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Dark Protector

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Gideon is head of security for Greyson Black in the supernatural community of Devil Falls. The only thing he looks forward to is being in the company of Ximena Black. She’s intelligent, beautiful, caring and full of light. And his mate.

Gideon suffers from an affliction known as the darkness and has no intention of sharing that part of himself with her. The path he walks is dangerous and uncertain, and he refuses to put his mate at risk.

Ximena has never really seen herself as anything exciting. A total science nerd, she spends her days autopsying bodies at the county morgue and looking through a microscope. She’s never really had an overwhelming reaction to the opposite sex, but whenever she’s around Gideon, sparks fly. They might be good together, but he runs away every time she gets close, so she resolves to stay away from the quiet bad boy.

With the rise in zombielike cases affecting both human and supers, Gideon is assigned as her bodyguard. Being stuck in each other’s company fans the embers brighter, and the unexpected happens, giving in to the lust and passion they feel changes things between them forever.

When a familiar enemy arises, they are ambushed, and Gideon is taken. Ximena will stop at nothing to save the only man she’s ever loved…even if it means her life.

309 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 9, 2019

10 people are currently reading
17 people want to read

About the author

M.A. Gonzales

9 books79 followers
I love writing books full of erotic heat with fierce, independent, passionate women and the hot alpha males who love them. I get excited about action packed stories full of excitement that shows a couple’s journey, whether it be a personal journey and moving on from the past or falling in love surrounded by danger and adventure. Writing about people overcoming impossible odds and fulfilling themselves and their goals is so important to me, it calls to me. It’s the same thing I love to see in real life and deeply believe in my heart that we can all accomplish.

Most of the time I focus on stories that have a dangerous sometimes dark theme. Most are a mixture of action & adventure, and steamy, hot romance. Overcoming deep seated issues personally and showing how it effects their relationship is what falling in love is all about. The constant theme in all of my books is sexy, scorching hot romance. I guarantee that my stories will leave you hot and bothered, panting for more.

A loud, tattooed workaholic, I love reading and the ocean speaks to my soul. I’m a wine and chocolate lover, who stares dreamily into sunsets and vows to one day live by the ocean surrounded by animals, the countryside and a big family.

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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
Profile Image for Danielle's.
Author 1 book169 followers
November 11, 2019
Strong alpha and a lady who knows her mind. Er yes please! I’ve been waiting to read this for a while and I’m so glad it didn’t disappoint. This is the second book in the series and both instalments are great.

This starts with a mission which takes us straight into the heat of the action. Gideon isn’t looking for his mate but Ximena gets under his skin. When he brings a new case to her door he can’t help taking an interest.

This is gritty, raw, hot as hell and addictive. It’s available on KU and I can’t wait for the next instalment.
720 reviews7 followers
August 10, 2019

Book two for this fantastic series and I couldn’t put it down! I highly recommend that you read book 1 ( dark rising) first as this continues from there.

Ximena is a quiet scientist who works for her older brothers and Gideon is the bodyguard who’s assigned to keep her safe from an old enemy and an evil drug. However sparks fly between these two, even though Gideon is determined to stay away out of some misguided noble reasons. I spent time rooting for them and getting frustrated by his steel resolve to not taint Xi.
If you love books with paranormal twists, heady romance, and a mystery to solve, I highly recommend this book!!
I was gifted an advance copy but this review is well earned! I really enjoy reading stories that draw you in and this author does it every time!
Profile Image for Kodie Mackay.
1,208 reviews68 followers
August 18, 2019
I do love myself a good pnr romance and I have a good feeling about this series.

Gideon and Ximena are quite the couple. She's his friend and employers sister. He's her bodyguard. The nerdy hot scientist and the broody dark alpha make for an interesting mixture.

This is quite the interesting story. In a supernatural town of crazy's it's safe to say their journey to happy wasn't going to be smooth sailing. Add in that there's an evil brother and his merry band of evils after them you can be sure that there isn't a dull moment.

