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Jubilee, Kentucky #4
Left Behind
Everything that was lost will be found again.
Jubilee PD Officer Wiley Pope thinks he's ruined things with Linette Elgin. He hasn't seen or heard from the local nurse since their date gone wrong. But when Wiley's trip to the bank turns into a robbery with Linette as one of the hostages, his training and protective instincts kick into full gear. A heroic bullet to his armor-protected chest is enough for Linette to forgive Wiley's past mistakes and begin anew.
While his love for Linette grows daily, Wiley finds himself in over his head when a murder investigation is linked to Pope Mountain. If that wasn't enough, a woman from Wiley's father's past abandons her seven-year-old daughter at the police station in an attempted money scheme. But the minute the woman signs over her parental rights, Wiley and Linette welcome the wary little girl into their family and show her what real love looks like.
Jubilee PD Officer Wiley Pope thinks he's ruined things with Linette Elgin. He hasn't seen or heard from the local nurse since their date gone wrong. But when Wiley's trip to the bank turns into a robbery with Linette as one of the hostages, his training and protective instincts kick into full gear. A heroic bullet to his armor-protected chest is enough for Linette to forgive Wiley's past mistakes and begin anew.
While his love for Linette grows daily, Wiley finds himself in over his head when a murder investigation is linked to Pope Mountain. If that wasn't enough, a woman from Wiley's father's past abandons her seven-year-old daughter at the police station in an attempted money scheme. But the minute the woman signs over her parental rights, Wiley and Linette welcome the wary little girl into their family and show her what real love looks like.
448 pages, Paperback
First published July 9, 2024
276 people are currently reading
395 people want to read
About the author
Sharon Sala
280 books2,306 followersBiography
Sharon Sala is a Native Oklahoman and still lives within a two hour drive of where she was born.
First published in 1991, she is a New York Times/USA Today, best-selling author with a 135 plus books published in seven different genres, including Romantic suspense, Mystery, Young Adult, Western, Fiction, Women’s Fiction and Non-Fiction.
Industry Awards include:
Eight-time RITA finalist. (Romance Industry award)
The Janet Dailey Award.
Five-time Career Achievement winner from RT Magazine.
Five time winner of the National Reader’s Choice Award.
Five time winner of the Colorado Romance Writer’s Award of Excellence.
Heart of Excellence Award.,
Booksellers Best Award.
Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award RITA, presented by RWA.
Centennial Award from RWA for recognition of her 100th published novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
July 24, 2024
I love Sharon Sala for her strong, compassionate families, suspense and sweet romance. All three are on full display in "Left Behind". But so is her lack of depth and multiple plot lines without much focus. Not her best work.
Wiley Pope had a really, really bad first date with Linette Elgin and didn't hear from her for over a year. But Wiley is a patient guy who used that year to take a look at his life on decide on the kind of man he wants to be. When they next cross paths, he saves her life and is hailed as a hero. And, he gets a second date.
As part of his light duty after the shooting, Wiley is assigned to guard a woman who was shot in the back on Pope Mountain, and he takes it seriously. When a woman he knew was one of his father's side pieces shows up claiming his brother, Aaron, is the father of her daughter, Wiley takes one look at the little girl and falls in love with his little sister and is determined that she is never hurt again. 3 1/2-Stars
My thanks to the Publisher and Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
Wiley Pope had a really, really bad first date with Linette Elgin and didn't hear from her for over a year. But Wiley is a patient guy who used that year to take a look at his life on decide on the kind of man he wants to be. When they next cross paths, he saves her life and is hailed as a hero. And, he gets a second date.
As part of his light duty after the shooting, Wiley is assigned to guard a woman who was shot in the back on Pope Mountain, and he takes it seriously. When a woman he knew was one of his father's side pieces shows up claiming his brother, Aaron, is the father of her daughter, Wiley takes one look at the little girl and falls in love with his little sister and is determined that she is never hurt again. 3 1/2-Stars
My thanks to the Publisher and Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
August 8, 2024
What an awesome book. Very hard to put down. It will make you laugh and cry. A story about family and love. I enjoyed every minute of the book and hated for it to end.
July 11, 2024
Left Behind is Sharon Sala’s fourth book in her new romantic suspense series, Jubilee. It should absolutely be read after the earlier books, Last Rites and Heartbeat; the first book, Don’t Back Down, isn’t required to understand the story. This book is a must-read for all fans of Sharon Sala and romantic suspense.
Shirley Wallace and her four adult sons return to her childhood home on Pope Mountain in Jubilee, Kentucky, after her abusive husband is convicted for murdering two store employees in their Arkansas town. Shirley inherited her late mother’s house and they all legally change their last name to her maiden name, Pope, to further disassociate themselves from scandal. All of them lost their jobs in Arkansas due to her husband’s misdeeds and must start over. The third son, Wiley, went from a career in law enforcement to delivering for DoorDash. Now Wiley is a police officer in Jubilee alongside his eldest brother, Aaron.
After “Casanova” Wiley had a disastrous date with nurse Linette Elgin, he hasn't seen or heard from her. But when he goes to the bank one day, a robbery is in progress and Linette is one of the hostages. Wiley heroically rescues Linette and takes a bullet her. Of course she forgives Wiley and they re-start their romance.
Meanwhile a woman abandons her seven-year-old daughter at the police station in an attempted to extort money from the Pope/Wallace family. Wiley and Linette take in the precious little girl, who they determine is actually the Pope brother’s half-sister. Shirley and the family embrace little Ava. Then they find a wrecked car on Pope Mountain with an injured woman nearby who witnessed a murder.
Left Behind is not only about romantic love, it also shows parental and family love. The reader feels the love between Shirley and her four sons and now this little seven-year-old girl, and within the much larger Pope/Cauley/Glass families. As much as I enjoy the romance, the most tender scenes in Left Behind are between Wiley and his newfound half-sister, Ava.
In Sharon Sala books, the villains always get what they deserve; readers will impatiently wait for Ava’s horrible mother, Carina, to get hers. Cameron Pope and his large extended family were introduced in Don’t Back Down, Last Rites, and Heartbeat and serve as minor characters throughout this story. There are multiple sub-plots and lots of characters, but the author writes so clearly that it’s easy for the reader to keep up. Left Behind contains a sweet romance between loveable characters without descriptive sex or violence; there may have been a couple of curse words uttered by villains. I couldn’t put this story down; it deserves more than 5 stars! I can’t wait to read more stories featuring the Pope family.
I received an advance review copy (ARC) from NetGalley and SourceBooks-Casablanca for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Shirley Wallace and her four adult sons return to her childhood home on Pope Mountain in Jubilee, Kentucky, after her abusive husband is convicted for murdering two store employees in their Arkansas town. Shirley inherited her late mother’s house and they all legally change their last name to her maiden name, Pope, to further disassociate themselves from scandal. All of them lost their jobs in Arkansas due to her husband’s misdeeds and must start over. The third son, Wiley, went from a career in law enforcement to delivering for DoorDash. Now Wiley is a police officer in Jubilee alongside his eldest brother, Aaron.
