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The Everyday Heroes World
Sworn to Protect
From bestselling author Kimberly Readnour comes a single mom, military romance.
One vow. One duty. One secret.
Dr. Nate Dixon has dedicated his life to serving his country as a decorated Ranger Regiment surgeon. For him, love and duty have always been one and the same—until a devastating mission changes everything. When his best friend dies in his arms, Nate makes a promise that shakes his world: take care of the family left behind.
Mackenzie Gillman had dreams of escaping her small-town life and building something extraordinary. At twenty-eight, those dreams have been replaced with harsh realities. Widowed, raising two kids, and starting over in her hometown, she’s determined to rebuild her life from the ground up. Nursing school and her children are all that matter—until a brooding stranger with haunted eyes steps into her world and awakens desires she thought she’d buried forever.
Nate thought protecting Mackenzie would be simple. But as his covert mission turns complicated and his connection to her deepens, he’s walking a razor’s edge between duty and desire. A good soldier never abandons his mission, but a great surgeon knows when to cut ties. And when Mackenzie’s darkest moment arrives, Nate must choose between the mission he’s sworn to uphold and the woman he can’t let go.
If you crave steamy, small town romance with heart-stopping twists, concealed identities, and rugged, tattooed ex-military heroes, download Sworn to Protect today.
One vow. One duty. One secret.
Dr. Nate Dixon has dedicated his life to serving his country as a decorated Ranger Regiment surgeon. For him, love and duty have always been one and the same—until a devastating mission changes everything. When his best friend dies in his arms, Nate makes a promise that shakes his world: take care of the family left behind.
Mackenzie Gillman had dreams of escaping her small-town life and building something extraordinary. At twenty-eight, those dreams have been replaced with harsh realities. Widowed, raising two kids, and starting over in her hometown, she’s determined to rebuild her life from the ground up. Nursing school and her children are all that matter—until a brooding stranger with haunted eyes steps into her world and awakens desires she thought she’d buried forever.
Nate thought protecting Mackenzie would be simple. But as his covert mission turns complicated and his connection to her deepens, he’s walking a razor’s edge between duty and desire. A good soldier never abandons his mission, but a great surgeon knows when to cut ties. And when Mackenzie’s darkest moment arrives, Nate must choose between the mission he’s sworn to uphold and the woman he can’t let go.
If you crave steamy, small town romance with heart-stopping twists, concealed identities, and rugged, tattooed ex-military heroes, download Sworn to Protect today.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 28, 2021
44 people are currently reading
400 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Readnour
33 books904 followersKimberly Readnour lives in the Midwest with her husband and a very snuggly cat.
Having a true passion for romance and HEAs, she took the leap from the young adult genre to romance and never looked back.
Unexpected Love, book two of the Unforeseen Destiny Series, is a #1 Amazon Kindle bestseller in the Medical Romance. Her series, the Bad Boys Redemption, has spent many weeks on Amazon's sports fiction bestseller list.
Kimberly worked as a Registered Nurse for fifteen years before hanging up her stethoscope. When she isn't running her own business, you can find her tucked away writing.
You can follow her on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/kimberlyrea...
Having a true passion for romance and HEAs, she took the leap from the young adult genre to romance and never looked back.
Unexpected Love, book two of the Unforeseen Destiny Series, is a #1 Amazon Kindle bestseller in the Medical Romance. Her series, the Bad Boys Redemption, has spent many weeks on Amazon's sports fiction bestseller list.
Kimberly worked as a Registered Nurse for fifteen years before hanging up her stethoscope. When she isn't running her own business, you can find her tucked away writing.
You can follow her on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/kimberlyrea...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
January 8, 2021
What can I say about this amazing book!?!?
Don’t plan on putting it down…it is SO damn good!
⭐Grab the tissues!
⭐(Dead)-best-friend’s-wife
⭐Military
⭐Single mom romance
⭐5 Star Read!
Mackenzie Gillman doesn’t need anyone to look after her. As a strong, widowed, single mom, she has goals and is dedicated to making things work. So when Nate Dixon suddenly appears in her life and she needs to lean on him a little more than she would like, she doesn’t realize that it wasn’t fate that brought him there…
Retired military doctor, Nate Dixon, is on a mission. Not one directly military related…more like a requested mission. He has good intentions, but when it turns complicated, he can’t cross back over the lines.
I also loved how all of the characters were present and so involved in the storyline! The kids (Liam and Nick), Mackenzie’s ex-boyfriend (Mark), her brother (Jordan), the townspeople, the families…just…GAH!
Author Kimberly Readnour has written so many wonderful books! This one is VERY high on my favorites! The storyline is fantastic and flows so very well. The “feels” I got from this were deeply rooted and gripped my romantic heart strings, but it also kept me on the edge of my seat! However, Ms. Readnour broke my freaking heart with this one! IT HAS ALL-THE-FEELS!!! Emotional rollercoaster read if you will. Love, heartbreak, romance, drama, hate, tears…Plus, throw in a bit of mystery-like suspense…and WOW! I cannot rate this any less than 5 stars! AN ABSOLUTE MUST READ!
Sworn to Protect is part of the Everyday Heroes World anthology series.
Don’t plan on putting it down…it is SO damn good!
⭐Grab the tissues!
⭐(Dead)-best-friend’s-wife
⭐Military
⭐Single mom romance
⭐5 Star Read!
Mackenzie Gillman doesn’t need anyone to look after her. As a strong, widowed, single mom, she has goals and is dedicated to making things work. So when Nate Dixon suddenly appears in her life and she needs to lean on him a little more than she would like, she doesn’t realize that it wasn’t fate that brought him there…
Retired military doctor, Nate Dixon, is on a mission. Not one directly military related…more like a requested mission. He has good intentions, but when it turns complicated, he can’t cross back over the lines.
I also loved how all of the characters were present and so involved in the storyline! The kids (Liam and Nick), Mackenzie’s ex-boyfriend (Mark), her brother (Jordan), the townspeople, the families…just…GAH!
Author Kimberly Readnour has written so many wonderful books! This one is VERY high on my favorites! The storyline is fantastic and flows so very well. The “feels” I got from this were deeply rooted and gripped my romantic heart strings, but it also kept me on the edge of my seat! However, Ms. Readnour broke my freaking heart with this one! IT HAS ALL-THE-FEELS!!! Emotional rollercoaster read if you will. Love, heartbreak, romance, drama, hate, tears…Plus, throw in a bit of mystery-like suspense…and WOW! I cannot rate this any less than 5 stars! AN ABSOLUTE MUST READ!
Sworn to Protect is part of the Everyday Heroes World anthology series.
January 11, 2021
“I don’t need anything else. I just need you.”
Sworn to Protect is a part of K. Bromberg's Everyday Heroes World and is written by Kimberly Readnour. The synopsis of this book sounded really interesting and had me wanting to get my hands on Mackenzie and Nate's story. To give you a hint:
√ widowed, single-mom
√ husband's best friend
√ military
√ age-gap
√ hidden identity
Nate Dixon, newly retired military surgeon, is heading to Sunnyville to check on his best-friend's wife and children. Before his friend died, he wrote him a letter asking him to do just that. Only meaning to check on Mackenzie and the kids and leave, Nate can't help but want to stay. Despite her initial suspicions, Mackenzie is amazed at this handsome, capable man who is always there to help and looks at her in a way no man ever has. If only she knew more about this mysterious Mr. Fix-It.
“This kiss feels like years in the making. As if we’ve been waiting for each other.”
Nate and Mackenzie's story was filled with real problems and difficult situations. I thought their love story was so sweet -- two people who've never really been loved like they should have finding each other. I just wish there was more of them. I really loved Nate's character and was rooting for him so hard the whole way through. He's such a good man and I wanted him to have the love and family he's never had.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Sworn to Protect is a part of K. Bromberg's Everyday Heroes World and is written by Kimberly Readnour. The synopsis of this book sounded really interesting and had me wanting to get my hands on Mackenzie and Nate's story. To give you a hint:
√ widowed, single-mom
√ husband's best friend
√ military
√ age-gap
√ hidden identity
Nate Dixon, newly retired military surgeon, is heading to Sunnyville to check on his best-friend's wife and children. Before his friend died, he wrote him a letter asking him to do just that. Only meaning to check on Mackenzie and the kids and leave, Nate can't help but want to stay. Despite her initial suspicions, Mackenzie is amazed at this handsome, capable man who is always there to help and looks at her in a way no man ever has. If only she knew more about this mysterious Mr. Fix-It.
“This kiss feels like years in the making. As if we’ve been waiting for each other.”
Nate and Mackenzie's story was filled with real problems and difficult situations. I thought their love story was so sweet -- two people who've never really been loved like they should have finding each other. I just wish there was more of them. I really loved Nate's character and was rooting for him so hard the whole way through. He's such a good man and I wanted him to have the love and family he's never had.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 28, 2021
I always enjoy the books this author writes, and this was no exception!! The forbidden trope here was like catnip for me and I couldn't help but want to read as fast as I could so I could see how it would all unfold, but this book demands taking your time and really feeling the beauty between this amazing couple!!
Mackenzie is a single, widowed mom who is moving heaven and earth to make sure she's providing the best life for her sweet young boys. While she's having trouble with her car, she comes across a sexy white knight who seems to be Mr. Fix-it. The attraction between them right away is off the charts, but there's a genuine likeness underneath all of it too. With Nate seemingly popping up everywhere around her, she thinks fate has given her another chance at love and family.. Until she learns the truth that just might destroy her for good.
Nate is a retired military doctor, who carries so much guilt over the way his best friend died, and in his arms no less. His last request was for Nate to look after his wife and kids, just to make sure they will be ok when he's gone.. And what starts as just another job, quickly turns into the happiest time in his life. But when Mackenzie learns the truth, can she move past all the lies?
Even though there were times where I just wanted to shake Nate and have him confess all of his truths, I couldn't help but hurt for him too. He's finally happy after all of this time, but he knows in the back of his mind that his happiness will be short-lived. As for Mackenzie, gosh I loved her so much. She's so freaking strong and fierce, and such an amazing mother. I loved watching Nate with her kids, and seeing just how over the moon in love they were with one another. I'm so glad they got their HEA, because KR here sure broke my heart to pieces before their reunion. I am so, so glad they managed to work through it though! I just love these two so much!
This is definitely a quick read, but it's full of humor and emotion and is one of my favorite additions in the Everyday Heroes spinoff. I definitely recommend this book!!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
Mackenzie is a single, widowed mom who is moving heaven and earth to make sure she's providing the best life for her sweet young boys. While she's having trouble with her car, she comes across a sexy white knight who seems to be Mr. Fix-it. The attraction between them right away is off the charts, but there's a genuine likeness underneath all of it too. With Nate seemingly popping up everywhere around her, she thinks fate has given her another chance at love and family.. Until she learns the truth that just might destroy her for good.
