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Devin Layne, ex Berretto verde del 10° gruppo delle forze speciali, torna a casa dopo una missione disastrosa. Sentendosi meno uomo a causa delle ferite riportate, cerca di affrontare la vita civile e di evitare l’ex fidanzata, convinto che lei meriti di meglio.

Il cuore di Mallory Watts, addestratrice di cavalli e campionessa di barrel racing, si spezza quando viene a sapere che l’amore della sua vita è tornato a casa ma non vuole più avere nulla a che fare con lei.

Il fidanzamento può anche essere stato annullato, ma questo non significa che l’amore sia finito. Mallory è decisa a dimostrarglielo e Devin… Devin è pronto a fare di tutto, per salvare la donna che ama.

288 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 31, 2023

319 people are currently reading
92 people want to read

About the author

Elle James

698 books1,211 followers
Award-winning author Elle James grew up as an air force military brat. She received her work ethic from her rock-solid father, her creative streak from her artistic mother and inspiration from her writing partner and sister, Delilah Devlin. As a former member of the army reserves and a current member of the air force reserves, she's traveled across the United States and to Germany, managed a full-time job, and raised three wonderful children. She and her husband have even tried their hands at ranching exotic birds (ostriches, emus and rheas) in the Texas hill country. Ask her, and she'll tell you what it's like to go toe-to-toe with an angry three-hundred-and-fifty-pound bird and live to tell about it!

Her adventures in the army and air force reserves, and the wild antics of her life on a small ranch in Texas give her fodder for mystery, suspense and humor in her writing. Elle writes gothic, paranormal mystery for the Harlequin Intrigue line and paranormal romantic comedy for Dorchester Publishing. A former manager of computer programming and project management professionals, Elle is happy she now has the opportunity to pursue her writing full time.

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5 stars
786 (70%)
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253 (22%)
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62 (5%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
Profile Image for Marie.
5,243 reviews54 followers
February 4, 2023
He's trying to be noble

Devin thinks Mal is better without him, she should find a 'whole, healthy man'. He no longer sees himself as worthy or competent, only focusing on those things he can no longer do, rather than what he can. Heartbreaking for him and for Mal who just wants to be there for the man she loves.
But Devin is quickly brought to his senses when those he loves are targeted, threatened and injured. He instinctively goes into warrior mode, defending and protecting, eliminating threats and minimising risks. He finally realises he can still work, he can protect what is his and thankfully we see a little hope in his heart that he can still have a future with the woman he loves. Mal crushes the last of his stubbornness and resistance when she shows him the chemistry they still have, and it is heartwarming to see him finally give in and embrace his love, their love, their future as we finally see peeks of the warm, loving cowboy he was before his injuries.
3,575 reviews40 followers
January 28, 2023
We are back in Colorado with the brave men and women, all former military members, who have been given a second chance in life and an opportunity to use their skills.
New hire and former Green Beret Devin Layne feels less than a man after a leg injury in a mission gone wrong, has him leaving the job he loved.
Mallory/Mal Watts, is the woman that loves him, no matter what, even after he broke their engagement in order to “set her free”.
When danger targets the two women Devin loves, his sister Laurel, and Mel, he’s given his first assignment. Keep them safe.
As the relationship reignites, will the danger steal their chance to find happiness?
This was another good addition to a move loved series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Profile Image for Margie.
1,714 reviews26 followers
January 27, 2023
Colorado Free Rein by Elle James is book #10 in the Brotherhood Protectors Colorado series. I like how this author began this book with a chapter outlining the military background of hero Devin Layne and depicting the mission where he was injured. Devin's return to Fool's Gold was on the down low as he planned to end his engagement to heroine Mallory Watts because Devin believed his injuries left him as a lesser man. Devin did decide to take a job with the Brotherhood Protectors when Jake Cogburn offered it to him. Little did Devin know how personal his first assignment would become. I really enjoyed the action and suspense in this story. It's a super addition to the series.

I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for JigsawGirl.
4,189 reviews
January 31, 2023
I admired Mal's determination to not let Devin push her out of his life no matter how hurt she was at the time. That took a lot of strength on her part.

I liked that Laurel and Mal were such good friends despite the current state of Devin and Mal's relationship.

I enjoyed the way the book began with action and suspense. I have to say that the bad character was immediately obvious even if the motivation didn't become clear until later in the book.

I can also say they should have had more faith in Striker. I was immediately suspicious. I think their heightened emotional state had them not considering all options.

This was a fast paced romantic suspense that seemed like a really quick read. I finished it in one sitting. Devin and Mal get their HEA. I am hoping Laurel will get her own story as well.

I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
Profile Image for Suzette.
3,643 reviews20 followers
February 1, 2023
The author has created a really special story in this one. The characters will dig into your heart and settle in to stay. Devin is injured on is last operation and medically discharged from the military. He is struggling to reconcile his new normal as a civilian. Mallory can’t understand why he no longer wants to be engaged to her. This is a really dynamic plot with a few surprises. It has the action and adventure associated with the Brotherhood Protectors, but is also closely linked to family. Mallory is persistent in her pursuit of Devin and is able to bring him squarely back to the land of love and living.
Profile Image for Connie.
1,671 reviews7 followers
February 2, 2023
I received a complimentary copy of this book and I am voluntarily reviewing it.

While this is a part of a series of Brotherhood Protectors, you don't have to read the prior ones to fully understand and enjoy this book.

Oh my stars!! I LOVE this book. Devin and Mallory (Mal) have a great chemistry between them. They are engaged to be married. That is until Devin is medically discharged from the Army. The last mission for this Green Beret didn't end well. His leg will never be the same. Doctors said that he probably wouldn't be able to walk on it again. His strength and determination proved them wrong. He can walk but with a painful limp.

Devin can't stand the thought of not fulfilling his' and Mal's dreams of running his family ranch and raising some kids. He breaks the engagement so Mal can still have her dreams but with someone else. He is tormented with that thought though. Danger comes to town. Both his sister and Mal have been threatened!

Can his wounded hero save both of the precious women in his life? Who is the stalker after these two strong women? Can Devin be convinced that he is still the man for Mal? That and other questions will be answered.

This is a book that consumed me. I had a hard time putting it down to fix dinner. (Don't know why the hubby couldn't!)

The book is written in a dual POV format. Getting that glimpse into the both the main character's thoughts really help me to connect and better understand them. It really makes them more human and less like characters in a book. I was really sadden to read the last word! Now why do the best stories have to end?

This is a sexy read so just a word of caution if that bothers you. I would highly suggest that you can skip over as it isn't a major part of the story. There really is a story here and not just sexy times.
190 reviews1 follower
January 31, 2023
When the past haunts your future....
Grab a cup of coffee and a snack and sit down to enjoy this quick read. Colorado Free Rein (Bk 10) in the Brotherhood Protectors series is fourteen chapters of non-stop fun. (Although I have to admit I wanted to b*ch slap the main character a little for his self-sacrificing whining and actions towards his heroine). Similar to the previous stories, Devin, our hero, is a wounded soul looking to find meaning and security after separation from the Special Forces due to injury. Coming home to Colorado, he is facing an unknown future and worse- the love of his life- who he wants to protect from this uncertainty because he feels he isn't whole or capable of providing them a solid future. (hence the b*ch slap).His heroine, Mallory, tries to set him straight with no luck until she, and Devin's sister Laurel are threatened. When it becomes obvious that the threat to the women is due to events related to one of Devin's past military missions, he steps up to protect the women he loves. This kind of pushes him to accept an offer he got earlier by a beloved "old" character, Jake , who had offered him a job with the Brotherhood Protectors. He becomes a Protector and is officially tasked with guarding them. But nothing ever goes smoothly, and SHTF and the girls are kidnapped. The race is now on for Devin to confront a vindictive enemy and save Mal and Laurel's lives-even though it could mean his own death. There were a few moments I snickered during the story, but overall it's a fun, fast, easy reading story with what I consider redemption for the main character from his earlier stubbornness:) I received an ARC of the story for my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Miss Andrews.
466 reviews16 followers
January 28, 2023
What a fantastic read!! As always Elle James has delivered yet another outstanding addition to the Brotherhood Protectors Colorado series.

One of the things I loved about this story was the imperfection of Devin. At first I wanted to smack him upside the head because he was being a stubborn idiot. But, I liked the fact that the MMC wasn’t perfect. He was flawed and an idiot and this just allowed me to love him that much more.

My heart aches for his pain, both physical and mental. He is without a doubt, a character you can really empathise with, although a character you definitely want to shake some
sense into lol.

Mallory is a beautiful character. She’s stubborn, fearless, independent and has a heart of pure gold. I loved her fighting spirit and determination.

The addition of Devin’s sister gives the story extra depth and allows for a glimpse of the beauty that family ties bring to the story. Making the character more rounded and relatable.

I love stories where the two
main characters have already found each other but life and other things have gotten in the way and they have to fight their way back to each other.

Elle James has once again knocked it out of the park. This story is so addictive, so informative and is packed with so much depth and description you could also swear you were there with them.

As always, I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
There aren’t enough stars to fully portray how fantastic this read is!!
Profile Image for Cheryl.
1,905 reviews27 followers
January 28, 2023
(4.5) I can read this series all day every day. Having said that, the 4.5 is because of Striker. Read the book and share your thoughts. I am okay reading a book when I figure out the perp - because I am reading a romantic suspense. I will say the perp provided me with a betwixt and between moment - what Devin says to him - twice - rang so true, so the perp should have understood, but then his emotions were involved. There is romance, suspense and scenes that pull on your heart strings as well as the strength and courage of Devin, Mallory and what about Devins sister? Man did that bring a swell of emotion. You can read this as stand alone with no problem, course then you miss out on the alpha men and strong/alpha women in this series. The drawback to me is the first time Striker acts and no one questioned, the second time, I was like wait, wait these are intelligent people, if they trust their gut and instincts why are they ignoring this? It just didn't ring true IMHO. Thank you for the arc! I freely volunteer my thoughts and opinions! #coloradofreerein #brotherhoodprotectorscolorado #ellejames #twistedpage #bookfunnel
724 reviews4 followers
January 29, 2023
Another fantastic addition to the Colorado Brotherhood Protectors series!
Devin Layne, former Green Beret is back home after his career in the military ended with a severe injury to his leg. He’s out of sorts and not sure where to turn. Seeing his fiancé Mallory Watts only makes him feel more incomplete.

Mal Watts only ever wanted one thing in her life…Devin He was her whole world and she’s not giving up without a fight.

Devin needs a new purpose in life and maybe he would have a chance with the love of his life. When he gets an unexpected job offer to use the skills he was taught in the military as the Brotherhoods new protector he takes a chance. And he’s gonna need all his training when his sister Laurel and Mal are caught up in the middle of a war no one saw coming. Can Devin save the two women he loves the more than anything?
“I voluntarily received this arc book for an honest review”
3,546 reviews14 followers
January 31, 2023
Yikes! Colorado Free Rein grabs you on the first page and doesn't turn you lose until the last. There may be bumps and twists along the way but this book is worth the ride. Elle James has, as always, delivered a well-written book but she never promises a smooth ride. The characters in this book are a joy to read. Devin "Daredevil" Layne is wounded in battle. After months of rehab he returns to his hometown. Mallory is shocked but excited when she sees her fiance on horseback at the rodeo. That lasts long enough for him to tell her they're over. Mallory and Devin's book is packed with drama, humor, spice, action and suspense. I LOVE this book. I look forward to my next book by Elle James. Colorado Free Rein is book 10 of the Brotherhood Protectors Colorado Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliffhanger.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from Bookfunnel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Nikki Brooks.
3,571 reviews55 followers
February 6, 2023
Small Town meets Protector Romance!

Devin is all wrapped up in his own head. Medically discharged, struggling with his self image and distancing himself from the love of his life. Mal just wants Devin - she doesn't care if he's roughed up, dinged up or whatever.

When Devin lands a new job with Brotherhood Protectors Colorado, he finally starts to see he may still have plenty to give - now if he could just apply that to his fractured engagement to Mal! But someone seems to have it out for his sister and Mal and they soon become his first job.

Their love had endured - going from high school crush to finally getting together as adults, to engagement to faltering due to self doubts. They are heartwarming and their chemistry is great. I loved the portrayal of Devin's sister. She has endured something horrific but she refuses to allow it to continue to shape and darken her life. Great addition to the series.
Profile Image for Karen L Ledee.
906 reviews5 followers
January 29, 2023
Devin has been medically discharged from the military after a mission left his leg permanently injured. He is at odds about what to do next in the civilian world. He feels incomplete and not deserving of his fiancé Mallory. Well, she’s going to fight. His sister Laurel’s apartment has been been entered and a razor blade planted and she injures her hand. Then they discover Mal’s apartment has been vandalised and a threatening message left. It boils down to someone has a grudge to settle with him and is going to use the girls to get back at him. Another well written installment to the Brotherhood Protectors that will keep you on the edge of your seat even though you pretty much who it is. Don’t start reading late at night, you may not be able to go to sleep.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book
901 reviews13 followers
January 30, 2023
Colorado Free Rein
(Brotherhood Protectors:Colorado Book 10)
Elle James
Another great addition to a series of former military who use their skills and work to help people who need help. In this book Devin doesn’t believe he has anything to offer after being injured and medically discharged from the Army. He heads back to Fool’s Gold, Colorado where his sister lives. He is offered a job with the Brotherhood Protectors and his first assignment is protecting his sister and ex-fiancé from an unknown villain. Once again a fast paced story with twists and turns that keeps you reading because you have to find out what happens next. Strong characters who use their skills for good.
Love how these characters work together to protect those in need while supporting each other in their own needs.
One of my favorite series that is definitely a late night read.
6,556 reviews27 followers
January 30, 2023
This is a brilliant addition to this wonderful sub series in the Brotherhood Protector world that shows just how much the military personnel give up in life and how and injury can leave them doubting their value in life and of course it is a thrill ride that totally draws you in and keeps you engaged until you turn that last page. In this latest offering Green Beret Devin Layne knows that he isn't good enough after a major leg injury for his fiancée Mal Watts A point driven home when he can't even find a job on his return. But mal isn't giving up on the man she loves and is determined to sow him he still has worth When a job offer from the Colorado branch of the brother Protectors leads to him having to protect the woman he loves Devin discover not only he is he still as highly trained as ever but that he can't walk away after all.
2,301 reviews18 followers
February 1, 2023
When Devin returns home to Colorado after an injury that retires him from the Army, he retreats from everyone including his fiancée, who he breaks up with. Mallory is devastated that the man she loves turns her away, while in recovery and now that he is back home. Her best friend, Laurel, who happens to be Devin’s sister is targeted and by association so is she. Devine will do anything to protect the only two women he loves and will take all the help he can get from the BH protectors in Colorado, who he decides to join and prove he is more than his injury.
A good read with some suspense, some steam and good characters. The story flowed nicely and I liked seeing past characters make an appearance. Even though there was a bit of drama, it wasn’t over the top, which I really liked.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
144 reviews2 followers
January 29, 2023
This was a great book. I loved it. This is Devin and Mal’s story, along with Devin’s sister, Laurel. Devin was a Green Beret that was injured in Syria and medically discharged when his leg is hurt. He goes home to Colorado to decide what to do and gets a job with the Brotherhood Protectors. Devin calls off his marriage to Mal because he thinks she needs someone better than him, but when Laurel and Mal need protection, he’s there to protect them. I loved getting to see people from previous books in this series and to see how they are doing now. I received an ARC of this book for an honest review, and I loved the book. There’s lots of romance, suspense and action. I recommend this book.
Profile Image for Kari Hansen.
12.3k reviews92 followers
February 8, 2023
Due to an injury Devin’s military career came to an end and so did his plans for the future. He had his life planned out with his fiancé Mallory but he now believes that she deserves more than he can give her. It will take a dangerous threat for him to realize that he is now and has always been the only man she needs.

Mallory was hurt when Devin ended their arrangement as his injury had nothing to do with the love she shared. When circumstances unfold that brings him back into her life she is determined to show him that is where he is meant to be.

The love that Devin and Mallory shared was never in question and I enjoyed seeing Devin realize that leaving Mallory was the biggest mistake of his life.
2,699 reviews2 followers
January 8, 2024
There's 1 thing I don't get... How can American citizens work 4 a very corrupt group in a different country and think it's ok? It was his last mission that went 2 he'll and his buddy died. But the problem is the 2 stupid American missionaries that want 2 protect a killer in a different country and think it's ok 2 go against their own country. After a bad decision happened all he'll broke loose, but who was going 2 b stupid enough 2 blame a person on what happened when they knew the consequences of their actions and the possibility of it? Revenge plain and simple but instead of a payback 4 1 person that died they want 2 use 2 people when they were innocent. What will happened? U decide. It was interesting that others didn't catch on fast enough.
Profile Image for Suzie Weber.
1,017 reviews2 followers
January 11, 2025
Again a strong woman who doesn’t take any BS from her man.

Mal and Laurel were best friends growing up. Laurel’s older brother Devin came home on leave to see Mal all grown up. They dated and became engaged and then Devin was in an attack that messed up his leg. He was discharged and refused to see Mal and told her there was nothing between them anymore.

I liked this story but I am getting tired of these men built like a brick SH and acting like a two year old. Devin is convinced he is no good to anyone with a bum leg. We never really learn what the “bum” is.

Fortunately when trouble strikes it is Mal that puts her foot down and tells him to get over himself. His first protection job with the Brotherhood has him protecting both Mal and his sister Laurel.
1,227 reviews
January 29, 2023
Devlin “Daredevil” Layne a former Green Beret 10th Special Forces out of Fort Carson.
Mallory Watts works at The Lucky Star Ranch and is a rodeo competitor.
Devlin’s former fiancée.
Laurel is Devlin’s sister.

Devlin and Mallory were engaged, but Devlin come back a changed man from his last mission in the military leaving him medically discharge.
Devlin is trying to find a civilian life after a regimental military life. He has an
inner struggle if not being a whole man and release Mallory from the engagement.

Then a crazy person is after Devlin through both Laurel and Mallory. Can he
save them and have a relationship. Read the book to find out what happens.

This book has suspense, intrigue, action, emotions an a second chance at love.

Great Job Elle James!!!
Profile Image for Leanne ~ Tales From The Heart.
2,476 reviews26 followers
January 31, 2023
I love this series, always full of action and mystery and yet a HEA.
Devin is back home after rehab and discharge from the military. He's given his fiance the brush off as he doesn't feel fit for her anymore. It's going to take danger to throw them together. His girl and sister are in trouble, both receiving messages of hate, both physical and possessions. He is the common denominator so who and why? Devin is now part of the Brotherhood Protectors and the team are there for them all.
Time is ticking, will they all make it out of this situation alive?
Great story, I highly recommend this series.
Profile Image for Jennie Fortna.
2,571 reviews29 followers
January 31, 2023
A*R*C for honest review with no compensation

Colorado Free Rein is book 10 on the Brotherhood Protectors Colorado series by Elle James and another awesome read!

Devlin Layne, ex Green Beret soldier is back home after a medical discharge for injuries that occurred on his last deployment. Thinking he is not the man for the love of his life Mallory he does everything to push her away…she on the other hand is not having it. In the mean time his sister, Laurel has a gut feeling she might have a stalker and Devlin gets his first case with the BHP..but all is not what you think…

Suspense, twists, turns, action, terrorizing, quick read, rekindling romance and so much more…
581 reviews32 followers
January 31, 2023
Brotherhood, family, suspense, and romance.
When Devin Layne is discharged from the military after suffering an injury on his last mission, he heads home to Fool's Gold and his sister Laurel. When approached with a position with the Brotherhood Protectors Devin takes a chance on building a new life. Little did he know his first assignment would be to protect his sister, and with her the woman who was his fiance before his injury. "Nothing you do can protect her" Who is the message for and why? Another good story set in the Brotherhood Protectors world. Along with Devin we also get RJ, Jake, Gunny, and the rest of the protectors doing what they do best.

Profile Image for Gladys.
14k reviews163 followers
January 27, 2023
OMG! This couple yanked on my heartstrings so hard that I practically have whiplash. Lol All kidding aside though, be prepared because these two are really going to hit you with some major Feels and put your emotions through the wringer. The story grabbed me fast and maintained its hold throughout. The balance of romance, suspense, drama, action, emotion, heart and danger was spot-on and once I started; I had a very hard time putting this book down. I'm independently posting an impartial review.
Profile Image for Stephanie Herron.
755 reviews11 followers
January 27, 2023
Devin comes home from the military on a medical discharge and at a loss as to what to do with himself. He soon meets up with Jake from the Brotherhood Protectors and is offered a job. The job comes to him after his sister, Lauren, finds her apartment disturbed and his one time fiancée, Mallory aka Mal's home trashed. While I figured out the who and why by the half-way mark, I was too invested in the characters to stop reading. Lots of action. Small amount of steam, which you can skip if not your thing. Wonderful epilogue.
Profile Image for Delaine Mclafferty.
516 reviews2 followers
January 30, 2023
This book tugged at my heart strings as I read about how Devin felt that he wasn’t a whole person when a mission went upside down. He’s offered a job as a Brotherhood Protector in Fool’s Gold, Colorado which he signs on for as long as they both know that one of them can state that he can’t do the job. Devin’s first job is to protect his sister and his ex-fiancé when someone starts targeting them. This is a great book that covers all the bases of the Brotherhood Protectors. It’s a must have book, I recommend this book and series.
Profile Image for Lisa.
381 reviews1 follower
January 31, 2023
I loved Colorado Free Rein! Elle James’ Brotherhood Protectors series is fabulous! I was heartbroken for both Devin who was injured and trying to find his way, and then offered a job with the Brotherhood Protectors - the perfect place for him; and Mal, his fiancé, who he pushed away because of his injury. I wanted to reach in then the book and tell him to get a grip. Two other awesome favorites in this book were Laurel, Devin’s sister, and Stryker, RJ’s adopted retired working military dog. It’s just a great book and I’m ready to read it again!
Profile Image for Beth Cotter.
372 reviews3 followers
January 31, 2023
This series just keeps getting better.
Devin is back home after he was discharged due to an injury while out in the field. He gave up Mallory after the injury sure that she wouldn't want half a man. He fights hard to stay away from her even though she is fighting just as hard to get him back. Devin joins the Brotherhood Protectors after he wanted to refuse the original offer. The team helps him when Mallory and his sister are in danger. Once again they work their magic so the girl gets her guy.
Profile Image for Sue.
4,378 reviews5 followers
January 27, 2023
A great suspense read. Devin is injured and a friend killed on his last and final mission where he was medically dischared. He's at a loss as what to do with his life, so he returns home to Fools Gold. Mallory was once engaged to Devin before he went in the military, but after he was injured he didn't connect with her. When someone from his past mission comes back to haunt him, things take a turn. Excellent read. HEA.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews

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