Review of Guard Dog: Guard Dogs Series Book 1 by Crimson Quill
I stumbled upon Guard Dog while browsing for my next crime romance fix, and the blend of dark intrigue and spicy chemistry immediately drew me in. Crimson Quill’s knack for storytelling shone bright, offering a compelling narrative that not only entertained but also kept me on my toes. With a broody ex-Marine bodyguard and a sharp-tongued romance author, I knew I was in for a rollercoaster of laughs, tension, and, of course, a splash of danger.
At its heart, Guard Dog centers around Ami Zadegan, a romance author with a knack for witty comebacks and questionable judgment, who finds herself thrust into the dangerous world of cartels after defending her super-fan, Maria, against a kidnapping attempt. This act of bravery lands her in a cartel compound, where she must juggle the chaos of grooming Maria’s alien-Regency romance novel alongside managing her attraction to Marco Cedillo, the stoic bodyguard tasked with keeping Maria safe.
The characters are beautifully written. Ami is refreshingly relatable—her stubbornness and knack for sarcasm provide the perfect counterbalance to Marco’s brooding demeanor. Watching their slow-burn tension unfold was a highlight, enhanced by their captivating banter that had me chuckling and rooting for them in equal measure. The chemistry leaps off the pages, and there were moments where I found myself holding my breath, waiting for just the right moment for those two to collide.
Crimson Quill’s writing style is engaging and brisk, perfectly fitting the pacing of a dark romance with moments of levity. The narrative flows seamlessly, navigating both the suspenseful crime elements and the steamy romance without feeling jarring—a commendable feat. I also loved how the setting came to life through Ami’s eyes, vividly detailing the environment around the cartel compound while bringing San Antonio’s essence into the mix.
One memorable moment I particularly enjoyed was when Ami quipped in response to Marco’s stern demeanor, "You’re not my dad, just my glorified babysitter!" It encapsulates their dynamic perfectly—filled with tension yet laced with undeniable chemistry. As a reader, I appreciated those snippets of humor woven throughout the narrative, providing light amidst the darker themes.
After finishing this book, I was left eagerly anticipating the next in the series. It’s a page-turner rich with suspense, humor, and romance that readers will gobble up. Those who relish a good mafia romance with a dash of humor and compelling characters will find a new favorite in Guard Dog. I can’t help but recommend it to anyone craving a fierce, flirty adventure that promises both heart and danger.
In conclusion, this book truly struck a chord with me, serving as a reminder that love can flourish even in the most dangerous of circumstances. I closed the final page with a smile, eager to see how Marco and Ami’s journey continues. Trust me; you won’t want to miss it!
You can find Guard Dog: Guard Dogs Series Book 1 (Guard Dog Series) here >>