Nate is a retired military doctor, who carries so much guilt over the way his best friend died, and in his arms no less. His last request was for Nate to look after his wife and kids, just to make sure they will be ok when he's gone.. And what starts as just another job, quickly turns into the happiest time in his life. But when Mackenzie learns the truth, can she move past all the lies?
Even though there were times where I just wanted to shake Nate and have him confess all of his truths, I couldn't help but hurt for him too. He's finally happy after all of this time, but he knows in the back of his mind that his happiness will be short-lived. As for Mackenzie, gosh I loved her so much. She's so freaking strong and fierce, and such an amazing mother. I loved watching Nate with her kids, and seeing just how over the moon in love they were with one another. I'm so glad they got their HEA, because KR here sure broke my heart to pieces before their reunion. I am so, so glad they managed to work through it though! I just love these two so much!
This is definitely a quick read, but it's full of humor and emotion and is one of my favorite additions in the Everyday Heroes spinoff. I definitely recommend this book!!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
February 26, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up ❤️
Releases 2/27
Thank you to VPR and Kimberly for the ARC!
Tropes-
Single Mom
Military
Widow
Hidden identity
Golden retriever MMC
Small town
Slow burn
What an emotional ride this was, but it was such a beautiful story.
Releases 2/27
Thank you to VPR and Kimberly for the ARC!
Tropes-
Single Mom
Military
Widow
Hidden identity
Golden retriever MMC
Small town
Slow burn
What an emotional ride this was, but it was such a beautiful story.
February 27, 2025
thanks to Valentine PR and Kimberly Readnour for accepting this arc 🫶🏻.
I devoured it in less than 24 hours, I was already sick of the tropes but I loved the plot so much.
I loved the growth of the characters, especially Mackenzie's in recognizing the mistakes of the past and trying to fix them by thinking about herself and her future
Trope:
💌ContemporaryRomance
💌AgeGap
💌CinnamonRollHero
💌Military
💌Widow
💌SingleMom
💌HiddenIdentity
💌GoldenRetrieverHero
💌ReturningtoHometown
💌SmallTown
💌SlowBurn
I devoured it in less than 24 hours, I was already sick of the tropes but I loved the plot so much.
I loved the growth of the characters, especially Mackenzie's in recognizing the mistakes of the past and trying to fix them by thinking about herself and her future
Trope:
💌ContemporaryRomance
💌AgeGap
💌CinnamonRollHero
💌Military
💌Widow
💌SingleMom
💌HiddenIdentity
💌GoldenRetrieverHero
💌ReturningtoHometown
💌SmallTown
💌SlowBurn
December 6, 2020
I adore every single book Ms. Readnour writes. This book is no different. I fell for Nate and MacKenzie right from the beginning! Basically fell hook, line, and sinker. I’m known to be a sucker for a military romance but this one just hit different. Nate is amazing. His patience, his love, and just him in general. And MacKenzie is one tough and amazing woman! She’s fierce, she’s an amazing mom to two sweet little boys named Liam and Nick. And she will do anything to protect those she loves. These characters are everything and I can’t fish about them enough. Me. Readnour knocked this book out of the park. One click it as fast as you can and get ready for one amazing adventure between two as equally amazing characters!
January 28, 2021
US / WW
Imagine Nate's surprise when he finds the woman he's been tasked to protect on the side of the road with a flat tire. No, he can't tell her who he really is, or why he's in town, but he can complete his mission - to protect her and her kids. He'll just have to make sure his heart doesn't get tangled up with Mackenzie and her children, because that's not part of his mission.
Mackenzie is a widow at 28 with two boys and it's rough. Then she meets a gorgeous guy who seems to be always there when she needs him. Is he too good to be true? How will she react when she finds out who he really is?
This is such a great story, fits well within the Everyday Heroes World. Nate in particular, stands out for his compassionate, strong personality, the way he bonded with Mackenzie's boys - swoon! And Mackenzie turned out to be just as strong, a wonderful mother, and the perfect match for Nate. I will definitely be on the lookout for more from Kimberly now.
ARC via Grey's Promotions for an honest review.
Review / Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.
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January 17, 2021
This book was so good! It has a couple of tropes I don’t read often and they were both done so well!
I haven’t read many concealed identity books so I was nervous to see how that was going to work. 😬 There were times I wanted to scream at Nate to just tell her but their relationship was so good that sometimes I would forget she didn’t know who he was. I think the strong relationship they built before everything fell apart was what allowed them to work things out.
I also haven’t read many single mom romances. I love the single dad trope because who doesn’t love to see a strong dad but I have to say, the way Nate loved Mackenzie’s boys was everything! 😍 He gave them the attention their dad never did. He listened to them and encouraged them. Mackenzie is a strong mom and strong female character so he was the perfect compliment to that.
This is a pretty quick read but full of emotion, drama, steam, love, and happiness. These two encountered more than just their own relationship problems in this books and my heart hurt for them. I am so glad that in the end they were able to get their HEA.
I haven’t read many concealed identity books so I was nervous to see how that was going to work. 😬 There were times I wanted to scream at Nate to just tell her but their relationship was so good that sometimes I would forget she didn’t know who he was. I think the strong relationship they built before everything fell apart was what allowed them to work things out.
