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The Safeguarded Heart #1
The Safeguarded Heart
Young real estate entrepreneur Serafina Evans chances her guarded heart to be with a handsome and charming Italian client, but things take a turn when she finds out her company is being sabotaged and her paramour isn’t what he seems. Will her gamble on a mercurial relationship pay off, or will it leave her hurt and closed off from love forever? And will she find out who’s sabotaging her in time to save the company she’s worked so hard to build?
ebook
First published July 18, 2018
36 people are currently reading
788 people want to read
About the author
Melanie A. Smith
28 books299 followersMelanie A. Smith is an award-winning, international best-selling author of steamy romance with smart, self-sufficient heroines and strong, swoony book boyfriends with hearts of gold. A former engineer turned stay-at-home mom and author, when Melanie is not lost in the world of books you’ll find her spending time with her husband and son, crafting, or cross-stitching.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
February 24, 2020
3,5 ❤️❤️🤔🌟s
Although it was a story that covered so many topics, it didn’t manage to sweep me off my feet.
A romantic suspenseful read with many twists and turns, dealing with corporate fraud, relationships issues, abandonment, betrayal, lies.
There were sufficient drama and steamy scenes, fast paced, single pov. I was slightly bored with all these real estate information...
Moreover, I wasn’t fond of having simultaneously two males romantically interested in Serafina.
Overall, the story was well written and very intriguing, it just didn’t pull me in as to read the next parts.
Although it was a story that covered so many topics, it didn’t manage to sweep me off my feet.
A romantic suspenseful read with many twists and turns, dealing with corporate fraud, relationships issues, abandonment, betrayal, lies.
There were sufficient drama and steamy scenes, fast paced, single pov. I was slightly bored with all these real estate information...
Moreover, I wasn’t fond of having simultaneously two males romantically interested in Serafina.
Overall, the story was well written and very intriguing, it just didn’t pull me in as to read the next parts.
January 3, 2020
Let me just start by saying, not only do you get one man to lust after in this book, you get two!! Yes, two!! From the first page I was pulled in by the mystery and romance. With likeable lead characters, this book is a perfect summer read! It kept me guessing right until the end! I can't wait for book number two! A great debut novel from a talented author.
July 12, 2019
I feel torn, I love Alessandro but I kinda want her to end up with Bryce too. Lucky girl having 2 fab men to choose from. A fab read. I really enjoyed it & off to download book 2 now. ♥️👌🏻🙌🏻
August 31, 2018
Let me just state, this is not a genre of book I normally read. And I was afraid it was going to be the type of sex heavy/plot light read that has me rolling my eyes and putting the book to one side. And it's true, there was sex in this book, a lot of sex! But, this is mitigated by the intelligence and strengths of the plot.
Not the normally fluffy, improbable, slight storyline used purely to string the sexual interludes together, this book is the story of Serafina. An independent, emotionally closed off woman, she has worked hard to get where she is. The owner of an up and coming, thriving, realty company, she seems to have her life totally sorted.
But, as the story unfolds, we learn there is a lot more to Serafina than first thought. Suffering the consequences of her father's abandonment when she was very young, the victim of her mother's thoughtless cruelty, she has closed off the emotional side of her life. Having ventured once into romantic territory and been callously burnt in the process, she now deeply mistrusts emotional entanglements, avoiding them at all costs.
Then she meets Alessandro. Gorgeous, enigmatic and charismatic, it's inevitable that sparks will fly between them.
The developing relationship between them, interesting as it was, wasn't the part of the book that fascinated me the most. No, it was the daily interaction Serafina has with employees, the way she runs her business, all the realty business talk and transactions. It's clear the author has had considerable experience in this field, and this knowledge shone through, elevating the book above the normal, run of the mill, sex and seduction novels of this genre. It was precisely this intelligent and sophisticated background that kept me interested and reading.
I was also intrigued by her relationship with her mother, how it evolves and changes through the novel. Could relate to it on a personal level, after all, most of us have tricky relations with our parents.
There was a plot twist I saw coming, but it was no less dramatic for its predictability, and it was the way the author handled the fall out that made it work.
