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Hot Heroes #1
Fearless
She spent years building walls around her heart … but he plans to tear them down.
Gorgeous women pass through Kane Harmon’s beach town as reliably as the tides. He knows the type; shallow, slumming for the summer, enjoying the sun and the novelty before returning to their real lives. But Rosewood Bay and the garage he owns are Kane’s real life and he makes the most of it.
When Kane rescues Halley Ward from the side of the road, he’s determined to get to know the mysterious, solitary woman. She’s beautiful, wealthy, and the loneliest person on the beach. She says she isn’t interested in him—or anything outside of her painting and her bungalow. Kane knows a lie when he hears one. Soon, bringing the color back into her world is his life’s mission.
Until the past meets the present. Until their two worlds collide. Until it’s her turn to leave her black and white world behind and live in Kane’s, with it’s risks and love.
A Standalone Novel
Rosewood Bay Series
Book 1: Fearless (B0765CS6HR)
Book 2: Breathe (B079TDH2P8)
Book 3: Freed (B07C4PCVF6)
Book 4: Dream (B07F48LL4X)
Gorgeous women pass through Kane Harmon’s beach town as reliably as the tides. He knows the type; shallow, slumming for the summer, enjoying the sun and the novelty before returning to their real lives. But Rosewood Bay and the garage he owns are Kane’s real life and he makes the most of it.
When Kane rescues Halley Ward from the side of the road, he’s determined to get to know the mysterious, solitary woman. She’s beautiful, wealthy, and the loneliest person on the beach. She says she isn’t interested in him—or anything outside of her painting and her bungalow. Kane knows a lie when he hears one. Soon, bringing the color back into her world is his life’s mission.
Until the past meets the present. Until their two worlds collide. Until it’s her turn to leave her black and white world behind and live in Kane’s, with it’s risks and love.
A Standalone Novel
Rosewood Bay Series
Book 1: Fearless (B0765CS6HR)
Book 2: Breathe (B079TDH2P8)
Book 3: Freed (B07C4PCVF6)
Book 4: Dream (B07F48LL4X)
254 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 20, 2018
About the author
Carly Phillips
300 books9,419 followersNY Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestseller, Carly Phillips is the queen of Alpha Heroes, at least according to The Harlequin Junkie Reviewer.. Carly married her college sweetheart and lives in Purchase, NY along with her crazy dogs who are featured on her Facebook and Instagram pages. The author of over 75 romance novels, she has raised two incredible daughters and is now an empty nester. Carly’s book, The Bachelor, was chosen by Kelly Ripa as her first romance club pick. Carly loves social media and interacting with her readers. Want to keep up with Carly? Sign up for her newsletter and receive TWO FREE books at www.carlyphillips.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 461 reviews
March 22, 2018
A sweet read that is enjoyable and easy to read. Little angst, low drama or maybe I should say, foreseeable drama. This book is simple and flows easily. I bit predictable but one I liked =))
Kane & Halley. Went to high school together and were friends but nothing more. Halley closed herself off to anything and mostly everyone after being rescued from a nightmarish stay in foster care when her mother gave Halley and her sisters up for drugs. Her aunt took her and her sister in and she now is living a lonely life but one she is content in and has everything she needs. So when her car breaks down on the side of the road and Kane Harmon, the town mechanic, comes to tow her, she finds herself opening up to a possible friendship. Nothing more, right???
Kane is a strong individual, takes a lot on his shoulders, and has been burned in the relationship area so he sticks to quick one nighters. When he gets called out on a tow pick up and comes face to face with Halley Ward, an old friend he was always attracted to, his view of relationships quickly change. He definitely is willing to work to get this girl. He’s always liked her, always wanted her, and he is definitely willing to do what he needs to do to get her, even if that is waiting and taking his time and giving her space and time to figure things out.
Will these two figure things out or will Halley return to living a quiet, almost recluse life, and not give the kind, handsome, loving Kane a chance? She has to learn to give up her fears, to trust again, but will that be with Kane?
I enjoyed this story, it was simple, I was wishing for a bit more angst, maybe a little more they could have experienced together, but with saying that, I ultimately did enjoy this couple. The ending was lovely. I am looking forward to getting more to the Ward girls :-)))
Kane & Halley. Went to high school together and were friends but nothing more. Halley closed herself off to anything and mostly everyone after being rescued from a nightmarish stay in foster care when her mother gave Halley and her sisters up for drugs. Her aunt took her and her sister in and she now is living a lonely life but one she is content in and has everything she needs. So when her car breaks down on the side of the road and Kane Harmon, the town mechanic, comes to tow her, she finds herself opening up to a possible friendship. Nothing more, right???
Kane is a strong individual, takes a lot on his shoulders, and has been burned in the relationship area so he sticks to quick one nighters. When he gets called out on a tow pick up and comes face to face with Halley Ward, an old friend he was always attracted to, his view of relationships quickly change. He definitely is willing to work to get this girl. He’s always liked her, always wanted her, and he is definitely willing to do what he needs to do to get her, even if that is waiting and taking his time and giving her space and time to figure things out.
Will these two figure things out or will Halley return to living a quiet, almost recluse life, and not give the kind, handsome, loving Kane a chance? She has to learn to give up her fears, to trust again, but will that be with Kane?
I enjoyed this story, it was simple, I was wishing for a bit more angst, maybe a little more they could have experienced together, but with saying that, I ultimately did enjoy this couple. The ending was lovely. I am looking forward to getting more to the Ward girls :-)))
September 24, 2018
Currently FREE!
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Halley Ward is the reserved almost recluse that isn't ready to venture into a relationship. Kane is the flirty mechanic that never thought he would even want a relationship until rescued Halley and her broken down car. The two have an instant connection but Kane has to tread carefully if he wants Halley to give him a chance.
I found this book very enjoyable and I liked getting to know these characters. It was a story that wasn't too heavy on the angst but still had a few intriguing moments where I wasn't sure exactly how the story would play out. I did like that it kept the overall feel of the book light, but I also wished there was a little more intrigue.
I would certainly recommend this story if you're looking for a light romance. I'm really looking forward to the next story, which will follow Halley's sister.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Halley Ward is the reserved almost recluse that isn't ready to venture into a relationship. Kane is the flirty mechanic that never thought he would even want a relationship until rescued Halley and her broken down car. The two have an instant connection but Kane has to tread carefully if he wants Halley to give him a chance.
I found this book very enjoyable and I liked getting to know these characters. It was a story that wasn't too heavy on the angst but still had a few intriguing moments where I wasn't sure exactly how the story would play out. I did like that it kept the overall feel of the book light, but I also wished there was a little more intrigue.
I would certainly recommend this story if you're looking for a light romance. I'm really looking forward to the next story, which will follow Halley's sister.
March 10, 2018
First thoughts after reading.
Colour me impressed I took a chance on a NTMA and I love it. The cover appealed to me on this one and as I found the cover so enticing I decided to read the blurb and then I just couldn’t NOT request this. This is a hidden gem read.
Welcome to Rosewood Bay, New England.
The Characters.
Kane Harmon mechanic and all round good guy has had enough of the summer flings. Once burnt twice shy. He has kept to himself for a couple of years now. He has been helping his sister, his nephew and keeping his gambling Dad from going completely off the rails. The addiction is what kills him the most. He has wanted to settle down but he hasn’t found the right woman.
Until a chance encounter changes everything.
Halley Ward recluse, a painter hides away from the world hoping never to be hurt again. She only has her Aunt Joy and her sister Phoebe. She isn’t content but doesn’t know how to change it. Her past has shackled her for too long. What with growing up in foster homes being separated from her sisters. One important thing is that the sisters never knew what happened to the sister that their mother sold. Isolation is safe. She doesn’t like that she is a Ward or that her family has money or that her Mum is an addict. She yearns for things she can’t have.
That is until her Jeep breaks down.
I love Kane. He is a good guy. He is caring, sensitive yet one heck of a man. He is a keeper. He truly made this book a pleasure to read.
I love Halley as well. She comes across as delicate and maybe in a way she is but she also has a backbone once she finds it that is. I admired her for her strength and finally blossoming into the woman that she wants to be.
The Chemistry.
There is a gradual build up to the chemistry that they have and when it gets there they are explosive. Kane was sly and gave Halley what she think she wanted but he was dancing around her and making sure that she was truly seeing him. It takes a while for Halley to let her guard down but if there is one thing that Kane is then it is persistent. He gave her space and time to get used to things. Best book boyfriend in a long time peeps.
The Writing & Plot.
I haven’t read any other books by this author but this one is spot on with the writing. The engaging story and the emotional heart-tugging moments. There is a good balance and the story flowed well. Obviously I don’t have a comparison to anything else that this author has written but she knows what she is doing. Halley has her demons to deal with and Kane is her rock. I had an inkling what her mother was going to do but you can’t base that one experience on everything else. She did get her head out of her arse though.
Kane’s past comes back to haunt him but he stands strong. I would say minimal o/w drama and that is how I love it. He is celibate another bonus.
When I found out what Halley was hiding I was like well that is it? But it’s never the almosts and the what ifs that can truly do just as much damage. I admire her for what she overcame to be fearless.
The Verdict.
I would really recommend this book. It is sweet with some angst a solid story great MC and secondary characters you really want to see get books as well. Phoebe will be up next and Juliette.
I would love for Andi to get a book. She is main character material.
Buy it! Read it! Enjoy it!
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Blog : https://www.jerisbookattic.com
FB Page : https://www.facebook.com/JerisBookAttic
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Colour me impressed I took a chance on a NTMA and I love it. The cover appealed to me on this one and as I found the cover so enticing I decided to read the blurb and then I just couldn’t NOT request this. This is a hidden gem read.
Welcome to Rosewood Bay, New England.
The Characters.
Kane Harmon mechanic and all round good guy has had enough of the summer flings. Once burnt twice shy. He has kept to himself for a couple of years now. He has been helping his sister, his nephew and keeping his gambling Dad from going completely off the rails. The addiction is what kills him the most. He has wanted to settle down but he hasn’t found the right woman.
Until a chance encounter changes everything.
Halley Ward recluse, a painter hides away from the world hoping never to be hurt again. She only has her Aunt Joy and her sister Phoebe. She isn’t content but doesn’t know how to change it. Her past has shackled her for too long. What with growing up in foster homes being separated from her sisters. One important thing is that the sisters never knew what happened to the sister that their mother sold. Isolation is safe. She doesn’t like that she is a Ward or that her family has money or that her Mum is an addict. She yearns for things she can’t have.
That is until her Jeep breaks down.
I love Kane. He is a good guy. He is caring, sensitive yet one heck of a man. He is a keeper. He truly made this book a pleasure to read.
I love Halley as well. She comes across as delicate and maybe in a way she is but she also has a backbone once she finds it that is. I admired her for her strength and finally blossoming into the woman that she wants to be.
The Chemistry.
There is a gradual build up to the chemistry that they have and when it gets there they are explosive. Kane was sly and gave Halley what she think she wanted but he was dancing around her and making sure that she was truly seeing him. It takes a while for Halley to let her guard down but if there is one thing that Kane is then it is persistent. He gave her space and time to get used to things. Best book boyfriend in a long time peeps.
The Writing & Plot.
I haven’t read any other books by this author but this one is spot on with the writing. The engaging story and the emotional heart-tugging moments. There is a good balance and the story flowed well. Obviously I don’t have a comparison to anything else that this author has written but she knows what she is doing. Halley has her demons to deal with and Kane is her rock. I had an inkling what her mother was going to do but you can’t base that one experience on everything else. She did get her head out of her arse though.
Kane’s past comes back to haunt him but he stands strong. I would say minimal o/w drama and that is how I love it. He is celibate another bonus.
When I found out what Halley was hiding I was like well that is it? But it’s never the almosts and the what ifs that can truly do just as much damage. I admire her for what she overcame to be fearless.
The Verdict.
I would really recommend this book. It is sweet with some angst a solid story great MC and secondary characters you really want to see get books as well. Phoebe will be up next and Juliette.
I would love for Andi to get a book. She is main character material.
Buy it! Read it! Enjoy it!
═══ PLEASE SUBSCRIBE / LIKE / FOLLOW US ════
Blog : https://www.jerisbookattic.com
FB Page : https://www.facebook.com/JerisBookAttic
Twitter : https://twitter.com/JeriTRyan
Goodreads : https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2...
Bloglovin : https://www.bloglovin.com/@jerisbooka...
March 20, 2018
He made me feel fearless for the first time in my life.
Fall in love with my all new sexy and emotional standalone FEARLESS today!
◆ Amazon → http://amzn.to/2G4R75o
◆ iBooks → https://apple.co/2EDBYr9
◆ Nook → http://bit.ly/2xZIS45
◆Kobo → http://bit.ly/2y4ubyJ
◆ Google Play → http://bit.ly/2BwebqP
◆ Amazon Universal → http://mybook.to/FearlessCP
◆ Paperback → http://amzn.to/2HOJiOe
◆ Audio → http://amzn.to/2HPugrP
Fall in love with my all new sexy and emotional standalone FEARLESS today!
◆ Amazon → http://amzn.to/2G4R75o
◆ iBooks → https://apple.co/2EDBYr9
◆ Nook → http://bit.ly/2xZIS45
◆Kobo → http://bit.ly/2y4ubyJ
◆ Google Play → http://bit.ly/2BwebqP
◆ Amazon Universal → http://mybook.to/FearlessCP
◆ Paperback → http://amzn.to/2HOJiOe
◆ Audio → http://amzn.to/2HPugrP
March 26, 2018
ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review
Fearless by Carly Phillips is a sweet, low angst enjoyable read written by Carly Phillips that explores the relationship between two individuals. The heroine Halley has been living an isolated life due to her past and so when Kane helps her with her car problems, he sees the pain and brokenness in her eyes and so he decides to help her. This is a story of healing and love. So if this something that’s up your alley then this book is for you.
Fearless by Carly Phillips is a sweet, low angst enjoyable read written by Carly Phillips that explores the relationship between two individuals. The heroine Halley has been living an isolated life due to her past and so when Kane helps her with her car problems, he sees the pain and brokenness in her eyes and so he decides to help her. This is a story of healing and love. So if this something that’s up your alley then this book is for you.
Want to read
July 13, 2023💝💝FREE on iBooks today (9/8/2018)!💝💝
April 20, 2018
“It’s torture, feeling you on my skin and not inside me, where I need you.”
I’m a little late to the game here, but I was so damn EXCITED to start this new series by the ever so amazing Carly Phillips. FEARLESS, book one in her new Rosewood Bay series, took me by surprise in the best possible way! I adored these characters. I was captivated by their journey, as individuals and as a couple. Kane and Halley left me in such a blissful state that I never wanted it to end, even though I absolutely craved their happily ever after. If you are looking for a low angst, high sexy and sweet romance with TONS of heart, FEARLESS should be your very next read! I guarantee you’ll fall hard, just like I did.
I’m a little late to the game here, but I was so damn EXCITED to start this new series by the ever so amazing Carly Phillips. FEARLESS, book one in her new Rosewood Bay series, took me by surprise in the best possible way! I adored these characters. I was captivated by their journey, as individuals and as a couple. Kane and Halley left me in such a blissful state that I never wanted it to end, even though I absolutely craved their happily ever after. If you are looking for a low angst, high sexy and sweet romance with TONS of heart, FEARLESS should be your very next read! I guarantee you’ll fall hard, just like I did.
May 11, 2020
Touch you now is the 1st book in the new “Hot Heros” series by Carly Phillips. It is the story of Kane and Halley.
I think I'm in a reading slump...or at least a romance reading slump…(bite my tongue), but I’m just not getting the giddy feelings from my last few romances. I haven’t wanted to swoon or twirl... Ok so now looking back it has only been my last 2 books (3 counting this one), but still ya’ll….I don’t like it!! There was nothing wrong specifically with this book or these characters...I just didn’t feel it. Siiiigh...
For more book fun check out my blog @: http://beachbumbookworm.com/
I think I'm in a reading slump...or at least a romance reading slump…(bite my tongue), but I’m just not getting the giddy feelings from my last few romances. I haven’t wanted to swoon or twirl... Ok so now looking back it has only been my last 2 books (3 counting this one), but still ya’ll….I don’t like it!! There was nothing wrong specifically with this book or these characters...I just didn’t feel it. Siiiigh...
For more book fun check out my blog @: http://beachbumbookworm.com/
March 20, 2018
Halley Ward was removed from foster care at age 13 when her aunt found her, as well as her sister, Phoebe. The Ward family is very wealthy and she had a hard time adjusting to her new life. She didn’t try to make friends, choosing instead to keep to herself. Now an adult, she still keeps to herself, doesn’t date, she paints and is trying to get her work noticed. She is a very weak character that I struggled to like and understand.
Kane Harmon, mechanic and garage owner, had a rough childhood. His mom died when he was 15. He and his sister, Andrea, were left with his gambling addicted dad. He and Andrea are close and he loves spending time with his nephew. Despite his dad’s addiction and all the fallout from it, Kane is very good to him. Kane responds to a tow call and discovers it’s the girl from high school that he protected from bullies. Only she’s all grown up. They were never friends, never even spoke, but she intrigued him then and he’s curious now.
They start spending time together as “friends” because she doesn’t date or do relationships. Kane is so supportive of Halley and encouraging. No matter how many times she pushed him away (and there were MANY) he kept going back for more.
This is different from previous books written by this author. I had issues with several aspects of the book that my logical, analytical mind couldn’t wrap its head around. I struggled to get through it and was never fully invested. It seems to drag in parts. Found myself telling Halley to move on already.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by the author and Booksprout.
Kane Harmon, mechanic and garage owner, had a rough childhood. His mom died when he was 15. He and his sister, Andrea, were left with his gambling addicted dad. He and Andrea are close and he loves spending time with his nephew. Despite his dad’s addiction and all the fallout from it, Kane is very good to him. Kane responds to a tow call and discovers it’s the girl from high school that he protected from bullies. Only she’s all grown up. They were never friends, never even spoke, but she intrigued him then and he’s curious now.
They start spending time together as “friends” because she doesn’t date or do relationships. Kane is so supportive of Halley and encouraging. No matter how many times she pushed him away (and there were MANY) he kept going back for more.
This is different from previous books written by this author. I had issues with several aspects of the book that my logical, analytical mind couldn’t wrap its head around. I struggled to get through it and was never fully invested. It seems to drag in parts. Found myself telling Halley to move on already.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by the author and Booksprout.
March 16, 2018
New author to me :))
March 26, 2018
“Maybe it was fate that her car broke down and he’d been the one to answer the call, bringing them together again after all these years.”
Fearless is the first book the all new, exciting Rosewood Bay Series. Told from dual points of view, Fearless follows the story of Kane and Halley. From the moment Kane runs into Halley the fateful night that her car breaks down, he is hooked. He tries and tries to get her go out with her, but she just isn’t interested. Halley is closed off and enjoys her life of solitude. And it’s the life that Halley leads that makes Kane even more determined to bring her back to life….
Fearless pulled me in from the very first page. I was intrigued by the life Halley lived and the decisions she made. I wanted to know what happened to her and what made her this way. And Kane wasn’t perfect either. He had his own share of issues, but I loved his determination when it came to Halley. He wasn’t going to take no for an answer. He was determined to win her over and make her live again. These two characters couldn’t be more opposite when it came to their life choices, but that just made me love them even more.
Overall, I thought Fearless was a great start to this new series. I easily read this book in just one sitting. I thought the characters were fun and intriguing. I really enjoyed Kane and Halley’s story and enjoyed watching the two of them try to figure things out on their journey to a happily ever after.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
Fearless is the first book the all new, exciting Rosewood Bay Series. Told from dual points of view, Fearless follows the story of Kane and Halley. From the moment Kane runs into Halley the fateful night that her car breaks down, he is hooked. He tries and tries to get her go out with her, but she just isn’t interested. Halley is closed off and enjoys her life of solitude. And it’s the life that Halley leads that makes Kane even more determined to bring her back to life….
Fearless pulled me in from the very first page. I was intrigued by the life Halley lived and the decisions she made. I wanted to know what happened to her and what made her this way. And Kane wasn’t perfect either. He had his own share of issues, but I loved his determination when it came to Halley. He wasn’t going to take no for an answer. He was determined to win her over and make her live again. These two characters couldn’t be more opposite when it came to their life choices, but that just made me love them even more.
Overall, I thought Fearless was a great start to this new series. I easily read this book in just one sitting. I thought the characters were fun and intriguing. I really enjoyed Kane and Halley’s story and enjoyed watching the two of them try to figure things out on their journey to a happily ever after.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
March 18, 2021
This one was a struggle to read. The writing was sub par. The characters were underdeveloped. The story was boring. I feel like there was no depth, AT ALL. I definitely won’t be reading the rest of the series.
Want to read
March 5, 2023Purch Amazon Sept. 12, 2018
May 28, 2019
A great Romance by an author who is so good at it. It got a little deep in places and I prefer my romance on the light side, but it is a good read.
Kane Harmon is looking for more than a summer fling, he's had enough of that. He wants someone to build a life with.
Halley Ward had an awful childhood and has erected barriers to be sure her bruised heart is protected. She isn't looking for anything, but deep down she longs for something . . .
Each of them have their own hurts and each must deal with their own pain, but together they can have something that is worth smashing their barriers and giving love a chance.
Kane Harmon is looking for more than a summer fling, he's had enough of that. He wants someone to build a life with.
Halley Ward had an awful childhood and has erected barriers to be sure her bruised heart is protected. She isn't looking for anything, but deep down she longs for something . . .
Each of them have their own hurts and each must deal with their own pain, but together they can have something that is worth smashing their barriers and giving love a chance.
March 18, 2018
I couldn't finish this book. And that KILLS me to say. But I feel it is more Booksprouts fault then the author. I love Carly Phillips. She is a must buy author for me. However, this was my first time receiving an ARC from Booksprout and it wasn't easy. It took forever to figure this site out and how to download a copy of this book. Then as I was reading, I noticed that at the end of random paragraphs, sentences would just end halfway through. And probably whole sentences would be missing. It got frustrating to say the least.
So this low star rating has no reflection on the writing or story itself, just the AWFUL format of this book.
DNF
**I received an ARC through Booksprout in exchange for a honest review**
So this low star rating has no reflection on the writing or story itself, just the AWFUL format of this book.
DNF
**I received an ARC through Booksprout in exchange for a honest review**
March 14, 2018
Reviewed by Deborah from Alpha Book Club
“I’m no longer afraid, because you taught me how to live. You make me want to be fearless.”
In Carly’s new novel “Fearless” she shows us that we can be fearless in the face of life and love. Kane and Halley have known one another since high school and that is where Kane has always felt something for Halley. Halley has been living a life of fear of relationships, love and abandonment so she lives a life filled with her art and family. Kane has no fear of relationships once he sees Halley in need of a tow one day and it changes his life from that day forward. Both Halley and Kane come from a past that they rather forget but Kane doesn’t let it change his outlook on life. Halley lets her past rule her present and it has a way of interfering in her relationships. Kane will stop at nothing to get Halley and to help her find her way through her past to a great future with him. Even though Kane must deal with his father addictions he doesn’t let that stop him from forming a bond with Halley that is undeniable. The question of the story is though can Halley be fearless in the face of her past and finding her true love at the same time.
“Fearless” takes its readers on a journey of self-discovery, love, and facing the past with the perfect flow of words from each scene to the next. With Kane and Halley as the main characters readers will not be disappointed. Kane is bad boy on the outside, but he can be intense, sweet, and loving despite the exterior. Halley is an introvert, set on being away from the outside world only do her art and getting discovered. Her family has tried to get Halley to open her heart to someone, but it has become a battle she must be determined to do on her own. With Kane in the picture he brings an intensity that she is not used to, and it scares her. I love Kane and Halley separately and together because even when they are on scene by themselves they keep me entranced. I feel like Carly gave me something new from her with this novel and I love it. She has touched my heart with Halley and Kane and I wish there was more of them because I could not put it down once I started. If you are a fan of Carly’s, then you know this book will touch your heart and if you’re not it will still touch your heart. You will experience a range of emotions while reading and that is an excellent quality to have from a book. You will not be disappointed when you read “Fearless” because some of the what you will feel is hope and fearless.
“I’m no longer afraid, because you taught me how to live. You make me want to be fearless.”
In Carly’s new novel “Fearless” she shows us that we can be fearless in the face of life and love. Kane and Halley have known one another since high school and that is where Kane has always felt something for Halley. Halley has been living a life of fear of relationships, love and abandonment so she lives a life filled with her art and family. Kane has no fear of relationships once he sees Halley in need of a tow one day and it changes his life from that day forward. Both Halley and Kane come from a past that they rather forget but Kane doesn’t let it change his outlook on life. Halley lets her past rule her present and it has a way of interfering in her relationships. Kane will stop at nothing to get Halley and to help her find her way through her past to a great future with him. Even though Kane must deal with his father addictions he doesn’t let that stop him from forming a bond with Halley that is undeniable. The question of the story is though can Halley be fearless in the face of her past and finding her true love at the same time.
“Fearless” takes its readers on a journey of self-discovery, love, and facing the past with the perfect flow of words from each scene to the next. With Kane and Halley as the main characters readers will not be disappointed. Kane is bad boy on the outside, but he can be intense, sweet, and loving despite the exterior. Halley is an introvert, set on being away from the outside world only do her art and getting discovered. Her family has tried to get Halley to open her heart to someone, but it has become a battle she must be determined to do on her own. With Kane in the picture he brings an intensity that she is not used to, and it scares her. I love Kane and Halley separately and together because even when they are on scene by themselves they keep me entranced. I feel like Carly gave me something new from her with this novel and I love it. She has touched my heart with Halley and Kane and I wish there was more of them because I could not put it down once I started. If you are a fan of Carly’s, then you know this book will touch your heart and if you’re not it will still touch your heart. You will experience a range of emotions while reading and that is an excellent quality to have from a book. You will not be disappointed when you read “Fearless” because some of the what you will feel is hope and fearless.
March 15, 2018
***4 Stars***
Fearless kicks off a new series and I really enjoyed it. It was a fun, quick read that had just the right balance of humor, drama and smexyness to keep me turning the pages and intriguing characters that have me wanting the next book in the series right now!
I really liked Kane. He keeps an eye on his sister, nephew and father and runs the family business aka he is extremely responsible. He has a good soul and when he see’s something worthwhile, he’ll do what needs to be done to get it. Past experiences have made him view certain things in a less than stellar light, but he does his best to not make a final decision on anything until he has all the information.
Hayley. This woman. My heart bled for her and all that she had been through and yet, I really wanted to reach through my Kindle and shake some sense into her, or at least give her a not so gentle push in a direction where she could start to truly work through the demons of her past, because when she let go and forgot to keep people at arms length, she was a lot of fun and had so much to give others.
Kane and Hayley’s journey was all kinds of sweet and swoon worthy. I loved how Kane slipped under Hayley’s defenses. It was definitely sneaky, but done in such a way that showed how well he saw her. They definitely had their smexy moments and I loved them together. A huge pothole does appear in their journey and I’ll just say I was Team Kane the entire time, but everything worked out well and I really like where they are at when the book ends.
I really enjoyed Fearless and I finished it in no time flat. It was engaging and though there were some heavy issues brought up in it, they were handled very well. The supporting cast of characters were all well written and though I don’t have a clear favorite, I am definitely looking forward to Phoebe’s book, Breathe, and seeing how her own HEA plays out!
~ Copy provided via rslit & voluntarily reviewed ~
Fearless kicks off a new series and I really enjoyed it. It was a fun, quick read that had just the right balance of humor, drama and smexyness to keep me turning the pages and intriguing characters that have me wanting the next book in the series right now!
I really liked Kane. He keeps an eye on his sister, nephew and father and runs the family business aka he is extremely responsible. He has a good soul and when he see’s something worthwhile, he’ll do what needs to be done to get it. Past experiences have made him view certain things in a less than stellar light, but he does his best to not make a final decision on anything until he has all the information.
Hayley. This woman. My heart bled for her and all that she had been through and yet, I really wanted to reach through my Kindle and shake some sense into her, or at least give her a not so gentle push in a direction where she could start to truly work through the demons of her past, because when she let go and forgot to keep people at arms length, she was a lot of fun and had so much to give others.
Kane and Hayley’s journey was all kinds of sweet and swoon worthy. I loved how Kane slipped under Hayley’s defenses. It was definitely sneaky, but done in such a way that showed how well he saw her. They definitely had their smexy moments and I loved them together. A huge pothole does appear in their journey and I’ll just say I was Team Kane the entire time, but everything worked out well and I really like where they are at when the book ends.
I really enjoyed Fearless and I finished it in no time flat. It was engaging and though there were some heavy issues brought up in it, they were handled very well. The supporting cast of characters were all well written and though I don’t have a clear favorite, I am definitely looking forward to Phoebe’s book, Breathe, and seeing how her own HEA plays out!
~ Copy provided via rslit & voluntarily reviewed ~
March 21, 2018
Fearless is a short book by Carly Phillips and is everything I was expecting from her. And I don't mean that it's the same story over and over again. I have come to expect a good romance and characters that I will at least like. The book is another winner. I couldn't put it down because I wanted to know everything about these characters and their pasts. The characters of this book are unique and loveable. Kane and Halley's characters were constructed very well and I could see why they were behaving the way they did instead of wondering what was going on in their minds. The title is on the point and the book couldn't have a better name. Our characters face their fears and especially in Halley's case they bare themselves to the other. I have high hopes for the rest of the books too. I can't wait to see more of these characters in the upcoming books. This book is definitely worth reading.
March 19, 2018
4.5 Stars
Where do I start? Fearless by Carly Phillips is the first book in her new Rosewood Bay series. All I can say is Fearless is the way to pull readers into a new series. The main characters, the plot, the support characters, the alternating points of view, the setting—all the elements come together in the best way.
Fearless is about blue-collar Kane Harmon meets the wealthy Halley Ward a young woman he knows from high school. These two characters are different but similar in that they have a rough past and try to make the most of their present. Kane is hard working, attractive man with strong family ties and a big heart. He is very close to his sister, Andrea and nephew Nicky and he loves his dad despite all his flaws. Kane is cautious around the women who come to town for the summer after getting burned. He wants a relationship with someone who will stay.
Halley Ward enters Kane’s life—again—when her car breaks down on the highway. It is Kane to the rescue. Halley Ward is an artist. She doesn’t go out much because of her feelings of abandonment due to a mother who choose drugs before her daughters. They both go to different foster families until their Aunt Joy finds them. Her birth family is wealthy, but Halley is almost embarrassed by the wealth. Like Kane, she is close to her sister Phoebe her opposite and her aunt.
What I like most about these two characters are the many layers that make-up who they are. On the outside, Kane is a happy-go-lucky guy. On the inside, he worries about his family. His dad has a gambling problem. For years his dad gambled away bill money, Christmas money, etc. Kane loves his dad, but he knows he will steal money from him if he turns his back. Kane worries about his sister who is a single mom. His nephew comes to the shop after school to relieve some of Andi’s worries. What a generous and loving brother/uncle/son!
Halley is so sweet but afraid of life. She hopes to find her mother and the love she never had. Halley and Phoebe are opposites but united in all the right ways. Phoebe is an outgoing woman who pulls Halley out of her comfort zone. There are times that Halley doesn’t see what she has right in front of her. I want to sit her down and talk. On the flip side, I understand the coping mechanism. I love how Kane gradually brings Halley around his methodology is sweet, funny, and loving.
Fearless is the perfect start to a new series. I expected something to boil up with Kane and his dad, but not the one that occurs. The tough love is perfect. I did predict Kane and Halley’s push-pull. It is handled well and not too over-the-top but appropriate considering their past. The characters touched my heart. The support characters, Andrea, Jackson, and Phoebe, make me want more. I NEED to learn their backstories. The tease at the end is Phoebe’s story the next book. I can’t wait. Fearless is a beautiful romance that held my interest from start to end. Carly Phillips has another must-read.
Where do I start? Fearless by Carly Phillips is the first book in her new Rosewood Bay series. All I can say is Fearless is the way to pull readers into a new series. The main characters, the plot, the support characters, the alternating points of view, the setting—all the elements come together in the best way.
Fearless is about blue-collar Kane Harmon meets the wealthy Halley Ward a young woman he knows from high school. These two characters are different but similar in that they have a rough past and try to make the most of their present. Kane is hard working, attractive man with strong family ties and a big heart. He is very close to his sister, Andrea and nephew Nicky and he loves his dad despite all his flaws. Kane is cautious around the women who come to town for the summer after getting burned. He wants a relationship with someone who will stay.
Halley Ward enters Kane’s life—again—when her car breaks down on the highway. It is Kane to the rescue. Halley Ward is an artist. She doesn’t go out much because of her feelings of abandonment due to a mother who choose drugs before her daughters. They both go to different foster families until their Aunt Joy finds them. Her birth family is wealthy, but Halley is almost embarrassed by the wealth. Like Kane, she is close to her sister Phoebe her opposite and her aunt.
What I like most about these two characters are the many layers that make-up who they are. On the outside, Kane is a happy-go-lucky guy. On the inside, he worries about his family. His dad has a gambling problem. For years his dad gambled away bill money, Christmas money, etc. Kane loves his dad, but he knows he will steal money from him if he turns his back. Kane worries about his sister who is a single mom. His nephew comes to the shop after school to relieve some of Andi’s worries. What a generous and loving brother/uncle/son!
Halley is so sweet but afraid of life. She hopes to find her mother and the love she never had. Halley and Phoebe are opposites but united in all the right ways. Phoebe is an outgoing woman who pulls Halley out of her comfort zone. There are times that Halley doesn’t see what she has right in front of her. I want to sit her down and talk. On the flip side, I understand the coping mechanism. I love how Kane gradually brings Halley around his methodology is sweet, funny, and loving.
Fearless is the perfect start to a new series. I expected something to boil up with Kane and his dad, but not the one that occurs. The tough love is perfect. I did predict Kane and Halley’s push-pull. It is handled well and not too over-the-top but appropriate considering their past. The characters touched my heart. The support characters, Andrea, Jackson, and Phoebe, make me want more. I NEED to learn their backstories. The tease at the end is Phoebe’s story the next book. I can’t wait. Fearless is a beautiful romance that held my interest from start to end. Carly Phillips has another must-read.
September 26, 2018
Meh. Didn't think much of the characters. Halley struck me as weak and indecisive. Joe was an awful person. Phoebe was pushy. Gail is a nightmare. No thank
You.
You.
June 26, 2022
Rezension: „Atemlos“ von Carly Phillips
Autor/in: Carly Phillips
Titel: Atemlos
Reihe/Band: Love not Lost, Band 1
Genre: Liebesroman
Erschienen: April 2022
ISBN: 978-3-453-42402-9
Transparenz
Diese Rezension basiert auf einem Rezensionsexemplar, dass mir freundlicherweise vom Verlag über das Random House Bloggerportal zur Verfügung gestellt worden ist. Meine Meinung wurde dadurch nicht beeinflusst.
Klappentext
In Rosewood Bay bekommt die Liebe immer eine zweite Chance!
Die Malerin Halley Ward lebt zurückgezogen von ihrer reichen Familie und dem Rest der Welt am Strand von Rosewood Bay. Als sie mit dem Auto liegenbleibt, rettet sie der attraktive Mechaniker Kane Harmons. Obwohl die beiden unterschiedlicher nicht sein könnten, interessiert sich Kane ab sofort nur noch für die geheimnisvolle Frau mit den tieftraurigen Augen. Nach und nach lässt Halley es zu, dass Kane ihr Leben mit Farbe füllt. Bis die Vergangenheit sie einholt …
Buch-/Reihentitel und Coverdesign
Das Cover zum ersten Band der „Love not lost“-Reihe hat einen dunkelblauen Untergrund, während von allen vier äußeren Rändern des Covers goldene Blattelemente rings herum in die Mitte hineinragen. Jegliche Angaben zur Autorin oder der Geschichte selbst sind mittig platziert – die Autorin und der Buchtitel in pinkfarben und der Reihentitel in goldfarben abgedruckt.
Mit den Titeln der Geschichte selbst konnte ich nicht unbedingt viel anfangen. „Atemlos“ implizierte für mich irgendwie eine Geschichte über erschöpft und voller Ängste sein, während „Love not lost“ (zu dt. übersetzt „Liebe nicht verlieren“) wie ein Kampf klingt, vielleicht aber auch wie eine innere Einstellung. Ich konnte mir auch in Kombination mit dem Klappentext nur bedingt einen Reim auf diese Titelwahl machen.
Charaktere
Halley Ward ist Künstlerin und lebt sehr zurückgezogen in einem kleinen Cottage am Strand. Sie fasst nur äußerst schwer Vertrauen zu anderen Menschen und mag es für sich allein zu sein, seit ihre Mutter sie und ihre Schwestern in frühester Kindheit allein gelassen hat. Trotz ihrer stark introvertierten Art machte sie auf mich einen recht sympathischen Eindruck und ich konnte sie ganz gut leiden. Für ihr Alter muss ich allerdings sagen, dass sie trotz gewisser Erfahrungen in ihrem Leben immer noch unglaublich naiv ist.
Kane Harmons ist Mechaniker in Rosewood Bay und arbeitet in der familieneigenen Werkstatt. Er ist ein lebensfroher und geselliger junger Mann, der endlich bereit für eine feste Beziehung ist und den Urlaubsaffären auf der Insel abgeschworen hat. Trotz verschiedenster Schwierigkeiten ist er immer für seine Familie da und legt ein hohes Maß an Hilfsbereitschaft an den Tag. Auch wenn Kane meist mit den unteren Regionen seines Körper denkt, ist er durchaus ein recht sympathischer und liebenswerter Typ.
Schreibstil und Handlung
Für mich war der erste Band der „Love not lost“-Reihe zugleich auch das erste Buch von Autorin Carly Phillips. Die Geschichte wurde in der dritten Person aus Sicht eines allwissenden Erzählers geschrieben, allerdings muss ich sagen, dass das Buch eindeutig mehr Seiten vertragen hätte, denn mit persönlich war alles viel zu oberflächlich gehalten. Es fehlte der Geschichte von Halley und Kane an Tiefe und Intensität. Vielerlei Themen wurden angeschnitten, aber nicht wirklich ausgeführt, sodass sie stellenweise überhaupt nicht nachvollziehbar gewesen sind. Gerade ernstere Themen wie z. B. Sucht oder Kriminalität kamen viel zu kurz und wurden am Ende mit nur einem Satz abgehandelt. Für meinen Geschmack hätte man sie dann auch einfach ganz rauslassen können, denn diese Umsetzung war enttäuschend. Auch hat mir zwischen den Protagonisten einiges an Gefühl gefehlt. Es gab massig Sexszenen, die nicht unbedingt immer prickelnd gewesen sind, aber die aufkommenden Gefühle, die Liebe oder gar die Leidenschaft selbst sind bei mir als Leserin nicht angekommen. Auch vom Setting selbst hat man nicht wirklich viel mitbekommen. Angeblich handelt es sich bei Rosewood Bay um ein kleines Küstenstädtchen, aber die Handlung selbst spielt gerade mal an vier Orten und ansonsten wird nicht sonderlich viel beschrieben. Sehr schade, denn eigentlich liebe ich Kleinstadtgeschichten über alles.
Letztendlich kann ich leider nur sagen, dass mich bei diesem Buch das Cover sehr angezogen hat, denn das hat mir von der Gestaltung her äußerst gut gefallen, aber ansonsten war die Geschichte für mich eher eine Qual. Klar, vereinzelt gab es ein paar schöne Momente, wo ich auch die Lobpreisungen bzgl. älterer Geschichten der Autorin verstehen konnte, aber leider überwogen eher die Parts, wo es an Gefühl und Handlung fehlte.
Fazit
„Atemlos“ war für mich das erste – und wohl zugleich auch das letzte Buch der Autorin für mich. Ich empfand die Geschichte als recht handlungs- und gefühllos, mal abgesehen von den ständig wiederholenden Sexszenen. Ich bin mir nicht sicher, was ich da eigentlich gelesen habe und war nach Umblättern der letzten Seite ziemlich frustriert.
Bewertung: 2 von 5 Sternen
Autor/in: Carly Phillips
Titel: Atemlos
Reihe/Band: Love not Lost, Band 1
Genre: Liebesroman
Erschienen: April 2022
ISBN: 978-3-453-42402-9
Transparenz
Diese Rezension basiert auf einem Rezensionsexemplar, dass mir freundlicherweise vom Verlag über das Random House Bloggerportal zur Verfügung gestellt worden ist. Meine Meinung wurde dadurch nicht beeinflusst.
Klappentext
In Rosewood Bay bekommt die Liebe immer eine zweite Chance!
Die Malerin Halley Ward lebt zurückgezogen von ihrer reichen Familie und dem Rest der Welt am Strand von Rosewood Bay. Als sie mit dem Auto liegenbleibt, rettet sie der attraktive Mechaniker Kane Harmons. Obwohl die beiden unterschiedlicher nicht sein könnten, interessiert sich Kane ab sofort nur noch für die geheimnisvolle Frau mit den tieftraurigen Augen. Nach und nach lässt Halley es zu, dass Kane ihr Leben mit Farbe füllt. Bis die Vergangenheit sie einholt …
Buch-/Reihentitel und Coverdesign
Das Cover zum ersten Band der „Love not lost“-Reihe hat einen dunkelblauen Untergrund, während von allen vier äußeren Rändern des Covers goldene Blattelemente rings herum in die Mitte hineinragen. Jegliche Angaben zur Autorin oder der Geschichte selbst sind mittig platziert – die Autorin und der Buchtitel in pinkfarben und der Reihentitel in goldfarben abgedruckt.
Mit den Titeln der Geschichte selbst konnte ich nicht unbedingt viel anfangen. „Atemlos“ implizierte für mich irgendwie eine Geschichte über erschöpft und voller Ängste sein, während „Love not lost“ (zu dt. übersetzt „Liebe nicht verlieren“) wie ein Kampf klingt, vielleicht aber auch wie eine innere Einstellung. Ich konnte mir auch in Kombination mit dem Klappentext nur bedingt einen Reim auf diese Titelwahl machen.
Charaktere
Halley Ward ist Künstlerin und lebt sehr zurückgezogen in einem kleinen Cottage am Strand. Sie fasst nur äußerst schwer Vertrauen zu anderen Menschen und mag es für sich allein zu sein, seit ihre Mutter sie und ihre Schwestern in frühester Kindheit allein gelassen hat. Trotz ihrer stark introvertierten Art machte sie auf mich einen recht sympathischen Eindruck und ich konnte sie ganz gut leiden. Für ihr Alter muss ich allerdings sagen, dass sie trotz gewisser Erfahrungen in ihrem Leben immer noch unglaublich naiv ist.
Kane Harmons ist Mechaniker in Rosewood Bay und arbeitet in der familieneigenen Werkstatt. Er ist ein lebensfroher und geselliger junger Mann, der endlich bereit für eine feste Beziehung ist und den Urlaubsaffären auf der Insel abgeschworen hat. Trotz verschiedenster Schwierigkeiten ist er immer für seine Familie da und legt ein hohes Maß an Hilfsbereitschaft an den Tag. Auch wenn Kane meist mit den unteren Regionen seines Körper denkt, ist er durchaus ein recht sympathischer und liebenswerter Typ.
Schreibstil und Handlung
Für mich war der erste Band der „Love not lost“-Reihe zugleich auch das erste Buch von Autorin Carly Phillips. Die Geschichte wurde in der dritten Person aus Sicht eines allwissenden Erzählers geschrieben, allerdings muss ich sagen, dass das Buch eindeutig mehr Seiten vertragen hätte, denn mit persönlich war alles viel zu oberflächlich gehalten. Es fehlte der Geschichte von Halley und Kane an Tiefe und Intensität. Vielerlei Themen wurden angeschnitten, aber nicht wirklich ausgeführt, sodass sie stellenweise überhaupt nicht nachvollziehbar gewesen sind. Gerade ernstere Themen wie z. B. Sucht oder Kriminalität kamen viel zu kurz und wurden am Ende mit nur einem Satz abgehandelt. Für meinen Geschmack hätte man sie dann auch einfach ganz rauslassen können, denn diese Umsetzung war enttäuschend. Auch hat mir zwischen den Protagonisten einiges an Gefühl gefehlt. Es gab massig Sexszenen, die nicht unbedingt immer prickelnd gewesen sind, aber die aufkommenden Gefühle, die Liebe oder gar die Leidenschaft selbst sind bei mir als Leserin nicht angekommen. Auch vom Setting selbst hat man nicht wirklich viel mitbekommen. Angeblich handelt es sich bei Rosewood Bay um ein kleines Küstenstädtchen, aber die Handlung selbst spielt gerade mal an vier Orten und ansonsten wird nicht sonderlich viel beschrieben. Sehr schade, denn eigentlich liebe ich Kleinstadtgeschichten über alles.
Letztendlich kann ich leider nur sagen, dass mich bei diesem Buch das Cover sehr angezogen hat, denn das hat mir von der Gestaltung her äußerst gut gefallen, aber ansonsten war die Geschichte für mich eher eine Qual. Klar, vereinzelt gab es ein paar schöne Momente, wo ich auch die Lobpreisungen bzgl. älterer Geschichten der Autorin verstehen konnte, aber leider überwogen eher die Parts, wo es an Gefühl und Handlung fehlte.
Fazit
„Atemlos“ war für mich das erste – und wohl zugleich auch das letzte Buch der Autorin für mich. Ich empfand die Geschichte als recht handlungs- und gefühllos, mal abgesehen von den ständig wiederholenden Sexszenen. Ich bin mir nicht sicher, was ich da eigentlich gelesen habe und war nach Umblättern der letzten Seite ziemlich frustriert.
Bewertung: 2 von 5 Sternen
March 21, 2018
4 stars--
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 20, 2018
Fall in love with the Wards…
Mechanic and garage owner, Kane Harmon is used to the wealthy beautiful women visiting his beach town. He doesn't get involved because he knows most females would merely be slumming for the summer.
Except Halley Ward isn't just passing through. She lives a solitary life in a bungalow on the beach. A woman tormented by her past, distant from her wealthy family, different from Kane's usual fare of town girls who know his M.O.- Don't expect more than he's willing to give.
Kane rescues Halley and her broken down car from the side of the road and instantly he's hooked. She says she's not interested in him. He knows she lies. And he makes it his mission to bring her back to life, to return her emotionally to her family. To show her the colors around her were as vibrant as the ones she puts on her canvas.
Until past meets present and threatens all the progress they've made. Then it's Halley's turn to step up and stand up for the relationship and life she's finally coming to believe she deserves.
•••••••••••••
REVIEW: FEARLESS is the first instalment in Carly Phillips’ contemporary, adult ROSEWOOD BAY erotic, romance series focusing on the Ward sisters-Halley and Phoebe Ward, and Juliette Collins. This is artist Halley Ward, and mechanic Kane Harmon’s story line.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Halley and Kane) FEARLESS follows the building relationship between mechanic and garage owner Kane Harmon, and artist Halley Ward. When a call comes into the garage about a broken down SUV Kane is surprised to discover his childhood crush Halley Ward at the side of the road looking for help. Kane had no idea that Halley, the girl that was bullied through most of her life, still lived in Rosewood Bay. From the outset, Kane’s attraction to Halley is met with resistance by our story line heroine, a resistance meant to protect Halley from further rejection by the people she loves. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Halley and Kane, and the potential fall-out when Halley’s past destroys what little trust Halley has built through most of her life.
Halley struggles to move on from the past, a past shrouded in the bitter memories of her mother’s battles with alcohol and drugs. Passed from foster home to foster home, our heroine’s earlier years control her present such that she is unable to let go, and move on from the past.
Kane Harmon’s life hasn’t been easy. While he and his sister Andi battle to keep one step ahead of their father’s addiction, Kane also struggles with issues of trust stemming from a woman who broke his heart.
The relationship between Kane and Halley is one of mutual attraction but Halley struggles with demons from her past and low self-esteem as a direct result of her earlier life. Kane is falling in love with a woman who struggles with issues of trust, a trust that will be broken once again. He is a kind and gentle hero who is willing to accept everything in Halley’s past but Halley isn’t ready to allow Kane the benefit of the doubt. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are introduced to Kane’s father Joe Harmon; Kane’s sister Andrea aka Andi, and her seven year old son Nicky; Halley’s sister Phoebe, and her eleven year old son Jamie, their Aunt Joy, and Halley and Phoebe’s mother – a woman whose addictions almost destroyed the lives of the children she was meant to love. Phoebe’s story line is next in BREATHE.
The world building reveals the destructive nature of addiction, of rejection, of the destruction of childhood dreams.
FEARLESS is a sexy but predictable story line in that our heroine, so desperate for a relationship with the woman who abandoned her as a child, is too easily sucked in by the lies and fears of addiction and drugs. The premise is engaging; the characters are broken but colorful; the romance is seductive and hot.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 20, 2018
Fall in love with the Wards…
Mechanic and garage owner, Kane Harmon is used to the wealthy beautiful women visiting his beach town. He doesn't get involved because he knows most females would merely be slumming for the summer.
Except Halley Ward isn't just passing through. She lives a solitary life in a bungalow on the beach. A woman tormented by her past, distant from her wealthy family, different from Kane's usual fare of town girls who know his M.O.- Don't expect more than he's willing to give.
Kane rescues Halley and her broken down car from the side of the road and instantly he's hooked. She says she's not interested in him. He knows she lies. And he makes it his mission to bring her back to life, to return her emotionally to her family. To show her the colors around her were as vibrant as the ones she puts on her canvas.
Until past meets present and threatens all the progress they've made. Then it's Halley's turn to step up and stand up for the relationship and life she's finally coming to believe she deserves.
•••••••••••••
REVIEW: FEARLESS is the first instalment in Carly Phillips’ contemporary, adult ROSEWOOD BAY erotic, romance series focusing on the Ward sisters-Halley and Phoebe Ward, and Juliette Collins. This is artist Halley Ward, and mechanic Kane Harmon’s story line.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Halley and Kane) FEARLESS follows the building relationship between mechanic and garage owner Kane Harmon, and artist Halley Ward. When a call comes into the garage about a broken down SUV Kane is surprised to discover his childhood crush Halley Ward at the side of the road looking for help. Kane had no idea that Halley, the girl that was bullied through most of her life, still lived in Rosewood Bay. From the outset, Kane’s attraction to Halley is met with resistance by our story line heroine, a resistance meant to protect Halley from further rejection by the people she loves. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Halley and Kane, and the potential fall-out when Halley’s past destroys what little trust Halley has built through most of her life.
Halley struggles to move on from the past, a past shrouded in the bitter memories of her mother’s battles with alcohol and drugs. Passed from foster home to foster home, our heroine’s earlier years control her present such that she is unable to let go, and move on from the past.
Kane Harmon’s life hasn’t been easy. While he and his sister Andi battle to keep one step ahead of their father’s addiction, Kane also struggles with issues of trust stemming from a woman who broke his heart.
The relationship between Kane and Halley is one of mutual attraction but Halley struggles with demons from her past and low self-esteem as a direct result of her earlier life. Kane is falling in love with a woman who struggles with issues of trust, a trust that will be broken once again. He is a kind and gentle hero who is willing to accept everything in Halley’s past but Halley isn’t ready to allow Kane the benefit of the doubt. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are introduced to Kane’s father Joe Harmon; Kane’s sister Andrea aka Andi, and her seven year old son Nicky; Halley’s sister Phoebe, and her eleven year old son Jamie, their Aunt Joy, and Halley and Phoebe’s mother – a woman whose addictions almost destroyed the lives of the children she was meant to love. Phoebe’s story line is next in BREATHE.
The world building reveals the destructive nature of addiction, of rejection, of the destruction of childhood dreams.
FEARLESS is a sexy but predictable story line in that our heroine, so desperate for a relationship with the woman who abandoned her as a child, is too easily sucked in by the lies and fears of addiction and drugs. The premise is engaging; the characters are broken but colorful; the romance is seductive and hot.
Copy supplied for review
www.thereadingcafe.com
March 17, 2018
Kane Harmon runs his family's garage in a small, coastal New England town and avoids the female tourists at all costs. He took a chance on one of those a few years ago and she broke his heart. Apparently Kane was good enough for a summer fling but not good enough to be a husband, and he’s not had much interest in the opposite sex since.
Halley had a rough childhood with a drug addict mother and too many bad foster homes until her aunt took in Halley and her sister Phoebe. Halley doesn’t like crowds or people in her personal space, and is very careful to only engage in meaningless encounters that don’t lead to a relationship. She’s content to avoid town and spend her time painting in her beachside cottage. But when her car breaks down and Kane shows up to help, they both get a lot more than they bargained for.
I was intrigued by this book’s cover, so I was glad to be able to read an advance copy. I thought it looked dark and suspenseful, but Kane and Halley's story was surprisingly light and uplifting. They both had plenty of pain in their past and currently have their hands full, Kane with his gambling father and single-mom sister and her son, and Halley with ghosts from her foster care experiences and family surprises, so it isn’t an ideal time for a relationship. Plus the fact that Halley doesn’t do relationships.
Kane was such a wonderful hero! He knew what he wanted, but he was wise enough to cajole and entice Halley to his way of thinking, rather than laying it all out and scaring her off. Halley has only trusted two people in her life, her aunt and her sister, and she’s so afraid of letting anyone else get close, because anyone else who has gotten close has hurt her. But she wants something with Kane she has never wanted before, and she knows she'll have to let go of her fear.
Fearless is a terrific start to a promising new series by a talented author. With an abundance of heat, a little humor and a ton of heart, this book is definitely worth a 1-Click. If you’re like me and enjoy a series of standalone romances, you’ll be eager to catch up with these characters in Phoebe's story, Breathe.
*I reviewed this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
Halley had a rough childhood with a drug addict mother and too many bad foster homes until her aunt took in Halley and her sister Phoebe. Halley doesn’t like crowds or people in her personal space, and is very careful to only engage in meaningless encounters that don’t lead to a relationship. She’s content to avoid town and spend her time painting in her beachside cottage. But when her car breaks down and Kane shows up to help, they both get a lot more than they bargained for.
I was intrigued by this book’s cover, so I was glad to be able to read an advance copy. I thought it looked dark and suspenseful, but Kane and Halley's story was surprisingly light and uplifting. They both had plenty of pain in their past and currently have their hands full, Kane with his gambling father and single-mom sister and her son, and Halley with ghosts from her foster care experiences and family surprises, so it isn’t an ideal time for a relationship. Plus the fact that Halley doesn’t do relationships.
Kane was such a wonderful hero! He knew what he wanted, but he was wise enough to cajole and entice Halley to his way of thinking, rather than laying it all out and scaring her off. Halley has only trusted two people in her life, her aunt and her sister, and she’s so afraid of letting anyone else get close, because anyone else who has gotten close has hurt her. But she wants something with Kane she has never wanted before, and she knows she'll have to let go of her fear.
Fearless is a terrific start to a promising new series by a talented author. With an abundance of heat, a little humor and a ton of heart, this book is definitely worth a 1-Click. If you’re like me and enjoy a series of standalone romances, you’ll be eager to catch up with these characters in Phoebe's story, Breathe.
*I reviewed this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
March 28, 2018
Getting a new series from Carly Phillips is always so a treat! This time we get to meet the Wards, three sisters that have been through so much and are now facing their past pain and trying to build brighter futures.
This series begins with the incredible Halley Ward. The daughter of a drug addict and a victim of abuse in foster care, Halley has isolated herself from her wealthy family and found solace in her Rosewood beach house and in her art. Rescued by her aunt, Halley has felt that she never truly fit into her new family, their new home and new school. Only one person seemed to understand her pain - Kane Harmon. He was in the midst of his own loss when she arrived at the high school in Rosewood and recognized a kindred spirit. He kept her safe from bullies and she was always grateful for his help.
