In the Arms of a Hero

Baytown Heroes #8

by Maryann Jordan

Detective Aaron Bergstrom didn't consider himself a player… he just wasn't sure he believed in love.
Belinda Crowder was a wedding photographer… she firmly believed in happily ever afters.

Insta-love when they met? No way.
Second-chance romance? Nope, not this either.

When it was finally their time… disaster struck. And now that he'd found the person who put the ‘real’ in real love, he wasn't about to let someone threaten her.

But it was a race against time for the detective to find out who might want to harm her… and why.

A Baytown Boys sub-series.
The Virginia Marine Police and the North Heron Sheriff’s Department - Keeping the county and waterways of the Eastern Shore of Virginia safe, follow along as they find love. Small town romantic suspense.

Genres: Romantic Suspense, Military Romance

320 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 6, 2024

About the author

As an Award Winning and International Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Kobo Best Selling Author, I have always been an avid reader. I joke that I "cut my romance teeth" on the old historical romance books. I’ve written as a hobby for over 30 years. In 2014, I finally gave in to the characters in my head pleading for their story to be told. Thus, Emma's Home was created.

My first novel, Emma's Home became an Amazon Best Seller in 3 categories within the first month of publishing. Its success was followed by the rest of the Fairfield Series and then led into the Love's Series. From there I have continued with the romantic suspense Alvarez Security Series and now the Saints Protection & Investigation Series.

My books are filled with sweet romance and hot sex; mystery, suspense, real life characters and situations. My heroes are alphas, take charge men who love the strong, independent women they fall in love with.
I worked as a counselor in a high school and have been involved in education for the past 30 years. I recently retired and now can spend more time devoted to my writing.

I have been married to a wonderfully patient man for 35 years and have 2 adult, very supportive daughters.
When writing, my dog or one of my cats will usually be found in my lap!

I love to hear from readers, so please email me!
authormaryannjordan@gmail.com
http://www.facebook.com/authormaryann...
www.maryannjordanauthor.com

Reviews

[Leanne ~ Tales From The Heart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aaron and Belinda's relationship started over flirting at her sister's bakery. Perhaps too fast and too soon while he had such baggage in his personal life to work out.
Fast forward about a year later and a friendship begins that could become so much more.
She's a photographer and he's a cop. They were steaming ahead when disaster happened. Will one of them survive?
I loved the pieces falling into place as the author took us on a journey of solving a crime and connecting the dots.
Great story, I love this town and it's people.

[Jennie Fortna · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the Arms of a Hero is book 8 in the Baytown Heroes series by Maryann Jordan. Love these heroes!

Up next is Adam Bergstrom, detective who doesn’t believe in love and Belinda Crowder, wedding photographer and totally believes in love. They flirt but he doesn’t let it go any further until months later they begin again as friends and more but when disaster strikes he is determined to protect Belinda and find the answers of…who and why…

I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy (ARC) of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Lindsay Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book as usual 5stars great story can’t wait for Bess and Brad book , should be a good one .x

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book eight in The Baytown Heroes series and it is Aaron and Belinda’s story and omg it is definitely a must read. Aaron is hoping to become a detective and even though he didn’t see himself as a player he just didn’t really believe in love which stems back from his childhood but something happen for a reason and it can change your life when you least expect it. Belinda is a talented photographer and she believes in love and happy ever after but she just hasn’t found that special person yet but still had hope that one day she would. Aaron and Belinda met at her sisters bakery and the attraction between them was instant and Aaron realised that he wanted to get to know her because she was different from any other woman that he had met and when they started talking he realised that they had gone to the same school and where as Aaron was popular Belinda was a nerd who hides behind her camera and she also had a bit of a crush on him not that she ever told him that. The more time that Aaron and Belinda spent together the chemistry between them became hard to ignore and when they eventually got together it was explosive and there connection became stronger. Danger is closing in and Belinda is the one with a target on her back so now it is a race against time for them to find the people responsible and bring them to justice before it is too late so that Aaron and Belinda can eventually get the happiness and future that they both want and deserve in the end. Wow this book certainly takes you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, action, danger, suspense, great characters, hope, love and situations that will have you turning the pages to see what will happen next and you will be unable to put this book down because it was so addictive because it had a beautiful storyline and outcome. I read this book in one sitting until the early hours of the morning and I definitely recommend that you read this book, series and other books by Maryann Jordan who is a amazing author and writer and certainly knows how to keep her reader attention throughout and you will not be disappointed. I can’t wait to read more books in the future.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another exciting, page-turner by Maryann Jordan.

