Fated Mates - S07.47: Bodyguards
Release Date: August 12, 2025
Introduction to the Bodyguard Trope
In this episode of Fated Mates - Romance Books for Novel People, co-hosts Sarah MacLean and Jennifer Prokop delve deep into the bodyguard trope within romance novels. They explore how this popular trope intertwines with themes of protection, power dynamics, and emotional growth, while also examining its evolution and variations in contemporary literature.
I. The Bodyguard Movie Discussion
The episode kicks off with Sarah and Jen reminiscing about the iconic 1986 film "The Bodyguard", starring Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner.
- Sarah MacLean [00:00]: "I read this thing yesterday about Whitney Houston, Kevin Costner, and how Kevin Costner was so obsessed with her..."
- Jen Prokop [00:16]: "If Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner got together, Kevin Costner would be marrying up, let's just say, by like, a million."
They discuss the movie's impact on the bodyguard romance trope, highlighting memorable moments and the enduring legacy of Houston's performance.
- Sarah MacLean [02:00]: "I have been Googling while you have been talking, and it is the number one most memorable music moment in NFL history..."
Jen adds insights from a New Yorker article about Whitney Houston's rendition of the "Star Spangled Banner," emphasizing her musical prowess and the song's national significance.
- Jen Prokop [02:40]: "She was just a musical tour de force. Her musical knowledge was so just, like, above and beyond what Normie's can even understand."
II. Bodyguard Trope Analysis: Power Dynamics and Emotional Growth
Transitioning from the movie, Sarah and Jen analyze the core elements that make the bodyguard trope resonate with readers.
- Sarah MacLean [08:27]: "The Reality is, this book, this film does not, is not a romance. No, it is a love story."
They discuss the inherent power imbalance in bodyguard romances, where one character is tasked with protecting the other, often leading to deep emotional connections.
- Jen Prokop [20:05]: "There's such a power imbalance. And I was like, yeah, that's what makes it great."
Sarah counters by emphasizing the strength and competence of bodyguard characters that balance the dynamic.
- Sarah MacLean [21:14]: "He is so powerful, like, physically. His strength and cunning and insight can really even out the power balance."
III. Book Recommendations and Reviews
A. Wyoming Bodyguard by Danielle Haas
Jen introduces "Wyoming Bodyguard", a Harlequin Romantique novel that exemplifies the bodyguard trope in a contemporary setting.
- Jen Prokop [36:07]: "This is a very great bodyguard romance. It just really hit all the beats."
Sarah praises the book for its perfect plotting and charismatic characters, highlighting the chemistry between the protagonists and the seamless integration of suspense elements.
- Sarah MacLean [39:53]: "What I liked about it is Lily asking if his business was kind of floundering and her saying maybe you can investigate too..."
B. Protecting Piper by Cynthia Eden
Sarah highlights Cynthia Eden's "Wild Ways" series, specifically the first book, "Protecting Piper", which is available for free.
- Sarah MacLean [41:16]: "Protecting Piper is free always. You can go get it free and learn about Eric and Piper."
She appreciates the tight romantic suspense and the dynamic character development that keeps readers engaged.
C. Bodyguard Next Door
Jen discusses another recommended title, "Bodyguard Next Door", emphasizing its structured plot and engaging romance between an art forger and her bodyguard.
- Jen Prokop [50:22]: "This book was really, like, something really interesting because then it turns out that she is being threatened..."
D. Additional Recommendations
The hosts also recommend other notable books such as "Tough Luck" by Annabeth Alpert, "Billionaires Bodyguard" by Emma Holly, and "Ace of Hearts" by Renee Rose, each bringing unique twists to the bodyguard romance trope.
- Sarah MacLean [83:30]: "She and Damien... they're just hot together. I have read this book multiple times, and I have a great time every time."
IV. Advanced Trope Discussions: Stalker vs. Bodyguard, Bad Intentions in Bodyguards
Sarah and Jen venture into more nuanced discussions about the bodyguard trope, addressing potential pitfalls such as the overlap with stalker romances and scenarios where the bodyguard harbors bad intentions.
- Sarah MacLean [25:56]: "We have seen over the last couple of years this kind of rise in stalker romances..."
- Jen Prokop [27:29]: "Burn Dreams by Neva Altage... Alessandro is a working for the mob... he ends up falling in love while seeking revenge."
They explore how some modern romances blur the lines between protection and obsession, and the importance of maintaining consensual and respectful relationships within the trope.
V. Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Wrapping up the episode, Sarah and Jen reiterate the enduring appeal of the bodyguard trope in romance literature, celebrating its ability to blend action, danger, and deep emotional connections. They encourage listeners to explore the recommended books and join their Discord community for further discussions.
- Sarah MacLean [89:56]: "If you have Twitter, stop. Get off Twitter. Save yourself."
They also tease upcoming content and sponsor mentions, inviting listeners to stay tuned for Season Eight.
- Sarah MacLean [90:21]: "We're coming up with season eight Wild Wild. We love you all."
Notable Quotes:
- Sarah MacLean [00:16]: "If Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner got together, Kevin Costner would be marrying up, let's just say, by like, a million."
- Jen Prokop [20:05]: "There's such a power imbalance. And I was like, yeah, that's what makes it great."
- Sarah MacLean [21:14]: "He is so powerful, like, physically. His strength and cunning and insight can really even out the power balance."
- Jen Prokop [50:22]: "This book was really, like, something really interesting because then it turns out that she is being threatened..."
- Sarah MacLean [83:30]: "She and Damien... they're just hot together. I have read this book multiple times, and I have a great time every time."
Connect with Fated Mates:
- Website: fatedmates.net
- Patreon: Access to Discord and exclusive episodes
- Meetups: Upcoming event on August 26th at a romance bookstore in Sydney
Whether you're a long-time fan of the bodyguard trope or new to this dynamic, this episode of Fated Mates offers insightful discussions, heartfelt recommendations, and engaging analyses that celebrate the romance genre's ability to captivate and inspire.