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Bound #3
Bound to the Bodyguard
He's the man of her dreams. She's the woman of his nightmares
She's gorgeous, quirky and hiding secrets. I'm determined, relentless, and will slip under her facade. Working undercover at a honeymoon resort in Kona playing lovers. I'll know everything about her...
Arabella
Is Holden Abbot the hottest, broodiest specimen of man to walk the planet? Affirmative
Does his alpha presence have me nervously spilling fun facts? Is Sunday in Senegal wash your sheep at the beach day? Yes, yes it is.
Is our chemistry explosive? Mt. Vesuvius has nothing on us.
I'm not of WITSEC with a new name and an enemy who wants me dead. Keeping five steps ahead of my past means I can't risk a future.
My heart wants all in, but my head is screaming, run.
Holden
Was kissing my colleague before our cover was blown at a honeymoon resort the best decision? Probably not. We may be undercover, but we're not supposed to get under the covers.
Do I want to know everything about this gorgeous, curvy, secretive woman? Sign me up.
Can we keep our hands off each other? Nope.
When she calls me for help, I'll do anything to keep her and her one-eyed cat safe.
She doesn't see a future for us, but I do.
I've got to convince the 'all-out' girl that we're both all in.
When the stakes ramp up, and their pasts collide in a shocking explosion of secrets and betrayals, will they risk everything for love or will one walk away to save the one they love?
Bound to the Bodyguard is a stand-alone in the electrifying Bound contemporary romance series. If you like secret loves, gorgeous settings, and a couple burning up the sheets one page at a time, then you'll love Hayson Manning's red hot tale.
She's gorgeous, quirky and hiding secrets. I'm determined, relentless, and will slip under her facade. Working undercover at a honeymoon resort in Kona playing lovers. I'll know everything about her...
Arabella
Is Holden Abbot the hottest, broodiest specimen of man to walk the planet? Affirmative
Does his alpha presence have me nervously spilling fun facts? Is Sunday in Senegal wash your sheep at the beach day? Yes, yes it is.
Is our chemistry explosive? Mt. Vesuvius has nothing on us.
I'm not of WITSEC with a new name and an enemy who wants me dead. Keeping five steps ahead of my past means I can't risk a future.
My heart wants all in, but my head is screaming, run.
Holden
Was kissing my colleague before our cover was blown at a honeymoon resort the best decision? Probably not. We may be undercover, but we're not supposed to get under the covers.
Do I want to know everything about this gorgeous, curvy, secretive woman? Sign me up.
Can we keep our hands off each other? Nope.
When she calls me for help, I'll do anything to keep her and her one-eyed cat safe.
She doesn't see a future for us, but I do.
I've got to convince the 'all-out' girl that we're both all in.
When the stakes ramp up, and their pasts collide in a shocking explosion of secrets and betrayals, will they risk everything for love or will one walk away to save the one they love?
Bound to the Bodyguard is a stand-alone in the electrifying Bound contemporary romance series. If you like secret loves, gorgeous settings, and a couple burning up the sheets one page at a time, then you'll love Hayson Manning's red hot tale.
- GenresRomanceContemporary
327 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 18, 2022
15 people are currently reading
1002 people want to read
About the author
Hayson Manning
9 books197 followersI love Princess Bride, Game of Thrones and Naked and Afraid. The Big Bang Theory but will take Wolowitz over Cooper. Star Trek not Star Wars. Undercover Boss, Secret Millionaire--any story that shows the little guy making it. I follow the Buffalo Bills like a religion. I am spellbound by showjumping and equestrian eventing. I love curling up and reading all books--no genre is off-topic. I like ironing, I hate peas, love donkeys, I play a killer game of Scrabble. I'm a kiwi who has lived most of my life in Australia and now am in the US. I will often be heading towards the fridge for another Diet Coke. I eat nothing with legs and believe wine goes with everything, oh and I'm an expert at finding new and inventive ways to avoid exercise.
I live in the sparkly beach side suburb of Redondo Beach in California with my infuriating shoe-dropping husband and my two boys who speak in mystifying grunts.
I'd love to hear from you at haysonmanning@gmail.com
I live in the sparkly beach side suburb of Redondo Beach in California with my infuriating shoe-dropping husband and my two boys who speak in mystifying grunts.
I'd love to hear from you at haysonmanning@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
August 23, 2022
WOW what an awesome story it has everything a romance reader wants, a gorgeous steamy sensual romance, suspense and danger, awesome characters including some lovely pets and humour and laughter lots of it, you need to read this book it will light up your day, come along and meet Arabella and Holden you will not be disappointed.
Arabella is going on her first undercover stint with Holden, they are playing at being honeymooners and this is really going to push Arabella, because Holden is one hot specimen and keeping her mind on the job and not on the man is not going to be easy, he is strong and alpha and the sparks between them wow, she is constantly sprouting off odd facts and of course there is also her past that she needs to keep under wraps because for Arabella the only person she can rely on is herself.
Holden has just kissed his make believe wife like she was his wife was it the best thing to do maybe not if the sparks that are going off inside him is anything to go by, he has lost one partner before and there is no way he is going to lose another and keeping the cover is all important. But he cannot help the pull and when they return home and she is hurt and calls him, nothing will stop him from keeping her and her cat Cliffy safe.
There is a lot in both of their pasts and until they are honest with each other and learn to trust their steamy romance is going to hit a few brick walls, but they keep coming back for more Arabella has been a loner for many years and trusting other people is hard for her but Holden is breaking down those barriers in the best way, throw in someone hell bend on getting to Arabella and the stakes get higher.
I loved this story from page one and have been eagerly awaiting it, it is part of a series but can easily be read as a standalone and I highly recommend that you read this book, I loved both Holden and Arabella they were made for each other, it is a beautiful romance a fabulous HEA happy tears from me at the end. MS Manning does know how to pull it all together with love happiness and laughter way to go and I can’t wait for the next book.
My thanks to the author for my copy to read and review
Arabella is going on her first undercover stint with Holden, they are playing at being honeymooners and this is really going to push Arabella, because Holden is one hot specimen and keeping her mind on the job and not on the man is not going to be easy, he is strong and alpha and the sparks between them wow, she is constantly sprouting off odd facts and of course there is also her past that she needs to keep under wraps because for Arabella the only person she can rely on is herself.
Holden has just kissed his make believe wife like she was his wife was it the best thing to do maybe not if the sparks that are going off inside him is anything to go by, he has lost one partner before and there is no way he is going to lose another and keeping the cover is all important. But he cannot help the pull and when they return home and she is hurt and calls him, nothing will stop him from keeping her and her cat Cliffy safe.
There is a lot in both of their pasts and until they are honest with each other and learn to trust their steamy romance is going to hit a few brick walls, but they keep coming back for more Arabella has been a loner for many years and trusting other people is hard for her but Holden is breaking down those barriers in the best way, throw in someone hell bend on getting to Arabella and the stakes get higher.
I loved this story from page one and have been eagerly awaiting it, it is part of a series but can easily be read as a standalone and I highly recommend that you read this book, I loved both Holden and Arabella they were made for each other, it is a beautiful romance a fabulous HEA happy tears from me at the end. MS Manning does know how to pull it all together with love happiness and laughter way to go and I can’t wait for the next book.
My thanks to the author for my copy to read and review
August 20, 2022
Holden and Arabella's book is another stellar installment in Manning's Bound series, though like all of the stories, it can also be read and enjoyed as a standalone. Bound to the Bodyguard is a super-fun take on an undercover relationship between complete opposites who shouldn't hit it off, but so totally DO! Manning serves up main character backstories to break your heart, plot twists to keep you guessing, and a romance hot enough to steam up your e-reader! The cast of secondary characters adds to the humor and heart. I loved this book from start to finish and can't wait for the next Bound release!
November 4, 2022
Ugh my heart! I didn’t just spend the last few hours crying my eyes out over this book…I didn’t expect to get so invested in this book or this couple.
Arabella and Holden are on assignment in the beginning of this book. You don’t really meet the characters or understand fully wants going on for a while. You actually don’t know much about Arabella at all until the middle to the end of the book. It’s one of those where you learn things as you go and more characters are introduced etc. I loved her one eyed cat as well as her helping out the kids who are missing parents.
Arabella isn’t even her real name. She’s on the run from something or someone and Holden wants to help her. He wants to help her so badly but she just keeps pushing him away. I loved how protective he was and that all of his friends have his back. Holden has had it rough in the past when he lost his partner/wife but now Arabella is making him feel alive again.
Will things work out in the end for these two? Will Arabella every open up to Holden or will it end up tearing them apart? I highly recommend this story if you want more of the protective alpha males and the women they love and fight to protect.
