“Protect” by Paisley Hope – A Review
⭐ Rating: 4.25/5
Year Published: 2025
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Page Count: 414
Quick Summary
The Sky Ridge Hotshots series continues with Protect, a heartfelt and emotional second-chance romance between Rowan and Violette. Years after heartbreak, Rowan is determined to prove to Violette that their love is worth fighting for—while also stepping up in her daughter Hollie’s life. But with the lingering grief of Violette’s late twin brother—who was also Rowan’s best friend—standing between them, the journey to healing isn’t easy. With themes of love, resilience, and redemption, Protect delivers another compelling, high-stakes romance set against the intense world of wildland firefighting.
What I Loved
A True Second-Chance Romance: Rowan didn’t just expect Violette to forgive him—he earned her trust back, and watching their relationship rebuild was deeply satisfying. Their slow-burn journey made the payoff even sweeter.
Hollie Stole the Show: His relationship with Hollie was completely swoonworthy. The way he stepped into her life and formed a bond with her was one of the most touching aspects of the book. 😍
Mental Health & Healing: I love how this series continues to emphasize mental health treatment. Every character has struggled with trauma in different ways, and their willingness to seek help (often encouraged by their partners) makes for such a powerful and encouraging theme. It’s refreshing to see mental health handled with care in romance.
Inspiring for Writers: As someone working on a small-town second-chance romance of my own, this book was a great source of inspiration! The emotional beats, character arcs, and the gradual rebuild of trust all served as fantastic examples of how to make this trope shine.
Who Should Read This?
Protect is perfect for readers who love second-chance romance, small-town settings, and stories that highlight healing and emotional growth. If you enjoy heartfelt romances with swoonworthy heroes and strong family themes, this book is definitely for you.
Final Thoughts
Paisley Hope delivers another fabulous installment in the Sky Ridge Hotshots series, blending romance, emotional depth, and high-stakes firefighting action. With a beautifully crafted second-chance love story and a touching emphasis on healing, Protect is an unforgettable read that left me eager for the next book in the series!
