Under Their Guard: A Sapphic Why Choose Dark Bodyguard Romance (House of Bellante Book 1)

This was so much fun to read! It was super steamy, full of danger and twists and plenty of angst and feelings. I really like the different relationships that develop between Sabine and each of her bodyguards. Can't wait for the next book!

I wasn't sure how I'd feel about Under Their Guard initially as this was my first Mafia/Bodyguard Romance, but the story absolutely pulled me in! It was a thrilling read that had me on the edge the whole way through. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I loved all the characters and that it was multi-pov. Everyone had a different voice and came through as unique. I do feel like Sabine was a bit whiney given the circumstances, (and Alex was being quite a bit stupid) BUT they both did come around eventually. Alex's POV really got to me and had me tear up. The open-door scenes were fun and passionate, even if the last one didn't make sense with the circumstances. It was wonderful to read but stretched the believability a bit too far. I think I would have liked to see more of the characters getting to know Sabine and her getting to know them. There was less conversation and emotional intimacy then I typically prefer. I really liked the scenes with Cam because despite being quiet, she was more personable. I wish we had gotten her POV. Overall this was an enjoyable entry into Mafia/Bodyguard Romance for me and I am eagerly looking forward to the next installment!

To Protect And Own Reporter Sabine Barrett has exposed the powerful Bellante Family as the murderous criminals that they are. Now the Bellantes want her dead. Four bodyguards—all women—are the only thing standing between Sabine and the Bellante Family. They protect Sabine. They serve Sabine. They crave Sabine. They OWN Sabine. Under Their Guard : A Sapphic Why Choose Dark Bodyguard Romance (House of Bellante Book 1) delivers hot team action interspersed with episodes of tenderness. "You're safe," Kara whispered against my hair. Her arms encircled me, strong and steady while I fell apart. She held me together as I cried, her lips pressing gentle kisses to my temple, my cheek, catching my tears. When I could breathe again, she helped me stand. My legs felt like water as she guided me to the en-suite bathroom. "Let me take care of you," she said, and I nodded, unable to form words. (page 164) Stella Rowe has written dozens of high heat, spicy novellas. (I have read a number of them, and enjoyed them all.) As far as I can tell, Under Their Guard is her first full length novel, and if this is truly indicative of what Rowe can produce with more pages at her disposal, I hope she writes may more. (On that note, I am already looking forward to Secure Their Fates, House of Bellante Book 2, planned for April 2026.). I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.