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Bodyguards Inc. #5
Love's Design
The Bodyguard and the Runaway Uncle
CIA Agent Stefan Mortimer is cooling his heels in the UK until he can go home. Taking on easy assignments with Bodyguards Inc. seems like a good solution to keep him sane. He’s used to life throwing him curveballs, and it’s just another day at the office when he rescues Kirby and his niece and nephew. Now he has to keep Kirby and the kids alive and stay professional.
Kirby Devlin has one priority; keeping his small family safe. On the run, and facing danger at every turn, Kirby finally runs out of places to hide on a snowy December day at an Edinburgh train station. Stefan comes to the rescue, saves him and the children. Is it possible that Kirby finally has someone to trust?
Now, if only it would be as easy for Kirby to trust Stefan with his heart.
CIA Agent Stefan Mortimer is cooling his heels in the UK until he can go home. Taking on easy assignments with Bodyguards Inc. seems like a good solution to keep him sane. He’s used to life throwing him curveballs, and it’s just another day at the office when he rescues Kirby and his niece and nephew. Now he has to keep Kirby and the kids alive and stay professional.
Kirby Devlin has one priority; keeping his small family safe. On the run, and facing danger at every turn, Kirby finally runs out of places to hide on a snowy December day at an Edinburgh train station. Stefan comes to the rescue, saves him and the children. Is it possible that Kirby finally has someone to trust?
Now, if only it would be as easy for Kirby to trust Stefan with his heart.
355 pages, ebook
First published December 11, 2015
68 people are currently reading
246 people want to read
About the author
R.J. Scott
307 books2,717 followersRJ Scott writes heartwarming, passionate MM/gay romance stories where every man finds his happily ever after. When not writing, she enjoys reading books, watching movies, spending time with her family, following Formula 1 (Forza Ferrari!), and cheering on the Pittsburgh Penguins. Email her here: rj@rjscott.co.uk
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
June 18, 2016
This one is Hypersweet!!! And in Christmas time!!
Stefan, just finished his bodyguard work and is waiting in a snowy Edinburgh station for his train when he see some men beating another one at the WCs. So he helps the man and discover that the beating man wasn´t alone. He is running away from the assailants with his 2 little nephews! So Stefan decides to help him!
Maybe the only negative point was that they repeat some facts of the story a lot times!!!
But I love the slow burn and the evolution of their relationship!It has sense!
And so perfect ending!!
3.75*
January 5, 2016
Stefan, the CIA agent "on temporary leave until things cool down" from the previous book, is still in the UK and taking temporary jobs for Bodyguards, Inc. Trouble soon finds him in the form of Kirby, who is trying to protect his four-year-old niece Louise and his seven-year-old nephew Andy from "bad men" who are after the kids' father. Stefan's protective instincts take over, and I don't think even he suspects how much these three people are going to change his life. At least not at first...
"Run and hide" has been Kirby's motto for a long time, ever since his overly religious parents kicked him out of their house for being gay. But trying to protect two young children while he is at it, and facing three goons who have no scruples at all and already almost killed Kirby's brother is a whole different story. Kirby is proud and independent, has had to be, but slowly he begins to realize he needs help. And Stefan, capable and strong,may just be the man for the job - as well as the guy to conquer Kirby's well-protected heart.
Stefan is not the emotional type - not that I expected that, him being CIA and all. But Kirby and the children, and the way they courageously stick together no matter what, touch a place in Stefan's heart he never knew existed. I loved seeing him learn how to deal with the emotions as he learns what Kirby needs and how to give the little impromptu family what they need; not just in terms of physical security but also in terms of emotional stability.
If you like protective uncles and secretive CIA agents who learn how to take care of a family, if two men trying to figure out what's next are your thing, and if you're looking for a read about love in unexpected places, then you will probably like this novella as much as I did.
NOTE: This book was provided by Love Lane Books for the purpose of a review.
"Run and hide" has been Kirby's motto for a long time, ever since his overly religious parents kicked him out of their house for being gay. But trying to protect two young children while he is at it, and facing three goons who have no scruples at all and already almost killed Kirby's brother is a whole different story. Kirby is proud and independent, has had to be, but slowly he begins to realize he needs help. And Stefan, capable and strong,may just be the man for the job - as well as the guy to conquer Kirby's well-protected heart.