Normally a slow reader, I consumed this book more or less in one sitting. The ending surprised me, in a good way, and has left me wanting to read the next book in the series. So much so, I have already purchased it.
Not the normally fluffy, improbable, slight storyline used purely to string the sexual interludes together, this book is the story of Serafina. An independent, emotionally closed off woman, she has worked hard to get where she is. The owner of an up and coming, thriving, realty company, she seems to have her life totally sorted.
But, as the story unfolds, we learn there is a lot more to Serafina than first thought. Suffering the consequences of her father's abandonment when she was very young, the victim of her mother's thoughtless cruelty, she has closed off the emotional side of her life. Having ventured once into romantic territory and been callously burnt in the process, she now deeply mistrusts emotional entanglements, avoiding them at all costs.
Then she meets Alessandro. Gorgeous, enigmatic and charismatic, it's inevitable that sparks will fly between them.
The developing relationship between them, interesting as it was, wasn't the part of the book that fascinated me the most. No, it was the daily interaction Serafina has with employees, the way she runs her business, all the realty business talk and transactions. It's clear the author has had considerable experience in this field, and this knowledge shone through, elevating the book above the normal, run of the mill, sex and seduction novels of this genre. It was precisely this intelligent and sophisticated background that kept me interested and reading.
I was also intrigued by her relationship with her mother, how it evolves and changes through the novel. Could relate to it on a personal level, after all, most of us have tricky relations with our parents.
There was a plot twist I saw coming, but it was no less dramatic for its predictability, and it was the way the author handled the fall out that made it work.
Normally a slow reader, I consumed this book more or less in one sitting. The ending surprised me, in a good way, and has left me wanting to read the next book in the series. So much so, I have already purchased it.
September 3, 2018
I have a confession. I don’t usually read erotica/steamy romance novels. It’s not that I don’t read romance. I actually enjoy romance novels, especially romantic comedies. I just found, novels heavy on the steam are often light on the plot and I usually get bored.
So, when I started reading The Safeguarded Heart by Melanie A. Smith and reached the first sexy scene, I was afraid I wouldn’t be reading much more of it. (Not that the scene wasn’t superbly written. It doesn’t have to be my thing for me to appreciate the writing (cue face fanning).
Except, I did keep reading. And reading. And reading. Why? Because the plot kept me guessing and I fell in love with the characters. None of them are perfect, which made me love them even more. I finished The Safeguarded Heart ready to read the second novel in the series. It’s on my list now.
So, if you’re looking for a good romance, with a little intrigue and some extra steaminess, check it out. I’ll definitely be reading more by Smith.
So, when I started reading The Safeguarded Heart by Melanie A. Smith and reached the first sexy scene, I was afraid I wouldn’t be reading much more of it. (Not that the scene wasn’t superbly written. It doesn’t have to be my thing for me to appreciate the writing (cue face fanning).
Except, I did keep reading. And reading. And reading. Why? Because the plot kept me guessing and I fell in love with the characters. None of them are perfect, which made me love them even more. I finished The Safeguarded Heart ready to read the second novel in the series. It’s on my list now.
So, if you’re looking for a good romance, with a little intrigue and some extra steaminess, check it out. I’ll definitely be reading more by Smith.
December 14, 2018
A tantalizing mix of mystery and romance. The Safeguarded Heart was a fast-paced, intriguing read, with lots of steamy love scenes. The chemistry between the two main characters was superbly written. Even while in the midst of emotional turmoil and questions about Alessandro's true intentions, I still felt their mutual adoration. I kept hoping that he wasn't involved in the sabotage, because the author definitely kept me guessing. And I had to keep reading to find out.
Highly recommended to all romance lovers.
Highly recommended to all romance lovers.
April 18, 2020
Melanie Smith's debut novel was nothing short of captivating. The plots surrounding Sera's relationships (those with Alessandro, her mom, Bryce, and her co-workers especially) are well developed and helps her own overall character development. The conflict surrounding her company and the sabotage from within was a wonderful sub-plot and well drawn out. I enjoyed the story from beginning to end, and the cliffhanger does well to keep the reader wanting to see where Smith goes next with her main characters. I am very interested in continuing this series!
November 22, 2018
Well, wasn't this a nice surprise? The cunningly crafted plot had me on tenterhooks right up to the end! There is a whole world of intrigue to real estate businesses I had no idea of! This book is packed with intrigue, really, and if you want a HAWT read, then do pick this one up, thye steam factor is high! Although I liked Bryce better, I found all characters to be well developed and interesting, Sera is relatable in ways I can't even begin to describe - mother/daughter relationship springs to mind - and I could see where she came from all the while, even when I found myself wanting to have a sit down with her because of her behaviour at certain points. But my, that mother is really enough to drive anyone up the wall, no wonder the girl had such a need to lock away her emotions.
It's really a very entertaining read, and a fast one too, Melanie Smith is up to a very good start, I can only predict an enormous round of successes for her!
It's really a very entertaining read, and a fast one too, Melanie Smith is up to a very good start, I can only predict an enormous round of successes for her!
November 22, 2020
The Safeguarded Heart is the first book I have read of Melanie A. Smith. One day real estate entrepreneur Serafina Evans realised that someone was sabotaging her company. During this crisis, Serafina did not need the exact hassle of the attraction to her new client Alessandro Giordano. However, when Serafina hired a private security company, they found out something about Alessandro Giordano that will affect her life ever. The readers of The Safeguarded Heart will continue to follow Serafina Evans and Alessandro Giordano to find out what happens.
The Safeguarded Heart at first, I did have trouble engaging with this book. However, after the second chapter, it started to improve and became an enjoyable book to read. I love Melanie A. Smith portrayal of her characters and the way they intertwine with each throughout this book. The Safeguarded Heart is well written and research by Melanie A. Smith. I like Melanie A. Smith description of the settings of The Safeguarded Heart that compliment the plot of this book.
The readers of The Safeguarded Heart will learn about running you're own real estate company. Also, the readers of The Safeguarded Heart will understand the consequences of manipulating people to help you to harm other people.
I recommend this book.
The Safeguarded Heart at first, I did have trouble engaging with this book. However, after the second chapter, it started to improve and became an enjoyable book to read. I love Melanie A. Smith portrayal of her characters and the way they intertwine with each throughout this book. The Safeguarded Heart is well written and research by Melanie A. Smith. I like Melanie A. Smith description of the settings of The Safeguarded Heart that compliment the plot of this book.
The readers of The Safeguarded Heart will learn about running you're own real estate company. Also, the readers of The Safeguarded Heart will understand the consequences of manipulating people to help you to harm other people.
I recommend this book.
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January 3, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/25/2019)! 🎁
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February 19, 2023A smart, steamy romantic suspense for fans of EL James, CoHo, and Lauren Blakely. For buy links and the book trailer go to https://melanieasmithauthor.com/books...
July 19, 2018
Sera and her Italian have quite the passionate and intense affair, there's plenty here to keep the romance readers happy page after tantalizing page! Oh, she tries to resist him, after all it's bad business to fool around with your client but that man is hard to say no to.
What I liked was the balance between the two storylines because there's plenty of content here to hold the attention of any mystery-buff. With subtle clues scattered throughout the book (some of which I suspect don't come into play until the next instalment/s), you have to keep you wits about you if you want to catch the villain yourself before the big reveal.
I admit to being a bit dubious about the whole real-estate setting (the realtors I know are far from exciting!) but having read the author's bio I thought that if anyone can make it interesting maybe she can...and she can! I found myself enthralled by the ins and outs of the wheeling and dealing. Learned a little about the security business along the way too.
Personally, I'm not a big fan of really big cliff-hangers and this one had a few lose ends I would have liked to have seen tidied up but book 2 is out soon enough for me to jump straight into so Ms. Smith knew what she was doing.
What I liked was the balance between the two storylines because there's plenty of content here to hold the attention of any mystery-buff. With subtle clues scattered throughout the book (some of which I suspect don't come into play until the next instalment/s), you have to keep you wits about you if you want to catch the villain yourself before the big reveal.
I admit to being a bit dubious about the whole real-estate setting (the realtors I know are far from exciting!) but having read the author's bio I thought that if anyone can make it interesting maybe she can...and she can! I found myself enthralled by the ins and outs of the wheeling and dealing. Learned a little about the security business along the way too.
