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Gemini Group #6
Holdens Erwachen
Der ehemalige Navy SEAL Holden Stanford hat einst die einzige Frau aufgegeben, die er jemals geliebt hat, damit sie die Familie haben konnte, die sie sich wünschte. Und sie hat sie gefunden – mit einem seiner Teamkameraden. Ein Betrug, der so schmerzhaft war, dass die Wunde auch Jahre später immer noch nicht verheilt ist. Doch sein Opfer war umsonst, denn sie verlor ihren Ehemann auf dem Schlachtfeld. Und nun ist sie zurück. In seinem Leben und in seinem Umfeld – und sie öffnet alte Wunden. Allein ihr Anblick raubt ihm den Verstand, doch jedes Mal, wenn er ihre Tochter sieht, ist er am Boden zerstört. Das kleine Mädchen ist eine lebendige Erinnerung an alles, was sie verloren haben. Das eine, das er niemals würde überwinden können.
Charleigh Towler weiß, wie eine einzige Entscheidung ein Leben verändern kann. Eine Nacht, zu viel Alkohol und unerträglicher Schmerz haben sie dazu verleitet, eine schlechte Entscheidung zu treffen. Eine, die sie nicht bereuen kann, denn daraus ist ihre Tochter entstanden. Und doch hat sie ihren Lebensweg nachhaltig verändert. Seit Jahren bezahlt sie für diesen vermeintlichen Fehler, bis der Mann, den sie immer noch liebt, fast getötet wird und sie anfängt, ihr Leben zu überdenken. Nun ist Schluss damit, Holden Stanford zu erlauben, sich vor ihr zu verstecken. Kurz entschlossen packt sie ihre Koffer und zieht nach Maryland, um etwas zu tun, was sie schon vor Jahren hätte tun sollen – um den Mann zu kämpfen, den sie liebt.
Als beide kurz davor stehen, alles zu bekommen, was sie schon immer hätten haben sollen, wird Charleighs Leben erneut auf den Kopf gestellt – nur dieses Mal ist es das Leben ihrer Tochter, das in Gefahr ist.
Nur für Leser über 18 Jahre geeignet.
Charleigh Towler weiß, wie eine einzige Entscheidung ein Leben verändern kann. Eine Nacht, zu viel Alkohol und unerträglicher Schmerz haben sie dazu verleitet, eine schlechte Entscheidung zu treffen. Eine, die sie nicht bereuen kann, denn daraus ist ihre Tochter entstanden. Und doch hat sie ihren Lebensweg nachhaltig verändert. Seit Jahren bezahlt sie für diesen vermeintlichen Fehler, bis der Mann, den sie immer noch liebt, fast getötet wird und sie anfängt, ihr Leben zu überdenken. Nun ist Schluss damit, Holden Stanford zu erlauben, sich vor ihr zu verstecken. Kurz entschlossen packt sie ihre Koffer und zieht nach Maryland, um etwas zu tun, was sie schon vor Jahren hätte tun sollen – um den Mann zu kämpfen, den sie liebt.
Als beide kurz davor stehen, alles zu bekommen, was sie schon immer hätten haben sollen, wird Charleighs Leben erneut auf den Kopf gestellt – nur dieses Mal ist es das Leben ihrer Tochter, das in Gefahr ist.
Nur für Leser über 18 Jahre geeignet.
446 pages, Paperback
First published October 26, 2020
1243 people are currently reading
457 people want to read
About the author
Riley Edwards
109 books2,690 followersRiley Edwards is a Wall Street Journal and USA Today Bestselling author, wife, and military mom. Riley was born and raised in Los Angeles but now resides on the east coast with her fantastic husband and children.
Riley writes heart-stopping romance with sexy alpha heroes and even stronger heroines. Riley's favorite genres to write are romantic suspense and military romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 245 reviews
September 18, 2025
Holden & Charleigh’s Second-Chance Romance
I’m deep into this series and honestly? It’s hitting all the right emotional pressure points. Not in the mood for a full essay, but here’s the short version: these books are angsty, romantic, suspenseful, and just the right amount of steamy. The emotional fallout from toxic childhoods, the protective former SEALs with hearts wrapped in barbed wire, and the slow formation of a chosen family—all of it works. Especially the detail that these battle-scarred heroes are buying homes next to each other like it’s a trauma-healing cul-de-sac. I’m here for it.
This installment centers on Holden and Charleigh—his “Leighleigh”—and their second-chance romance is drenched in longing and regret. Years ago, Holden walked away after learning he couldn’t have children, convinced he was doing the noble thing. But fate had other plans: a drunken one-night stand between Charleigh and one of Holden’s teammates led to a pregnancy, a marriage, and then tragedy when her husband was killed in action.
Eight years later, Charleigh returns with her daughter, and the emotional tension between her and Holden is off the charts. He’s haunted by what he lost—and by the little girl who reminds him of everything he’ll never have. Their chemistry is electric, but it’s the emotional stakes that really land the punch.
There’s also a suspense subplot involving Charleigh’s late husband’s family trying to strong-arm her for the death benefit, which adds a layer of external pressure to an already emotionally fraught reunion.
Narration-wise, Erin Mallon and Joe Arden once again deliver. Their dual POV performance brings depth and texture to Holden and Charleigh’s story, capturing both the vulnerability and heat with finesse. It’s a seamless listen, and their voices elevate the emotional resonance beautifully.
I’m deep into this series and honestly? It’s hitting all the right emotional pressure points. Not in the mood for a full essay, but here’s the short version: these books are angsty, romantic, suspenseful, and just the right amount of steamy. The emotional fallout from toxic childhoods, the protective former SEALs with hearts wrapped in barbed wire, and the slow formation of a chosen family—all of it works. Especially the detail that these battle-scarred heroes are buying homes next to each other like it’s a trauma-healing cul-de-sac. I’m here for it.
This installment centers on Holden and Charleigh—his “Leighleigh”—and their second-chance romance is drenched in longing and regret. Years ago, Holden walked away after learning he couldn’t have children, convinced he was doing the noble thing. But fate had other plans: a drunken one-night stand between Charleigh and one of Holden’s teammates led to a pregnancy, a marriage, and then tragedy when her husband was killed in action.
Eight years later, Charleigh returns with her daughter, and the emotional tension between her and Holden is off the charts. He’s haunted by what he lost—and by the little girl who reminds him of everything he’ll never have. Their chemistry is electric, but it’s the emotional stakes that really land the punch.
There’s also a suspense subplot involving Charleigh’s late husband’s family trying to strong-arm her for the death benefit, which adds a layer of external pressure to an already emotionally fraught reunion.
Narration-wise, Erin Mallon and Joe Arden once again deliver. Their dual POV performance brings depth and texture to Holden and Charleigh’s story, capturing both the vulnerability and heat with finesse. It’s a seamless listen, and their voices elevate the emotional resonance beautifully.
October 17, 2020
I just finished reading Holden's story and if you have been reading the Gemini group series you know that Holden has been holding in a lot of really emotional things. Well his story is going to uncover everything about his past relationship with Charleigh...the good, the bad and the devastating! This book will touch all of your emotions and break your heart but count on Riley Edwards to put it back together beautifully! Holden's Resurrection stands alone however to get the most out of his story I recommend reading the other books in the Gemini Group series so that you will get a feel for his character and why he has been in such a bad place for a long time. Holden and Charleigh's story is going to pull at your heartstrings and you may want to throw your Kindle in frustration but their story is truly one of love and forgiveness. It was told from dual POV and has plenty of angst, frustration, hope, love and heat! This is one roller coaster of a story!
October 20, 2020
There are times when I look back at my life and wonder if the choices I’ve made have always been the right ones. The choices that led me on the path to where I am today. Choices that I now look back and wonder were they mistakes or sound choices. It’s always said that hindsight is 20/20. And Riley Edwards shows us this in her newest book Holden’s Resurrection.
Years ago Holden Stanford made a choice. To give up the woman he loved, so she could have the life she deserved. But circumstances have brought Charleigh Towler back into his life. Now he must face those choices and the woman he left to find her happy. But did she find it or did his choice set off a chain reaction that no one saw coming?
Charleigh Towler has done the best that she could with the hand that life has dealt her. After the man she loves walks away, one night changes the course of her life and forces her to make a decision that alters her life irrevocably. But out of pain can sometimes sprout joy and Charleigh vows that that is all her daughter will ever know. Not sorrow and heartbreak. Now back in the same town with Holden, she wonders if she has made another bad choice...
Once again, Riley Edwards takes the reader on a tumultuous journey with her writing. The sheer magnitude of feels that this book evokes is both powerful and overwhelming. From the very beginning, the reader is ensnared in the lives and emotions of the characters and it is very hard to break free. Once again, I read this book from cover to cover in ONE DAY. The ease and flow of this book is so good, I just couldn’t put it down.
Ms. Edwards continuously pushes her readers with her books. These aren’t just mere romances. They are thought-provoking, emotional journeys that will turn you inside out and leave you emotionally drained but in a good way. And this book is no different. We all know that for every action (force) in nature there is an equal and opposite reaction. Our choices have consequences. And sometimes those consequences can change the course of not only our lives but the lives of the people around us. But we do the best with the information we have to make those choices. You can’t go back and change the past. You can only learn from it and do better with your choices going forward. That is what Ms. Edwards teaches us with this story. So live your life to the fullest. Do the best with the knowledge you have and don’t regret the choices you make. Because they make you who you ARE.
Years ago Holden Stanford made a choice. To give up the woman he loved, so she could have the life she deserved. But circumstances have brought Charleigh Towler back into his life. Now he must face those choices and the woman he left to find her happy. But did she find it or did his choice set off a chain reaction that no one saw coming?
Charleigh Towler has done the best that she could with the hand that life has dealt her. After the man she loves walks away, one night changes the course of her life and forces her to make a decision that alters her life irrevocably. But out of pain can sometimes sprout joy and Charleigh vows that that is all her daughter will ever know. Not sorrow and heartbreak. Now back in the same town with Holden, she wonders if she has made another bad choice...
Once again, Riley Edwards takes the reader on a tumultuous journey with her writing. The sheer magnitude of feels that this book evokes is both powerful and overwhelming. From the very beginning, the reader is ensnared in the lives and emotions of the characters and it is very hard to break free. Once again, I read this book from cover to cover in ONE DAY. The ease and flow of this book is so good, I just couldn’t put it down.
Ms. Edwards continuously pushes her readers with her books. These aren’t just mere romances. They are thought-provoking, emotional journeys that will turn you inside out and leave you emotionally drained but in a good way. And this book is no different. We all know that for every action (force) in nature there is an equal and opposite reaction. Our choices have consequences. And sometimes those consequences can change the course of not only our lives but the lives of the people around us. But we do the best with the information we have to make those choices. You can’t go back and change the past. You can only learn from it and do better with your choices going forward. That is what Ms. Edwards teaches us with this story. So live your life to the fullest. Do the best with the knowledge you have and don’t regret the choices you make. Because they make you who you ARE.
October 21, 2020
Unbreakable
Such an emotional ride, as you would expect from this author. Totally spellbinding. Chapter 23 was chalked full of good stuff - breathless, grouchy bear, "the look", eight years, "closed for business", more than one step in the initiation process, scorecards, "house kitten", shame, and step two... I love the interaction of all the Gemini team, they are true brothers, but not by blood. How can Holden or Charleigh trust each other if they run away from each other without discussing things with each other, they are making decisions without their partner's input, that was eight years ago, but now they are standing in front of each other and he's telling her that he is going to fight and he's going to war to win. The prize is Leigh-Leigh and Faith. What does "nothing" really mean? "Translation: Everything, you big dummy." I loved the inner workings of Holden's mind trying to figure out a young child that he was going to be responsible for. Also, it's not just a story, its about family, you truly learn what that means in this book and also able realizing what is right in front of you, not what might come, but what's already here. A definite one-click author for me. I'm never disappointed and I'm given such a ride when I read one of this author's books, I'm always thinking about what I read days after I'm finished the book.
I voluntarily reviewed this book.
Such an emotional ride, as you would expect from this author. Totally spellbinding. Chapter 23 was chalked full of good stuff - breathless, grouchy bear, "the look", eight years, "closed for business", more than one step in the initiation process, scorecards, "house kitten", shame, and step two... I love the interaction of all the Gemini team, they are true brothers, but not by blood. How can Holden or Charleigh trust each other if they run away from each other without discussing things with each other, they are making decisions without their partner's input, that was eight years ago, but now they are standing in front of each other and he's telling her that he is going to fight and he's going to war to win. The prize is Leigh-Leigh and Faith. What does "nothing" really mean? "Translation: Everything, you big dummy." I loved the inner workings of Holden's mind trying to figure out a young child that he was going to be responsible for. Also, it's not just a story, its about family, you truly learn what that means in this book and also able realizing what is right in front of you, not what might come, but what's already here. A definite one-click author for me. I'm never disappointed and I'm given such a ride when I read one of this author's books, I'm always thinking about what I read days after I'm finished the book.
I voluntarily reviewed this book.
October 28, 2020
This journey tore me apart for all the feels it threw out. I loved and hated in equal measure as I rode along in their world of a second chance. After all, Holden and Charleigh couldn't stop loving each other for over eight years now, even though they tried. Holden supposedly acting like a horndog (lost a bit of respect for his character on that) for a time, didn't really portray devastation in a good light for me. All the guilt and recriminations wouldn't and didn't change a thing, so it did get slow for me in places when it kept reiterating their very poor "choices". I feel Charleigh and Holden both, had made their mistakes, so I didn’t understand why he needed to prove so much more to her now. She got knocked up, not him, and she evidently was too immature to stand up for herself, or count.
There were plenty of current scary situations and new developments to send me in a tizzy where I couldn't put the book down. Number one being the safety of that adorable and intelligent little girl, Faith. She was the gem in all this and I loved her character.
Ms Edwards has a brilliant way of taking today's ugly realities, and working them into a compelling read with heroes where we all get our happily ever afters.
There is a secondary or backstory in here that should be coming up in Jonny's journey that I am looking forward to.
There were plenty of current scary situations and new developments to send me in a tizzy where I couldn't put the book down. Number one being the safety of that adorable and intelligent little girl, Faith. She was the gem in all this and I loved her character.
