Whitney thought she was safe from her toxic marriage the day her husband died…
From the moment I return to my hometown for a fresh start, my plans begin to crumble.
The rental house that looked perfect online is actually a health hazard. My new job at the hospital postpones my start date. And a historic blizzard is about to dump nearly three feet of snow across the state, making doing just about anything impossible.
When my infant son screams down the motel into the early morning hours and causes the other guests to complain, I’m mortified and ready to brave the impending blizzard to find someplace else.
Until Jack Powell, the gorgeous motel owner and my childhood crush, makes an offer I can’t refuse.
His house. To stay in to ride out the storm while he returns to the motel. Quiet. Safety. Solitude.
Except one poorly-timed diaper disaster sends us all into chaos, and the blizzard strands us together in his house.
He teases me with a glimpse of something beautiful. A man who’s attentive with my kids and worships my post-baby body, stretch marks and all.
Once the storm passes, Jack decides to let us go, keeping only the memories of our unforgettable time together.
But when my past finds us not long after, Jack can’t run from his protective nature. He’s determined to fight for all three of us. Even if that means he has to surrender.
A. M. Wilson is a USA Today & Amazon Top 20 bestselling author of contemporary romance. She loves writing small town romances and dark suspenseful reads, depending on her mood that day. When she isn’t furiously typing on her computer, she can be found searching for her next all-consuming read. A. M. lives in the Midwest with her husband, two children, and two adorable dogs.
Surrender is a standalone and while the two prior couples are important side characters, their books don't have to be read to enjoy this one imo. I had such a good time with this story, which is the second one I've read in the series. Is this the deepest romance I've ever read? No. Did I enjoy the hell out of it and am happy that I picked it up? Definitely yes! And I do recommend Surrender.
Whitney (h) is single mom of two little ones who has moved back to the small town where she went to high school following the death of her husband, because it's the last place she was happy. However, her fresh start is marred by issues from the get-go. The rental she was counting on is uninhabitable, her job's start date is pushed back because of a blizzard, and she gets the cops called on her at the motel they end up at because her infant son, Bennett, is crying through the night. But, goodness is coming her way y'all. Jack (H) is the owner of the motel (and Whitney's high school crush, though he's 4 years older and never looked back then). He's perfect book boyfriend material, evidenced by the fact that he moves her little family to his own home to be more comfortable. Then forced proximity hits and magic starts happening.
This book has so many hot guy bonding with babies and supporting a single mom moments. I adored Jack with all his protectiveness and care. Plus, the chemistry between him and Whitney and how he gave her a different kind of care, swoon. They do take a bit of time to truly establish themselves as together, though the steam definitely starts before that. The story also takes a kind of crazy, dramatic, and suspenseful turn partway through. Still, there's a "my kids" scene, I love "my kids" scenes. The romance is also good, though felt a bit simplistic. Written in first person, dual POV. No ow drama, om drama related to the h's ex husband, and neither are virgins (h hadn't been with anyone since her 6 mo. old had been conceived and no history given on H other than he didn't hook up with patrons of his motel).
Whitney was likable, sweet, and resilient. Her marriage wasn't happy and there's a certain relief that her husband is gone, but she's also struggling to adjust given her situation and the lack of a support system where she is. I loved that she also wasn't afraid to accept help. Her children are precious and shine in their scenes. Lucy, the toddler, was esp adorable. Jack is part of a family of adopted siblings who came together thanks to a couple, though only the mom is still alive. He and his twin were abused by their parents and there are short recollections of this. All the adopted siblings are tight and help each other, in small and big ways, so the sense of family is strong in multiple aspects of this story. Jack always saw himself as not being a family kind of guy, which doesn't stop him at all from embracing Whitney and her kids. Even when chaos reigns - one scene in particular was so gross, but also funny and made me remember my kids being small.
