Their Unlikely Protector: An Uplifting Inspirational Romance

by Meghann Whistler

To give two little boys a home… She must take a chance on forgiveness.

The last person Valerie Williams expects to rescue her and her toddler twin brothers from a fiery blaze is Brett Richardson, her high school nemesis. But with her house burned down, Valerie is forced to stay at the same inn as Brett and work together on the town festival. Now Brett has the chance to make things right, but can Valerie let go of the past to make way for a future together?

From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Romance, Fiction, Contemporary, Christian Romance, Inspirational, Christian

272 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published July 1, 2024

About the author

Meghann Whistler writes sweet Christian romance novels that won't make your grandmother blush.

Her debut novel, Falling for the Innkeeper, was named one of “Six Sensational 2020 Debut Series Romances” by the American Library Association’s Booklist Reader, and was also a finalist for the 2021 Book Buyers Best Award.

Her first indie book, The Billionaire’s Secret, won the 2022 Selah Award for Contemporary Romance, placed second in the romance category of the 2022 Christian Indie Awards, and was a finalist for the 2022 HOLT Medallion.

Before settling down with her rocket scientist husband and raising three rambunctious boys, Meghann earned a B.A. in English from Amherst College and an M.F.A. in creative writing from Emerson College.

She is grateful to be living her dream of writing sweet, hopeful stories that demonstrate the power of love and grace.

Meghann loves to hear from her readers, who can connect with her via:

Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3YkwidJ
Facebook: https://bit.ly/2HZ1tXf
Amazon: https://amzn.to/33rXnio

Reviews

[Meghann Whistler]

🎁💕 AVAILABLE NOW! 💕🎁

Do you love enemies-to-lovers stories? Or opposites attract? How about a dash of forced proximity plus a damsel in distress?

If so, be sure to put Brett & Valerie’s story on your TBR ASAP!

Here’s what you can expect:

💔 A smart and successful heroine with a heartbreaking past
🔥 A courageous hero who won’t let ANYTHING stop him from protecting the people he loves
⚡️Forced proximity that leads to lively banter and crackling chemistry
🧸 Adorable toddler twins who bring light and levity to every scene they’re in
🙏 An uplifting message about leaving the past behind and embracing what lies ahead

Set in a close-knit community on charming Cape Cod, Their Unlikely Protector is a standalone read that will make you laugh, cry and cheer as these two enemies slowly become friends…and more. 😍

[Allyson Anthony · Rating 5 out of 5]

Their Unlikely Protector is a wonderful romantic novel involving enemies-to-lovers, close proximity, and adorable twin toddler boys. I loved the chemistry and banter between Brett and Valerie.
Brett has to decide to start living and if wanting to rebuild his parents' restaurant that burned down is his dream or if he should pursue another dream. Valerie, the guardian of her twin toddler brothers, has to make a huge choice between family and her career. Whistler touches on the subjects of bullying in high school, eating disorders, dyslexia, and family dynamics and naturally weaves in faith elements in this story.
Set in Cape Cod, An Unlikely Protector can be read as a stand-alone.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Lynette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was fortunate to be gifted an early copy of Their Unlikely Protector by the author. I thoroughly enjoyed this heartwarming book about forgiveness and read it in one sitting. This wonderfully written story grabbed my attention from the first page. I loved the enemies to lovers trope, the faith element, the dad jokes, the growth and forgiveness of the characters and their figuring out what’s truly important, the romance, and the adorable twins. I also enjoyed revisiting characters from Meghann Whistler’s previous books. I highly recommend this entertaining book!

I love the new size of the Love Inspired books; I find them easier to read.
Trigger Warnings: touches on eating disorders, death, previous bullying, and dyslexia

[Beth Pugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

The romance between Valerie and Brett is so fun to watch unfold. The characters are wonderfully written with good chemistry and a nice backstory as well. Add in the sweet twins and the story becomes even more adorable! Fans of happily ever after should not miss out on this book!

[Sherry Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Valerie and Brett’s situations together through out the book captured my heart. It had me smiling, tearful, hopeful, surprised, and absolutely loving it from beginning to end!

[Shirley Chapel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this cute story by Meghann Whistler. I thought the characters seemed so real and I felt like they were my friends. The twin boys were absolutely adorable and the author did a wonderful job of taking her readers inside the minds of the three year olds. I even learned about a different way to make grilled cheese sandwiches and my husband loved them. Who knew! This book touched my heart and it had the most beautiful ending. Loved the bonus Newsletter from the author. The book was very uplifting and I’m glad that I read it.

I highly recommend this book to readers of Christian Fiction, Love Inspired Romance and to fans of the Author. This book can be read as a standalone. Their Unlikely Protector is scheduled to be released on 7/23/24.

I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed here in this review are entirely my own.

[Tina Loves To Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Clean Romance. It has been a long time I really loved a Clean Romance, but I loved this book. I have been lately enjoying Romantic Suspense and Dark Romance, but when I read what this book was about I had to give it a try. I am happy I gave it a try because I loved it. The characters touched my heart, and I loved how the characters talked to each other. The twin boys were so cute, and the fact I have twin boys they jumped into my heart. I loved this book from the first page to the last page. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.

[Sheila · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good characters and story line.

[Cathleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just read a wonderful, heartwarming book by Meghann. She is so talented and always makes you feel like the characters are friends in your hometown. Brett and Valerie haven't seen each other in years and meet again under some terrifying circumstances. He saves the day, but can she ever get over the high school drama he was part of. They both discover people do grow up and can change after high school and learning to trust God. She's home to take over guardianship of her twin brothers and he wants to rebuild his parents restaurant. Can they help each other and learn to trust and love. Lots of fun moments with the twins and big decisions to make. I loved this and recommend you get a copy as soon as you can.

[Bailey Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

"To give two little boys a home....she must take a chance on forgiveness."

Their Unlikely Protector is a heartwarming, deep, inspiring, feel good, fantastic, dual pov, hopeful, and faith filled read! This Christian Inspirational Romance is a standalone novel. In addition to hope, love, and selflessness, this book is full of tragedy, heartbreak, and past traumas which surprised me. I am very impressed with the finesse the author used while balancing the heartbreaking and heartwarming moments of this book. I LOVED that her characters incorporated faith into challenging moments while also acknowledging the pain, hurt, and fear in those moments. Some people act as if faith fixes everything, but I believe faith is meant to lead us to God's comforting presence not necessarily "fix" everything. I love that this book showcased this and never acted as if the characters hardships were brought on by their own shortcomings. Overall this book was brimming with empathy, compassionate responses, and people who stepped up doing all they could to help.

I loved the romance in this book! It was slow and steady building overtime. Especially with the characters' history it made since each of them needed consistency in actions and words. Valerie needed to know if Brett's character changed and Brett needed to know if she could forgive him and accept the man he is today. I love that they constantly showed up for each other, had vulnerable conversations, and were able to talk with each other about ways the other person hurt them without casting blame or shame.

I adored the adorable toddler twin brothers Valerie gains custody of! They add a cute and fun element to the story I had to mention!

Overall, I adored this book! I wish I had more space to write about the plot of this book and more story details. For now let's just say fires, hospitals, loss, mental health struggles, etc. may or may not be included. Check trigger warnings before picking up ❤.

[April Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Expect the unexpected!

This was my first novel by the Author and it was well worth the time spent reading.

I absolutely loved the twins; they added such a cute element to the story and were a foundation that Brett and Valerie connected on.

Brett is so different from his young self, yet so down on himself for his mistakes and physical difficulties. Valerie has grown much also from her younger years but is still too cautious and fearful. Together they learn to expect the unexpected and not to jump to conclusions. Their relationship had many ups and downs but, with God’s help, they made it. Their HEA is very sweet and tender. They were great for each other.

This was a clean, wholesome novel that I would recommend to others. I received a complimentary copy and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.

[Christina S · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an absolute joy to read! This book was anything but trite, former enemies are forced back together during a potential tragedy. We see Brett take responsibility for things he has done in the past and make wrongs right in the present. This book touches on many tough topics like abandonment, sickness, death, fear, loss and much more but in a way where the characters are able to be real and share their issues with their community so they can be loved and cared for. A strong faith element gives this book an extra something that we could all stand a little more of! The other two books which feature other characters in the book are equally wonderful. You won't be disappointed with this book unless you have something pressing to do, I read it in less than 24 hours 💖

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read a lot of mysteries and true crime books but occasionally need to read something lighter and THEIR UNLIKELY PROTECTOR fits the bill. There isn't any sexual content and there is no violence. There are times the characters talk about religion, but it is done in a totally casual way and not preachy.
The book hits on some serious issues but it also has some humorous parts as well.
I totally recommend this book. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this story! Meghann Whistler deftly weaves a story of tragedy, resilience, redemption, and hope into the love story of Valerie, an investment banker who’s conversations suddenly put in charge of her twin toddler brothers, and her high school rival, Mr. Bacon Man. (Just kidding! That is a funny nickname though!) Buoyed by the energetic spirits of Dylan and Derrick, this story takes us from tentative allies to friends to lovers and partners. I enjoyed both of their backstories and goals of helping others and extending their family legacies. The auction was an enjoyable plot point as well. Thank you to the author for my ARC; all opinions are mine.

[Melinda Keen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brett’s life was upside down! His restraunt burnt down and he was close to bankrupt! Valarie’s dad died and glue left her two toddler twins to raise! With a job making a lot of money, a promotion in the works, how is she going to raise her toddler brothers??

I love that this story has gods voice in it! I love that it touches on cancer, eating disorders, and other things as well!

This is a book I couldn’t put down!! I literally read it in one sitting!!! ♥️ read it!!!!

[Dcw · Rating 5 out of 5]

This newest book by Meghann Whistler starts in a small Cape Cod type town. In the beginning, both lead characters experience much sadness and numerous set-backs. As in real life, the story stays here for a while with the negative experiences just taking their toll. Brett lost his restaurant and Val, now caretaker for her two very young brothers, lost her home. Eventually, real life must be faced and Valerie and Brett work out their unhappy and emotionally limiting memories of the past. In striving toward a common goal to engage their local town and surrounding area in a charity fundraiser event in a local festival, both found ways to view their character building experiences through their faith and unanticipated support. This is an excellent story of facing fears and turning to a strong faith base and support from family and community.

[Chris Meiser · Rating 5 out of 5]

An awesome & sweet Christian romance! I didn’t want to put it down. Needed to find out what would happen next! I really enjoyed reading this book! I loved it!

[TexasMomma · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just read the sweetest proposal story I've ever read!! 😍
Full review coming soon!

[Jennifer Heckert · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you enjoy enemies-to-lovers and close proximity romances, then "Their Unlikely Protector" by Meghann Whistler is a must-read. It is a beautiful and sweet story that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.

With its well-developed characters, captivating plot, and heartwarming moments, "Their Unlikely Protector" is a novel that will touch your heart and leave a lasting impression. Dive into this story and witness the transformative power of love and forgiveness.

My thanks to the author/publisher for the ARC of this book. I was under no obligation to provide a review, and the thoughts contained herein are my own.

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Their Unlikely Protector is one of the best books I've read in awhile! I love this book, the characters, the setting, and the wonderful dialogue. The twins are so cute! Their nicknames for each other made me smile. I highly recommend this faith based Christian romance. It's definitely hard to put down! 5 stars!

[DevotedToHope · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imagine this: you're building a sandcastle on a sun-drenched beach, a symbol of your faith and the beauty God has created. But a rogue wave crashes down, washing it away. Disappointment stings, but you remember the words whispered on the salty breeze, "For with God nothing shall be impossible." (Luke 1:37). That's the core of Meghann Whistler's Their Unlikely Protector – a heartwarming story about second chances, forgiveness, and rebuilding a life anchored in faith.

Valerie, our protagonist, is our sandcastle. Life's blows have left her guarded, especially towards Brett, a reminder of past hurts that cast long shadows. But Brett, determined to cultivate his own spiritual growth, becomes her unlikely hero, rescuing her and her adorable twin toddlers from a fire. Thrust together by a surprising event, their relationship starts as a smooth pebble on the shore, worn by past experiences yet holding the potential for something precious.

Whistler seamlessly and beautifully integrates faith elements into the narrative. The characters wrestle with questions of purpose and letting go, mirroring the struggles we all face on our faith journeys. Forgiveness isn't always easy, but the book gently nudges you towards the healing power of God's grace, a concept as comforting as the warmth of the sun after a chilly dip in the ocean.

This novel is a delightful page-turner, a demonstration that even the most challenging circumstances can be opportunities to mature in one’s faith and personal relationship with God. You'll find yourself swept away by the banter between Valerie and Brett, playful as the waves lapping at the shore, but with a deeper undercurrent of shared faith. The adorable toddler twins add a sprinkle of sunshine, their innocent trust a reminder of the simple joys God bestows. By the end, you'll be cheering for their happily ever after!

Their Unlikely Protector is a delightful read that will leave you with a warm, fuzzy feeling, like the sand slipping between your toes as you walk into the sunset with renewed faith. Prepare to be swept away by a story of second chances, forgiveness, and love that's as enduring as the ocean tide, a love ultimately rooted in the unwavering love of God.

I received a digital ARC of Their Unlikely Protector from the author and BookSirens. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.

[Melmo2610 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is officially my favorite book by Meghann Whistler! To start with this has probably the most exciting first chapter of any Love Inspired(not including the Love Inspired Suspense series) book I’ve read. The story is completely adorable and I loved it. The ending was so sweet and absolute perfection! Fantastic read!

I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Books by this author are on my always read list. I was really excited to read this novel after reading the blurb. I found it different that in this novel the kids are the woman’s brothers and not her kids. I do not remember reading another book where this is the case so that made this one more interesting. Valerie and Brett have a history that was woven throughout the novel. One of my favorite parts of the book was how Brett interacted with Dylan and Derrick who are Valerie’s twin brothers. This was a heartwarming book. I definitely would recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy from the author. The opinions in this review are my own.

[SARAH TAYLOR · Rating 5 out of 5]

Their Unlikely Protector by Meghann Whistler, What an amazing story with faith and friendship！ This is such a great story from beginning to end, Can Brett Richardson convince Valerie Williams to forgive him and give him a second chance as he saves Valerie and her twin brother's from a house fire! This was such a page turner that will keep you reading and turning the pages to see where this romance is heading! I highly recommend this book You won't be disappointed! I was given a compilatory copy and this is my own honest opinion!

[Tara Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this sweet, emotional heartwarming story full of love, faith, hope, family, forgiveness, healing and second chances. Valerie Williams becomes guardian to her half twin brothers after their dad passes away. She's determined to take care of them. Valerie is dealing with past issues and a eating disorder. Brett Richardson wants to make things right and possibly have a future together. I enjoyed the wonderful characters. Brett is my favorite because he shows compassion towards Valerie and the boys. A must read for sure!! I was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good story! Even though Brett risked his life to save Valerie’s little brother from a house fire, she was slow to trust him. Her emotions regarding Brett ran very high due to a hurtful history during high school. Yet Brett seemed to be a caring and kind man who offered her friendship and help whenever she needed it. He also had a strong faith and seemed very different from the high school boy who wouldn’t stand up for her and protect her from bullies.

Brett and Valerie struggled with their priorities in this novel. It was clear to me that they both valued family and would both like to find love one day, however, for different reasons they each believed that love and family were out of reach for them at the moment. I liked the way they both grew emotionally and in connection with each other throughout this novel.

This book is connected to two other books also set in the same town. Those novels are Falling for the Innkeeper and The Baby’s Christmas Blessing. It was fun to see the couples from the first two books appear in this one. However, you can enjoy Their Unlikely Protector even if you have not read the other stories.

(4.5 stars)

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book!! Valerie is the guardian for her young twin brothers. Brett rescues them from a fire but he is someone she didn’t like in high school. As they work on a project together they realize there’s a lot they didn’t know about each other. Great inspirational read!

[Gwen Chester · Rating 5 out of 5]

Valerie Willams and Brett Richardson had gone to school together 15 years ago back when they were in 10th grade. Brett, his girlfriend and her friends used to tease her terribly because she was so skinny. Little did they know she had an eating disorder. That is why she left in the 10th grade to get help with the problem. Things had changed since then; she had gained more confidence and he had dedicated his life to God.

Valerie was now working in a bank in New York and trying very hard to get a big promotion. Right now, it was between her and one other guy getting the new job. This was not the time to be called home for an emergency, but it could not be helped. Her dad had just been diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. She went home to take care of him and her little twin brothers. His 2nd wife had walked out on them when the babies were very young after giving him full custody. I guess she did not want to be a mother. Her dad had asked her to do two things for him 1. to take care of her little brothers 2. to help with the Cranberry Harvest Festival, he wanted her to handle the silent auction, and she promised him she would do both things. He passed away 3 weeks after his diagnosis. Leaving her and her little brothers, Dylan and Derrick all alone in the house he left her.

One night later she woke to someone yelling fire and smoke was in the house. She rushed to the boy's room but was only able to find Derrick. She could not leave Dylan behind, she had to find him. Someone came rushing up the stairs and she explained about Dylan, he told her to get out of the house that he would find him and get him out. He looked everywhere and could not find him. He was going downstairs to search when he heard a cry coming from the bathroom. Rushing in he found Dylan under the sink and clinging to the pipes. Now the fire was blocking the stairs, so he had to find another way out. The windows were all sealed shut so he was going to break one. He told Dylan to get under the bed to avoid the glass. He punched the window and broke the glass free and them he took Dylan out the window. Thank God they had all gotten out safely. Everyone was taken to the hospital to be checked out. The last person Valerie expects to rescue her and her toddler twin brothers from a fiery blaze is Brett Richardson.

Check out this fantastic book to see what happens next. I loved the book, and you will too.

I got this book from Book Sirens and will be happy to leave my review.

[Christian Shelves · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the things that I've come to associate with Meghann Whistler's books is how brilliantly she writes medical scenes. They are informative yet also enhance and advance the plot. In this case, I learnt about some new conditions and gained deeper empathy for those suffering from them. I love reading her books because there is so much heart behind them, along with some incredible faith-filled scenes. Brett and Valerie shine as characters and Valerie's brothers steal the show with their adorable lines and antics. Not only is this Cape Cod story a delight to read, there are some powerful truths around the effects of bullying, insecurity, and family trauma, and how God can bring healing and restoration through His power.

Alongside the swoony romance, I appreciated the detailed information around the characters' careers and the decisions they had to make. This information makes Brett and Valerie more well-rounded, and it allows readers to feel like they're connecting with colleagues and friends. I am so grateful for all of the prayers interspersed throughout the book and how they capture the essence of what the characters need most from God. If you're looking for a touching story filled with ups and downs, but also hope and generosity, Their Unlikely Protector is an excellent choice for readers who want to see how God can take the broken pieces of our hearts and turn them into something whole.

Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...

[Kgsi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness, I LOVED this story! The author has a way of grabbing one’s attention and heart right from the start. I felt an affinity for each other the characters, even knowing how there were past hurts to be mended. I cared greatly for their pain and struggles with the many layers for both Brett and Valerie, and cheered for their growth, laughed at the lighthearted parts and was so satisfied as Brett and Valerie found their way to each other. I enjoy the enemies to lovers theme - and Meghann crafted this one so beautifully! And the twins are just so adorable! This story just jumps off the pages and I couldn’t put it down. I’ll probably be rereading it again very soon!
The deep faith elements to this novel are also well done - relatable messages that touched my heart in a natural way. And that faith was expressed not only in conversations but in actions as well. I so appreciated Brett’s willingness to listen, his humility in asking forgiveness and how he supported Valerie and the boys in such tangible ways. He didn’t need to rescue Valerie and the boys from the fire to be a real hero, he was one by the way he was present and so caring to those around him.
The ending was great, and as always I appreciated the satisfying epilogue (even though I wasn’t ready for this story to end)! This book is definitely going on my favorites shelf to be read over and over!