I also haven’t read many single mom romances. I love the single dad trope because who doesn’t love to see a strong dad but I have to say, the way Nate loved Mackenzie’s boys was everything! 😍 He gave them the attention their dad never did. He listened to them and encouraged them. Mackenzie is a strong mom and strong female character so he was the perfect compliment to that.
This is a pretty quick read but full of emotion, drama, steam, love, and happiness. These two encountered more than just their own relationship problems in this books and my heart hurt for them. I am so glad that in the end they were able to get their HEA.
January 28, 2021
*I received a free advanced copy of this book from the author for my honest opinion.
THIS. BOOK.
Listen, most of last year, I could not hardly read ebooks because of my anxiety. I couldn’t read physical books at all. They couldn’t hold my attention, no matter how much I’d been anticipating the book. Within the last couple months, I’ve been getting back into ebooks, but it was still rough.
So when I tell you I read this entire book in one afternoon because I couldn’t stop, that’s a huge deal.
This book was so, so good. I’ve loved all of Kimberly’s books that I’ve read, but they’ve all been baseball romance, so I was curious as to how this military romance would go. It did not disappoint at all. It was sweet and sentimental and spicy all at once. There was such a perfect balance between the different elements and tropes that it kept me intrigued and wanting more.
As always, the writing was well done. The characters are where this book really shines though. It’s such a moving story, and you can’t help but feel for them. Once again, Kimberly made me tear up, which is always a good thing in my opinion. An author making me feel so attached to these characters and emotional over their circumstances is always a sure sign I will highly recommend the book.
If you like romance and enjoy steamy scenes, definitely check this one out!
THIS. BOOK.
Listen, most of last year, I could not hardly read ebooks because of my anxiety. I couldn’t read physical books at all. They couldn’t hold my attention, no matter how much I’d been anticipating the book. Within the last couple months, I’ve been getting back into ebooks, but it was still rough.
So when I tell you I read this entire book in one afternoon because I couldn’t stop, that’s a huge deal.
This book was so, so good. I’ve loved all of Kimberly’s books that I’ve read, but they’ve all been baseball romance, so I was curious as to how this military romance would go. It did not disappoint at all. It was sweet and sentimental and spicy all at once. There was such a perfect balance between the different elements and tropes that it kept me intrigued and wanting more.
As always, the writing was well done. The characters are where this book really shines though. It’s such a moving story, and you can’t help but feel for them. Once again, Kimberly made me tear up, which is always a good thing in my opinion. An author making me feel so attached to these characters and emotional over their circumstances is always a sure sign I will highly recommend the book.
If you like romance and enjoy steamy scenes, definitely check this one out!
January 23, 2021
2% in and I knew I was going to love this book and boy do I ever! I’m a sucker for a single parent story... paired with an ex-military protective Hero and I’m in book heaven! Kimberly Readnour does such a great job of bringing these characters to life on the pages in this book. The heroine is sassy and independent and loves her boys fiercely. The Hero has a secret and believe me it keep me turning pages every spare moment I had to see how everything was going to turn out. You will laugh, you will swoon and you will shed a few happy tears but you’re not going to want to put it down so clear your day when you start reading!
January 10, 2021
Loved this book! Nate is a slightly older, good-looking retired Military Surgeon who's been asked to look after a widowed military wife from his friend who died. He definitely is not prepared when he meets her. Mackenzie happens to be a gorgeous redhead, has two young sons and has no idea that Nate's sworn to protect her. This was a pager-turner, as I was enthralled by how much Nate falls for Mackenzie and the obstacles that get in their way. He is such a great guy. I couldn't put the book down until the ending, waiting to see how it was going to turn out. I highly recommend you read this love story.
February 6, 2021
“The thing is, us being together didn’t feel temporary. It felt eternal.”
Kimberly did it again! Another amazing read!
Nate Dixon, a retired military surgeon meets Mackenzie Gillman, widowed mother of two. However, they didn’t meet by coincidence. They met by a promise Nate has sworn to keep. Nate being the AMAZING guy he is, can’t help but stick by and do the right thing. It’s all good until lines begin to cross and feelings from this romantic entanglement start to blur. Then the truth reveals... He may be an ex-ranger, but is he strong enough to fight for what he loves?
This story is filled with all sorts of emotion. I cried and got choked up multiple times. That was balanced with laughs, smiles and heart warming moments.
I could NOT put this book down! It got to a point where I told myself “cancel all plans you made, you are finishing this book.” You will LOVE the characters, especially Nate! Not only does he dominate in the bedroom but he knows how to win your heart.
Kimberly did it again! Another amazing read!
Nate Dixon, a retired military surgeon meets Mackenzie Gillman, widowed mother of two. However, they didn’t meet by coincidence. They met by a promise Nate has sworn to keep. Nate being the AMAZING guy he is, can’t help but stick by and do the right thing. It’s all good until lines begin to cross and feelings from this romantic entanglement start to blur. Then the truth reveals... He may be an ex-ranger, but is he strong enough to fight for what he loves?
This story is filled with all sorts of emotion. I cried and got choked up multiple times. That was balanced with laughs, smiles and heart warming moments.
I could NOT put this book down! It got to a point where I told myself “cancel all plans you made, you are finishing this book.” You will LOVE the characters, especially Nate! Not only does he dominate in the bedroom but he knows how to win your heart.
