Blurb:

Rule #1: Don’t become a bodyguard to the kid you used to bully. 

In my defense, I didn’t know it was that kid. I barely remember high school. But Kai Jacinto remembers everything.

Rule #2: Don’t let him pretend he doesn’t need you.

Kai’s got a stalker. He’s already been attacked—twice—but he still acts like this is just a mild inconvenience. He’s rich, arrogant, and pushes my buttons like he’s trying to set off a bomb. Unfortunately for both of us, I don’t walk away from the job.

Rule #3: Don’t get distracted by how gorgeous he is.

I’m straight. Allegedly. But Kai’s grown into a man I can’t ignore—brilliant, funny, and hotter than sin, straightness be damned. And the more I see of the beautiful, fragile man he’s become, the more determined I am to keep him safe.

Rule #4: Don’t let him know you’ve fallen.

I’ve been through war zones, gun fights, and more ambushes than I can count, but nothing prepared me for the mess Kai’s made of my heart. He’s mine to protect. Mine to crave. Mine to ruin if I’m not careful.

But I’ll burn the world down before I let anyone touch him again. And I’ll break every damn rule I’ve got, just to make him mine.

Rival for Rent is Book 1 in the Heartbreakers Anonymous series. It’s an enemies to lovers, bully to bodyguard, bisexual awakening romance with high heat, forced proximity, and opposites attract energy.

*****

Review:

Mason is struggling after the end of his military career but finds a purpose in protecting an old schoolmate. Even if he is hostile and unwilling to accept Mason’s help, or take the threat to his safety seriously. I liked how patient Mason is with Kai at the beginning and how the tables turn in the second half. I think that they are a good match – Mason taking care of Kai and Kai boosting up Mason. It’s super sweet. And steamy too 🙂

I did have a few issues. I felt like Kai forgave Mason a bit too quickly for the way he was in high school, which could have been better explored. And considering some of the things that happened in the Marines I was also a bit surprised at Mason’s “bi-awakening”. The bad guy also seemed a bit far fetched, a little too convenient – good romance with a bit of suspense but not necessarily a good romantic suspense story.

Overall, tho, I did enjoy their stories purely on Kai and Mason today. The way they are forced to spend time together, getting to know the men they have become. I also liked the way the suspense element was well paced and woven smoothly into their romance. With the fun epilogue I’m gonna be looking for the next book.