WHEW....I loved this book...just what I was looking for to read. Loads of mystery, mayhem, murder and love circling around it all. If you love books that keep you on the edge of your seat wondering which way it's going to go then you'll love this one too!! Looking forward to the next book...I volunteered a review for this early release, which in no way affected my review...it simply was a fantastic book. Thank you Ms Naughton for a great series of books!!!

What I love about the amazing series is that each book can be read as a stand alone. While the characters from the other stories appear in each of the books, each book has its very own mystery and suspense that will keep the reader hooked from the first page to the very last. This is the story of Kelsey and Hunter

Kelsey McClane is recently divorced, making her a living as a fashion designer. Now that she is away from her emotionally and sometimes physically abusive ex, she is hoping to make a better life for herself. At least she would if her interfering brothers would call off the body guard that they have trailing her around. The very handsome body guard that has been her friend forever. The same person she has harbored a secret crush on, one Hunter O'Donnell.

Hunter O'Donnell has been friends with the McClane boys since they were all teenagers. He has had a secret crush on their younger sister Kelsey for over 10 years, but knows that she is off limits. Hired to protect her from her ex, he will stand between anything that would come at her to make sure she is safe.

When Kelsey starts receiving threatening text messages, photos and is put in physical danger, Hunter and Kelsey will need to unravel the mystery of who is out to get her and stop them before they cause damage that cannot be undone.

What I truly enjoyed about Hunter and Kelsey's relationship is that they both have issues and baggage. Hunter lost his mother at an early age and swore to never fall in love because that would wreck him, the same way that it wrecked his father. Kelsey was given away by her mother when she was really young, adopted by the McClanes, she suffers from anxiety, fed by the emotional abuse she suffered at the hands of her ex, she fells unlove, unworthy, and like she will never be good enough.

It is with the help of Hunter that she realizes just how strong she really is, and the when he is by her side, she is more than enough, she is perfect, at least, perfect for him and perfect in his eyes. An amazing addition to this amazing series. I cannot way to ready more.

I’ve had mixed experiences with Elisabeth Naughton’s Deadly Secrets romantic suspense series, but the third instalment-- PROTECTED (which can be read as a standalone)-- definitely fell into the ‘positive’ category. Though the plot was pretty standard fare for RS and required a healthy dose of suspension of disbelief, it served to support the real standouts of the novel: protagonists Kelsey McClane and Hunter O’Donnell and their burgeoning romantic relationship. Hunter and Kelsey both have relationship issues and are remarkably complex and flawed (particularly Kelsey, in a nice departure from the tortured-hero trope), but Ms. Naughton makes them incredibly sympathetic and relatable rather than unbelievably overdone-- even when Kelsey is at her most neurotic, you can understand and empathise and root for her. Even the ‘happy for now’ ending, rather than the traditional HEA of the genre--as disappointing as it may feel for us avid romance readers-- is on point and realistic for Kelsey and Hunt. Overall, PROTECTED was a thoroughly enjoyable way to while away an afternoon, and I look forward to seeing what Ms. Naughton has in story for the remaining McClane siblings: Rusty (an enigmatic character if there ever was one) and Thomas.

Kelsey McClane is a talented designer on the verge of success. Just before appearing on a talk show she receives a disturbing text on her phone. Kelsey is divorced from a controlling ex and her family has hired a family friend, former Army Ranger and now owner of a PI firm, Hunter O’Donnell to provide security for her. They are afraid her ex won’t go quietly. Someone is definitely threatening Kelsey but is it her ex or is there another player.

This book grabbed me from the first page and I couldn’t put it down. Kelsey has had her confidence shaken by her ex and I loved watching her grow stronger and take back control of her life. The chemistry between her and Hunter jumps off the page. Hunter is a true hero. There are a few interesting twists in the story. I guessed part of the ending but not all of it. This is part of a series but could easily be read as a stand alone. Thank you to net galley for an advanced readers copy.

Former Army Ranger Hunter O’Donnell owns and operates a PI and security firm in Portland, Oregon. He is best friends with Kelsey’s older brother. Kelsey McClane is a promising fashion designer. A recent divorcee, her brothers hire Hunter to be Kelsey’s bodyguard at a local television show. She receives a menacing text message that heralds danger. When the danger intensifies, Hunter suspects there is more to the threats than either of them realize. Kelsey and Hunter learn significant facts about her past as the search continues. Will the truth about her birth be Kelsey’s doom? Can she learn to trust Hunter? Will Hunter be able to protect Kelsey from her mysterious stalker?
Hunter steadily grew on me. He is haunted by his own past. I understand how his mother’s death and his father’s inability to handle it influence Hunter’s fear of relationships. Yet, Kelsey tempts him to take a chance despite his reservations. I love how he sees her inner strength when Kelsey cannot. But what I adore the most about Hunter is how he accepts Kelsey for who she is, insecurities and all.
Kelsey is such an inspirational heroine. She acknowledges and accepts her many insecurities and flaws, yet she is determined to work through them. I admire Kelsey’s resolve and inner strength to reclaim her life, especially after everything she endured at her ex-husband’s hand. But what I like the most about Kelsey is how she understands Hunter’s fears about relationships, because she too has the same difficulties.
PROTECTED is book three in Elisabeth Naughton’s romantic suspense series, DEADLY SECRETS. I have not read the first two books in the series; however, that did not hinder my ability to follow the events in the story. I like that there is no ongoing plot that requires reading the prior books.
PROTECTED is a riveting tale of two like-minded people learning to overcome their fears of relationships. I love how this book kept me on the edge of my seat in anticipation. I hope the author plans to write a story about Kelsey’s brother Rusty.

4.5 Stars!

Even if this is your first look at this series, you are going to be very happy with Hunter and Kelsey. So much action and tension throughout the story. Loved it all!

We have met Kelsey McClane in the previous two books. She is baby sister to her adopted brothers. Well protected by said brothers but still rebellious and doing her own thing. Her choices have led her to some bad situations. This book has her brother's best friend, Hunter, assigned as her body guard. Secretly both of them are hoping that there is some up close and personal protection coming. Of course life and bro codes try to keep them apart.

Great adventure with a strong heroine. Loved that Kelsey stood her ground around Hunter. It's when that soft squishy side for both leads start showing, that the reader really melts.

Loved seeing previous couples and the whole McClane family again. Can not wait to see what the the rest of the brothers get up to. I look forward to reading more about this couple in future books as well.

This is the third book in The Deadly Secrets series by Elisabeth Naughton. This series features members of the McClane family who were adopted from problematic backgrounds. Though now a functional and loving family, they find that even as adults, they must at times confront the ghosts of their pasts.

This book is about the only sister in the McClane clan, Kelsey. She has four overprotective brothers which is hard enough to handle, but she is also on the cusp of becoming an international sensation as a fashion designer. Unfortunately, someone seems to have an issue with that.

Naughton does an excellent job of letting the reader see how adopted children sometimes find it difficult to deal with their feelings of guilt or inadequacy because they were “given up” as children and how those feelings can both drive you and paralyze you even into adulthood.

This book, like the first two in the series can be read as a stand alone. However I think you will enjoy reading them all, in order, to gain further insight into the McClane family and how their love, concern, and support for one another can be a great blessing and annoyingly familiar at the same time.

I’m sure you’ll like Protected, as I did.

I received an arc from Netgalley. This book had me on the edge of my seat. Just when I thought it was figured out a twist in the storyline was shocking.

The chemistry between Kelsey and Hunt is off the charts. Hunt assigned as Kelsey’s bodyguard, an ex husband who doesn’t want to let go, and someone else out to steal her inheritance are all in this action packed romance.

Definitely a five star review and an author I can’t wait to read more of.

I enjoyed reading, Protected, book 3 in the Deadly Secrets series. I loved the main characters, Hunter and Kelsey. Their backstories where interesting on what they went thru as children making them into the people that they grew up into. The story had suspense, drama, and a whole lot of sexy scenes together once they hooked up.
Very good story.

Protected by Elisabeth Naughton is the third book in the Deadly Secrets series. The series is about four adopted siblings. They come from troubled backgrounds, but through the love and security of their adopted parents, they have become productive adults, But they are still dealing with the effects of their childhood.

In Protected, Kelsey McClain is a fashion designer dealing with the divorce from her emotionally abusive husband and her career, which is starting to take off. When she’s targeted by someone who wants her dead, long-time friend of her brothers, Hunter O’Donnell, uses his stills as a former Army Ranger to step in to keep Kelsey safe. In addition to dealing with the fact someone wants her dead, Kelsey must face her feelings for Hunter, which have only grown over the years. In turn, Hunter must face his desires for Kelsey, feelings he has kept secret for at least ten years.

Ms. Naughton has again written a magnificent book that will intrigue you and connect you to the characters as only she can do. If you haven’t read the first two books in the series, don’t worry. You won’t be missing anything. But, I guarantee you will want to read the others, we you should. Happy reading!

Wow! I don’t know another phrase that could better explain this book. Kels and Hunt are two perfectly match characters. One really big thing I loved about this book was how real and relatable that main characters were. Kelsey is a woman who escapes from an emotionally abusive husband. She is strong, smart but vulnerable at the same time. Naughton does a wonderful job of delving into the emotional and mental effects such relationships have on the victim. Hunter is a man who has avoided relationships because of a fear of losing another person he loves. Sexy, charming, strong Hunter is an amazing male lead in this story. This book is very emotional but also very action packed. The suspense and intrigue are constant throughout the entire book. I couldn’t put it down. Naughton does an amazing job with this book. I highly recommend this book to anyone and everyone.

I was provided an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. My review is in no way influenced by the author or publishing company.

Great, fast paced story. Grabs you from the opening and doesn't stop. Book never drags and keeps you guessing. Thought I had it pretty figured out but it managed to surprised me. You don't have to read the first two book in the series to understand this one. Would definately recommend and will be reading the first two and looking forward to more!

Protected is a true mix of romance and white knuckled suspense. Not only does it grab you emotionally from the start while you connect to both Kelsey and Hunters fiery passion, it keeps you on the edge of your seat with all of the suspenseful twist and turns.

I loved these two characters together. Kelsey fights to overcome obstacles from childhood, a bad marriage and her life on the line. Hunter, who is not only a family friend but a Security Expert, has been hired to protect her and not only steps up to battle the bad guys but also battles the insecurities to win her heart.

Protected is a part of a series of even though it can be read as a standalone I would have liked to have read the other books in the series first to have a better connection with some of the underlying characters.


ARC Review

What I like so much about Romantic Suspense sub-genre is the blend of heart-pounding action and steamy romance (sometimes with a little mystery written into it) and when written well, provides a bum-clenching, fuck-the-world kind of escape that almost nothing comes close to. ‘Protected’ is one of those reads, reeling me in from the start with unresolved tension that’s almost immediately followed by an explosion that throws the life Kelsey McClane has been rebuilding back into chaos.

There’s a huge backstory to go into once the dust settles but I’ve found it an engaging read that was hard to put down, with several turns that were surprising but needed a little more suspension of disbelief. ‘Protected’ is nonetheless a good standalone, with minimal links to the rest of the series.

Elisabeth Naughton did write Kelsey and Hunter mostly as sympathetic characters: I understood Kelsey’s insecurities, empathised with the emotional abuse and the past she had and her reasons for drawing back from Hunter when she distrusted her own judgement. Warming up to Hunter took a little more time for me—the apparent two-timing act early on didn’t quite endear me to him—but seeing him stepping into his role as protector later on, strapping in despite his own reservations did make him and Kelsey a pairing that I thought I could get behind. There were waffling moments between them however, flawed as they were, and the HFN ending when the wounds have barely healed might seem somewhat unsatisfactory.

That said, ‘Protected’ was a thoroughly absorbing afternoon diversion, and didn’t get any better than the straight-up romantic suspense read.

The story starts off with a bang...then slows down just a touch...then picks right back up and keeps you turning the pages with action, suspense, and romance. A fantastic story that you can't put down.

Hunt is on amazing man. Kelsey is one strong woman. Loved the twists in this story. What an amazing way to finally find what you never knew you were looking for. Could not wait to see where the story would take Hunt and Kelsey. They have an amazing connection. Can’t wait to read more from this amazing author.

I am a fan of this author and the series. This is book 3 and it is a standalone. This is the story of Kelsey and Hunter. The story starts with a "bang" and keeps moving a high clip. Kelsey is starting over, back home, after a bad marriage. Because of recent threats her family ask Hunter, a family friend and security expert, to protect her. Both of them had feelings for each other in the past and the circumstance that they are now facing brings those attractions to the surface ( a very hot surface!!!) What I liked about Kelsey is that she was not going to be pushed aside, she was going to be Hunter's partner in discovering truth; Hunter is a very sweet man who wants to do his best and wants to protect Kelsey at all costs. This story had everything, suspens, romance, sex, and a dog! What more could you ask for?

This book is amazing. I am down with the flu and was just going to read a couple of chapters waiting for my meds to kick in but lo and behold a couple hours later, I had finished the entire book. I could not put it down. It has the perfect balance of mystery and suspense with a great romantic entanglement thrown in. The plot of this story is unique and fascinating and definitely grabs your interest from the very first page and the characters are well-written, complex and easy to relate to. It is easy to connect with Kelsey from the start and you cannot help but love Hunt. I really enjoyed their dialogue and interaction and the fact that the author keeps you guessing about the bad guy till the end.

You cannot help but root for Kelsey and praise her for her strength and determination to push forward after everything she endures between her horrible ex and the bad guy. She suffers through so much physically, mentally and emotionally yet has the fortitude to recognize her struggles for what they are and work towards making herself whole again.

For Hunter, again it is hard not to love him once you get to know more about him. He is kind of mysterious in the beginning but as the story develops you get to learn more about his background and that makes it easier to understand his thoughts and actions throughout the book. Once he truly comes to terms with what he really wants and understanding why he says and does things in relation to his past he becomes a wonderfully strong character to help Kelsey stay grounded.

I love the connection and chemistry between Kelsey and Hunter. You can feel it swarming around them from the beginning, starting off at a slow burn until it ignites amongst the chaos they have to deal with. You can actually feel the emotions rolling off them as you read and the author does a great job of holding your interest in their relationship and keeping the connection fresh throughout the story. And there is a lot of activity in this book that could easily engulf or drown out the romance but it is nicely balanced with the plot of the story so one does not overshadow the other.

If you are looking for a good book that contains flowing drama, suspense, action and romance then this is the book for you. Though it is part of a series, it can easily be read as a standalone. I received an advanced copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

Omg Amazing. Just when you think you know who the bad guy is it changes. So amazing I can't praise this book enough. So many twists and turns