Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Silver Creek #4

Silver Creek Bodyguard

Rate this book
New York Times bestselling author Lindsay McKenna returns to Silver Creek, Wyoming, where a veteran SEALwho is now one of a security team’s finest, is assigned to guard a beautiful woman haunted by her family’s dangerous past. . . .

With a fresh start in the heart of big sky country, Sara Romano is thrilled to bring her herbal remedies to the lovely people of Silver Creek, Wyoming. But when her dark past follows her, and Sara is nearly killed, she knows she is in imminent danger. Reluctantly accepting the bodyguard her mother hires, Sara opens her home to Wes Paxton. Trained to protect, the ruggedly handsome stranger soothes her fears, making Sara feel cared for in a way she has not felt in a long time. If only she had the courage to tell him her family’s secrets. . . .

A former orphan who found family in the military, Wes can’t ignore the feeling that Sara is holding back. The more time he spends with her, the more he understands how afraid she is—which only sends his well-honed protective instincts into overdrive. So when danger finally closes in, Wes is an army of one, ready to do anything to protect the woman he’s falling hard for . . .

338 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 29, 2022

105 people are currently reading
170 people want to read

About the author

Lindsay McKenna

359 books2,496 followers
I've lived six lives in one and it all shows up in the books I write, one way or another.

I was always a risk taker and broke mustangs at thirteen years old in Oregon. I learn to break them with love, not threat or pain.

At 17 years old, I picked night-crawlers (worms) out in our Oregon orchards from 9pm to midnight, every night. I earned enough money to buy my school clothes and book. I also plunked down $600 to a flight company at the Medford, Oregon airport and asked them to teach me...a girl...to fly. I soloed in 12 hours, which is average. From that time until I left for the US Navy at 18, I had accrued 39 hours of flight time in my Cessna 150 single engine airplane.

I was in the US military and was an AG3 (weather forecaster). There was no airplane club, so I couldn't fly when I was in the Navy. But I could look at the clouds in the sky ;-).

Later, I flew in a B-52 bomber for a day and night mission (18 hours total), a T-38 Talon jet, USAF, where I was riding in a "chase plane" on a test flight in a Dragonfly jet.

I was one of the first AFLA (American Fencing League of America) women fencers to fence with epee and sabre. These weapons were closed to women because they were too 'heavy' for a female to handle. I said baloney and fought the males and won half my bouts. I was part of a surge of women fencers on the East Coast in the 1970's to push for equality in the sport. Together, we changed the sport and changed the mind of the men. Today? In the Olympics? Women now fence in foil, epee and sabre, thanks to what we did as a vanguard showing the world it could be done.

I then became a volunteer firefighter when I was a civilian once more, the first woman in an all - male fire department in West Point, Ohio for three years. I became a local expert not only in firefighting, driving the engine and tanker trunks, but also had training in hazardous material (Reynoldsburg Fire Academy, Columbus, OH).

My books always reflect what I experienced. If you like edgy, gritty, deeply and emotionally intense love stories with sympathetic heroes and heroines, check out my newest series that will be available mid-Oct. 2015, and it incorporates much of what I have lived.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
241 (47%)
4 stars
160 (31%)
3 stars
78 (15%)
2 stars
19 (3%)
1 star
11 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
Profile Image for PamG.
1,296 reviews1,039 followers
January 17, 2022
Silver Creek Bodyguard by Lindsay McKenna is the fourth book in the Silver Creek contemporary romantic suspense series. In an attempt to hide from her criminal half-brother Manny, Sara Romano has moved to Silver Creek, Wyoming. She’s purchased a Victorian house that had a building behind it that has been renovated into a retail space, lab, and clinic for her herbal remedies business. After several attempts on her life in Texas, she has agreed to a full-time bodyguard that will pose as her assistant. Wes Paxton has just finished a year of physical therapy for a gunshot wound that caused him to shift careers from a Navy SEAL to being employed by a global security company. His first assignment after moving to Wyoming is to protect Sara.

Both Sara and Wes are likeable characters with an immediate attraction and chemistry that develops into friendship and builds slowly over time. Both have histories with emotional and physical traumas that haunt them. However, both also had role models that showed them how people should be treated. I enjoyed seeing how each tried to understand their feelings for the other and how their emotional barriers were gradually broken down. The secondary characters played background roles with several of them being in the previous three books in the series. This helped with continuity and added to the feeling of community that abounds in this series.

The first five chapters give readers a chance to bond with Sara and Wes as well as learn about Sara’s business and the Silver Creek community. Readers also get insight into Manny’s thoughts and actions and the suspense starts to build. With the sixth chapter the action and suspense go into overdrive.

The writing and dialogue gave me a strong sense of Sara’s business and the Silver Creek community. While it is portrayed as very idyllic and somewhat unrealistic, I wanted to believe in it and enjoyed it. This is a community that lives and works as a close family. Neighbor helps neighbor. Of course, this is offset by the introduction of the criminals to bring suspense and danger into this close knit community. The suspense part of this book started somewhat later in the book than I expected, but once it started, there was plenty of action and danger. The sixth chapter is a pivotal moment in the narrative and very memorable as the danger escalates.

This book has a lot of details in it on herbs and herbal remedies. I felt this added depth and made the book more realistic. Additionally, I learned a lot while reading the novel. The author did a fantastic job of transporting me to this community with great world-building. The only steamy scenes in the book are in the last 25 percent of the story. Themes include trust, courage, friendship, respect, romance, PTSD, and helping those in need.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It was an entertaining book that was emotionally intense at times. The author did a good job of meshing the romance and the suspense without either suffering. I appreciate the balance in the book’s pacing, taking readers from moments of slow-burning plot reveals to shocking action scenes, and outstanding revelations. If you are a fan of contemporary romantic suspense without instant love, then you may want to check out this series. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

Kensington Books – Zebra and Lindsay McKenna provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for March 29, 2022. This review was originally posted at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.

------------------
My 4 star review will be posted 3-4 days after it is published at Mystery and Suspense Magazine.
Profile Image for Tina Loves To Read.
3,449 reviews1 follower
April 5, 2022
This is a Romantic Suspense, and this is the fourth book in the Silver Creek series. I have not read the first three books in this book series, but I do not think that hurt my enjoyment of this book. I feel there was a good mix of romance and suspense in this book. There was a lot of action and suspense in this book which I really enjoyed. I think the characters in this book were great and really developed. I love that Sara who is one of the main characters in this book was strong and hard headed. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Zebra) or author (Lindsay McKenna) via NetGalley, so I can give an honest review about how I feel about this book. I want to send a big Thank you to them for that.
Profile Image for Susan.
4,806 reviews125 followers
March 7, 2022
A terrific addition to the Silver Creek series with a sweet romance and gripping suspense. Sara came to Silver Creek looking for a fresh start away from the threats posed by her criminal father and half-brother. Her brother Manny wants her dead so that he can inherit their father's estate. Her father, Leo, is already in prison for his illegal activities, and Manny wants to take over his father's trafficking and drug empire. Sara's mother, Tsula, divorced Leo years earlier after finding out about his unsavory business, and except for required visitation, Sara has always lived with her mother, a successful businesswoman in her own right. Sara spent summer with her grandmother on the Cherokee reservation in North Carolina, learning about healing with herbs from Adsila. When Sara moved to Silver Creek, her mother insisted on hiring a bodyguard to protect her.

Wes left the SEAL teams a year earlier after an injury made it impossible for him to continue. His former Team leader, Steve, offered Wes a job with his security company in Silver Creek. A man with no family, who grew up in less-than-ideal foster homes, Wes feels somewhat adrift without his SEAL family. His one anchor and exposure to a typical loving family, Tom, led by example in showing Wes how to be an honorable man. He also encouraged Wes to take the job with Steve. When Wes arrives in Silver Creek, Steve already has an assignment for him - serving as a bodyguard for Sara.

I loved the first meeting between Wes and Sara. The previous bodyguard hadn't worked out because of his bad attitude, so Sara is wary of Wes's suitability. The idea is for Wes to serve as Sara's assistant, giving him a plausible reason to be there. Wes and Sara hit it off right away. Wes's SEAL background was as a medic, so he has the experience and a fascination with Sara's work with herbs. I loved their long and honest conversation about expectations and beliefs. Neither of them mentions the immediate attraction and connection that they felt. Wes fights his feelings because they could be a distraction to providing the best protection for Sara. Sara can't read Wes's feelings and doesn't want to make things awkward between them.

Over the first several chapters, Wes and Sara build an excellent working relationship and the beginning of a strong friendship. I loved seeing their emotional barriers start to fall as they got to know each other better. Their personalities are complementary, with Wes being a warrior with a bit of healing energy, while Sara is a healer with a warrior core. Those qualities become very important when trouble finds them.

During those first few chapters, we also look at Manny and his plans for Sara, his father, and the Mafia business he attempts to control. Those scenes contribute to the building tension as the reader gets a good idea of what will happen; we just don't know when. By the sixth chapter, we get that answer, and the intensity of the action and suspense kept me glued to the pages. Wes's abilities as a SEAL are all that stands between them and death. I loved seeing Sara's inner warrior emerge and blend seamlessly with Wes's actions. There were several heart-stopping moments when I wasn't sure how they would get out of it. I especially enjoyed seeing Sara get her licks in at the end of this event.

Because Sara is still alive, we know that Manny will not give up his murderous intentions. Once again, the tension builds as they wait for the other shoe to drop. I could feel Sara's desire for it all to be over as she and Wes visited the Wishing Tree. I ached for her and her belief that she would have to run again, leaving her new life behind. I could feel her fear when Manny himself made an appearance this time. I absolutely did not see the resolution of this confrontation coming and loved seeing it happen. I also enjoyed seeing Sara and her mother deal with the ramifications in a manner consistent with their beliefs.

I liked seeing Wes and Sara's relationship progress past the friendship they allowed themselves initially. I loved the slow build of the romance, which feels more realistic to me. I found it especially heartwarming to see how they loved and supported each other. I've noticed that the author usually gives the characters time to get to know each other before becoming intimate. I loved their visit to Sara's grandmother, whose insight into Wes was terrific. She knew exactly what to do, and I loved the difference it made to Wes. The changes in him were amazing, though he still had some moments of insecurity. His big moment at the end had a touch of one of those moments, which made its sweetness even more emotional.

One of the things I like about this series is how each book introduces an earth-related theme. Herbs, woodworking, organic farming and ranching, beekeeping (my favorite so far) are all addressed. I've learned a lot from these books and following the author on Facebook. The vividness of the descriptions, from the setting to the earth-friendly elements, pulls me deeper into the story. I also liked the inclusion of the Native American elements and the layers they added to the story. I can't wait for the next book.

#netgalley
Profile Image for Gemma.
834 reviews67 followers
April 26, 2022
This is the first I've read in this series, but it read just fine as a standalone.
I loved the deep family history that was covered ams showed how the characters became qho they were now.
Sara and Wes make a lovely couple, it was a joy reading their journey together.
It was Nice reading about Sara's traditions with nature, plants and herb uses.

This was an enjoyable read, and I'm sure I'll be reading more in this series.


I voluntarily read and reviewed this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Katie.
951 reviews6 followers
March 7, 2025
This book was a little too out there for me.
The characters were pretty much either Native American, ex-military, or the mafia. There weren't a lot of regular people. It seemed a little too far-fetched for me. Plus, the characters fell in love very quickly, and I don't like insta-love.

Summary:
Sara came to Silver Creek, Wyoming looking for a fresh start away from the threats posed by her criminal father and half-brother. Her brother Manny wants her dead so that he can inherit their father's estate. Her father, Leo, is already in prison for his illegal activities, and Manny wants to take over his father's trafficking and drug empire.

Sara has opened a herbal remedies health care office in Wyoming.After several attempts on her life in Texas, she has agreed to a full-time bodyguard that will pose as her assistant. Wes Paxton is an ex-Navy SEAL who is employed to be her bodyguard.

A lot of the book is spent with them on the run in the wilderness, trying to get away from a group of men her brother hired to kill her. The men have RPGs and shoot them at Sara and West (this comes out of nowhere and is so out there). In the end, the Russian mafia comes out of nowhere and helps save Sara's life because the Russians want to take over the territory of Sara's criminal half-brother, so they help take down Manny (again, so out there and random).
2,064 reviews25 followers
March 29, 2022
I wanted to like this book but just couldn’t get there. I felt like there were pages and pages about the main characters relationship. It felt to me like the author was trying to get the word count up. There was also a lot of repetition. The suspense was well done but I skipped over probably 1/3 of the book because I was bored. Thank you to net galley for an advanced readers copy.
1,066 reviews
November 29, 2021
A lovely story, slow build romance with an undercurrent of suspense and drama.

I hadn’t read any previous books in this series but don’t at all feel that this impacted my enjoyment at all.

Strong and well developed and described characters, the author has a really descriptive style of writing so I felt I really understood the lead characters, their backgrounds and their thoughts and feelings throughout the book.

Wes is keen to move on from his exit from the Teams, and post recovery from his injury, picks up a role as a bodyguard in a company led by his ex Team leader. He immediately is assigned to be Sara’s bodyguard and despite best intentions he falls for her at first sight.

Sara is independent and self aware, hiding from her step brother in an effort to stop him from killing her for her inheritance. A vegan botanist, she uses her healing skills to help people in her local community and falls equally fast for Wes.

I enjoyed reading this book, I liked the characters and thought the storyline was interesting and well developed over the course of the book

Personally I found the authors writing style very descriptive, I understand this will absolutely be adored by some people but for me it was a little overdone at time, I’m fairly sure I could perfectly recreate the meals they prepared together for instance.
That being said, when it came to the feelings of the characters, this style did work well here.
Profile Image for Marti.
3,296 reviews1 follower
December 20, 2021
Silver Creek Bodyguard by Lindsay McKenna is the fourth book in the Silver Creek series. I was so excited to read this book that I didn’t even wait to close when the book was due. I love the series so far and wanted to read the next book. Silver Creek set in Wyoming and where this next series is set. Each novel in the series focuses on a different couple - Wes and Sara are in this novel.

Wes Paxton, a member of an elite security firm, has been hired to watch Sara Romano. Sara is hiding from the rest of her family as they are trying to kill her. Wes is hired by her Mom, while Sara is starting an herbal business in Silver Creek. It is clear from the beginning that Sara and Wes have a connection - what is not clear is how hard they need to work to stay alive. The story is exciting almost from the beginning! Silver Creek Bodyguard by Lindsay McKenna is a great read.
Profile Image for Lisa Malmquist.
771 reviews23 followers
June 19, 2022
Sara Romana is looking to get away from her toxic father and brother who are in the mob.
She is an herbalist and helps work with the locals to help. Unfortunately her father the mob boss and her brother trying to follow in his father's footsteps tracked her to her new home in Wyoming.
Her mother hires her a bodyguard who is an ex Navy Seal.
Wes, her bodyguard was an orphan and never had a family or a real home. He starts to feel at home with Sara and would like to build a future with her.
However, the brother's thugs turn up trying to kill Sara.
Excellent suspense romance and a nice look at the values of the American Indian.
And the family values that are emphasized.
Profile Image for Dawn.
1,075 reviews51 followers
February 24, 2022
Wes Paxton was an orphan and felt empty as he had his entire life. He's no longer a SEAL and is moving from the state that he lived in most of his life for a new job in Silver Creek, Wyoming. His entire life's possessions fit in the back of his truck.

Sara had to move from Dallas because she's being hunted. She just wants to be safe and this has gotten out of hand. Away from all the family she's ever known she's trying to start her own business, again, and restart her life. If only she can stay alive long enough.

Wes's first job, protect Sara.

I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Stephanie Panach.
697 reviews12 followers
January 1, 2022
These Silver Creek books always suck me in and don't let go. Silver creek is a little bit of paradise in Wyoming. The people that live there live off the land and are very tightly knit. Mary is a mother figure in the community - she owns a organic food store and basically pushes out renewable and organic sources of food throughout the area. She has recently brought on Sara Romano to be a homeopathic pharmacist and practitioner in the area. Sara is of Native American ancestry and is in Silver Creek primarily to escape her sociopathic brother's bad intentions for her. Wes Paxton is brought in to be Sara's personal bodyguard. He was a Navy Seal and trained as a medic - so he is uniquely positioned to hide in plain sight. Wes has been through a lot in his life - but he is very open to the way Sara lives and operates.

To read these books you have to be very open to the crunchier side of life. These books go to great pains to show the benefits of living cleanly and falling on the side of the matriarchy.

I liked so much about this one - it is very exciting and I loved Wes. Sara read to me as someone older than she was portrayed in the book - from what she wears to how she acts - I read her more as someone in her 50s that a 20 or 30 something. That's not necessarily a bad thing - but it felt a little off. And as much as I agree with and support the concepts the author pushes forward in the book, some parts of it can come off as a bit preachy. I wish we lived in a world that was more like silver creek - but alas....

Overall - this is another solid entry into this little piece of paradise.

I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.
Profile Image for Rebmay.
2,800 reviews50 followers
March 19, 2022
Wes and Sara are characters that will be hard to forget. Though both have suffered through painful childhoods, they have not become bitter or immune to love. From the moment they meet, both feel a soul deep connection, a new awareness of the other that neither could ever have expected. Sara comes from a long line of empaths and healers, and she finds her work with herbs to be particularly rewarding. Having to start her business and clinic anew was the only choice she could make with her mafia king father and malicious half brother seeking to kill her in order to claim what is rightfully hers. At her mother’s insistence, Sara agreed to have a bodyguard for protection, but the first one assigned her not only refused her suggestions, he also was irritatingly condescending and rude. When Wes is sent to her as a replacement bodyguard, Dara is stunned by their immediate connection, his own medical training and his respectful attitude and manner. He agrees to act as her assistant in both her retail shop and lab in order not to attract undue attention while he is still near enough to protect her. Trained as a Navy SEAL and medic, Wes is open to learning more about herbs and their healing properties, but more than that, he can see the dedication and knowledge that Sara brings to her new community. Getting to know each other seems easy, though both hold onto secrets and try to guard their hearts. Only his expert survival and combat skills save them when her evil half brother wages an attack against her after discovering her new location. Forced to flee for their lives in an untenable situation, they reveal their feelings to each other for the first time. Both wonder if they will ever have a chance at future together. To do so they must survive the attacks and take down her brother and father.

The chemistry and connection between Sara and Wes strong and palpable. The pain they endured in their childhoods gave them a fierce inner strength, a warrior attitude and the determination to move forward. Together, they make a formidable team against the enemy that has gotten far to close. They will do anything to claim the dream of future together, now that they have let each other into their hearts. Their story is filled with emotion, self-discovery, and letting go of the past as well as plenty of danger and suspense. I just couldn’t put this book down, and it will go on my list of keepers.

I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Profile Image for Rhoda Fitzsimmons.
204 reviews
May 5, 2024
This story is about Wes. A former SEAL team member who was left as a baby at a fire department and never found a forever home. I guess #1 that's hard for me to believe because most everyone wants a newborn. He was shipped around from foster family to foster family and never found the love or nurturing that a child needs. Then in his teens, he comes across Tom and his wife Frannie. Tom, also a former SEAL, can see that Wes needs direction and incorporates him into his family, showing him how husband and wives treat each and their children but also, how to grow up to be a decent human, it was Tom that encouraged Wes to go into the SEAL's. #2 for me was, "why didn't Tom and Frannie adopt him?" He was already a teen but yet he kept sending him back to these terrible foster homes?

Then we have Sara. She's Native American from Dallas. Her mother was married to a man whom she found out was in the mob. The mother divorced him and insisted that when the father died, his company would go to Sara. The father remarried and welcomed a son, Manny, who was just as evil as he was and groomed him to run the "software" company. Manny wants Sara dead so he can inherit the fortune. Sara was forced to do visitation with her father and was scared of Manny, when she turned 18 she never went back. Sara also visited with her grandmother in North Carolina in the summers and that's where she learned a lot about herbs and being an herbalist.

After an injury that left Wes without a portion of his lung. His former SEAL leader has offered him a job in Silver Creek, Wyoming. So after a year of rehab, Wes has packed up and driven to Wyoming where his first assignment is to be a bodyguard for Sara. Word has been spread that Manny, has plans to track her down and kill her.

Wes is attracted to Sara when he sees her picture. He sets off to meet with her to see if they would fit as protector/protectee as the first bodyguard didn't get along with Sara. As the story continues, there is plenty of drama and romance. I guess I liked the book for the most part, but I guess I found Wes a little too wishy-washy. This is the fourth book in the series but was fine reading as a stand-alone.
3,253 reviews34 followers
March 24, 2022
Silver Creek Bodyguard by Lindsay McKenna is another of her stories about Silver Creek, Wyoming, and its citizens. It is full of her personal philosophy, as usual, but has a decent story and excellent characters accompanying said philosophy. Wes Paxton had been a Navy SEAL until he had been injured and lost part of his right lung. It had been a long recovery and he was at loose ends until he got a call from his old Sergeant, Steve Carter, who ran an international security firm out of Silver Creek, Wyoming. He claimed to have a client who was the perfect fit for Wes, so Wes climbed into his truck and headed to Wyoming. He had nothing else to do. It turns out the client was a woman who was half Cherokee. Because of his quiet demeanor and his Native American heritage, Steve thought they could work together. Wes went to meet her and Sara Romano was indeed a good match. She worked with herbs and herbal medicine and his cover would be working as her assistant. Her father was the head of an organized crime family in Dallas and her half-brother, Manny, was his lieutenant. Her dad was in prison and wanted her gone; her brother wanted her dead. He was here to protect her.

Much of the book was the two of them running from hired thugs who attacked them as they were in the wilderness, harvesting wild herbs. it was a 24-hour chase and harrowing. McKenna is good at writing this sort of drama and the reader lives it along with them. They were in love but neither had been willing to admit it until they were running, frozen and frightened. They came close to being discovered and killed but Sara had managed to escape and call the Steve and the Sheriff, who arrived just in time to kill two of the men who were about to kill Wes, in fact had already fired on him. The second attack came just when they were feeling safe again and was led by Manny, himself. it was a harrowing time. Interesting book. Lots of information that was not about the chase.

I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Silver Creek Bodyguard by Zebra Books, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #zebrabooks #lindsaymckenna #silvercreekbodyguard
Profile Image for Christina Rodrigues.
461 reviews5 followers
March 23, 2022
Silver Creek Bodyguard is the fourth book in Lindsay McKenna’s Silver Creek Series. This book is a romantic suspense novel with fantastic characters and a great storyline which adds to the Silver Creek World that McKenna has created.

A dark past sends Sara Romano to Silver Creek, Wyoming where she begins to grow her practice of bringing her herbal remedies those in need. When her past finds her, veteran SEAL Wes Paxton is sent to protect her. The connection and chemistry between Sara and Wes was instant and intense but the couple agreed to build their friendship and work relationship until the dangers surrounding Sara and her past are dealt with. As the heat between them grows stronger, and the attempts on her increase, Sara and Wes quickly realize that they have to live in and cherish the present until the future could be reassured and set.

This is the first book in this series that I have had the pleasure to read. The cover drew my attention and once I read the synopsis I was hooked. I love the premise for this series. It’s about veterans from various branches of the armed forces and the struggles they faces once they leave the service. Both the heroes and heroines in McKenna’s books are good, strong characters with strong morals and personalities. I loved the details given to their backgrounds and storylines. My only complaint is that at times I felt the book to be overly wordy and drawn out.

All the books in the Silver Creek series contain a happily ever after and can be read as a standalone. McKenna does a fantastic job relaying details regarding previous events and characters which allows the read to begin anywhere in the series. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series, and I plan on reading the early books that I missed.

This is a voluntary review of an advanced readers copy received from Netgalley.
Profile Image for Sandy Kelly.
1,253 reviews12 followers
April 1, 2022
So somehow I missed that this book was part of a series and this is the 4th book. However, I still understood everything that happened and didn't feel like I was lost by not reading the previous books. Sara has come to Silver Creek, Wyoming hoping for a fresh start. But she wasn't expecting her past to follow her. When she is almost killed, she accepts the help of a bodyguard to keep her safe. And when Wes is the man tasked with her safety, she finds herself having more feelings for him than just as a bodyguard. Wes was an orphan who found his family when he went into the military. He is well trained with a protective streak a mile wide. And the more time he spends with Sara, the more he knows that she is hiding something-and is afraid of it. And when danger comes calling, he will do anything and everything to keep her safe.

I have heard of this author multiple times but had never actually picked up one of her books until this one. I am a sucker for former military books-and this book definitely left me wanting more! I really don't know why I hadn't read this author's books before, but I have all the other books and series in my TBR list now! I loved these two characters right from the beginning. They both took the time to actually have honest conversations instead of just the complete instant love. I love when there is actual communication and something to build upon in a relationship. Don't get me wrong, I do like my smexy, insta love books as well-but books with a real connection tend to suck me in more than anything! The suspense portion is well done. There are parts where you wonder how bad someone will be hurt. My only drawback, parts of the story are a little slow. I was worried that if it stayed slow like that, that I wouldn't be able to stay with the story. Other than that, I thoroughly enjoyed the rest of the book!
Profile Image for Marsha Keeper Bookshelf.
4,290 reviews88 followers
May 11, 2022
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf

Silver Creek Bodyguard is the fourth title in the Silver Creek series, and while I’ll always recommend reading a series in order whenever possible, if you’re coming in at this point you will not be the least bit lost… but Wes and Sara’s story might cause you to go looking for those earlier books.

Sara is in hiding from her criminal, psychotic brother who manages to track her down everywhere she goes… and now he’s found her in Silver Creek. She moved to the area for several reasons, the on the run not being the main one but to settle in a community that could (and would be willing to) benefit from her holistic remedies and teachings. Her new home is perfect for her homegrown business, it’s also easily found and the property layout might be used against her in a fight. She’s stubborn, determined, and usually confident but this constant running is wearing her down. Enough so that she’s finally accepting help in the form of a bodyguard to protect her. She simply never expected to find the man who would love her for a lifetime.

Wes is recovering from an injury, recently retired from the military, and signed on with a global protection agency. His first assignment will take him to Silver Creek, Wyoming where an intriguing woman, a tight-knit community… and a nasty brother out to harm his sister will not only challenge him but will open the door to a love that lasts.

Silver Creek Bodyguard is a combination of comfortable read and intense action-packed moments. We’ll spend a little bit of time getting to know Wes and Sara before the intense danger arrives but once it does it isn’t easy to put this one down. I enjoyed my time back in this world, we’ll run into some familiar faces (if you’ve read the entire series), some vile villains, lots of laid-back neighbors, and a community to love. You may learn a bit more about holistic medicines as well. It’s a good romantic suspense story that kept me flipping pages and completely engaged.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Profile Image for Judith Miguel.
Author 4 books35 followers
March 23, 2022
This is the first book I read from this author and I really enjoy it.
With a fresh start in the heart of big sky country, Sara Romano is thrilled to bring her herbal remedies to the lovely people of Silver Creek, Wyoming. But when her dark past follows her, and Sara is nearly killed, she knows she is in imminent danger. Reluctantly accepting the bodyguard her mother hires, Sara opens her home to Wes Paxton. A former orphan who found family in the military, Wes can’t ignore the feeling that Sara is holding back. The more time he spends with her, the more he understands how afraid she is. So when danger finally closes in, Wes is an army of one, ready to do anything to protect the woman he’s falling hard for…
This is a slow-burn romance with sweet moments and some action when they are on the run. I loved their relationship. It’s honest, deep and meaningful. She is so resilient and emphatic is impossible not to fall in love with her. He is her perfect match. With medical training and an open mind about learning her skills, they are a really good team.
The book is well written and easy to read. It was a bit slow sometimes for my taste and maybe too much information about herbs? But interesting nevertheless.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Robin.
618 reviews14 followers
March 27, 2022
This is the fourth book in Lindsay McKenna's Silver Creek series, but can easily be read as a stand alone.

Forced to flee her home in Texas, Sara Romano now makes her life in Silver Creek, Wyoming, hiding from the half brother who wants her dead. She lives her life quietly, enjoying her job as a natural healer and herbalist to the people of the town. When her brother steps up his efforts to find Sara, her mother decides she needs a body guard and hires the services of Guardian Security, headquartered in Silver Creek.

Dropped on the steps of a fire station as a young child and raised in the foster system, Wes Paxton was passed from family to family who wanted only the monthly check he represented. Wes never felt like he belonged anywhere until he joined the SEALS. There he found a family with his team, a place he could call home with people who appreciated and cared about him. When an injury forces him to leave the service, he's left drifting again until he's offered a job by his former teammate who runs a security firm. Now, Wes finds himself on his way to Silver Creek and a new life.

For his first assignment, Wes finds himself as Sara's bodyguard. He is both impressed with and intrigued by, Sara. To hide in plain site, Wes serves as Sara's assistant. He finds himself fascinated as he learns more about the woman and the business she runs. Something about her settles the lost little boy Wes carries inside him. But waiting for something to happen wears on Wes's nerves. When the attack does come, Wes immediately morphs into the soldier he was trained to be. This time, though, the fight is personal.

I thought the series as a whole was a little slow to start, but chose to stick with it and I'm very glad I did. This is the best book in the series so far. We are immediately introduced to Wes, learning about his state of mind and how he's been shaped by his past. Knowing his story drew me to his character and into the emotions of the story. Sara's a compassionate soul, receptive to the vulnerable part of Wes's character. The development of their relationship wasn't forced, but just flowed naturally. This chapter of the Silver Creek series covers all the bases, military men, suspense and characters willing to share their emotions all leading to a satisfying happy ending.
Profile Image for Madoka Kamimura Mason.
328 reviews10 followers
December 11, 2021
Lindsay McKenna brings us back to Silver Creek, Wyoming with Sara and Wes. Sara is being hunted by her past and moves to Silver Creek to hide out and starts her new life there. Veteran SEAL Wes is assigned to protect her. Working together brings them closer together. It also brings up the reasons why each of them are there and hiding from the world.

Lindsay McKenna brings us another chapter in her Silver Creek series where we meet Sara and Wes. Each have a past that must be dealt with before they can move on to their future. But will they allow each other in enough to heal and get past it all, or will it just get in the way and drive them apart? Lindsay brings us love, friendship, and intrigue as the action brings it all to the front and they discover what is truly important in life.

I enjoyed reading Sara and Wes' story and look forward to meeting more people in Silver Creek. It is always nice to catch up with the people there and see what is going on in their lives from the last time we met. I received an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I would like to thank NetGalley and Kensington Books, Zebra for this privilege.
Profile Image for Anita (Hearts and Whodunits).
1,011 reviews17 followers
March 23, 2022
With a fresh start in the heart of big sky country, Sara Romano is thrilled to bring her herbal remedies to the lovely people of Silver Creek, Wyoming. But when her dark past follows her, and Sara is nearly killed, she knows she is in imminent danger. Reluctantly accepting the bodyguard her mother hires, Sara opens her home to Wes Paxton. Wes is a former orphan who found family in the military. He can’t ignore the feeling that Sara is holding back. The more time he spends with her, the more he understands how afraid she is, which only sends his well-honed protective instincts into overdrive.
This was an endearing love story about two people who find themselves in the midst of chaos. The characters were very likeable, and I was invested with them and their problems. But there was no question that they would get together, no suspense because it was instant love. All of the problems were separate from the relationship. There was suspense, just not romantic suspense. I was looking for more! Thank you to NetGalley and Zebra for the advanced reader’s copy. This review is my unbiased opinion.
Profile Image for Rosie Trzewik.
872 reviews8 followers
February 14, 2022
Another in the Silver Creek series, but good as a standalone. Recovered Seals vet Wes heads to Silver Creek for a job offer by his old team leader Steve as a bodyguard. Sara is the daughter of a mafia boss who’s mother had protected Sara inheritance if her father passes in their divorce settlement. Her half brother would get nothing, which is motivation for Manny to get rid of his sister. With Sara father in jail, Manny is trying his muscle to take over the Mafia faction in Dallas and disobeying his father’s edict of making Sara disappear, but not killed. In Manny’s mind killing Sara and her mother is the only way to get the inheritance he is cut out of. The action was very good, the actual building of Wes and Sara relationship was slow building, but corny in my opinion. Sara is Native American and a healer so parts her background with collecting herbs was interesting.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC. I am voluntarily posting an honest review after reading an Advance Reader Copy of this story. #NetGalley #SilverCreekBodyguard
4,123 reviews21 followers
February 25, 2022
Silver Creek Bodyguard is the fourth book in the spin-off Silver Creek series by Lindsay McKenna. Each of these book in this series is a stand-alone suspenseful romantic book. Sara Romano has moved to Silver Creek trying to stay away from a dangerous family member. However, the danger finds her in Wyoming. Wes Paxton is hired to protect her.

This story is a straightforward danger, protection, suspense, and romance tale. The main characters have baggage that they must work though while developing their relationship and staying out of harm’s way. Family found, lost, biological and through marriage all has its complications in this story. Family is not the only theme there are trust, community, and PTSD to name a few.

Silver Creek is a distinctive unique community that Sara and Wes have become part of in this story. It is always an interesting read to see how the characters end up there and how the community backs them.

The publisher through Net Galley provided a digital ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.
2,509 reviews42 followers
March 27, 2022
Leaving the Navy SEALs after suffering a bullet wound, Wes Paxton has hired on at Guardian Security in Silver Creek Wyoming. His former chief started the company and he has been assigned his first client. Sara Woya Romano is being threatened by her half-brother who is involved with the mob. Per her parents’ prenup, she is the only beneficiary to their massive holdings. With her father in prison convicted of money laundering, his son is determined to have it all and that means eliminating her. Wes was abandoned at birth, survived various foster homes, but found his family in the SEALs. When he first saw Sara’s picture, he was enchanted. Now working to protect her and acting as her assistant in her herbal business, he is slowly falling in love with her. She is attracted to him and “sees” the good and honor in him. Heart racing suspense as her half-brother increases the threats against her. Will they find the strength to elude the danger as they run for their lives? I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
1,013 reviews13 followers
March 29, 2022
I am so enjoying this series by Lindsey McKenna. Silver Creek Bodyguard is the 4th installment of this series. We learn SO MUCH from Ms. McKenna in this series. Not only the story told, but the way the natural world can help heal your body and soul.

Sara is hiding out in Silver Creek Wyoming. Her half brother is a very evil man who is trying to have Sara killed. She has agreed to have a bodyguard with her in Silver Creek. Wes, an ex-seal who has transitioned from the military to private security, is her bodyguard. Her business is herbal cures and you can tell Ms. McKenna has much knowledge of this subject.

I just love how Wes and Sara's feelings for each other emerge so organically, with moments of emotion that take your breath away set against the backdrop of the suspense of the story. A strong friendship that moves toward love.

Another hit in the Silver Creek series. I've read all of the books in this series and while you can read this one as a stand-alone, I think it's better to read the books in order. They're all so good it won't be a hardship!
316 reviews1 follower
June 23, 2024
This is an awful book. The writing is terrible. It is preachy (if I have to read one more comment about matriarchy, herbal healing or Indian culture, I think I will barf.), repetitive, and gramactically clumbsy.

The characters are boring and insipid. The dialogue is trite and sentimental in the worse sense of the word. There is one sex scene which can only be described as cringe worthy.

The plot is boring and predictable. About a third of the book is a chase scene that should be exciting, instead it is just bland mush. No tension or excitement at all. The nucleus of the story had potential but it was crushed by all of the above.

I normally refrain from criticizing other's reading taste. In this case, however, I find it unfathomable that anyone would find this an enjoyable read. Just out of curiosity, I would love to know what they usually read, because if you think this is a good book, I can't imagine what you think is bad.
Profile Image for Danielle Urban.
Author 12 books166 followers
August 22, 2025
Silver Creek Bodyguard by Lindsay McKenna is a sexy romantic suspense novel! Inside is a story of a man who was juggled around from foster home to foster home feeling unwanted. Until, he met a police officer who took him in and helped him become the man he is today. From a quarterback fatback player in high school to a US Navy Seal and now, in a private security firm, Wes, is doing well. He is assigned to protect a wealthy female client. Together, they face dangers and fall in love. Linsday McKenna writes well. I loved both the hero and heroine. I felt sad for the hero in the way he grew up. The way he was taken in just for the income...and his need for attention was heartbreaking. However, he grew up knowing not all people are like that and he does well making the most of his life. It was hard not to root and fall in love with these characters.

I received this copy from the publisher. This is my voluntary review.
Profile Image for Bobbi Wagner.
4,999 reviews63 followers
March 14, 2022
This is an author that is slowly becoming one of my favorite authors. This is a suspenseful story where the author used details to make the story come to life. I enjoyed this author's writing skills that made the story easy and entertaining to read. This is a fast paced story about family, secrets and one verteran Seal that is ready to protect the woman he is falling for fast. I enjoyed how connectable the characters are and what they brought to the story is great. They had great growth and support throughout the story. A story that is full of twists and turns that you won't see coming. A story full of action and romance, what more could you ask for. This is a great pick up and I had a hard time putting this book down. I really enjoyed this book and this author. I highly recommend it.
573 reviews
August 7, 2022
Wes Paxton
Sara Romano

Wes is a ex-SEAL and is going to Silver Creek, Wyoming to start a new job with a fellow ex-SEAL who owns a top notch security firm. Sara is the daughter of an Mobster who is currently in prison. Her half brother wants her dead so he can take over his father’s empire. Wes is sent to be her bodyguard if she gets along with him her previous bodyguard did not work out. Sara is a herbalist and has her own clinic and sells her products to help people. Wes and Sara have instant chemistry and he becomes her assistant as a cover. Their relationship builds as they try to keep Sara from being hurt by her half brother. I really enjoyed this book, it was a fast read. I liked Wes and Sara, especially how Sara helped Wes to heal. I would definitely read more books by this author and in this series.
Profile Image for Nancy Ku.
1,496 reviews17 followers
February 8, 2022
Silver Creek Bodyguard (Silver Creek, #4) by Lindsay McKenna
This is the 4th book in this series and we get to catch up with some of the characters from the other books - but this book can be read as a stand alone.
Sara Romano has moved to Silver Creek to hide from the danger that stalks her. Her mother hires a security company to protect her. Wes Paxton ex Navy Seal is a perfect match for her. They both have Native American heritage, even if he is a orphan and doesn't know who his parents are. There are attempts on her life, evil family connections, terror, bravery, some laughter, tears, a wonderful building relationship, heartfelt moments and plenty of steam to get us to a very HEA.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.