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Tattered & Torn #1
Tattered Stars
Be brave. Just for sixty seconds. Twenty breaths.
One night changed them both forever.
Their lives shattered, beyond repair, with jagged edges and pieces askew.
Now, Everly has a chance to make things right. To bring healing to the place where everything fell apart. But it means facing the family her father almost destroyed, and the boy with the dark eyes—now grown—who still haunts her dreams.
Just one breath away from having your life ripped out from under you.
The last thing Hayes wants is another reminder of all the ways he failed sixteen years ago. When Everly drives back into Wolf Gap, his only mission is to get her to leave. For his family’s sake, and for his own, those demons need to stay buried for good.
But everything about this woman is a surprise, from her spine of steel to the sanctuary she hopes to create with the land her mother left behind. And Hayes is powerless to stay away.
As a careful friendship sparks into something more, someone watches. And they’ll do anything to tear it all apart…
One night changed them both forever.
Their lives shattered, beyond repair, with jagged edges and pieces askew.
Now, Everly has a chance to make things right. To bring healing to the place where everything fell apart. But it means facing the family her father almost destroyed, and the boy with the dark eyes—now grown—who still haunts her dreams.
Just one breath away from having your life ripped out from under you.
The last thing Hayes wants is another reminder of all the ways he failed sixteen years ago. When Everly drives back into Wolf Gap, his only mission is to get her to leave. For his family’s sake, and for his own, those demons need to stay buried for good.
But everything about this woman is a surprise, from her spine of steel to the sanctuary she hopes to create with the land her mother left behind. And Hayes is powerless to stay away.
As a careful friendship sparks into something more, someone watches. And they’ll do anything to tear it all apart…
338 pages, ebook
First published January 30, 2022
About the author
Catherine Cowles
32 books20.2k followersWriter of words. Drinker of Diet Cokes. Lover of all things cute and furry, especially her dog. Catherine has had her nose in a book since the time she could read and finally decided to write down some of her own stories. When she's not writing she can be found exploring her home state of Oregon, listening to true crime podcasts, or searching for her next book boyfriend.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,083 reviews
January 31, 2022
Heartbreaking and heartwarming—this is Cowles at her best!
I could not, would not, put this book down. A dazzling read to start the new year. It's small town romance at it’s best! Cowles grabs you from page one and doesn’t let you go. Simply a brilliant tale packed with heat and heart.
I could not, would not, put this book down. A dazzling read to start the new year. It's small town romance at it’s best! Cowles grabs you from page one and doesn’t let you go. Simply a brilliant tale packed with heat and heart.
![Profile Image for Carol [Goodreads Addict].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1626057011i/10717098._UX200_CR0,33,200,200_.jpg)
January 19, 2022
Tattered Stars is book one in the brand new series, Tattered & Torn by Catherine Cowles. From the moment I opened this book and began the prologue, I was swept away. Catherine has done it again with this beautiful romantic suspense. The characters wrapped themselves around my heart and squeezed.
Everly Kember left Wolf Gap, Oregon nearly fifteen years ago and hasn’t been back since. She thought by staying away, she could erase those horrible memories of what her father did. But all she really did was push it all into a dark closet, always lurking, waiting to escape. Her mother left her the family ranch so Everly is going back, not only to try to put her ghosts out for good, but to pursue her dream of creating an animal sanctuary. To create something beautiful where something so dark once presided.
Hayes Easton is thirty years old and is now the sheriff of Wolf Gap. When he hears that Everly is back, all he wants is for her to pack right back up and get out of his town. He wants to protect his family from having to face those memories all over again. But Everly isn’t going anywhere. It doesn’t take long for him to see that he was wrong about her, to actually respect her for her courage and for her stubbornness.
Hayes and Everly become friends and when Everly’s safety is at risk, Hayes can’t help but to want to protect her. It’s his job but with Everly, it’s also more. He’s begun to care for her in a way he shouldn’t.
Everly just wants to be left alone, to create a place for animals to be given a second chance in life. But there are others that aren’t happy she is back and who will do anything to scare her, hurt her even. Hayes is determined to protect her and soon, it becomes impossible to deny what is developing between them. But with danger lurking, will they even get the chance to explore the feelings between them?
Catherine has such a beautiful way with her words. Even if I only had a few minutes to grab a few pages, I completely lost myself in this world every single time. I literally could not put this down. Everly was so very brave and Hayes was so very swoony. This is an amazingly wonderful book. The next book in the series, Falling Embers, will be Hayes youngest sister, Hadley, and his best friend, Calder’s book. I just know it’s going to be fantastic.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Everly Kember left Wolf Gap, Oregon nearly fifteen years ago and hasn’t been back since. She thought by staying away, she could erase those horrible memories of what her father did. But all she really did was push it all into a dark closet, always lurking, waiting to escape. Her mother left her the family ranch so Everly is going back, not only to try to put her ghosts out for good, but to pursue her dream of creating an animal sanctuary. To create something beautiful where something so dark once presided.
Hayes Easton is thirty years old and is now the sheriff of Wolf Gap. When he hears that Everly is back, all he wants is for her to pack right back up and get out of his town. He wants to protect his family from having to face those memories all over again. But Everly isn’t going anywhere. It doesn’t take long for him to see that he was wrong about her, to actually respect her for her courage and for her stubbornness.
Hayes and Everly become friends and when Everly’s safety is at risk, Hayes can’t help but to want to protect her. It’s his job but with Everly, it’s also more. He’s begun to care for her in a way he shouldn’t.
Everly just wants to be left alone, to create a place for animals to be given a second chance in life. But there are others that aren’t happy she is back and who will do anything to scare her, hurt her even. Hayes is determined to protect her and soon, it becomes impossible to deny what is developing between them. But with danger lurking, will they even get the chance to explore the feelings between them?
Catherine has such a beautiful way with her words. Even if I only had a few minutes to grab a few pages, I completely lost myself in this world every single time. I literally could not put this down. Everly was so very brave and Hayes was so very swoony. This is an amazingly wonderful book. The next book in the series, Falling Embers, will be Hayes youngest sister, Hadley, and his best friend, Calder’s book. I just know it’s going to be fantastic.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
March 21, 2023
I'm beginning to really love Catherine Colwes! This is a hate to love romance and I loved the premise. The heroine is coming back to her family's land after they moved when her father went to jail for kidnapping a local girl. Their family doesn't trust anyone, including doctors and the government, so they keep to themselves. Everly was the one who turned her father in, so her family hates her, but the town also hates her from what her family did. Hayes especially hates Everly because it was his sister who was kidnapped, and he harbors guilt for what happened. When he sees Everly back in town, he's furious. But when he realizes someone is out to get Everly and someone is terrorizing local women, he starts to feel protective of Everly and the two grow closer. I did enjoy the romantic suspense aspect of this book and how Everly and Hayes slowly developed their romance. Hayes would always show up for her and his own family wanted to step up and help her as well. This definite had small town vibes and I just really enjoyed this story. I can't wait to read the next book now!
September 29, 2022
This was a tough call to make. I adore small-town romances and Elsie Silver basically got me started with them.
This book hits all the small town romance spots and the male main character is a sheriff so I thought this would be a guaranteed win for me.
But unfortunately, I can't help but point out the things that didn't work. So let's give this one a compliment sandwich, shall we?
> The writing is great and well paced.
The book is waaay to slow.
> Both characters are well rounded and well developed and you'll learn to love them all.
They were WAY too well rounded so you don't experience a single drop of tension between the couple, they just... COMMUNICATE. And solve all their issues, so there isn't a single drop of angst. It's almost like they're healthy or something.
> This was a "romance/suspense" novel and she handled the suspense beautifully, got you intrigued in her family history and everything was very atmospheric.
The ending and the final AHA! was underwhelming.
> Both of these characters are so cute and they have the best connection, they say the sweetest things to each other. It's so romantic.
But the author DOES not write sex scenes, it was the same thing as reading closed-door romance. She uses maybe less than ONE LINE to describe their sexual encounters and moves on. So, extremely underwhelming as well.
> The secondary characters were adorable and some of the dialogues were so funny.
They almost managed to be more interesting than the main couple since everything moved soooo slowly.
So the final verdict is: this is an AMAZING audible read. The narrators were awesome. As for the book itself? If you enjoy: low angst, non-descriptive sex, slow-burn with a slow paced writing, very well rounded, reasonable and healthy characters and some mystery, you might really love this one.
I'd recommend this to my grandma or something, or a friend who doesn't enjoy chaotic/dark and extremely sexual romances.
So it will stay at a 3 for me, enjoyable, but I was hoping for more. I honestly couldn't help but compare this to: Indigo Ridge, they both have the exact same vibe and character style: small town/the FMC is a cop and there is suspense. But the difference is that Indigo Ridge will offer you the angst and the sex. Have a good day, thanks for reading.
November 19, 2021
An unforgettable start to a new series. Atmospheric, suspenseful and crackling with tension and electric chemistry, Tattered Stars is a must read romance for 2022!
April 9, 2024
4.5 stars
This is my first Catherine Cowles book and I really enjoyed it. I'm a huge sucker for law enforcement MMC's, and Hayes delivered.
But it's CRIMINAL that Everly didn't get the chance to show her skill and badassery considering her gun collection. I was hoping she was going to blast someone with Betty and was deeply disappointed.
This is my first Catherine Cowles book and I really enjoyed it. I'm a huge sucker for law enforcement MMC's, and Hayes delivered.
But it's CRIMINAL that Everly didn't get the chance to show her skill and badassery considering her gun collection. I was hoping she was going to blast someone with Betty and was deeply disappointed.
November 4, 2022
this was such a great start to the series. small town w a dash of suspense? count me in.
the ending felt a lil bit rushed & i wasn’t obsessed w everly and hayes all that much. but i adored the plot and the found family. and i’m so ready for the rest of the series!!!!
hadley & calder i’m coming for u immediately
“i love you.”
“i know.” <3
the ending felt a lil bit rushed & i wasn’t obsessed w everly and hayes all that much. but i adored the plot and the found family. and i’m so ready for the rest of the series!!!!
hadley & calder i’m coming for u immediately
“i love you.”
“i know.” <3
January 24, 2024
4.25 stars
Catherine Cowles is an author I wanted to read more of this year, and this was just the book to start with! It had a great small town/romantic suspense vibe and I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the series. I loved how Everly and Hayes had history and it started a bit enemies to lovers (at least on his end). After meeting Hayes family and all the supporting characters, I’m excited to get to more of the books in this series!
Catherine Cowles is an author I wanted to read more of this year, and this was just the book to start with! It had a great small town/romantic suspense vibe and I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the series. I loved how Everly and Hayes had history and it started a bit enemies to lovers (at least on his end). After meeting Hayes family and all the supporting characters, I’m excited to get to more of the books in this series!
Audio book source: Audible
Story Rating: 4.25 stars
Narrators: Andi Arndt & Zachary Webber
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Romance
Length: 8h 39
May 31, 2023
AMAZING !! I absolutely loved this book!! This is the first book in the “Tattered Stars” series by Catherine Cowles and I am just still in shock of how good it is! What a memorable heart-wrenching and heartwarming suspense romance story. I felt so connected to the characters and could not stop reading. If you love small town, enemies to lovers then this one is for you! I can’t wait to read the next in the series! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 1, 2022
3.5✨
𝘏𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘪𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘥 𝘶𝘱 𝘮𝘺 𝘧𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘴𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘱𝘴 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘢 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵.
“𝘌𝘷?”
“𝘠𝘦𝘴?”
“𝙄 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
This book was so enjoyable. It straddles the line between contemporary and romantic suspense, and was pretty easily balanced.
Tattered Stars follows Everly, a woman coming back to her small town in eastern Oregon after an abusive and traumatic childhood. She knew that the town would not welcome her with open arms because of her father’s actions, but she was not expecting Hayes, a man tied to one of the most challenging days of her life. The two of them are connected because of an awful event that happened years ago, and Hayes can’t let it go. As Everly tries to get back into her normal life, there is someone attempted to abduct women in town. And Hayes, as the sheriff, will do anything to protect Everly.
I enjoyed this book, but I did feel like there was something missing. Almost like it was just scratching the surface of what it could have been. The suspense was well written, but the romance was a little tame for my likes, but if you enjoy only a little steam in your books, you’ll like this one.
Read if you like
🖤 romantic suspense
🖤 enemies to lovers
🖤 slow burn
🖤 strong fmc
🖤 protective and growly mmc
🖤 small town romance
𝘏𝘢𝘺𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘪𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘥 𝘶𝘱 𝘮𝘺 𝘧𝘢𝘤𝘦 𝘴𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘭𝘪𝘱𝘴 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘢 𝘣𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵.
“𝘌𝘷?”
“𝘠𝘦𝘴?”
“𝙄 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
This book was so enjoyable. It straddles the line between contemporary and romantic suspense, and was pretty easily balanced.
Tattered Stars follows Everly, a woman coming back to her small town in eastern Oregon after an abusive and traumatic childhood. She knew that the town would not welcome her with open arms because of her father’s actions, but she was not expecting Hayes, a man tied to one of the most challenging days of her life. The two of them are connected because of an awful event that happened years ago, and Hayes can’t let it go. As Everly tries to get back into her normal life, there is someone attempted to abduct women in town. And Hayes, as the sheriff, will do anything to protect Everly.
I enjoyed this book, but I did feel like there was something missing. Almost like it was just scratching the surface of what it could have been. The suspense was well written, but the romance was a little tame for my likes, but if you enjoy only a little steam in your books, you’ll like this one.
Read if you like
🖤 romantic suspense
🖤 enemies to lovers
🖤 slow burn
🖤 strong fmc
🖤 protective and growly mmc
🖤 small town romance
October 16, 2021
****COMING 2022****
5 STARS
Without question one of my favorite books from Catherine Cowes. She has solidified herself as one of my favorite suspense, small town romance authors with this one, and I CANNOT wait to see who else will get stories in this brand new world.
Everly is such a strong heroine and a strong sense of right and wrong. She is brave and kind. There was not one thing about her that wasn’t amazing. This is a woman who doesn’t need a man to survive, she has it herself.
Hayes isn’t initially super warm and welcoming, but he can’t resist Everly (I can’t blame him. I kind of have a girl crush). He has such a sense of honor, and his protective nature will have readers swooning HARD.
I love that these two come together to heal, to take tragedy and have something beautiful grow from it, something that is healing and real. We also get to meet a whole cast of characters that I promise will steal your heart. You do NOT want to miss this journey.
It is safe to say that I am obsessed with this new world and characters. I loved these two and their journey. I’ll be anxiously awaiting for more.
***AUDIO ARC***
5 STARS
Without question one of my favorite books from Catherine Cowes. She has solidified herself as one of my favorite suspense, small town romance authors with this one, and I CANNOT wait to see who else will get stories in this brand new world.
Everly is such a strong heroine and a strong sense of right and wrong. She is brave and kind. There was not one thing about her that wasn’t amazing. This is a woman who doesn’t need a man to survive, she has it herself.
Hayes isn’t initially super warm and welcoming, but he can’t resist Everly (I can’t blame him. I kind of have a girl crush). He has such a sense of honor, and his protective nature will have readers swooning HARD.
I love that these two come together to heal, to take tragedy and have something beautiful grow from it, something that is healing and real. We also get to meet a whole cast of characters that I promise will steal your heart. You do NOT want to miss this journey.
It is safe to say that I am obsessed with this new world and characters. I loved these two and their journey. I’ll be anxiously awaiting for more.
***AUDIO ARC***
February 4, 2022
3.25🌟
This is the first book in the new series set in the small picturesque mountain town of Wolf Gap.
One of the things i love about Catherine books is always the setting. she's really a great writer and always delivers the perfect descriptions and that "small town" essence which personally i like very much. That's why i always pick up her books even tho i was not big fan of her lastest releases.
We met Everly who was Shay's online friend and i knew i'll be def reading her book bc i was very intrigued about her past.
So we find out that she had traumatic childhood living with her mother and father who had a lot of mental issues. When she was 11 years old he kiddnapped some local little girl with the illusion that he's saving her so Everly knowing this will ruin her family went to the police and they managed to save the little girl and put her father in prison.
After that all of her family turned their backs on her so she was forced to move out with her big sister in another city.
Now in the present time after 15 years she returnes home and meets the H (Hayes) who is also the kidnapped girl (who she saved) big brother. He is now all grown up, the sheriff in town and also not big fan of Everly.
He also has some unresolved trauma and blames himself about his little sister's kidnapping so normally he's pissed about Everly showing up again and triggering that trauma.
But this "hating" part lasted very short and tbh i wanted more of that hate.😂 i liked the fact that his family was very supportive of everly and they accepted her like their own daughter but i wished there was a little more push and pull between everly and hayes.
This is also very slow slowburn. So they went from enemies to friends quicker than i thought but the friends to lovers part went longer than i thought lol.
In true Catherine's fashion there is a suspense side plot of someone trying to kidnap girls and also someone attacks Everly multiple times. so normally i thought this is going to bring ev and hayes together but the moment i thought hell yeah something finally will happen between them they would took step back. ugh it was frustraiting. they had a lot of chemistry in the beginning but how the romance part dragged they started to lose all that connection bc the side plot took so much of the story.
I just wanted more cute moments about both of them who had nothing to do with their pasts. I feel like everytime they got together all they talked about was the kidnappings. Idk if that's bc she wanted to make their relationship more slowburn but i needed more connection or someting, anything together!! and i'm really bummed bc they had so many opportunities to do that like when they took care of koda(the cutest dog) but i feel like Catherine always fast forwarded those scenes.
There was also a lot of drama with ev's family which tbh started to bore me to tears.
The middle part dragged a lottt and this book needed to be at least 50 pages short.
The bad guy was somewhat predictable even tho i had a few different theories but i feel like everything dragged and then the reveal happened very fast and ended so abruptly. There were a lot of loose ends left unexplained.🙄
The next book is about Calder and Hadley, brother's best friend. Didn't Catherine already write a book with the exact same trope in the sutter lake series? I feel like her books are already pretty simular and if she starts to repeat tropes again i may need to take a break from her books🙄.
This is the first book in the new series set in the small picturesque mountain town of Wolf Gap.
One of the things i love about Catherine books is always the setting. she's really a great writer and always delivers the perfect descriptions and that "small town" essence which personally i like very much. That's why i always pick up her books even tho i was not big fan of her lastest releases.
We met Everly who was Shay's online friend and i knew i'll be def reading her book bc i was very intrigued about her past.
So we find out that she had traumatic childhood living with her mother and father who had a lot of mental issues. When she was 11 years old he kiddnapped some local little girl with the illusion that he's saving her so Everly knowing this will ruin her family went to the police and they managed to save the little girl and put her father in prison.
After that all of her family turned their backs on her so she was forced to move out with her big sister in another city.
Now in the present time after 15 years she returnes home and meets the H (Hayes) who is also the kidnapped girl (who she saved) big brother. He is now all grown up, the sheriff in town and also not big fan of Everly.
He also has some unresolved trauma and blames himself about his little sister's kidnapping so normally he's pissed about Everly showing up again and triggering that trauma.
But this "hating" part lasted very short and tbh i wanted more of that hate.😂 i liked the fact that his family was very supportive of everly and they accepted her like their own daughter but i wished there was a little more push and pull between everly and hayes.
This is also very slow slowburn. So they went from enemies to friends quicker than i thought but the friends to lovers part went longer than i thought lol.
In true Catherine's fashion there is a suspense side plot of someone trying to kidnap girls and also someone attacks Everly multiple times. so normally i thought this is going to bring ev and hayes together but the moment i thought hell yeah something finally will happen between them they would took step back. ugh it was frustraiting. they had a lot of chemistry in the beginning but how the romance part dragged they started to lose all that connection bc the side plot took so much of the story.
I just wanted more cute moments about both of them who had nothing to do with their pasts. I feel like everytime they got together all they talked about was the kidnappings. Idk if that's bc she wanted to make their relationship more slowburn but i needed more connection or someting, anything together!! and i'm really bummed bc they had so many opportunities to do that like when they took care of koda(the cutest dog) but i feel like Catherine always fast forwarded those scenes.
There was also a lot of drama with ev's family which tbh started to bore me to tears.
The middle part dragged a lottt and this book needed to be at least 50 pages short.
The bad guy was somewhat predictable even tho i had a few different theories but i feel like everything dragged and then the reveal happened very fast and ended so abruptly. There were a lot of loose ends left unexplained.🙄
The next book is about Calder and Hadley, brother's best friend. Didn't Catherine already write a book with the exact same trope in the sutter lake series? I feel like her books are already pretty simular and if she starts to repeat tropes again i may need to take a break from her books🙄.
July 20, 2023
Everly (h) and Hayes (H) had such an emotional story and both had to fight through interpersonal conflicts and family pain. I loved that Everly was both strong and vulnerable. The story opens with her as a child and bravely doing the right thing, which brings Hayes' family back together, but tears her own family apart. As an adult, she's returning to the small town she grew up in, but trying to avoid the community her family is still a part of, and instead build something new while pursuing her dream of an animal sanctuary. Hayes is now the sheriff of the town and is a jerk at first out of fear of what Everly being back will mean for the family he loves, but who still struggle.
I appreciated that Everly is compassionate but firm and Hayes is quick to adjust his perceptions and attitude. He becomes so supportive and protective, it was wonderful. Their romance is slow burn and I thought perfectly fit their pasts and present. There's also a mystery involving a dangerous man attacking women in the area and issues with Everly's family, giving some suspense to the plot. While nothing was ground breaking in this romance, it was a solidly enjoyable read with heart, great characters, a small town feel, plenty of supporting characters (for the rest of the series), adorable animals (there's a dog and a chipmunk y'all), and a touch of steam to compliment the romance. Written in first person, dual POV. No ow/om drama (although a couple of side characters may have interest in h) and neither was a virgin (although I don't recall either's history being shared, just a reference to H dating sometimes).
The climax is the reveal of who was attacking women and is very tense. The ending is HEA a month later with details wrapping up where everything and everyone stands. Everly and Hayes are getting ready to build a house and the story ends with a proposal. Since the rest of the series follows mainly their family members, I'm sure they pop up in other books, but I felt like their love was so established throughout this book that I felt very satisfied with this ending, even though the epilogue wasn't further out.
I appreciated that Everly is compassionate but firm and Hayes is quick to adjust his perceptions and attitude. He becomes so supportive and protective, it was wonderful. Their romance is slow burn and I thought perfectly fit their pasts and present. There's also a mystery involving a dangerous man attacking women in the area and issues with Everly's family, giving some suspense to the plot. While nothing was ground breaking in this romance, it was a solidly enjoyable read with heart, great characters, a small town feel, plenty of supporting characters (for the rest of the series), adorable animals (there's a dog and a chipmunk y'all), and a touch of steam to compliment the romance. Written in first person, dual POV. No ow/om drama (although a couple of side characters may have interest in h) and neither was a virgin (although I don't recall either's history being shared, just a reference to H dating sometimes).
The climax is the reveal of who was attacking women and is very tense. The ending is HEA a month later with details wrapping up where everything and everyone stands. Everly and Hayes are getting ready to build a house and the story ends with a proposal. Since the rest of the series follows mainly their family members, I'm sure they pop up in other books, but I felt like their love was so established throughout this book that I felt very satisfied with this ending, even though the epilogue wasn't further out.
January 19, 2022
4.75 - 5 stars ⭐️
It’s just the way I knew I was gonna get my first 5 star read of the year by Catherine😭🤍
I think most the people here know how badly I’m obsessed w Catherine and her words (if you don’t, you’re totally living under a rock). Her book “Wrecked Palace” is one of my all time fav and a book which I highly recommend to all my friends.
I’ve been excited for this book ever since Catherine announced that this book was going to be about Everly (Shay’s online friend in Reckless Refuge) and safe to say that this book totally lived up to my expectations and It might be my second ever favourite novel by Catherine after Wrecked Palace.