I like the way this author writes a steamy scene personally, so good. She also doesn't make you wait for it. Jack is big on praise, but also on making sure that Whitney felt good. There's one scene where she's self-conscious about the changes of her body since she had babies and he makes her repeat that she's beautiful while playing her like an instrument. Also, the fact that they were able to have as much sexy times as they did, despite her small kids, good for them! Initially, they come together as a ONS, but naturally, that doesn't stick.
The book did make me side-eye at the drama part. I can't say much because of spoilers, but it was pretty wild. However, Jack's protective nature goes into hyper-drive because of it and more time spent with Whitney, Lucy, and Bennett means more time to realize that he wants them forever. There is an ease to their romance and Jack's acceptance that he actually is a family man when it comes to Whitney. Plus, these two communicate!
I loved the side characters of Jack's family and Whitney's best friend, her former sister-in-law. There was love and teasing and support. Jack's dog was also a great side character, because he was a big cutie. Most of the townspeople, other than a couple of the police officers and Jack's employee, are just blurry background characters. Jack and Whitney go out, separately and together, around town but the primary focus is on their little unit.
Whew, the third act in this book had me biting my nails and on the edge of my seat. I will say that there is a danger to the children and that always gets me. No harm comes to them thankfully! It tore my heart out though what both Whitney and Jack experienced. The ending is very much a HEA with an epilogue a few years later of their happily established family that left me super satisfied and smiling. Then the author also has a bonus epilogue of Jack's proposal to Whitney that I had to download (even though I prefer not to for these) and it teared me up it was so lovely.
Too insta-lovey for my liking. I can't connect with the MCs either. Also, this showdown is so cringey. Why are they airing their dirty laundry out in the open anyway? Then this stupid macho BS with the MMC gloating about how he slept with the FMC right in front of her supposedly dead husband. Is this really needed? I don't understand the purpose of his lines, but it came across as if the FMC was portrayed more as a prize or possession rather than as a person deserving of respect.
Ugh, I'm really in the mood for a single mom romance, but this is not it. 🤧
Trope - single mom, drama, suspense, traumatic past, close-knit family, snow blizzard, small town, childhood crush, forced proximity, dash of Christmas vibe, found family, HEA TW- mention, and discussion of child abuse, kidnapping, mental abuse, alcohol use
Bonus chapter - 1
This book was a package deal, the emotional rollercoaster I went through while reading this was splendid. It has suspense, drama, heartache, love, trauma, spice, and more. It warmed my heart, the Christmasy vibe was good too.
After her husband's death, she decides to move back to the small town where she was raised, only to meet her childhood crush, Jack Powell, also the owner of the motel she's currently living in. After an eventful night of her son crying out loud, Whitney is in a dilemma about where to go. Jack offers her to stay in his house, till they find a solution. I was honestly pissed at the guests in the motel who called on Whitney, her emotions overwhelmed me most genuinely and I couldn't help but wonder how she must feel.
Jack Powell was a gem. His past broke my heart, even though I read the TW it still hurts my heart to see him suffer and go through it all at a tender age. He was so considerate from the beginning, he was a nurturer with a traumatic past. I loved how he bonded with Lucy so easily and held Bennett every time they ate to give Whitney space and time. For a man who doesn't want a family, he treats them with love. His words of affirmation from the very beginning were so well written and they soothed a part of my heart. Whitney needed those gestures and words, and I'm glad he provided her with them. He worshipping her post-partum body was the best thing, and I loved how he always acknowledged her body and showed it the love she desired. He made her say out loud that "she was beautiful" and some part of my heart healed.
Whitney was strong and sweet, I loved how she always stood by the right and never caved on her ex's demands. Her love for her kids was pure. I loved how Jack and Whitney smoothly slid into a relationship and had good communication. Their chemistry was slow but sizzling, I loved how they took their time on their feelings and focused on the result. Many might have felt the love/lust was insta but for me, it was at the right pace and time. He had suffered a lot and needed someone to love him for him, and she had a really bad relationship and it was time to move on from her shitty ex. These two broken souls found a way to mend each other's heart and fill it with love. They both have been hurt in the past, and they found happiness together in the most unexpected way. Their dynamics just work out naturally. The romance was good and simple and not at all forced for the name of spice. Jack is so big on praise yet he always equally prioritises Whitney's pleasure rather than solely focusing on his.
I had a hint of the plot revelation when Lucy shared her dream and yet I was in shock. My mind was not processing yet it was working perfectly. I don't think I'm even making sense here. The Devon incident scared the shit out of me, and Istg I was on the edge of my seat wondering what was to come next. Jack running to protect the kids like a papa bear was wholesome. Lucy and Bennett's bond with Jack was the most beautiful transition. The "my kids" scene was the cherry on top. Jack's love for the kids was beyond beautiful, it was natural and pure. I loved how he had a protective dad instinct from day one. He would go heavens and hell for the kids and Whitney and that had me swooning.
The Powell family was close-knit and had each other's back, even though these siblings rarely have blood relations their bond is beyond everything. I loved how his family looked after Whitney and the kids when they didn't even know her very well.
The ending with HEA along with the epilogue a few years later of their small but happy family left me satisfied and happy. Daddy Jack is the most natural thing you'll read and it was I needed to like this even more. It was beautiful watching him become the father of these two kids, and being their favorite person- they always cling to. The bonus epilogue is always welcomed and once again I'm not disappointed. It was emotional, lovely, and heartfelt.
Alice asking Sutton to handcuff her has to be the most hilarious scene, now that is a book you wanna read. A grump police officer and a sassy blunt sunshine FMC. GIVE ME A BOOK WITH THEM!!
This book took me on an emotional roller coaster of suspense, drama, heartache to love and tons of spicy scenes. If you’re looking for a heart warming book of two broken people falling in love and having a happily ever after I highly recommend this book.
Thank you to the author for giving me the chance to ARC read this book. ❤️
I’m sorry, but where the hell do these Powell men keep bloody coming from. Just when you think you can’t top the brother before, the next one comes along and claims your heart.
I mean let’s face it, when it comes to big masculine bachelors who have their hearts stolen by the woman’s kids and who would do anything for them…I don’t think I can cope much more.
This story of Jack and Whitney (and Lucy and Bennet of course) was freaking adorable. I couldn’t have asked for anything more from it. From start to finish I was there in that story, I cried, I laughed and I loved. Pure emotions.
You have this beautiful man who wants this little family but doesn’t realise how much until he’s fighting to get (and I quote) HIS KIDS back and who decides that they should have a proper Christmas and comes out with the baby strapped to his chest so they can all decorate the tree together as a family. Seriously. My heart. I LOVED THIS ONE THE MOST SO FAR.
Jack has some past that has been haunting him and leaves him believing that he will be single for life. Whitney is a widowed single mom who is trying to start her life over. She needed to start fresh which led her to the hotel which is owned by her childhood crush. That is until her and Jack cross paths: cops, blizzards, and close proximity. This book is one more to the amazing Powell Sanctuary series. I can’t wait to see what else will come next for the Powell Family.
I always love getting to read A.M. Wilson. She writes the emotions raw and real. This book is no exception and it is definitely an emotional roller coaster.
SURRENDER BY A.M. WILSON is book Three in the Powell Sanctuary Series. This is the story of Whitney and Jack. Jack's present day has been a reflection of his past childhood. Jack's childhood wasn't good which has made him jaded and somewhat standoffish. Whitney along with her little kids Bennett and Lucy are heading to Fairview Valley where Whitney has fond memories. Whitney is starting to make a fresh start and thinks this is her best choice. Enjoyed this book so much. I hope to read more from this author soon.
I had such a good time being back in the Powell Sanctuary world!! Jack was just… chefs kiss. I’m a sucker for a fictional man who claims to not want kids but turns out to be a protective DADDY!! when it comes to their girl and her kids and Jack… JACK!!! *cue knuckle bite*
A.M. Wilson, you are so right for this one. You gave us Jack Powell and I am so thankful for him and you.🧎🏻♀️
Thank you to the author A.M. Wilson for providing me an e-ARC!