After “Casanova” Wiley had a disastrous date with nurse Linette Elgin, he hasn't seen or heard from her. But when he goes to the bank one day, a robbery is in progress and Linette is one of the hostages. Wiley heroically rescues Linette and takes a bullet her. Of course she forgives Wiley and they re-start their romance.
Meanwhile a woman abandons her seven-year-old daughter at the police station in an attempted to extort money from the Pope/Wallace family. Wiley and Linette take in the precious little girl, who they determine is actually the Pope brother’s half-sister. Shirley and the family embrace little Ava. Then they find a wrecked car on Pope Mountain with an injured woman nearby who witnessed a murder.
Left Behind is not only about romantic love, it also shows parental and family love. The reader feels the love between Shirley and her four sons and now this little seven-year-old girl, and within the much larger Pope/Cauley/Glass families. As much as I enjoy the romance, the most tender scenes in Left Behind are between Wiley and his newfound half-sister, Ava.
In Sharon Sala books, the villains always get what they deserve; readers will impatiently wait for Ava’s horrible mother, Carina, to get hers. Cameron Pope and his large extended family were introduced in Don’t Back Down, Last Rites, and Heartbeat and serve as minor characters throughout this story. There are multiple sub-plots and lots of characters, but the author writes so clearly that it’s easy for the reader to keep up. Left Behind contains a sweet romance between loveable characters without descriptive sex or violence; there may have been a couple of curse words uttered by villains. I couldn’t put this story down; it deserves more than 5 stars! I can’t wait to read more stories featuring the Pope family.
I received an advance review copy (ARC) from NetGalley and SourceBooks-Casablanca for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 27, 2024
Wiley met the love of his life when he meets Linnie. Although their first date does not go as planned, they meet again several months later. Wikey learns something about his father. That will alter his life in many ways. I enjoyed this book.
August 16, 2024
Perfect reading for a rainy day.
July 2, 2025
Wiley Pope and Linette. Ava = new character. She is 7 year old half sister to the Pope brothers. Wiley becomes guardian to her. WP and L marry .. then move into remodeled home of Ella near the top of the mountain.
BJ is youngest (and tallest) Pope. He is pastry chef at Serenity Inn in Jubilee.
There is a murder and crime story that took up lots of page time; i considered it subsidiary to the Pope story.
Cameron, Rusty and Mikey make a welcome appearance too.
Good series.
BJ is youngest (and tallest) Pope. He is pastry chef at Serenity Inn in Jubilee.
There is a murder and crime story that took up lots of page time; i considered it subsidiary to the Pope story.
Cameron, Rusty and Mikey make a welcome appearance too.
Good series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2024
I really love this series, it's like being wrapped in a warm hug.
This mountain full of generations of family who are all there for each other.
Jubilee PD Officer Wiley Pope had a disasterous first date with Nurse Linette. Due to a misunderstanding later they moved on with their lives. Until an incident with a bank robbery had them both become heroes. As they were getting to know each other a small blonde angel entered their lives. His little half sister was now enfolded within their family learning what love and trust was.
Apart from this story there was a young woman running for her life, she's witnessed a murder and been left injured on the mountain. Wiley Pope was there for her while she was healing in case her attacker came after her again. Three parts to this story that blended into their lives and I loved every moment.
This mountain full of generations of family who are all there for each other.
Jubilee PD Officer Wiley Pope had a disasterous first date with Nurse Linette. Due to a misunderstanding later they moved on with their lives. Until an incident with a bank robbery had them both become heroes. As they were getting to know each other a small blonde angel entered their lives. His little half sister was now enfolded within their family learning what love and trust was.
Apart from this story there was a young woman running for her life, she's witnessed a murder and been left injured on the mountain. Wiley Pope was there for her while she was healing in case her attacker came after her again. Three parts to this story that blended into their lives and I loved every moment.
October 17, 2024
Left Behind is the 4th book in the Jubilee, Kentucky series. Jubilee PD Officer Wiley Pope had a disastrous first date with Linette Elgin, but still has feelings for her. When he walks in on a bank robbery, and Linette is one of the hostages, his training kicks in and he is shot. Fortunately, he has a protective vest on, but he saves them all, and Linette is ready to forgive Wiley and give him another chance. While he is getting to know Linette and their relationship is growing, there is a murder investigation to deal with. Also, a woman from their hometown shows up with a seven year old girl, claiming that one of his brothers is her father. Wiley recognizes her as one of his father's women and realized that she is his half-sister. He takes her under his care and promises to raise her. She is happy to be rid of "the brat". Wiley is assigned to guard a woman who was found shot on Pope Mountain. The investigation of the shooting and the murder of her brother is carried out by Wiley's brother, Aaron, and others in the department. Can they find the killer before the witness ends up dead?
I enjoy Sharon Sala's romantic suspense/crime thriller books, but this one had too much going on and not enough in the investigation department. A lot of this story concentrating on the relationship between Wiley and his sister, Ava. That was a sweet story, but I was disappointed that this was the main part of the story. Even the investigation was readily solved and wasn't really suspenseful or twisty. If you enjoy a story of family love and romance that is clean, with some danger and suspense, this book is for you. I am hoping that any further books in this series will be a little more suspenseful and thrilling.
I enjoy Sharon Sala's romantic suspense/crime thriller books, but this one had too much going on and not enough in the investigation department. A lot of this story concentrating on the relationship between Wiley and his sister, Ava. That was a sweet story, but I was disappointed that this was the main part of the story. Even the investigation was readily solved and wasn't really suspenseful or twisty. If you enjoy a story of family love and romance that is clean, with some danger and suspense, this book is for you. I am hoping that any further books in this series will be a little more suspenseful and thrilling.
July 10, 2024
Left Behind by Sharon Sala is the 4th book in her wonderful Jubilee, Kentucky series. The story focuses on Wiley Pope, who loves his job as a Jubilee police officer. Wiley has a crush on Linette Elgin, who is a local hospital nurse, but after a date that ended up wrong, due to two ladies who ruined the date; Linette wanted nothing to do with Wiley. When a robbery at the local bank occurs, Linette finds herself as one of the hostages; with Wiley one of the cops coming to the rescue. Linette sees how he protected the hostages, and sees all that he does, she relents and decides to give him a second chance.
A murder investigation begins in Pop Mountain, with a woman shot in the back. Turns out that the woman’s brother was murdered, and she was found in the mountains with a serious injury. Wiley is assigned to guard her at the hospital; and learning more about the attempt on her life. There are bad people, who have tried to kill the women, who they fear would identify them; but friends and police are on top of things, with the woman safe.
