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The Wrong Road Home
When I moved to this small town, I was not prepared for Samantha Graves.
Not only is she my new neighbor, I unknowingly just became her landlord.
Buying thirty acres of woods and a small house sight unseen isn’t what most would call a smart decision.
But I needed to get out of New York as soon as possible and this place looked serene and private. No one was supposed to be anywhere near me.
Especially not a gorgeous bartender who doesn’t listen, refuses to leave, and pushes all of my buttons.
She’s the most infuriating woman I’ve ever met.
She’s also the most intriguing.
I never expected feelings for her to crash into me like a head-on collision.
She's gotten under my skin and with every minute I spend with her, I fall deeper under her spell.
So when the danger from my past follows me to Calico Ridge, I’ll do whatever it takes to keep her safe.
Because protecting her is the only thing that matters anymore.
Not only is she my new neighbor, I unknowingly just became her landlord.
Buying thirty acres of woods and a small house sight unseen isn’t what most would call a smart decision.
But I needed to get out of New York as soon as possible and this place looked serene and private. No one was supposed to be anywhere near me.
Especially not a gorgeous bartender who doesn’t listen, refuses to leave, and pushes all of my buttons.
She’s the most infuriating woman I’ve ever met.
She’s also the most intriguing.
I never expected feelings for her to crash into me like a head-on collision.
She's gotten under my skin and with every minute I spend with her, I fall deeper under her spell.
So when the danger from my past follows me to Calico Ridge, I’ll do whatever it takes to keep her safe.
Because protecting her is the only thing that matters anymore.
- GenresContemporary
First published March 28, 2022
About the author
C.E. Johnson
15 books321 followersC.E. Johnson writes protective hero romance with a side of suspense!
She wrote her first book in 2017 and hasn't stopped writing since. C.E. is best known for her romantic suspense series, The Elements of the Heart, which features protective heroes, strong heroines in danger, small town feels, and love that will have your heart swelling.
She's a dog lover, iced coffee enthusiast, and dreams of living in a cabin deep in the woods one day like so many of her characters do.
C.E. Johnson currently lives in the Midwest with her husband, two kids, and a bunch of spoiled rotten animals.
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She wrote her first book in 2017 and hasn't stopped writing since. C.E. is best known for her romantic suspense series, The Elements of the Heart, which features protective heroes, strong heroines in danger, small town feels, and love that will have your heart swelling.
She's a dog lover, iced coffee enthusiast, and dreams of living in a cabin deep in the woods one day like so many of her characters do.
C.E. Johnson currently lives in the Midwest with her husband, two kids, and a bunch of spoiled rotten animals.
Want to stay up to date on all the latest news, sales, giveaways, and releases?
Sign up for my newsletter! https://goo.gl/4yo6Rg
Follow me on Facebook! https://goo.gl/84dZJN
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
March 31, 2022
This book was really really good. I read it within a day. The reason for that were the 2 main characters - Sam and Oliver.
Sam was a sexy, little feisty heroine. The first moments between her and Oliver were so intense and electrifying. The attraction and the sparks were definately there. Oliver was one of my favourite heroes - grumpy, sexy and misterious. And I loved this. This is why I love reading romance in all kinds of forms 😁.
In overall, the story had a really good pacing. Things were progressing really fast, the story was unfolding and the romance between Sam and Oliver was getting hotter and hotter ❤️❤️❤️.
*ARC was provided by the author and Grey's Promotion for my honest opinion.***
Sam was a sexy, little feisty heroine. The first moments between her and Oliver were so intense and electrifying. The attraction and the sparks were definately there. Oliver was one of my favourite heroes - grumpy, sexy and misterious. And I loved this. This is why I love reading romance in all kinds of forms 😁.
In overall, the story had a really good pacing. Things were progressing really fast, the story was unfolding and the romance between Sam and Oliver was getting hotter and hotter ❤️❤️❤️.
*ARC was provided by the author and Grey's Promotion for my honest opinion.***
March 29, 2022
If your favorite tropes include enemies to lovers, neighbors so kinda forced proximity, protective hero, banter, small town feel, suspense and tension then your ass should go and pick up this book. OH and did I mention its dual POV! The two MC’s Sam and Oliver are two stubborn individuals who clash from the minute they meet each other. Oliver is such a grump with a dark past who came to this small town to escape New York. Then you have Sam who’s all alone in her tiny house just wanting to live her typical life but this plan gets interrupted by her new “landlord” I guess you could call him (you’ll have to read to find out). I really enjoyed this book, it was an easy romance read with a lot more twists and turns than I was expecting. All I can tell you is now I washy my own private bathroom in the middle of the woods with a nice big bathtub and an amazing view, if you know you know! Thank you C.E. Johnson for trusting me with your book you did not disappoint!
March 30, 2022
I loved Sam and Oliver's story. Let me tell you, the tension between these two was hot and taut from the very first time they met. But Oliver did not give a great first impression on her and especially after he evicted her from her mom's home. Their story is easy to read and I liked the mystery aspect of it too. I kept on flipping the pages to know just what is going on in Oliver's life that he had to run. I really enjoyed their story.
March 26, 2022
Sometimes all you need is a good enemies-to-lovers romance. This one is amazing. I truly loved the push pull interactions between Oliver and Sam as they fell in love despite wanting to hate each other.
