Review of Smooth as a Cucumber: A Bodyguard, Clean Romantic Comedy (Private Security Book 1) by L.J. Taylor
When I stumbled upon Smooth as a Cucumber, I was immediately drawn in by its catchy title and the promise of a light-hearted romantic comedy that carries a little edge. As I read L.J. Taylor’s deft storytelling, I felt an undeniable kinship with the characters and their quirks. It’s a story that makes the heart flutter while also keeping you on the edge of your seat—and let me tell you, I’m all here for that delightful blend!
The novel centers around Martina “Marti” Wilkins, a waitress whose life takes an unexpected turn when Sutton Walsh, a bodyguard with an air of authority, enters her world. On the surface, Marti might seem poised and collected, but beneath that facade is a whirlwind of insecurities—especially when it comes to bad-boy vibes that make her weak in the knees (and not just because he’s incredibly handsome). Sutton is not just any bodyguard; he’s a wonderfully layered character, wrestling with his own doubts while trying to keep Marti safe from her apparently dangerous brother.
One of the standout elements in Taylor’s writing is her knack for capturing the ebb and flow of romantic tension. It’s punctuated by witty dialogue, humorous situations in the diner, and Marti’s ever-watchful eyes on the bell above the door, always anticipating Sutton’s entry. I found myself chuckling aloud at the cute moments shared between them, reminiscent of the softer touches in classic romantic comedies. And yet, the serious undercurrent of Marti’s familial issues adds depth to the narrative, making it more than just a simple love story.
The pacing of the plot is perfectly balanced, moving smoothly through moments of comedy and more intense scenes, allowing the reader to breathe between bursts of heartfelt emotion and laughter. Taylor’s writing style is engaging and accessible, often making me feel as if I were sitting in that charming diner, witnessing the sparks fly firsthand.
One moment that particularly resonated with me was when Sutton acknowledges Marti’s struggle with her self-image, a critical point in their developing relationship that felt refreshingly authentic. It’s moments like these that elevate the book from being solely entertaining to profoundly relatable.
As I reached the end, I found myself not only heavily invested in Marti and Sutton’s story but also longing for more. As the first book in the Private Security series, it leaves just enough intrigue for future installments while wrapping up their journey in a satisfying way.
Smooth as a Cucumber will resonate with anyone who enjoys clean romantic comedies that balance humor with relatable life challenges. If you’re looking for a sweet escape filled with charming characters and laugh-out-loud moments, then this book is for you. L.J. Taylor’s debut has indeed made me a fan, and I can’t wait for more.
So grab a copy, settle into your comfiest chair, and let yourself be swept away into a world that is as warm and inviting as a pot of homemade soup on a chilly day—you might just find yourself wanting seconds!