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Green Mountain Guardians #3
Mountain Defender
I thought I’d come to terms with my solitary existence.
Most days, I even told myself I preferred it.
After all, the dogs at my shelter didn’t ask questions about my appearance. They didn’t stare at my scars. They didn’t make me feel ugly.
Then I met Gage. He came to the shelter to adopt a dog, but even after that, he kept returning. Was he just coming to help, like he claimed? Or could I dare hope he wanted to spend time with me?
Would he? Handsome, brave, heroic Gage, who could have any woman he wanted? Could he possibly see me as more than just the quiet, reclusive woman who ran the dog rescue outside town? More than the scarred woman everyone else looked away from?
I liked Rory from the first time I met her.
How could I not? She was caring. Smart. Beautiful. Even though I knew it couldn’t go anywhere, it didn’t stop me from wanting to spend time with her.
Friends was enough, I told myself over and over. It was all I could offer. It was all my wounded self-esteem would allow me.
Until I found her unconscious and injured in the woods, with no memory of how she got there. Until I held her in my arms and realized I’d do anything to protect her. Until I realized just being friends wasn’t enough.
But first, I need to make sure she’s safe. That the person who hurt her is caught. And I’ll draw on all the skills I learned in the Special Forces, along with the help of my Green Mountain Guardians teammates, to make sure no one hurts her again.
Mountain Defender is the third book in the Green Mountain Guardians series. It has a protective wounded warrior hero, a heroine with her own scars, a team of Special Ops veterans, action and danger, forced proximity, and plenty of sweet and steamy moments, all set in small-town Vermont. No cliffhangers and a happily-ever-after guaranteed!
(Can be read as a standalone!)
Most days, I even told myself I preferred it.
After all, the dogs at my shelter didn’t ask questions about my appearance. They didn’t stare at my scars. They didn’t make me feel ugly.
Then I met Gage. He came to the shelter to adopt a dog, but even after that, he kept returning. Was he just coming to help, like he claimed? Or could I dare hope he wanted to spend time with me?
Would he? Handsome, brave, heroic Gage, who could have any woman he wanted? Could he possibly see me as more than just the quiet, reclusive woman who ran the dog rescue outside town? More than the scarred woman everyone else looked away from?
I liked Rory from the first time I met her.
How could I not? She was caring. Smart. Beautiful. Even though I knew it couldn’t go anywhere, it didn’t stop me from wanting to spend time with her.
Friends was enough, I told myself over and over. It was all I could offer. It was all my wounded self-esteem would allow me.
Until I found her unconscious and injured in the woods, with no memory of how she got there. Until I held her in my arms and realized I’d do anything to protect her. Until I realized just being friends wasn’t enough.
But first, I need to make sure she’s safe. That the person who hurt her is caught. And I’ll draw on all the skills I learned in the Special Forces, along with the help of my Green Mountain Guardians teammates, to make sure no one hurts her again.
Mountain Defender is the third book in the Green Mountain Guardians series. It has a protective wounded warrior hero, a heroine with her own scars, a team of Special Ops veterans, action and danger, forced proximity, and plenty of sweet and steamy moments, all set in small-town Vermont. No cliffhangers and a happily-ever-after guaranteed!
(Can be read as a standalone!)
289 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 10, 2025
155 people are currently reading
32 people want to read
About the author
Gia Cobie
40 books148 followersGia Cobie is a librarian and author living in upstate New York. In her spare time, Gia enjoys reading and spending time in the Adirondacks. She loves romantic suspense and paranormal romance, and also has a weakness for reality romance shows, wine, and buying way too many books!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
May 29, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ out of 5
🌶🌶 out of 5
🐶 Dog Rescue FMC (36) x Ex-Military MMC (38)
❤️🩹 Scarred FMC/Amputee MMC
🫂 Forced Proximity
💝 Comfort/Healing
🧁Protective Cinnamon Roll MMC
❤️🔥 Slow Burn
Review
This military, small town romance hit me in all the right spots! With just the right amount of suspense, we are treated to a lovely, self conscious but pure hearted FMC ( Rory) and a strong but shy, kind hearted MMC (Gage). Both have physical scars but also emotional traumas and the circumstances of each of their backstories are compelling and touching. I felt a great sensitivity for Rory especially, me being shy like her. She doesn't believe such a handsome and sweet guy like Gage would want anything beyond friendship with her...but similarly he, is also self conscious of appearing less than a whole man with her since he lost a foot in a flight crash (he was a Night Stalker for the Army).