The chemistry between Gideon and Xi is off the charts palpable from the start and as the story progresses they become explosive!. I loved their journey even if they needed a quiet/harsh push together. I feel like everything fit perfectly, even the crazy unexplainable shit.

This book has ALOT of information packed into it and at times it may seem a little overwhelming but please bare with it because it will make sense. Also the author has stated she will put a glossary in so you can keep up and check back on what's what. But seriously just slow down and take it all so you don't miss anything.

I luuuuuuved the side characters and am hella curious about them. Specifically Ciro and Tristan because those broken men sure got my interest piqued with there soft sides showing a little in here.

All round it's a great book and really well written. The characters are likeable and the story hooks you in for the getgo. You have action, suspense, a little mystery and some real hot steamy romance to keep things fresh and interesting. The story is jam packed full of all kinds of crazy outrageousness and it leaves me WANTING MORE. Bottom line I want to know more. I think this even being the second In the series has great potential to be a phenomenal pnr series that isn't like anything else and completely original to itself. I can't wait for what's to come.... I heard on good authority it will be Ciro and let's just say I'm so fucking here for that!!.

Also while each book had its own couple.. there is a continuous story running though them in regards to Micah so I do suggest reading in order so you don't get confused or lost in all the crazy.

2,612 reviews10 followers
August 11, 2019
Well book 2 is just as good as book 1 in this series and we get to keep the gang together. That is one thing I enjoy about series, keeping the characters within every story so you don't lose touch. Gideon is very dark and deep down he isn't sure if he can keep his beast at bay. He is so very attracted to Xi but doesn't want to get too close because he feels she is too good for him. Xi is so in love with Gideon but doesn't feel that he looks at her any other way besides her bodyguard. Will these two ever let their feelings known? When danger comes from Micah who is another one of Xi's brothers will they be able to come out of things alive? So much drama, angst, steamy scenes, action and best of all loyalty to keep you sucked into each and every page of the book. I'm hoping the next one to get a book is Alex.
Profile Image for MoodyReaderHMB.
289 reviews18 followers
August 12, 2019
3.5 ⭐️

M.A. Gonzales is a new to me writer.
Dark Protector is about Gideon and Xi. Xi, is the sexy scientist, who is trying to find out what the new drug Z is all about. The drug is having unusual side effects on humans. Gideon is her strong moody bodyguard, that also is her mate and trying to fight off the darkness inside of him. Xi, willing and waiting to have him mated to her, but Gideon and unexpected forces is not letting that happen.

Dark Protector was an interesting story. It had all the elements of romance, action, and some angst. Some parts were a little confusing, about species which I was told a glossary will be added. This story is very detailed, it is well written. Their were a couple of typos that might need polishing up a bit. The thing I love the most about this book is that the female leads are strong.They take no BS and they fight against the cavemen attitude that the alpha males have. Those situations caused some funny moments. In all I would give her book a try, this has potential to be an awesome world she is setting up for us.
Profile Image for Linda Levine.
4,645 reviews25 followers
August 15, 2019
I really enjoyed Gideon and Ximena's story.

He is fighting so hard to do what is right and to protect Xi from his darkness. She is tired of fighting the attraction to her brother's best friend. Now, they are battling enemies too.

I really liked the romance between them. The heat between them is intense. They really have a strong connection that they both have tried to deny. He believes she's better off without him but she thinks he just doesn't want her. She has some self esteem issues.

I liked that she is not afraid to stand up for herself and take risks for what she believes is right. They battle together.

I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
Profile Image for Rebecca Martin.
211 reviews3 followers
October 11, 2019
If you like hot alpha males and paranormal this book is a must-read!

This is book 2 in the series and I would definitely recommend reading them in order so you know all the characters and paranormal creatures.

You get to see the characters from book 1 but this is all focussed on the gorgeous hunk Gideon - fighting his own demons and darkness to protect his fated mate against all odds. But Ximena feels like he keeps pushing her away and she's determined to show him just how great they could be together.

With all the impending danger can he keep her safe and will they be able to have their own happily ever after!