February 15, 2025
You always have the backs of your brothers in arms, so when his friend and fellow soldier dies in his arms, Nate Dixon promises to fulfill his dying wish. But that leaves Nate dealing with Mackenzie Gillman and her two small boys. What was to have remained a covert operation turns into so much more when Nate finally opens his heart and his future to Mackenzie. But will his connection to her deceased husband be too much for her to handle? Will Nate prove to her that he is there for her for all the right reasons? Filled with high emotions as well as laugh out loud connections this was a fabulous read. Kimberly Readnour has a knack for pulling the reader into a storyline and not letting go to the very end. This is a story I would highly recommend.
January 28, 2021
Excellent Angsty Read!!
Boy oh boy, I sure am enjoying these Everyday Heroes books! I've read two in a row and they are fantastic. A semi-quick read chock full of everything but the kitchen sink when it comes to a storyline. I knew from the blurb this one was going to be edge of your seat type reading and it did not disappoint.
Nate is a knight in shining armor, a knight Mackenzie didn't realize she needed. Alone with two boys, her life hasn't necessarily turned out how she envisioned it. Marrying a military man will sometimes to that to a person. On her last shred of luck, she meets the handsome stranger that seems to be there whenever she's in need. Almost like a super hero if you will. ;)
Our leading man has his work cut out for him as Mackenzie is of course dealing with her boys alone along with the death of her husband and trying to put her life back together in the small town she swore she'd never return to. Nate is a patient man. One that takes no for an answer, however ends up helping somehow anyway. I liked his character instantly. He wasn't written perfect and worked well with what flaws he did have. In a way, he was as lost as her and it was only time until they found each other.
The secret lingered in the background and Kimberly Readnour did a great job at alluding to it, however never letting it completely out right away. I love an angsty read, waiting for that other shoe to drop if you will.
The book is well written and I couldn't get to the end fast enough. While the storyline was predictable, it was done nicely and kept my attention from the first page until the last. There is a bevy of supporting characters to move things along as well. Sworn to Protect reads as a standalone with a nice epilogue to wrap things up.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog
Boy oh boy, I sure am enjoying these Everyday Heroes books! I've read two in a row and they are fantastic. A semi-quick read chock full of everything but the kitchen sink when it comes to a storyline. I knew from the blurb this one was going to be edge of your seat type reading and it did not disappoint.
Nate is a knight in shining armor, a knight Mackenzie didn't realize she needed. Alone with two boys, her life hasn't necessarily turned out how she envisioned it. Marrying a military man will sometimes to that to a person. On her last shred of luck, she meets the handsome stranger that seems to be there whenever she's in need. Almost like a super hero if you will. ;)
Our leading man has his work cut out for him as Mackenzie is of course dealing with her boys alone along with the death of her husband and trying to put her life back together in the small town she swore she'd never return to. Nate is a patient man. One that takes no for an answer, however ends up helping somehow anyway. I liked his character instantly. He wasn't written perfect and worked well with what flaws he did have. In a way, he was as lost as her and it was only time until they found each other.
The secret lingered in the background and Kimberly Readnour did a great job at alluding to it, however never letting it completely out right away. I love an angsty read, waiting for that other shoe to drop if you will.
The book is well written and I couldn't get to the end fast enough. While the storyline was predictable, it was done nicely and kept my attention from the first page until the last. There is a bevy of supporting characters to move things along as well. Sworn to Protect reads as a standalone with a nice epilogue to wrap things up.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog
January 23, 2021
Sworn to Protect was a great addition to K. Bromberg’s Everyday Heroes World. Kimberly Readnour seamlessly blended her characters into Sunnyville and as always, she drew the reader into the character’s world and made you care about them.
“An unspoken love that somehow existed but chose this moment to shine.”
Nate is a retired military surgeon who made a promise to his dying brother in arms, Ethan, to check on his widow and kids with the caveat that he conceal his connection to Ethan. Mackenzie was struggling to go back to school, raise two kids and make ends meet. When she meets Nate, he seems too good to be true, but she quickly finds herself leaning on him and feelings begin to bloom between the two. Will their relationship survive Nate’s secret?
“The thing is, us being together didn’t feel temporary. It felt eternal.”
Nate was good man with a huge sense of honor and responsibility. He almost instantly fell for Mackenzie and he wanted nothing more than to make her and her kids’ lives better. He struggled with his guilt for his role in her husband’s death and with keeping secrets from Mackenzie.
Mackenzie was a strong and independent woman who just wanted her kids to have a good life. Her marriage wasn’t idyllic and she struggled with her conflicting feelings. Her relationship with Nate allowed her to blossom.
“It feels like the most natural thing in the world. Like we belong together.”
Nate and Mackenzie’s relationship was real and beautiful. Both had difficult childhoods and could relate to one another so much. They struggled with difficult problems and were able to overcome them. They both deserved to find love and happiness and I loved watching them fight for their happy ending.
“An unspoken love that somehow existed but chose this moment to shine.”
Nate is a retired military surgeon who made a promise to his dying brother in arms, Ethan, to check on his widow and kids with the caveat that he conceal his connection to Ethan. Mackenzie was struggling to go back to school, raise two kids and make ends meet. When she meets Nate, he seems too good to be true, but she quickly finds herself leaning on him and feelings begin to bloom between the two. Will their relationship survive Nate’s secret?
“The thing is, us being together didn’t feel temporary. It felt eternal.”
Nate was good man with a huge sense of honor and responsibility. He almost instantly fell for Mackenzie and he wanted nothing more than to make her and her kids’ lives better. He struggled with his guilt for his role in her husband’s death and with keeping secrets from Mackenzie.
Mackenzie was a strong and independent woman who just wanted her kids to have a good life. Her marriage wasn’t idyllic and she struggled with her conflicting feelings. Her relationship with Nate allowed her to blossom.
“It feels like the most natural thing in the world. Like we belong together.”
Nate and Mackenzie’s relationship was real and beautiful. Both had difficult childhoods and could relate to one another so much. They struggled with difficult problems and were able to overcome them. They both deserved to find love and happiness and I loved watching them fight for their happy ending.
January 25, 2021
This was my first read from this author and I found I really enjoyed her writing style. She gave me a story that I enjoyed from beginning to end that was filled with heart and emotion.
I loved Nate and Mackenzie. Their chemistry is off the charts hot and instant as soon as they meet. I really adored how he accepted her boys and slipped into their family flawlessly.
Mackenzie, I adored her, she was fierce and strong considering the hand she had been dealt. She was having to deal with the loss of her husband who was KIA but more for the sake of the boys as she hadn't been happy for a long time. Her husband Elliott was not a good husband. In fact I think the only good thing he did apart from give her the boys was to send Nate to them.
Nate is struggling with his guilt around Elliot's death even though it wasn't his fault. He was only planning on checking on Mackenzie not sticking around but the minute he meets her he can't bring himself to leave. She awakens feelings in him he's never had before.
My only criticism and it is what stops me marking this higher is that we don't get to see what Elliot's letter to Mackenzie says. What explanation he gives for sending Nate. After seeing the letter from Elliot to Nate I wanted to see what he had written to his wife, what explanations he gave for leaving them with practically nothing and if he wanted her with Nate.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review from the author and Grey Promotions PR
I loved Nate and Mackenzie. Their chemistry is off the charts hot and instant as soon as they meet. I really adored how he accepted her boys and slipped into their family flawlessly.
Mackenzie, I adored her, she was fierce and strong considering the hand she had been dealt. She was having to deal with the loss of her husband who was KIA but more for the sake of the boys as she hadn't been happy for a long time. Her husband Elliott was not a good husband. In fact I think the only good thing he did apart from give her the boys was to send Nate to them.
Nate is struggling with his guilt around Elliot's death even though it wasn't his fault. He was only planning on checking on Mackenzie not sticking around but the minute he meets her he can't bring himself to leave. She awakens feelings in him he's never had before.
My only criticism and it is what stops me marking this higher is that we don't get to see what Elliot's letter to Mackenzie says. What explanation he gives for sending Nate. After seeing the letter from Elliot to Nate I wanted to see what he had written to his wife, what explanations he gave for leaving them with practically nothing and if he wanted her with Nate.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review from the author and Grey Promotions PR
February 2, 2021
Reviewed in the United States on January 30, 2021
Sworn to Protect is part of K. Bromberg’s Everyday Heroes World which is a collection of books written by different authors who write about characters in Sunnyville, CA, the world that was created by K. Bromberg. The book was fast past and well written. It grabbed my attention from the beginning and I couldn’t put it down until the end. It was an enjoyable book to read and I loved revisiting the other characters in the Everyday Heroes World.
When Ethan Gillman saves the life of Ranger Regiment surgeon Nate Dixon, his last words were for Nate to take care of his family. Nate wants to fulfill his friend's request and then settle into civilian life after retiring. His plan is to stop in Sunnville, CA, and check on Mackenzie Gillman, Ethan’s widow, and their children, and then leave town. But he finds it impossible to leave town after meeting Mackenzie and her two sons.
Mackenzie’s life takes a drastic turn when her husband dies while on deployment. She has returned to her childhood town, Sunnyville, to be near her family. She’s determined to have a fresh start and finish her nursing degree. Her attraction and feelings towards Nate are not what a new widow should have, but he slowly becomes part of their lives.
I received an ARC and am willingly leaving a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Sworn to Protect is part of K. Bromberg’s Everyday Heroes World which is a collection of books written by different authors who write about characters in Sunnyville, CA, the world that was created by K. Bromberg. The book was fast past and well written. It grabbed my attention from the beginning and I couldn’t put it down until the end. It was an enjoyable book to read and I loved revisiting the other characters in the Everyday Heroes World.
When Ethan Gillman saves the life of Ranger Regiment surgeon Nate Dixon, his last words were for Nate to take care of his family. Nate wants to fulfill his friend's request and then settle into civilian life after retiring. His plan is to stop in Sunnville, CA, and check on Mackenzie Gillman, Ethan’s widow, and their children, and then leave town. But he finds it impossible to leave town after meeting Mackenzie and her two sons.
Mackenzie’s life takes a drastic turn when her husband dies while on deployment. She has returned to her childhood town, Sunnyville, to be near her family. She’s determined to have a fresh start and finish her nursing degree. Her attraction and feelings towards Nate are not what a new widow should have, but he slowly becomes part of their lives.
I received an ARC and am willingly leaving a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 3, 2021
Sworn to Protect
Sworn to Protect
Kimberly Readnour
This book had me from the start, and I knew it was going to be one I loved. Nate Dixon is a military surgeon, and is on his way to CA to fulfill the dying wishes of his best friend - to look over his family. Imagine his surprise when he pulls over to help someone with a flat tire, and it is the family he has come to look after. Mackenzie exudes all this confidence and that she has the situation covered, but she really doesn't. Another chance encounter, and Nate is volunteering to fix her sink and issues at her house. He can't tell her why he is there, even though he wants to. Will this blow up in his face? Will their attraction to each other become more? You need to read to find those things out. I will tell you, that Mackenzie's brother Jordan is a real piece of work, and his darn lucky Mackenzie got home when he did, and I'm surprised Nate and he did not come to blows. The two boys will win your heart and are so cute. They love the attention and time that Nate spends with them, heck they are starved for it. Nate also quickly realizes that most of what he was told about Mackenzie is really not true, quite the opposite. Will they give in to the chemistry and attraction they have for each other, or will outside forces and lies by omission drive them apart? I'm a big fan of this author, and I loved this book. I can't wait to see what she comes out with next. And of course since this is in the Everyday Heroes, you will get some appearances by other characters that we have all grown to love.
Sworn to Protect
Kimberly Readnour
This book had me from the start, and I knew it was going to be one I loved. Nate Dixon is a military surgeon, and is on his way to CA to fulfill the dying wishes of his best friend - to look over his family. Imagine his surprise when he pulls over to help someone with a flat tire, and it is the family he has come to look after. Mackenzie exudes all this confidence and that she has the situation covered, but she really doesn't. Another chance encounter, and Nate is volunteering to fix her sink and issues at her house. He can't tell her why he is there, even though he wants to. Will this blow up in his face? Will their attraction to each other become more? You need to read to find those things out. I will tell you, that Mackenzie's brother Jordan is a real piece of work, and his darn lucky Mackenzie got home when he did, and I'm surprised Nate and he did not come to blows. The two boys will win your heart and are so cute. They love the attention and time that Nate spends with them, heck they are starved for it. Nate also quickly realizes that most of what he was told about Mackenzie is really not true, quite the opposite. Will they give in to the chemistry and attraction they have for each other, or will outside forces and lies by omission drive them apart? I'm a big fan of this author, and I loved this book. I can't wait to see what she comes out with next. And of course since this is in the Everyday Heroes, you will get some appearances by other characters that we have all grown to love.
January 24, 2021
4.5 🌟stars
I don’t know why we do this to ourselves!!! Just reading the blurb you know things aren’t going to go well for Nate but all you can do is hope that it all comes right in the end.... and that is exactly what I was doing as I warmed to the characters in this lovely book.
Poor Nate is stuck between a rock and a hard place,as he desperately tries to do right by his friend, Ethan, while at the same time he finds himself irrevocably drawn to Ethan’s widow and their two adorable boys.
MacKenzie knew life after her husband’s death would be a struggle, but she certainly hadn’t counted on a tall, dark, extremely handsome stranger being the constant and comfort she needed in her life.
But...what happens when it all starts to unravel?
Can Mackenzie see past all the mistruths and omissions inorder to finally have the life she deserves and can Nate forgive himself and allow himself the break he needs to have the family he craves?
Such a lovely story and a worthy member of the everyday heroes series.
I don’t know why we do this to ourselves!!! Just reading the blurb you know things aren’t going to go well for Nate but all you can do is hope that it all comes right in the end.... and that is exactly what I was doing as I warmed to the characters in this lovely book.
Poor Nate is stuck between a rock and a hard place,as he desperately tries to do right by his friend, Ethan, while at the same time he finds himself irrevocably drawn to Ethan’s widow and their two adorable boys.
MacKenzie knew life after her husband’s death would be a struggle, but she certainly hadn’t counted on a tall, dark, extremely handsome stranger being the constant and comfort she needed in her life.
But...what happens when it all starts to unravel?
Can Mackenzie see past all the mistruths and omissions inorder to finally have the life she deserves and can Nate forgive himself and allow himself the break he needs to have the family he craves?
Such a lovely story and a worthy member of the everyday heroes series.
January 24, 2021
This story will have you on an emotional rollercoaster ride to healing and love.Mate Dixon plans to make sure his friends widow and two sons are ok then he's heading out.He can't break his promise to his best friend who's life he couldn't save.He lives with the guilt everyday.When he sees a woman on the side of the road with a flat tire he stops to offer to help.At first the woman back away but the he asks if her kids are ok she decides to let him help her. But when he sees the tires are bald all the way around he gets angry at Ethan for letting things get this bad.He can't see that this gorgeous woman in front of him is the crazy bitch Ethan was talking about.He called a row truck an the an uber for her an her children .There are so many twists and turns to this story will keep you riveted until the very last page and leave you begging for more.I love the way this amazing author brings the characters to life before your eyes and makes you feel their emotions and their pain.I can hardly wait to see what's next by this multi talented author.
January 27, 2021
This is an amazing addition to this phenomenal series and is Nate and Mackenzie’s story. Nate is a ranger regiment surgeon which was his life until his best friend dies in his arms, and he had asked Nate to look after his family. Mackenzie is fiercely protective about her 2 little boys, and when she is left a widow she moves back to her hometown and intends to finish her nursing degree. Nate is carrying a lot of guilt and secrets when he meets Mackenzie, and the chemistry between them is off the charts. What will happen when the secret comes to light? This is a well written story which is a sweet story, and filled with emotions, drama, and love, which all leads to captivating page turner. I was hooked throughout, and I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I recommend for all.
January 28, 2021
Nate Dixon has only ever wanted one life and that was in the Army. A surgeon saving lives and taking names. When his friend passes and asks him to check on his family, he has no idea what he's about to walk into. Mackenzie Gillman has had it a bit rough the last few months. Losing her husband, moving, and trying to make sure her boys have all the love she can give them. When a handsome stranger comes to town things are about to rock her world. She has a pull to Nate she doesn't understand and he's just there to help. When she finds out the truth can she forgive him? Nate just wants to do right by his friend and grant his last wishes. However, can he keep his heart out of it and only stay long enough to help or will he find a forever home?
January 28, 2021
Oh my goodness - this book has all the feels! Sworn to Protect is a fantastic addition to The Everyday Heroes World. It also hits several tropes - Single Parent, Military, husband's best friend, and age gap.
Mackenzie is grieving the loss of her husband and Nate the loss of his best friend. There are secrets, lies, and the guilt Nate feels over the death of Mackenzie's husband and his feelings for Mackenzie. Sworn to Protect is an emotional journey with great characters who have instant chemistry from their first encounter. Will they be able to work past all the hurdles life throws at them and find their happy place and move forward together?
Mackenzie is grieving the loss of her husband and Nate the loss of his best friend. There are secrets, lies, and the guilt Nate feels over the death of Mackenzie's husband and his feelings for Mackenzie. Sworn to Protect is an emotional journey with great characters who have instant chemistry from their first encounter. Will they be able to work past all the hurdles life throws at them and find their happy place and move forward together?
February 27, 2025
This was my first book of this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. From the first page to the last. I loved her writing style, kept me intrigued.
I loved Mackenzie and Nate. Mackenzie, a widow, showed so much strength and wants nothing more than to do right by her boys. Nate, a retired military surgeon, is a genuinely good man and I love how he was with Mackenzie’s boys. And the emotions about the death of Elliott…it just tugs at my heart.
Between the emotions, the character dynamics, the angst, the steam it had my feels all over the place and I couldn’t put it down. Such a good heartbreaking and heartwarming story that I can’t say enough about. Would definitely recommend!
I loved Mackenzie and Nate. Mackenzie, a widow, showed so much strength and wants nothing more than to do right by her boys. Nate, a retired military surgeon, is a genuinely good man and I love how he was with Mackenzie’s boys. And the emotions about the death of Elliott…it just tugs at my heart.
Between the emotions, the character dynamics, the angst, the steam it had my feels all over the place and I couldn’t put it down. Such a good heartbreaking and heartwarming story that I can’t say enough about. Would definitely recommend!
January 28, 2021
Kimberly Readnour is a new author to me, I am so glad she became a part of the Everyday Hero World. This is a heartwarming story that will pull you in and not let you go.
Mackenzie is just trying to get a fresh start as a young widow and a mom of two great boys, what she’s not trying to do is fall for the new guy in town who seems to be just what she needs whenever she needs it.
Ethan always wants to do the right thing, he wants to be there for Mackenzie and the boys but he hates that he can’t be honest.
Mackenzie and Ethan’s story is going to take you for a ride, but give it a chance I promise you won’t be disappointed. This story has everything you need and a little bit more. I’m glad a took a chance on this new author I can’t wait to see what she’s writing next!
Mackenzie is just trying to get a fresh start as a young widow and a mom of two great boys, what she’s not trying to do is fall for the new guy in town who seems to be just what she needs whenever she needs it.
Ethan always wants to do the right thing, he wants to be there for Mackenzie and the boys but he hates that he can’t be honest.
Mackenzie and Ethan’s story is going to take you for a ride, but give it a chance I promise you won’t be disappointed. This story has everything you need and a little bit more. I’m glad a took a chance on this new author I can’t wait to see what she’s writing next!
January 25, 2021
Sworn To Protect is a story of promises that have lines blurring and the best laid plans changing. Nate and Mackenzie’s story is emotional, heartfelt, passionate and steamy. As guilt, lies, secrets and want all swirl around between these two it is the pull, the chemistry and the soul-stirring love that will have Nate fighting for what he wants. An enchanting love story that will touch your heart.
January 27, 2021
Strong willed Mackenzie was not ready for swoon-worthy Nate to come crashing into her life. Widowed with two boys, trying to make it day to day, this single mom fought all her feelings and really made Nate work for her trust and love. In the end after a really rough journey, these two found their happily ever after and became the family Mackenzie and Nate always wanted. This was a really good book with an interesting plot and lively cast of characters in the small town of Sunnyville.
January 31, 2021
I've never been one for military romance, but call me a convert. There's something about Nate that makes it so easy to swoon over him. Maybe it's his protective instincts or his way with kids or his loyalty, but dang, give me more of that.
I loved Mackenzie's strength. Through everything happening to her with her now-dead husband, her brother, and just life, she wants to do what's right by her kids more than anything. And she isn't satisfied just getting by. She wants to better their lives.
These two together are amazing, and i didn't want the book to end.
I loved Mackenzie's strength. Through everything happening to her with her now-dead husband, her brother, and just life, she wants to do what's right by her kids more than anything. And she isn't satisfied just getting by. She wants to better their lives.
These two together are amazing, and i didn't want the book to end.
January 23, 2021
Loved this emotional, heartbreaking, yet heartwarming, steamy love story of 2 people dealing with grief in very different ways. When all is said and done will Nate and Mackenzie find love and happiness or will it blow up in there faces. ❤❤❤❤❤
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