Review: Lethal Protector by Kaylea Cross

Author: Kaylea Cross

Publication Date: January 2021

She unknowingly threatens his control.
Single mom Tala Baldwin is no stranger to sacrifice. After losing her leg while serving her country, she’s now training to become a competitive biathlete. With her daughter off to college, she’s able to shoot for her dream of making the national masters team. Even her Christmas break in Rifle Creek doesn’t slow her down. She’s asked her trusted friend Braxton to help her train—all while trying to pretend she doesn’t ache for him. Braxton was there for her during the darkest day of her life and he’s been there for her since…but only as a friend. In fact, he seems more determined than ever to hold her at arm’s length—until a deadly blizzard traps them in the mountains with a wanted killer hot on their trail. Now Tala once again finds her life in his hands as they face the lethal threats together.

Now he’s at his breaking point.
Sgt. Braxton Hillard is a master sniper, renowned for his ability to operate without emotion. Except with Tala. She’s all he’s ever wanted—but can’t have. For four long years he’s kept his distance. She’s way too good for him and she would realize that if he ever made a move. But the attraction between them is too powerful to deny, and once she makes it clear she wants him, he can’t keep his distance any longer. As they fight to survive in the mountains, all bets are off. Braxton is ready to sacrifice everything to protect the woman he loves—even his own life.

Lethal Protector is the third book in the Rifle Creek.  I was really looking forward to Tala and Braxton's story.  It was hinted at a bit in the last book.  Tala and Braxton have been really close friends for years.  They have also both been secretly pining for each other just as long.   This is exactly the type of friends to lovers stories that I love to read.

The story was wonderful.  I loved the slow burn and build up to the (finally!) declaration of feelings.  The deep friendship between the couple made their romance that much better.  Of course there is a bit of danger in the story.  The scenes in the blizzard had me holding my breath.  The book works well as a stand alone.  I highly recommend this one.