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Sentinel Protection #1
Fighting Attraction
Stepping out of our comfort zone is where real love begins.
I never thought I’d fall in love. I was content with my life the way it was.
Then a man came into my life like a tornado. He made me feel things I’d never felt before and completely turned me inside out.
When I was just coming to terms with my feelings for him, he got swept off the market and I lost my chance.
Life hit him hard, and now I have a second chance.
Can I push aside my insecurities and fight for our love, or am I already too late?
Trigger warning: This book has a scene of sexual assault.
A M/M bodyguard romance.
I never thought I’d fall in love. I was content with my life the way it was.
Then a man came into my life like a tornado. He made me feel things I’d never felt before and completely turned me inside out.
When I was just coming to terms with my feelings for him, he got swept off the market and I lost my chance.
Life hit him hard, and now I have a second chance.
Can I push aside my insecurities and fight for our love, or am I already too late?
Trigger warning: This book has a scene of sexual assault.
A M/M bodyguard romance.
146 pages, Paperback
Published October 7, 2021
About the author
Laura John
29 books496 followersHi i am Laura, a Canadian girl who loves to write romance. I write swoon worthy romances that will take you on emotional rollercoasters!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
October 8, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
2.5 stars
Laura John is a new author to me and Fighting Attraction seems to be her first (or one of her first) M/M books and that showed during my reading. I struggled with this book from the start. The characters felt recycled, and the writing was cliched and awkward. The storyline also suffered from fetishization of the characters for me and there really wasn’t much I liked about this one.
Damon has an inner dialogue from the beginning of the book—a voice that loathes everything about Damon and who he is. It was difficult at first to know if these were Damon’s actual thoughts or remembered conversations between him and someone else. The thoughts were constant and became distracting and repetitive after a while.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
2.5 stars
Laura John is a new author to me and Fighting Attraction seems to be her first (or one of her first) M/M books and that showed during my reading. I struggled with this book from the start. The characters felt recycled, and the writing was cliched and awkward. The storyline also suffered from fetishization of the characters for me and there really wasn’t much I liked about this one.
Damon has an inner dialogue from the beginning of the book—a voice that loathes everything about Damon and who he is. It was difficult at first to know if these were Damon’s actual thoughts or remembered conversations between him and someone else. The thoughts were constant and became distracting and repetitive after a while.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
August 1, 2026
Lento, aburrido, repetitivo
Damon quiere liberarse de ese sentimiento de impotencia aquí tiene, quiere "volverse loco" por una noche y liberar el estrés. Pero cuando ocurre lo peor, solo uno de los guardaespaldas es capaz de salvarlo. El problema es que el está "encaprichando" con el guardaespaldas, y siente que este lo odia. O no?
Está lectura tuvo un buen comienzo, me gustó el personaje de Damon y su relación con Bruno. Sin embargo, la forma como se manejo toda la trama resultó forzada, con diálogos repetitivos y situaciones pre hechas. Todo eso causo que perdiera el interés en la lectura y que solo lo terminara por ser corto.
En fin, no creo que lea otro libro de este autor.
Damon quiere liberarse de ese sentimiento de impotencia aquí tiene, quiere "volverse loco" por una noche y liberar el estrés. Pero cuando ocurre lo peor, solo uno de los guardaespaldas es capaz de salvarlo. El problema es que el está "encaprichando" con el guardaespaldas, y siente que este lo odia. O no?
Está lectura tuvo un buen comienzo, me gustó el personaje de Damon y su relación con Bruno. Sin embargo, la forma como se manejo toda la trama resultó forzada, con diálogos repetitivos y situaciones pre hechas. Todo eso causo que perdiera el interés en la lectura y que solo lo terminara por ser corto.
En fin, no creo que lea otro libro de este autor.
October 7, 2021
ARC received from GRR for an honest review.
SPOILERS!
SPOILERS!
SPOILERS!
Damon is the manager of Dustin the rock star. He is excited to come home early and surprise his BF on their 2nd anniversary, when he catches him cheating and it's over. They go out on the road again and Damon is ready to have a hook-up, to forget the ex, when he's attacked and almost raped. In steps Bruno, the guy he's had a crush on for over 2 years.
Bruno is head of security protecting Dustin and his band mates. He's had a crush on Damon but felt like he lost his chance when Damon got into a committed relationship. Now that Damon's free he's willing to make his move when he saves him from an assault. Has he missed his chance?
This was a hard book for me to rate and to actually finish. The beginning was interesting but quickly fell apart for me. I liked Damon and Bruno together but I didn't love this story as a whole.
The things I liked:
*Damon and Bruno had similar pasts which gave them common ground to build on.
*The actual premise of the story, not the execution.
*The supporting characters.
