warm fuzzies a little before moving me on to the next story.

*Clean romance level: sweet kisses

[Penny Leidecker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read quite a few of Anne-Marie’s books and I must say that this is one of my favorites. Just look at that cover, for one, lol. James is broken, after returning from Afghanistan. He doesn’t think he deserves to be happy. Juan, his best friend, calls him up and asks him to protect his sister, Layla. James feels he owes it to Juan, since he saved his life. James is attracted to Layla from the moment he sees her. Imagine his surprise when he learns Layla isn’t Juan’s sister, but his ex-fiancée. James decides to take Layla home to Honey Grove. As Juan’s troubles escalate, James and Layla grow closer. They’re both hiding secrets. Will their secrets be a dealbreaker or will they get their happily ever after? Grab your copy and see what happens. I can’t wait to read Jackson’s book next.

I received an advance reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.

[Debi Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Great Read

This is the third book in this series and I can honestly say that I thoroughly enjoyed it. I enjoyed the main characters. James is an ex marine who is suffering from PTSD. Layla, who James’ best friend Juan so called girlfriend. Juan asked James to protect Layla hint Her Protector. Sparks do fly. Loved it, you can read this as a stand-alone but you need to read the first two books in the series first. Love this authors books. Will be following and reading more of her books

[Bernadette Cinkoske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her Protector is the story of James Braxton. He is so sure he is broken and will never recover from mistakes he made while in the military. He cannot forgive himself. He needs to head home for a birthday party but he also needs to repay a favor by grabbing Layla and keeping her safe. Layla is also hiding things. You will want to read this heart-warming story of healing and love in small town America.

[Rachael Bromley · Rating 5 out of 5]

James a former military personnel is on his way home as a promise to his nephew to come to his birthday party. A friend calls for him to look after his ex as he in trouble. Layla a clothes designer is picked up by a friend of her ex and they go on an adventure to outrun those who want to hurt her. With his broken soul from deployment and her secret that not even her ex knows will they be able to come together and outsmart the bad guys?? Will love blossom between them ??

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

So in love with this book series!!!!

I never been the one for these romance books but I have fallen in love with this book series!!! This book was awesome just like the rest of them. You fall in love with the characters and the story is overall wonderful. I was ready to read the next one only to find out that I have to wait 😞😞😞. Why lol. I can’t wait I till the next book comes out to just right back in the Braxton family!!!

[Lcr · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her Protector is a great stand-alone as well as being part of The Braxton Brothers series. When James agrees to become Layla's protector he takes her to his small home town. Neither really wants to be there and both are keeping a secret. Honey Grove can help them both but only if they take a chance on each other. This is a lovely, sweet book with interesting characters and I definitely recommend it.

[Karen Butler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished Escaping to Honey Grove. What an absolutely fantastic book! I love James and Layla. Both with secrets, both afraid to share them, both afraid to love again. This story was so good to watch how their lives evolve together. These Braxton brothers are something else. I love how the family members appear in each book as they are introduced in the before book. Thank you for such a great read and a great series. Time to move onto the next brother, Jackson.

[Sunshine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Escaping to Honey Grove is a warm and heartfelt story that carries a sense of charm from the very first chapter. The small town setting feels alive with neighbors who care for one another and a community that welcomes second chances. The author paints a lovely picture of finding hope and purpose in unexpected places and it is easy to connect with the characters as they search for healing and belonging. The pacing is steady and the writing style flows in a way that keeps the story engaging without feeling rushed.
What I appreciated most was the emotional depth that runs beneath the sweet romance. The main characters face personal struggles but their journey is handled with honesty and tenderness. Honey Grove itself feels like a character and adds a sense of comfort to the reading experience. While there were moments I wished for a little more detail the story as a whole left me satisfied and encouraged. This book is a delightful escape.

[Debbiebooknerdyoung · Rating 5 out of 5]

James is ex-military and he's got PTSD, Layla is the ex fiance of Juan and she has trust issues because of Juan.
Together James and Layla aren't quite so broken after all. I really enjoyed this book, and wish it had been longer..like a weeks worth more of reading because it was so interesting.
I look forward to reading more books in this series.

[Terressa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series keeps getting better. I really liked this one!

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists,
and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive
reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this
in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Linda Hughes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liked love story and hero Sebastian was great but capitulated and change pretty fast really liked the heroine with her spice and sass and that she was a very giving person especially when she donated the kidney and paid for Ethan operation and chose rating because it was a regular love story I liked the family dynamic on Sebastian side

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I first met the characters in this book, they were so broken that I didn’t know how the story would unfold. It seemed that there were so many problems for both of them. But this amazing author pulled this story into one of the most fascinating that I have seen. I really enjoyed it and will be reading more of this series.

[Kerri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. James has a rough past that he is trying to deal with on his own. Layla is trying to move beyond the hurt caused by her ex-fiance. The two have a chemistry that is undeniable. I love how the couple is thrown into several situations that test their boundaries. This was a great short sweet romance with a hint of suspense.

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

James & Layla

James is a veteran with severe PTSD. Layla is struggling to get over her broken engagement and broken heart. James best friend happens to be Layla's ex fiance. Juan always told James that Layla was his sister. The lies he's told have now pushed James & Layla together. Again great storyline but way too much redundancy. G rated.

[Love · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful Unexpected Love Story

This is definitely a interesting and brilliant love story with endearing moments and delightful characters that you will definitely enjoy as they journey towards unconditional love and family.

[Joan · Rating 4 out of 5]

He was always the protector

I love James and Layla. I hated that they were keeping secrets. Their relationship didn’t go exactly as I thought it would. But it was a fun, quick journey.

[Paula · Rating 3 out of 5]

Layla and James are both hurting people in need of love. He is there to protect her and her presence is healing to him. I love these Braxton brothers, and catching up with the characters in the previous books.

[Natalya · Rating 4 out of 5]

I must admit – I fell in love with Braxton Brothers :) They are adorable!
I received an ARC of this book for review. I was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions in this review are my own.