Personally, I'm not a big fan of really big cliff-hangers and this one had a few lose ends I would have liked to have seen tidied up but book 2 is out soon enough for me to jump straight into so Ms. Smith knew what she was doing.
January 10, 2019
Is it hot in here? Now that was a steamy read! The first half so much so that I’m sure I was caught blushing more than once. Not my usual read I have to admit. I tend to lean more toward Nora Roberts in terms of heat than EL James. BUT . . . that didn’t dampen my enjoyment. This book is as smart as it is sexy. The plot is intricate and leaves you guessing until the end with some well-placed hints along the way. I do feel it was a tad unbalanced with all the between the sheets action at the beginning of the book, but I enjoyed Sera as a character very much. She’s smart and savvy and passionate and clearly cares about her employees and friends. Alessandro, just had to say “buon giorno,” and I was hooked. I’m not a big fan of cliff hangers that leave too many unanswered questions and though you are left to wonder about the romantic future of the two MCs, the suspense angle was wrapped up neatly, and I feel the author handled the ending well, leaving the reader eager for more. Brava!
August 6, 2018
So I think I am in love with this series. The characters were relatable and the passion was hottt!! The writing was wonderful and it had the right amount of details to keep the story moving and keep a reader interested in what happens next. There were some scenarios I felt were unrealistic but as a writer myself, I love reading all the different close to reality things that other writers come up with. It took me no time to read this! I actually didn’t get a chance to read yesterday and I found myself flying through the story. I can’t wait for the next installment!
September 29, 2018
Where to start...this book had me hooked from the very first chapter!
The characters are well developed, the plot is strong and clearly very well thought out with twists and turns to keep you glued to the page!
Serafina's battle to trust stems from a heartbreaking past until she meets sexy as hell Alessandro who turns cautious Serafina's world upside down.
The story is well crafted with something for everyone whether you prefer steamy bits or are after intrigue and mystery, this book has it all!
Well done Melanie, this is an amazing start to the series!
The characters are well developed, the plot is strong and clearly very well thought out with twists and turns to keep you glued to the page!
Serafina's battle to trust stems from a heartbreaking past until she meets sexy as hell Alessandro who turns cautious Serafina's world upside down.
The story is well crafted with something for everyone whether you prefer steamy bits or are after intrigue and mystery, this book has it all!
Well done Melanie, this is an amazing start to the series!
December 19, 2018
Ughhh! This book! It will make you feel all the emotions!
It’s not the kind of romance books I usually go for so I was a little unsure of how I would like it at first, (I usually steer more towards college romances), but by about 15% in I was hooked.
The leading lady is strong, even though she definitely has her issues.
And there are two hot men that will have you debating which one you ship more.
Definitely recommend this one!
It’s not the kind of romance books I usually go for so I was a little unsure of how I would like it at first, (I usually steer more towards college romances), but by about 15% in I was hooked.
The leading lady is strong, even though she definitely has her issues.
And there are two hot men that will have you debating which one you ship more.
Definitely recommend this one!
September 26, 2018
This book dabbled in a bit of everything. A strong and capable woman, with some hurt in her past, trying to figure out love and trust. I appreciated the bits of Italian. Simple words and phrases without a direct translation immediately after. I will admit to having to Google a few words, but the words and structure added authenticity to the characters. There was a fresh complexity to the romantic plot.
June 8, 2019
Smart, sexy and fun ~ this was the first romance book I've ever read. I always figured I was too jaded to read romance, but this book helped to change my mind. Yes, there was a lot of sex and hot guys, but the protagonist was also a smart, no-nonsense business woman who I respected. The storyline also strayed into some interesting / thriller-type territory at the end. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
May 11, 2020
This is the first book I've read by this author, and I enjoyed the journey I was taken on. I liked that I didn't know how it was going to end, and there were twists and turns that kept me guessing throughout the entire book. I also like that no one was perfect. Everyone had their own backstories, but had obviously overcome them to do very well in life.
January 16, 2020
This well written book with great characters that are well developed and engaging and the storyline flows smoothly from beginning to the end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 5, 2020
This is not my usual genre and also my First book read from Melanie Smith.....I loved it!!!! I am finishing up Book #2 in this series. I can’t wait to read the rest! I would definitely recommend! ❤️
January 9, 2020
4.5 STARS
Okay, so I’ve been following Melanie on Instagram for a while now. So, when I saw this book on offer, I jumped at the chance to add it to my Currently reading list.
AND, OH AM I GLAD I DID!!! This book had it all, good plot twists, relatable female character and A HOTTTT ITALIAN!
Definitely recommend!!
Okay, so I’ve been following Melanie on Instagram for a while now. So, when I saw this book on offer, I jumped at the chance to add it to my Currently reading list.
AND, OH AM I GLAD I DID!!! This book had it all, good plot twists, relatable female character and A HOTTTT ITALIAN!
Definitely recommend!!
April 15, 2021
Awesome Story & Listen🎧 Intriguing & Riveting!
The Safeguarded Heart
The Safeguarded Heart Series, , Book 1
By: Melanie A. Smith
Narrated by: Risa Barbosa
I enjoyed this book immensely, it is a fantastic romantic suspense that grabbed my attention right from the start and captivated it for the entire book. It is the type of book, once you start you do not want to put down because you need to know what happens next. The characters are realistic, easy to relate to and connect with. Serafina Evans is a smart business woman who runs her own company specializing in realtor deals and property management. Some clients are more of a challenge than others and she finds Alessandro Giordano especially challenging in more ways than one. She crosses a line she shouldn’t and she has an affair with him, I thought these two were great together and was rooting for them but there was something about him that was nagging at me. I liked how the author keeps the reader on their toes keeping you wondering, not just about him but about what is going on with in the company, someone has it out for her or her company and is sabotaging the company’s deals and reputation. She is smart and hires an investigator, Bryce, to get to the bottom of it, she also finds there is more to Alessandro and it is not good for her. Sera finally takes a chance and opens her heart to another was it to only have it broken or ripped apart, can you fight what the heart wants whether it is right or wrong, questions she needs to face and answer herself. There is never a dull moment in this book, the story is cleverly plotted with plenty of drama, angst, mystery, twists and turns, thrilling and suspenseful moment, heartfelt and emotional moments and some hot romance. Melanie A. Smith, thank you for this great story, I am looking forward to see what happens next for Serafina and Alessandro in the next book, I hope it comes to audio soon.
🎧📚🎧 And for the terrific narration, Risa Barbosa is a talented narrator and voice artist. She did a great job portraying the characters, bringing them to life and humanizing them with their emotions and personality. She covered the voices for all the characters, performed both the male and female roles giving each their own distinct voice making it easy to follow along and tell who is who. She is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for the great listen.
The Safeguarded Heart
The Safeguarded Heart Series, , Book 1
By: Melanie A. Smith
Narrated by: Risa Barbosa
I enjoyed this book immensely, it is a fantastic romantic suspense that grabbed my attention right from the start and captivated it for the entire book. It is the type of book, once you start you do not want to put down because you need to know what happens next. The characters are realistic, easy to relate to and connect with. Serafina Evans is a smart business woman who runs her own company specializing in realtor deals and property management. Some clients are more of a challenge than others and she finds Alessandro Giordano especially challenging in more ways than one. She crosses a line she shouldn’t and she has an affair with him, I thought these two were great together and was rooting for them but there was something about him that was nagging at me. I liked how the author keeps the reader on their toes keeping you wondering, not just about him but about what is going on with in the company, someone has it out for her or her company and is sabotaging the company’s deals and reputation. She is smart and hires an investigator, Bryce, to get to the bottom of it, she also finds there is more to Alessandro and it is not good for her. Sera finally takes a chance and opens her heart to another was it to only have it broken or ripped apart, can you fight what the heart wants whether it is right or wrong, questions she needs to face and answer herself. There is never a dull moment in this book, the story is cleverly plotted with plenty of drama, angst, mystery, twists and turns, thrilling and suspenseful moment, heartfelt and emotional moments and some hot romance. Melanie A. Smith, thank you for this great story, I am looking forward to see what happens next for Serafina and Alessandro in the next book, I hope it comes to audio soon.
🎧📚🎧 And for the terrific narration, Risa Barbosa is a talented narrator and voice artist. She did a great job portraying the characters, bringing them to life and humanizing them with their emotions and personality. She covered the voices for all the characters, performed both the male and female roles giving each their own distinct voice making it easy to follow along and tell who is who. She is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for the great listen.
October 8, 2018
To be completely honest, I am not usually a fan of romance novels. However, I chose this book after seeing a lot of positive reviews on Instagram.
It begins by following the main character, Seraphina, through a classic romance novel plot. She is the owner of a new company and dealing with her inability to let herself fall in love. Thats where this story leaves all other romance novels behind. Sera meets two attractive men and falls in love, but its not the damsel in distress situation we are so accustomed to. There is a thriller aspect to this story that makes the heart-wrenching relationship even more intense. Sera doesn't wait for someone to save her, this is a story of a woman choosing herself even when it left her alone and confused. Melanie gave us a relatable and loveable protagonist to cheer for, and enough sex to make me blush the entire time. A must-read for anyone who believes they aren't a fan of this genre.
It begins by following the main character, Seraphina, through a classic romance novel plot. She is the owner of a new company and dealing with her inability to let herself fall in love. Thats where this story leaves all other romance novels behind. Sera meets two attractive men and falls in love, but its not the damsel in distress situation we are so accustomed to. There is a thriller aspect to this story that makes the heart-wrenching relationship even more intense. Sera doesn't wait for someone to save her, this is a story of a woman choosing herself even when it left her alone and confused. Melanie gave us a relatable and loveable protagonist to cheer for, and enough sex to make me blush the entire time. A must-read for anyone who believes they aren't a fan of this genre.
April 16, 2021
Wow!! I absolutely loved this book; it's wonderfully written with characters that will stay with you. The storyline visiting, engrossing, emotionally charged with loads of drama and steam; I was hooked from the very start to end. The main cast was absolutely phenomenal and authentic; I really enjoyed their interplays. The main character, Serafina, a strong-minded, business savvy, and emotionally closed-off woman, and she finds herself in the object of two charismatic men's attentions. The chemistry between the characters was off the charts. I can't wait for the second book to come out in audio and find out what comes next.
Risa Barbosa did an excellent job with the narration, capturing the nuances of the characters and bringing them to life. Overall, The Safeguarded Heart was a fabulous start to the series, one I'm recommending.
Risa Barbosa did an excellent job with the narration, capturing the nuances of the characters and bringing them to life. Overall, The Safeguarded Heart was a fabulous start to the series, one I'm recommending.
October 9, 2018
I should start by saying this genre is not one that I would normally choose, but The Safeguarded Heart was a great read, and if you’re looking for something to get you hot under the collar then you’ve chosen the right section of the library. What I liked about this book, other than the fact it’s written by an indie author (extra star for that!), is that Melanie Smith weaves in a good story with some unexpected plot twists between all the rampant humping. And it was pretty romantic too, so this felt like a proper story with sex in it (a lot of sex), rather than just a lot of sex scenes strung together loosely, searching for an absent plot. And the sex scenes are really well written.
Phew. Will someone please turn up the air-con?
Phew. Will someone please turn up the air-con?
July 3, 2022
Steamy
Serafina and Alessandro get into a complicated relationship. Is he cheating? Her business is being sabotaged, can she find the mole? Her relationship with her mother is rocky. I enjoyed the plot and the book doesn't really end but tells you to continue reading the next book.
Serafina and Alessandro get into a complicated relationship. Is he cheating? Her business is being sabotaged, can she find the mole? Her relationship with her mother is rocky. I enjoyed the plot and the book doesn't really end but tells you to continue reading the next book.
April 21, 2021
Thank you!
August 2, 2021
Started out as a bodice ripper only, but about mid book we start with the mystery and not just sex. A little too much sexual content and not enough mystery, but redeemed by good quality mystery.
January 30, 2022
What a hectic life she leads.
Really enjoyed this story. Like all Melanie's books.
Only letdown is the way it finishes.
Really enjoyed this story. Like all Melanie's books.
Only letdown is the way it finishes.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews