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Under Pressure
USA Today Bestselling Author Ellie Thornton welcomes you to the sunshine state! Looking for fun in the sun? Come to Diamond Cove, a beach community full of hilarious situations, meddling grandparents, and swoony romance. Lose your heart to this sweet romantic comedy about a NAVY SEAL, a hurricane, a treasure, pirates, and the SECOND CHANCE he never saw coming.
All Bluebell St. James wants from her move to Diamond Cove is to settle down, find some security, and feel safe, but when her long-lost love walks into her bohemian boutique with four adorable little old ladies, all those dreams go up in flames in a whirlwind of emotions long buried. Sean broke her heart nine years ago, and she's not about to let him do it again.
But when she learns he's suffering from a recent loss, her resolve weakens. She can protect her heart and be there for him. Right?
Sean Clayton's life is simple in its complexity, and he likes it that way. All he has to do is pretend he's retired from the Navy while protecting a prince with a huge bounty on his head, find a sunken ship belonging to said prince's country with treasure worth millions on it before his rivals do, and keep his grandpa and his grandpa's crew out of mischief--which often proves more difficult than expected. Sean lives to serve, but when Bluebell, Blue, shows up in his life after nearly a decade, his priorities start to shift.
Seeing her again makes him want to forget all his responsibilities and for once in his life do something for himself.
But with someone always needing something from him, a hurricane about to hit, pirates on his tail, and unexpected horrors from Blue's past all coming at him at once, putting himself first seems like an impossible hurdle.
Don Clayton has always had a soft spot for his grandson, Sean, one of the most selfless men he's had the privilege to know. So when Bluebell shows up again, Don knows what he has to do--no matter what it takes.
With emotions running high, catastrophic weather, bad guys lurking, and two stubborn lovebirds, the Secret seven might not know what hit 'em!
All Bluebell St. James wants from her move to Diamond Cove is to settle down, find some security, and feel safe, but when her long-lost love walks into her bohemian boutique with four adorable little old ladies, all those dreams go up in flames in a whirlwind of emotions long buried. Sean broke her heart nine years ago, and she's not about to let him do it again.
But when she learns he's suffering from a recent loss, her resolve weakens. She can protect her heart and be there for him. Right?
Sean Clayton's life is simple in its complexity, and he likes it that way. All he has to do is pretend he's retired from the Navy while protecting a prince with a huge bounty on his head, find a sunken ship belonging to said prince's country with treasure worth millions on it before his rivals do, and keep his grandpa and his grandpa's crew out of mischief--which often proves more difficult than expected. Sean lives to serve, but when Bluebell, Blue, shows up in his life after nearly a decade, his priorities start to shift.
Seeing her again makes him want to forget all his responsibilities and for once in his life do something for himself.
But with someone always needing something from him, a hurricane about to hit, pirates on his tail, and unexpected horrors from Blue's past all coming at him at once, putting himself first seems like an impossible hurdle.
Don Clayton has always had a soft spot for his grandson, Sean, one of the most selfless men he's had the privilege to know. So when Bluebell shows up again, Don knows what he has to do--no matter what it takes.
With emotions running high, catastrophic weather, bad guys lurking, and two stubborn lovebirds, the Secret seven might not know what hit 'em!
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 29, 2024
18 people are currently reading
2752 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
February 28, 2024
Oh my gosh! This book is such an amazing combination of things I never would have thought to put together. And in the middle of all that inconceivability, is an incredible second chance romance between Sean and Bluebell. There are so many things I want to say about this story, but I don’t want to spoil anyone else’s enjoyment of this great book. I loved everything about this, and I hate, absolutely hate, that it’s over already. I can’t wait to come back to Diamond Cove to discover what the Secret Seven will get up to next.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Booksprout.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Booksprout.
March 6, 2024
This was a wild ride with an amazing storyline. I wasn't expecting all the action, adventure, drama and with equal parts with fun, witty banter, sweetness and emotion. There was plenty of conflict and heartfelt moments to keep me completely entertained and the pages turning. Loved the colorful mix of characters and their great interaction. Wonderful storytelling, Ellie Thornton never disappoints.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 20, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. It had a little bit of everything for me; Romance and thriller. I plan to read more in the series.
April 21, 2024
Wasn’t expecting all the twists and turns of this story. Loved it!
April 2, 2024
The cover for this is so adorable.
Unfortunately, I found this to be a little tedious, and I think it was the long prologue that put me off. It went on for too long, and would have had more of an impact if it was short and snappy. Not much actually happened, and I was left thinking ‘how much longer until the ‘present’ starts?’
The actual book was okay, but very slow. I found myself getting really bored in places.
The characters has good back stories, but it took too long for explanations to follow the back stories, which caused me to become really bored.
This claims to be a RomCom, but I didn’t find it all that funny, if I’m honest.
I didn’t feel the ‘old relationship’ chemistry between Blue and Sean at all. It took a long time to progress and I again became disinterested.
This isn’t a bad book by any means, I just didn’t vibe with it personally.
