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Bad Boy Bodyguards #1

Protected by the Bad Boy

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A country singer, a bodyguard, and a mystery that ties them together.

Four years after the death of her husband, Kayla Keller’s dreams of making it big in the country singing industry are the only thing keeping her sane. When she’s attacked after a concert, she thinks a crazed fan is responsible, but a chilling phone call soon after brings up memories from the past that still haunt her. She hates the idea of a bodyguard trailing her steps, but she relents when she realizes how dangerous the situation has become.


Troy Littman has waited for a promotion and chance to head the new division of Bad Boy Bodyguards for a long time. He’s ready to put all his attention into developing the office when he’s given one last assignment: protect a country singer from potential harm. A no-fraternization policy prevents relationships between clients and bodyguards, and Troy has always maintained a professional distance. But Kayla Keller gets under his skin in a way that no other woman has.


Troy has to choose between a relationship he desires and a promotion he’s wanted for a long time. And just when he thinks he has the answer, new information pops up, putting Kayla’s life in even more jeopardy. Will they catch the man who attacked her, or will their growing love slip between their fingers before it has a chance to begin?


A Christian romance with a happy ending!





167 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 18, 2020

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About the author

Evangeline Kelly

42 books201 followers
Evangeline Kelly is the pen name I use to write contemporary Christian romance books. When I was a kid, I had two dreams. One was to work with at risk youth and the other was to write books. After pursuing my passion of working with foster children for over twenty years, I finally decided to pursue my childhood dream of writing.

I love a good book that draws you in and takes hold of your heart. When I write, I hope to show real life situations people go through and how God uses those situations to draw us closer to Himself.

I’ve witnessed suffering in my line of work, but I’ve also witnessed God’s redeeming love. A good Christian romance features both hardship and delight. My hope is that my stories not only entertain, but encourage, and most of all, that they bring glory and honor to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Visit my Amazon Author Page!
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5 stars
133 (69%)
4 stars
42 (21%)
3 stars
13 (6%)
2 stars
3 (1%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
Profile Image for Julie Carpenter.
1,692 reviews203 followers
March 6, 2020
If you're ready for some sweet romance, some Christian fiction and some suspense, then this is the book for you. Evangeline Kelly has a new series about bodyguards and this one was great at setting up the other books to come. I'm interested to see who the next bodyguard book will be about.

I had fun reading about these two characters, Kayla and Troy. The opening scene had me laughing out loud and made for a humorous first meeting of these two. Then to have them come across each other later and he as her bodyguard...priceless.

Kayla has had some hard things happen in her past. She's still struggling to get over the death of her husband and now she has someone making threats. Thankfully her friend is there to help protect her and her bodyguard.

I had my suspicions for the bad guy but they weren't confirmed until further into the story. And the suspense leading up to it was great. I enjoyed the development of Kayla and Troy's friendship. And the ending...oh my! Troy's a keeper Layla!

Content: Clean. Some moments of suspense and peril. This is a Christian fiction novel so the characters do speak about God and their beliefs and talk about going to church.

I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!
802 reviews6 followers
February 23, 2020
This book had me either sitting on the edge of my chair in suspense, laughing or making my hubby listen to a "cute" remark! He was very glad when I finished the book. This story about Kayla and Troy was very well written and caught my interest in the first pages. I was unable to figure out who the suspect actually was until very late in the book. As with all of this author's books it is grounded in Christian suspense in such a touching manner. I would highly recommend this book if you just enjoy reading!

I received an ARC copy of this book, but I also purchased a copy. This is my completely honest and voluntary review.
VICKI FROM WYOMING
Profile Image for Robin.
Author 2 books29 followers
December 15, 2021
Pretty Good Romance Story, Easy to Read

This was a good, easy to read romance with heavy references to the Christian faith.
I'm going to get the few things which irked me out of the way first. There were several places where a single, simple word would've fit much better than a few odd phrases. (Ex. Place of work = office) Also, this poor heroine, while idealistically sweet and kind, seems to fall into the "too stupid to live category." I knew who the guilty party was immediately and couldn't understand why she didn't at least suspect something was off.
What I liked about this story was that the heroine didn't drop her faith when tested. I also liked that she's seen praying often. The hero prayed, too, I think. Obviously not as much because it would've stood out more. I did love his integrity. The action was pretty good and I was invested enough in the story to keep reading.
If you enjoy a sweet, inspirational romance starring a girl-next-door and a hero who's trying to show people he's not the rebellious youth he used to be, you might like to spend a little time with Kayla and Troy.
Profile Image for Faith Posten.
312 reviews11 followers
March 1, 2020
Intent Equals Action

Although she only has spots in Coffee Houses and small venues at the beginning of the story, Kayla is an aspiring country singer. Sadly she lost her husband four years ago in what appeared to be a random mugging gone wrong. His boss and good friend stood by her ever since then. But then she begins to have trouble with a former boyfriend not willing to go on a second date with him. He keeps pestering her plus she goes through several more serious instances happen in the same evening. Her friend Robert hires a bodyguard for her. He definitely is upset with the young hunk that is sent. However for the first time in a long time, Kayla is upbeat about him. He makes her feel safe while he is around except for her heart. Kayla loves God first and foremost. Troy, as it turns out, is also a born again Christian. God works in the interest of justice in answer to Kayla's prayers over the last four years. I recommend this wonderful story!
Profile Image for Bess.
552 reviews
August 2, 2020
This was a suspenseful read! Not a typical "bad boy meets good girl." And for that I was thankful. I'm not drawn to the bad boy types at all. But in fiction, anyone could be my ideal match! That's why fiction is so wonderful!!
Troy is finally getting his dream and moving from bodyguard to management! However, all of that comes to a crashing halt when a rising country music star is in jeopardy.
Kayla lost her husband 4 years ago to a random mugging, or so she thought. The murder was never solved. After going through her husband's belongings, she's uncovered some disturbing new informaton.
Together, Troy and Kayla have to work together to catch the killer and keep him from killing Kayla in the process!
Intrigue, kidnapping, murder, attempted murder, scary phone calls, crazy stalker fans, and more litter this short read.
It was a good read!
1,009 reviews23 followers
February 21, 2020
The author had me at the first paragraph! Kayla and Troy seem like an unlikely couple at first, but I was definitely rooting for them to become one fairly quickly in the story. They are both likable characters, but not perfect. I enjoyed reading about their faith, which just flows naturally in the story. There are several possible suspects that could be Kayla's attacker. I did not have one picked out for almost all of the book. The plot has twists and turns and moves at a good pace. The epilogue ties things up well and contains a great HEA that made me smile. I recommend this book to clean romantic suspense readers and to Christian fiction readers. I obtained my copy through KU.
316 reviews1 follower
March 3, 2020
I enjoyed it

I love Ms. Kelly's books. I love the scripture and the trials she puts her characters through.
This one was no different. Though, Kayla was definitely naive as heck, and that was frustrating. She did learn a really hard lesson in that though.

Troy was great. I really appreciated his integrity. He wasn't a beefy, brainless bodyguard. He was smart and honest. His reputation was important, and I was impressed that he wouldn't risk that.

The suspense was pretty good. I wasn't entirely sure how everything would play out, but it was still entertaining to read how it unfolded.
Profile Image for Sandy Grant.
104 reviews2 followers
February 27, 2020
If you love romance stories with a mystery to solve you'll love this book! As always the author has created a perfect clean romance but this time there is a mystery to solve. The characters are believable with excellent dialogue and real life interactions.

I have been a fan of Evangeline Kelly since her beginning. Her books keep getting better and better. It's just a matter of time till we see her writing for the Hallmark Channel.

I received a free advanced copy to review but this is my own honest opinion.
Profile Image for SJ Garrison.
643 reviews
February 21, 2020
Loved it! I was so drawn into this story from the first page. I read this book in one sitting, because I couldn't put it down. Kayla had been through so much and then she has to have a bodyguard, Troy. Every where she turned seemed weirdos was there. I was either on the edge of my seat or laughing out loud. If you like thrill rides, I highly recommend 'Protected by the Bad Boy'.
I received this book from the publisher. The thoughts and comments are my own.
Profile Image for Antoinette Gardner.
22 reviews2 followers
February 22, 2020
I really liked this book by Evangeline Kelly. I liked the way the relationship between Troy and Kayla built in this story. It was not forced and felt very real. The story line was believable and makes you experience a full range of emotion. Lots of chemistry between the characters which causes issues for all. I really like the direction and growth in Ms. Kelly’s writing.
This is my honest and unbiased review of this book which I received as an Advanced reader copy.
Profile Image for Annette.
3,101 reviews8 followers
February 29, 2020
Although this is gripping and very intense, the author still manages to mingle in some laugh out loud moments, love that. This kept me glued to the pages and is so good that I didn't want it to end. Definitely a must read. Very well blend of romance and suspense, they work well together and make a great couple. I love how the met and the circle of life and enjoyed reading them build something new. I was provided a free copy without obligation and I am voluntarily reviewing.
2,863 reviews4 followers
March 4, 2020

This is a clean Christian story of two people coming together where they need each other. Troy had a rough childhood and made bad decisions but he’s grown up now. He’s a bodyguard and has turned his life around. Kayla has a wonderful singing voice and is trying to move forward since her husband was killed. She has a wonderful faith that God will help her. These two come together and they find that together they are complete. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
282 reviews3 followers
April 13, 2020
This was a great story that pulled me in from the beginning. I had a hard time putting the book down. I enjoyed Kayla's sweet disposition with all the opposition that she dealt with in her life. Troy was a man with great integrity and awesome work ethic. The suspense in this story kept me on the edge of my seat. Watching Troy and Kayla's faith in action was encouraging. I recommend this book to anyone that enjoys sweet, clean, suspense romance.
Profile Image for Shonda.
Author 10 books44 followers
February 19, 2020
Great story, loved the characters. It was fun to try and figure out who was behind the attacks on Kayla. The story had me on the edge of my seat, the fact that whoever is threatening Kayla may be who killed her husband. Having Troy around helps Kayla to be strong and wanting to move forward.
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
5,358 reviews19 followers
February 21, 2020
I liked Kayla, a twentyleight year old widow who’s rising as a country music singer. But it was a bit over the top with two stalkers (in one night, no less).

She’d briefly had a run in with Troy, an arrogant bodyguard still looking for his father’s approval.

Now, he’s her bodyguard.
Can they see beyond first impressions?
4.5
682 reviews10 followers
February 23, 2020
A Fantastic read that keeps you on the edge of your seat with this roller coaster ride. Theres twists and turns everywhere. I could not put this page turner down. The Author has brought a captivating story that makes you not want to put the book down. The Author made a home run with this one. I definitely recommend.
Shauna Joesten
125 reviews2 followers
February 29, 2020
Protected by the Bad Boy

Evangeline Kelly has written another terrific book that is full of humor, heartache, danger, & love. Two Christians lead by their faith & scriptures. The amazing journey of Karlye, a Country music singer and Troy, her Bad Boy bodyguard love for each other and Christ. This book is an adventure to read
Profile Image for Lenda Burns.
426 reviews6 followers
March 6, 2020
From one of my favorite authors comes another outstanding new series.
She has her pulse on what her readers want and she never fails to deliver.
The characters in this book are just like my friends.
The plot has many emotions and is very well-written.
It's a book that you can't put down, it keeps you longing to see what happens next.
I am looking forward to more of this series.
March 9, 2020
Another winner

I really enjoy Evangeline Kelly’s stories. They have real people and realistic story lines. Plenty of genuine romance with mysteries and plot twists keep one reading to the very end. The placement of Scripture quotes adds the perfect touch without feeling pushed. I am a full fledged fan.
212 reviews4 followers
March 16, 2020
Clean romantic suspense

This is a clean romance with lots of suspense. The humor of the opening scene immediately grabbed my attention but it was the suspense that kept me turning pages. Kayla and Troy are open about their faith, which was encouraging to read. However, I didn't feel the connection between Kayla and Troy. Overall it was a nice read.
128 reviews5 followers
March 29, 2020
BLESS YOU EVANGELINE!

Anytime I see on Amazon that you have a new book out, I get super excited. Thank you for this amazing book. Love your love for God and for romance 😀. Loved the characters right from the first chapter. Really appreciate your brilliant writing, sweet romance and acknowledging the awesomeness of God. Thank you!
2,138 reviews26 followers
June 15, 2020
A really sweet, Christian romance with suspense and a second love. Kayla and Troy's first meeting was comical. Loved the focus on the Lord and how real these characters were - struggled with having the right attitude and doing the right thing. The ending was comical - to me - as well. Looking forward to book 2.
40 reviews
September 2, 2020
A book I could put down

My standards for a great book is my inability to put down a book. I found myself skipping parts of it, got bored at some point. It’s a sweet read just not there yet. Other series by this author offer a more captivating read- the billionaire series for instance not for the money of course
Profile Image for Dana Michael.
1,316 reviews125 followers
February 22, 2020
This is a super sweet and clean romance with a mystery, and likeable characters. It gave me a smile on my face with the HEA.
*I was given a copy of this book by the author and this my honest opinion.
2,748 reviews20 followers
February 23, 2020
Review of Protected by the Bad Boy

This was a very good book and I will recommend her books to anyone who loves romance novels. She keeps you involved from page one until the end.
93 reviews
March 5, 2020
Great New series

Good plot with enough details to make you feel that you were there without wandering off. And I loved the happy ending. Looking forward to more books in this series.
323 reviews13 followers
June 13, 2020
More exciting than your average romance

Make no mistake, this is still a romance novel. It is not a thriller. But the danger element does make it sliiightly more thrilling than your average romance - hence the 4th star. Otherwise this is a solid 3-star good but not great story.
Profile Image for Natalya.
503 reviews16 followers
February 27, 2020
Cute story!
“She may have been the girl-next-door type, but she was one hot tamale.”
Enjoyable romance that is fashioned to encourage love, trust, and faith in the Lord.
Profile Image for Sue Stinnett.
1,374 reviews3 followers
February 27, 2020
Outstanding

Romantic suspense with strong characters! This is a great read that you will not be able to put down. Highly recommend
862 reviews2 followers
February 28, 2020
Protected by the Bad Boy

Really enjoyed the characters and plot of this story. The faith of the couple enables them to overcome life's tragedies.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews

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