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Gabby's Protector

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After a heart-shattering tragedy, Tony Marino bottled up his emotions and gave more than twenty hard years to the SEAL teams. Now, he’s enjoying a later in life career in paradise in the Ellington Cove special security office.

The best part? Working with their research expert, Gabby Ladd.

Eager for a fresh start, Gabby jumped at the offer to join the team in Key West, certain the location was out of reach of the dangerous stalker who ruined her Army career and forced her into hiding.

But she’s been found.

Determined to protect her new friends and the honorable men she works with from the stalker who has killed before, she knows running is the only option.

Tony’s not about to let anyone drive Gabby away. To keep her safe, to keep her close, he must let go of the painful past, open his heart, and let himself hope for the future.

Because it’s never too late for love…

•••
The Never Too Late for Love books are for readers who know that love isn’t just for the young. Dig into this romantic suspense series—perfect bite-size stories packed with passion, danger, and characters you can relate to!

149 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 3, 2023

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About the author

Janie Crouch

231 books1,911 followers
USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author Janie Crouch writes what she loves to read: passionate romantic suspense.

After a lifetime on the East Coast—and a six-year stint in Germany due to her husband's job as support for the U.S. Military—Janie has settled into her dream home in Front Range of the Colorado Rockies. She loves engaging in all sorts of adventures (triathlons! 200-mile relay races! mountain treks!), traveling, and surviving life with four kids.

Heroes exist. Let a Janie Crouch book prove it to you.

Check out Janie's updates and more on her website at http://www.janiecrouch.com

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 110 reviews
Profile Image for Julie Miller.
Author 280 books348 followers
May 17, 2023
I'm really enjoying this series. Romantic suspense in the Florida Keys. Mature romance with all the bells and whistles.
Profile Image for Vickie.
1,951 reviews59 followers
May 3, 2023
Gabby, the techno wizard of the protection team at Ellington Cove, is in trouble and has to depend on her teammates to protect her, especially Tony. Tony usually gives off the vibes of a playboy looking for action, but for Gabby, he decides to play it cool and offer his services as a real protection against Gabby’s determined and murderous stalker. The action is fast-paced and non-stop and the romance is steamy at just the right moments. I enjoyed getting to know Gabby’s vulnerabilities and Tony’s backstory. The characters were well fleshed out and relatable, with flaws just as if they’re real people. I enjoyed insight into how Gabby’s mind worked and how Tony’s heart was attracted to her. Good, quick read with an intriguing setting and a black-hearted villain who deserves to be taken down. Although this book is part of the Never Too Late for Love series, it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone.
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via BookFunnel as part of her advance review team. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Profile Image for Marie.
3,913 reviews39 followers
May 3, 2023
We finally get Gabby and Tony's book

Gabby and Tony have been dancing around each other since they began work at Ellington Cove, they both have secrets, and whilst Tony's crushed his heart and his spirit, Gabby's costs people their lives.
It is a dark dangerous secret that slithers in the shadows and strikes when you least expect it before sliding back into the darkness and waiting again. Whilst Gabby wants to run, again, what she actually needs is someone to stand up and protect her, claim her, love her.... Tony doesn't disappoint! He may be a warrior and a protector but risking his heart has Tony far more scared than any other battle he has ever faced.
It may be a rough road to HEA for them, but it is still beautiful, they both face old demons but together they are empowered, supported and loved.
I look forward to Debra's book which is out at the end of May. I read this on Kindle Unlimited.
Profile Image for Jessie.
247 reviews4 followers
May 3, 2023
Gabby’s Protector is the third book in the Ellington Cove Resort series. It is considered a standalone, but since the books in this series are snack sized, you should read the previous two books in the series, Sarah’s Protector and Angela’s Protector. There are character crossovers in the series as the three protectors of ECR help each other in their own dangerous situations involving their loved ones.

For those who don’t know, this series is a little different than the previous collaboration co-written with Regan Black. This series is co-written with Janie Crouch, not Josie Jade. If you want to read the collaboration series with Regan Black and Josie Jade, check out their Heartbreak Key series. It is equally as good as this one! Trust me!

Gabrielle Ladd is a former Army soldier, who is now employed by Guardian Agency as the research and support specialist for the three Guardian Agency protector/investigators at the Ellington Cove Resort. During her Army career, she encountered a situation that has been haunting her for years. She has been hunted and tormented by one man, who thought he was above all. And after years of living in the shadows and hiding, her latest destination was the Keys. And with no word or sight of this man, she thought she was safe from him. But little did she know that he was always watching her and waiting. On what would be a normal day for her, it turned out to be a day she always dreaded and feared. She felt his eyes on her and knew that he had found her. Will she run away from the life that she has made in the Keys or will she stay and fight for her life and the dream of a future with the man she secretly loves?

Tony Marino is a former Navy SEAL, who works for the Guardian Agency as a special security protector and investigator for the Ellington Cove Resort. Tragedy struck him at a young age and left him picking up the pieces of himself and swore that he would live a carefree life. When he was given the opportunity to come to the Keys and start fresh, he took the chance. Little did he know he would find someone who made him want things and have feeling again. When he notices Gabby acting out of the norm, he knows right away that something is up and his need to protect her comes forefront. When he finds out the danger that she is in, he swears to himself that he will be in control over his emotions and feelings for Gabby and will do whatever it takes to keep her safe.

These two have had their eyes on each other for a long time and never really tried to act or say anything about it to one another. After Tony let everyone believe the rumors that were floating around the resort about him, Gabby was certain that she was not Tony’s type. And Tony always thought Gabby didn’t like him when she would always try to ignore his comments and his attempt at flirting with her. But when Tony becomes Gabby’s personal protector she knows that she will have to force herself and her mind to behave because what she really wants to do is what she has always imagined when she is alone with Tony. Vice versa for Tony with Gabby. When the tension is thick and danger is around them, Tony just can’t help himself. He kisses her and their love story only gets steamier and stronger from there.

I love how this book involves Nick and Brent and some other secondary characters. I feel like this book set up a good foundation for two more books that involve Debra and Ilsa, but I’m not sure. Fingers crossed that both women get their own books.

What I didn’t know until I viewed the back matter was that Gamble has a book and it’s part of the Guardian Agency series by Regan Black. Totally going to read those after I finish up my ARCs. So excited to read and see what the Guardian Agency is all about.

Highly recommend these romantic suspense snacks of a book with alpha males, independent women, and the fast paced love stories that make you believe that finding love at any age is never too late.

Profile Image for Susan.
4,619 reviews116 followers
May 2, 2023
Whew! Another couldn't-put-it-down entry in the Never Too Late for Love: Ellington Cove series. Tony is a character who has intrigued me from the beginning. Unlike Nick and Brent, he always seems light-hearted and looking for fun, with a reputation for flirting with many different women. But occasionally, I felt he was trying too hard to give that impression. I loved seeing the other guys call him on it at the end of the previous book, as they encouraged him to let Gabby know how he feels about her.

Gabby moved from being an off-site researcher for the Guardian Agency to working directly with the team at Ellington Cove. Her computer skills are off-the-charts exceptional, and I've loved seeing the incredible support she provides for them. They didn't know that part of her motivation in coming to the Keys was to get as far away as possible from the stalker who wrecked her Army career.

As the book opens, Gabby experiences that feeling of being watched that she hasn't felt since her last encounter with Hopkins. She knows he's found her, and she believes that the only thing she can do is run again. But she didn't count on Tony. Thanks to his keen observation skills, augmented by his feelings for her, he immediately realizes something is wrong. I loved how he pried the truth out of her and then let her know in no uncertain terms that her days of running were over. Gabby fights him initially because she doesn't want to risk his life, but she eventually agrees.

The tension and action were non-stop. I could feel Tony and Gabby's frustration at their inability to locate Hopkins. There was one confrontation early on where Hopkins caught them by surprise, but Tony kept Gabby safe. I loved how Tony's quick thinking got them a lead that started bringing things together. Their anger at how he got away was understandable and added to their determination. Unfortunately, a meeting that should have been safe ended with Gabby in danger and Tony terrified for her life. I loved how Gabby's familiarity with the city and confidence in Tony's abilities helped her leave a trail for him to follow. I loved the final confrontation and how it went down.

I loved seeing the relationship between Tony and Gabby develop. Each was attracted to the other but had their insecurities to overcome. Tony spent many years grieving the deaths of his wife and baby and didn't believe he would ever love again. Then he met Gabby, and she stirred those long-dormant feelings, but he didn't think she'll ever see him as anything but a coworker. Gabby is attracted to him but believes love isn't in the cards for her, especially with someone like Tony. I liked watching him repeatedly show her she was the woman he needed. I loved the ending and seeing them finally admit their feelings for each other.

#ARC
Profile Image for Penny Heart.
Author 7 books49 followers
February 24, 2024
Gabby is a former military computer tech who had gone into hiding and changed her name because of a stalker from her army days. Unfortunately, the stalker finds her and sets out to terrorize her again.

Gabby is a pretty interesting and compelling character, but I did not feel as though this book did her justice. Obviously any situation where your own life is on the line can make people less effective, but I felt like, in prior books, she was much more competent, though it obviously served the plot for her to not be as successful in this book. (Plus, I'm sure the adage that it's easier to give advice than follow your own also applies.)

And as much as I love a badass heroine who can save herself, Gabby's need to run away from everyone got old really quickly. She literally works for an elite security service staffed with former seals, and she thinks she's better off on her own after already being hunted down?

More than that though I felt the way the book treated Tony, the male main character, was conflicted. That might not be the correct word, but it's the best I could come up with. He is described in prior books as essentially a player, but from the very beginning of this book he is almost obsessed with Gabby. He's fully attuned to her moods, body language, schedule, habits, and preferences. He's been drawn to her all along, etc.

Honestly, this particular novella was not the best effort in this series. The suspense storyline seemed very abruptly resolved, almost out of nowhere. Unlike other books in this series, this one felt as if they couldn't figure out how to finish it and just threw something together and called it good. Both the capture of the bad guy and the way the bad guy was able to evade everyone all along was implausible (even for someone with a very overworked suspension of disbelief!) and incomplete.

On the whole, I liked the book okay, but I had a lot more expectations for both characters that were unfortunately not fulfilled. There were some surprises I enjoyed, but I felt that the character inconsistencies and the wobbly ending detracted m from the success of the series.
507 reviews1 follower
May 4, 2023
Each of the short romances in this series can be read as a standalone. While characters from other books make appearances in the story and have an impact on the storyline, you don't need to have read the other stories to get full enjoyment out of this book.

Tony has been attracted to Gabby from the moment he met her. He's been trying to get to know her better, but she tends to keep people at arm's length. She's everything he could want in a partner - she's fiercely independent, puts others before herself, she's intelligent and hardworking. Everything he sees, he likes. He just can't seem to get himself out of the friendzone. Little does he know about the trauma hiding in Gabby's past.

Gabby's role as research support for the Guardian team is everything she could want professionally. She works with tough, dedicated and caring protectors, providing them with the information they need to complete their missions. She's become used to being on her own. While Tony is flirty and fun, she keeps him in the friendzone since she sees him as a flirty player and herself as not enough for someone like him. He may be handsome, protective and caring, but she's unwilling to take that risk for so many reasons. Leaving the military due to a hostile situation that couldn't be resolved, her new career path led her the Ellington Cove resort where she uses the skills honed in the military to help people. She can't forget her past, however.

When her past catches up to her, Gabby will have to decide: stand and fight or run and hide. Tony's unwilling to let her go into hiding; even if she doesn't want to be with him, he wants Gabby to have the freedom to live where she wants and to have a life that includes friends and hopefully him as more than a friend.

The pacing of the story is brisk, with a sinister tone that develops early on due to the villain of the piece. Both Gabby and Tony are strong characters. They've each lived through trauma and have come out the other side wounded but still walking. It's a great read watching their characters develop and learn to take chances a bit later in life.

Four stars for this suspenseful romance.

This is an honest, voluntary review of an ARC of the story.
Profile Image for Donna .
54 reviews3 followers
May 8, 2023
Enjoyable, quick read. There is excitement, turmoil, steam, action, and fun with these two.

Gabby is a researcher for the Guardian Agency. Before that, she had a career in the Army, which she had to abruptly exit due to a dangerous stalker. An agency she worked for previously buried her case so they could hide her until they could find and capture Hopkins. She has run on numerous occasions, as he has killed people close to her. Hiding has been her only option. Hiding and telling no one about her past.

Tony lost his wife and unborn child 25 years ago in an accident and stills grieves for them. His way to cope is to joke, tease, and flirt. He has a reputation for dating new resort guests each week. It doesn’t hurt he is a very fit, handsome man, with a great personality.

Tony is a former SEAL, who now works for the agency as a protector/investigator. They are a team. Gabby works at the office and feeds Tony the information he needs from moment to moment in the field, while he protects the individual staying at the hotel. When you do this for so many years as a close team you become good friends and can read each other like a book. At least that’s what you think. Secrets though…everyone has them.

There comes a time when things catch up with everyone and now Gabby’s past has caught up with her making her the next person the agency needs to protect. Gabby wants to run so she can protect all of the people in her office from Hopkins. But the government agency who has always protected her and buried her file, also placed her with this protection agency and wants them to protect her while they catch him and put an end to her nightmare.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the authors via BookFunnel. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guidelines Disclaimer Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Profile Image for Brandalyn Curry.
99 reviews3 followers
May 3, 2023
What happens when your past wants to destroy your world and control you? Ellington Cove is home to one of the best security and in house detective teams around. Gabby was thrilled when given the opportunity to start a whole new life in Key West and get to work closely with the team instead of the typical remote work she had done. Gabby is strong, smart, athletic, brilliant at her career but has always been told she’s not enough. She loves getting to be a part of the team and has actually found friends in Key West and is loving her new life, but when that ugly feeling of being watched returns will she and her new family be safe? Tony is the confirmed bachelor of the team and everyone loves making him apart of the rumor mill. Tony does enjoy flirting with women and taking them out and being casual however he has no interest in settling down……that is until Gabby shows up. Tony is a strong, alpha male that has a strong protective streak for the ones he cares about but will his secrets keep him single forever? Tony is so attuned to Gabby that he realizes her fear before she will voice it, and when that moment happens he immediately goes into protective mode. Gabby doesn’t want anyone she loves to be hurt because of her past that won’t stay in the past. However fate and their bosses allows Tony to become Gabby’s protective detail and throws them into a wild ride. Neither one can admit their feelings and isn’t sure if it’s a fluke from the dangerous encounters they keep having. But Tony refuses to believe that and shows Gabby all the different sides to him there is, but will that be enough. When Gabby’s past literally makes her vanish into thin air. Out of all of the books from this series this one truly had me gripping my iPad tightly just anticipating the words on the next page. This story is full of mystery, action, suspense, romance, passion, humor and love. Definitely a must read by the pool or at the beach looking for your own retired Navy Seal Hunk!
Profile Image for Miki.
957 reviews40 followers
May 2, 2023
This instalment focus on two members of the team Tony, ex SEAL, and Gabby the research expert assigned to their team.

For months they have worked together with the rest of the team and Tony did his best to see Gaby as one of the guys but she always was more to him. So when Gabby start acting strangely Tony take notice immediately and he is determined to be her protector , until he could be more.
Gabby is attracted to Tony since day 1 but after loosing people in her past and because of rumors about Tony love life she prefer to stay professionnal as she came to really love the Gardians and the setting....until her senses tell her danger is near, that her stalker is back and to protect her teammates and friend she is ready to flee and leave the team....what she was not execpting was Tony to take notice and start protection despites her protests.

I really loved to see Tony and Gabby together, they are great partners and know more about each others than they imagine even if some rumor are getting in the way. I loved how Gabby was mindful of her friends feelings and how she wanted to protect her teammates even if they are ex Seals ( and still in form)

The investigation is interesting as we learn more about both Tony and Gabby, all the protagonists are well thought and the suspense is high. Lot of action, tension and romance......simply a wonderful balance for a great romance suspense with fantastic HEA

to be recommanded and can be read as stand alone ( but it's a too great series to miss it)
Profile Image for Cathy Geha.
4,033 reviews105 followers
May 1, 2023
Gaby’s Protector by Regan Black & Janie Crouch
Never too Late for Love – Ellington Cove #3

Have you ever had that prickly feeling at the back of your neck that says someone is watching you…perhaps someone you don’t want to have watching you? Gabby has had it too often in the past and thought she was finally safe only to feel it again while at her new job in research working at Ellington Cove Resort. She has strong men on her team working in Security but can she release control and let Tony take the lead to keep her safe?

What I liked:
* Gabby: ex-military, tech savvy, intelligent, team player, good friend, stays fit, thinks love is not in the cards for her, is attracted to Tony
* Tony: retired Navy SEAL, widow, Special Security Officer, team player, flirt, has a reputation, has kept his heart safe for years, attracted to Gabby
* The plot, pace, and setting
* Knowing the problem and who the bad guy is soon in the story
* The communication and chemistry between Gabby and Tony
* That the couple are older
* Getting to see some of the characters from previous books
* That all lose ends are wrapped up by the end of the story with a HEA ending provided

What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant not to like
* Thinking about the fact that so many women feel “less” in some way – just as Gabby did

Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Yes

Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.

4-5 Stars
Profile Image for Kathy Wideman.
2,499 reviews39 followers
May 3, 2023
This is the third book in the second collection of this series. Gabby is the tech person for the team. Tony loves this job. He is fun and flirty. After the death of his wife and child he never wanted to let anyone close again. He threw himself into her work as a seal. The two are interested in each other but neither really makes a move. Tony has been feeling Gabby out but she always brushes him off. Someone from Gabby’s past is making a reappearance. Tony isn’t going to let her slink away and deal with this herself. He is going to glue himself to her side. Also, he isn’t going to waste this chance to show Gabby who he really is and that he wants a shot with her. Will Gabby believe him? Gabby has been hiding from this person for a long time. She doesn’t want any of her friends, especially Tony to be in danger. This man has hurt people before for being near her. I loved this book. It was a fantastic read. I loved that they are both part of the team. This is Tony’s second chance at love and Gabby’s first real chance. This book shows that it doesn’t matter who you are, or how capable you are. You can still attract a dangerous person to you. The team and hotel staff rally around the pair to help them protect Gabby. I love this series. Ladies you are doing a fantastic job. I can’t wait for the next book in the series. I can’t recommend this series enough.
2,299 reviews18 followers
May 7, 2023
I voluntarily reviewed "GABBY'S PROTECTOR" WOW!!!! This start off as one wild crazy emotional rollercoaster ride of suspense, secrets, stalker,angst
steam, danger, murder, feelings of not being worthy, twists that keeos you turning the pages.
Tony Marino works for Guardian Angel Security Agency at Ellington Cove in the Key West with partners Brent & Nick along with their brilliant tech & research assistant Gabby, he's has feelings for her but hes bottled up his emotions after tragedy struck that happened more than 20 yrs. ago.
Gabby Ladds being having these weird feelings of bring watched lately bring back memories of her stalker Ray Hopkins but he couldn't be on the at Key West could he, yes he could & is he's after her once more she wants to run to protect her friends but when Tony finds out he calls Gamble & Swann their boss who agrees with Tony, he'll be her Guardian Protector until he's caught.
I definitely recommend to get this well written story I've been waiting for "Gabby & Tony's" journey together what a wild ride they take you on its a must you don't want miss.
I'm so looking forward to the next book in this series "DEBRA'S PROTECTOR" I enjoy each story with great characters that pull you right in.
AWESOME RIVITING ROMANCE 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤
Profile Image for Tammy Morse.
351 reviews47 followers
May 1, 2023
Gabby's Protector
Janie Crouch and Regan Black

Gabby is a smart lady and know when she is in trouble. All though she is good at helping the Protectors she was having a hard time with this case because it was her case.
Tony one of the Protectors was assigned to protect and save Gabby from any danger. This was a problem going on with Gabby and Hopkins since she was in the army. But Tony was going to protect her from all danger. In the process Tony was falling in love with Gabby. Gabby told Tony she could protect herself but he had orders to stay with her and keep her safe. He had done just that protected her from her past. They started to make a future for themselves together. What would have happened if Tony didn't have the resources to find and protect her. So finally she didn't fighting to keep Tony out of the picture and except Swann and Gamble made it clear she was under the protection of Tony.
This was a wonderful story and I could picture myself in the book.
Regan and Janie did a fabulous job with this story. It was an emotional story and fantastic way of writing. The characters worked well together.
Profile Image for Lynne.
408 reviews10 followers
May 5, 2023
Gabrielle Ladd is a former Army soldier, who is now employed by Guardian Agency as a research and support specialist for the three Guardian Agency protector/investigators at Ellington Cove Resort. During her Army career, she’d been hunted and tormented by one man, but we learn that Gabby is a strong and athletic character, well balanced and loving her new life.
One of her co-workers is Tony someone she has been aware of but never gotten close to. After realising her stalker is back Gabby gets ready to flee the area, go off grid to protect everyone around her. Tony knows something is wrong and instantly goes into protective mode, much to her annoyance. He states he’s going to be her permanent bodyguard whether she likes it or not! Lots of battles between them and as the angst and fear of the situation takes over they realise they can work together, the sparks fly and the stalker goes into overdrive. A great read, fast paced, plenty of action trying to work out how to catch the stalker.
This is the 3rd book in this series of It’s Never too Late for Love…that’s co written with Regan Black and Janie Crouch and is a quick read. As always with this series the ending comes quickly but its an enjoyable romp. I received an Advanced Readers Copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Renee Entress.
5,344 reviews77 followers
May 3, 2023
4 star

The below are part of this series if you want to read those books(s) first
Vanessa's Guardian : A Later in Life Protector Romance (Never Too Late For Love #1) by Josie Jade, Regan Black, Janie Crouch
Jasmine's Guardian (Never Too Late For Love #2) by Josie Jade, Regan Black, Janie Crouch
Robyn's Guardian (Never Too Late For Love #3) by Josie Jade, Regan Black
Amy's Guardian (Never Too Late For Love #4) by Josie Jade, Regan Black
Sarah's Protector (Never Too Late For Love #5) by Regan Black, Josie Jade

This is Gabby and Tony’s story. Tony loves his job and working with Gabby. Gabby was looking for a change after a stalker was making her life difficult. She thought that she escaped the stalker. But when that stalker shows up again, she knows in order to protect the good men she works with she knows she needs to run. But Tony is determined to help her and protect her. He knows he needs to allow his heart to heal so he can prove to her he is the man for her and can take care of her. Can he get her to stay, or will he lose her?

I recommend this story.
Profile Image for Heather.
387 reviews2 followers
May 4, 2023
If you’ve been reading this series then you already know Gabby. She’s the one behind the computer finding out all the good stuff to help out her three colleagues. She’s loving her time at Ellington Cove, and one colleague sets her heart aflutter though she doesn’t plan to take things further.
Tony Marino security expert and the last single man on the team. He’s a big flirt, and always has been. Seen by the team as a bit of a Casanova he’s hiding past tragedy that’s kept him single for years. Then there’s Gabby, if he can just get her to see him as other than a fellow worker he’d be a happy man.
These two could have a HEA it’s going to take work, and lots of help considering Gabby’s nemesis has again crawled out of the woodwork. Does she run or this time make a stand.

Each story in this series is well worth a read. I love how the authors have set them in a community that you can relate to the characters from each book.

I received a review reader’s copy of the book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
2,696 reviews15 followers
May 4, 2023
I Need a Reservation at Ellington Cove!!

This series continues to entertain and delight! We have two members of the security team; Tony Marino. Who lost a young expecting wife, then dedicated 20 years to the SEAL teams. And Gabby, who is the data and research whiz. Gabby has spent the last few years in complete isolation to lose a stalker. She hoped that joining the team in Key West would still keep her under the radar.

Tony had been ready for some time to move their friendship into a new lane, but when Gabby’s stalker comes on the scene, he doesn’t want her to run again, but wants this resolved for good. The hard part is her stalker seems even better at computers than Gabby. He has killed before with zero evidence. In fact, evidence which refuted actuality. Intriguing and suspenseful times as the entire team works to catch a murderer and stalker, and Tony woos Gabby into what may be a future together.

***** I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book *****
2,116 reviews36 followers
June 6, 2023
Another remarkable addition to this series with slightly older characters and their second chance at love. Gabrielle “Gabby” Ladd is part of the Guardian Agency protectors assigned at the Ellington Cover Resort. She is their research expert, but is also able to handle almost any concern, until once again, her stalker has found her. She is attracted to Tony Marino, a member of their team, but has never felt womanly enough to attract a man like him. Tony is adjusting to life after leaving the SEALs and his security job at the resort gives him time to unwind from military life. He has kept his attraction to Gabby in check, until he notices that she is deeply concerned about something. Gabby knows that it is time to move on again, but can Tony convince her that she needs to quit running and let him and the team bring her stalker down? He convinces her that he is her protector, but she knows that her stalker has killed before and she can’t bear to lose Tony. Romance, suspense and a cast of genuine and “family feeling” continuing characters. A must-read series!
616 reviews3 followers
May 3, 2023
Key West at the Ellington Cove is a great place to fall in love…
Tony Marino hides a painful past by cracking jokes and he’s become quite the flirt. But for the first time in years he sees a future. Now if he could only get the one woman that’s captured his heart to notice him as more than a co-worker.
Gabby has a secret that she’s not ready to share. So she keeps Tony at a distance. It breaks her heart because they could have something special. But pushing him away is the only way to keep him safe. When Gabbie’s past comes calling Tony is prepared to take down any threat and keep Gabby safe. Failure isn’t an option. Becoming Gabby’s Protector is the most important job he’s ever taken and he might just win her heart along the way. If he could only convince her to follow the plan.
I adore this series! I guess there is hope for us singles over 50. Maybe I could book a room! “I voluntarily received this arc book for an honest review”
160 reviews
May 7, 2023
This collaboration of stories from both these amazing authors are getting better and better. This is by far my favorite one. It is absolutely hard to put down. The characters and story are so well written and developed.
Tony had a heartbreaking tragedy and Gabby had a stalker who is killing anyone who comes in contact with her. Both of them came to Ellington Cove to work at Guardian Agency to get away from their past. Unfortunately, Gabby's past caught up to her and Tony will do anything to protect her. Gabby doesn't want anyone to get her. Tony and Gabby finally developed a relationship and that is something Tony doesn't want to give up.
Will Gabby be rid of the stalker?
Will Tony and Gabby finally get a happy ending?
If you want to find out what happens, please get the book. You will not be
disappointed.
I was given a free copy of this book and chose to voluntarily leave a review.
Profile Image for Kristen Lewendon.
7,965 reviews49 followers
May 2, 2023
Gabby has a secret. One she’s been running from for a long time. When that secret hunts her down just as she’s starting to finally feel safe again, Tony won’t stop until she’s freed from the fear. We’ve watched the sparks sizzling between these two during the previous books, now we get to see what happens when Gabby and Tony can no longer deny the way they feel about one another. I loved Gabby’s brilliant technical mind, but she seemed a little prone to ‘too stupid to live’ actions that left me wanting to howl in frustration. I adored getting the chance to discover the tender heart hidden by Tony’s playboy persona. I thought these two were adorable together, the way they pushed one another to be even better, and I found the ending to be too adorable for words. I can’t wait to see what the authors bring us next.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the authors.
Profile Image for Tracy Quoka.
306 reviews1 follower
May 7, 2023
This is the 3rd book in the second collection of the Never Too Late for Love Romantic Suspense series. All books can be read as a standalone, which for me is a huge deal. I never like picking up in the middle of series and be in the dark. This series is set at a resort in Key West called the Ellington Resort. All the amenities are offered, and they draw high profile clientele, so they have top notch security.
Tony and Gabby just happen to be two of the security team. Each has secretly been interested in the other for a long time. Gabby, especially, thinks she has no chance drawing Tony's attention, because she doesn't have any traits of his normal dates. What she doesn't realize is he's been secretly interested in her since, well probably they started working together.
Gabby has some secrets, and she doesn't want to bring Tony into the danger that surrounds her past. However, he has no intention of letting her slink away to save him and everyone else around her. In the mean time, she finds out just how she really is Tony's type.
While this book wasn't as much of a slow burn as the last one, the sparks certainly flew between these two. That's always fun. This was another quick read, probably would be a great beach read.
I received this book as an ARC for an honest and voluntary review
3,168 reviews29 followers
May 2, 2023
We are back in Key West and this time, another of the Ellington Cove’s special security men finds love.
Tony Marino is seen as a player, always with a smile and a flirt. What only his co-workers and friends know is that he is attracted to their cyber specialist, Gabby Ladd.
Gabby moved to Key West not only for the job, but to stay hidden from the man that has basically destroyed her life. He killed a friend and has continued to be a danger to anyone close to her.
When the man appears to have found her, Tony will do everything in his power to keep her safe. As the attraction intensifies and both their emotional walls begin to be broken, the danger escalate.
Will they be able to finally catch him and get their HEA, or will this time, evil win?
Another great addition to the series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
Profile Image for Reading Addict.
972 reviews18 followers
May 3, 2023
I have been looking forward to reading Tony's story in the Never Too Late for Love series set in Key West. Tony Marino is the seasoned player of the group or so it seems. As his other two partners have now settled into relationships I think that Tony has begun to reflect on his past and sadly he has had a very tragic event in his life that has shaped him into the man he is today. He has been interested in Gabby Ladd since she came to work at the Cove. Gabby has definitely had an eye on Tony but she has her own reasons for keeping her distance but when her past comes back to haunt her then Tony assigns himself as her protector. This was a fast story with minimal angst and a bit of suspense. There is always a guaranteed HEA with this series and some days that is exactly what this reader needs! Gabby's Protector was told from dual POV and had just a touch of heat to spice things up. Enjoy!
2,146 reviews17 followers
May 4, 2023
Tony has been wanting Gabby since the moment she stepped into their office but has kept away until she’s in danger and he is done hiding his feelings for her. Gabby is attracted to Tony but he’s a serial flirt and has quite the reputation, she doesn’t want to be the next notch on his belt, she wants more than just one night. There may not be a chance for them as her past comes back to torment her and this time they are playing for keeps.
Another great addition to this series with some steam, suspense, surprises, and great characters. I liked these two, no drama or others coming between them, and both wanting the same things. Tony, the protector who opens up with his story and Gabby, her vulnerabilities that she only shows him.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion”
88 reviews3 followers
May 7, 2023
I just love this series a d I definitely lived this book. I've been waiting to see Toby and Gabby finally get together and their story was not only romantic but so suspenseful I felt as though I was on the edge of my seat pretty my h from page 1. Gabby has a stalker that she has been running from for years. Tony is a former SEAL and her coworker. They have both secretly had a thing for each other since they met and now they finally get the chance to explore their feelings and catch the bad guy. Though this story is short, overall it doesn't feel that way. You really get to understand the characters and everything builds to the climax beautifully. I do wish the final chapter was a little longer as it was the only moment in the book that felt rushed to me. Overall a wonderful romantic suspense I highly recommend.
Profile Image for Teresa  Hild.
98 reviews4 followers
May 7, 2023
I love this series and have been waiting for Tony and Gabby's story. It did not disappoint!

In Gabby's eyes, Tony (her co-worker in Guardian Security) was a major flirt and she just wasn't his type. So she kept her growing feelings for him a secret because he was a friend and she didn't want to take the chance of destroying that friendship.

Tony, after a traumatic incident in his past had shut himself off from falling in love until he met the research assistant for the Guardian Security team. Something in him started stirred and he started falling for her.

When a stalker from Gabby's past finds her, Tony will do anything to protect her.

This story was full of twists and turns and plenty of romance. I was on the edge of my seat the entire book. I would highly recommend it to others!
Profile Image for Momma Says: To Read or Not to Read.
3,436 reviews109 followers
May 8, 2023
Whether you're looking for a beach read or an exciting romantic suspense to get lost in for an afternoon or evening, this latest addition to the Never Too Late for Love Romantic Suspense Collection is a good choice. It's fast-paced with a good combination of action, danger, and some steamy goodness. Tony and Gabby are likable characters, and they each come with some baggage. Of course, I'd have been more surprised at a lack of baggage given their ages, and the things that happened in their pasts are believable. I love these quick reads that are both entertaining and engaging. These little reminders that passion and new love aren't only for the young give me a combination of heart-racing danger and a romance that leaves me with a smile. Janie Crouch and Regan Black have done it again, and I can't wait to see what's next in this series of standalones.
28 reviews
May 8, 2023
I have been waiting for Gabby and Tony’s story ever since I first read about the team, and this book did not disappoint! I loved every moment and burned through it in record time! Gabby and Tony work together on the special security team at Ellington Cove, and they’ve both been dancing around a secret attraction to each other ever since they met. Due to mutual misconceptions of each other, they never took the next step from friends and colleagues to something more – that is, until a mysterious threat from Gabby’s past reappears and throws their lives into chaos. The team does what they do best – protect their own while neutralizing the threat, all while Gabby and Tony finally find their way to each other. The suspense, action, and steam in this story was top notch! I loved this story every step of the way, and it was a perfect addition to the Ellington Cove series!
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