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Obsessive. Toxic. Ice Princess. Witch. Jewell King ignored the epithets slung at her behind her back. Hell, after six, or was it seven, personal security officers asked to be reassigned rather than continue to guard her 24/7, maybe she deserved the names. She didn't care. Good riddance. Well...the last one had kinda weaseled his way into her daily routine with his compulsive cleaning and insistence on health foods. When he left, she noticed and was…hurt. But that didn't matter. She had no time for emotions. Handling the information and data systems for Guardian required 28 hour days and triple her current staff. On her shoulders rested the weight of defending Guardian against a brilliant hacker determined to take down all billionaire David Xavier had built and destroy her family in the process. He'd tried before. She had frustrated his first attempt by the slimmest of margins. This time he’d made it personal and he just might succeed.


Zane Reynolds waded through several weeks’ worth of empty energy drink cans, cast off candy wrappers and stale pizza boxes, and viewed Jewell's office with a resigned sense of deja vu. He was back—against his will and despite his best efforts to stay as far away from Jewell as he could get. The fact she hated him would make Jewell a difficult assignment. He should walk away like all the others, except he couldn’t. He’d seen through the woman’s veneer and had witnessed the true kindness of the person hiding under the beautiful, yet caustic façade. This time, Zane had non-negotiable conditions before he'd agree to return as Jewell King's personal security, and he told the CEO of Guardian as much. This time, he was doing things his way.

242 pages, ebook

First published August 22, 2017

912 people are currently reading
282 people want to read

About the author

Kris Michaels

82 books1,118 followers
USA Today and Amazon Bestselling Author, Kris Michaels is the alter ego of a happily married wife and mother. She writes romance, usually with characters from military and law enforcement backgrounds.

Kris was born and raised in South Dakota. She graduated many years ago from a high school class consisting of 13 students (yes that is thirteen, eleven girls and two boys...lucky boys). She joined the military, met her husband, and traveled the world. Today she lives on the Gulf Coast and writes full time.

Kris is an avid people watcher and dreamer. The stories she writes are crafted around the hopes and dreams of a true romantic. She believes love is essential, people are beautiful, and everyone deserves a happy ending.

When she isn't writing Kris enjoys a full life revolving around family, friends, laughing, whiskey, and cold red wine. (Yes cold...don't judge.)

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5 stars
2,274 (71%)
4 stars
710 (22%)
3 stars
152 (4%)
2 stars
19 (<1%)
1 star
7 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
Profile Image for Khurram.
2,373 reviews6,691 followers
November 20, 2019
I revived an ARC copy of this book I have no connection to Kris Michaels.

I think from now on I will just give a Kris Michaels book 5 stars for signing her name. Another great book. The book is full of great characters who are strong enough to star in their own book.

Jewell is the nerve centre, the CPU of Guardian. She has always put the company first, and expects everyone to work to her standard. Including her security. She understands the digital world and character more then she understands people. Zahn is great with people but stragglers with his past and being normal. Together compliment each other perfectly. I really like the way Jewell process things sorting between sex and love. It makes her all the more endearing.

I really like the was Kris manages to give her characters an authentic feel. Jewell's dialogue and traits come across as a computer expert. The same way Zahn comes across as a assassin fighting his past but needing his skills. I made no secret the Joseph is my favorite King brother. As badass as the others are he it the big brother. Having him as a side character was great. When someone says "hurt my sister and deal deal with me" it just comes across as funny, when Joseph says it it is a death promise. I was cheering at Zahn's unleashed moment.

This series just gets better and better. I have to say no offence to Jasmin and Jewell, as I really liked both their stories, though all I know of her is by reputation Jade is the story I am most looking forward to the next book most of all.
Profile Image for &#x1f989;Maggie Whitworth.
3,254 reviews113 followers
July 27, 2020
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋

Another brilliant action packed book that gets you on the edge of your seat.
Jewel meets her match in Zane , a former assassin, now PSO.
And an evil doer is about to get the fight of his life.
Wonderful reading
Profile Image for LoveMyAuthors.
800 reviews14 followers
August 30, 2017
I love it that Kris Michaels hasn't forgotten that these alpha bada$$ brothers have sisters...and sister Jewell is just that, a real jewel! Without the cyber brains behind Guardian, these guys would be lost.

Jewell is quirky and a little insecure, but she is tough when she needs to be and it was so much fun watching her find her voice with her brothers and Zane. Zane Reynolds, big and scary in his own way, but I loved this guy's no nonsense approach to just about everything, including Jewell...ah, the opposites do attract. Zane finally realizing that he can have a life he never thought would be possible takes the leap of faith and confesses his feelings for Jewell and Jewell, confesses that she's never been in love and she's not sure what she feels for this guy who was forced upon her at first by her meddling, neanderthal brothers. It was great watching this relationship unfold and grow and I'm so glad that Kris Michaels didn't feel the need to rush it.

There's action, there's suspense and there are some unbelievably laugh out loud funny interactions courtesy of these man children...gah! And let's not forget step-dad, Frank. Good thing most of them have strong women now! LOL

Zane and Jewell get their HFN, I don't think their story is completely finished, but the author has left us with a big black cloud looming. Someone they love is in danger and you can count on the Kings' to kick it into high gear to save them! Looking forward to the next installment!
182 reviews3 followers
August 12, 2017
I wasn't sure that Jacob and Jason could get replaced as my favorite Guardians, but I do believe that Zane has edged them out. I absolutely loved Zane and Jewell's story and I found myself quickly rereading it! In Jewell, Zane is once again assigned as Jewell's shadow when it is revealed that she has made an enemy out of Vista, the Bratava's hacker. In Chief, we saw the snarky attitude that Jewell gave Zane, but this time around feelings are finally revealed. Jewell and Zane have awesome chemistry and I loved how he stood up for her, took care of her and protected her (from danger, from her brothers and from herself). The best part was Zane telling Jason how it was going to be when he came back on board to protect her! Of course, can't leave out the part where he tells Frank to basically mind his own business. They story itself revolves around unmasking Vista and the fallout of his hacking. Of course, we get a snippet of what and who might be next!! Jewell is another winner and I am eagerly waiting for the next Guardians book!
Profile Image for Aj.
170 reviews9 followers
May 28, 2018
Jewell and Zane(Bengal)
Zane is an assassin no matter what title he wears now. But he's a sweetheart and his neighbour loves him for it.

Breakout stars:
Anubis and Thanatos [I need to read Anubis' book]
Throwback:
Joseph(Fury) [there needs to be an assassins' club and some back stories. How did they come to be?]

I can't believe Jade was the mystery woman that the twins love. Tbh she's the only one who could wrangle these two
Profile Image for Deidre.
87 reviews
February 2, 2025
Ok I love Kris Michaels' Books... Every last one that I have read... Jewell is spectacular and Love Buttons and Bengal.... They have such an awesome dynamic relationship.... the ups and downs are very limited but the relationship thrives and soars ... Kris you have done it again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Profile Image for Deb B.
1,852 reviews16 followers
December 11, 2017
such a great writer - compelling reads, amazing storylines, really likeable characters - one of my very favourite series
Profile Image for Marie.
5,183 reviews52 followers
February 5, 2023
He just 'gets' her

Zane sees past Jewell's social awkwardness and the bluster and snark to uses to keep people at a distance, to see the compassionate, driven, thoughtful, workaholic of a woman that is meant to be his. Will it be an easy road? Nope, Jewell's insecurities mean he has to take it slow, but she is worth every second, hour, day, week or month that he has to wait for her. And then there are the King brothers, great big Alpha, protective idiots who mean well, but have no idea who Jewell really is, what she needs, it even what she actually does for the business....this is where Zane starts, confronting the King brothers and if he lives to tell the tale, he hope Jewell will claim him too.
I love that Zane understands not only Jewell's quirks and her work ethic, but also her need to understand and reasons why. Why would she want to resist when Zane sweeps her off her feet?
Profile Image for Dana zamora.
867 reviews7 followers
September 27, 2020
Dark web of intrigue

Assassin Zane and computer nerd Jewell, total opposites, but you know what they say, opposites attract, and they fall hard when they fall in love, Jewell reluctant and hides behind her shell, Zane has changed but when necessary the assassin's creed comes out to play with no fear except keeping Jewell and the rest of Guardian safe, simply spellbinding, thank you, Dana Zamora
Profile Image for Roxs Reads.
826 reviews1 follower
August 22, 2017
Jewell is the 8th novel in the Guardian Series. I have loved every story in this series for its uniqueness as well as its similarities. Jewell was chocked full of everything I love in a Guardian book. An exciting life or death mission to be handled, mysteries to solve, people to save, and a lot of steamy romance thrown in the mix. Kris also brought most of our beloved characters out to play for bit in this story which is always a highlight to my day. I love keeping up with them all, even if it's only in small doses.

Zane was a quiet but strong hero. He had watched and adored Jewell for months and would do anything for her. He knew she worked too hard and was her own worst enemy when it came to putting herself first. He was a little skeptical about how she would feel seeing him again since their first stint together had some rocky moments that left him feeling unsure about protecting her again but he wouldn't let her stubbornness stop him from ensuring she was safe. Jewell and Zane were thrown together for a second time when a computer genius not only targeted Guardian Security but also the Guardian computer mastermind that thwarted his attempts at bringing the high profile company to its knees. Jewell was the target, Zane her protector.

I loved their chemistry together. Zane is unsure whether he can return to a normal life and is just learning how to feel again after leaving his career as a Guardian assassin behind and Jewell is more comfortable behind a computer than interacting with people. Neither are used to being around others, showing emotion, worrying about someone else or having any kind of a romantic relationship. Together they build something beautiful while they work to find the threat to herself and Guardian.

This story has its own type of action - a cyber war. Kris made the story very intriguing and kept me interested throughout. She throws in a few twists, a little angst and suspense as well as humour and real life issues and emotions. My favourite personality traits of Jewell were her naivety and her outspokenness. Her mouth usually spoke before her brain kicked in and she was so oblivious to the shock her words would induce; she made me laugh. Zane is unflappable. Always thinking, considering his responses before speaking and always able to calm Jewell with his words or his touch and warm enveloping arms. They are a perfect match.

Jewell is a STRONG King woman who takes pride in her job and hates being treated like a child. She is not impressed with all of the decisions her brothers make for her and their choices bring out her claws, Zane usually receives the brunt of her frustration but Jewell learned her lesson the first time Zane was her protector and she pushed him away. It left her with a hollow feeling, one that hurt when she thought about it. Even if Zane was a pain in her side, something about him drew her to him. This time, she listened to her heart and acted on her emotions only to find that Zane shared her attraction and she was more than willing to give him the attention they both craved.
"You are the most amazing man I know. I love you. All of you, your past, who you are now and whoever you will become."

The Guardian series is famous for its secret training compound in the North Dakota mountains. I love that Kris always returns there at some point during her stories. Frank Marshall is very protective over his girls, both his own and the King women who are now his step-daughters. Meeting Zane at the ranch had Frank on high alert again, ready to ensure he was worthy of Jewell and he doesn't pull any punches - he is to the point. Zane may have taken a chance bringing out those giant brass balls of his but he handled Frank wonderfully and left a smile on my face.
"I love her, and I have loved her for a long time now. She is my forever. My intentions past those facts are private and are none of your business."

I thoroughly enjoyed Jewell's story. The King women are proving to be a force to be reckoned with and I really enjoy getting to know them up close and personal. I love their fighting spirits and their pain in the butt brothers. I love their need to be loved after a long day of trying to save the world. I look forward to Jade' s story and anticipate a lot of action with this one.
Profile Image for Kylee.
3,000 reviews56 followers
August 29, 2017
Huge fan of this series and book 8 is an absolute five star read. Jewell is the geek, the nerd, the King sibling that isn't as social as the rest. She loves her computers, gaming and programming is her life. She is the nerve centre of Guardian and at times her brothers seem to forget the hours that she puts in and that she sometimes needs to be taken care of. In steps Zane, the man given the job to protect this King from the Hacker Vista but can he separate his feelings that he has developed over the past year for Jewel to ensure he can protect her to the best of his abilities. Jewell has never known love before but she knows that when Zane left before there was a hole inside her that only he can fill. Zane not only has to convince Jewell he is in it for the long haul with her but he has to ensure that she can accept that man he used to be. However lets not forget her very over protective brothers who just might think he is not the man for her based on what he used to do for Guardian. This book to me was the best in the series to date as you watch Jewell realize that not only is she the geeky nerd that everybody sees but she is one beautiful selfless woman. Zane and Jewell's story is full of angst, suspense, drama, love, self discovery and acceptance.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
474 reviews12 followers
August 23, 2017
Another great book in the series

