The Keeper

Fall River #1

by G.K. Brady

A mountain blizzard. An injured dog. A romance that caught them both by surprise.

Hailey Bailey craves safety. Raised by an alcoholic father chasing a dream of surfing superstardom, the down-to-earth health inspector just wants a comfortable salary and benefits. But when she attempts to save a lost dog in a blizzard and causes a pickup truck to crash, she’s awed by the handsome driver who protects her from the storm.

Noah Hunnicutt can’t catch a break. Struggling to keep his tavern afloat and impress his judgmental father, the twenty-eight-year-old family pariah is also fending off an obsessed hookup and his money-grabbing, two-timing ex-girlfriend. To top it off, he never expected he’d be rescuing the very woman who made him wreck his truck. But with the gregarious beauty now stranded in town, he can’t say no when she offers to help him out by waiting tables.

Enchanted by the tiny hamlet’s cast of quirky characters, Hailey begins to envision a life there … with the hunky bar owner on her arm. But a series of menacing notes has her rethinking that future. Meanwhile, Noah discovers his troubles aren’t only with vengeful exes when the lovely lady’s smarmy boss arrives to shut his business down. As Noah grapples with doubts about Hailey's honesty, she contends with an increasingly hostile work environment that has her questioning her moral compass.

Can they overcome the outside forces working against them and cultivate a lasting love? Or will they be left to wonder what could have been?

The Keeper is the lighthearted first book in the Fall River small-town romance series that includes witty dialogue, adorable doggos, and a little bit of steam.

Genres: Romance, Small Town Romance, Fiction, Amazon, Contemporary, Family

398 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 14, 2024

About the author

G.K. Brady was born in Japan and grew up in Vietnam and Singapore—and many would argue she has yet to grow up.

Since childhood, all sorts of stories and characters have lived in her imagination, elbowing one another for attention, so she’s finally giving them their voice on the written page.

A writer of contemporary romance, she loves telling tales of the less-than-perfect hero or heroine who transforms with each turn of a page.

G.K. is the proud mom of three grown sons. When she’s not writing, she might be reading, traveling, drinking wine, listening to music, or gardening—sometimes all at once! She currently resides in Colorado with her very patient husband.

Reviews

[Rebecca Merlene · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF. So bad. Boring. Slow moving.

[Tracey Cramer-Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the Hunnicutt brothers (all three of them, although Noah was the focus of this story) and the town of Fall River. And of course Chance, the dog that brought Noah and Hailey together in the first place. Both Noah and Hailey were an interesting mix of vulnerability; it was realistic and I could understand why each acted the way they did (although I confess I’m still not entirely certain why Noah felt he was such a screw-up; it’s not like his dad was a jerk). I loved that when Hailey made suggestions, Noah respected her for it (and vice versa), and that they supported each other’s dreams (after a misunderstanding!) and figured out together how to thwart the ‘bad guys’!. The banter between these two was great, although maybe a little too much emphasis (for my tastes) on the physical aspects of each character. I also felt that what Hailey experienced at the hands of her coworker would/should have had more emotional impact and longer-lasting effects.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first in a new series and this is Noah and Hailey’s story.
Hailey is a health inspector who yearns for a comfortable life and to feel safe, but when she stops to help a lost dog during a blizzard, she causes a pickup to crash which is driven by Noah, and he protect her from the storm. Noah is struggling to keep his tavern afloat, and to appease his judgemental father, and with Hailey now stuck in town, she starts working waiting tables for him.
This is a well written story which is easy to read, and has family, friendships, emotions, drama, angst, enemies / lovers, opposites attract, humor, witty banter, expectations, survival, injustice, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and heartwarming, small town romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an amazing start to a new series and a small town romance.
I loved the chemistry between Noah and Hailey meet, stuck in a snowstorm in his truck, trying to stay alive until they are rescued with the dog that she rescued.
They are amazing together but he owns a tavern in Fall River and she is a health inspector, but she keeps that to herself, that is until she is outed by her boss. After an unannounced inspection the tavern is shut down but foul play is at work, especially with her smarmy boss.
Can they get their hea when things start to go wrong badly. Jealous exes, pushy bosses and a stalker that doesn't want her around.
A must read that you will love. Can't wait for the next book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.

[Cindy Hardegree · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful beginnings of a new series by a marvelous author. With slow burn, a mystery unwinds into hot action, and care over an abused puppy turns happily ever after for all.
I received this book as an arc from HiddenGems and am voluntarily submitting my review.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fall River #1

Hailey Bailey is with the Colorado Department of Public Health as a food inspector. She likes the security of her job but really wants to own a bookstore. Her job takes her to the small town of Fall River where she had been to before. She is driving in a snowstorm when she stops and tries to help a dog and then her car won't start and almost gets hit by a truck driven by Noah.

Noah Hunnicutt had been in Denver but was now on his way home to Fall River fighting through a snowstorm when a dark shape darted in front of his vehicle and then another and he ended up down an embankment. Now he's stuck in the storm with Hailey, and her dog until a wrecker can come pull him out and tow her car and end up there overnight.

Noah is struggling to keep his bar up and running and when Hailey offers to help him out at his bar while she's stuck in town he agrees. He has no idea she's an inspector until her new boss shows up to shut him down and making her do the paperwork. He is mad at her but she thinks someone is out to get him and wants to help uncover it all.
Slow burn but the longer they are around each other the more the attraction grows and the closer they become.

Now we have threats being left on Hailey's car windshield, and some other twists and turns you don't see coming. Can they survive it all?

4.5 stars
Love the brothers and other side characters that make the town what it is. And of course Chance!

[Patricia Baxes · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really good read! While the book started a tad slow for me, it really took off after about chapter 5. The storyline is really good; the characters all played together well; the plot twists and turns were excellent; and the HEA definitely was a winner. This one belongs on your TBR for sure! (I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and really enjoyed it.) ❤️❤️

[Sharon Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an amazing book to start a brand new series. I loved everything about Noah & Hailey’s story - from their first “official meeting” right up until the very end. What I wasn’t expecting were all the twists and turns throughout the entire story. Every time I thought I knew what was going to happen next, I ended up being blindsided because I wasn’t even close.
As much as I enjoyed the whole romance between Noah and Hailey, I have to give a special mention to the supporting characters. They brought so much to the entire storyline and had me laughing so hard at times.
Needless to say, I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series, especially knowing who one of the characters will be.

[Gillian · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic start to a new series.
Hailey Bailey just wants to have secure life after what she went through as a child.
Noah just wants to make sure he doesn’t disappoint everyone ex specially his father.
Loved all the characters in the book as I think they were exceptional in the book.
Can’t wait for the rest of the series.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

She will suffer a crash in a snowstorm and he will protect her during the snowstorm. They both have fathers who are no good but they will try to prove they are better than their fathers think they are. How will they get on? Will love form? Can they prove their fathers wrong? See how they get on
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! I loved Noah and Hailey! We've met Noah before in his cousin's book (Guarding the Crease) and it was fun to learn more about him and see him fall in love with such a strong woman. It was great to watch Hailey overcome her upbringing and work issues and find happiness. All the supporting characters were people I'd love to hang out with (except for a couple as you'll soon agree lol). I really enjoyed the suspense too - kept me up reading way too late, and the ending is not what I expected at all! Can't wait to read more about the citizens of Fall River!

[Alisha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend!

This was an incredible start to a new series! This book gripped me from the beginning. The suspense kept me from being able to put it down as I needed to know what was going to happen next. I loved Noah and was sad that he didn't realize his worth and that he was not a screw-up. I wanted to give Hailey a hug after everything she went through. Noah and Hailey were perfect together. They had hot chemistry and I really liked how they supported each other. I adored Chance and Dixie was very entertaining. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book!

[Michele Del Rey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hailey and Noah were both just trying to make their lives better when they meet. Oh my, this book was a sweet small town romance. A little bit of heat but that was fine because the story was so good a little went a long way. Loved these characters and how they worked together to make each other better.

[Carly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m sitting here shaking my head at this book, my brain going “Fum-fah, fum-fah.” It’s in a stew about this book. The book is good, and this same book is bad…but it’s a balanced bad, hence the 3-star rating.

First, it’s 398 pages and about 100 pages too long. Seriously. I’m a voracious reader and unless I slow myself down, I read fast. However, I started this book on 25 October and didn’t finish it until 2 November. I put it down a lot and came close to DNF’ing it. So, so close. Many times.

The beginning is so slow a tortoise would outwalk it. Up to chapter 5 we’ve endured our main characters’ backstories, and little else. We’re stuck in the characters’ pasts. The story hasn’t taken hold yet and here, 10% into the book, we are still idling in neutral.

