Liam A first date isn’t supposed to last this long. Even though it started out perfect, there is a nightmare waiting when I bring Whitney back to my house.Now we’re on the run. If I don’t pay mysterious loan sharks $25k, they’ll stop at nothing to get their money back. Two can play at that game.Nothing and no one will stop me from protecting Whitney and rescuing us from this chaos. Protected is a stand-alone romantic suspense.While there is flirty banter, hot chemistry & passionate kisses, this is a closed door romance.
4.5 stars I read this in one sitting. Liam and Whitney have a first date that takes an unexpected turn. Their story is written in first person from a dual POV. This book is filled with suspense and excellent character development for the shorter length of the book. The story is fast-paced and full of suspense. I love that the characters find comfort in each other while trying to stay ahead of the men who are after them. This was a real page turner. My only sadness was that it ended so soon. This was my first book by this new-to-me author, but it certainly will not be the last. I look forward to what she brings to her next books.
This is a fast paced read full of action, steam, and edge of your seat moments. Liam and Whitney go out for a date and at the end of the night instead ending in a romantic moment they are harassed by people who say Liam owes him money. Having to go on the run while they figure out what to do next it brings them closer together but will they be able to survive what awaits them? Such a good read that kept me intrigued with loads of action and a twist that even though I guessed it, it still was a shocker with all that was happening.
Holy suspenseful, get ready for an amazing story, that will take you on a wild ride. Leigh Skarin’s “Protected” was amazing book that had so many twists and turns, I didn't know where the story would go. This had me on the edge of my seat the entire story.
Liam is a realtor and meets a client Whitney, that is looking to buy a house. With the time they are spending together they really get to know each other. Liam realizes fast he is falling for Whitney, and she is falling for him. However, the professional that Liam is, he waits until he finds her, her dream home, then he asks her out. They have an amazing date, but when the date is almost over, something bad happens. These awful people show up at Whitney’s house, threatening them lives if Liam doesn't pay these mysterious guys $25K dollars they are asking for. They don’t give Liam a lot of time, and they threaten to not only hurt and destroy Whitney and Liam, but their families as well.
Will they be able to come up with the money that fast? Will they survive this wild journey they are about to go on together? Will this bring them closer or push them a part? Whitney is scared but Liam really likes Whitney and he doesn't want anything bad to happen to her. No matter what, he will protect her to the end, but does he have the power to do this alone and will he be able to keep her safe, no matter what is thrown at them?
This book was absolutely amazing. I mean it when I say, I couldn't put it down. With all the suspense, twists and turns you as the reader are routing for Whitney and Liam to be ok, but also you enjoy the journey and wild ride they are taking together because it makes them closer.
I love Leigh Skarin’s writing. The way she pays attention to detail and really writes what the characters are going through, makes you feel like you are in the book with the characters along for the journey with them. I highly recommend this book, but more so, highly recommend Leigh Skarin, she is an amazing author, you can tell by reading her beautiful words, she was made to be an author!
Whitney and Liam have a working relationship. Liam is her realtor and they just closed on what would be Whitney’s new home. But their celebratory dinner goes awry when they are confronted by goons. Is her cute realtor a shady criminal or is there something else going on?
This story and the plot evolved really quickly. It had a little bit of mystery, suspense and just a tad of romantic heat. I don’t know if I could consider this book a true romance because Liam was more focused on keeping Whitney safe than truly trying to win her heart.
This book was just an okay read for me as it was a novella type book. This plot could have benefited from more character development of Whitney and Liam. It felt like a quick snap shot in time, a super quick read. The characters all seemed like good people who cared about others and so I liked them. But it felt a bit unrealistic at times sorta like watching a soap opera. I did really like the story telling from both Whitney and Liam’s points of view. It made the intersections seem balanced
Liam is Whitney's realtor who has spent 4 months helping her find her dream home. Now that she's officially closed on her house & no longer his client, Liam asks her on a date. The date went well until they were attacked by 3 men who demanded money. Liam is determined to protect Whitney at all costs. The events that take place push them to face their feelings towards each other.
This is my first read by Leigh & I loved it! It's a different, unique plot than what I am used to (in a good way!) It's a fast paced, quick read with lots of action & kept me guessing. If you're looking for hot, steamy scenes- this book is not going to satisfy your craving. However, there is some romantic, mildly warm (🤣 for lack of a better term) action. I enjoyed her writing style & look forward to more of her work!
Protected was an excellent story. Liam and Whitney are finally going on their first date only to be thrust into a nightmare that puts both of their lives in dangerous circumstances. It's action packed, suspenseful, with a dose of sweet. The author truly has a knack for getting into her characters heads, creating their actions as if they were a reel from a movie, and so well written that the story comes alive.
This is the second by this author. Leigh takes on a epic journey. Liam and Whitney story is raw and emotional to say the least. This author is getting better and better every time she writes. Couldn't put this book down. Find out what Liam and Whitney go through then pick up your copy Great read.
“I want to sculpt something amazing with you. This is our story, all of the good and all of the pain. No matter what, I want you.”
Liam is a realtor. He has been wanting to ask Whitney - his client - on a date for four months, but once she was his client, he couldn`t. So, when Liam found her the perfect house, his first action is to invite her out. The chemistry is all over there and they really enjoy each other's company, what they don't expect, tho, it's that their night ends in a dangerous way.
One of my favorite parts about receiving books in exchange for an honest review is getting out of my comfort zone. Of course, it's not that out of it, once it's still a romance, but at the same time, it's not the usual type I choose to read, but at the end of the day, I end up loving it.
This was a cute easy reading for me. I love books where the hero knows what he wants and this was the case with Liam. There was no unnecessary drama and I love his protectionism over Whitney.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review and I am definitely reading more books from the author.
HEA Cheating Any couple separation Angst Level: Heat Level: Cliffhanger:
A first date story to tell the kids and grandkids one day, and oh my god what a story it is!!!!!
Protected is a short and packed full of goodness story. Instantly this story had me not only captivated but utterly intrigued as to where Leigh Skarin was taking me with her storytelling. After knowing each other for months through a realtor / client capacity Liam finally gets his chance to take Whitney out on a date. All is going well until they are suddenly thrown into a dangerous situation. Buckle up peeps because Liam and Whitney's journey is riddled with a dash of insta-love, chemistry, suspense, action, an unexpected twist, some heart racing on the edge of you seat moments, and some swoony and heartwarming moments. A quick, fast paced, suspenseful, action packed yet swoony and sweet book!!! 5 stars, 2 thumbs up!!
This was a fun suspense story between two that have been attracted to each other for a few months but waited to make their move. When they do, it was the worst timing. They had to run from people after them. Not what they expected, that’s for sure.
Liam is from the prior book but can be completely a stand alone. I liked that I read Keeping Kacie though as it was more exciting when there was a small cameo of Kacie.
Liam is open with his feelings with Whitney and not afraid to show them. He did have a little more “skills” than originally let on which was a surprise but then there was a twist I completely didn’t expect. An exciting and intriguing twist.
This was quick read, full of action and suspense with a sweet HEA.
I really enjoyed this book, it had my interest as soon as they were heading back to Liam’s place after their first date and that’s when all hell breaks loose. I just figured Liam was lying about the loan sharks and his name .... but then he said who it was 😧 then the fun began!
I’m usually never a fan of insta love/lust but Leigh just seemed to make it work between these two. Logan has been crushing on her for months but couldn’t ask her out until she wasn’t his real estate client anymore.
I love a good romance suspense, where the couple is on the run and you’re thinking, “you should have sex, you might die tomorrow” 😂
Wow! This book was fast paced, intense and kept me on the edge of my seat. I really liked Liam and Whitney. Liam is a smooth talking real estate agent who just sold Whitney her new house. There is a connection between these two characters that you see at the beginning and they need to trust each other to get through the dilemma they are in.
This was a 4 star read for me. I feel bad because my review is kind of short, but if I write it any longer I will give away details. That is totally not cool! The only thing for me is, I wish it was a little bit longer so that we got to see the relationship really grow between these characters. But a job well done for sure.
