Laura's Safe Haven

Safe Haven Women's Shelter #1

by Danielle M. Haas

Leaving is always the hardest...and sometimes the deadliest

Pregnant and scared, Laura Metcalf has finally escaped her ex-boyfriend who’s spent years making her life miserable—who abused her and made her feel small. Now a new fear of her unknown future drives her to do whatever she must for her unborn child.

Cade Sulley’s construction company has a new employee—his best friend’s little sister—who comes with more trouble than he can handle. And a forbidden attraction he can’t resist. Trouble is multiplied when his office is ransacked, and Laura attacked. Cade vows to keep Laura safe while pouring his soul into his latest project. A project that captures Laura’s heart and gives her new purpose in the shape of a women’s shelter. But when the attacks on Laura turn deadly, she must learn to trust the one man who’s always been there for her…or lose her life to another man who wants to destroy everything she loves.

Genres: Romance, Romantic Suspense, Contemporary, Abuse, Suspense, Adult, Fiction

220 pages, Paperback

First published January 10, 2024

About the author

Danielle M Haas is a stay-at-home mom turned author. When she isn’t writing fast-paced romantic suspense novels with mysteries to live for and romance to die for, she’s busy being a taxi driver to her two busy kids and forcing her introverted self to talk to other soccer moms. Her kids and husband are her world, which is also shared with her hyper Bernie doodle, two sassy cats, and one leopard gecko who’s happy to chill on a rock all day. Her days are packed with cuddles, kisses, and a brain constantly thinking of new ways to create danger and romance for her next book.

Reviews

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

'Some stories aren't meant to be retold...

....but new stories are always waiting to be discovered'

And Laura is definitely writing herself a new story. She surprises herself with the strength and determination she finds as she digs deep and stands strong to escape her abusive past and secure a future filled with love for her baby. I really like Cade for Laura, having suffered with trauma himself, he knows he cannot just take over and make decisions to protect her, he needs to allow her to grow, to make decisions with him standing beside to offer support if needed. He shows her just how strong she is and that she just needs to believe in herself and all her hopes and dreams will come true.
An emotional but empowering read, this book is a lovely start to this new series and I love that we also have the crossover with Crossroads Mountain Retreat and the cast we met there. I read this on Kindle Unlimited.

[Debbie Caswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fast flowing story that has a number of storylines You have Laura finding her independance You have the love story between her and Cade at the same time there is two mysteries happening and the start of a wonderful home for women

Laura's life has never been easy she had an abusive father and a mother who never stood up for her children as she was totally subjugated by her husband. Growing up she had a massive crush on her brothers best friend Cade. Wanting to escape her father she married Ethan one of her fathers employees little did she know that she was jumping from the fire into the frying pan. Ethan is just as abusive as her father maybe more as he is also physically abusive. Cade had=s returned from the military and has his own demons and while he is seriously attracted to Laura he knows she is off limits not only is she married but she is his best friend and business partners little sister. Whe laura discovers she is pregnant she finally finds the courage to walk away from Ethan hoping to help her, her brother Matthew offers her a job at his and Cade's construction business. It doesn't take Laura long to use her smart mind to realise that something is going on with the business and as her and Cade start to investigate they are each attacked. Who is using the business as a front. Cade is falling harder for Laura all the time and the feeling is mutual but can he keep her safe long enough for them to have a future You will have to read to see.

[Denise H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laura’s Safe Haven is a wonderful start to Danielle’s new series. There is so, so much to love about this book from the characters, the location, the storyline, the emotions, and more…gah, it’s just a great read!

Laura and Cade make a perfect match. I loved seeing Cade’s protective side emerge with Laura and the way they complemented each other. Things from her past – family and outside influence had crushed her spirit and made her skittish, reserved, and questioning just about everything. I loved watching her bloom and grow finding a purpose with Cade’s help, reassurance, and caring nature, along with her friends and siblings at her side. There’s plenty of suspense, a touch of mystery, and romance to hold your attention and keep you turning pages. I read their story in one sitting; I just couldn’t put it down. It was great to revisit Pine Valley, Tennessee and all its’ characters. I’m really looking forward to the rest of this series.

