Daddy Romance Review: Matthias’s Protective Embrace
My Rating: 4 of 5 stars | Goodreads | Amazon | Bookbub | Genres: daddy romance, age gap romance, romance series
First Impressions
At first glance, Mathias’s Protective Embrace sets itself up like it’s going to be heavy on the spice: a down-on-his-luck construction worker working in the backyard, a protective older man with real daddy energy. Plenty of opportunities for heat. But instead of leaning into those easily accessible tropes, this story is more. It’s tender, gentle, and deeply cozy. The focus isn’t just on attraction—it’s on someone who needs to care for others, someone who deeply needs to have someone boost his confidence. Ultimately, it’s about healing and feeling valid, being seen.
This story is part of the Cardinal Falls series, but reading the other two books isn’t required. Previous characters do make appearances, as Matthias is part of the central friend group that weaves these stories together.
Blurb
The most important things in my life are my family, friends, and work. That doesn’t leave much time for relationships or dating. I can be a bit ‘much’, but only because I care so much. That’s probably for the best since my past boyfriends all describe me as “controlling” and “bossy”. They’re not wrong either.
That doesn’t stop me from staring at Frank, one of the guys working on my backyard remodel. It doesn’t stop at looking, either. He has me bringing him water and lunch, and even opening up my home for him to use as a safe space to study.
The problem? I’m not sure whether he’s interested in dating me, especially once he finds out I’m a Daddy.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 28, 2025
Genres: daddy romance, age gap romance, romance series
Relationship Dynamic
Frank and Matthias’s romance develops through everyday life. Matthias is a caregiver. And he clocks that Frank needs caring for pretty quickly. At first, it’s just Matthias leaving water out, then a meal here or there, until care becomes something more. Small gestures build trust between the characters. Soon, Frank is studying at Matthias’s house, where his needs—both dietary and emotional—are seen and respected. Their connection grows not through dramatic declarations but through consistency, kindness, and the quiet connection that forms from being cared for without being judged.
What It’s Not
While the setup might suggest a high-heat daddy romance, the book instead leans into warmth. The writing is slow and steady, with a focus on emotional growth, vulnerability, and the kind of caretaking that helps a character heal. While there are spicy scenes, the relationship is ultimately about caring for one another, healing from past traumas, and being seen.
Characters
Matthias
- Matthias is the caretaker at this daddy romance story’s center. His “daddy” role isn’t about dominance; it’s about attention, steadiness, and small, thoughtful acts of nurture. Whether he’s leaving out water, making sure Frank eats, or creating a safe space for him to study, Matthias’s love is expressed through quiet constancy.
Job?
One element that didn’t quite land for me was Matthias’s job. Turns out he’s a financial advisor. But for a good portion of the book, the details feel vague, almost deliberately glossed over, which made it hard for me to get a full sense of who he is outside the relationship. It isn’t until later in the story that the details of his career are clarified. By then, I found myself wishing those specifics had been laid out earlier. I kept wondering if I’d just missed something. A clearer picture from the start would have added depth to his character and further grounded his caretaker role.
Frank
- Frank is a refreshingly complex character. He has alpha-gal syndrome, something picked up by ticks that causes a person to have horrible reactions to any product from a mammal; it’s complicated to navigate. He feels ashamed about it, coming from his weirdo parents. Years after his illness manifests, he carries not only the physical challenges of managing a restrictive diet but also the emotional weight of having dropped out of college when his health first spiraled.
- He is now secretly back in school, but hides his progress from his passive-aggressive parents. They keep pushing him toward a job at his brother’s firm, and he absolutely doesn’t want that. They don’t seem to listen to him like, at all. And I hate how they don’t understand his illness and continue to serve food that he cannot eat, but force him to eat with them.
- If I were a 24-year-old, I would not let my parents treat me like they treat him. But, Frank feels like he’s stuck. Frank’s journey is about more than romance—it’s about reclaiming his independence, confidence, and sense of self-worth.
Glows
There are plenty of elements in this story that really worked for me. Frank and Matthias are sweet. There is genuine tenderness threaded through every interaction. Their romance doesn’t rely on grand gestures or over-the-top dramatics—and isn’t that the way it is? Life is built on the small things. A glass of water left out, a selection of food that Frank can eat, and opening up his house to give Frank a quiet place to study. These give the relationship a real feeling, something that speaks to everyday intimacy.
Frank’s struggles are also handled with great care. I had not heard of alpha-gal syndrome, and I feel like the author did a good job detailing how it would disrupt a person’s life. With Frank’s illness and his dealing with the constant pressure of his family’s expectations, things could have pretty easily tipped into melodrama. But that doesn’t happen. Instead, a realistic plot contextualizes everything. Frank’s situation is dealt with empathetically. It’s really rewarding to see Frank reclaim his independence, Matthias helping him rebuild his confidence. The way Frank finds someone who gets him, understands what he needs, and doesn’t make him feel like he is a burden is very nice.
Finally, the dynamic between Matthias and Frank is nicely balanced. Matthias’s protective “daddy” role doesn’t feel heavy-handed. This daddy/boy relationship isn’t about spankings and authority. Although I have to add that there is a spanking scene! No, this isn’t a kink-heavy daddy/boy dynamic. Matthias is more about being there for Frank, providing him with steady care. Frank, in turn, isn’t a passive recipient of Matthias’s attention. He does thrive under it, though. Together, they create a dynamic that feels supportive and safe.
Grows
If there’s one area where the story feels a little thin, it is the chemistry between Matthias and Frank. Don’t get me wrong. Their relationship is sweet. It’s solid. The caretaking dynamic is beautifully developed. Their emotional connection rings true. But, the spark of physical attraction sometimes gets muddied by the tenderness. Their bond is gentle, and they show intimacy and see one another. They support one another. It’s so nice and feel-good. That being said, readers who are seeking high heat or palpable tension may find themselves wanting more here. Fanning the flames to build some fire alongside the warmth would elevate the romance from what it is, a sweet and cozy journey, to something a bit more spicy. And I have to admit, I really like a lot of spice.
Recommendation
I think this is a great continuation of the Cardinal Falls series, and I enjoyed seeing other characters returning and catching up with them. I’m also looking forward to the next installment, because Aaron is acting pretty suspiciously!
Overall
This isn’t a book about explosive spice—it’s about comfort. By centering Frank’s struggles with illness, family pressure, and self-doubt, and pairing them up with a solid rock like Matthias, someone ready to be there for Frank with his steady, affirming presence, this story delivers in a quietly powerful way. If you’re looking for softness, support, and a romance that leaves you feeling like a caretaker just gave you a bath and tucked you into bed, this one will be just what you need.
Review Paragraph
I received a free copy of this book via BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving a review. I write reviews on my blog, Goodreads, Bookbub, Amazon, and more. If you want me to read and review your upcoming novel, read over my review policy and then submit a contact form.