So there's this adorable and heart clenching dynamic of them both being worried about their scars and just nervous if the other likes them as much. The suspense comes when Rory is attacked and Gage steps in to help and protect her, along with his military buddies and their security business. In between them.finding how who attacked her and why, we have their burgeoning love and it unfolds just so beautifully. And huge props to the gentle spice scenes! I love scenes handled this way, with emotional care, a gentler manner of talking to one another, them being ok with revaing their scars etc.
I am smitten with Gage, he's so attentive, patient, doesn't push with s3x, respectful, and just adorable with his soft looks and gentle touches. I need me a Gage! A very easy reccomendation for this stellar couple!
🌶🌶 out of 5
🐶 Dog Rescue FMC (36) x Ex-Military MMC (38)
❤️🩹 Scarred FMC/Amputee MMC
🫂 Forced Proximity
💝 Comfort/Healing
🧁Protective Cinnamon Roll MMC
❤️🔥 Slow Burn
Review
This military, small town romance hit me in all the right spots! With just the right amount of suspense, we are treated to a lovely, self conscious but pure hearted FMC ( Rory) and a strong but shy, kind hearted MMC (Gage). Both have physical scars but also emotional traumas and the circumstances of each of their backstories are compelling and touching. I felt a great sensitivity for Rory especially, me being shy like her. She doesn't believe such a handsome and sweet guy like Gage would want anything beyond friendship with her...but similarly he, is also self conscious of appearing less than a whole man with her since he lost a foot in a flight crash (he was a Night Stalker for the Army).
So there's this adorable and heart clenching dynamic of them both being worried about their scars and just nervous if the other likes them as much. The suspense comes when Rory is attacked and Gage steps in to help and protect her, along with his military buddies and their security business. In between them.finding how who attacked her and why, we have their burgeoning love and it unfolds just so beautifully. And huge props to the gentle spice scenes! I love scenes handled this way, with emotional care, a gentler manner of talking to one another, them being ok with revaing their scars etc.
I am smitten with Gage, he's so attentive, patient, doesn't push with s3x, respectful, and just adorable with his soft looks and gentle touches. I need me a Gage! A very easy reccomendation for this stellar couple!
June 17, 2025
ꍏꋪꏳ ꋪꏂ꒦ꀤꏂꅐ
3 Defender Stars
This was my first read by the author and I enjoyed it.
Both main characters had insecurities but for each other they worked through them.
The heroine didn't catch a break in this one, but I also felt that it was a bit long and everything felt rushed towards the end.
3 Defender Stars
This was my first read by the author and I enjoyed it.
Both main characters had insecurities but for each other they worked through them.
The heroine didn't catch a break in this one, but I also felt that it was a bit long and everything felt rushed towards the end.
June 10, 2025
Gage and Aurora
This is the third book in the Green Mountain Guardians series. Gia Cobie has done a great job bringing forth the emotions between Gage and Aurora, aka Rori. They have had feelings for one another for months but were hesitant to say anything. They both feel like no one would want to be with them for different reasons. When Rori is attacked, Gage goes into protector mode, insisting that Rori stay at the Green Mountain Guardian property until they find out who is trying to hurt her. The more time they spend together, the deeper their feelings get. Trouble comes in the most unexpected way, leaving the team scrambling to save her. Time is of the essence. Will Gage and Aurora get the HEA they deserve? Get this book ASAP and find out. Sorry, no spoilers.
This is the third book in the Green Mountain Guardians series. Gia Cobie has done a great job bringing forth the emotions between Gage and Aurora, aka Rori. They have had feelings for one another for months but were hesitant to say anything. They both feel like no one would want to be with them for different reasons. When Rori is attacked, Gage goes into protector mode, insisting that Rori stay at the Green Mountain Guardian property until they find out who is trying to hurt her. The more time they spend together, the deeper their feelings get. Trouble comes in the most unexpected way, leaving the team scrambling to save her. Time is of the essence. Will Gage and Aurora get the HEA they deserve? Get this book ASAP and find out. Sorry, no spoilers.
June 5, 2025
4 Star Review Mountain Defender (Green Mountain Guardians #3) by Gia Cobie
Gia Cobie is a relatively new author to me but what I have read, I really enjoyed.
This was at times an emotional read. Well written I was invested in Rory and Gage’s story from the first chapter.
The friendship that blossomed between them was heartwarming.
However, when Rory is found unconscious with no memory in the woods, all bets are off.
Gage is determined to protect her, no matter the cost. Calling on his
Green Mountain Guardians teammates, to help him he will not stop as he investigates who hurt her.
I loved their journey as they moved from friends to lovers and was cheering them on to get their happily ever after.
Gia Cobie is a relatively new author to me but what I have read, I really enjoyed.
This was at times an emotional read. Well written I was invested in Rory and Gage’s story from the first chapter.
The friendship that blossomed between them was heartwarming.
However, when Rory is found unconscious with no memory in the woods, all bets are off.
Gage is determined to protect her, no matter the cost. Calling on his
Green Mountain Guardians teammates, to help him he will not stop as he investigates who hurt her.
I loved their journey as they moved from friends to lovers and was cheering them on to get their happily ever after.
June 2, 2025
A world where emotional scars run deep, physical wounds are still healing, and love blooms in the most unexpected ways. Their slow journey toward love is punctuated with sizzling moments of passion that feel both earned and electric, balancing the book’s emotional weight with steamy, satisfying tension. A must-read for those who believe in second chances, the healing power of love, and the comfort of a loyal dog by your side.
May 30, 2025
Rory and Gage's story is the third book in the Green Mountain Guardians series. You can enjoy it as a standalone but it is connected to the other books in the series and is set in Elle James Brotherhood Protectors World. I loved Rory and Gage's story. It's a friends to lovers romantic suspense. They're both self-conscious about their scars. Gage has been helping Rory out at her dog Shelter by fixing things. When Gage finds Rory after someone tried to kill her, he wants to protector her and keep her safe. With the help of the Green Mountain Guardians they try to get to the bottom of who is behind the threat. They story is a steamy, sweet romance. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 3, 2025
A touching story about a girl who is scarred, literally, and an ex army veteran who is mentally scarred. Rory runs a shelter for dogs, which is how she meets Gage after he adopts a dog. They form an unbreakable bond which grows deeper when Rory’s life becomes threatened. Another great read from Gia Cobie.
August 25, 2025
Gia Cobie has become a favorite author of mine, for sure. If you're looking for small town suspense with sweet romance and no contrived drama, I highly recommend giving this author a chance. I would definitely recommend starting with the Blade and Arrow series, but really, you can jump in anywhere. The only caveat is that since it's a small town and a lot of the characters are friends/acquaintances, you'll know who ended up together if you read out of order.
With that said, this was really enjoyable. I loved how Gage and Rory both worked through their insecurities together. I'm a huugggeee fan of proposals and this one was just 🥹😍.
With that said, this was really enjoyable. I loved how Gage and Rory both worked through their insecurities together. I'm a huugggeee fan of proposals and this one was just 🥹😍.
May 27, 2025
Mountain Defender is the third book in Gia Cobie's Green Mountain Guardians series. That being said all of her books can be read as standalones but the richness of her books is enhanced by reading in order. This book is an emotionally filled action packed rollercoaster ride that entices the reader. This author's forte is her characters. The connection between primary and secondary characters is intense and succinct made stronger by the found family they create. This is a slow burn, close proximity, alpha protector story with two trauma scarred individuals who are afraid to trust. Gage and Rory's story will grab you by the heart from page one to the last page and you will not be able to pit it down. The story about the dogs and the rescue and how they heal people is perfect for this book. Job well done.
May 28, 2025
This romance story was a very refreshing read. The male character Gage has deep self-esteem issues, which have prevented him from dating for years. Then he finds himself attracted to Rory, who also suffers from years of her own self-esteem issues. Seeing a strong male character being so vulnerable and raw with the woman he's falling in love with was amazing. Their connection is so much deeper because of their willingness to be so open and honest about their vulnerability. Beautiful love story full of romance and suspense like all great Gia Cobie books are! I received an ARC copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 29, 2025
Mountain Defender is definitely a must read the storyline is intense and full of twists and turns characters that are interesting and likeable with emotional baggage that must of us can relate to sprinkle in the sweet thrill of new love and happiness with just that hint of naughtiness to balance and keep thing's interesting. With a colorful core group of characters that are featured throughout the entire series, creating a strong support system and a family environment .
I received a advance reader's copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a advance reader's copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 1, 2025
I would like to read this book again. Unexpected plots. The way their scars have defined them and made them hide away from living fully. Gaining courage to expose their perceived shortcomings the more they are together.
May 9, 2025
Don't you just love it when you find an author who's stories just click for you? When I first read a book by Gia things just fell into place, she's writes about my kind of heroes; strong and overprotective yet sweet and with a heart of gold. Willing to do anything for the women they fall for, women who aren't all daisies either. And with book 3 in the Green Mountain Defender series we get it yet again.
Rory's moved to the little town of Bliss after an accident that left her scarred. She wanted to get away from it all and start a new life where people didn't know her. She's the owner of a dog shelter hoping to find new lovely families for them. It's also where she meets Gage whom she's developped feelings for but is afraid to show anything because she thinks he's not into her.
She couldn't be more wrong.. Gage is the kind of man you want in your life, sweet, shy and wanting to help wherever he can. He's ex-Special Forces and is now part of the Green Mountain Defenders team and has been coming to Rory's shelter to help out with the dogs and do small repair jobs. He's been attracted to her from the beginning but just like her, he thinks she's not into him.
When one evening Rory is attacked and he finds her in the woods hurt, scared and not knowing what happened, he dives into protective mode. It doesn't just stay with one attack so he convinces her to move into one of the cabins on the GMG compound. Together with the team they set out to find out who's behind all the attacks and wants to hurt Rory so badly.
This book was a nice combo of suspense and romance. It was so touching to see both Rory and Gage open up to eachother, to be vulnerable and support each other through their insecurities. The feelings they have for each other are quickly turning deep. On the other hand there's the suspense, someone is out to hurt Rory and the attacks just keep on coming. And just when you think it's all over, Gia gives the story another twist that makes you want to turn the pages faster just to get to the end.
I'm one of the lucky ones to be on Gia's beta readers team for which I'm super grateful. So I can wholeheartedly say; if you like a great combo of suspense and romance than this book is for you. While Mountain Defender can be read as a standalone, you'd be selling yourself short by not reading the whole series. I can't wait to find out who'll be the next one to get his happy ending.
Rory's moved to the little town of Bliss after an accident that left her scarred. She wanted to get away from it all and start a new life where people didn't know her. She's the owner of a dog shelter hoping to find new lovely families for them. It's also where she meets Gage whom she's developped feelings for but is afraid to show anything because she thinks he's not into her.
She couldn't be more wrong.. Gage is the kind of man you want in your life, sweet, shy and wanting to help wherever he can. He's ex-Special Forces and is now part of the Green Mountain Defenders team and has been coming to Rory's shelter to help out with the dogs and do small repair jobs. He's been attracted to her from the beginning but just like her, he thinks she's not into him.
When one evening Rory is attacked and he finds her in the woods hurt, scared and not knowing what happened, he dives into protective mode. It doesn't just stay with one attack so he convinces her to move into one of the cabins on the GMG compound. Together with the team they set out to find out who's behind all the attacks and wants to hurt Rory so badly.
This book was a nice combo of suspense and romance. It was so touching to see both Rory and Gage open up to eachother, to be vulnerable and support each other through their insecurities. The feelings they have for each other are quickly turning deep. On the other hand there's the suspense, someone is out to hurt Rory and the attacks just keep on coming. And just when you think it's all over, Gia gives the story another twist that makes you want to turn the pages faster just to get to the end.
I'm one of the lucky ones to be on Gia's beta readers team for which I'm super grateful. So I can wholeheartedly say; if you like a great combo of suspense and romance than this book is for you. While Mountain Defender can be read as a standalone, you'd be selling yourself short by not reading the whole series. I can't wait to find out who'll be the next one to get his happy ending.
May 11, 2025
Gia Cobie delivers another heart-tugging, pulse-quickening story in "Mountain Defender", the third installment in her Green Mountain Guardians series. This book is a beautiful blend of emotional healing, slow-burn romance, and suspense, all wrapped in the comforting charm of small-town Vermont.
Rory is a heroine you instantly root for—quiet, reclusive, and resilient despite the physical and emotional scars she carries. Her bond with the dogs she rescues is heartfelt, and her journey from guarded solitude to tentative hope is written with sensitivity and strength. Gage, the wounded warrior with a protector’s heart, is the perfect match: patient, strong, and respectful of Rory’s boundaries, even as his own emotional wounds complicate their connection.
