The Bodyguard

 

Hannah Brooks is an Executive Protection Agent, aka bodyguard, who likes her pantsuits, her world-traveling assignments and, most of all, being in firm control of every situation. She’s incredibly skilled at protecting her clients, referred to as principals, but she’s even BETTER at protecting her own heart from that nasty little bugger called “love”. 

There’s just one problem: Jack Stapleton: actor, heartthrob, and Hannah’s next principal, whether she likes it or not.  After being dumped by her fellow agent, Robby, she’s not looking for love. Nope. She wants to get out of town as quickly as possible - preferably to London, if she can prove to Glenn that she deserves the spot by doing a good job on this assignment.

Simple, right?  As you know, things seldom go as planned, and Jack isn’t quite the simple assignment Hannah was expecting - especially when they have to fake a relationship for Jack’s family as a cover for Hannah’s presence in their home. But are these growing feelings fake too? Reality gets pretty fuzzy when you’re dealing with an actor.

This is my first Katherine Center book, and it was ADORABLE! I see why so many love her writing.  It was refreshing to see a strong female lead who was smart, capable, and despite past trauma, not defined by it. Hannah’s insecurities and self-doubt were relatable, as were Jack’s, since he was working through his own past trauma.  Their interactions were funny, sweet, and tender. Even when bickering, they were a delight! The story arc involving his family and the interactions between Hannah and her co-workers all added a nice dimension to the story as well.

I both read and listened to the audiobook, narrated by Patti Murin, and the audio took it to the next level. Murin’s gender voicing was very believable, and a couple voices - especially for Jack’s tabloid ‘girlfriend’ Kennedy Monroe, were hilarious! I highly recommend the audio.

I loved this story! So why not the full 5 stars?  A couple scenes of dialogue dragged on a bit too long, I couldn’t quite buy into the rationale of the ending event, and the oft dreaded epilogue went just a wee bit moralizing for my taste. Despite these things, I truly enjoyed my time with this story, and I’ll be watching for more from this author!

★★★★ ½ (rounded to 4)

Thanks to St. Martin’s Press, Netgalley and author Katherine Center for the digital ARC and Macmillan Audio for the audiobook, for which I’ve given my honest opinions. They’ll both be published on July 19, 2022.