It’s just the way Catherine writes emotions and how strongly she makes us love all of her characters is insane, You not only love them but you also form a bond with them. This was an amazing start to yet another amazing series from Catherine! I can’t wait to read the next book already.
I know I say this about all of Catherine heroines but I LOVE THEM. Everly Kemper is like no other. Going against her whole family only when she was 11 to save a kid’s life was so amazing and brave of her even when the whole said family later went against her and literally tried to harm her life but she at that time didn’t think of consequences but rather wanted to save the girl.
I admired Everly a lot. Coming back to the town where everyone hates her, where all her nightmares are made of live takes a huge courage and the fact she wanted to create good memories at her home instead of it being filled with bad memories just wanted me to hug her. I loved how kind she was to not only people but animals. Absolutely adored how she wanted to build an animal sanctuary and how considerate she was.
Hayes Easton skdjduridjcjfific. I don’t even know what to say about this guy. He was a rude asshole in the starting but that was understandable cause trauma but THEN OH MY GOD. The way he bought her food, the way he took care of her when she had suffered concussion, the way he held her, the way he was so protective of her sushdhdhxjdjd. You can’t probably hear but I’m squealing as I’m writing this review, this guy made me have the biggest grin while I was reading. I loved how caring and devoted he was to his song, his relationship with his dog, Koda and how he always tried to mend his mom’s and sisters’ relationship.
Overall, this was a very strong starting to the new series. The romance was very well done, the suspense was amazing and it’s crazy but I didn’t really see it coming so one plus point for the shocker and I absolutely fell in love with the side characters too! I can’t freaking wait for book 2 now!!!
*** ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.***
“Anyone can be brave for twenty breaths. And in that time, you can do almost anything. Or at least take the first steps you need to get there.”
It’s just the way I knew I was gonna get my first 5 star read of the year by Catherine😭🤍
I think most the people here know how badly I’m obsessed w Catherine and her words (if you don’t, you’re totally living under a rock). Her book “Wrecked Palace” is one of my all time fav and a book which I highly recommend to all my friends.
” The mare blew air out through her lips, making Everly laugh. The sound was light and free as if all the things that weighed on her shoulders had been lifted in that one moment. I wanted more of those laughs. I could drown in the sound and be a happy man.”
I’ve been excited for this book ever since Catherine announced that this book was going to be about Everly (Shay’s online friend in Reckless Refuge) and safe to say that this book totally lived up to my expectations and It might be my second ever favourite novel by Catherine after Wrecked Palace.
It’s just the way Catherine writes emotions and how strongly she makes us love all of her characters is insane, You not only love them but you also form a bond with them. This was an amazing start to yet another amazing series from Catherine! I can’t wait to read the next book already.
“Everly was heart-stoppingly gorgeous. She had the kind of beauty that could bring a man to his knees.”
I know I say this about all of Catherine heroines but I LOVE THEM. Everly Kemper is like no other. Going against her whole family only when she was 11 to save a kid’s life was so amazing and brave of her even when the whole said family later went against her and literally tried to harm her life but she at that time didn’t think of consequences but rather wanted to save the girl.
I admired Everly a lot. Coming back to the town where everyone hates her, where all her nightmares are made of live takes a huge courage and the fact she wanted to create good memories at her home instead of it being filled with bad memories just wanted me to hug her. I loved how kind she was to not only people but animals. Absolutely adored how she wanted to build an animal sanctuary and how considerate she was.
“ Those eyes so dark and deep, I felt as if I could sink into them and get lost for days. Nothing in him spoke untruths. Maybe Hayes truly was one of the good ones. Someone determined to make the world better for everyone around him.”
Hayes Easton skdjduridjcjfific. I don’t even know what to say about this guy. He was a rude asshole in the starting but that was understandable cause trauma but THEN OH MY GOD. The way he bought her food, the way he took care of her when she had suffered concussion, the way he held her, the way he was so protective of her sushdhdhxjdjd. You can’t probably hear but I’m squealing as I’m writing this review, this guy made me have the biggest grin while I was reading. I loved how caring and devoted he was to his song, his relationship with his dog, Koda and how he always tried to mend his mom’s and sisters’ relationship.
” Everly was right. It wouldn’t be easy. More than a few moments would be complicated. But I couldn’t walk away, either. She seemed to pull me in. And each layer she revealed tethered me to her. Amazed me and sliced at any sort of defenses I’d built up.”
Overall, this was a very strong starting to the new series. The romance was very well done, the suspense was amazing and it’s crazy but I didn’t really see it coming so one plus point for the shocker and I absolutely fell in love with the side characters too! I can’t freaking wait for book 2 now!!!
“I’m here.” “You always are.” “And I always will be.” Instead of fear or uncertainty at that vow, I felt only peace. The ethereal feeling that had always seemed out of my grasp. It filled me now, and if I could experience that peace amidst the terror of today, I knew it would never leave me.”
*** ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.***
February 1, 2022
Omg Catherine—STOPPP!
How does she keep on nailing it every time!!?
“Anyone can be Brave for 20 mins” will be my new motivational quote whenever times get tough. I felt with every line, and chapter I was transported to this whole world. I love how Catherine ventured off into cults and that whole taboo world that no one likes to talk about. I loved the strong family dynamic/Blanket that Everly folded herself into. Especially since she was a loner and felt she didn’t belong. Catherine’s heroines are always so strong and brave, but I love how they surrender themselves body and soul to their mates. Mystery, suspense, romance—these are the key CC components that I find myself craving at times. She never disappoints. This audio was PERFECTION! Loved it so much!!
I’m definitely looking forward to ALL the things in this series and being in this new world. Chefs kiss 😘
How does she keep on nailing it every time!!?
“Anyone can be Brave for 20 mins” will be my new motivational quote whenever times get tough. I felt with every line, and chapter I was transported to this whole world. I love how Catherine ventured off into cults and that whole taboo world that no one likes to talk about. I loved the strong family dynamic/Blanket that Everly folded herself into. Especially since she was a loner and felt she didn’t belong. Catherine’s heroines are always so strong and brave, but I love how they surrender themselves body and soul to their mates. Mystery, suspense, romance—these are the key CC components that I find myself craving at times. She never disappoints. This audio was PERFECTION! Loved it so much!!
I’m definitely looking forward to ALL the things in this series and being in this new world. Chefs kiss 😘
September 7, 2022
im writing a full review because this book deserves it.
small town✅
enemies to lovers✅
suspense ✅
close proximity ✅
family ✅
healthy relationships ✅
this book is about everly and hayes and they’re perfectly represented.
the book starts off so strong. it had me hooked from the beginning and left me wanting more. so many books struggle to hook a reader but this book had that hook effortlessly.
i love romantic suspense and as everyone knows it’s a difficult genre to perfect.
not only did this book focus on the suspense but also on the romance. the suspense was intense. it was truly incredible the build up was done so well.
the romance was so effortless and i loved it. the push and pull and the open communication. they resemble a healthy relationship and i love that so much. the slow burn was there but at the same time i could feel the love building and that’s what made this story so perfect.
it was realistic and had that romance aspect but it also kept me hooked.
this book is truly amazing everything about it was done so well i cannot say enough about it
small town✅
enemies to lovers✅
suspense ✅
close proximity ✅
family ✅
healthy relationships ✅
this book is about everly and hayes and they’re perfectly represented.
the book starts off so strong. it had me hooked from the beginning and left me wanting more. so many books struggle to hook a reader but this book had that hook effortlessly.
i love romantic suspense and as everyone knows it’s a difficult genre to perfect.
not only did this book focus on the suspense but also on the romance. the suspense was intense. it was truly incredible the build up was done so well.
the romance was so effortless and i loved it. the push and pull and the open communication. they resemble a healthy relationship and i love that so much. the slow burn was there but at the same time i could feel the love building and that’s what made this story so perfect.
it was realistic and had that romance aspect but it also kept me hooked.
this book is truly amazing everything about it was done so well i cannot say enough about it
May 19, 2021
I am absolutely speechless. You know when a book ends and you are just blown away? That is me right now.
I was so excited to start a brand new series from Catherine and she did not disappoint. I think it safe to say this is my FAVORITE Catherine Cowles book yet!!
In Tattered Stars, we are taken to a whole new community in Wolf Gap. The Hero in this one is the sheriff. Can you say swoon?? I don’t think anyone can write a hot/rugged/protective badge wearing hero like Catherine can. I absolutely fell in love with Hayes Easton!
They journey Hayes and Everly go on a journey that isn’t expected, but has your heart strings pulling. The connection she has with the family, just leaves me speechless.
If you love
💜Enemies to lovers
💜Small town
💜Hot cop
This one is for you! Fantastic way to kick off a new series!
I was so excited to start a brand new series from Catherine and she did not disappoint. I think it safe to say this is my FAVORITE Catherine Cowles book yet!!
In Tattered Stars, we are taken to a whole new community in Wolf Gap. The Hero in this one is the sheriff. Can you say swoon?? I don’t think anyone can write a hot/rugged/protective badge wearing hero like Catherine can. I absolutely fell in love with Hayes Easton!
They journey Hayes and Everly go on a journey that isn’t expected, but has your heart strings pulling. The connection she has with the family, just leaves me speechless.
If you love
💜Enemies to lovers
💜Small town
💜Hot cop
This one is for you! Fantastic way to kick off a new series!
May 27, 2023
#0.5 Snowbound — 2 stars
#1 Tattered Stars — 2.75 stars
note: i binge read this series in January. considering its been four months and the fact that basically every single book has the same formula, my memories were all tattered & torn. 🥴 however, i’d say that in general all the books have similar character backgrounds & trauma; the romance is a slow burn angst that somehow feels instalove and lacks depth/chemistry; the steam is mostly nonexistent/closed door; and the mystery/suspense plotline is wholly predictable. 🙃 i dont recommend this author UNLESS youre reading her books on audio while doing something else more productive. these books are good enough to pass the time and dont require much brain power, but theyre not interesting enough to leave lasting impression. 🙌
as for Tattered Stars specifically, from what i can recall i think . . . i liked that the h didnt give a damn about the H & the town hating on her because of her messed up father. i also liked that the Hs family didnt hold a grudge and was so accepting of her. contrarily, i didnt like the H because he was projecting his guilt—over his little sisters kidnapping that happened years ago—towards the h (her father was the kidnapper, and she reported the crime). it was supposed to be hate to love, but the H was immature with all his blaming on the h (to think that hes the sheriff 💀🔫)!! imo, the hate was there just for the sake of it. especially because it didnt last long, and the H became very protective of the h after finding out someone was threatening her. 🤦♀️ those niggles aside, i enjoyed the story just fine.
(read as an audiobook)
#1 Tattered Stars — 2.75 stars
note: i binge read this series in January. considering its been four months and the fact that basically every single book has the same formula, my memories were all tattered & torn. 🥴 however, i’d say that in general all the books have similar character backgrounds & trauma; the romance is a slow burn angst that somehow feels instalove and lacks depth/chemistry; the steam is mostly nonexistent/closed door; and the mystery/suspense plotline is wholly predictable. 🙃 i dont recommend this author UNLESS youre reading her books on audio while doing something else more productive. these books are good enough to pass the time and dont require much brain power, but theyre not interesting enough to leave lasting impression. 🙌
as for Tattered Stars specifically, from what i can recall i think . . . i liked that the h didnt give a damn about the H & the town hating on her because of her messed up father. i also liked that the Hs family didnt hold a grudge and was so accepting of her. contrarily, i didnt like the H because he was projecting his guilt—over his little sisters kidnapping that happened years ago—towards the h (her father was the kidnapper, and she reported the crime). it was supposed to be hate to love, but the H was immature with all his blaming on the h (to think that hes the sheriff 💀🔫)!! imo, the hate was there just for the sake of it. especially because it didnt last long, and the H became very protective of the h after finding out someone was threatening her. 🤦♀️ those niggles aside, i enjoyed the story just fine.
(read as an audiobook)
January 11, 2023
3.75 stars!!!
this is a perfect way to start a small town, murder mystery, romance series! now i will say i’m a little disappointed about how predictable the murderer was at least in my opinion it was too obvious, but everything else in the story was good and i’m hoping this series only gets better.
this is a perfect way to start a small town, murder mystery, romance series! now i will say i’m a little disappointed about how predictable the murderer was at least in my opinion it was too obvious, but everything else in the story was good and i’m hoping this series only gets better.
January 14, 2022
Two families irrevocably changed by one man’s actions. One girl taken, and one girl determined to reclaim the happy memories from the land where an atrocity occurred. What are the odds that a fifteen-year-old wound can even be healed? But Everly Kemper is a warrior with steel in her spine, and she's determined to create something beautiful from the beastly.
Hayes Easton carries a load of guilt from the event that shook the foundation of his close-knit family, so it's no wonder he's dedicated his life to protecting his small community of Wolf Gap as their sheriff. He's not thrilled that Everly has returned home, stirring up memories he'd prefer remain buried. But more than one person is not happy about Everly's return, and Hayes job just got a lot more challenging.
This talented lady is one I’ve been with since the start of her career, and I’ve come to trust her for stories full of authentically flawed characters who feel like friends, breath-taking and riveting suspense, and emotional depth that reaches my soul. But this story, it's truly special and so much more!
Everly and Hayes are more like glowing embers than a raging inferno, which is absolutely perfect for them. They both have a lot of past hurt that needs healing, and trust grows tentatively as their friendship blossoms and pain from the past begins to mend. And what their romance may lack in angst, it's more than made up for with the drama, suspense, and danger that seems to be around every corner.
The heart of this beautiful story is its forgiveness, healing and new beginnings. Everly and Hayes are an unlikely pairing, yet they make sense in spite of the past tragedy that shackles them together. Seeing Hayes' family accept Everly as one of their own, a girl who's been all alone and had only herself to rely on, and watching them all find healing is glorious. It showcases the resilience and determination of the human spirit and reminds us that, while life can be brutal and devastating, with hope, grace, and love, something beautiful can bloom from ruins.
Without question this masterfully told story is one of my top five reads for the year, and I have no doubt it will be high on your list too. It will restore your faith in humanity and rekindle hope in your heart, so make sure you don’t miss out on this extraordinary reading experience!
Hayes Easton carries a load of guilt from the event that shook the foundation of his close-knit family, so it's no wonder he's dedicated his life to protecting his small community of Wolf Gap as their sheriff. He's not thrilled that Everly has returned home, stirring up memories he'd prefer remain buried. But more than one person is not happy about Everly's return, and Hayes job just got a lot more challenging.
This talented lady is one I’ve been with since the start of her career, and I’ve come to trust her for stories full of authentically flawed characters who feel like friends, breath-taking and riveting suspense, and emotional depth that reaches my soul. But this story, it's truly special and so much more!
Everly and Hayes are more like glowing embers than a raging inferno, which is absolutely perfect for them. They both have a lot of past hurt that needs healing, and trust grows tentatively as their friendship blossoms and pain from the past begins to mend. And what their romance may lack in angst, it's more than made up for with the drama, suspense, and danger that seems to be around every corner.
The heart of this beautiful story is its forgiveness, healing and new beginnings. Everly and Hayes are an unlikely pairing, yet they make sense in spite of the past tragedy that shackles them together. Seeing Hayes' family accept Everly as one of their own, a girl who's been all alone and had only herself to rely on, and watching them all find healing is glorious. It showcases the resilience and determination of the human spirit and reminds us that, while life can be brutal and devastating, with hope, grace, and love, something beautiful can bloom from ruins.
Without question this masterfully told story is one of my top five reads for the year, and I have no doubt it will be high on your list too. It will restore your faith in humanity and rekindle hope in your heart, so make sure you don’t miss out on this extraordinary reading experience!
March 19, 2022
Tattered and Stars is certainly entertaining. The combination of suspense and romance is perfectly blend together. Miss Cowles makes me swoon and on my edge for her story.
Everly is certainly not a damsel in distress. She is a kick ass heroine. She is strong and independent. I like that about her. Hayes meanwhile is a sexy and loyal hero. Both are perfect for each other.
Overall I enjoy Tattered and Stars very much.
4 stars
Everly is certainly not a damsel in distress. She is a kick ass heroine. She is strong and independent. I like that about her. Hayes meanwhile is a sexy and loyal hero. Both are perfect for each other.
Overall I enjoy Tattered and Stars very much.
4 stars
November 24, 2021
What a beautiful heart wrenching story. Everly Kemper returns to her mountain home with hopes of chasing away the demons of her past but not everyone is ready to let her forget, including Sheriff Hayes Easton.
“That was what had always been at the heart of this journey. Melding the old with the new and forming it into something good.”
Hayes wants to hold a grudge against Everly but it’s not long before he sees her strength hidden under her bravado.
“I tried to hold on to the good bits. To remind myself that no one was all good or all bad. But, sometimes, the good pieces held more pain than the bad ones, as if the stars themselves became tattered remnants of what they once were.”
A string of attempted abduction brings back memories of the past and together Hayes and Everly have to fight back and find a way to build a better future.
I absolutely love this first standalone book in the Tattered and Torn series! I both read the ebook and listened to this story and the audiobook narration was awesome.
-5 Stars!-
“That was what had always been at the heart of this journey. Melding the old with the new and forming it into something good.”
Hayes wants to hold a grudge against Everly but it’s not long before he sees her strength hidden under her bravado.
“I tried to hold on to the good bits. To remind myself that no one was all good or all bad. But, sometimes, the good pieces held more pain than the bad ones, as if the stars themselves became tattered remnants of what they once were.”
A string of attempted abduction brings back memories of the past and together Hayes and Everly have to fight back and find a way to build a better future.
I absolutely love this first standalone book in the Tattered and Torn series! I both read the ebook and listened to this story and the audiobook narration was awesome.
-5 Stars!-
May 14, 2022
This is the first book that I read by this author and I really enjoyed it. I knew it would be a solid read since I was super hooked by the first chapter.
It was a little more suspense heavy than I expected it to be but I’m not complaining. It felt like a Devney Perry book, but up the suspence just a little bit. Definitely kept me on my toes and wanting to know what’s gonna happen next.
The romance was really cute too. Kind of slow burn, kind of on the mellower side but in a good way. Hayes was super protective which I always like to see and Everly has had a really rough life but was super strong and independent. Im always a sucker for a good damaged hero and I loved that they were both damaged in their own way from their shared past and helped each other get over it.
I’m definitely excited to have found a new author I’m
interested in reading more from because she’s got a nice sized backlog for me to deep dive into.
It was a little more suspense heavy than I expected it to be but I’m not complaining. It felt like a Devney Perry book, but up the suspence just a little bit. Definitely kept me on my toes and wanting to know what’s gonna happen next.
The romance was really cute too. Kind of slow burn, kind of on the mellower side but in a good way. Hayes was super protective which I always like to see and Everly has had a really rough life but was super strong and independent. Im always a sucker for a good damaged hero and I loved that they were both damaged in their own way from their shared past and helped each other get over it.
I’m definitely excited to have found a new author I’m
interested in reading more from because she’s got a nice sized backlog for me to deep dive into.
October 12, 2022
4.5⭐️ A small town romance with a touch of suspense?? Sign me up.
From the very first page I fell in love with this small town and the characters in it. This book was such a great start to the series.
This book focuses on Hayes and Everly. Everly moves back to town to have a fresh for herself but Hayes, the town sheriff immediately dislikes her because of something major that happened between their families 15 years ago.
I loved getting to see Hayes and Everly grow closer and let their walls down with each other. The slow burn went at a perfect pace and it was great to see them go from enemies to friends to lovers. Their story was perfection and they will always have a special place in my heart.
“You came in like a flash flood with no warning, and now I can’t imagine my life without you.” 💙
From the very first page I fell in love with this small town and the characters in it. This book was such a great start to the series.
This book focuses on Hayes and Everly. Everly moves back to town to have a fresh for herself but Hayes, the town sheriff immediately dislikes her because of something major that happened between their families 15 years ago.
I loved getting to see Hayes and Everly grow closer and let their walls down with each other. The slow burn went at a perfect pace and it was great to see them go from enemies to friends to lovers. Their story was perfection and they will always have a special place in my heart.
“You came in like a flash flood with no warning, and now I can’t imagine my life without you.” 💙
January 11, 2023
A ROMANCE MYSTERY WILL ALWAYS HAVE ME!! this book was too good! the romance was the sweetest and the mystery had me flipping pages nonstop!!
November 14, 2022
was I supposed to feel something?
apologies but I hated every single minute
apologies but I hated every single minute
October 22, 2023
definitely a “its not the book, its me” moment.
the book is well written and has all the romantic mystery aspects. so if you want a small town romance between a sheriff and a veterinarian who share a tragic (and cult-ish) backstory, then id recommend!
the romance just didn’t work for me because i had NO connection to either character, and then their respective dislike for each other was resolved far too quickly. i guess i just cant swoon for cops, im sorry. 😭
the book is well written and has all the romantic mystery aspects. so if you want a small town romance between a sheriff and a veterinarian who share a tragic (and cult-ish) backstory, then id recommend!
the romance just didn’t work for me because i had NO connection to either character, and then their respective dislike for each other was resolved far too quickly. i guess i just cant swoon for cops, im sorry. 😭
November 21, 2021
Oh my Tattered Stars. My heart ached for this story so much from start to finish. I am blown away again by Cowles ability to wrap you up into a raw emotional story jam packed with suspense, twists and epic emotional passion. Everything that Everly had been through leading up to her coming back to Wolf Gap is intense. Her father ruined so much and tainted more. All Everly wanted was to make amends and create something good from something so horrible. I am so in love with her quick wit and her backbone to stand up to those who want to cut her down. Not gonna lie, Hayes made me so angry at the start of the story. Like DUDE stop it! But as things progressed and his eyes opened, I could see his reasoning but I loved his development as he got closer to Everly. These two together just made sense by the time the story is done.
Words cannot express how much this book hits you with the feels. With every raw moment to every twisted one, you will be asking yourself if that just happened to OMG I NEED MORE. The level of complexity that Cowles has given Tattered Stars with the backstory was unique and had me going what the heck a lot too. I am really hoping for a lot with this series and I am seriously looking forward to what is to come. With side characters that I am having high hopes for because I loved them so much within Hayes and Everly’s tale, to what will happen with the running back story. Cowles is a master at creating something so spellbinding that you fall in love with the characters, the world she has created and has you wanting to plant yourself into the town that she has created. Tattered Stars is a brilliant, emotional and intense read that will have you lost for hours!
Words cannot express how much this book hits you with the feels. With every raw moment to every twisted one, you will be asking yourself if that just happened to OMG I NEED MORE. The level of complexity that Cowles has given Tattered Stars with the backstory was unique and had me going what the heck a lot too. I am really hoping for a lot with this series and I am seriously looking forward to what is to come. With side characters that I am having high hopes for because I loved them so much within Hayes and Everly’s tale, to what will happen with the running back story. Cowles is a master at creating something so spellbinding that you fall in love with the characters, the world she has created and has you wanting to plant yourself into the town that she has created. Tattered Stars is a brilliant, emotional and intense read that will have you lost for hours!
February 1, 2022
This book!!! This is my new favorite by Ms. Cowles. Just WOW!! I’m all up in my feels right now. The love, the acceptance, and again the love in this book knows no bounds! Hayes and Everly are my favorite characters of Ms. Cowles. I said it and just yes!! Also, bravery. The bravery in this book. This is not making a lot of sense but I’m just all in my feels over all the emotions this book put me through. This may be my top read of this year. It’s just, it is EVERYTHING!!! All you need is twenty breaths… twenty breaths to fall in love with this book. I can’t wait for more from Wolf Gap!!
July 25, 2023
I think this author is not for me. I just had these words in my head saying "too smooth". Like a book I just read was too rough and this one was too smooth.
Don't know why. It just didn't hit me in the right spot and I sped through to get to who dunnit. But it wasn't satisfying.
Enh. The audiobook narrators are pretty good tho.
Don't know why. It just didn't hit me in the right spot and I sped through to get to who dunnit. But it wasn't satisfying.
Enh. The audiobook narrators are pretty good tho.
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