This focuses on Jewell, one of the King sisters of the men who run Guardian. She freely admits she's a geek and runs the computer section and all that it entails for the company. Due to problems, she again needs a bodyguard and back comes Zane, who was the only person who could put up with her idiosyncrasies.
As they race to sort things out, Jewell and Zane sort out their lives as well.
There's suspense, intrigue and love all wrapped up in a very good, well written story. The other siblings are all involved except for Justin - I'm interested to know his story eventually.
The characters are well thought out, especially Jewell whose lack of understanding of the niceties/nuances of life is written really well. Zane has issues too and these again are covered, although I didn't feel he was quite as well written as Chief and Joseph in previous books, but he is the supporting character.
It is though, a really good book, roll on Jade's story.
Profile Image for Mags.
3,043 reviews36 followers
August 25, 2017
This was another enjoyable story in the Guardian Series. That drew me in and kept me engaged throughout. Although unlike some of the previous stories. There wasn't a lot of action or suspense, but what there was I enjoyed and the ending leads perfectly into Jades story. Which I'm looking forward to reading.

As for Jewell and Zane I really liked them both. Even though they are total opposites. I thought they worked well together and I really enjoyed how their relationship progressed and I particularly found Jewell to be a very interesting, quirky, fun straight talking character and that was really great to read.

I would therefore happily recommend Jewell to others. Especially if you're a fan of the series.
Profile Image for Melanie Marnell.
4,225 reviews34 followers
March 31, 2025
I can so easily lose myself in a Kris Michaels book because of her terrific characters, enthralling storylines and attention to details. Emotions are deep, action can be evenly paced or heart stopping fast and she cranks up the sizzle in the steamy love scenes. Jewell King is the center of all Guardian operations, a certified hacking genius, quintessential nerd and a woman who has never known love. Zane Reynolds is a man with a past and the man who loves Jewell no matter how hard she pushes him away. A cat and mouse game with the computer programmer behind the Bratava operations puts Jewell at risk once again. It's all hands on deck to ensure she's safe and the bad guy is caught with Zane leading the charge.
275 reviews
March 13, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Kris Michaels is, without a doubt, one of the best romance authors there is! Every book she's written is on my 'favorites' list and my 'gotta read this again' list. Jewell, the independent, nerdy, computer geek sister of the King family has met her match in her personal security officer, Zane. Jewell has a hacker sending threats to her and the Guardian family. Zane has a past he's trying to keep in the past. Together they explode in passion. Nail biting suspense follows them as the hacker seeks his vengeance on the Guardians. Love this book! This series! This author!
Profile Image for BookGirlVlP.
241 reviews8 followers
September 20, 2017
3 Hours of Sleep!!!!

Is all I have gotten since I started this book yesterday!! Asking me to pick one of the Ms. Micheal's Guardian books is like asking a parent to pick a favorite child - I love all of them BUT I think this has nosed out in front to be my favorite. I love Jewell and Zane. Their characters are expertly written. The story line in this is so believable. I love the interactions between all of the characters and I love how past character's are not only NOT forgotten but have an actual part in her other books as well. Very well written, action packed and fun from beginning to end. A fantastic addition the the series!
Profile Image for Rhonda.
1,276 reviews4 followers
September 28, 2020
Jewell may very well be my favorite member of this bad ass family. What I loved about her is how misunderstood she is and how much Zane loves her for it. She is as bad ass as her brothers without the physical aspect. When she takes on Jason, Jacob and Jared I want to jump through the book and hug her. I loved how she finally had someone in her corner completely not someone that just thinks she is a strange gaming brainiac... this story took quite the turn I wasn’t expecting which I love about the book... I’m still trying to figure out the bigger picture... there is a piece missing that is driving me crazy!

Re-read 2020... Jewell is the biggest badass of this whole family!
108 reviews
September 21, 2017
Jewell and Zane

Another great addition to the series! I tried to read this one slowly to savor it and read a few other books prior to starting Jewell.

Kris Michaels wrote another hot, steamy book which went along nicely with the others. It was nice touching bases with Joseph aka Fury and the others in Guardian.

Hoping that the introduction of Zane's old buddies will show up again in future books.

Now, the waiting begins for the release of Jade.

I highly recommend that you read the books in order to get the maximum enjoyment of the series.
Profile Image for Mandy C.
236 reviews16 followers
September 4, 2017
They just get better!!!

I have read the whole series and they just keep on getting better! I love having the characters carried through so there is as flow to all of the books. The stories were complex, with twists that intrigue, touching and tender moments that make you almost feel uncomfortable like you are intruding and snarky comments that make you laugh out loud. Love this series and cannot wait for the next. Please, please write faster!!!!
451 reviews1 follower
November 13, 2018
Crisis time at Guardian computer skills are Jewells life.

Zane had worked as body guard to Jewell before, but had to leave on another mission, but now he's back. The hacker that got into Guardian's system is back and Jewells life is in danger.
What she didn't know was that Zane has feelings for her and he is not going to allow anything to happen to her.
Again Kris has delivered a wonderful story full of intrigue, action and love.
1,081 reviews
November 15, 2018
This was a great book at this point in the series. Jewell is a fun, lippy little sister who keeps her brother’s company safe in the IT realm. Zane is an ex-assassin who is now doing personal protection duty for Jewell. I really liked these two together. She was sassy enough to keep him on his toes, but not get herself into too much trouble because of it. Zane was a calming force to her hurricane. They were a great match.
468 reviews2 followers
July 10, 2021
Hacker threats

Jewell King is the family's computer genius. She found and managed to circumvent Bravata's hacker, Vista, and now he's after her..With death threats, Zane is back as her security. The threats are seemingly ended when they track Vizta to a house that blows up as they start a raid. Too neat and clean for Zane. He keeps hunting, and find a clue. This one takes you through a bit of geek world, but not too far. Loved it.
Profile Image for Helen McNabb.
947 reviews10 followers
August 5, 2017
Read as an ARC, I will not spoil the story however suffice to say, I have pre-purchased my own copy on release.

I have purchased and read all the books in the Kings of Guardian series, they are definitely a MUST read. If you enjoy a story that makes you feel that you are part of the scenario and you are living the emotions then this series is for you.
1,194 reviews5 followers
August 23, 2017
5 Stars

Another great book in the Kings of Guardian. These books 📚 keep getting better and better! Jewell and Zane are a perfect match, they are so honest with their feelings. I would like to see a little more of Zane's two man back-up team (they sparked my interest). Highly recommend this series!!!
143 reviews
August 23, 2017
Amazing

Absolutely loved this book! It's everything and more of the description! It had me from the first page. I've read this series from the beginning and each book just gets better. If you have not read anything from this author you should. She is an exceptional author. You will not be disappointed!
Profile Image for Rebecca.
4 reviews5 followers
August 23, 2017
Never doubt that Kris Michaels isn't going to bring her "A" game. Batted this one out of the park! Jewell and Zane's story was sexy, smart, action packed, funny, and suspenseful! I love how Ms. Michaels ties all the Guardian characters into this book and we get updates on how everyone is doing. Another home run AND touchdown!
164 reviews1 follower
August 23, 2017
Oh my!

That is a hot couple here. Zane has a hard past but he have the skills to understand Jewell. And this girl is awsome. A genius and no social skills! I loved them. Their relationship is so different from the others. I was waiting for Jewell story for a long time. And it was awsome! As usual it's a very good story.
Profile Image for TeeAnn Kemmitz.
291 reviews2 followers
September 11, 2017
Jewell and Zane

The journey of Jewell and Zane includes all the things you expect in a Kings of Guardian book. Passion, love, humor and of course suspense! Love reading anything by the fabulous Kris Michaels. Especially her Kings of Guardian series! Looking forward to reading the next one and found out what has happened to Jade.
Profile Image for Martha East.
32 reviews
September 24, 2017
What happened???

Several times while reading this book pages were missing. This has never happened and was very frustrating, I felt like I was missing some important parts in the development of the storyline. The story was interesting and I enjoyed Jewel and Zane becoming a couple.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews

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