So so so so good!!! I can't wait for book 3
Profile Image for Megan Klose.
608 reviews2 followers
August 19, 2019
Haven't read the first book in this series but I think I would have gotten a bit more out of the book if I had. This is able to be read as a stand alone but I would recommend reading in order as there is an ongoing storyline. Some parts the writing was a bit off such as they were on the bed then it was the couch then back with our them actually moving but it didn't take away from the story. It was different from what I am used to even for paranormal romance but I enjoyed it. You have Gideon who is a tortured soul and Ximena "Xi" who is a science lab nerd and his kindred mate. I enjoyed the story and look forward to the next one. Definitely worth the read.
576 reviews3 followers
August 13, 2019
An awesomely hot second story in the series. This is Gideon and Ximena’s story. Xi is Greyson’s (book 1) sister. The chemistry between them was OFF THE CHARTS. I loved all the detail in this story and all the interesting paranormal characters. This book is super hot but has some touching moments that made me say awww and even tear up. I won’t give away much but I love the battle at the end and that is where I also teared up. Loved Elora as always...she’s such a kick ass woman who doesn’t take crap from anyone and she is such a good friend/sister-in-law to Xi.
1,558 reviews10 followers
August 16, 2019
Wow! I couldn't put this book down I was hooked. The chemistry between Gideon the bodyguard & Ximena the hot scientist is off the scale but he will not give Into the attraction convinced she is too good for him & not wanting darkness inside of him hurting her. They are each others mate their kindred. He can't keep his hands off her one minute then telling her it shouldn't have happened leaving her each time. She loves him & convinced they are meant to be together wanting him to be mated to her. She wants Gideon but unexpected forces are determined to keep them apart.
Profile Image for Kristine Maria Meadows.
180 reviews4 followers
August 20, 2019
Dark Protector

I didn’t know I was reading book 2 of the series, it’s a stand-alone but you can sense in the story that there’s one before this book. I read this book not knowing what’s of it.

I was gifted kindly to read Dark Protector. This book is a page turner and intense...the way she’d written their story... you can physically feel their feelings for each other...so much angst...drama...full of action and intense.

It’s been awhile since I’ve read a supernatural story and I enjoyed Dark Protector very much.

Highly recommend!
2,623 reviews45 followers
August 13, 2019
Take the leap, and get into this dark paranormal world and you'll find yourself as entranced as I am. The author's vivid imagination has created a world with creatures that I got drawn into quickly and wanted more of. My heart breaks for Gideon. He has such altruistic motives and tries to shield Xi from his darkness and want of her. I liked the strength Xi showed
and her determination to help Gideon. Steamy, action packed, and some tears. Wanting more!!!
Profile Image for Jenn.
37 reviews
August 15, 2019
Wow, wow , wow. What a great second in the series book from M.A focusing on Gideon and Ximena mostly. It carries on beautifully from book 1 in the series which is a must read. The sex scenes are amazing, written so well but if you're shy be prepared! Lol. I found myself relating to Xi so much so it was like being apart of the story at times. I've found it hard to put the book down and will look forward to the next in the series. Thank you M.A again for another amazing book. xx
Profile Image for Elisha Bramblett.
20 reviews
August 10, 2019
M.A. Gonzales has done it again! A sexy, steamy , read, full of action, adventure, love and sex. The second book in the Dark series this is one you don't want to miss! This is a dark romance so if that isn't your thing you might reconsider this book. For myself I can't wait for the next book in this series!
Profile Image for Jacinta.
215 reviews
August 12, 2019
Very good story that nicely continues from the first book in the series and is a great addition to what is shaping up to be a fantastic series of books. The world is coming on nicely and while some of the alternative spellings of some things is a bit of a distraction, I didn't feel like it detracted from the story in any way.
Profile Image for Barbara.
19.3k reviews8 followers
August 15, 2019
Book two in the Dark Tide Chronicles series a well written story that I enjoyed reading. Gideon is head of security for Greyson Black for the supernatural community of Devil Falls and Ximena Black who works at the County Morgue is his Mate. There is suspense, drama, danger, zombie like creatures, demon hybrids, vampires, and romance. I enjoyed reading this book.
Profile Image for Jodi.
474 reviews12 followers
August 15, 2019
Great book! The author, M.A. Gonzales, did a great job bringing the characters to life. I highly recommend this book. Five stars from me. I received an arc of this book for my honest review of this story.
145 reviews1 follower
August 17, 2019
Love & Trust wins all

