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DEAN:

I’m under his protection, but I want to be under him.

I’ve inherited millions, but I’m not touching a dime. I was never close to my wealthy stepdad, so I won’t tap into that massive inheritance until I’ve earned it. But I’ve got an enemy, and he refuses to let me live a quiet life.

I need a bodyguard, and Beckett is more than qualified. He moves like lightning and strikes just as hard. And that smoldering look he gives me? It’s downright electrifying. Laying low in Manhattan suddenly doesn’t sound so bad.

But my rival has it out for me, and he won’t stop. I’m in Beckett’s care now, and as the heat turns up, I’ll be turning to him for relief.

My money won’t protect me, but Beckett will.

BECKETT:

He’s mine to guard and mine to keep.

Being assigned to a celebrity’s millionaire stepson isn’t a dream job, but Dean isn’t what I expected. He’s smart, unpretentious, and thoroughly sexy. Now I’m his live-in bodyguard, and whoever wants to harm him will have to go through me.

The only person I can’t protect him from is myself. When Dean wants to see the man under the uniform, the clothes start coming off. I’ll show him just how qualified I am to handle this body.

His enemies are cranking up the pressure, but Dean’s in my care now. Whoever has it out for him won’t even get close—not as long as I’m covering his back.

I can protect him, but not if we're both falling.

This is the third book in the Hightower Heat series. It can be enjoyed as a standalone with no cliffhanger. Readers can expect an extra spicy MM romance with several steamy scenes. Heat level: 10.

192 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 19, 2019

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About the author

Jason Collins

107 books530 followers

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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Profile Image for Len Evans Jr.
1,503 reviews222 followers
May 21, 2019
Wow... the author finished off this series with a book that is without a doubt the best of the series! His writing and characters are done with his usual polish and flair... but he truly took things to a new level with Beckett and Dean. Dean had me in love with him practically from the beginning, he is the type of person who would make anyone an incredible BF. Beckett was a bit rough around the edges and took a bit longer for me to warm up to him. Together these two were unstoppable, beyond hot and so sweet I swear I lost a tooth or two by the end! I loved Beckett's love of Shakespeare and that his college degree was in English literature. Definitely not you average bodyguard. the secondary people in the story were fascinating in their own right, even though we did not see a lot of them, what we did see was so very well done, especially Dean's Mom. This book flowed smoothly in such a way that pages flew by and I couldn't help but devour more. Reading this was fun and so enjoyable!
I received a free ARC copy of this book from the author and have voluntarily reviewed it!
Profile Image for Grady.
Author 51 books1,822 followers
May 21, 2019
Seeking safety – and love

Southern-born author Jason Collins now lives in New York and as he states ’I've started calling myself a ‘southern New Yorker.’ Jason has over twenty successful novels to his credit so far, covering all aspects of gay relationships. His most recent series deal with the darker side of romance, taking a breather for a touch of comedy in his last novel, and now he shines in his HIGHTOWER HEAT series - PRIVATE EYE was Book One allowing into the Hightower building and all its fascinating secrets, Book Two MY BOUNTY continued with the erotic heat turned up even higher, and now Book 3 GUARDED is first class story creation.

The story this time deals a wealthy man whose inheritance is a source of potential danger and his bodyguard. Jason understands the importance of locking the reader’s attention with the first page, and this book is a prime example of his gift: ‘I might not have had the best seat in the house, but I certainly had the best view. I was on a balcony above the heads of the captivated audience, far enough back to have an almost totally unencumbered view of the broad, glossy stage. Tonight’s performance was ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream, which was one of my absolute favorites to work for. I had the very lofty and oft-overlooked job of controlling the lighting for the show.’ And after this dreamy scene is set, fright comes forward and the reason for this man’s safety is brought into center stage!