A woman, Corina, from Wiley’s father’s past, brings her 7-year-old daughter, to the police station, in an attempt abandoned the child in a money scheme; Wiley finds himself adoring the little girl, Ava. He makes a deal with Corina, that he will adopt her, and free Corina to her move on with her own life. Ava, was a cute and adorable child that everyone, including all the Pope family, as well as Linette loved. Ava did have a rough life in her 7 years, and as she meets all of the Pope family, Linette, she is beside herself as now having a family that she will love.
Left Behind was an emotional, wonderful, sweet story, with all the members of the Pope family playing a big part in this story. Wiley and Linette made a great couple. Everyone love young Ava, and Wiley was so happy to have Linette and Ava as his family. There were a couple of suspense mysteries that played a large part of this book. Left Behind was very well written by Sharon Sala.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
A murder investigation begins in Pop Mountain, with a woman shot in the back. Turns out that the woman’s brother was murdered, and she was found in the mountains with a serious injury. Wiley is assigned to guard her at the hospital; and learning more about the attempt on her life. There are bad people, who have tried to kill the women, who they fear would identify them; but friends and police are on top of things, with the woman safe.
A woman, Corina, from Wiley’s father’s past, brings her 7-year-old daughter, to the police station, in an attempt abandoned the child in a money scheme; Wiley finds himself adoring the little girl, Ava. He makes a deal with Corina, that he will adopt her, and free Corina to her move on with her own life. Ava, was a cute and adorable child that everyone, including all the Pope family, as well as Linette loved. Ava did have a rough life in her 7 years, and as she meets all of the Pope family, Linette, she is beside herself as now having a family that she will love.
Left Behind was an emotional, wonderful, sweet story, with all the members of the Pope family playing a big part in this story. Wiley and Linette made a great couple. Everyone love young Ava, and Wiley was so happy to have Linette and Ava as his family. There were a couple of suspense mysteries that played a large part of this book. Left Behind was very well written by Sharon Sala.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
February 1, 2025
I love this series!! I’ve loved it since I randomly picked up Heartbeat& gave it 5 stars. This one was another close 5 star (only went to 4 bc i listened to it so sometimes I wasn’t fully paying attention).
Wiley’s relationship with his family & his commitment to everyone is so strong & I love it!! He also stood TEN TOES DOWN with linnet and I ate that up!
I never want this series to end! If you’re new to romantic suspense this is the book for you! It’s fast paced & even thought it’s in a series it definitely can be read & understood independently
Wiley’s relationship with his family & his commitment to everyone is so strong & I love it!! He also stood TEN TOES DOWN with linnet and I ate that up!
I never want this series to end! If you’re new to romantic suspense this is the book for you! It’s fast paced & even thought it’s in a series it definitely can be read & understood independently
July 31, 2024
I have been a Sharon Sala fan for decades. It had been awhile since I had read one of her books. When "Don't Back Down" came out last year, I just had to read it. This book is the next in the series set in Jubilee. It was an easy enjoyable read. The love scenes aren't as intense as they usually are in her books, but they're still good.
Thank you to NetGalley, Sourcebooks casablanca, and Sharon Sala for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Thank you to NetGalley, Sourcebooks casablanca, and Sharon Sala for the opportunity to read this ARC.
November 27, 2024
Sentí feo por todo lo que pasó Ava.
June 30, 2025
The best one in the series so far!
May 31, 2024
Unlike all the 5 star reviews, I found this book didn’t work for me. I felt this was a somewhat chaotic read.
The story covers various scenes of trauma and drama with no underlying connection other than occurring in or around the town of Jupiter, Kentucky. It is presented like little vignettes. The POV jumps around sometimes making it confusing as to who is saying/thinking what. Many of the story lines feel like I’m missing the first part of their histories.
There is one couple whose relationship is further developed into a romance. But I did not find the romance credible. Wiley and Linette go on a date only for it to be hijacked by 2 of Wiley’s ex-dates. Linette leaves in a huff. Then Wiley and Linette are involved in a bank robbery where Wiley is shot. Suddenly, their near death experience has them back together again. Yet after about 3 dates Wiley is proposing? Where is the getting to know you stage?
The last half of this story is about Wiley and Ava, his long lost half sister. Wiley’s father had an extra marital affair. Because the mistress needs to get rid of her 7 yr old daughter, Ava, she tries to blackmail Wiley’s brother for child support. Instead, Wiley steps in and claims guardianship of Ava. He has already proposed to Linette who has accepted yet he doesn’t consult with her? Nor does he introduce Ava to Linette until after a family (Wiley’s immediate family) introduction party. Linette wasn’t even invited to this party!
This book was a miss for me.
I received a free copy from Netgalley. This is my unbiased review.
The story covers various scenes of trauma and drama with no underlying connection other than occurring in or around the town of Jupiter, Kentucky. It is presented like little vignettes. The POV jumps around sometimes making it confusing as to who is saying/thinking what. Many of the story lines feel like I’m missing the first part of their histories.
There is one couple whose relationship is further developed into a romance. But I did not find the romance credible. Wiley and Linette go on a date only for it to be hijacked by 2 of Wiley’s ex-dates. Linette leaves in a huff. Then Wiley and Linette are involved in a bank robbery where Wiley is shot. Suddenly, their near death experience has them back together again. Yet after about 3 dates Wiley is proposing? Where is the getting to know you stage?
The last half of this story is about Wiley and Ava, his long lost half sister. Wiley’s father had an extra marital affair. Because the mistress needs to get rid of her 7 yr old daughter, Ava, she tries to blackmail Wiley’s brother for child support. Instead, Wiley steps in and claims guardianship of Ava. He has already proposed to Linette who has accepted yet he doesn’t consult with her? Nor does he introduce Ava to Linette until after a family (Wiley’s immediate family) introduction party. Linette wasn’t even invited to this party!
This book was a miss for me.
I received a free copy from Netgalley. This is my unbiased review.
July 25, 2024
A wonderful series that has romance and suspense. I highly recommend reading in order to understand the dynamics of the Pope family. This time the story surrounds Wiley the third son of Shirley Pope. He is on the police force along with his brother. Being at the right place at the right time has him foil a robbery attempt happening at the local bank. A bank official has been shot dead and Wiley entering the bank takes one look and opens fire on the 3 robbers. He takes a shot to the chest, but luckily had his chest armor on. Struggling to breathe, Linette a nurse and the one that got away, rushes to help him. Once he is able to breathe again, she is checking the other customers out while the reinforcements secure the bank.
Linette heart stopped when she sees the hero who rescues them is Wiley Pope. They had so much potential, but after one date she refused to go out with him again. The realization that life is too short, she goes out again with him and there is still the magic there. And then everything is a on hold again, when Wiley discovers a half sister. Who has been neglected and abused. Wiley is instantly taken with the small child and knows she must come first.
Once again we are transported to Jubilee and Pope mountain as another story is spun of the Pope’s family. I can’t wait to read BJ’s story. Thank you #NetGalley for this ARC. All opinions expressed are my own. #LeftBehind #JubileeKentucky #SharonSala
Linette heart stopped when she sees the hero who rescues them is Wiley Pope. They had so much potential, but after one date she refused to go out with him again. The realization that life is too short, she goes out again with him and there is still the magic there. And then everything is a on hold again, when Wiley discovers a half sister. Who has been neglected and abused. Wiley is instantly taken with the small child and knows she must come first.
Once again we are transported to Jubilee and Pope mountain as another story is spun of the Pope’s family. I can’t wait to read BJ’s story. Thank you #NetGalley for this ARC. All opinions expressed are my own. #LeftBehind #JubileeKentucky #SharonSala
March 27, 2025
I thought I was reading a children’s book on how to read. The writing is like reading a list. Every moment is explained . I rarely put in such an awful review, but I had to balance it out. Shame on people that put glowing reviews forward for such mundane writing. If there is a storyline it gets lot in all the explanations. I never finished the book. If some miracle happens and it suddenly becomes interesting I apologise but I did 25% with the same step by step writing.
November 15, 2025
This book!! So dang good!!
August 24, 2024
It’s a mess. Too many side stories.
July 10, 2024
It's uncanny the way I always want to move to whatever small town Sharon Sala creates, and it's certainly true of Jubilee, Kentucky, the setting of this 5-star novel about the redeeming power of love--and what a fabulous, kind, sweet, charming, and heartwarming read it was.
The novel starts off with a bank robbery gone bad, a terrifying shooting, injury and a death, and Linette Elgin was there, waiting outside the vice-president's office when three masked and armed men burst into the bank, terrify the occupants and one of the bank robbers shoots and kills the vice-president of the bank who had dropped to the floor as ordered, and was lying right next to Linette. Police officer, Wiley Pope, unaware of the events inside, enters the bank, quickly realizes what's happening, shoots the lookout, as well as the other two robbers and in return is shot in the chest. Linette, a nurse at the local hospital, rushes to help him and although he's in pain, she's relieved to see that he was wearing a Kevlar vest. The weight of the body armor was making it hard for him to breathe, so she helps him remove it. By then, the sick, wounded, and injured were taken to the hospital, including Wiley, with cracked ribs, but he was certainly the hero of that day. But for a small town, there's yet another murder and an attempted murder to come--solving it forms the secondary plot of this novel.
Wiley, still in the hospital, was thrilled to see Linette come to his rescue. They'd gone on one date that ended badly when a couple a catty women showed up, flirted with him, and made a couple of snide remarks, and Wiley had been trying to think of a way to convince Linette to date him again--the bank robbery gave him that chance. By the time they had their second date, the two knew they'd found that special someone. And that's when we meet the little star of this story, 7-year-old, Ava.
Then, one day a woman, Corina, shows up at the police station, where Wiley and his brother, Aaron, both work, claiming that Aaron is the father of her obviously starved, bruised, and abused daughter, Ava. Aaron has never seen this woman before in his life. But Wiley knows who she is, and the DNA test proves that little Ava isn't Aaron's daughter, she's the daughter of their cheating father, Clyde, making Ava their half-sister. It's clear that Corina is the worst sort of abusive mother, and she has no problem leaving her child behind. It's Wiley who steps up and agrees to take custody of and raise his little sister--but her mother has dumped her on a lot of other people all of her short life, and Ava is fearful, having no reason to trust anyone, having been left behind before, and she's taken to heart and believes what her mother has told her--that she's an unwanted mistake. Watching Wiley step up and gladly take on raising her in a kind, loving home, with loving family, a room of her own, with more than the few ragged garments she owned, made this novel one of the most sweet, heartbreaking and heartwarming novels I've read. Ava's reactions to even having so much as a bed and a pillow, let alone her own room, and the many things Wiley bought for her and her reaction to all of it had me in tears.
The big question is: how will Linette feel about helping to raise Wiley's little sister? And what about the many members of his own family little Ava has yet to meet? Ms. Sala has thought of everything you could possibly want in this family-forward novel--from Ava's first dolly, her first trip to a restaurant, meeting her grandmother for the first time, her first shopping trip, and more. There is just so much love and affection poured out to this sweet little girl from all of the many members of the large Pope family, it made you wish that every such mistreated and abused child in the world could have a Wiley Pope of their own.
There's still the matter of the other murder and attempted murder to solve, bad guys to bring to justice, Linette's reaction to Ava, the custody issue, Corina's fate, and more in this utterly charming novel. Thank you, Sharon Sala, for giving us this wonderful gift of a novel. I cannot recommend it highly enough.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions stated are my own.
The novel starts off with a bank robbery gone bad, a terrifying shooting, injury and a death, and Linette Elgin was there, waiting outside the vice-president's office when three masked and armed men burst into the bank, terrify the occupants and one of the bank robbers shoots and kills the vice-president of the bank who had dropped to the floor as ordered, and was lying right next to Linette. Police officer, Wiley Pope, unaware of the events inside, enters the bank, quickly realizes what's happening, shoots the lookout, as well as the other two robbers and in return is shot in the chest. Linette, a nurse at the local hospital, rushes to help him and although he's in pain, she's relieved to see that he was wearing a Kevlar vest. The weight of the body armor was making it hard for him to breathe, so she helps him remove it. By then, the sick, wounded, and injured were taken to the hospital, including Wiley, with cracked ribs, but he was certainly the hero of that day. But for a small town, there's yet another murder and an attempted murder to come--solving it forms the secondary plot of this novel.
Wiley, still in the hospital, was thrilled to see Linette come to his rescue. They'd gone on one date that ended badly when a couple a catty women showed up, flirted with him, and made a couple of snide remarks, and Wiley had been trying to think of a way to convince Linette to date him again--the bank robbery gave him that chance. By the time they had their second date, the two knew they'd found that special someone. And that's when we meet the little star of this story, 7-year-old, Ava.
Then, one day a woman, Corina, shows up at the police station, where Wiley and his brother, Aaron, both work, claiming that Aaron is the father of her obviously starved, bruised, and abused daughter, Ava. Aaron has never seen this woman before in his life. But Wiley knows who she is, and the DNA test proves that little Ava isn't Aaron's daughter, she's the daughter of their cheating father, Clyde, making Ava their half-sister. It's clear that Corina is the worst sort of abusive mother, and she has no problem leaving her child behind. It's Wiley who steps up and agrees to take custody of and raise his little sister--but her mother has dumped her on a lot of other people all of her short life, and Ava is fearful, having no reason to trust anyone, having been left behind before, and she's taken to heart and believes what her mother has told her--that she's an unwanted mistake. Watching Wiley step up and gladly take on raising her in a kind, loving home, with loving family, a room of her own, with more than the few ragged garments she owned, made this novel one of the most sweet, heartbreaking and heartwarming novels I've read. Ava's reactions to even having so much as a bed and a pillow, let alone her own room, and the many things Wiley bought for her and her reaction to all of it had me in tears.
The big question is: how will Linette feel about helping to raise Wiley's little sister? And what about the many members of his own family little Ava has yet to meet? Ms. Sala has thought of everything you could possibly want in this family-forward novel--from Ava's first dolly, her first trip to a restaurant, meeting her grandmother for the first time, her first shopping trip, and more. There is just so much love and affection poured out to this sweet little girl from all of the many members of the large Pope family, it made you wish that every such mistreated and abused child in the world could have a Wiley Pope of their own.
There's still the matter of the other murder and attempted murder to solve, bad guys to bring to justice, Linette's reaction to Ava, the custody issue, Corina's fate, and more in this utterly charming novel. Thank you, Sharon Sala, for giving us this wonderful gift of a novel. I cannot recommend it highly enough.
I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this novel. The opinions stated are my own.
July 11, 2024
Their romance got off to a rocky start.
In Jubilee, Kentucky, the Popes are one of the town’s founding families and most live on Pope Mountain. Wiley Pope, one of four tall, handsome brothers, is a police officer in town. He’s known for not having much of a filter, which can sometimes cause him problems. If he takes a woman out once or twice, for example, and doesn’t feel a connection, he doesn’t call the woman again. Two women who fell into that category decided to teach him a lesson a year ago when he was out on his first date with Linette Elgin, a nurse in whom he was very interested. They flirted and fawned all over him right in front of Linette, and the night was ruined (as were his chances for getting a second date). Then comes the day that Linette walks into the local bank to do business and ends up in the middle of a robbery. Wiley walks in and is able to get control of the situation and prevent any further loss of life, becoming a local hero in the process. Having been close to losing her life and seeing Wiley shot in front of her (bulletproof vest, thank goodness) makes Linette realize that she should give Wiley another chance. Miscommunications via text almost derail the couple again, but they straighten that out and are on their way to creating a relationship when another possible complication arrives in the shape of 7 year old Ava Dalton. Ava’s mother Corina, a reluctant single mother and major piece of work, brings Ava to Jubilee hoping to pawn her off as the child of Wiley’s brother Aaron, but Wiley knows that it was with his father Clyde Wallace, an abusive man in prison for murder, who Corina had been involved. But when he sees this little sister about whom neither he, his mother nor his brothers knew existed, and notices signs of abuse and neglect, he decides that there is no way that Ava will be staying with Corina. As he juggles securing custody for Ava with cementing a relationship with Linette, another mystery rolls into Jubilee. A car that went off the road during a storm is discovered on Pope Mountain, and Wiley’s cousin Cameron and his tracking dog Ghost are able to locate the injured driver, a young woman who in addition to injuries sustained in the crash has been shot in the back and is near death. Who is this young woman, how and why did she end up on Pope Mountain, and is her life still in danger? It’s hard to keep secrets in a small town like Jubilee, and its equally hard for strangers to pass unnoticed….and those two facts may help keep the victim alive.
This is the fourth in author Sharon Sala’s Jubilee, Kentucky books and is a pleasant enough read for those who have read some or all of the others in the series. Linette is sassy and good in a crisis, and Wiley is a good looking guy with a heart of gold. The Pope family and related clans on the mountain are a close knit group, and each has or (I suspect) will have their own romantic episode. This wasn’t my favorite in the series thus far, the different storylines didn’t blend particularly well, but it was a quick read and its fun to catch up with goings on in the Pope world. Fans of the previous installments should enjoy this one, as might fans of authors like Susan Elizabeth Phillips, Luanne Rice and Fern Michaels. Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for allowing me early access to Left Behind.
In Jubilee, Kentucky, the Popes are one of the town’s founding families and most live on Pope Mountain. Wiley Pope, one of four tall, handsome brothers, is a police officer in town. He’s known for not having much of a filter, which can sometimes cause him problems. If he takes a woman out once or twice, for example, and doesn’t feel a connection, he doesn’t call the woman again. Two women who fell into that category decided to teach him a lesson a year ago when he was out on his first date with Linette Elgin, a nurse in whom he was very interested. They flirted and fawned all over him right in front of Linette, and the night was ruined (as were his chances for getting a second date). Then comes the day that Linette walks into the local bank to do business and ends up in the middle of a robbery. Wiley walks in and is able to get control of the situation and prevent any further loss of life, becoming a local hero in the process. Having been close to losing her life and seeing Wiley shot in front of her (bulletproof vest, thank goodness) makes Linette realize that she should give Wiley another chance. Miscommunications via text almost derail the couple again, but they straighten that out and are on their way to creating a relationship when another possible complication arrives in the shape of 7 year old Ava Dalton. Ava’s mother Corina, a reluctant single mother and major piece of work, brings Ava to Jubilee hoping to pawn her off as the child of Wiley’s brother Aaron, but Wiley knows that it was with his father Clyde Wallace, an abusive man in prison for murder, who Corina had been involved. But when he sees this little sister about whom neither he, his mother nor his brothers knew existed, and notices signs of abuse and neglect, he decides that there is no way that Ava will be staying with Corina. As he juggles securing custody for Ava with cementing a relationship with Linette, another mystery rolls into Jubilee. A car that went off the road during a storm is discovered on Pope Mountain, and Wiley’s cousin Cameron and his tracking dog Ghost are able to locate the injured driver, a young woman who in addition to injuries sustained in the crash has been shot in the back and is near death. Who is this young woman, how and why did she end up on Pope Mountain, and is her life still in danger? It’s hard to keep secrets in a small town like Jubilee, and its equally hard for strangers to pass unnoticed….and those two facts may help keep the victim alive.
This is the fourth in author Sharon Sala’s Jubilee, Kentucky books and is a pleasant enough read for those who have read some or all of the others in the series. Linette is sassy and good in a crisis, and Wiley is a good looking guy with a heart of gold. The Pope family and related clans on the mountain are a close knit group, and each has or (I suspect) will have their own romantic episode. This wasn’t my favorite in the series thus far, the different storylines didn’t blend particularly well, but it was a quick read and its fun to catch up with goings on in the Pope world. Fans of the previous installments should enjoy this one, as might fans of authors like Susan Elizabeth Phillips, Luanne Rice and Fern Michaels. Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for allowing me early access to Left Behind.
July 23, 2024
Left Behind by Sharon Sala, book four in the Jubilee, Kentucky series, is a an amazing tale full of love, family and second chances in a small Kentucky mountain town, where tight-laced clans abound, and outsiders are looked upon with suspicion.
Wiley Pope is a police officer alongside his eldest brother, Aaron. After two women ruined his date with nurse Linette Elgin, he hasn't seen or heard from her. When a robbery at the local bank occurs, Linette finds herself as one of the hostages; with Wiley one of the cops coming to the rescue. Linette sees how he protected the hostages, and sees all that he does. She relents and decides to give him a second chance. That second attempt leads to them realizing that they have found their “one”, their soulmate.
A woman, Corina, from Wiley’s father’s past, brings her 7-year-old daughter, Ava, to the police station, in an attempt to extort money from them. Wiley finds himself adoring the little girl, Ava. He makes a deal with Corina, he will adopt her, and free Corina to her move on with her own life. This one quick decision on Wiley’s part alters Ava’s destiny: giving her a family, a bedroom with her own bed and pillow, and more love than she knew was possible.Ava was a cute and adorable child that everyone, including all the Pope family, as well as Linette loved. Ava had not just a rough life, but a heart-rending one of learning to hide and living on scraps. This half-sister of the Pope brothers stole their heart, but the surprise was how much Shirley, their mother, loved this little girl unconditionally. Linette, Wiley’s “almost-wife”, is beside herself as she finally had a family to love. All the members of the Pope family become involved in loving this little girl: from Dani babysitting and gifting Ava with so many firsts, to the beautiful celebration cake, and necklace from BJ. This book was family first and the Pope family was amazing on a whole other level.
A murder investigation begins in Pope Mountain, with a woman shot in the back. It turns out that the woman’s brother was murdered, and she was found in the mountains with a serious injury. Wiley is assigned to guard her at the hospital; learning more about the attempt on her life. While there are people out to kill Carey, fearing she could identify them: friends and police are on top of things, keeping her safe. All of these bad guys get the comeuppance they deserved. Corina, truly vile and heartless, gets her own karma, in the end. This was the best kind of love story; it is the love of family and community showered onto a small angel who deserved pure love.
Sharon Sala has a gift for entwining multiple characters and storylines while still keeping the main plot the center focus of the book. Somehow she is able to blend and connect all of the characters, provide a back-story and share enough information to know what's going on and where each character is coming from. I highly recommend Left Behind, a must read, to other readers and look forward to the next Pope brother story.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
# NetGalley #SourceBooks-Casablanca
Wiley Pope is a police officer alongside his eldest brother, Aaron. After two women ruined his date with nurse Linette Elgin, he hasn't seen or heard from her. When a robbery at the local bank occurs, Linette finds herself as one of the hostages; with Wiley one of the cops coming to the rescue. Linette sees how he protected the hostages, and sees all that he does. She relents and decides to give him a second chance. That second attempt leads to them realizing that they have found their “one”, their soulmate.
A woman, Corina, from Wiley’s father’s past, brings her 7-year-old daughter, Ava, to the police station, in an attempt to extort money from them. Wiley finds himself adoring the little girl, Ava. He makes a deal with Corina, he will adopt her, and free Corina to her move on with her own life. This one quick decision on Wiley’s part alters Ava’s destiny: giving her a family, a bedroom with her own bed and pillow, and more love than she knew was possible.Ava was a cute and adorable child that everyone, including all the Pope family, as well as Linette loved. Ava had not just a rough life, but a heart-rending one of learning to hide and living on scraps. This half-sister of the Pope brothers stole their heart, but the surprise was how much Shirley, their mother, loved this little girl unconditionally. Linette, Wiley’s “almost-wife”, is beside herself as she finally had a family to love. All the members of the Pope family become involved in loving this little girl: from Dani babysitting and gifting Ava with so many firsts, to the beautiful celebration cake, and necklace from BJ. This book was family first and the Pope family was amazing on a whole other level.
A murder investigation begins in Pope Mountain, with a woman shot in the back. It turns out that the woman’s brother was murdered, and she was found in the mountains with a serious injury. Wiley is assigned to guard her at the hospital; learning more about the attempt on her life. While there are people out to kill Carey, fearing she could identify them: friends and police are on top of things, keeping her safe. All of these bad guys get the comeuppance they deserved. Corina, truly vile and heartless, gets her own karma, in the end. This was the best kind of love story; it is the love of family and community showered onto a small angel who deserved pure love.
Sharon Sala has a gift for entwining multiple characters and storylines while still keeping the main plot the center focus of the book. Somehow she is able to blend and connect all of the characters, provide a back-story and share enough information to know what's going on and where each character is coming from. I highly recommend Left Behind, a must read, to other readers and look forward to the next Pope brother story.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
# NetGalley #SourceBooks-Casablanca
June 30, 2024
Sharon Sala has done it again delivering an amazing tale full of love, family and second chances. The description tells us we are reading a story about Wiley and Linette and while their love story played a part, this story was so much more. Ava is the star of the story. First, be get all the feels when we get the heart-rending tale of her first 7 years of live learning to hide and living on scraps. One quick decision on Wiley’s part changes her destiny giving her a family, a bedroom, and more love than she knew was possible. Early on, one of the characters that impressed me was Wiley’s mom, she took to her granddaughter who started her live as the child of her evil ex and his sidepiece. But Shirly loved the little girl unconditionally giving her a precious gift. No member of the family was left behind in this tale. From Dani babysitting and gifting Ava with so many firsts to the beautiful celebration cake from BJ, this book was family first and the Pope family was amazing on a whole other level.
Lest we not forget the mystery and the poor woman just trying to help her loved one who gets thrust into danger. Again, love and family ruled the day as Carey, both lost it all and found another chance to be truly happy. Yes, we had some bad guys running around and they all got the comeuppance they deserved, especially the truly file Corina.
As you read about Wiley and family and anxiously turned the page to learn more about the family and the little girl they rescued, Sharon would switch the action to Corey and her fight. Then the same thing happened again, we would get invested in Corey only to be switched back to the Pope’s. While at times that might have been frustrating, both stories were compelling, and both were worst reading. I have heard not the best things about Jubilee books by Sharon Sala and I am here to say this book surpassed my expectations completely.
This was the best kind of love story; it is the love of family and community showered onto a small angel who deserved pure love. I am completely blown away by this story. Saying this was my favorite Sharon Sala book would be a huge claim considering how much I loved her Jigsaw series, but this was truly my favorite. That you Sharon for the gift of a beautiful story.
Thank you NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca for a digital ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Lest we not forget the mystery and the poor woman just trying to help her loved one who gets thrust into danger. Again, love and family ruled the day as Carey, both lost it all and found another chance to be truly happy. Yes, we had some bad guys running around and they all got the comeuppance they deserved, especially the truly file Corina.
As you read about Wiley and family and anxiously turned the page to learn more about the family and the little girl they rescued, Sharon would switch the action to Corey and her fight. Then the same thing happened again, we would get invested in Corey only to be switched back to the Pope’s. While at times that might have been frustrating, both stories were compelling, and both were worst reading. I have heard not the best things about Jubilee books by Sharon Sala and I am here to say this book surpassed my expectations completely.
This was the best kind of love story; it is the love of family and community showered onto a small angel who deserved pure love. I am completely blown away by this story. Saying this was my favorite Sharon Sala book would be a huge claim considering how much I loved her Jigsaw series, but this was truly my favorite. That you Sharon for the gift of a beautiful story.
Thank you NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca for a digital ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 19, 2024
Title: Left Behind
Author: Sharon Sala
Rating: ★★★★
Get ready for a heart-pounding, heartwarming ride with "Left Behind" by Sharon Sala. Everything lost will be found again in this captivating tale of love, danger, and redemption.
Jubilee PD Officer Wiley Pope is sure he’s blown his chances with local nurse Linette Elgin after their first date ended in disaster. But fate has other plans. When Wiley walks in on a bank robbery with Linette as one of the hostages, his protective instincts kick into overdrive. A heroic bullet to his armour-protected chest is all it takes for Linette to forgive his past mistakes and open her heart to a new beginning.
As Wiley’s love for Linette deepens, life throws him another curveball! A murder investigation linked to Pope Mountain and an unexpected twist involving a seven-year-old girl abandoned at the police station by a woman from Wiley’s father's past.
In an attempted money scheme gone wrong, the woman signs over her parental rights, and Wiley and Linette welcome the wary little girl into their family, showing her the true meaning of love.
Sharon Sala masterfully blends action, romance, and emotional depth in "Left Behind." The chemistry between Wiley and Linette is great, their journey from a rocky start to a deeply connected couple is compelling, and the addition of the abandoned child adds a touching layer to the story.
Highly recommend this gripping and heartwarming read! "Left Behind" is a perfect blend of suspense and romance, making it a must-read for fans of both genres. Prepare to be hooked from start to finish, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself rooting for Wiley, Linette, and their new family long after you turn the last page.
Thank you to The Publisher SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca | Sourcebooks Casablanca, the author Sharon Sala & Netgalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.
Author: Sharon Sala
Rating: ★★★★
Get ready for a heart-pounding, heartwarming ride with "Left Behind" by Sharon Sala. Everything lost will be found again in this captivating tale of love, danger, and redemption.
Jubilee PD Officer Wiley Pope is sure he’s blown his chances with local nurse Linette Elgin after their first date ended in disaster. But fate has other plans. When Wiley walks in on a bank robbery with Linette as one of the hostages, his protective instincts kick into overdrive. A heroic bullet to his armour-protected chest is all it takes for Linette to forgive his past mistakes and open her heart to a new beginning.
As Wiley’s love for Linette deepens, life throws him another curveball! A murder investigation linked to Pope Mountain and an unexpected twist involving a seven-year-old girl abandoned at the police station by a woman from Wiley’s father's past.
In an attempted money scheme gone wrong, the woman signs over her parental rights, and Wiley and Linette welcome the wary little girl into their family, showing her the true meaning of love.
Sharon Sala masterfully blends action, romance, and emotional depth in "Left Behind." The chemistry between Wiley and Linette is great, their journey from a rocky start to a deeply connected couple is compelling, and the addition of the abandoned child adds a touching layer to the story.
Highly recommend this gripping and heartwarming read! "Left Behind" is a perfect blend of suspense and romance, making it a must-read for fans of both genres. Prepare to be hooked from start to finish, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself rooting for Wiley, Linette, and their new family long after you turn the last page.
Thank you to The Publisher SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca | Sourcebooks Casablanca, the author Sharon Sala & Netgalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.
July 9, 2024
Wiley and Linette had instant attraction but a first date gone bad has things spoiling quickly. After a surreal and dangerous situation connects these two again they realize that their attraction has not lessened and agree to a second chance, but when the actions of Wiley’s abusive dad produce a long lost half sibling will this relationship be able to weather the storm? This is a continuation of Pope mountain family stories and those who are familiar with the previous books will be happy to see what happens to the many familiar characters. If you haven’t already read the other books you will have no problem enjoying this book on its own, although I highly recommend that you do. So the love story is between Wiley Pope and Linette but it’s so much more than that, with many intertwining story arcs that at first can seem overwhelming but soon will have you diving in to find out more. This author has a way of making her characters come to life and feel as if you know them personally. It is a soft romance with many a heated looks but not too much detail on the bedroom scenes. There is also a mix of action, suspense with an attempted murder angle, tenderness, especially between Wiley and his little sister, and a bit of a wholesome feeling, which I know is a weird way of describing a book but I know when I read this author’s books that I leave at the end feeling like my faith in man is restored. And while the spice angle is low the tenderness reading is high with the suspense angle a close second. It is a nice quick summer read that will leave you feeling good. 5 stars. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for granting me an early copy to review. All opinions are my own.
May 19, 2024
I love a good series and no one writes a better small town series than Sharon Sala! Left Behind is her fourth book in her Jubilee Kentucky series. The story centers around police officer Wiley Pope. Wiley loves his job as a police officer in Jubilee. He's had his eye on a local nurse but ever since their disastrous first date, Linette Elgin won't have anything to do with him. Linette thinks that Wiley is to charming and good looking for her piece of mind. She's not going to be one of numerous ladies chasing him around town. When she stops in at the town's local bank and a robbery occurs, Wiley is the officer that comes to their aid. After seeing what he goes through for the community, Linette relents and decides to give Wiley a second chance. Now that seems like the perfect sweet ending right? No this is just the beginning for Wiley and Linette! Trouble and surprises are headed to Jubilee and Wiley jumps right into the middle of things! There's a little girl out there that not only captures Wiley's heart but everyone in all of Jubilee. Add to that, there's an attempted murder victim that is found following a storm on the mountain and who is she and how did she end up there? So as you can see, lots of action, questions and emotions are a part of Left Behind. As you can tell, I loved this book. Who am I kidding? I love this series! The perfect blend of small town romance with some mystery wrapped around it. Left Behind was told from multiple points of view and stands alone in the series but because of the inter-connecting characters, I recommend reading all of their stories too.
July 21, 2024
This was a lovely story. Wiley Pope is a policeman who had a disastrous date with Linette but couldn't get her off his mind When he walks in to the bank as it was getting robbed, he realized she was there. He was shot but luckily had a vest on and he shot all the robbers. Not long after that, he and Linette started seeing each other. His boss called him in when his deadbeat father's old girlfriend comes in trying to say his brother was the father of her little girl, Ava. Since Wiley had seen them together, he called her out on that and then took Ava out of there. She was bruised and very scared. He immediately said he was keeping her. Ava was still scared but hopeful. He went about showing her where she was going to live and then bought her clothes and toys. He was trying his best to show her she was loved as his little sister and he wouldn't leave her. It was truly heartbreaking some of the things that came out of her mouth and the way she had lived. Every new experience brought wonder to her.
The story shows how family can pull together and help each other out and there is no end to the love here for the Pope family. He made a family with Linette and Ava and hopefully more babies in the future. I love how the story flowed and told some history of the Pope family and the other in the small town.
I got this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review
The story shows how family can pull together and help each other out and there is no end to the love here for the Pope family. He made a family with Linette and Ava and hopefully more babies in the future. I love how the story flowed and told some history of the Pope family and the other in the small town.
I got this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review
July 6, 2024
One of my favorite series by one of my favorite authors and the characters that “grab me” until the very last page! Shirley Pope Wallace moved her family back to Pope Mountain after her husband was sent to prison for trying to kill her. They changed their last name to Pope and have been embraced by the loving family community. Jubilee Officer Wiley Pope had hoped to date local nurse Linette Elgin, but their first date was ruined. When he stops at the bank, he sees Linette being held hostage during a bank robbery. He ends the threat, but not before taking a bullet in his vest. They call him a hero, but he is just a man who is quick to act and react. He hopes to finally get that date with Linette, but before he can he learns that he and his brothers have a half-sister and she needs them. Her mother has made her young life miserable, but Wiley won’t rest until he gets custody of young Ava. When a wrecked car is found on the mountain, they initiate a search and find a woman who has been shot. Who is she and how did she end up on Pope Mountain? The story, the characters, the emotions…a truly wonderful series! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)
July 19, 2024
Sharon Sala takes us back to Jubilee, Kentucky is this fourth entry in the series.
Wiley Pope's first date with Linette went sideways quickly. He hasn't spoken with her since, but she's remained in his thoughts. He certainly never expected to find her as one of the hostages when he unwittingly walks in on a bank robbery in progress. And when he's shot apprehending the bank robbers, it's Linette who steps up to help him.
Their chance meeting brings them back together again, but their competing schedules make finding time together difficult. Things get even more complicated when a woman from Wiley's father's past shows up with a seven year old child. Wiley is immediately taken by the child and soon offers himself as her guardian. Suddenly he finds himself a single father. Linette won't let him do it alone, though. And together, along with the rest of the Pope family and the residents of Pope Mountain, they'll show the little girls just what family means.
The Pope family returns in this emotion filled story. This book shows a completely different side to Wiley. In past stories, he's been the quiet brother, staying in the background. But in his seven year old half sister, Wiley sees the same pain and fear that he and his brother's suffered at their father's hands.
Like most of Sharon Sala's novels, family is at the heart of this story. At times maddening, at time heart-wrenching, it's ultimately the love, determination and bonds of family that make this an uplifting story. I've been an avid reader of Sharon Sala for years. And a fan of this series since the first book. I like the the warmth of the family ties, the closeness of the clans and the respect shown to family history. I highly recommend this book and the whole series.
Wiley Pope's first date with Linette went sideways quickly. He hasn't spoken with her since, but she's remained in his thoughts. He certainly never expected to find her as one of the hostages when he unwittingly walks in on a bank robbery in progress. And when he's shot apprehending the bank robbers, it's Linette who steps up to help him.
Their chance meeting brings them back together again, but their competing schedules make finding time together difficult. Things get even more complicated when a woman from Wiley's father's past shows up with a seven year old child. Wiley is immediately taken by the child and soon offers himself as her guardian. Suddenly he finds himself a single father. Linette won't let him do it alone, though. And together, along with the rest of the Pope family and the residents of Pope Mountain, they'll show the little girls just what family means.
The Pope family returns in this emotion filled story. This book shows a completely different side to Wiley. In past stories, he's been the quiet brother, staying in the background. But in his seven year old half sister, Wiley sees the same pain and fear that he and his brother's suffered at their father's hands.
Like most of Sharon Sala's novels, family is at the heart of this story. At times maddening, at time heart-wrenching, it's ultimately the love, determination and bonds of family that make this an uplifting story. I've been an avid reader of Sharon Sala for years. And a fan of this series since the first book. I like the the warmth of the family ties, the closeness of the clans and the respect shown to family history. I highly recommend this book and the whole series.
June 7, 2024
Excellent! Rare 5 star!
Every time I read another book in this series, I feel like its better than the last. This book is so heartbreaking, yet loving and wonderful all at the same time.
The story revolves around Wiley, the 3rd of the Pope brothers. He, like his brother Aaron, is a police officer, and a chance bank robbery brings Wiley and Linette, a woman who he had one disastrous date with, but never forgot. Once they cleared up the past, they begin a relationship. When a huge surprise arises, the whole family steps up, but mostly Wiley and Linette, who take little Ava into their home and hearts forever.
The description of what Ava went through in her 7 years is heartbreaking, but unfortunately all too true. Don't worry, nothing is graphic, but there are clear implications and descriptions are through the innocent eyes of a child who doesn't know life any other way than she has lived it.
I can't wait for the next book, assuming BJ will finally get his story told.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
Every time I read another book in this series, I feel like its better than the last. This book is so heartbreaking, yet loving and wonderful all at the same time.
The story revolves around Wiley, the 3rd of the Pope brothers. He, like his brother Aaron, is a police officer, and a chance bank robbery brings Wiley and Linette, a woman who he had one disastrous date with, but never forgot. Once they cleared up the past, they begin a relationship. When a huge surprise arises, the whole family steps up, but mostly Wiley and Linette, who take little Ava into their home and hearts forever.
The description of what Ava went through in her 7 years is heartbreaking, but unfortunately all too true. Don't worry, nothing is graphic, but there are clear implications and descriptions are through the innocent eyes of a child who doesn't know life any other way than she has lived it.
I can't wait for the next book, assuming BJ will finally get his story told.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
June 10, 2024
Returning to Jubilee, Kentucky, we follow the story of Wiley Pope, a local police officer. His first date with Linette Elgin is spoiled by two ex-girlfriends, but he remains hopeful for another chance. During a robbery at the local bank where Linette is present, Wiley intervenes and is shot, prompting Linette to reconsider a second chance with him.
For those familiar with the series, Jubilee is a town where something is always happening. When a shooting victim is found on the mountain, Wiley is assigned to guard her. Complications arise when a woman, who was the mistress of Wiley's father, appears with a seven-year-old girl, alleging her to be Aaron's daughter. Wiley, knowing the truth about the woman, clarifies the situation. Touched by the girl, Ava, and learning of her mother's abuse, he decides to take her in.
Wiley and Linette create a loving home for Ava, who is warmly embraced by the Pope family. The stories of the Pope family are truly wonderful there is always mystery.
#NetGalley
For those familiar with the series, Jubilee is a town where something is always happening. When a shooting victim is found on the mountain, Wiley is assigned to guard her. Complications arise when a woman, who was the mistress of Wiley's father, appears with a seven-year-old girl, alleging her to be Aaron's daughter. Wiley, knowing the truth about the woman, clarifies the situation. Touched by the girl, Ava, and learning of her mother's abuse, he decides to take her in.
Wiley and Linette create a loving home for Ava, who is warmly embraced by the Pope family. The stories of the Pope family are truly wonderful there is always mystery.
#NetGalley
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