What do you think?
Rate this book
Deadly Secrets #3
Protected
A passion to live for—and to die for—in the RITA-winning series from New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Elisabeth Naughton.
Up-and-coming designer Kelsey McClane is on the cusp of success. Recently divorced, she should be enjoying her newfound freedom and glamorous future. Instead, she’s living in fear of the past. When she returns home to Portland on a press tour, danger creeps closer than ever. As threatening messages from her bitter ex-husband leave her vulnerable, a new man in her life makes her feel protected.
Former Army Ranger turned security professional Hunter O’Donnell is hired to guard Kelsey. When a shattering explosion rocks her world, Kelsey’s ex is the prime suspect, but Hunter speculates there’s more to the situation than Kelsey’s letting on. Intent on keeping her safe, he delves into Kelsey’s past. As the two work together to unmask her stalker’s identity, a fire ignites between them that they both struggle to contain.
While the investigation proceeds, it draws them closer not only to each other but also to a lethal plot that’s been in the works behind their backs. And with each new secret unveiled, it’s not just temptation putting them at risk—it’s a madman who will not stop until Kelsey is dead.
Up-and-coming designer Kelsey McClane is on the cusp of success. Recently divorced, she should be enjoying her newfound freedom and glamorous future. Instead, she’s living in fear of the past. When she returns home to Portland on a press tour, danger creeps closer than ever. As threatening messages from her bitter ex-husband leave her vulnerable, a new man in her life makes her feel protected.
Former Army Ranger turned security professional Hunter O’Donnell is hired to guard Kelsey. When a shattering explosion rocks her world, Kelsey’s ex is the prime suspect, but Hunter speculates there’s more to the situation than Kelsey’s letting on. Intent on keeping her safe, he delves into Kelsey’s past. As the two work together to unmask her stalker’s identity, a fire ignites between them that they both struggle to contain.
While the investigation proceeds, it draws them closer not only to each other but also to a lethal plot that’s been in the works behind their backs. And with each new secret unveiled, it’s not just temptation putting them at risk—it’s a madman who will not stop until Kelsey is dead.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 20, 2018
770 people are currently reading
1057 people want to read
About the author
Elisabeth Naughton
75 books3,155 followersBefore topping multiple bestseller lists—including those of the New York Times, USA Today, and the Wall Street Journal—award winning author Elisabeth Naughton taught middle school science. A voracious reader, she soon discovered she had a knack for creating stories with a chemistry of their own. The spark turned into a flame, and Elisabeth now writes full-time.
Though primarily known for her romantic suspense work, Elisabeth has penned over thirty books and continues to write in multiple genres, including paranormal romance and contemporary romance. Her books have been translated into numerous languages and have earned several award nominations, including three prestigious RITA® nominations from Romance Writers of America. In 2017, REPRESSED, the first book in her Deadly Secrets series, won the RITA® for best romantic suspense.
Elisabeth's work has been praised by the Chicago Tribune as being filled with "deadly intrigue, high adrenaline action, and scorchingly hot passion.” Kirkus calls her "a writer talented enough at weaving a yarn to get her readers ensnared in it.” When not dreaming up new stories, Elisabeth can be found spending time with her husband and three children in their western Oregon home, wrangling two cats, or chasing after one very rambunctious Dalmatian.
Learn more about Elisabeth and her books at www.ElisabethNaughton.com.
Though primarily known for her romantic suspense work, Elisabeth has penned over thirty books and continues to write in multiple genres, including paranormal romance and contemporary romance. Her books have been translated into numerous languages and have earned several award nominations, including three prestigious RITA® nominations from Romance Writers of America. In 2017, REPRESSED, the first book in her Deadly Secrets series, won the RITA® for best romantic suspense.
Elisabeth's work has been praised by the Chicago Tribune as being filled with "deadly intrigue, high adrenaline action, and scorchingly hot passion.” Kirkus calls her "a writer talented enough at weaving a yarn to get her readers ensnared in it.” When not dreaming up new stories, Elisabeth can be found spending time with her husband and three children in their western Oregon home, wrangling two cats, or chasing after one very rambunctious Dalmatian.
Learn more about Elisabeth and her books at www.ElisabethNaughton.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
March 13, 2018
Fashion designer Kelsey McClane and close protection expert, Hunter O’Donnell, have known each other for most of their lives in a little sister/ friend to big brothers way. It is not until O’Donnell is hired for his professional security skills that they get to spend time together and get to know one another in a way they had never done before; in the dark and under tons of concrete. Naughton’s writing of the opening chapters’ explosion and aftermath is chilling and the stuff of nightmares. Holy cow, she “done good.”
Someone is threatening Kelsey, who is home in Portland after a successful time at NYC Fashion Week. The smart money has it that her ex-husband is responsible for the relentless terror campaign against Kelsey. But the smart money is not always the smart money.
Kelsey and Hunter go on the offensive, rather than sit around waiting for the next move in this deadly game of who wants Kelsey dead. Their chase keeps getting more and more complicated and leads them from Portland, OR to California.
This is not only a book with a terrific plot; the characters are well done too. Kelsey belongs to a loving family, with Kelsey and her brothers all being adopted. Hunter grew up being part of the family since his own father didn’t seem to be too interested in him. Kelsey herself is damaged with a myriad of problems including panic attacks and a tendency to shut down from every one she loves; all stemming from childhood trust issues. I like how she is not magically ‘cured’ by either her loving family or the “love of a good man.” Naughton doesn’t hesitate to show that “coming back” is sometimes a long road to travel with lots of dips with the help of professional guides needed.
Protected is romantic suspense at its very best, hot romance where you truly root for the lovers, and suspense that will keep you avidly turning pages.
Oh, and for that suspension of belief thing with romantic suspense, ummm, I can’t think of a single genre including some non-fiction that doesn’t require it. For that matter I am currently living in a state of “suspension of belief” and will be for a few more years.
This is the third book in a series-Deadly Secrets-so it worked fine for me as a standalone. But ya can betcha I'm going back to read the preceding two books.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Someone is threatening Kelsey, who is home in Portland after a successful time at NYC Fashion Week. The smart money has it that her ex-husband is responsible for the relentless terror campaign against Kelsey. But the smart money is not always the smart money.
Kelsey and Hunter go on the offensive, rather than sit around waiting for the next move in this deadly game of who wants Kelsey dead. Their chase keeps getting more and more complicated and leads them from Portland, OR to California.
This is not only a book with a terrific plot; the characters are well done too. Kelsey belongs to a loving family, with Kelsey and her brothers all being adopted. Hunter grew up being part of the family since his own father didn’t seem to be too interested in him. Kelsey herself is damaged with a myriad of problems including panic attacks and a tendency to shut down from every one she loves; all stemming from childhood trust issues. I like how she is not magically ‘cured’ by either her loving family or the “love of a good man.” Naughton doesn’t hesitate to show that “coming back” is sometimes a long road to travel with lots of dips with the help of professional guides needed.
Protected is romantic suspense at its very best, hot romance where you truly root for the lovers, and suspense that will keep you avidly turning pages.
Oh, and for that suspension of belief thing with romantic suspense, ummm, I can’t think of a single genre including some non-fiction that doesn’t require it. For that matter I am currently living in a state of “suspension of belief” and will be for a few more years.
This is the third book in a series-Deadly Secrets-so it worked fine for me as a standalone. But ya can betcha I'm going back to read the preceding two books.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
November 29, 2018
DNF @ 47%.
Gawd! The MCs are killing me!! The h gives me whiplash with her neediness, insecurity, then all hot and bothered, then all "hold me", "fuck me" then all bitchy and ball busting. Dislike her intensely. The way she grilled the guy for one of his hookups coming around to his place while she was trying to get some action.
Not to let the H off the hook. He's a piece of work too. I get that he doesn't DO relationships, yada yada. He does flings and hookups. And he called his latest sex bimbo of 3 months past "nothing." Literally that's what he called her: "Nothing." He was a real ass to her - dude, just bc you have sex with a woman and tell her it's no strings attached doesn't mean she won't ever have those feelings or feel something toward you, doesn't mean the rules don't change ever for one or both of you! Have enough sensitivity to at least acknowledge that! And not treat her like shit just bc you're hot to pound another woman!
Can't stand these 2. Can't stand that the romantic suspense I'm used to reading from this author is now melodrama between 2 MCs I can't stand.
Gawd! The MCs are killing me!! The h gives me whiplash with her neediness, insecurity, then all hot and bothered, then all "hold me", "fuck me" then all bitchy and ball busting. Dislike her intensely. The way she grilled the guy for one of his hookups coming around to his place while she was trying to get some action.