Aaron and Belinda went to the same high school, but, since they ran in different circles, they never actually met. Belinda was a nerd who was a hard-worker at her mother’s bakery and with her schoolwork. She never really had the time to date. Nor did she ever have the self-confidence about her looks and her personality to approach a boy. In spite of that, she had a big crush on Aaron, but even spoke to him. She is now a professional photographer who still does not believe in her ability to be able to attract a man.

Aaron is now a down-to-earth police officer who is studying to become a detective. Yet, when he was in high school, Aaron was a handsome jock who was a girl-chaser. When he was very young, his mother had walked out on him and his family without saying goodbye. Because of this, he never felt he was loveable.

Thus, between his friends, his sports, and his “mommy issues,” he has no interest in becoming involved with any women. He only picked girls who were beautiful enough to fit into his image of a beautiful, girl who could build up his ego and make him feel loveable. Thus he never noticed that
Belinda.

The author opens this book with an exciting vicious murder that Belinda unexpectedly becomes involved in while she is photographing an event. Aaron is the police officer who is sent to help her. Belinda now realizes she still has a crush on him. On the other hand, Aaron actually just notices Belinda for the first time. He instantly falls in love with her. However, first Aaron must deal with Belinda’s safety and his “mommy issues.”

This is a complicated mystery that has so many twists and turns that it is very difficult to figure out who the killer is. This story is filled with non-stop action as Aaron and Belinda attempt to keep Belinda safe as they search for who is responsible for the vicious murder.

Readers will love all of the characters in the book, especially Aaron and Belinda. They are all friendly, helpful, generous, and kind to each other no matter what happens to them or around them.

[Miss Andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

No one in this earth writes sweet romances quite like Maryann Jordan. Her talent is never ending. She has the wonderful ability to be able to add to an extensive series whilst still making the story be fresh and vibrant and utterly addictive!!

This story is based within the Baytown World and it was great to catch up with a whole host of past characters and see how their lives are progressing.

Aaron and Belinda are so utterly right but for each other. I love how Maryann showed us the situation of right person, wrong time but also that they never gave up on each other, which made their journey so much more heartfelt and beautiful.

Aaron carries baggage from his past, experiencing something that no child should and my heart aches for the way this pain has directed his actions in order to protect himself and his heart.

Belinda is a beautiful, open and bright character. I love the side character of her sister and the relationship they have. But mostly I love the warmth and light she emits to those around her she’s so genuine and beautiful.

Absolutely loved the care and attention these two characters have their relationship and each other.

Another compelling, addictive and heartwarming read by a lady with limitless talent.

So many stars it’s impossible to count.

[Yvonne Cruz · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author takes us back to Baytown with its beautiful waters and a town filled with slightly tarnished heroes with huge hearts.
This story belongs to Detective Aaron Bergstrom whom we met in book 4 when his brother finds his HEA and professional photographer Belinda Crowler, who has returned to Baytown to help her sister with the opening of her new bakery.
In HS Belinda knew of Aaron but he was older and a jock while she was the shy girl behind the camera.
Sparks fly when Aaron sees Belinda behind the bakery display still unaware that they went to the same HS.
A sort of friendship develops but Belinda feels he is still a player and she wants nothing to do with that.
Time goes on and Aaron is ready to mend his relationship with Belinda. Things seem to be going well with them until the unthinkable happens and Belinda is put in danger. Who is responsible ? To whom is the danger targeted and why?
The story was filled with whodunit while still giving the readers a chance to “visit” with characters from previous stories.
Both characters were likable and well developed.
Another entertaining and engaging story in the series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solid my own.

[Sharon Grow · Rating 5 out of 5]

During his childhood, Officer Aaron Bergstrom had to work harder to achieve what was easy for others and he is determined to become a detective. Although he didn’t really remember local photographer Belinda Crowder from their high school years, he is really enjoying his time with her. She has enjoyed dating Aaron, but when she learns of his dating history and the time he will need to devote to his career, she ends their brief affair. Achieving his career goal, he and his partner are assigned the case of a man’s body that washed up on the beach. Dogged investigation will eventually lead to the man’s identity, but the case seems to stall. He hopes to reconnect with Belinda; is the time now right for them? When Belinda is injured and her home broken into, someone is targeting her, but who and why? As Aaron and other agencies join the investigation, will they be able to find the crucial piece of evidence that will identify the killer and allow Aaron and Belinda their second chance at happiness? An intriguing mystery and heartfelt second chance romance. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)

[Fedora · Rating 5 out of 5]

IN THE ARMS OF A HERO is the eighth in Maryann Jordan's Baytown Heroes series. Officer Aaron Bergstrom and photographer Belinda Crowder feel an immediate connection when he stops by her sister's bakery for coffee and she's working behind the counter. But their lives are spinning in different directions, and Aaron's past makes him reluctant to pursue anything remotely permanent. When the two reconnect months later, both of them are better able to talk through their still strong feelings for each other.

