*Cue Whitney Houston singing "I Will Always Love You" as this MMA-fighter-slash-bodyguards meets Hollywood royalty in this 3rd installment of The Bodyguard Series.

Though this is the 3rd in the Bodyguard series, each can be read as stand alones, and there is enough back information that you won't get lost if you jump in now.

Alexa and Zack's story is a fast paced and adrenaline packed one. The Hollywood mob, MMA fighters, twists and intrigues. So much happening all the time.

I loved the pull between our lovelies, you can't help but want them to get together, stuff the consequences.

One thing though - the "you're so sweet" comment from Zack to Alexa every 5 minutes was a bit much. We got it. Despite everything she is going through and her upbringing, she was sweet - but this might just irk me.

Zack is a great hero. Yes he is protective, but I liked that he wasn't too OTT with is. Sometimes those alpha tendancies can be a too much, but I didn't feel that with him.

Alexa I found it a little harder to connect with. Can't quite put my finger on what it was, so is it probably just a me thing.

I have really been enjoying this series, and now I need more (Ian's story need to be told, right away!)

Great Romantic Suspense! Alexa is the daughter of Hollywood royalty. She’s beautiful and intelligent, and it appears, on the surface that her life is perfect. Underneath that façade, lie dark secrets and a life of pain not joy. When she accidentally stumbles upon a dangerous plot, her life is in danger. She turns to her friend, Zack who is an MMA fighter in training, to protect her. He agrees to be her boyfriend to protect her. They have always been attracted to each other, and now those feelings are getting harder to ignore. As their feelings grow, so do the dangers to both of their lives.

I always enjoy a romantic suspense with just the right amount of spice, romance, and thrills. Chain Reaction definitely had that! The sex was definitely HOT, but the romance between them was sweet too. Zack definitely took his job seriously protecting Alexa and making sure she never doubted his feelings for her. There were definitely a lot of twist, turns, and action.

The characters also helped make the book as good as it was too. It was told in a dual POV which I love! I like knowing what the characters are thinking and feeling. It also makes me feel more connected to the characters when I know what they are thinking. Zack was everything I love in a lead male character. Of course, he was sexy. However, his love and loyalty to those he loves is what truly made me love him. I felt so sorry for Alexa. Her family is the worst. Readers will learn that from the very first chapter. I admire the woman Alexa grew up to be despite her family. Zack and Alexa complete each other!

I have not read anything by Tara Wyatt, but I’m looking forward to reading her other books in the series. She definitely knows how to catch readers’ attention and keep them on the edge of their seats until the final page!!!!

***Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***

To look at Alexa Fairfax you would think she had it all, fame, fortune and beauty but the reality is she is being held hostage by her life. Bodyguard and rising MMA star Zack De Luca has his eye on the prize even though the real prize he longs for is out of his league, Alexa. As ugly secrets and dark conspiracies threaten the well being of Alexa when she seeks shelter in Zack's arms she finds that they offer more than a safe haven but a place to invest her heart.

Chain reaction was full of suspense and story pieces coming together rapidly. Alexa and Zack's self restraint while dealing with an omnipresent sexual tension kept the pages of this work steamy. Even as Ms. Wyatt's leads were surrounded by corruption and sordid circumstances their attraction maintained a true and pure quality to it that did not get derailed but rather intensified when challenged. This author does a great job at creating custom pairings that fit perfectly. Accomplished storytelling and savvy writing make Chain Reaction a book that will have you wishing for a bodyguard all your own a la Tara Wyatt!

Alexa has always been a pawn for her famous Hollywood royalty family. This time she’s fighting back, this time it’s going to go too far to ignore, this time people will be killed.

Zane has had a soft spot for Alexa for a while now but he’s a bodyguard, an up and coming MMA fighter and he truly believes that he’s not good enough for the beautiful woman in the constant spotlight of her talents and her family. Yet when Alexa turns to him for help and protection from a deadly plot, Zane cannot turn away. Keeping the woman he’s come to love takes top priority over everything else, and keeping her in his life is a foregone conclusion.

Chain Reaction will glue you to the pages in this fast paced romance where family is not always the loving unit we’ve come to expect… sometimes they are wickedly deadly. Two people who are attracted to each other will move from friends, a pretend couple into a true love that will defy the odds and take down a man who so richly deserves to fall from his throne. With secrets revealed, we’ll come to realize that not everything in Hollywood glitters, some actions are downright nasty in the struggle for power where the weak and innocent are the first victims.

I liked this couple, within the situation they were realistic, certainly had the sizzle and chemistry and became believable in spite of the crazy power hungry man they battled. It was enjoyable to watch Alexa grow into a strong woman, one who finally had enough and would not tolerate anymore. With threads flowing through the story from the overarching story lines of the series, we are reminded of what has gone and what may yet come in this series. Do you have to have read the entire series to enjoy this one… no, not really. There is enough mention and short introductions when necessary. Yet I feel you’ll enjoy this one, and the stories to come, more if you been there for the entire journey. In my opinion.

If you enjoy Romantic Suspense then you’d like Chain Reaction or any of the stories in the Bodyguard series. I’d recommend this one for any reader who enjoys a bit of suspense mixed in with their romance, a good solid story and likable characters.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

Chain Reaction is an intense, vigorous, and ardent romantic suspense story with a mix of Hollywood drama, MMA fighting, mobsters ready to do anything to keep their secrets, and swoon-worthy romance that made me sigh.
I loved how the intensity was built in the story from several different sources, keeping it constantly on the rise. The plot is well constructed, giving the romance a chance to grow and develop in the midst of the tension and terror from the mob.
The danger and fear in the story come so close to home to the characters, it gave me the chills. The one place where you are supposed to be safe was violated, and Alexa Fairfax has lived in a constant state of alert most of her life.
Alexa was a complex character, whose life behind the closed doors and away from the limelights wasn't what you would expect. She has a heart of gold, she is kind, generous, always putting others first. She loves to help and give her time and energy to a good cause. She has a certain unexpected innocence in her, yet she is undoubtedly smart and capable, brave enough to overcome things most can't imagine facing. I loved watching her grow and flourish through the story, like dried out flower garden finally getting some rain.
Zack De Luca was a true alpha character, in charge, protective, ready to face the worst enemy if that kept his woman safe.
I adored Zack and Alexa together. The chemistry they have is amazing, their connection is palpable, and they share something rare and beautiful in between them. There's passion that is so hot it could set you on fire, yet it is mixed with a tenderness that took my breath away.
I enjoyed the story immensely, it is a great mix a vehement action and furious suspense that put you to the edge. With charming and lovable characters and delectable, adorable romance that set the heat factor high, it is surely an entertaining tale
~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side

Alexa Fairfax has given up trying to impress her mother. But her mother is a pussycat compared to her father. Zach De Luca has the same circle of friends as Alexa. He also has the expertise that she is in need of. Can a man who is all about protecting people find happiness with someone that is considered part of tinseltown royalty?

This author created the right combination that had me glued to my ereader. I just had to remember to blink. I’m all about the romance but this author gives me plenty of passion, suspense, and action. Can you imagine thinking you know your family only to learn it’s all a lie? Ms. Wyatt has created a group of men that you would want to have around should you get into trouble. At times Alexa seems vulnerable and timid but by creating Zach and his friends, she is willing to fight for her survival. And also willing to take a chance on a relationship.

This was the first book in the Bodyguard series that I have read. At no time did I feel that I needed to read the first two books in order to understand anything that was going on here. But with how the author had me transfixed with Alexa and Zach’s story, I feel the need to know more about their friends. One thing that caught my attention was how both Alexa and Zach seemed to have a light bulb moment but found it interesting the moment that light bulb went on. The ending left me happy and with a smile on my face. It certainly gives hope to those that feel opposites attract.

First love how Zack was the one Alexa first felt safe and comfortable telling what happened to. It shows that they had a connection and that she trusted him. I also love how Zack felt a need to protect her and keep her safe from the moment she walked in the door. He could tell her emotions and wanted to ease her sadness and fear. He didn’t push her or try to tell her what to do only sooth her.
These two are so adorable together. The chemistry wowza. They fought their attraction due to so many reasons. For Alexa she didn’t think Zack would like someone like her and also he dated her best friend and didn’t want to cross a line. But she couldn’t deny her feelings and how he made her feel safe and loved. How he treated her with respect, honesty and as an equal. How he showed her love and gave her comfort and a safe place. Zack because he was her bodyguard but also because he felt Alexa deserved better. As they got to know one another attraction and desire overrode the fears they had. As they got closer we get to see how protective, loyal and loving Zack is. How fierce he protects those he loves. With Alexa we see her shine and gain strength. She begins to get comfortable with who she is and stand up for herself and those her father wronged. She became a force to reckon with.
Watching them unravel their love and all her father did was fun and heartbreaking. The depths of how bad her dad was is a hard pill to swallow especially with some of the things he did to Alexa so so sad a parent is that way. The fight of Zack’s I felt fear for him. Tara Wyatt wrote it like you were there and feeling the energy from the room. And afterwards when Zack sacrificed for Alexa I felt the love those two had for each other. I was glad that we see such a tender, suspenseful and action packed story for Zack and Alexa.
Their story is written so you feel the energy and emotions of the moments. You feel the love and protectiveness of Zack. You feel the fear from Alexa and see her gain strength and courage. The love between these two is sweet and heartwarming. This is the wonderfully written, action packed, sexy at times story of how Zack and Alexa fall in love and all they went through to be together. How they fought for one another and how Alexa gained strength and love. How their love got them through some dark and dangerous time and how it brought them to some amazing times as well in the end.

Alexa Fairfax is the daughter of Hollywood royalty Jonathan Fairfax whom runs his own production company among many other things. When Alexa discovers a deadly secret about her father she enlists the protection of her friends and their security business. Her good friend Zach De Luca is assigned to be her body guard.

Zach has a kind heart and is very protective. Zach has been training to be an MMA fighter. He has been attracted to Alexa for a long time but has not tried to pursue anything as he fears it will distract him from his dream. Zach and Alexa need to pretend to be boyfriend and girlfriend in order to keep Alexa out of danger and make it seem as though everything is normal to her father.

They realize that it is a lot easier than they think as they have true feelings for each other. Can Zach keep his feelings in check and protect Alexa from her father and the danger they could be in if her father finds out that they know his secret?

A another fabulous read by Tara Wyatt. Chain Reaction is a hot, suspenseful read; as good if not better than any book in the series and I loved reading both of the others. The story can stand alone, yet as you read more you see a different side or a more complete picture of some of the characters.

Zack DeLuca is stuck between a rock and a hard place, he wants to protect Alexa from the danger that is looming in her life, but being that close to her day in and out is a temptation he is certain he won't be able to fight for long. He has harbored a bone deep crush for a while now, but his history with relationships has always kept him from making a move, full well knowing it wouldn't end well for either of them. But with her life in danger, and her safety at risk, there is no way he can walk away now...

Alexa Fairchild has been surrounded by the glitz and glamour of Hollywood all her life, and while some would think that it was a wonderful life to live, she couldn't disagree more. She has never really wanted to be a leading lady on the big screen, but from an early age it was made known that she didn't have a choice in the matter, she was expected to follow in her parents footsteps come hell or high water. She has always known that her father is a man who gets what he wants, no matter the cost, but after overhearing some details of one of his shady business deals she finds herself in a little danger of her own. Now with a price tag hanging over her head, and danger lurking around every corner, she is forced to put her personal safety in her friend Zack's hands... and oh my what fine hands they are!

The moment I started this one it grabbed a hold of my attention and had me dying to know more, with every page I swiped the more I craved to see how it would all end... and oh my what a satisfying ending it was! The instant Zack and Alexa lives started to intertwine, the sparks started to fly, and it became pretty evident these two were meant for one another, no matter how hard Zack tried to fight it! Their story was packed with edge of your seat intensity, finger searing love scenes that nearly melted my tablet screen, and brimming with heartfelt romance... which made for on hell of a literary escape! Definitely one the best reads that I have settled down so far this year, it was the perfect blend of suspense and romance and I loved every minute of it!! Highly recommend this one, Zack will totally steal your heart, and leave you wishing for a bodyguard of your very own!!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this title.

Oh the twists and turns when Alexis finds out her father is behind the murder of some powerful people in Hollywood and she is may be an unwilling pawn in his plans. She turns to her friend, Zach who is training for the MMA. He is a natural protector and he will protect her with his life if needed but feelings come into play when they pretend to be involved and things just get a little too real. This is a sexy romance that intertwines friendship and trust and lots of heat.

**Received and ARC copy for review from the publisher via NetGalley**

Great story. I loved the suspense. I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what would happen next. I loved the characters as well. They were both intense and strong and intelligent. I loved seeing the progression of their relationship and seeing the chemistry ignite between them. This was my first book by Tara and I will definitely be reading more.

Chain Reaction by Tara Wyatt is the first book that I have read from this author and it surely won’t be my last after I got a taste of Wyatt’s suspenseful storytelling. Although Chain Reaction is part of the Bodyguard Series, it most definitely can be read as a standalone as the author did a great job introducing previous characters.

Alexa Fairfax is considered Hollywood royalty since she comes from a family of actors. The Fairfax name should be something that Alexa should be proud of but it was a burden that she carries. Alexa’s parents aren’t your typical parents as she never felt their love but only as their pawn in their Hollywood games. So when she overhears something about her father, Alexa is shocked and scared of what she has learned of the criminal activities that he has done. In need of protection, her friend, Zack De Luca volunteers.

Zack De Luca has always carried a torch for Alexa. He wants her but he never felt the need to cross the line that is until he finds himself protecting Alexa from danger. As Alexa and Zack spend more time together, she informs Zack that she has always loved him too. So what happens when danger threatens to tear them apart? Will Zack be able to protect Alexa in time? Or will Alexa find herself facing the consequences of turning her back on her dad?

Chain Reaction is a sexy, fast romance love story that was layered with action, friendship, trust, and passion. Wyatt did an amazing job integrating a bit of drama as she slowly showcased a passionate love story in the backdrops. So if you are looking for a sexy romantic tale with a protective bodyguard then this book might be for you.

I admit that I haven't read the previous books but you can read this as a stand-alone.

I really liked this book and it was one I couldn't put down..

I highly recommend

Alexa grew up Hollywood elite. Her parents are both actors and her dad owns/runs a movie production company with lots of power. She was raised to be the perfect child, doing exactly what her parents told her to until recently. She has moved out of her parent’s home and is happy to be out of the limelight. Alexa is working on figuring out who she wants to be on her own when she over hears a conversation between her father and his right hand man she was never meant to hear, and everything changes.

Zack de Luca is a bodyguard with Virtus Security and an up and coming MMA fighter. Zack sees Alexa arrive at a mutual friend’s party and notices she is pale and shaky. They slip out to the gardens and she tells him what she heard. Naturally, Zach, who has had a thing for her for a year, jumps into protective mode. He goes undercover as her bodyguard, pretending to be her boyfriend.

Her parents are truly despicable human beings. Despite growing up as she did, Alexa managed to turn herself into a kind, caring human being. Zach’s family is a tight knit, caring group and envelops her quickly and easily into their fold.

While this is a romantic suspense, it is more romance than suspense. Zack and Alexa have great chemistry and heat. I liked watching these two figure out how to be together and get what they each wanted/needed from the other. However, him calling her “so damn sweet” over and over got old quick.

Loved the reference to “the Costner effect”!

This is the third book in the series but my first. While I am curious about the two previous books, the author did a pretty good job of filling in the blanks enough that you can read this as a standalone. I look forward to the next one.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley.

Alexa Fairfax was born into Hollywood royalty. But instead of continuing the tradition, she's happier outside of the limelight. Unfortunately, she's never quite been able to break the bonds that tie her to her famous family. Until one evening Alexa becomes a witness to a plot that could leave more than one person dead. Of course Alexa needs help and protection and who better to provide that than Virtus Security.

Zach De Luca has been training hard to become an MMA fighter. He doesn't plan to be a bodyguard for Vitrus forever, and with an important fight coming up, he can't let anything break his concentration. That is, until Alexa comes to him for help. Zach has been attracted to Alexa from the moment he saw her nearly a year ago. Despite dating (and then dumping) one of her best friends first, he always believed she'd never go for a guy like him.

But when part of her protection means Zach has to pose as her boyfriend, they're both put in a situation where they can no longer deny their feelings for one another. And as the danger to Alexa intensifies, Zach begins to understand how far he'll go to protect her.

I liked the spin on the "fake boyfriend" trope. I was kinda happy when that little detail got thrown in the picture, despite how trivial it ends up being because the attraction / chemistry / heat between Zach and Alexa is hot from pretty much page one.

Chain Reaction ties up some open storythreads that have come over from information learned in the first two books. I'm hesitant to go into too much detail for those who haven't yet read the first two books, but I liked how it rounds out the overarching storyline.

That being said, there are so many potential Vitrus men that I'd love to learn more about, and see them get their own romances, that I'm very interested to see where Tara Wyatt will, hopefully, take the series next.

As it stands though, I found Chain Reaction to be on par with the previous two installments. Although I will go so far as to say the building up to Zach and Alexa's romance was hot and when we got down to it, very sexy indeed.

The story leaned heavier on said romance, but I would have liked the suspense part of the story, where Alexa's life is potentially in danger, to be a bit more suspenseful though.

Other than that, I enjoyed Chain Reaction. Tara Wyatt has become an author I can rely on to give me a good romance with a dash of suspense.

She needs a hero and her heart can’t hold out any longer, either. Alexa is beautiful in mind and body and now this young princess of Hollywood has discovered a horrible secret that could cost her her life. When she confides in her secret heartthrob and good friend, Zack De Luca, he becomes the undercover bodyguard she needs and the pretend boyfriend she wishes were real. Zack is more than a handsome man in a well-muscled body, he is a fighter, a man on a mission to protect the woman he has secretly loved for some time now, and this is his chance. How do you protect a person from their own family?

Fate works in strange ways, even deadly ways, but for Alexa and Zack, no matter what, they have each found a safe place to land and a place their hearts can call home.

Take a look at the darker side of stardom and celebrity. See how far a crazed monster will go to achieve fame, fortune and control, who he will use, who he will abuse, then watch that monster be brought to his knees when someone loves his daughter enough to protect her, no matter the cost.

Tara Wyatt’s CHAIN REACTION is a suspense-filled romance that is equal parts love story and a dark and brutal game of cat and mouse. The devotion these two hold for each other as friends and their insecurities as a romantic couple are endearing, but their chemistry behind closed doors? Once unleashed is raw, passionate and feels so right. Tara Wyatt has brought the perfect couple together!

I received an ARC edition from Forever in exchange for my honest review.

Series: Bodyguard - Book 3
Publisher: Forever (February 28, 2017)
Publication Date: February 28, 2017
Genre: Contemporary Romantic Suspense
Page Count: 336
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com

Alexa hears something that she's not meant to, and now her life's in danger. To protect her and keep her safe, Zack volunteers to be her bodyguard. And to not draw attention towards them, he pretends to be her boyfriend. The chemistry is there between them, though they are both fighting it, but bring in a relation, even pretend, makes resolves weak.
This is my first book by Tara Wyatt, and it just blew me away. Though there is no real suspense since we know who's after Alexa right from the start, it still kept me hooked wanting to know what's going to happen next. Alexa is a strong heroine as she decides to help the police going against her own, and Zack was a perfect hero, strong, sexy and protective.
Chain reaction is a fast paced, sensual and intense read and I would definitely like to read more in the series.