I choose this rating because I absolutely loved this book even though I never read the first one I had no trouble getting into this one, it was a fantastic read. Thank you M.A. Gonzales. .
Profile Image for Chasidy Martin.
43 reviews1 follower
August 11, 2019
M.A. Gonzales has done it again!! This book has kept me on my toes, wanting more!!! My emotions all over the place!!
Profile Image for Karrie Connely.
171 reviews1 follower
August 12, 2019
She does it again. Book 2 is just as fantastic as the first. Another sexy & hot story I couldn’t put down. Absolutely loved reading this story.
Profile Image for Jamie - The Bookish Attitude.
258 reviews21 followers
September 4, 2019
Let me start by saying this story will not be for everyone.
If your interested in a new take on supernatural and somethings that are completely out there yet maybe close to reality, then you would probably like this book and it's predecessor.
Keep an open mind while your reading.

In saying that, I liked this book. The base line was epic, at times it was funny, but mostly it was serious.
This story was slow to start, sorta like a recap on the first book if you didn't read it, if you did the information rehash was probably a tad annoying, but necessary.

There were a few errors, and misteps, like a train of thought was forgotten and then came back to without checking what was already there but honeslty it didn't take awau from thw story. There were also times when I didn't like the main female, but in the end she surpassed my expectations.

Xiemena and Gideon are Kindred Mates, but Gideon is hiding things. Things he doesn't want Xi to know.
When push comes to shove Xi will chase her own answers even when her insecurities are screaming at her.

Gideon; I would have loved to know more about him! There were things I was dying to know that never got revealed.
Xi; More than just some gal that needs protecting, this scientist is actually gonna be kick ass.

There were things I'm hoping are answered in the next book, 🤞 for Ciro.

M.A Gonzales has potential and I am excited to see how she improves and where these stories lead.
Profile Image for Jennifer Soppe.
2,251 reviews13 followers
August 23, 2019
A few new twists

Ximena, a medical examiner, is guarded by Gideon, a bodyguard struggling with darkness, when the threat of her brother Micah is identified. As the story progresses a game of push and pull ensues, drastic measures are taken, and a perceived betrayal could end the fragile bond they have formed. M.A. Gonzales’ Dark Protector picks up the Dark Tide Chronicles and adds a few new twists. I have to wonder what she has in store for the rest of the series.

I received a free copy of the book from the author. I had the opportunity to review or not.
Profile Image for blushingbookishbabe.
18 reviews
September 12, 2019
Dark Protector is book 2 in the Dark Tide Chronicles and I would definitely recommend reading them in order.

A new take on the paranormal world in this dark, steamy, action packed story that will leave you wanting more! I LOVED this book and the characters. I love the world M.A. created and I can't wait for the next book. 

I highly recommend this book!🖤

*I was gifted a copy for an honest review.*
657 reviews2 followers
August 24, 2019
I wanted to read one page a day so it took forever to finish it. I love this world that MA had built!! It is exciting, sexy, full of great characters and just getting better with each book in the series. I highly recommend this book and book #1 ( Dark Rising). I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Profile Image for Brenda.
734 reviews24 followers
September 14, 2019
I didn't think it'd get much better then the first one, but Dark Protector completely slayed it.
A great story line with amazing character growth.
Dark Protector is steamy, swoony and action packed. I didn't want to put it down.

I can't wait for the next one!
Profile Image for Marti E.
28 reviews
September 15, 2019
Must read!

Really good storyline and awesome action . Now I have to read the rest of the series to find out what happens to the rest of the crew. 👍
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews

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