Ms Edwards has a brilliant way of taking today's ugly realities, and working them into a compelling read with heroes where we all get our happily ever afters.
There is a secondary or backstory in here that should be coming up in Jonny's journey that I am looking forward to.
October 21, 2020
Riley always writes strong female characters who fight to get where they are in life and Charliegh is no different. She has been a single mom since her husband was killed in action before her daughter was born. She has always been in love with Holden though and this story is about forgiving yourself for past mistakes and being willing to step up to get what you want in life. As always with Riley's books, I laughed, I cried, and I felt like I was a member of the Gemini Family. We gain a bit more insight into Holden's past and why he made the choices he did and how his decisions changed Charliegh's life. Even though the characters carry over from one book to the next with some build up on what was learned previously, you can read this book as a standalone.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 22, 2020
I went into this book assuming Holden had done something idiotic that drove him and Carleigh apart. While I was partially right, there was sooo much more to their story. It took some time for the two of them to untangle the lies and deception that covered nearly every aspect their relationship. I wanted to cry for Holden. He lost so much (I won't give any details, because spoilers!) and still managed to be there for Leigh Leigh. I couldn't believe the secrets that came to light from not only Charleigh's parents, but from her dead husband's family as well. As usual, Riley Edwards puts the reader through an emotional wringer, but that HEA made the journey worth it.
October 27, 2020
Riley Edwards is one of those authors who has the power to put you through so many emotions with her writing every single time; going in to Holden's Resurrection I knew I was going to cry, smile, get frustrated and angry and I loved every minute. I can't recommend it enough.
Holden gave up Charleigh so she could have the one thing he couldn't give her and it ripped him apart him. Charleigh was devastated when Holden left her, she never understood why and never stopped loving him. After years apart they are back in each other’s lives but its emotionally destroying them, can they overcome the past and fight for each other this time?
Holden and Charleigh's story is one of heartbreak, betrayal, misunderstanding and devastation, it will break your heart and make you want to shout in frustration but it's also a story about the power of love and forgiveness. A wonderful roller coaster of twists and turns, emotions all over the place brilliant story, I will never get enough of this author!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Holden gave up Charleigh so she could have the one thing he couldn't give her and it ripped him apart him. Charleigh was devastated when Holden left her, she never understood why and never stopped loving him. After years apart they are back in each other’s lives but its emotionally destroying them, can they overcome the past and fight for each other this time?
Holden and Charleigh's story is one of heartbreak, betrayal, misunderstanding and devastation, it will break your heart and make you want to shout in frustration but it's also a story about the power of love and forgiveness. A wonderful roller coaster of twists and turns, emotions all over the place brilliant story, I will never get enough of this author!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 20, 2020
I had to take a couple of days to get my mind settled...can a book do that? Yes, it can...especially a Riley Edward's book. Anger was the first emotion....at Holden and I do mean anger. Sadness was the 2nd emotion...for Leigh Leigh and her daughter. Then HOT RAGE at what her parents, her dead "husband", his mom & sister did to her. Not everything was as you see in this one but people either don't listen or don't care. I swear this one blew my mind, broke my heart and then mended it with love.❤❤❤❤❤ I volunteered an honest opinion for this book.
October 22, 2020
I have waited awhile for this book but Riley never fails and she did again this one is heartbreaking, funny and gets your blood boiling but you will love.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 18, 2020
I’ve been patiently awaiting Charleigh and Holden’s story for what seems like forever. I knew...KNEW it would destroy me when I finally learned their back story. But, I was still ill prepared.
Riley Edwards has once again brought my life to a grinding halt. Once her books are in my hands, I seem to forget about real life until I’ve read the final words. Even then I’m left wanting. Wanting the next book, that is. Bring your tissues people. Trust me on that. 5+⭐️❤️❤️❤️
Riley Edwards has once again brought my life to a grinding halt. Once her books are in my hands, I seem to forget about real life until I’ve read the final words. Even then I’m left wanting. Wanting the next book, that is. Bring your tissues people. Trust me on that. 5+⭐️❤️❤️❤️
October 19, 2020
Leigh Leigh and Holden have finally been laid bare in this superbly written book. Their story was more emotional and gripping than we could have imagined from the little that we already knew. The twists and turns along the way were not what I was expecting and as always witj Edward's books, I didn't want it to end. A must read if you have been following the Gemini Group.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 20, 2020
H.O.L.Y.C.R.A.P......this book was flipping amazing! What a tangled web we weave....or at least Riley does!!! Drama, lies, deceit, love - it’s all in this book! Name an emotion and I promise you it’s there! This story is amazing! I literally could not put this book down. This series has been one of my absolute favorites!! Can’t wait for the next book!!❤️
October 21, 2020
Charleigh and Holden have a disturbing past coming back to haunt them and finally decide to push the buttons and tell the truth when Faith has an experience that is unwelcome. And they learn quite a few things .
October 18, 2020
Grab some tissues! Holden and Charleigh fight past battles to get their finally in this amazing story. Not fear, pride, lies, blood, sweat, nor tears are stopping them from going to war to get their happy ever after.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 18, 2020
Holden and Charleigh have a rough road to find their way back to each other. Their story made me cry, laugh and hurt for them. Lots a twists, turns and surprises.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 27, 2020
5 stars plus!
Best Riley Edwards book! 5 star plus, this is the book I have been waiting for.. the connection between Holden and Charliegh is so intense, it's like a bungee cord pulling you in different directions. I have to admit I was firmly in the I - hate - Charliegh camp, before reading this book,( Holden has been my favorite since book 1, there was just something about Holden, ) this book is full of devastating family interference, the emotional impact is so strong, that I yelled at Holden, wanted to strangle Charliegh and called her bad bad names. I fell in love with a beautiful little girl, and that ending.Is amazing, this book is so full of Riley Edwards Awesomeness, it's a book of love, laughter, tears, misunderstanding and most importantly hope. I highly recommend this book and can not wait for the next book Johnny's Redemption.
Best Riley Edwards book! 5 star plus, this is the book I have been waiting for.. the connection between Holden and Charliegh is so intense, it's like a bungee cord pulling you in different directions. I have to admit I was firmly in the I - hate - Charliegh camp, before reading this book,( Holden has been my favorite since book 1, there was just something about Holden, ) this book is full of devastating family interference, the emotional impact is so strong, that I yelled at Holden, wanted to strangle Charliegh and called her bad bad names. I fell in love with a beautiful little girl, and that ending.Is amazing, this book is so full of Riley Edwards Awesomeness, it's a book of love, laughter, tears, misunderstanding and most importantly hope. I highly recommend this book and can not wait for the next book Johnny's Redemption.
October 29, 2020
I've been waiting on Holden and Charleigh story and boy what a story it was! We get the back story on these two. And what a story it turned out to be. Riley left me so emotional with this book {but she always does} We have lies, drama, heartbreak, and love. We find out why Holden has been so angry. Riley puts you through all the emotions in this one! And she leaves us wanting more and waiting for the next book in the Gemini Group series.
October 28, 2020
Just finished this book. It hurt so good, the heartbreak, the devastation and the ultimate betrayal. Good grief, my poor heart ... Riley Edwards really put me through the wringer. The things is? I loved every minute of it. You will need tissues as this is a sobfest so be prepared.
October 28, 2020
The Gemini Group series has been fantastic. Holden and Charleigh’s turmoil really comes through pages of the book. Only a few authors books have made cry and/or and laugh. Riley Edwards is one of those authors! I would definitely recommend all of her books.
February 2, 2024
Oh... I was really disappointed by this one. I didn't hate it. It was well written... hence 2 star rating not 1. But... I was disappointed.
I felt like I had been waiting for Holden's story since the beginning... I really wanted him to get his HEA... I knew that it would be with Charleigh. But... but... it was just so flat. I knew what was going to happen at the start... it was inevitable, therefore I felt sort of cheated that that was held back until virtually the finale. I think I would've preferred it if that had been way earlier in the story and that there had been a lot more to the other reveals that this led to.
I liked Holden, but he was a bit of an idiot. I thought Charleigh was OK... even more of an idiot. I didn't like the way the Charleigh let herself be manipulated by most of the others. I really really didn't like that they fell back into bed after the attack. It had been 8 years... 8 years people... and a lot had happened in those 8 years. I really really didn't like Evie or Bobby. They came across as incredibly immature.
As for the resolutions to their story? I wanted to know more about what happened to the people who were instrumental in creating this drama. It was brushed aside as if it didn't matter... and it did.
The side-plot? That I wanted to know more about. It felt as if it had been shoved in there to make this more of a suspense with a need for some sort of investigators rather than a sappy romance about miscommunications... that was such a let-down. I really did want more about that... and I felt that I knew more about all of the characters involved in that plot than in the main story-line.
So, in summary, I am disappointed because my expectations were high... primarily for Holden's story... and for his HEA. Sighs.
And finally Jonny is next... hurrah for that... but... wait a second... I don't like Bobby. Ah well, we will have to wait and see what unfolds I guess.
26/06/22 Exactly the same feeling on finishing this time around. If anything, I felt even more frustrated...
I felt like I had been waiting for Holden's story since the beginning... I really wanted him to get his HEA... I knew that it would be with Charleigh. But... but... it was just so flat. I knew what was going to happen at the start... it was inevitable, therefore I felt sort of cheated that that was held back until virtually the finale. I think I would've preferred it if that had been way earlier in the story and that there had been a lot more to the other reveals that this led to.
I liked Holden, but he was a bit of an idiot. I thought Charleigh was OK... even more of an idiot. I didn't like the way the Charleigh let herself be manipulated by most of the others. I really really didn't like that they fell back into bed after the attack. It had been 8 years... 8 years people... and a lot had happened in those 8 years. I really really didn't like Evie or Bobby. They came across as incredibly immature.
As for the resolutions to their story? I wanted to know more about what happened to the people who were instrumental in creating this drama. It was brushed aside as if it didn't matter... and it did.
The side-plot? That I wanted to know more about. It felt as if it had been shoved in there to make this more of a suspense with a need for some sort of investigators rather than a sappy romance about miscommunications... that was such a let-down. I really did want more about that... and I felt that I knew more about all of the characters involved in that plot than in the main story-line.
So, in summary, I am disappointed because my expectations were high... primarily for Holden's story... and for his HEA. Sighs.
And finally Jonny is next... hurrah for that... but... wait a second... I don't like Bobby. Ah well, we will have to wait and see what unfolds I guess.
26/06/22 Exactly the same feeling on finishing this time around. If anything, I felt even more frustrated...
November 11, 2022
We’ve been waiting for Holden’s story forever. It is here and a truly emotional tale. It will have you crying, laughing and mad as a hornet depending on where you are in this book. Holden and his “Leigh-Leigh” have been through a lot over the last 8 or so years and the hits just keep coming. This book has a hard headed man, secrets, lies, betrayal, 3 nasty grandparents, loyal “brothers” and their women, an adorable little girl and two people who have never stopped loving each other no matter the years apart.
Audiobook Review
This audiobook is amazing! I was able to go about my day doing dishes etc and still enjoy this book. The narrators did a great job capturing the snark, arguments and hot steamy scenes (fanning self) that Riley Edwards writes so well. I enjoyed listening to the story and resting my tired eyes. Grab this audiobook and do what you do.
Audiobook Review
This audiobook is amazing! I was able to go about my day doing dishes etc and still enjoy this book. The narrators did a great job capturing the snark, arguments and hot steamy scenes (fanning self) that Riley Edwards writes so well. I enjoyed listening to the story and resting my tired eyes. Grab this audiobook and do what you do.
November 23, 2021
3.5 Stars
This was all Holden’s fault lol
This was all Holden’s fault lol
October 26, 2020
This is book 6 in the Gemini Group and while it could be read as a standalone, I would absolutely read the previous books because there is back story talked about in those previous books. With that being said, we finally get Holden's story in this one!! Holden gave up the only woman he loved in order to give her what he believed she needed in order to be happy, a family. He didn't expect her to find it with one of his teammates. To him it was a betrayal that cut so much that he never got over it, or moved on. He certainly didn't expect that his sacrifice would lead to her losing her husband on the battlefield. But now she is back in his life reopening wounds that never truly closed. And her daughter just reminds him of everything he lost. Charleigh knew what one decision could do to someone's life. Just one night with too much alcohol changed everything in her life. But she couldn't fully regret it because she got her daughter out of it. For years she has paid for her one mistake but she was done with allowing Holden to avoid her. Now she is going to fight for the man she has always loved. But she doesn't expect for her path to take another detour, or for the pain to be as much as it is. Can they both come to terms with the past in order to have a future?
I absolutely loved this story!! Riley Edwards always has a way with creating a story that sucks you in, and this one was no exception! Holden and Charleigh have gone through things that no one should ever have to deal with. There were times I really wanted to shake Holden in this book, just grab him and shake him! So many decisions without any kind of communication caused so much heartache and pain. And the things that outside sources did to them? Blew my mind and broke my heart for them!! This book took my heart on so many twists and turns, and I would change a single thing about it!
I absolutely loved this story!! Riley Edwards always has a way with creating a story that sucks you in, and this one was no exception! Holden and Charleigh have gone through things that no one should ever have to deal with. There were times I really wanted to shake Holden in this book, just grab him and shake him! So many decisions without any kind of communication caused so much heartache and pain. And the things that outside sources did to them? Blew my mind and broke my heart for them!! This book took my heart on so many twists and turns, and I would change a single thing about it!
January 19, 2022
I have been so excited for this book since we got a glimpse of what Holden was going through in the earlier books in the series. I love a good second chance romance and this one did not disappoint. My heart hurt for Holden early on in the series but it seriously broke for him getting his story.
Holden truly loved Charliegh for a decade. Although he's been without her way longer than he ever had her, there was just something inside him that couldn't let her go completely. He let her go because he didn't believe he was able to give her the life she wanted and deserved. Then one night he sees her with one of his teammates and realizes his life will never be the same again.
One drunken night changed everything for Charliegh and she would never be able to have the life she thought she would. But she can't regret the night she spent with Paul because now she has Faith. When she decides to marry Paul, she thinks she's doing the right thing, then he dies and she is left truly all alone. When Holden is almost killed, Charliegh reevaluates her life and feelings and makes the decision to see if what she and Holden share can be salvaged.
The hurt these two have inside them is extremely deep and they both have some confessions to make in order to make their relationship work. Then some deep and dark truths are finally revealed and they have to learn how to navigate this new life together.
This is my absolute favorite book of this series and I will definitely be listening to this one again in the near future. Erin Mallon and Joe Arden are two of the absolute best narrators and this book truly shows that. I want to point out that Chapter 18 by Joe Arden is by far one of his most phenomenal performances I have heard from him in a while. The emotion he is able to convey in this chapter gave me chills and brought tears to my eyes. This audiobook was an absolute treasure to listen to and 5 stars truly isn't enough.
Holden truly loved Charliegh for a decade. Although he's been without her way longer than he ever had her, there was just something inside him that couldn't let her go completely. He let her go because he didn't believe he was able to give her the life she wanted and deserved. Then one night he sees her with one of his teammates and realizes his life will never be the same again.
One drunken night changed everything for Charliegh and she would never be able to have the life she thought she would. But she can't regret the night she spent with Paul because now she has Faith. When she decides to marry Paul, she thinks she's doing the right thing, then he dies and she is left truly all alone. When Holden is almost killed, Charliegh reevaluates her life and feelings and makes the decision to see if what she and Holden share can be salvaged.
The hurt these two have inside them is extremely deep and they both have some confessions to make in order to make their relationship work. Then some deep and dark truths are finally revealed and they have to learn how to navigate this new life together.
This is my absolute favorite book of this series and I will definitely be listening to this one again in the near future. Erin Mallon and Joe Arden are two of the absolute best narrators and this book truly shows that. I want to point out that Chapter 18 by Joe Arden is by far one of his most phenomenal performances I have heard from him in a while. The emotion he is able to convey in this chapter gave me chills and brought tears to my eyes. This audiobook was an absolute treasure to listen to and 5 stars truly isn't enough.
November 10, 2022
Ok. So there were actually 2 stories here. One about Holden, Charleigh, and Faith and the other about the "missing" girls. Of the 2 stories, the situation with the girls was more intriguing.
Holden and Charleigh's story started out as a slow moving, agonizing, morose tale of betrayal. What Holden did was stupid and selfish. I chalk some of it up to his fragile male ego. What Charleigh did only compounded Holden's stupidity. What Paul did was cold-hearted, callous, and spiteful.
That being said, I was sick of both of them whining about the past situation. I was tired of Holden beating himself up. I was tired of Charleigh falling apart because of what Holden did. It irritated me more after she admitted she barely knew his teammate but married him anyway.
I liked Holden and Faith's interactions. After Holden got over himself, that was a sweet relationship. I was so glad when this story finally picked up the pace.
Charleigh's parents, Paul's mother and his sister were all a completely self serving unscrupulous bunch.
I thought it was silly how made Charleigh got about the lack of the second opinion when the first infraction was forgiven. was glad when the secrets were finally revealed and the HEA came together.
I still would have been interested in more focus on the secondary story and less on the whiny H & h. I listened to the audiobook and thought the narrators did a great job at conveying all of the different emotions.
I voluntarily listened to and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of the audiobook received via Booksprout.
Holden and Charleigh's story started out as a slow moving, agonizing, morose tale of betrayal. What Holden did was stupid and selfish. I chalk some of it up to his fragile male ego. What Charleigh did only compounded Holden's stupidity. What Paul did was cold-hearted, callous, and spiteful.
That being said, I was sick of both of them whining about the past situation. I was tired of Holden beating himself up. I was tired of Charleigh falling apart because of what Holden did. It irritated me more after she admitted she barely knew his teammate but married him anyway.
I liked Holden and Faith's interactions. After Holden got over himself, that was a sweet relationship. I was so glad when this story finally picked up the pace.
Charleigh's parents, Paul's mother and his sister were all a completely self serving unscrupulous bunch.
I thought it was silly how made Charleigh got about the lack of the second opinion when the first infraction was forgiven. was glad when the secrets were finally revealed and the HEA came together.
I still would have been interested in more focus on the secondary story and less on the whiny H & h. I listened to the audiobook and thought the narrators did a great job at conveying all of the different emotions.
I voluntarily listened to and reviewed the Advanced Reader Copy of the audiobook received via Booksprout.
October 27, 2020
Holy Mama, an emotional roller coaster of a ride, with ups and downs, twist and turns, one step forward and then 2 steps backwards, as Holden and Charleigh navigate their emotions, bombs, secrets, and relationship throughout the book and once again this author gutted me. Add in some suspense where Faith, Charleigh’s daughter, is concerned along with all the rest of the amazing characters and a lead into the next book with Jonny....holy mama...holy smokes...yes yes yes.
I thought I was prepared as this author seems to bring out every emotion when reading and of course the tears, sad and happy....but man oh man....I was not prepared to the depth of emotion that comes through on every page.
I was skeptical of Holden, knowing he was a man wh*** and how he can be turned around but holy moley, I was feeling all the feels for this character, his gut wrenching guilt, his hatred, his love, his soul searching and his fight to keep Charleigh and Faith.
Charleigh, a single mom raising Faith, who is still in love with Holden after all these years. Her strength and courage, on top of being an amazing mom....WOW.
Not enough stars to rate this book that has it all, love, hate, secrets, betrayals, heart breaking and heart wrenching scenes, tears, happiness, sweetness, some humour and of course some suspense and another epic ending that had me cursing the ending because I didn’t want it to end.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
I thought I was prepared as this author seems to bring out every emotion when reading and of course the tears, sad and happy....but man oh man....I was not prepared to the depth of emotion that comes through on every page.
I was skeptical of Holden, knowing he was a man wh*** and how he can be turned around but holy moley, I was feeling all the feels for this character, his gut wrenching guilt, his hatred, his love, his soul searching and his fight to keep Charleigh and Faith.
Charleigh, a single mom raising Faith, who is still in love with Holden after all these years. Her strength and courage, on top of being an amazing mom....WOW.
Not enough stars to rate this book that has it all, love, hate, secrets, betrayals, heart breaking and heart wrenching scenes, tears, happiness, sweetness, some humour and of course some suspense and another epic ending that had me cursing the ending because I didn’t want it to end.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*
October 27, 2020
“You might need tissues. You also might want to wrap your electronic device in bubble wrap before you start. And you might hate me for a few hours somewhere in the middle of the book. I hope by the end, we'll still be friends, and you'll forgive me for putting you through the wringer.”- Riley Edwards
Sorry Riley but had to quote you. Wow this was a difficult book. Don’t get me wrong... it is a great read. As with all your books I did in in one go, but boy did I want to smack these two on the head a few times. But I love them to bits.
The book has an awesome twist and man did I wanne kill some people that were already dead. Man! Can’t believe the lengths some people will go to. And I know it is just a story but hey! I live in the ones I read and that is why this is an awesome book.
If you read the previous books in the series, don’t miss this one and if you haven’t, please read the series. Its is Awesome!!
Holden and Charleigh’s story is painful, but so rewarding in the end. Wish I could live in Kent County.
Sorry Riley but had to quote you. Wow this was a difficult book. Don’t get me wrong... it is a great read. As with all your books I did in in one go, but boy did I want to smack these two on the head a few times. But I love them to bits.
The book has an awesome twist and man did I wanne kill some people that were already dead. Man! Can’t believe the lengths some people will go to. And I know it is just a story but hey! I live in the ones I read and that is why this is an awesome book.
If you read the previous books in the series, don’t miss this one and if you haven’t, please read the series. Its is Awesome!!
Holden and Charleigh’s story is painful, but so rewarding in the end. Wish I could live in Kent County.
October 27, 2020
I’m not sure where to start, I was just reading and kept opening and closing my mouth and not sure what to say, the twists were definitely there in this book. I loved Holden in all the other books and I couldn’t wait to see why he was so darn grumpy. So many ways Holden and Charleigh could’ve just talked to each other and worked out everything with each other. instead years later they both love each other but are still feeling betrayed by each other. I can’t give away anything else except her mother in law was a piece of work and so nasty to her granddaughter. Charleigh’s parents were just as bad and it’s no wonder her situation ended up being the way it was between her and Holden. Lots of tears and I love my alpha males. I loved thIs book but I still adore Delaney the most.....Standalone book but it has previous characters in the books which give a very complete story. I’m also really wondering about Johnny now.......
October 27, 2020
I am a huge fan of this series and I have been dyingggggg for Holden's book to be release and have mercy on me, it was worth the wait!!!!!! Hands down the best book of the series, 5 Stars isn't enough.
Riley Edwards gahhh this lady knows how to create stories and characters that are going to captivate her readers from beginning to end. All I kept saying throughout this book were the following phrases, oh my god, oh noo, ohh come on damn it, wait really and my favorite line of all, oh f*&K, yes I was cussing with all the goodness in this book.
This was an emotional ride that I was not prepared for but glad I got on. Holden and Charleigh are two of the most incredible characters from this series. I was just so drawn to their story, I just honestly liked everything in this book.
Riley Edwards gahhh this lady knows how to create stories and characters that are going to captivate her readers from beginning to end. All I kept saying throughout this book were the following phrases, oh my god, oh noo, ohh come on damn it, wait really and my favorite line of all, oh f*&K, yes I was cussing with all the goodness in this book.
This was an emotional ride that I was not prepared for but glad I got on. Holden and Charleigh are two of the most incredible characters from this series. I was just so drawn to their story, I just honestly liked everything in this book.
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