Not to let the H off the hook. He's a piece of work too. I get that he doesn't DO relationships, yada yada. He does flings and hookups. And he called his latest sex bimbo of 3 months past "nothing." Literally that's what he called her: "Nothing." He was a real ass to her - dude, just bc you have sex with a woman and tell her it's no strings attached doesn't mean she won't ever have those feelings or feel something toward you, doesn't mean the rules don't change ever for one or both of you! Have enough sensitivity to at least acknowledge that! And not treat her like shit just bc you're hot to pound another woman!
Can't stand these 2. Can't stand that the romantic suspense I'm used to reading from this author is now melodrama between 2 MCs I can't stand.
January 24, 2018
What I like so much about Romantic Suspense sub-genre is the blend of heart-pounding action and steamy romance (sometimes with a little mystery written into it) and when written well, provides a bum-clenching, fuck-the-world kind of escape that almost nothing comes close to. ‘Protected’ is one of those reads, reeling me in from the start with unresolved tension that’s almost immediately followed by an explosion that throws the life Kelsey McClane has been rebuilding back into chaos.
There’s a huge backstory to go into once the dust settles but I’ve found it an engaging read that was hard to put down, with several turns that were surprising but needed a little more suspension of disbelief. ‘Protected’ is nonetheless a good standalone, with minimal links to the rest of the series.
Elisabeth Naughton did write Kelsey and Hunter mostly as sympathetic characters: I understood Kelsey’s insecurities, empathised with the emotional abuse and the past she had and her reasons for drawing back from Hunter when she distrusted her own judgement. Warming up to Hunter took a little more time for me—the apparent two-timing act early on didn’t quite endear me to him—but seeing him stepping into his role as protector later on, strapping in despite his own reservations did make him and Kelsey a pairing that I thought I could get behind. There were waffling moments between them however, flawed as they were, and the HFN ending when the wounds have barely healed might seem somewhat unsatisfactory.
That said, ‘Protected’ was a thoroughly absorbing afternoon diversion, and didn’t get any better than the straight-up romantic suspense read.
*ARC by the author and the publisher via Netgalley
There’s a huge backstory to go into once the dust settles but I’ve found it an engaging read that was hard to put down, with several turns that were surprising but needed a little more suspension of disbelief. ‘Protected’ is nonetheless a good standalone, with minimal links to the rest of the series.
Elisabeth Naughton did write Kelsey and Hunter mostly as sympathetic characters: I understood Kelsey’s insecurities, empathised with the emotional abuse and the past she had and her reasons for drawing back from Hunter when she distrusted her own judgement. Warming up to Hunter took a little more time for me—the apparent two-timing act early on didn’t quite endear me to him—but seeing him stepping into his role as protector later on, strapping in despite his own reservations did make him and Kelsey a pairing that I thought I could get behind. There were waffling moments between them however, flawed as they were, and the HFN ending when the wounds have barely healed might seem somewhat unsatisfactory.
That said, ‘Protected’ was a thoroughly absorbing afternoon diversion, and didn’t get any better than the straight-up romantic suspense read.
*ARC by the author and the publisher via Netgalley
November 9, 2018
This is a "bodyguard falls for his protectee" trope and a "falling for best friend's sister" trope too. How many tropes are you allowed in one book? Anyway, it ended up being a fairly good romantic suspense, if you don't consider I spotted the baddie immediately, if not the why.
Kelsey McClane is a young fashion designer who is just now finding success with a fantastic showing at New York's Fashion Week. She has also finally divorced her mentally abusive husband and sworn off all men. Said nasty ex is harassing her and her overprotective brothers have arranged for a close family friend to protect her. Her return from New York to Portland to do the morning show on TV makes her success finally feel real. For the orphaned, adopted little girl no one wanted, it is sweet indeed.
Hunter O'Donnell, security specialist, has been best friends with Kelsey's brother, Alec, forever and knows how protective he and his brothers can be. He has always liked Kelsey and, at one time, it could have been more, but the timing wasn't right. He is a no-strings kind of guy and plans to stay that way.
While protecting Kelsey and keeping his hands off may be the job, the whole job takes a deadly turn when Kelsey receives a threatening text right before the TV station is blown up. The prime suspect, Kelsey's ex, just doesn't strike Hunt as the bombing type. As Hunt tries to keep Kelsey safe and investigate it appears the truth may lie in Kelsey's past. 3 1/2-Stars
Kelsey McClane is a young fashion designer who is just now finding success with a fantastic showing at New York's Fashion Week. She has also finally divorced her mentally abusive husband and sworn off all men. Said nasty ex is harassing her and her overprotective brothers have arranged for a close family friend to protect her. Her return from New York to Portland to do the morning show on TV makes her success finally feel real. For the orphaned, adopted little girl no one wanted, it is sweet indeed.
Hunter O'Donnell, security specialist, has been best friends with Kelsey's brother, Alec, forever and knows how protective he and his brothers can be. He has always liked Kelsey and, at one time, it could have been more, but the timing wasn't right. He is a no-strings kind of guy and plans to stay that way.
While protecting Kelsey and keeping his hands off may be the job, the whole job takes a deadly turn when Kelsey receives a threatening text right before the TV station is blown up. The prime suspect, Kelsey's ex, just doesn't strike Hunt as the bombing type. As Hunt tries to keep Kelsey safe and investigate it appears the truth may lie in Kelsey's past. 3 1/2-Stars
May 27, 2018
This is the story I liked the least so far. I found the pace uneven and there are too many "I wish I didn't do that, or say that" in the first half for my liking.
August 7, 2018
3-3.5 Stars
January 15, 2019
This book is amazing. I was down with the flu and was just going to read a couple of chapters waiting for my meds to kick in but lo and behold a couple hours later, I had finished the entire book. I could not put it down. It has the perfect balance of mystery and suspense with a great romantic entanglement thrown in. The plot of this story is unique and fascinating and definitely grabs your interest from the very first page and the characters are well-written, complex and easy to relate to. It is easy to connect with Kelsey from the start and you cannot help but love Hunt. I really enjoyed their dialogue and interaction and the fact that the author keeps you guessing about the bad guy till the end.
You cannot help but root for Kelsey and praise her for her strength and determination to push forward after everything she endures between her horrible ex and the bad guy. She suffers through so much physically, mentally and emotionally yet has the fortitude to recognize her struggles for what they are and work towards making herself whole again.
For Hunter, again it is hard not to love him once you get to know more about him. He is kind of mysterious in the beginning but as the story develops you get to learn more about his background and that makes it easier to understand his thoughts and actions throughout the book. Once he truly comes to terms with what he really wants and understanding why he says and does things in relation to his past he becomes a wonderfully strong character to help Kelsey stay grounded.
I love the connection and chemistry between Kelsey and Hunter. You can feel it swarming around them from the beginning, starting off at a slow burn until it ignites among the chaos they have to deal with. You can actually feel the emotions rolling off them as you read and the author does a great job of holding your interest in their relationship and keeping the connection fresh throughout the story. And there is a lot of activity in this book that could easily engulf or drown out the romance but it is nicely balanced with the plot of the story so one does not overshadow the other.
If you are looking for a good book that contains flowing drama, suspense, action and romance then this is the book for you. Though it is part of a series, it can easily be read as a standalone. I received an advanced copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
You cannot help but root for Kelsey and praise her for her strength and determination to push forward after everything she endures between her horrible ex and the bad guy. She suffers through so much physically, mentally and emotionally yet has the fortitude to recognize her struggles for what they are and work towards making herself whole again.
For Hunter, again it is hard not to love him once you get to know more about him. He is kind of mysterious in the beginning but as the story develops you get to learn more about his background and that makes it easier to understand his thoughts and actions throughout the book. Once he truly comes to terms with what he really wants and understanding why he says and does things in relation to his past he becomes a wonderfully strong character to help Kelsey stay grounded.
I love the connection and chemistry between Kelsey and Hunter. You can feel it swarming around them from the beginning, starting off at a slow burn until it ignites among the chaos they have to deal with. You can actually feel the emotions rolling off them as you read and the author does a great job of holding your interest in their relationship and keeping the connection fresh throughout the story. And there is a lot of activity in this book that could easily engulf or drown out the romance but it is nicely balanced with the plot of the story so one does not overshadow the other.
If you are looking for a good book that contains flowing drama, suspense, action and romance then this is the book for you. Though it is part of a series, it can easily be read as a standalone. I received an advanced copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
May 30, 2018
3rd book in this romantic suspense series. Can be read as a standalone, though it's nice to have previous characters re-appearing and with each book I've felt a little more invested in this series and the McClane family. Although predictable, it's an enjoyable, easy read, but more heavy on the romance than the suspense in this installment.
April 17, 2020
Highly enjoyable
Great storyline. Great chemistry. The whole series is outstanding. If you love whodunits with hot sex scenes you'll enjoy this series
Great storyline. Great chemistry. The whole series is outstanding. If you love whodunits with hot sex scenes you'll enjoy this series
dnf
November 26, 2018DNF @ 27%
Absolutely charming male protagonist... it's always a proof of real love to sleep around with OWs while having feelings for another one 🙄
Even better to do nothing while suspecting another man of abusing your love!
Sooo cute how he broke off his long fuck-buddies arrangement with OW after he kissed the heroine.
Too romantic for silly ol' me.
I still like them manly, loyal and decent.
Coward is not my kind of a hero.
Absolutely charming male protagonist... it's always a proof of real love to sleep around with OWs while having feelings for another one 🙄
Even better to do nothing while suspecting another man of abusing your love!
Sooo cute how he broke off his long fuck-buddies arrangement with OW after he kissed the heroine.
Too romantic for silly ol' me.
I still like them manly, loyal and decent.
Coward is not my kind of a hero.
March 21, 2018
4.5 stars
Kelsey McClane should be enjoying her success as a fashion designer who recently made waves in New York Fashion Week. Instead, she's cowering and hiding after almost dying in a triggered explosion. Death threats , malicious texts, exploding bombs, hidden cameras, candid stalker photos endangered Kelsey's every move , and she had no clue who was behind all these.
Hunter O'Donnell was hired by the McClanes to keepkeep an eye on Kelsey after her divorce with the snake Julian Benedict . He was trusted by Kelsey's brothers to be professional and protect her at all times. But the more he spent time with her, the more he couldn't help his feelings for best friend's sister . It's only a matter of time before both their lives get engulfed in a fiery rage of passion, jealousy, danger and death .
When Elisabeth Naughton writes a suspense mystery romance, expect the unexpected. Prepare for the twists and surprises. Don't bat an eyelash, or else , you'll miss the turn.
Protected is the third book in the Deadly Secrets series. It's riveting, captivating and really got me spooked. I did not expect that twist coming. Kelsey's and Hunter's entangled mess and sure fire chemistry made the story more appealing and exciting to read. And the more I delve into these mind blowing books, the more I get involved with the characters and the more drawn and affected I am to their suspenseful world. I've said this before and I'm saying it again. If it's from Elisabeth Naughton , it must be great!
Kelsey McClane should be enjoying her success as a fashion designer who recently made waves in New York Fashion Week. Instead, she's cowering and hiding after almost dying in a triggered explosion. Death threats , malicious texts, exploding bombs, hidden cameras, candid stalker photos endangered Kelsey's every move , and she had no clue who was behind all these.
Hunter O'Donnell was hired by the McClanes to keepkeep an eye on Kelsey after her divorce with the snake Julian Benedict . He was trusted by Kelsey's brothers to be professional and protect her at all times. But the more he spent time with her, the more he couldn't help his feelings for best friend's sister . It's only a matter of time before both their lives get engulfed in a fiery rage of passion, jealousy, danger and death .
When Elisabeth Naughton writes a suspense mystery romance, expect the unexpected. Prepare for the twists and surprises. Don't bat an eyelash, or else , you'll miss the turn.
Protected is the third book in the Deadly Secrets series. It's riveting, captivating and really got me spooked. I did not expect that twist coming. Kelsey's and Hunter's entangled mess and sure fire chemistry made the story more appealing and exciting to read. And the more I delve into these mind blowing books, the more I get involved with the characters and the more drawn and affected I am to their suspenseful world. I've said this before and I'm saying it again. If it's from Elisabeth Naughton , it must be great!
August 6, 2018
4.5/5.0
A great ride! Well written, edge-of-your-seat suspense with just the perfect amount of romance to make it yummy. A few aspects might be a bit hard to believe but who cares when it’s this much fun!
A great ride! Well written, edge-of-your-seat suspense with just the perfect amount of romance to make it yummy. A few aspects might be a bit hard to believe but who cares when it’s this much fun!
March 18, 2018
4.25 stars--
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 20, 2018
Up-and-coming designer Kelsey McClane is on the cusp of success. Recently divorced, she should be enjoying her newfound freedom and glamorous future. Instead, she’s living in fear of the past. When she returns home to Portland on a press tour, danger creeps closer than ever. As threatening messages from her bitter ex-husband leave her vulnerable, a new man in her life makes her feel protected.
Former Army Ranger turned security professional Hunter O’Donnell is hired to guard Kelsey. When a shattering explosion rocks her world, Kelsey’s ex is the prime suspect, but Hunter speculates there’s more to the situation than Kelsey’s letting on. Intent on keeping her safe, he delves into Kelsey’s past. As the two work together to unmask her stalker’s identity, a fire ignites between them that they both struggle to contain.
While the investigation proceeds, it draws them closer not only to each other but also to a lethal plot that’s been in the works behind their backs. And with each new secret unveiled, it’s not just temptation putting them at risk—it’s a madman who will not stop until Kelsey is dead.
••••••••
REVIEW: 4.25 stars--PROTECTED is the third instalment in Elisabeth Naughton’s contemporary, adult DEADLY SECRETS romantic, suspense series focusing on the four adopted McClane siblings (Ethan, Alec, Kelsey, Rusty) who are forced to confront their childhood demons. This is up and coming designer Kelsey McClane, and former Army Ranger/security specialist Hunter O’Donnell’s story line. PROTECTED can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
NOTE: For fans of Darcy Burke, there is a slight cross-over with the author’s Ribbon Ridge series with the mention of the Archer sextuplets, Evan and Alaina Archer, and the Alex Hotel.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Kelsey and Hunter) PROTECTED follows the safety and protection of designer Kelsey McClane following an explosion that forced our heroine, and her personal security guard and her brother Alec’s (Gone #2) best friend Hunter O’Donnell into hiding. A series of threatening texts, wiretaps and perfectly timed, clandestine but anonymous photos of our couple, from an unknown source, reveal a personal connection to our story line heroine but a connection that Kelsey knew nothing about. What ensues is the friends to lovers/best friend’s little sister building relationship between Kelsey and Hunter, and the potential fall-out when Kelsey’s past seeks retribution for a perceived series of sins not of her making.
PROTECTED is a story of suspense, mystery, retribution and revenge. Kelsey was given up for adoption at the age of two but never knew her birth mother, or the answers to her troubled beginnings. Hunter has always considered Kelsey off-limits; his best friend’s little sister, but a woman with whom he would grow to love. Kelsey and Hunter’s demons ride close to the surface; trust is an issue both struggle to accept. The $ex scenes are intimate and intense; the sexual chemistry is palpable but Hunter struggles between his friendship with Alec and the McClane family, and his ability to protect the woman with whom he is falling in love.
All of Kelsey’s siblings play secondary and supporting roles including Ethan, Alec and Rusty. We are introduced to Kelsey’s ex-husband Julian Benedict, a man obsessed with our story line heroine; and Hunter’s ex-girlfriend Genevieve who refuses to accept that she is no longer wanted. The requisite evil has many faces who add a twist or two to the story line mystery.
PROTECTED is a complex tale between the past and the present; vengeance against a woman caught totally unaware; and a man who battles his attraction to a woman he has sworn to protect. The premise is action packed, intriguing and entertaining; the romance is seductive and passionate; the characters are broken, charismatic and energetic.
Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 20, 2018
Up-and-coming designer Kelsey McClane is on the cusp of success. Recently divorced, she should be enjoying her newfound freedom and glamorous future. Instead, she’s living in fear of the past. When she returns home to Portland on a press tour, danger creeps closer than ever. As threatening messages from her bitter ex-husband leave her vulnerable, a new man in her life makes her feel protected.
Former Army Ranger turned security professional Hunter O’Donnell is hired to guard Kelsey. When a shattering explosion rocks her world, Kelsey’s ex is the prime suspect, but Hunter speculates there’s more to the situation than Kelsey’s letting on. Intent on keeping her safe, he delves into Kelsey’s past. As the two work together to unmask her stalker’s identity, a fire ignites between them that they both struggle to contain.
While the investigation proceeds, it draws them closer not only to each other but also to a lethal plot that’s been in the works behind their backs. And with each new secret unveiled, it’s not just temptation putting them at risk—it’s a madman who will not stop until Kelsey is dead.
••••••••
REVIEW: 4.25 stars--PROTECTED is the third instalment in Elisabeth Naughton’s contemporary, adult DEADLY SECRETS romantic, suspense series focusing on the four adopted McClane siblings (Ethan, Alec, Kelsey, Rusty) who are forced to confront their childhood demons. This is up and coming designer Kelsey McClane, and former Army Ranger/security specialist Hunter O’Donnell’s story line. PROTECTED can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.
NOTE: For fans of Darcy Burke, there is a slight cross-over with the author’s Ribbon Ridge series with the mention of the Archer sextuplets, Evan and Alaina Archer, and the Alex Hotel.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Kelsey and Hunter) PROTECTED follows the safety and protection of designer Kelsey McClane following an explosion that forced our heroine, and her personal security guard and her brother Alec’s (Gone #2) best friend Hunter O’Donnell into hiding. A series of threatening texts, wiretaps and perfectly timed, clandestine but anonymous photos of our couple, from an unknown source, reveal a personal connection to our story line heroine but a connection that Kelsey knew nothing about. What ensues is the friends to lovers/best friend’s little sister building relationship between Kelsey and Hunter, and the potential fall-out when Kelsey’s past seeks retribution for a perceived series of sins not of her making.
