His to Protect

To Love & Protect #1

by Carrie Davis

He will protect his man...Ten years after Kellan Sutherland is assaulted and nearly murdered by a man obsessed with him, his nightmare returns when his attacker is unexpectedly released from jail.Sheriff Alexander Romano has known and loved Kellan for five years. He knows Kellan feels more for him than he'll admit, but despite being well aware of Alexander's feelings, Kellan won't allow anyone close, especially now when he's once again the focus of a stalker's deadly intentions.Regardless of any potential threats, Alexander is determined to protect the man he loves, even if he has to prove himself to Kellan to do it.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, M M Romance, Crime, LGBT

348 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 24, 2020

About the author

Carrie Davis crafts contemporary gay male romance with plenty of angst, but her men always get their happily ever after.

She lives in Florida, where it’s needlessly hot and the mosquitoes are the size of hummingbirds.

She requires caffeine to be a reasonably functional adult. Yes, reasonably functional is as good as it gets.

Carrie might have a small addiction to buying books, so if she's not writing, she's reading, and when she's not reading, she is happily spoiling her nephews, Zachary and Isaiah, and her dog, Remington.

Reviews

[Alexander · Rating 1 out of 5]

Pretty horrible

More short story than novel, so there's no character development. Dialog is stilted. The premise is utterly unbelievable, as is the rest of the story. Basically, don't waste your time or money.

[Claudia · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one did not really convince me .... and I expected a bit more relationship development and a bit more storyline ....
It was an ok read but I don't think I will read it again

[Shelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nightmare to beautiful dream

Kell an lived through a nightmare that haunted him still, ten years later. During that time the monster that caused the nightmare and all of his mental and physical scars has been in prison. Kell also met the very handsome and sweet Sheriff of the little town he moved to when he started rebuilding his life. Alexander meets Kell and decides to befriend him first instead of trying to date him. But for the five years he has known him? Yeah, he has lived Kell for five of them! Reading the horror that Kellan went through it was no wonder he had difficulty opening up to love again. Not only because of what the monster did but also the coward of a boyfriend he had at the time. But through love, patience and a lot of understanding Lex helps him through it to get to the beautiful dream they can have together. Just when Kell begins opening up to the possibilities of the love they have, his monster comes for him after having been released from prison on a technicality. Will he survive it again to be able to hold on to his dream? Will Lex be able to protect him? Read it and find out because it really is an interesting story from the survivors POV and also the monsters.

[Diari · Rating 1 out of 5]

Y'all know that website/service (whose name I couldn't recall for the life of me) that's been being promoted by lots of youtubers lately? It goes like this: you find a book you want to read but with a length your attention span does not allow, push a button, and it will condense the content into a 15-minute summary. I wonder what the summary of War And Peace looks like, but I think I got a rough idea of that reading this.

Speaking of ideas, there's the idea for a short story, and then there's actual storyline fit for a short story. I would've read the crap out of this had it been maybe 200 pages longer.

[Golden Child · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kellan & Lex

Easy read with a lot of passion. Kellan is still suffering from a past trauma and the source of that trauma is about to become a reality again. Lex wants nothing more to move forward with the man he fell in love with over the past 5 years if only Kellan would allow himself happiness and not be ashamed of the scars his past left him. Lex is protective of Kellan and in the end that is what saves them both. Kellan and Lex are perfect for each other.

[Daniel Brehm · Rating 3 out of 5]

Its nice enough read, but the prose is a little immature...?

Okay, its not that I didn't like the book, but the plot, characters and writing are underdeveloped. I found the prose sophomoric and immature. Its a nice enough read, but it made me feel unfilled and underwhelmed.

[Rachel Blomberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alexander finally gets his man Kellan

This was a sweet short story. There was getting what each man finally wanted; day other. It had falling in love, giving into that love, and drama. That's what a good book needs to be entertaining.

[John H Bohlmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm looking forward to read more books!

I truly enjoyed reading this book! I'll be reading the other books of this series. I will day I was able to this in no time. In my eyes this was quick for me. Others would be able to it one or two sitting.