The chemistry between Rory and Gage simmers with intensity but never feels rushed. Their relationship develops organically, building on mutual trust, vulnerability, and shared trauma. When danger strikes and Rory’s life is threatened, Gage’s fierce protective instincts—and his past as a Special Forces operative—kick the story into high gear. The suspense adds a gripping layer that elevates the emotional stakes without overshadowing the romance.
Cobie excels at portraying emotionally complex characters and meaningful connections—not just between the leads but also with the recurring Guardians team, who continue to be a standout part of the series. Fans of protective heroes, forced proximity, and scarred-but-strong heroines will find a lot to love here.
"Mountain Defender" is a tender yet thrilling romance that proves love isn’t about perfection—it’s about healing, trust, and finding someone who sees all of you, scars and all. Looking forward to the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Rory is a heroine you instantly root for—quiet, reclusive, and resilient despite the physical and emotional scars she carries. Her bond with the dogs she rescues is heartfelt, and her journey from guarded solitude to tentative hope is written with sensitivity and strength. Gage, the wounded warrior with a protector’s heart, is the perfect match: patient, strong, and respectful of Rory’s boundaries, even as his own emotional wounds complicate their connection.
The chemistry between Rory and Gage simmers with intensity but never feels rushed. Their relationship develops organically, building on mutual trust, vulnerability, and shared trauma. When danger strikes and Rory’s life is threatened, Gage’s fierce protective instincts—and his past as a Special Forces operative—kick the story into high gear. The suspense adds a gripping layer that elevates the emotional stakes without overshadowing the romance.
Cobie excels at portraying emotionally complex characters and meaningful connections—not just between the leads but also with the recurring Guardians team, who continue to be a standout part of the series. Fans of protective heroes, forced proximity, and scarred-but-strong heroines will find a lot to love here.
"Mountain Defender" is a tender yet thrilling romance that proves love isn’t about perfection—it’s about healing, trust, and finding someone who sees all of you, scars and all. Looking forward to the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Read
May 28, 2025These two wonderful people has been through more they anyone should have. Through their scares mentally and physical they have shown each other that they can conquer it as long as they are together.
May 25, 2025
Gia melts you with Gage & Rory's venerabilities. The urge to fold them both in hugs is huge. How many hits can a person take, & just when you think finally, Gia hits you again. The dogs steal your heart being so adorable. The team camaraderie, support, & love shines through at so many points. The sweet & steamy love, oh boy! Beautiful!
May 25, 2025
Really liked this story, very happy it had animals. Who doesn't like dogs. I also really liked Rory and Gage's characters. The mystery and suspense along with the chemistry between the two was really on point. Gia's stories just keep getting better and I can not wait to read what is coming next.
May 12, 2025
GC is killing it with these new releases! I was lucky enough to beta read Mountain Defender back in March and it immediately became my favourite GC book. There’s something so beautifully sweet about Gage and Rory, and how they both see themselves as ‘less than’ because of their physical differences. Rereading the ARC version was like seeing this extra layer to their personalities and their romance. Gage pretty much meets Rory, for six months still believes that he will never date, and doesn’t realise that all through this, he’s made Rory his number one priority. This man is down bad!! As soon as Rory is in trouble, it’s like the blinders are off and he realises that he’s totally in love with her and he will do just about anything to keep her safe. As for Rory? One of my fave GC FMCs of all time. She’s a bit shy, and cautious of people because of her scars, but she has the biggest heart and would do anything for anyone if it meant helping them. And the suspense? It felt like it was coming from all angles. The last little twist took me by surprise! And the epilogue had me in a puddle of goo. So sweet!
Thank you Gia Cobie for the ARC. This review is voluntary and honest.
Thank you Gia Cobie for the ARC. This review is voluntary and honest.
May 18, 2025
Another good book by Gia Cobie. If you haven’t tried her she’s a must read in my opinion. This is my first one of her Green Mountain series so I need to catch up on them. The story of Rory and Gage is mysterious, sweet and sexy and brings in dogs who add fun to the story. In all this book has a little of everything to keep it interesting and make it a very enjoyable story.
May 18, 2025
This was such a sweet storyline of two wounded spirits who are brave enough to trust each other with so much more than just their hearts! This is a great read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 16, 2025
Rory loves dogs and rescues as many as possible. When she was younger she was in a boating accident that left more than just scars on her body. Gage a former Night Stalker has issues of his own that he hasn't dealt with. For some reason someone wants her dead and it's up to Gage to keep her alive. Two strong people who fate has put together. Can they stay alive long enough to let their feelings grow. I love how Gia's stories flow together seamlessly. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 8, 2025
This book is a rollercoaster of emotions. Gage and Rory both have PTSD and nightmares to contend with. Unlikely sources come for Rory and Gage that s determined to protect her. HEA.
May 4, 2025
This beautiful story about two souls who think they are not good enough, to broken to be worthy of someone until a threat brings them Closer. Until they hope for more, and finally reveal their scars. But the danger is not over and it takes all of them to figure it out.
I couldn’t put it down and the love and empathy it brings are fantastic.
I couldn’t put it down and the love and empathy it brings are fantastic.
May 5, 2025
This is the third installment in Gia Cobies Green Mountain Guardians series. I really liked this story. It had enough suspense to keep me engaged and the romance was swoon-worthy
Spice:2
Rating: 4
Tropes: friends to lovers, protector
Spice:2
Rating: 4
Tropes: friends to lovers, protector
June 8, 2025
Mountain Defender is an exciting, slow-burn, friends to lovers, emotional read.
Rory is self-conscious of her scars, and hides away at her dog rescue, which is how she meets Gage when he adopts a dog.
These two have an instant connection, and become fast friends.
But when Rory is hurt? Gage drops everything to keep her safe.
I loved the slow-burn build up of this book, I really love this couple and could not get enough of this book!
Rory is self-conscious of her scars, and hides away at her dog rescue, which is how she meets Gage when he adopts a dog.
These two have an instant connection, and become fast friends.
But when Rory is hurt? Gage drops everything to keep her safe.
I loved the slow-burn build up of this book, I really love this couple and could not get enough of this book!
June 10, 2025
Amazon
Rory and Gage have struck up a friendship. He comes around her rescue shelter, and they've bonded. She has more than friendly feelings for Gage, but knows he doesn't feel the same. Women with scars like hers don't appeal to gorgeous, sweet men like him. Right? Or wrong, because Gage sees the beauty (inside and out) that Rory has, and he has the same feelings. If only the two would just get on the same page.
Since Gage was wounded in the military, he's developed insecurities that Rory is obviously unaware of. But when she's hurt, his protective instincts flare up and he shoves those insecurities deep down. Now the only thing he can think of is keeping Rory safe and finding the person who did this to her. All the close proximity though is doing things to his restraint and he can't keep his feelings a secret any longer. If they get out of this alive, this friendship turned more is going to be the best thing to ever happen to either of them.
Two scarred people finding love with each other - I honestly can't think of a better basis for a love story. Gage and Rory's romance is beautiful and heartfelt, and I love how they fell in love - slowly, naturally, but not without obstacles in their path. Gage's team is awesome and I definitely plan on reading the 2 stories before this one, and all the upcoming ones now.
ARC provided by The Author Agency for an honest review.
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June 11, 2025
Rory and Gage are two characters I won’t soon forget. Both have endured so much pain and loss in their lives. The physical and mental scars have left them both feeling uncomfortable in their own skin and far too vulnerable. They both have decided that love and relationships other than friendship are not part of their future. Who would want someone with their scars and emotional baggage? Though they are each very attracted to the other, neither Gage nor Rory is willing to act on it. Since he came to her dog shelter six months ago to find a dog to adopt, Gage has shown up weekly to help Rory with repairs, maintenance and caring for the dogs. They have become friends and have even shared meals, but neither have revealed their scars or how they got them. They have both friend zoned each other, despite wishing for something more and being unable to stop thinking about each other.
Everything changes the day Rory is attacked and left for dead in the woods on her parcel of land. As soon as he finds her, hurt, scared and unable to remember what had happened, all of Gage’s protective instincts and skills come into play. With the help of his friends at the Green Mountain Guardians, a security firm, Gage becomes resolute and super focused on keeping Rory safe and as close to him as possible. The close proximity as well as her need for solace and reassurance leads them to finally taking a step beyond friendship. Unfortunately, someone seems determined to take her from him permanently. Their story is poignant, resonant and perceptive, with danger and suspense added to make it even more enthralling.
My heart went out to Rory and Gabe for everything they have been through. Admiration, not pity is my foremost emotion in regard to these two characters. They both found a way to keep moving forward and to help others in need, both humans and animals. They found the courage to let the other in, to reveal their scars, (both physical and mental), and to reach for something they thought was lost to them, a happily ever after. Love healed them both and they were more than willing to fight to keep it. I loved their great group of friends who rallied to support and protect Rory and Gage. The dogs also found their way into my heart as they interacted with Gabe and Rory.
This book was an excellent read and has my full recommendation.
Everything changes the day Rory is attacked and left for dead in the woods on her parcel of land. As soon as he finds her, hurt, scared and unable to remember what had happened, all of Gage’s protective instincts and skills come into play. With the help of his friends at the Green Mountain Guardians, a security firm, Gage becomes resolute and super focused on keeping Rory safe and as close to him as possible. The close proximity as well as her need for solace and reassurance leads them to finally taking a step beyond friendship. Unfortunately, someone seems determined to take her from him permanently. Their story is poignant, resonant and perceptive, with danger and suspense added to make it even more enthralling.
My heart went out to Rory and Gabe for everything they have been through. Admiration, not pity is my foremost emotion in regard to these two characters. They both found a way to keep moving forward and to help others in need, both humans and animals. They found the courage to let the other in, to reveal their scars, (both physical and mental), and to reach for something they thought was lost to them, a happily ever after. Love healed them both and they were more than willing to fight to keep it. I loved their great group of friends who rallied to support and protect Rory and Gage. The dogs also found their way into my heart as they interacted with Gabe and Rory.
This book was an excellent read and has my full recommendation.
June 5, 2025
This small-town, military love story resonated with me at just the right time! We meet a delightful, self-aware, but genuine FMC (Rory) and a strong, yet shy, compassionate MMC (Gage) with just the right hint of tension. Both carry emotional wounds alongside physical scars, and the circumstances of their backstories are touching and enthralling.
The story of Rory and Gage was superb. It’s a romantic thriller featuring lovers who are also friends. Their scars cause them to feel insecure. Gage has been fixing things for Rory at her puppy shelter. Gage aims to safeguard Rory after discovering her following an assassination attempt on her life.
This book is a thrilling, emotionally intense ride that captivates the audience. The characters are the greatest strength of this author. The discovered family they create enhances the deep and fervent connection among the principal and secondary characters. This slow-building, intimate story features two traumatized individuals fearful of trusting, centered around an alpha protector.
For years, Gage has struggled to date due to significant issues with self-esteem. He then feels an attraction to Rory, who has battled with her self-esteem for a long time. It was amazing to see a tough masculine man be so transparent and truthful with the woman he is developing feelings for.
This book had a nice mixture of romance and suspense. Watching Rory and Gage show vulnerability, share with each other, and support one another in facing their fears was truly touching. They are quickly forming deep feelings for each other. Nonetheless, there is also the pressure; someone is targeting Rory, and the assaults persist unceasingly. Gia adds another twist to the story just when you believe it's concluded, compelling you to flip the pages faster to reach the end.
The story of Rory and Gage was superb. It’s a romantic thriller featuring lovers who are also friends. Their scars cause them to feel insecure. Gage has been fixing things for Rory at her puppy shelter. Gage aims to safeguard Rory after discovering her following an assassination attempt on her life.
This book is a thrilling, emotionally intense ride that captivates the audience. The characters are the greatest strength of this author. The discovered family they create enhances the deep and fervent connection among the principal and secondary characters. This slow-building, intimate story features two traumatized individuals fearful of trusting, centered around an alpha protector.
For years, Gage has struggled to date due to significant issues with self-esteem. He then feels an attraction to Rory, who has battled with her self-esteem for a long time. It was amazing to see a tough masculine man be so transparent and truthful with the woman he is developing feelings for.
This book had a nice mixture of romance and suspense. Watching Rory and Gage show vulnerability, share with each other, and support one another in facing their fears was truly touching. They are quickly forming deep feelings for each other. Nonetheless, there is also the pressure; someone is targeting Rory, and the assaults persist unceasingly. Gia adds another twist to the story just when you believe it's concluded, compelling you to flip the pages faster to reach the end.
June 5, 2025
Love, Love, Loved this book. The story of how Rory and Gage fell in love is so sweet. And I recommend Mountain Defender to all of you, especially if you are looking for a good love story.
Aurora "Rory" Townsend is 36 years old and she is very happy living a nice quiet life with just her and the dogs. She owns a Pet Refugee where people can come and adopt a dog. She tries to match the people with the right dog for them. And she does a great job at matching and gets very few dogs back. Rory was in a boating accident where she was injured and her parents were killed leaving her with lots of scars. The dogs do not notice her scars or think she is ugly like a lot of people do. And dogs do not ask any questions they just show her lots of love. Gage had come to the shelter to adopt a dog and kept coming back to help her with the chores and dogs. Could he possibly be coming back to spend time with me? Surely not he is so handsome that he could have any girl he wants.
Gage McKay is 38 years old and he was a Army Night Stalker before he was hurt in an explosion and now he is part of the Green Mountain Guardians--GMG. They are a security team that help people who are in danger or need their help and a lot of times it is free of charge. Gage had liked Rory from the first time he met her. She is so smart, caring and beautiful. One morning he went to the shelter and could not find Rory, the dogs were all barking and hungry, and the chores had not been done. Something was wrong, what happened to Rory? Finally with the help of the dogs he found her in the woods, unconscious and injured with no memory of how she got there. What had happened to Rory? Will we ever know the truth? Will she get her memory back?
Aurora "Rory" Townsend is 36 years old and she is very happy living a nice quiet life with just her and the dogs. She owns a Pet Refugee where people can come and adopt a dog. She tries to match the people with the right dog for them. And she does a great job at matching and gets very few dogs back. Rory was in a boating accident where she was injured and her parents were killed leaving her with lots of scars. The dogs do not notice her scars or think she is ugly like a lot of people do. And dogs do not ask any questions they just show her lots of love. Gage had come to the shelter to adopt a dog and kept coming back to help her with the chores and dogs. Could he possibly be coming back to spend time with me? Surely not he is so handsome that he could have any girl he wants.
Gage McKay is 38 years old and he was a Army Night Stalker before he was hurt in an explosion and now he is part of the Green Mountain Guardians--GMG. They are a security team that help people who are in danger or need their help and a lot of times it is free of charge. Gage had liked Rory from the first time he met her. She is so smart, caring and beautiful. One morning he went to the shelter and could not find Rory, the dogs were all barking and hungry, and the chores had not been done. Something was wrong, what happened to Rory? Finally with the help of the dogs he found her in the woods, unconscious and injured with no memory of how she got there. What had happened to Rory? Will we ever know the truth? Will she get her memory back?
June 4, 2025
Amazing, just amazing. This book hooks you from the first line to the very end. And it doesn’t take long to get to the very end. Simply put you can’t put it down. It was just one more chapter, or just a few more pages. The story’s flow was excellent, never a really slow part, but fast paced and OMG how did I not see this coming.
But reading many of Gia’s books before this you can’t fault me for not seeing them coming because she always has some unexpected turns and twists you never saw coming. And this book is no different. And the emotions wow, way up there. Rory is a woman with scars on her body due to an accident when she was younger. She believes she is not worthy of anyone’s love because of them. Gage has some scars too, a prosthetic foot that is a constant reminder of a mission gone bad. They are two injured souls who help each other see the absolute beauty in the other person. Gage thinks Ror, as he calls her, is the most beautiful woman he has ever seen. He is so in love and just doesn’t want to admit that maybe she is the one he was never looking for but needed desperately in his life. And the same with Rory she feels she will never find love but maybe at best true friendship with Gage. Fortunately, the heart gets what the heart wants most of the time and it wants him.
Great book and so many feels that we have all had in finding that one person who does it for us. Love the book taking two who see nothing but their flaws and help them understand it’s just part of them and they are still handsome / beautiful in their partners eyes
But reading many of Gia’s books before this you can’t fault me for not seeing them coming because she always has some unexpected turns and twists you never saw coming. And this book is no different. And the emotions wow, way up there. Rory is a woman with scars on her body due to an accident when she was younger. She believes she is not worthy of anyone’s love because of them. Gage has some scars too, a prosthetic foot that is a constant reminder of a mission gone bad. They are two injured souls who help each other see the absolute beauty in the other person. Gage thinks Ror, as he calls her, is the most beautiful woman he has ever seen. He is so in love and just doesn’t want to admit that maybe she is the one he was never looking for but needed desperately in his life. And the same with Rory she feels she will never find love but maybe at best true friendship with Gage. Fortunately, the heart gets what the heart wants most of the time and it wants him.
Great book and so many feels that we have all had in finding that one person who does it for us. Love the book taking two who see nothing but their flaws and help them understand it’s just part of them and they are still handsome / beautiful in their partners eyes
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