Jason’s synopsis is good: ‘Dean: Beckett’s protection is safe, sound, and steamy. I’ve inherited millions, but I’m not touching a dime. I was never close to my wealthy stepdad, so I won’t tap into that massive inheritance until I’ve earned it. But I’ve got an enemy, and he refuses to let me live a quiet life. I need a bodyguard, and Beckett is more than qualified. He moves like lightning and strikes just as hard. And that smoldering look he gives me? It’s downright electrifying. Laying low in Manhattan suddenly doesn’t sound so bad. But my rival has it out for me, and he won’t stop. I’m in Beckett’s care now, and as the heat turns up, I’ll be turning to him for relief. My money won’t protect me, but Beckett will. Beckett: He’s under close watch, and I’m coming closer. Being assigned to a celebrity’s millionaire stepson isn’t a dream job, but Dean isn’t what I expected. He’s smart, unpretentious, and thoroughly sexy. Now I’m his live-in bodyguard, and whoever wants to harm him will have to go through me. The only person I can’t protect him from is myself. When Dean wants to see the man under the uniform, the clothes start coming off. I’ll show him just how qualified I am to handle this body. His enemies are cranking up the pressure, but Dean’s mine to guard now. Whoever has it out for him won’t even get close—not as long as I’m covering his back. The only one allowed to lay a finger on Dean is me.’

The result is a very fine novel on many levels – including the zesty erotica that skyrockets the story along. Well plotted at a fine pace, Jason’s new novel has zing! And he has provided a very fresh look at gay relationships and his writing style grows more secure and sophisticated. He is now on top!
Profile Image for Lena Grey.
1,615 reviews25 followers
June 12, 2019
“I’ll follow thee and make a heaven of hell...” ~William Shakespeare, A Midsummer Night's Dream

Dean Masters, of ‘Guarded’ by Jason Collins, received a large inheritance when his stepfather died. He didn’t want it and has never spent any of it. As much as possible, Dean lives as simply and normally as possible, but when nefarious people are determined to do him harm, his mother, against his wishes, hires a bodyguard, Beckett Dodge, from Hightower Security to protect him. To his surprise and secret pleasure, it’s a man he’d met and admired earlier, during a sabotage attempt at the local theater where he was working. Suddenly Dean decides that being guarded by this man will be no burden at all. In fact, it may be quite pleasurable.

When Beckett arrives at Hightower Security, he’s not in a great mood. Even though the suspect was apprehended at his last assignment, he feels like he dropped the ball, not living up to his normally superior record. Apparently Alex Hightower, CEO of Hightower Security, doesn’t feel that way. He praises him for a job well done. Alex gives Beckett his newest assignment, explaining that it is related to his previous one at the theater; he reveals that his client is Dean Masters, the technician who alerted Beckett to the intruder. At first, Beckett’s interest is piqued, remembering his physical reaction to Dean, and he looks forward to getting to know Dean better, but Beckett’s enthusiasm doesn’t last long. When he learns that Dean is the son of Victor Masters, big time producer, his spirits plunge. He figures he will be babysitting another privileged brat.

Beckett begins his ‘bodyguarding’ by meeting Dean at the airport to escort him to the New York apartment his stepfather left him. At first Beckett is very polite and formal, but Dean soon lets him know that it’s not necessary or even wanted, for that matter. They slip into casual conversation easily. Beckett soon learns that Dean is down to earth and easy to get along with. An easy camaraderie quickly develops and clandestine flirting starts almost immediately. Dean is impressed with the level to which Hightower Securities goes to make their clients comfortable. Beckett is amused by his reaction. This man is definitely not a “spoiled little rich kid”, but a man who is practical and, despite his stepfather’s money, wants to make his own way.

New York is nothing like Dean thought it would be. Although excessive, his apartment is fabulous and it doesn’t hurt that the man he is with is stunning as well. Dean decides that since he has money and someone with whom to spend it, even though Beckett is paid to be with him, that he is going to put it to good use. They go to the best restaurants and other places and enjoy themselves immensely, becoming closer all the time. Beckett is impressed with Dean’s. Inevitably, with so much electricity between them, their passion ends up with them burning up the expensive sheets Dean has on his bed. The sex is as hot as both of them had imagined, if not more so. Even more surprising is the closeness that comes along with it. Things are going well between them that Beckett almost forgets that Dean is his client and that he is supposed to protect not just his body, but his reputation as well. One morning, at breakfast, Dean checks his social media account and is greeted with an article entitled: MILLIONAIRE MASTERS PARTIES HARD WITH DEAD FATHER’S MONEY Beckett’s heart almost stops. He knows that this means big trouble. Dean’s mother is furious and he is lucky if he doesn’t get fired.

I have enjoyed the books in the Hightower series. This one is a great addition. It’s full of excitement and sizzling sex, immersed in the excitement of New York City life. Beckett and Dean are great characters with little in common except their physical and emotional attraction, which is enough. It was great to revisit some of the characters from the other stories, as well. Thanks, Jason, for another great ‘Hightower’ story.





Profile Image for Jenn.
1,180 reviews7 followers
May 27, 2019
4.5 Stars

I have really enjoyed this series and this is a fantastic addition, one of my favorites from Jason Collins. I really loved Beckett and Dean together, I think they are a great match and their journey was a great mix of fun and intrigue. Beckett is such a tough guy, but he has such a softness for Dean that it just made me melt. There is definitely and instant and undeniable chemistry between these two right from the start, and it certainly doesn't diminish as their story goes on.

I liked the mystery/suspense side of this story as much as I liked the love story side. It kept me guessing and wondering about what was happening and why and I really enjoyed it. That combined with these two falling for each other and just being adorably perfect for each other made for a really great read. This is has been such a fun series to read, each book is great and I highly recommend them all. I really do hope that we get Alex's story, I am so curious about him!
Profile Image for Leelah🍁♋️ Orion.
1,441 reviews53 followers
May 30, 2019
3.5
This is my first Jason Collins book, so I don’t know if this is just his style or just this book. I think I would have loved this book if it wasn’t for all the internal dialogue. That’s what most of the book was. The writing was spot on, the flow of the story was wondeful. The smexy was on hawt! Everything was there. But the dang internal dialogue knocked points off for me. I skimmed at many points of the book because of it. I’m not sure why there was so much. The author can right dialogue between characters really well. So I just don’t see why that didn’t happen.

This was a really good story, and I did enjoy it. So I will be checking out what more from this author.
5,704 reviews39 followers
May 26, 2019
very good.. enjoyed the characters and storyline.. the writing is wonderful.. the plot is so much fun.. it is interesting and keeps me on the edge of my seat to see what is next. i really enjoyed it
Profile Image for Kendra T.
3,076 reviews39 followers
March 21, 2021
I have loved every book I’ve ready by Jason Collins, so I know this is just my own preferences versus issues with the book itself. That said, I really had a hard time reconciling the Beckett in this book who didn’t care about his job and the Beckett I thought I knew from previous books. He and Dean were great together, and the story itself was interesting and engaging, but I really struggled with Beckett going full into a relationship with Dean right off the bat. He always struck me as very professional and good at his job, which was also repeated by side characters. But the moment Dean walked into the picture, he didn’t care and went for it. The Beckett I thought I got to know would’ve hesitated even a slight bit or discuss what was happening, but he seemed not to care and just go with it. Even Alex was so mad at him (rightfully so), and then Alex stops and says more or less “I guess I’m just mad because I’m jealous and lonely”. No. Beckett was totally not focused correctly, and it was all brushed over.

It was well written, and again I know it was just my own preference that I had trouble loving Beckett.

I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by the author
Profile Image for Julianne Macneil.
3,697 reviews28 followers
May 27, 2019
i read this book as part of an arc program. This is the third book in the Hightower Heat series. In this book, Dean needs a bodyguard after being attacked in LA at the theater where he worked. Dean was the step-son of a famous produce who died the year before. Dean wasn't close to his step-father, but they were friendly to each other. Dean preferred to work his way himself and didn't rely on anyone. Dean's mother also worked int he theater and she suggested he move to New York and hire a bodyguard. Beckett worked for Hightower and was assigned to be Dean's bodyguard. Beckett had been in LA working, and was at the theater when Dean was attacked. In a strange twist, Beckett had caught the attacker that night. When Dean and BEckett had seen each other across the room that night, they were both interested in the other. Now Beckett was Dean's bodyguard and would be living with him for the time being. Beckett and Dean had to figure out their attractions to each other and Beckett needed to keep Dean safe while finding his stalker. I really enjoyed this book. I loved Beckett and Dean together. I thought Beckett really cared about Dean and wanted to be with him. Dean was a great guy who really cared about others, and he saw his wealth as a way to help others. Dean wasn't a spoiled rich brat and i think he easily could have been. I think he had a big heart and he wanted to help because he could. Beckett was more than a strong body also, he was smart and caring. I loved them together. I loved this series and hope there will be more.
Profile Image for Reed.
1,205 reviews21 followers
May 20, 2019
I love this series. I think this is some of the best I’ve read from this author and I’ve read most of his books.
Dean and Beckett were attacted to each other from the beginning. This is really a love at first sight story. When the situation put them together I’ve not read much hotter. The way they are so compatible from the start keeps the relationship heartwarming. The goodness in Dean and his mom made it impossible not to like them. The softness Beckett has for Dean made me glad they were together. I enjoyed the characters from the other books being part of this story. I think the flow of the story was at a good pace. The only part I felt unsatisfied with is the hints of Beckett’s previous life as familiar in biker bars and a totally different lifestyle that is never really addressed. I would have liked more background on him. I can’t wait to see what is next from this author.
Profile Image for Silvia.
1,217 reviews
May 20, 2019
Rollicking romance

Guarded is book #3 in the Hightower Heat series by Jason Collins. Beckett is hired as Dean’s bodyguard to protect him from someone out to do him harm. This mystery caper takes us from hip LA to New York City, the city that never sleeps. The author brings to life the unique vibes from each of these cities. It’s a rollicking romance that highlights the physical attraction between Dean and Beckett without losing any of the suspense of the storyline.

If you enjoy reading books that leave you feeling good then check out Guarded written by one of my fave romance authors.

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Profile Image for Ann.
742 reviews
May 22, 2019
Guarded
By Jason Collins
Main Characters: Dean and Beckett
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
5 out of 5 stars
This is an m/m contemporary romantic suspense book. I think this is the 8th or 9th book I have read by Jason and I loved them all. The 3rd book of the Hightower series has Beckett as Dean's bodyguard. I loved the chemistry between these two and felt as soon as they met. The book starts out in L.A. and moves to New York. And let's not forget the mystery to be solved in who is looking to harm Dean. I highly recommend you not only to read this book but read the 1st two books in this series also.
Profile Image for Dixiecowgirl.
1,437 reviews25 followers
May 22, 2019
A fun and interesting bodyguard to lover story that will capture your heart. I enjoyed the complex characters that were multi-faceted and the story-line kept me trying to figure out who the bad guys were. The writing was good and i enjoyed all the supporting people.

Dean and Beckett have such a emotional and steamy connection. Their journey to love will stay in your mind for a long time and bring you smiles as you remember them.

This is the third book in the Hightower Heat series and can be read as a stand-alone. Each of these books are really good and you will enjoying each of them.
1,550 reviews11 followers
May 21, 2019
Ah! I’ve been waiting for Beckett’s story since the beginning of the series.
The hot and ripped bodyguard had me instantly intrigued and Jason Collins did not disappoint by pairing him up with low profile, rich “by chance”, theatre-loving Dean.
The steam is off the charts as usual in Jason’s stories, but so are the wonderful descriptions of the environment where the story is set (in this case NYC).

I’m not sure if a story for Alex, the head of Hightower Security is planned, but I really wish it was!
Profile Image for Shelley Chastagner.
2,729 reviews38 followers
May 18, 2019
Loved Dean and Beckett! They have great chemistry and their banter was comfortable and full of laughter. You could see how much they liked spending time together in and out of the bedroom. There is a bit of intrigue but no angst between the two of them. I enjoyed Beckett's protective side but he never saw Dean as weak. Dean and Beckett fall hard and fast and left me smiling.
Recommended author and series
Profile Image for Melissa.
633 reviews4 followers
May 27, 2019
Wasn’t Worth It

As I said in my previous review on this series, the same sex formula repeats itself. Dean is supposed to be a humble character with a heart of gold but he likes showing off he has money to help people. He walks down the street and just give money because he can even though he doesn’t have a steady job. I’m also disappointed Alex didn’t discipline Beckett for disobeying his orders.
Profile Image for Teal Wolf.
3,414 reviews26 followers
May 17, 2019
Guarded is the third book in the Hightower Heat series by Jason Collins. Dean and Beckett are hot, sweet and sexy... I loved them and their story. Drama, mystery, and romance mix well in this addition to the series. Loved it!

