Joy Danvers' Protecting Paul is a contemporary romance novel that deftly combines themes of love, redemption, and personal growth. The narrative centers around Paul, a man returning to his hometown of Shafter Falls to settle his father's estate, and Sam, an ex-military deputy sheriff who once shared a poignant moment with Paul during their high school years. This book is a compelling exploration of how past traumas and unresolved feelings can shape our present and future.

The novel opens with Paul reluctantly returning to Shafter Falls, a place that holds painful memories of bullying and rejection due to his sexuality. The town, with its small-mindedness and intolerance, is almost a character in itself, representing the societal challenges that many LGBTQ+ individuals face. Danvers does an excellent job of setting the scene, making the reader feel the weight of Paul's apprehension and the ghosts of his past that linger in every corner of the town.

Sam, on the other hand, is portrayed as the quintessential romantic hero—strong, protective, and deeply caring. His transformation from a high school heartthrob to a responsible deputy sheriff is believable and well-crafted. The chemistry between Sam and Paul is palpable from their first encounter, and Danvers skillfully builds on their shared history to create a tension that is both electric and tender. The fact that Sam is eager to protect Paul from the threats posed by his violent uncle adds a layer of suspense to the narrative, keeping readers engaged and rooting for their reunion.

Character development is one of the novel's strongest suits. Paul is a complex character, shaped by his experiences of bullying and rejection. His journey is not just about finding love but also about reclaiming his sense of self-worth and confronting the demons of his past. Danvers portrays his internal struggles with sensitivity and depth, making his eventual growth and acceptance all the more satisfying. Sam's character, while more straightforward, is equally compelling. His protective instincts and unwavering support for Paul highlight the novel's theme of love as a healing force.

Danvers' writing style is engaging and accessible, with a good balance of dialogue and narrative description. The pacing is well-maintained, with enough twists and turns to keep the reader invested in the outcome. The romantic scenes are tastefully done, with just the right amount of heat to satisfy fans of the genre without overshadowing the story's emotional core.

Protecting Paul also touches on broader themes of forgiveness and redemption. Paul's return to Shafter Falls forces him to confront not only his uncle but also the townspeople who stood by during his suffering. Through his interactions with Sam and other characters, Paul learns to forgive and let go of the past, paving the way for personal growth and a brighter future. This theme of redemption is mirrored in Sam's character, who finds a sense of purpose and fulfillment in protecting and loving Paul.

In comparison to other works in the romance genre, Protecting Paul stands out for its nuanced portrayal of LGBTQ+ issues and its focus on character development. While it shares similarities with other small-town romances, such as the works of Nora Roberts or Kristan Higgins, Danvers' novel offers a fresh perspective by centering on a same-sex relationship and the unique challenges that come with it. This makes the book not only a compelling romance but also an important contribution to the genre, offering representation and visibility to LGBTQ+ readers.

Overall, Protecting Paul is a heartfelt and engaging read that will appeal to fans of contemporary romance and those looking for stories with depth and emotional resonance. Joy Danvers has crafted a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the reader's mind long after the last page is turned. Whether you're a longtime fan of romance novels or new to the genre, this book is sure to captivate and inspire.