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Any Other Name
Jolene Winters only wants to be left alone, but her new-found safety and contentment will be both challenged and shattered.
When the chance to escape the clutches of her villainous girlfriend finally appears, twenty-five-year-old Jolene Winters takes it. All she wants is to live a life of her choosing, and to be left alone and in peace to write her novels.
A year into living in the quiet solitude of a cabin nestled into a remote slice of Alaskan wilderness, her sense of safety evaporates when a threat literally falls from the sky.
At forty-three, Courtney Sarks, the owner of the most successful private investigations businesses on the West Coast, is only there to do a to find and retrieve stolen money. Hired by Giselle Merrick, a powerful Portland defense attorney, Court fears there is more to the job than meets the eye.
On her way to the homestead named Thumbknuckle, Courtney finds herself injured and in the hands of the beautiful and kind Jolene Winters. Without a way to contact the outside world, Court gets to know Jo, and quickly realizes that just finishing the job is no longer an option. Especially since Court develops a deep affection for Jolene, and she's sure the feeling is mutual. Jo’s life is on the line, and Court vows to keep her safe, unaware of what that promise might entail.
When Jolene’s past catches up to her, will she and Courtney be able to make it out alive?
#agegap
Possible triggers for violence
When the chance to escape the clutches of her villainous girlfriend finally appears, twenty-five-year-old Jolene Winters takes it. All she wants is to live a life of her choosing, and to be left alone and in peace to write her novels.
A year into living in the quiet solitude of a cabin nestled into a remote slice of Alaskan wilderness, her sense of safety evaporates when a threat literally falls from the sky.
At forty-three, Courtney Sarks, the owner of the most successful private investigations businesses on the West Coast, is only there to do a to find and retrieve stolen money. Hired by Giselle Merrick, a powerful Portland defense attorney, Court fears there is more to the job than meets the eye.
On her way to the homestead named Thumbknuckle, Courtney finds herself injured and in the hands of the beautiful and kind Jolene Winters. Without a way to contact the outside world, Court gets to know Jo, and quickly realizes that just finishing the job is no longer an option. Especially since Court develops a deep affection for Jolene, and she's sure the feeling is mutual. Jo’s life is on the line, and Court vows to keep her safe, unaware of what that promise might entail.
When Jolene’s past catches up to her, will she and Courtney be able to make it out alive?
#agegap
Possible triggers for violence
- GenresRomance
246 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 19, 2023
121 people are currently reading
60 people want to read
About the author
Kelli Jae Baeli
123 books146 followers"To me, failing to learn to use the tools one’s craft shows laziness and disrespect for the reader. There are, however, no issues of that sort where Baeli’s writing is concerned. It’s rare to these days to find a writer whose style is technically so nearly perfect, but who’s also a damned good storyteller. I doubt if she is even capable of writing poorly." ~W. Spice
Even after 36 novels, I always try to write the sort of book I would want to read. My favorite thing to do is take a common trope and turn it on its ear. Where you expect a zig, I give you a zag. In my pages, you will find strong female characters, ethical dilemmas, and realistic storylines often filled with adventure and intense pacing, tempered by witty dialog, and happy endings. All are hallmarks of my work.
As a Bestselling Genre-Hopping Indie Author, I’ve enjoyed a sales position in the top 5% of lesbian writers, but I write crossover and mainstream fiction and have authored 26 nonfiction books, as well. All 36 of my FemFic novels have been bestsellers in the genres of domestic suspense, domestic thriller, women's adventure, romantic suspense, apocalyptic, speculative, lesfic, lesbian romance, and science fiction. I’m also a mixed-media artist (mostly clay and abstract painting) and former performing singer-songwriter with over 200 songs.
My wife, Melissa Walker-Baeli, is a budding author in her own right, and we have several co-writing projects coming soon. We live with two dogs, (Noodle and Whatnot) and two cats, (Poppet and Chicklet) on ten acres in the gorgeous Northwoods of Michigan.
Even after 36 novels, I always try to write the sort of book I would want to read. My favorite thing to do is take a common trope and turn it on its ear. Where you expect a zig, I give you a zag. In my pages, you will find strong female characters, ethical dilemmas, and realistic storylines often filled with adventure and intense pacing, tempered by witty dialog, and happy endings. All are hallmarks of my work.
As a Bestselling Genre-Hopping Indie Author, I’ve enjoyed a sales position in the top 5% of lesbian writers, but I write crossover and mainstream fiction and have authored 26 nonfiction books, as well. All 36 of my FemFic novels have been bestsellers in the genres of domestic suspense, domestic thriller, women's adventure, romantic suspense, apocalyptic, speculative, lesfic, lesbian romance, and science fiction. I’m also a mixed-media artist (mostly clay and abstract painting) and former performing singer-songwriter with over 200 songs.
My wife, Melissa Walker-Baeli, is a budding author in her own right, and we have several co-writing projects coming soon. We live with two dogs, (Noodle and Whatnot) and two cats, (Poppet and Chicklet) on ten acres in the gorgeous Northwoods of Michigan.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
June 26, 2023
4 - 4,5 ⭐️
Not an easy read. Description of a very abusing past “relationship” in the book. So be aware of the warnings to this book before reading.
Not an easy read. Description of a very abusing past “relationship” in the book. So be aware of the warnings to this book before reading.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2023
OMG, wow, thrilling storyline
Wow what a thrilling storyline, I loved the main characters their journey through it all was written with so much depth it was heartbreaking in parts but so in powering definitely had me gripped, it's a top three read of the year. definitely a must-read congratulations
Wow what a thrilling storyline, I loved the main characters their journey through it all was written with so much depth it was heartbreaking in parts but so in powering definitely had me gripped, it's a top three read of the year. definitely a must-read congratulations
April 30, 2023
Any Other Name
Kelli Jae Baeli
Melissa Walker-Baeli
From the very start, this story had me hooked with a harrowing scene of domestic violence. Jolene's abusive girlfriend had held her captive for six months, but with the help of her best friend, she was finally able to escape. It's clear that Jolene had gotten herself involved with a cruel and sinister woman who would stop at nothing to harm her. Thankfully, a new character, Courtney, comes onto the scene and instantly feels a connection with Jolene. As the story unfolds, we see corruption lurking everywhere, from the crooked cops to the corrupted DAs. Despite this, Jolene and Courtney remain strong and are able to find love amidst the chaos. The author's writing style is impeccable, and I was thoroughly impressed with their ability to craft such a thrilling and unique story. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more from this talented author. It's currently available on Kindle Unlimited, so be sure to check it out!
Kelli Jae Baeli
Melissa Walker-Baeli
From the very start, this story had me hooked with a harrowing scene of domestic violence. Jolene's abusive girlfriend had held her captive for six months, but with the help of her best friend, she was finally able to escape. It's clear that Jolene had gotten herself involved with a cruel and sinister woman who would stop at nothing to harm her. Thankfully, a new character, Courtney, comes onto the scene and instantly feels a connection with Jolene. As the story unfolds, we see corruption lurking everywhere, from the crooked cops to the corrupted DAs. Despite this, Jolene and Courtney remain strong and are able to find love amidst the chaos. The author's writing style is impeccable, and I was thoroughly impressed with their ability to craft such a thrilling and unique story. I highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more from this talented author. It's currently available on Kindle Unlimited, so be sure to check it out!
April 25, 2023
Almost Missed Out
I’d like to start this review by saying I almost returned this book to Kindle once I downloaded & realized it was in first person. For some reason, I struggle reading first person books and 100% prefer third person. However, there weren’t any other LesFic titles I was interested in at the moment. So I gave this one a shot, and let me tell you how thrilled I was. It was such a well written book, I absolutely adored going through this journey. Maybe I’ll go back and revisit other titles in first person that I’ve abandoned, it was that good of a read!
I’d like to start this review by saying I almost returned this book to Kindle once I downloaded & realized it was in first person. For some reason, I struggle reading first person books and 100% prefer third person. However, there weren’t any other LesFic titles I was interested in at the moment. So I gave this one a shot, and let me tell you how thrilled I was. It was such a well written book, I absolutely adored going through this journey. Maybe I’ll go back and revisit other titles in first person that I’ve abandoned, it was that good of a read!
June 15, 2023
Excellent
This was the first, but will not be the last book I read by the Baelis! So well-written, with strong and convincing characters. I picked it up and did not put it down until I finished this review! Jolene is just right as the innocent, naïve protagonist, and Courtney sees her way from being the suspicious investigator to the evil-vanquishing hero. The evil, arrogant, and vengeful Giselle, however, does not easily relinquish her hold on what she sees as hers. So, in this epic battle between good and evil, does Jolene end up with her HEA? You must read it! Really.
This was the first, but will not be the last book I read by the Baelis! So well-written, with strong and convincing characters. I picked it up and did not put it down until I finished this review! Jolene is just right as the innocent, naïve protagonist, and Courtney sees her way from being the suspicious investigator to the evil-vanquishing hero. The evil, arrogant, and vengeful Giselle, however, does not easily relinquish her hold on what she sees as hers. So, in this epic battle between good and evil, does Jolene end up with her HEA? You must read it! Really.
August 3, 2023
Frightening turn of events …
Well written story of Courtney and Jolene’s journey to releasing the horrific baggage and finding a peaceful, loving relationship. Jolene’s exile to the frozen tundra of Alaska turned out to be a fascinating experience of strength, ingenuity, and survival. With her best friend, Turtle, she was thriving until Courtney dropped out of the sky to upend her peaceful existence. An amazing account of what you can do when your will to thrive is stronger than your fears. I was enthralled with Jolene’s ability to feed both Turtle and herself. Remarkable!!! I unequivocally, enthusiastically, and heartily recommend this and any other works by these authors. A very good read. Thank you. Peace
Well written story of Courtney and Jolene’s journey to releasing the horrific baggage and finding a peaceful, loving relationship. Jolene’s exile to the frozen tundra of Alaska turned out to be a fascinating experience of strength, ingenuity, and survival. With her best friend, Turtle, she was thriving until Courtney dropped out of the sky to upend her peaceful existence. An amazing account of what you can do when your will to thrive is stronger than your fears. I was enthralled with Jolene’s ability to feed both Turtle and herself. Remarkable!!! I unequivocally, enthusiastically, and heartily recommend this and any other works by these authors. A very good read. Thank you. Peace
September 4, 2025
I read this when it came out and not sure if I gave it a review. I bought it today while last time I just read it under the Kindle Unlimited. This story is one that you remember after reading that is why I decided to purchase this great story. The characters were strong females with a story line that isn't one you see everyday. Who doesn't love a good living off the grid rescue of a hot private investigator with a healthy dose of wlw sex while putting bad guys and girl in their place... story. (Should be included in searches for living off grid wlw romance story)
May 4, 2023
strong heroines
I was hooked from the first page. I could not put this book down. I was rooting for the two main characters. I was in awe at the strength and determination in Jo and in her regaining her life. I fell in love with Courtney right away. This story keeps your attention. It has everything heroic women both strong yet vulnerable, suspense, an evil villain, a good friend, loveable pet, and of course love. Highly recommend this book
I was hooked from the first page. I could not put this book down. I was rooting for the two main characters. I was in awe at the strength and determination in Jo and in her regaining her life. I fell in love with Courtney right away. This story keeps your attention. It has everything heroic women both strong yet vulnerable, suspense, an evil villain, a good friend, loveable pet, and of course love. Highly recommend this book
April 23, 2023
Duo
You can tell the two authors had fun writing this book together. Each character had their own unique personality and perspective, and the authors used that very well. How could a character not like cats?! Ugh. Boo. Hehe. It is a fun romp through Alaska (northern Michigan?) with many great ideas on survival and frontier living. I'm looking forward to more books from them.
You can tell the two authors had fun writing this book together. Each character had their own unique personality and perspective, and the authors used that very well. How could a character not like cats?! Ugh. Boo. Hehe. It is a fun romp through Alaska (northern Michigan?) with many great ideas on survival and frontier living. I'm looking forward to more books from them.
July 11, 2023
Unexpected twists and turns. Heartwarming and scary at the same time. Tension continues throughout the story with hope building but insecurities surfacing at unexpected moments. Yes, I've used unexpected more than once because this story has some elements of every love story but arranged in a way that is unpredictable. Very much enjoyed this story.
November 19, 2023
i don't think i've ever read someone being hurt this much. Fuck you feel so bad for Jolene. The things she tells you about her previous relationship hurts to read. But Courtney is just so good for her. I love their romance. It's a nice forced proximity romance with an incredible cat involved.
But still. Torture trigger warning
But still. Torture trigger warning
July 15, 2023
OMG, this is such a good read. I may have just been in a really good mood, but you had me a
Rose Nylund I about fell out of my chair I laugh so hard. This book had everything and more.
Loved it!
Margret, And i'm almost twice your age..
Rose Nylund I about fell out of my chair I laugh so hard. This book had everything and more.
Loved it!
Margret, And i'm almost twice your age..
January 5, 2025
Great read!
Cringy plot, laced with humour. Characters you could picture in your mind, even the cat! Would have given 5 stars but for that one scene in the cabin near the climax of the book.
Cringy plot, laced with humour. Characters you could picture in your mind, even the cat! Would have given 5 stars but for that one scene in the cabin near the climax of the book.
May 22, 2023
Excellent.
I really enjoyed Any Other Name. Lots of action. And it wasn’t all within the confines of the bedroom. Loved it.
I really enjoyed Any Other Name. Lots of action. And it wasn’t all within the confines of the bedroom. Loved it.
May 23, 2023
Wow! Rollercoaster!
I never expected all the crazy things to happen. Loved the off grid living. Very interesting story and characters. Loved the pet cat!
I never expected all the crazy things to happen. Loved the off grid living. Very interesting story and characters. Loved the pet cat!
May 25, 2023
A good dramatic read
So this book was pretty interesting, I liked the setting, isolated cabin with just the two mains for the most part. And what great mains they are!
So this book was pretty interesting, I liked the setting, isolated cabin with just the two mains for the most part. And what great mains they are!
June 23, 2023
great read
Good book about overcoming trauma, moving on but being a survivor not a victim. Like these authors very much! Can’t wait for the next one
Good book about overcoming trauma, moving on but being a survivor not a victim. Like these authors very much! Can’t wait for the next one
June 29, 2023
Good read
I love that the authors actually wrote about what it is truly like living off grid. Good book. Quick and easy read. I loved the characters, each and every one of them!
I love that the authors actually wrote about what it is truly like living off grid. Good book. Quick and easy read. I loved the characters, each and every one of them!
August 6, 2023
spellbound
I enjoyed this book and including the characters along with their continued development. I would suggest you give it a read but be warned the abuse may be triggering.
I enjoyed this book and including the characters along with their continued development. I would suggest you give it a read but be warned the abuse may be triggering.
August 12, 2023
I like it tense at moments, emotionally charged, survival of oneself at its best with love finding its way in
September 13, 2023
This book captured my attention from the very beginning and I did not want to put it down. Would highly recommend.
September 25, 2023
Nice fun read
This was a fun read. I really liked the pace, no wasted pages with fluff of pointlessness. Characters were well developed.
This was a fun read. I really liked the pace, no wasted pages with fluff of pointlessness. Characters were well developed.
May 11, 2023
All the work Jo went through to be safe.....The ex is over the top horrible !! Had me hanging on to the next words !!
June 3, 2023
A Heartbreaking and Heartwarming LesFic Experience!
This is my first book read from this author/author’s. I could not put it down. The storyline unfolds fast so you sort of know what’s coming but it had its little twists that just forced you to keep reading. What Jolene was going through at the hands of her girlfriend was heartbreaking but her will not to take anymore causes her to flee and hide. Courtney is the owner of a top investigative agency and though she normally doesn’t go on all cases being the owner of several agencies there was just something not right about the recent case that came across her desk. Giselle Merrick was a big defense attorney who was known for getting not such nice people off but this story she is weaving about her girlfriend stealing money from her and disappearing did not ring true. But Courtney decided to see how this played out. As the story does play out, suddenly Courtney realizes something is terribly wrong with the situation and she may have just dropped evil at the victims door. This was so good that I can’t wait to try another book out. New Fan!
This is my first book read from this author/author’s. I could not put it down. The storyline unfolds fast so you sort of know what’s coming but it had its little twists that just forced you to keep reading. What Jolene was going through at the hands of her girlfriend was heartbreaking but her will not to take anymore causes her to flee and hide. Courtney is the owner of a top investigative agency and though she normally doesn’t go on all cases being the owner of several agencies there was just something not right about the recent case that came across her desk. Giselle Merrick was a big defense attorney who was known for getting not such nice people off but this story she is weaving about her girlfriend stealing money from her and disappearing did not ring true. But Courtney decided to see how this played out. As the story does play out, suddenly Courtney realizes something is terribly wrong with the situation and she may have just dropped evil at the victims door. This was so good that I can’t wait to try another book out. New Fan!
November 26, 2024
A good read
This was my first book by these authors. I did not know what to expect but I was pleasantly surprised by this book. It was a good and entertaining read. The two main characters were well developed and the story was entertaining.
I willingly recommend you give it a read!
This was my first book by these authors. I did not know what to expect but I was pleasantly surprised by this book. It was a good and entertaining read. The two main characters were well developed and the story was entertaining.
I willingly recommend you give it a read!
July 7, 2024
Decent read - better than I expected.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews