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Moving to Williamsfield, Georgia is not what she wants … it’s what she needs. An escape—from him.

After being brutally abused for years, Sadie seeks sanctuary and safety. But can she ever be safe when evil has his eyes on her from afar.

Landon doesn’t want a relationship. He’s been burned too badly to want anything more from a woman than the physical, but one look at Sadie and he’s rethinking everything.

Can trust be formed when it’s been so beaten down? Can love conquer fears? What happens when evil doesn’t give up? Can Sadie ever really be safe?

**Please note. This book contains the very difficult subject of physical abuse and has a non-consensual sexual scene. It also has a very strong woman who learns to heal from these acts and finds the kind of love we all dream of having.

292 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 25, 2013

82 people are currently reading
2351 people want to read

About the author

Ryan Michele

78 books3,472 followers
Ryan Michele is the Wall Street Journal and USA Today Bestselling author of over 40 romantic suspense novels and is best known for her Ravage MC series.

She found her passion bringing fictional characters to life, being in an imaginative world where anything is possible.

Her knack for the unexpected twists and turns will have you on the edge of your seat with each page.

She is best known for her alpha, bad boy bikers and strong, independent heroines who refuse to back down.

When she’s not writing, you can find her on her swing, watching the water ripple in the pond and plotting her next book.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
Profile Image for Blacky *Romance Addict*.
496 reviews6,592 followers
March 25, 2015

Landon <3

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This was worth reading just for him <3 Totally sweet and swoony hero :)



The story


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Sadie runs away from her abusive boyfriend and tries to get on with her life, even though she's always in fear of her ex trying to hurt her family as he threatened to do for ages.
In Georgia, she meets Landon, a good guy, but one who doesn't do relationships because of a heartbreak in his past.
And so, even though both of them are NOT looking for any kind of commitment, they can't stay away from each other, and well, they fall in looooove :)




The romance

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Though I said "romance", I actually mean Landon <3
He is what made me read this book and he is what made me like this book.
Landon is incredibly protective and sweet and swoony and just an uber-amazing guy :)
Since Sadie's had such a terrible experience in her last relationship, she isn't one to trust a man, but Landon breaks her defenses and becomes someone she can lean on (well duh he is just that kind of guy <3).





Overall

Since I'm a fan of sweet stories this one worked for me, but I couldn't give it more than three stars because overall, there was just too much sweetness here, plus, the crying...
OMG there was just too much of it, the heroine cried all the time (I get her with everything she went through but for me it was just too much), and even the hero cried too and I don't know...
If it was just toned down a bit, I wouldn't mind so much bit it kept going to the end so it went from 4 stars to 3 :(


Still, I can't say I didn't like this, cause I did.
And if you like your heroes uber-protective and swoony and sweet, you'll love Landon, trust me <3 He is amazing <3

Profile Image for Alexis *Reality Bites*.
757 reviews3,656 followers
August 31, 2013
SPOILER FREE REVIEW -mature content reader discretion is advised.
4 STARS out of 5
Genre:Contemporary Romance


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“Sadie?”
“Yeah Momma?”
“He doesn’t know where you are; you’re safe there.”
“I don’t feel very safe, Momma.”
“I know you don’t, but you haven’t really felt safe for a while now … yeah?”


Small town girl
With her mother refusing to take no for an answer Sadie finds herself in a small Georgia town after her ex-boyfriend Rob, beats her then leaves her injured, AGAIN. Sadie and her mom devise a plan for her to leave Michigan and more importantly Rob. Her new roommate is her cousin Lauryn who tries to question Sadie but she evades with half truths. It does not matter Lauryn is not oblivious to the marks that mar her cousins skin.
Lauryn is very excited about Sadie moving in and it appears that the contractors doing work on the house are too!

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Southern comfort
Landon and his family own their own business in the small town of Williamsfield, Georgia where everybody knows each other. He and his brothers are ironing out the details of their latest project when Sadie enters the room. The three brothers practically trip over one another to greet her.

Male attention or should I say men for that matter are the farthest thing on Sadie’s mind. However that does not mean she won’t enjoy some southern eye candy. *wiggles eyebrows*

After having a bad experience with an ex-girlfriend a few years back, Landon has been a love’em and leave'em kind of guy. Leaving no room for doubt he is upfront about it; this way females know exactly what they are getting themselves in to with him. PURE-HOT-SWEATY-S E X. And this suits him just fine until he sees something in Sadie that makes him think he wants more.

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His southern charm is enticing ladies you will eat Landon up!

Attraction is not the only thing drawing Landon to Sadie. He notices her reactions and her hesitancy to certain situations though he has no idea why he does take note of it. He volunteers to show her around town and she accepts his invitation.

‘I lived in fear.’ – Sadie

To say that Sadie is leery of all men is an understatement. She was with a man who beat her unapologetically her fear is felt throughout the entire book. It takes time but slowly her and Landon’s friendship grows and they both begin to see more is possible. Neither one of them wants to experience heartache but everybody knows love is a gamble; a chance you choose to take with your heart.


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Something happens..Something that I obviously can’t reveal. It brings them closer and walls start to come down... And just when everything is good you get hit upside the head with a curve ball. Is there love worth fighting for? And how much more can Sadie take as a shocking revelation comes to light and shatters her.


My Thoughts
Ryan Michele’s debut novel brings you a heartfelt story of two people coming together while learning to love and trust once more after heartbreak. Readers should be prepared Rob, Sadie's ex, is a nightmare what he does is unimaginable. And that is all I can say about that...

With Landon and Sadie it may have been lust at first sight but there is a natural progression to their relationship that will sit well with readers. It may also cause you to squirm in your seat a little too.

The chemistry is ON with these two and the sex scenes are grade A.

TEASER– ‘She tasted sweet, and I couldn’t get enough. Sadie began moving when my tongue reached in deep, and she began fucking my face.’

Yeah, I had to throw that at you. *grins*

The author also does a good job with introducing the possibility of love for Lauryn, Sadie's cousin. Could her crush turn in to more?? Also a lot of things happen at the end of the book and I am anxious to know what exactly happened from a certain character's pov. Now I'm gonna stop before I say to much.


My Ratings
Characters- Lovable (except Rob)
Writing Style- Good
Plot/Storyline- Finding love after heartbreak
Steam Factor- Medium/Moderately Steamy
Overall- I enjoyed it! Read it!

Now go forth and read. Then come tell us about it on Goodreads!

For more reviews got to http://realitybites-letsgetlost.blogs...
*Copy kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Jamie.
1,049 reviews934 followers
September 7, 2013
I really liked this one! Beautiful girl running from a sadistic violent man straight into the arms of a sexy country boy..


Sadie is running....leaving her home in Indianapolis and moving down south to live with family in Georgia. She's escaping and ex that doesn't want to be an ex. She's been living the past few years being abused over and over again. When she finally realizes if she doesn't leave, she's going to end up dead. She's sad and she's scared... she takes off to live with her cousin Lauryn looking for sanctuary.

I really wanted to be completely healed before I moved to Georgia with Lauryn and her family. I didn’t want anyone to see my jacked up face and body. I knew the first thing out of their mouths would be, “What the hell happened to you?” I didn’t want to answer that question. This was my fresh start. No more looking back … only forward.


Landon..Landon..Landon... yummylicious Georgia boy that runs a construction company with his brothers and dad. He's a good ole boy the loves the ladies but he's more of a "one and done" type. Doesn't stick around the same girl for too long. Not looking for a relationship for sure. He was hurt one time and that's all it took for him to completely avoid any type of commitment.



But the minute Landon lays eyes on Sadie he just knows something about her is different. She's so beautiful but looks so sad. He wants to avoid her because the pull he feels towards her is so strong

Normally, I would harass my brothers into giving up on a chick so I could have my way with her. But women all ended up the same. Maybe once or twice I’d screw them, and then they’d be gone— nothing ever serious. I knew deep down this one was not the “hit it and quit it” type.


But at the same time, avoiding her is the last thing he can make himself do. Sadie feels the same pull but she's scared to death. All she's known from a man the past few years has been violence. Something about Landon though just feels safe and eventually..she let's him in .


Although Sadie lets him in, she's still scared. She's afraid of loving Landon, she's afraid her ex Rob will find her and kill her, she's just.. afraid. But once Landon decides that he might want more with Sadie than he's ever wanted before, he'll do whatever it takes to help her, heal her, and maybe even love her....


Such a good story! Although Sadie did get on my nerves a bit sometimes, the absolute awesomeness of Landon helped balance that out. The additional characters of her cousin Lauryn and Landon's brothers and sister helped pave the way for more books to come. There's some history with Lauryn and Renzo, Landon's brother and I can't wait to read their story. Renzo just comes off as all kind of F-I-N-E. We do get a implied HEA but no epilogue and I feel this is because the next story will probably be Renzo's and Lauryn's and will likely pick up where Landon and Sadie's left off. Something happened towards the end of this one that affected Lauryn in a big way and it's something she'll probably be dealing with in the next book.

I see good things for this series and definitely looking forward to more from this author


Profile Image for Helen Power.
Author 11 books632 followers
May 2, 2022
This is a great book featuring one of my all-time favourite tropes. Sadie runs away from her crazy, violent ex-boyfriend to live with her cousin in small-town Georgia. She has a lot of healing to do, and handsome contractor Landon just might be the person to help her.
This book has quite a bit of suspense, and some fabulous twists in the plot. It seems like there might have been a set up for a follow up to the book featuring another couple, but it looks like it hasn’t been published (yet?). Nevertheless, this book ends with a HEA and is a complete standalone.
I recommend it to those who love this trope!
Profile Image for Kirsten P.
119 reviews36 followers
September 11, 2013
I have just found myself a new book boyfriend.



Sadie has spent the last four years of her life in an abusive relationship. She has run out of stairs to fall down and accidents to be in. After being beaten so badly, Sadie wakes up in the hospital once again. Her mother Sarah can no longer stand the danger her daughter is in at the hands of her police officer ex-boyfriend. She begs her to move to a small town in Georgia with her aunt and get out of this abusive relationship. Sadie is torn because Rob has threatened everyone she holds near and dear, and she can’t imagine that her choices will hurt anyone other than herself. In the end, her mom convinces her she needs a clean break and a fresh start, so Sadie goes to Georgia and moves into her cousin Lauryn’s new house.



“I really wanted to be completely healed before I moved to Georgia with Lauryn and her family. I didn’t want anyone to see my jacked up face and body. I knew the first thing out of their mouths would be, “What the hell happened to you?” I didn’t want to answer that question. This was my fresh start. No more looking back … only forward.”




Right from the start, you feel for Sadie. She has been physically and emotionally beaten down, and the author does a fantastic job portraying her emotions. She shows up at Lauryn’s house closed off. Besides being determined not to let another man enter her life, she is afraid to share too much of her story with anyone, fearing she is putting their lives in jeopardy. She’s lonely, sad, and scared. She is convinced that Rob will eventually track her down and kill her. You can literally sense how trapped Sadie feels, and immediately understand her motivations when dealing with family as well as newfound friends.



Waking up the day after she has arrived in town, Sadie walks into the kitchen to find Lauryn with three hot guys, contractor brothers getting ready to make some improvements to Lauryn’s already beautiful house. While all three brothers are easy on the eyes and interested in Sadie, Landon decides to take himself out of the running instantaneously.



“Normally, I would harass my brothers into giving up on a chick so I could have my way with her. But women all ended up the same. Maybe once or twice I’d screw them, and then they’d be gone— nothing ever serious. I knew deep down this one was not the “hit it and quit it” type.”




Sadie doesn’t look like a one night stand type of girl and that is all he’ll even be interested in. Unfortunately, he’s been burned, really burned before, and he won’t ever let a relationship get to that level again. Sadie feels the charge between them as introductions are made, and as drop dead gorgeous as he is, she knows she needs to stay away from Landon. Not only can he fix everything around the house, he’s a singer and a guitar player in a local band. SWOON. It’s obvious that both Sadie and Landon have huge trust issues and we are left to wonder if they will ever get past them.



Sadie and Landon decide they will try the friend route, but they are both intrigued by the other, and have an undeniable chemistry. Sadie quickly learns that Landon is the town whore, and she is curious as to why. Landon can’t help but notice Sadie doesn’t like to be touched and that she winces in playful situations. They both have huge trust issues. Landon is determined to figure her out and know her secrets. I have to say I LOVE LANDON. He made this whole entire book for me. He is so sweet, so caring, wanting to protect her from everything she is afraid of if she will only let him in. I’m really all for the badass book boyfriend, but nothing can compare to the gentle, loving, I’ll-be-patient-because-I-really-adore-you, plus I’ve-got-this-southern-gentleman-thing-down-pat book boyfriend.



“His Southern accent mixed in with total man was a deadly concoction.”




As usual, I’m not going to tell you too much of the story. Of course, we want Sadie to find the courage to heal and move on, but sometimes, things are easier said than done. There are all sorts of twists and turns that had me reading this one in a day. I noticed this is the first in the series, and while we have answers and there is, in my opinion, no cliffhanger, there are a few questions still lingering for me. Ms. Michele accurately portrayed the feelings and thoughts of an abuse victim and survivor. I felt this one. Safe appears to be the author’s first book, and I’m definitely ready for more.


Profile Image for ❥ KAT ❥ Kitty Kats Crazy About Books.
2,637 reviews11k followers
August 29, 2013
After being brutally abused for years, Sadie seeks sanctuary and safety. But can one ever be safe when evil has his eyes on you from afar..Cops were safe and protected you...Or so I thought!! Then about a year into the relationship, I found out that being a cop was just a cover for his real business..Who do you trust when the one person you trusted is a cop!!
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"Make another fucking sound, and I will fuck you, kill you, and then go after your loved ones!!" I'd been protecting my family for the past year..He would kill everyone I loved..
I knew I should've left the first time he laid his hands on me!!
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His words of bitch, whore slut were always followed by his slaps, his fists, his kicks..You are mine!! You belong to me!!
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I was really getting good at lying, covering up all my so called accidents with lies..

LANDON: He became my rock..He made me feel safe..He gave me strength..He gave me a voice..He healed me..He listened to me..He became my everything..He loved me..




Profile Image for Emily.
5,879 reviews551 followers
February 18, 2021
Sadie had been abused for years by her ex and finally shook him loose, at least it was what she thought but it as a false sense of freedom until he struck again. Sadie had been making excuses and hiding what happened from her family but her Mother recognizes the signs and wants Sadie protected.

Sadie ends up moving to Williamsfield, Georgia to star anew. With a few rules in place to keep her location hidden. Sadie struggles to find some normalcy in the small town where everyone knows about you and wants answers to what brought her to their town. She meets Landon who is friends with her cousin. There is an instant connection but Sadie doesn't want to be involved with man again.

Landon has his own reasons for not getting involved with another woman again. He doesn't mind one and done tumbles, but commitment he vowed never to happen again. When he meets Sadie though he wants to get to know her, spend time with her get close to her. Landon decides he wants Sadie but he realizes he has to earn her trust first, but will the reason she left come back to haunt her?

I liked this story but the book has a few things that don't make sense or get wrapped up in the story. I thought the chemistry was terrific between Landon and Sadie, liked how there story unfolded. Will check out more in this series as I am curious about some of the other characters introduced in the book.
Profile Image for Shamika.
301 reviews7 followers
August 29, 2013
4.5 Stars... ARC provided by author for an honest review

The story of Sadie is emotional, touching and will make you feel. Sadie is a victim of abuse by her cop boyfriend, Rob and with that there are some violent scenes in the book. I felt Sadie's pain right at the start and sympathized with her situation. Her feelings of loneliness, sadness and not feeling safe.

She needs an escape from this life and leaves her hometown of Michigan and moves to Georgia to live with her aunt, uncle and cousin Lauryn.

Sadie is jumpy and doesn't trust anyone due to her past with Rob. Slowly she starts to rebuild her life in Georgia and with the help of her cousin, Sadie meets the Ellison brothers and in particular Landon Ellison. There is an immediate attraction and chemistry between Sadie & Landon. But Sadie is damaged and Landon has some issues of his own.

I really enjoyed this story. It's the the type of read that once you start you can't put it down. I was happy with the ending and there is no cliffhanger, but I can totally see another book to continue this story or to tell the story of the other Ellison brothers, Lauryn or Sadie's best friend Macy.


Profile Image for Dawn.
1,468 reviews293 followers
September 8, 2013
Loved it!! A big thank you to Ryan Michele for sending us a copy! Full review to come.

Saw a couple of my respected GR friends reading and enjoying this book..then saw a post on FB to get a copy of the same book..fate? I say YES. A story that takes me on a roller coaster of emotions from butterflies, swoon*tastic angst, hot shirtless recovering manwhore love, to complete fury for abusive jack holes..that is what this story was for me!

First you meet Sadie, an overly abused, very young woman who is not really living just barely surviving. She had been programmed to believe if she fled her loved ones would be in danger and because of that endured the unthinkable. Some may not think a strong woman is made of that..I think different..even in a fictional tale I use my mantra "never say never" you can't know what even the strongest willed person will do in any situation! She is given an opportunity to flee and hopefully start a new life..

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"He wiped away any fears from me and entered my heart in a much deeper way."


My other favorite thing to read is a male POV..and you get that with Landon. He is a hometown boy and had been burned from the hometown ho that he thought was his future. After that he became the hometown manwhore, with the always present disclaimer that the girls knew going in, nothing but sex. He didn't want to fall for anyone but after one glance, he was a goner. Landon had strength, hot body and loyalty with a fierce dose of protection that had me swooning from first meeting..and I don't know if I mentioned he plays guitar and sings in the local band..check!

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"I want you to know and be confident that you're not a just anyone. I want you to know how I feel about you. I want you to feel me."

Through the tragedies of both of their pasts and the obstacles that always seem to be getting into these kids way, they found true love..Overcoming abuse and both mental and physical abuse is a serious matter and I felt the author portrayed a strength in Sadie that I admired and felt connected to. Survivor and strength can be viewed differently but in the end it's having heart that wins..
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"I thought I knew what love was before, but I was wrong. You're what love is"

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**Copy kindly received by author Ryan Michele for an honest review..for more reviews come and see us at www.sizzlingpages.com ~mature audiences only**
Profile Image for Megan.
184 reviews101 followers
September 10, 2013
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review for Amber's Reading Room. This book earned 4 safe stars from me!

Sadie


Landon


When I first started reading this book, I was thinking that it would be a spin of Safe Haven meets the Sullivan or Ross families, but it really turned out to be so much more. I really enjoyed the story and found myself getting lost in it.

Sadie wakes up in a hospital in bad shape. Her mother refuses to believe that this latest trip to the hospital was an "accident" and convinces Sadie to head to Georgia to get away from the man responsible for her "accidents" - Her cop ex-boyfriend Rob.

While down in Georgia, Sadie meets Landon. He has a hard exterior and bad boy image due to his broken past, which was anti-climactic for me. The build up surrounding that was lacking. Sadie soon begins to trust Landon and they form a friendship and bond that makes her feel safe.

"I'm not letting you go," I whipered in her ear.

"Being snuggled in his arms, I felt safe."



"He made me feel things I never thought I could."

Readers need to beware that the book does include physical and sexual abuse. It is not extremely descriptive, but the caution is still there if you dislike reading books that have any violence.

Sadie and Landon are super sweet together. Sometimes it was close to being too much for me. Sadie was often crying or whining. Even when Landon cried I was not feeling it.

But Landon was swoon worthy and adorable. He did make my heart go pitter patter.

"Sadie, I want to be with you more than you could possible know. But before I do, I want you to know and be confident that you're not just anyone. I want you to know how I feel about you. I want you to feel me."



"This was love. This was caring. This was special."

Their love was tested and challenges occurred. Having a cop as an ex offered Sadie little protection. Betrayal and twists will engage you till the end. Can love conquer fear?

"I'm scared," she whispered.
"Then be scared with me. I want to be your rock when you need strength, your cushion when you fall, your heart when you need love, your safety net. Always."


I would buy this book and be happy I did. As I read the acknowledgements and saw she already had two betas named Megan I found myself thinking... Three sounds so much better! Congrats to Ryan Michelle on this debut novel!
Profile Image for Christina Rod.
449 reviews2 followers
September 5, 2013
"Then be scared with me. I want to be your rock when you need strength, you cushion when you fall, your heart when you need love, your safety net. Always."

Sadie lives in her own personal hell. Once the adoring man, Rob, captured Sadie's love and attention. But for the past three years he has done nothing but tear her life apart. When Sadie ends up in the hospital, again, her mother does not turn a blinds eye this time. Afraid for the people she loves so much, but also for herself, Sadie moves to Georgia with her aunt. During her stay there she captures the attention of Landon Ellison. As her and Landon become friends she finds comfort in him that she has with no one else. But she can't trust him or anyone else. She lives each day in fear and struggles through getting her life back.

Landon has lived a life a reckless life for the past few years. Since the day that the "love of his life" ripped his heart apart he has lived with anger and indifference. He doesn't do relationships and definitely doesn't keep any women around. But Sadie walks into his life and suddenly he can't stay away. Landon turns out to be this wonderful man that wants to care for Sadie and get her to trust him. But he quickly learns that Sadie needs to be protected as well. Protected from the demons she is not willing to share with him. But when Rob doesn't stop hunting her down Landon comes face to face with his greatest nightmare. Keeping Sadie SAFE becomes his life's mission.

SAFE is an emotionally touching story. The abuse that Sadie goes through and fear that she feels is so real that you will feel her emotions throughout the whole book. Not to say that she didn't have her moments when I wanted to strangle her. But what she goes through is a real life situation and the author portrayal of it was so expertly written. So when she finally confronts her demons you are right there rooting for her to finally get her HEA. But although her story has an HEA there are many more storylines that are not finished. People Sadie loved were also affected by Rob's evil and I cannot wait to read their story.

Buy this and enjoy it!


HAPPY READING!
Profile Image for Coco.V.
50k reviews128 followers
Want to read
April 30, 2019
🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/30/2019)! 🎁
Profile Image for Sarah.
596 reviews79 followers
May 10, 2015
4.5 STARS!!

Sadie has spent the last several years afraid. Even though she broke things off with her abuser, Rob, it doesn't stop him from coming around with threats to the lives of the people she loves if he can't do what he wants with her. She knows reporting him will do her no good since he is a cop and all of his friends think that she likes it rough, and needs to be hit to get off. When yet another visit ends with her in the hospital her mother puts her foot down and insists that Sadie leave town to stay with her Aunt Maggie and cousin, Lauryn, in Georgia.

'Everything was wonderful. He was every girl's dream; he bought me flowers, gifts, and even cooked romantic dinners. He was considerate of my mom and Macy, always asking me how my mom was holding up. He was attentive and interested in my life. It was perfect.
...
Everything went from great to horrible in the blink of an eye.'


While in Georgia Sadie she meets Lauryn best friend, Lanie, and her brothers. While they are all hot one brother in particular, Landon, catches her eye. When she finds out that he is a bit of a playboy it seals it for her to not get involved. When they find that neither think that they are looking for a relationship and decide to just be friends it quickly becomes clear that it isn't enough for either of them. But when circumstances lead Sadie back home it is clear that Rob isn't just going to let Sadie go.

"I'm just trying to protect Sadie." Protect her was exactly what I wanted to do. I wanted to wrap my body around her and keep her safe.'

I love it when I don't know how to even start a review. To me that means that I was effected by the book. And this one has definitely taken root. Safe was amazing, the plot was so dark and twisty and wonderful. Perfect, as far as I'm concerned. The real twist in the book had me completely floored. I am usually pretty good at figuring out what id going to happen before it does but this one completely threw me! It was really nice to have that surprise I love an author who can keep me on my toes!

'She made my entire body ache in a way I had never felt. I wanted to consume her and make her mine. MINE. With her lying in my arms, it felt so right. This was what I was supposed to have.'

Sadie could have easily been one of those heroines who wallows in self-pity and hatred but she really wasn't. Sure, there were a few times when that doubt that she could have something as wonderful as what she and Landon were building. But, that was more because of the repercussions from what could happen with Rob. She was incredibly strong and brave, considering what her past was like.

'You are the first man that has showed me what it felt like to be loved, cherished, and appreciated. You picked away at my hard shell of a heart and filled it with the most beautiful feelings that I never knew I could have.
You made me feel whole...complete.
You made me feel safe.'


Landon had his own pain and insecurities that led him to not want to have a relationship. Seeing Sadie and the obvious pain and fear that she had to contend with helped him to be able to change his ways. He was so incredibly understanding and supportive that there was no way to NOT fall in love with the man!

"I thought you were taking me home."
"You are home, baby," I said with a smile. I didn't ask her. I just did. I wanted her here with me. I didn't want her at Lauryn's anymore.
"This is your home. Not mine," she said, yawning.
"I want you here with me."
Her eyes grew big. "You want me to live with you?"
"Yes."
"Why?" she asked, disbelieving.
Here goes. I sucked in a deep breath and prepared myself for what I needed to say to her. We's only been together a few months, and a lot had happened, but I couldn't live without her. I gazed in her warm eyes.
"Because I love you."


So why not a full five stars, you ask? There were a few inconsistencies that I found, nothing major but just something that the detail minded person in me found irritating. Seriously, it did not take away from the plot at all. There were a few other minor things that just didn't allow me a full five star rating.

'...know that I love you with every fiber of my being and will hold you in my heart forever.'

This book deals with some pretty heavy shit. There is physical, and mental abuse, as well as non-consensual sex. There was one scene near the end of the book that was especially disturbing, so if that kind of stuff is offensive to you, turn away. Otherwise dive in, I can't promise you'll love it as much as I did but I will promise you it will elicit a reaction, of some sort, from you.

'This was love. This was caring. This was special.'

This is the first book in a series. I am unsure as to when the next book will be out but I can guarantee you that I will be picking it up! There were so many more characters that I wanted to get to know in the book!
Profile Image for Julie.
1,445 reviews32 followers
September 6, 2013
Secrets go hand in hand with the lies…..especially when both are necessary to keep those around you safe.

Sadie wants nothing more than to escape the abuse from the hands of her ex-boyfriend Rob. Over and over the tragedy continues. One ‘accident’ after another. Each time Sadie finds the courage to leave Rob - he threatens to harm her mother, family and friends. So - Sadie takes the abuse. She feels desperate and hopeless. After all, Rob is a cop and who would believe he did these things to her?

Sadie’s mother starts to figure out her daughter’s secret. Despite Sadie’s objection - her mother arranges to make Sadie ‘disappear‘. The plan is for Sadie to travel to her Aunt Maggie’s and move in with her cousin Lauryn….leaving Michigan and never looking back.

Sadie seeks safety in the small Georgia town where ‘everyone knows everyone‘. The need to look over her shoulder lessens - but never really goes away. Sadie desires nothing more than to blend into the background of her new life.

The unexpected always has a way of sneaking up on you.

Landon Ellison and his brothers stopped by the house to iron out some construction details with Lauryn. All three brothers are eager to meet her. However, there is an instant ‘spark’ between Landon and Sadie. Wanting to avoid any relationships, Sadie sidesteps the attraction - but doesn’t mind ‘looking at the merchandise’. Landon is also avoiding anything romantic. After a failed relationship - Landon has become a ‘no strings attached’ kind of guy. Yet there is something about Sadie that he just can’t get out of his mind.

Landon notices Sadie’s reactions to the simples touch, gestures, and words. He has no idea what has happened in her past. He volunteers to show her around town, and promises that they can be ‘just friends’. Slowly, the two find that this ‘friendship’ has grown into something much more. Landon wants to protect Sadie, but doesn’t know what he is protecting her from.

Will Sadie ever let Landon in her heart? Can she escape the past? Or will Rob find a way to get to Sadie?


Just when you think you have things figured out - think again!!

This is a story about heartache, love, tragedy, and learning to love. The relationship between Landon and Sadie is touching and HOT at the same time. Ryan Michele does an excellent job conveying the emotions of the characters, as well as throwing in an unexpected twist towards the end. A wonderful debut novel for Ryan Michele!
Profile Image for Candice.
2,955 reviews134 followers
September 3, 2015
I just finished this and there really isn't much to say. I mean, I thought Sadie was dumb. For her not wanting to be around men, she sure didn't put up a fight. She was so nice and polite when meeting the Ellison brothers, even to the point of flirting. It was just weird after everything she went through. It almost made me not believe it. She's supposedly terrified and yet she's going out on dates with Landon? Yeah, weird.

I did like Landon. He was sweet. I didn't even mind the tears from him.



I also felt like too much happened. Too unbelievable.

Abuse is a hard subject. It almost takes someone who has been through it to get it right. There's more to physical abuse than just getting hit. The mindset is there, too and I didn't FEEL that from Sadie, except for the bathroom scene. I saw it, yeah, it was all over the pages, but I didn't feel it. Being physically abused for that long does something to the person. I don't know how to explain it right, but Sadie's actions didn't ring true for me which made me not enjoy the book. I'm a crier and I didn't shed one tear :(

Bummed. Thought I would like this more.
Profile Image for Mary.
213 reviews
October 9, 2013
Could someone kindly point me to the nearest Hot Guys r'Us? Because I'm looking for a Landon Ellison. No seriously he is the most perfect book boyfriend ever, I completely fell in love with him!!
I fell in love with the story too... Honest.
I really loved Safe it was the perfect mix of emotional, suspense and romance. I could feel all the emotions radiating from the protagonists. I wasn't a fan of Sadie's decisions but I could understand the reasons behind some of them. Though there were some that I saw from a mile away coming back to bite her in the ass (which they did), but hey you can't really control the choices fictional characters make regardless of how much time you send shouting and scowling at the screen.
For her debut it was pretty amazing. There were some scenes that I thought were unnecessarily dramatic but regardless she tied it all up very nicely. Ryan Michele is definitely an author to watch.
Safe is an original story that pulls on your heartstrings and has characters that worm their way into your heart regardless of how hard you try not to let them. Undoubtedly one of the best contemporary new adult books I've read this year.
Profile Image for Marta.
414 reviews13 followers
April 8, 2025
Unfortunately this is a weak and very predictable story with a naive plot and compulsory insta thing between H & h (despite them both being hurt/ traumatised in their previous relationships).
And the ending was just laughable. Sorry.
I guess I'm too old for bad writing
Profile Image for Three Chicks.
2,633 reviews419 followers
October 10, 2013
4.5 star review by Jen Skewes

Sadie's world was completely shattered when her father died. Her mother was in her own state of depression, so Sadie found comfort in the arms of her boyfriend Rob. Rob was there when she needed him the most. He was kind and caring and there to comfort her. But it wasn't long before she saw his true colors. Rob was anything but nice and kind. Her relationship with Rob quickly went from loving and sweet to abusive and painful. At one point she had decided that she had enough and broke up with him, but that didn't mean he was gone forever. Rob wanted Sadie and she was his. He would have her when he wanted and how he wanted whether she liked it or not. If she fought him she knew the consequences. If she left he would just find her or even worse hurt her family. Sadie took the abuse, never telling anyone what was going on out of fear. She knew what he was capable and knew he meant every word when he threatened the ones she loved. But this last time she landed in the hospital, her mother put her foot down and forced her to escape once and for all. She tried fighting her mother on the issue but in the end her mother won and she moved to a small town in Georgia to live with her aunt and uncle. It's also where she met Landon Ellison, the man who would capture her heart.

Landon was in love once, had plans to marry the woman he loved and live happily ever after. Until she betrayed him in the worst way possible. Ever since then he has sworn off love and relationships. He will never give another woman that power over him. So now he basically just has no strings attached sex. No feeling involved at all, just sex. He has become somewhat of a player in the small town he lives in. When he meets Sadie for the first time he is immediately attracted to her. But he knows that Sadie is not like the other woman that he is usually with, she is not your one night stand type of girl. And because of this he knows he needs to stay away. Easier said than done!

Sadie is definitely attracted to Landon, honestly what woman wouldn't be. But with all that she has been through in the last few years, being with a man is the last thing she is looking for. She is still carrying that fear with her that one day Rob will find her and she also has major trust issues as a result of all the abuse she has suffered. She knows Landon is sweet and not like Rob, but there was a time when Rob was a loving and caring man as well. Landon and Sadie have chemistry that neither one of them will deny, it's just something that they both need to resist. They start out as friends but feelings start to come into play which scares the both of them. The pain and fear from Saide's past is still haunting her and gets in the way of what they have. Will they be able to really break free from Rob, their pasts and the pain that it brings to find their happily ever after?

"You came into my life and made me want to feel again. You made me want to love again. You made me whole."

Safe was such a beautiful, yet emotional and heartbreaking story about healing, trust, and finding love again. I loved Landon. He was definitely sexy but also so sweet and caring. He didn't know much of her past but he knew there was something that she was hiding and he wanted to protect her from it. I admired Sadie and her strength. The pain that she endured to protect the ones she loved in my eyes showed a lot of strength. Landon and Sadie had such amazing chemistry and were completely drawn to each other. You felt the connection between the two of them and for me that moment leading up to their first time together was done so beautifully that you felt it with them. It's that moment when you know how much they love each other, how much pain they have been through before getting to this point and then just letting free and giving themselves to each other. I think I had goosebumps as I was reading it. :)

"Holding you has become one of my favorite things in the world to do."

Ryan Michelle did a fantastic job with this story. It deals with very deep issues and I will warn you that there are some moments that may be tough to take but I think the author did a fantastic job with the way it was written. It rips every emotion out of you and you feel like you are going through it with these two wonderful characters. Safe will make you cry, both happy and heartbreaking tears. There are moments of frustration, anger, and suspense. There are twists and turns along the way that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It is a roller coaster ride of emotions but one that is worth taking. Because in the end you will be left smiling. Amazing job by Ryan Michelle.
Profile Image for Jodie Squelch.
463 reviews5 followers
September 4, 2013
Breathtakingly Good
This is Ryan Michele’s debut novel and it covers the delicate issue of abuse which is a subject close to many peoples heart, therefore very difficult to write about. For me an abuse story needs to be well written to simply give those who have and are at the hands of suffering the respect, understanding and sympathy they deserve. This story is amazingly written which I felt covered the subject wonderfully.
You will be taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions along with Sadie, feeling her fear, pain, sadness and joy.
You, first meet Sadie………
In a hospital room after yet another “accident”!!!!
Whilst grieving the death of her father some years back, Sadie meets and falls for rob who is a trustworthy pillar of the community …… a COP!
Unfortunately she becomes a victim of abuse at his hands, all of which she keeps to herself.
This latest “accident” is the final straw for her mother who sends Sadie of to stay with relatives in small town Williamsfield, Georgia where everyone knows everyone and their business.
Sadie moves in with her cousin Lauryn, she simply wants to blend into the background as she seeks a safe haven but no such luck as Lauryn wastes no time introducing her to the locals.
This small town breeds sizzling hot males!!!! Male attention is the last thing Sadie wants but it doesn’t stop her enjoying the view……
Meet Landon, who is one of the very hot male specimens Williamfield’s as to offer.
Following a betrayal from the one girl he loved, to avoid future heartache as become love ‘em and leave ‘em type of guy.
Once they meet, there is instant attraction which scares them both.
This story will take you on a journey from Sadie’s and Landon’s point view of how they both overcome heartache to trust and fall in love again. The relationship develops slowly over time which makes the story feel more real to me.
Yes Landon is Sadie’s white knight in shining armour there to save her but it takes time for Sadie to realise this, but trust me the journey for her to get there is so well written it is worth the ride.
BUT…….. Can love really conquer all when you have evil close on your tail……….
Rob vowed to Sadie she would never get away from him and he bought her back home under false circumstances. Rob is evil to the core meaning throughout the book, some of the scenes are hard to read due to the violent nature but are skilfully written and make you as the reader feel Sadie’s pain right along with her.
Throughout this harrowing ordeal Landon becomes Sadie’s home, where she feels safe but like every good book you are kept in suspense of will they??? Won’t they???
When they do get it on……the sex scenes are H-O-T!!!!!
I truly loved this book and the author covered all the issues with care and skill which made you want to carry on reading….. I simply couldn’t put the book down.
This book gives you the happy ever after ending but also created supporting characters who I just can’t wait to meet in following books.
I feel this is a fabulous debut novel the author should be proud of, I look forward to reading more of her work.
Profile Image for Amanda.
157 reviews
September 6, 2013
*REVIEW DONE FOR SWOON WORTHY BOOKS*

Safe is the heartbreaking story of Sadie. She is a woman who fell in love with the wrong man (Rob) and has been abused by him for the past 3 years. He has tore her apart and landed her in the hospital too many times even after she broke up with him. He is a cop and from a very influential family and has threatened her family over and over if she ever told anyone.

"Make another fucking sound, and I will fuck you, kill you, and then go after your loved ones!!"

The last time in the hospital her mother knows something is wrong and overhears Rob threatening her and their family and begs Sadie to leave town without a trace and try to start fresh and be safe! With her mother pushing she decides to go live with her aunt in Georgia. She moves down there with the intention of focusing on herself and starting over… but the very first morning there she walks into the kitchen and sees Landon Ellison (SEXY, SOUTHERN, SWOONWORTHY MAN)!!!

"Now this man was the epitome of a man. I had never ever seen a finer specimen, Ever."
"His voice was milk chocolate, smooth and velvety with that Southern twang."


Landon and Sadie have immediate chemistry! But Sadie doesn't trust anyone and Landon doesn't have relationships with women anymore. He had his heartbroken and since then has just had HOT SEX with no strings attached. He is happy to leave it that way until he meets Sadie. Landon and Sadie become friends but that quickly turns into more. Landon can't stay away and soon finds out that Sadie needs him to keep her safe!

"Then be scared with me. I want to be your rock when you need strength, your cushion when you fall, your heart when you need love, your safety net. Always."

Keeping her safe is not easy when Rob doesn't give up. Landon tries to keep her safe, but he needs Sadie to trust him completely. She just needs to decide if she can!

Safe was a very emotional read for me! There were so many times where I could feel how brutally she was being attacked but I could also feel how loved she felt in the end. I loved that you got to hear some of the story from Landon's POV because it gave an accurate picture of how everything happened on both sides. I ADORED all the extra characters and hope (fingers crossed) that we will get to know them more (especially the other yummy Ellison men) in future books! This book was very well written and I would recommend it to anyone! It is an emotional read but it has an HEA with a sexy southern man! Go check it out!

4.5 EMOTIONALLY CHARGED STARS
Profile Image for Danielle .
2,565 reviews76 followers
September 3, 2013
4.5 Stars


Where do I even start. This book blew me away. It was a very emotional story about Sadie McKenny. Sadie right from page one is in a mess of a situation. Her ex boyfriend Rob is a abusive state police officer who often beats her. This has been going on for years. Sadie's mom is trying to get her out of her of the vicious cycle. Even though Sadie has never admitted to anyone that Rob has hurt her, her mom knows something is wrong. Sadie's mom has come up with a plan for Saide to move to Georgia and liver with her aunt, uncle, and cousin. No one will know she is there but her mom. Her family in Georgia doesn't even know why she is there.

Reluctantly Sadie agrees. She is not against the plan because she loves Rob. It is more that she fears for her family and what Rob might do to them if she gone.

While Sadie tells herself she is not ever gonna fall in love or be with any other man again, she meets Landon Ellison. Landon is Sadie's cousin's best friend.. a mouthful? yes. But the town Sadie moved to is a small town in Georgia where everyone knows everyone else. Landon owns the construction company that is currently fixing Sadie's cousin's house.

As Sadie and Landon spend more time together, the more they seem to enjoy each other's company. Sadie doesn't open up to Landon about anything but he knows there is more going on with her past. He is patient and kind. Landon is breakdown her walls. He is willing to hang on and be what she needs. Landon has how own past he is dealing with and trust is an issue for him as well.

The book has more twist and turns and is so gut wrenching. I was biting my nails and crying at the same time. Sadie is not out of Rob's sights. He causes more problems for Sadie and Landon and whoever else crosses paths with these two. I don't want to give too much away but Rob doesn't give up easily. Anyone that comes into contact with Sadie seems to be in Rob's path of destruction.

The only reason I did not give it 5 stars was because there seemed to be loose ends. I think that might be because the author is making this a series and the other characters will have their own books.
Profile Image for Betsy (Bookcrastinators in Wonderland).
89 reviews51 followers
January 30, 2015
​​For more reviews & awesome giveaways, check out our blog !

Just a reminder that this book contains physical and sexual abuse.

What a beautiful story about learning to love and trust someone again. It was an incredibly touching story filled with emotion.

Sadie leaves home and heads to Georgia to get away from him. She moves in with family and is warmly welcomed to town. I'm from a big city so I love the whole small town thing. Everyone in town (except for one bitch) is so sweet to Sadie. Even so, Sadie is jumpy and weary of everyone, especially men.

Then she meets sweet Landon. I love him oh so much. What a man! He's so sweet and he has that southern charm that just made me MELT. I love how protective he is of Sadie. He's understanding, supportive, caring, gentle, and patient. He's also HOT AS FUH.

description

Sadie is a hot mess. She's incredibly vulnerable and emotional and although some people might think that makes her weak, I think it's completely normal. The only thing that got a little old for me was that she cried a lot but I truly connected with her and wanted to help.

The writing was a little choppy for me at times but nothing that kept me from enjoying the book. It did get smoother as the book progressed. And it also got more and more intense! The last few chapters had me freaking the hell out! SO GOOD. I can't wait to read more by Ryan Michele!!!! Go read this, bookcrastinators!
Profile Image for Robin H.
404 reviews15 followers
November 10, 2013
4 stars

A few warnings:
This book contains some graphic scenes of physical abuse. Rape is involved as well, though it is not described as graphically as the physical abuse.

Sadie is a girl on the run. We find out why in the first chapters what's going on with that. Sadie ends up with family in Georgia where she meets the entirely swoon worthy Landon.

Sadie and Landon's tale is a bit typical, but with a few bumps here and there. Though these are not entirely unpredictable. These two are cute and sweet together and makes you want to go "awwww" at times.

I found myself emotionally connecting with both Sadie and Landon throughout. There's a major rough patch that occurs and just when you think you'll get that HEA we're always looking for BAM you get hit in the face for round two.

While I don't always agree with Sadie's choices, I can't say that I would or wouldn't act any differently. I can't say because I've never been in a situation anywhere remotely like hers. I did feel as though I was mostly kept on my feet and I enjoyed reading this.

In the end, we have a HEA for some and unanswered questions for others. I haven't looked into it yet, but I'm almost positive there is another book coming (who knows, it may already be out!) It's something I'd definitely be interested in.
Profile Image for Bare Naked Words Promotions.
108 reviews82 followers
September 5, 2013
Well oh my goodness where do you start with this debut novel from Ryan Michele, not only does she bring us a tug at your heartstrings until they snap kind of story, but also a sneak right up on you and face slap you real good from behind kind of story.

When Sadie goes to stay with relatives in the small town of Williamsfield, Georgia she moves in with her cousin Lauryn, where she would like to keep herself to herself.

Now is there anyone else who would like to move here because from what I can tell it’s full of mighty fine southern eye candy.

So who’s with me? Anyone?

Landon & Sadie are both broken in ways you come to understand and this shapes their story perfectly, they start out as friends but the undercurrent of attraction taunts us and we want them together.
We want them to be happy.

There are scenes that were uncomfortable but they were relevant to the story and Rob her ex does not give up easily when it comes to Sadie. Can Landon save her from the cycle of abuse, can he overcome his own past to love again?

I was hooked from start to finish, I couldn’t put it down, I cried, I cringed, I gasped, I laughed and I sighed.

Well done Ryan, what a great debut novel and I’m looking forward to more from you
Profile Image for Brit.
Author 10 books157 followers
September 30, 2013
5.0 stars this book is not for the faint of heart. if you can't handle physical abuse and non-consensual sex again a woman than this book isn't for you. Sadie has spent years of her life in a abusive relationship, afraid to leave, afraid to tell anyone due to her boyfriend being a cop she has no one to turn too until it got so bad that she mother was starting to pick on the signs. her mother sent her too live with her aunt and uncle cutting all ties to the world she has known for so long. in Georgia she meets country boy Landon who is broken himself after his ex left. he starts no string relationships until he meet Sadie, when he meets Sadie he started wanting more. Sadie has never been safe with a man until Landon. he proves to her he is nothing like her ex and that he will always be there for her in her time of need
Profile Image for Jade.
17 reviews68 followers
September 1, 2013
Wow just wow.... I experienced every emotion possible throughout the whole book!!! I felt angry that Sadie wouldn't leave, I was happy that she agreed to go then she met Landon... Landon oh my days what a perfect guy.. I loved the whole relationship between them. I was Will they/ won't they and low an behold it was amazing when they did! I was totally engrossed by the whole story. I cried when Sadie relived what Rob had done to her. That must of been hard to write.. Then Landon her saviour, her protector, her SAFE! They belong together! Now my minds left wondering about Lauryn, how she's coping with her ordeal with Rob, her relationship with Renzo! I can't wait for more.
Profile Image for Rita .
1,675 reviews
September 8, 2013
Wow, for your first book, you knocked out of the park. Loved it. I just cannot believe what this girl went through. But the sad part is, I am sure there is someone out there going through the very same thing. Good story. The love connection was not rushed, perfect. They fell in love in a timely manner, not a mere two seconds. I had a feeling about Macy and Steve. Turned out I was right. I am wondering whose story is next. I am curious about Lauryn's issue, something happened. Not sure what. Hopefully she is next. But to all those that are suffering from an abusive relationship, hopefully you can get out and have your Happily Ever After. :D
Profile Image for Sarah Queen.
226 reviews9 followers
September 20, 2013
Ok where do I start... ...I loved this for such a hard storyline I think the author did a brilliant job it takes a lot of courage to walk away from domestic violence no matter how scared you are. Landon was adorable and sweet and so protective of Sadie that I loved him even more.....i definitely think there's more stories to be written with Lauren and lainey dealing with the aftermath and Macy wot a bitch. I'm glad Sadie and landon got their hea this is a book that will def stay with me.
Ryan Michele you've done justice to such a hard and emotional subject can't wait to see wot else u you produce. :)
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