*I was provided with an ARC for this book courtesy of Hidden Gems in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately, I found this to be a little tedious, and I think it was the long prologue that put me off. It went on for too long, and would have had more of an impact if it was short and snappy. Not much actually happened, and I was left thinking ‘how much longer until the ‘present’ starts?’
The actual book was okay, but very slow. I found myself getting really bored in places.
The characters has good back stories, but it took too long for explanations to follow the back stories, which caused me to become really bored.
This claims to be a RomCom, but I didn’t find it all that funny, if I’m honest.
I didn’t feel the ‘old relationship’ chemistry between Blue and Sean at all. It took a long time to progress and I again became disinterested.
This isn’t a bad book by any means, I just didn’t vibe with it personally.
*I was provided with an ARC for this book courtesy of Hidden Gems in exchange for an honest review.
February 28, 2024
This is a multi author series and I haven't read many of the books but this is the second one that I have read which continues from the first book, Royal Agenda by Lucy McConnell. The last story revolved around a group of navy seals that were undercover protecting a prince from a small country. Someone tried to assassinate him so he has taken a new identity and moved to Diamond Cove. There is a treasure stolen from his country that he and the seals are trying to find in a boat sunken of the coast.
This story picks up that from the last one and focuses on one of the Navy Seals, Sean Clayton. It starts off ten years before when Sean was in college and working on a class project with Bluebell St. James. After working together on their project, they began to date. He had no idea that Bluebell was in the witness protection program with her father. their relationship fell apart when he enlisted in the Navy and she was moved to a new location receiving a new phone.
Ten years later, Sean has no idea that Bluebell has moved to Diamond Cove and opened the store she had dreamed of ten years before. He had never forgotten his first love and is shocked when he enters her store. She was just as shocked and her response was to spray him in the face with a soda gun. Each one thought they had been betrayed by the other. Even as Sean began to hope to restore their relationship, he finds out she is engaged to get married.
The basis of the stories in the Diamond cove series is that there is a small group of people who live there that are setting up matches for the singles living there. Don Clayton is Sean's grandfather and his plan is to find someone for his grandson. When he finds out that Bluebell had moved to the island he will do anything he can to get those two back together.
This story has lots of action and so much humor. There also some danger as Bluebell's identity may have been compromised. Adding to the drama is an approaching hurricane that may make it difficult to recover the missing treasure the Seals have finally located.
Will Sean and Bluebell get a second chance at love?
I would really like to read other books in this series especially ones that continue about these Navy Seals.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story picks up that from the last one and focuses on one of the Navy Seals, Sean Clayton. It starts off ten years before when Sean was in college and working on a class project with Bluebell St. James. After working together on their project, they began to date. He had no idea that Bluebell was in the witness protection program with her father. their relationship fell apart when he enlisted in the Navy and she was moved to a new location receiving a new phone.
Ten years later, Sean has no idea that Bluebell has moved to Diamond Cove and opened the store she had dreamed of ten years before. He had never forgotten his first love and is shocked when he enters her store. She was just as shocked and her response was to spray him in the face with a soda gun. Each one thought they had been betrayed by the other. Even as Sean began to hope to restore their relationship, he finds out she is engaged to get married.
The basis of the stories in the Diamond cove series is that there is a small group of people who live there that are setting up matches for the singles living there. Don Clayton is Sean's grandfather and his plan is to find someone for his grandson. When he finds out that Bluebell had moved to the island he will do anything he can to get those two back together.
This story has lots of action and so much humor. There also some danger as Bluebell's identity may have been compromised. Adding to the drama is an approaching hurricane that may make it difficult to recover the missing treasure the Seals have finally located.
Will Sean and Bluebell get a second chance at love?
I would really like to read other books in this series especially ones that continue about these Navy Seals.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 10, 2024
Another fun book in this series. There was lots of funny banter and fun antics. But also some serious focus on a bit of intrigue. The romance was a second chance for college sweethearts. The characters were great. So many engaging interactions. It was a very entertaining read. This book is part of a multi-author series focused on a matchmaking group of friends in a retirement community in Diamond Cove. Known as the Secret Seven, these lively seniors scheme to find their grandchildren, and others, love.
In this instalment, the matchmaking was focused on the grandson of newly widowed Don. Sean encounters Blue, the woman he had fallen in love with and lost many years before, in Diamond Cove, where she has recently moved. “‘There sure is a hurricane coming. Hurricane Bluebell St. James…She blows through, yanking people up by their roots, and spinning them around until they can’t tell which way’s up.’” Both still have strong feelings for each other, but there are extenuating circumstances that make a future together seem impossible. “‘But all those reasons keeping you apart, they can be worked out, son. For the right person, they can be worked out. Life is a lot harder without them than trying to figure it out is.’” Sean’s stress eating was so funny. The story also dealt with Don’s grief over the passing of his beloved wife, and his unhealthy coping mechanisms. Some elements of murder and organized (and unorganized) crime were involved in the book. There was also some conclusion to the intrigue developed previously in the series, in Royal Agenda. I would have liked to know a little more about what happened for Ryker after this, but maybe that will come in the future? This book at least provided some resolution.
As part of this series there is significant carryover of the characters in the Secret Seven, as well as appearances of main characters from other books, and related events. However, each romances can read well as a standalone. There were plenty of hints about Johnny’s story. I look forward to it! This is a sweet and clean story with mild innuendo and no harsh language.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In this instalment, the matchmaking was focused on the grandson of newly widowed Don. Sean encounters Blue, the woman he had fallen in love with and lost many years before, in Diamond Cove, where she has recently moved. “‘There sure is a hurricane coming. Hurricane Bluebell St. James…She blows through, yanking people up by their roots, and spinning them around until they can’t tell which way’s up.’” Both still have strong feelings for each other, but there are extenuating circumstances that make a future together seem impossible. “‘But all those reasons keeping you apart, they can be worked out, son. For the right person, they can be worked out. Life is a lot harder without them than trying to figure it out is.’” Sean’s stress eating was so funny. The story also dealt with Don’s grief over the passing of his beloved wife, and his unhealthy coping mechanisms. Some elements of murder and organized (and unorganized) crime were involved in the book. There was also some conclusion to the intrigue developed previously in the series, in Royal Agenda. I would have liked to know a little more about what happened for Ryker after this, but maybe that will come in the future? This book at least provided some resolution.
As part of this series there is significant carryover of the characters in the Secret Seven, as well as appearances of main characters from other books, and related events. However, each romances can read well as a standalone. There were plenty of hints about Johnny’s story. I look forward to it! This is a sweet and clean story with mild innuendo and no harsh language.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 1, 2024
Wow! This book has second-chance love, sunken pirate treasure, a Prince in hiding, and so much more!
Bluebell St. James escapes her mafia family while hiding undercover with her father, but she wonders if she'll ever have it all--love, security, and a family. She's currently running a successful boutique in Diamond Cove when the love of her life walks in. They planned a future together, but then one day Sean left to join the Navy, become a SEAL without a word. She's felt abandoned and rejected ever since. She wonders how she and Sean have now ended up in the same little town after all these years--could it be God?
When Blue first sees Sean after so many years, it definitely isn't love at first sight! Sean has always loved Blue, but how to win her back? Enter Sean's grandfather and his group of friends--secret matchmakers. Sean's grandparents fell in love with Blue years ago and now begin planning to get Sean and Blue back together along with several of Grandpa Clayton's matchmaking friends. But Blue's engaged, and the group would never think of breaking up an engagement. Or would they? That's when the action revs up. There's an undercover treasure that needs retrieving, along with a hurricane about to hit, and secrets uncovered. Will Sean and Blue survive all the danger and drama? Can they forgive the past and fall in love again?
I enjoyed this fun, clean romantic comedy/drama with heartwarming family moments and danger that made it a fun and exciting read. I highly recommend "Under Pressure" by this new (to me) author. I'm looking forward to reading more in this series!
I received a complimentary ARC of this book and have voluntarily given my honest opinion in this review.
Bluebell St. James escapes her mafia family while hiding undercover with her father, but she wonders if she'll ever have it all--love, security, and a family. She's currently running a successful boutique in Diamond Cove when the love of her life walks in. They planned a future together, but then one day Sean left to join the Navy, become a SEAL without a word. She's felt abandoned and rejected ever since. She wonders how she and Sean have now ended up in the same little town after all these years--could it be God?
When Blue first sees Sean after so many years, it definitely isn't love at first sight! Sean has always loved Blue, but how to win her back? Enter Sean's grandfather and his group of friends--secret matchmakers. Sean's grandparents fell in love with Blue years ago and now begin planning to get Sean and Blue back together along with several of Grandpa Clayton's matchmaking friends. But Blue's engaged, and the group would never think of breaking up an engagement. Or would they? That's when the action revs up. There's an undercover treasure that needs retrieving, along with a hurricane about to hit, and secrets uncovered. Will Sean and Blue survive all the danger and drama? Can they forgive the past and fall in love again?
I enjoyed this fun, clean romantic comedy/drama with heartwarming family moments and danger that made it a fun and exciting read. I highly recommend "Under Pressure" by this new (to me) author. I'm looking forward to reading more in this series!
I received a complimentary ARC of this book and have voluntarily given my honest opinion in this review.
April 5, 2024
Sean has the hugest heart filled with enough love for all, his selflessness, unbidding willingness to help everyone around him and his caring nature are so very sexy and inspiring. Sean is a loyal, dedicated Navy SEAl with a charisma that captivates all, this handsome hunk is beloved by all. I loved Sean's optimism and the way he viewed life; this world needs more people like him. Bluebell is such a sweet, strong, determined beautiful woman with a passion for danger and staying out of sight, until she meets Sean. This story is action packed, full of mischief, danger, intrigue, funny moment as well as sad. One of the best parts of this story are that the Secret Seven are back and up to no good some end up in much deeper problems than ever before, the stakes are higher in this story than ever before, and emotions get in the way. Don is such an amazing person and with the help of his friends he learns the biggest lesson of all, but not before havoc erupts and lives are on the line. Secrets catch up altering futures, danger is in every turn and friendships are tested. I especially loved Nonna's letter ...its heartfelt. This book had me hooked to my seat until the end. I felt so many different emotions as I read along and was touched by how Sean put all others before himself as if it was as natural as drinking water. Sean and Blue story is one of my favorites in this series. I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving ARC
July 25, 2025
This was an enjoyable book with a good plot. There were two reasons this wasn't a 5-star book for me. First, it started out very slowly. The author includes a "short story prequel." This happened about 10 years before the rest of the story. While it is important, it also took up about 15% of the book. I feel like it either needed to be extended and make the book a Part 1 and Part 2 sort of story, or it needed to be trimmed down and maybe even just included as flashbacks throughout the rest of the story.
The second thing was that there were some parts of the story that were confusing. I have not read the other books in the series, and maybe that would have helped a bit. There are a lot of characters. Sean's got a whole crew of friends, and his grandpa has a bunch of friends. Many of these characters just blended together. There were also a few places in the plot where I wanted more explanation.
Overall, I consider this a cute, clean book. There's no swearing, graphic sexual content, or graphic violence. There are a few comments by characters, which could have spiraled into inappropriate, but the book kept it pretty PG.
This is listed as a romcom. I'd definitely say that it leans more toward the rom part of it. There were a few witty comments and funny situations, which might have my chuckling a bit, but you likely won't be laughing like crazy.
I got a free ARC from BookSirens, and I left a voluntary review.
The second thing was that there were some parts of the story that were confusing. I have not read the other books in the series, and maybe that would have helped a bit. There are a lot of characters. Sean's got a whole crew of friends, and his grandpa has a bunch of friends. Many of these characters just blended together. There were also a few places in the plot where I wanted more explanation.
Overall, I consider this a cute, clean book. There's no swearing, graphic sexual content, or graphic violence. There are a few comments by characters, which could have spiraled into inappropriate, but the book kept it pretty PG.
This is listed as a romcom. I'd definitely say that it leans more toward the rom part of it. There were a few witty comments and funny situations, which might have my chuckling a bit, but you likely won't be laughing like crazy.
I got a free ARC from BookSirens, and I left a voluntary review.
March 7, 2024
Ellie Thornton has written a rom-com/thrillerish novel about Bluebelle St. James and Sean Clayton. Blue is in the witness protection program hiding away from Mafia hitmen and Sean meets her in college and falls in love with her. That’s all in the prequel. From chapter one on things get crazy. Ten years have passed and Blue and Sean meet up again in a small seaside town. Sean is a former Navy Seal, Blue is engaged to a handsome Aussie and is running a dress store. Since true love never runs smoothly there are lots of other problems, sunken treasure, a hurricane, Mafia hitmen. It all pretty much goes sideways.
For me, I prefer a little more rom and a little less thrill in my rom-com. This book is apparently part of a series so there are LOTS of characters including a bunch of brothers and their girlfriends and wives and exes, a rollicking group of senior citizens, a prince in hiding, a navy seal team, Aussie bad boys, and the entire Marine Corps. It was a lot to keep up with, what with the hurricane, sunken treasure, and mafia hit men.
For those who like a lot going on, this novel has plenty with lots to share. Ellie writes well and does manage to handle the action and chaos effectively and we do eventually end up with a HEA.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book and I am providing my honest opinion.
For me, I prefer a little more rom and a little less thrill in my rom-com. This book is apparently part of a series so there are LOTS of characters including a bunch of brothers and their girlfriends and wives and exes, a rollicking group of senior citizens, a prince in hiding, a navy seal team, Aussie bad boys, and the entire Marine Corps. It was a lot to keep up with, what with the hurricane, sunken treasure, and mafia hit men.
For those who like a lot going on, this novel has plenty with lots to share. Ellie writes well and does manage to handle the action and chaos effectively and we do eventually end up with a HEA.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book and I am providing my honest opinion.
February 10, 2024
I loved this book but it was not the lighthearted matchmaking grandparents pulling funny stunts story that I expected it to be. Yes, those lighthearted moments are there too but in large part the story is about grieving a lost spouse and getting away from bad guys. There are tender moments that choked me up and silly moments that made me smile. Watching Don grieve over his wife was heart wrenching. I suppose that is good since a writer's job is to make the reader feel something, right? I felt that pain with Don. I also felt the worry that his family and friends felt as they watched him as well. In short, I felt multiple emotions throughout the story.
There were some heart racing moments in terms of danger. Good triumphs of course and the happily-ever-after is sweet. It was an enjoyable read. I love Don and his grandsons are pretty great especially when they start their teasing/bantering. I love the Seals and their brotherhood of support for each other. And I always love the Secret Seven. This is good addition to a really fun series.
No sex,
one accidental swear via text
Violence, potentially perilous situations
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
There were some heart racing moments in terms of danger. Good triumphs of course and the happily-ever-after is sweet. It was an enjoyable read. I love Don and his grandsons are pretty great especially when they start their teasing/bantering. I love the Seals and their brotherhood of support for each other. And I always love the Secret Seven. This is good addition to a really fun series.
No sex,
one accidental swear via text
Violence, potentially perilous situations
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
February 25, 2024
Second Chance Romance
Blue and Sean knew each other in college. He pursued her until she gave in and started dating him. They had six months together before life pulled them in different directions. Neither one forgot about the other as their great love. Blue had secrets that she could tell Sean about. She loved his parents and grandparents since they treated her so nice. She ends up in Diamond Cove where Sean's grandfather, Don, lives. He's one of the Secret Seven - the grandparents who want to find love matches for their grandchildren. When Don finds out that Blue is in Diamond Cove, he feels that Sean and Blue should be together even though Blue is engaged. Blue's past is catching up to her and Sean feels that he can protect her even though he doesn't know what the danger is. Sean is trying to help find a treasure on a sunken ship and there's danger there, too. Will Blue and Sean fight off the danger and be together? I liked this book even though it wasn't as light of a read as previous books. I received a copy of the book to read and review. I'm leaving my honest review.
Blue and Sean knew each other in college. He pursued her until she gave in and started dating him. They had six months together before life pulled them in different directions. Neither one forgot about the other as their great love. Blue had secrets that she could tell Sean about. She loved his parents and grandparents since they treated her so nice. She ends up in Diamond Cove where Sean's grandfather, Don, lives. He's one of the Secret Seven - the grandparents who want to find love matches for their grandchildren. When Don finds out that Blue is in Diamond Cove, he feels that Sean and Blue should be together even though Blue is engaged. Blue's past is catching up to her and Sean feels that he can protect her even though he doesn't know what the danger is. Sean is trying to help find a treasure on a sunken ship and there's danger there, too. Will Blue and Sean fight off the danger and be together? I liked this book even though it wasn't as light of a read as previous books. I received a copy of the book to read and review. I'm leaving my honest review.
March 5, 2024
I couldn't put this book down! Blue and Sean met as college students, and fell in romantic, swoony love. Sean comes from a very close Italian family while Blue’s background is very complicated. Despite their romance, they separate when he becomes a Navy seal. When Blue and Sean meet up again years later in Diamond Falls, Florida, Blue owns a quirky boutique and has gotten engaged to someone else. Sean owns a marine salvage company while working undercover with military intelligence. The book has dual points of view and never loses sight of their love for each other, despite multiple plot twists and turns involving witness protection and family relationships, Sean’s grandfather and his friends at Diamond Cove’s retirement community, the loss of Seans’ grandmother, matchmaking, treasure hunting, an impending hurricane, the mob and more. Through all of these twists, the characters are engaging and likeable. Fun, well-written clean romance, with a satisfying HEA! Highly recommended. I received an advance copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 21, 2024
Bluebell St. James and Sean Clayton met in a college business class and fell in love. He broke her heart when he joined the Navy. Then she vanished. Almost ten years later, they end up in the Florida community of Diamond Cove, where Don, Sean's grandfather, wants the Secret Seven to consider pairing them up again. However, she's engaged. With a hurricane bearing down on them, time is of the essence.
This story is a spectacular blend of the Military Romance and Romantic Comedy genres. Secrecy plays a compelling role in the plot. She has her secrets. Her fiancé has his. And Sean has a secret mission. As the pressure of the emotional storm, as well as the hurricane, mounts, the Secret Seven works to help Don from his loss, Amelia's death, a few weeks before. The end is refreshing and heartwarming.
Easy-to-read. Entertaining. Happily Ever After. Romantic. Scary. Tragic. Unpredictable. Whimsical. Wonderful characters.
I received a review copy of this book from a third party. This is my honest review.
This story is a spectacular blend of the Military Romance and Romantic Comedy genres. Secrecy plays a compelling role in the plot. She has her secrets. Her fiancé has his. And Sean has a secret mission. As the pressure of the emotional storm, as well as the hurricane, mounts, the Secret Seven works to help Don from his loss, Amelia's death, a few weeks before. The end is refreshing and heartwarming.
Easy-to-read. Entertaining. Happily Ever After. Romantic. Scary. Tragic. Unpredictable. Whimsical. Wonderful characters.
I received a review copy of this book from a third party. This is my honest review.
May 12, 2024
If you're looking for a sweet, melt your heart romance, then look no further! This story was amazingly sweet with well-crafted characters that I immediately fell in love with. Sean is a Navy SEAL, pretending to be retired. In reality, he is protecting a prince who has taken a new identity and is hiding out in Diamond Cove. Sean is helping the prince find a treasure that was stolen from his country. Bluebell has recently moved to Diamond Cove to settle down. Her and Sean know each other from back in college when they fell in love then he broke her heart. She won't let him do it again, but when she finds out he has recently suffered a loss, she resolves to be there for him, except this time keeping her heart safe. There were many moments of emotional conflict and heartfelt moments as well that made this quite the page turner and kept me engaged from start to finish. Filled with humor, fun, and witty banter, this was quite the entertaining read. Really enjoyed it!
I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.
I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review.
March 11, 2024
This was a second chance romance but it was different from most of the other books in this series. More serious and intense with some elements of danger. It is set following the death of Amelia, Grandpa Don’s wife (and Sean’s grandmother), who had been suffering with Alzheimer’s and Don is at loose ends as he tries to fill his empty life with meaning following this great loss. Don is convinced that Sean and his long lost love, Bluebell, are meant to be together and he sets off on a rogue mission to make it happen. Unfortunately Bluebell’s life is endangered by some things that happened in her secret past and getting them together is more easily said than done. There were some funny moments sprinkled in but overall this book was more romantic suspense than rom com. I really enjoyed it and hope that we will see Don find a new love in one of the future installments of the Diamond Cove series. I received an ARC and this voluntary review contains my honest opinions. Rating 4.5
April 8, 2024
Overall, I liked the book and the story.
I appreciated that for once, the MMC was shown to be an emotional eater. What I didn't like is that the author was getting humour from his friends and family teasing him about it and make comments (either to him or internally) about Sean's weight and body. If people were doing this to a FMC, it would be seen as mean spirited and the reader would likely be led to view the people making the comments were not good friends/supportive family. Here, we see Sean acknowledge that he's not as fit as usual because --OMG-- he 'only' has a six pack and not a twelve pack. First of all, twelve packs aren't realistic and can have their own health risks, and second of all, this is how body dysmorphia starts! Men can have eating disorders too, and authors shouldn't be encouraging people to have unrealistic expectations of the ideal body.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I appreciated that for once, the MMC was shown to be an emotional eater. What I didn't like is that the author was getting humour from his friends and family teasing him about it and make comments (either to him or internally) about Sean's weight and body. If people were doing this to a FMC, it would be seen as mean spirited and the reader would likely be led to view the people making the comments were not good friends/supportive family. Here, we see Sean acknowledge that he's not as fit as usual because --OMG-- he 'only' has a six pack and not a twelve pack. First of all, twelve packs aren't realistic and can have their own health risks, and second of all, this is how body dysmorphia starts! Men can have eating disorders too, and authors shouldn't be encouraging people to have unrealistic expectations of the ideal body.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
February 25, 2024
I really love this series. While you don't have to read the books in order, I recommend doing so.
This book follows Blue and Sean. Once lovers in the past. They went their separate ways in their younger years when he enlisted and she ran from his choices.
Many years later, after entering the witness protection program, Blue and her dad are relocated to Diamond Cove where low and behold her past comes back to haunt her.
The secret seven, a group of retired friends living at the Diamond Cove seniors residence, get together to match make people in their lives. After adon loses her wife. He sets himself on a mission to get his grandson the woman he deems his equal. No matter the cost. Even at his friendship with the others.
This intense, action packed romance is super addictive. The fast paced story and amazing characters will keep you hooked. 5 stars. Loved it.
This book follows Blue and Sean. Once lovers in the past. They went their separate ways in their younger years when he enlisted and she ran from his choices.
Many years later, after entering the witness protection program, Blue and her dad are relocated to Diamond Cove where low and behold her past comes back to haunt her.
The secret seven, a group of retired friends living at the Diamond Cove seniors residence, get together to match make people in their lives. After adon loses her wife. He sets himself on a mission to get his grandson the woman he deems his equal. No matter the cost. Even at his friendship with the others.
This intense, action packed romance is super addictive. The fast paced story and amazing characters will keep you hooked. 5 stars. Loved it.
May 20, 2024
Wow! I am loving the Diamond Cove series. The Clayton family is a terrific blend of a family who all cares for each other and who would do anything for each other, even if they don't understand what's happening.
In this story Sean dated Bluebell when they were younger but it all fell apart. Now she is back in his life and Grandpa Don is sure that she's the one for him. But does she agree?
Like Grandpa Don, I am so invested in this family and all of the grandsons finding a happy ending, I'm along for the ride. I literally did nothing else from the time I started this book until is was finished.
I received an advance copy of this for free from BookSirens and I'm leaving this review voluntarily. This is my honest review and I can't wait to read another. Ellie Thornton is quickly becoming an auto buy author for me.
In this story Sean dated Bluebell when they were younger but it all fell apart. Now she is back in his life and Grandpa Don is sure that she's the one for him. But does she agree?
Like Grandpa Don, I am so invested in this family and all of the grandsons finding a happy ending, I'm along for the ride. I literally did nothing else from the time I started this book until is was finished.
I received an advance copy of this for free from BookSirens and I'm leaving this review voluntarily. This is my honest review and I can't wait to read another. Ellie Thornton is quickly becoming an auto buy author for me.
November 1, 2025
Another great romance 💕 This one was sad at first, I sympathized with the characters as I have experienced a death in this way. The S7 have a bit of a falling out, but hilarity, drama, the mafia, a sunken ship with treasure, a ‘follower’ hungry-narcissistic YouTuber, and some hunky Navy SEALS, makes this one a favorite.
“A not-so-manly yelp came from the direction of the couch and popcorn went flying. Don glanced that way just as Sean disappeared under a pile of balloons. “My popcorn!” Johnny cried out. “Hi, there,” Mr. Sparkles said, extending his hand. “I’m the new guy.” “Well . . . doggone blinking heck fish sticks.” Don frowned. Rosa gasped. “Watch your mouth.” He couldn’t. He had to keep one eye on the freaking Adonis that’d just walked through his door and the other on his grandson dog-crawling through balloons.”
“A not-so-manly yelp came from the direction of the couch and popcorn went flying. Don glanced that way just as Sean disappeared under a pile of balloons. “My popcorn!” Johnny cried out. “Hi, there,” Mr. Sparkles said, extending his hand. “I’m the new guy.” “Well . . . doggone blinking heck fish sticks.” Don frowned. Rosa gasped. “Watch your mouth.” He couldn’t. He had to keep one eye on the freaking Adonis that’d just walked through his door and the other on his grandson dog-crawling through balloons.”
January 4, 2026
Not sure how this ended up on my TBR, but it has been there forever and was highly rated, so I gave it a shot. I think this is a good action adventure rom com, but I made the mistake of getting it on Audible which used Virtual Voice for the narration. That REALLY distracted from the story. The voice was pleasant, but lacked any inflection, mispronounced words, and would at times use the wrong accent. I will never again listen to a book with this narration and will check for them on audible before buying.
Other than that, Bluebell & Sean are likeable characters and there's a group of octogenarians playing matchmaker which is always a good time. I liked that there are chapters from the perspective of Bluebell, Sean, and Sean's grandfather. I wish it had gotten the narration it deserves. Rating it 4 for the story alone.
Other than that, Bluebell & Sean are likeable characters and there's a group of octogenarians playing matchmaker which is always a good time. I liked that there are chapters from the perspective of Bluebell, Sean, and Sean's grandfather. I wish it had gotten the narration it deserves. Rating it 4 for the story alone.
February 4, 2024
Heart-racing action.
This is really intense for a Diamond Cove book. I’m thinking this isn’t really a rom/com, there’s an awful lot of drama, intrigue and suspense happening, along with dealing with the death of a loved one. That’s not even counting the baggage Blue has been lugging around since she was a teenager. Yes there are some hilarious moments as Gramps get thrown in jail with Harry and Walt and they spend time doing yoga, meditating and practicing the waltz, but these are more comic relief around everything else happening. You truly despaired about whether Blue and Sean would actually be able to have an hea, but it was all wrapped up in the end along with some extra shiny bows. Clean.
This is really intense for a Diamond Cove book. I’m thinking this isn’t really a rom/com, there’s an awful lot of drama, intrigue and suspense happening, along with dealing with the death of a loved one. That’s not even counting the baggage Blue has been lugging around since she was a teenager. Yes there are some hilarious moments as Gramps get thrown in jail with Harry and Walt and they spend time doing yoga, meditating and practicing the waltz, but these are more comic relief around everything else happening. You truly despaired about whether Blue and Sean would actually be able to have an hea, but it was all wrapped up in the end along with some extra shiny bows. Clean.
February 11, 2024
Under Pressure
By Ellie Thornton
Main Characters: Bluebell St. James and Sean Clayton
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
5 out of 5 stars
Oh, I loved this story and the mc's and the secondary characters also. This is only the 2nd book of hers I have reviewed but I loved both of them. Goes to show, that if you have a good story, you don't need a lot of sex. I started out thinking the story was going to be closer to a rom-com. This book had a lot of different feelings to it. Love, heartbreak, laughs, drama, suspense, and danger mixed in with a lot of hot seals. What's not to like about that? This was a second chance at romance for Bluebell and Sean. I would love to read more of Ms. Thornton's books.
By Ellie Thornton
Main Characters: Bluebell St. James and Sean Clayton
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
5 out of 5 stars
Oh, I loved this story and the mc's and the secondary characters also. This is only the 2nd book of hers I have reviewed but I loved both of them. Goes to show, that if you have a good story, you don't need a lot of sex. I started out thinking the story was going to be closer to a rom-com. This book had a lot of different feelings to it. Love, heartbreak, laughs, drama, suspense, and danger mixed in with a lot of hot seals. What's not to like about that? This was a second chance at romance for Bluebell and Sean. I would love to read more of Ms. Thornton's books.
February 19, 2024
Clean Second Chance Page Turning Romance with Action and Entertaining Background Characters
This book has a lot going on and all of it is wonderful - Blue and Sean are complex and imperfect main characters, yet perfect for each other. Add in his Navy Seal team, the meddling matchmaking grandparents, a pet alligator, a "safe" fiancé who maybe isn't so safe?, a hurricane, a salvage treasure hunt, and running from the "mafia" all while trying to rekindle a relationship with your "one true love" and you are in for a fun day's read that is very hard to put down. So far I have loved all of the books in this series and look forward to reading more - Enjoy!
I was sent an advanced reading copy by the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
This book has a lot going on and all of it is wonderful - Blue and Sean are complex and imperfect main characters, yet perfect for each other. Add in his Navy Seal team, the meddling matchmaking grandparents, a pet alligator, a "safe" fiancé who maybe isn't so safe?, a hurricane, a salvage treasure hunt, and running from the "mafia" all while trying to rekindle a relationship with your "one true love" and you are in for a fun day's read that is very hard to put down. So far I have loved all of the books in this series and look forward to reading more - Enjoy!
I was sent an advanced reading copy by the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
March 10, 2024
Another romance from Diamond Cove where there are a team of elders are helping to play matchmaker to Don's grandson, Sean Clayton.
Bluebell and her father are in the witness protection program running from the mafia. Bluebell fell in love 10 years ago with Sean Clayton. When he left to become a Navy Seal, she disappeared. Ten years later, in Diamond Cove, the finds the one woman he hasn't been able to get over. Maybe this could be a second chance for them.
This story has it all. There is a hurricane, sunken treasure, running from the mafia, a broken engagement and bad guys with guns but there is a happy ending.
This story is clean and romantic and full of love.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
Bluebell and her father are in the witness protection program running from the mafia. Bluebell fell in love 10 years ago with Sean Clayton. When he left to become a Navy Seal, she disappeared. Ten years later, in Diamond Cove, the finds the one woman he hasn't been able to get over. Maybe this could be a second chance for them.
This story has it all. There is a hurricane, sunken treasure, running from the mafia, a broken engagement and bad guys with guns but there is a happy ending.
This story is clean and romantic and full of love.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
March 10, 2024
Love this series
Another grandchild bites the dust.
The Diamond Cove's secret seven matchmakers are at it again.
This time it is Don's grandson Sean's turn.
Sean and Blue haven't seen each other for almost a decade.Sean broke her heart and she has moved on.
When Sean walks into her boutique her reaction is not great.
Sean is shocked to see Blue and all his feelings come back.
The secret Seven make it their mission to make sure they get their second chance at love and a happily ever after.
An enjoyable romantic comedy with all the feels.Great characters,lots of laughter,emotions,tears,mystery,
secrets,pirates,treasure,bad guys,matchmakers,second chances,romance and a happily ever after.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Another grandchild bites the dust.
The Diamond Cove's secret seven matchmakers are at it again.
This time it is Don's grandson Sean's turn.
Sean and Blue haven't seen each other for almost a decade.Sean broke her heart and she has moved on.
When Sean walks into her boutique her reaction is not great.
Sean is shocked to see Blue and all his feelings come back.
The secret Seven make it their mission to make sure they get their second chance at love and a happily ever after.
An enjoyable romantic comedy with all the feels.Great characters,lots of laughter,emotions,tears,mystery,
secrets,pirates,treasure,bad guys,matchmakers,second chances,romance and a happily ever after.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 13, 2024
I received a digital ARC of this book. This is not the first Diamond Cove book I’ve read, and it certainly won’t be the last. You could technically read it as a stand alone you just wouldn’t have as much background on the characters. 10 years ago Bluebelle and Sean were in college together and dated. Flash forward 10 years and somehow they are both in the small town of Diamond Cove. However, Bluebelle is now engaged to someone else. Sean has never gotten over her, even named his boat after her. But is it really too late? I read this whole book today. It takes you on quite the roller coaster of emotions as you wait to find out if true love will prevail. I don’t want to give any spoilers. Just know you will be cheering for the good guy to get the girl.
August 19, 2024
winding, cute with some action thrills
The setup was long. Very long. But cute. Blue and Sean — everyone’s fav good guy helper and weed-puller extraordinaire — meetcute (sorta) at 5am in the library. He finds her mysterious and beautiful. She finds him…too much. Everyone likes him, he could have any girl, he wouldn’t possibly want her.
Especially not with the kind of baggage that is Witness Protection. Woops. That back story unfolds over time. She and Sean part ways as he goes for military svc. And then we fast forward.
Natural disaster, mafia hitmen, an arranged marriage of the mafia-kind, and meddling septuagenarians… culminates into a Tarantino warehouse scene. Maybe a little less gory because it is a romcom and it is a HEA.
The setup was long. Very long. But cute. Blue and Sean — everyone’s fav good guy helper and weed-puller extraordinaire — meetcute (sorta) at 5am in the library. He finds her mysterious and beautiful. She finds him…too much. Everyone likes him, he could have any girl, he wouldn’t possibly want her.
Especially not with the kind of baggage that is Witness Protection. Woops. That back story unfolds over time. She and Sean part ways as he goes for military svc. And then we fast forward.
Natural disaster, mafia hitmen, an arranged marriage of the mafia-kind, and meddling septuagenarians… culminates into a Tarantino warehouse scene. Maybe a little less gory because it is a romcom and it is a HEA.
February 18, 2024
We already know and love the Secret Seven of Diamond Cove. The books keep getting better and better! From grieving through excessive baking to sharing emotions in a prison cell, cliff diving, a Mafia like secret organization, Sweetie and Bear dressed as characters from Austen's Persuasion, witness protection, and more! Add in a hurricane and a secret treasure, and you'll probably understand why this book is called Under Pressure.
I loved reading about Sean and Bluebell's back story, their second chance romance, and family reunion. Enjoy! (Can be read as a stand alone but best read in connection with all of the Diamond Cove books.)
I loved reading about Sean and Bluebell's back story, their second chance romance, and family reunion. Enjoy! (Can be read as a stand alone but best read in connection with all of the Diamond Cove books.)
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