Maryann Jordan writes characters that feel very real, and I appreciate how their emotions truly run the gamut from their passionate attraction to their messier uncertainties and doubts and fears. Belinda and Aaron are also part of a vibrant community that includes their families and friends, and that network gives them support and strength as they connect and determine to move toward a shared future. Ms Jordan also includes a terrific balance of suspense and romance, and keeps those pages turning from the first to the last. I'm very much looking forward to more in this series!

[Melanie Marnell · Rating 5 out of 5]

You'll get caught up in this emotion filled and suspense driven story that includes a murder and an assassination attempt. Maryann Jordan is a master at creating notable and genuinely likeable characters. What happens to them matters to you. The strength of family, both blood and bond is an underlying theme in this book. Also, timing of events in our lives is perfectly explored. You can meet the right one but the timing is all wrong. If it's meant to be the timing will become right.

Aaron Bergstrom and Belinda Crowder's relationship journey begins with flirtation over coffee and éclairs. It burns hot and fast and then wanes quickly. They're on different paths at the time. Eventually, what's meant to be happens but at a slow, steady, sustainable pace that involves lots of communication and a developing a strong friendship. Throughout this romance you will root for these two and rejoice in their HEA!

[Theresa Stachoeiak · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are back at the Eastern Shore of Virginia in North Heron County. Aaron Bergstrom is a deputy with the North Heron Sheriff's Department. He is working towards passing the exam to become a detective. Belinda Crowder is a professional photographer who also helps her sister Bess in her bakery, Bess's Bakery . When Aaron and Belinda meet , it was the right place but not the right time. When they get back together a year later, their love story becomes entangled in a murder investigation. The story starts off with a bang from first page of the book and is gripping to the very end. There are twists and turns in this book where you really don't know the murderer till the end. We revisit a ton of Baytown law enforcement officers from various departments. I love books where there is more dialogue than simply telling. Aaron's and Belinda's love story is beautiful. Maryann outdid herself on this one. You won't be able to put it down.

[Di · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aaron and Belinda had their first shot at a HEA but unforeseen complications has them ending before they really began. Now almost a year later Aaron is ready to make Belinda his again and will do whatever it takes to show her that he is ready to start his future…with her. Belinda is a bit gun shy about Aaron, she was hurt the first time and even after a year, he’s still the only who makes her heart race….but can she trust him not to break her heart…again. When Belinda is targeted, Aaron shows her he is there for the long haul but first he has to find whoever is after her or it will end again just as they get their second chance.
Second chances, suspense, surprises with some twists and turns, steam and great characters made it impossible to put this read down till I was done. I loved the growth Aaron experiences when he loses the one that was meant to be his and I loved Belinda, kind, patient and not bitter.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*

[Anna-Marie Buchner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the Baytown Heroes series and Aaron and Belinda's story did not disappoint.

The first chapter seriously gutted me. I was like Maryann you're kidding me. You didn't do this in the beginning of the book. (I'm not spilling the beans you have to read it).

Aaron and Belinda's was a sweet love story. I loved that she had a crush on Aaron in High School but was a little sad for her since he never noticed her. But then again Aaron had issues of his own he was trying to over come. Especially being a preemie and lots of medical issues and development issues his first two years of life so I guess he had to prove himself in high school.

I will admit this read was rather suspenseful and I so pegged the wrong characters as far as the murder went and even the attempted murder. Great read definitely a non stop page turner.

Now I have to wait until October to read Brad and Bess's book.

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

A moment of beauty becomes a nightmare

All Belinda wants to do is take pictures that capture beautiful moments and memories, and to find love. The pictures are easy, the love not so much, especially when Aaron lets his doubts crush their fledgling relationship.
Aaron knew even as he made the decision, it was the wrong one, he was letting something special slip through his fingers. Regret eats at him, but he also knows he needs to deal with his childhood trauma and be secure in himself before he can be the man Belinda deserves. I love that he takes the time to work through his emotions and fears before then taking the time to woo Belinda and prove to her just how serious he is. I was unsure of Aaron as they dated first time, but the new and improved Aaron who openly discusses his fears, his feelings and his hopes for the future is far harder to resist.

[Vickie Chaisson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This romantic suspense is a maze of complicated twists and turns that will keep the reader engaged from 1st to last page. The storyline is intense and moves from a body that washes ashore through the work of law enforcement to solve the case. This is Aaron and Belinda's story and while their chemistry is off the chart their timing just doesn't seem right. You will fall in love with the characters and their small town life. Even secondary characters help move the story along and you want to know about all of them. The author has a way with leading the reader through all the bits and pieces of this investigation and still shocking them with the ending. The romance between Aaron and Belinda was sweet and complicated but you are rooting for them all the way. This book was first and foremost about family found and blood related and that family is worth the effort. The author has once again written a sweet likeable story thst I could not put down.

[J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aaron and Belinda were an amazing read!! Maryann Jordan weaves a beautiful story from their first meeting to finding their way back to one another after an emotional ending. Aaron has commitment issues that stem from his mom and that causes him to lose Belinda. As they begin to build up a friendship, Aaron opens up about his childhood and what led to his fear of commitment. It was a beautiful and emotional conversation between them that helps to tear down the walls between them. As their relationship blooms stronger this time around, tragedy strikes Belinda and Aaron must do whatever he has to protect her. Their story will grab you and won’t let go. I can not wait for Brad and Bess! I received an authors copy and I have left an honest review.

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

I volunteered to read and review an advanced readers copy of In the arms of a Hero . I really enjoyed reading this outstanding romance . Deputy Aaron Bergstrom has worked at the North Heron Sheriff's Department for about three years . Belinda remembers Aaron from highschool she had a crush on him . As they start dating life and Aaron's insecurities get in their way . After months apart Aaron realizes he's never stopped caring for her and wants another chance . As they attend a wedding Belinda finds herself in danger . Aaron and his family and friends step in to protect and stop the threats . This story is wonderful . It's full of romance and love with a bit of suspense . I highly recommend taking the time to read .

[Pam Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aaron is definitely a hero! He has served his country and has returned to Baytown to serve as first a patrolman as he studies to be a detective. Aaron is so focused on his job that when he meets the right woman he is convinced it’s not the right time. Belinda works as a photographer and for her sister, Bess in her Bakery. A chance meeting with Aaron gets her hopes up then dashed as she realizes she is more committed than he is. Advance time forward and Aaron now a detective realizes what he wants and needs is Belinda. Then a murder mystery, a dangerous situation and more intrigue, suspense and twists happen. How will they get their happy ever after? You don’t want to miss this book. Maryann Jordan takes us on quite the adventure with this book. 5+ stars.

[Arlene M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aaron is a deputy sheriff in North Heron County.
Belinda is a photographer
Bess is Belinda’s sister and owns the bakery in town.

Aaron and Belinda meet at her sister’s bakery with a bit of flirting and humor.
They were started to date but past issues and baggage. So life interferes and they
break up, but fate has a way of doing things if it was meant to be it will happen.
Now a year later Aaron makes detective and catches a case of a man washing up
On shore.
Belinda becomes a target due to her photography.
Can Aaron and law enforcement help keep
Belinda safe and solve the crime?

Maryann you never disappoint!

This book has suspense, danger, intrigue,
and a chance at love.

Great Job Maryann Jordan!!

[Larrissa Parde · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another visit to Baytown!

I always enjoy a visit to Baytown. I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about Aaron, he has some baggage, but who doesn't right? This was a slow burn, which reminds us that timing is everything. I absolutely adored Balinda as a heroine. She was strong and fierce. I really loved them together and the journey to get tp where they were going. Not every path is easy and that's definitely one of the reasons I love MD Jordan's books. I love her writing style and how she catches me off guard with who is the bad guy and why.
Once Aaron dealt with his own issues, the love story of Aaron and Balinda was so beautiful, it was so well written. Aaron absolutely made me swoon! This was a great visit to Baytown and I can't wait to see what's next! Enjoy!

[Stacey K · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when you think Maryann Jordan can't bring us a better book she does. This one is very entertaining and will hook you from the first page. Aaron doesn't believe in happily ever after while Belinda being a wedding photographer definitely does. Their first meetings are so fun and cute. Unfortunately, Aaron thinks they are better off apart. When they do come back together, Belinda's in trouble. As they try to figure out who's after Belinda and Aaron works to accept his feelings for Aaron, make this a read you won't be able to put down until you get to the end. The twists and turns along with the rest of the Baytown Heroes, keeps you turning the pages.

I received an ARC copy of this book.

[Merle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice contrast between the usual hero who has everything together. Aaron does not. A beautiful girl has dated him, and they have gotten closer until a dinner with Aaron's family goes sideways. Overhearing a conversation involving Aaron, Belinda begins to think she's misjudged Aaron, and thinks he's only out for a good time. Aaron's emotions get the best of him and he confesses his doubts to his big brother. His vulnerability is a change from the normal romance hero. Meanwhile, a few unusual things have happened in town, and Aaron is determined to participate in the investigation. When a mishap befalls Belinda, clues and suspects abound. The team bands together to plow through the data and solve the case ,

[Teresa Christianson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maryann Jordan has done it again. Great book.