The main female character, Hailey Bailey, is a mess. She’s a food inspector with the Department of Public Health and is apparently handed some bad news at a Christmas party where a new coworker is commandeering her little department. She lacks a backbone and caves frequently, putting up with ego-shattering disappointments, citing her “big dream to fund” as her reason for putting up with the extraordinarily bad behaviors. We aren’t told what that dream is until the 20% completion mark, so we don’t have anything to balance the blow to her professional standing with whatever her dream is. She comes across as someone who buckles under pressure.

Hailey Bailey has a sister, Kaylee, who gives the worst advice ever. Apparently Kaylee is in on Hailey’s big dream, and tells her to just stick it out, not make waves. This continues through the book. I’m not sure what Kaylee’s role is in the book – perhaps she lends support to Hailey’s rubbery backbone.

The main male character, Noah Hunnicutt, is Fall River royalty, a relatively big fish in a little town pond. He’s written as a flibbertigibbet who ran through a two-million-dollar trust fund and ended up with nothing to show for it. He is handsome—of course—and a womanizer; all sorts of women come out of the woodwork pawing over him. He runs away rather than ending his relationships or hookups which makes him pathetic, rather than sympathetic. He is belittled by his father – but later in the book the father suddenly becomes kind and filled with fatherly tough-love. The father is another character that seems to be unnecessary. Noah has three brothers, and the four of them have a good familial friendship that resonates well.

In chapter 6, our two love interests have their meet-cute, and it’s an interesting take on getting caught in a blizzard together. But instead of being stranded in a cabin, they’re stranded in his truck. To further stretch the will-they-won’t-they-make-it moment, Noah realizes he was in too much of a hurry to fill up his gas tank returning home from Denver and berates himself. I joined him – he’s born and raised in the mountains and admits he knew better, just didn’t want to take time to fill his truck’s gas tank. Geez…

There’s the usual inappropriate lusting that goes on in the truck. Each thinks about how hot the other is and what they’d like to do about it, but it’s too cold to do anything beyond staying alive. This is the beginning of their slow burn. I like a slow burn story, and Ms. Brady does write a good slow burn.

In chapter 8, we’re again into the characters' histories. It’s interesting enough, but again we’re back in the past. It’s a good way for the two stranded characters to pass the time, but we’ve already had so many back stories that it’s time to move on.

In chapter 9, we’re finally getting a story. Hailey finds a convenient VRBO to hunker down in at least until the blizzard passes, and Noah and his brothers get started on their projects. The story definitely picks up now. The book’s characters are fully engaged, and things are happening to them, allowing us to see how they handle pressure and stress.

I liked and disliked our two lovers. Through the writer’s excellent writing style, I became invested in them, even when I didn’t want to be. Their plights mattered, and I wanted them to have an HEA; they certainly earned it!

Some memorable characters make up the story: Neve (“Doc Embrey”), the veterinarian; Dixie & Dewey Dobbs who work at Noah’s bar; Amy Caufield, who owns a coffee shop (a must in every smalltown book); Chance, canine extraordinaire; and a slew of others with lesser roles. These supporting characters are well thought-out and breathe life into the story, giving the town a patina of realism.

There are also some villains in the book, and others who perpetrate evil by dint of being weak – Hailey’s boss at the Department of Health comes to mind. He was ineffective and instead of protecting his valuable employee, he threw her to the wolves, in this case a conniving coworker who became Hailey’s supervisor…again due to the weakness in Hailey’s actual boss, the man over the department.

Evil behavior seems to pop out everywhere. Ursula, an ex of Noah’s, is a nasty bit of goods who – for some unfathomable reason – breaks out of her terrible persona and has a sentence in the book where she turns into a “good guy,” to be heard from never again. Another ex of Noah’s is seriously obsessed and coupled with Ursula and Germaine and Lauren and any number of other women lined up to pounce on the too-handsome-for-his-own-good Noah, we get a picture of a (very) tarnished hero.

The plot is twisty, but obvious. We know for certain what’s going to happen after the 9th chapter. We can see it from the posturing of the people who are trying to take down Hailey and Noah. It isn’t bad to have an obvious plot. Most romance angles have been tackled numerous times and can still be fun to read. It’s all about the writing (IMHO). Ms. Brady is a substantial writer, and I do enjoy her style.

