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The Bodyguards #1
Bodyguard
How was he supposed to know that the real-life chairman looked like an actor playing one on TV?
When bodyguard Tang Jun-young saves his clients, a world-famous K-pop boyband, from being kidnapped by stopping the getaway van with his own body, he's worried that his secret—well, one of them—will be out in the open. Fortunately, everyone's focus is on the idols, and nobody looks at him too closely—or so he thinks.
Kyo Seung-hyun, the new chairman of the Kyo Group, is looking for a trusted confidant while working on his eccentric playboy billionaire image (he's got the “eccentric” part down cold). When he meets Jun-young, he knows he’s found his man—in more ways than one. Jun-young is too honest for his own good, more intelligent than he lets on, and too attractive for Seung-hyun's peace of mind. The superpowers are a bonus, really.
When Seung-hyun tries to correct his deceased father's past misdeeds, the corruption the two of them unearth is the kind many would prefer to be kept quiet. Jun-young would do anything to keep Seung-hyun safe, but this situation might be more than even he can handle.
Author's note: Slow burn. Sweet romance. Idiots in love. Mutual pining. MARVEL and Connie Willis references. Corruption. The occasional cat. Happily Ever After.
*This novel is a revised, extended version of a novella using the same name and cover*
When bodyguard Tang Jun-young saves his clients, a world-famous K-pop boyband, from being kidnapped by stopping the getaway van with his own body, he's worried that his secret—well, one of them—will be out in the open. Fortunately, everyone's focus is on the idols, and nobody looks at him too closely—or so he thinks.
Kyo Seung-hyun, the new chairman of the Kyo Group, is looking for a trusted confidant while working on his eccentric playboy billionaire image (he's got the “eccentric” part down cold). When he meets Jun-young, he knows he’s found his man—in more ways than one. Jun-young is too honest for his own good, more intelligent than he lets on, and too attractive for Seung-hyun's peace of mind. The superpowers are a bonus, really.
When Seung-hyun tries to correct his deceased father's past misdeeds, the corruption the two of them unearth is the kind many would prefer to be kept quiet. Jun-young would do anything to keep Seung-hyun safe, but this situation might be more than even he can handle.
Author's note: Slow burn. Sweet romance. Idiots in love. Mutual pining. MARVEL and Connie Willis references. Corruption. The occasional cat. Happily Ever After.
*This novel is a revised, extended version of a novella using the same name and cover*
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 18, 2020
72 people are currently reading
242 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
March 30, 2021
Chapter 9. I Would Adopt A Snake With You
🤣🤦I mean what's with all these funny chapter names and references?! 😂
Totally got me!
And these two guys!
Damn. The endless bickering. One directly saying things what he means (and always making lots of sense inspite of all his comic books and movie references!) and the other retorting back in his mind and hopelessly falling for this guy. So freaking cute together I say!
Give me Seung-hyun and Jun-young anytime and I will ship them forever!
They gave me all the warm fuzzy feelings and they are so fluffy if characters can be that!
I find the writing totally nerdy with full of comic heroes and villians references alongwith all the relatable popular characters and dialogues matching with the weird situations they got themselves involved in.
I find Seung-hyun totally funny and adorable. Damn, man. Slow down! You got his heart already!
And Jun-young, keep your senses intact. You crazy one for Seung-hyun.
I love you two so much!!!
I don't care much about the plot because it's like a batman movie plot done wrong.
What mattered the most was the sizzling chemistry and the humour in the writing!
Yes, when the writing, characters and the chemistry work well together who's complaining?!
Not me.
*I love the cover so much! All the k-pop vibes!
Rightly so!
Currently stanning Monsta-X and I love being a Monbebe 💘
And yes, all the NCT 2020 vibes as well ❤️
Love the quick short read.
🤣🤦I mean what's with all these funny chapter names and references?! 😂
Totally got me!
And these two guys!
Damn. The endless bickering. One directly saying things what he means (and always making lots of sense inspite of all his comic books and movie references!) and the other retorting back in his mind and hopelessly falling for this guy. So freaking cute together I say!
Give me Seung-hyun and Jun-young anytime and I will ship them forever!
They gave me all the warm fuzzy feelings and they are so fluffy if characters can be that!
I find the writing totally nerdy with full of comic heroes and villians references alongwith all the relatable popular characters and dialogues matching with the weird situations they got themselves involved in.
I find Seung-hyun totally funny and adorable. Damn, man. Slow down! You got his heart already!
And Jun-young, keep your senses intact. You crazy one for Seung-hyun.
I love you two so much!!!
I don't care much about the plot because it's like a batman movie plot done wrong.
What mattered the most was the sizzling chemistry and the humour in the writing!
Yes, when the writing, characters and the chemistry work well together who's complaining?!
Not me.
*I love the cover so much! All the k-pop vibes!
Rightly so!
Currently stanning Monsta-X and I love being a Monbebe 💘
And yes, all the NCT 2020 vibes as well ❤️
Love the quick short read.
September 23, 2021
3.5 very discreet hints stars
A LOVELY EXTENDED NOVELLA
This was a fairly entertaining book, even if I wasn't the biggest fan of the writing. It felt a little choppy, only becoming more fluent during the conversations. The beginning of the story sounded cliché, but it became really interesting when we reached the investigation plot. It was tentacular and well put together. Some more tension would have been welcomed since we were dealing with dangerous people. It was a bit too still for my taste.
We didn't know a lot about our MCs, especially Seung-hyun. Jun-young was a little more transparent, as the book followed his POV, so we got the basics. I was very intrigued by his past, thanks to events happening later in the novel. It seemed like quite the story to be uncovered!
About their relationship, I wasn't convinced by them becoming slowly a couple. We knew Jun-young was smitten, but there were almost no hint coming from Seung-hyun. He was just beaming at him most of the time - no it wasn't a sign because it just made him look like a kid in my eyes. I realized later it was actually on purpose, so... They still had a good dynamic together and brought a lot of energy to the book.
I wrote this honest review after receiving a copy of the book. All opinions are my own.
A LOVELY EXTENDED NOVELLA
This was a fairly entertaining book, even if I wasn't the biggest fan of the writing. It felt a little choppy, only becoming more fluent during the conversations. The beginning of the story sounded cliché, but it became really interesting when we reached the investigation plot. It was tentacular and well put together. Some more tension would have been welcomed since we were dealing with dangerous people. It was a bit too still for my taste.
We didn't know a lot about our MCs, especially Seung-hyun. Jun-young was a little more transparent, as the book followed his POV, so we got the basics. I was very intrigued by his past, thanks to events happening later in the novel. It seemed like quite the story to be uncovered!
About their relationship, I wasn't convinced by them becoming slowly a couple. We knew Jun-young was smitten, but there were almost no hint coming from Seung-hyun. He was just beaming at him most of the time - no it wasn't a sign because it just made him look like a kid in my eyes. I realized later it was actually on purpose, so... They still had a good dynamic together and brought a lot of energy to the book.
I wrote this honest review after receiving a copy of the book. All opinions are my own.
August 21, 2021
How was he supposed to know that the real-life chairman looked like an actor playing one on TV?
When bodyguard Tang Jun-young saves his clients, a world-famous K-pop boyband, from being kidnapped by stopping the getaway van with his own body, he's worried that his secret—well, one of them—will be out in the open. Fortunately, everyone's focus is on the idols, and nobody looks at him too closely—or so he thinks.
Kyo Seung-hyun, the new chairman of the Kyo Group, is looking for a trusted confidant while working on his eccentric playboy billionaire image (he's got the “eccentric” part down cold). When he meets Jun-young, he knows he’s found his man—in more ways than one. Jun-young is too honest for his own good, more intelligent than he lets on, and too attractive for Seung-hyun's peace of mind. The superpowers are a bonus, really.
When Seung-hyun tries to correct his deceased father's past misdeeds, the corruption the two of them unearth is the kind many would prefer to be kept quiet. Jun-young would do anything to keep Seung-hyun safe, but this situation might be more than even he can handle.
Author's note: Slow burn. Sweet romance. Idiots in love. Mutual pining. MARVEL and Connie Willis references. Corruption. The occasional cat. Happily Ever After.
*This novel is a revised, extended version of a novella using the same name and cover* .
Review.
A friend recommended this book to me. I am glad that I have read it ( I got it on kindle unlimited), I certainly thought that it quite sweet story, but I also thought that it was not without flaws.
First and foremost, the narrator's voice . I don't think I am going to forget it any time soon, but I also thought that something was off for me and I cannot for the life of me to figure out what was off. At the end of the story there is an author's note and it had a confusing comment - she says that all the characters are speaking Korean in-verse ( not sure what in verse means in this context ) and that she tried to keep the story as if it was translated from Korean to English. Mind you I have *no idea* if it was actually translated from Korean to English because next comment in her note confused me even more, but if it was maybe thats what felt off?
I glanced at the reviews at good reads and at least one person seemed to think that it was translated, but as I said I am not sure at all. I was really happy that the story took place in South Korea because of course I like to see different countries, different settings in the books I read. I actually think the author knows Korea well based on some things mentioned in the book. Unfortunately my friend who originally came to US from South Korea was my only source of checking things.
As you can see from the blurb the main couple of the story ( or should I say couple in making) is the super rich CEO and his bodyguard. I cannot suggest strongly enough you leave your brain at the door and do not expect any " don't fall in love with your client or bodyguard" from either of them. Also illegal things for good purpose - as long as you are fighting bad guys is a good or at least necessary thing. Please note I am not judging the story really does not take itself seriously I promise! It was quite silly, but sweet and often funny for me.
This is how CEO reacts when bad guy threatens to expose him as having previous relationship with a man while he was living in the US.
"Tell me, have you seen Korea’s fifty richest list? Forbes published a new one not too long ago,” Seung-hyun asked, his tone casual, as if they were discussing the weather. “Don’t change the subject!” “Have you?” “I have,” Pang admitted. “Then you must have noticed that my name is on the top of that list. No one is going to ostracize me, Pang. The only thing that’s going to happen is instead of throwing only their daughters at me, my business associates will throw their sons at me as well. Good day.” With that, Seung-hyun hung up the call. Then he face-palmed.
“God, what an idiot,” he told Jun-young. “Can’t even blackmail properly." Was he planning on issuing him a report card? “I can’t believe I have to say this, but if you are thinking about giving him tips on becoming a better blackmailer, don’t. Just because he isn’t creative enough for your taste doesn’t mean he isn’t dangerous.” “No, of course not. Unlike him, I’m not an idiot. I’m just frustrated with his general incompetence. This guy… no half-baked ideology combined with decades of careful planning, no professional ethics. Just plain old homophobia, corruption, and thirst for power. He would have been voted worst villain had he been a Marvel character.””
What caused an eye roll from me is that there is an actual science fiction or fantasy element in this story, which also nicely served as deus ex machine. I thought it was um, not very convincing, but I am still glad I have read the book.
thought romance itself was actually quite well done. It really is a slow burn amongst all the fun and games and things the men are involved in . Also there are no explicit sex scenes. I think kiss is all we get on page.
2.5/3 stars
When bodyguard Tang Jun-young saves his clients, a world-famous K-pop boyband, from being kidnapped by stopping the getaway van with his own body, he's worried that his secret—well, one of them—will be out in the open. Fortunately, everyone's focus is on the idols, and nobody looks at him too closely—or so he thinks.
Kyo Seung-hyun, the new chairman of the Kyo Group, is looking for a trusted confidant while working on his eccentric playboy billionaire image (he's got the “eccentric” part down cold). When he meets Jun-young, he knows he’s found his man—in more ways than one. Jun-young is too honest for his own good, more intelligent than he lets on, and too attractive for Seung-hyun's peace of mind. The superpowers are a bonus, really.
When Seung-hyun tries to correct his deceased father's past misdeeds, the corruption the two of them unearth is the kind many would prefer to be kept quiet. Jun-young would do anything to keep Seung-hyun safe, but this situation might be more than even he can handle.
Author's note: Slow burn. Sweet romance. Idiots in love. Mutual pining. MARVEL and Connie Willis references. Corruption. The occasional cat. Happily Ever After.
*This novel is a revised, extended version of a novella using the same name and cover* .
Review.
A friend recommended this book to me. I am glad that I have read it ( I got it on kindle unlimited), I certainly thought that it quite sweet story, but I also thought that it was not without flaws.
First and foremost, the narrator's voice . I don't think I am going to forget it any time soon, but I also thought that something was off for me and I cannot for the life of me to figure out what was off. At the end of the story there is an author's note and it had a confusing comment - she says that all the characters are speaking Korean in-verse ( not sure what in verse means in this context ) and that she tried to keep the story as if it was translated from Korean to English. Mind you I have *no idea* if it was actually translated from Korean to English because next comment in her note confused me even more, but if it was maybe thats what felt off?
I glanced at the reviews at good reads and at least one person seemed to think that it was translated, but as I said I am not sure at all. I was really happy that the story took place in South Korea because of course I like to see different countries, different settings in the books I read. I actually think the author knows Korea well based on some things mentioned in the book. Unfortunately my friend who originally came to US from South Korea was my only source of checking things.
As you can see from the blurb the main couple of the story ( or should I say couple in making) is the super rich CEO and his bodyguard. I cannot suggest strongly enough you leave your brain at the door and do not expect any " don't fall in love with your client or bodyguard" from either of them. Also illegal things for good purpose - as long as you are fighting bad guys is a good or at least necessary thing. Please note I am not judging the story really does not take itself seriously I promise! It was quite silly, but sweet and often funny for me.
This is how CEO reacts when bad guy threatens to expose him as having previous relationship with a man while he was living in the US.
"Tell me, have you seen Korea’s fifty richest list? Forbes published a new one not too long ago,” Seung-hyun asked, his tone casual, as if they were discussing the weather. “Don’t change the subject!” “Have you?” “I have,” Pang admitted. “Then you must have noticed that my name is on the top of that list. No one is going to ostracize me, Pang. The only thing that’s going to happen is instead of throwing only their daughters at me, my business associates will throw their sons at me as well. Good day.” With that, Seung-hyun hung up the call. Then he face-palmed.
“God, what an idiot,” he told Jun-young. “Can’t even blackmail properly." Was he planning on issuing him a report card? “I can’t believe I have to say this, but if you are thinking about giving him tips on becoming a better blackmailer, don’t. Just because he isn’t creative enough for your taste doesn’t mean he isn’t dangerous.” “No, of course not. Unlike him, I’m not an idiot. I’m just frustrated with his general incompetence. This guy… no half-baked ideology combined with decades of careful planning, no professional ethics. Just plain old homophobia, corruption, and thirst for power. He would have been voted worst villain had he been a Marvel character.””
What caused an eye roll from me is that there is an actual science fiction or fantasy element in this story, which also nicely served as deus ex machine. I thought it was um, not very convincing, but I am still glad I have read the book.
thought romance itself was actually quite well done. It really is a slow burn amongst all the fun and games and things the men are involved in . Also there are no explicit sex scenes. I think kiss is all we get on page.
2.5/3 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 29, 2021
Not a good match for me. While I love this kind of story in a manga or a manhwa, and this one could have been something I picked up on Tapas, this didn't work for me in novel format. There was too much going on with too little to support it. It's a "me" thing 🙈, don't mind me.
March 22, 2023
3.5 stars
Enjoyable hokum.
Enjoyable hokum.
June 28, 2021
3.5 stars
Jun young was employed by Seong Hyun as his personal bodyguard. Seong Hyun was taking his position as the new CEO of Kyo group due to his fathers death. He was not welcomed by the board because of his young age, his sexuality and western education. Due to his intention to revamp the board and his curious personality, he got himself into quite a number of trouble. Generally I did enjoy the plot but there are some elements that I really would prefer to have done without and I couldn’t say it here without spoiling. These elements weren’t the main focus so it didn’t discount my enjoyment much. The bodyguard theme really does add on to the superhero kind of vibe of the story. There’s no explicit portrayal of intimacy (not even kissing) so i would recommend to young adults who are looking for some sweet and fluffy romance.
Jun young was employed by Seong Hyun as his personal bodyguard. Seong Hyun was taking his position as the new CEO of Kyo group due to his fathers death. He was not welcomed by the board because of his young age, his sexuality and western education. Due to his intention to revamp the board and his curious personality, he got himself into quite a number of trouble. Generally I did enjoy the plot but there are some elements that I really would prefer to have done without and I couldn’t say it here without spoiling. These elements weren’t the main focus so it didn’t discount my enjoyment much. The bodyguard theme really does add on to the superhero kind of vibe of the story. There’s no explicit portrayal of intimacy (not even kissing) so i would recommend to young adults who are looking for some sweet and fluffy romance.
May 24, 2024
You need to put this book in the context of manga or teen novels, which I think it draws inspiration from, in order to appreciate its content. There are a lot of suspension-of-disbelief moments that are characteristic of these novels and that you must accept. But the writing is tongue-in-cheek witty, which makes it easy for me to do so. And characters are cute as hell, especially the bodyguard. I totally enjoy this book. ❤️
August 9, 2021
I loved the novella. And I love this extended version as well.
I love their chemistry so much!
I love their chemistry so much!
October 24, 2020
I absolutely loved this story!
It was the perfect mix of romantic, enticing, witty and well-written. The dynamic between Seung-hyun and Jun-young is extremely fun to read as it branches into hilarious moments as well as romantic ones.
The amount of plot was just right for me - not too much to distract from the relationship and yet present enough to provide a bit of needed substance and realism.
It served perfectly to take my mind off the day’s trouble. 5/5 recommended.
It was the perfect mix of romantic, enticing, witty and well-written. The dynamic between Seung-hyun and Jun-young is extremely fun to read as it branches into hilarious moments as well as romantic ones.
The amount of plot was just right for me - not too much to distract from the relationship and yet present enough to provide a bit of needed substance and realism.
It served perfectly to take my mind off the day’s trouble. 5/5 recommended.
February 1, 2021
I do think the plot had potential but I felt it was lacking suspense and description. It would have been nice seeing both characters fall in love while solving the case. I think it would have happened if the book was longer. I do admit I liked both of the characters, they were both charming.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 19, 2021
Well, readers away, GR at play. Again.
I had this book on my DNF shelf from maybe three, four months ago. But around that time I stopped monitoring and backing up my shelves. Of course that's when a bunch of books (8 to be precise) disappeared from my library without a trace. At least I caught this one.
Anyway, DNF-ed at about 25%. Don't remember all the reasons why except for one - I was really bored. Also, I don't remember the rating for those 25%, hence two stars just to be fair (could be the book, but could be me, too)
I had this book on my DNF shelf from maybe three, four months ago. But around that time I stopped monitoring and backing up my shelves. Of course that's when a bunch of books (8 to be precise) disappeared from my library without a trace. At least I caught this one.
Anyway, DNF-ed at about 25%. Don't remember all the reasons why except for one - I was really bored. Also, I don't remember the rating for those 25%, hence two stars just to be fair (could be the book, but could be me, too)
November 27, 2020
3.5⭐️ Rounded up
This was super cute! I loved the relationship build between the two main characters. It was really nerdy, super fuzzy and just adorable. It hit my soft nerdy heart for sure!
I did feel that there really wasn’t all that much to do with Jun-young’s “super power”, and I was really looking forward to it since it was introduced as something important in the beginning. I also felt like there was something missing in the ending. Like we could have had just a little bit more. I know it’s a novella, but an extra chapter of plot development would have added just that little bit more.
I really did enjoy this though and I’m hoping that we could get a full length novel in the future and a little more past stories for the families and character development of the the 2 MCs.
Thank you Booksirens and Dassy Bernhard, so much, for a chance to read this! All thoughts are my own :)
This was super cute! I loved the relationship build between the two main characters. It was really nerdy, super fuzzy and just adorable. It hit my soft nerdy heart for sure!
I did feel that there really wasn’t all that much to do with Jun-young’s “super power”, and I was really looking forward to it since it was introduced as something important in the beginning. I also felt like there was something missing in the ending. Like we could have had just a little bit more. I know it’s a novella, but an extra chapter of plot development would have added just that little bit more.
I really did enjoy this though and I’m hoping that we could get a full length novel in the future and a little more past stories for the families and character development of the the 2 MCs.
Thank you Booksirens and Dassy Bernhard, so much, for a chance to read this! All thoughts are my own :)
October 22, 2020
Fun
Loved the addition of the superpowers to the bodyguard trope. I'd happily read many more novellas with these characters rooting out corruption and being sweet while doing it
Loved the addition of the superpowers to the bodyguard trope. I'd happily read many more novellas with these characters rooting out corruption and being sweet while doing it
June 21, 2021
Charming. Reads like it was translated, which works well to remind us everyone's speaking Korean. Not sure why it's set in Korea in the first place, though; not much local color.
November 30, 2021
My face hurts, I’m smiling so hard. This was such a cute story!!! I loved the dynamic between Jun-young and Seung-hyun so much! I like protective characters and Jun-young was right there in the sweet spot between irresponsible and stiff. Oh and I’m a sucker for overpowered tanks and Jun-young was the best kind. And I loved that Seung-hyun figured him out. And threatened to name a hospital wing after him if he didn’t shut up and accept his bonus :D
It was very cute that Seung-hyun visiting Ms Jung and Yu-jin for meals even before he met Jun-young. And his whole approach to baby-sitting Min-hyun and her birthday was so adorable. And the characterisation of Min-Soo was on point.
I loved the slow-burn between them. And that coming out wasn’t made into some big deal.
There! Were! References! To! Connie! Willis!!!!!!
That was super fun.
Okay so the zoo scene may have been frivolous and it certainly showed pacing isssues from having once been a novella, but I don’t care, the characters were sweet enough that I would follow them anywhere.
“Unfortunately, being hit by a car had been the easy part. The hard part would be explaining why he wasn’t in worse shape after such a collision.”
It was very cute that Seung-hyun visiting Ms Jung and Yu-jin for meals even before he met Jun-young. And his whole approach to baby-sitting Min-hyun and her birthday was so adorable. And the characterisation of Min-Soo was on point.
I loved the slow-burn between them. And that coming out wasn’t made into some big deal.
There! Were! References! To! Connie! Willis!!!!!!
That was super fun.
Okay so the zoo scene may have been frivolous and it certainly showed pacing isssues from having once been a novella, but I don’t care, the characters were sweet enough that I would follow them anywhere.
February 3, 2024
Don’t look at the ratings. This book is way better than that. I loved it even though a lot of it, maybe even the majority, is politics, commerce and corruption. But at the heart, these guys are a couple of nerds. They like comics and science fiction and robots. And it’s really funny most of the time with an exciting action sequence or two.
The author talks about a book I love written by one of my favorite authors of all time (she wrote my number two non-m/m book ever). The time-travel theme from it was discussed at length.
The characters are wonderful. There are lots of intelligent, capable women in a variety of roles which is really refreshing. I liked that there wasn’t any sex and it was really slow burn. That meant there was a lot of plot to go along with the romance.
The book was fun and interesting even if some of the incriminating data made my eyes cross. The Goodreads entry says it’s the first of a series but that was three years ago. The author mentioned health issues and I hope she’s okay and able to write something else soon.
The author talks about a book I love written by one of my favorite authors of all time (she wrote my number two non-m/m book ever). The time-travel theme from it was discussed at length.
The characters are wonderful. There are lots of intelligent, capable women in a variety of roles which is really refreshing. I liked that there wasn’t any sex and it was really slow burn. That meant there was a lot of plot to go along with the romance.
The book was fun and interesting even if some of the incriminating data made my eyes cross. The Goodreads entry says it’s the first of a series but that was three years ago. The author mentioned health issues and I hope she’s okay and able to write something else soon.
September 17, 2021
This book was a little odd to me. The story was okay, and I liked the main characters and their relationship together, but still the romance aspect felt a little light at times and I wish it leaned into it a bit more. But what really got me was the weird superpowers and time travel stuff; considering how relatively normal the rest of it was, it was just kind of odd how it wasn't really brought up or dealt with too much. But I still enjoyed reading it all the same.
February 10, 2022
Cute and funny
Really cute, had me laughing actually out loud at multiple points, characters are likeable, plot was interesting, quick pacing (in a good way), chapter title w/description was odd but I liked it. Overall a really fun read.
Really cute, had me laughing actually out loud at multiple points, characters are likeable, plot was interesting, quick pacing (in a good way), chapter title w/description was odd but I liked it. Overall a really fun read.
June 5, 2023
I dont even understand the actual story behind this book 🤣🤣🤣
July 16, 2021
Cute!!
July 31, 2021
A Dynamic Duo, political corruption, hit men, intrigue, social scandal, and heroic fistfights. . . No, this isn't Batman. (Seung-hyun prefers Marvel all the way!) And this isn't a book about a Kpop band and their bodyguard. It is so much better!
Jun-young is a realist, despite having physical abilities far beyond what a "normal" human could do. . . like be run over by a speeding van with barely a concussion to show for it. He does his job, pays his bills, and tries to live on the down-low. He'd rather be a good bodyguard because of his wits and prevention tactics than having to bail clients out of life-or-death situations with his unusual gifts. It's one of the things that makes him relatable and believable as a character. He's pragmatic, methodical, and loves his baby niece. He's a person, not just a cliche super-hero. (Tragic or otherwise.)
On the other hand, Seung-hyun is the new chairman of a huge, multi-billion dollar, international conglomerate - and he has no one watching his back. He's isolated in his own company. He's spent the last several years going to university and working in the United States. Now that he has inherited his position from his estranged and recently deceased father, his very traditional-minded South Korean Board of Directors hates and wants nothing to do with him. The feeling is very mutual. But he has seen what Jun-young can do - pieced together some of the professional bodyguard's secrets - and wants to hire him to protect his life. He also really needs a friend he can talk to and count on.
The banter between the two leads is snarky, clever, and full of pop culture references that Jun-young frequently doesn't understand. The comedy of their conversations frequently had me laughing out loud. They come from entirely different backgrounds, and the learning curve as they get to know one another is authentic. Sometimes missteps are made, but they always try to learn from their mistakes. Seung-hyun can be impulsive and overconfident. Jun-young likes everything to be double-checked and to remain in the shadow of his client. They will both need to use their talents and resources together once a chivalrous act leads them to uncovering a huge scandal-in-the-making in the South Korean government.
The pacing is fast without feeling rushed and the action scenes were written so I could clearly envision each move in my mind. The settings are beautifully described and fit the story well. You can tell the author has either had experience with or done extensive research on every location and country the characters find themselves in. The hints and nods to time travel are also cleverly done.
While this story is a romance, the leads are not two twitterpated and doe-eyed idiots stupified by ineffectual pining for one another. Yes, their brains require a hard reboot or two as the reality of their feelings come online, but they keep moving forward with their lives - and try not to be killed in the process. It also has a marvelous Agatha Christie-esque reveal in the end that is not to be missed!
*I received an eARC for free. This review is my own thoughts and is completely voluntary.*
Jun-young is a realist, despite having physical abilities far beyond what a "normal" human could do. . . like be run over by a speeding van with barely a concussion to show for it. He does his job, pays his bills, and tries to live on the down-low. He'd rather be a good bodyguard because of his wits and prevention tactics than having to bail clients out of life-or-death situations with his unusual gifts. It's one of the things that makes him relatable and believable as a character. He's pragmatic, methodical, and loves his baby niece. He's a person, not just a cliche super-hero. (Tragic or otherwise.)
On the other hand, Seung-hyun is the new chairman of a huge, multi-billion dollar, international conglomerate - and he has no one watching his back. He's isolated in his own company. He's spent the last several years going to university and working in the United States. Now that he has inherited his position from his estranged and recently deceased father, his very traditional-minded South Korean Board of Directors hates and wants nothing to do with him. The feeling is very mutual. But he has seen what Jun-young can do - pieced together some of the professional bodyguard's secrets - and wants to hire him to protect his life. He also really needs a friend he can talk to and count on.
The banter between the two leads is snarky, clever, and full of pop culture references that Jun-young frequently doesn't understand. The comedy of their conversations frequently had me laughing out loud. They come from entirely different backgrounds, and the learning curve as they get to know one another is authentic. Sometimes missteps are made, but they always try to learn from their mistakes. Seung-hyun can be impulsive and overconfident. Jun-young likes everything to be double-checked and to remain in the shadow of his client. They will both need to use their talents and resources together once a chivalrous act leads them to uncovering a huge scandal-in-the-making in the South Korean government.
The pacing is fast without feeling rushed and the action scenes were written so I could clearly envision each move in my mind. The settings are beautifully described and fit the story well. You can tell the author has either had experience with or done extensive research on every location and country the characters find themselves in. The hints and nods to time travel are also cleverly done.
While this story is a romance, the leads are not two twitterpated and doe-eyed idiots stupified by ineffectual pining for one another. Yes, their brains require a hard reboot or two as the reality of their feelings come online, but they keep moving forward with their lives - and try not to be killed in the process. It also has a marvelous Agatha Christie-esque reveal in the end that is not to be missed!
*I received an eARC for free. This review is my own thoughts and is completely voluntary.*
February 12, 2021
Disclaimer: An eARC was provided via Book Sirens and the Author in exchange for an honest review. The Thoughts, opinions & feelings expressed in the review are therefore, my own. Where are my Korean drama enthusiasts? Cause I have a very short, cute M/M novella for you to devour!
Before anything else; you gotta know that this a novella; so please do not go in expecting a full length novel delivered in what may be 100-150 pages.
What it is - is a romance between a stoic, grump of a bodyguard and his newest charge; an over eager newly appointed CEO of a well known company - and a man the bodyguard is not only instantly attracted but; also falls for at first sight.
This was definitely an easy read - and one I could get through while I was studying as well on an official training trip. It was an easy hour that I spent with this book - though I do wish there were some themes that had been better explored.
But like I said in the beginning of the review; this is a novella and should be treated as such.
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August 2, 2021
This book was adorable! I really enjoyed this read, it was light, fun, geeky and intriguing. It took me a chapter to get use to Dassy’s abrupt writing style and how quickly there would be a time jump within a chapter but I didn’t take me long to fall in love with the main characters, Jun-young and Seung-hyun.
Jun-young is a bodyguard with an unknown past and heightened abilities who secretly falls for CEO or Chairman of the biggest company in South Korea, Seung-hyun. I felt their relationship developed organically but I wish there was a tad bit more romance and once it happened I found it to be a bit on the rushed side. You defiantly feel for Jun-young’s internal tournament about being gay and being attracted to his client, Seung-hyun and I wish that he dove a bit more into how he managed hiding his true self earlier in the story. Also, I found Jun-young’s acceptance of their circumstances in Germany to happen a bit too easily. I loved both characters and I really would have enjoyed a few chapters from Seung-hyun point of view.
As a side note you should keep in mind some of the differences between Western culture and South Korean, in regards to class system, hierarchy of respect in both their language and behaviour.
I’m excited for the second book. I hope Dassy explains more, has Jun-young kick a few more butts, keeps the geekiness and amps up the romance.
Special thank you to BookSirens and Dassy Bernhard for sharing this digital copy for my honest thoughts.
#booksirens #bodyguard #Bernhard
Jun-young is a bodyguard with an unknown past and heightened abilities who secretly falls for CEO or Chairman of the biggest company in South Korea, Seung-hyun. I felt their relationship developed organically but I wish there was a tad bit more romance and once it happened I found it to be a bit on the rushed side. You defiantly feel for Jun-young’s internal tournament about being gay and being attracted to his client, Seung-hyun and I wish that he dove a bit more into how he managed hiding his true self earlier in the story. Also, I found Jun-young’s acceptance of their circumstances in Germany to happen a bit too easily. I loved both characters and I really would have enjoyed a few chapters from Seung-hyun point of view.
As a side note you should keep in mind some of the differences between Western culture and South Korean, in regards to class system, hierarchy of respect in both their language and behaviour.
I’m excited for the second book. I hope Dassy explains more, has Jun-young kick a few more butts, keeps the geekiness and amps up the romance.
Special thank you to BookSirens and Dassy Bernhard for sharing this digital copy for my honest thoughts.
#booksirens #bodyguard #Bernhard
July 26, 2021
3.5 stars.
This books alignment is 100% chaotic good. Emphasis on chaotic.
What I expected: A kpop romance.
What I got: A bodyguard and eccentric playboy millionaire romance, featuring superpowers, political and military corruption, poorly executed espionage, near death experiences, and time travel. I’m not joking. The last chapter starts with a quote from BTS directly followed by a quote from the Torah??? I can’t cope with this level of chaos.
Ok, now that’s out of the way I’ll start actually reviewing, lmao. This book was FUN. Like, my brain can’t fully cope with the amount of chaos that was jam packed into a relatively small book, but omg, we were truly going a mile a minute and it was great!
On the downside, the writing is pretty basic. Even when exciting action packed things were happening in the plot, the writing sometimes made me feel like I was reading from a shopping list. It did kind of jar me out of the story a couple times, and it took a while for me to really get into the story because of that. That being said, the characters were definitely the reason I eventually got into this book so much. They’re well crafted and likeable, with distinct personalities. I couldn’t help but root for them. Also, I love Seung-hyun, he’s such a big excitable puppy.
All in all, a fun, lighthearted read.
This books alignment is 100% chaotic good. Emphasis on chaotic.
What I expected: A kpop romance.
What I got: A bodyguard and eccentric playboy millionaire romance, featuring superpowers, political and military corruption, poorly executed espionage, near death experiences, and time travel. I’m not joking. The last chapter starts with a quote from BTS directly followed by a quote from the Torah??? I can’t cope with this level of chaos.
Ok, now that’s out of the way I’ll start actually reviewing, lmao. This book was FUN. Like, my brain can’t fully cope with the amount of chaos that was jam packed into a relatively small book, but omg, we were truly going a mile a minute and it was great!
On the downside, the writing is pretty basic. Even when exciting action packed things were happening in the plot, the writing sometimes made me feel like I was reading from a shopping list. It did kind of jar me out of the story a couple times, and it took a while for me to really get into the story because of that. That being said, the characters were definitely the reason I eventually got into this book so much. They’re well crafted and likeable, with distinct personalities. I couldn’t help but root for them. Also, I love Seung-hyun, he’s such a big excitable puppy.
All in all, a fun, lighthearted read.
February 26, 2021
not sure what I expected when I got this, but this was not what I expected. heard this plot many times. If well written it makes a good to great romance, the romance was very good and there is a good story not related to the romantic main plot. The main characters are charismatic and engaging. I was rooting for them not just in the romance together, but for them as individuals. The bodyguard had mental superpowers, mind control and telekenesis that he didn't use often, but didn't mind if the use saved lives or what was just. The protectee, was an insightful business man, the chairman of a powerful South Korean corporation. Both had a strong sense of morals and justice. I would have been happier if the author went on to a more complete ending, but it does have a happy for now ending without seeming completed.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 25, 2020
You know what, this is one of the most adorable romances I've read recently. Especially as a novella.
Does this book need some rigorous editing? Yes. Does it give me Wattpad vibes? Totally. Do I care? Nope!
This story will definitely hit the right spots, especially if you are already immersed in the world of K-Pop and K-Drama. Speaking of the dramas, this will play out in your head very much like one. At least it did for me😁, sometimes even the dialogues playing out in actual Korean.
If you are looking for something that'll definitely boost your mood up and reads like a warm hug, pick this up!
** I was given a free copy of this book by BookSirens in exchange for an honest review. **
Does this book need some rigorous editing? Yes. Does it give me Wattpad vibes? Totally. Do I care? Nope!
This story will definitely hit the right spots, especially if you are already immersed in the world of K-Pop and K-Drama. Speaking of the dramas, this will play out in your head very much like one. At least it did for me😁, sometimes even the dialogues playing out in actual Korean.
If you are looking for something that'll definitely boost your mood up and reads like a warm hug, pick this up!
** I was given a free copy of this book by BookSirens in exchange for an honest review. **
November 12, 2020
I absolutely adored this book and how the characters were developed. I'm not that familiar with Korean culture but I was delighted with the whimsical yet often timed recklessness. Trying to protect your client who is rather headstrong and willing to walk into danger is made more difficult by the secret the bodyguard is trying to keep. A little slice of corporate malfeasance wrapped in adventure and mystery. I could read daily adventures of Kyo Seung-hyun and Jun-young. Reviewed honestly in exchange for a copy.
June 20, 2021
A billionaire and a bodyguard and a very unprofessional relationship!
CEO Kyo Seung-hyun is filthy rich, with a sense of humour, wants to root out corruption and dishonour, and win the heart of his bodyguard. He makes himself a target by trying to expose major corruption in Korea, and it all gets a bit intense. The bodyguard (Tang Jun-young) has unusual talents, and there could be an astonishing backstory to him. Jun-young struggles to keep his new employer safe, and fails to notice how hard they’ve fallen for each other. All comes good in the end. Could time travel be real? Fun read.
CEO Kyo Seung-hyun is filthy rich, with a sense of humour, wants to root out corruption and dishonour, and win the heart of his bodyguard. He makes himself a target by trying to expose major corruption in Korea, and it all gets a bit intense. The bodyguard (Tang Jun-young) has unusual talents, and there could be an astonishing backstory to him. Jun-young struggles to keep his new employer safe, and fails to notice how hard they’ve fallen for each other. All comes good in the end. Could time travel be real? Fun read.
November 21, 2020
Bodyguard es de esos libros que uno desea que duren para siempre. Tiene una buena historia, un detalle sobrenatural importante, un caso de corrupción increíble y unos personajes que son LO MÁS.
Y que decir del shipeo cósmico que se da? De otro mundo.
Ojalá fuera una historia de 700 páginas donde se explotará todo lo piola que tiene, pero así como esta también se disfruta.
Y que decir del shipeo cósmico que se da? De otro mundo.
Ojalá fuera una historia de 700 páginas donde se explotará todo lo piola que tiene, pero así como esta también se disfruta.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2021
this is actually very cute! but at the same time, some parts felt so long when in reality this book is super short?? idk but i did like the concept and the ending was so wholesome
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