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Primal Instinct

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ROCK YOU ALL NIGHT LONG

The first time he lays eyes on Taylor Ross in a bar, Colt Priestley does something few men would dare to do. He approaches the world-famous singer, shamelessly flirts with her, and gives her a night in his bed that neither of them will soon forget.

When Taylor's record label hires a bodyguard to keep tabs on the out-of-control rocker, she's less than thrilled to find it's her off-the-charts one-night stand who shows up for the job. She's terrified of letting herself fall for the damaged ex-Army Ranger, and she's determined to push him away. Yet every moment they're together simmers with tension. As the danger from an obsessed stalker mounts, Taylor and Colt are tempted to cross that line again-baring their hearts and souls as well as their bodies-and there's no telling how hot this song will get.

"If you love tough guys with a side of sweet, strong heroines with a hint of wild, and suspense with a spark of humor, this is definitely the book for you! Tara Wyatt has created a swoonworthy bodyguard series with primal passion, unexpected twists, and surprising laughs!"--New York Times bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti

352 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Published May 31, 2016

21 people are currently reading
795 people want to read

About the author

Tara Wyatt

58 books664 followers
Tara Wyatt is a Canadian contemporary romance author. Known for her humor and steamy love scenes, Tara's writing has won several awards, including the Golden Quill Award and the Booksellers' Best Award. In addition, she was a 2018 RITA® Finalist for her novella, Until the Sun Sets.

When she's not hanging out with your next book boyfriend, she can be found reading, bingeing Netflix, or playing way too much Among Us. Tara lives in Hamilton, Ontario with the world's cutest dog, her daughter, and a husband who makes all her of her heroes look like chumps.

Sign up for her newsletter to get a FREE story here: www.tara-wyatt.com/newsletter

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
Profile Image for Julie.
583 reviews67 followers
May 3, 2016

description

Reading a book by a first time author is a bit of a crap-shoot. You are never really sure if their first book will be a hit or miss. Tara Wyatt's first book, Necessary Risk, was amazing. Then you're faced with another issue ... if the first time author's first book is great, then was it a fluke? Will all subsequent books be just as good? It's a difficult decision to make but not if you're reading Tara Wyatt. Once again, she put a spectacular book out there and it makes me wish for the 3rd in the series even more.

Yes, this is the second book in the series. But I don't think that you have to read them like that if you don't want to. They are pretty much stand-alone novels. I think that you should read the first one well, first, because you'll get some extra insight into the characters but also because I will freely judge you behind your back about missing out on such a great series beginner. But it's up to you. No pressure.

Primal Instinct is another one of those switching POV books but the awesome part is that the switch is so seamless between the male and female leads that it's absolutely incredible. I have no idea how Wyatt can write from a male perspective so well but never once did I get the feeling that there was any bleed over from Taylor into Colt. I know that some people don't like the switching POV but don't hesitate with this book ... it will make you love the whole concept and wish that more books had it. I just can't even explain the amount of depth that it adds to a character when you can get into their head. Especially with a male because honestly, I'm married to one and we're raising two of them and I have no clue as to what goes through their heads most of the time.

Before I picked Primal Instinct up, I was warned that it was a bit more explicit than Necessary Risk was. And boy, was it ever. But I think that it was necessary because that is how the main character, Taylor is. She's a no-holds barred, no apologies type of chick and that is just who she was. If the book wasn't as graphic, I don't think that it could have been about Taylor because that isn't her character at all. The book being more PG would have just ruined the plot line. That's the thing with Tara Wyatt's books ... if it's within those pages and put into the plot, it's because it needs to be there ... there isn't any fluff or wasted space; everything is necessary.

I'm pretty certain that Taylor and Colt are my absolutely favorite characters this year. And together ... perfection! They really couldn't be any more adorable. I'll just say this ... prank wars. Hands down, my favorite part of the book. Along with all of the other parts. I think my absolute favorite section is seeing how possessive Colt was. Not possessive in a creepy way ... I think on a scale of 1 to boiled rabbit, Colt rates about a 2 ... it's just very sweet how he watches over Taylor and it makes you love him even more. And Taylor. What a beautiful mess. It was fun getting to know her character this time since she was just briefly touched up on in the last book. And the villain ... I'll just say this ... Wyatt must have been channeling some pretty creepy shit when she created him.

Since I've been gushing over this book like a weirdo, I feel like I have to take a moment to mention the one very minute detail that kind of got under my skin. It's really nothing serious but I jotted it down when I was reading and since I'm always into a full disclosure, I might as well bring it up. And yes, this is reaching but again, it kinda irritated me ... there are some names that are similar ... three sets of two ... only one set so close that I thought I was reading about the same person at first because I blew through this book at a ridiculous rate. And it's not like in real life all of your friends will have names that start with different letters and no one's name sounds the same. Hell, I know four chicks named Michelle and two are close friends. Anyway, that's it. No biggie. Definitely nothing to keep you from reading this book.

So that's it. Another masterpiece by Tara Wyatt and I'm starting to learn that it shouldn't be a surprise. Most definitely a series that I'll read again and one I'll keep track of in the future. You should too because you just have to at least meet Taylor and Colt. Such an awesome couple.

* I received this novel in exchange for an honest review *

Check out more of my reviews at Little Miss Bookmark!
Profile Image for Mandi.
2,344 reviews733 followers
June 7, 2016
Book two in this bodyguard series, I didn't enjoy the suspense part as much but the romance worked well for me.

Taylor has had a hit record that made her a very big music star. But now she is in a rut - trying to find that creative juice to make another record under the pressure of a deadline. She also had a tiny incident on a plane, that involved joining the mile high club, getting caught, and having a complete meltdown, all caught on camera for all the public to see. Ooops. Her label isn't thrilled with this negative press and decides she needs a bodyguard to protect herself.

But - before she finds out she is getting a bodyguard, she meets one at a bar. His name is Colt and he is mega-sexy. They have a drink and they end up having a very sexy one night stand. Colt served his country in the middle east and has returned home and turned to private security. He used to work for a big security firm, but was fired after he didn't handle a fight well when he was working. He now does freelance work, and receives the call to be one of two men assigned to Taylor. He can't believe he was picked - as he was dying for a way to get back into contact with her after she left his bed.

Taylor can't believe the sexy Colt will be her new guard - or that she even needs a bodyguard. But - while the bodyguard was hired to make sure Taylor stays on the straight and narrow, Taylor has other problems as well. She has a stalker - a fan that has become obsessed with her. And on top of that, Taylor's dad belongs to a motorcycle gang that is mixed up with transporting drugs - and her father is in need of money, badly. Taylor is estranged from her father so when he comes demanding money - things don't go so well. It's probably best Colt was hired.

Taylor and Colt have a very steamy, sexy romance in this book. The author doesn't hold back when they get together for that one night stand. Colt falls hard and fast and while their romance progresses pretty straight forward, they have nice chemistry together. They like to joke around and pull pranks on one another. Pranks that become very elaborate and involved. They made me smile.

Tayor is best friends with the heroine from book one (the hero from book one is the person that fired Colt from the security firm). I enjoyed Taylor a lot. I'm usually not huge on famous people as the hero or heroine for some reason, but I think she is portrayed well. She takes the threats from her stalker seriously and has a really fun attitude when it comes to Colt and their relationship. Her and Colt both don't come from the best families so they have that in common as they move forward and fall in love. It's a pretty steamy book too.

What I felt was weak was the suspense. I think Frank (her father) was a threat and he came across more brutal and scary. But Taylor also has a stalker and it felt like an overkill for the poor girl. We have violent dad who is threatened and at the end of his rope and creepy stalker dude. I could have done without creepy stalker dude. He was too predictable.

This can be read as a stand alone but I did enjoy book one, Necessary Risk. I am looking forward to more in this series.

Grade: B-
Profile Image for Amanda Heger.
Author 6 books135 followers
November 26, 2015
Read an early version. Would give this six stars if I could.

A funny, sexy page turner that kept me up way past my bedtime.
Profile Image for 1-Click Addict Support Group.
3,749 reviews489 followers
May 31, 2016
When the highlights threaten to take over the whole book…I know the story was fan-freakin’-tastic!

From the first moment these two met, sparks and emotions and everything good ignited, starting a slow, fast burn… How can it be slow and fast at the same time? Well, time-wise things happen very quickly between Taylor Ross and Colt Priestley but it felt like a slow simmer. Like a speed ball gathering everything good about love in its wake—genuine caring, overwhelming lust, sizzling passion and balls-to-the-wall, pee-your-pants humor. Hey, don’t expect to throw out jello surprises and Prince Sparklepants without some rib-splitting and laugh out loud snorts happening!

Any thoughts of a prima donna rock-star are quickly laid to rest. Taylor is successful, famous and exceptionally talented. She is part of a loving group of friends. She is also drowning in loneliness, in being kicked in the teeth by those she loved just one too many times.

“She didn’t have the strength to keep doing it. To keep leaping off bridges only to find that the river below was frozen over, and when she fell, she ended up cold, broken and alone. Every. Damn. Time.”

Her heartache feels devastatingly real as she is pummeled by one hit after another. Her warmth and genuineness are only enhanced by a wicked sense of humor that is matched in Colt. They feel like two peas in a pod, though they couldn’t be more different. Colt is protective and loving and achingly vulnerable. His tattoos? Yah… there were Kleenex just for those…

The author invited me in with kick-ass characters to love and a story that me laugh, made me turn the fan up and smile, smile, smile… I want to start all over again and hug them close one more time while I wait impatiently for more. Please, please, I need more!

Love, lust and humor – the trifecta of a story that will stick with me. This is that story!

Psst: A few of those highlights…
“One night and he’d turned her into a fucking Hallmark cheeseball.”

“I don’t want to be able to walk tomorrow.”

“It might be a prank, but from over here, it looked a lot more like foreplay.”
~ Diane, 5 stars

~~~

What happens when a one-night stand turns into something neither one can forget? Especially now that they’re together almost every day and every night? Colt Priestley and Taylor Ross met in a bar, had a night of unforgettable passion, and Taylor left before Colt woke in the morning.

Colt, a personal security expert, is hired to keep tabs on a rock-star who’s seemingly out-of-control—one Taylor Ross. Terrified to allow herself to find love again, Taylor does everything she can to push Colt away, but every time they’re together, the sexual tension is palpable. And when Taylor’s threatened by an obsessed fan, Colt isn’t willing to let Taylor out of his sight—he’s betting his heart and soul on keeping Taylor safe. Now, she just needs to take the same leap of faith.

Oh, damn, my swooning, happy heart. I adored the story of Colt and Taylor. Their relationship was believable from their first interaction in the bar, which led to a scorching hot one-night stand. Add into it the reveal that Colt had been hired as one of Taylor’s bodyguards, Taylor’s attempts to see Colt as a professional only, not as a man she could fall in love with, then through to the end with Colt’s desperate need to keep Taylor out of the grasp of the crazy stalker, and I loved every minute on this wild ride.

I laughed, cringed, fanned myself, and clenched my thighs together a lot. A whole lot—and I wouldn’t have it any other way. ~ Missy, 5 stars
Profile Image for books are love.
3,144 reviews23 followers
May 31, 2016
Received in exchange for a honest review.

Holy batcave this was fastpaced and smoking. these two steam the kindle and it takes days to cool down. Taylor and Colt are awesome characters. I love how colt tries to protect her to the point of being a total and complete doof.

Neither character is perfect and I think this is what makes it better. they are flawed. Taylor her judgement is skewed and she has a broken heart. Her muse for music is missing and she is closing off her heart. She isn’t feeling passion anymore but is in pain. Colt has PTSD and survivor’s guilt. He makes mistakes but has an overwhelming need to protect. He has a pull towards Taylor and she calms him. the attraction is through the roof between them.

A one night stand that has Colt reeling and Taylor feeling again collides into their regular life when her record company asks for her to get protection. In comes Colt and sparks fly. These two are awesome together and apart but the prank war that begins when she signs him up as Prince sparklepants to try to get him to walk away was a hoot. He took it goodnaturedly and the pranks begin. In between this we see the real Colt and Taylor come out. We learn about them as they learn about each other. We see their vulnerabilities. See who they really are and watch the attraction grow. Suddenly Taylor is in danger from two fronts that actually in a way tie together. Watching as Colt and his partner protect her is addictive. To see him so serious and sexy while falling in love and protecting Taylor but also get to know her is wonderful. Watching him swallow his pride when things ratchet up and ask for help from someone that doesn’t trust him is so humbling to watch. But the decision to walk away so she can be safe is sad. So glad he came to his freaking senses before it was too late. Him protecting was first and foremost for him and it shows in his every action.

the story is fast paced, entertaining and sensual. We get characters who are pulled together at first by attraction and than by love and trust. Colt finds peace and strength with Taylor. He feels whole again and Taylor finds her heart and passion. They try to deny it but in the end they succumb. When danger comes stalking Taylor on two fronts-her dad and a stalker the story gets more intriguing. We see Colt’s protective nature come out. We see him in alpha mode to the hilt and what a sexy mode that is for him. We see Taylor put absolute trust and faith in Colt and him rise to the occasion. A story of becoming whole again and finding someone who understands you and loves you for who you are. A story of finding passion and love that helps heal and strengthens you. A wonderfully written action and emotion driven plot that keeps you in the story to the very end and how the two dangers connect is just incredibly well done.
Profile Image for Catherine (The Sassy Bookster).
719 reviews63 followers
June 1, 2016
4.5 Stars!

I enjoyed Necessary Risk and thought it was a great debut, but Ms. Wyatt does even better with Primal Instinct. She amps up the passion, suspense and humor in this second installment of the series and I just want to get my hands on the next right now! PS: this book should come with an NSFW label because of the heat factor.

Taylor Ross isn't having the best of times lately. Heartbroken from being dumped by the man she was falling for, her escapades have become tabloid fodder and in a last chance bid to keep her focused on her music, her record label hires her a bodyguard. Much to her dismay, her new bodyguard is the man she had just spent the previous night with, the man she ran away from after a night of pleasure and she's determined not to fall for him.

Colt Priestley is so much more than the screw-up we met in the previous book. After being fired from his previous job, he became a freelancer and while he knows that he shouldn't take the job as Taylor's bodyguard because his objectivity has been compromised, he can't let anyone else protect her. Which turns out to be a good decision because Taylor has got more problems than the delay with her upcoming album and there is no better person she needs in her corner than one who is as invested in her as Colt is.

Wow! There is so much to love here. Taylor and Colt actually have taken Sierra and Sean's spot in my heart, which is surprising because Colt wasn't such a stand-up guy previously. I love that they both enjoyed life with no holds barred and no apologies. Falling for each other is unexpected but the best thing to happen to them. Both have been lonely for some time and they fill the emptiness in each other's life completely, but they also enjoy each other's company outside the bedroom and the pranks they played on each other had me laughing so hard, but my favorite thing about them has to be that they had each other's backs completely and even when things weren't so good with them, Colt was still invested in Taylor's well-being.

Primal Instinct is a fun, sexy and suspenseful read that should make everyone's reading list this summer.


Disclaimer: I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.




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Profile Image for Danielle.
1,339 reviews50 followers
April 17, 2016
This is my first book by Wyatt and I'm happy to say it won't be last! It was sexy, funny and a page turner from the moment I started it. I didn't want to stop reading it and I was so glad I decided to read it on the weekend.

Since I didn't read the first book in the series I was very glad that I wasn't lost with the characters. I'm glad I met the characters in this book first though because it made sure to mark want to read for the first book especially if it's anything like this one.

Colt was fired for a mistake he made at the previous bodyguard service that he worked for. Now he's been doing independent contracts. Colt heads to the bar one night looking to get drunk, in a fight or loose himself in a one night stand but he never thought his one night stand would be with Taylor. Now that's he's had her he never wants to let her go but to convince Taylor well that's another story.

Taylor fell in love then basically made some really bad public decisions. Her new album is difficult to write and honestly it's not getting easier. After the night she spends with Colt she finds out her record label wants to hire her a bodyguard to help her get the job done so she has two choices.. Go along with the bodyguard thing or be dropped. When Taylor agrees and sees one of her bodyguards is in fact Colt she will do whatever it takes to stay away from him but in the end it might not be enough.

This story had some really funny parts. Colt and Taylor embark on this prank war and OMG it's flat out the funniest thing I have read in a long time. Wyatt used her imagination when coming up with these. I was honestly laughing so hard my stomach was hurting and tears were streaming down my cheeks. The only part I didn't like is when it stopped I mean I understand there relationship was growing but man did I miss those prank moments.

These two characters were great together and I really loved the spark they had. Colt comes off a little cocky but wow this man was sweet, hot, and the way he spoke yum! Taylor was not a diva thank god, but I love how she brought up her past and where she came from. Both these two characters didn't have the best of pasts so I really did love the bonding over those talks.

Sometimes suspense romances have either too much action/ suspense or not enough, with this story I felt it was just enough. It wasn't also back to back which was a strong point for me I loved the breathing room and the twist in the danger Wyatt included.

I can honestly say I highly recommend this book and I can't wait for more. This is definitely a series I want to explore more of not only for the characters but for the different storylines that are bound to come up in future books.
Profile Image for Riki.
574 reviews40 followers
May 25, 2016
Ladies and gentlemen, I have found a new favorite author! Seriously, when I first read the blurb for PRIMAL INSTINCT, I was pretty excited. Bodyguard romances are sort of my jam, and I was eager to find one to sweep me away. Well, let me tell you- this book did all of that and more! I loved every high-energy page!

I loved Taylor Ross as the heroine. She's spunky and sassy and is kind of a reformed bad girl, which totally worked in her favor. I loved seeing her inner struggle as she tries to make sense of her past and reconcile her actions with the myriad of stresses influencing her decisions. She's every bit the star, but she comes form some pretty rough roots, and isn't quite ready to place all of her heart in the trust of another man.

However, all bets are off when she has a one night stand with Colt Priestley.

Oh, Colt. How I adore thee! you guys, Colt is a MAN. Like, a dirty talking, completely in control alpha man. From the very opening scenes we meet him in, you know that this guy has it going on. But, he's also damaged by a very rough past. When he finally finds a reprieve form the nightmares that plague him in the arms of Taylor, he knows she's the only woman for him.

But it's not easy. There's a seriously creepy stalker situation going on (like- REALLY CREEPY. OMG- I'm still thinking about Ronnie. He's seriously nightmare-inducing.), and Taylor's father is a dangerous man set on undoing her. Colt has a checkered past and is plagued by nightmares. all signs point to trouble for this dynamic couple, and every scene is a powerhouse of action and momentum barreling to a crazy exciting finish.

I seriously stayed up WELL PAST MY BEDTIME so that I could devour this book in one sitting. It's so good. And after I finished, I quickly placed my order for her first book, NECESSARY RISK. Like I said, we are in new favorite author territory here. Loved it!
Profile Image for Heather Fleet.
Author 23 books429 followers
November 26, 2015
Holy crap, did I love this book. Alpha, protective hottie, a twisty turny plot, and some seriously fantastic sex. (like, toe curling.) You guys won't want to miss this book. Definitely a new favorite of mine.
Profile Image for ✰  BJ's Book Blog ✰Janeane ✰.
3,002 reviews12 followers
May 20, 2016
Copy received via Netgalley for an honest review

Female singer? Check
Stalker? Check?
Family issues? Check
Bodyguard? Check

Cue Whitney Houston singing I Will Always Love You as this book has the vibe of The Bodyguard!

Primal Instinct is a fun, suspenseful sexy read that I enjoyed from the first word to the last.

Taylor and Colt were just meant to be. From their steamy hot beginning to finding their way to a relationship, they kept you on your toes. The pranks, the heartfelt tales of their pasts, the smouldering looks across a crowded room...

Sigh.

I connected with Taylor quite easily, our lives are nothing alike but we have all been in that zone that she is currently in.

And Colt. Alpha. Bossy. Sexy as sin. Heart of gold. Who wouldn't want to ride that train?

The suspense is the kind where you know who the players are and where the story is going to end, but waiting for that axe to fall has you wondering right up until it all happens.

There are some great secondary characters (who are the main protagonists in the first book which I haven't read but will be!), and I hope we get more of these characters in future stories.

It is always hit and miss when you read a new-to-you author, but Tara Wyatt is one I will be keeping an eye out for more books in the future.



Smokin Hot Book Blog Email




Profile Image for Jo.
957 reviews239 followers
April 20, 2017
He wanted to keep her. He knew he couldn’t, but he wanted to.

What a wonderful book this was!

She liked how she felt around him, both in the wanting to “shove him onto a bed and have her way with him” way, and the…other way. The “can’t stop writing songs about him” way.

Taylor Ross is my kind of heroine. She’s tough but also so vulnerable. She’s never been loved or appreciated for herself and she was so heartbroken after being rejected by Zack who she took a risk on, and instead got burned. She’s struggling to write songs for her new album that was supposed to have already been written but nothing she does makes the words come. After one very hot night with a stranger named Colt, who made her feel things she refused to feel again, she bolted from his bed determined to never see him again.

Something about her called to him, not as the man he was, but the man he wanted to be.
The man he hoped he could be.

But fate and Colt Priestley has different plans when he’s assigned by her record label to offer protection as her new security team seeing as she has a knack for getting into trouble. I loved Colt, who is and ex-Army Ranger, and how determined he was to pursue Taylor, to not allow her to run away from him again. How despite his own demons he was intent on breaking down the wall Taylor built around herself, on being the man he thought she deserved.

He traced his knuckles over her cheek. “I think I’m addicted to you.”

The romance was wonderful. I loved the pranks they pulled on each other, and how no matter how hard Taylor tried to push Colt away, he never gave in. Their intense chemistry was excellent and the sexy times scorching.

The plot was very suspenseful with Taylor being targeted from two sides and I must say her stalker was super creepy. This was an excellent RS with exciting action and great romance. A must read for all RS fans.

Profile Image for Booked & Busy Book Blog.
927 reviews33 followers
October 13, 2016
Colt Priestley is a dirty talking alpha man who has had a rough past. He is working independent contracts being he was fired from the bodyguard service he worked for. He heads to the bar one night to just forget himself in a one night stand. Little did he know that one night stand would be with Taylor. Instantly, he realizes there is some sort of connection and this will not be the first or last time he sleeps with her.

Taylor Ross is a reformed bad girl with a sassy attitude which works well for her. Taylor is currently trying to write a new album which is just not working out for her very well. While trying to come up with lyrics at a bar, she meets Colt and decides a one night stand may help her writers block. Just like Colt, she too has issues in her past that influence all of her decisions. She is not quite ready for a man like Colt but is going to be spending a lot of time with him as her was just hired to be her new bodyguard.

Between the creepy stalker, Taylor’s dangerous father, Colt’s past and nightmares, this is going to be one bumpy ride.

The prank war! The greatest part of the book!! I know Taylor and Colt’s relationship changed over the course of the book but the pranks should have continued!

Taylor and Colt really worked as a couple. Taylor was down to earth and Colt was just a little cocky but they really meshed well together. Their pasts really played into their relationship as they had an understanding for each other. And the sex….WOW!

Primal Instinct was a page turner and I enjoyed this story and finished this book in one sitting. It is not necessary to read book #1 in the series to understand what is going on with this couple. However, I will be checking out Necessary Risk, the first book in this series. I have definitely found a new author in Tara Wyatt!
Profile Image for Jennifer.
912 reviews23 followers
May 31, 2016
When bodyguard Colt Priestly's memorable and scorching one night stand turns out to be his next assignment sparks fly as emotional walls get torn down and a life times worth of baggage starts to get flung around. Rock sensation Taylor Ross digs in and battles her hearts urges when she meets the man who represents all that she could ask for in the perfect mate. As these characters overcame past labels to show their true selves accompanied by a great suspense subplot this story flew by. With no shortage of hot and sexy Ms. Wyatt has a knack for pulse racing romance. Capable writing and superior character depictions will be sure to increase Tara Wyatt's fan following with Primal Instinct book two in her Bodyguard series.
*I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.*
*While part of a series this book can be read as a stand alone.*
Profile Image for Marty Mayberry.
Author 27 books191 followers
May 5, 2016
Holy crap! This was such a fun read! The pranks. Colt and his bossy ways. And Taylor, a sympathetic main character I bonded to almost immediately.

Colt, a steamy, sexy, alpha bodyguard has a one night stand with Taylor, a singer who's struggling to move on after the breakup of a serious relationship as well as put out a new album. When Colt is hired to protect her, sparks fly. Taylor picks up a stalker, and they fall for each other while Colt protects her.

The story had just the right balance of suspense and romance, and is a definite page-turner.

This author is a new favorite of mine. I can't wait for the third book in the series .

An ARC was provided to me by Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Diana.
598 reviews15 followers
October 8, 2016
Loved it! I think I enjoyed it even more than Necessary Risk. The characters had a bit more depth and the romance was even more hot and steamy. Tara Wyatt is definitely one to watch!
Profile Image for Adria's Musings.
843 reviews41 followers
June 18, 2016
Originally posted on Adria's Romance Reviews

* A copy of this book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purpose of an honest review.

Well hello sexy bodyguard romance!! Okay so basically after ex-Army Ranger and current bodyguard for hire Colt Priestley sees wild child musician Taylor Ross in a bar the two flirt, then get hot and heavy for one night because you know, neither one is in a position to offer more. Then Taylor’s record label hires a bodyguard to keep her in line and guess what? It’s Colt. Taylor tries to push him away but Colt is determined to explore the connection they have and the tension builds between them even as a stalker gets more and more desperate to get close to Taylor.



Colt was a disgraced bodyguard. Right from the beginning author Tara Wyatt made it very clear that he screwed up in the previous book and had to pay the price. It weighed heavily on his mind and I liked that he really regretted the choices he made that lead up to his dismissal from the security firm he worked at. In a way Primal Instinct was Colt’s second chance story in terms of his professional life and I liked that he suffered from the occasional bout of uncertainty about whether or not he’d be able to protect Taylor. It made Colt way more likable than if he had been this hotshot cocky guy who thought he never made mistakes. His vulnerability when it came to this really made me see him like Taylor did, just a man trying to make up for his mistakes in the best way he knew how.

Okay I really liked that Taylor was the out of control celebrity instead of Colt. It changed the dynamic between the two and gave a whole new perspective to the “Celebrity/Non-Celebrity Romance” theme. Colt called the shots in private and when it came to her security but Taylor was definitely the star of the relationship and it really takes a tough heroine to be able to be both celebrity and woman in love. I liked that she didn’t automatically hide behind Colt when things got tough. She did her best to fight alongside Colt instead of expecting him to do all the heavy lifting when circumstances got dangerous so to speak. One thing I didn’t like about Taylor is that towards the end she did some dumb sh*t that almost got her killed, TWICE. A third time would have landed her in the TSTL camp but thankfully she didn’t get a third chance to be that dumb again. Other than those moments where I questioned her lack of common sense, she was a pretty neat character.

But can I just say that along with the scorching hot chemistry between Colt and Taylor, there was a lot of laughter in the form of pranks? I don’t want to give away too much but these two had a bit of a prank war going on that led to some ugly snorting laughter from me in the most awkward places (Doctor’s office, Pharmacy, Bus station)! To me it was in those moments where they were playing pranks on each other that their guards went down enough for them to have some real heart to heart moments before they remembered that they weren’t the long term kind.

I missed the first book in the series but the couple from that one, Sean and Sierra do a good job of providing a more realistic past for both Colt and Taylor while not stealing the spotlight. I also have a curiosity about Colt’s friend Roman who seems to have a real love for the ladies. Plus, he’s funny in a sarcastic way, I love a sarcastic character.

My biggest complaint about Primal Instinct was that the villain’s identity was revealed early on! I would have LOVED for that to be kept a secret to increase the suspense and mystery because it just makes things so much better but even with me knowing who the baddies were, I still got hooked on this new-to-me author’s writing style. Tara Wyatt totally understood that a good romantic suspense just cannot be slow paced, nor should it have too much unnecessary dialogue or scenes. This book moved quickly from one scene to the next all while making it easy to keep up.

Final Verdict: Sexy, fast paced, and definitely funny, Primal Instinct introduced me to a good time and had me adding Tara Wyatt to my “Future Reads” list.
Profile Image for Misty (Reds Romance Reviews).
3,373 reviews6 followers
May 27, 2016
Taylor Ross knows she's on a mission that isn't going to end well, but after having her heartbroken, and a lingering past that always finds a way to haunt her she can't help but to fall into the bottle and let it take over. It numbs the pain and helps her forget for just a little while, but it also causes her to make very poor choices, choices that now have her record label worried and ready to intervene. They are demanding she have a bodyguard to help keep her out of trouble, and help her get her life back on the straight and narrow, which doesn't sit well with her at all, she doesn't need a damn babysitter, but at this point what she wants is no longer an option, so she accepts defeat... and gets the surprise of her life. Never in a million years did she expect to see him again, after one of exquisite pleasure she walked away, full well knowing if she stayed it would only mean trouble for her already broken heart. But here he is standing in front of her, ready to be her bodyguard...

When Ex-Army Ranger Colt Priestley witnesses famous songstress Taylor Ross being harassed in a bar and in dire need of saving he decides to roll the dice and step in and be her hero in hopes of it earning her attention and maybe more... and boy did it! The minute he gets close to her the sparks start to fly, and they share a intense chemistry that neither can deny, which quickly turns into one of the hottest nights Colt has ever had. Just when he thinks their onto to something good, something that could potentially last more than one night, he wakes up alone, she's slipped out without so much as an goodbye and he is certain he'll never see her again. But that's all about to change... she is in need of a bodyguard, and her record label is certain he is the perfect man for the job. Now he just has to make the most of his second chance with her...and hope it's enough to convince her to stick around this time!

The minute I saw the cover for this read I was intrigued, then I read the synopsis, and instantly decided I was totally in, I mean what's not to love about a sexy ex-Army Ranger turned bodyguard on a mission to protect the woman he loves!! The second Colt appeared on the page I knew it was just a matter of time before he had me at his mercy... and true to my thought the minute he let loose with a few his purely sinful sexy one-liners he had me weak in the knees... and dying for more!! I was instantly sold on his confident swagger, caring nature, and unwavering devotion to provide complete satisfaction...dare I say he was the perfect alpha!! He will DEFINITELY be joining my elite list of favorites!! This is by far one of the most impressive first reads I have had in a very long time, the story line had the perfect blend of steamy romance, playful banter and thrilling suspense that held my attention captive right up until the last page was turned!! Ms. Wyatt completely won me over with this one, and turned me into a lifelong fan, I wholeheartedly look forward to diving into more of her stories in the very near future!!

ARC provided by Forever Publishing in exchange for a honest and unbiased review.
Profile Image for Reads & Reviews.
683 reviews15 followers
June 3, 2016
Primal Instinct, the latest from Tara Wyatt’s Bodyguard series, is bursting with rich characterizations, suspense, action, and steamy romance. There’s a lot to like about this book.

The characters are fantastic. Wyatt gives them such depth that the reader can’t help but experience their growth with them. Both Taylor Ross, the (slightly) out of control rock star, and Colt Priestly, the damaged war veteran, suffered through traumatic childhoods that have shaped their adult lives. Taylor grew up with an abusive, emotionally absent father that left her feeling as though she would never be good enough. When her declaration of love is rejected by her latest boyfriend, those feelings from childhood are confirmed and she sets off on a voyage of drinking heavily and one-night stands. Colt uses alcohol and sex to forget his experiences in the “sandbox”. His desire to protect, whether it’s his little sister or the people who hire him as a bodyguard, is almost obsessive, failure to do so enough to send him spiraling into an abyss of failure. No surprise that the book opens with these two on a collision course when Colt steps in to protect Taylor from an overzealous fan and sparks fly. The night ends with them in bed, both knowing that something special had occurred, but unwilling to see it as anything more than one night of passion. That mindset is put to a test when Colt is hired to be Taylor’s bodyguard/babysitter by her record label.

Like recognizes like. So often in books the main characters are opposites. Opposites attract and all that. But Colt and Taylor are alike, and quite honestly, that works in their favor. Yes, both bring different things to the table, but neither thinks they’re good enough and Wyatt’s storytelling is fantastic as they begin to see themselves as they truly are reflected in the other’s eyes.

The suspense/thriller storyline is intense as two dangerous men put Taylor’s life in jeopardy. I was surprised to find that Wyatt, who uses the 3rd person POV in Primal Instinct, chose to go with four different perspectives. In addition to Taylor and Colt, the story is told from the two villains’ point of view. There’s no surprise as to who they are, but it doesn’t lessen the intensity as these two evil men work to get from Taylor what they want. The level of depravity of both Ronnie and Frank leaves the reader with chills, especially Ronnie, who has all the characteristics of an obsessive stalker that we’ve come to know and love.

If I had one complaint, okay two, it’s this: the story drags somewhat in the middle and (don’t be a hater) there’s just a little too much sex. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good, intense love scene as much as the next girl, but there comes a point where things just need to go behind closed doors for me.

I received a copy of Primal Instinct from NetGalley & Forever Publishing in exchange for honest feedback.

4 Stars for Primal Instinct. Heat level: 4
Profile Image for Mary Forster.
726 reviews16 followers
June 1, 2016
I haven't read the first book in this series but I don't think you need to as this book was it's own story.

The author did a great job on keeping you hooked from the beginning and sticking to the plot. So much happens in this story that you just don't want to stop reading.

Taylor Ross knows what it's like to be famous as she has been a singer for years but now after 10 years she can't seem to find the words to new songs. She's tried everything that she can to come up with new music with her broken heart and other things, she still doesn't have any luck. When she meets a man at a bar after he rescues her from a creepy man, she decides that she will do something she hasn't done in a long time - a one night stand with Colt. When she leaves during the night and goes home the next day she has words forming in her for a new song - she realizes why and who is the cause of it. She never expects to see Colt again but when her record label hires bodyguards to babysit her, she sees the man she never thought she'd see again, Colt. Now her world changes.

Colt can't get over what he did to his former boss and best friend. It has cost him his job and now he does freelance on bodyguards. He decides to go to a bar and find a woman he can take home, and boy does he feel like he did good when he gets Taylor to come home with him. However, after spending the night with her, he knows that it was meant for more than just one night. He doesn't ever expect to see her again until a job comes up and he doesn't think twice about it. He will be a bodyguard for Taylor. He will stop at nothing to make sure he protects her and show her that he is serious when it comes to her.

The characters come together in a way that may seem takes forever but I think it's building up to their relationship. I love how you can feel the chemistry between the two and when things start getting serious - watch the sparks fly. The characters stick together through the ups and downs and if they are not together, they find a way back to each other.

Great job to the author, I highly recommend.

Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha
Profile Image for Judy.
1,780 reviews
May 29, 2016
This is book 2 in the Bodyguard series and if you haven't read Necessary Risk (book 1), you should go read it! It was amazing, as is this book! Tara Wyatt has quickly become one of my "go to" authors!!

Taylor Ross is a singer/songwriter and has hit a dry spell as far as writing. It could be because she broke up and had her heart crushed by her former bodyguard, Zack, that she fell head over heels in love with. She was on a plane and after just meeting a guy at the airport, she joins the mile high club with him!! The stewardess called her all sorts of names when she exited the bathroom. Of course, she got escorted off the plane and also, of course, someone videoed it! UGH!

She's hanging out at "The Rainbow", her favorite LA spot when a fan approaches and ask for a picture. She obliges, even though he creeps her out. He getting forceful with her when someone approaches and asks "what's going on". Thank goodness! Of course, he's smoking hot! They talk and then wind up sleeping together.

Colt got fired from his security job and now is an independent bodyguard. He rescues Taylor and they share a night together. He could get used to having her in his bed all the time.

Taylor's record company hires a bodyguard to make sure she behaves herself and no more incidents like the airplane happen. It's either accept a bodyguard or her label will drop her. Of course, she chooses the bodyguard. Just her luck who the bodyguard is.....her one-night stand..Colt!!

I loved everything about this book! Loved the joking between Colt and Taylor!! This was a hot book, with lots of twists and turns!! I look forward to reading the next book in this series!

Copy received in exchange for an honest review.

Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha
Profile Image for PepperP0t .
5,108 reviews86 followers
May 7, 2016
***A complimentary copy of this read was furnished by NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review***

Colt Priestly wasn't on the job when he decided to rescue a damsel in distress. In fact he hasn't been able to work the job he wanted since being released from Virtus, California's top security firm over a misunderstanding. It was a bonus that the damsel was the gorgeous and outrageous Taylor Ross. It was a bigger bonus that she soothed him though she made him break his cardinal rule.

A broken heart set off a chain reaction in singer-songwriter Taylor's life. Not only did she lose the man of dreams she didn't even know she had, the worst humiliation of her dwindling career is captured and released on the internet and the lyrics won't come to her for a great song or even a mediocre one. Taylor can't drink enough to numb the pain and a crazed stalker fan tries to kidnap her from a bar.

In the sophomore effort of the series both leads step up from their supporting roles of the previous outing. Taylor's best friend, Sierra Blake is still seeing bodyguard Sean Owens, the owner of Virtus, Colt's ex-boss and enemy. What Taylor wants most is what they have. What Colt wants most is to get his job back and more time with Taylor. Color him surprised when opportunity knocks.

Satisfaction in this installment was fleeting for my taste due to the glaring similarities with its predecessor. Colt and Taylor were good together and sex scenes were really good, but I wasn't particularly taken with either character. The suspense piece was fairly good as was the romance but would have been more successful with characters this reader connected with better.
Rating: 3.75stars
Profile Image for Debby (Alwaysbooking).
714 reviews
May 21, 2016
See more reviews at alwaysbooking.wordpress.com

This is my first Tara Wyatt book and I was so pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed it! If you love romance books full of angst, mystery, steam, and swoon-worthy moments than this one is definitely for you! When I mention steam, I mean this is definitively a steamy book so you are forewarned right now… it in no way is over done of detracts from the story. Ok where to begin……….This book follows two main characters Colt and Taylor. Primal Instinct goes from both of their POV’s and it is done really well. Tara Wyatt seemed to have both characters down pat in her head and you can tell that while you are reading.

Taylor is a world famous singer and a bad ass. She has had a few bumps in the road that lead to a very public scene. Now due to that “scene” her label is angry with her considering dropping her. On top of all of that she has writers block. The label has demanded that she have a body guard with her at all times to keep her out of trouble. She is unbelievably pissed about having a body guard, then when she finally meets the body guard she realizes its the one guy who can break her heart. I really enjoyed Taylor’s no holds barred character. Obviously she’s flawed as we all are… she feels like she’s never good enough due to her parents lack of stability. Taylor is a very forward character she sees something she wants and goes for it. She tries to ignore her feelings for Colt… I like how they build a shaky friendship first. However when she decides to go for it, she really goes for it
Profile Image for Deanna.
533 reviews34 followers
May 31, 2016
*ARC provided by Publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review*

So, you guys may not know this, but I love and crave a good Bodyguard romance. Like one-thousand percent love and crave them. And when I find a good one? I devour every single word of it and then search out more by that author… such is the case with Primal Instinct, book two in Tara Wyatt’s Bodyguard series with Grand Central Publishing’s Forever imprint. I missed the release of the first book, but I can promise you, I will be rectifying that shortly because this book? This book I loved!

Taylor Ross is a fantastic heroine. A little down on her music and career luck sure, but she’s tough and spunky and has a great sense of humor. And Colt? Man, I loved him. Strong, proud, brave, and fully capable of giving Taylor Ross and all that comes with her a run for her money. Love, love, loved them!

And the suspense in this one? Excellent, with a side of creepy, crazy stalker and a dangerous, devious dad for the win. Also, the balance of suspense and romance in this one is spot on. Like seriously spot on. In fact, I loved every single minute of this book!

If you’re looking for a great romantic suspense with amazing characters in a fast-paced, well-plotted story, pick up a copy of Primal Instinct by Tara Wyatt. It’s entertaining, hot, and totally addictive.

I loved it!
Profile Image for Ann Lorz.
1,704 reviews22 followers
May 31, 2016
I was both excited and nervous about reading Primal Instinct. I love trying new authors but I really hate read a series out of order. I've gotten better about it but I'm still not comfortable with it. In fact...I will let you in on a deep, dark secret of mine. Even if I love the series I won't go back and read the prior books.

I just can't do it.

Oh well, enough about that. Now on to Primal Instinct. Tara Wyatt is a new author to me, one that I really like. I found Primal Instinct to be funny, well-written, with some really great characters.

I really liked Colt. He's a really great sexy guy that I wouldn't mind watching over me. I also enjoyed Taylor, but not as much. I'm think that's because I'm not really a huge fan of hero or heroins in the music world.

It's just doesn't do it for me. Not a huge fan of actors either.

You'll really love how fast the story moves. That's in part to the good writing. You'll be afraid to put it down for fear you'll miss something. I felt like I was watching a action movie, only in print. I will for sure be reading the next book in the series.

Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog:
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ARC received for a honest review
Profile Image for Kristen Johnson.
1,172 reviews48 followers
June 2, 2016
When Colt and Taylor hook up for a one night stand, neither would have guessed what would happen between them.

Taylor is hurting, still getting over heartbreak and upset with the direction her life's been going in, so to say she's upset to be saddled with what she thinks are unnecessary bodyguards is putting it mildly. , when she finds that one of those bodyguards is the man she spent a wonderful night with, things get a little more than complicated.

What Taylor and Colt quickly realize is that she's got a much larger need for bodyguards than they had assumed, two dangerous reasons for protection.

Between their feelings, battling past demons and the dangers lurking, Colt and Taylor have a lot going on, but they still find themselves falling hard and fast.

Primal Instinct will take you on a twisty adventure, one with risks, and steamy moments, a heathy touch of fear and an even larger dose of emotions leading to two people figuring out their own worth.
Profile Image for Donna.
4,086 reviews57 followers
May 29, 2016
Fun rocker/bodyguard romantic suspense. Taylor Ross is a rocker on a downward spiral. A broken heart leads to some bad choices. When the record label hires a bodyguard to keep tabs on the out-of-control rocker, she's less than thrilled to find it's her off-the-charts one-night stand who shows up for the job. Colt Priestley has issues. He has survivors guilt and PTSD. He is a born protector and when the chance comes for him to guard the one night stand he can’t forget well he is on it. The heat between Taylor and Colt is off the charts. If folks would stop trying to kidnap/kill her they might have a chance. There is very little new in this story but it is put together so well and the characters are so relatable that you can’t help but turn the page. I look forward to the next installment in this series.
Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review.
Profile Image for Caro.
1,776 reviews42 followers
July 4, 2016
I'm gonna go with 3 1/2 stars. This was written really well and the story flowed seamlessly from one page to the next. The characters were great and varied with plenty of facets and kept me interested. There's aggravation, plenty of steaminess, sorrow, happiness, suspense, and a good HEA. I enjoyed reading this book but thought it should've had more meat to it and little less...ahem... This is great for reading anytime, passing time, lazy-day read, or just to escape. This was a Goodreads Giveaway and I was super excited to get it in the mail! A really good read and it did have me wanting to read more in the series and get to know the other characters better. Enjoy!
177 reviews4 followers
June 1, 2016
What a great book, exciting, sexy, funny, sassy page-tuner. I didn’t read the first book in this series but didn’t find I was lost reading this 2nd book. Ms. Wyatt wrote a wonderful book and will be adding her to my TBR list.

Colt is a bodyguard who had a one night stand with Taylor, but when he is hired to be her bodyguard electricity sparks between the two.

Taylor is a rock star struggling with her career, but when Colt becomes her bodyguard she trys to keep her hands off but that doesn’t seem to be working with these two and the pull is great.
Profile Image for Heather andrews.
9,520 reviews160 followers
April 11, 2016
Colt could be a real sweet guy, “until we figure out what’s going on, I don’t want you out of my sight.” He held her away from him and met her eyes. “And once we figure it out, I still won’t want you out of my sight.” I loved Colt he was a great guy, strong, caring, sexy, alpha, bossy he had it all. I enjoyed this book.
Profile Image for Tami .
1,123 reviews33 followers
July 26, 2017
This review is based on an ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.

4.5

Holy hot sex batman!! This story was awesome, full of bad guys and dangerous stalkers, f'd up childhoods and PTSD. My best wishes go to the author, she has a bright future ahead of her.
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