*Laura’s Safe Haven is the start of a new series that spins off of Danielle’s Injured Heroes series set at the Crossroads Mountain Retreat in Pine Valley, Tennessee. Laura Metcalf has a direct connection to Crossroads of Innocence (Injured Heroes, book 6) which is her older sister Jude Metcalf’s story and is mentioned throughout. She is also a supporting character in Code Name: Gemini (co-written by Janie Crouch and Danielle). More of her background is revealed in both these additional books but you do not have to read either book to enjoy Laura’s Safe Haven but they will add more insight to her character.

*I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review. I will definitely be adding this new series to my book collection.

[Neeru Rana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a huge fan of Danielle's writing and just as expected she blew my mind and left me wanting for more. I lost myself in the read from the first page and finished it in a single sitting. I could not help but fall in love with Laura and Cade. They have know each other there whole life Laura had a crush on Cade however all the attraction is new to Cade. Due to the circumstances they end up loving together which makes hiding there feelings extremely difficult. I was waiting with batted breath for them to get together as they deserved each other. There were so many moments where I was left speechless. The mystery kept me on the edge throughout the read. By the end, I was craving for more. I cannot wait for what's to come next. Thanks to Danielle for the advanced copy of this amazing read.

[Valeri Sullivan (vsulvn29) · Rating 5 out of 5]

New life, new meaning, new purpose.

First off, Pine Valley, Tennessee may be the most wonderful fictional town in the state or the most terrifying and that’s a good thing. In book one of the Safe Haven Women’s Shelter we’re lucky enough to get a glimpse or two of our friends from The Injured Heroes series, because, seriously, none of us were ready to say goodbye, while finding out all about the other fascinating (and sometimes nuts) inhabitants. Thank you!

[Kierston Reno · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I’m speechless. For a quick read it was packed with suspense, plot twists, and the most genuine characters I’ve ever met in the pages of a book. I’m excited to see the tiny Tennessee town grow in detail in future books as Laura makes her dreams come true.

[Q.rious · Rating 3 out of 5]

2,5 Stars. Didn't like the female lead.

[Jo · Rating 2 out of 5]

1.5 stars

[Liz Sadowsky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laura and Cades story is a wonderful read. It’s fast paced with lots of twists and turns to keep you reading till the very end. Laura is trying to remove herself and unborn baby from an abusive ex. Cade has always had feeling for her which he has kept to himself. How they figure out what’s happening with his company and start up Laura’s women’s shelters makes for a fantastic page turning read.

[Karon Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a spin off from the Injured Heroes series. Laura has finally screwed up her courage to leave her abusive boyfriend when she discovered her pregnancy. She broke the cycle of abuse her mother was never able to do. But when you leave is the most dangerous time for a woman, because the abuser feels emboldened to do whatever necessary to regain their control. Cade is Laura's brother's best friend and has had a crush on her since his return from the military. But he feels unworthy of anyone's respect, let alone love. But he's going to protect Laura if it's the last thing he does. I loved how these two struggled together, figuring out their budding relationship while figuring out the mystery surround the construction company. This was definitely a slow burn in the romance, but I actually appreciated how much these two wait to figure things out before they commit. Exciting conclusion and great HEA. Laura's idea of a safe haven for women is the impetus for the new series and I'm so looking forward to these stories.

[Carina Hales · Rating 4 out of 5]

A charming and gentle romantic suspense with thrills along the way. Cade and Laura connected romantically and formed a perfect partnership. Good to see appearances from Jude and Brooke with the residents from Pine Valley. A good start to a new series with some new characters to meet along the way.

[MK · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book from beginning to end. Ms. Haas simply amazing!
We first meet Laura in Gemini which I loved this women right away.. What a book that was which I highly recommend.

Here Laura is trying to get her life back on track. She’s working a little bit at Crossroads Mountain Retreat. When he brother offers her a job in the office of his company. A little light office work. Cade Sulley her brothers partners is not happy about it, but he accepts the help. The first day goes ok. But what happens after he leaves the office isn’t what either of them expected at all. He finds Laura in the office on the floor. There was someone in the office. She has no idea who it was. Laura is approached of her ex boyfriend who’s not a nice man at all. But Cade steps in. He was the best.

Laura didn’t know what she’d do if it wasn’t for Cade. He was always there for her when she needed someone.

The story was sweet, heartwarming, and intense in areas. It broke my heart in areas too. I loved all the characters in this book. But Mrs. Collins was just the best. There’s one scene I wanted to reach out and hug her.

But then happy oh so very happy.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

A true safe haven 💖

Pine valley is the perfect place to be.
This is a spin off from the cross roads series.
So wonderful to see Characters crossover over to this series. It's like home.. Absolutely well written. I love stories by this author.

Laura a single mom who's caring and loving to all. With people who aren't always so nice in her life. The last person one would think would hurt anyone, but sometimes it's a shock when folks show their true colors.

Laura,
Loves to help everyone.
A kind a loving person. But someone thinks things should be done differently.

A safe haven is what Laura's working towards.

Danger seems to be around every corner.


Another fabulous Read 📚

[Heather Wray · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s a rule; you don’t go after your best friend’s sister. However, when it becomes apparent to Ben, Thea’s in danger all bets are off.
I really enjoy Gia’s books, and this one is no exception. A sleepy little town that’s a hot bed of miscommunication, and danger. With great characters, twists, surprises, and of course a HEA.
Loved how this author seamlessly moved us from the Retreat into town, to continue with the new series.

I received a review reader’s copy of the book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[Brittany Lea · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF 30% I felt absolutely nothing for these characters and absolutely nothing for their relationship. It all felt very forced and flat.
The dialogue is very juvenile with no real substance.

For those who need some spice in their romance, this one is not for you!

[Vickie Milton · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laura and Cades story is of friendship becoming more. Each helping the other to overcome their pasts to have a great future.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This beautiful, heartwarming romantic-suspense centers on the growing love story between the characters of Laura and Cade. The story also includes a riveting suspense that will keep the reader on the end of her seat.

Laura had a very difficult childhood with an abusive father who slowly crushed her spirit. Eventually she marries Isaac who works with her father. Unfortunately, he is even more abusive. It is only when she discovers she is pregnant that she gets up enough nerve to leave her husband. After she leaves, Laura’s brother hires her to work at his construction company.

Laura and her brother grew up with Cade, who was his best friend. While growing up together the much younger Laura had a crush on Cade and constantly followed him around. Of course, he considered her a bothersome pest.

When Cade returns from the military, he becomes her brother’s partner in his company. That is when he finally sees her as an attractive, beautiful woman. However, there are two obstacles he can’t overcome. First, as his best friend’s sister, she is off-limits. Secondly, she is married, even if it is to an evil person.

However, they are both confused when someone attacks Laura and then later ambushes Cade. They are not sure who the culprit is; is it Isaac or someone different from Cade’s construction company. Laura is terrified that whoever it is will seriously harm her or her baby. So, Laura moves in with Cade who promises to keep her safe.

Throughout this ordeal, Laura and Cade find it extremely difficult to hide their feelings. Finally they admit their feelings for each other and agree to openly and publicly express their feelings.

Readers will be enthralled with the constant action and the dangerous attacks that the couple must endure while they are hunting for information about the attacker. Also, stay alert! Throughout this story, the author includes several surprises that will astound readers!

[Reading Addict · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a fan of Danielle Haas' Injured Heroes series and when it ended I was hoping that there would be a spin off and I was right! Laura's Safe Haven picks up where Code Name: Gemini left off. Laura Metcalf has lived in Pine Valley, Tennessee all of her young life. She has survived the mental abuse of her father, the physical abuse of her past boyfriend and now she will start a new chapter as a single mother. Laura is determined to give her child a better life than she had. Her older brother offers her a job working at his office and she jumps at the chance to earn more even though she has a couple of other part time jobs. Cade Sulley is Laura's brother's business partner. He has known Laura all of his life and she was always the annoying little girl following them around. In recent years she grew up to be a beautiful young woman with terrible tastes in boyfriends. Cade isn't excited about Laura working with them and he makes no bones about hiding his feelings. Laura has always had a crush on her brother's best friend but he never seemed to notice her. She needs this job and plans to work hard and prove her worth. When things go wrong at the office, Laura and Cade are drawn together to try and figure out what is happening and why. Laura and Cade's story is a slow burn romance which makes complete sense. Laura has a lot going on in her life to begin with but add in the new dangers and threats, these two have their work cut out for them! It was told from dual POV and stands alone however you will see previous characters appear throughout the story. There are no explicit love scenes but Laura's Safe Haven is loaded with love!

[Sharon Grow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laura Metcalf, who we met briefly in Code Name: Gemini, has finally escaped her abusive relationship and is making it on her own. She is pregnant and determined to make a better life for her and her child. Laura is grateful when her brother offers her a job at the construction business he owns with his best friend, Cade Sulley. She has been half in love with Cade since they were children and he makes her feel safe and valued. He is attracted to Laura and has no idea how he will be able to spend hours with her in the office without letting her know how he feels. The man who abused her and is the father of her baby, continues to threaten her as Cade vows to protect her. A flash drive that contained his company financial records will lead them into danger as they search for answers. As a woman who was abused, she proposes a women’s shelter, a safe haven for women and children. An explosive ending as Cade and Laura fight for their lives and their future! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)

[Becky Claxon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I couldn’t believe what Laura’s father did to her and her siblings. It got worse when she found a man that was as bad as her father and then got pregnant. The sad part was the small town knew what her boyfriend was doing to her because of all the bruises. I was glad she finally got the nerve to leave him. Cade and Laura’s brother Matthew had started a construction business and was doing well. When Matthew had started acting weird and left without notice to Cade, he did contact Laura and ask her to help with the office. I felt bad for Cade as he had feelings for Laura but knew her brother would not want him with her. I was glad Cade was determined to protect her as she was not safe from her ex or her father. There were some unsavory things going on with the construction company Cade and Laura were trying to figure out. There were some of edge of your seats actions happening. I encourage you to read the book.

[Alessia Ferrigno · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️

Sono indecisa se dagli due stelle per la traduzione completamente sbagliata o dargli quattro stelle per la trama e per quello che succede, quindi credo che dargli tre stelle, quindi una via di mezzo, sia giusto
Questo libro è una specie di continuo del libro Crocevia d’innocenza (ultimo volume della serie Eroi Feriti) appunto qui rincontriamo Jud (sorella di Laura), Wade (Fidanzato di Jud) , Matthew (fratello di Laura) , i genitori di Laura ed Isaac (purtroppo oserei dire)
Questa serie è diversa dalle altre, spero solo che le traduzioni degli altri libri sia stata fatta meglio, non capisco veramente perché faccia cosi pena (problemi di traduzione, grammatica completamente sbagliata, il passaggio dal tu al lei cosi all’improvviso (problema che effettivamente avevo trovato anche in Eroi Feriti))
É veramente un peccato, perché come detto prima questa serie a veramente del potenziale, speriamo bene per i libri futuri
Il finale? Mi è piaciuto ✨

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

This the first book the Danielle's newest series and it is an offshoot from her Injured Heroes series. I absolutely loved every book I've read from the Injured Heroes series, so I definitely came into this book with high expectations. I was not disappointed!! Danielle does a great job of pacing and creates really great characters. The action started from the get go and I love that. She was able to continue that pace throughout the entire book. It was fun to see some of the characters from Injured Heroes and get some little updates on their lives in this book as well. You definitely don't need to have read the books to enjoy this one. Just some hidden gems to stumble upon if you have. Danielle writes strong characters and really has a way of drawing you in, creating an emotional connection to them. I will be anxiously awaiting the next book in this new series!!

[Gazelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Danielle has a way of drawing me into the world she’s creating and making me love her characters. Some of our favorite characters from Pine Valley made appearances in this book. Laura is finally ready to leave her abusive relationship when she finds out she’s pregnant. Cade is Laura’s brother’s best friend who she’s always had a crush on. When Cade steps in to help protect Laura he finds that the close proximity makes it impossible to not act on his feelings. There is a lot of mystery, intrigue, romance and a good dose of the bad guys finally getting what they deserve while their victims are finally free to live life to it’s fullest.

[Tesh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this! Sweet, suspenseful, dramatic and a mystery plot with a romance. So good!
This was about Laura who's abusive husband keeps coming after her, and her brothers best friend and business partner, Cade who tries to keep her safe.

Laura and Cade have a history spanning back years, of unrequited crushes for each other. Their chemistry and their connection are strong because of that history but it's the trauma that brings their feelings out.

Very well written, Danielle Haas has a knack of giving us a heart felt, emotional story with truly likeable characters one can get involved with.

Extremely well done and highly recommended!

[Elora Maxwell · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really thought I would love this one as I’ve been reading these contemporary romance x thrillers lately. Sadly, I found this one to be kind of boring and a bit cringy.

The characters feel underdeveloped which just makes the romance even more unrealistic. Laura and Cade needed a lot more time together and more to do before I would even consider their romance riveting. Even though the book was quite short, I still found myself skimming through sections that were slow.

I do like the setting and the side characters have promise, so maybe others in the series are better. Now that the actual women’s shelter is maybe established by the end. This would make a good hallmark movie though.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet and mysterious

I really enjoyed the romance with a bit of thriller vibes this had. I'm definitely going to check out more from this author.

This would be a good option for the under 18 crowd that likes romance/thrillers/mysteries without the spice level some books can have. Or for those who like less explicit books. This has great chemistry with the main characters without the spicy scenes.

I enjoyed the supporting characters and getting to know the town and how everyone wanted to support building the shelter. Can't wait to see what comes in the rest of the series.

[Alibi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivated from page one, I love how Danielle weaves her stories. This introduction into a new, spinoff series from the Injured Heroes series was great, and I absolutely loved how she interconnected the characters. I despise abuse, and as hard as it can be to read about, I love reading of characters overcoming those horrible circumstances and finding the life they deserve as Laura did with Cade (that being said, triggers for some individuals are possible in reading). Cade is a very special man with his caring and protectiveness and understanding. Laura is amazingly strong, not to mention fierce in her protectiveness of her child. Danger and pulse-pounding suspense take you on an amazing journey as this little family finds their HEA

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Laura Metcalf left her boyfriend because of the abuse. She finds out she pregnant and is protecting her unborn child. She spent years with him because her father said it will be a scandal in town. He is the mayor and he doesn't treat his kids good. She has had a crush on her older brothers best friend. Cade Sulley said he will.protect her. She finds out that he had feeling for her but didn't want to cross the friendship. She gets attack in their construction office. It has surprises you don't expect

[Laura R · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is so much packed into this story which is the beginning of a new series. This small-town story revolves around Laura Metcalf, who is pregnant and on her own, and Cade Sulley, who is her brother's best friend. It is filled with danger and mystery, a dysfunctional family, an abusive ex, secrets, and so much more. I loved Cade's protectiveness and how Laura found the strength to stand up for herself. There were also interesting secondary characters.

[Karen Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet romance with a mystery to keep it moving

This book is the first in a spin off series to the Injured Hero’s/Crossroads series. You may have met Laura when reading Jude’s story in that series. I like that Laura is a strong main character and doesn’t make that one silly decision that many MC’s make which places them in peril. Cade is easily likeable. Looking forward to the next book.