I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
Profile Image for Rachwithheadinabook.
1,894 reviews
May 21, 2019
Good read

In this third Hightower Heat book it’s Beckett’s turn to find love. If you haven’t read the other two books in the series, you don’t have to have to enjoy this one, but I would recommend it.
Beckett has been hired to keep Dean safe after an attempted sabotage at his work. As with previous books there is plenty of steamy scenes, but a good storyline to follow too.
Profile Image for  Sophie.
2,017 reviews
May 23, 2019
I loved this story because it was well narrated. I was able to easily get into the story. I loved the main characters. I enjoyed their chemistry and their passion. Their storyline was hot and very interesting from the very beginning. I think that this was the best of the series.
I received this as an arc and freely left a review.
2,321 reviews8 followers
May 25, 2019
Another wonderful story for this great series. Beckett and Dean are spectacular characters with sizzling chemistry and who are just perfect for one another, not to mention incredibly hot together. It's a great romance between bodyguard and his millionaire client with a mystery solve. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Profile Image for D..
2,120 reviews14 followers
August 15, 2021
After reading all 3 books in this series, Cole and David still my favorite couple. This book is no different from the previous 2, too much narration to describe things, to analyze things and overthinking things, even the sex scenes are full of it. It can spoil the fun because it makes this book boring rather than enjoyable.
1,758 reviews7 followers
May 22, 2019
I am really enjoying these Hightower stories... low-drama love stories with a bit of mystery mixed in. In this one, Dean and his bodyguard Beckett had amazing chemistry from the very beginning. Great storytelling!
Profile Image for Linda.
684 reviews14 followers
May 20, 2019
Great chemistry between the MC's. ARC for an honest review. Someone is on a smear campaign towards Dean. Beckett is hired to make sure no harm is done. This story had a little bit of everything. Well written story , Jason Collins' writing has come a long way.
1,125 reviews1 follower
May 22, 2019
Yet another great book in this series. Dean and Beckett definitely bring the heat and chemistry in this story. Once again Jason Collins has proved to me why he will always be a one-click author for me!
74 reviews
June 9, 2019
Loved It

Excellent way to end the Hightower trilogy. The sex scenes were HOT and the way the characters from the first two books were brought into the story tied all three books together nicely. Thoroughly enjoyable read.
450 reviews2 followers
May 21, 2019
Another scintillating read in the Hightower Heat series. This was another winner. I enjoy being immersed in the Hightower world. The whole crew is remarkable and enchanting. Well written with quirky,and sometimes sweet characters. The heat level is scorching in more ways than one.Must read for all contemporary m/m fans.
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Bobbi.
1,266 reviews7 followers
May 21, 2019
Guarded, Hightower Heat book three by Jason Collins. This series is going great! Another fantastic storyline! The whole series has wonderful characters. I can’t wait to read more.
Profile Image for Jeanine Beaulieu St Pierre.
1,208 reviews2 followers
May 23, 2019
Great book

I liked this as much as the two others,this one buy far is the best of three I truly enjoyed this book,the author has written another great book
Profile Image for Gema Rodríguez.
Author 6 books3 followers
June 6, 2019
Like the previous books in the series, it has good characters, and a very entertaining storyline. Certainly worth reading.
Profile Image for Katie Townsend.
1,274 reviews20 followers
June 10, 2019
Beckett and dean stole my heart from beginning to end of guarded their journey was sweet adorable hot intense fun has a couple of twists and has you on the edge of your seat

I was so hooked and excited to see what was going to happen from one page to the next

Im loving this new series by Jason collns i hope we get more from this series
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