There are a couple surprises at the end when all the loose ends are tied up. One I didn’t care for – it involved one of the important secondary individuals and seemed like a cop-out – the behavior was out of character. The other was hinted at, and as readers we could take the hint and think on it, or leave it and just read. I do both, depending on the book, and in this case, I left the clues alone and enjoyed being surprised.

There are a couple little stoppers in the book – very small:
 In chapter 8, this sentence has one “a” too many: “It’s a just a castle in the air.” The first “a” should be removed – bet it’s an editing error, and not a bad one.
 In chapter 9, Hailey wakes up at 06:15 and it’s dark outside. In the same paragraph, we’re told “When she peered out the window, the sky above was robin’s-egg blue, but the jagged peaks surrounding the town crowded out the sunlight, leaving it in morning shadows.” Ah…no. She’s about four hours out of Denver, Central Daylight Time, and it’s St. Patrick’s Day, a very cold March 17th. At 06:15, there would be no sun – the sun doesn’t come up until a little after 07:00.

I rated this book 3-stars because it had an interesting plot but was still a struggle to slog through. That’s an odd combination! I can’t quite put my arms around the struggle. On one hand, I like Ms. Brady’s writing style. It’s easy to read, and I like her word choices. But oh my stars! In parts, the book moves so slowly, I admit to speedreading just to get through it. And that’s another conundrum: I don’t like to speedread when I like a writing style as much as I do Ms. Brady’s.

I also love book titles that have double meanings. This one certainly does: Noah is a bar-keeper and, to our Hailey Bailey, he’s a keeper.

I think I’m going to have to read the next book in this Fall River series about Charlie, one of Noah’s brothers. He's a good, solid secondary character in this book. I’m left with a curiosity about him and his life choices. I’m going to cross my fingers that two things will be better in this next book: 1) the slowness will have been eradicated; and 2) the plot will not be quite so obvious. [but if it is, that wouldn’t be a stopper – just a wish]

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review. The Keeper is the first book in G.K. Brady’s Fall River series. Brady’s books always grab hold of you and make it impossible to stop until the last page of the series. The setting is Fall Rivers, a super small town with an area of old buildings of historic promise looking for special people to bring them back to their former glory. The characters are definitely special people that quickly take root in your heart. Noah has brought one building back to life as Miner’s Tavern. He meets and falls for Hailey Bailey. Their HEA is not an easy path as the action is nonstop and the unexpected twists and turns keep you guessing until the last page; absolutely a keeper.

[Sherri Babb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great start to this new series. "The Keeper" is a small town romance that will keep you entertained for hours. I loved Noah and Hailey. Their story was entertaining, dramatic, romantic and very HOT! I am really looking forward to book two in this series. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing story about a son trying to find himself. Make others proud! This story about Noah, is full of drama, suspense, and action filled surprises! The woman he meets, finds intrigued, has secrets, yep who doesn't! Jealousy, stalking, and devil woman, who misinterpret intentions. Fantastic read, enjoy!

[Sally · Rating 5 out of 5]

For half a heartbeat I was really worried that when G. K. Brady ended her fantastic, fabulous, fascinating Playmaker Series about those tantalizing hockey players I would have to go into mourning, but with The Keeper, her first book in the new Fall River Series, she has slid us easily and seamlessly into more total satisfaction reading. Characters with big hearts that you will fall in love with immediately, a smooth, evenly paced plot, well-written turns of phrase, plenty of humor and lots of heat. And it looks like this will be a thrilling series; The Keeper ramps the mystery, suspense and danger up a couple of notches. Something is going on in Fall River and you’re going to want to find out what it is.

And speaking of great characters that you’ll fall in love with right away, meet Noah Hunnicutt. Noah is stunningly handsome (of course), and there’s just something about him that warms you up. But Noah is also the middle of three brothers, and he’s lived up to the common belief that middle children are the ones that repeatedly mess up, so much so that he is the only brother who has blown through his grandparents’ trust fund—all two million of it—in two years.

With the opening of his Miners Tavern, he’s trying to prove to his family and the rest of Fall River that he’s changed, that he’s dependable, responsible and can be successful at something. His mother is always in his corner; his father is always waiting for him to fail. His brothers will do whatever he needs, but they’re not sure he hasn’t bitten off more than he can chew. Especially since the owner of the ratty rival bar is already trying to put him out of business, by means fair or foul.

Hailey Bailey (yes, the name is funny but you’ll get used to it) has a job she loves and is very good at. Well, loves may be an exaggeration but she does enjoy it, and she sees a path up the ladder to achieve what she wants most – security, stability, benefits and enough money to open her own bookstore. No mother, an older sister who made her escape as soon as she could and an alcoholic wannabee-surfer-superstar always wildly chasing the dream taught her that self-reliance and a safety net were musts.

The Keeper begins with Noah worrying through the very successful grand opening of the Miners Tavern and Hailey performing an unannounced food inspection at Dell’s and meeting Bruno Keating, a/k/a the ratty rival bar owner. Noah and Hailey don’t meet that night, but keep in mind that Hailey stopped in at Miners Tavern hoping to get a bite to eat and couldn’t keep her eyes off that sexy bartender who became a frequent player in her dreams.

Fast forward a few months and imagine a snowstorm, dog in the middle of the slippery road, out of control car meeting truck – and a night with dog, man and woman huddled in said truck until roads are clear enough for rescue. Imagine all night. Author Brady makes this fateful introduction tense, funny, uncomfortable – and feeling warm and somehow familiar. Very relaxed and cozy at times. Makes them both wonder what is happening here. From this point the story just picks up speed and rolls merrily along. Hailey discovers Dream Bartender is Dream Tavern Owner who hates food inspectors with a passion for all the hoops they made him jump through. Oops. So maybe Hailey will wait for the right time to mention that.

There’s a lot going on in The Keeper and it’s all fascinating. Instead of the promotion she was expecting, Hailey gets assistant turned co-worker turned supervisor Cliff Meissner who gets all the perks her wimpy boss Dan promised her, and by the way is a harassing, misogynistic pig who has some questionable associations and follows no rules. His and Dan’s treatment of her will set your teeth on edge. Her moral compass vs. her security and dream: there’s not going to be an easy solution. Someone is trying to drive Noah out of business, one thing after another after another until Miners Tavern is shut down. He also has ideas that would likely bring much needed tourists to town but someone is preventing him from getting an appointment with the local resort that could make that happen. Factor in some warm, caring townspeople that treat Hailey like family and an assortment of bad guys besides Cliff, Dan and Bruno, like Noah’s ex Ursula, another member of Fall River “royalty” who is dishonest, vengeful, just badbadbad, or like Sandy the Stalker, who doesn’t understand the words “it was casual” and “it’s over” along with sabotage, arson, attempted murder and you’ve got one fascinating, thrilling, page-turning story.

Author Brady writes the best men. Noah is sincere, earnest and oh so sexy, determined to make a go of the bar and prove himself once and for all. As a counterpoint, Hailey Bailey is also sincere, earnest and pretty darn sexy, with an unexpected adventurous wild side. The humor Brady injects into their relationship will make you laugh out loud; the tenderness developing will make you swoon.

The Keeper is a solid, satisfying start to what I have no doubt is going to be another wonderful series by this talented author. A little edgier than the Playmaker series but with the same kind of well-developed people you want to know better. Bonus – we don’t have to go cold turkey from The Playmakers. Noah’s cousin Wyatt plays for the Colorado Blizzard. I’m still hoping to see Coach LeBrun, maybe next time.

Thanks to the author for providing an advance copy of The Keeper as part of her ARC team. I was immediately engaged and engrossed and can’t wait for the next book in the series. I recommend you read it, and then catch up with those Playmakers. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.

[Cryssa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sexy times returns to Colorado in this new series by G.K Brady, featuring the hunky Hunnicutt brothers in the small mountain town of Fall River. Noah’s story is first up with The Keeper. He’s trying to get his life on track. He comes from a well-off Colorado family, but he’s made a mess of his life in the past, and now has one chance to prove to his family that he can turn his life around as a success business owner and be more than just a bartender. He’s opened up a new restaurant/bar in town, and his family have invested in his new venture, but a rival bar owner is trying to drive him out of business. Hailey Bailey is a county food inspector whose also has big dreams. The job pays well, and she’s really good at it, but she is saving up to open up her own bookstore. Hailey’s path crosses Noah’s during a bad snowstorm (I can think of worse ways to shelter in place) and soon sparks begin to fly, until she finds herself thrown between Noah and the rival bar owner. I loved the growing relationship between Noah and Hailey and really enjoyed both characters. I was so glad that they talked through the hurdles in their way instead of drama coming from zero communication and a pile of misunderstandings. They certainly had a lot to overcome, and I was on the edge of my seat. I was worried for both of them and how they would navigate their situations, especially when there didn’t seem to be a safe path. Brady touches on thorny subjects like workplace and sexual harassment, and it was frustrating how a capable woman was being bulldozed by an incapable, but well-connected, manager. Any woman who has been in the business world recognizes this, and it was great how Hailey seized the narrative and overcame her challenges.

A great start for a promising new series, and Brady hits it out of the park (or mountain). I can’t wait to read the next instalment!

[Heidi Sturgess · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’d the cover is anything to go by these Hunnicut boys are blessed with good looking genes 🥰😋😉and they’re “royalty” in their home town Fall River

Noah is about to open “ Miners Tavern “ and his nerves are frayed and his not so friendly neighbour Bruno , his neighbour down the toad and his investor from Aspen are trying their best to thwart its existence but they forget Noah has a brilliant support system in daily and friends but I still feel his tension …..

Hailey , our surfer girl turned health inspector is on her way to visit her sister but has an inspection to do on her way swerves for a dog in a storm and almost causes another accident when Noah swerved out for her , her car is in for repairs and she now finds herself and heart at the mercy of the folks of a Fall River and not only does she fall in love with the Yuen and it’s people but Noah owns her heart ❤️

Dixie , the Tavern manager if you like is a real hoot but she’s got a heart of gold she made me snort laugh on more than one occasion🤣and although I didn’t have much time for the wicked Ursula she does redeem herself so be open minded with her and of course there’s Bruno , what a chop 🙈and let’s not forget the sleazy Cliff 🤮 keep your eye on him and your fists bunched up he’s a real snake .

Rover aka Alex Luthor aka Chance is a real sweetheart 🥰🦮🐾 and could melt any ice capped heart especially with his history but fear not he’s landed with his furry butt in the gutter and is adored by all 🥰

I loved every page of this read and the people of Rivet Fall just climb into your heart and it’s a place where friends become family ❣️

Yes there was a bit of tension and yes I shed a tear it 2 but I laughed more than anything else because the people are just so real !

I can’t wait to see what happens with Charlie Joy 🤩

[Angela Speir · Rating 4 out of 5]

I became a reader of Ms. Brady’s books through her hockey series - because I love a good hockey romance! Because I love her writing style I was willing to give her new small town series a try as an ARC reader and I’m glad I did.

This story is a slow burn, enemies to lovers small town jewel. Noah - the family screw up - is looking for redemption through the opening of his own bar. But a rival barkeep is willing to do anything to prevent the opening and continued success of Miner’s Tavern — up to and including lying to the visiting food inspector.

Even though Hailey - our FMC - has no reason to stop at the Tavern as it’s not listed for inspection but can’t resist and she spies the sexy bartender but leaves without realizing it’s Noah.

On a return trip to Fall River a bad snowstorm crops up and while driving Hailey sees something in the snow. When she gets out to see what it was she is almost hit by a truck - which runs off the road and is driven by no other than Noah. When Hailey’s car won’t start she’s stuck overnight with Noah and the dog she managed to rescue - in his truck in the snowstorm!

They are finally rescued by Noah’s brothers and Hailey is stuck in Fall River until her car can be fixed.while she’s stranded her life begins to unravel professionally but her personal life couldn’t be sweeter - except for one tiny secret! No one knows what her job is - oops! What happens when real life intervenes - will Noah and Hailey be able weather the curves thrown at them?

Ms. Brady has done it again - this book has it all. A little angst, a little mystery, some slow burn and a whole lot of family and love. I can’t wait for the next story in this series - the brothers are fantastic!

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

A new series based in a very small Colorado town nestled in the mountains. The story starts out with various scenes featuring Noah or Hailey before they officially meet. This gives readers a sense of who they are before the two main characters interact.

Hailey is a driven health inspector. Her childhood was unstable and slightly traumatic, and the s motivation for Hailey to stay in a job that she doesn’t love for the good salary, benefits and pension.

Noah is from a wealthy family and his past mistakes/poor judgement had him blowing a sizable inheritance on frivolous luxuries and a money hungry girlfriend. He’s now got his head on straight and he’s opened a bar with in his hometown.

The beginning half of the story bounces through a scenes spread out over a 10-month window before the characters meet, and despite the jumps in time the pacing of the first 40%+ of the book is fairly slow and descriptive. While this gives readers a sense of the characters it didn’t really grab my attention and have me engrossed in the storyline. I’m a fan of the author’s previous Playmaker’s series, and I was intrigued by the two characters and several of the side characters so I kept reading.

The initial interaction between Noah and Hailey is a little prickly due to the tense and stressful situation that introduces them, but sparks of attraction were definitely there from the beginning. Their relationship has more than a few bumps, but they have a kindred sense of connection which was fun to watch evolve.

I received a free ARC from the author; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.

[Kelly DeMarco · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finders keepers and this couple is worth keeping
The Keeper (Fall River Book 1) by G.K. Brady is a very apt name for this book and for the characters. I found this romance to be a feel good story with conflict fitting for Noah and Hailey. Each of them is complex and while there is conflict in their story from outside sources, each of them have their own internal conflict that makes them all the more realistic; sometimes endearing and other times pull your hair out.
The setting is awesome and the author does a great job of painting a picture in the mind's eye of the reader. From the scenery to the weather and all the hazards it entails. Including a baby moose! Noah's backstory, integral to the setting as it is his home town and his family is one of the original founders. Hailey is the newcomer and finds herself immersed into Fall River unintentionally, but welcomed with open arms of most.
The conflict rears it's ugly head from time to time and creates some stutter stops along the way of Noah and Hailey's relationship. It's clear to see how they feel about one another, but those pesky inner negative voices leads them to get in their own way.
Overall, I do feel like this is a feel good romance, but this couple takes a very long and circuitous route to their HEA. Ups and downs, threats and danger, denial and resistance, multiple antagonist's interference, they come through the other side with justice on their side and love winning the day. Now that one Hunnicutt brother is firmly in the 'fallen in love' category and HEA bound, I can't wait to read all about Charlie and Reece!
I read an ARC of this book and voluntarily share my review.

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Keeper is a keeper! G.K. Brady has written a terrific series starter (Fall River) that is a continuation of her Playmaker series. The Keeper has strong, realistic characters, a tightly woven storyline with subplots that will keep you laughing, sighing, and guessing long into the story, all of which crescendos to an unexpected ending, all amid family, romance, friendship, career aspirations, and the hope of finding one’s way towards the future they desire and deserve.

This story is a small town, slow burn romance with a super creative plot. Hailey Bailey is a former sportswoman who finds herself in a job as a Food Inspector working for the Colorado Department of Health. After a series of misfortunes, she’s also working as a waitress for Noah Hunnicutt. He’s a bit down on his luck too … he’s used his inheritance to open the bar and is teetering on having to shut down, which would prove his father correct. He’s got nearly a full town of supporters, although those who aren’t in his camp are rooting for his failure. He’s got a sassy manager and well meaning brothers.

Just as Noah and Hailey start to click, Hailey’s original job is exposed and Noah’s bar is shut down by her office. Hailey’s navigating a wimpy boss and a super aggressive and backstabbing coworker who wants her promised promotion.

The Keeper is one you’ll want to settle into. Download and clear your calendar!

I received an ARC; this is my honest review

[Silvia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had a lot going on! There was drama, mystery, secrets, threats, and a delicious slow burn between Hailey and Noah. It all came together so well that I couldn’t put this book down!
Right off the bat, I was a goner for Noah! He’s the middle/problem child of his family and he’s made some mistakes, something that his dad keeps reminding him of. Honestly, my heart ached for that situation! Thankfully, his mom was awesome and so supportive! He’s finally making things happen with the opening of Miners Tavern, even though his competition has made it a point to make it difficult.
Hailey Bailey (yes, I got a kick out of that) was also super easy to like and relate to! She was working her tail off and living a meager lifestyle all in an effort to be able to achieve her dream. But her professional life goes sideways and her boss kind of does her dirty by not keeping his promises and giving her a promotion.
When fate throws them together, with the help of a dog, their chemistry is undeniable! But can their budding feelings survive her lie of omission and her boss’s underhanded machinations?
This truly was a great read and I want more of Fall River and some of the amazing townspeople, except for Noah’s ex!!!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest opinion.

[Christie72 (Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Keeper is the first book in the Fall River Series and revolves around the three Hunnicutt brothers, and it’s an excellent start to what appears to be a promising series.

Noah has just opened his very own business, a tavern. He has made some bad decisions in the past. He wants to prove himself by being responsible and putting those mistakes behind him. Hailey is a restaurant inspector who dreams of opening her own bookstore one day. One snowy night will put these two on a course that will change their lives.

After the two spend a night together in a snowstorm, sparks fly. Each of them has personal demons to deal with, and outside forces threaten to derail their budding relationship before it gets off the ground.

Both characters are relatable and likable. I enjoyed their mutual respect for one another, and I also liked that there was a friendship between them as well. They were both incredibly supportive of each others’ dreams and did whatever was possible to help the other fulfill those dreams.

I loved the quirky characters; the author did a great job of creating this special little town. I could clearly envision each shop and business. There was a dash of suspense thrown in as well. When you add in a loveable dog or two, it’s almost perfection for me. Give the little town of Fall River a visit. I hope you like it as much as I did.

[Jill Kerich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welcome to Fall River and the world of the Hunnicutts. Hailey Bailey is visiting Fall River for her work as a health inspector for restaurants when she ambles into a local bar and is mesmerized by the bar keep. Only there for a short while, she leaves but he is still on her mind a year later when she is back in the area. A stray dog and a snowstorm leave her with a car that won't start and an evening spent with a man that ended in the ditch...and it's him.
Hailey spends time in Fall River waiting out the snow storm and car repairs and gets to know the barkeep, Noah, as well as his brothers and all the colorful characters of this small town.
This is a bit of a slow burn with Noah and Hailey getting to know each other and fighting their attraction best they can, but when sparks fly-watch out!
There is definitely some angst to this one as someone is leaving threatening notes for Hailey, her job that she hasn't shared with Noah and the threat of the bar going under, but these two work through it together and come out on the right end.
Another winner from G K Brady and a bit of a spinoff from hockey series as we get a glimpse of Noah's cousin, Wyatt. I'm looking forward to more stories from this funky mountain town including the other Hunnicutt boys!

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having read several of the books from this author in her Playmakers Series, I thought I would try the new series when the ARC was offered by Hidden Gems. It had many of the small-town romance requirements but had some unique additions including a really good meet-cute. When state inspector, Hailey Bailey comes to the charming town of Fall River, she never thinks this town and its occupants will change her safe life for good.
Hailey goes to Fall River to inspect another place but ends up in tavern run by Noah Hunnicutt, whose family has been in this town since its founding. Noah is struggling with the tavern as the last hope to make something of his life, after a few flops with his inheritance. As she goes to leave and forget the handsome barkeep, she tries to rescue an injured dog in a snowstorm. This is where Hailey and Noah officially meet for the first time and their story goes from there. A few stumbles with her job being at odds with his hopes for the future, but the book is a good start to a new series in the town of Fall River.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

An opposites attract small town romance which kept me happily turning the pages. Health inspector Hailey attempts to save a lost dog during a blizzard, but causes a pickup truck to crash. Struggling tavern owner Noah did not expect to be rescuing the woman who caused him to wreck his truck. Hailey can’t believe Noah protected her from the storm and with her stranded in town she offers to wait tables for him. Noah is struggling to keep his tavern afloat whilst trying to impress his judgemental father and deal with a cheating ex-girlfriend and an obsessed hookup. Hailey can see herself having a life in the small town of Fall River, along with Noah. However, outside obstacles try to prevent their developing relationship. Noah and Hailey’s chemistry came across in the narrative, and I liked how their relationship developed throughout the story. Both the characters and the setting came to life making me feel immersed in the storyline. This lighthearted and heartwarming romance, with just enough steam had me hooked from page one.

[Marni Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

really does not get much better than this . The first book in what I can already tell will be a fantastic new series( The Fall River Series ) written by one of my all time favorite authors G.K Brady and the perfect blend of all my go to tropes Opposites attract, small town and second chance. I started the Keeper late last night and to say there was no sleep to be had welll would without a doubt be a huge understatement. From page one I just found myself falling completely in love with both Noah and Hailey’s characters . Both were so likable and relatable not to mention wonderfully written and their love story ( definitely put a smile on my face and tugged at all my heartstrings. It was fun and steamy , filled with humor , witty banter , angst , heartbreaking and heartfelt moments, love , passion, drama , obstacles phenomenal world building and much much more . It’s without a doubt going on my list of top reads for 2024