Sworn to Protect

Starred review from May 1, 2017
Gardin’s fourth Battle Scars contemporary romantic thriller (after Man of Honor) is a sensual, action-filled page-turner that evokes waves of emotion. Nine years of separation have done nothing to sever the strong bond between Night Eagle Security expert Jeremy Teague and Rayne Matheson, who left Jeremy their senior year of high school without an explanation. When a stalker sends her on the run, Rayne returns home to Wilmington, Del., with her son, Decker, and the emotional devastation brought on by her reunion with Jeremy is almost worse than what she’s fleeing from. Gardin packs a lot of forgiveness into the romance, allowing the lovers to reconnect without unnecessary drama—though overcoming the past is still not a quick or easy process. The sexual tension is thick enough to stop bullets, and there are plenty flying around with the elusive villain closing in on his target. When lies are revealed, making the lovers question everything they thought they knew, Jeremy and Rayne (and their loyal, capable friends) face danger head-on, refusing to back down and once again lose their chance for happiness. Their unbreakable bond is evident from their intimate exchanges. Gardin will add to her fan base with this winning, fast-paced sequel. Agent: Stacey Donaghy, Donaghy Literary.