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I should have said no.

When they asked me to take over this assignment and protect her with my life.



When at the sight of her, my heart beat like a war drum inside my chest.



When those light green eyes met mine and the world stopped.



I should’ve—but didn’t.

And now it’s too late because I’ve broken the rules and tasted the forbidden fruit.



I’ll never let her go.


164 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 10, 2019

163 people are currently reading
230 people want to read

About the author

Elena M. Reyes

61 books1,587 followers
Elena M. Reyes is the epitome of a Floridian and if she could live in her beloved flip-flops, she would.

As a small child, she was always intrigued by all forms of art: whether it was dancing to island rhythms, or painting with any medium she could get her hands on. Her passion for reading over the years has amassed her with hours of pleasure, but it wasn't until she stumbled upon fanfiction that her thirst to write overtook her world.

She’s a short and sassy Latina with an adorable pup, a kiddo that keeps her on her toes, and a husband who claims she’ll cause him to go bald prematurely. Lol


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5 stars
128 (42%)
4 stars
102 (33%)
3 stars
48 (15%)
2 stars
18 (5%)
1 star
6 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
Profile Image for Jami.
617 reviews13 followers
September 4, 2019
Ava is on the run for her life. Being stalked and finally under police protection, she meets the man that is supposed to protect her. Only her thoughts are not only about protection...
Elijah has been working this case for a year and is ready to catch the suspect. When he is ordered to protect the witness, he is hesitant, but knows he's the man for the job. That is until he meets Ava and everything changes. He not only wants to protect her from the suspect, but for the rest of her life.
The chemistry is sizzling between Ava and Eli from the minute they meet, but can they both let their guards down enough to let each other in? Can Eli protect Ava from the evil that is haunting her??

-safe read
-h is a virgin
-H has been celibate for at least 6 months and didn't come across as a MH
-safe from sexual abuse past and present
-epilogue 6 months and 2 years
Profile Image for Ruby Ap..
655 reviews55 followers
September 11, 2019
What a suspenseful, nerve wracking, steamy as hell, funny, and awesome story! I fell in love with both Elijah and Ava and their chemistry was on fire as well as beautiful <3 These two were definitely meant for one another and it shows as you read the pages of their story :) the ending was amazing and I seriously can't wait for the next read from this fantastic author already! :)
Profile Image for Sandy.
1,217 reviews4 followers
September 4, 2019
I loved it! This story between Eli and Ava is sweet,sexy,scary and, at times, gruesome. Filled with lots of action and suspense. The build up and chemistry between Eli and Ava is awesome!
Profile Image for Elizabeth Neal.
1,891 reviews154 followers
September 18, 2019
Ava is a sweet girl that made her dream of owning a bakery come true. One evening, she sees something she shouldn't and though she saved another, there are far reaching consequences that will forever change her life. As if witnessing it wasn't bad enough, she knows the man doing it. He's always given her the creeps, but this is a completely different level.

Elijah has been chasing a serial killer for a year, and when he's finally arrested, instead of his state getting their shot at trying him, another gets that opportunity. As for him, he's tasked with keeping the only witness safe, by any means necessary per his chief.

Ava is exhausted, both emotionally and physically, and Elijah is upset he's stuck babysitting, but things change the second the door opens and they see each other. Suddenly, Ava's heart is now in jeopardy as well as Elijah's. But now is not the time to act on their feelings for one another, even though they yearn to do just that.

But how long can they resist fate? Will they explore their feelings? Or must they remain professional to ensure they both survive the madman on Ava's trail? Or will ignoring their hearts be just as dangerous? Will they get their HEA?

One-click now and follow along as Elijah and Ava are brought together under tragic circumstances learn that destiny always wins. I really enjoyed this story, their craving for one another not only easy to imagine but believable. The only thing I wish was different, and this is purely a personal preference on my part, is that Elijah had been celibate more than six months. If he's been on this case for a year, I'd think it'd be at least twelve since he was last with anyone. Again, that's just me and while it disappointed me, it didn't detract from my enjoyment as a whole. Also, I loved seeing Wes (Justice for Laine by Susan Stoker) again.

**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.**
Profile Image for Paula D.
1,580 reviews55 followers
August 28, 2019
A thrilling, intense short story that actually I wish I had more. Ava sees a murder and now in protection but the man stalking her won’t give up. Eli is hired to protect Ava but first glance he knows he’s in trouble. Love the connection the chemistry and the excitement in this story not knowing what’s gonna happen next. 5/5 stars
Profile Image for Michelle Krystel .
2,055 reviews52 followers
September 11, 2019
I was given an advance readers copy of this book and have decided to write a voluntary honest review. Ok so first thing first this book was different from Elena's other books, but I loved it so much. I was so intrigued with story I was sad to see it end. These story teaches you to be careful of your surroundings and people who might know but not very well. Great job doll
Profile Image for R Rais.
1,572 reviews43 followers
August 27, 2019
A contemporary romance with a splash of suspence, hot cop, a virgin, and a whole lot of steamy😉😘

A quick read from Elena Reyes, I like it.

Feels a little bit too rush at the first few chapter for me. I think the author can make it more suspence and intense at that first part.

Fast pace and love at the first sight with little angst, steamy. love Ava n Elijah chemistry.

Over all, the author done a great job in romance department. As usual, she know how to mix the chemistry to sizzle.
Profile Image for Teresa Lara.
3,514 reviews53 followers
August 29, 2019
Intense emotional broken beautiful heart stopping action packed love story of Eli and Ava
All the feels from beginning to end
Profile Image for Kadijah_reviews.
513 reviews
September 7, 2019
Really great book I love it so much

"I received a free copy with no obligation to review"
Profile Image for Elena Reyes.
Author 61 books1,587 followers
September 10, 2019

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Keeping Ava is LIVE!

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• • •About the Book • • •

I should have said no.

When they asked me to take over this assignment and protect her with my life.

When at the sight of her, my heart beat like a war drum inside my chest.

When those light green eyes met mine and the world stopped.

I should’ve—but didn’t. And now it’s too late because I’ve broken the rules and tasted the forbidden fruit.

I’ll never let her go.

#KeepinAvaRelease #NewRelease #OneClick #ElenaMReyes
Profile Image for Twinsie Talk Angie J.
1,817 reviews
September 1, 2019
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Keeping Ava (Police and Fire: Operation Alpha) by Elena M. Reyes
I received this book from the author for an honest review.
Guuurl do I love your books. They are so naughty and steamy they melt my kindle. I have missed reading your stuff because life so when I got this I was thrilled!!
This story is a sexy as hell cop and of course a virgin. Now don’t go all hating on that story because its awesomely good!! Yes its cliché but it still rocked out with giant cop c*ck! OOOF I made this filthy already.
The story has suspense and twists like we expect from Elena. It also has her big bad alpha hero, Elijah, looking to do everything to save Ava.
Seriously a great book to read!!!

Profile Image for Emily.
5,974 reviews558 followers
October 23, 2019
Ava witnesses a brutal attack on the way home from her shop only to find the man attacking is a man she has known for years. Although he is arrested, he escapes and Ava finds herself shuffled from place to place trying to keep her safe. When she ends up in California under the protection of Elijah.

Elijah doesn't want to babysit a witness who is tied to an old case he worked on. When he meets Ava though he changes his mind quickly and falls hard for the woman he is sworn to protect.

This was just what I was looking for when I read the synopsis for this book. I enjoyed every page of this story and thought the pace was perfect. I liked all the characters and it surprised me in a few places which is always a plus. Excellent.
488 reviews7 followers
September 2, 2019
This is a great book about a young woman (Ava) who witnesses an attack on another woman by a man (Jason) who, it turns out, has been stalking her since high school. He has become a serial murderer, killing women who resemble her. A detective named Elijah is assigned to protect her and they fall in love. Jason is busy tracking her down and is being helped by traitors among her friends and among the police. It all leads to a very climactic scene when he finds her. Can Elijah get to her in time to save her? Can he stop Jason? Can he and Ava have an HEA? I highly recommend this book!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for ereader26.
221 reviews2 followers
September 11, 2019
I have been looking forward to this book since I found out Elena M. Reyes was going to be part of the operation alpha books. The book was great, and this author did an amazing job with the plot, characters, and action. The suspense was just perfect for this story and had me on my toes a time or two. Eli knew Eva was going to be his, but he needed to first keep her safe from the person that is trying to hurt her. Eva felt safe with Eli, and her feelings for him were growing just as fast but will Eli be able to keep her safe? Amazing story with and a fantastic ending. I can't wait for more from this author.
Profile Image for Sue.
4,426 reviews5 followers
September 3, 2019
First book I've read from this author and it was an excellent read. If you love a hot mystery you will love this book. Elijah is a Detective assigned to protect Ava. Ava witnessed a murder by someone she knows. So she's transported by a Texas Ranger from Lubbock to San Diego, which was supposed to be a secret move. This book has the suspense you crave, hot scenes but best of all a real story line to sink your teeth into I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,536 reviews87 followers
September 11, 2019
He has one job, protect her at all costs. Will they find the person after her before it is to late? Will they get their Happy Ever After?

This book sucked me right in. I loved the twists and turns this book took and how both characters were determined to do what they could. She definitely proved that she wasn't some impulsive woman and held out a lot longer on her feelings than I thought she would. I loved how he was determined to protect her and be there to help her no matter what happened. Great read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Vera .
513 reviews
September 10, 2019
4.5 STARS!!
Elena M. Reyes sure did keep me on my toes from the very first page of Keeping Ava!!
Elijah is the epitome of big bad alpha protector!! When his eyes land on Ava he knows he will do anything to keep her safe!!
The chemistry between Eli and Ava is intense!! Both trying to keep it professional though. Well until they can’t!! Wink wink!!
Fantastic story that flows very well!! It’s totally swoon worthy and panty melting at the same time!!
Profile Image for Sabrina.
1,333 reviews17 followers
September 10, 2019
Ohhhh, a great suspenseful short book by Elena....and boy does she know how to write a hero!! I loved Ava but I absolutely loved Ethan, but that's the way it always is with Elena's books. The hero always sucks me in....whether he's a douche or a sexy agent!! Loved getting the suspense in this one and I loved how Ethan was always there for Ava, what more could ask for.

Another great one Elena!!
Profile Image for Heather W.
4,068 reviews35 followers
November 18, 2019
I loved this romantic suspense story...

This is the first book I have read by this author and I loved it! The characters are well developed and interesting. Elijah and Ava have amazing chemistry and are meant to be together. The storyline is well written and captured my interest from the beginning. There is murder, danger, a serial killer, intrigue, and a heartwarming romance.

I am looking forward to reading more books by this author.
Profile Image for Marie  Brown (Marie's Tempting Reads).
2,771 reviews56 followers
September 15, 2019
A fantastic addition to Susan Stoker's World! This book had one heart stopping hero and a tough as nails yet vulnerable heroine that needed protection from someone extremely dangerous. This book was loaded with action and a slow burn romance that made my heart tremble with desire. I really got lost in this book. In a good way of course. This book was sweet and perfect exactly what I needed.
4,012 reviews34 followers
September 8, 2019
The book is a good romantic suspense read. The story has a good story line. The characters are good, and they have good chemistry. The story is an enjoyable, hear pounding, sweet, and sexy read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
275 reviews9 followers
September 10, 2019
I absolutely LOVED this book. Ava witnesses something that requires her to have protection in the form of Elijah who you will just LOVE. This book is fast paced and oh so hot. I literally could not put this book down. 5 hot stars!
Profile Image for Tiffany.
471 reviews
August 30, 2019
Heart pounding, sweet and sexy read!

Totally fell in love with Ava and Elijah!! I want and need more! Elena has found her niche with romantic suspense. Kudos!!
Profile Image for Jennifer.
1,164 reviews
September 9, 2019
An exciting page turner by Elena Reyes! Suspense and drama and chemistry! Don not miss it! Enjoy!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Tovah Levine.
Author 1 book21 followers
September 10, 2019
What is it with you and words? Every time I read your stories I just can’t stop reading them. I just can’t get enough. You never disappoint me. I alway end up loving them.
Profile Image for Nikki.
972 reviews257 followers
October 8, 2019
Such a great book!

Wow! This is my first book from this author and I'm an instant fan! Suspense, romance, a roller coaster ride of greatness!
11.9k reviews49 followers
March 21, 2020
He will protect her but will he be able to give her back.............Keeping Ava

Keeping Ava was my first time reading a book by Elena M. Reyes. I found it to be an enjoyable story with interesting characters in Ava and Elijah, and let's not forget Jason, the very bad guy. Ava becomes a protected witness when Jason escapes from custody. It seems he murdered a man and Ava saw him do it. So she has to go into protection in a safe house and Elijah is assigned to keep her safe. There is an attraction between them and sparks fly while they are together. Jason in the meantime is hunting her down and he comes very close. Will Elijah be able to keep her safe and protected? Will Jason be caught before he kills Ava?
So for me this was an enjoyable story to read but it was a bit confusing a few times and I did want to knocks Ava upside the head a few times as she did things put herself in more danger with Jason on the loose.

I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. My opinions are all my own.
Profile Image for Ꭿຖᥲ·♡ ྀི.
2,355 reviews233 followers
December 22, 2021
2.5✯

°Virgin heroine (22 y/o)
°Hero's been celibate for a 6 months
°Switching POVs
°Insta attraction->love
°No OW/OM drama - the drama was caused by the serial killer who was obsessed with the h
°No cheating or scenes with OP
°No separation
°Pushing away from the h
°The MCs were so dumb at times I wanted to smack them
°Epilogue: 6 months and 2 years later
2,117 reviews16 followers
March 21, 2020
This book is part of the Police and Fire: Operation Alpha series. Every book in the series has been awesome.
In this one, the moment that Elijah sees Ava, he just knows that he cant/wont let her go. He will do whatever it takes to keep her protected and safe.
She is in witness protection because of a stalker who is obsessed with the need to kill her. Why? because she refused to date him! He has killed before, the women he has killed looked like her. Will Elijah be able to protect her? Will they be able to have a life together? All will be revealed when you read this amazing book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews