This is the third book in the Wounded Warrior Series but it’s my first foray into this world of Warriors that Ms. Mar has so wonderfully weaved.

This story follows Matthias Hawking and Jade Romo – two freaking amazeballs characters that I fell for the moment they met each other (and of course, when I met them!). Both are fantastically similar to each other – and I adored that because until I read this beauty, I did not realize how worn-out I was getting of the “opposites attract” trope.


Jade Romo is the founder of Mission Protect; they use the current social media fascination to reach as many as possible to help the endangered natural resources. She has now come to Serengeti, Africa for a possible story.

Matthias Hawking is a soldier who is now the Game Warden of a protected natural reserve in Serengeti, Africa. He is the epitome of the strong alpha male; expecting his orders to be obeyed without a peep!

Jade is a sarcastic plucky photojournalist who doesn’t really do well with orders – Matthias doesn’t do well witgh his order not only being disobeyed but being challenged as well!


From the first meet; it was more like BOOM! Fireworks all around – I kept expecting my iPad to heat up – the chemistry between them so absolutely visceral. But this was an attraction; feelings that these both fought for longer than I expected!

MC’s here ended up more larger than life to the reader in me; not only were they cool under circumstances that would have had most fictional characters panicking; they also ended on top of each situation like they were freaking Avengers. This made for a remarkable book but not so much for having characters who would be relatable to the lay men or puny readers like moi!

Still wasn’t difficult enjoying this fast paced romance that was packed with intrigue, action and a whole lot of punch that was honestly exciting enough that I couldn’t keep the book down!


I think I am going to have to go and get my hands on the first two books in the series; I have a feeling I will definitely enjoy them!

P.S. Some amazing interactions between nature and humans happen here – that will not only steal your heart but also give you an indication of how whimsical nature actually is!

I really enjoy this author. I have only read a few of her books, but each book I have read has unique and unforgettable characters and storylines. The author is also excellent at creating imagery through beautiful word choice, which isn't necessarily the norm in this genre.

This was definitely a page turner for me. I loved the setting, Africa, it was something unique. And because of the authors gifted wordsmanship , I felt like I could see, hear, and feel the animals and countryside as the adventure unfolded.

The characters were well-rounded and interesting and our heroine was complex. I actually found her fascinating and I would say she is a standout character in the hundreds of books I have read in this genre.

I am impressed with what I have read from this author and I look forward to reading more of her books.

Good book. The storyline is difficult to read about for animal lovers but the characters, both human and animal, are great.

While she's a journalist and has goals of sharing a story, she is also a former Marine, and a stubborn woman. He is a former SEAL and was wounded, now he spends his time as the game warden protecting the animals and the humans under his charge.

When the meet it's like oil and water. Until it isn't.

I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Combine poachers, endangered species, the plains and landscape of Africa with an ex-seal Guardian and A reporter and the reader is treated to a book that you can't put down. Enjoyed this story line and characters for an interesting tale. This is the second book I've read by this author and I will be looking for more in this series.

Ebook from Net Galley and publishers with thanks. Opinions are entirely my own.

The Guardian is the kind of romantic suspense I like - action packed, intense, sexy, and above all, grounded with real characters who have layers. Jade Romo is a badass heroine. She's smart, strong, a former Marine, a survivor who has formed Mission Protect and has her own show on NatGeo. She knows her stuff, that's for sure. When she meets Game Warden Matthias Hawking, sparks fly, tempers flare, and you just know immediately that you're in for a hell of a ride with these two. From the start, Mattias does not want Jade on his reserve. He too, is a badass. He's a former SEAL with scars of his own. The gorgeous, obviously competent, but fiery Jade sets off his nerves from the start and he makes it known.

But when the chips are down, he and Jade protect each other. When she garners the attention of a local warlord, and sets off a round of violent action, the two of them will have to rely on each other if they want to get out of this together, and alive.

It's not just the sexy chemistry between these two that make this such a special story, though. It's all set on a beautiful background of a reserve in Africa. There are some really special elephants that have their own story, and other special animals that make up the reserve that Matthias works so hard to protect from poachers. And there are wonderful secondary characters, most of whom I'd love to read stories of, too.

If you like your romantic suspense with loads of chemistry, interesting, sexy leads, and special, beautiful animals, 1 click The Guardian today. Anna del Mar has never let me down yet, and with The Guardian, she's raised the bar even further.

This is my first read by Anna Del Mar, and this being a third book in a series, I was hesitant. I had no reason to be. While it's part of a series, it reads a lot like a stand alone. I really enjoyed that aspect of it. I really enjoyed the setting the most in this book - we are transported to Tanzania, to a game reserve, and our main character is a well known photo-journalist and documentary film maker. Jade is a boss babe - she knows what she wants, what she likes and isn't afraid to step on toes to get it when it comes to her job. But, in her personal life, she's kind of closed off, and doesn't trust easily, and definitely won't submit to let anyone do something she can do for herself.

On the other side of things, I really enjoyed getting to know our male main character, Matthias - he's a passionate man with a super strong personality and perspective. He's a game warden, and is committed to eliminating poachers. There is a lot of aspects in this story, and it dives way deeper than almost any other "military" type romance I've ever read. There are things covered in conversation and what not that I would consider trigger topics, but noting that was so graphic it was hard to read.

I wasn't sure how I would feel about these two very strong, opinionated, but flawed characters and their chemistry, but in the end, I felt like it was a wild ride of emotions for them both as they learned to set aside their egos and deal with the issues at hand first. The romance wasn't always there, but when it was, it was perfection.

I requested and received a copy of this novel, via NetGalley, with no obligation to read and review. This is my honest opinion on the book.

I really like the writing style in this book. I like the location and the details that brought to the story. There are a lot of twists in the book, a lot of danger, and a lot of character chemistry. I love Jade's tough independent nature and certainly fell in love with Matthias and his wounded alpha nature. Very enjoyable.

Jade Romo has survived a lot throughout her life, but heading to Africa for a story leads to a dangerous encounter with ruthless poachers. However, not even the price on her head is going to stop her from getting what she wants. But when things get too dangerous, will Game Warden Matthias Hawking be able to keep her safe or will they lose their shot at happy ever after?

What an absolutely mesmerizing, fast-paced, action-packed read Ms. del Mar has delivered in this story that started off brilliantly with the heroine standing up to the hero and not backing down because she's totally against his idea of what he thinks she should do. Is Africa too dangerous a place for her to be at the moment? Will Matthias be able to keep her safe? However, it was from the moment where trouble first arises with the poachers that had me on the edge-of-my-seat and made this story an absolute page turner, as I wanted to know what would happen the next time Jade and Matthias went up against the poachers. How far were the poachers willing to go to make certain that Jade and Matthias didn't interfere in their operation?

As for the dialogue, it was well-written, highly entertaining and I loved every moment the hero and heroine conversed, as Jade gets under Matthias's skin and vice-versa. The heroine is trouble with a capital T for Matthias with her insubordination and need to prove she can take care of herself, which is proven by what she does when she comes up against the poachers. Furthermore, the dialogue was intense due to what the poachers do to one of the animals that had chills running down my spine. How could people be so evil? However, in saying that, the dialogue wasn't all intense. There were certainly some light-hearted moments between the hero and heroine that had me smiling, because Jade is feisty and has serious trust issues that make it hard for her not to stand up for herself. Will Matthias be able to show Jade that she can trust him?

Both the main characters were utterly charismatic and had me hooked due to their interactions; and the heroine's resilience and courage that makes her take risks when it comes to helping against the poachers. Moreover, I liked how the heroine wasn't afraid to speak her mind and do anything to help out a friend, which is proven by what she does for one of the secondary characters. Yet, what I liked most of all about the heroine is that she gave the hero a chance. While the hero, he's had it tough but I liked how he's overcome his past to become the game warden and a man that isn't afraid to go up against the poachers the way he does. I also liked how he was well-respected by the men he worked alongside and that he would do anything to protect Jade and the animals.

Overall, Ms. del Mar has penned a worthwhile read in this book where the chemistry between this couple was off-the-charts; the romance was delightful and showcased how right these two are for each other; and the ending had me flipping the pages quickly because of what goes down between the main characters and the poachers. Will Jade and Matthias come out on top? However, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up perfectly, as Jade has found the happiness she deserves and there's nothing more right than the decision this couple make for their future right at the end. Africa is a magical place for Jade and her work. I would recommend The Guardian by Anna del Mar, if you enjoy romantic suspense; the opposites attract trope; the sexy protector trope; or books by authors Sheryl Nantus, Cate Beauman, Katie Reus and Toni Anderson.

This is a suspense-filled, action packed safari - a superb story with great characters in an amazing setting - I loved it! This is another of those rare books where I advise you to read the book, don't bother with my review . . . .

Just in case you want to know what I thought of it, however, I'll keep on typing. . . .

Jade Romo is a feisty, confident, determined young lady. She's survived a horrendous childhood to become a renowned journalist and blogger, one who uncovers and reveals secrets, fighting for what is right. She's supposed to be in Africa undercover but shortly after landing in the reserve she's visiting she not only challenges a warlord, she shows him up in front of his men and so moves promptly to the top of his hit list. That's bad enough, but the other person sharing that top spot with her is the game warden, Matthias Hawking, who is determined to send her away from danger . . . . Let the fireworks begin!

Poachers, drug dealers, international terrorism, human trafficking, spies and secrets - this story has them all. There's also a very special elephant who makes appearances at key points in the story. It is a superbly crafted page turner that had me hooked from the very start. The main characters are both strong personalities and the chemistry between them is off the charts. This is a story to keep you anxious about what will happen next, with so many twists and turns it will have you reeling. This is definitely one of my top recommends to anyone who enjoys romantic suspense, a story to keep you absorbed and entertained from dramatic start to the superb finale!

I requested and received a copy of this novel, via NetGalley, with no obligation. This is my honest review after choosing to read it.

I was given a copy of this e-book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

Jade is a photojournalist and her latest trip has her going to Africa to look into the poaching of animals. When she arrives and meets Matthias, the game warden, it is not the best introduction as he is adamant that she leave the next morning when the plane goes back due to the danger in the area.

Jade is just as adamant that she stay and Matthias is infuriated when he finds out his boss made special arrangements to let Jade come. On the way back to the compound they see a giraffe being felled and although he sends everyone else back to the compound, Jade manages to slip away and go after him. Danger follows as she finds poachers dismembering the animal (sniff, sniff... poor giraffe)
and starts taking photos so they can possibly identify the poachers. Matthias reaches her but they are also discovered by the poachers. Luckily, some of Matthias' men come and the poachers run but Jade and Matthias have made an enemy...

Back at the compound there is even more tension between Jade and Matthias but now we are adding in sexual tension...

Can Matthias get Jade to leave? Is Matthias working on something else other than what he says?

Poor Matthias...he has to avoid Jade because every time he sees her he wants to kiss her and take her to bed. Jade certainly wouldn't mind!

The poachers have other plans too and they include the disposal of Matthias and Jade.....

I really don't know much about Africa but I feel like I learned so much due to the author's research!
The weather, the Serengeti and other facts. Of course I was aware of the poaching issues,

Jade is a tough one. She had an addict for a mother and then spent time in the foster system before a wonderful family took her in and made her their own! Matthias had a pretty normal childhood and later entered the service and became a SEAL.

Jade and Matthias go through quite a bit to survive and this creates a special bond between them forever!

What a ride. This book kept me engaged from the first page to the last. Matthias and Jade were explosive together. Both alpha ex military veterans, they fought for control constantly. They were immediately drawn to each other from the initial meeting. And trouble ensued right away. It was an intense, scary situation, and Matthias vowed to send Jade home to keep her safe. But she had her own mission and fought to stay. Their relationship was volatile, but both love to the fullest extent. I loved the descriptions of Africa and the wildlife. The suspense was off the charts. Another hit from Anna del Mar.

Set in a preserve in the Serengeti, photographer and film-maker Jade Romo is arriving to cover her latest project. She is a former Marine so she is no shy, retiring violet and more than capable of handling herself.

Jade is soon at loggerheards with the Game Warden, Matthias Hawking, a former SEAL and all-around badass! Matthias is a passionate conservationist and wants his charges to flourish and is attempting to fend off poachers and other ne'er-do-wells.

There is so much packed into this story but nothing is overwhelmed, everything is there for a purpose rather than as window dressing and filler. The setting is amazing and the characters are really similar but different at the same time! There are lots of strands to the story and there are a few triggers incl attempted rape, human trafficking and genital mutilation, which may not be suitable for all readers.

Fab read!

'The Guardian' by Anna del Mar is Book Three in The "Wounded Warrior" series. This is the story of Matthias Hawking and Jade Romo. I have read the other books in this series (and Loved Them!) but feel this can easily be a standalone book.
Jade has come to Africa to do a possible story there. Jade is the founder of Mission Protect and a celebrity in the conservation world with her Social Media sites...even to have a show on NAT GEO. Matthias is a wounded ex-SEAL who now is the Head Game Warden for the area. Matthias doesn't want her doing any of her dangerous stories here. But when Jade gets into trouble with some poachers Matthias is in full protective mode.
Another Hot Exciting Story by Ms. del Mar
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The Guardian by Anna del Mar
A Wounded Warrior Novel #3

Take one plucky persistent photo journalist and plop her down on a game preserve in the Serengeti where the Game Warden is the strong alpha silent type who expects his orders to be followed and you have…a story of intrigue, poachers, science, infiltrators, undercover operations and more…and a romance both Jade AND Matthias fought for as long as they could.

Jade has a background that makes trust difficult for her. She is used to working as a team member and able to take orders BUT she also does not like hearing the word “no” – especially when it infringes on her work. She thinks quickly on her feet but needs to when she finds herself in dicey situations. She and Matthias don’t hit it off well as the story begins but over time they grow on one another. The supporting characters are good and bad with some that are supposed to be good proving not to be good at all and vice versa. The story has quite a bit of action, some suspenseful moments, some camaraderie, some romance with a steamy encounter or two (or three) and ends with a bang…well the bang is near the end anyway ;)

I enjoyed the book but had trouble relating to Jade and Matthias as easily as I did to the main characters of the first two books in this series and am not sure why. Perhaps they seemed more like superheroes than real people? Anyway, I enjoyed learning more about Africa and feel that poachers deserve their own corner in h*ll for the atrocities they perpetrate. I loved the interaction with Bibi, the elephant matriarch, though I wondered how real such an interaction might be. In fact, the reality factor related to the interactions with poachers, Chinese Cartel and in fight scenes left me thinking…really?...more times than not. Other than that – the story was a fun fast-paced read that will appeal to many. I really liked Rem and Mei and am interested in finding out what might happen to them in the future – IF they have their stories told.

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4 Stars

Action packed, page turning, adrenaline spiking story! Matthias and Jade have a well developed relationship that flows well with the story line. This is my first book by this author and I can't wait to read more.

I voluntarily read an advanced copy.

This is the 5th book I've read by this author and the 3rd in this series. While I enjoyed this book, I didn't think it was as good as the others in this series.

First, I struggled with the connection between the two main characters. Matthias suddenly declares this incredible attraction to Jade which to me seems to come out of left field. I didn't get the build up to this. I didn't feel that Jade felt the same attraction and it almost felt as if Matthias had bullied Jade into admitting their was an attraction there.

Second, there was far too much inner dialogue. It grew boring at times.

It was just okay...

Let me start my admitting to absolutely loving Anna del Mar's Wounded Warrior series, and this third book in the series is no exception. From the first page to the last, this novel grabbed me and didn't let go for a minute. It's a 5-star read.

One of the things I love about this series is the settings. We went to Alaska in the last book and what an about-face to find ourselves just about to land in Tanzania, at a the private wildlife game reserve, Pacha Ziwa, in the Seregeti, where the heroine, world renowned NatGeo photographer and documentary film-maker, Jade Romo, along with three other female visitors to the reserve, are about to set down in their small plane. In addition to her current job, Jade is also a former marine, and she's one of the toughest, pushiest, most independent, tough-as-nails, and kickass heroines you're likely to find, and I absolutely loved that about her.

Jade is soon to meet her match in the person of Game Warden, head honcho, and sexy as all get-out, Matthias Hawking, a take-no-prisoners, wounded ex-SEAL, who really doesn't want Jade, or any of her companions on the reserve--especially Jade. To say that these two alpha characters strike sparks off each other is like comparing a single matchstick to a forest fire, but both of them keep their interest in each other well hidden. Matthias is not just a game warden--he's committed to conservation efforts and to rounding up the wily and evil poachers who have been decimating the local wildlife, especially the herd of elephants, whose ivory they're after. There's far more to this story than just a band of poachers, so settle in and get set for a tale of lies and half-truths, violence, lust, near rape, human trafficking, abduction, genital mutilation, murder, blackmail, terrorists, world politics and international intrigue. Some of the aforementioned may be triggers for some readers, so be advised.

Both Matthias and Jade have secrets they're keeping, and rather than risk giving away those secrets, I'll just say that this novel is as exciting as it gets, a true page-turner, loaded with twists, turns and danger around every corner. It's also one very hot read, and not for the young or faint of heart. It deals with many of the issues in present-day Africa and it does so in a way that makes them very personal. Kudos to Ms. del Mar, who, in addition to writing one un-put-down-able novel, not only exposes so many of these issues, but does so in a way that truly touches the heart. Do not miss this one!

I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.

What a book! I was drawn in by the first chapter and hung on till the end. The beauty really comes through of the African preserve. I could imagine the animals in all their glory.
I laughed a little when Matthias finally gives in to the desire he has for Jade. He does a complete 360 as far as emotions go. Really the two couldn't be more perfect for each other.