The Protector

Four Forces Security #1

by Alexis Winter

She might have control over my body, but she’ll never have my heart.
I ’ ve been to hell and back during my time in the Special Forces.
But only one woman has brought me to my knees, and I was just hired to protect her. Billionaire heiress Blaire Hanson.
A bottle blonde, walking pilates ad with perfect skin, a designer wardrobe and a fierce desire to prove herself.
Not to mention, my little sister’s best friend. She and I got off on the wrong foot the first time we met, and the day after…we both woke up on the wrong side of the bed—her bed. But now that she’s my client, those days are behind us. No matter how much my body aches to remember her. I thought babysitting the princess was going to be the hardest part of this job, until her father is taken hostage leaving her to take control of the company and my security firm to negotiate with the kidnappers. There’s one problem—in order to gain control of the board and the finances, she has to be married. With time running out and her father's life and legacy on the line I step up—to the altar. But the moment I start to see hope in her eyes, I’m reminded that in this game, falling in love with your client can end in a deadly tragedy.
Something I learned the hard way. At the end of the day only one thing is going to keep her alive—reminding myself that she is just a job.
Not happily ever after.

Genres: Romance, Enemies To Lovers, Military Fiction, Second Chance, Forced Proximity, Contemporary, Marriage Of Convenience

238 pages, Paperback

First published December 31, 2021

About the author

Alexis Winter is a contemporary romance author who loves to share her steamy stories with the world. She specializes in sexy billionaires, cocky alphas, brooding bad boys and the women they love. 

If you love to curl up with a good romance book you will certainly enjoy her work. Whether it's a story about an innocent young woman learning about the world or a sassy and fierce heroine who knows what she wants you're sure to enjoy the happily ever afters she provides.
 
When Alexis isn't writing away furiously, you can find her exploring the Rocky Mountains, traveling, enjoying a glass of wine or petting a cat.
 
You can find her books on Amazon.

Reviews

[Paula (In & Out)]

SPOILER WARNING!


Yet another where the category "romance" is mislabeled & misleading 'cause any romance here is between the Hero & his dead ex love - not with heroine.

100% of the story is with Hero still in love with his dead GF/fiancée whom he described as his soulmate and the love of his life up until the last few pages in the end. Not by one word, deed, action or anything else did we get of any strong feelings towards the heroine other then a quick lay. Nothing. Nada.

This is in the last few pages: We go with Hero in the last 2-3 chapters dreaming/talking to his dead love and crying that he will always love her and never wants her to leave him and very heartbroken ---> to dead ex pushing him to move on with the heroine ---> him telling heroine that he is still in love with the dead ex and always will be and then nothing else about it ---> him again stating in a POV that he is not in love with heroine & needs to go their separate ways ----> heroine drunk telling him ILY ---> him serving her with divorce papers ---> heroine attacking him with said divorce papers & telling him ILY and a quick ILY in return by him and The End.

Is this a romance for you?

Not even the last sex scene before it ended was anything to read about since heroine didn't even have an orgasm and he was all "sorry & oh well..." Lol. Yet, we got plenty sweet moments & true dialogue of him with the OW!

Hmm... what the hell is wrong with these writers these days??!!

[Katie · Rating 1 out of 5]

I can sum this up as follows:

Have you ever dreamed what the love of your life would be like? Probably someone who worships the ground you walk on, who loves you with all his heart, put you first above anyone else, is the love of your life, the one you want to spend forever with and so on?

Yeah? Well, now picture if you would want someone who is a shitty asshole to you, is still grieving his dead ex who was the love of HIS life and only wants a relationship with you because his dead ex told him in a dream to move on with you and then makes no effort to sweep you off your feet and make you feel special like you are "THE ONE" - and on top of it, even gives you lackluster sex where you don't even "come" (🙄). Yep, if this is your dream guy, then this is a good read for you because we all want an awesome guy like this one and to be a doormat who would take crumbs and have no self worth. ☹️

I have no idea why I didn't DNF this right away. I saw one or two negative reviews and many 4 & 5 star and I said, no, it can't be that bad, can it? Yep people, it IS!

[A · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF at 42%. For as much as this h claims to be strong and independent not one of her actions showed that. I had constant second hand embarrassment from how she was consistently throwing herself at the H. Like giirrllll please get a backbone!!! And the H is a true asshole, it would be one thing if during his own private thoughts he was expressing something different but he just straight up does not care for her and at this point of the book is still in love and hooked on someone else. Also, I hate when grown ass women call their dads daddy, that was my final straw.

[Juniper]

Note to self: In love with his dead ex. Avoid.

[Tina Heitner · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️ this spicy romance was fun to read. Blaire and Jimmy were okay. They both had their likes and dislikes. Easy to read. A bit predictable but had some nice twists. I received this book from a stuff your kindle event.

[TrishAM · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great start to a new series by Alexis Winter.
Jameson Maxwell (Jimmy) had set up a security agency with a few of his highly trained army buddies. There was no way that Jimmy could be body guard to Blaire Hanson, spoilt only child of wealthy financier, Charles Hanson but Charles was one of their biggest customers so he couldn't refuse.
Jimmy and Blair had history, a one night stand following a date set up by his sister Harper, who just happened to be Blairs best friend......it didn't end well and now Blaire hated him.
Jimmy would never get close to another woman, he would never divulge the sadness and tragedy of his past.How would Blaire and Jimmy react to living in such close contact, Blaire wasn't the airhead that the media perceived her to be, she was a hard working part of her fathers company and Jimmy Maxwell wasn't going to tell her what she could and couldn't do.
Blair and her father's lives were in danger, someone wanted the money and the company but who ? Jimmy would keep Blaire safe and the team would search for the culprits.
These are well known concepts for a story, enemies to lovers and fake marriage but the author has created a great story cleverly writing in two timelines. I look forward to the next book in the series

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jeraca · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this free eARC novel from the author. This is my honest review.

I really enjoyed this story. Blaire is a very serious person who likes nice things, but is viewed as someone who needs expensive things handed to her. And Jimmy is a bit judgemental and jumps to conclusions because of his tortured past, but slowly learns that not everything is as it seems.

The tension between these two was intense and seeing them come to heads was very entertaining. I was glad when they started talking to each other and opening up about themselves.

I'm glad I got the chance to read this novel.

[Mulan Book Princess · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was full of sizzle and steam. Blaire and Jimmy had such great chemistry together, both in and out of the bedroom With both being so strong-willed, personalities clash and some of the interactions get quite heated. Add in an element of suspense and I can't stop reading to find out what happens next. I thought the characters were well developed, and the story line was intriguing. There is so much that happens, and makes this book quite enretaining.

I received a free advanced review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my fair and honest opinion.

[Cristina G · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Protector is the story of Blaire and Jimmy, a bodyguard and client/best friend’s brother/enemies to lovers trope! I’ve read many books by Alexis and this one different for me, with an almost unrequited love feeling. I love Jimmy and Blaire’s fighting and banter but I do love a good enemies to lovers plot! Steamy and oh so alpha, this was a delicious read! Looking forward to more in the series!

[Jessreads3 · Rating 4 out of 5]

* I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review, thank you to Alexis Winter and Embers and Ashes PR company *

This is by far my favorite book that Alexis Winter has written. The spice was great the characters and the plot was top notch. 👏
I can't wait for the rest in this series. What a way to start a series off!

[Elle · Rating 1 out of 5]

Awful male MC who treated the girl badly, manhandled her, and called her a bitch multiple times. He was always thinking about his dead ex and thought of her as the love of his life until the very end. All the tender scenes were between the guy and his ex. This is not a love story.

[Cheryl Graham-Petit · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great start to a new series by Alexis Winter, The Protector is a well written enemies-to-lovers romance with a great storyline, wonderful characters, danger, lots of feels, and a guaranteed HEA.

I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.

[Maddie (Bookaholic_Dreamer) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️

The Protector by Alexis Winter is the first book in her newest series Four Forces Security. And boy oh boy it not only started with a bang! But it definitely set the bar high for the other books to come to say the least IMO.

Former Military soldier Jameson ‘Jimmy’ Maxwell runs a protective service business with his army buddies. When his newest job comes in the form of protecting a billionaire businessman’s daughter, he is not ready for what’s the come. Especially when it turns out said daughter is Blaire, his one night stand, set up by Blaire’s best friend who just so happens to be his little sister Harper.
Blaire Hanson maybe the daughter of a billionaire businessman, but that doesn’t stop her from working hard for what she has and getting everything she wants. But not the guy, considering it lead to a disastrous one night stand later to be forgotten. That is until she finds out the same guy Jimmy, will now be her bodyguard for the foreseeable future.
So what will happen when the two are forced into close proximity? Considering they both can’t stand one another to the point of hate.

DAMN The Protector was a truly amazing, deep and heartfelt story, that had a lot of depth to it than I expected. Given the situations and events that transpire, it lead to many emotions and feelings being exposed from the thoughts of Jimmy and Blaire that were explored within the chapters told from their own perspective. Overall playing a main part in the narrative, given they are battling with it all throughout.
Given some of the situations they are placed into with having to not only be living in close proximity, but always sticking together because of circumstances. It ultimately resulted in an adventure, given the ups and downs they go through leading to the build up of suspense surrounding the mysteries that are trying to be solved at the same time. But even with all that going on there was still more to the narrative. There was entertainment from the moments of amusement that had you LOL’ing. Only to switch the flip and steer towards parts that hit you deep in the gut from the hard hitting pain and hurt that Jimmy and Blaire were reeling from for their own reasons alone.

Jimmy and Blaire are definitely one of my top favourite couple that Alexis has written. There was so much depth to both of them which was explored quite thoroughly.
The character development allowed them both to be unravelled with the exposure of the deeper layers to each of them, allowing us to gain insight to their thoughts, opinions, emotions and feelings. Especially given what both were dealing with in their lives.
In Jimmy’s case with his past, which had my heart aching for him. Yet at the same time I was annoyed with him for how he was with Blaire and treated her at times.
As for Blaire I definitely felt for her, given how she tried to stay strong despite everything she was dealing with. Especially when it came to her feelings for Jimmy.
Despite all the seriousness and the intensity from the tension surrounding serious matters, there were still moments of witty banter between the two gifting us with light-hearted, fun and comedic moments. Ultimately giving you a sense of ease to take away from the intensity of pain and hurt which you felt many times throughout.

Whilst I thoroughly enjoyed the book overall, I do wish the story would’ve been longer since it definitely could’ve afforded to be IMO. Allowing more acknowledgement into Jimmy and Blaire's relationship. And to even have included an epilogue, just because the ending cut off a little too abruptly for my liking.

Other than that, I have to say The Protector was a refreshing new surprise from Alexis Winter. It’s why I can say this was definitely a top favourite book of mine from all the books I have read from Alexis so far.
I honestly enjoyed it so much, that I was sad when it was over since I wanted more and could’ve kept going.
I look forward to reading the next book. If it’s anything like Jimmy and Blaire’s story, then I know it will be great!



*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Jela Heneghan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Steamy with plenty of angst and a bit of suspense, The Protector is an enthralling second chance, enemies to lovers romance. It’s got everything you could want in a romance novel with two compelling characters that have an interesting and intense connection.

The first in the Four Forces Security series and focuses on Jimmy and Blaire. He’s the bodyguard whose job it is to protect the heiress businesswoman Blaire. From the beginning, it’s clear that the two have a past of sorts, and it’s not a good one. Turns out, they once went out on a blind date set up by Blaire’s best friend and Jimmy’s little sister, Harper. While the night went well for them, Jimmy leaves as Blaire sleeps, and nothing from there goes over nicely. Fast forward three months, and Blaire’s father has employed Jimmy as Blaire’s bodyguard not knowing that his daughter and her new protector have a more than rocky past. Neither Jimmy nor Blaire are pleased by this arrangement, but they don’t exactly have a choice in the matter either. Blaire’s in potential danger, and Jimmy has to be the one to make sure nothing bad happens to her. This story goes through what happens when two people have a difficult past and must push through for other reasons and how feelings can change with the right person.

Right from the start, Blaire gets a bad rap. This story is told from both Jimmy and Blaire’s vantage points, and the way Jimmy talks about Blaire, you’d think she’s just an awful, spoiled brat. Thankfully, she’s not at all the terrible princess Jimmy makes her seem in the beginning, and really I’m not sure Jimmy even necessarily believes the vitriol with which he talks about her. She’s fiery and smart, and I appreciate that about her character. She’s definitely not some vapid heiress that as a reader you can’t connect with. Blaire turns out to be very likeable and certainly has her comedic moments. Jimmy on the other hand is rather rude and gruff where Blaire is concerned, but he’s wounded, too. As the story progresses, we see him go from growly alpha to a character suffering from a past loss that makes him so vulnerable. It’s like his unpleasant and closed off façade he puts up with Blaire is just poorly constructed armor that he protects himself with. These two characters have such a push and pull and steamy quality to their explosive relationship that the whole opposites attract thing works wonderfully to propel the story forward.

Also, the way this story is written is done well. Clearly, Jimmy and Blaire have an unpleasant past together, and Jimmy has a different past that influences his present with her, which we get to see both of in the form of flashbacks. Sometimes I feel like flashbacks serve as a sort of filler in books but not in this one. They’re so purposeful and act as catalysts for what happens next in the story. I think without them Jimmy and Blaire’s story would feel unfinished and the pacing would be off, and I’m happy they were written into the book. The flashbacks give the story a gravity that I believe would otherwise be missing.

This is a surprisingly emotional but still passionate novel that needs to be read if you’re a fan of second chance and/or opposites attract romances. Jimmy and Blaire will leave you intrigued by their story and ultimately satisfied.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Learning to Love and to Trust

Jimmy Maxwell, the tall, fit, darkly handsome, former member of special forces with vibrant green-eyes, broke the first rule for a security professional—don’t fall in love with the individual under protection. But, on his last security detail, Jimmy not only fell in love, he allowed his desire for the beautiful, sweet Miranda Shiplay to weaken his resolve. His love for her allowed him to be swayed by her wishes and desires as opposed to following hard rules of protection.

And so, he fell into the conflicting habit of trying to please her rather than his focus being on trying to save her. And, on their last morning, he yielded to her request for coffee after trying to counter her assurances of safety with arguments of risk. But, he yielded to her sweet entreaties. Although he was gone less than 10 minutes, it was the time needed for her stalker—her ex—to assassinate her. While the murderer, also killed himself, Jimmy had failed—he was broken, and no longer willing to ever risk his heart on love.

Now, 18 months later, Jimmy, and his partners—Luka and Alex—of Four Forces Security are contracted to protect another female client, the beautiful, smart and tough-as-nails, blonde haired, hazel-eyed Blaire Hansen, daughter of the powerful financial mogul and CEO of Hansen Holdings. Complicating the assignment is that Blaire is a member of a quartet of friends who are intense professionals, but who also enjoy their “play time.” Members of the group in addition to Blair include Juliette, Aspen and Harper Maxwell, Jimmy’s sister.

But what should be a “simple” babysitting assignment is becoming more complicated. A rumored threat to the Hansen Holdings has been uncovered by Four Forces. Also challenging the “baby sitting” is the “baby” herself—Blaire Hansen. She has developed an obvious dislike for Jimmy resulting from an unplanned “sleepover” between Blaire and Jimmy—a set up by sister and bff Harper that went very badly. Now, needing to travel to Miami for a conference, and in direct defiance of her father’s directives, Blaire is determined to ditch her babysitter, even rearranging the time of her flight to frustrate her assigned “babysitter.”

And the stakes become higher for the “babysitter” and his assignment, Blaire, when Charles Hansen himself is kidnapped from his own office building. Blaire must decide how to play the high stakes game of whomever is out to destroy the company. While it is assumed that Blaire is the heir to her father’s holdings, she learns that a condition must be satisfied before the financial and ownership transfer can take place—she must be married. Now, Blaire whose father is missing and whose own life may be at risk, must decide if the man who has been her “babysitter,” nemesis and lover will also become her husband.

Alexis Winter has begun a new series filled with suspense and emotional challenges, offering the reader love stories filled with passion and evolving love. Each story promises to follow the group of friends and business associates, presenting unique and interesting individuals seeking to find love in a world that sometimes offers nothing but challenges and disappointments in life and love.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, but always enjoy Winters’ world of romance, so I bought a copy.

[Angie Barnes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alexis Winter has written a 5-star book. This is the story of Blaire and Jimmy. Jimmy has just had a meeting with Charles Hanson and is hired to watch over his daughter Blaire. Charles has been getting some threats and he wants Blaire to be safe. What Charles didn't know was that Blaire and Jimmy had a one-night stand and now Blaire doesn't want to be around Jimmy. When she finds out what her father has done she is not happy. She tries everything to get rid of Jimmy but it doesn't work. She has to go to Miami for work and she tells Jimmy about it. He has to go and get his stuff from his home. While he is gone, Blaire changes her plans and her flight. She is hoping that this will allow her to go and be away from him for a while. No such luck, just before the plane leaves, he gets on board. He is not happy with what she did. On the day they return from Miami, Jimmy gets a call from Luka and is told that Charles had been kidnapped. Blaire is sent the link for the news feed from the company lawyer. This causes problems for Blaire. She thinks that she can go in and take over the company but her father had a clause in the paperwork that said in order for her to do so, she had to be married. She doesn't want to get married. The only person to help her is Jimmy but he tells her no. He was in love once and she was killed while he was protecting her. He was not going to go through that pain again. Blaire tells him that she thinks someone in the company is behind kidnapping her father and he is the only one who can help her stop them. She tells him it will only be until her father comes back and then the marriage can be annulled. Jimmy agrees to help Blaire and they get married. Things happen between Blaire and Jimmy and they start sleeping together. One night Jimmy has a nightmare and he calls out the name of Miranda. When Blaire asks about it, Jimmy gets mad at her and tells her it is none of her business. The more time she spends with Jimmy the more her feelings change about him. She starts to fall for him in a big way, but she knows he doesn't feel the same about her. When her father is found, she goes and stays with him. It has been a week since Jimmy has seen Blaire and he missed her. He gets called in to see Charles and is given a check. It is more than what was agreed upon and Jimmy tells him to just send the correct amount to the office. He stops by Blaire's office and writes her a note and leaves her some papers to sign. When Blaire finds the note and papers she gets mad. She goes to see Jimmy and they have it out.
Will Blaire and Jimmy stay together or will he walk away from her?
This was a wonderful book and I would recommend it to anyone.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[JP · Rating 1 out of 5]

Incredibly poorly written book

There are so many issues with this book, I don’t know where to begin.

First, Blaire (perfect name for a wanna-be, Malibu Barbie) IS a stuck-up, entitled, spoiled rich girl. And there’s no redemption…she remains that way throughout. Naive, sheltered, and—quite frankly—dumb. She is not a bright bulb.

Next, there are serious timeline issues in this book. At one point it’s six months since our “hero” let his girlfriend be murdered, then it’s magically 18 months. And, please note, it is absolutely our hero’s fault that the love of his life is dead. He was hired to do a job and failed, miserably. Granted, it’s the 18-millionth time, in a romance novel, that a woman had been stupid, and gotten herself in trouble. Shocker. Miranda was an idiot, but I liked her a heck of a lot better than Blaire.

And I do find it odd that Jimmy could fall so quickly for two completely opposite women. Which was he fooling himself with??

Anyway, aside from the timeline issues, an experienced bodyguard would NEVER allow themselves to be seated in the center of a restaurant. You always have your back to a wall and are near a secondary exit. There are many other things Jimmy does that show he is piss-poor at his job. Yay, he’s hot, but not good at what he does…being the protector.

And WHY is Blaire exactly ZERO part of finding her father. I mean, she literally does NOTHING! Not a damn thing. Just sits by and plays the victim.

And don’t get me started on what a poorly bolted-on plot device her father’s kidnapping is…it’s like a side note to try to give an awful story depth. It fails miserably and actually succeeds only in showing how shallow Blaire is…her first reaction to finding out her father has been rescued is to worry about how she looks.

Oh yeah, and a woman who frequently/repeatedly drinks until she’s stupid, stumbling, or pukes is SO attractive and smart.

This is actually a romance novel where the author did such a bad job of building the characters that I don’t want them to end up together. I don’t want a HEA for either of these characters, but most of all for Blaire. She’s AWFUL!! Oh…and for the final coup de etat in this dumpster fire of a book, she goes from being a blond to having brown hair. WHO EDITS THESE THINGS?????

Anyway, the way the book is conveniently tied up with a bow is insulting at best. Oh, suddenly here’s a suspect and all is resolved. YAY!!!

Ugh…awful, awful book.

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Protector is the first book in the Four Forces Security series by Alexis Winter. This enemies to lovers story is witty, suspenseful, a little mysterious and incredibly sexy.

Jameson Maxwell aka Jimmy is ex-military and one of the 4 owners of the Four Forces Security team. He is broody, cocky and often a complete alphahole, especially when he learns that his new job is to protect Blaire Hanson- the spoiled daughter of a billionaire who just so happens to be one of his sisters best friends and his recent disastrous one night stand. Blaire Hanson might have the world at her fingertips if she wanted it, but she is much more than everyone seems to perceive her. She is hard working, strong, sassy and loves hard. The more time these two are forced to spend together, the more they start to lower their walls- but when the job is over can they just go their separate ways or have things changed for them both?

The first time that Blaire and Jimmy meet things get hot quickly- but when Jimmy dips out without a second thought he quickly feels the wrath of Blaire's hurt. And that wrath is still strong a few months later when she finds out that he is going to be in her space and with her 24 hours a day with no end date in sight. These two do enemies well- I love the banter and I can feel all the irritated emotions coming off the pages. How they would intentionally find ways to annoy each other would just add fuel to the fire. But Jimmy and Blaire also have this insane chemistry that cannot be denied or hidden- they are so sexy together and there is no skimping on the heat.

I love the slow reveal of the core of these characters, its done in a way that keeps an air of mystery around them for most of the book- especially with Jimmy. The heartbreak in his past scarred him so deeply- especially when he kept it all locked down in his heart. I did feel like the storyline was a little rushed in some areas. The change in feelings from hate to love felt a little abrupt in a way- and I wish we got a little more of these two once they finally got together. Overall, the story was engaging and I'm interested in getting to know the other members of the Four Forces team since there were only little snippets of them in this story.

[BreRile · Rating 2 out of 5]

Good premise that just misses the mark

This is supposed to be a second chance romance but it almost feels like the author wanted it to be enemies to lovers. Set up by his sister Harper, Jimmy and Blaire have instant chemistry but he leaves without a word after they spend the night together. He doesn't quite apologize for ghosting her then proceeds to trash her to his boys, the other members of his security firm. All his complaints however, are based on what he read in magazines or heard about her, and when his sister - who is Blaire's best friend - sets the record straight on inaccurate reporting, he dismisses her off. YOUR sister set you up, even if you felt nothing for Blaire, common decency means you don't treat her this way. Plus how little does he think of his sister that it doesn't occur to him Blaire might be a decent person since she and Harper are close friends? Lastly he's bound and determined to be alone for the rest of his life because he fell in love with a client who he was protecting when she was killed. He planned to propose to her yet no one in his life knew about his feelings for her? I don't have a problem with flashbacks, but I think there were too many here, seems a prologue would suffice to provide the backstory on both relationships. I feel bad for this critique as I've never written a book and Ms. Winters is obviously talented. In this case, I found them distracting. Also he kept comparing Blaire to Miranda which isn't fair to either of them. I enjoyed Blaire's girl posse enough to read the second book which is Harper's story.

[Rena Spensley · Rating 5 out of 5]

So if you like a good bodyguard/client, enemies/lovers and bestfriends brother, oh and throw in fake marriage romances then look no further as The Protector has it all.

Jameson Maxwell (Jimmy) is a retired soldier who now is part owner of a security firm, who has a tragic past experience when it comes to the heart. Blaire Hanson a wealthy business women who comes off as a little entitled, and has had no luck when it comes to finding love.

Jimmy is hired by Blaire's father as there has been some threats on the Hanson company not knowing that Jimmy and Blaire have a recent past experience and it didn't end well. But thinking he can make best of the situation Jimmy takes the job even though Blaire is adamant she doesn't need protecting, and tries to allude him a couple times. But when something happens to Blaire's father she starts to rely on Jimmy a little more. Which means that they actually need to communicate and try to get along until things with her father get solved. This is where things get interesting as the sexual tension is on point, the bantering between them is comical and just watching them transform to falling in love is heartwarming at best.

I love everything Alexis Winter has written and she has become one if my favorite writers, This is a great start to a series and can't wait for the other books to follow.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kim Mears · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a second chance, enemies to lovers story.

Blaire and Jimmy were set up a blind date, but even thought the night went well after their one night stand Blaire woke up alone and felt used after Jimmy left. The next time she sees him, she makes sure to embarrass him to teach him a lesson, but that isn't the last time they see each other.

Months later and Blaire's father hires a bodyguard for Blaire, who just happens to be Jimmy, as he owns a security firm with his Army friends. Neither is happy with the situation, but as Blaire's father is being targeted, he wants to make sure that Blaire is kept safe.

Jimmy experienced a tragic loss in his last relationship and doesn't want to fall in love with anyone else again. When Blaire finds out about his loss, she understands more why he left her their first night together. However, the more time they spend together, it is obvious that the sexual tension is still there along with new feelings but no matter how Blaire feels about Jimmy, she thinks that he doesn't feel the same for her so she keeps her feelings hidden.

When her father's life and company is at risk, Blaire needs Jimmy's help even more. But once this is all over, will they be able to come out the other side with their hearts still intact.

I enjoyed reading this book and am looking forward the next book in the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm not sure how to review this book because I read it so fast, I'm sure I will leave out some of the pertinent information needed to make it clear that its a "must read!" Jimmy is fantastic and I love that he is that guy who will never apologize for being who he is and what he is. His job is his job and he has perfected it based on his role as an armed forces man. He was smart in being a smart ass to Blaire and his dry humor was written well. The intimate parts of this book left me dreaming about Jimmy. The story is about Jimmy being a bodyguard, of sorts, for Blaire, but there was no real element of threat to her in the process of the story and that is the only thing I find lagging. Blaire's father was compromised, but there was never an issue with Blaire being chased or grabbed or anything like that. But its a good read, I promise. Oh, and I can't forget to mention the fact that you will experience an ultimate alpha male who is protector and care-giver, and safety source, but also an emotionally transparent guy. He is able to love and fall/be in love while he takes care of business. The intimate aspects of this story is EXTREME and worth reading a few times just to have a little mental fun with it. This is so different from many of my other Alexis Winter favorites and I am so hoping this is the beginning of a multiple series set.

[Linda Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Passionate, poignant and suspense-filled romance: enemies to lovers segues to much more...
Jimmy (Jameson) Maxwell is a 33yo former special forces military man, current security/bodyguard man and former lover of Miranda. He and his Army buddies have gone into together to form a Security company, Four Forces Security. These guys with their experience are ready for almost anything. What he is not prepared for is having his one-night-stand, blind date become his security client! Who set up his blind date? Another complication!
Blaire Hanson is a 31yo executive, supremely independent and daughter to a very wealthy man who has been threatened. He calls on Jameson to protect his daughter, his whole world now that his wife is gone. Whoa! When Blaire finds out what her father expects...well, I did say independent, didn’t I?
This was a well-paced, well-written and well-edited romance which made me fall in love with these two ornery characters. I dare you not to be touched (I cried a few times) when Jimmy dreams about Miranda. So touching and realistic. Beautiful story. If you like two strong-willed people finding out that they actually like the person they used to hate, read this book to see their situation move 180 degrees from hate to passion. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through Booksprout and it comes highly recommended.

[Frances Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this ebook ARC, from the author, on the condition that I write an honest review.
Jimmy is a security guard of famous, and rich people. Blaire is the daughter of a wealthy CEO. Blaire’s father is receiving threats, so he hires, Jimmy to guard Blaire, without knowing that they know each other.
They had, had a one night stand, but he had left her, before she woke up. She hated him, because he had treated her so bad, and he kept being rude to her. Almost the entire time that they were together, they were fighting. Obviously there was some attraction between them, but Jimmy had experienced a sad loss of a past relationship, and refused to give his heart to anyone.
To prevent the loss of her father’s company, Blaire must marry to take over the company. She talks Jimmy to be her fake husband, but he insistes on his marital rights. They both begin to have feelings for each other, but neither of them wants to admit it. Eventually they do realize that they are in love with each other, and the book ends in a beautiful HEA.
I loved the banter between the couple, and the emotions written in the story. The added mystery of the kidnapped father just really added to the story.
I’ve read several books by Alexis Winter, and have loved each one. I’ll always recommend her books.

[Riley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

The Protector is the first book of a new series by Alexis Winter. Four Forces Security is a series about four ex military guys who now run a security company. Book 1 is about Jimmy Maxwell. Having lost some he loved and was supposed to be protecting has made him swear off love and relationships. He is hired to watch and protect Blaire Hanson 24/7. Two months ago they slept together after being set up by Harper, one of Blaire's best friends and Jimmy's younger sister. It ended with a huge blowup.

While the reason behind Jimmy protecting Blaire has to do with her father being threatened as well as the company he owns. This story line is brushed to the back while we only focus on Jimmy and Blaire. When these two are together they combust whether bickering or loving their passion explodes.

We also meet Blaire's two other best friends: Juliette and Aspen. Jimmy's buddies that formed the security company with him are also introduced. They are Luka, Alex and Harvey.

While I would have liked to had more action and twists, the steamy moments as well as the fiery actions and verbal bantering between Jimmy and Blaire move the story along. I think this series will be on my must read list.

[Nicole A · Rating 4 out of 5]

The chemistry between Jimmy, ex-military bodyguard and her best friend’s brother, and Blaire, smart, sassy business woman is off the charts. Jimmy is hired by Blaire’s father to protect her from threats of kidnapping. They had a one night stand 3 months prior, and are enemies. Jimmy is closed off from love because he still loves his girlfriend who was killed under his guard. Blaire is portrayed as a spoiled princess. They both have preconceived notions about each other and deny their blossoming feelings for one another. When Blaire’s father is kidnapped, Blaire wants to take control of his company, but in order to do so there is a stipulation… she must be married. Blaire convinces Jimmy to go along with a fake marriage, in order for her to gain control of the company. Their feelings continue to grow. Once Blaire’s father is found safe they no longer have to continue the fake marriage. This story is full of angst and unrequited love for Blaire, and at times it wrenches your heart out. In the end, Jimmy realizes his love for her and they both find their HEA in each other. Great start to the Four Forces Security series! Can’t wait to read on!

[Rebecca Unsworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Protector is the first book in a new series called Four Forces Security. It features Blaire and Jimmy who is a former soldier, who runs a security service along with his friends. Jimmy's job is to protect Blaire as her father is a Billionaire company owner and he has had threats made against him.
Jimmy and Blaire already know each other as Jimmy is Blaire’s best friends brother and they had a one night stand which didn't end great. Jimmy and Blaire are forced to spend time together in close quarters but it doesn't start off great. Blaire doesn't like how he treated her but spending time with him changes her mind. The same goes for Jimmy but he has a past that hes struggling to get over.

A great start to this new series, the story was great. I like the dual pov as we get to see the emotions and feelings of both characters. They are both strong characters with strong and deep emotions. I also loved the humour and chemistry between these two. A great story, I didn't want it to end. Can't wait for the next story in the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rebmay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Blair and Jimmy’s story is a steamy enemies to lovers romance. Jimmy is hired to protect the daughter of a very wealthy man who has received some ominous threats. So what if said daughter is the woman he had a one-night stand with months ago who he has come to despise. Jimmy has a job to do and since he is aware that Blair despises him too, well this job is definitely not going to be uncomplicated, but he might get some satisfaction in ordering her around. Blair is none too happy that Jimmy is her bodyguard and she certainly has no intention of making things easy for him. What follows is a whole lot of snark, several confrontations, and basically an emotional shoving match. The passion they felt on that one night stand quickly resurfaces, but they use it as a weapon against the other until they both feel a sudden shift in perception and realize that they are harbouring much deeper feelings for the other. How does it all end? You will need to read this fast-paced and fascinating book to find out.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Renee Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Is There Room in His Heart for Another?

It's with a heavy heart & guilt that Jimmy blames himself for not protecting his true love, Miranda when she's killed. Blair & Jimmy had a one-night stand, hooked up & then things went sour between them. Months later, he's hired to protect Blaire to keep her safe as her dad's life is in danger. Considering he doesn't want to betray Miranda's memory, with Blaire's brazen flaunting & being a vixen, both Jimmy & Blaire keep hooking up. The suspense builds up with a kidnapping, a pretend marriage between Jimmy & Blaire in order to save her dad & whether the memory of Miranda interferes with Jimmy & Blaire's blossoming feelings towards each other. I liked the flashbacks to Miranda & of how we get tidbits of Jimmy's life with her as it helped in understanding Jimmy's character & demeanor in the present day with Blaire.

This novel is Book #1 of the Four Forces Security series & this is an awesome story to read. I couldn't put this one down & I'm hoping the trend continues with the rest of the novels in this series. Very captivating!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lara Bayfield · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was enjoying this book until half way through when the Fake wedding took place, the transformation in Jimmy trying to give Blaire a romantic wedding night, was out of sink with the first part of the book where he had been a standoffish brute, but we are meant to believe his 360 turnaround was because he dreamt of Miranda - really? The kidnapping of the father, again was a good plot, but Blaire was going out with girlfriends, getting drunk and sleeping with her fake husband as if nothing had happened to her father, and the strong work minded woman that we were introduced to in the beginning seemed to have had a brain implant and was someone completely different. The plot lost its way in the end, as if the author had forgotten the earlier storyline e.g. the night Blaire swore and showed Jimmy up in the pub, all her friends were there as were Jimmy's but at the end of the book, the girls come round to the house to meet Jimmy and act like they have never met him before, even saying to Jimmy's sister "you kept him a secret from us?" when all this was exposed in the pub early on. Sloppy writing IMO.