I am so loving this series!! I mean it's just one of those feel good warm romcom books. This was Jack's book and he was just so surprising to me. But lord help me i loved him and all if those surprises we found about him especially in the bedroom!! Like he was so hot in the bedroom!! Like where did that come from? And his past his so heartbreaking i just cried. And you know that some kids actually do go through this. And then there's Whitney and her adorable littles. I mean she's been through he¡! and back but is still going and is so strong. And her and Jack are the perfect pairing. And I love how their dynamic works out. And Lucy awwe little Lucy she is just the icing on the cake. I mean you have sexy strong alpha men, sweet little babies and puppies I mean this is the trifecta of perfection in a book!! I can't wait for the next book!!!
Whitney Thompson is looking for a fresh start when she moves back to her childhood hometown with her two kids Lucy and Bennett. She never expected to be a young widow. She finds herself at a local motel and meets the owner Jack Powell.
With a blizzard headed their way Jack offers his place to Whitney and her kids for the weekend only. Something about her seems so familiar. After the storm is over Jack tells to her to stay until she can move into a rental. With the holidays approaching Jack finds himself starting to fall for Whitney and her kids. When someone from Whitney’s past appears and threatens her kids, will Jack be able to keep them safe?
I loved Whitney and Jack’s story!! This is the perfect small town read for the winter/holiday season! Whitney clearly loves her kids so much and has been on her own for awhile now. Jack with Lucy and Bennett melted my heart. There is one very funny laugh out loud scene when Jack offers to watch the kids for a half hour. The story and their situations seemed so real to me. I could see this playing in a cozy house with snow falling outside.
I loved how they both started falling for each other. Both of them had been hurt in the past and they really helped each other work through their feelings. They had great chemistry together and some very steamy scenes!! I also liked the added suspense of Whitney’s past and how Jack and his family really stepped up to help her.
🌟Tropes 💚Small Town 🩷Single Mom ❤️Childhood Crush 🔥Forced Proximity ❄️Snowed In 🎄Dash of Christmas Vibes 🖤Sprinkle of Suspense
After the death of her husband Whitney decides she and her children need a fresh start. She's moving back home. Her relationship with her husband became toxic after he had gotten into some shady business. Jack was portrayed as a grumpy guy who owns a motel in previous stories. That's so not the case here. Once meeting Whit his entire attitude changes especially where the children are concerned. He offers them his home as a stormy blizzard approaches. At the last moment he stays with them to protect them. When Whitney's past comes barreling in it puts her children in grave danger. The clock is ticking. Jack and his family along with the officers rush to find the missing children before it's too late. What more could you ask for? A selfless alpha with babies and puppies. Your heart will melt. I love these stories by this author. Heartwarming, down to earth characters, love flowing around. Not billionaire stories with riches.
I have just finished reading Surrender by A. M. Wilson. I have read a few of her books and they never fail to disappoint! Especially the Powell Sanctuary series!🫶🏻
This is the 3rd book in a series. About a single mum (Whitney) returning to her home town and running into her childhood crush (Jack)! Her toxic ex has a serious past which has followed her into her fresh start and Jack has took it upon himself to keep her and the family safe! In process falling in love, breaking down his own barriers to create his own family 🥰
💜 Forced Proximity 💜 Small town romance 💜 Childhood crush 💜 Found Family
I had the pleasure to be part of the arc team for this book! It's released tomorrow and it's on KU! The entire Powell Sanctuary series is an amazing small town romance read! 📚
I loved Surrender. Whitney hasn’t had the best year but she’s moved back to Fairview Valley to start over. One thing after another goes wrong and next thing she knows she’s staying at Jack’s house and things are heating up. Jack was her crush when she was 16. For Jack it’s just a hook up, until she is threatened and he realizes his feelings are so much more. This book has it all and a great twist. I loved the storyline and the characters. She’s been hurt and he’s vulnerable, together they help each other heal. I would definitely recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I have enjoyed every one of the Powell Sanctuary books and this one was no different. I didn’t think any character could top Jude or Aiden but oh my gosh I was wrong!
This story was so beautiful! I loved everything about it— Whitney’s return to her hometown, Jack’s (re)ignited interest, the dynamic between the two, how hard Jack’s heart is gripped by Whitney’s kids, and the general depth of their feelings for each other once things really get rolling.
I laughed at the banter, giggled at the tension, sighed at the spicy parts, and shed some tears both dyeing and after the big climax of the plot. I love this couple, and I am so looking forward to reading more.
This was a sweet quick read. It was something lighter but also had some suspense to the plot too.
POV: Dual, 1st person. SERIES or STANDALONE: 3rd in series, can be read as a standalone. TROPES: M/F adult, forced proximity, single mother, small town romance. SIZE: 290 (last page) Kindle pages. CHARACTERS: Jack (late 30s) & Whitney (33)
PLOT: 4 📚 ROMANCE: 5 ❤️ SPICE/STEAM: 2.5 🌶 DARKNESS/TRIGGERS: 2 😈 (talk of past child abuse, child kidnapping)
Loved these characters and how they melted together. Great addition to the rest of the Powell family, for Whitney and her kids. Strong emotions for Whit and Jack, felt each of those as we learn more and more about the history of each of these main people. When Jack steps up to assist Whitney with whatever she needs he just is a hero for all, especially after what he has lived through. Add on what that "Rat" does and we just fall further for each of the members of the family. Can't wait for further stories about the Sanctuary. Bring it on!!!!!!
Just finished this gem!! I really enjoyed Jack & Whitney's story!
Whitney, a recently widowed mom of two babies returns to her hometown for a fresh start. After housing plans fall through, she ends up staying with her high school crush, Jack, as a blizzard comes in. While out with her new friends, she is approached by none other than her supposed to be dead husband. Jack stays by her side through all of the trouble he creates, & in the end they are married & expecting another baby!!
I can't wait to see what else Powell Sanctuary has to offer!!
What is there not to like about this one, well beside that one thing? The amazing Powell family back again, with Jack in the spotlight this time. Add Whitney and her adorable babies, Lucy & Bennett and Jack can't help but to show what a beautiful protective man he truly is. This one had some unexpected twists and truly pulled at my heart, thank goodness for the well deserved ending.
I am really looking forward to more from the Powell Sanctuary!
I skipped the second instalment of the series just because second chance is not really my trope. Whitney and Jack and Lucy and Bennett have my heart 🥹 The kids were written so beautifully and I loved how we got to see Jack come to the realization that not only does he not want to spend his life alone but moreover he totally is a A Dad. This is was so sweet!
This was soooooo good! It had me laughing, crying, and absolutely falling in love with all the characters! This was my first read from this author and I can’t wait to read more from them!
I surrender my heart and soul to Jack Powell. He's literally the greenest and the perfect guy ever! Our dream man to be exact.
This is pure happiness but I cried a little with the kids situation with the father. The family love and support is awesome. I really enjoyed the book, it was a nice read.
Whitney and Jack’s story was absolutely beautiful! Two broken people who finally find the other half that fixes their broken pieces. I could not put the book down and finished it in less than 24 hours! I can’t wait for more of the Powell Saga!!
Loved reading about Whitney and Jack. The Powell family has such a great background and support system that when the unexpected and harrowing events that follow Whitney and her children, they rally up and do what they do best. I have had the privilege to get an ARC of this book and absolutely loved every minute of this read. I highly recommend this series for quick and heartwarming reads.
Whitney jumping into a situationship despite being a single mom and having responsibilities just didn’t sit well. It almost felt like she prioritized fulfilling her teenage crush dreams over getting her life together and getting her kids settled. In the end she ended up depending on another man instead of finding her own footing.
Holy crap did I fall in love with this book. And Jack and Whitney and Bennett and Lucy. I couldn’t put this book down and I had to know what happened next. I can’t wait to read more of this group of characters!