The things I didn't like:
*Damon has his phone in his hand when he's attacked, it's not mentioned that he's holding on to it but it's on his bedside table later when he wakes up. Not true to real life IMO. If someone is attacked, thrown against a wall and almost raped they aren't holding onto their phone.
*Damon's constant monologue got old fast. I felt like it carried on too long.
*Damon's not pressing charges. I know this is something that happens all the time in true life but I thought it would've been more positive for sexual assault survivors if he had pressed charges.
*The therapist visits seemed fast and too abrupt.
*Bruno's constant "are you sure" even after Damon has said "yes" repeatedly.
*When Damon and Bruno have their first date and sexual encounter Damon's thinking in his head that he can taste Bruno's cum and toothpaste. After dinner and drinks I highly doubt he could still taste the toothpaste. Minor details beings ignored really drags me out of stories.
*Bruno picks Terry up at the airport, the next chapter Terry has a rental, two chapters later Terry needs a ride back to the airport; all without any mention of getting the rental and returning said rental. Again details!
*The relationship went on warp drive once they started dating. It didn't feel authentic to me.
*Lastly and very importantly: Unprotected sex without the I'm clean are you clean or here's my results etcetera. Big no-no to assume the characters are clean and to write careless sexual encounters.
More things I didn't like than I liked. This book wasn't for me but apparently others liked it.
SPOILERS!
SPOILERS!
SPOILERS!
Damon is the manager of Dustin the rock star. He is excited to come home early and surprise his BF on their 2nd anniversary, when he catches him cheating and it's over. They go out on the road again and Damon is ready to have a hook-up, to forget the ex, when he's attacked and almost raped. In steps Bruno, the guy he's had a crush on for over 2 years.
Bruno is head of security protecting Dustin and his band mates. He's had a crush on Damon but felt like he lost his chance when Damon got into a committed relationship. Now that Damon's free he's willing to make his move when he saves him from an assault. Has he missed his chance?
This was a hard book for me to rate and to actually finish. The beginning was interesting but quickly fell apart for me. I liked Damon and Bruno together but I didn't love this story as a whole.
The things I liked:
*Damon and Bruno had similar pasts which gave them common ground to build on.
*The actual premise of the story, not the execution.
*The supporting characters.
The things I didn't like:
*Damon has his phone in his hand when he's attacked, it's not mentioned that he's holding on to it but it's on his bedside table later when he wakes up. Not true to real life IMO. If someone is attacked, thrown against a wall and almost raped they aren't holding onto their phone.
*Damon's constant monologue got old fast. I felt like it carried on too long.
*Damon's not pressing charges. I know this is something that happens all the time in true life but I thought it would've been more positive for sexual assault survivors if he had pressed charges.
*The therapist visits seemed fast and too abrupt.
*Bruno's constant "are you sure" even after Damon has said "yes" repeatedly.
*When Damon and Bruno have their first date and sexual encounter Damon's thinking in his head that he can taste Bruno's cum and toothpaste. After dinner and drinks I highly doubt he could still taste the toothpaste. Minor details beings ignored really drags me out of stories.
*Bruno picks Terry up at the airport, the next chapter Terry has a rental, two chapters later Terry needs a ride back to the airport; all without any mention of getting the rental and returning said rental. Again details!
*The relationship went on warp drive once they started dating. It didn't feel authentic to me.
*Lastly and very importantly: Unprotected sex without the I'm clean are you clean or here's my results etcetera. Big no-no to assume the characters are clean and to write careless sexual encounters.
More things I didn't like than I liked. This book wasn't for me but apparently others liked it.
January 13, 2026
Oooh 😯!!
September 24, 2021
I was honoured to receive an advanced copy of this book and this is my honest review.
I was looking forward to this book because throughout the whole series they were both characters that you loved for different reasons. Some of the topics that Laura touched upon (at the start she does mention trigger warnings) was well written.
You have Damon who has many insecurities and Bruno who always thought of himself as straight is confused because he thinks he is developing feelings for Damon.
However I have had to reduce the amount of stars I would give this book because I found it to be absolutely ridiculous as to how fast from work colleagues (especially when one wasn't even sure if he had feelings for a guy because he thought he was straight), to moving in together to the HEA. Not realistic at all - yes I'm aware you can pretty much put most things in a book, but I felt like I was constantly getting whiplash from going at warp speed. Having this relationship go so fast kind of ruined it for me as I was expecting more of a storyline. So it is for this reason alone I can't quite find it in myself to give it anything higher than a 3 🌟🌟🌟 review.
As previously stated this is my honest review please read this book and decide for yourself as Laura is a great author. Do not troll my review just because you disagree with it.
I was looking forward to this book because throughout the whole series they were both characters that you loved for different reasons. Some of the topics that Laura touched upon (at the start she does mention trigger warnings) was well written.
You have Damon who has many insecurities and Bruno who always thought of himself as straight is confused because he thinks he is developing feelings for Damon.
However I have had to reduce the amount of stars I would give this book because I found it to be absolutely ridiculous as to how fast from work colleagues (especially when one wasn't even sure if he had feelings for a guy because he thought he was straight), to moving in together to the HEA. Not realistic at all - yes I'm aware you can pretty much put most things in a book, but I felt like I was constantly getting whiplash from going at warp speed. Having this relationship go so fast kind of ruined it for me as I was expecting more of a storyline. So it is for this reason alone I can't quite find it in myself to give it anything higher than a 3 🌟🌟🌟 review.
As previously stated this is my honest review please read this book and decide for yourself as Laura is a great author. Do not troll my review just because you disagree with it.
September 24, 2021
Three and a half slow burn stars rounded up to four
“Hurt people hurt people.” Hands down, my favorite quote of the book.
We start with Damon getting some pretty bad news and just when he’s starting to rebound, the unthinkable nearly happens. It was hard to see Damon so beaten down, and he mostly was his own worst enemy. He and Bruno had known each other for years, even being friends for a while prior to the timeframe of the book. Bruno is demi-sexual, but doesn’t really know it. He helps Damon through his emotional healing and is such a sweetheart. Once Bruno is all in, he stays all in. Damon is mostly all over the place in this book, which is expected given the set of issues he’s faced with, and Bruno never falters in his steadfast support for Damon.
Given what Damon goes through in the beginning of this book, it’s not a surprise that this is a fairly slow burn book. Slow burn as in we are at the 60-ish% mark before anything physical happens between the two. Again, totally understandable. Once the two do get physical, the scenes are definitely sexy, if a little repetitive. Here again, Bruno shows remarkable kindness, understanding and support of Damon.
Reading Damon’s inner demon thoughts was hard. He really beats himself up for being gay, as that’s what he’s been taught. Reading those words are difficult, so if you are sensitive to that, take heed. I appreciated the way the author handled that entire subject and showed a person seeking help and therapy to overcome these issue in a positive and healthy way. The author allows that mental health issues need not have a stigma attached in a way that is subtle and real. Overall, I enjoyed the book and look forward to reading the next in the series.
TW for sexual assault and strong thoughts of self-deprecation in regards to ones sexuality. Read the author’s TW before reading.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
“Hurt people hurt people.” Hands down, my favorite quote of the book.
We start with Damon getting some pretty bad news and just when he’s starting to rebound, the unthinkable nearly happens. It was hard to see Damon so beaten down, and he mostly was his own worst enemy. He and Bruno had known each other for years, even being friends for a while prior to the timeframe of the book. Bruno is demi-sexual, but doesn’t really know it. He helps Damon through his emotional healing and is such a sweetheart. Once Bruno is all in, he stays all in. Damon is mostly all over the place in this book, which is expected given the set of issues he’s faced with, and Bruno never falters in his steadfast support for Damon.
Given what Damon goes through in the beginning of this book, it’s not a surprise that this is a fairly slow burn book. Slow burn as in we are at the 60-ish% mark before anything physical happens between the two. Again, totally understandable. Once the two do get physical, the scenes are definitely sexy, if a little repetitive. Here again, Bruno shows remarkable kindness, understanding and support of Damon.
Reading Damon’s inner demon thoughts was hard. He really beats himself up for being gay, as that’s what he’s been taught. Reading those words are difficult, so if you are sensitive to that, take heed. I appreciated the way the author handled that entire subject and showed a person seeking help and therapy to overcome these issue in a positive and healthy way. The author allows that mental health issues need not have a stigma attached in a way that is subtle and real. Overall, I enjoyed the book and look forward to reading the next in the series.
TW for sexual assault and strong thoughts of self-deprecation in regards to ones sexuality. Read the author’s TW before reading.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 29, 2021
I absolutely am in love with this book it is a must-read the whole series is amazing I never wanted to end I can't wait for more this book made me laugh and it made me cry
May 13, 2022
Fighting Attraction by Laura John is a compelling book. This is the first time I read this author, I didn't know what to expect but I was reeled in from the beginning and couldn't put the book down. Bruno and Damon are very well-developed and complex characters. The storyline is engaging. I will definitely read more from this author, continuing with the next book in the series. I recommend this book. Be aware, that there are mentions of serious mental trauma and other scenes that may disturb some readers.
October 4, 2021
If you are new to M/M romance and Laura, what a great way to start.
Bruno is a Alpha as they can get and Damon an openly Gay man happy in himself and whom he is in the world, despite his family not accepting his gay status.
Bruno has watched quietly in the wings from afar over the years at Damon and his relationship with Trent.
Questioning his own beliefs Bruno has the chance to act upon the feelings he has kept hidden, when Damon is recued by Bruno after an incident that occurs. Damon is recently single and ready to mingle, but is confused by the mixed signals he is getting from Bruno, whom despite being Straight (Bruno) these two have had what has been in the past a great friendship.
It is when Bruno discovers his feelings for Damon and Damon discovers it back that the story begins. We are introduced to what it could be like to discover what you always have thought to be normal has not really been what is normal for you.
realising you are indeed Gay or Bisexual, a coming out to oneself before coming out to the world.
Damon also has his own share of troubles, when it comes to his family not accepting him for who he is, so is he deserving of love? As he hasnt been succesful in the past with relationships and an upbringing that has scarred him mentally when it comes to his Lifestyle Choice.
Does he have what it takes to get thtough his own dilemmas let alone help someone else discover their own, and with him.
A great look and insight by Laura John. I have enjoyed the Love in Sienna Series by LJ and all the contining Characters throughout and now also in the Sentinal protection Series.
Well done.
Bruno is a Alpha as they can get and Damon an openly Gay man happy in himself and whom he is in the world, despite his family not accepting his gay status.
Bruno has watched quietly in the wings from afar over the years at Damon and his relationship with Trent.
Questioning his own beliefs Bruno has the chance to act upon the feelings he has kept hidden, when Damon is recued by Bruno after an incident that occurs. Damon is recently single and ready to mingle, but is confused by the mixed signals he is getting from Bruno, whom despite being Straight (Bruno) these two have had what has been in the past a great friendship.
It is when Bruno discovers his feelings for Damon and Damon discovers it back that the story begins. We are introduced to what it could be like to discover what you always have thought to be normal has not really been what is normal for you.
realising you are indeed Gay or Bisexual, a coming out to oneself before coming out to the world.
Damon also has his own share of troubles, when it comes to his family not accepting him for who he is, so is he deserving of love? As he hasnt been succesful in the past with relationships and an upbringing that has scarred him mentally when it comes to his Lifestyle Choice.
Does he have what it takes to get thtough his own dilemmas let alone help someone else discover their own, and with him.
A great look and insight by Laura John. I have enjoyed the Love in Sienna Series by LJ and all the contining Characters throughout and now also in the Sentinal protection Series.
Well done.
September 24, 2021
This read is SO much more than the…ahem, adult…times between Bruno and Damon. This is emotional, terrifying in its raw and painful honesty, enlightening, hopeful, and so wonderful all at once. Damon had such an internal struggle that I cried a few times because it was all so true to what some LGBTQ folks (youths and adults alike) either have gone through or are still going through. The self-loathing, the fear, the misery and certainty that they’re defective, and the hope when the right person is found who can help work through all of it. Luckily, Damon had the support and love of friends and the one guy who has pushed him away for so long, but that didn’t make his work to be one with himself any easier.
As for Bruno, I really liked his conflict and worry. And then his honesty and openness. He was amazing. He didn’t push, he didn’t demand, he didn’t expect miracles. He was just there with his heart beating for Damon and a shoulder to lean on. And that was beautiful.
I adored this book and can’t wait to see what comes next. Will Maverick finally get his man? We shall see.
As for Bruno, I really liked his conflict and worry. And then his honesty and openness. He was amazing. He didn’t push, he didn’t demand, he didn’t expect miracles. He was just there with his heart beating for Damon and a shoulder to lean on. And that was beautiful.
I adored this book and can’t wait to see what comes next. Will Maverick finally get his man? We shall see.
September 24, 2021
I haven't read very many MM romances yet but LOVE is LOVE regardless of the genders involved. I was eager to read "Fighting Attraction" the first book in the Sentinel Protection series because I've been reading & absolutely adore Laura John's Love In Sienna series and there are some character crossovers. This book can be read as a standalone since it is the start of a new series but I think the reader would enjoy it even more if they've read the Love In Sienna series as it adds to the background details and historical character interactions.
I had high expectations for this book based on the author's previous books and Laura DID NOT DISAPPOINT! Holy Guacamole this book had amazing character dynamics/interactions. The plotline is fast paced but it doesn't feel like it's skipping details or going too fast.
Also, I wanted to mention that I ABSOLUTELY ADORE how Laura incorporates and normalizes the idea of therapy/counseling in her books. She actively tries to help take away the stigma that surrounds mental health and I couldn't love her more for it.
I had high expectations for this book based on the author's previous books and Laura DID NOT DISAPPOINT! Holy Guacamole this book had amazing character dynamics/interactions. The plotline is fast paced but it doesn't feel like it's skipping details or going too fast.
Also, I wanted to mention that I ABSOLUTELY ADORE how Laura incorporates and normalizes the idea of therapy/counseling in her books. She actively tries to help take away the stigma that surrounds mental health and I couldn't love her more for it.
October 6, 2021
While I have not read many MM romances, I freaking adored Fighting Attraction. The book is so aptly named and the blurb pulled my interest from the very beginning. The characters are extremely complex and I loved seeing the vulnerability but also just how strong both Damon and Bruno are. I found them both to be extremely relatable and even though they were hit with all kinds of curveballs, they both came out stronger because of them.
All in all if you are a fan of MM romances that will give you so many feels, this is definitely one to check out. The author did a great job of creating a world and story that will suck you in from the very beginning and have you utterly in love with these two men by the end of the story. I absolutely give it 4.5 outta 5 stars and can't wait to see what will be coming in the future from the series.
PS: Thank you to Laura John and The Hatters Author Services for allowing me an advanced copy of the book to read and review honestly!
All in all if you are a fan of MM romances that will give you so many feels, this is definitely one to check out. The author did a great job of creating a world and story that will suck you in from the very beginning and have you utterly in love with these two men by the end of the story. I absolutely give it 4.5 outta 5 stars and can't wait to see what will be coming in the future from the series.
PS: Thank you to Laura John and The Hatters Author Services for allowing me an advanced copy of the book to read and review honestly!
October 15, 2021
2.5 stars
This review and much more can be found at Love Bytes Reviews
Damon is a band manager whose last relationship ended when he caught his ex in his house and his bed with both a man and a woman on their anniversary when he made a surprise early return home to celebrate. Side note: I’ve yet to read a book where that idea goes over well or leads to anything good. So six months later he’s on the road with the band in Las Vegas for some concerts and he just wants to get laid. So he gets really drunk and makes perhaps an unwise choice and gets assaulted and nearly raped. But he’s rescued by the band’s head of security.
Bruno, said head of security, feels guilty that he didn’t get there earlier to save Damon from the assault. He tries to get Damon to tell his friends what happened, but Damon refuses saying he doesn’t want anyone else to know how stupid he was to get into that situation. No matter how much Bruno tries to convince Damon that he’s not at fault for another person’s terrible actions, he can’t convince Damon of that. So there they are – both feeling guilty and Damon feeling stupid. Damon’s on a hair trigger and when they get back to Sienna, Bruno convinces him to at least confide in his friends.
Damon confesses to his gal pals what happened and it seems that perhaps most of them have also experienced sexual assault. One convinces him to talk to her therapist and so reluctantly he does begin seeing her. She tries to persuade him to work on factions and not opinions. He does eventually share his past with her and she realizes he’s got a lot of baggage he’s dealing with.
Then there is the situation with Bruno. Bruno has never been with a man before but he’s attracted to Damon. When Damon got with his ex though, he backed off. So for two and a half years, they have been distant – with Damon assuming Bruno hated him because he was gay. Bruno was just trying to keep his feelings in check. But when he finally confesses his feelings, Damon wants go full bore ahead. He wants to demand that Bruno take away the bad memories and “replace them” with good ones. He has trouble accepting Bruno’s feelings and wants to press for more than Bruno may be ready for. This leads to more discussions with Damon’s therapist.
Quickly Bruno and Damon are on the same page. There is still some issues for Bruno coming out since he’s not dated a man before. He’s not really worried about it except for his family But things go better than expected. And this seems to be the last roadblock in their relationship.
I really really struggled with this book. The story is told from alternating first person POV and I just did not connect with either character. I didn’t believe much about this story. I get that Damon was dealing with the aftereffects of conversion therapy as a teenager, but the constant in head negative talk got quite repetitive in the story and it lost it’s impact quite early on. Too much of the story did not ring true to me. First time with a man a first time giving a blow job and the guy deepthroats? That’s some mad skillz man. The thing that really bugged me the most though was the whole looking at sex as a way to “heal” from the bad memories. I just could not relate to that mode of thinking. I just found too many of Damon’s actions unbelievable. I didn’t read any of the previous series books which this new series is apparently related to as they are all M/F pairings save one. Maybe I would have found the relationship more plausible had I done that. But I just struggled with the actions and reactions of the characters to all the drama/trauma and so I didn’t believe this love story. The relationship goes from 0-65 in 4.8 seconds which was also hard to fathom. The writing style didn’t appeal to me either, so it’s definitely as case of this book was not for me. As usual, YMMV.
This review and much more can be found at Love Bytes Reviews
Damon is a band manager whose last relationship ended when he caught his ex in his house and his bed with both a man and a woman on their anniversary when he made a surprise early return home to celebrate. Side note: I’ve yet to read a book where that idea goes over well or leads to anything good. So six months later he’s on the road with the band in Las Vegas for some concerts and he just wants to get laid. So he gets really drunk and makes perhaps an unwise choice and gets assaulted and nearly raped. But he’s rescued by the band’s head of security.
Bruno, said head of security, feels guilty that he didn’t get there earlier to save Damon from the assault. He tries to get Damon to tell his friends what happened, but Damon refuses saying he doesn’t want anyone else to know how stupid he was to get into that situation. No matter how much Bruno tries to convince Damon that he’s not at fault for another person’s terrible actions, he can’t convince Damon of that. So there they are – both feeling guilty and Damon feeling stupid. Damon’s on a hair trigger and when they get back to Sienna, Bruno convinces him to at least confide in his friends.
Damon confesses to his gal pals what happened and it seems that perhaps most of them have also experienced sexual assault. One convinces him to talk to her therapist and so reluctantly he does begin seeing her. She tries to persuade him to work on factions and not opinions. He does eventually share his past with her and she realizes he’s got a lot of baggage he’s dealing with.
Then there is the situation with Bruno. Bruno has never been with a man before but he’s attracted to Damon. When Damon got with his ex though, he backed off. So for two and a half years, they have been distant – with Damon assuming Bruno hated him because he was gay. Bruno was just trying to keep his feelings in check. But when he finally confesses his feelings, Damon wants go full bore ahead. He wants to demand that Bruno take away the bad memories and “replace them” with good ones. He has trouble accepting Bruno’s feelings and wants to press for more than Bruno may be ready for. This leads to more discussions with Damon’s therapist.
Quickly Bruno and Damon are on the same page. There is still some issues for Bruno coming out since he’s not dated a man before. He’s not really worried about it except for his family But things go better than expected. And this seems to be the last roadblock in their relationship.
I really really struggled with this book. The story is told from alternating first person POV and I just did not connect with either character. I didn’t believe much about this story. I get that Damon was dealing with the aftereffects of conversion therapy as a teenager, but the constant in head negative talk got quite repetitive in the story and it lost it’s impact quite early on. Too much of the story did not ring true to me. First time with a man a first time giving a blow job and the guy deepthroats? That’s some mad skillz man. The thing that really bugged me the most though was the whole looking at sex as a way to “heal” from the bad memories. I just could not relate to that mode of thinking. I just found too many of Damon’s actions unbelievable. I didn’t read any of the previous series books which this new series is apparently related to as they are all M/F pairings save one. Maybe I would have found the relationship more plausible had I done that. But I just struggled with the actions and reactions of the characters to all the drama/trauma and so I didn’t believe this love story. The relationship goes from 0-65 in 4.8 seconds which was also hard to fathom. The writing style didn’t appeal to me either, so it’s definitely as case of this book was not for me. As usual, YMMV.
October 3, 2021
4.5 stars While this is the first in a new series, both the main characters have been featured many times as side characters in this authors other series Love In Sienna. This is far from a light and fluffy read, and there's a TW page at the beginning of the book which I HIGHLY suggest you read because they might be triggers and there was points I myself nearly had to put it down. I'm really glad I pushed through thought because this was handled, IMO, beautifully. Bruno and Damon had many obstacles in their path, but once Bruno decided Damon was it, it was a lock. And I loved how no matter what, they didn't stew and they communicated with each other. This was beautifully written and I can't wait to see what else Sentinel Protection has to offer. I volunteered to read and review an early copy of this. All opinions are my own.
October 8, 2021
This book deals with some traumatic subjects, so heed the trigger warnings. For me, this story had a lot of potential, as well as some rough edges. There were moments that came off awkwardly, where it felt like the author defaulted to some well-worn tropes and cliches. Damon and Bruno’s dynamic can be super sweet but also sometimes feels more like something they’ve chosen to want, rather than something organically developed, if that makes sense. A lot turned on the history between Damon and Bruno, and I’m not sure that the readers get a strong enough sense of that history to completely anchor the parts of the narrative that we do see. That said, there were elements I really appreciated as well: the focus on emotional healing and progress as something that requires time and support, for example. Damon goes through a lot, and it felt right, and reassuring, that the effects of his trauma don’t magically melt away to meet the dictates of a romance plot— instead, it’s a part of the story and the way their relationship takes shape. For this alone, I’d round 3.5 stars up to 4. Also, it looks like this is the first book in a new series, and it will be interesting to see what happens in the next one.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 25, 2021
HOLY SHIT this was awesome, page turning angst, trying to figure out what love is when you haven't been shown, over coming the odds and being a beautiful person inside and out especially when the people who are supposed to love you unconditionally throw you away, finding your other half of your soul after a tragedy that is Damon and Bruno, the love of family members isn't always blood related and that's okay, I can't wait for more, I have voluntarily read and review this ARC, thank you for the privilege, Dana Zamora
September 30, 2021
This book has a bit of grit to it. A traumatic experience finally bring Bruno and Damon together. Their situation takes on a new element after Damon’s attack. Now they’ve found out they’re very good together and their new relationship takes the reader on a sweet, romantic journey as our heroes fall more and more in love. Some boat rocking moments, of course, but nothing too severe. Just a good, love story that leaves you waiting for the next one by way of a coworker, Terry. Here’s anticipating! I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
October 4, 2021
I wasn’t ready!!! Bruno and Damon’s story completely through me for a loop. This story is so raw, so real, so emotional and heartbreakingly honest and beautiful. Damon this man had tears streaming down my face with how much he struggled with coming to terms with who he is and what that all entailed. The fact that I could feel deep down in my bones all of his emotions truly speaks to how wonderful this authors writing truly is. Bruno really surprised me with dedication to Damon he was there no matter what. He was open he was honest he wore his heart on his sleeve and he let Damon know he wasn’t going anywhere. Watching the relationship between these two grow was fantastic and I am really looking forward to the next in the series.
October 5, 2021
Please take note of the trigger warnings at the beginning of the book!
Damon is a manager of a band member, his ex cheated on him and six months later experiences something traumatic. A bodyguard, Bruno, saves him and although there is friction, they both feel an attraction. Damon was forced to undergo conversion therapy as a teen (something I am totally averse to) and something he doesn't share with his group of friends.
The author had me in the palm of her hands throughout, even when I wanted to hit out and try to chase the demons away.
I received a copy from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
Damon is a manager of a band member, his ex cheated on him and six months later experiences something traumatic. A bodyguard, Bruno, saves him and although there is friction, they both feel an attraction. Damon was forced to undergo conversion therapy as a teen (something I am totally averse to) and something he doesn't share with his group of friends.
The author had me in the palm of her hands throughout, even when I wanted to hit out and try to chase the demons away.
I received a copy from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
October 7, 2021
Fighting Attraction is book 1 of a new spin off series from John’s love in Sienna series. Damon is dealing with his own issues and is trying to work through them the best way he can. Bruno is in charge of looking after him but its hard when you are attracted to the guy that you are responsible for. This book tackles a lot of issues that we deal with today and will always deal with. Damon and Bruno together are pure fire and this book is full of heartwarming and heartbakingn. So add this book to your TBR and take a chance on Damon and Bruno and you won't regret it.
October 7, 2021
I am so in love with this book and can't wait for more of this series!!!
This is the story of Damon and Bruno. Damon is openly gay and Bruno has never really felt an attraction to men, but he sure does with Damon! These 2 have been avoiding their connection for awhile and tried to ignore what they felt, so needless to say it made my heart so happy to see them get their HEA.
Laura runs us through the gauntlet of emotions with this book. I have never felt so many emotions over the course of a book, I started out upset for a character, then i would get goosebumps from some of the lines, then I would cry from a scene, then I would be jumping for joy at happy parts. Laura always blows my mind with how well she does on sensitive/trigger topics, and this book was no different.
If you want to read a M/M romance with complex, strong but vulnerable characters that finally get to be happy after going thru hell, this is the book for you!! All the stars to you Laura John 😘😘😘 i cant wait for more of this series!!!
This is the story of Damon and Bruno. Damon is openly gay and Bruno has never really felt an attraction to men, but he sure does with Damon! These 2 have been avoiding their connection for awhile and tried to ignore what they felt, so needless to say it made my heart so happy to see them get their HEA.
Laura runs us through the gauntlet of emotions with this book. I have never felt so many emotions over the course of a book, I started out upset for a character, then i would get goosebumps from some of the lines, then I would cry from a scene, then I would be jumping for joy at happy parts. Laura always blows my mind with how well she does on sensitive/trigger topics, and this book was no different.
If you want to read a M/M romance with complex, strong but vulnerable characters that finally get to be happy after going thru hell, this is the book for you!! All the stars to you Laura John 😘😘😘 i cant wait for more of this series!!!
October 4, 2021
This slow burn MM romance has a lot going on between the sheets. There is a well written theme within this book that love is love and I am so grateful for the repeated message to go out to the world. Bruno is super masculine and Damon is so much his opposite. The interactions these two have is a build up that had me on the edge of my seat waiting for the full blowup.
Each of them have reservations on where things could lead. Damon has had a very outward crush while Bruno has only every been with women in his past and feels a bit unsure of himself at first.
I loved all the quirkiness of new relationships, finding yourself and of course simply silly interactions.
Each of them have reservations on where things could lead. Damon has had a very outward crush while Bruno has only every been with women in his past and feels a bit unsure of himself at first.
I loved all the quirkiness of new relationships, finding yourself and of course simply silly interactions.
October 6, 2021
I was so excited to finally get a book on Damon! Him and Bruno together was absolute perfection. Everytime Laura writes something I know it will be absolutely perfect and this did not disappoint. I really enjoyed witching Damon get to the point where he loved himself, like truly realized his worth. Bruno was the perfect partner, he was so so sweet! This one really made my heart happy! Can't wait to see what's next!
October 11, 2021
Oh my, Damon and Bruno have such a rough path to tread to be together. That makes the ending all the more meaningful, but the author doesn't pull any punches so read the blurb carefully. What made me love this story was the realistic acceptance that while loving someone and having someone love you can make things easier, it doesn't magically solve problems or take the responsibility off of an individual to do the hard work it takes to recover. Dealing with the past is hard, it can be a life long process and we see that here. However, the love these two have for each other also shines through even in the blackest part of their journey.
October 12, 2021
Damon is super sweet and sassy, but he has some insecurities that he’s forced to work through. Bruno is ex-military, running his own security firm with his best friend and seriously questioning his sexuality because of his feelings for Damon. I loved that these characters both faced huge obstacles in this book, that they work out separately and together. I received an ARC of this book for my honest review.
September 24, 2021
Really enjoyed reading this fast paced well wriiten romance by a new author for me, my very first but definitely not my last. Isn't it funny how life works the bad things just keep coming but then there is a light under the door and when you open it, you find that given time and a little help, it is possible all the things you desire might be there right in front of you.
October 6, 2021
Damon and Bruno's story is a real tear jerker. I love that everything that Damon has been through Bruno has always been there even if he was in the background for most of it. They deserve their HEA more than anyone and I am so glad they finally got it. It has been in the making for awhile now and now that they have it, I can't wait to see what happens next.
October 7, 2021
First things first: Every time I read one of Laura’s books there is a moment that I as if I’ve walked out of a successful therapy session. That may sound odd but honestly it’s as if the characters working through their conflict I also find comfort. I feel see and understood.
Now on to Damon and Bruno…I have been hoping all the hopes that these two would eventually just jump each other! I absolutely love Damon. With his sunshine demeanor and his constant flirtations he always has me cracking up. I just knew he could warm Bruno up if he didn’t give up.
However, I definitely wasn’t expecting things to start the way they did. At first I was shocked and then moved on to heartbroken as the story continued (trigger warning!!) To say that new sides of both Damon and Bruno were revealed is an understatement. I could continue to read their story because I feel like there is still so much to come but that ending was pretty amazing.
Now on to Damon and Bruno…I have been hoping all the hopes that these two would eventually just jump each other! I absolutely love Damon. With his sunshine demeanor and his constant flirtations he always has me cracking up. I just knew he could warm Bruno up if he didn’t give up.
However, I definitely wasn’t expecting things to start the way they did. At first I was shocked and then moved on to heartbroken as the story continued (trigger warning!!) To say that new sides of both Damon and Bruno were revealed is an understatement. I could continue to read their story because I feel like there is still so much to come but that ending was pretty amazing.
October 8, 2021
Damon is the manager of a huge band. He just got out of a relationship after his ex-boyfriend cheated on him and is on the rebound when he is sexually assaulted. The bodyguard of the band, Bruno, saves him. The bodyguard he has a crush for and is not gay.
Bruno just figured out that he is attracted to Damon when Damon gets into a relationship. For years, Bruno has to see him with his boyfriend, until this relationship falls apart. But before he can do anything about his feelings, Damon gets sexually assaulted.
Can both stop fighting their mutual attraction?
I liked this one. It is a slow-burn book, which is good for this kind of story. I liked the chemistry between the MCs and was rooting for them to get together.
*I received this book as an ARC. I chose to leave an honest review.*
Bruno just figured out that he is attracted to Damon when Damon gets into a relationship. For years, Bruno has to see him with his boyfriend, until this relationship falls apart. But before he can do anything about his feelings, Damon gets sexually assaulted.
Can both stop fighting their mutual attraction?
I liked this one. It is a slow-burn book, which is good for this kind of story. I liked the chemistry between the MCs and was rooting for them to get together.
*I received this book as an ARC. I chose to leave an honest review.*
September 24, 2021
Laura John's Fighting Attraction is just so sweet with wonderful and realistic characters. Damon and Bruno's love story made me cry with tears of joy and sympathy. Sympathy because of their sad back story. Joy because they were just so romantic.
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