Sam has so much spark and fire in her. I frequently found myself envious of the way she took charge and fought for herself. Although there were times she was probably a bit too quick to resort to putting and end to the situation as quickly as possible.
Oliver is a man who wants nothing but to go unnoticed and be left alone. In hiding from his family's enemies he turns up in a small town where everyone knows everyone and someone new in town is not something that will go with out notice.
The chemistry between these two is undeniable. There are so many amazing characters in this book. Burt will steal your heart. Crew is a caring boss. Madison is that girl from high school you always wished you could beat the crap out of because she thinks she is God's gift to the world.
This book will suck you in. There are so many surprising little twists that will keep you guessing as well as melt your heart strings.
Sam has so much spark and fire in her. I frequently found myself envious of the way she took charge and fought for herself. Although there were times she was probably a bit too quick to resort to putting and end to the situation as quickly as possible.
Oliver is a man who wants nothing but to go unnoticed and be left alone. In hiding from his family's enemies he turns up in a small town where everyone knows everyone and someone new in town is not something that will go with out notice.
The chemistry between these two is undeniable. There are so many amazing characters in this book. Burt will steal your heart. Crew is a caring boss. Madison is that girl from high school you always wished you could beat the crap out of because she thinks she is God's gift to the world.
This book will suck you in. There are so many surprising little twists that will keep you guessing as well as melt your heart strings.
March 29, 2022
Be prepared to go on a journey by taking the wrong road to the right path. Can you tell the difference between a lie and the truth especially told by the ones you love and trust with everything in life? I absolutely love Sam and her sass take no sh*t from anyone attitude. Oliver is such a broody do not talk to me attitude. These two together was everything funny and magic because their chemistry was like fireworks, it was hot and bursting with explosions even though they both tried to deny the pull. I love the little family Sam has in the small town and Oliver became a part of that too. Burt was seriously the best "dad" ever, he was so sweet and protective of Sam. I wish we got to know Crew a little more since that is Sam's best friend. It was overall a great small town romance.
March 29, 2022
The Wrong Road Home is enemies to lovers at its best and it’s full of laugh out loud, swoon worthy and life changing moments. Oliver is a brooding, sexy Italian with a chip on his shoulder. Samantha is a sassy firecracker with a mean left hook. They really are the perfect match even if they don’t know it at first. These two were at it from the start and I knew right away I was going to love them! You need to read this book for Burt, the lease, the rocking chair, the pink skies, the pictures and the wishes alone. This story makes me want to live in the middle of nowhere as long as I can have my own protective Italian Stallion named Oliver Avati! ❤️
Tracey, Reviewer & Blogger @Life Reads With Friends
Tracey, Reviewer & Blogger @Life Reads With Friends
April 16, 2023
⛔️ (in notes)
“My vision blurs as I spin on my heels, run, and catapult myself over the bar. She flies off the barstool, and I land on top of her. I get one good punch in before large, strong arms wrap around my waist and haul me off her.”
- not a fan of catfights, I really liked h before that, she was strong and didn’t take nobody’s shit, but when she took that comment personally and started a fight with that other woman, I’m out immediately, she could’ve walked away with her chin high and made some smart-ass comment how they clearly are good for each other with their toxic asses and wished them luck. But of course she had to go and make herself look like a fool. The one thing I HATE in books is when heroines go and fight with other people for whatever petty reason. Be the smartest person not the dumbest, in this case that other woman won because h made herself look like an idiot who punches people and can’t control herself
“My vision blurs as I spin on my heels, run, and catapult myself over the bar. She flies off the barstool, and I land on top of her. I get one good punch in before large, strong arms wrap around my waist and haul me off her.”
- not a fan of catfights, I really liked h before that, she was strong and didn’t take nobody’s shit, but when she took that comment personally and started a fight with that other woman, I’m out immediately, she could’ve walked away with her chin high and made some smart-ass comment how they clearly are good for each other with their toxic asses and wished them luck. But of course she had to go and make herself look like a fool. The one thing I HATE in books is when heroines go and fight with other people for whatever petty reason. Be the smartest person not the dumbest, in this case that other woman won because h made herself look like an idiot who punches people and can’t control herself
March 26, 2022
'Sometimes the wrong road taken home is the very exact one in which leads us down the right path, in the end. Another delightful, and sweet romance from the delightful author herself, C.E.Johnson'
Thank you to Grey's Promotions for sending me an ebook Advanced Reader's Copy for me to read and leave an honest review.
---------------------------
What a pleasure it is to dive back into my second C.E.Johnon novel! I first came by her by way of Grey's Promotions last year thanks to the then pre-release promo of her novel 'Watch Me Breathe', which was a knockout introduction into an author whom I've never had the pleasure of reading before. I was wondering when I would get my next chance to sample a C.E.Johnson novel, and the chance has finally come with The Wrong Road Home.
And what a way to dive back into C.E.Johnson than with a trope that is both beloved and critiqued at the same time, than an enemies-to-lovers romance! By far one of the more popular tropes with more and more authors tackling it by the day, I was keen to see how C.E.Johnson would do the same and I'm very much happy to report that you won't be sorry or disappointed by this novel. Not one bit. It's got the 'tug-of-war' between Sam and Oliver, neither relenting but both equally as stubborn and determined, but neither were immune to the true feelings that both of them harboured below the surface. That moment of it all coming together, literally, oh I loved it! Sam and Oliver were just a couple with chemistry to the nines!
Let's talk main characters! Starting with the leading lady herself, Sam!
Sam is one of those characters you find yourself championing because as I've noted before in other reviews for authors, she is not a wallflower who lets anyone walk over her or shies away from being her own hero. Sam is an independent, strong-willed, determined, firecracker of a 'boss lady' who knows what she wants and isn't afraid to let her tongue fly. Yes, a little reactive with the 'act now think later' attitude, but that isn't necessarily a negative. If anything, it sets into play to bring her back onto the right path and the person to do that is none other than our leading man, Oliver.
Now, onto the man himself. Normally I find myself resonating and connecting with the female characters, relating to them more so than the men, but that wasn't the case here. Oliver is the typical to himself, introverted type who is more than happy to live his own life by his own means and more than anything, quietly and in peace. Not to be disturbed or entered into anything that makes him feel uncomfortable. Suffocated. Cue Oliver shifting locations that thrusts everything into his life, and into his face, that he wants nothing more than to stay away from. A small town where for want of a word 'everyone knows your name', gossip spreads faster than wifi speed is fast, and everything you do is seen by at least one set of eyes at all times. Dear Oliver was in way over his social head, and I knew exactly how he feels. C.E.Johnson captured a personality type a lot of us feel like and can connect to with Oliver, who is a parallel opposite to Sam. Talk about when two worlds--or rather, personalities--collide.
Main characters aide, we are spoiled for choice when it comes to the supporting characters who no doubt, readers will for sure find a favourite in at least one of them. My personal top three have to be Madison, Crew and Burt. Each possess something that makes them enjoyable, emotional and amusing to read and all provide moments of relief and distraction from the attention that Sam and Oliver bring to every scene they are in.
As I found with 'Watch Me Breathe', The Wrong Way Home is a book full of those sneaky twists and turns that when we find a moment we are comfortable to relax and rest before the next mini arc came along, would surprise you and have you sitting bolt-upright staring at the page. Simultaneously, in the moments where these things weren't happening, C.E.Johnson has carefully crafted a super angsty, sweetly romantic and breathtaking read that will melt the coldest of hearts, toy with your feels and emotions, and will give you the journey of a lifetime.
Sit down and buckle up, because the wrong road certainly leads to the destination that is truly unforgettable.
Five stars for Sam, Oliver and of course, C.E.Johnson!
Thank you to Grey's Promotions for sending me an ebook Advanced Reader's Copy for me to read and leave an honest review.
---------------------------
What a pleasure it is to dive back into my second C.E.Johnon novel! I first came by her by way of Grey's Promotions last year thanks to the then pre-release promo of her novel 'Watch Me Breathe', which was a knockout introduction into an author whom I've never had the pleasure of reading before. I was wondering when I would get my next chance to sample a C.E.Johnson novel, and the chance has finally come with The Wrong Road Home.
And what a way to dive back into C.E.Johnson than with a trope that is both beloved and critiqued at the same time, than an enemies-to-lovers romance! By far one of the more popular tropes with more and more authors tackling it by the day, I was keen to see how C.E.Johnson would do the same and I'm very much happy to report that you won't be sorry or disappointed by this novel. Not one bit. It's got the 'tug-of-war' between Sam and Oliver, neither relenting but both equally as stubborn and determined, but neither were immune to the true feelings that both of them harboured below the surface. That moment of it all coming together, literally, oh I loved it! Sam and Oliver were just a couple with chemistry to the nines!
Let's talk main characters! Starting with the leading lady herself, Sam!
Sam is one of those characters you find yourself championing because as I've noted before in other reviews for authors, she is not a wallflower who lets anyone walk over her or shies away from being her own hero. Sam is an independent, strong-willed, determined, firecracker of a 'boss lady' who knows what she wants and isn't afraid to let her tongue fly. Yes, a little reactive with the 'act now think later' attitude, but that isn't necessarily a negative. If anything, it sets into play to bring her back onto the right path and the person to do that is none other than our leading man, Oliver.
Now, onto the man himself. Normally I find myself resonating and connecting with the female characters, relating to them more so than the men, but that wasn't the case here. Oliver is the typical to himself, introverted type who is more than happy to live his own life by his own means and more than anything, quietly and in peace. Not to be disturbed or entered into anything that makes him feel uncomfortable. Suffocated. Cue Oliver shifting locations that thrusts everything into his life, and into his face, that he wants nothing more than to stay away from. A small town where for want of a word 'everyone knows your name', gossip spreads faster than wifi speed is fast, and everything you do is seen by at least one set of eyes at all times. Dear Oliver was in way over his social head, and I knew exactly how he feels. C.E.Johnson captured a personality type a lot of us feel like and can connect to with Oliver, who is a parallel opposite to Sam. Talk about when two worlds--or rather, personalities--collide.
Main characters aide, we are spoiled for choice when it comes to the supporting characters who no doubt, readers will for sure find a favourite in at least one of them. My personal top three have to be Madison, Crew and Burt. Each possess something that makes them enjoyable, emotional and amusing to read and all provide moments of relief and distraction from the attention that Sam and Oliver bring to every scene they are in.
As I found with 'Watch Me Breathe', The Wrong Way Home is a book full of those sneaky twists and turns that when we find a moment we are comfortable to relax and rest before the next mini arc came along, would surprise you and have you sitting bolt-upright staring at the page. Simultaneously, in the moments where these things weren't happening, C.E.Johnson has carefully crafted a super angsty, sweetly romantic and breathtaking read that will melt the coldest of hearts, toy with your feels and emotions, and will give you the journey of a lifetime.
Sit down and buckle up, because the wrong road certainly leads to the destination that is truly unforgettable.
Five stars for Sam, Oliver and of course, C.E.Johnson!
March 29, 2022
I absolutely loved The Wrong Road Home by C.E. Johnson, it is an enemies to lovers love story. C.E. Johnson has shown that she is an amazing storyteller. I could not put it down and I loved moment on every page. Who does not love hot sexy men, strong, passionate females, loving families, and caring friends, who always support one another? C.E Johnson delivered all that and so much more. One of my favorite parts of her books is how she incorporates the title of the book into the love story, with a simple statement at the end of the love story. I love that she wrote her story in the first person from the perspective of the main characters. I love getting inside their minds and knowing their thoughts and how they really feel. The Wrong Road Home is filled with heartbreaking and heartwarming moments. I love the lighter moments where I find myself smiling and laughing aloud. My favorite moments are the ones that pull at my heartstrings that cause me to sigh, as I read the heartbreaking moments. The Wrong Road Home is filled with such moments, and with so much emotion. It is filled with all those things that we have come to love and expect in a love story, C.E Johnson did not disappoint, especially with the poignant and bittersweet moments that filled this page turner. The Wrong Road Home is the story of Sebastian Oliver Avati, and Samantha Jo “Sam” Graves. Sam and Oliver meet at the bar where Sam works. Oliver has just arrived in Calico Ridge from New York, and unbeknownst to Sam is now the owner of the house and land that belonged to her mother, that Sam had been saving up to purchase from her stepfather. Sam arrives home from work and notices an eviction notice posted on her door, and immediately confronts her new landlord, Oliver. Sam and Oliver run into each other again the following morning when Sam plows the snow from their driveways with Oliver’s ATV. Conversation between Sam and Oliver flows so easily, I love that both Sam and Oliver share secrets with one another that they have not shared with anyone before, especially the secrets that Oliver eventually shares about his family. I love how Sam jokingly calls him Ollie, just to get a reaction out of him. I love that they were both so vulnerable and are both willing to take another chance with love and happiness. As Sam and Oliver continue to spend time together, things change between them, and they both admit their true feelings for one another. I loved that The Wrong Road Home is a more than just a romance, there are dilemmas that both Sam and Oliver are facing that need to be resolved. I loved the multiple plot twists in the story, and how they get so beautifully resolved in this incredible love story. I love the Oliver discovers the truth about what really happened the day his mother, Irene left him behind and moved to Italy. It was truly heartbreaking. Oliver also discovers other secrets about his family that changes his perception about them. I love Oliver’s proposal and the ending of the love story, how both Sam and Oliver change because of their love for one another. My favorite part is the epilogue and how it takes place five years after the ending and how it goes above and beyond happily ever after. The Wrong Road Home is filled with poignant and bittersweet moments as well as plot twists. I love the cast of characters in The Wrong Road Home, who does not love family and friends that always have each other’s backs? I thoroughly enjoyed The Wrong Road Home, who does not love a enemies to lovers love story. Highly recommend this incredible love story and am so looking forward to reading the other books by C.E. Johnson.
March 16, 2022
Get ready to wonder what’s true, what’s a wish, and what’s an outright lie here! Oliver is broody, closed off, and has whiplash moods toward Sam. And she’s not having that. This guy dares to come to her home, throw everything off balance, and act like she’s either his savior or his downfall depending on how the wind blows? Nope, she’s not having that. But maybe things aren’t quite as they appear. Maybe Oliver is falling for Sam and is trying to save her from his misery. Maybe Sam is everything Oliver ever needed and more than he dared to ever dream for. Maybe, just maybe, they’re meant to be.
I loved how every time I thought I had the clues arranged correctly, the table was kicked and the puzzle shifted to show that maybe I had the pieces together wrong. And trust me, there’s a lot to wonder here. Who’s the danger? Where’s the danger? Who’s truly IN danger? I was on the edge of my seat more than once and found my emotions changing just as Sam’s and Oliver’s did when each new truth was revealed. Even with all of that, I adored every second and bit of angst, love, fear, and anger that bled from these pages. And I really hope to revisit this town and some of its residents in the near future!
I loved how every time I thought I had the clues arranged correctly, the table was kicked and the puzzle shifted to show that maybe I had the pieces together wrong. And trust me, there’s a lot to wonder here. Who’s the danger? Where’s the danger? Who’s truly IN danger? I was on the edge of my seat more than once and found my emotions changing just as Sam’s and Oliver’s did when each new truth was revealed. Even with all of that, I adored every second and bit of angst, love, fear, and anger that bled from these pages. And I really hope to revisit this town and some of its residents in the near future!
March 29, 2022
The Wrong Road Home is my first read from C.E. Johnson and it was alright. It is touted as romantic suspense (my favorite) but I found myself wanting more of that mystery and danger element.
To say sparks flew the first time Sam and Oliver meet would be an understatement. And I don't mean the good kind of sparks either. Oliver, new to town, trying to hide. Sam, the golden girl that everyone knows. There was tension and animosity and it only grew with every interaction. But somewhere along the line that anger turned to curiosity and then something more. The constant push and pull between Oliver and Sam was almost maddening. One moment flirty and friendly, the next threats were being leveraged.
As some long-buried secrets and cover-ups started to unravel, it was all Oliver could do to keep his wits about him. And keep Sam safe. A mad rush, an unexpected ally and Sam being her savvy self helped get them out of the tricky situation.
I can't not mention the whole cast of characters...everyone from Crew- the awesome boss to Burt the darling man and Madison the town mean-girl made me feel like I knew this place. But it was Sam and Oliver's off the charts chemistry that made this enemies-to-lovers romance one to remember.
To say sparks flew the first time Sam and Oliver meet would be an understatement. And I don't mean the good kind of sparks either. Oliver, new to town, trying to hide. Sam, the golden girl that everyone knows. There was tension and animosity and it only grew with every interaction. But somewhere along the line that anger turned to curiosity and then something more. The constant push and pull between Oliver and Sam was almost maddening. One moment flirty and friendly, the next threats were being leveraged.
As some long-buried secrets and cover-ups started to unravel, it was all Oliver could do to keep his wits about him. And keep Sam safe. A mad rush, an unexpected ally and Sam being her savvy self helped get them out of the tricky situation.
I can't not mention the whole cast of characters...everyone from Crew- the awesome boss to Burt the darling man and Madison the town mean-girl made me feel like I knew this place. But it was Sam and Oliver's off the charts chemistry that made this enemies-to-lovers romance one to remember.
March 29, 2022
Sam & Oliver are a tense love story and they both have a mysterious past that we solve
Sam her past is full of heart break and she is not afraid to kick your ass when you close a line. She does have amazing people are her and they all want the best for her. BUT someone is taken the land she lives on and her step father is just causing her trouble from far away
Oliver comes to this town because his uncle says so...no spoilers. He is angry that he is here but a feisty women comes into his and she makes things interesting...no spoilers He is a artist to and the advice from his mam I love & its true
"if you're an absolute disaster after you've created art, you did it right."
This moment warmed my heart because...no spoilers
This book just made me smile no stop. I just love the banter they and the steamy scenes are really tense. You feel the sexual frustration they have for one another. The suspense is good and we learn Oliver's family is complex...no spoilers
Oliver and Sam are made for each other and they both understand their each others pain. Two things they have in common...
Will they finally agree on a lease for the land and house 😄
☆MUST READ☆
Sam her past is full of heart break and she is not afraid to kick your ass when you close a line. She does have amazing people are her and they all want the best for her. BUT someone is taken the land she lives on and her step father is just causing her trouble from far away
Oliver comes to this town because his uncle says so...no spoilers. He is angry that he is here but a feisty women comes into his and she makes things interesting...no spoilers He is a artist to and the advice from his mam I love & its true
"if you're an absolute disaster after you've created art, you did it right."
This moment warmed my heart because...no spoilers
This book just made me smile no stop. I just love the banter they and the steamy scenes are really tense. You feel the sexual frustration they have for one another. The suspense is good and we learn Oliver's family is complex...no spoilers
Oliver and Sam are made for each other and they both understand their each others pain. Two things they have in common...
Will they finally agree on a lease for the land and house 😄
☆MUST READ☆
March 17, 2022
When I moved to this small town, I was not prepared for Samantha Graves.
Not only is she my new neighbor, I unknowingly just became her landlord.
Buying thirty acres of woods and a small house sight unseen isn’t what most would call a smart decision.
But I needed to get out of New York as soon as possible and this place looked serene and private. No one was supposed to be anywhere near me.
Especially not a gorgeous bartender who doesn’t listen, refuses to leave, and pushes all of my buttons.
She’s the most infuriating woman I’ve ever met.
She’s also the most intriguing.
I never expected feelings for her to crash into me like a head-on collision.
She's gotten under my skin and with every minute I spend with her, I fall deeper under her spell.
So when the danger from my past follows me to Calico Ridge, I’ll do whatever it takes to keep her safe.
Because protecting her is the only thing that matters anymore.
Loved Sam and Oliver's story. Their journey wasn’t and easy one, but so worth the read. I laughed and cried while reading this book. Loved every page.
Not only is she my new neighbor, I unknowingly just became her landlord.
Buying thirty acres of woods and a small house sight unseen isn’t what most would call a smart decision.
But I needed to get out of New York as soon as possible and this place looked serene and private. No one was supposed to be anywhere near me.
Especially not a gorgeous bartender who doesn’t listen, refuses to leave, and pushes all of my buttons.
She’s the most infuriating woman I’ve ever met.
She’s also the most intriguing.
I never expected feelings for her to crash into me like a head-on collision.
She's gotten under my skin and with every minute I spend with her, I fall deeper under her spell.
So when the danger from my past follows me to Calico Ridge, I’ll do whatever it takes to keep her safe.
Because protecting her is the only thing that matters anymore.
Loved Sam and Oliver's story. Their journey wasn’t and easy one, but so worth the read. I laughed and cried while reading this book. Loved every page.
March 23, 2022
Holy... Get ready for a story that has you questioning what is true, what is wishful thinking, and what is an outright lie. This book takes you for a trip from the very beginning.
Sam lives in a tiny house of her mom's land... or what she thinks is her mom's land, until she comes home to find an eviction notices on her door. She is a bartender in the only bar in her small town. A town where everyone knows everyone and everyone's business. A town that when a mysterious stranger comes... everyone takes notice.
Oliver comes from a family of secrets and drama. His family has sent him into a small town to lay low and to stay out of trouble. However, his feisty neighbor is hell bent on giving him trouble and getting him to move out of her mother's house.
I really enjoyed the push and pull between Sam and Oliver. What started out as a war between the two of them turned into something so combustible. I couldn't get enough of these two. I can't to see was C.E. Johnson has instore next for her readers.
Sam lives in a tiny house of her mom's land... or what she thinks is her mom's land, until she comes home to find an eviction notices on her door. She is a bartender in the only bar in her small town. A town where everyone knows everyone and everyone's business. A town that when a mysterious stranger comes... everyone takes notice.
Oliver comes from a family of secrets and drama. His family has sent him into a small town to lay low and to stay out of trouble. However, his feisty neighbor is hell bent on giving him trouble and getting him to move out of her mother's house.
I really enjoyed the push and pull between Sam and Oliver. What started out as a war between the two of them turned into something so combustible. I couldn't get enough of these two. I can't to see was C.E. Johnson has instore next for her readers.
March 29, 2022
Sam hasn’t had it easy lately she lost her mother, her marriage fell apart, and now in walks this broody man who is mysterious but a jerk. Sam is tough and can handle just about anything so when this broody man is rude to her she doesn’t hesitate to put him in his place. When she finds out he is the one who bought her mother’s place and land she loses it on him. Oliver is mysterious, has a family that deals in nefarious things so he is hiding until things blow over. He becomes to obsessed with the fiery woman, Sam because she is unlike anyone he has ever known. They go back and forth about a lot of things and it just shows how much attraction they have, but will Sam let her walls down to see that there is more to Oliver than what he shows everyone? Will Oliver’s secrets destroy things before they get heated? This book was suspenseful with some funny moments and I loved Sam because she stood up for herself. Oliver was just as great because when he finally let his own walls down he was protective and loved fiercely. This was another great read full of wonderful characters.
March 29, 2022
Being new to Ms.Johnson's work i've been wanting to pick up her books for quite some time now. As soon as i stumbled across this book, the synopsis caught my eye right away. I knew i had to pick it up first. I started reading it and was pulled in quickly. I enjoyed this story!
Samantha and Oliver's journey grabbed my attention! As these two are brought into each other's lives, things aren't exactly easy. From their first meeting, I couldn't wait to see how things would play out between them.
I really liked getting to dig into both of their minds. I wasn't sure what all to expect in their story and that pulled me into it even more. I enjoyed how both characters had me feeling so many emotions throughout! The heat between them was great!
With The Wrong Road Home, Ms.Johnson has created such a good read that will grab your attention quickly! I am so looking forward to picking up more of her work in the near future!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Grey's Promotions / the author*
Samantha and Oliver's journey grabbed my attention! As these two are brought into each other's lives, things aren't exactly easy. From their first meeting, I couldn't wait to see how things would play out between them.
I really liked getting to dig into both of their minds. I wasn't sure what all to expect in their story and that pulled me into it even more. I enjoyed how both characters had me feeling so many emotions throughout! The heat between them was great!
With The Wrong Road Home, Ms.Johnson has created such a good read that will grab your attention quickly! I am so looking forward to picking up more of her work in the near future!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Grey's Promotions / the author*
March 30, 2022
Chapter one and I was hooked. Sam and this mysterious man at the bar where she bartends captured all of my attention.
The story was excellent. I just couldn’t put it down. I wanted to know exactly what was going to happen. Sam is such a strong woman, she is sassy, she is full of spunk and more than anything she doesn’t put up with anyone’s crap. She was endearing and her go getter attitude was amazing.
Oliver was dark and brooding. He gave the story a sense of mystery and this quality that drew you in. Together Sam and Oliver were explosive; the dynamic of their banter and wit was priceless.
CE Johnson out does herself in this book. It gave me everything I never knew I wanted. It has heart. I think that that makes the best kind of read, when you jump in and find yourself immersed in the story.
I want more from these two. I want to see them grow old and experience all of life’s unexpected surprises because them coming together was a thing of beauty. This book made me so happy!
The story was excellent. I just couldn’t put it down. I wanted to know exactly what was going to happen. Sam is such a strong woman, she is sassy, she is full of spunk and more than anything she doesn’t put up with anyone’s crap. She was endearing and her go getter attitude was amazing.
Oliver was dark and brooding. He gave the story a sense of mystery and this quality that drew you in. Together Sam and Oliver were explosive; the dynamic of their banter and wit was priceless.
CE Johnson out does herself in this book. It gave me everything I never knew I wanted. It has heart. I think that that makes the best kind of read, when you jump in and find yourself immersed in the story.
I want more from these two. I want to see them grow old and experience all of life’s unexpected surprises because them coming together was a thing of beauty. This book made me so happy!
March 24, 2022
This is the first book I have read by C E Johnson, and I loved every word. I was hooked from the first page. Her characters are so real. Some you want to throat punch, Madison comes to mind, and others you want to hug and never let go, Burt comes to mind. Oliver and Sam did not hit it off right away. Sam is a strong woman who will stand up for herself. She tells Oliver exactly how she feels every chance she gets. She is unlike any woman he has known before. She is real. Their bickering back and forth will have you glued to every word.
Their story will keep you on your toes and waiting for what will happen with them next. Nothing is ever certain. With all great reads their story does have some surprises you did not see coming but so worth it. The Wrong Road Home has led them both to a road not often traveled but so worth the trip. A happily ever after they never expected but both were so deserving.
Their story will keep you on your toes and waiting for what will happen with them next. Nothing is ever certain. With all great reads their story does have some surprises you did not see coming but so worth it. The Wrong Road Home has led them both to a road not often traveled but so worth the trip. A happily ever after they never expected but both were so deserving.
April 20, 2022
I absolutely LOVED Oliver and Sam's story. CE Johnson did another fantastic job with this one! The Wrong Road Home is now my most favorite of her books now. I didn't want to stop reading, but at the same time did not want to get to the end and it be over.
It had feisty, strong-willed characters, a beautifully described setting, and a great balance between the suspense and romance. Johnson usually surprises me with the character responsible for the big dramatic moment. I was proud of myself that my guess was correct this time. I thoroughly enjoyed the "escape" chapter.
C.E. Johnson always does an amazing job with her stories. The way she describes settings makes me feel as if I'm there. Can I please have Scrubland in the backyard of the Libby Lane house by Benson's Mountain house??? P.S. If you haven't read Done or Libby Lane by Johnson, do it! Do it right now! Don't wait. :)
It had feisty, strong-willed characters, a beautifully described setting, and a great balance between the suspense and romance. Johnson usually surprises me with the character responsible for the big dramatic moment. I was proud of myself that my guess was correct this time. I thoroughly enjoyed the "escape" chapter.
C.E. Johnson always does an amazing job with her stories. The way she describes settings makes me feel as if I'm there. Can I please have Scrubland in the backyard of the Libby Lane house by Benson's Mountain house??? P.S. If you haven't read Done or Libby Lane by Johnson, do it! Do it right now! Don't wait. :)
March 18, 2022
Sam Lives in the tiny house that has memories of her mom and she cherishes it. She works as a bartender in the only bar in her small town. The small town where she grew up and everyone knows each other and each other’s business. So when a stranger moves into town….everyone notices. Oliver has some family secrets and some family drama. He is laying low in this small town and trying to stay out of trouble. Unfortunately his new neighbor has trouble written all over her! Oliver and Sam definitely don’t get off to a great start but boy do the eventually connect. This was a crazy funny Will they fall in love or kill each other first read. Between Oliver’s family drama, Sams say it like it is attitude and the small town craziness this book was pretty entertaining! I would definitely read another book by this author.
March 27, 2022
A moving story of one mans' journey to finding his pink evening skies and dark eyes of home and a woman trying to hold on to the only home she ever had.
When Oliver needed to get out of NY and his Uncle found him this house far away from prying eyes he thought everything was perfect until the feisty Sam appears, who has been raising the money to buy back her family home, sparks fly, heads lock as these two enter into a war of love and hate. But Oliver is not in town for a holiday, he is there to keep safe, what he doesn't need is the beautiful Sam complicating not only his life but his heart, especially when a secret that is about to unfold could change Oliver's life completely.
I loved the added extras to this book, the bathroom in the woods, the paintings, so much stood out that The Wrong Road Home is a must-read.
March 29, 2022
“In every single sense of the word, she ruined me.”
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, girl next door, small town, protector
I don’t even know how to explain how greatly I adored the dual POVs in The Wrong Road Home. They were so perfectly written to describe the hatred and lust and every tiny emotion in between from both Sam and Oliver SO well that it had me fully invested by the end of chapter two. C.E. Johnson sucked me right in with Sam’s spitfire attitude and Oliver’s “new-to-town bad boy” vibes. I absolutely loved the background stories for each character because it truly made them feel so real, and made their hearts and feelings so relatable. And the spice in the book is also pretty 🔥🥵😏
The Wrong Way Home was beautifully written and kept my attention from page one until the very end (and honestly, I would have loved even more after the epilogue).
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, girl next door, small town, protector
I don’t even know how to explain how greatly I adored the dual POVs in The Wrong Road Home. They were so perfectly written to describe the hatred and lust and every tiny emotion in between from both Sam and Oliver SO well that it had me fully invested by the end of chapter two. C.E. Johnson sucked me right in with Sam’s spitfire attitude and Oliver’s “new-to-town bad boy” vibes. I absolutely loved the background stories for each character because it truly made them feel so real, and made their hearts and feelings so relatable. And the spice in the book is also pretty 🔥🥵😏
The Wrong Way Home was beautifully written and kept my attention from page one until the very end (and honestly, I would have loved even more after the epilogue).
March 30, 2022
The Wrong Road Home is the perfect enemies to lovers, with a great twist of suspense and hidden truths that will keep you on the edge of your seats, page after page. Oliver is the hot, mysterious, “old fashioned” lover that fights his attraction to the feisty and take no cr@p, Sam. His favorite bartender is the perfect match for him even if he tries to stay away.
This small town story will have you swoon, LOL, loving and hating some, while wondering what in the world is really happening. Yeah, keep guessing as you will be surprised with all that is the actual truth.
CE Johnson has a way with her word building and her twists and turns on her stories. This is no different. You will love this story and all the feels!
Nanedsmomba- reviewer and blogger for Life Reads With Friends
This small town story will have you swoon, LOL, loving and hating some, while wondering what in the world is really happening. Yeah, keep guessing as you will be surprised with all that is the actual truth.
CE Johnson has a way with her word building and her twists and turns on her stories. This is no different. You will love this story and all the feels!
Nanedsmomba- reviewer and blogger for Life Reads With Friends
March 20, 2022
I don’t think I’ve ever highlighted more quotes on my kindle before!
This book was so good!
This book had super funny banter in the beginning that I loved and seriously had me laugh out loud.
It’s an enemies to lovers which is such an amazing trope.
It had Forced proximity and so much sexual tension
The bathtub scene! I am in love 🥰🥰
Sweet and playful turned spicy? Love it!
A man who isn’t one for one night stands, has feelings, and tells her how it is! Love him!
Then there was a little plot twist at the end. This book really just checked all the boxes I loved it!
Favorite quote from the book:
“I wished for pink skies and dark eyes in the morning.”
This book was so good!
This book had super funny banter in the beginning that I loved and seriously had me laugh out loud.
It’s an enemies to lovers which is such an amazing trope.
It had Forced proximity and so much sexual tension
The bathtub scene! I am in love 🥰🥰
Sweet and playful turned spicy? Love it!
A man who isn’t one for one night stands, has feelings, and tells her how it is! Love him!
Then there was a little plot twist at the end. This book really just checked all the boxes I loved it!
Favorite quote from the book:
“I wished for pink skies and dark eyes in the morning.”
March 29, 2022
This is Samantha and Oliver’s story. Sam is feisty and works in a bar which is where she meets Oliver who is grumpy, mysterious, and sexy, and the sparks fly between them, only for her to find out that he is now her landlord and neighbor. Sam loves to push Oliver’s buttons to get a reaction from him. The chemistry between these two is combustible and undeniable, and they complement each other perfectly. This is a well written story which is an emotional roller coaster, with danger, suspense, intrigue angst, secrets, tension, family, twists, and heartbreak, which leads to a poignant and compelling page turner. I look forward to reading for this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
March 29, 2022
Enemies to lovers, sexy, somewhat forced proxy, neighbors/landlord/tenant, mysterious story!!! Love these two together! Oliver wasn’t expecting feisty Sam while he was hiding away from his troubles. Oliver is hiding away, tucking away in a small town which brings him near Samantha to him. But he is blowing up her home life into somewhat chaos. These two and their spats were so much fun, so much underlying simmering hate/like chemistry that I live to read. Love their chemistry and I really want that bathhouse! But someone is making them on edge and who is it??? I couldn't wait until the end to find out what happened!
March 19, 2022
The Wrong Road Home was a sweet but suspenseful book. Oliver has a dark past chasing him but not everything is as it seems. Sam has lost all of her family and is in the process of losing her childhood home and current home all at once.
I loved the banter and the heat between Sam and Oliver, but watching their relationship turn into something more was just as good. However, just as things were getting good, the past for both Sam and Oliver comes up and gets close to destroying it all. Will Sam and Oliver's relationship survive when their past catches up with them?
I loved the banter and the heat between Sam and Oliver, but watching their relationship turn into something more was just as good. However, just as things were getting good, the past for both Sam and Oliver comes up and gets close to destroying it all. Will Sam and Oliver's relationship survive when their past catches up with them?
March 23, 2022
This is my first read by this author, and I must say that I quite enjoyed the storyline and the characters. It is an enemies to lovers romance, with a dash of suspense, between Oliver and Sam. These likeable characters and the unique plot make for an enjoyable read. It is an emotional ride with enough drama, steam, sweetness, frustrating moments, twists and turns, and engaging secondary characters to keep the reader interested. A page turner with a small town feel.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Grey's Promotions and am voluntarily leaving my honest review
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Grey's Promotions and am voluntarily leaving my honest review
March 26, 2022
Sam and Oliver are perfect. I loved this book so much, from the banter and bickering to the sweet and swoony words and everything in between. Sam is such a feisty and strong woman, determined to not let life beat her down no matter how hard it tries. She didn’t take shizz from anyone and I loved her for it. Oliver definitely came off as an arrogant A-hole at first but the more time he spent with Sam the more his walls came down and he opened up and showed his sweet side. Now I need to go find my own secret spa in the woods 😉
March 28, 2022
I have not read anything by this author before and I really enjoyed this book. It was a quick read with just enough suspense to keep me wondering what was gong on. Sam is grieving her Mom's passing when Oliver shows up and says she must move out because he owns the land and all the buildings. Well let the fun began. Talk about opposites attracting. Sam is from the big city and he is hiding out from something and Sam just wants to stay put to be close to her Mom. I really enjoyed watching this couple become a couple. I love the fast pace of the story and the epilogue was so beautiful.
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