PROTECTED is a story of suspense, mystery, retribution and revenge. Kelsey was given up for adoption at the age of two but never knew her birth mother, or the answers to her troubled beginnings. Hunter has always considered Kelsey off-limits; his best friend’s little sister, but a woman with whom he would grow to love. Kelsey and Hunter’s demons ride close to the surface; trust is an issue both struggle to accept. The $ex scenes are intimate and intense; the sexual chemistry is palpable but Hunter struggles between his friendship with Alec and the McClane family, and his ability to protect the woman with whom he is falling in love.
All of Kelsey’s siblings play secondary and supporting roles including Ethan, Alec and Rusty. We are introduced to Kelsey’s ex-husband Julian Benedict, a man obsessed with our story line heroine; and Hunter’s ex-girlfriend Genevieve who refuses to accept that she is no longer wanted. The requisite evil has many faces who add a twist or two to the story line mystery.
PROTECTED is a complex tale between the past and the present; vengeance against a woman caught totally unaware; and a man who battles his attraction to a woman he has sworn to protect. The premise is action packed, intriguing and entertaining; the romance is seductive and passionate; the characters are broken, charismatic and energetic.
Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley
www.thereadingcafe.com
March 22, 2018
Protected is the third book in Deadly Secrets series and an exciting thriller. I plan to go back and read the first two because this book is awesome. I'm so glad I accepted the kind invitation from the publisher to read and review.
This is an action-packed romantic suspense with amazing characters, an outstanding plot, nail-biting suspenseful scenes. I became engaged from the first page and remained so until the end. Ms. Naughton certainly knows how to write thrillers!
Kelsey McClane's character is sassy, smart and determined. Although she has protective brothers, she does not let them hold her down. Even when they hire Hunter O'Donnell as her personal bodyguard. While she has every reason to cower in fear, she doesn't do that. She faces it head-on. What I particularly liked about her character is a girly-girl and still manages to kick-ass!
Hunter O'Donnell is a great hero. Of course, he's strong and good-looking, but he's also a nice guy. He is determined to protect Kelsey from harm no matter the cost. I thoroughly enjoyed the romantic element of this novel a great deal. The chemistry between Hunter and
Kelsey is combustible!
I highly recommend Protected to all readers who love romantic suspense with plenty of action with a good sprinkle of romance. I can't wait to read the other books in this series. Happy reading!
This is an action-packed romantic suspense with amazing characters, an outstanding plot, nail-biting suspenseful scenes. I became engaged from the first page and remained so until the end. Ms. Naughton certainly knows how to write thrillers!
Kelsey McClane's character is sassy, smart and determined. Although she has protective brothers, she does not let them hold her down. Even when they hire Hunter O'Donnell as her personal bodyguard. While she has every reason to cower in fear, she doesn't do that. She faces it head-on. What I particularly liked about her character is a girly-girl and still manages to kick-ass!
Hunter O'Donnell is a great hero. Of course, he's strong and good-looking, but he's also a nice guy. He is determined to protect Kelsey from harm no matter the cost. I thoroughly enjoyed the romantic element of this novel a great deal. The chemistry between Hunter and
Kelsey is combustible!
I highly recommend Protected to all readers who love romantic suspense with plenty of action with a good sprinkle of romance. I can't wait to read the other books in this series. Happy reading!
March 15, 2018
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the third in the series - and whilst it is an excellent story in its own right, I think you would benefit from knowing the family background and the roles these characters have played before.
Ms Naughton has created another mystery for us and cleverly wrapped it around a romance. Her interest lies clearly in the issues of identity and the implications of not knowing who you are. Here we have Kelsey, adopted out of a foster system that had not identified or dealt with her developmental needs. She was most definitely one of the lucky ones gaining a wonderful family who nurtured her and encouraged her talents. These bring her a measure of fame and thus recognition.
Hunter is a wonderfully understated character, who thinks deeply, but acts slowly. He doesn't always do the right thing, but he is trying, so hard, which makes him a far more interesting person. I would have liked to see more of the two of them just being with each other, but circumstances kept getting in the way, or there was a convenient bedroom which helped them escape from the crazy!
I really enjoyed this book and read it in no time at all, as everything else just had to wait!
This is the third in the series - and whilst it is an excellent story in its own right, I think you would benefit from knowing the family background and the roles these characters have played before.
Ms Naughton has created another mystery for us and cleverly wrapped it around a romance. Her interest lies clearly in the issues of identity and the implications of not knowing who you are. Here we have Kelsey, adopted out of a foster system that had not identified or dealt with her developmental needs. She was most definitely one of the lucky ones gaining a wonderful family who nurtured her and encouraged her talents. These bring her a measure of fame and thus recognition.
Hunter is a wonderfully understated character, who thinks deeply, but acts slowly. He doesn't always do the right thing, but he is trying, so hard, which makes him a far more interesting person. I would have liked to see more of the two of them just being with each other, but circumstances kept getting in the way, or there was a convenient bedroom which helped them escape from the crazy!
I really enjoyed this book and read it in no time at all, as everything else just had to wait!
April 19, 2018
Awesome
A super fantastic mystery with great suspense and a difficult who done it component! Kelsey is awesome and I love this series! I really like how all the adults were adopted as teens from.difficult backgrounds and their adoptive parents and siblings have melded into a functional crazy tolerant family. I really appreciate the depth of compassion and understanding Ethan brings to his childrens lives and challenges without pity or even empathy. Just a loving knowledge of what is going on and what needs to come next. I find it so totally refreshing. I look forward to every single book! I wish they were so much longer! We still have so many open threads to Kelsey's story at least 2 more chapters were needed to wrap it up well. A conclusion to the criminal activity and other related events perhaps additional backstory as it related and additional future plans for her career. I saw her moving her warehouse .... Will not give away anything but everyone should read these books. Bravo Elizabeth it was a fantastic ride and wow was the romance Hot! Write On! Can't wait for the next one! Need updates! More on Emma too. How is she adjusting to being home. No real commentary on that. Love it love it love it! Davia
A super fantastic mystery with great suspense and a difficult who done it component! Kelsey is awesome and I love this series! I really like how all the adults were adopted as teens from.difficult backgrounds and their adoptive parents and siblings have melded into a functional crazy tolerant family. I really appreciate the depth of compassion and understanding Ethan brings to his childrens lives and challenges without pity or even empathy. Just a loving knowledge of what is going on and what needs to come next. I find it so totally refreshing. I look forward to every single book! I wish they were so much longer! We still have so many open threads to Kelsey's story at least 2 more chapters were needed to wrap it up well. A conclusion to the criminal activity and other related events perhaps additional backstory as it related and additional future plans for her career. I saw her moving her warehouse .... Will not give away anything but everyone should read these books. Bravo Elizabeth it was a fantastic ride and wow was the romance Hot! Write On! Can't wait for the next one! Need updates! More on Emma too. How is she adjusting to being home. No real commentary on that. Love it love it love it! Davia
March 15, 2018
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This is an exciting read about the hunt for the bomber and possible stalker who is hunting a fashion designer. And if that isn’t enough, it is also a story about domestic abuse, adoption, and the impact childhood grief can have on life.
It’s a very busy book. With so much going on, it is the character and relationship development that gets lost. By the end of the book, I knew a whole lot about Kelsey and her personal security guard, Hunter, but I didn’t feel like I knew them well enough to care about them. Similarly, there is a whole lot of talk about attraction, love and commitment but there isn’t enough time spent actually showing readers how and why these two come together.
The action sequences are exciting and the stalker storyline is pretty terrifying at times. But again, too many additional storylines mean that we get very few potential suspects and the whodunnit is obvious by the halfway point.
This is the first book I’ve read in the series and it worked well as a stand alone. It was an entertaining read at times but it probably won’t be a story I’ll remember in a few weeks.
This is an exciting read about the hunt for the bomber and possible stalker who is hunting a fashion designer. And if that isn’t enough, it is also a story about domestic abuse, adoption, and the impact childhood grief can have on life.
It’s a very busy book. With so much going on, it is the character and relationship development that gets lost. By the end of the book, I knew a whole lot about Kelsey and her personal security guard, Hunter, but I didn’t feel like I knew them well enough to care about them. Similarly, there is a whole lot of talk about attraction, love and commitment but there isn’t enough time spent actually showing readers how and why these two come together.
The action sequences are exciting and the stalker storyline is pretty terrifying at times. But again, too many additional storylines mean that we get very few potential suspects and the whodunnit is obvious by the halfway point.
This is the first book I’ve read in the series and it worked well as a stand alone. It was an entertaining read at times but it probably won’t be a story I’ll remember in a few weeks.
January 30, 2018
4.5 Stars!
Even if this is your first look at this series, you are going to be very happy with Hunter and Kelsey. So much action and tension throughout the story. Loved it all!
We have met Kelsey McClane in the previous two books. She is baby sister to her adopted brothers. Well protected by said brothers but still rebellious and doing her own thing. Her choices have led her to some bad situations. This book has her brother's best friend, Hunter, assigned as her body guard. Secretly both of them are hoping that there is some up close and personal protection coming. Of course life and bro codes try to keep them apart.
Great adventure with a strong heroine. Loved that Kelsey stood her ground around Hunter. It's when that soft squishy side for both leads start showing, that the reader really melts.
Loved seeing previous couples and the whole McClane family again. Can not wait to see what the the rest of the brothers get up to. I look forward to reading more about this couple in future books as well.
*Complimentary copy provided for an honest review.
Even if this is your first look at this series, you are going to be very happy with Hunter and Kelsey. So much action and tension throughout the story. Loved it all!
We have met Kelsey McClane in the previous two books. She is baby sister to her adopted brothers. Well protected by said brothers but still rebellious and doing her own thing. Her choices have led her to some bad situations. This book has her brother's best friend, Hunter, assigned as her body guard. Secretly both of them are hoping that there is some up close and personal protection coming. Of course life and bro codes try to keep them apart.
Great adventure with a strong heroine. Loved that Kelsey stood her ground around Hunter. It's when that soft squishy side for both leads start showing, that the reader really melts.
Loved seeing previous couples and the whole McClane family again. Can not wait to see what the the rest of the brothers get up to. I look forward to reading more about this couple in future books as well.
*Complimentary copy provided for an honest review.
March 6, 2018
Protected (Deadly Secrets #3) by Elisabeth Naughton
3 stars
M/F Thriller Romance
Triggers: Domestic Violence, Stalking, Attempted Murder, Murder
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
I have not read any of the previous books in this series but never thought that I was missing any information when it came to this story.
Kelsey is a thriving success. She has great designs and is just getting her feet back under herself after a tough divorce. Kelsey's past is somewhat harsh and you do learn more about it in this story, but I found that the details just made her more believable in her fears and insecurities. Kelsey grew up with four brothers and because of that, she is somewhat disagreeable to having her brother's good friend protect her when her ex causes her problems.
Hunter is your typical alpha male who has overgrown protective instincts. He takes his protection of Kelsey very seriously and when things seem to go wrong, he's there to protect her. Hunter has always kept people, women, at arms length. However, Hunter's ability to stay away from Kelsey is seriously tested when she is in danger.
Kelsey and Hunter's relationship was somewhat strange. They had the attraction but both other their communication styles were hard to overcome. I didn't particularly believe they had great chemistry. I thought that this book was much more successful as a mystery than a romance. I liked the running around, finding clues and figuring out who the real bad people were.
Overall, this was a quick, enjoyable read.
3 stars
M/F Thriller Romance
Triggers: Domestic Violence, Stalking, Attempted Murder, Murder
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
I have not read any of the previous books in this series but never thought that I was missing any information when it came to this story.
Kelsey is a thriving success. She has great designs and is just getting her feet back under herself after a tough divorce. Kelsey's past is somewhat harsh and you do learn more about it in this story, but I found that the details just made her more believable in her fears and insecurities. Kelsey grew up with four brothers and because of that, she is somewhat disagreeable to having her brother's good friend protect her when her ex causes her problems.
Hunter is your typical alpha male who has overgrown protective instincts. He takes his protection of Kelsey very seriously and when things seem to go wrong, he's there to protect her. Hunter has always kept people, women, at arms length. However, Hunter's ability to stay away from Kelsey is seriously tested when she is in danger.
Kelsey and Hunter's relationship was somewhat strange. They had the attraction but both other their communication styles were hard to overcome. I didn't particularly believe they had great chemistry. I thought that this book was much more successful as a mystery than a romance. I liked the running around, finding clues and figuring out who the real bad people were.
Overall, this was a quick, enjoyable read.
April 17, 2020
Amazing story
This book was so well written and I loved every twist and turn and I love this couple terrific story.
This book was so well written and I loved every twist and turn and I love this couple terrific story.
September 6, 2018
This book was AMAZING!! Unfortunately I had way too much going on in my life and I wasn't able to devour it as quickly as I would have liked and normally would have but at least this way I got to savor it longer.
This was the first book I've had a chance to read in Ms. Naughton's Deadly Secrets series so it certainly stands fine on its own. After meeting Kelsey's brothers however, I fully intend to go back and catch up on the first two.
Talk about a wild ride. This story starts off with a bang (literally!) and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. The chemistry between Hunt and Kelsey was off the charts and I loved how the author humanized both of them by showing their insecurities and how they eventually overcame them and learned to trust each other.
Overall this was an excellent story that I would certainly recommend.
ARC by the author and the publisher via Netgalley.
This was the first book I've had a chance to read in Ms. Naughton's Deadly Secrets series so it certainly stands fine on its own. After meeting Kelsey's brothers however, I fully intend to go back and catch up on the first two.
Talk about a wild ride. This story starts off with a bang (literally!) and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. The chemistry between Hunt and Kelsey was off the charts and I loved how the author humanized both of them by showing their insecurities and how they eventually overcame them and learned to trust each other.
Overall this was an excellent story that I would certainly recommend.
ARC by the author and the publisher via Netgalley.
February 12, 2018
As I read this book I kept wondering how many more times is Kelsey going to escape death?
This story starts off with a bang moves right into romance and sex. Hunter is a very likable character while Kelsey readers will yell do not go there many times throughout the story.
Elisabeth Naughton is able to find a good blend of action to romance giving readers a balanced story even with its unbelievable moments.
From the first page to the last romantic suspense readers will not be disappointed with Protected.
This story can be read as a stand alone or in the series either way readers will enjoy spending hours with Hunter and Claire.
Thank you to the Author, Netgalley and Montlake Romance for the advance copy.
This story starts off with a bang moves right into romance and sex. Hunter is a very likable character while Kelsey readers will yell do not go there many times throughout the story.
Elisabeth Naughton is able to find a good blend of action to romance giving readers a balanced story even with its unbelievable moments.
From the first page to the last romantic suspense readers will not be disappointed with Protected.
This story can be read as a stand alone or in the series either way readers will enjoy spending hours with Hunter and Claire.
Thank you to the Author, Netgalley and Montlake Romance for the advance copy.
March 22, 2018
In the third installment of Elisabeth Naughton’s Deadly Secrets series, PROTECTED, trust and worthiness are big concepts.
Nothing is particularly easy about Kelsey McClane. She’s one of four adopted siblings who, like the rest of the world, is making her way in life through hard work, trial and error. Added to her complexity, though, are remnants of the fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) she was born with that rear their head when the tension is high and her attention is skewed. Despite years of therapy and hard work as a child, the ghosts of her abandonment issues clouded her judgment of what people thought of her: “Because you’ve never been good enough. Never smart enough, never talented or exciting enough for anyone to love the real you.”
Fresh off of a divorce with Julian Benedict, her struggles with trust and worthiness are coloring her judgment with her brothers’ longtime friend (and her current bodyguard), Hunter O’Donnell. Hunt, like his best friend (and Kelsey’s oldest brother) Alec, is a few years older than Kelsey. He’d long-since graduated from college and gone on to a career in the military by the time she graduated from college and Julian was in the picture … Julian, who became her greatest mistake and nightmare.
The day her divorce is final, she’s set to appear on a local Portland morning show to discuss her fashion line, which, coincidentally, is a huge hit at Fashion Week in NYC. Because Julian has been such a prominent threat, and her family is vacationing in Florida, her brothers lined up Hunt and his PI firm to keep an eye on her. And it’s a good thing, too, because moments before the show cuts back from commercial, Kelsey gets a hateful text … and the building explodes.
As Hunt’s military and PI training kick into gear, he whisks Kelsey out of the limelight. It’s quickly obvious Julian isn’t the only nightmare gunning for her. The more they learn about her past, the more dangerous her present becomes.
Hunter is dealing with his own childhood trauma that he doesn’t talk about with anyone — his mother’s violent death — and the deterioration of his father’s state of mind after her death. It’s why he doesn’t do relationships.
My mother has always said, “You can never tell what goes on behind closed doors.” And she’s right. Not every person in dangerous, abusive situations is bruised and easily identifiable; and not every smiling person is happy and safe. Kelsey wants to let down her guard and love Hunt like she knows he loves her, but after they’d been blown up, stalked and attacked multiple times, guilt weighs heavily on her heart. She can’t quite tell how forgiving or accepting he’s going to be: Is this the time she pushes him too far? Is this the time he decides he’s done fighting for them?
Naughton does a nice job of sharing the romance with the suspense, and for this early-in-a-story crime solver, I appreciate how she kept me guessing until the end. There were times when I wanted to whack Kelsey upside the head like Cher in Moonstruck — you know, like, “Snap out of it!” But in the end, she gives in to her heart and sees the truth of the matter: Hunt is a swoon-worthy guy. In real life or fiction. Love always wins in the end. This is romance, after all.
*This was originally published with USA Today's Happy Ever After: https://happyeverafter.usatoday.com/2....
Nothing is particularly easy about Kelsey McClane. She’s one of four adopted siblings who, like the rest of the world, is making her way in life through hard work, trial and error. Added to her complexity, though, are remnants of the fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) she was born with that rear their head when the tension is high and her attention is skewed. Despite years of therapy and hard work as a child, the ghosts of her abandonment issues clouded her judgment of what people thought of her: “Because you’ve never been good enough. Never smart enough, never talented or exciting enough for anyone to love the real you.”
Fresh off of a divorce with Julian Benedict, her struggles with trust and worthiness are coloring her judgment with her brothers’ longtime friend (and her current bodyguard), Hunter O’Donnell. Hunt, like his best friend (and Kelsey’s oldest brother) Alec, is a few years older than Kelsey. He’d long-since graduated from college and gone on to a career in the military by the time she graduated from college and Julian was in the picture … Julian, who became her greatest mistake and nightmare.
The day her divorce is final, she’s set to appear on a local Portland morning show to discuss her fashion line, which, coincidentally, is a huge hit at Fashion Week in NYC. Because Julian has been such a prominent threat, and her family is vacationing in Florida, her brothers lined up Hunt and his PI firm to keep an eye on her. And it’s a good thing, too, because moments before the show cuts back from commercial, Kelsey gets a hateful text … and the building explodes.
As Hunt’s military and PI training kick into gear, he whisks Kelsey out of the limelight. It’s quickly obvious Julian isn’t the only nightmare gunning for her. The more they learn about her past, the more dangerous her present becomes.
Hunter is dealing with his own childhood trauma that he doesn’t talk about with anyone — his mother’s violent death — and the deterioration of his father’s state of mind after her death. It’s why he doesn’t do relationships.
My mother has always said, “You can never tell what goes on behind closed doors.” And she’s right. Not every person in dangerous, abusive situations is bruised and easily identifiable; and not every smiling person is happy and safe. Kelsey wants to let down her guard and love Hunt like she knows he loves her, but after they’d been blown up, stalked and attacked multiple times, guilt weighs heavily on her heart. She can’t quite tell how forgiving or accepting he’s going to be: Is this the time she pushes him too far? Is this the time he decides he’s done fighting for them?
Naughton does a nice job of sharing the romance with the suspense, and for this early-in-a-story crime solver, I appreciate how she kept me guessing until the end. There were times when I wanted to whack Kelsey upside the head like Cher in Moonstruck — you know, like, “Snap out of it!” But in the end, she gives in to her heart and sees the truth of the matter: Hunt is a swoon-worthy guy. In real life or fiction. Love always wins in the end. This is romance, after all.
*This was originally published with USA Today's Happy Ever After: https://happyeverafter.usatoday.com/2....
March 24, 2018
Kelsey McClane is determined to put her divorce behind her and concentrate on her career as a fashion designer. However, someone is determined to have Kelsey looking over her shoulder at every turn when she starts receiving threatening messages. Luckily, she has former Army Ranger Hunter O'Donnell on her side, but will he be enough to keep her safe, especially when the madman after Kelsey knows how to cover his tracks. Will Hunter be able to keep Kelsey safe, or will the pair lose their shot at happy ever after?
What an absolutely explosive, intense and captivating read Ms. Naughton has penned right from the opening chapter in this book that had me reading quickly, determined to discover what obstacles the hero and heroine will have to face to be together, especially since someone is determined to see the heroine loses everything including her life. Will Hunter be able to keep Kelsey safe? What lengths will he go to in order to protect her?
As for the dialogue, it was a wonderful combination of suspense and romance and I really enjoyed both the main characters back stories, as the heroine discovers things about her past that puts a target on her back. Will she be able to handle all she learns, especially when her adopted family are so great and she doesn't want what she learns to change her life? I also liked how resilient and courageous the heroine is and how she handles everything she goes through including the threats to her life. Yet, what I liked most of all about the heroine is that she gave the hero a chance, even though that's not easy for her to do after everything she's been through in her life since she has abandonment issues and an ex-husband that loves to cause trouble for her. Will Hunter be another person that abandons her? However, in saying that, her family have proven they would never abandon her and I loved how protective her brothers are of her.
While the hero, I loved his back story because as a former Army Ranger he witnessed a lot in his career. It's made him the confident and hard-working man that he is and I loved how protective he was of the heroine. He's had feelings for her for quite a while, but has never acted on them because she's his friend's sister. Will he finally get the chance to act on his feelings now that she's free of her ex? Yet, what I liked most of all about the hero was his determination to win over the heroine, especially since he has so much to overcome such as the fact that her ex is a jerk and the heroine's jealousy of women that Hunter has been with. Does the hero have a girlfriend or not?
Overall, Ms. Naughton has delivered an absolutely riveting read in this book where the chemistry between this couple was strong; the romance was splendid; and the ending had me loving the hero's determination to protect the heroine, no matter what happens to him. However, it was the way the hero proves to the heroine that she's the one for him that I loved the most about the ending because no way is he going to let Kelsey get away. I would recommend Protected by Elisabeth Naughton, if you enjoy romantic suspense or books by authors Cynthia Eden, Katie Reus, Toni Anderson and Cristin Harber.
March 20, 2018
4.5 stars
Hunt and Kelsey's story was an amazing ride! I was sucked into this book from page 1 as Ms. Naughton hit the gas pedal and didn't look back! Kelsey has a heartbreaking vulnerability as she is just finally escaping a horrible, abusive marriage, but watching her regain her strength with Hunt as she faced the unknown threat stalking her was a wonderful journey.
Kelsey has always been a little shy, but when the McClanes adopted her she found a loving environment with several big brothers who made her a little bit crazy but who also drew her out of her shell a bit. When she met Julian in college and he treated her like the center of the universe, she was happy at first but by the time she realized that his attention was turning too far to the side of controlling, it was too late. It took her a very long time to work up the courage to leave with a lot of support from her family but she has finally broken free. Now with her divorce finalized and Julian in the rearview mirror, she is focusing on building her business with a very successful up and coming fashion line. It doesn't take long before it becomes clear Julian is not going to let go despite the divorce, and both Kelsey and Hunt are placed in serious danger along with a lot of other people.
Hunter fell a little bit for Kelsey years ago, but a few things got in his way. First the six year age difference was a problem until she got out of school, but he is also best friends with her brother Alec so bro code dictated that he stayed away from said best friend's little sister. By the time he finished a six year stint as an Army Ranger and he returned home to find her all grown up, she was already with Julian and any chance he may have been willing to take on angering his best friend disappeared when she got married. Now Hunt finds himself taking on bodyguard duty thanks to her brothers' concerns about her ex and he couldn't be more thankful that their concerns led to him being with Kelsey when disaster strikes.
When it becomes clear the threat isn't going away and it may not actually be Kelsey's ex who is behind it, Hunt moves her into his place to keep her safe. Of course close proximity just increases the UST between them as they search for the source of the threats. Kelsey has been over her husband for a very long time, and she can't deny that Hunt has intrigued her for much longer than that. She always took note of his strength and quiet steadiness, but when he came back from the Army he had a whole new layer of sex appeal added on top of it that caught her attention. Now she is in a position to finally explore it, and she is stuck between a desire to give in to temptation and memories of the soul-sucking verbal abuse she endured for years that wreaked havoc on her self-esteem.
Protected is a wonderful mix of suspense and thrills intermingled with heat, humor, frustration and moments of personal strength. Kelsey has to work hard to find herself again, and she has a lot of two-steps-forward-one-step back moments but she powers through. Hunt is supportive but intense, and that intensity along with his determination to keep her safe gives them a few fits and starts along the way as they slowly become closer. He is struggling against his own fears of letting someone get close enough to hurt him again after losing everyone he loved in one way or another since he was a child. Oh, and those overprotective brothers I mentioned? Yeah, they will cause some friction along the way too! All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed the ride throughout this story and definitely recommend it if you are a fan of romantic suspense!
Hunt and Kelsey's story was an amazing ride! I was sucked into this book from page 1 as Ms. Naughton hit the gas pedal and didn't look back! Kelsey has a heartbreaking vulnerability as she is just finally escaping a horrible, abusive marriage, but watching her regain her strength with Hunt as she faced the unknown threat stalking her was a wonderful journey.
Kelsey has always been a little shy, but when the McClanes adopted her she found a loving environment with several big brothers who made her a little bit crazy but who also drew her out of her shell a bit. When she met Julian in college and he treated her like the center of the universe, she was happy at first but by the time she realized that his attention was turning too far to the side of controlling, it was too late. It took her a very long time to work up the courage to leave with a lot of support from her family but she has finally broken free. Now with her divorce finalized and Julian in the rearview mirror, she is focusing on building her business with a very successful up and coming fashion line. It doesn't take long before it becomes clear Julian is not going to let go despite the divorce, and both Kelsey and Hunt are placed in serious danger along with a lot of other people.
Hunter fell a little bit for Kelsey years ago, but a few things got in his way. First the six year age difference was a problem until she got out of school, but he is also best friends with her brother Alec so bro code dictated that he stayed away from said best friend's little sister. By the time he finished a six year stint as an Army Ranger and he returned home to find her all grown up, she was already with Julian and any chance he may have been willing to take on angering his best friend disappeared when she got married. Now Hunt finds himself taking on bodyguard duty thanks to her brothers' concerns about her ex and he couldn't be more thankful that their concerns led to him being with Kelsey when disaster strikes.
When it becomes clear the threat isn't going away and it may not actually be Kelsey's ex who is behind it, Hunt moves her into his place to keep her safe. Of course close proximity just increases the UST between them as they search for the source of the threats. Kelsey has been over her husband for a very long time, and she can't deny that Hunt has intrigued her for much longer than that. She always took note of his strength and quiet steadiness, but when he came back from the Army he had a whole new layer of sex appeal added on top of it that caught her attention. Now she is in a position to finally explore it, and she is stuck between a desire to give in to temptation and memories of the soul-sucking verbal abuse she endured for years that wreaked havoc on her self-esteem.
Protected is a wonderful mix of suspense and thrills intermingled with heat, humor, frustration and moments of personal strength. Kelsey has to work hard to find herself again, and she has a lot of two-steps-forward-one-step back moments but she powers through. Hunt is supportive but intense, and that intensity along with his determination to keep her safe gives them a few fits and starts along the way as they slowly become closer. He is struggling against his own fears of letting someone get close enough to hurt him again after losing everyone he loved in one way or another since he was a child. Oh, and those overprotective brothers I mentioned? Yeah, they will cause some friction along the way too! All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed the ride throughout this story and definitely recommend it if you are a fan of romantic suspense!
January 20, 2018
This book is a train that is barrelling down the track at full speed and you'll have no intention of wanting to get off. From the first chapter you are hooked and will not be able to put this book down. I promise you, because I read it straight through in one sitting.
Right away you are immediately yanked into Kelsey's world and you connect with her; feeling the ebbs and flows of the emotions that run through her during the course of all the events. He ex-husband, (a real peach of guy - by the way) the stress of job and requirements that come with it, family, and the security professional that makes her feel things she didn't think were possible.
Kelsey is a very well written realistic female lead that is very easy to connect to, right from the get go. You end up rooting for her through everything and still end up being amazed at the strength that she is able yank from inside of her. I think she is a very well written female lead and one that I'm really hoping to see more of in romance in general.
As for Hunter, it's hard not to love him from the moment that you really get to know him. I say that - because when you first see him we don't really get to know a whole lot about him, that doesn't happen till a little later on in the story. What's really nice is that he seems to be this great blend of traditional and modern hero and it's appreciated it.
I love the dynamics between the two of them and you can feel the chemistry between them coming off the pages. It's palpable and one that I really liked there was some times that I swear if my pages could self combust just from the text written on them, they would. The connection and the heat was really, really hot.
There's a lot that happens in the story that I wasn't able to see coming and honestly, that's one of my favorite things about Elisabeth's books. I don't have to worry about reading it and then four chapters in - knowing what is already happening, who caused it and what the likely outcome will be. She writes smart books and I feel like when I read then I can enjoy the full offering of adventure, love, romance, drama, and any other spills that she throws out at me.
This is another fantastic entry into the Deadly Secrets series and it already has me itching for more to come.
(I received an early release of this book from the author to provide an honest review and have received no payments or anything in return for my review.)
Right away you are immediately yanked into Kelsey's world and you connect with her; feeling the ebbs and flows of the emotions that run through her during the course of all the events. He ex-husband, (a real peach of guy - by the way) the stress of job and requirements that come with it, family, and the security professional that makes her feel things she didn't think were possible.
Kelsey is a very well written realistic female lead that is very easy to connect to, right from the get go. You end up rooting for her through everything and still end up being amazed at the strength that she is able yank from inside of her. I think she is a very well written female lead and one that I'm really hoping to see more of in romance in general.
As for Hunter, it's hard not to love him from the moment that you really get to know him. I say that - because when you first see him we don't really get to know a whole lot about him, that doesn't happen till a little later on in the story. What's really nice is that he seems to be this great blend of traditional and modern hero and it's appreciated it.
I love the dynamics between the two of them and you can feel the chemistry between them coming off the pages. It's palpable and one that I really liked there was some times that I swear if my pages could self combust just from the text written on them, they would. The connection and the heat was really, really hot.
There's a lot that happens in the story that I wasn't able to see coming and honestly, that's one of my favorite things about Elisabeth's books. I don't have to worry about reading it and then four chapters in - knowing what is already happening, who caused it and what the likely outcome will be. She writes smart books and I feel like when I read then I can enjoy the full offering of adventure, love, romance, drama, and any other spills that she throws out at me.
This is another fantastic entry into the Deadly Secrets series and it already has me itching for more to come.
(I received an early release of this book from the author to provide an honest review and have received no payments or anything in return for my review.)
February 4, 2018
What I love about the amazing series is that each book can be read as a stand alone. While the characters from the other stories appear in each of the books, each book has its very own mystery and suspense that will keep the reader hooked from the first page to the very last. This is the story of Kelsey and Hunter
Kelsey McClane is recently divorced, making her a living as a fashion designer. Now that she is away from her emotionally and sometimes physically abusive ex, she is hoping to make a better life for herself. At least she would if her interfering brothers would call off the body guard that they have trailing her around. The very handsome body guard that has been her friend forever. The same person she has harbored a secret crush on, one Hunter O'Donnell.
Hunter O'Donnell has been friends with the McClane boys since they were all teenagers. He has had a secret crush on their younger sister Kelsey for over 10 years, but knows that she is off limits. Hired to protect her from her ex, he will stand between anything that would come at her to make sure she is safe.
When Kelsey starts receiving threatening text messages, photos and is put in physical danger, Hunter and Kelsey will need to unravel the mystery of who is out to get her and stop them before they cause damage that cannot be undone.
What I truly enjoyed about Hunter and Kelsey's relationship is that they both have issues and baggage. Hunter lost his mother at an early age and swore to never fall in love because that would wreck him, the same way that it wrecked his father. Kelsey was given away by her mother when she was really young, adopted by the McClanes, she suffers from anxiety, fed by the emotional abuse she suffered at the hands of her ex, she fells unlove, unworthy, and like she will never be good enough.
It is with the help of Hunter that she realizes just how strong she really is, and the when he is by her side, she is more than enough, she is perfect, at least, perfect for him and perfect in his eyes. An amazing addition to this amazing series. I cannot way to ready more.
Kelsey McClane is recently divorced, making her a living as a fashion designer. Now that she is away from her emotionally and sometimes physically abusive ex, she is hoping to make a better life for herself. At least she would if her interfering brothers would call off the body guard that they have trailing her around. The very handsome body guard that has been her friend forever. The same person she has harbored a secret crush on, one Hunter O'Donnell.
Hunter O'Donnell has been friends with the McClane boys since they were all teenagers. He has had a secret crush on their younger sister Kelsey for over 10 years, but knows that she is off limits. Hired to protect her from her ex, he will stand between anything that would come at her to make sure she is safe.
When Kelsey starts receiving threatening text messages, photos and is put in physical danger, Hunter and Kelsey will need to unravel the mystery of who is out to get her and stop them before they cause damage that cannot be undone.
What I truly enjoyed about Hunter and Kelsey's relationship is that they both have issues and baggage. Hunter lost his mother at an early age and swore to never fall in love because that would wreck him, the same way that it wrecked his father. Kelsey was given away by her mother when she was really young, adopted by the McClanes, she suffers from anxiety, fed by the emotional abuse she suffered at the hands of her ex, she fells unlove, unworthy, and like she will never be good enough.
It is with the help of Hunter that she realizes just how strong she really is, and the when he is by her side, she is more than enough, she is perfect, at least, perfect for him and perfect in his eyes. An amazing addition to this amazing series. I cannot way to ready more.
January 23, 2018
Hunter, Holy Hotness…
Naughton has a knack for creating a hot and sexy leading man with a number of endearing qualities. Hunter is no exception. Who doesn’t love a ruggedly handsome ex-military man that is totally ripped but is also compassionate and caring? I fell in love with Hunter fairly quickly as he stepped into his role of Protector. From the moment I started Protected, I was totally captivated. As with all the Deadly Secrets Novels, Protected picks back up with the McClane family, in particular, Kelsey McClane, up and coming fashion designer whose past is coming back to haunt her in more ways than one as she is trying really hard to put her abusive ex-husband behind her. In walks Hunter O’Donnell, a friend of the family and ex-Army Ranger with a thriving PI and security firm that has been hired by her family to protect Kelsey from her ex-husband while they are out of town. Both come together and immediately struggle to fight their growing attraction to one another as the plot thickens when the threats to Kelsey’s life become deadly and border on obsession. Protected is full of twist and turns and is action packed when the past comes boiling to the surface as the couple grasp at leads to determine where the lethal threat is coming from and from whom. All the while Hunter and Kelsey open up about their past, both have a lot to overcome if they are going to make a relationship work. Can their attraction survive what is coming their way? You’ll have to read that for yourself.
What did I like about Protected? The flow of the storyline, the chemistry between the male and female leads, the plot twist, need I go on? My dislikes? For me, there was absolutely nothing to dislike about this read.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this suspenseful tale, I was engaged from beginning to end. Last but not least, I received an ARC of Protected which in no way affected my review. I simply loved the book and could not get through it fast enough. Thank you, Elisabeth Naughton and Montlake Publishing for this wonderful opportunity.
Naughton has a knack for creating a hot and sexy leading man with a number of endearing qualities. Hunter is no exception. Who doesn’t love a ruggedly handsome ex-military man that is totally ripped but is also compassionate and caring? I fell in love with Hunter fairly quickly as he stepped into his role of Protector. From the moment I started Protected, I was totally captivated. As with all the Deadly Secrets Novels, Protected picks back up with the McClane family, in particular, Kelsey McClane, up and coming fashion designer whose past is coming back to haunt her in more ways than one as she is trying really hard to put her abusive ex-husband behind her. In walks Hunter O’Donnell, a friend of the family and ex-Army Ranger with a thriving PI and security firm that has been hired by her family to protect Kelsey from her ex-husband while they are out of town. Both come together and immediately struggle to fight their growing attraction to one another as the plot thickens when the threats to Kelsey’s life become deadly and border on obsession. Protected is full of twist and turns and is action packed when the past comes boiling to the surface as the couple grasp at leads to determine where the lethal threat is coming from and from whom. All the while Hunter and Kelsey open up about their past, both have a lot to overcome if they are going to make a relationship work. Can their attraction survive what is coming their way? You’ll have to read that for yourself.
What did I like about Protected? The flow of the storyline, the chemistry between the male and female leads, the plot twist, need I go on? My dislikes? For me, there was absolutely nothing to dislike about this read.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this suspenseful tale, I was engaged from beginning to end. Last but not least, I received an ARC of Protected which in no way affected my review. I simply loved the book and could not get through it fast enough. Thank you, Elisabeth Naughton and Montlake Publishing for this wonderful opportunity.
January 26, 2018
Kelsey McClane is a fashion designer, about to be interviewed on live TV in her hometown. She's just been recently granted a divorce from her mentally abusive and bullying husband and she's eager to finally get back on track with her life. At the station, she has a protective bodyguard in an old family friend, Hunter O'Donnell, who had been hired by her over-protective brothers to keep an eye out for her with regard to her ex.
However, it isn't just her ex that has her in the crosshairs. A bomb blasts forces her and Hunt to come together indefinitely to try and figure out who wants her dead. As they try and decipher who would want to harm her, the heat between them that's been there since their teens flares to life. Being her brother Alec's best friend, they were off limits to each other back then, but now things are different. The connection is immediate and generates its own heat too powerful to be denied.
The constant stream of text threats only show that the killer is lurking too close for comfort. Time is running out. Will they be able to know who to trust? Hunt will risk his life to protect Kelsey, but can Kelsey let go of the past so she can have a future? Or will it be too late for both of them when the killer finally reveals his/her identity?
I'm never disappointed in Ms. Naughton's books. She manages to hit the perfect pitch with her latest offering, PROTECTED. Hunt is a sexy former Army Ranger who has always had a thing for Kelsey. Kelsey is a mix of toughness and insecurity, and as a reader, we see her vulnerabilities but also her will to fight and becomes stronger. Ms. Naughton writes her characters so well, giving them depth and personality without being cookie-cutter. The plot doesn't meander and is streamlined and focused. And as far as the romance goes...it's HOT. These two have a passionate and sizzling romance, but the real feelings that have been there all along make it extra special. As a result, it's a book that is quick to read. So settle in and enjoy!
However, it isn't just her ex that has her in the crosshairs. A bomb blasts forces her and Hunt to come together indefinitely to try and figure out who wants her dead. As they try and decipher who would want to harm her, the heat between them that's been there since their teens flares to life. Being her brother Alec's best friend, they were off limits to each other back then, but now things are different. The connection is immediate and generates its own heat too powerful to be denied.
The constant stream of text threats only show that the killer is lurking too close for comfort. Time is running out. Will they be able to know who to trust? Hunt will risk his life to protect Kelsey, but can Kelsey let go of the past so she can have a future? Or will it be too late for both of them when the killer finally reveals his/her identity?
I'm never disappointed in Ms. Naughton's books. She manages to hit the perfect pitch with her latest offering, PROTECTED. Hunt is a sexy former Army Ranger who has always had a thing for Kelsey. Kelsey is a mix of toughness and insecurity, and as a reader, we see her vulnerabilities but also her will to fight and becomes stronger. Ms. Naughton writes her characters so well, giving them depth and personality without being cookie-cutter. The plot doesn't meander and is streamlined and focused. And as far as the romance goes...it's HOT. These two have a passionate and sizzling romance, but the real feelings that have been there all along make it extra special. As a result, it's a book that is quick to read. So settle in and enjoy!
January 30, 2018
Former Army Ranger Hunter O’Donnell owns and operates a PI and security firm in Portland, Oregon. He is best friends with Kelsey’s older brother. Kelsey McClane is a promising fashion designer. A recent divorcee, her brothers hire Hunter to be Kelsey’s bodyguard at a local television show. She receives a menacing text message that heralds danger. When the danger intensifies, Hunter suspects there is more to the threats than either of them realize. Kelsey and Hunter learn significant facts about her past as the search continues. Will the truth about her birth be Kelsey’s doom? Can she learn to trust Hunter? Will Hunter be able to protect Kelsey from her mysterious stalker?
Hunter steadily grew on me. He is haunted by his own past. I understand how his mother’s death and his father’s inability to handle it influence Hunter’s fear of relationships. Yet, Kelsey tempts him to take a chance despite his reservations. I love how he sees her inner strength when Kelsey cannot. But what I adore the most about Hunter is how he accepts Kelsey for who she is, insecurities and all.
Kelsey is such an inspirational heroine. She acknowledges and accepts her many insecurities and flaws, yet she is determined to work through them. I admire Kelsey’s resolve and inner strength to reclaim her life, especially after everything she endured at her ex-husband’s hand. But what I like the most about Kelsey is how she understands Hunter’s fears about relationships, because she too has the same difficulties.
PROTECTED is book three in Elisabeth Naughton’s romantic suspense series, DEADLY SECRETS. I have not read the first two books in the series; however, that did not hinder my ability to follow the events in the story. I like that there is no ongoing plot that requires reading the prior books.
PROTECTED is a riveting tale of two like-minded people learning to overcome their fears of relationships. I love how this book kept me on the edge of my seat in anticipation. I hope the author plans to write a story about Kelsey’s brother Rusty.
Review Courtesy of Romance Junkies
Hunter steadily grew on me. He is haunted by his own past. I understand how his mother’s death and his father’s inability to handle it influence Hunter’s fear of relationships. Yet, Kelsey tempts him to take a chance despite his reservations. I love how he sees her inner strength when Kelsey cannot. But what I adore the most about Hunter is how he accepts Kelsey for who she is, insecurities and all.
Kelsey is such an inspirational heroine. She acknowledges and accepts her many insecurities and flaws, yet she is determined to work through them. I admire Kelsey’s resolve and inner strength to reclaim her life, especially after everything she endured at her ex-husband’s hand. But what I like the most about Kelsey is how she understands Hunter’s fears about relationships, because she too has the same difficulties.
PROTECTED is book three in Elisabeth Naughton’s romantic suspense series, DEADLY SECRETS. I have not read the first two books in the series; however, that did not hinder my ability to follow the events in the story. I like that there is no ongoing plot that requires reading the prior books.
PROTECTED is a riveting tale of two like-minded people learning to overcome their fears of relationships. I love how this book kept me on the edge of my seat in anticipation. I hope the author plans to write a story about Kelsey’s brother Rusty.
Review Courtesy of Romance Junkies
Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews