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Private Protectors #4
A Just Deception
The protector: Peter Jessup, former Navy SEAL, currently employed by Taylor Security. He likes being the hero—in charge and in control.
His client: Lawyer Isabelle DeRosa. The sexy brunette is the personification of Peter's fantasies. She's willing to get physical but nothing more serious.
The assignment: When Isabelle becomes the prime suspect in the murder of her cousin, Peter is there to protect her and help her find the real killer. Their investigation leads to a big-name charity that seems to draw cultlike followers. Isabelle manages to infiltrate the group and become close to their leader, leaving Peter both jealous and worried for her.
As their search leads to danger, Peter realizes he's falling in love with Isabelle. He wants all of her, but she's too used to guarding herself to let him in…
His client: Lawyer Isabelle DeRosa. The sexy brunette is the personification of Peter's fantasies. She's willing to get physical but nothing more serious.
The assignment: When Isabelle becomes the prime suspect in the murder of her cousin, Peter is there to protect her and help her find the real killer. Their investigation leads to a big-name charity that seems to draw cultlike followers. Isabelle manages to infiltrate the group and become close to their leader, leaving Peter both jealous and worried for her.
As their search leads to danger, Peter realizes he's falling in love with Isabelle. He wants all of her, but she's too used to guarding herself to let him in…
394 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 5, 2011
258 people are currently reading
507 people want to read
About the author
Adrienne Giordano
110 books876 followersAuthor also writes as Anne Dano
Adrienne Giordano is a USA Today bestselling author of over forty romantic suspense, mystery and women’s fiction novels. She is a certified life coach with a passion for helping people reach their goals. Adrienne is a Jersey girl at heart, but now lives in the Midwest with her ultimate supporter of a husband, sports-obsessed son and Elliot, a snuggle-happy rescue. Having grown up near the ocean, Adrienne enjoys paddleboarding, a nice float in a kayak and lounging on the beach with a good book. For more information on Adrienne’s books, please visit www.AdrienneGiordano.com. Adrienne can also be found on Facebook (AdrienneGiordanoAuthor), Instagram and Goodreads.
Adrienne Giordano is a USA Today bestselling author of over forty romantic suspense, mystery and women’s fiction novels. She is a certified life coach with a passion for helping people reach their goals. Adrienne is a Jersey girl at heart, but now lives in the Midwest with her ultimate supporter of a husband, sports-obsessed son and Elliot, a snuggle-happy rescue. Having grown up near the ocean, Adrienne enjoys paddleboarding, a nice float in a kayak and lounging on the beach with a good book. For more information on Adrienne’s books, please visit www.AdrienneGiordano.com. Adrienne can also be found on Facebook (AdrienneGiordanoAuthor), Instagram and Goodreads.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
September 6, 2011
A Just Deception by Adrienne Giordano was the second book about the men who work for Taylor Security and this time we have Peter "Monk" Jessup, former Navy guy kind of on a low fuse and forced by Vic into taking R&R.
So, Peter makes his way back home, where he shares a weird relationship with his family. He has never lived up to his family's wealthy name instead ran away at nineteen to join the Navy and get married. His head is pretty messed up due to the death of his friend Tiny and now one more, but Peter is not ready to deal with that. Vic calls him to do a favor to an old friend's daughter Isabella.
Isabelle is one classy, in control woman who works with her uncle, but beneath all that control lies a very damaged woman, a girl who was betrayed by someone who loved, sexually abused and molested for years by her cousin and then instead of dealing with it, forced by her uncle and mother to let it go. The consequences, is a very messed up Isabelle who knows how to defend herself physically but someone who doesn't trust men and is a master at separating the emotional and physical. When her cousin is back on the scene, harassing her to come to his compound where he runs a charity, she calls Vic for some home security upgrade.
The first meeting between these two sizzled, Peter checked her out and Isabelle used her make men uncomfortable stare. The book isn't a easy read and deals with a subject that is very heart-breaking. Through-out the book you can see that Isabelle is deeply damaged, her trust and sexuality broken. To her sex is a function she is detached from.
Peter has major hots for Isabelle but he wants the real her and not the woman she turns into to cope. So, even though it's tough on him he refuses to sleep with her unless he can coax the real her out more often.
There was a hilarious scene when Peter's mother walked on these two and I really enjoyed how the book could be humorous as well and showed honest and crude conversations between men. I felt it depicted men very realistically. Peter was a good guy one of the best heroes ever who cared for Isabelle as a person and not just how hot she looked.
When Kendrick is murdered and the FBI comes calling to ask for Isabelle's help, you can see her struggling to put the past behind and pretend it doesn't hurt anymore. I did enjoy the book a lot but I had major issues with it, like how Isabelle never dealt with what happened by maybe going through counseling, her relationship with her uncle and mother and how even Peter got through his need to fix everything around him so quickly and dealing with his friend's death..
There were moments when Isabelle freaked like when she found out Peter's fantasy list and when his reaction to her earlier need to have sex just to feel something but Peter never gives up on her. Isabelle makes him feel after his divorce years earlier.. All in all I felt this was a better book than Man Law and I will be reading more by this author.
ARC received through Netgalley
So, Peter makes his way back home, where he shares a weird relationship with his family. He has never lived up to his family's wealthy name instead ran away at nineteen to join the Navy and get married. His head is pretty messed up due to the death of his friend Tiny and now one more, but Peter is not ready to deal with that. Vic calls him to do a favor to an old friend's daughter Isabella.
Isabelle is one classy, in control woman who works with her uncle, but beneath all that control lies a very damaged woman, a girl who was betrayed by someone who loved, sexually abused and molested for years by her cousin and then instead of dealing with it, forced by her uncle and mother to let it go. The consequences, is a very messed up Isabelle who knows how to defend herself physically but someone who doesn't trust men and is a master at separating the emotional and physical. When her cousin is back on the scene, harassing her to come to his compound where he runs a charity, she calls Vic for some home security upgrade.
The first meeting between these two sizzled, Peter checked her out and Isabelle used her make men uncomfortable stare. The book isn't a easy read and deals with a subject that is very heart-breaking. Through-out the book you can see that Isabelle is deeply damaged, her trust and sexuality broken. To her sex is a function she is detached from.
Peter has major hots for Isabelle but he wants the real her and not the woman she turns into to cope. So, even though it's tough on him he refuses to sleep with her unless he can coax the real her out more often.
There was a hilarious scene when Peter's mother walked on these two and I really enjoyed how the book could be humorous as well and showed honest and crude conversations between men. I felt it depicted men very realistically. Peter was a good guy one of the best heroes ever who cared for Isabelle as a person and not just how hot she looked.
When Kendrick is murdered and the FBI comes calling to ask for Isabelle's help, you can see her struggling to put the past behind and pretend it doesn't hurt anymore. I did enjoy the book a lot but I had major issues with it, like how Isabelle never dealt with what happened by maybe going through counseling, her relationship with her uncle and mother and how even Peter got through his need to fix everything around him so quickly and dealing with his friend's death..
There were moments when Isabelle freaked like when she found out Peter's fantasy list and when his reaction to her earlier need to have sex just to feel something but Peter never gives up on her. Isabelle makes him feel after his divorce years earlier.. All in all I felt this was a better book than Man Law and I will be reading more by this author.
ARC received through Netgalley
September 3, 2011
A Just Deception by Adrienne Giordanno is her second book in the Private Protectors series. 32 year old Peter Jessup is former Navy SEAL and now works for Taylor Security. Forced into taking a vacation to get his act together, Peter is a restless soul that has no penchant for sitting around twiddling his thumbs. Coming from a family that is filthy rich, Peter is someone who feels comfortable being his own guy, away from all the rules that the ultra rich society adheres to.
Isabelle DeRosa is a defense lawyer who hides behind the effect her sultry and heartstopping good looks has on the opposite sex. A victim of sexual abuse during childhood, Isabelle has no qualms about what she is capable of emotionally and physically and arms herself with the necessary skills to defend herself if the need were to ever present itself.
When her cousin Kendrick with whom she shares her turbulent past with is murdered and fingers start pointing in her direction, Isabelle agrees to help the FBI uncover the reality behind the facade of a charity home that Kendrick has been keeping up as a business front on his home turf. When Peter Jessup enters the picture as her protector, a man who for the first time in her life has the ability to pierce through the iron clad armor that guards her fragile emotions and heart, Isabelle is in the battle of her life to overcome the fear that has ruled over her life up until now. As block by block the armor crumbles around her, Isabelle makes her way into the treachery and deceit that is Kendrick's legacy.
This is my second book by Adrienne Giordanno and the one thing that constantly strikes a chord deep within me is Adrienne's voice which rings with humor all throughout the story. Yes, she deals with a lot of emotional, dark and heavy subjects like the trauma of a woman getting over being abused sexually as a child to baby selling black markets to murder within this story. But somehow, all through this, Adrienne finds a way to keep true to her voice and deliver the reader with what I have come to identify essentially as her own style. And that is one main reason I would always constantly keep coming back for more of her books whenever a new one comes out.
When I encountered Vic Andrews in Man Law, the first book in the Private Protectors series, I thought to myself that no man could ever measure up to Vic. But I was proven completely and utterly wrong when Peter Jessup strolled in and swept me off my feet and tumbled me into his world where his character is everything and I mean everything you would want in the man by your side. He is however not without his own demons to fight but what makes him so appealing is the way he is so patient with Isabelle who has a lot of baggage of her own to get over from before Peter and Isabelle can find their own happily ever after.
The one thing that I can always count on when I pick up a book by Adrienne is the fact that she doesn't waste time trying to portray the men in her stories the way that the opposite sex wants them moulded and shaped up as they want men to be. But rather, Adrienne brings the male characters in her books to life the way they should be, the way I see men in reality interact with one another and react to emotional upheavals in their lives. And that is one reason I just loved the 2nd book in the Private Protectors series as much as I did.
Isabelle's character is one worthy of being mentioned because she is one tough chick with an inner vulnerability that just reaches into something deep inside of you until you cant help but empathize with what she has gone through at such a young age. Her coping mechanism when it kicks in is more than understandable and what appealed to me is the way Adrienne handles Isabelle's emotional trauma in the book, giving her ample enough time and reason to get over it and even then there are no magical solutions to healing the scars that seems to be embedded deep inside of her.
The dialogues are wickedly hot at times and of the laugh out loud variety, the sexual tension between Isabelle and Peter insanely hot, sweet and emotional and the suspense factor that aligns nicely along with the romance aspect of the novel makes this an instant winner! Recommended for fans of the series and fans of Adrienne Giordano. Peter Jessup's character alone makes this one worthy of being picked up!
Momentous Scenes:
- The scene during which Peter's mother walks in on Peter and Isabelle getting it on. Laugh out loud funny. Seriously! LOL
- The car smexing scene. Insanely and wickedly hot and emotional as well!
- Every.single.time Peter Jessup gives his Hollywood variety smile. Made me go weak at the knees every time I tell you!
Memorable Quotes:
Quotes included below the review.
Rating=4.5/5
Original review posted on MBR's Realm of Romance
Isabelle DeRosa is a defense lawyer who hides behind the effect her sultry and heartstopping good looks has on the opposite sex. A victim of sexual abuse during childhood, Isabelle has no qualms about what she is capable of emotionally and physically and arms herself with the necessary skills to defend herself if the need were to ever present itself.
When her cousin Kendrick with whom she shares her turbulent past with is murdered and fingers start pointing in her direction, Isabelle agrees to help the FBI uncover the reality behind the facade of a charity home that Kendrick has been keeping up as a business front on his home turf. When Peter Jessup enters the picture as her protector, a man who for the first time in her life has the ability to pierce through the iron clad armor that guards her fragile emotions and heart, Isabelle is in the battle of her life to overcome the fear that has ruled over her life up until now. As block by block the armor crumbles around her, Isabelle makes her way into the treachery and deceit that is Kendrick's legacy.
This is my second book by Adrienne Giordanno and the one thing that constantly strikes a chord deep within me is Adrienne's voice which rings with humor all throughout the story. Yes, she deals with a lot of emotional, dark and heavy subjects like the trauma of a woman getting over being abused sexually as a child to baby selling black markets to murder within this story. But somehow, all through this, Adrienne finds a way to keep true to her voice and deliver the reader with what I have come to identify essentially as her own style. And that is one main reason I would always constantly keep coming back for more of her books whenever a new one comes out.
When I encountered Vic Andrews in Man Law, the first book in the Private Protectors series, I thought to myself that no man could ever measure up to Vic. But I was proven completely and utterly wrong when Peter Jessup strolled in and swept me off my feet and tumbled me into his world where his character is everything and I mean everything you would want in the man by your side. He is however not without his own demons to fight but what makes him so appealing is the way he is so patient with Isabelle who has a lot of baggage of her own to get over from before Peter and Isabelle can find their own happily ever after.
The one thing that I can always count on when I pick up a book by Adrienne is the fact that she doesn't waste time trying to portray the men in her stories the way that the opposite sex wants them moulded and shaped up as they want men to be. But rather, Adrienne brings the male characters in her books to life the way they should be, the way I see men in reality interact with one another and react to emotional upheavals in their lives. And that is one reason I just loved the 2nd book in the Private Protectors series as much as I did.
Isabelle's character is one worthy of being mentioned because she is one tough chick with an inner vulnerability that just reaches into something deep inside of you until you cant help but empathize with what she has gone through at such a young age. Her coping mechanism when it kicks in is more than understandable and what appealed to me is the way Adrienne handles Isabelle's emotional trauma in the book, giving her ample enough time and reason to get over it and even then there are no magical solutions to healing the scars that seems to be embedded deep inside of her.
The dialogues are wickedly hot at times and of the laugh out loud variety, the sexual tension between Isabelle and Peter insanely hot, sweet and emotional and the suspense factor that aligns nicely along with the romance aspect of the novel makes this an instant winner! Recommended for fans of the series and fans of Adrienne Giordano. Peter Jessup's character alone makes this one worthy of being picked up!
Momentous Scenes:
- The scene during which Peter's mother walks in on Peter and Isabelle getting it on. Laugh out loud funny. Seriously! LOL
- The car smexing scene. Insanely and wickedly hot and emotional as well!
- Every.single.time Peter Jessup gives his Hollywood variety smile. Made me go weak at the knees every time I tell you!
Memorable Quotes:
Quotes included below the review.
Rating=4.5/5
Original review posted on MBR's Realm of Romance
October 4, 2011
I was excited when this second book in a series appeared after reading and reviewing the first book Man Law, and found that like many series, some characters were carried over. Not that they are main players in this story, but they give broader scope to the story for those who read the first novel. This is still a stand alone story and any reader new to this series or this author will still enjoy and be able to get everything out of this novel that I think the author intended.
That being said, we meet an operative who has come to that dangerous edge many people face who are in the protection "game" and where the inner person needs some R & R to recoup their humanity and sense of perspective. So it was with Peter Jessup, effective and lethal, yet hurting in body and soul at the loss of two of his buddies. Both deaths were tough even though when operatives with this agency are called upon to do "off the radar" government assignments there is always the danger that there will be lives lost. Yet Peter is in that bad place where he is blaming himself for the loss of his friends. His head tells him otherwise, but his heart is still grieving. His family is affluent but intrusive, so it is not a happy guy who is told by his boss to go home and rest, relax, be on vacation because he is "off the clock."
Enter Isabelle DeRosa, close personal friend of one of the agency's owners, who is once again being stalked by her cousin who abused and sexually assaulted her in her teens and who has been shielded by Isabelle's uncle. Believing that it is simply a matter of supervising the installation of a security system, Peter is asked to oversee this seemingly innocuous project. After all, Isabelle lives close by. But it isn't too long--a day or two--when problems arise. Peter meets the cousin and forms a very negative opinion. Then Isabelle and Peter receive the news that the cousin has been murdered and Isabelle is suspected, especially when it becomes known that the cousin had again threatened her safety. Now the plot thickens and begins to involve both Peter and Isabelle in an undercover project to find out the exact nature of the cousin's "charity" and to answer a whole host of questions and inconsistencies related to that property and so-called charitable non-profit organization.
This is a fine novel, written beautifully, well-edited, put together with a sure hand, and one that will keep the reader right on the edge. There is a pervasive sense of evil about the organization that puts Isabelle's teeth on edge as she infiltrates the property, going in as the cousin openly, but really trying to find out some answers and resolve some mysteries--some of which crop up after her arrival. Her cousin's partner gives her the willies and openly ogles her at every opportunity. Hidden in a local motel, Peter monitors Isabelle's activities along with another operative, a man with whom Peter has exchanged some heated punches in the past, but who is very good at what he does. However, underneath all the cloak and dagger stuff is a sort of on-again-off-again love story between Isabelle and Peter, one that the reader won't really know much about other than it seems to be a right now sort of thing rather than a long term relationship. That seems to be the way both Isabelle and Peter want it, isn't it?
Both these characters are hurting, fearful about the future, needing to trust but not really sure how to do that, needing to move past old hurts and griefs but not really sure how to do that either. Neither seem to be able to walk away from one another and sometimes that causes complications. It is not a simplistic love story at all. And surrounding this tentative and uneasy relationship is the situation with the murder, suspicion of being the culprit, the almost gut-level belief that nothing that her cousin was involved in could possibly be on the up and up, and the mysterious disappearance of a congresswoman's daughter. It's a very involved story with multiple strands that the reader holds like reins of a team of horses, and they must be juggled as the story progresses. Truthfully, it's my kind of story.
The bottom line? Peter is what many would call a "man's man" with all the machismo and blood/guts that special ops/former Navy SEALs are known for, yet he needs the softness of Isabelle's understanding and comforting. On the other hand, Isabelle has been used and abused and is bound and determined that no one, most especially a man, is going to get the control of her life. Yet she needs Peter's strength, his support and his sheltering arms when things get really "hairy." They must walk this rocky path together and work pretty hard to try to find a way to resolve a whole host of points where they can't seem to find resolution. There are no simple solutions, but in life there rarely are. This author has not backed away from the cost that men in dangerous endeavors must pay when they put their lives, their souls, their peace of mind on the line. There are also the difficulties that persist when victims of sexual abuse are not given the understanding and support by those closest to them.
So I recommend this riveting novel to those who like a love story that isn't syrupy and cloying, who want the grit and edge when getting down to the place where good collides with pure evil, and who want a book that will exercise the brain as well as entertain. You've got it with this book.
I give it a rating of 4.5 out of 5.
This review was originally posted by Judith on Book Binge.
That being said, we meet an operative who has come to that dangerous edge many people face who are in the protection "game" and where the inner person needs some R & R to recoup their humanity and sense of perspective. So it was with Peter Jessup, effective and lethal, yet hurting in body and soul at the loss of two of his buddies. Both deaths were tough even though when operatives with this agency are called upon to do "off the radar" government assignments there is always the danger that there will be lives lost. Yet Peter is in that bad place where he is blaming himself for the loss of his friends. His head tells him otherwise, but his heart is still grieving. His family is affluent but intrusive, so it is not a happy guy who is told by his boss to go home and rest, relax, be on vacation because he is "off the clock."
Enter Isabelle DeRosa, close personal friend of one of the agency's owners, who is once again being stalked by her cousin who abused and sexually assaulted her in her teens and who has been shielded by Isabelle's uncle. Believing that it is simply a matter of supervising the installation of a security system, Peter is asked to oversee this seemingly innocuous project. After all, Isabelle lives close by. But it isn't too long--a day or two--when problems arise. Peter meets the cousin and forms a very negative opinion. Then Isabelle and Peter receive the news that the cousin has been murdered and Isabelle is suspected, especially when it becomes known that the cousin had again threatened her safety. Now the plot thickens and begins to involve both Peter and Isabelle in an undercover project to find out the exact nature of the cousin's "charity" and to answer a whole host of questions and inconsistencies related to that property and so-called charitable non-profit organization.
This is a fine novel, written beautifully, well-edited, put together with a sure hand, and one that will keep the reader right on the edge. There is a pervasive sense of evil about the organization that puts Isabelle's teeth on edge as she infiltrates the property, going in as the cousin openly, but really trying to find out some answers and resolve some mysteries--some of which crop up after her arrival. Her cousin's partner gives her the willies and openly ogles her at every opportunity. Hidden in a local motel, Peter monitors Isabelle's activities along with another operative, a man with whom Peter has exchanged some heated punches in the past, but who is very good at what he does. However, underneath all the cloak and dagger stuff is a sort of on-again-off-again love story between Isabelle and Peter, one that the reader won't really know much about other than it seems to be a right now sort of thing rather than a long term relationship. That seems to be the way both Isabelle and Peter want it, isn't it?
Both these characters are hurting, fearful about the future, needing to trust but not really sure how to do that, needing to move past old hurts and griefs but not really sure how to do that either. Neither seem to be able to walk away from one another and sometimes that causes complications. It is not a simplistic love story at all. And surrounding this tentative and uneasy relationship is the situation with the murder, suspicion of being the culprit, the almost gut-level belief that nothing that her cousin was involved in could possibly be on the up and up, and the mysterious disappearance of a congresswoman's daughter. It's a very involved story with multiple strands that the reader holds like reins of a team of horses, and they must be juggled as the story progresses. Truthfully, it's my kind of story.
The bottom line? Peter is what many would call a "man's man" with all the machismo and blood/guts that special ops/former Navy SEALs are known for, yet he needs the softness of Isabelle's understanding and comforting. On the other hand, Isabelle has been used and abused and is bound and determined that no one, most especially a man, is going to get the control of her life. Yet she needs Peter's strength, his support and his sheltering arms when things get really "hairy." They must walk this rocky path together and work pretty hard to try to find a way to resolve a whole host of points where they can't seem to find resolution. There are no simple solutions, but in life there rarely are. This author has not backed away from the cost that men in dangerous endeavors must pay when they put their lives, their souls, their peace of mind on the line. There are also the difficulties that persist when victims of sexual abuse are not given the understanding and support by those closest to them.
So I recommend this riveting novel to those who like a love story that isn't syrupy and cloying, who want the grit and edge when getting down to the place where good collides with pure evil, and who want a book that will exercise the brain as well as entertain. You've got it with this book.
I give it a rating of 4.5 out of 5.
This review was originally posted by Judith on Book Binge.
August 27, 2011
This romance started out with two strikes against it: the hero has the same name as my father, and he likes to wear a do-rag, a fact which is mentioned many, many times. I got used to his name fairly quickly, but continued to mentally shudder every time “do-rag” was mentioned. This was somewhat balanced out by him being very sweet and having epic hair.
Former SEAL Peter is on an forced mental-health leave when his boss (hero of the previous book in the series) asks him to help out a friend who needs a security system. Isabelle is a lawyer with some mental health issues of her own: sexually abused by an older cousin as a child, she closes off emotionally whenever she’s attracted to someone. As Peter helps Isabelle protect herself against the man who still threatens her, they try to get a relationship going, but things get even more complicated when Izzy is asked to help investigate her cousin’s possibly very seamy doings... and Peter, who always feels the need to fix everything, is not supposed to get involved.
It seems an odd thing to say about romantic suspense in which the two main characters are both suffering from forms of PTSD, but this is a pleasantly straightforward story. Although the problems they face are significant, there’s more open talking than emo brooding. I liked that neither fights the attraction between them, although they act on it slowly because of of Isabelle’s issues. If you’ve ever been really annoyed that a character recovering from abuse takes about five seconds to heal in a romance, this is the book for you: Peter and Izzy have to put some serious time and effort into it.
The effects of long term abuse by a loved one are realistically drawn, though I had some issues with the plausibility of Isabelle’s adult actions. The language is also somewhat repetitive and the story starts to drag around the middle. But I liked patient, caring Peter and conflicted Izzy together and looked forward to seeing things work out for them. There’s also a really good balance between Peter being the protective dude we love to read about and Izzy being tough and resourceful and fighting for herself.
This was clearly part of a series, but stood alone just fine.
(I received this e-arc for review from netGalley.)
Former SEAL Peter is on an forced mental-health leave when his boss (hero of the previous book in the series) asks him to help out a friend who needs a security system. Isabelle is a lawyer with some mental health issues of her own: sexually abused by an older cousin as a child, she closes off emotionally whenever she’s attracted to someone. As Peter helps Isabelle protect herself against the man who still threatens her, they try to get a relationship going, but things get even more complicated when Izzy is asked to help investigate her cousin’s possibly very seamy doings... and Peter, who always feels the need to fix everything, is not supposed to get involved.
It seems an odd thing to say about romantic suspense in which the two main characters are both suffering from forms of PTSD, but this is a pleasantly straightforward story. Although the problems they face are significant, there’s more open talking than emo brooding. I liked that neither fights the attraction between them, although they act on it slowly because of of Isabelle’s issues. If you’ve ever been really annoyed that a character recovering from abuse takes about five seconds to heal in a romance, this is the book for you: Peter and Izzy have to put some serious time and effort into it.
The effects of long term abuse by a loved one are realistically drawn, though I had some issues with the plausibility of Isabelle’s adult actions. The language is also somewhat repetitive and the story starts to drag around the middle. But I liked patient, caring Peter and conflicted Izzy together and looked forward to seeing things work out for them. There’s also a really good balance between Peter being the protective dude we love to read about and Izzy being tough and resourceful and fighting for herself.
This was clearly part of a series, but stood alone just fine.
(I received this e-arc for review from netGalley.)
March 25, 2012
I have read this book twice (as I have with all Adrienne’s books). I have read a lot of other books since I initially read this book and realized how good these books are. Since rereading this book I have come to enjoy Peter and Izzy's relationship more than I did the first time. I tend to compare books to each other and since I liked Vic and Gina so much in Man Law, I didn't really give Peter and Izzy a fair shot. After rereading it I changed my mind. Peter and Izzy have a lot of depth to them and they complement each other well. They are very direct with each other and that is awesome! The subject matter in the book was a little unsettling (but realistic) and I felt this way because I have not experienced any of it directly. I feel for Izzy and what she has had to go through and hope I nor my family members ever have to go through it. Peter is wonderful in helping her get through her "issues." There are several great lines in this book as there are in all of Adrienne's books. Her books are humorous, sexy, yet real and heartwarming at the same time. She plays on all your emotions. I highly recommend this book and her others!
July 6, 2024
So, I just wrapped up A Just Deception, the third book in Adrienne Giordano’s Private Protectors series. If you’ve read this series, you might share my mixed feelings. The first book, Risking Trust, was pretty decent and got me intrigued. But now, after plowing through Man Law and A Just Deception, I’m starting to see a pattern, and not a great one.
A Just Deception was published back in 2011, and let’s be honest, those 13 years haven’t done it any favours. The story feels a bit outdated, and the characters, well, they’re something else.
The heroine, Izzy, has some heavy baggage. She was molested as a child by her older cousin, and it’s left her with serious emotional scars. Unfortunately, the way the book handles her trauma is a bit of a mess. Izzy’s behavior is erratic, and honestly, she comes off as a bit of a “whackadoodle.” There’s a scene early on where she and the hero try to get intimate, and it’s a disaster. At that point, the hero, Peter, should have just walked away. It’s clear Izzy never got the help she needed as a teenager, and now, as an adult, she’s spiraling.
The whole suspense aspect, which is supposed to be the thrilling part of the book, fell flat for me. The case didn’t grab my attention or add much to the story. It felt more like a backdrop rather than a driving force in the plot. I was more focused on the messy relationship dynamics than any so-called suspense.
Now, about those relationships. Giordano’s writing is all over the place in this series. Risking Trust had some promise, but by the time you get through Man Law and then this book, it’s clear the author struggles with consistency. The men often act like overgrown frat boys, and the women? Well, they all seem like they need serious therapy sessions. The relationships are off-kilter and don’t quite click in a believable or satisfying way.
If you’re committed to finishing the Private Protectors series, go ahead and give A Just Deception a shot. Just don’t expect a smooth ride. It’s a bit of a bumpy journey with characters that might drive you up the wall. If you can look past the uneven writing and the chaotic romance, you might find something to enjoy. Otherwise, you might be better off skipping this one.
A Just Deception was published back in 2011, and let’s be honest, those 13 years haven’t done it any favours. The story feels a bit outdated, and the characters, well, they’re something else.
The heroine, Izzy, has some heavy baggage. She was molested as a child by her older cousin, and it’s left her with serious emotional scars. Unfortunately, the way the book handles her trauma is a bit of a mess. Izzy’s behavior is erratic, and honestly, she comes off as a bit of a “whackadoodle.” There’s a scene early on where she and the hero try to get intimate, and it’s a disaster. At that point, the hero, Peter, should have just walked away. It’s clear Izzy never got the help she needed as a teenager, and now, as an adult, she’s spiraling.
The whole suspense aspect, which is supposed to be the thrilling part of the book, fell flat for me. The case didn’t grab my attention or add much to the story. It felt more like a backdrop rather than a driving force in the plot. I was more focused on the messy relationship dynamics than any so-called suspense.
Now, about those relationships. Giordano’s writing is all over the place in this series. Risking Trust had some promise, but by the time you get through Man Law and then this book, it’s clear the author struggles with consistency. The men often act like overgrown frat boys, and the women? Well, they all seem like they need serious therapy sessions. The relationships are off-kilter and don’t quite click in a believable or satisfying way.
If you’re committed to finishing the Private Protectors series, go ahead and give A Just Deception a shot. Just don’t expect a smooth ride. It’s a bit of a bumpy journey with characters that might drive you up the wall. If you can look past the uneven writing and the chaotic romance, you might find something to enjoy. Otherwise, you might be better off skipping this one.
March 7, 2020
Peter is on a forced vacation. He hates it, but he knows that he can't deal with the loss of his friends/coworkers. This makes him a liability at Taylor Security. When his boss asks him to have a security system installed for Isabelle DeRosa, he's irritated. When they meet, he's attracted to her beauty and her spirit. She's being harassed by her cousin and needs Peter's help to keep herself safe. I thoroughly disliked Kendrick. He's a manipulative abuser who has no shame. I was glad that Izzy rebuilt her life. Unfortunately she still suffered emotional pain from his abuse. I was glad that she was proactive and learned Krav Maga so she could protect herself. I wanted her to have power. Her relationship with Peter had its up and downs. They are both damaged by events they couldn't control. Things come to a head when the FBI asks Izzy to go undercover and find out what Kendrick was up to. Peter wants to be there to protect her, but he knows that he can't be with her. This story was action packed. The topic upset me. I was happy that Isabelle found the justice she deserved. I'm enjoying the Private Protectors series.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
March 20, 2020
Isabelle is a fighter. In more ways than one. She was abused as a child by her cousin and decided she would never be a victim again. Then her cousin shows up to ask her for a favor. She immediately calls her old friend, Vic, to get an alarm system installed. Since Peter is supposed to be on leave and he was in the area, Vic asked him to take care of it. When Isabelle's cousin decides to pay her a visit in the middle of the night, Peter comes over to pick up the pieces. The pieces of her cousin after Isabelle kicked his butt. Then her cousin ends up dead and she is a strong suspect. The FBI asks her to go under cover to find out what the true story is behind the cousin's "charity" he started. Peter and Isabelle learn a lot about themselves and each other. Is it enough for them to change their lives so they can be together?
March 20, 2020
Izzy (Isabelle) is a strong criminal attorney. She has a dark secret that she doesn’t want others to know. When I found out her secret, I understood why emotionally she is weak and doesn’t give her emotions a chance during intimate times. Her cousin Kendrick that she hates comes to her office asking for help at his compound in Ohio, but tells him equivocally no. She calls her good friend Vic to tell him what is going on. Peter is at his parent’s home on forced leave from his stressful security job in the same town as Izzy. Vic asks him to help with a security system in Izzy’s house. I felt bad for Peter as he lost a couple of friends on the job and blames himself. He feels like he needs to control everything and blames himself if something happens. I think most men fall for Izzy when they see her as she has a smoking body. I was glad to see Izzy attracted to Peter. Their relationship is full of ups and downs with some interesting nicknames for each other along the way. The FBI gets involved in a case which puts Izzy and Peter in the middle. I hated seeing what was happening to some of the females at this complex. This is a very interesting story with some upsetting people that I wanted to strangle. I strongly encourage you to read the book. Was given a copy of the book and voluntarily wrote a review.
September 8, 2011
I LOVED this book. I love this author's voice. She writes realistic dialogue and characters. Izzy (a kick ass - literally) heroine and Monk were both damaged, and I rooted for them to get together. Monk is caring and supportive while maintaining his alphaness! And the suspence aspect of the story is believable, and heck, kept me up way too late last night because I had to know what happened! Can't wait for the next book in the series!
February 16, 2013
I like this series. I liked the guy and I liked the story line, but damn the chick got stupider and stupider as the story went along. She was supposed to be healing and I guess she did, but she also got stupid. Dumb, really dumb, since she was supposed to be smart.
March 11, 2020
The fourth installment, A Just Deception, in the Private Protectors series, once again holds forth the evidence of Adrienne Giordano’s storytelling talent. As a gifted writer, she has the uncanny ability to transport you into the pages of her stories with what appears to be such ease...as with Peter (Monk) and Isabelle’s story, you’ll find yourself lost within the pages rife with intrigue, murder, and a baffling mystery...that is then nicely counterbalanced with an undercurrent of a wicked sense of humor...Ms Giordano’s, as evidenced in Peter’s inner monologues.
Peter’s complex character...raised in the world of wealth and privilege, his career in Special Ops military, and then highly elite private security, is the epitome of juxtaposition. Her characters are often flawed and that’s what lends the authenticity to her stories...Isabelle’s inner turmoil as presented in the constant emotional war waging between Creepy Izzy and Fun Izzy provided the perfect counterpoint of lightness to offset the gut wrenching travesty of her childhood.
With the components of depth and complexity in her well crafted stories, I know I will always find myself lost amongst fascinating characters when I dive into one of Adrienne Giordano’s books.
This book was complimentary, provided by the author. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
Peter’s complex character...raised in the world of wealth and privilege, his career in Special Ops military, and then highly elite private security, is the epitome of juxtaposition. Her characters are often flawed and that’s what lends the authenticity to her stories...Isabelle’s inner turmoil as presented in the constant emotional war waging between Creepy Izzy and Fun Izzy provided the perfect counterpoint of lightness to offset the gut wrenching travesty of her childhood.
With the components of depth and complexity in her well crafted stories, I know I will always find myself lost amongst fascinating characters when I dive into one of Adrienne Giordano’s books.
This book was complimentary, provided by the author. I am voluntarily providing my honest review.
March 20, 2020
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "JUST DECEPTION" Another terrific read in this great Private Protectors series it's intriguing suspense filled drama, secrets, past sexual abuse, hot steamy scenes.
Peter Jessup aka "Monk" is a former Navy Seal he's lost a few friends/co-workers during missions he's fried, not dealing well with the loss and his boss Vic tells him needs R&R go home and visit your family it's an order.
Isabella DeRosa is a criminal attorney in her Uncle's high profile criminal defense firm her sleezy creep of a cousin Kendrick shows up she get in touch with Taylor Security for help to get a new updated security system in her house.
Peter is asked by Vic to go install security system into Isabella's house she's the daughter of a friend when they meet the sparks fly there very attracted to one another.
Kendrick is murdered and Isabella and Monk are suspects in his death but then the FBI wants Isabella to get into his compound to get info on what's going behind the high gates she has to get close to leader which makes Monk jealous, she only accepted to prove her innocence .
Isabella finds out things where she's going to need Monk's help neither thought they'd fall in love but the chemistry is to strong will they find the real killer and get there HEA it's definitely a must have book so well worth the read.
Peter Jessup aka "Monk" is a former Navy Seal he's lost a few friends/co-workers during missions he's fried, not dealing well with the loss and his boss Vic tells him needs R&R go home and visit your family it's an order.
Isabella DeRosa is a criminal attorney in her Uncle's high profile criminal defense firm her sleezy creep of a cousin Kendrick shows up she get in touch with Taylor Security for help to get a new updated security system in her house.
Peter is asked by Vic to go install security system into Isabella's house she's the daughter of a friend when they meet the sparks fly there very attracted to one another.
Kendrick is murdered and Isabella and Monk are suspects in his death but then the FBI wants Isabella to get into his compound to get info on what's going behind the high gates she has to get close to leader which makes Monk jealous, she only accepted to prove her innocence .
Isabella finds out things where she's going to need Monk's help neither thought they'd fall in love but the chemistry is to strong will they find the real killer and get there HEA it's definitely a must have book so well worth the read.
March 30, 2020
I am loving this series re-launch!
A Just Deception was an intense read...though I've read all the previous titles as they've been re-released, I honestly wasn't expecting this one to go in the direction it did, or for it to suck me in to the extent that it did. (Trigger warning--there are multiple instances of childhood sexual abuse, and though you're not witnessing it on the page, it's still really disturbing.) Isabelle and Peter are more than up to the challenge, though, and OMG the story that they give us is something else.
I freaking loved Peter and Isabella.
If you haven't read the other books in the series yet, no worries--Peter's been put on leave from his job at Taylor Security (the reasons for it are sufficiently explained here) and he comes into contact with Izzy at Vic's request, since they are old friends. So if you've read previous books, yes! Vic's here and plays a small role! but if you haven't, starting here is not a problem at all.
Billy's book is next, and OMG that spoiler for it at the end of this one... (grabby hands!)
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
A Just Deception was an intense read...though I've read all the previous titles as they've been re-released, I honestly wasn't expecting this one to go in the direction it did, or for it to suck me in to the extent that it did. (Trigger warning--there are multiple instances of childhood sexual abuse, and though you're not witnessing it on the page, it's still really disturbing.) Isabelle and Peter are more than up to the challenge, though, and OMG the story that they give us is something else.
I freaking loved Peter and Isabella.
If you haven't read the other books in the series yet, no worries--Peter's been put on leave from his job at Taylor Security (the reasons for it are sufficiently explained here) and he comes into contact with Izzy at Vic's request, since they are old friends. So if you've read previous books, yes! Vic's here and plays a small role! but if you haven't, starting here is not a problem at all.
Billy's book is next, and OMG that spoiler for it at the end of this one... (grabby hands!)
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
March 21, 2020
4.5
I was pulled right into this story. The story flowed well. The story has laughs, pain, suspense and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Risking Trust (Private Protectors, #1)
Man Law (Private Protectors, #2)
This is Isabella and Peter’s story. Peter is Isabella’s protector when she is accused of her cousin’s murder. He is going to help her find the real killer while protecting her. When Isabella is pulled deeper into danger Peter is not understanding and crazy worried. She is all about the physical but not willing to fall for him. What happens when he falls, and she does not? Can he walk away if the investigation ends? Or will she want him forever? Does she have a forever? Or is she about to lose everything?
I loved these characters. This book had a ton of laughs. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
I was pulled right into this story. The story flowed well. The story has laughs, pain, suspense and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Risking Trust (Private Protectors, #1)
Man Law (Private Protectors, #2)
This is Isabella and Peter’s story. Peter is Isabella’s protector when she is accused of her cousin’s murder. He is going to help her find the real killer while protecting her. When Isabella is pulled deeper into danger Peter is not understanding and crazy worried. She is all about the physical but not willing to fall for him. What happens when he falls, and she does not? Can he walk away if the investigation ends? Or will she want him forever? Does she have a forever? Or is she about to lose everything?
I loved these characters. This book had a ton of laughs. I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from this author.
September 12, 2011
You can also read this review at Reflections on Reading Romance
Have you ever had a friend who’s smart and well-educated but makes incredibly dumb decisions? If so, you’ve met Isabelle DeRosa, heroine of Adrienne Giordano’s A Just Deception, the second book in Ms. Giordano’s Private Protector series. I absolutely loved the first book, Man Law (read my review), so I was really looking forward to reading the second book in this series. Unfortunately, I feel really conflicted about this second book. Like the first, the outstanding portrayal of the relationships between the male characters and the smoldering sexual tension between the hero and heroine are its strengths, but I was really uncomfortable with several of the decisions the heroine makes over the course of the book.
Isabelle De Rosa is a lawyer working in her uncle’s high-profile criminal defense firm. When her creepy cousin Kendrick makes a surprise appearance at the firm, she contacts Taylor Security for help updating her home alarm system. They send former SEAL Peter Jessup to help her out, and the two immediately set off sparks. Before they can act on their attraction, Kendrick turns up murdered and both Peter and Izzy are suspects in his death. When the FBI approaches Izzy to go undercover at Kendrick’s charity’s compound in Ohio, she accepts the job in an attempt to prove her innocence in Kendrick’s death. But the more she learns about the cult-like charity, the more she’s going to need Peter’s help to expose the truth. Neither one counts on falling in love complicating everything.
This novel has many strong points, and my favorite is undoubtedly the great interaction between Peter and the other members of Taylor Security. The dialogue between the male characters is hilarious and really well done. We don’t always see such strong relationships between male supporting characters in romance, but Ms. Giordano seems to pull this off effortlessly. The give and take between the men spills over into the male-female relationships as well, since the dialogue between Peter and Izzy and the other female characters is engaging and witty. This also reflects the excellent pacing of the novel. The mix between suspense, action, and romance is just right, ensuring that you’ll keep turning the pages, while the sexual tension between Peter and Izzy leaps off the page.
***SLIGHT SPOILERS***
The problems I have with the book all have to do with Isabelle’s character. She was sexually abused by her cousin Kendrick for more than seven years as a child. Ms. Giordano does an outstanding job of portraying Izzy as a survivor rather than a victim, and you’ll want to cheer when Izzy manages to fight off Kendrick’s advances. However, she makes several decisions over the course of the book that struck me as so bizarre and frustrating that it interfered with my enjoyment of the book, hence my comments at the beginning of this review. We learn that Kendrick’s father, Izzy’s uncle, convinces Izzy and her mother to cover up Kendrick’s abuse when it’s discovered, which is frustrating but unfortunately doesn’t strike me as all that unusual. What drives me nuts, though, is that despite this, Izzy works in her uncle’s law firm! I just do not understand this decision. She explains this away as saying that her uncle “owes” her career because she saved his by covering up the abuse. She believes that working at the top criminal defense firm in the state will catapult her career. This seems like the stupidest decision a rape survivor could make, especially since the chances of her running into her abuser, her boss’s son, are pretty darn high.
The second highly questionable decision she makes occurs when Kendrick attempts to rape her again, this time as an adult. Thanks to her determination never to be a victim again, she’s able to beat the stuffing out of him, get away, and call Peter for help. We then learn that Kendrick got into the house because he used his father’s key!!! It gets worse, though. She refuses to call the police, insisting that she and Peter return Kendrick to her uncle, because she doesn’t want to involve the family. What?!?! The family IS involved, because your cousin tried to rape you!! This becomes all the more confusing when she acknowledges to Peter that she worries that her family’s decision not to prosecute Kendrick has allowed him to sexually abuse others. If she’s that concerned about it, why does she refuse to involve the police? I could understand if, as a criminal defense lawyer, she decided not to press charges because of how a trial could destroy her life, but she never even mentions this, instead focusing on not involving the family.
Because of her past, Izzy’s sexuality is understandably an issue throughout the novel. Ms. Giordano does an excellent job of portraying Izzy’s problems with intimacy with Peter, which I find to be highly believable. Her intimacy issues complicate her relationship with Peter later in the novel when she makes questionable decisions about how to elicit information from the leader of Kendrick’s charity. I found this section to be difficult to read because of its content but well executed, even if as a reader you want her to make better choices.
Unfortunately, I just couldn’t get over Izzy’s decisions concerning her family. She’s portrayed as a survivor who’s working hard to overcome her past, which is admirable, but her insistence in remaining in such close contact with family members who have betrayed her in unforgiveable ways strained my credulity and seriously affected my enjoyment of the novel.
I received this book for review from the Publisher through NetGalley.
Have you ever had a friend who’s smart and well-educated but makes incredibly dumb decisions? If so, you’ve met Isabelle DeRosa, heroine of Adrienne Giordano’s A Just Deception, the second book in Ms. Giordano’s Private Protector series. I absolutely loved the first book, Man Law (read my review), so I was really looking forward to reading the second book in this series. Unfortunately, I feel really conflicted about this second book. Like the first, the outstanding portrayal of the relationships between the male characters and the smoldering sexual tension between the hero and heroine are its strengths, but I was really uncomfortable with several of the decisions the heroine makes over the course of the book.
Isabelle De Rosa is a lawyer working in her uncle’s high-profile criminal defense firm. When her creepy cousin Kendrick makes a surprise appearance at the firm, she contacts Taylor Security for help updating her home alarm system. They send former SEAL Peter Jessup to help her out, and the two immediately set off sparks. Before they can act on their attraction, Kendrick turns up murdered and both Peter and Izzy are suspects in his death. When the FBI approaches Izzy to go undercover at Kendrick’s charity’s compound in Ohio, she accepts the job in an attempt to prove her innocence in Kendrick’s death. But the more she learns about the cult-like charity, the more she’s going to need Peter’s help to expose the truth. Neither one counts on falling in love complicating everything.
This novel has many strong points, and my favorite is undoubtedly the great interaction between Peter and the other members of Taylor Security. The dialogue between the male characters is hilarious and really well done. We don’t always see such strong relationships between male supporting characters in romance, but Ms. Giordano seems to pull this off effortlessly. The give and take between the men spills over into the male-female relationships as well, since the dialogue between Peter and Izzy and the other female characters is engaging and witty. This also reflects the excellent pacing of the novel. The mix between suspense, action, and romance is just right, ensuring that you’ll keep turning the pages, while the sexual tension between Peter and Izzy leaps off the page.
***SLIGHT SPOILERS***
The problems I have with the book all have to do with Isabelle’s character. She was sexually abused by her cousin Kendrick for more than seven years as a child. Ms. Giordano does an outstanding job of portraying Izzy as a survivor rather than a victim, and you’ll want to cheer when Izzy manages to fight off Kendrick’s advances. However, she makes several decisions over the course of the book that struck me as so bizarre and frustrating that it interfered with my enjoyment of the book, hence my comments at the beginning of this review. We learn that Kendrick’s father, Izzy’s uncle, convinces Izzy and her mother to cover up Kendrick’s abuse when it’s discovered, which is frustrating but unfortunately doesn’t strike me as all that unusual. What drives me nuts, though, is that despite this, Izzy works in her uncle’s law firm! I just do not understand this decision. She explains this away as saying that her uncle “owes” her career because she saved his by covering up the abuse. She believes that working at the top criminal defense firm in the state will catapult her career. This seems like the stupidest decision a rape survivor could make, especially since the chances of her running into her abuser, her boss’s son, are pretty darn high.
The second highly questionable decision she makes occurs when Kendrick attempts to rape her again, this time as an adult. Thanks to her determination never to be a victim again, she’s able to beat the stuffing out of him, get away, and call Peter for help. We then learn that Kendrick got into the house because he used his father’s key!!! It gets worse, though. She refuses to call the police, insisting that she and Peter return Kendrick to her uncle, because she doesn’t want to involve the family. What?!?! The family IS involved, because your cousin tried to rape you!! This becomes all the more confusing when she acknowledges to Peter that she worries that her family’s decision not to prosecute Kendrick has allowed him to sexually abuse others. If she’s that concerned about it, why does she refuse to involve the police? I could understand if, as a criminal defense lawyer, she decided not to press charges because of how a trial could destroy her life, but she never even mentions this, instead focusing on not involving the family.
Because of her past, Izzy’s sexuality is understandably an issue throughout the novel. Ms. Giordano does an excellent job of portraying Izzy’s problems with intimacy with Peter, which I find to be highly believable. Her intimacy issues complicate her relationship with Peter later in the novel when she makes questionable decisions about how to elicit information from the leader of Kendrick’s charity. I found this section to be difficult to read because of its content but well executed, even if as a reader you want her to make better choices.
Unfortunately, I just couldn’t get over Izzy’s decisions concerning her family. She’s portrayed as a survivor who’s working hard to overcome her past, which is admirable, but her insistence in remaining in such close contact with family members who have betrayed her in unforgiveable ways strained my credulity and seriously affected my enjoyment of the novel.
I received this book for review from the Publisher through NetGalley.
October 30, 2020
A Just Deception
WOW! Another FANTASTIC story by Adrienne! This story is about Peter and Isabelle. Peter was put on a forced R & R because of Tiny's and Roy's deaths. Peter was having a tough time grieving. Vic gave him a small job to put an alarm system into Isabelle's house. Needless to say these two were drawn to each other but Isabelle had to overcome her past in order to fall in love with Peter. Her cousin was the culprit to her self-deprecating existence. When her cousin is murdered, she wasn't too sad about it but she became the prime suspect because of her uncle. Anyway, she was approached to figure out what was going on at his compound. When they told her there were children involved, she accepted the offer. She got Peter involved. Together they finally solved the case and helped a young pregnant girl in the process. Now these two are trying to figure out their happily ever after! FANTASTIC job Adrienne! I would recommend this book.
WOW! Another FANTASTIC story by Adrienne! This story is about Peter and Isabelle. Peter was put on a forced R & R because of Tiny's and Roy's deaths. Peter was having a tough time grieving. Vic gave him a small job to put an alarm system into Isabelle's house. Needless to say these two were drawn to each other but Isabelle had to overcome her past in order to fall in love with Peter. Her cousin was the culprit to her self-deprecating existence. When her cousin is murdered, she wasn't too sad about it but she became the prime suspect because of her uncle. Anyway, she was approached to figure out what was going on at his compound. When they told her there were children involved, she accepted the offer. She got Peter involved. Together they finally solved the case and helped a young pregnant girl in the process. Now these two are trying to figure out their happily ever after! FANTASTIC job Adrienne! I would recommend this book.