[GABBY Gossage · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s a really good book I really love the story between Kellan and Alexander a.k.a. Lex The fact that Alexander never gave up on him over the past five years was amazing and their story together amazing and everything that Kellan went through made him a stronger person

[Pamela daSilva · Rating 5 out of 5]

His To Protect by Carrie Davis

Kellan has a stalker that's getting out of prison after 10 years. Kellan has moved since the attack and met Alexander who is a sheriff. They fall in love.

[Cara · Rating 2 out of 5]

Waste of money

Trite silly story line, angst and useless villin. Really disappointing waste of time and money. Would not ever invest in another book by this author.

[Charles Pacer · Rating 1 out of 5]

Protect yourself.

I did not enjoy the book. The storyline started out average and then there was no spark to keep me interested in continuing to read the book. Disappointed.

[Tim]

DNF at 25%
just awful.

[Juniper · Rating 3 out of 5]

At the beginning of the novel we learn that cop Alexander has fallen for Kellan, a bookstore owner and former teacher with a traumatic past (We also learn the source of Kellan’s trauma). We learn that in the half a decade since Alexander and Kellan met, Alexander has ignored Kellan’s repeated insistences that he doesn’t want a romantic or physical relationship because Alexander knows better. After all that time trying to push friendship into more, Alexander gets his chance because Kellan’s former student/assailant/stalker is released from prison and coming for him. This is the main action of the novel. There's lots of drama, lots of emotion, lots of action, and many declarations of love.

For me, there’s something deeply squicky about a romance based on such long period of one partner blatantly ignoring the other’s explicitly stated wishes— wearing someone down to give into you reads to me as more toxic than romantic, even if you’re sure that they really want it too. The fact that Alexander does this to Kellan, who has already experienced the worst possible incarnation of someone ignoring his stated desires and bodily autonomy, feels gross, even as the writer takes pains to assure us that this is different because Kellan really does want Alexander. Similarly, the way Kellan’s employee/friend basically tells him to stop resisting Alexander because ‘everyone has trauma, get over it, get laid’ is remarkably tone deaf.

To the author’s credit, the book is well edited and the pacing works well for the storyline. There’s a good balance between plot and steam. Overall, it just wasn’t for me.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Anne Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

10 years ago when Kellan Was a teacher he had a student called miles who took his help in the wrong way and in his head believed that kellan was in love with him but when kellan made it clear he just wanted to help him, Miles kidnapped and left Kellan for dead. Thankfully this man was put in prison and kellan decided to move away and get a fresh start. But it had left him guarded. He didn’t want to let anyone close. Sheriff Alexander knew straight away that he had feelings for Killian but he also knew that He wasn’t ready for a relationship so he decided that being Kellan’s friend was the best way to go. But now he knew that Miles had been released from prison he was not going to let Keelan get away with not seen the man in front of him he knew he loved him and he knew that killing loved him as well so now is the time to fight for him as they both knew that Miles was coming back to finish the job off. This is a brilliant read. My heart went out to Kellan and i just wanted to give him a massive hug. I thought Alexanders patience was amazing. What a man. I was on the edge of my seat. It was great to see the tale come to life in everyone's eyes even Miles who scared me. I loved the passion and chemistry between Kellan and Alexander. It was just bliss to read and i couldnt put this book down. A wonderful read!!! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kellan Sutherland ("Kell") had been kidnapped, terrorized, abused, and left for dead ten years previously by a student he had tried to help named Miles. Kellan relocated to Cedar Cove and became friends with Sheriff Alexander Romano ("Lex") over the past five years. Alexander is in love with Kellan and would like them to have a life together, but Kellan is not ready to overcome his fears and accept a relationship. He still does not feel “safe” and secure enough to have anyone close, and Alexander respects his decision and is willing to wait for him for as long as it takes.

Then they learn that, through a technicality, Miles is released from prison, determined to finish what he started with Kellan. Will Alexander be able to keep Kellan safe from his vicious stalker? Can he make Kellan understand that he loves him and will take care of him always? Will this be the final proof Kellan needs to let go of his fear and turn to Alexander in love?

