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WEST Protection #2
Guarded by the Cowboy
Fake marriage? If that’s what it takes to get the job done.
Boone Wynton is one of the top bodyguards on the WEST Protection team and in the country. So taking a job to protect the wife of a billionaire oil tycoon seems like a breeze—until he learns he can’t get near the possessive man’s wife unless he’s married. His only option? A coworker who hates him. Maybe she is kind of pretty, and her lips drive him crazy—as long as she isn’t speaking.
Cyber-security guru Lauralee Sheldon has worked at WEST Protection all of a month—exactly long enough to learn she can’t stand Boone Wynton. The only way she’ll act as his fake wife is for the sake of protecting a vulnerable woman, and even then on one condition—that Boone never lays a hand on her, even if they are big and perfectly rough.
When fighting turns into foreplay, Boone changes the rules of the game, blurring the lines between real emotions and deception. And with dangers flying at them from all directions, it’s hard to know who to trust. Is it the man Lauralee never believed in?
GUARDED BY THE COWBOY is a fast-paced action and adventure with all the hot cowboy bodyguards you love from book 1 of the WEST Protection series. If you crave sexy banter and characters who can't keep their hands off each other, this is your next 1-click romance!
Boone Wynton is one of the top bodyguards on the WEST Protection team and in the country. So taking a job to protect the wife of a billionaire oil tycoon seems like a breeze—until he learns he can’t get near the possessive man’s wife unless he’s married. His only option? A coworker who hates him. Maybe she is kind of pretty, and her lips drive him crazy—as long as she isn’t speaking.
Cyber-security guru Lauralee Sheldon has worked at WEST Protection all of a month—exactly long enough to learn she can’t stand Boone Wynton. The only way she’ll act as his fake wife is for the sake of protecting a vulnerable woman, and even then on one condition—that Boone never lays a hand on her, even if they are big and perfectly rough.
When fighting turns into foreplay, Boone changes the rules of the game, blurring the lines between real emotions and deception. And with dangers flying at them from all directions, it’s hard to know who to trust. Is it the man Lauralee never believed in?
GUARDED BY THE COWBOY is a fast-paced action and adventure with all the hot cowboy bodyguards you love from book 1 of the WEST Protection series. If you crave sexy banter and characters who can't keep their hands off each other, this is your next 1-click romance!
281 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 21, 2021
416 people are currently reading
405 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 182 reviews
June 24, 2021
This was a quick, fast paced suspenseful romance that had me reading from start to finish just to find out how the mission ended! It didn’t disappoint.
The MCs, Lauralee and Boone are an enemies to lovers trope but they have plenty of chemistry and snarky banter to keep this from being too drawn out or cringeworthy.
Since first meeting the new IT recruit, Boone’s felt out of sorts around her and although childish, his go to method to deal with his haywire feelings for Lauralee is to do everything he can to get a rise out of her. And it works because Lauralee’s first impression of Boone as that he’s cocky, arrogant and not her type at all.
When they have to go undercover to try and save a woman being held captive by her billionaire husband, Lauralee and Boone end up married and sharing close quarters in hostile territory.
I was intrigued by the new hire at the end of book one and Boone was charming in the few appearances he made, so I was excited to read this one. I was not disappointed. The story was exciting, engaging and addictive.
The danger and suspense added delicious tension to the story that kept me hooked and the sexual tension between Boone and Lauralee was off the charts. I was swept off my feet every time Boone dropped all pretenses and became the instinctive alpha protector, especially when his protective and possessiveness reared it’s handsome head for his heroine, Lauralee. I also loved that he didn’t waffle between his feelings for her, he acknowledges that he went out of his way to antagonize her because he secretly found her attractive but her cold attitude towards him chaffed him. He’s honest with himself and with Lauralee and didn’t shy away from telling her what he wanted and how he felt.
Lauralee was a great heroine, she was strong, smart and independent. I loved that she set out to prove herself, even when she was scared out of her mind, and that Boone saw and appreciated her strengths. She was realistic and relatable. One of my favorite heroines!
I am wondering if Mr. Black is really done for or if he will be coming back in a later installment? I’m wondering what will happen to Mrs. Black and what was up with the mystery group, Allied Brotherhood?
Favorite Moments/Quotes:
Loved their first time! Wow, keep a cool drink and a fan on while reading, lol!
The ending and the epilogue! Who knew Boone had so much romance in him 😊
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
The MCs, Lauralee and Boone are an enemies to lovers trope but they have plenty of chemistry and snarky banter to keep this from being too drawn out or cringeworthy.
Since first meeting the new IT recruit, Boone’s felt out of sorts around her and although childish, his go to method to deal with his haywire feelings for Lauralee is to do everything he can to get a rise out of her. And it works because Lauralee’s first impression of Boone as that he’s cocky, arrogant and not her type at all.
When they have to go undercover to try and save a woman being held captive by her billionaire husband, Lauralee and Boone end up married and sharing close quarters in hostile territory.
I was intrigued by the new hire at the end of book one and Boone was charming in the few appearances he made, so I was excited to read this one. I was not disappointed. The story was exciting, engaging and addictive.
The danger and suspense added delicious tension to the story that kept me hooked and the sexual tension between Boone and Lauralee was off the charts. I was swept off my feet every time Boone dropped all pretenses and became the instinctive alpha protector, especially when his protective and possessiveness reared it’s handsome head for his heroine, Lauralee. I also loved that he didn’t waffle between his feelings for her, he acknowledges that he went out of his way to antagonize her because he secretly found her attractive but her cold attitude towards him chaffed him. He’s honest with himself and with Lauralee and didn’t shy away from telling her what he wanted and how he felt.
Lauralee was a great heroine, she was strong, smart and independent. I loved that she set out to prove herself, even when she was scared out of her mind, and that Boone saw and appreciated her strengths. She was realistic and relatable. One of my favorite heroines!
I am wondering if Mr. Black is really done for or if he will be coming back in a later installment? I’m wondering what will happen to Mrs. Black and what was up with the mystery group, Allied Brotherhood?
Favorite Moments/Quotes:
Loved their first time! Wow, keep a cool drink and a fan on while reading, lol!
The ending and the epilogue! Who knew Boone had so much romance in him 😊
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
June 19, 2021
Book two in the series brings Boone and Lauralee's story. These two rub each other the wrong way and now they have to actually marry for an assignment. The chemistry is too strong to be denied. The author pulled me in with all the danger and suspense and had me glued to the pages with the action packed story line. She adds a strong cast of supporting characters to help bring the story around. It's well written ,moves fluidly and is a great read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
June 15, 2021
I really enjoyed this fun read. Boone and Lauralee share plenty of banter while generating a boatload of sparks. I found these two very likable and I loved them as a couple. The entertaining storyline has a potent combination of drama, emotion, action, adventure, excitement, danger and desire that will have you pulled in and eagerly turning those pages. This is my candid, elective review.
June 24, 2021
Boone and Lauralee are amazing together. Action, heat, mystery, and suspense make up this story. The steam and chemistry is undeniable between Boone and Lauralee and I loved seeing the rest of the West operation. However, it did leave me wondering what happened to Black and if maybe this will come into play with the next book.
July 29, 2023
Entertaining with slight misogyny undertones
June 22, 2021
Protecting the Client . . .
Boone Wynton is a top bodyguard who expected an easy assignment in protecting a billionaire’s wife. The problem is that the man is extremely possessive and demands that Boone must be married. To comply, they pull in a coworker, Lauralee Sheldon, who finds Boone obnoxious. For the sake of the client’s wife, she will grudgingly do it, but he must promise not to touch her.
Their constant bickering and banter is keeping them aware of each other. And the danger all around them pulls them closer. Suspense, danger, risk, and passion, combine in this heart pounding action packed adventure. Grab your copy and see what’s in store for Boone and Lauralee as they give their all to protect their client – and their hearts!
Boone Wynton is a top bodyguard who expected an easy assignment in protecting a billionaire’s wife. The problem is that the man is extremely possessive and demands that Boone must be married. To comply, they pull in a coworker, Lauralee Sheldon, who finds Boone obnoxious. For the sake of the client’s wife, she will grudgingly do it, but he must promise not to touch her.
Their constant bickering and banter is keeping them aware of each other. And the danger all around them pulls them closer. Suspense, danger, risk, and passion, combine in this heart pounding action packed adventure. Grab your copy and see what’s in store for Boone and Lauralee as they give their all to protect their client – and their hearts!
August 13, 2023
Rating: 2/5 ⭐️
Spice: 1/5 🌶️
Summary: Lauralee works IT for WEST protection and cannot stand one of her coworkers. He’s a cowboy and bodyguard with an attitude. In order to save a woman’s life, he approaches her for a fake marriage and soon she finds herself falling for him.
Thoughts: Uhhhhhhhh. My head kind of hurts after reading this one. It was incredibly fast paced which normally I’d love but this one was truly chaotic.
The plot really had promise but it wasn’t executed in the best way. The characters were good but the cringe factor with some of the dialogue was really high.
I will say the steamy scenes were solid and the chemistry was definitely there! So if you really just want a spicy book to dive into, this one could be for you. It’s a quick read!
#bookstagram #booksbooksbooks #bookrecommendations #book #books #booklover #bookworm #reading #bookish #bookaddict #bookshelf #bookreview #instabooks #booklovers #igreads
Spice: 1/5 🌶️
Summary: Lauralee works IT for WEST protection and cannot stand one of her coworkers. He’s a cowboy and bodyguard with an attitude. In order to save a woman’s life, he approaches her for a fake marriage and soon she finds herself falling for him.
Thoughts: Uhhhhhhhh. My head kind of hurts after reading this one. It was incredibly fast paced which normally I’d love but this one was truly chaotic.
The plot really had promise but it wasn’t executed in the best way. The characters were good but the cringe factor with some of the dialogue was really high.
I will say the steamy scenes were solid and the chemistry was definitely there! So if you really just want a spicy book to dive into, this one could be for you. It’s a quick read!
#bookstagram #booksbooksbooks #bookrecommendations #book #books #booklover #bookworm #reading #bookish #bookaddict #bookshelf #bookreview #instabooks #booklovers #igreads
July 13, 2021
it was ok. :/
October 14, 2022
Lauralee is one of the employees at West Protection and she deals with the cyber security. When she learns that they need to free a woman from a billionaire's house, she agrees that they must do the job. However, she does not expect that Boone would need to be married and he choose her to be his fake wife. They need to get married immediately as stated by the husband's condition to work for him.
Boone has an assignment to work as the head of the security but he needs to be married to get the job. He is the best person for the job since he has training and he needs to make a quick decision to choose a wife. They do not have time to waste so he decides to ask Lauralee to marry him. He hates that he needs to get married to someone before he even loves the person but his work is important for him. Thus, he needs to make a careful plan to free the wife while maintaining a disguise as a married couple.
Lauralee has to go with Boone as his fake wife for the job. However, she is not expecting that she would become a housemaid since she is not used to do any chores. She talks to him about the wife's whereabouts but they did not find anything yet. As they spend time together, she realizes her attraction to Boone despite of not being her type.
Boone cannot help himself but to stare at Lauralee. He feels helpless to fight the attraction growing between them as he kisses Laura. He knows that it will complicate things once he makes a move towards her. However, they need to locate the wife before things escalate which could endanger their lives.
Can they manage to free the prisoner and escape the danger? Can she realize that they are meant to be together?
Lauralee is a diligent, intelligent, independent, attentive, sassy, and a stubborn woman. Boone is a smart, charming, confident, hard working, witty, protective, strong, and a perceptive man.
The story is well-written and it has a good plot. It has action, drama, suspense, and romance that makes it interesting to read. The characters have a strong chemistry and I love how they do not deny the attraction between them. I enjoyed reading the story and I love that Lauralee and Boone have a HEA ending
Boone has an assignment to work as the head of the security but he needs to be married to get the job. He is the best person for the job since he has training and he needs to make a quick decision to choose a wife. They do not have time to waste so he decides to ask Lauralee to marry him. He hates that he needs to get married to someone before he even loves the person but his work is important for him. Thus, he needs to make a careful plan to free the wife while maintaining a disguise as a married couple.
Lauralee has to go with Boone as his fake wife for the job. However, she is not expecting that she would become a housemaid since she is not used to do any chores. She talks to him about the wife's whereabouts but they did not find anything yet. As they spend time together, she realizes her attraction to Boone despite of not being her type.
Boone cannot help himself but to stare at Lauralee. He feels helpless to fight the attraction growing between them as he kisses Laura. He knows that it will complicate things once he makes a move towards her. However, they need to locate the wife before things escalate which could endanger their lives.
Can they manage to free the prisoner and escape the danger? Can she realize that they are meant to be together?
Lauralee is a diligent, intelligent, independent, attentive, sassy, and a stubborn woman. Boone is a smart, charming, confident, hard working, witty, protective, strong, and a perceptive man.
The story is well-written and it has a good plot. It has action, drama, suspense, and romance that makes it interesting to read. The characters have a strong chemistry and I love how they do not deny the attraction between them. I enjoyed reading the story and I love that Lauralee and Boone have a HEA ending
July 23, 2023
Okay, I have a lot of thoughts about this book and I think that's the main reason I gave it 3 stars, because it's down the middle...
I thought the characters were great, I really liked Lauralee and Boone, and of course I had some strange attraction to Boone because he's a hot cowboy who wears a hat and is FIERCELY protective, like DUH. However, I did think the other characters kind of fell to the wayside, even others who were arguably quite important to the plot. And I do feel that no one really got much of a backstory, which I feel would have been good to have, again for those important to the plot...
The plot though... Well it was fake marriage so SIGN ME THE FUCK UP!!!!!!!! That being said, I did feel like the story was good and the whole idea of fake marriage but still being fiercely protective of the spouse you thought was annoying until 5 minutes ago was really well executed, but it did have flaws. I didn't feel like there was enough focus on the reason they were in the fake marriage, it was pushed to the wayside for the focus to be put on their relationship even though it felt like it was taking a different direction to begin with.
Sorry for being vague but I try and keep my reviews spoiler free!
However, I was intrigued by the story and the writing was definitely good, it flowed well and definitely was enough to keep you interested and turning the pages.
Plus it was an entertaining read, for me at least, although I do think it would have been better if it was written from first POV with a split on the chapters, it would have made it more entertaining, allowed for more feelings to be shown and a better delve into their background, which would have developed the characters a lil bit more.
On the whole, I did enjoy my read of this book, it's just not necessarily one that I would rush to pick up again.
I thought the characters were great, I really liked Lauralee and Boone, and of course I had some strange attraction to Boone because he's a hot cowboy who wears a hat and is FIERCELY protective, like DUH. However, I did think the other characters kind of fell to the wayside, even others who were arguably quite important to the plot. And I do feel that no one really got much of a backstory, which I feel would have been good to have, again for those important to the plot...
The plot though... Well it was fake marriage so SIGN ME THE FUCK UP!!!!!!!! That being said, I did feel like the story was good and the whole idea of fake marriage but still being fiercely protective of the spouse you thought was annoying until 5 minutes ago was really well executed, but it did have flaws. I didn't feel like there was enough focus on the reason they were in the fake marriage, it was pushed to the wayside for the focus to be put on their relationship even though it felt like it was taking a different direction to begin with.
Sorry for being vague but I try and keep my reviews spoiler free!
However, I was intrigued by the story and the writing was definitely good, it flowed well and definitely was enough to keep you interested and turning the pages.
Plus it was an entertaining read, for me at least, although I do think it would have been better if it was written from first POV with a split on the chapters, it would have made it more entertaining, allowed for more feelings to be shown and a better delve into their background, which would have developed the characters a lil bit more.
On the whole, I did enjoy my read of this book, it's just not necessarily one that I would rush to pick up again.
June 23, 2021
Book two in the WEST Protection Series has Boone Wynton and Lauralee Sheldon going undercover as husband and wife to protect the wife of a billionaire oil tycoon. Boone and Lauralee start out Boone is one of the partners of the WEST Protection Team and Lauralee is the Cyber-Security Guru and has been employed with the company for one month. In order for them to take on this case the bodyguard has to be a married man! Period! The Oil tycoon is very possessive of his wife. The bad thing about Boone and Lauralee is that they don’t seem to like each other. But Lauralee agrees to have a “fake” marriage to Boone under the condition that he keeps his hands to himself, and they both agree a very amicable divorce when it’s all over no strings. Before they head out they get word that the wife is being held prisoner, instead of Protection it is now an extraction everything changes, fake Marriage, getting to the destination takes precedent over everything. There is so much danger and no one can be trusted and until otherwise proven everyone is the enemy. There is nonstop action, danger, threats, attacks, violence, suspense, deceit, suspicions but Boone and Lauralee discover along the way the feelings they’ve always had for each other and being alone just the two of them on this mission those feelings are ignited and grow and develop and lead to some steamy hot scenes. This is an absolute page turner that I could not put down. The story flowed along very smoothly with some very believable characters. I definitely recommend this story. I am looking forward to the Third book in this series . I received an Advance Reader's Copy and am voluntarily leaving my honest thoughts and opinions.
June 15, 2021
“Guarded By The Cowboy” is the 2nd book in the ‘WEST Protection’ series from Em Petrova. When the wife of a billionaire oil tycoon must be freed from where her husband has her imprisoned, the case is put into the hands of WEST Protection.
Boone is a sexy combination of skilled bodyguard/defender, and highly capable cowboy. He receives the assignment to go undercover and rescue the imprisoned wife, but to fulfill the undercover role he needs a pretend wife of his own. Lauralee is a brilliant cybersecurity expert with no experience in field work, but she’s got one really excellent qualification for this assignment … she definitely fits the parameters of the temporary wife Boone needs. I don’t need to give any spoilers for you to immediately have a general understanding of how this story is ultimately going to end because after all, in addition to being an action-adventure story, it’s a romance novel. But the way the author gets to the final conclusion has some unexpected twists, plus great banter and sizzling chemistry between the 2 lead characters.
Boone and Lauralee each surprised me in their own way by acting in ways I definitely didn’t expect, and which added tremendously to the depth of the story. I was initially going to give this book a four star rating, but then I bumped it up because of the way the behavior of the characters exceeded my expectations. I’m looking forward to the next adventure WEST Protection will deliver.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. i also purchased a copy on amazon.
Boone is a sexy combination of skilled bodyguard/defender, and highly capable cowboy. He receives the assignment to go undercover and rescue the imprisoned wife, but to fulfill the undercover role he needs a pretend wife of his own. Lauralee is a brilliant cybersecurity expert with no experience in field work, but she’s got one really excellent qualification for this assignment … she definitely fits the parameters of the temporary wife Boone needs. I don’t need to give any spoilers for you to immediately have a general understanding of how this story is ultimately going to end because after all, in addition to being an action-adventure story, it’s a romance novel. But the way the author gets to the final conclusion has some unexpected twists, plus great banter and sizzling chemistry between the 2 lead characters.
Boone and Lauralee each surprised me in their own way by acting in ways I definitely didn’t expect, and which added tremendously to the depth of the story. I was initially going to give this book a four star rating, but then I bumped it up because of the way the behavior of the characters exceeded my expectations. I’m looking forward to the next adventure WEST Protection will deliver.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. i also purchased a copy on amazon.
June 19, 2021
WEST Protection has been hired to help a billionaire's wife escape from captivity. Not just any captivity, she's being held hostage by her husband. In setting up their way in, they find the position of Head of Security is open, only whoever fills this spot has to be married. This is to be Boone's assignment and in spite of the fact there are plenty of women who would marry him, none of them would be willing to divorce him when the case is finished. So who is Boone going to marry?
Lauralee Sheldon is new to WEST, she's a cyber specialist and very good at her job. She gets along well with everyone, but Boone really pushes her buttons, and not in a good way. When confronted with marrying him and saving a trapped woman or them having to pass on the job, she agrees with the understanding she's hands off.
She's a bit shocked when she discovers the rings Boone obtained are real, but goes with the flow throughout the ceremony and the getting to know you chat on the way to the Black Ranch.
The interview with Black was interesting to say the least especially the plans for Lauralee.
Finding where Mrs. Black is being kept is quite the obstacle until Lauralee volunteers to take a tray up when the assigned maid doesn't show.
Boone also discovers Black has more than a few enemies and it's apparent they need to get the wife out as soon as they can.
Lots of suspense as Boone and Lauralee not only make plans for the rescue but also find they really don't dislike each other at all. Some fun as well as seriously sizzling scenes.
Lauralee Sheldon is new to WEST, she's a cyber specialist and very good at her job. She gets along well with everyone, but Boone really pushes her buttons, and not in a good way. When confronted with marrying him and saving a trapped woman or them having to pass on the job, she agrees with the understanding she's hands off.
She's a bit shocked when she discovers the rings Boone obtained are real, but goes with the flow throughout the ceremony and the getting to know you chat on the way to the Black Ranch.
The interview with Black was interesting to say the least especially the plans for Lauralee.
Finding where Mrs. Black is being kept is quite the obstacle until Lauralee volunteers to take a tray up when the assigned maid doesn't show.
Boone also discovers Black has more than a few enemies and it's apparent they need to get the wife out as soon as they can.
Lots of suspense as Boone and Lauralee not only make plans for the rescue but also find they really don't dislike each other at all. Some fun as well as seriously sizzling scenes.
June 25, 2021
A swoony fake relationship romantic suspense
I love a fake marriage romance and Boone and Lauralee’s story is swoony good. This is book 2 in the WEST Protection series and it has a little bit of everything - sweet moments, fan your face steam, dangerous heart stopping action, strong family, and even a few chuckles. Boone is a rancher and also a partner in WEST Protection. Lauralee works for WEST on the tech side. Boone and Lauralee have been sniping at each other since they met. When Boone gets a last minute assignment to free a woman being held prisoner and needs a wife, Lauralee agrees to marry him and go undercover. The excitement and danger does not let up for most of the book except for the loving moments between Boone and Lauralee that are beautifully woven into the story. As they work together to discover where on the property the woman is being held and how to rescue her, their feelings for each other continue to grow. On their path to their HEA, like any fake relationship/marriage of convenience trope, Boone and Lauralee have to figure out how to navigate from the wedding to the true marriage and partnership. I love a book with a sexy alpha hero but I also love one that includes a sexy, smart heroine too rather than a damsel in distress. Guarded by the Cowboy does a great job giving us two strong main characters who balance each other perfectly, grow into the relationship, and work together to find their path. I am excited to read the next book in this series.
I love a fake marriage romance and Boone and Lauralee’s story is swoony good. This is book 2 in the WEST Protection series and it has a little bit of everything - sweet moments, fan your face steam, dangerous heart stopping action, strong family, and even a few chuckles. Boone is a rancher and also a partner in WEST Protection. Lauralee works for WEST on the tech side. Boone and Lauralee have been sniping at each other since they met. When Boone gets a last minute assignment to free a woman being held prisoner and needs a wife, Lauralee agrees to marry him and go undercover. The excitement and danger does not let up for most of the book except for the loving moments between Boone and Lauralee that are beautifully woven into the story. As they work together to discover where on the property the woman is being held and how to rescue her, their feelings for each other continue to grow. On their path to their HEA, like any fake relationship/marriage of convenience trope, Boone and Lauralee have to figure out how to navigate from the wedding to the true marriage and partnership. I love a book with a sexy alpha hero but I also love one that includes a sexy, smart heroine too rather than a damsel in distress. Guarded by the Cowboy does a great job giving us two strong main characters who balance each other perfectly, grow into the relationship, and work together to find their path. I am excited to read the next book in this series.
June 17, 2021
Boone and Lauralee spent the first month they worked together getting under each other’s skins and generally harassing one another. When Boone is assigned to go undercover to rescue a wife being held captive by her billionaire husband, he learns the assignment comes with the requirement for a wife - a legal one not pretend. He doesn’t have anyone he trusts to marry, so he asks his family’s new employee at the WEST Protective Agency.
The wedding rings may have been magical because once married and on the undercover job both Lauralee (Lara) and Boone (Brodie) start having feelings for each other and the sexual chemistry is red hot between them. Living as a married couple, sharing a double-bed and showing affection in public areas at the ranch they are undercover at ignite their physical relationship and emotions soon follow.
I loved that both characters are willing to face their feelings head on instead acting juvenile; however, they don’t necessarily have confidence in what the other is feeling. Lauralee is a bit concerned with how they are going to fall back into a colleague relationship once they are back in their normal lives. This doesn’t stop her from continuing the physical relationship with Boone.
The undercover case takes some unexpected turns and is closed with some drama. This was an enjoyable book and kept my interest to the very end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The wedding rings may have been magical because once married and on the undercover job both Lauralee (Lara) and Boone (Brodie) start having feelings for each other and the sexual chemistry is red hot between them. Living as a married couple, sharing a double-bed and showing affection in public areas at the ranch they are undercover at ignite their physical relationship and emotions soon follow.
I loved that both characters are willing to face their feelings head on instead acting juvenile; however, they don’t necessarily have confidence in what the other is feeling. Lauralee is a bit concerned with how they are going to fall back into a colleague relationship once they are back in their normal lives. This doesn’t stop her from continuing the physical relationship with Boone.
The undercover case takes some unexpected turns and is closed with some drama. This was an enjoyable book and kept my interest to the very end.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 16, 2021
Another Action-Packed, Super Steamy Read from Em Petrova!
When I read Book 1 in Em Petrova’s new WEST Protection series, I instantly fell in love with the characters (including all the extra cast who will one day - hopefully - get their own stories in the series), the danger and suspense, and the time and attention that Petrova clearly put into the plot and character development. Needless to say, I was very excited to read Book 2 entitled “Guarded by the Cowboy.” In this action-packed tale, Boone Wynton (brother to Book 1’s hero, Ross, and co-owner of WEST Protection) is a sinfully sexy country boy who is strong, protective, charming, and just loves pushing the buttons of the beautiful office tech nerd, Lauralee. They are pretty certain they despise each other when they are thrown into an undercover operation, and one of the caveats is that they have to be legally married! This one has so much going on, but at its heart is a love story with characters who just tug at the heartstrings, and when they stop denying the palpable chemistry between them, it’s as if a bomb was detonated. Cannot wait for Book 3 (wondering which of my faves is going to get his...maybe Mathias???)! My only regret is that I can’t give this more than five stars, so just pretend there’s more where this came from, okay Ms. Petrova?
When I read Book 1 in Em Petrova’s new WEST Protection series, I instantly fell in love with the characters (including all the extra cast who will one day - hopefully - get their own stories in the series), the danger and suspense, and the time and attention that Petrova clearly put into the plot and character development. Needless to say, I was very excited to read Book 2 entitled “Guarded by the Cowboy.” In this action-packed tale, Boone Wynton (brother to Book 1’s hero, Ross, and co-owner of WEST Protection) is a sinfully sexy country boy who is strong, protective, charming, and just loves pushing the buttons of the beautiful office tech nerd, Lauralee. They are pretty certain they despise each other when they are thrown into an undercover operation, and one of the caveats is that they have to be legally married! This one has so much going on, but at its heart is a love story with characters who just tug at the heartstrings, and when they stop denying the palpable chemistry between them, it’s as if a bomb was detonated. Cannot wait for Book 3 (wondering which of my faves is going to get his...maybe Mathias???)! My only regret is that I can’t give this more than five stars, so just pretend there’s more where this came from, okay Ms. Petrova?
June 18, 2021
This book has everything I could have asked for in a romance. It features a hot, very handsome hero who doesn’t know what hit him when he realizes that he has fallen for the super smart and sassy tech nerd his security company just hired. When Boone is called upon to rescue the wife a billionaire with a crazy streak a mile wide, and realizes his only way into the billionaire’s compound is as a married security expert, he tasks Lauralee to be his fake wife. They usually ignore or irritate the heck out of each other. Even so, unable to say no when a woman’s life is at stake, Lauralee agrees to the ruse with one proviso…. hands off in private. Their quickie wedding is actually real and an annulment is the agreed upon conclusion, but neither is able to stick to the hands off rule. First a few very passionate kisses while they try to bolster their control, then all hope of control is lost. The close proximity and the heightened danger serve to keep their senses and emotions on edge. Both start asking themselves if what they feel is real. Is it really love or is it just a product of the situation?
I love the snark, the chemistry and the steam between Boone and Lauralee. The story is intriguing, suspenseful and captivating. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love the snark, the chemistry and the steam between Boone and Lauralee. The story is intriguing, suspenseful and captivating. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 21, 2021
Boone and Lauralee of WEST Protection had argued back and forth over small stuff ever since she joined the agency. They seemed to liked to see which one could get something on the other one. For them it was a form of flirting. One day an emergency job came to rescue a woman being held hostage in her home by her husband. It was at the Black Ranch, and Mr. Black a billionaire only hired married men with proof. The only one on the team with enough training and experience to attempt a rescue such as this was Boone, but he needed a wife. They tried to think of who he could marry, but he was a little picky with no chance of a pre-nuptial arrangement. Finally, he thought of Lauralee, asking her if she would marry him for this mission? She reluctantly agreed. They did not get to the court house before they had doubts with this plan, as Lauralee would be going undercover with Boone on the Ranch too. After they got to the ranch they could not seem to keep their hands off each other. It did not take them long to decide that they truly had deep feelings for each other making the mission more difficult to do. Boone was always worrying about Lauralee's safety. A fast moving high action story that will keep you on the edge of your chair.
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.
June 20, 2021
In "Guarded by the Cowboy", book 2 in the WEST Protection Series, Boone Wynton is thirsty to see some action-- rescuing the captive wife of an eccentric billionaire is just what he needs. That is, until he learns that he must be married in order to work uncover posing as the new head of security of the billionaire's compound. The thought of marriage leaves Boone feeling ill. Left with no other choice but to enter into a fake marriage with someone, new hire Lauralee Sheldon seems the perfect choice. Not only does Boone not find her attractive, but their personalities clash like oil and water, as they are always bickering at one another. Within hours of being put on this assignment, Boone and Lauralee find themselves newly married, with wedding rings on their fingers, and driving to the ranch to begin their rouse as recently married newlyweds. Will these two be able to present themselves as a loving couple? Or will they be discovered and their lives placed in danger because they are not able to get along?
This book is fast paced and grabs the reader's immediate attention. Likeable, well developed characters, sizzling chemistry and a unique plot led me to devour this book in a single setting. Who needs sleep anyways? It's highly overrated. Definitely a must read book!
This book is fast paced and grabs the reader's immediate attention. Likeable, well developed characters, sizzling chemistry and a unique plot led me to devour this book in a single setting. Who needs sleep anyways? It's highly overrated. Definitely a must read book!
June 21, 2021
Guarded by the Cowboy is the second book in Em Petrova’s WEST Protection and jam-packed with mystery, suspense danger and angst. Ms Petrova has penned an exciting story that demonstrates her talent and ability to reel the reader in and capture your undivided attention till the last page is turned. In Guarded by the Cowboy, co-workers Boone and Lauralee are required to go undercover as a couple and these enemies will quickly discover that their ability to annoy and aggravate each other is soon overshadowed by the undeniable sexual chemistry that sizzles and burns when they are forced into closed spaces and as they portray newlyweds. This is definitely a fast-paced, heart-pounding story with many moments that will make you gasp and hold your breath waiting for the hammer to fall as Boone and Lauralee tackle their mission with determination and gusto, as they secretly attempt to rescue an abused and defeated woman held captive by a madman. Guarded by the Cowboy has everything you could ask for in a romantic suspense and a thoroughly entertaining and compelling read. I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
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.
June 21, 2021
Guarded by the Cowboy is the second book in Em Petrova’s new series, WEST Protection. It is a romantic suspense novel filled with action, chemistry, great characters, an interesting storyline and best of all a happily ever after.
The sparks between bodyguard Boone Wynton and cyber-security guru Lauralee Sheldon have been off the charts since she joined WEST Protection two months ago. Both have been fighting their attraction but when they have to use a fake marriage to protect the wife of a billionaire oil tycoon, the lines between reality and fiction soon between to blur. When danger surrounds them, will they be able to escape their lives and love intacted? Read it and find out!
I absolute love the characters that Petrova creates in her stories. She does an amazing job making them realistic and personable so that others can better relate to them and their stories. They journey that Boone and Lauralee travel to find their way to each was exciting to follow. I can’t wait to read the next story in this fantastic and exciting series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The sparks between bodyguard Boone Wynton and cyber-security guru Lauralee Sheldon have been off the charts since she joined WEST Protection two months ago. Both have been fighting their attraction but when they have to use a fake marriage to protect the wife of a billionaire oil tycoon, the lines between reality and fiction soon between to blur. When danger surrounds them, will they be able to escape their lives and love intacted? Read it and find out!
I absolute love the characters that Petrova creates in her stories. She does an amazing job making them realistic and personable so that others can better relate to them and their stories. They journey that Boone and Lauralee travel to find their way to each was exciting to follow. I can’t wait to read the next story in this fantastic and exciting series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 19, 2021
Boone and Ross are busy with WEST Security when get a new job request from billionaire's wife, and the person handling job needs to be married, since will be going to interview for head of security for Peter Black. Trouble is, he is keeping his wife prisoner in a room and nobody has seen her for a while nor will anyone speak about her...She got a note out begging for help, but the men don't know if hoax or real. Noah getting married in couple of months and Ross serious about his lady, but neither are married yet. Boone decides he should get Lauralee, their IT go to gal, to be his fake wife for this job...but they actually got married through local Justice of Peace, so will have real license....but will they be able to keep the marriage sham going, find and free the wife and find out what happened to the worker that tried to help her...but you will need to read this roll-a-coaster of a story to see what happens. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 21, 2021
This was a fast paced read full of twists and turns. I hesitated on this one because enemies to lovers are not my fav. This was more grandkids to lovers I think.
There were a number of unexpected things happening. One being how they had to appear to be husband and wife for this assignment. The other thing that struck me as strange was the lack of security measures taken by a security company for an undercover operation. Thirdly, I understood Boone was enthralled with Lauralee, but it seemed to me they spent a lot of time talking without making sure they were secure.
This is one time I felt like a flashback would have Frain perfectly. I could experience what happened to Black's wife and how she ended up inner current circumstances.
In spite of my wants and bit of nitpicking, lol, I thought it was an entertaining read that did have moments that kept me on the edge. I was happy to see Boone and Lauralee get their HEA.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book received from Booksprout.
There were a number of unexpected things happening. One being how they had to appear to be husband and wife for this assignment. The other thing that struck me as strange was the lack of security measures taken by a security company for an undercover operation. Thirdly, I understood Boone was enthralled with Lauralee, but it seemed to me they spent a lot of time talking without making sure they were secure.
This is one time I felt like a flashback would have Frain perfectly. I could experience what happened to Black's wife and how she ended up inner current circumstances.
In spite of my wants and bit of nitpicking, lol, I thought it was an entertaining read that did have moments that kept me on the edge. I was happy to see Boone and Lauralee get their HEA.
I voluntarily read and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of this book received from Booksprout.
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June 26, 2021A book that was fast paced and Boone Wynton and Lauralee Sheldon were superb. Boon is a security expert and Lauralee is a tech guru with his company. They have an immediate dislike for each other and the sparing begins. Boone is on a case and needs a fake marriage to work the case and he asks Lauralee to be the fake wife he needs. Start the sparks! They realize there is actually attraction between them and the fake marriage does not seem so far fetched. Enter a totally crazy man who keeps his wife in a prison and now they try to free her. The question is will they be able to without getting caught. These characters are blended together and all but burst into flames when they are skin to skin. Start to finish a first rate adrenaline rush with tension, drama, suspense and lots of sexiness. There is drool worthy country charm. This is a must read and a superb addition to this series of books. Absolute treat to read with another hit for Em Petrova. I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily have chosen to read it. Great read!
June 22, 2021
Poor Boone due to no other option he is working together with new employee Lauralee under cover as a married couple when he would rather work alone and she would rather be behind a computer. Oh how I loved seeing the what appears to be dislike between them both since Lauralee started turn into sparks and an attraction that has to be acted on no matter how they try to fight it and try to talk each other out of it, but is it because they are really attracted or is it due to the intense situation they are in and the danger that literally lurks around every corner. This has the perfect mix of work place romance, an alpha male along with a smart and sassy women, danger and the unknown and this has you turning the page to see if the women is rescued as well as if the romance between Boone and Lauralee can last during and after the undercover job.
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.
June 24, 2021
Boone Wynton was ne of the best at WEST Protection and when they were called on to rescue a woman of a rich rancher he kept locked up, Ross sent in Boone. The rancher Peter Black, was look8 g for a new head security man, but with one stipulation he must be married". Let left Boone scrambling, because he had no intention of marrying any of his regular friends. Lauralee had worked the company only a few months and everything Boone came into the office he would pick on her relentlessly as if he hated her. When Ross told him to find someone to marry like NOW. He asked Lauralee to be his wife. A well written storyline that has plenty of banter, danger, suspense and plenty of steam as fake turns into something very real! The characters were believable and lovable. I love this series and am never disappointed with Em’s writing.
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.
June 16, 2021
A wild assignment that turns into so much more!
Boone recruits tech wizard Lauralee to pose as his wife on an assignment to rescue an imprisoned wife from her wealthy but cruel husband. The catch is, in order to make their story air-tight, they have to get married for real. The problem is, they can't stand each other and are constantly at odds.
Once the rings are on and the assignment is underway, everything starts to change. I love this author's skill in bringing the heat to every relationship, and I loved the uninhibited way Boone and Lauralee let their hearts follow their chemistry.
There's a lot of action and suspense in these stories, adding simmering tension and plenty of punch to the story. The HEA is victorious on all points and I couldn't have loved it more. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Boone recruits tech wizard Lauralee to pose as his wife on an assignment to rescue an imprisoned wife from her wealthy but cruel husband. The catch is, in order to make their story air-tight, they have to get married for real. The problem is, they can't stand each other and are constantly at odds.
Once the rings are on and the assignment is underway, everything starts to change. I love this author's skill in bringing the heat to every relationship, and I loved the uninhibited way Boone and Lauralee let their hearts follow their chemistry.
There's a lot of action and suspense in these stories, adding simmering tension and plenty of punch to the story. The HEA is victorious on all points and I couldn't have loved it more. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
June 21, 2021
What an intense book this was!!!
I was on the edge of my seat for most of this book. The whole book was like a simmering pot where every interaction, every discussion was going to come to a head and you couldn't wait.
There were two main elements of this book. First there was the case that Boone and Lauralee needed to work together on. These two individuals who from day one haven't liked each other now have to play house to help a client. I found this part of the book enthralling. The author did an amazing job making you feel the desperation and intensity of what was gong on.
The other element was the chemistry between Boone and Lauralee. These two were off the charts. Their banter was fun to read, their "dislike" for each other comical and the sexy times were off the charts. I can't wait to read more in this series.
I was on the edge of my seat for most of this book. The whole book was like a simmering pot where every interaction, every discussion was going to come to a head and you couldn't wait.
There were two main elements of this book. First there was the case that Boone and Lauralee needed to work together on. These two individuals who from day one haven't liked each other now have to play house to help a client. I found this part of the book enthralling. The author did an amazing job making you feel the desperation and intensity of what was gong on.
The other element was the chemistry between Boone and Lauralee. These two were off the charts. Their banter was fun to read, their "dislike" for each other comical and the sexy times were off the charts. I can't wait to read more in this series.
June 23, 2021
Nerdy computer programmer Lauralee can't stand Boone with his cocky attitude and ways of getting under her skin. Boone needs her to be his temporary wife to go undercover on a rescue mission. I would be angry about the maid position Black forced on Lauralee too, but it also gave her a chance to go to places she wouldn't normally be able to and get close to some of the staff. I was surprised that a man as paranoid as Black didn't investigate Boone further before bringing him on security. They get into a couple of sticky nail biting moments where they both have to think quick on their feet and it isn't long before they give into passion between them. It doesn't say how long they were at the ranch but their feelings, which were previously dislike of each other escalate pretty quickly romantically.
July 19, 2021
This is a terrific fake marriage romance between Boone and Lauralee. This is the 2nd book in the WEST Protection series. Boone is a partner in West Protection as well as a rancher himself. Lauralee works also works for West but as a tech expert. Boone and Lauralee have been getting on each other’s nerves so he picks Lauralee to be his fake wife when he gets a last minute assignment to free a woman being held prisoner. He doesn’t eat any miscommunications or problems while on the assignment so who better then someone who can’t stand him. Lauralee agrees and in order to keep up the charade, they actually marry to go undercover. The story is both captivating and compelling. It’s a book you can’t put down.
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.
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