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His to Defend
A romantic reunion…threatened by their past. Amina Kelly broke Sergeant Maxwell Layton's heart when she married his best friend. But the detective never forgot her…or the sizzling attraction they never acted on. Years later, while Maxwell and Amina work together to find her ex's killer, Maxwell finds his desire for the nurse stronger than ever. As he puts his life on the line to keep Amina safe, Maxwell realizes that the greatest risk of all might be to his heart. From Harlequin Romantic Danger. Passion. Drama.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2021
42 people are currently reading
57 people want to read
About the author
Sharon C. Cooper
69 books939 followersUSA Today bestselling author Sharon C. Cooper loves anything involving romance with a happily-ever-after, whether in books, movies, or real life. She writes contemporary romance, romantic suspense, as well as romantic comedy. She enjoys rainy days, carpet picnics, and family game night. Her stories have won numerous awards, including The Rochelle Alers Best Series award for her Atlanta’s Finest Series (2022) and The Beverly Jenkins Author of the Year award (2021). When she isn’t writing, Sharon loves hanging out with her amazing husband, doing volunteer work, or reading a good book (a romance of course). To read more about Sharon and her novels, or to sign up to be notified of her latest releases, visit www.sharoncooper.net
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
January 16, 2022
This is a Romantic Suspense. This book is fill of suspense and action with some steamy romance. I really enjoyed reading this book, and I loved the mix of action and romance in this book. I did find this to be a book that took me a little bit to get totally pulled into, but once I was in I could not put it down. The two main characters have always felt something for each other, but they lost their chance at love when she married his good friend. This book is all about the two main characters under covering hidden secrets to find who really was the man that hurt both of them so much while they learn that it is ok to fell in love with each other again. I love a book with twist and turns and dark secrets this book has all that. I was kindly provided an e-copy of this book by the publisher (Harlequin Romantic Suspense) or author (Sharon C. Cooper) 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.
January 12, 2022
He sees his one-time best friend gunned down in the line of duty and now he has the mystery of the man’s life and death to investigate. But, the investigation that has him feeling the most danger is into his feelings for the man’s ex-wife. Danger lurks in Vegas and I was eager to plunge in with my first full-length book by the author who has been catching my interest for some time.
His to Defend is the start of a new series, but the author’s note does explain that the hero was an important (aka fascinating) character in her earlier Sin City Temptation with Max’s sister’s story. One can start here easily though now I’m curious to get Trin and Gunner’s story after the mentions.
So, Maxwell is a stellar police sergeant and up for lieutenant. Max has lost all patience and all respect for his former best friend and now patrol partner. This latest incident between Jeremy and another officer fist fighting are nothing compared to the seething anger and betrayal Max feels because Jeremy Kelly stole the woman Max saw first, married her, and then destroyed his own marriage.
Jeremy is killed in the line of duty. Max has mixed feelings, but grief and loss are there with the hurt and anger. Surprising himself, the first person he goes to for comfort is Mina, the woman who chose Jeremy over him. He can’t go there and knows it- too complicated. He also can’t stop wondering about what was really up with Jeremy who turned mean and temperamental which got him divorced from Amina and nearly kicked off the force and if the disturbance call and subsequent shot were specifically meant for Jeremy.
Amina connected with Max, but then fell for Jeremy’s sexy smiles and attention. It wasn’t long before she knew she made the biggest mistake of her life the way he put her down and grabbed at her- especially when she learned of the way Jeremy tricked her and cut out his own best friend. It was Max who helped her realize she didn’t have to take Jeremy’s abuse or let him reduce her to nothing and now it is Max who is there when Jeremy’s death is the beginning of the danger now dogging her. Amina’s nursing is her calling, but she didn’t grow up the daughter of a decorated police officer for nothing. She and Max must get to the heart of Jeremy’s secrets to keep her safe. And, she wants to delve into other heart-related issues and put the past aside for something new with Max.
His to Defend jumped right in and moved swiftly through an exciting opening scene to the intro and background of the characters. The romance was dominant for much of the book as were the complications because of the dead man and their shared past that stood between them. But, the suspense is simmering in the background and the investigation is what ties them together. It came to an exciting head at the end.
I enjoyed both Max and Amina. He’s a dedicated officer, but he’s a natural protector and knows how to respect, care, and even love a woman tenderly as well as passionately if he can get past the whole ‘best friend’ rule and Mina not choosing him first. Mina, like Max, struck out at love so is married to her job as a compassionate and fun pediatric nurse who is great with her patients. She’s not as fiery as her sisters, but her emotions and thoughts smolder a little deeper. Jeremy hurt her and did a number on her heart. She knows Max isn’t Jeremy and she gets with the program first about giving them a chance.
In summary, this was a quick read offering a steamy romance, an interesting mystery, and some engaging characters. I wish I hadn’t waited so long to try Sharon Cooper’s books. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series as well as going back to that fabulous-looking backlist.
I rec'd an eARC from Harlequin through Net Galley to read in exchange for an honest review.
His to Defend is the start of a new series, but the author’s note does explain that the hero was an important (aka fascinating) character in her earlier Sin City Temptation with Max’s sister’s story. One can start here easily though now I’m curious to get Trin and Gunner’s story after the mentions.
So, Maxwell is a stellar police sergeant and up for lieutenant. Max has lost all patience and all respect for his former best friend and now patrol partner. This latest incident between Jeremy and another officer fist fighting are nothing compared to the seething anger and betrayal Max feels because Jeremy Kelly stole the woman Max saw first, married her, and then destroyed his own marriage.
Jeremy is killed in the line of duty. Max has mixed feelings, but grief and loss are there with the hurt and anger. Surprising himself, the first person he goes to for comfort is Mina, the woman who chose Jeremy over him. He can’t go there and knows it- too complicated. He also can’t stop wondering about what was really up with Jeremy who turned mean and temperamental which got him divorced from Amina and nearly kicked off the force and if the disturbance call and subsequent shot were specifically meant for Jeremy.
Amina connected with Max, but then fell for Jeremy’s sexy smiles and attention. It wasn’t long before she knew she made the biggest mistake of her life the way he put her down and grabbed at her- especially when she learned of the way Jeremy tricked her and cut out his own best friend. It was Max who helped her realize she didn’t have to take Jeremy’s abuse or let him reduce her to nothing and now it is Max who is there when Jeremy’s death is the beginning of the danger now dogging her. Amina’s nursing is her calling, but she didn’t grow up the daughter of a decorated police officer for nothing. She and Max must get to the heart of Jeremy’s secrets to keep her safe. And, she wants to delve into other heart-related issues and put the past aside for something new with Max.
His to Defend jumped right in and moved swiftly through an exciting opening scene to the intro and background of the characters. The romance was dominant for much of the book as were the complications because of the dead man and their shared past that stood between them. But, the suspense is simmering in the background and the investigation is what ties them together. It came to an exciting head at the end.
I enjoyed both Max and Amina. He’s a dedicated officer, but he’s a natural protector and knows how to respect, care, and even love a woman tenderly as well as passionately if he can get past the whole ‘best friend’ rule and Mina not choosing him first. Mina, like Max, struck out at love so is married to her job as a compassionate and fun pediatric nurse who is great with her patients. She’s not as fiery as her sisters, but her emotions and thoughts smolder a little deeper. Jeremy hurt her and did a number on her heart. She knows Max isn’t Jeremy and she gets with the program first about giving them a chance.
In summary, this was a quick read offering a steamy romance, an interesting mystery, and some engaging characters. I wish I hadn’t waited so long to try Sharon Cooper’s books. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series as well as going back to that fabulous-looking backlist.
I rec'd an eARC from Harlequin through Net Galley to read in exchange for an honest review.
January 6, 2022
Terrific blend of romance and suspense that hooked me from the very beginning. Amina met Max and Jeremy on the same night, spending time first with Max. They really hit it off, but he got called away while she was in the ladies' room. So he gave a note with his phone number to his best friend, Jeremy, to deliver to her. Jeremy, the snake, moved in on her instead, and Amina was left feeling that Max had blown her off. By the time Max realized what happened, it was too late - Jeremy had conned Amina into believing they were in love. Heartbroken, Max stayed away as much as possible. It didn't take Amina long to realize her mistake, and she quickly divorced Jeremy. But the damage was done. Max and Jeremy's friendship was over, and he and Amina avoided each other.
As the book opens, Max rides along with Jeremy in his patrol car. As Jeremy's boss, Max has the unenviable task of making Jeremy realize that he's in danger of losing his job. When they get a call about a disturbance at an apartment complex, Max's instincts tell him something is wrong - just before Jeremy is shot and killed. Shocked and devastated by the loss of his former friend, Max knows he should be the one to tell Amina. I liked their shared sorrow over the loss of a life, even though neither one liked Jeremy any longer.
The questions and suspicions start as soon as the police department begins its investigation into what happened. Max's instinct proved correct when it became evident that Jeremy had been a target. As the investigation progressed, it became increasingly evident that neither Max nor Amina knew Jeremy at all. When Amina became the target of a mugging, and then her home ransacked, they wondered what sort of trouble Jeremy brought to her door. I was fascinated by the progression of the investigation and the revelations that came out. At times it seemed as if events were tied together, and others seemed random. As Max and the others closed in on the truth, Amina found herself at the mercy of a desperate crook. I was impressed with Amina's presence of mind during the situation and loved Max's steadiness in2 solving the standoff. There was one surprise yet to come that I didn't see coming until just before it happened.
I loved watching the relationship develop between Max and Amina. Both of them are kind and honorable people. Max respected Amina's marriage and stayed away despite his feelings for her. Even after the divorce, he kept his distance. Amina's hurt over Max's early actions led her to fall under Jeremy's spell, and by the time she knew the truth, it was too late. After Jeremy's death, they could no longer deny the attraction between them. Max's protectiveness kicked in with the attacks on her, but he wasn't overbearing about it. I liked that he appealed to her common sense. I loved watching them get to know each other better and discover how much they had in common. Max was very careful not to push Amina too fast, even though he knew from the beginning that she was the only one for him. There were some very sweet scenes between them, from movie nights to cooking. I loved watching the attraction build also and loved the bubble bath scene. The ending was terrific, as they finally got the future they should have had before.
#netgalley
As the book opens, Max rides along with Jeremy in his patrol car. As Jeremy's boss, Max has the unenviable task of making Jeremy realize that he's in danger of losing his job. When they get a call about a disturbance at an apartment complex, Max's instincts tell him something is wrong - just before Jeremy is shot and killed. Shocked and devastated by the loss of his former friend, Max knows he should be the one to tell Amina. I liked their shared sorrow over the loss of a life, even though neither one liked Jeremy any longer.
The questions and suspicions start as soon as the police department begins its investigation into what happened. Max's instinct proved correct when it became evident that Jeremy had been a target. As the investigation progressed, it became increasingly evident that neither Max nor Amina knew Jeremy at all. When Amina became the target of a mugging, and then her home ransacked, they wondered what sort of trouble Jeremy brought to her door. I was fascinated by the progression of the investigation and the revelations that came out. At times it seemed as if events were tied together, and others seemed random. As Max and the others closed in on the truth, Amina found herself at the mercy of a desperate crook. I was impressed with Amina's presence of mind during the situation and loved Max's steadiness in2 solving the standoff. There was one surprise yet to come that I didn't see coming until just before it happened.
I loved watching the relationship develop between Max and Amina. Both of them are kind and honorable people. Max respected Amina's marriage and stayed away despite his feelings for her. Even after the divorce, he kept his distance. Amina's hurt over Max's early actions led her to fall under Jeremy's spell, and by the time she knew the truth, it was too late. After Jeremy's death, they could no longer deny the attraction between them. Max's protectiveness kicked in with the attacks on her, but he wasn't overbearing about it. I liked that he appealed to her common sense. I loved watching them get to know each other better and discover how much they had in common. Max was very careful not to push Amina too fast, even though he knew from the beginning that she was the only one for him. There were some very sweet scenes between them, from movie nights to cooking. I loved watching the attraction build also and loved the bubble bath scene. The ending was terrific, as they finally got the future they should have had before.
#netgalley
November 30, 2021
This one was just OK. The second chance romance was decent--things moved a bit quickly after so many years apart, but it wasn't totally unbelievable. The resolution of the suspense portion, however, was *really* rushed at the end. The author made some word choices that drew me out of the story a few times (twice she used "tap down" instead of "tamp down" for example) which made me think the book could have benefitted from more vigorous editing, but overall it wasn't horrible.
Rating: 3 stars / C
voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Rating: 3 stars / C
voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
December 27, 2021
Another lovely story from a new-to-me author. I really enjoyed the connection the main characters in this book have. Their chemistry is a medium simmer, always under the surface until it gets loose. But the friendship and care these two have for one another is beautifully written.
I’m classifying this story as romantic suspense more because the publisher it categorizing it that way. It definitely has suspense, yet I felt the relationship between Amina and Maxwell often takes precedence over the mystery and suspense of what threw them back together. I feel it’s more of a contemporary romance/mystery with suspense thrown in here and there. It’s not the usual roller-coaster ride a lot of romantic suspense I read usually are.
Both Maxwell and Amina are extremely kind and generous people and instantly had me rooting for them, separately and together. Their origin story is a bit tragic but really helps to set up the intense feeling they have for one another from the start. The hardest thing to reconcile about this story is how either of them felt any sort of love and kinship with Jeremy, Maxwell’s former best-friend and Amina ex-husband. Maxwell, especially, thinks often of how Jeremy had changed since they first met. Yet I felt as though that Jeremy, the one Maxwell thought he knew, was never real. And if he was, it wasn’t adequately explained why these abrupt changes came about.
This story is engaging and kept me guessing. Sometimes I was right, other times I was not. The author had the pieces fall into place in a such a way that the payout came over time instead of all at once. That worked very well for this book. I’m interested to reading more from this author.
**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely**
You can find an excerpt from this book on my blog, All In Good Time.
I’m classifying this story as romantic suspense more because the publisher it categorizing it that way. It definitely has suspense, yet I felt the relationship between Amina and Maxwell often takes precedence over the mystery and suspense of what threw them back together. I feel it’s more of a contemporary romance/mystery with suspense thrown in here and there. It’s not the usual roller-coaster ride a lot of romantic suspense I read usually are.
Both Maxwell and Amina are extremely kind and generous people and instantly had me rooting for them, separately and together. Their origin story is a bit tragic but really helps to set up the intense feeling they have for one another from the start. The hardest thing to reconcile about this story is how either of them felt any sort of love and kinship with Jeremy, Maxwell’s former best-friend and Amina ex-husband. Maxwell, especially, thinks often of how Jeremy had changed since they first met. Yet I felt as though that Jeremy, the one Maxwell thought he knew, was never real. And if he was, it wasn’t adequately explained why these abrupt changes came about.
This story is engaging and kept me guessing. Sometimes I was right, other times I was not. The author had the pieces fall into place in a such a way that the payout came over time instead of all at once. That worked very well for this book. I’m interested to reading more from this author.
**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely**
You can find an excerpt from this book on my blog, All In Good Time.
March 26, 2022
His to Defend was a really great, fast-paced romantic suspense where both the romance and the suspense plot felt fully realized. If anything, the romance timeline felt maybe a tad quick, but not in a way that detracted from my enjoyment or caused me to not believe in the romance. I really enjoy Sharon C. Cooper's writing and I'm looking forward to reading many more books from her.
This book is about Mina, a nurse, and Maxwell, a cop. Maxwell is with his ex-best friend when Jeremy is killed on duty and he goes to tell Mina, his ex-wife, and the woman Maxwell has always felt drawn to. There's a lot in this book about how Jeremy was actually super shady, and I could see some readers finding his characterization to be a little over the top. I did not have that issue, but I did wish sometimes that the mystery aspect didn't resolve so much around him. Anyway, when Max tells Mina, things sort of take off from there. She's mugged in the parking lot leaving the hospital the next day and Max comes to pick her up from the hospital and from there, the feelings they've been fighting become truly impossible to ignore.
The only thing I wish we had gotten to see a little bit more of was how it goes becoming public with their relationship, given that everyone in their lives was so familiar with what had gone down with Jeremy and Mina and the complicated nature of dating your former best friend's ex-wife. We don't really get to see that, but Maxwell and Mina do talk about it as an issue. Anyway, all that to say, I really enjoyed the book and I hope to read more Sharon C. Cooper soon!
Thanks so much to Netgalley and Harlequin for the e-ARC!
This book is about Mina, a nurse, and Maxwell, a cop. Maxwell is with his ex-best friend when Jeremy is killed on duty and he goes to tell Mina, his ex-wife, and the woman Maxwell has always felt drawn to. There's a lot in this book about how Jeremy was actually super shady, and I could see some readers finding his characterization to be a little over the top. I did not have that issue, but I did wish sometimes that the mystery aspect didn't resolve so much around him. Anyway, when Max tells Mina, things sort of take off from there. She's mugged in the parking lot leaving the hospital the next day and Max comes to pick her up from the hospital and from there, the feelings they've been fighting become truly impossible to ignore.
The only thing I wish we had gotten to see a little bit more of was how it goes becoming public with their relationship, given that everyone in their lives was so familiar with what had gone down with Jeremy and Mina and the complicated nature of dating your former best friend's ex-wife. We don't really get to see that, but Maxwell and Mina do talk about it as an issue. Anyway, all that to say, I really enjoyed the book and I hope to read more Sharon C. Cooper soon!
Thanks so much to Netgalley and Harlequin for the e-ARC!
January 19, 2022
In this second chance romance, Sargent Maxwell Layton is reunited with the woman he lost to his best friend and coworker.
When Maxwell met Amina, he was definitely smitten but when he had to leave the social event,he asks his friend Jeremy to give Amina a message that she never gets. To make matters even worse, Jeremy pursues Amina himself and ends up marrying her, straining Max and Jeremy's working relationship. While Max accepted Amina's decision, he still had feelings for her and decided to distance himself.
When a routine investigation turns tragic, Max has the opportunity to reunite with Amina. As it turns out that Amina also has lingering feelings for Max, and they rekindle their friendship which turns into so much more.
Complications arise when the current case involves Amina and she's injured during an attempted mugging and her house is ransacked. As Max and his friend Trace investigate, it becomes clear that there's some criminal behavior going on.
I really enjoyed this story. There's plenty of heat between Amina and Maxwell and they just really work well together. The criminal case is an entertaining who-done-it and there were a few nice twists to the story. It's also the perfect size in that the story doesn't drag. I really liked that about His to Defend.
Overall, a quick read that kept my interest until the end. Interesting characters and a romance I could cheer for has me giving this title four stars.
When Maxwell met Amina, he was definitely smitten but when he had to leave the social event,he asks his friend Jeremy to give Amina a message that she never gets. To make matters even worse, Jeremy pursues Amina himself and ends up marrying her, straining Max and Jeremy's working relationship. While Max accepted Amina's decision, he still had feelings for her and decided to distance himself.
When a routine investigation turns tragic, Max has the opportunity to reunite with Amina. As it turns out that Amina also has lingering feelings for Max, and they rekindle their friendship which turns into so much more.
Complications arise when the current case involves Amina and she's injured during an attempted mugging and her house is ransacked. As Max and his friend Trace investigate, it becomes clear that there's some criminal behavior going on.
I really enjoyed this story. There's plenty of heat between Amina and Maxwell and they just really work well together. The criminal case is an entertaining who-done-it and there were a few nice twists to the story. It's also the perfect size in that the story doesn't drag. I really liked that about His to Defend.
Overall, a quick read that kept my interest until the end. Interesting characters and a romance I could cheer for has me giving this title four stars.
February 28, 2022
Quem não ama um bom romance com policial gato e protetor?
Amina casou com o melhor amigo de Maxwell, Jeremy, e quando ele partiu seu coração ela se viu sem saída. Agora, seis meses depois do divórcio, Jeremy está morto e Max irá se aproximar novamente de Amina para dar todo o suporte a ela. Quando estranhos ataques começam a acontecer colocando a vida dela em risco, Maxwell fará de tudo para protegê-la.
Primeira experiência com a escrita dessa autora e eu estou muito satisfeita em como a autora trabalhou com um protagonista protetor na medida certa.
Maxwell é um perfeito cavalheiro, desde o princípio ele confia que Amina sabe cuidar de si, até que as coisas ficam mais perigosas e é aí que ele vai tentar protegê-la, mas mesmo assim respeitando suas vontades.
Amina viveu um relacionamento abusivo com o ex, que a maltratou logo depois que eles casaram. Na verdade, Amina era só uma maneira de Jeremy se vingar do amigo, que havia se interessado por ela desde o início.
Não dá nem pra começar a dizer como o ex de Amina foi horrível e ainda bem que ele já morreu no início ou a gente ia querer matar ele de novo.
A relação de Maxwell e Amina evolui da maneira que teria que evoluir se Jeremy não tivesse intervido, e posso dizer que eles combinam demais. Maxwell é super romântico e Amina está pronta para amar novamente.
Indico esse romance para quem quer ler um protetor na medida certa.
Amina casou com o melhor amigo de Maxwell, Jeremy, e quando ele partiu seu coração ela se viu sem saída. Agora, seis meses depois do divórcio, Jeremy está morto e Max irá se aproximar novamente de Amina para dar todo o suporte a ela. Quando estranhos ataques começam a acontecer colocando a vida dela em risco, Maxwell fará de tudo para protegê-la.
Primeira experiência com a escrita dessa autora e eu estou muito satisfeita em como a autora trabalhou com um protagonista protetor na medida certa.
Maxwell é um perfeito cavalheiro, desde o princípio ele confia que Amina sabe cuidar de si, até que as coisas ficam mais perigosas e é aí que ele vai tentar protegê-la, mas mesmo assim respeitando suas vontades.
Amina viveu um relacionamento abusivo com o ex, que a maltratou logo depois que eles casaram. Na verdade, Amina era só uma maneira de Jeremy se vingar do amigo, que havia se interessado por ela desde o início.
Não dá nem pra começar a dizer como o ex de Amina foi horrível e ainda bem que ele já morreu no início ou a gente ia querer matar ele de novo.
A relação de Maxwell e Amina evolui da maneira que teria que evoluir se Jeremy não tivesse intervido, e posso dizer que eles combinam demais. Maxwell é super romântico e Amina está pronta para amar novamente.
Indico esse romance para quem quer ler um protetor na medida certa.
January 15, 2022
**thank you to the publisher for the opportunity to read/review.
Well! Sharon Cooper does it again. I love her romance suspense, they are so good!
Max and Amina share the grief over the loss of Jeremy, both neither one of them particularly fond of anymore. That grief brings them together again in His to Defend. With Max trying to find out what happened to why what happened to Jeremy happened and now protecting Amina because of that something, this story kept me on my toes.
Ms. Cooper doesn't skim on the romance nor the suspense in the book, it was a perfect blend of both. And with both Amina and Max trying to find out Jeremy's secrets? Honey!
Okay. The suspense plot was worth every page turned and it didn't get in the romance. I liked Max and Amina on page. They had great energy together especially with Max being the wonderful protector that he was and Amina's fun and caring ways as a nurse. With both of them trying solve this mystery.... listen, fire! The romance didn't take a hit and I think the author did a good job with balance between both. His to Defend has good pacing, engaging characters and a gripping storyline.
If you're a fan of romance suspense, then I highly recommend reading this book now.
Well! Sharon Cooper does it again. I love her romance suspense, they are so good!
Max and Amina share the grief over the loss of Jeremy, both neither one of them particularly fond of anymore. That grief brings them together again in His to Defend. With Max trying to find out what happened to why what happened to Jeremy happened and now protecting Amina because of that something, this story kept me on my toes.
Ms. Cooper doesn't skim on the romance nor the suspense in the book, it was a perfect blend of both. And with both Amina and Max trying to find out Jeremy's secrets? Honey!
Okay. The suspense plot was worth every page turned and it didn't get in the romance. I liked Max and Amina on page. They had great energy together especially with Max being the wonderful protector that he was and Amina's fun and caring ways as a nurse. With both of them trying solve this mystery.... listen, fire! The romance didn't take a hit and I think the author did a good job with balance between both. His to Defend has good pacing, engaging characters and a gripping storyline.
If you're a fan of romance suspense, then I highly recommend reading this book now.
January 3, 2022
Sharon C. Cooper showcases her skills as a Romantic Suspense writer with her latest story in HIS TO DEFEND. Police Sergeant, Maxwell Layton and Amina Kelly, pediatric nurse, come together in this tense suspense-filled mystery that involves the killing of a police officer. That officer, Jeremy Kelly, is not only Amina’s ex-husband, but he is also Maxwell’s ex-friend. Ah! There lies the problem. The well-written storyline is layered with revelations about the ill-fated Jeremy that eventually led to his murder.
The minor characters contribute to the intrigue of the story, along with some twists and turns that you never see coming. Things get so bad that Maxwell has to call in his best friend, Trace (HIS TO PROTECT), to add an extra line of defense. Even though the “bad guy”, Jeremy, dies early in the story, the fall-out is intense. As intense as the storyline becomes, the HEA comes through for Maxwell and Amina like a breath of fresh air.
HIS TO DEFEND is an engaging thriller. I enjoyed it, and I recommend it for your reading pleasure. While you’re at it, I suggest that you pick up a copy of HIS TO PROTECT. You can thank me later.
The minor characters contribute to the intrigue of the story, along with some twists and turns that you never see coming. Things get so bad that Maxwell has to call in his best friend, Trace (HIS TO PROTECT), to add an extra line of defense. Even though the “bad guy”, Jeremy, dies early in the story, the fall-out is intense. As intense as the storyline becomes, the HEA comes through for Maxwell and Amina like a breath of fresh air.
HIS TO DEFEND is an engaging thriller. I enjoyed it, and I recommend it for your reading pleasure. While you’re at it, I suggest that you pick up a copy of HIS TO PROTECT. You can thank me later.
January 2, 2022
Sergeant never really forgave his best friend after marrying the women he loved first Amina. Its been a while since then and while working his bestfriend is gunned down in front of him and he got to break the news to Amina. Now it seems the killing wasn't just a mishap and now it seems Amina's life might be in danger and he'll do everything he can to protect her.
This was a pretty fast paced read which I really appreciate. It gave me a little time to escape into and I really enjoyed reading this book. There was so much going on with twists and turns and confusion of who might be behind this and why is Amina in danger. But then there was that simmering attraction between the two. I mean he never really got over her and she was with his bestfriend after he relentlessly persuade her. So theres complicated feelings there but with time its interesting how they settle their growing feelings towards eachother. Overall great book I really enjoyed it.
This was a pretty fast paced read which I really appreciate. It gave me a little time to escape into and I really enjoyed reading this book. There was so much going on with twists and turns and confusion of who might be behind this and why is Amina in danger. But then there was that simmering attraction between the two. I mean he never really got over her and she was with his bestfriend after he relentlessly persuade her. So theres complicated feelings there but with time its interesting how they settle their growing feelings towards eachother. Overall great book I really enjoyed it.
February 9, 2022
Sargeant Maxwell Leyton was called to a disturbance at an apartment building. His friend and fellow police officer was killed while they were still in the police car. Jeremey Kelly had been acting different for the last few months. Max wondered if that is what got him killed. The hardest thing Max had to do was to tell Jeremy's ex-wife Amina that he had been killed in the line of duty. Amina was the love of Max's life. Max and Jeremy had met Amina at the same time at a party. Jeremey had started dating then married Amina even though he knew Max wanted to date her. After Jeremy was killed, the investigation showed he had made a lot of bad decisions that resulted in his death. It was a great second chance love story but also was a murder mystery.
December 30, 2021
His to defend by Sharon C. Cooper.
Mills and boon heroes.
Amina Kelly broke Sergeant Maxwell Layton's heart when she married his best friend. But the detective never forgot her…or the sizzling attraction they never acted on. Years later, they’re working together to find her ex's killer. Their desire is stronger than ever, but as Maxwell puts his life on the line to keep Amina safe, he realises that the greatest risk of all might be to his heart.
This was a good read with good characters. I wasn't sure how I felt about Maxwell or Jeremy. I liked Amina though. Maxwell grew on me. I loved the ending. 5*.
Mills and boon heroes.
Amina Kelly broke Sergeant Maxwell Layton's heart when she married his best friend. But the detective never forgot her…or the sizzling attraction they never acted on. Years later, they’re working together to find her ex's killer. Their desire is stronger than ever, but as Maxwell puts his life on the line to keep Amina safe, he realises that the greatest risk of all might be to his heart.
This was a good read with good characters. I wasn't sure how I felt about Maxwell or Jeremy. I liked Amina though. Maxwell grew on me. I loved the ending. 5*.
December 30, 2021
His to defend by Sharon C. Cooper.
Mills and boon heroes.
Amina Kelly broke Sergeant Maxwell Layton's heart when she married his best friend. But the detective never forgot her…or the sizzling attraction they never acted on. Years later, they’re working together to find her ex's killer. Their desire is stronger than ever, but as Maxwell puts his life on the line to keep Amina safe, he realises that the greatest risk of all might be to his heart.
This was a good read with good characters. I wasn't sure how I felt about Maxwell or Jeremy. I liked Amina though. Maxwell grew on me. I loved the ending. 5*.
Mills and boon heroes.
Amina Kelly broke Sergeant Maxwell Layton's heart when she married his best friend. But the detective never forgot her…or the sizzling attraction they never acted on. Years later, they’re working together to find her ex's killer. Their desire is stronger than ever, but as Maxwell puts his life on the line to keep Amina safe, he realises that the greatest risk of all might be to his heart.
This was a good read with good characters. I wasn't sure how I felt about Maxwell or Jeremy. I liked Amina though. Maxwell grew on me. I loved the ending. 5*.
February 5, 2022
I am such a fan of Sharon Cooper’s work however, Romantic Suspense is a new genre for Cooper. She outdid herself in this one. Page turner took me 24 hours to read this mystery. Sgt Maxwell Layton held this secret an fantasy about Amina Kelly. One day he had to tell her that her ex Husband ( Jeremy) was murdered right in front of him, his partner. It appears Jeremy Kelly had plenty of secrets hisself. When Amina is mugged leaving a 12 hour shift at the hospital, the only person she trusts is the police Sergeant Layton. It’s such a good read on a windy cold night with hot chocolate. Mysterious, realistic a full of twists, turns an surprises.
February 8, 2022
His to Defend gives us a second chance romance between Amina and Maxwell. It is a romantic suspense, but I'd have to say the love story is first and foremost here with the suspense coming in second. That's not to say the suspense isn't good because it is. I tend to like a little more intrigue, but I really liked these characters and enjoyed their journey to a second chance at love. Regardless of which element took the lead, the book is well written and entertaining. This is the first book I've read by Sharon C Cooper, but it won't be my last. I liked the pacing and it's the kind of story you can curl up with and while away a few hours.
March 9, 2023
Another lovely story from a new-to-me author. The book had a wonderful blend of romance and suspense, and I could not put it down.
I enjoyed the connection between Maxwell and Amina. Their connection and chemistry jumped off the pages and I really felt it. The friendship and care they for one another was well written and I was glad they got their second chance.
The mix of suspense, action and romance also made this a great read. Sharon C. Cooper did a wonderful job keeping you guessing who the main culprit was and I enjoyed that the book had twists, turns and dark secrets, especially the end when the culprit(s) are revealed.
I enjoyed the connection between Maxwell and Amina. Their connection and chemistry jumped off the pages and I really felt it. The friendship and care they for one another was well written and I was glad they got their second chance.
The mix of suspense, action and romance also made this a great read. Sharon C. Cooper did a wonderful job keeping you guessing who the main culprit was and I enjoyed that the book had twists, turns and dark secrets, especially the end when the culprit(s) are revealed.
October 3, 2024
Definite page turner. I loved Amina and Maxwell's story. It is an intense, action packed, suspenseful romance. This story was tricky and everytime I thought I had it figured out, there'd be another twist.
Ms. Cooper was spot on about how Amina reacted to having someone breaking into her place and going through her stuff. I understood her reluctance to remain living in her home. When our home was broken into, I felt violated, exposed, and vulnerable. I threw away all of my undergarments because a stranger's grubby hands had touched them.
Ms. Cooper was spot on about how Amina reacted to having someone breaking into her place and going through her stuff. I understood her reluctance to remain living in her home. When our home was broken into, I felt violated, exposed, and vulnerable. I threw away all of my undergarments because a stranger's grubby hands had touched them.
March 14, 2022
Amina met Jeremy and Sgt. Max at the same time. Amina had real interest in Max but settle for Jeremy that is where the interesting story begins. Jeremy was a jerk and not a good person. I'm glad Max and Amina got there shot at love and a HEA. These two had to work for the relationship and along the way many secrets are revealed about Jeremy. Great story nice plot pickup this book and read the story you want be disappointed.
May 28, 2024
Amina Was Definitely Maxwell’s To Defend!! 🥰🔥🥰
Maxwell told Amina, “…I will always come to your defense. I told you-I’m in this for the long haul. No matter what.” And, he did just that! This was an excellent story weaved throughout with drama, suspense, “who done it,” second chance romance, action, intrigue, love and more love!! Whew! 😅. This story was everything! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I definitely recommend it!! All that’s left is…Kudos, Sharon!! 💜
Maxwell told Amina, “…I will always come to your defense. I told you-I’m in this for the long haul. No matter what.” And, he did just that! This was an excellent story weaved throughout with drama, suspense, “who done it,” second chance romance, action, intrigue, love and more love!! Whew! 😅. This story was everything! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I definitely recommend it!! All that’s left is…Kudos, Sharon!! 💜
January 13, 2022
Engaging page turner
Bravo Sharon C Cooper! Beautifully written suspenseful romance that keeps you spellbound from chapter one to the last chapter. Charismatic characters in Amina and Maxwell will have you swoonin, smiling, and talking to them during this page turner. Sharon's villains even have you in an uproar in His To Defend. 5⭐s for this captivating tale
Bravo Sharon C Cooper! Beautifully written suspenseful romance that keeps you spellbound from chapter one to the last chapter. Charismatic characters in Amina and Maxwell will have you swoonin, smiling, and talking to them during this page turner. Sharon's villains even have you in an uproar in His To Defend. 5⭐s for this captivating tale
January 16, 2022
Good read
Good read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. Maxwell and Amina’s chemistry was undeniable. After the murder of her ex husband, they were thrust in a world of betrayal and mystery. I didn’t care for how quickly their romance progressed during the murder investigation. However, the book was fast paced and enjoyable.
Good read, I enjoyed the characters and storyline. Maxwell and Amina’s chemistry was undeniable. After the murder of her ex husband, they were thrust in a world of betrayal and mystery. I didn’t care for how quickly their romance progressed during the murder investigation. However, the book was fast paced and enjoyable.
May 23, 2022
Loved It
There is nothing better than a second chance at love. The hero and heroine were meant to be together. But the hero's best friend decided he wanted her also. Who will end up with the heroine. This story has murder, attempted murder, breaking and entering, secrets, lies, attempted kidnapping, and more secrets and lies. Kudos to the author this was awesome👏👏👏👏
There is nothing better than a second chance at love. The hero and heroine were meant to be together. But the hero's best friend decided he wanted her also. Who will end up with the heroine. This story has murder, attempted murder, breaking and entering, secrets, lies, attempted kidnapping, and more secrets and lies. Kudos to the author this was awesome👏👏👏👏
November 25, 2021
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
Amina made the wrong decision several years ago when she picked Maxwell's best friend. Now her ex-husband has been killed in the line of duty and Maxwell and Amina have reconnected. When her life seems to be in jeopardy Maxwell moves her into his home and sparks fly. This is a good suspenseful mystery and a quick read, perfect for the stressful holiday season.
Amina made the wrong decision several years ago when she picked Maxwell's best friend. Now her ex-husband has been killed in the line of duty and Maxwell and Amina have reconnected. When her life seems to be in jeopardy Maxwell moves her into his home and sparks fly. This is a good suspenseful mystery and a quick read, perfect for the stressful holiday season.
December 30, 2021
Perfect Defender
This book has me on the edge of my seat. This was definitely a "Who Shot JR" book. I figured out part of it, but what a surprise who the killer is. I really wish Amina had a chance to say "I told you so" to his parents.
This book has me on the edge of my seat. This was definitely a "Who Shot JR" book. I figured out part of it, but what a surprise who the killer is. I really wish Amina had a chance to say "I told you so" to his parents.
December 30, 2021
His to defend was just as the title stated. Lt. Maxwell Layton was determined to find his friend's killer and get his girl back. Amina Kelly was the one who got away. The story is chocked full of suspense along with the sweet romance...
January 9, 2022
What A Thiller
This book was so good. Sharon C. Cooper never disappoints. Maxwell and Amina’s chemistry was off the charts every time they came in contact with one another. Throw in some murder, family and suspense and you have a wonderful story. Congratulations Mrs. Cooper on another amazing book.
This book was so good. Sharon C. Cooper never disappoints. Maxwell and Amina’s chemistry was off the charts every time they came in contact with one another. Throw in some murder, family and suspense and you have a wonderful story. Congratulations Mrs. Cooper on another amazing book.
January 8, 2022
I appreciated the characters and the suspense part but the plot was sometimes a bit over my level of suspension of belief and didn't keep my attention
not my cup of
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
not my cup of
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
January 17, 2022
omg
Excellent. What a page turner. I was on the edge of my sit trying to figure out the killer and is Amina going to get a break. The love her and Max have is amazing. Excellent, Excellent and Excellent.
Excellent. What a page turner. I was on the edge of my sit trying to figure out the killer and is Amina going to get a break. The love her and Max have is amazing. Excellent, Excellent and Excellent.
January 28, 2022
Love and mystery
This book was the perfect combo on a second chance romance wrapped in a mystery. I loved the connection between Maxwell and Amina and that they built their relationship off their friendship.
This book was the perfect combo on a second chance romance wrapped in a mystery. I loved the connection between Maxwell and Amina and that they built their relationship off their friendship.
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