This was a really good story. Kellan’s trauma would have devastating to anyone. Having Alexander’s compassion and strength through those years to help him recover was amazing. Will Alexander stop Miles and take the threat away from Kellan? Grab your copy and find out what happens!

[Enirehtak Melas · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a different sort of book than I am used to. Instead of having two point of views told from both main characters, we are given the villain’s point of view as well. I won’t say I particularly enjoyed being in privy to the thoughts of someone so evil, but I do appreciate the originality in that stylistic choice.

I did have to skip over a few of his comments because it not so subtly hinted towards raping the main character again.

What I did like was that while the story does move a bit fast, we are reminded that the relationship between the main characters started over 5 years ago through a slow evolving friendship.

The ending was bit cliche but not in a bad way. I was relieved to see that the both characters had that will to fight for what they wanted and the courage to confront their fears, of course in different ways.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kendall Brooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

An intense book, full of drama, action and emotion. The author employs an interesting concept, in writing from from two polar opposite points of view - that of the “good guy” and that of the “villain “. The effect makes for some uncomfortable but effective reading as the villain’s point of view is expressed.
I’m not sure how I feel about the 10 yr unrequited love affair -this despite the characters steadfast stance that he does not want a relationship....mid this unrequited love or an unhealthy obsession...? I suspect this question will be answered differently, based on each readers perspective - but it gave me pause for thought. The book is very well written and balanced with respect to plot, characterization, action and drama. This book will be a five star read for many and conversely, many will find it not their cup of tea! Read it and decide for yourself as it’s a worthy book.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[C.B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Victim trauma is no joke! Miles is a very disturbed young man who did an awful thing and is getting out of prison on a technicality. He can't wait to reunite with his victim, Kellan. Kellan was once an idealistic dedicated teacher sure of who he was, his place in life and his purpose. He had what he thought was a committed, loyal relationship. Sheriff Alex Romano had been in love with Kellan ever since he met him. Kellan has rejected his advances repeatedly, but Kellan told himself, he was making progress. Alex read Kellan's file and vowed to keep him safe. This story was good. Kellan and Alex sound like really nice guys. More time could have been spent on Kellan, but still good.Miles . . ., wow! I had a beef with the space taken up with previous reviews and the preview chapters of another book. The book cover is hot and excellent. Nicely done. I received an ARC from Booksprout and am volunarily leaving a review.

[Kkhmonrai · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. The author took a unique approach in giving the reader some POV from both the stalker and stalked, predator and prey. It was interesting, exciting , and suspenseful. I really felt for Kellan, never quite feeling safe, even after a decade. Sometimes a traumatic event causes a person to just freeze in place, and they can't move forward until another dramatic event forces a change. That's sort of what happens to Kellan. He has kept Alexander at bay for 5 years, not ready to move from his defensive position, until his attacker's release forces some action. Fortunately, Alexander has the patience and love of a saint, and he's ready to protect Kellan. Suspenseful and kept me on the edge of my seat. Good HEA ending.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jennifer Olivas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kellan was terrorized and left for dead ten years ago by a lunatic named Miles. He started his life over again in Cedar Cove and is good friends with the town's sheriff, Alexander. Well, they really want to be more than good friends but Kellan keeps putting on the brakes. When Miles is released from prison, can Alexander keep Kellan safe and make him see that they are perfect for each other?
Everyone needs a protective and loving partner like Alexander. He is so sexy and sweet. I absolutely loved this story and recommend it! It has wonderful romantic parts and scenes that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Brianne McCallum · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was given a free arc copy from the author for review.

This is a quick read. Thank goodness for that. If it was longer I would of bailed and I def don't say that often. I only give it 2 stars for the Alexander character alone who was this super sweet, hopeless romantic, doting man/hero. His love was the epitome of unconditional and I totally felt for him.

Now other than that the end game was predictable to the point of like watching a horror movie and u shout no don't do that and the dummy character does it anyway and everything that led up to it didn't make sense. Totally unrealistic/unresearched writing. I spent more time thinking that would never happen then actually reading the story.

Disappointed as I read Still Loving You by this author and I loved it.

[Syd Springer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this short book. Lex has waited 5 years for Kell to open up to him after Kell was brutality hurt but now he is done waiting. Kell is afraid to open his heart to Lex after what he went through but he can't keep his heart safe as Lex already owns it. Kell is scared, rightfully so, but Kell realizes that Lex loves him for him and still loves him despite his scares. I loved that Lex was willing to wait for Kell to bring down his walls and let Lex in. I would highly recommend this book if you looking for a short and sweet MM romance that can leave you swooning and I can't wait to see what Ms. Carrie has in store for us next!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Latecia Jennings · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kellen Gives Love a Chance

Sweet but sad story about a lovely man who was a victim of a horrible crime in his past decides to give love chance. Kellen stares at love daily in the form of the sexy sheriff Alexander but he is scared...the trauma is all too real. It's good thing that the good sheriff is persistent. I tell ya, we all need this man in our life. Alexander assures Kellen constantly that he loves him and will never give up on him and them being together. When things start going right for the guys, evil comes and challenges their new found relationship. The climax was kind of predictable but the guys had a nice ending.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Justine Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

His to Protect is book 1 in the To Love & Protect series. This book is intense and had me on edge until the end, but sometimes tragic things have to happen to put us in a place were we find our special someone. It's been 10 years since Kellan was assaulted and almost killed by a former student. He now finds himself in a different town running a bookstore but never really feeling safe. Sheriff Alexander loves Kellan and wants to protect him. I love how patient Alexander is with Kellan. He knows Kellan is apprehensive about getting too close and still wants to spend time with him. They really are good for each other. I look forward to more of this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[L H · Rating 4 out of 5]

The sad reality of obsession is that the object of that obsession has no real role to play on how the person projecting their focus on them fixates on and responds to them. Kellen is almost killed by Miles, a student that he sought to help. Miles is jailed for ten years and then let out on a technicality and he is still obsessed with getting back at Kellen for his supposed rejection of him. Alexander is a law enforcement officer who has fallen for Kellen and wants a life with him and to protect him but Kellen's experience makes him wary. Will they have a chance to get together before Miles tries again and even if they do can they stay safe to have a future together? Good suspenseful romance.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Debbie Benson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. It was very well written and enjoyable to read. Kellan was attacked and almost killed. He survived but never got over it. Alexander or Lexi as Kellan calls him has been pursuing Kellan for five years. However Kellan resists him until he learns his attacker is getting out of prison and he knows he will come after him. Miles odes and tries to kill Lexi but fails. After faking a bomb threat, he tries to kidnap Kellan to finish what he started ten years before. Lexi trusting his gut comes back and shoots Miles before he can kill Kellan. Now Kellan and Lexi are free to love each other as they want to. I look forward to the next book in this series.

[Patti Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a good book to read. The first book in the To Love and Protect series. Kellan Started teaching reigh out of college. He taught high school students in Atlanta. One of his students was obsessed with Kellan and kidnapped and raped him, also set him on fire. It has been ten years since Kellan escaped and fled Atlanta, but Kellan still has nightmares from it and is not willing to start a relationship with Alexander because he is afraid that Miles will come for him again. Miles slet out of jail and is coming for Kellan. Will Alexander be able to keep Kellan safe? Will Kellan ever admit his feelings for Alexander???.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Marion · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first book by this author and it won't be my last. It is a short, sweet story that I really enjoyed. The story is centered around Kellan. He is a book store owner who survived an assault and is just going through the motions. He is afraid to try for anything more. The other main character is Sheriff Alexander Romano. Strong, confident and in love with Kellan. While both men are stubborn, Alexander has the staying power to go the distance. He wants to break down Kellan's walls and keep him safe. This is a fast paced story with lots of action. A really enjoyable read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nissy Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kellan and Alexander had so many years of wanting, but because Kellan had issues with what happened to him in the past, he had put them on both in a freeze pattern. The past came back to haunt Kellan and it was up to Alexander to protect his love. They finally crossed over and were able to express the love they had felt for each other and it was almost ripped away. Circumstances made Kellan face his barriers that he had put up to protect himself. I am so glad that they both finally got the HEA they deserved, but more importantly, Kellan was able to love and be loved. Great Story

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.