The Bodyguard
By Christy Tillery French

    The dearest wish of Natasha Chamberlain, office manager for Investigative Services, Inc. is to become an investigator with the firm. When Scott Thomas, managing partner, introduces her to Roger Valentine, who needs a partner for a testimonial banquet, she agrees to act as his "girl friend" in return for a chance to become one of the firm's investigators. Valentine is a computer genius and a multimillionaire who has completely withdrawn from life, living only for his computer. He is receiving threatening letters and retains the firm to supply him with a bodyguard.

       Jonce Striker, the founder of the firm, suggests Natasha as his bodyguard together with two Samoans, Pat and Bigan. Natasha undergoes a transformation, leaving her demure office personality for her real free spirit. In her capacity as a bodyguard, she is overzealous and several times causes the extortionist to escape. Through the force of her personality she has Roger change his ways and become humanized. When an attempt is made to shoot Roger Striker, she becomes convinced that the situation is more serious than originally thought.

      Opening the cover of a new Christy French book is always an adventure. I can never be sure what to expect. Her fourth book, The Bodyguard, is a departure from her previous genres. Natasha is a delightful woman, full of unexpected actions with a firm belief in herself and those about her. Roger’s transformation from nerd to normal human being is due to her ability to bond with people. The dialogue is witty and spicy. The story moves along at a rapid pace, with the action usually unexpected and at times hilarious, especially Natasha's mother’s metamorphosis.

    This is an enjoyable, quick read to lighten the spirit after the stresses of the day.