March 20, 2020
Although I have read all the books in this series, this one is my favorite to date. Peter has been sent home by his boss to take a break, as he hasn’t coped well with some aspects of his job, particularly the deaths of two of his friends and coworkers. Things didn’t quite go as planned, as he has been assigned to protect Isabelle. Unbeknownst to him, Isabelle has been a victim of abuse. She has become tough yet vulnerable through this experience. When her abuser shows up at her front door and asks for her help, she is very wary and terrified. However, her expertise in krav maga has come in handy when he shows up. He is soon found murdered. Isabelle is very suspicious about the organization that he has been running and is soon approached by the authorities to become and informant, much to Peter’s dismay. The emotion in this captivating story is fantastic. I couldn’t put it down!
March 21, 2020
Wow what a wild ride. I think A Just Deception is my favorite of the series so far. I so want to give some spoilers away but I won't deprive others of discovering the awesome read this book has to offer. Let me just say it is packed full of mystery, struggles and acceptance. Isabella in order to possibly save the lives of girls and saving them from the events in her tortured past she is forced to face her demons head on. Luckily Peter was forced on R&R and is in the area and is able to jump in and give Isabella assistance but his held grief on the death of two close friends and teammates gives him problems working the mission. What a mission it turns out to be, the outcome was nothing that they could have imagined. Isabella and Peter’s emotional hang-ups forces them to open up and find acceptances in each other.
April 27, 2020
This is Book 4 in the Private Protector series by Adrienne Giordano. Peter Jessup is a former Navy SEAL who has experienced some pretty harsh blows recently, so his boss forces him to take some much-needed R&R in New Jersey. While there, he encounters Isabelle De Rosa, an attorney whose history and training have made her one tough cookie. They start out with basically a business arrangement – Peter installs some security equipment for Isabelle after Isabelle’s cousin Kendrick breaks into her home and attempts to assault her. Before long, the two are embroiled in a dangerous undercover operation to find a missing girl who was last seen in a private compound owned by Kendrick. With two such strong personalities, it’s no surprise their mutual attraction generates sparks, especially once the danger ramps up as Isabelle delves deeper into the weird happenings at the compound.
This was my favorite novel by Adrienne Giordano so far. Her characters have a lot of depth and complexity, and this complexity really adds to the plot. The back story and baggage each person brings to the relationship makes for a terrific read.
This was my favorite novel by Adrienne Giordano so far. Her characters have a lot of depth and complexity, and this complexity really adds to the plot. The back story and baggage each person brings to the relationship makes for a terrific read.
November 9, 2021
good
Ok…Isabelle is a up and coming lawyer who is under investigation for murdering her cousin. ( When you read why, you won’t blame her ). Her very good friend owns a security company and she needs a bodyguard. Peter is former Navy and works for Taylor Security. He was put on leave after some teammates were killed. When it is discovered her cousin a organization where young girls are going missing, she goes undercover for the FBI. The closer they get, Peter realizes he’s fallen in love. But can he knock down Isabelle’s walls to get to the real person?
Such a great story. I did have a couple of problems. First, Isabelle’s actions, I guess you’d say, toward Peter. She got on a my nerves just a little bit. And then the big take down was a let down. If was over without really anything happening. Sex. Suspense.
Ok…Isabelle is a up and coming lawyer who is under investigation for murdering her cousin. ( When you read why, you won’t blame her ). Her very good friend owns a security company and she needs a bodyguard. Peter is former Navy and works for Taylor Security. He was put on leave after some teammates were killed. When it is discovered her cousin a organization where young girls are going missing, she goes undercover for the FBI. The closer they get, Peter realizes he’s fallen in love. But can he knock down Isabelle’s walls to get to the real person?
Such a great story. I did have a couple of problems. First, Isabelle’s actions, I guess you’d say, toward Peter. She got on a my nerves just a little bit. And then the big take down was a let down. If was over without really anything happening. Sex. Suspense.
March 23, 2020
What an absolutely amazing book so realistic I was sucked in from the beginning, had me hanging onto every word, and completely immersed in all that was happening through the ups and downs, twists and turns. I loved the well-developed characters who I felt like could be my friends especially the instant attraction and undeniable chemistry between former Navy SEAL Peter "Monk" Jessup and criminal attorney Isabelle DeRosa. Ms. Giordano is one of my favorite authors and the queen of well-crafted suspenseful romance. Don't miss "A Just Deception" book four in the must-read Private Protectors series. I received an advance reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
November 3, 2021
Thus far this series has been awesome!
But I do believe this one will be my favorite, even after finishing the next two!
Some very hard topics Ms. Giordano, and you handles with such amazing grace!
Two very strong electric characters who truly need one another! Both, Monk and Isabel are dealing with trauma. They both are also hiding behind this, yet slowly together they can help one another.
One of the most unique parts to me, was how each could see what the other needed, but couldn't find it within!
Completely stellar,I loved!
Karen
But I do believe this one will be my favorite, even after finishing the next two!
Some very hard topics Ms. Giordano, and you handles with such amazing grace!
Two very strong electric characters who truly need one another! Both, Monk and Isabel are dealing with trauma. They both are also hiding behind this, yet slowly together they can help one another.
One of the most unique parts to me, was how each could see what the other needed, but couldn't find it within!
Completely stellar,I loved!
Karen
September 5, 2011
LOVED this one! Full review to come!!!
My Review:
Okay, it is no secret that I loved the first book in this series, Man Law. In fact, I was a little worried when I picked up this book to read it, that my expectations would be too high and I would hate it. This so should not have been a worry with this book. OMG, it was so freaking good.
In fact, as I was reading it, I kept having to put the book down and reflect on Adrienne's amazing skill as a writer. There are some really heavy emotional undertones to this story: hero, Peter, is on the verge of having a breakdown after two of his friends die on missions; heroine, Isabelle is dealing with scars from childhood sexual abuse. Both horrendous, horrible issues, but the book remained fun and funny ALL the way through even when they were dealing directly with these issues. And honestly, I still don't see how Adrienne did it, because she is dealing with these issues head on throughout the entire story...not making light of them, but the book never got sad and loaded down by that emotional upheaval. Like I said....just amazing writing in this book!!!
Okay, back to the review. I am getting sidetracked. Peter/Monk...OMG, I love this guy, esp. as he keeps attacking his mother's potted tree. This is a guy who grew up in Jersey with TONS of money and in the society that involves. He NEVER fit in there, so he quit Yale and enlisted in the Navy at 19, much to his mother's horror. You would never guess that he grew up in society...he lives in cargo shorts and combat boots and usually has a do-rag on his head. He is home because Vic (hero from book #1, Man Law) has put him on a forced vacation to get his head back on straight after the death of two of his friends. Peter is on the verge of cracking and needs some downtime.
Isabelle is a lawyer and a friend of Vic's. Her cousin is home and because of a sketchy past with him, she is feeling nervous so she calls Vic to help get her an alarm system installed in her house. He sends Peter to help her out since Peter is in the area. Isabelle is a tough, self-assured, independent lawyer. She had a wretched childhood, but has let that mold her into a seriously strong woman...both physically and mentally. She can kick ass in her own right and is religious about keeping herself prepped for anything. Because of her abuse, she has learned that sex is purely a physical act, and as a gorgeous woman and a lawyer, has learned to use that to her advantage. This is not a person who can be intimidated in any shape or form, unless maybe you want to form an emotional attachment, like Peter eventually does. That is a danger area for her and scares her to death.
There is a LOT going on in this book. On top of everything else, there is a fantastic suspense story line. I had a pretty good idea where it was going, but it was still really good and I loved the addition of Billy (one of Monk's fellow operatives) when he joined the story. I cannot wait for his book. You get to see a bit of Vic again with his irreverent sense of humor...so funny! A surprising character that I really enjoyed was Peter's mom. She has some amazingly funny lines in this book.
I feel like this review has been all over the place, but honestly, this is just one of those books that I truly loved. Adrienne writes AMAZING alpha heroes. But what I really love about them is that they are not bigger-than-life kind of guys. Yes, there is no doubt that they are alphas, but they are so real. They have a guy-next-door kind of feel to them that I love with their irreverent quips and jabs. Just really fun guys and I am so anxious to read the next installment in this series.
And now, just because I want you to understand how funny this book is, I have to share some quotes:
"Babe, I'm already in your mess.
And I don't want to just be your friend. I'd screw it up by constantly hitting on you."
**********
Isabelle blew out a breath and stepped over to Peter, who was staring at a potted bush with narrowed eyes.
"What are you doing?" she asked.
"See that plant?"
"What about it?"
A moment passed, but Peter didn't respond. She turned to him and the menacing hatred carved into his face stung her. "Peter?"
"I hate it." The strength faded from his voice, leaving only slaughtered remnants of the confidence normally found there. Something was very, very wrong.
"Peter, it's a plant. A fiddle-leaf fig bush actually."
Nose scrunching bafflement took over his face. "I'm scared that you know that." He waved the thought away and gestured toward the bush. "It irritates me."
Okay then. Peter going crazy. What an interesting concept.
***********
Oh no. Oh Jesus. His mother was staring at his engorged dick. Someone needed to plunge a dagger into his heart. RIght fucking now. Death would be the only suitable escape.
How he could still be hard, he had no idea, but his shriveling intestines- at least something was shriveling- told him he'd just suffered a rare humiliating moment.
Mom slammed her eyes closed. Like that would wipe away the vision of her oldest son in flagrante delicto.
************
"Honey, they're..." He waved his hands toward her chest.
"Big," Billy suggested.
Peter gritted his teeth, turning toward him. "Shut up."
"It's the all-new Miracle Bra." Izzy said.
Billy grunted. "It's a miracle all right."
"That's it. You're outta here." Peter pushed him to the door.
************
My Review:
Okay, it is no secret that I loved the first book in this series, Man Law. In fact, I was a little worried when I picked up this book to read it, that my expectations would be too high and I would hate it. This so should not have been a worry with this book. OMG, it was so freaking good.
In fact, as I was reading it, I kept having to put the book down and reflect on Adrienne's amazing skill as a writer. There are some really heavy emotional undertones to this story: hero, Peter, is on the verge of having a breakdown after two of his friends die on missions; heroine, Isabelle is dealing with scars from childhood sexual abuse. Both horrendous, horrible issues, but the book remained fun and funny ALL the way through even when they were dealing directly with these issues. And honestly, I still don't see how Adrienne did it, because she is dealing with these issues head on throughout the entire story...not making light of them, but the book never got sad and loaded down by that emotional upheaval. Like I said....just amazing writing in this book!!!
Okay, back to the review. I am getting sidetracked. Peter/Monk...OMG, I love this guy, esp. as he keeps attacking his mother's potted tree. This is a guy who grew up in Jersey with TONS of money and in the society that involves. He NEVER fit in there, so he quit Yale and enlisted in the Navy at 19, much to his mother's horror. You would never guess that he grew up in society...he lives in cargo shorts and combat boots and usually has a do-rag on his head. He is home because Vic (hero from book #1, Man Law) has put him on a forced vacation to get his head back on straight after the death of two of his friends. Peter is on the verge of cracking and needs some downtime.
Isabelle is a lawyer and a friend of Vic's. Her cousin is home and because of a sketchy past with him, she is feeling nervous so she calls Vic to help get her an alarm system installed in her house. He sends Peter to help her out since Peter is in the area. Isabelle is a tough, self-assured, independent lawyer. She had a wretched childhood, but has let that mold her into a seriously strong woman...both physically and mentally. She can kick ass in her own right and is religious about keeping herself prepped for anything. Because of her abuse, she has learned that sex is purely a physical act, and as a gorgeous woman and a lawyer, has learned to use that to her advantage. This is not a person who can be intimidated in any shape or form, unless maybe you want to form an emotional attachment, like Peter eventually does. That is a danger area for her and scares her to death.
There is a LOT going on in this book. On top of everything else, there is a fantastic suspense story line. I had a pretty good idea where it was going, but it was still really good and I loved the addition of Billy (one of Monk's fellow operatives) when he joined the story. I cannot wait for his book. You get to see a bit of Vic again with his irreverent sense of humor...so funny! A surprising character that I really enjoyed was Peter's mom. She has some amazingly funny lines in this book.
I feel like this review has been all over the place, but honestly, this is just one of those books that I truly loved. Adrienne writes AMAZING alpha heroes. But what I really love about them is that they are not bigger-than-life kind of guys. Yes, there is no doubt that they are alphas, but they are so real. They have a guy-next-door kind of feel to them that I love with their irreverent quips and jabs. Just really fun guys and I am so anxious to read the next installment in this series.
And now, just because I want you to understand how funny this book is, I have to share some quotes:
"Babe, I'm already in your mess.
And I don't want to just be your friend. I'd screw it up by constantly hitting on you."
**********
Isabelle blew out a breath and stepped over to Peter, who was staring at a potted bush with narrowed eyes.
"What are you doing?" she asked.
"See that plant?"
"What about it?"
A moment passed, but Peter didn't respond. She turned to him and the menacing hatred carved into his face stung her. "Peter?"
"I hate it." The strength faded from his voice, leaving only slaughtered remnants of the confidence normally found there. Something was very, very wrong.
"Peter, it's a plant. A fiddle-leaf fig bush actually."
Nose scrunching bafflement took over his face. "I'm scared that you know that." He waved the thought away and gestured toward the bush. "It irritates me."
Okay then. Peter going crazy. What an interesting concept.
***********
Oh no. Oh Jesus. His mother was staring at his engorged dick. Someone needed to plunge a dagger into his heart. RIght fucking now. Death would be the only suitable escape.
How he could still be hard, he had no idea, but his shriveling intestines- at least something was shriveling- told him he'd just suffered a rare humiliating moment.
Mom slammed her eyes closed. Like that would wipe away the vision of her oldest son in flagrante delicto.
************
"Honey, they're..." He waved his hands toward her chest.
"Big," Billy suggested.
Peter gritted his teeth, turning toward him. "Shut up."
"It's the all-new Miracle Bra." Izzy said.
Billy grunted. "It's a miracle all right."
"That's it. You're outta here." Peter pushed him to the door.
************
December 5, 2021
Peter has lost too many colleagues and his emotional state has resulted in his boss demanding he take a vacation. But then his boss asks him to help with security for an old friend. Isabelle has made herself into a tough attorney and krav maga expert, but her cousin still terrifies her. When things go bad, she finds herself depending on Peter.
I enjoyed this book, but I did feel it went on a bit too long. It was a little too drawn out, but overall, it was a good read.
I enjoyed this book, but I did feel it went on a bit too long. It was a little too drawn out, but overall, it was a good read.
March 2, 2020
Kindle Copy for Review
In book 4 of the series, former Navy Seal is assigned to protect a lawyer who is prime suspect in her cousin murder. They must find the real killer before it is too late.
Things will heat up between the two of them as they work together. Will they have a chance together as she isn’t use to letting people in?
An another good addition in the series.
In book 4 of the series, former Navy Seal is assigned to protect a lawyer who is prime suspect in her cousin murder. They must find the real killer before it is too late.
Things will heat up between the two of them as they work together. Will they have a chance together as she isn’t use to letting people in?
An another good addition in the series.
March 17, 2020
WOW! This book is an action packed read full of suspense and mystery. The characters have strong interactions and connections throughout. Isabelle and Peter are both dealing with personal issues as well as strong sexual chemistry. Found it hard to put this book down, it is a must read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book; all opinions expressed are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book; all opinions expressed are my own.
March 24, 2020
A well written perfectly paced story pulling you in from the start. This is about Peter dealing with tragic and being forced to take a vacation he doesn't want. Then Isabelle has to learn to balance the tragic she goes through when she didn't have support from her family like she should have. A great series and a standalone read where you want to get them all to read.
March 22, 2020
I really liked Peter & Isabelle, and I'm glad that they were able to overcome the emotional obstacles threatening to sabotage their relationship. I enjoyed A Just Deception and look forward to the next book in the Private Protectors series.
October 15, 2021
Great
I enjoyed reading this story. The characters were wonderful. The story has everything you want in it and more. It has drama, action, Suspense, romance, sex, love❤ and sex scenes. They are Hot🔥 and steamy.
The plot was great and I loved ❤ the chemistry.
Read it for yourself!
I enjoyed reading this story. The characters were wonderful. The story has everything you want in it and more. It has drama, action, Suspense, romance, sex, love❤ and sex scenes. They are Hot🔥 and steamy.
The plot was great and I loved ❤ the chemistry.
Read it for yourself!
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