Protection for Hire

Protection for Hire #1

by Camy Tang

Tessa Lancaster's skills first earned her a position as an enforcer in her Uncle Teruo's Japanese Mafia gang. Then they landed her in prison for a crime she didn't commit. Now, three months after her release, Tessa's abilities have gained her a job as bodyguard for wealthy socialite Elizabeth St. Amant and her three-year-old son. But there's a problem or two ... or three .... There's Elizabeth's abusive husband whose relentless pursuit goes deeper than mere vengeance. There's Uncle Teruo, who doesn't understand why Tessa's new faith as a Christian prevents her from returning to the yakuza. And then there's Elizabeth's lawyer, Charles Britton, who Tessa doesn't know is the one who ensured that she did maximum time behind bars. Now Tessa and Charles must work together in order to protect their client, while new truths emerge and circumstances spiral to a deadly fever pitch. Factor in both Tessa's and Charles's families and you've got some wild dynamics---and an action-packed, romantic read as Tessa and Charles discover the reality of being made new in Christ.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Suspense, Christian, Romance, Mystery, Contemporary, Romantic Suspense

336 pages, Paperback

First published November 22, 2011

About the author

Camy writes Christian romantic suspense, contemporary romance, and cozy mystery as Camy Tang and Regency romance under her pen name, Camille Elliot. She grew up in Hawaii but now lives in northern California with her engineer husband and rambunctious dog. She graduated from Stanford University in psychology with a focus on biology, but for nine years she worked as a biologist researcher. Then God guided her path in a completely different direction and now she’s writing full time, using her original psychology degree as she creates the characters in her novels. In her free time, she’s a staff worker for her church youth group and leads one of her church’s Sunday worship teams. She also loves to knit, spin wool into yarn, and is training to (very slowly) run a marathon.

Reviews

[Loraine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once again, Camy Tang has penned a romantic suspense novel that is action packed. With interesting characters and page turning action, this book kept my attention from start to finish. It is obvious that Camy Tang has done her research on gangs and gang rivalry within the California Bay area.

Tessa, the heroine, is grittier than many of Tang's characters and has developed a hard shell from the experiences her early life has led her through. Coming to Christ in prison, though, has softened her heart and changed the entire direction of her life. Yet she still has to contend with family who try to pull her back to her old life and don't understand her new life in Christ. She is determined to fight for her new life. Charles, the hero, sees the changes in Tessa from the person he saw in the Courtroom during her trial. But he fights his attraction due to his job situation and the status he feels he needs in a future life partner. It's only when he turns to his faith that he sees Tessa's value. Tang did an excellent job of exposing the core of her characters underneath their facades.

A great action packed suspense novel full of romance, danger, culture and wonderful characters.

FAVORITE QUOTES: "You have to believe that God had his hand over you despite everything that happened to you...He wanted you to find him, even if that meant you'd only find him in prison. And don't you think that might have been worth it?"

"But your past is past. You can't help it. But you can walk forward in the newness of Christ--in newness of purpose, pleasing Christ."

"I chose a new life but the old one won't let me go."

[Sarita · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story had so much to enjoy. A former mobster trying to create a new future while the past is still trying to pull her back, two unique moms who made me wonder a time or two if people like that really exist, a spoiled older sisters used to things going her way and hints at a love story.

The way the story was written really added to my enjoyment as well as me flying through the pages. There was deeper emotions with Tessa trying to settle in her new world while the old is not letting her forget, but also humor with the family dynamics of Tessa and Charles’ family.

“But your past is past. You can’t help it. But you can walk forward in the newness of Christ — in newness of purpose, pleasing Christ.”

And the suspense and action was written in such a tangible way, that I could see and feel the punches and pain.

For those who prefer the suspense to be front and center with the romance as a smaller side plot, this book will be for you.

I’m looking forward to the second book in the series because there was so much of the story I was not done with yet, as well as a few characters we’ve met I’m hoping will play bigger roles in the next story.

[Jerry (Rebel With a Massive Media Library) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'll be honest: Camy Tang is not one of my favorite writers. Years ago, I attempted to read her book Sushi for One? and was disturbed by the content; it read like a trashy reality show instead of anything Christian. Still, this novel was recommended by my Christian fiction book club, so, I tried it...and I was rather surprised! While there was an unnecessary moment or two--at least, from a male standpoint--I had fun with this story; it had both action and romance.

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read several books by this author and have thoroughly enjoyed them. I enjoy Camy Tang’s style of writing, it is easy to follow and her stories flow with characters that are believable and you can relate to their struggles. However, Protection for Hire Camy Tang takes her writing to a whole new level. If you’ve enjoyed her books Deadly Intent or Formula for Danger this story is even better.

Although I can’t relate with Tessa Lancaster as a former member of the Japanese mob and ex-convict, I can relate with the struggle of trying to live as a new creature in Christ when no one around you believes you can change. I can also relate with Charles Britton who assumes that Tessa has returned to her old like in her Uncle’s business. But he has to reconsider everything he believes as his client, the quirky Elizabeth St. Amant, hires Tessa to be her body guard.

This story has an edge to it that I really enjoyed. Tessa is tough as nails, but she is also extremely vulnerable. She represents what a lot of ex-convicts face, rejection because of her past. Finding a job is difficult and she has to face the pull to go back to work for her uncle and the mafia. She also has to deal with family and friends not taking her conversion seriously. The action is fast paced with tension building in many scenes. However, there is a litter side to the story as well, Elizabeth St. Amant, is a southern belle with a quirkiness that is both refreshing and entertaining.

Lastly, don’t think this is a sweet everything works out in a big happy ending. The author treats this book much like life ending the story with unresolved issues and struggles still to be faced by Tessa. Which works out nicely since since this is book one, I can’t wait to read the next one!

I did receive this book from the author, but was under no obligation to give anything but my honest opinion.

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

This may have been my first read by Camy Tang but it won’t be my last! Well-defined and layered (sometimes hilarious) characters, romance, humor, faith, cultural diversity, and smartly-plotted suspense (with martial arts!) all come together for a truly entertaining and compelling reading experience.

Tessa’s life is complicated, to say the least. It was already complicated before she went to prison while ‘taking one for the team’ for her beloved uncle’s yakuza (Japanese mafia gang). But in prison she decided to follow Jesus and while she knows she’s been made new she’s struggling to adapt to the drastic changes she has made and the uphill battle she faces in a family that doesn’t understand her decision. I really loved Tang’s portrayal of Tessa’s journey. It’s never preachy, but it is an authentic look at what it means to follow Jesus as a new believer whose family is not at all supportive of the transformation – and what being made new in Jesus really means.

Tessa’s and Charles’ families are wonderfully wacky and are sure to leave a smile on your face! Elizabeth is hilarious too, even though her story is sobering and all too common, and there were many moments that I laughed out loud at something one of these characters said or did. Even Tessa and Charles’ meet-cute is hysterical – it’s not every day that … well… you’ll just have to read it for yourself. On top of the humor and heart, this story is also action-packed with a few surprising twists and an intriguing blend of cultures.

Bottom Line: If you love diverse characters, grinning from ear-to-ear, and staying completely immersed in a story’s action and suspense, then you really must go grab a copy of Protection for Hire (and its sequel) today!

(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I purchased for my own collection.)

first appeared on Diversity Between the Pages

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Original post at One More Page

What do you get when you cross the niece of the head of the Japanese mafia with a Southern belle in need of protection and a straight-edge lawyer who hates the said mafia? Tessa Lancaster is the niece of Teruo Ota, the head of the San Francisco yakuza. Left by her dad when she was young and living with a difficult relationship with her mom and sister, she becomes some sort of mercenary to her uncle's mafia, working as an enforcer for her mafia cousins. She was doing fine just like that until she decided to take the fall for her cousin Fred's careless murder of his girlfriend, landing her in prison. Seven years later, Tessa is out, and she's turning over a new leaf, after meeting Christ in prison. But her reputation precedes her that everyone's still afraid of her, making it hard for her to live a normal life. Until she meets Elizabeth St. Amant with her three-year-old son on the run from her husband who's trying to kill her. Elizabeth hires Tessa to be her bodyguard, which would be a fine job if not for Elizabeth's lawyer, Charles Britton. Unbeknownst to Tessa, Charles was the reason why Tessa served extra years in prison, and Charles does not trust her...but he can't deny the attraction that he feels for her. Throw in Tessa's Uncle wanting her to work for him again, her mom, her sister and her new found faith, and...well, God only knows what could happen.

I'm not just saying this because Camy is one of my favorite authors, but really, Protection for Hire was such a fun book. This book is reminiscent of her Sushi series with all the wackiness and hijinks that the characters get into. But because Tessa had such a shady past and a heavy responsibility on her shoulders, there were more risks involved for Tessa. Tessa reminds me a bit of Venus, my favorite Sushi sister, but a bit more vulnerable especially since she's been trying to live her faith. Her vulnerability is what made Tessa so endearing, and I rooted for her from the start up to the end.

The other characters surrounding Tessa were a hoot, too. Camy's characters are one of my favorite things to read in her novels. They always feel so real, and I felt like I could easily be friends with them. In Protection for Hire , I loved Charles' family, especially his mom and his brother! Such a darling family, and I don't care if Charles' mom cooks all the random food. Plus, she was a breath of fresh air from Tessa's annoying (yet, well meaning...most of the time, anyway) mother. As always, there's the heroine's crazy family, which seemed to be a staple in Camy's stories. I thought Tessa's immediate family would be similar to the Sushi sisters' clans, but I was glad that it turned out to be different, and dare I say, more entertaining to read. The Japanese mafia aspect was very interesting too. It was the first time I've read about the yakuza, and while it wasn't really discussed in detail here, I liked the overall mafia/The Godfather-like feel that the story had.

Now, I wouldn't have liked this so much if the plot wasn't as good as the characters. There's lots of action, funny moments and yes, romance, in Protection for Hire , enough to keep me glued to the pages. There were moments of shock, too -- the good kind, the one that made me sigh and smile with delight when it happened. :) There was enough suspense in the story to have me guessing about what exactly were they up against. It almost came to a point where I was a bit overwhelmed with all the plot twists but in the end, I think it still paid off well. The wrap up at the end felt just a teensy bit rushed for me, but I guess it was still in character given Tessa's family.

Protection for Hire is a fun, action-packed and romantic book that will definitely satisfy those who crave for that kind of stuff. If you're wary of the faith aspect of the novel (being that it is a Christian novel), don't worry -- it's never preachy or in-your-face. If you've ever been one who has tried to move on and make up from past mistakes and yet still find yourself under a microscope and slapped with your mistakes on the face over and over again, then you will be able to relate to Tessa. Throw in the a cast of hilarious, gripping plot and good writing, and...well, you have yourself a really awesome book. :)

[Eustacia Tan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A short while ago, I stumbled across Camy Tang’s books. They’re unique because she writes with Asian characters as the protagonists. Needless to say, her latest book Protection for Hire has a lot of unique things about it. What I find most remarkable about this book is the fact that it melds the Yakuza (Japanese mafia) and Christian fiction so well. In fact, I don’t remember ever reading a book quite like it.
Protection for Hire stars Tessa, the niece of the Yakuza head (or oyabun) in LA. A few years ago, while working for her uncle, she took the blame for a murder by her cousin and was sent to jail, where she found Christ. Now, she’s out of jail and trying to make a clean break from her past, when she lands a job as a bodyguard to Elizabeth St. Amant and her son.
To put things simply: I loved this book. It’s easy to read and more than captivating. Tessa is a very likeable character, and I could really identify with her struggles. One of her main problems is trying to get along with her mother and sister, who feel that she has shamed them by going to prison (and working for her uncle). This is something that I can completely identify with (but for different reasons). The way they push her buttons, is so similar to how my family can push my buttons that it’s eerie.
Another thing that I found interesting was how Tessa was compared to Paul. Although this was mentioned only in passing, I still think it’s a very valid reference. Like Paul, Tessa did a lot of harm in her previous life, and when she became a Christian, she also faced a lot of suspicion. Throughout the book, there’re many examples of how she’s discriminated against: from the disbelief of her family to gossip by those she tries to help and the inability to find a proper job. It’s a good reminder of how being a Christian hasn’t changed from the beginning till now, and that there are no excuses to expect to have an easy life.
In short, I highly recommend this book. It funny and action-packed and most importantly, it shows us that no matter what a background, God can create in us a new beginning.

Disclaimer: I got this book free from NetGalley. I was asked to write a review, but all opinions written her are mine.

(first published at http://www.allsortsofbooks.blogspot.c...)

[C.J. Darlington · Rating 4 out of 5]

A refreshingly different romantic suspense novel that doesn't sacrifice the suspense for the romance. I loved how Tang gave us a unique and complicated heroine in Tessa Lancaster. A Christian who struggles with her past in a realistic way. Some of the romance made me smile (I've never quite understood how someone can become incapacitated when a love interest walks into the room!), but it wasn't all completely over the top. All in all, an enjoyable read. I look forward to seeing what Tessa's up to next!

[Jennifer S · Rating 2 out of 5]

Another random selection available via e-loan. Supposedly won some awards for writing from promising new authors. Don't bother.

[John of Canada · Rating 1 out of 5]

I don't know whether I should pat myself on the back for pushing through this dreck and finishing it, or slap myself upside the head for the time I wasted finishing it. I really couldn't buy any of it. Broad brushed, and annoying characters, eye rolling dialogue, for example; 'A flame in his eyes cooled like a gas light dying'...and 'Tessa's eyes were only inches from his, and he saw the fear in them'. A man looked like a carrot, and another man who was 'white and furry like a rabbit. There was a character named Velma Crackenburg. This was all too much for me. I noticed that the majority of readers on GR quite liked this. It must be just me.

[Ladette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Protection for Hire by Camy Tang was really different from the books I am used to reading by her. It is categorized as "general, Christian, fiction" and most of what I have read by her has been "chic-lit." While it was different, Protection for Hire was just as good as her Sushi Series.

Tessa Lancaster, niece of the head of a Japanese mafia gang, is an enforcer with skills that earned her a position in the otherwise "all-guy" mafia. Her position earns her respect (or fear as the case may be), but also a prison sentence that she doesn't deserve when she takes the blame for a murder she didn't commit. While in prison, Tessa turns her life over to Christ and decides to change her ways. Three months after her release, she meets socialite Elizabeth St. Amant while volunteering at a domestic abuse shelter. Elizabeth is running from an abusive husband and hires Tessa to be her bodyguard.

Tessa has several problems to overcome: her Uncle Teruo, who doesn't understand why she can't return to the mafia, Elizabeth's husband, who is relentless in coming after her, even trying to kill her, Alicia her own sister who drives her crazy and is constantly snipping at her and Charles Britton, Elizabeth's lawyer, who is the one who made sure that Tessa served the maximum time behind bars, unbeknownst to Tessa.

Tessa and Charles have to work together to protect Elizabeth and her son and try to get her inheritance back from Elizabeth's husband in the midst of deadly circumstances and hidden truths coming to light.

There is definitely some suspense and a little darkness in this book. It's still a "good read" filled with hope, growth and a budding romance! I can't wait until the second book in the series comes out, especially after the teaser excerpt at the end of this book.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Tessa was just sixteen she began working for her Uncle Teruo's Japanese Mafia gang, so when she takes the fall for someone else's crime and gets seven years in prison, she isn't surprised that people still expect her to be a criminal. Instead, she's a Christian trying to make a fresh start. When she agrees to become a bodyguard for Elizabeth St. Amant, an abused woman whose life is in danger, Tessa finds herself back into her old world...except this time, she's on the right side. Will Tessa be able to stop the people who want Elizabeth dead?

I've read most of Camy Tang's work and enjoyed it. However, this is by far her best book. The action and character development were amazing. As always, the Chinese and Japanese cultures are woven throughout the novel. One of Tang's best writing qualities is her grasp of family dynamics, and this book had one of the best as Tessa forged a relationship with her mother and sister.

Tang did a great job peeling back the layers in her characters, pushing past the superficial and getting to their hearts and motivations....all while out-driving trails and fighting assassins.

Fans of Camy Tang will love this novel. It has a little of everything: culture, romance, action, and family. I look forward to reading the second book in the series!

I received this book in exchange for my review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Lisa Phillips · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trademark Camy Tang - skillfully crafted characters and a compelling plot...but with a martial arts twist!

Tessa used to be an enforcer for her Yakuza (Japanese Mafia) family and one night makes the choice to sacrifice herself and go to jail for one of them.

Seven years later, she's out on parole and looking to change her life since she became a Christian in jail. Protecting an abused woman and her son, trying to deal with her family, negotiating a possible new romance, and trying to convince her Family she won't go back to her old life all leave Tessa reeling--the way a good character should be!

Has good practical elements of Christian life, though not the digging into the Word of God I've found in her other books.

It takes a few pages to get into it, since the opening scenes could have been more suspenseful. However, the way they are now are true to Tang's style. If they had been more suspenseful, truer to mafia life, it would have changed the whole tone of the book.

Don't expect a happily ever after - Tessa's life is WAY to complicated for that! The end will leave you eagerly anticipating the next book.
Provided by netgalley for review

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Protection for Hire is the second book I've read by Camy Tang and while I enjoyed Formula for Danger, I loved Protection for Hire!


I liked reading about Tessa Lancaster (both who she was before she became a Christian and who she is now). I found her character to be realistic - even though she is a new believer in Christ, she still deals with controlling her temper.


I found most of the characters to be likeable (except for the 'bad guys') especially Tessa, Charles, Josh, and Vivian.


I would say Protection for Hire is best suited for mature audiences as some things in this book may not be appropriate for young readers.


The way Protection for Hire ended leaves me wanting to read the next book in the series, especially after reading an excerpt of the next book.


I definitely recommend Protection for Hire! I loved it and if you enjoy suspense/romance books, I think you will too.


*I received a complimentary ARC copy of Protection for Hire from the author for my review. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion, which I have done.*

[Ausjenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was able to read this book via Netgalley. I found this to be a great read. I didn't want to put it down. Tessa is out of prison and use to be a mob enforcer for her uncle in the Japanese Mafia. all she wants is to live her life like Christ would wish away from the mafia. Charles is a lawyer who knows more about her and her trial than she realises and isn't convinced she has changed. Enter Elizabeth St Amant who wants her to be her bodyguard. What I love about the novel is the fact the story is different and it was interesting hearing about the Japanese Mafia. I also loved Tessa's story of trying to change but still keeping her spirit and skills. I have to admit I did like seeing how she could defend herself and those close to her. We also see the interaction between Tessa, her mother, Sister and niece. Charles Mother is also a character who I would love to know. The action is well written. This book deals with second chances, forgiveness, acceptance. For myself I think this is Camy's best book so far and defiantly in my top ten for the year.

[Christie Hagerman · Rating 5 out of 5]

How much does a person’s life change after becoming a Christian? How much SHOULD a person change his life after this decision? Should relationships between the new convert and his friends and family be severed or just altered, and if altered, to what extent? These are all questions that Tessa must answer in Protection for Hire, as she comes out of prison a different person than the criminal who went in. Learning to balance her new beliefs, her new lifestyle, and the old relationships is a constant challenge.

I think anyone who has tried to get a fresh start or break old habits will relate to the heroine in this book. She must change almost everything about herself, including her line of work. This leads to unexpected friendships, danger, and romance. I enjoyed reading about the adventures Tessa faced as she turned a new page in her life, and I found her story both believable and inspirational. I was reminded that God’s plans aren’t always the same as mine, but that He knows where I am and is faithful to take care of me.

[Vicki Hinze · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The unexpected enchants and enthralls in this insightful story of tradition, challenges, redemption and temptation. Camy Tang has penned a winner!"

MORE...

I loved this book and eagerly await the next with these characters. I won't go into detail because I won't spoil the fun for readers, but it was not your typical redemption story. It's not your usual heroine, hero or storyline. Camy Tang brings an exotic touch that is appealing and truly enthralling.

I enjoyed the book so much, I formally endorsed it. Those who know me know that means I had to find something very special about the book. I found many special things in this one, not the least of which was that it gave me the immense pleasure of reading as a reader and forgetting I'm a writer. That's rare. It means I tumbled into the story and forgot to notice structure and plot and characterization and all the other things writers usually notice. What a treat!

[Mimi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Camy Tang has done it again! This book has a different set of characters than one usually sees in Christian fiction. They feel and act like "real" people and have backgrounds one doesn't normally read about or expect to find in Christian fiction. The plot is exciting and suspenseful, it's a real page turner! You get involved in the characters' lives and I guarantee you won't want to put the book down until you've finished reading it. This book is one I would recommend to anyone, even those who aren't regular Christian fiction readers. Great book!

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reread starts 6.19.21 :) p50 Beloved for snappy dialogue .. no filler here !
215 Lawyer Charles eyes are opened to Greer’s agenda.
This is my idea of a REALLY good book!
Still a 5 star book after the 2nd reading.
Am I gushing ? Yes ! :)

[Penny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am in the porcess of reading this book. So far it has been very interesting. I did not realize there is a Japanese mob family.

[Karin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Tessa Lancaster, half Japanes and, former mafia enforcer for her Uncle Teruso in the local Japanese mafia, the yakuza, in San Jose, is out of prison after serving time for someone else's crime in order to protect her uncle. She has cleaned up her act and is trying to go straight, but not only is he pressuring her to return, but she has a reputation. Unable to get a job with a record, she has been volunteering at a shelter where she is hired by a wealthy woman as a bodyguard from her husband. The problem is that she is attracted the the woman's lawyer, Charles Britton. What she doesn't know is that he was the law clerk behind ensuring that she do the maximum sentence for manslaughter.

She is conflicted as she tries to stay in her new Christian faith, steer clear of romantic involvement, deal with family dysfunction and fight off the men who are following both her and her new employer Elizabeth.

This is a fun read, but for those who like Christian fiction.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Protection for Hire by Camy Tang Book 1
A unique and different book. Between the Japanese mafia, Chinese Triad, an abused woman trying to hide with her son from an abusive husband trying to murder her and more . The book is full of action, humor and even a love story between two people who's lives could not be more opposite.

Tessa Lancaster has worked for her Uncle Teruo since she was sixteen. He just happens to be the head of the Japanese mafia in San Francisco. Seven years ago Tessa took a murder rap to protect someone in her family. Three years ago she became a Christian while in prison and three months ago she was released. She is now living with her mother who she was never close with, she can no longer carry weapons and it seems no one wants to hire an ex-con or is it the fact that most people turn white with fear at the name of Tessa Lancaster, the most ruthless mafia enforcer around. How does a woman prove she is different. She still has her temper but her heart has been changed as a Christian only the world won't allow that change.

Charles Britton is a layer who only wants to exceed at his job and become a partner. His mother asks him to help Elizabeth St. Amant, her godchild from Louisiana. Charles agrees and when he meets her he can't believe who Elizabeth has for a bodyguard, the very woman he helped put away for extra years, the ruthless Tessa Lancaster. Only she seems softer than seven years ago and even caring. Charles had thought her beautiful even back than and now it's even harder to keep his eyes off of her.

As Charles & Tessa work together to protect Elizabeth and find out why her husband is trying so hard to kill her, they find an attraction to each other as well. Only Tessa must remind herself that Charles would take anything he learned about her beloved uncle and turn him in, they are from two different worlds. A book worth reading and a series to look forward to.

**Received through NetGalley for review.

[Danica is Booked · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

My Synopsis: Tessa is determined not to go back to her Uncle's mafia gang, but due to her past nobody will hire her. When a rich woman Elizabeth St. Amant asks her to be her bodyguard, Tessa wants to refuse. However, with no other options, she says yes.

But they quickly find out that Elizabeth's old husband wants to do much more than just punish Elizabeth for leaving him. He might have murder on his mind. Tessa finds herself trying to protect Elizabeth and protect her heart against the handsome lawyer Charles. But in a world of secrets, can faith and romance win out?

My Overall Thoughts/Impressions: I haven't read a book by Camy Tang before. I bought this book a year ago, but never got around to reading it. So glad I finally did and not sure why it took so long.

Camy's writing drew me in from the very start. I loved how she developed her characters and the plot. It was perfectly paced. I read a lot of romantic suspense and rarely have I read one that I enjoyed as much as this one.

I loved the idea of writing about a Japanese mafia. Seriously, I was drawn from the get-go. This one comes highly recommended.

So why 4 stars? I guess I'm just picky. This novel was really great, but once again it just missed that little extra something to knock it up to a 5. This book is truly amazing, however.

In Summary: Readers will find Camy Tang's book to be beautifully addicting, humorous, and full of both action and romance. A novel readers won't want to miss.

Warnings/Side-notes: No concerns. I would recommend this book to readers of any age.

The Wrap-up: I adored this book and am looking forward to reading the sequel.

Love,

Danica Page

For more of my reviews, go here

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Protection for Hire: A Novel
I have read a lot of Christian fiction and I can't remember one that reads like Camy Tang's Protection for Hire. It is a cross between Alias and Covert Affairs with an overlay of faith! It takes a gifted author to mix that into a winning combo and Camy has! I can really get caught up into an edgy suspenseful drama like this one. It incorporated an arsenal of human emotions which made the characters seem real and transparent; certainly relatable. Although the prologue was hard hitting, it set the tone for Tessa's transforming faith. I like that Camy didn't "perfect" her faith but allowed us to see the reasoning behind her choices and her realization that she could easily slip into old habits. (Can't we all?)

I appreciated learning about Asian culture including new words, foods and martial arts moves! Everyone has a story and it isn't until we take a closer look into the depth of the character that we can truly appreciate who they are. Life can have an ugly side and we see that in the Mafia underground. It was interesting to me to see the loyalty Tessa displayed - even unto a jail sentence for a crime she didn't commit. Don't know too many who would make that choice willingly! Her character although has a hard edge has a vulnerable side that surfaced frequently.

I could personally relate to the family dynamics between Tessa her sister and mother. There was a wonderful balance of suspense, human emotions and comic relief. I look forward to Book 2 in the series and watching Tessa grow in faith; and kick butt in the process! I would hire her for a bodyguard! PS - Camy, she needs a new car!

[Charity · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is not my first read by Camy. I have read a couple of her LI Suspense books and two of her Sushi series. So I am not unfamiliar with her writing. Still, this book caught me by surprise. Not only is it humorous and funny, but it is also full of mystery, suspense and thought provoking dialogue. I am pretty strict on my books so I did have a couple things I didn't like, but they are preference. Someone else will probably read this and have no problem with it.

Tessa is a bold and direct young lady who sacrificed herself to save her cousin. But he is such a slime, he doesn't even thank her. No, I normally don't use that type of language but this guy deserves it. He is such an proud guy. After Tessa gets out of prison, for a crime she didn't commit, she works at a small job while trying to get a better place to work at. She really wants to do a body-guarding job but the Lord hasn't shown her one yet. The dialogue between her mother and her is hysterical! They are funny and so realistic.

There were a couple things I didn't care for. I am not trying to make a big deal out of these but there are just some things I don't like in a Christian book. And if it was just one or two, I probably wouldn't have mentioned it. But there were several in the book. More than I thought necessary.

This is a good action book that has plenty of adventure. Great characters who jump out at you! Wonderful plot and the humor is the same as always with Camy. If you like a good action book, this is one you will want to pick up.

I received a copy of this book for review purposes. All thoughts are 100% mine. I did not receive any monetary compensation.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to be able to read a copy of this via NetGalley. I have read Camy Tang books before so thought it would be a good read but I have to say I was a little uncertain at the start that I would enjoy the setting of a tough girl with the Japanese Mafia. However, once I got to know the characters I was really rooting for them.

Tessa is a great character, on the outside she is strong and feared by those around her but inside she has many insecurities and when you find out more about her family you realise why she is as she is. On one level this is a suspense story about Tessa trying to protect a woman and her son from an abusive husband, but it is also about second chances and whether someone can really change. Tessa has become a Christian in prison and is trying to lead a better life and not go back to her old lifestyle. This is hard for her; I like the fact that, unlike in some books, she has not changed into a "perfect" Christian overnight, but still struggles with her temper and with relationships with her family. She also struggles to change other people's opinion of her, no one wants to give her a job, can they believe that she is truly reformed? Charles, a lawyer hoping for a partnership, finds it hard to accept that the woman he helped put in prison is not the monster he thought she was and to come to terms with his attraction to her.

Overall this is a good book, a gripping story with some extra depth because of the issues it raises. I look forward to reading the sequel.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Protection For Hire follows the story of Tessa Lancaster, former enforcer and niece to the Japanese mafia's big boss who, after going to prison for a crime she didn't commit,has come out with a new found faith and set of morals, hoping for a second chance. Like the cartoon characters with a devil and an angel on opposite shoulders, Tessa can either take the easy option and go back to the fold, accepting her uncle's job offer in the Mafia, or listen to her heart and try to find a respectable job and lifestyle.

It's a fast-paced thriller with a hint of romance and a generous dose of girl-power ! The supporting cast of characters are interesting and I'm hoping they will be further developed in the following books in the series. The opening excerpts of book 2, included at the end of the first tome, promise another soul-searching and adrenalin-fuelled novel.

Reading this back to back with Camy Tang's Sushi For One?, I couldn't help but draw a lot of parallels between them. They both have sporty, tomboyish, tough as nails on the outside but vulnerable underneath, female lead characters and both offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of Japanese and Chinese culture. While being categorised as Christian literature, both novels offer stories that, while certainly having a strong message of faith, deliver it in such a way that it will not be offputting to non-believers. Camy gives you food for thought, she doesn't ram it down your throat !

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Protection for Hire is a romantic, action packed novel, that even has a slight mystery to it. I loved reading this book, it was enjoyable to the last page! I hated when I had to put this book down and was quick to hurry back to it. The story had many twists, which made it all the more enjoyable, because I was never sure who was behind it all.

When Tessa chose to take the blame for a murder she had nothing to do with, she went to prison for the maximum amount of time. This however was a blessing in disguise, because while in prison she accepted Jesus as her Savior and this turned her life around. She wants to get out of the family business and live her life right. Now she only has to find a job...with a criminal record and a reputation that strikes fear in most people, that shouldn't be too hard, right?

Protection for Hire is a great read. I LOVED it and am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. I highly recommend this book.

***I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.***

[Krismar Ramker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly Recommended
Filled with suspense, intrigue, romance, and a Christian theme, Camy Tang's Protection for Hire hits all the right notes. Tang's protagonist Tessa is a strong, independent young woman. She has a sordid past but is working toward being a better person, a faithful Christian. As a bodyguard, Tessa becomes immersed in the life and mystery of her client Elizabeth. These elements create a certain depth to the storyline multiplied by many surprise turns. Filled with interesting, yet humanly flawed characters, Protection for Hire provides the reader with a worthy read. Readers will delight to know this book is the first in a new series by Tang. Tessa will be back! Note: Tang's use of limited violence is appropriately handled and is a valuable part of creating realism in the characters and storyline.

[Catherine Yang · Rating 5 out of 5]

At the beginning of the book, I had difficulties being interested in the book but after a couple of pages, I became involved in the characters' lives and could not put it down. The book almost made me late for work.

Camy Tang has once again managed to write a book which can come alive for its readers and which lets the readers become so invested in the characters. This book could even become a movie or TV show.

I cannot wait for the 2nd book in the Protection for Hire series to find out what is next in Tessa Lancaster's journey.