Kane Harmon has his own demons. A father with his own addiction. A business to run. His confidence shaken by a woman he trusted and was betrayed by. He's chosen to run his auto repair business and stay away from beautiful summer tourists looking for a fling with the hot mechanic. Kane is sexy, determined and devoted to his family. But he's also complex, conflicted about his father's addiction and yes, maybe a bit lonely. All of that changes when Halley Ward's car breaks down and Kane is the one comes to help.
There is an instant deep attraction between these two. Still many things stand in the way. A history filled with trauma, loss and abuse is just one of those things. It may be that history that brings these two together as they navigate a relationship built on trust and understanding. Kane wants to bring the light back into Halley's life, to bring her closer to the family she has turned from, to love her the way she never has been. Kane, for all of his own faults, is the one man Halley cannot seem to resist or simply walk away from after a night of hot sex. He's in for the long haul and he vows not to let the past destroy what they could have or take Halley's no for an answer. But the memories and reminders of the past aren't very far behind and these two must decide once and for all to love or walk away.
Fearless was a fantastic read and reminded me that Carly can certainly give her readers amazing family sagas. Emotionally charged, dynamic from the very beginning. I loved Halley and Kane's slow build to a sizzling relationship. Kane is a perfectly imperfect hero with a big heart and sexy alpha moves. Halley is hurt, unwilling to trust and still so very lost. Her shame, anger and sadness over being abandoned are such a part of who she is. It is easy to understand why she would run from the love her family and a truly wonderful man. What example has she really had of what real love can truly be? Watching Halley grow into her real self was amazing!
Well done, Carly! Another great beginning!
This series begins with the incredible Halley Ward. The daughter of a drug addict and a victim of abuse in foster care, Halley has isolated herself from her wealthy family and found solace in her Rosewood beach house and in her art. Rescued by her aunt, Halley has felt that she never truly fit into her new family, their new home and new school. Only one person seemed to understand her pain - Kane Harmon. He was in the midst of his own loss when she arrived at the high school in Rosewood and recognized a kindred spirit. He kept her safe from bullies and she was always grateful for his help.
Kane Harmon has his own demons. A father with his own addiction. A business to run. His confidence shaken by a woman he trusted and was betrayed by. He's chosen to run his auto repair business and stay away from beautiful summer tourists looking for a fling with the hot mechanic. Kane is sexy, determined and devoted to his family. But he's also complex, conflicted about his father's addiction and yes, maybe a bit lonely. All of that changes when Halley Ward's car breaks down and Kane is the one comes to help.
There is an instant deep attraction between these two. Still many things stand in the way. A history filled with trauma, loss and abuse is just one of those things. It may be that history that brings these two together as they navigate a relationship built on trust and understanding. Kane wants to bring the light back into Halley's life, to bring her closer to the family she has turned from, to love her the way she never has been. Kane, for all of his own faults, is the one man Halley cannot seem to resist or simply walk away from after a night of hot sex. He's in for the long haul and he vows not to let the past destroy what they could have or take Halley's no for an answer. But the memories and reminders of the past aren't very far behind and these two must decide once and for all to love or walk away.
Fearless was a fantastic read and reminded me that Carly can certainly give her readers amazing family sagas. Emotionally charged, dynamic from the very beginning. I loved Halley and Kane's slow build to a sizzling relationship. Kane is a perfectly imperfect hero with a big heart and sexy alpha moves. Halley is hurt, unwilling to trust and still so very lost. Her shame, anger and sadness over being abandoned are such a part of who she is. It is easy to understand why she would run from the love her family and a truly wonderful man. What example has she really had of what real love can truly be? Watching Halley grow into her real self was amazing!
Well done, Carly! Another great beginning!
March 20, 2018
* A review copy was provided by the author for the Blog Tour *
~ 4 Overcoming Your Fears Stars ~
Fearless is the first book in Carly Phillips Rosewood Series and I think she is off to a great start!!!
I really enjoyed this book. I LOVED Kane and my heart broke and then healed for Halley. This story is all about overcoming one’s fears. It also dealt with Addiction and those who live with the person with the addiction. I thought Carly wrote about this topic very well and she showed us not just how addiction effects the person but those that love us too.
Fearless is a standalone novel told from Dual POV in the third person. What I love about Carly’s writing is that even though she writes in in the 3rd person, it’s not like she is just telling us the story. She is able to express the feelings and emotions that the characters experience as well. I also love that her books start out in the heart of the story. There isn’t all the filler we tend to see in other books. That’s probably why her books are so addicting and I always have a hard time putting them down.
In this book we follow Halley and Kane. Halley is a loner who loves to paint and keep to herself. She moved to Rosewood when she was 13 years old and was taken out of the foster care system by her Aunt. After her mom was sent to jail. Halley had some serious trust issues all stemming from her childhood, but she met the man for her in Kane. He was swoony and patient. He was willing to let Halley move at her speed to overcome her demons. But he was also willing to be there by her side when she needed him. Kane also grew up in Rosewood and actually went to High School with Halley. So color him surprised when the garage he owns is called for a tow and it’s Halley on the side of the road. Determined to break down her walls he befriends her. Will Halley be able to trust Kane?? Can they live HEA?? What happens when the past comes back to town?? Find out this and more by reading Fearless.
I enjoyed meeting the secondary characters and I look forward to Phoebe’s book next.
So if you are looking for a love story about overcoming fears and becoming brave that isn’t overloaded with a lot of excess drama, then this is the book you should read. Definitely one I would recommend to all readers.
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~ 4 Overcoming Your Fears Stars ~
Fearless is the first book in Carly Phillips Rosewood Series and I think she is off to a great start!!!
I really enjoyed this book. I LOVED Kane and my heart broke and then healed for Halley. This story is all about overcoming one’s fears. It also dealt with Addiction and those who live with the person with the addiction. I thought Carly wrote about this topic very well and she showed us not just how addiction effects the person but those that love us too.
Fearless is a standalone novel told from Dual POV in the third person. What I love about Carly’s writing is that even though she writes in in the 3rd person, it’s not like she is just telling us the story. She is able to express the feelings and emotions that the characters experience as well. I also love that her books start out in the heart of the story. There isn’t all the filler we tend to see in other books. That’s probably why her books are so addicting and I always have a hard time putting them down.
In this book we follow Halley and Kane. Halley is a loner who loves to paint and keep to herself. She moved to Rosewood when she was 13 years old and was taken out of the foster care system by her Aunt. After her mom was sent to jail. Halley had some serious trust issues all stemming from her childhood, but she met the man for her in Kane. He was swoony and patient. He was willing to let Halley move at her speed to overcome her demons. But he was also willing to be there by her side when she needed him. Kane also grew up in Rosewood and actually went to High School with Halley. So color him surprised when the garage he owns is called for a tow and it’s Halley on the side of the road. Determined to break down her walls he befriends her. Will Halley be able to trust Kane?? Can they live HEA?? What happens when the past comes back to town?? Find out this and more by reading Fearless.
I enjoyed meeting the secondary characters and I look forward to Phoebe’s book next.
So if you are looking for a love story about overcoming fears and becoming brave that isn’t overloaded with a lot of excess drama, then this is the book you should read. Definitely one I would recommend to all readers.
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March 24, 2018
Fantastic Read!!
There are so many things I want to say about this book. This is the first book in Carly Phillips’s Rosewood Bay series. It’s about the first sister Halley. The story line is fantastic. The characters and the setting. Fantastic. It’s about a man and a woman knowing they have to become fearless to win their future. So many feels.
Because of things that happened in their past and in past relationships, Halley and Kane are two people who are afraid to love. They are tired of putting themselves out there only to get burned.
Halley and Kane had went to high school together. Halley moved to town after being adopted by her aunt. Her horrible experiences while in foster care made her afraid of making any connections. After a devastating loss, Kane became withdrawn. Even despite this, he felt a connection to Halley. He felt he had to protect her from bullying. That it was his job to make sure she was okay.
Fast forward to today. Kane who owns the local garage is called to pick up someone whose car has broken down. And who do you think it is? Yes, none other than Halley.
He is taken in by her right away. He is persistent in his pursuit
of her. She is reluctant because of her past. She knows she will not be able to put herself out there. But with Kane she knows it is different. She knows to win him and to win her future with him she will have to be Fearless. Loved seeing her get there and seeing how Kane supported her on her journey to happiness and security in his arms. Fantastic read!
There are so many things I want to say about this book. This is the first book in Carly Phillips’s Rosewood Bay series. It’s about the first sister Halley. The story line is fantastic. The characters and the setting. Fantastic. It’s about a man and a woman knowing they have to become fearless to win their future. So many feels.
Because of things that happened in their past and in past relationships, Halley and Kane are two people who are afraid to love. They are tired of putting themselves out there only to get burned.
Halley and Kane had went to high school together. Halley moved to town after being adopted by her aunt. Her horrible experiences while in foster care made her afraid of making any connections. After a devastating loss, Kane became withdrawn. Even despite this, he felt a connection to Halley. He felt he had to protect her from bullying. That it was his job to make sure she was okay.
Fast forward to today. Kane who owns the local garage is called to pick up someone whose car has broken down. And who do you think it is? Yes, none other than Halley.
He is taken in by her right away. He is persistent in his pursuit
of her. She is reluctant because of her past. She knows she will not be able to put herself out there. But with Kane she knows it is different. She knows to win him and to win her future with him she will have to be Fearless. Loved seeing her get there and seeing how Kane supported her on her journey to happiness and security in his arms. Fantastic read!
March 28, 2018
I've always been a fan of Carly Phillips. Her books are fun, intriguing, and hot. The characters have depth in regard to their histories, and their worlds are well-developed. Like her other books, I enjoyed the love story and the light, sexy read that was Fearless. I also loved Kane. He was a great man with the perfect blend of raw sexuality and a sweet, caring nature. And in regard to Halley, Kane was the man willing to fight for the connection they had and help her through the fear she held so close.
All that being said, I struggled to connect with Halley. Some parts of her story, reactions to situations, and overall personality didn't quite make sense to me. In one moment, she's fighting her fear of intimacy and the next she's a complete sex goddess. Halley also spent her entire life pushing people away but found it rather easy to give in to Kane's advances, except when she finally let her guard down and fell in love with him. I was just so frustrated by her actions and internal monologues. It was, at times, slow and monotonous.
Overall, I had wanted more from their story. Maybe a bit more depth to Kane and Halley's interactions and experiences and less of Halley doubting herself and pushing everyone in her life away. I would have liked to witness more growth from Halley in general and not just with regard to Kane. It would have also been nice to spend more time with Kane and his family drama.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Readers Copy of this book.
All that being said, I struggled to connect with Halley. Some parts of her story, reactions to situations, and overall personality didn't quite make sense to me. In one moment, she's fighting her fear of intimacy and the next she's a complete sex goddess. Halley also spent her entire life pushing people away but found it rather easy to give in to Kane's advances, except when she finally let her guard down and fell in love with him. I was just so frustrated by her actions and internal monologues. It was, at times, slow and monotonous.
Overall, I had wanted more from their story. Maybe a bit more depth to Kane and Halley's interactions and experiences and less of Halley doubting herself and pushing everyone in her life away. I would have liked to witness more growth from Halley in general and not just with regard to Kane. It would have also been nice to spend more time with Kane and his family drama.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Readers Copy of this book.
April 9, 2022
3.5 Sterne
Es ist schon Ewigkeiten her, dass ich ein Buch nicht nur an einem einzigen Tag, sondern einfach an einem Stück durchgelesen habe!!
#LoveNotLost von #CarlyPhillips ist ein schnelllebiges, romantisches Buch, mit netten Charakteren, knisternder Chemie, 🔥 Szenen und ein wenig Familiendrama um das Ganze noch ein wenig spannender zu machen.
Es ist definitiv keine slow-burn Romanze. Am Anfang hat es ein bisschen Insta-Love Charakter, allerdings mochte ich im Großen und Ganzen doch sehr, wie Kane Halley versucht wirklich all die Zeit zu geben, die sie braucht. Denn die braucht sie mit Sicherheit. In ihrer Vergangenheit sind Dinge passiert, die nicht einfach für sie waren und eigentlich hätte ich gerne gehabt, dass darauf noch ein wenig mehr eingegangen wird, denn ich habe hier eine Menge Potenzial gesehen und bin mir sicher, dass das das Buch noch besser gemacht hätte.
Ebenso trifft dies auf Kanes Familiengeschichte zu. Auch hier hätte durchaus noch ein wenig mehr erzählt werden können. An und für sich fand ich die Kürze des Buches jedoch nicht schlimm und ich hoffe sehr, dass wir in den Folgebänden vielleicht noch ein wenig mehr Kontext zu den allgemeinen Familiengeschichten bekommen, denn Band 2 der Reihe wird von Halleys Schwester handeln wenn mich nicht alles täuscht.
Alles in allem ein kurzlebiges Buch mit Unterhaltungswert und ich würde die nächsten Bände der Reihe ebenfalls sehr gerne lesen! :))
Es ist schon Ewigkeiten her, dass ich ein Buch nicht nur an einem einzigen Tag, sondern einfach an einem Stück durchgelesen habe!!
#LoveNotLost von #CarlyPhillips ist ein schnelllebiges, romantisches Buch, mit netten Charakteren, knisternder Chemie, 🔥 Szenen und ein wenig Familiendrama um das Ganze noch ein wenig spannender zu machen.
Es ist definitiv keine slow-burn Romanze. Am Anfang hat es ein bisschen Insta-Love Charakter, allerdings mochte ich im Großen und Ganzen doch sehr, wie Kane Halley versucht wirklich all die Zeit zu geben, die sie braucht. Denn die braucht sie mit Sicherheit. In ihrer Vergangenheit sind Dinge passiert, die nicht einfach für sie waren und eigentlich hätte ich gerne gehabt, dass darauf noch ein wenig mehr eingegangen wird, denn ich habe hier eine Menge Potenzial gesehen und bin mir sicher, dass das das Buch noch besser gemacht hätte.
Ebenso trifft dies auf Kanes Familiengeschichte zu. Auch hier hätte durchaus noch ein wenig mehr erzählt werden können. An und für sich fand ich die Kürze des Buches jedoch nicht schlimm und ich hoffe sehr, dass wir in den Folgebänden vielleicht noch ein wenig mehr Kontext zu den allgemeinen Familiengeschichten bekommen, denn Band 2 der Reihe wird von Halleys Schwester handeln wenn mich nicht alles täuscht.
Alles in allem ein kurzlebiges Buch mit Unterhaltungswert und ich würde die nächsten Bände der Reihe ebenfalls sehr gerne lesen! :))
March 9, 2018
5 star review Fearless (Rosewood Bay # 1) by Carly Phillips
Ms.Phillips is off to a flying start with her latest series; this book got and kept my attention from the start and I read it in one sitting.
Kane Harmon lives and works in Rosewood Bay running his garage business. He has no time for a committed relationship after being burnt before.When he takes his tow truck out to rescue a customer he is shocked to find the woman is Halley Ward, a woman he used to protect against school bullies in his youth. He had no idea that Halley was still in Rosewood Bay.
Halley is lives the life of a hermit, distant from her family, she lives a life of solitude near the beach. From the moment Kane sets eyes on her again, he is attracted to her and is determined to bring Halley back to life, for her to re connect with her family and with life itself.
Of course the only drawback to this plan is that Halley is not interested, or so she says. As Kane slowly chips away at the brick wall she has surrounded herself with, Halley becomes more and more intrigued with him and slowly opens up.
I fell hard and fast for Kane, he is so kind and caring and swoon worthy; honestly I challenge anyone not to fall for Kane.Halley has overcome so much and I really was cheering for her to get her happily ever after.
I look forward to reading the next book in thee series. Congratulations Ms.Phillips you have another winning series on your hands.
Ms.Phillips is off to a flying start with her latest series; this book got and kept my attention from the start and I read it in one sitting.
Kane Harmon lives and works in Rosewood Bay running his garage business. He has no time for a committed relationship after being burnt before.When he takes his tow truck out to rescue a customer he is shocked to find the woman is Halley Ward, a woman he used to protect against school bullies in his youth. He had no idea that Halley was still in Rosewood Bay.
Halley is lives the life of a hermit, distant from her family, she lives a life of solitude near the beach. From the moment Kane sets eyes on her again, he is attracted to her and is determined to bring Halley back to life, for her to re connect with her family and with life itself.
Of course the only drawback to this plan is that Halley is not interested, or so she says. As Kane slowly chips away at the brick wall she has surrounded herself with, Halley becomes more and more intrigued with him and slowly opens up.
I fell hard and fast for Kane, he is so kind and caring and swoon worthy; honestly I challenge anyone not to fall for Kane.Halley has overcome so much and I really was cheering for her to get her happily ever after.
I look forward to reading the next book in thee series. Congratulations Ms.Phillips you have another winning series on your hands.
March 20, 2018
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the first in a new series, and does a good job of introducing us to the Ward sisters, Phoebe and Halley today. Some of Halley's past comes to light through the book, but there is clearly more to reveal about Phoebe in the next installment.
Halley has benefitted from being rescued by her rich aunt from a terrible foster family, and now hides herself away with her paints by the sea. She is slow to trust and would rather remain alone than find herself in a crowd. A chance encounter with a sexy mechanic, Kane, reminds her that she is still a woman with needs, and somehow she lets him persuade her to take a chance.
Kane has not had an easy life either, and is of an age that he knows what he wants, and is prepared to put in the effort with Halley. He comes over as a wonderful man, and even Halley cannot fail to be charmed by him. However her past is a huge weight on her shoulders, she seems reluctant to lose. At times, I wanted to remind her of all the good that she was experiencing rather than the sadness of the past, but thank fully Kane really was a man of substance, and came through for her.
There were some important side players in this book, which deserve their story to be told too, so I will be reading on with interest. This is a shortish story which gives a good story, without too much angst, and a satisfying ending - with clearly more to be revealed as the next story is published.
This is the first in a new series, and does a good job of introducing us to the Ward sisters, Phoebe and Halley today. Some of Halley's past comes to light through the book, but there is clearly more to reveal about Phoebe in the next installment.
Halley has benefitted from being rescued by her rich aunt from a terrible foster family, and now hides herself away with her paints by the sea. She is slow to trust and would rather remain alone than find herself in a crowd. A chance encounter with a sexy mechanic, Kane, reminds her that she is still a woman with needs, and somehow she lets him persuade her to take a chance.
Kane has not had an easy life either, and is of an age that he knows what he wants, and is prepared to put in the effort with Halley. He comes over as a wonderful man, and even Halley cannot fail to be charmed by him. However her past is a huge weight on her shoulders, she seems reluctant to lose. At times, I wanted to remind her of all the good that she was experiencing rather than the sadness of the past, but thank fully Kane really was a man of substance, and came through for her.
There were some important side players in this book, which deserve their story to be told too, so I will be reading on with interest. This is a shortish story which gives a good story, without too much angst, and a satisfying ending - with clearly more to be revealed as the next story is published.
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