It is sad to see two people who belong together walk away from each other. But they both had things to work out. Luckily, they find their way back to each other again and can move past their reasons for walking away. But then Belinda gets shot while dancing with Aaron on the beach at a wedding of a law enforcement officer. Was she the intended target for the bullet or was it Aaron?
I loved how Aaron worked through his issues with his mom leaving when he was very young and blaming himself because she couldn't deal with his needs as a premie. This is also why he always walked away from his girlfriends before they walked away from him.

[Jill Eshenbaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

She had a crush on him while they were in high school. He never knew she existed. Time passes and all of a sudden she’s the woman of his dreams. She’s the woman of his dreams and yet the time isn’t quite right and then disaster strikes. It’s always wonderful to go back to the small towns in Chesapeake Bay and hang out with the men and women who keep those small towns safe. But even in those little towns danger can still lurke. Another wonderful story, well written and guaranteed to keep the reader’s eyes glued to the page to make sure all is well with Aaron and Belinda. This is one of those series you never want to end.

[Amanda Zook · Rating 5 out of 5]

A relationship that didn't have time to grow gets a second chance.

Aaron and Belinda meet and its instant sparks, but neither one of them is ready for the intensity of their connection. They part ways and meet up again a year later. The sparks are still there. This time, Aaron is determined to give the relationship a chance.

The growth shown between these two characters both together and separately is very believable. I love that Aaron realizes what he could have with Belinda and takes a chance. They stick together during the hard times and grow even more as a couple. Another great addition to the Baytown Heroes series.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Belinda and Aaron’s story. The love between Belinda and her sister, Bess the new bakery owner is profound and sweet. When Aaron set his sight on Belinda as she helps her sister he is wowed by her beauty and her talent as a photographer. Belinda remembered Aaron as the popular athlete in high school while she was the “nerd.” They are like moths to flames for each other, but is the timing really, right? Are they both mentally ready? As Aaron investigates a homicide it is soon apparent that Belinda is somehow part of a complicated series of events.
I loved how this was a love story that took some time to culminate into a true relationship. The mystery was interesting

[Jane A · Rating 5 out of 5]

For Detective Aaron Bergstrom and photographer Belinda Crowder the attraction was instant, flirting over the bakery counter they were meant to be until history, hang ups, insecurities and simply timing got in the way. But when the timing is finally right and they look like finding their way back to each other disaster strikes.
Beautifully interwoven romantic suspense, who is the true target, can Aaron and his colleagues put all the pieces together. Thoroughly enjoyed the suspense of this crime laced story, a true whodunit laced with romance and of course lots of well loved Baytown characters. Maryanne Jordan delivers every time and absolutely cannot wait for Bess and Brad.

[Tamara Meadows · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is well-written with a mystery after the first chapter. Aaron and Belinda experience bad timing and bad luck but learn to trust each other for their future. The storyline takes place over a year and is very realistic about life's challenges. As this is part of a series, you get to check in with other characters from previous stories which adds to the depth of the book but it is not necessary to have read them beforehand to enjoy this one. I loved this book and enjoyed the storyline with its twists and turns. I did get an advanced copy but I also always buy the books too so I can support my favorite authors.

[Diane (Books and Tequila Blog) · Rating 5 out of 5]

In The Arms of a Hero is romantic suspense at its best. When Aaron and Belinda meet, Aaron isn’t in the right place personally or emotionally and lets Belinda become the ‘one who got away’. But when he gets his second chance he is determined to do things right this time.

“I hate to disappoint you, but I’m far from perfect.”
She held his gaze for a long moment and then said, “You don’t have to be a perfect person. You’re just perfect for me.”

When Belinda becomes a target, Aaron and the rest of the sheriff’s department have to keep her safe.

I love the Baytown Heroes series. Each story is a standalone with unique storylines.
-5 Stars-

[Jamie Plume · Rating 5 out of 5]

Belinda and Aaron went to High School together but she was the photography nerd crushing on the jock. Years later they meet again and became friends only to drift apart before they could commit to one another. Now Belinda is in danger and who comes to her rescue but Detective Aaron. As he is protecting her Aaron knows he can't lose her again. Its as if this tragic event is giving them the chance to finally realize that they truly belong together and it is time to stop making excuses why they shouldn't be. Loved that it was for once the male main character that had issues they needed to over come in the story for the couple to be together.