Taming the Grumpy Bodyguard

by Willa Drew

He’s a grumpy ex-Marine running a private security firm.
I’m just a stray dog looking for my forever human.

Neither of us expected to change each other’s lives.

Sven Anders likes three things: order, solitude, and control. Chaos isn’t on the agenda, especially not the four-legged kind. But when a scrappy terrier sneaks into his office, Sven finds himself saddled with the world’s most determined (and oddly charming) intruder.

This dog isn’t just any stray. He understands German commands, has a talent for sniffing out trouble, and refuses to leave Sven’s side. Naming him feels like the first step toward something Sven swore he’d never have again: family.

Taming the Grumpy Bodyguard is a heartwarming, laugh-out-loud standalone novella about a man, a dog, and the unexpected people who teach him that love is worth every risk. Perfect for fans of grumpy/sunshine romance, found family, and four-legged matchmakers.

116 pages, Kindle Edition

Expected publication November 26, 2025

About the author

Two authors. Two countries. One obsession with love stories.

Willa Drew’s contemporary slow-burn romances are full of feels, playful banter, and high-stakes emotions. Their globetrotting characters fight for love as they discover who they are and where they belong.

Willa, a proud Canadian and devoted Leafs hockey fan, and Drew, a Russian-American with a lifelong love of languages, always search for the perfect words to capture heartbreak and connection.

Their books guarantee swoon-worthy kisses and happily ever afters.

Hang out with us on all the socials @willadrewauthor or get sign up for our newsletter at www.willadrew.com and get updates sent right to you.

Reviews

[Tay_is_reading_again · Rating 5 out of 5]

RTC. I wasn’t expecting to almost tear up at 8:30am but here we are.

[Joycelyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating two thumbs and two paws up. Really enjoyed reading the book. Between the funny antics of the main dog character and point of view chapters to the reluctant bodyguard makes these two a very unlikely lovable duo. It might not be love at first sight but when a dog warms over the grumpy bodyguard's heart it becomes a very good read. This is a mist read for both dog lovers and book lovers alike.

[Janette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Listening to and reading this story truly tugged at my heartstrings. I absolutely loved how the author wove together Sven’s perspective with the dog’s—it added so much warmth and depth. The story beautifully captures the bond between humans and their furry friends, showing how love and understanding go both ways. This is an absolute must-read for dog lovers and anyone looking for a sweet, heartwarming tale!

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novella was pure grumpy-sunshine perfection. Sven is the ultimate broody, ex-Marine bodyguard who thinks he’s immune to feelings, until he meets a ridiculously smart stray dog that crashes right into his life. This novella had me tearing up in the best way. The dog’s point of view was so well written , it truly captured his emotions and made the bond between human and animal feel real, tender, and unforgettable. 🐾💛

[Mandy Cappelletti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Huge thank you to the authors for this advance listening copy. This is the most adorable meet cute with a grumpy ex marine and a stray dog! I smiled through the whole book, but that end hit me. Expect to tear up but enjoy the happy ending! I adored hearing this story from Pablo’s, the dog, point of view. 5/5 and recommend for a short sweet story.

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much for the ARC copy, Willa Drew!! I thought I was prepared for a dog POV but I was wrong! This cute little friend stole my heart. I’m ready for more adventures. Hopefully I don’t cry next time….either way though, I’m here for it!

[Cleo Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short and sweet, I appreciate the two perspectives from the human and the dog. The perspectives switching are a welcome furthering in the story and not confusing. I also appreciate that this book benefits animal rescues. Look forward to the next book in the series

[Bobbie-Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dog meets Beast.

Beast unsure of Dog.

Dog wins Beast's heart.

This books is a heartbreaking yet heartwarming story all in one. The only problem? It's not long enough. True meaning that a dog can become mans best friend, no matter how grumpy you are!

[Blair · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was absolutely adorable! Pablo stole the show (as he does IRL) and I just loved his personality! It was super cute getting his POV! I definitely need more of Sven and Pablo's bromance.

[Chelsey Konkel · Rating 5 out of 5]

So cute!! Loved the audio book!! Perfect little rom com but will also make you tear up all at the same time.