Arabella and Holden are on assignment in the beginning of this book. You don’t really meet the characters or understand fully wants going on for a while. You actually don’t know much about Arabella at all until the middle to the end of the book. It’s one of those where you learn things as you go and more characters are introduced etc. I loved her one eyed cat as well as her helping out the kids who are missing parents.
Arabella isn’t even her real name. She’s on the run from something or someone and Holden wants to help her. He wants to help her so badly but she just keeps pushing him away. I loved how protective he was and that all of his friends have his back. Holden has had it rough in the past when he lost his partner/wife but now Arabella is making him feel alive again.
Will things work out in the end for these two? Will Arabella every open up to Holden or will it end up tearing them apart? I highly recommend this story if you want more of the protective alpha males and the women they love and fight to protect.
August 21, 2022
I've read everything by Hayson Manning and have been hanging out for another in her Bound series and holy smokes this is everything! It can be read as stand-alone but it's also soooo good to see some characters from other books I've read.
Holden burns up the pages as a saucy, alpha guy on an undercover mission with the gorgeous and quirky Arabella who can't risk the secrets of her past getting out. As the story unfolds there are twists that I never saw coming and so much emotion that I was laughing out loud on one page and reaching for the Kleenex on another. There's just something about the worlds this author builds that suck you right and don't let you go for days after finishing. I'm still thinking about how these two are doing.
Now I'm hanging out for the next Hayson Manning book!
Holden burns up the pages as a saucy, alpha guy on an undercover mission with the gorgeous and quirky Arabella who can't risk the secrets of her past getting out. As the story unfolds there are twists that I never saw coming and so much emotion that I was laughing out loud on one page and reaching for the Kleenex on another. There's just something about the worlds this author builds that suck you right and don't let you go for days after finishing. I'm still thinking about how these two are doing.
Now I'm hanging out for the next Hayson Manning book!
April 24, 2023
I want to start off this review by saying thank you to Booksirens and Hayson Manning for the opportunity to review Bound to the Bodyguard. I absolutely loved this book, and I loved Holden and Arabella's relationship. And the chemistry between these two characters is just chef's kiss to me. I would highly recommend this book if you enjoy workplace romances and want some adventure within a romantic book.
September 4, 2022
A must read addition to the Bound series! I loved Holden and Arabella's story from start to finish and laughed, sighed, and swooned! One of my favorite tropes is opposites attract and this book was especially fun with the undercover relationship angle to add to the sweet and sexy tension.
I can't wait to read the next book in the series! :)
I can't wait to read the next book in the series! :)
August 21, 2022
This is the first book I have read from Hayson Manning and it was good overall! I wasn't aware originally that this was the second part of the Bound Series, but I had no difficulty following this story at all. I'd like to say first and foremost that I did enjoy the book overall.
I found it to be an easy read and I was able to get lost in the story of Holden and Arabella for a few hours. The writing was descriptive and clear enough for me to be able to easily visualise characters and get an idea of where they were and what they were doing. I did, however, find some dialogue to be overly repetitive, such as, "I've got you" "We've got you" and the references to Holden's tattoo with "practically throbs".
Moving on to the characters, I really did love Arabella. I thought she stood up well for herself and did everything she could to protect the ones around her without hesitation. I enjoyed seeing her create a new little family with all the side characters and slowly start to build trust and a sense of familiarity with them. However, I didn't find it as easy to love Holden. I thought he was too easily frustrated with Arabella when she didn't immediately open up to him. His treatment of her felt sometimes childlike and putting her in a situation that betrayed her was uncomfortable and difficult to read. Overall, I'm glad they were open with each other about their feelings and it ended happily for them.
After reading this book I would definitely check out the first in the series to get a better depth of the side characters and will likely read the next one in the series.
>I received an advance review copy for free from Book Sirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily<
I found it to be an easy read and I was able to get lost in the story of Holden and Arabella for a few hours. The writing was descriptive and clear enough for me to be able to easily visualise characters and get an idea of where they were and what they were doing. I did, however, find some dialogue to be overly repetitive, such as, "I've got you" "We've got you" and the references to Holden's tattoo with "practically throbs".
Moving on to the characters, I really did love Arabella. I thought she stood up well for herself and did everything she could to protect the ones around her without hesitation. I enjoyed seeing her create a new little family with all the side characters and slowly start to build trust and a sense of familiarity with them. However, I didn't find it as easy to love Holden. I thought he was too easily frustrated with Arabella when she didn't immediately open up to him. His treatment of her felt sometimes childlike and putting her in a situation that betrayed her was uncomfortable and difficult to read. Overall, I'm glad they were open with each other about their feelings and it ended happily for them.
After reading this book I would definitely check out the first in the series to get a better depth of the side characters and will likely read the next one in the series.
>I received an advance review copy for free from Book Sirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily<
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2022
The heroine's family was murdered when she was a child and Arabella has lived a lonesome life in witness protection or otherwise in hiding ever since. She does not think that she should get involved with anyone because she can't tell who to trust and her secrets could end up hurting the man too. But when her job takes her in a tropical honeymoon retreat with Holden he is rather difficult to resist. They are pretending to be married but instead they are working as bodyguards to a couple of newly weds. Arabella keeps flinching when Holden touches her but he is hot as heck and she gets over the fear of physical intimacy, and somehow he also wins her trust and becomes the first person she thinks of calling when she gets attacked.
I liked the general flow of the story and the characters and the writing style. The plot hangs upon some pretty huge coincidences and Arabella's fun facts got a little excessive. Whenever she gets uncomfortable with a discussion she attempts to redirect and break the tension by changing the topic to some random trivia and this made for some pretty awkward exchanges. I thought the point might have been made with a little less effort.
Series status: This is part of a series about men who swore an oath to protect but it functions as a stand-alone and Harlan's book doesn't even appear to be available for sale anymore so, never mind.
I got a free copy and this is a voluntary review.
I liked the general flow of the story and the characters and the writing style. The plot hangs upon some pretty huge coincidences and Arabella's fun facts got a little excessive. Whenever she gets uncomfortable with a discussion she attempts to redirect and break the tension by changing the topic to some random trivia and this made for some pretty awkward exchanges. I thought the point might have been made with a little less effort.
Series status: This is part of a series about men who swore an oath to protect but it functions as a stand-alone and Harlan's book doesn't even appear to be available for sale anymore so, never mind.
I got a free copy and this is a voluntary review.
September 23, 2022
Bound to the Bodyguard is Hayson Manning’s latest romantic suspense story. Arabella (born Mia) is a computer staffer at a security agency. She eagerly takes her first field assignment, partnered with Hayden, an experienced agent. Hayden has worked solo since his partner-wife, Beth, was murdered 2 years earlier. Arabella and Hayden are posing as a married couple, Lana and Aaron, while they guard a couple honeymooning in Hawaii. Both Hayden and Arabella are keeping their pasts’ secret, despite their fierce attraction to each other. They get caught up in the play-acting and fall for each other.
The story itself is fine, but the writing needs a lot of work. Interspersed with the narrative are Arabella and Hayden’s inner thoughts, primarily of a graphic sexual nature. There are grammatical and spelling errors throughout the book, and the verb tenses change within a paragraph. There will be multiple pages dedicated to a scene, and then the next paragraph jumps to a new scene with no divider. These issues make the story, as is, difficult to read. The author thanks people for editing and contributing to the book, but it really needs to be re-edited by an English teacher before it is officially launched.
Bound to the Bodyguard contains graphic sexual thoughts, graphic sexual scenes, and profanity.
I received an advance review copy (ARC) from BookSirens for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story itself is fine, but the writing needs a lot of work. Interspersed with the narrative are Arabella and Hayden’s inner thoughts, primarily of a graphic sexual nature. There are grammatical and spelling errors throughout the book, and the verb tenses change within a paragraph. There will be multiple pages dedicated to a scene, and then the next paragraph jumps to a new scene with no divider. These issues make the story, as is, difficult to read. The author thanks people for editing and contributing to the book, but it really needs to be re-edited by an English teacher before it is officially launched.
Bound to the Bodyguard contains graphic sexual thoughts, graphic sexual scenes, and profanity.
I received an advance review copy (ARC) from BookSirens for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 25, 2022
This is another great book of The Bound series by Hayson Manning. Although is a part of series, it can be read as a standalone. But read with a warning: you will be Bound to read the rest of the series.
Bound to the Bodyguard is an undercover romance full with undeniable attraction, suspense, secrets and romantic moments, filled with humor, laughter and lots of steam.
Holden is the broody, alpha guy who is one of the Praesidio brothers. Two years ago, he lost his wife and partner. After her death, Holden realizes she was keeping secrets. Since then, he is trying to take down the guy who killed her. Working as undercover is part of his job, but developing feelings for his colleague was not.
When Mia was little girl, her family was killed and she goes into WITSEC. Years later, Mia decides to leave WITSEC and starts leaving her life as Arabella. Arabella has an excellent hacker and linguistic skills and starts working at Franco Security. Her first undercover job is with Holden posing as newlyweds and the attraction between them is undeniable. Being the quirky nerd who spews fun facts when nervous, Arabella doesn't believe she has a chance with the gorgeous bodyguard, even if there is explosive chemistry. Would they overcome all the secrets and obstacles and get their happily ever after?
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy from the author.
Bound to the Bodyguard is an undercover romance full with undeniable attraction, suspense, secrets and romantic moments, filled with humor, laughter and lots of steam.
Holden is the broody, alpha guy who is one of the Praesidio brothers. Two years ago, he lost his wife and partner. After her death, Holden realizes she was keeping secrets. Since then, he is trying to take down the guy who killed her. Working as undercover is part of his job, but developing feelings for his colleague was not.
When Mia was little girl, her family was killed and she goes into WITSEC. Years later, Mia decides to leave WITSEC and starts leaving her life as Arabella. Arabella has an excellent hacker and linguistic skills and starts working at Franco Security. Her first undercover job is with Holden posing as newlyweds and the attraction between them is undeniable. Being the quirky nerd who spews fun facts when nervous, Arabella doesn't believe she has a chance with the gorgeous bodyguard, even if there is explosive chemistry. Would they overcome all the secrets and obstacles and get their happily ever after?
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy from the author.
September 4, 2022
I have been waiting for quite a while for this book! After reading the previous book in the series, the teaser for Bound to the Bodyguard had me regularly checking Amazon to make sure I hadn't accidentally missed this book's release!
This is the story of awkward hacker Arabella who is on her first field assignment with seasoned security agent Holden. The two must pose as honeymooners to guard a wealthy newlywed on her honeymoon.
This assignment doesn't last long, but the budding relationship between Arabella and Holden does. Arabella is running from something and Holden quickly figures that Arabella has secrets that he needs to uncover. Without spoiling the story, there's lots to unravel with their pasts.
As with the previous book in this series, I found myself completely captivated by the adventures of the characters and wanting to know more about their histories. This author has a way of making even the side characters seem super important and making me want to know them better. I'm eagerly anticipating the next book in the series.
This book is spicy with lots of intrigue. Definitely worth checking out!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is the story of awkward hacker Arabella who is on her first field assignment with seasoned security agent Holden. The two must pose as honeymooners to guard a wealthy newlywed on her honeymoon.
This assignment doesn't last long, but the budding relationship between Arabella and Holden does. Arabella is running from something and Holden quickly figures that Arabella has secrets that he needs to uncover. Without spoiling the story, there's lots to unravel with their pasts.
As with the previous book in this series, I found myself completely captivated by the adventures of the characters and wanting to know more about their histories. This author has a way of making even the side characters seem super important and making me want to know them better. I'm eagerly anticipating the next book in the series.
This book is spicy with lots of intrigue. Definitely worth checking out!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 10, 2022
Bound to the Bodyguard
Author: Hayson Manning
Book Review
Bound to the Bodyguard is the latest installment in Hayson Manning's Bound series. It is a stand-alone contemporary romance that also features a sense of mystery and suspense!
In Bound to the Bodyguard, we meet Arabella and Holden - two coworkers who get tasked with having to work undercover at a honeymoon resort in Kona. What starts as just an assignment, spirals into a opposites attract romance that features spice, a tragic backstory, suspense, and even an adorable old cat.
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This was the first of Hayson Manning's books I've read and I really enjoyed it! It was funny, suspenseful, and steamy. I did enjoy the characters, but did find Holden to be "too much" at some points. Also, Arabella's fun facts got to being too excessive in my opinion. They were forced and just kinda awkward? I understand it was part of her personality, but I didn't expect them to be inserted so bluntly all the time.
The overall plot and spice was good though, so I definitely will be checking out Manning's other works!
Thank you Book Sirens and the author for the free review copy - I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Author: Hayson Manning
Book Review
Bound to the Bodyguard is the latest installment in Hayson Manning's Bound series. It is a stand-alone contemporary romance that also features a sense of mystery and suspense!
In Bound to the Bodyguard, we meet Arabella and Holden - two coworkers who get tasked with having to work undercover at a honeymoon resort in Kona. What starts as just an assignment, spirals into a opposites attract romance that features spice, a tragic backstory, suspense, and even an adorable old cat.
-
This was the first of Hayson Manning's books I've read and I really enjoyed it! It was funny, suspenseful, and steamy. I did enjoy the characters, but did find Holden to be "too much" at some points. Also, Arabella's fun facts got to being too excessive in my opinion. They were forced and just kinda awkward? I understand it was part of her personality, but I didn't expect them to be inserted so bluntly all the time.
The overall plot and spice was good though, so I definitely will be checking out Manning's other works!
Thank you Book Sirens and the author for the free review copy - I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 8, 2022
This is a suspense-filled romance between Holden, an alpha protective bodyguard and Arabella, his somewhat awkward co-worker who has a nervous habit of spouting trivia and weird facts. Holden and Arabella begin to get to know each other while pretending to be in a fake marriage for a work assignment. As the story unfolds, the reason for Arabella’s fear of getting involved in a genuine relationship and details about her past are revealed. This book contains some drama, adult heat, a loveable cat and dog and foster kids. There are also appearances by supportive characters who starred in prior books in the author’s Bound series. The book contains dual points of view, which are helpful as the complicated plot unfolds. This story was very engaging, and ultimately gets to a satisfying HEA. Recommended. I received an advance copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 20, 2022
Such a fantastic book!! Absolutely delightful read.
This was about Mia/Arabella who was in hiding, and she meets Holden an agent when they are on a protective detail for a pair of newly weds.
The plot and dialogue is fresh, fast paced and emotional. I found myself really involved with the story right from the start.
Full of drama, danger, and intensity but lots of romance and a little steam.
I could sympathise with what Arabella was going through and how it was hard to open up to Holden. But Also for Holden when everything in him just wants to protect her and she won't let him in. That's where the intensity sky rockets.
This was a truly wonderful story that I really can't recommend highly enough. So good!!!
This was an ARC and this is my honest review.
This was about Mia/Arabella who was in hiding, and she meets Holden an agent when they are on a protective detail for a pair of newly weds.
The plot and dialogue is fresh, fast paced and emotional. I found myself really involved with the story right from the start.
Full of drama, danger, and intensity but lots of romance and a little steam.
I could sympathise with what Arabella was going through and how it was hard to open up to Holden. But Also for Holden when everything in him just wants to protect her and she won't let him in. That's where the intensity sky rockets.
This was a truly wonderful story that I really can't recommend highly enough. So good!!!
This was an ARC and this is my honest review.
August 23, 2022
A great combination:
I really enjoyed this steamy, forced proximity romantic suspense. There was a nice mix of mystery, danger, romance and humour. It was also sweet, emotional and touching and altogether made for an enjoyable read. Whilst a standalone, there were interconnecting characters and I was left curious about their personal stories.
Holden and Arabella were stuck working undercover together and the chemistry sizzled between them from the very start. I loved the fun facts and found Arabella's awkwardness and insecurities adorable. The ending seemed a little forced and not everything was explained yet I'd still recommend this fun and fiery novel!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
I really enjoyed this steamy, forced proximity romantic suspense. There was a nice mix of mystery, danger, romance and humour. It was also sweet, emotional and touching and altogether made for an enjoyable read. Whilst a standalone, there were interconnecting characters and I was left curious about their personal stories.
Holden and Arabella were stuck working undercover together and the chemistry sizzled between them from the very start. I loved the fun facts and found Arabella's awkwardness and insecurities adorable. The ending seemed a little forced and not everything was explained yet I'd still recommend this fun and fiery novel!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
August 30, 2022
3.5/5 ⭐️
Arabella has secrets. Heck, her secrets have secrets. Working undercover should have been easy except a certain someone is getting under her skin. Holden says he's not looking but he didn't expect this gorgeous, quirky nerd. Now he'll do whatever he needs to keep her safe.
Had a lot of feelings about this book. It started off so strong, got a bit lost about 70% through, and it ended extremely strong! I really enjoyed both Holden and Arabella - their chemistry is off the charts and their back and forth is so entertaining. Holden is definitely SWOON! Loved Arabella's backstory and what led her to be where she is today. It was beautiful to watch her overcome her past.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review with my honest opinion.*
Arabella has secrets. Heck, her secrets have secrets. Working undercover should have been easy except a certain someone is getting under her skin. Holden says he's not looking but he didn't expect this gorgeous, quirky nerd. Now he'll do whatever he needs to keep her safe.
Had a lot of feelings about this book. It started off so strong, got a bit lost about 70% through, and it ended extremely strong! I really enjoyed both Holden and Arabella - their chemistry is off the charts and their back and forth is so entertaining. Holden is definitely SWOON! Loved Arabella's backstory and what led her to be where she is today. It was beautiful to watch her overcome her past.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review with my honest opinion.*
January 17, 2023
Holden is a bodyguard and on assignment with a new agent, Arabella. They are undercover pretending to be newly married but have a hard time staying away from each other. Holden held his wife as she died when they were on assignment so when bad things happen to Arabella, he insists that he must protect her. Arabella has a long unpleasant history, and she trusts no one. She insists on taking care of herself and refuses help. It takes having her home invaded and Holden insisting on caring for her to begin to change her mind about trusting. I really liked this book. Holden is tough but also tender. He is loyal to his friends. I loved how Holden’s friends embraced Arabella and she could experience the family she missed. There is a lot of romance and suspense throughout the book.
March 19, 2023
I would firstly just like to say a big thank you to BookSirens who very kindly forwarded me an arc copy of this book, for my kindle, in return for my honest review.
He’s the man of her dreams and she’s the woman of his nightmares………….Bound To The Bodyguard is a stand alone book in the amazing ‘Bound’ contemporary romance series.
This book was wonderful and had everything i look for in a romance book. There was of course, romance, steamy spice, funny moments that had me giggling along and throw in on top of that a little bit of danger and suspense and we have the perfect book.
I couldn’t get enough of Arabella and Holden and read this book really quickly, i honestly couldn’t turn the pages fast enough - i highly recommend………
He’s the man of her dreams and she’s the woman of his nightmares………….Bound To The Bodyguard is a stand alone book in the amazing ‘Bound’ contemporary romance series.
This book was wonderful and had everything i look for in a romance book. There was of course, romance, steamy spice, funny moments that had me giggling along and throw in on top of that a little bit of danger and suspense and we have the perfect book.
I couldn’t get enough of Arabella and Holden and read this book really quickly, i honestly couldn’t turn the pages fast enough - i highly recommend………
September 5, 2022
I enjoyed this book, it had an interesting storyline/plot filled with mystery, intensity and humour which I really enjoyed, plus likeable characters.
However, my issue was forgiving Holden for his actions. It isn't something I was able to do, and I ended up disappointed that Arabella/Mia did so. Which defeats the purpose of the story, where we want a HAE, but I just found his behaviour unforgiveable and I couldn't get past that as a reader. Completely a personal thing and probably not a big deal for other readers, but for me, I would rather she slapped Holden and told him to do one. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
However, my issue was forgiving Holden for his actions. It isn't something I was able to do, and I ended up disappointed that Arabella/Mia did so. Which defeats the purpose of the story, where we want a HAE, but I just found his behaviour unforgiveable and I couldn't get past that as a reader. Completely a personal thing and probably not a big deal for other readers, but for me, I would rather she slapped Holden and told him to do one. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 16, 2022
I love, love, loved this read! Holden and Arabella's story is beautifully written and everything I could want in a romance read. Steamy, swoon worthy chemistry, laughs, suspense and so much more! This was perfection for me, and everything was so well balanced, and the storyline flowed perfectly. While this is part of Manning's Bound series - it can be read as a standalone which was great since I'm not caught up in the series and didn't feel lost at all. Captivating from start to finish - I can't wait for more from Manning!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 21, 2022
danger and desire
Which woman doesn´t long for a strong protector, to know she will be safe with him no matter what the bad guys throw their way? But Arabella is not a damsel in distress, she can look out for herself but it takes a lot of convincing to make Holden see her for more than the object of physical attraction.
I enjoyed reading about two strong characters literally fighting their way to each other and a HEA which I´m sure will never be boring.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Which woman doesn´t long for a strong protector, to know she will be safe with him no matter what the bad guys throw their way? But Arabella is not a damsel in distress, she can look out for herself but it takes a lot of convincing to make Holden see her for more than the object of physical attraction.