Stefan is not the emotional type - not that I expected that, him being CIA and all. But Kirby and the children, and the way they courageously stick together no matter what, touch a place in Stefan's heart he never knew existed. I loved seeing him learn how to deal with the emotions as he learns what Kirby needs and how to give the little impromptu family what they need; not just in terms of physical security but also in terms of emotional stability.
If you like protective uncles and secretive CIA agents who learn how to take care of a family, if two men trying to figure out what's next are your thing, and if you're looking for a read about love in unexpected places, then you will probably like this novella as much as I did.
NOTE: This book was provided by Love Lane Books for the purpose of a review.
January 20, 2019
Yet another hit in this series from RJ Scott where love is as inevitable as the fact the bad guys will get their comeuppance.
Here things start off in Scotland when resting CIA agent Stefan rescues a man from being beaten by three others in Waverley's toilets and finds himself with a pair of young bairns as well.
I loved Kirby, who'd discovered he was an uncle out of nowhere and who's brother had got on the wrong end of a bunch of thugs to the point at which he was left for dead.
The build up of love between the two men happens over a short period of time but it felt utterly believable. Watching Stefan fall in love with two awesome kids, who were written true to their ages and not as super intelligent 4 and 7 year-olds, was a joy.
Now I'm interested for book six, which features boy band member Alexander from book two and a new bodyguard we've not seen yet!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Here things start off in Scotland when resting CIA agent Stefan rescues a man from being beaten by three others in Waverley's toilets and finds himself with a pair of young bairns as well.
I loved Kirby, who'd discovered he was an uncle out of nowhere and who's brother had got on the wrong end of a bunch of thugs to the point at which he was left for dead.
The build up of love between the two men happens over a short period of time but it felt utterly believable. Watching Stefan fall in love with two awesome kids, who were written true to their ages and not as super intelligent 4 and 7 year-olds, was a joy.
Now I'm interested for book six, which features boy band member Alexander from book two and a new bodyguard we've not seen yet!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
May 21, 2024
Darum geht’s:
Als CIA Agent Stefan Mortimer am Edinburgher Bahnhof bemerkt, dass ein Mann in Schwierigkeiten ist, kann er nicht wegsehen und eilt ihm zu Hilfe. Kirby ist mit den zwei Kindern seines Bruders auf der Flucht. Er ist verschlossen und ängstlich und weiß nicht weiter. Das weckt den Beschützerinstinkt in Stefan und er nimmt sich der kleinen Familie an.
Meine Meinung dazu gibt’s hier
Als CIA Agent Stefan Mortimer am Edinburgher Bahnhof bemerkt, dass ein Mann in Schwierigkeiten ist, kann er nicht wegsehen und eilt ihm zu Hilfe. Kirby ist mit den zwei Kindern seines Bruders auf der Flucht. Er ist verschlossen und ängstlich und weiß nicht weiter. Das weckt den Beschützerinstinkt in Stefan und er nimmt sich der kleinen Familie an.
Meine Meinung dazu gibt’s hier
December 15, 2015
4 Heart Review by Vicki
I have to say I was a little concerned when I saw this book was about Stefan. Not that I didn’t like him in the last book, but I wasn’t sure I was happy about a character being featured that wasn’t part of the BI family. But it turns out he is part of the family and I really liked him!
Stefan is CIA, hanging out with the BI guys in England after a job went funky and he can’t go home yet. He and Kyle go way back, so he’s picking up a little work here and there for Kyle while he’s waiting for the dust to settle back home. While finishing a job hanging out in a train station, he observes something nasty going down in a restroom…. he goes to investigate and finds a man being beaten. He rescues the guy and gets pulled in to his story.
Kirby has some issues… he was kicked out at 16, did some things he shouldn’t to keep himself fed, and has been surviving under the radar working a couple of odd jobs. He is found by a PI, with information that his younger brother Robbie is looking for him. He finds Robbie, who had a drug addiction, two small kids, a dead wife, and a debt to the wrong man. Robbie gets stabbed, Kirby takes the kids and runs. They make it to the train station when the bad guys catch up. Robbie hides the kids and faces the bad guys, only to be rescued by a strange man.
Stefan convinces Kirby to take the kids to safety, and takes them straight to Kyle’s mansion, the closest source of help he knows.
