“And I guess there really is something profoundly healing about letting somebody love you.” ― Katherine Center, The Bodyguard

There’s something irresistibly fun about a fake dating romance. Maybe it’s the slow-burn tension, the hilarious misunderstandings, or the moment when two people pretending to be in love realize their feelings are anything but fake. Whatever the reason, fake dating stories have become a favorite in the romance world—and for good reason.

In today’s blog, we’re going into one of the most charming and unexpected takes on this beloved trope: The Bodyguard by Katherine Center. This book flips expectations in the best way, delivering a love story full of heart, humor, and a seriously strong heroine.

Whether you’re new to romantic comedies or a seasoned fan, this one stands out for all the right reasons. So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s talk about what makes The Bodyguard a fake dating story worth falling for.

Plot Summary

“People loving you for your best qualities is not the same as people loving you despite your worst.” ― Katherine Center, The Bodyguard

The Bodyguard introduces readers to Hannah Brooks, a highly skilled executive protection agent who’s more than capable of handling dangerous assignments.

But her newest job isn’t guarding a politician or a CEO—it’s protecting superstar actor Jack Stapleton, who is temporarily back in his hometown in Texas. Jack is charming, famous, and, according to the tabloids, in trouble. But there’s more to him than meets the eye.

After a recent personal loss and a workplace betrayal, Hannah is looking to stay busy, not fall in love. But when Jack’s mother falls ill and he decides to return home, he doesn’t want to alarm his family with the presence of a bodyguard. His solution? Hannah should pretend to be his girlfriend while secretly protecting him from a persistent stalker.

As Hannah settles into her role as Jack’s fake girlfriend, sparks begin to fly. But keeping things professional proves harder than she thought. Jack is down-to-earth, kind, and surprisingly vulnerable—qualities that slowly begin to crack Hannah’s emotional armor.

What follows is a sweet and hilarious fake-dating romance wrapped in action, with real emotional stakes. As threats from Jack’s stalker escalate, Hannah must protect more than just Jack’s body—she has to guard her own heart.

What Genre Is The Bodyguard by Katherine Center?

The Bodyguard blends romantic comedy with emotional depth and a touch of suspense. It’s a contemporary romancefilled with laugh-out-loud moments, modern celebrity life, and heartfelt growth. As women’s fiction, it also focuses on Hannah’s personal healing and empowerment. A light dose of action and danger adds extra tension and fun.

Key Tropes in The Bodyguard

Fake Dating: The story’s core setup is a fake relationship: Hannah pretends to be Jack’s girlfriend to hide her role as his bodyguard. This trope sets the stage for awkward moments, unexpected chemistry, and a satisfying emotional payoff.

Opposites Attract: Hannah is all business—stoic, strong, and guarded. Jack is a laid-back, charming actor. Their differences spark both conflict and connection, making their dynamic fun to watch.

Role Reversal: Instead of the usual male protector trope, The Bodyguard flips the script: Hannah is the tough, highly trained bodyguard, and Jack is the one being protected. It’s a refreshing twist that adds depth and novelty.

Close Proximity: With Hannah and Jack spending so much time together, pretending to be a couple and navigating real danger, they naturally grow closer. The forced intimacy heightens the tension and emotional stakes.

Slow Burn: While the chemistry between Hannah and Jack is immediate, the romantic build is gradual and deeply satisfying. Readers get to see their relationship blossom with nuance and care.

Healing Through Love: Both characters are emotionally wounded, and their relationship becomes a space for healing. It’s not just about romance—it’s about learning to trust and open up again.

The Bodyguard is perfect for readers who want romance with substance—something to make you smile, swoon, and maybe even cry a little.

Ratings and Reviews of The Bodyguard by Katherine Center

“That was me, apparently: scared of cows, and scared of love.” ― Katherine Center, The Bodyguard

The Bodyguard has been widely praised for its heartfelt storytelling, lovable characters, and unique take on traditional romance tropes.

On Goodreads, The Bodyguard boasts an average rating of 4.1 stars, with thousands of readers applauding its uplifting message and refreshing characters. It’s a consistent hit with fans of feel-good fiction.

Reviews

• “Funny, touching, and full of heart. I couldn’t put it down. Hannah is my new favorite heroine.”
• “Katherine Center nails the slow-burn romance and the emotional depth. I laughed, I cried, and I cheered.”
• “A rom-com with brains, bravery, and a bodyguard you’ll root for every step of the way.”
• “This isn’t just a love story—it’s a story about strength, healing, and learning to trust again.”

Readers love the way Center takes a fun premise and builds real emotional depth around it. The chemistry between Hannah and Jack is electric, and the blend of humor and heart makes it unforgettable.

Who Should Read The Bodyguard by Katherine Center?

If you’re someone who enjoys character-driven romance with a side of suspense and a whole lot of heart, The Bodyguardwill check all your boxes.

Ideal for

• Fans of fake dating and opposites-attract tropes.

• Readers looking for romance with a strong, capable female lead.

• Anyone who enjoys witty banter and slow-burn tension.

• Lovers of feel-good stories with empowering themes.

Whether you’re new to Katherine Center or a longtime fan, this book is a warm, romantic, and empowering story that will leave you smiling.

Similar Books If You Loved The Bodyguard by Katherine Center

If The Bodyguard left you smiling and wanting more, here are some similar books you might enjoy:

1. Book Lovers by Emily Henry: A witty, romantic story about two rivals in publishing who find love where they least expect it.
2. People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry: A best-friends-to-lovers story with humor, travel, and heart.
3. The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren: A hilarious enemies-to-lovers romance with fake dating and tropical vibes.
4. The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood: Another fake-dating gem, this time set in the academic world with loads of nerdy charm.
5. Things You Save in a Fire by Katherine Center: Another empowering, emotional novel from Center, about a firefighter navigating love and loss.
6. The Spanish Love Deception by Elena Armas: Fake dating meets international romance in this slow-burn rom-com.
7. The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang: A heartwarming, unconventional romance between a math genius and her hired companion.

Each of these stories offers romance with humor, heart, and strong character development—perfect for fans of The Bodyguard.

Conclusion

The Bodyguard by Katherine Center is more than just a rom-com—it’s a story about finding your strength, opening your heart, and discovering love in the most unexpected places. With memorable characters, genuine emotion, and a fresh spin on familiar tropes, it’s a book that stands out in the best possible way.

Hannah Brooks is a heroine readers can admire—not because she’s perfect, but because she’s real. Her journey from guarded protector to someone willing to let love in is touching, inspiring, and beautifully written. Jack, too, defies stereotypes, offering a kind and grounded male lead who values vulnerability just as much as courage.

Whether you’re looking for a fun read with substance or a love story that feels both uplifting and honest, The Bodyguardis a book you’ll want to recommend to everyone.

About the Author

Katherine Center is a bestselling author known for her empowering and emotionally resonant novels. With hits like Things You Save in a Fire, How to Walk Away, and What You Wish For, she writes stories that blend romance, personal growth, and humor.

Her books often feature strong female protagonists who overcome personal challenges and find joy in the process. Center’s writing style is warm, witty, and full of heart, making her a favorite among fans of uplifting fiction.