I enjoyed reading about two strong characters literally fighting their way to each other and a HEA which I´m sure will never be boring.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 21, 2023
stellar read
This is my third time reading this book, and each time it gets better and better. I love the characters, their depth and the carefully woven plotline. I love that we get to revisit previous characters from this brotherhood of protectors. I love each, and everyone of them are all unique as are the women fall in love with
I highly recommend this whole series, I’d start at the beginning and read from there. However, you couldn’t read each one as a standalone as well. Hayson Manning is a go to author for me. She weaves the best stories.
This is my third time reading this book, and each time it gets better and better. I love the characters, their depth and the carefully woven plotline. I love that we get to revisit previous characters from this brotherhood of protectors. I love each, and everyone of them are all unique as are the women fall in love with
I highly recommend this whole series, I’d start at the beginning and read from there. However, you couldn’t read each one as a standalone as well. Hayson Manning is a go to author for me. She weaves the best stories.
August 21, 2022
I was really lucky to be in the ARC team of this book, I love Hayson writing style, it’s the perfect mix of romance and humor with a bit of sassiness. I loved this book and read it in one go, and I’m happy to tell you that in my opinion she nailed it again!!!
The heroine was a badass with a sweet and gooey inside and the hero was again droll worthing. Who doesn’t want to be carried away bridal style…. 😍
Five star and obviously I advise to everyone
The heroine was a badass with a sweet and gooey inside and the hero was again droll worthing. Who doesn’t want to be carried away bridal style…. 😍
Five star and obviously I advise to everyone
September 8, 2022
Ran a bit long but worth it! There’s a lot to take in with this book—parts are funny; parts are sad; and some parts just take up space. The storyline is excellent; the characters well developed; the plot twists and turns really have you all over the place; and the HEA…wow. Don’t miss this read—grab your copy today! (I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and really liked it.) ❤️❤️
September 18, 2022
Arabella has lived a long life. She doesn’t think that she should get invest here time with anyone as the life of witness protection isn’t the most ideal life. But when her job takes her in a tropical honeymoon retreat with Holden he is rather difficult to resist. I love the character development in this story and Arabella’s ability to finally trust Holden. I loved this author, first time reader.
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.
September 22, 2022
They may be hired to be bodyguards, pretending to be honeymooners, but their really danger is once they get back to reality. Because this isn't the first time she's went by a fake name, and her past hasn't stopped looking for her. Their relationship is so back and forth because she isn't ready to trust. I enjoyed their story, not just about them, but the group of friends that surround them, too.
*I am leaving an honest and voluntary review after receiving this book as an ARC.
*I am leaving an honest and voluntary review after receiving this book as an ARC.
September 25, 2022
So Good. Worth it.
I enjoyed everything about this story. Arabella's character was portrayed very well, and I loved how Holden's character treated her so well. I loved that their relationship and love wasn't an instinct thing and that they built their relationship even though Holden had to try harder to get Arabella on board because of her past. After reading this book, I am definitely going to be reading her other books with the other characters.
I enjoyed everything about this story. Arabella's character was portrayed very well, and I loved how Holden's character treated her so well. I loved that their relationship and love wasn't an instinct thing and that they built their relationship even though Holden had to try harder to get Arabella on board because of her past. After reading this book, I am definitely going to be reading her other books with the other characters.
September 25, 2022
Gritty and moving, with a side of lols
I would definitely recommend this gritty story. I laughed out loud and wiped away a sneaky tear or two. Overall I found the book well paced, however for me the resolution felt rushed and forced, which was a pity. I am looking godward to reading more stories in this series.
Full disclosure: I was given an ARC of the book, however this review is my own honest opinion.
I would definitely recommend this gritty story. I laughed out loud and wiped away a sneaky tear or two. Overall I found the book well paced, however for me the resolution felt rushed and forced, which was a pity. I am looking godward to reading more stories in this series.
Full disclosure: I was given an ARC of the book, however this review is my own honest opinion.
October 3, 2022
I really enjoyed this book! I love a fake dating trope but that ended up being just a small portion of Arabella and Holden’s story. Their chemistry was scorching and their love for one another was so real and deep. The writing was great, aside from a few typos and mismatched sentences but that was easily overlooked. Would highly recommend reading this story— it had everything! Romance, suspense, mystery, and a beautiful found family.
October 11, 2022
Before I got hooked on romance books, I was a sucker for a good thriller/suspense/mystery book, and I feel like this was a good mix of genres. I wasn't a huge fan of the ending because I feel like it moved a little fast, but other than that it was a good read. I might have to go back and read Asia's story next!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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