So I don’t always like kids in my romance stories, but this time it was ok. I liked the kids and they added emotion to the story without detracting from the main romance. I liked Kirby, he was stubborn and proud, but eventually accepts he needs help. I liked Stefan, he turned out to be a pretty cool guy. We also saw quite a bit of Kyle and Ross in this story. I liked how they accepted these two little kids in their home and lives.
The emotional connection between Stefan and Kirby was slow to build, but once they get it together they are a good couple. There isn’t a lot of sex in this book, as there hasn’t been in the other books in this series, but what there is works. Kirby has to build a bit of trust in Stefan, and that comes across in their physical relationship. I liked that.
Overall this was an enjoyable story. It could have used a little more action, once the drama at the start is over it was pretty mild. But it was very sweet and had a nice holiday connection as well. I liked the main characters and was happy to see the guys from previous books show up. The sex wasn’t plentiful but was very sweet. The kids added to the story and didn’t distract me from the main storyline. If you have read the other books in this series you’ll like this one. If you haven’t tried this series, I would. Some are more exciting than others, but I have liked all of them. RJ Scott is always a good source of stories for me, I enjoy her writing and her characters.
I’m curious to see if we’ll get more from this series!
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
I have to say I was a little concerned when I saw this book was about Stefan. Not that I didn’t like him in the last book, but I wasn’t sure I was happy about a character being featured that wasn’t part of the BI family. But it turns out he is part of the family and I really liked him!
Stefan is CIA, hanging out with the BI guys in England after a job went funky and he can’t go home yet. He and Kyle go way back, so he’s picking up a little work here and there for Kyle while he’s waiting for the dust to settle back home. While finishing a job hanging out in a train station, he observes something nasty going down in a restroom…. he goes to investigate and finds a man being beaten. He rescues the guy and gets pulled in to his story.
Kirby has some issues… he was kicked out at 16, did some things he shouldn’t to keep himself fed, and has been surviving under the radar working a couple of odd jobs. He is found by a PI, with information that his younger brother Robbie is looking for him. He finds Robbie, who had a drug addiction, two small kids, a dead wife, and a debt to the wrong man. Robbie gets stabbed, Kirby takes the kids and runs. They make it to the train station when the bad guys catch up. Robbie hides the kids and faces the bad guys, only to be rescued by a strange man.
Stefan convinces Kirby to take the kids to safety, and takes them straight to Kyle’s mansion, the closest source of help he knows.
So I don’t always like kids in my romance stories, but this time it was ok. I liked the kids and they added emotion to the story without detracting from the main romance. I liked Kirby, he was stubborn and proud, but eventually accepts he needs help. I liked Stefan, he turned out to be a pretty cool guy. We also saw quite a bit of Kyle and Ross in this story. I liked how they accepted these two little kids in their home and lives.
The emotional connection between Stefan and Kirby was slow to build, but once they get it together they are a good couple. There isn’t a lot of sex in this book, as there hasn’t been in the other books in this series, but what there is works. Kirby has to build a bit of trust in Stefan, and that comes across in their physical relationship. I liked that.
Overall this was an enjoyable story. It could have used a little more action, once the drama at the start is over it was pretty mild. But it was very sweet and had a nice holiday connection as well. I liked the main characters and was happy to see the guys from previous books show up. The sex wasn’t plentiful but was very sweet. The kids added to the story and didn’t distract me from the main storyline. If you have read the other books in this series you’ll like this one. If you haven’t tried this series, I would. Some are more exciting than others, but I have liked all of them. RJ Scott is always a good source of stories for me, I enjoy her writing and her characters.
I’m curious to see if we’ll get more from this series!
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
December 20, 2015
Original Post Here: Book Blast & Review: Love's Design (Bodyguard Inc. #5) by RJ Scott
Review by: multitaskingmomma
My Rating: 4 of 5 Stars
I am a huge fan of the Bodyguard series by RJ Scott. This latest installment focuses on Stefan Mortimer. If you've read Undercover Lovers (Bodyguards Inc. #4), he was assigned to guard a geneticist and find a missing formula.
He who stumbles into a situation he could not get away from. Of course he could very well ignore but he is not one to leave things alone, especially when his gut tells him it is something he could stop. He butts his head and hand in and lands himself a man on the run with two kids who are older than their below seven years imply.
Kirby had been kicked out by his parents when he came out to them and lost contact with his younger brother. He managed to scrape by life using his brain and body. He is a survivor and is strong of mind. Landing two children he never even knew existed much less be related to was a surprise. Running for his life two kids in tow is unexpected. Dangerous men are after him and nephew and niece. It's a good thing his savior is in the form of a hunky CIA agent.
Stefan and Kirby hit it off right from the start, but not in a romantic way. They both run with the children and into the safe haven of a Bodyguard Inc. safe house. As they await news and development, they find out just what the spirit of Christmas is about.
This is a lightly written romance and such a delight to read. It was especially awesome to read Kyle and Ross once more who play minor but truly important roles.
Review by: multitaskingmomma
My Rating: 4 of 5 Stars
I am a huge fan of the Bodyguard series by RJ Scott. This latest installment focuses on Stefan Mortimer. If you've read Undercover Lovers (Bodyguards Inc. #4), he was assigned to guard a geneticist and find a missing formula.
He who stumbles into a situation he could not get away from. Of course he could very well ignore but he is not one to leave things alone, especially when his gut tells him it is something he could stop. He butts his head and hand in and lands himself a man on the run with two kids who are older than their below seven years imply.
Kirby had been kicked out by his parents when he came out to them and lost contact with his younger brother. He managed to scrape by life using his brain and body. He is a survivor and is strong of mind. Landing two children he never even knew existed much less be related to was a surprise. Running for his life two kids in tow is unexpected. Dangerous men are after him and nephew and niece. It's a good thing his savior is in the form of a hunky CIA agent.
Stefan and Kirby hit it off right from the start, but not in a romantic way. They both run with the children and into the safe haven of a Bodyguard Inc. safe house. As they await news and development, they find out just what the spirit of Christmas is about.
This is a lightly written romance and such a delight to read. It was especially awesome to read Kyle and Ross once more who play minor but truly important roles.
December 14, 2015
If you are a fan of the series, Love's Design is a must read. If you haven’t read the series yet, you need too! FULL REVIEW: http://thetbrpile.weebly.com/reviews/...
January 6, 2016
I really liked this book. Another great story in this series, action, sex, plot.
Read
April 4, 2019DNF
February 12, 2016
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
We met CIA Agent Stefan Mortimer in the previous book in this series. He is an old colleague and good friend of Kyle’s and he has remained in the UK until a dangerous situation at home in the States can be resolved. Dropping off his latest case at a train station and having to sit around for hours whilst snow causes mass disruption he finds himself dragged into saving a man who is being assaulted.
Kirby Devlin’s life may have just been saved by Stefan and the man is grateful but he is also terrified and does his best to get away. The last couple of days have been hell and he doesn’t feel up to trusting anyone especially someone waving around an official badge and talking about phoning the Police. There is one more surprise to come for Stefan – two small children huddled in a locked room who call Kirby there Uncle. What should have been a quiet night has turned into anything but….
The problems seem huge for both men. Kirby has had a shitty life after being thrown out by his family as a young teen. Tossed back into a family drama by a brother he barely knows he is now on the run and scared for his life. He has to trust someone if he is to survive with two small children and that person turns out to be Stefan who quickly gets the family back to Kyle’s mansion.
Set around Christmas this story has a family feel to it as the men at Bodyguards Inc. try to bring a bit of normality and cheers to the two wee bairns. The heat simmers between Stefan and Kirby but with an imminent return to the States on the cards, a brother fighting for his life, numerous misunderstandings and a problem trusting anyone can these men work it out?
We met CIA Agent Stefan Mortimer in the previous book in this series. He is an old colleague and good friend of Kyle’s and he has remained in the UK until a dangerous situation at home in the States can be resolved. Dropping off his latest case at a train station and having to sit around for hours whilst snow causes mass disruption he finds himself dragged into saving a man who is being assaulted.
Kirby Devlin’s life may have just been saved by Stefan and the man is grateful but he is also terrified and does his best to get away. The last couple of days have been hell and he doesn’t feel up to trusting anyone especially someone waving around an official badge and talking about phoning the Police. There is one more surprise to come for Stefan – two small children huddled in a locked room who call Kirby there Uncle. What should have been a quiet night has turned into anything but….
The problems seem huge for both men. Kirby has had a shitty life after being thrown out by his family as a young teen. Tossed back into a family drama by a brother he barely knows he is now on the run and scared for his life. He has to trust someone if he is to survive with two small children and that person turns out to be Stefan who quickly gets the family back to Kyle’s mansion.
Set around Christmas this story has a family feel to it as the men at Bodyguards Inc. try to bring a bit of normality and cheers to the two wee bairns. The heat simmers between Stefan and Kirby but with an imminent return to the States on the cards, a brother fighting for his life, numerous misunderstandings and a problem trusting anyone can these men work it out?
December 14, 2015
-----> Yes, yes, yes...this is a wonderful story !! Partly a Christmas romance, and partly an action thriller. It started off with a bang when Stefan rescues Kirby from being beaten, takes Kirby and the children, nephew Andy and niece Louise to safety, and cares for them. This beautifully written tale pulled me right in and held me. The Bodyguard's Inc. characters are deep, interesting people. I've liked all of the books in this series. This may be my favorite !
Stefan is on leave from the CIA, helping his friend in the security business. Kirby has been thrown into the trouble because his brother wanted him to keep the kids safe. His brother, Robbie owed big money to very bad guys. The story line flowed, the characters were terrific, the children were wonderfully done and realistic, while we went along on this amazing adventure. Stefan is awesome, sturdy, strong, sweet, and loving, and exactly what Kirby needed to ground him, give him strength, and anchor his new life.
RJ Scott gives us fabulous emotions, great storytelling, and an amazing Christmas !!!
Highly recommend. E N J O Y !!!
====================================
Stefan is on leave from the CIA, helping his friend in the security business. Kirby has been thrown into the trouble because his brother wanted him to keep the kids safe. His brother, Robbie owed big money to very bad guys. The story line flowed, the characters were terrific, the children were wonderfully done and realistic, while we went along on this amazing adventure. Stefan is awesome, sturdy, strong, sweet, and loving, and exactly what Kirby needed to ground him, give him strength, and anchor his new life.
RJ Scott gives us fabulous emotions, great storytelling, and an amazing Christmas !!!
Highly recommend. E N J O Y !!!
====================================
December 23, 2015
Love's Design is a solid addition to one of my favorite series. Scott's characters come to life on the pages and once again give me the warm fuzzies.
Kirby's ragtag family ensemble will grab you by the heartstrings and not let go. The fear and distrust in all of their eyes, but especially Andy and Louise, made me want to hurt someone. The fact that Kirby can love at all is a miracle in itself once you learn his story.
Stefan was the perfect person to help this little family. Not just because he is a kick ass man but because he needed something to believe in and fight for.
Great story not just for Christmas but all year!
Kirby's ragtag family ensemble will grab you by the heartstrings and not let go. The fear and distrust in all of their eyes, but especially Andy and Louise, made me want to hurt someone. The fact that Kirby can love at all is a miracle in itself once you learn his story.
Stefan was the perfect person to help this little family. Not just because he is a kick ass man but because he needed something to believe in and fight for.
Great story not just for Christmas but all year!
December 11, 2015
I love RJ Scott’s Bodyguard Series. Book 5 might be one of my top 3 favorites of this series. I LOVE Kirby and I’m beyond grateful to Stefan for saving him and the weens lol. This was a gorgeous love story. More passion than suspense in this book but lacking absolutely nothing. This was fantastically entertaining. Andy and Lou made me laugh and get all teary eyed. Kirby…. Oh he is just the best! What a great character he is! If you’re not reading this series, you really need to because it wins all the awesome!
January 6, 2016
Out of the BODYGUARD INC. series so far, I think this one was the good one. Probably due to the holidays theme or the mature kid, I don't know. Stefan was not what I thought at all, but at leas his budding relationship with Kirby, albeit rather rushed was progressing gradually. The closing (of the case) was too picture perfect yet not revealed much in detail. After the let down of Kyle/Ross though, this installment pleased me! :)
Read
December 13, 2015Loved it!
Another great story in this series! Stefan gets his story, and Kirby couldn't be more perfect for him. Danger and some intrigue, two adorable children, and a bodyguard almost in over his head is the right recipe for an engaging, action story. Lots of great sex and mixed with love goes a long way in this happy ending for Stefan!
Another great story in this series! Stefan gets his story, and Kirby couldn't be more perfect for him. Danger and some intrigue, two adorable children, and a bodyguard almost in over his head is the right recipe for an engaging, action story. Lots of great sex and mixed with love goes a long way in this happy ending for Stefan!
June 6, 2016
I love when stories can include children and still keep up appropriate romance. When we met Stefan in the previous book I just knew he would need a book of his own. After the way he was described in "Undercover Lovers" would have never pictured Kirby as his match. While this book didn't seem to contain as much action as the previous book, it was still a good read.
March 29, 2017
Cute for Christmas
It was pretty good. There was a little action and suspense. It was also sweet to see the kids attach themselves to Stefan and Kirby. It was fairly realistic, emotions and thought by the MC's seemed appropriate to the circumstances.
It was pretty good. There was a little action and suspense. It was also sweet to see the kids attach themselves to Stefan and Kirby. It was fairly realistic, emotions and thought by the MC's seemed appropriate to the circumstances.
December 12, 2015
3.5 stars
December 14, 2015
Another corker from RJ Scott :)
December 20, 2015
3.5 stars
December 31, 2015
really like this series :)
December 14, 2015
3.5 stars
December 29, 2025
CIA agent Stefan Mortimer expects a quiet assignment while temporarily working with Bodyguards Inc., but everything changes when Kirby Devlin and his two young relatives stumble into his life, terrified and out of options. Kirby has been on the run for months, trying to protect the children from a threat he can no longer outrun. Stefan steps in, determined to keep them safe as danger closes in. But as the crisis forces them into close quarters, trust grows, walls fall, and a deeper connection forms between them. Kirby begins to fear not just the people chasing them, but the risk of opening his heart to the one man strong enough to protect it. Their survival depends on Stefan’s skills — but their future depends on whether Kirby can believe in love again.
I loved this story that delivered a gripping mix of drama and heart as CIA agent Stefan Mortimer is thrown into a situation far more personal than anything he expected from his quiet stint with Bodyguards Inc. The tension hits immediately when Kirby Devlin arrives with two terrified children and a past full of shadows. What follows is a fast‑paced, emotionally charged journey where every moment feels steeped in risk — not just from the enemies, but from the growing bond between Stefan and Kirby. The romance unfolds with a beautiful balance of caution and longing. Kirby’s fierce protectiveness and deep exhaustion make his vulnerability feel incredibly real, while Stefan’s steady strength and quiet compassion turn him into exactly the kind of anchor Kirby needs. Their connection builds slowly, tenderly, even as the danger around them escalates. What really stands out is how the story blends high‑stakes suspense with genuine emotional warmth. It’s a tale about trust, found family, and the terrifying hope of letting someone in when you’ve spent too long running. This was an MM story with mature content.
I loved this story that delivered a gripping mix of drama and heart as CIA agent Stefan Mortimer is thrown into a situation far more personal than anything he expected from his quiet stint with Bodyguards Inc. The tension hits immediately when Kirby Devlin arrives with two terrified children and a past full of shadows. What follows is a fast‑paced, emotionally charged journey where every moment feels steeped in risk — not just from the enemies, but from the growing bond between Stefan and Kirby. The romance unfolds with a beautiful balance of caution and longing. Kirby’s fierce protectiveness and deep exhaustion make his vulnerability feel incredibly real, while Stefan’s steady strength and quiet compassion turn him into exactly the kind of anchor Kirby needs. Their connection builds slowly, tenderly, even as the danger around them escalates. What really stands out is how the story blends high‑stakes suspense with genuine emotional warmth. It’s a tale about trust, found family, and the terrifying hope of letting someone in when you’ve spent too long running. This was an MM story with mature content.
February 28, 2024
3.25/5 I didn’t like this one quite as much as I wanted to, though I enjoyed the Christmas theme and the children. I did like that Kirby and Stefan didn’t simply leap into bed with everything going on, but it also ended up feeling to me like at least half the book had zero spark between them. I really enjoyed the children, but with them the focal point of the story, it didn’t actually seem like we got to know Kirby or Stefan much apart from their “protector” personas.
I also wound up weirdly torn between being annoyed that sex work was being judged so much and then kind of let down because it turns out that Kirby did *5 days* of sex work before he figured out how to get out after being beaten (presumably when he was sixteen). Like … in any other profession would we even mention that as something we’d done? I guess it’s a reminder that it *is* treated differently, and I just kind of hope for better from MCs these days.
And then I was just confused that amidst everything going on when Kirby was desperate to have options for him and the children (and really determined to be solvent and pay people back for things), he didn’t seriously consider going back and trying to get the (really quite decent) sum of money that he’d apparently squirrelled away at his place, or asking the Bodyguards Inc. people to help. He thought the money might be taken while he wasn’t there, but seemed ready to just let that go without effort.
Otherwise, I enjoyed the Christmas atmosphere, the determination from all sides to protect the children, how it resolved with family, how protective Andy was (and their attempt to give him more childhood), and the activities they got to enjoy at Kyle’s house. This was a pretty sweet, child-centric story.
I also wound up weirdly torn between being annoyed that sex work was being judged so much and then kind of let down because it turns out that Kirby did *5 days* of sex work before he figured out how to get out after being beaten (presumably when he was sixteen). Like … in any other profession would we even mention that as something we’d done? I guess it’s a reminder that it *is* treated differently, and I just kind of hope for better from MCs these days.
And then I was just confused that amidst everything going on when Kirby was desperate to have options for him and the children (and really determined to be solvent and pay people back for things), he didn’t seriously consider going back and trying to get the (really quite decent) sum of money that he’d apparently squirrelled away at his place, or asking the Bodyguards Inc. people to help. He thought the money might be taken while he wasn’t there, but seemed ready to just let that go without effort.
Otherwise, I enjoyed the Christmas atmosphere, the determination from all sides to protect the children, how it resolved with family, how protective Andy was (and their attempt to give him more childhood), and the activities they got to enjoy at Kyle’s house. This was a pretty sweet, child-centric story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2019
Stefan is CIA, temporarily working for Bodyguards Inc. Then he inserts himself into something shady in a bathroom at a train station. He rescues Kirby along with his young niece and nephew. Making their way to London, Kyle offers them a safe place to stay at BI. As everyone works to protect the children and figure out how to keep them permanently safe, Stefan and Kirby grow close. Stefan knows he will be leaving England soon so is leery of starting anything. Kirby knows that at some point he will probably have to run again. But....if he trusts Stefan with his heart maybe he can have the life he’s always wanted.
This was another sweet story in the Bodyguards Inc. series. I like the premise of falling in love with your bodyguard. Nicely written story. Valiant heroes and evil villians abound. Someone has been watching too much Aladdin.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
I think the reader should probably read the books in order to get the most out of the series.
This was another sweet story in the Bodyguards Inc. series. I like the premise of falling in love with your bodyguard. Nicely written story. Valiant heroes and evil villians abound. Someone has been watching too much Aladdin.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
I think the reader should probably read the books in order to get the most out of the series.
July 14, 2025
Es gibt selten Bücher, bei denen ich nicht so wirklich weiß, wie ich meinen Leseeindruck formulieren soll. Dieses Buch ist leider eines davon.
Ich habe den Klappentext gelesen und der hat mich sehr angesprochen, deshalb bin ich ein bisschen traurig, dass die Gesamtgeschichte mich nicht genauso begeistern konnte.
Wichtig ist mir, zu sagen, dass diese Rezension ausschließlich meinen persönlichen Geschmack widerspiegelt. Die Geschichte ist nicht schlecht. Aber obwohl sie laut Amazon 250 Seiten hat, fühlt sie sich nach „Was kleines für zwischendurch“ an. Mir fehlt detaillierte Tiefe. Wirkliche Handlung neben den Gedanken. Die im Klappentext erwähnten Probleme haben sich gelöst, ohne eine „aktive Rolle“ im Verlauf der Geschichte zu spielen.
Man sagt „Enttäuschung ist oft das Ergebnis falscher Erwartungen“. Das war in diesem Fall bei mir sicher so. Nichtsdestotrotz bereue ich es nicht, mich für dieses Buch entschieden zu haben und empfehle es denen, die das Drama lieber am Rand/nicht auf der Seite haben.
Ich habe den Klappentext gelesen und der hat mich sehr angesprochen, deshalb bin ich ein bisschen traurig, dass die Gesamtgeschichte mich nicht genauso begeistern konnte.
Wichtig ist mir, zu sagen, dass diese Rezension ausschließlich meinen persönlichen Geschmack widerspiegelt. Die Geschichte ist nicht schlecht. Aber obwohl sie laut Amazon 250 Seiten hat, fühlt sie sich nach „Was kleines für zwischendurch“ an. Mir fehlt detaillierte Tiefe. Wirkliche Handlung neben den Gedanken. Die im Klappentext erwähnten Probleme haben sich gelöst, ohne eine „aktive Rolle“ im Verlauf der Geschichte zu spielen.
Man sagt „Enttäuschung ist oft das Ergebnis falscher Erwartungen“. Das war in diesem Fall bei mir sicher so. Nichtsdestotrotz bereue ich es nicht, mich für dieses Buch entschieden zu haben und empfehle es denen, die das Drama lieber am Rand/nicht auf der Seite haben.
April 28, 2018
We're back at Bodyguards Inc. This time it is Stefan who rescues Kirby and his niece and nephew from three enforcers who want to kill them after the children were witnesses to an attempt to kill their father. Kirby had taken the kids and run but is all our of used m ideas when Stefan steps in. Kirby and the kids are staying at the mansion while the Bodyguards Inc. team tries to figure out who the bad guys are - and Stefan find himself warn to go back to the US less and less as he gets to know Kirby.
This new bodyguards Inc. installment is a little more intense than previous books. The mystery component is very strong, reminded me a bit of the Sanctuary books. I enjoyed this one as well as the ones before. Can be read as a standalone but there are some very funny scenes with Kyle and Ross that are more enjoyable if you know their story
This new bodyguards Inc. installment is a little more intense than previous books. The mystery component is very strong, reminded me a bit of the Sanctuary books. I enjoyed this one as well as the ones before. Can be read as a standalone but there are some very funny scenes with Kyle and Ross that are more enjoyable if you know their story
May 11, 2018
A Very Good Read
When Stefan from the CIA is told to stay in the UK instead of going home to the US. The CIA were trying to catch the guys who were trying to kill him. While finishing a job for BI he spots 3 suspicious strangers outside a restroom at the train station in Edinburgh. He follows them inside and the strangers threaten him to leave. He hears someone in the last stall screaming for help. Stefan takes the strangers down and helps the man to get away. The man's name is Kirby. Stefan takes him to a room that Kirby has a pass card to open. When they get inside the room there are 2 small children. Although Stefan isn't sure why he desides to help them. The story is exciting and romantic. A very good read.
When Stefan from the CIA is told to stay in the UK instead of going home to the US. The CIA were trying to catch the guys who were trying to kill him. While finishing a job for BI he spots 3 suspicious strangers outside a restroom at the train station in Edinburgh. He follows them inside and the strangers threaten him to leave. He hears someone in the last stall screaming for help. Stefan takes the strangers down and helps the man to get away. The man's name is Kirby. Stefan takes him to a room that Kirby has a pass card to open. When they get inside the room there are 2 small children. Although Stefan isn't sure why he desides to help them. The story is exciting and romantic. A very good read.
March 19, 2021
Good story.
This book was interesting. It been a whole since I read a book where a body guard went to defend someone he didn't know. Good story line. Kirby with two kids fleeing for his life to keep the kids safe. Get caught and has the crisp beaten out of him but jumps Stefan to rescue him. Oops dropped the clue it wasn't just about him being in danger when Kirby tells Stefan that he got to get the kids he had hidden. So they end up running to the BI manor to stay. Kids get a dose of normal and so does Kirby and likes it. Stefan come around to their way of thinking shortly after.
This book was interesting. It been a whole since I read a book where a body guard went to defend someone he didn't know. Good story line. Kirby with two kids fleeing for his life to keep the kids safe. Get caught and has the crisp beaten out of him but jumps Stefan to rescue him. Oops dropped the clue it wasn't just about him being in danger when Kirby tells Stefan that he got to get the kids he had hidden. So they end up running to the BI manor to stay. Kids get a dose of normal and so does Kirby and likes it. Stefan come around to their way of thinking shortly after.
June 20, 2017
Another great addition to the Bodyguards Inc series. This one has Kirby, a guy who can't seem to catch much of a break and Stefan, an American temporarily helping out at the business who just happens along Kirby getting his ass kicked in the station bathroom. I really enjoyed how these two didn't jump right into bed together at the beginning of the story so we got to know them fairly well before the romance started. No real angst, no "big fight" scene, just a sweet Christmas edition to the series.
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