I can honestly say this is unlike any other book I’ve read. The author uses some great creative imagery when describing her characters and the scenery. And her opening scene grabs your attention and makes you curious about where things will lead. The curiosity keeps you reading until the end.
Protected is an action-packed romantic suspense novel with a unique premise. What if your first date takes an unexpected turn and have you both running for your lives.
Leigh takes this incredibly original premise and throws in a host of twists and turns (mistaken identity, loan sharks, and many others). This rapidly moving novel will keep you guessing, leave you breathless, and rooting for Liam and Whitney to not only find an escape but also each other.
Liam is a real estate broker with a crush on his client, Whitney. Once the danger appears he will do anything to protect her. The novel moves at a rapid and intense pace and I wish there were more quiet moments for Liam and Whitney to expand their romantic connection.
Unputdownable!! Liam and Whitney's crazy rollercoaster of a story was amazing. Suspenseful and unpredictable, you won't be able to stop flipping the pages. Five stars!
I received this book as an ARC. That has no bearing on my 5-star rating. Protected is engaging! Engrossing! I embraced these two characters. Liam and Whitney's story is heart-warming. Their story is amazingly well-written and paced. Liam is a swoon-worthy hero. Whitney is a cheeky heroine. Together they make this story an all-around, feel-good must-read. Just the right amount of sexy-chemistry, romance, and angst.
PROTECTED is a suspense romance that is a novella. It is written by a new author, Leigh Skarin, and the book is very fast-paced. The couple are busy running for their lives, so any romance scenes are short and far-between. Yet Whitney & Liam are very devoted to each other through it all.
Whitney Douglas has just closed on her first house. It is one of her dreams come true. The other dream coming true is when her dreamy Realtor of four months, Liam Chandler, has asked her out for a celebratory dinner date. The date was going along great, and the attraction between the two was hot. After dinner Liam invited her to his house to watch a movie. They were approaching his home, when they are accosted by a group of dangerous looking men. Liam tries valiantly to fight them off, but they pull a gun. His one concern is keeping Whitney safe. They accuse Liam of owing them money. They are loan sharks among other criminal activity. Liam tries to explain he has a twin brother, but they are not buying that alibi, even though it is the truth. They are ogling innocent Whitney in a very menacing way. They give them both three days to come up with the money, and their interest in Whitney is more concerning than coming up with the cash.
The book is very good and I enjoying the short fast-paced story. Told from both Whitney & Liam's point of view! The author is writing a third book and I would be interested in reading it, too!
A first date is supposed to be memorable and leave a lasting impression. Holy Heck! As far as Liam and Whitney’s first date goes, it will NEVER be forgotten. This one is unforgettable!
This is a first Leigh Skarin book I’ve read. I must admit it was enjoyable! It was a fast pased and fun read. The story and character development was at par with the length of the book. There were many twists and turns, ups and downs and sweet surprises during this crazy and mysterious $25K adventure.
After spending four months helping Whitney search for her dream home, Liam couldn’t help but fall for Whitney! He loves that she’s bold, sassy, feisty and thinks outside the box. Whitney loves Liams strong, caring, sweet and gentle nature ... that is until he’s fighting to protect the girl he’s falling for! Than you see another side of her “protector.”
After the both of them are attacked on his porch due to mistaken identity with Liam by some loan sharks, their first date takes an awful turn, where they find themselves on the run to protect themselves and the ones they love.
I enjoyed how they found comfort in each other’s company. I especially enjoyed watching the quick “slow burn” unravel. It was great to see how they had each other’s backs and fought to protect one another. He is so protective of her. Sigh ❤️ He will do anything to keep her safe.
The heat level between Liam and Whitney was perfect for this book! Just the right amount of sweet and spicy. There was also a nice twist that made my heart happy!😉
“Insta Love” is not normally my go too. However, this one was done well. It left my heart happy and humming. Lol I’d love to tell you all about it. However, I promise, it’s best if you read and experience “Protector” yourself!
Protected by Leigh Skarin is a romantic suspense novel, a beautiful love story intertwined with lots of action, running, and guns.
The story is in dual POV, which is needed to get the whole story.
Protected has a unique, fast paced storyline that kept me engaged. I loved how much the characters grow towards each other during their run.
This isn't a steamy read, but it didn't bother me. There are so many other things happening that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Liam is a sweetheart, I loved how he fought for Whitney, even while endangering himself. Whitney is sassy and strong! She was a badass who didn't back down from a fight.
It's a short story, and there already is so much happening, but I would have loved to know more about Liam and Whitney's deeper feelings and emotions. Even without that, this couple clearly had a connection, their actions showed that.
I enjoyed reading Protected, I was unable to put it down. The storyline pulled me in from the first page, and the writing style made the story come to life. I will definitely read what Leigh Skarin comes up with next.
Thank you Leigh for recommending this book on IG!!
Liam is a real estate agent and meets Whitney when she is trying to buy a home. There is a romantic attraction there but Liam keeps it professional until he finds Whitney a home.
When he does ask Whitney out they have a very romantic date that would only end in the best steamy romantic evening right? Well that's what I got for assuming!!
Things take a turn when people start harassing Liam telling him that he owes them money and they start going on the run. Liam will do anything to protect Whitney because he has fallen for her very hard. While they are on the run their feelings and chemistry will be put to the test.
This was a very action packed, suspenseful read with some steam!! Liam and Whitney most definitely have what it takes.
If you are looking for a very intense, rapid pace book that is suspenseful, keeps you on the edge of your seat, has that steam you like and comes with a HEA then look no further!
This is a really quick read romance. The romance in this is very light, something that I didn’t realize going in, so that was a bit disappointing purely because I kept waiting for something to happen between the two main characters.
Whitney & Liam have their first date after knowing each other for months as realtor and client. However, the date goes downhill fast with the mistaken identity of Liam, who now has loan sharks after him and Whitney.
The pace moves fairy quickly and there was a great amount of action, overall it was a great quick read.
Protected is Leigh Skarin's second book. After a mistaken identity, Liam and Whitney are on the run. Liam will do whatever it takes to protect her... and all this on their first date. And it was nice seeing a peek of characters from her first book.
Although I found several things throughout the story to be a little...out of the realms of possibility? (Not sure that's quite right!) I did enjoy the story.
Leigh writes sweet, clean romances, and her books are well written and edited.
Leigh Skarin brought us an amazing new release in the suspense romance world! It keeps you on edge while staying "clean". The Insta love these characters have for each other is fast moving and intense but so wonderful! The protective nature of Liam towards Whitney is breathtaking and to watch this couple grow and love each other more considering EVERYTHING they had to endure in a matter of a few days was wonderful!
This is the first book I've read by Leigh and it was really good. Not my usual read but it had me hooked from the get go. Liam meets Whitney by being her realtor, they go on a date and at the end of it loan sharks threaten him and tell him he has to give them money. From there its fast paced, suspenseful and crazy!! Lots of action, guns and running. I loved reading their story. Genre - suspense romance
Well let’s just say Whitney and Liam’s first date does not end as they had hoped. This was an enjoyable easy to read book. There was just enough twists to keep you guessing with a little bit of romance thrown in. Loved Liam’s protective side... he was definitely the hero in this one. But felt that protecting Whitney to over and the romance fell to the background. Fun quick read.
I was given an ARC but voluntarily chose to review
This is not how our first date was suppose to go..
Liam just found Whitney her dream house. Thank god, now he can finally ask her out. But their first date goes way wrong. Next thing they know, they are on the run and men are trying to kill them. Can they survive this? And will Whitney ever agree to see him again?
A wonderful fun romance thriller! Liam is the perfect guy, hot, smart, funny, and sensitive. He is the guy every girl needs, protective and fights off the bad guys! Whitney is a smart, funny women who holds her own in a crises but is still soft enough to lean on Liam at times. This was a great love story wrapped into a little criminal intrigue.