What do you think?
Rate this book
The Killers #3
Gifts
No one would say Keelie Lockhart isn’t determined. Taking on the role of both mom and dad to her two young kids, she’s managing life the best she can. Saddled with a century-old dilapidated farmhouse she can’t afford, a bevy of goats, two dogs, and a geriatric donkey, the last thing she has time for is a man—even if that man is a knight whose shining armour comes in the form of worn-in jeans and work boots.
Controlled, methodical, and focused—Asa Hollingsworth takes charge of everything in life. Working close to home after years away, he finally has the time to focus on his kids. Little does he know, a chance meeting with a petite, strawberry-blonde stranded on the side of the road, would intertwine their lives in a way he’d never want to untangle.
But when school bullies turn into something much worse, Asa starts to dig around. He never dreams the troubles lurking in the hallways of the local high school would shake his family to its core. With drug dealers lurking, bullets flying, and threats coming from every angle, Asa must do everything he can to protect the ones he loves.
Because in the end, there’s nothing more precious than the gift of life.
Warning: Oh, I’m sorry, that’s a fake ID. If you’re not eighteen, consider yourself bounced and walk away from my books. I’ll gladly welcome you back when you become a legit adult. That is, unless you’re my parents or my children. If so, walk away and don’t come back. You don’t need to know what’s in my head.
Controlled, methodical, and focused—Asa Hollingsworth takes charge of everything in life. Working close to home after years away, he finally has the time to focus on his kids. Little does he know, a chance meeting with a petite, strawberry-blonde stranded on the side of the road, would intertwine their lives in a way he’d never want to untangle.
But when school bullies turn into something much worse, Asa starts to dig around. He never dreams the troubles lurking in the hallways of the local high school would shake his family to its core. With drug dealers lurking, bullets flying, and threats coming from every angle, Asa must do everything he can to protect the ones he loves.
Because in the end, there’s nothing more precious than the gift of life.
Warning: Oh, I’m sorry, that’s a fake ID. If you’re not eighteen, consider yourself bounced and walk away from my books. I’ll gladly welcome you back when you become a legit adult. That is, unless you’re my parents or my children. If so, walk away and don’t come back. You don’t need to know what’s in my head.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 24, 2017
3140 people are currently reading
3630 people want to read
About the author
Brynne Asher
31 books4,118 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Brynne Asher. Writer of romance. Lover of caffeine and cocktails.
Brynne lives in the Midwest with her husband, three children, and her perfect dog. When she isn't creating pretend people and drama, she's running her kids around and doing laundry. Brynne thrives on skincare and online shopping while being fabulous in her favorite ratty pajamas.
Sign up for Brynne's newsletter, it's a spam-free zone: http://eepurl.com/gFVMUP
Follow Brynne on the Freakybook: https://www.facebook.com/brynneashera...
Join Brynne's author group, where humans are nice and cows are cool: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Brynn...
Brynne lives in the Midwest with her husband, three children, and her perfect dog. When she isn't creating pretend people and drama, she's running her kids around and doing laundry. Brynne thrives on skincare and online shopping while being fabulous in her favorite ratty pajamas.
Sign up for Brynne's newsletter, it's a spam-free zone: http://eepurl.com/gFVMUP
Follow Brynne on the Freakybook: https://www.facebook.com/brynneashera...
Join Brynne's author group, where humans are nice and cows are cool: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Brynn...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 731 reviews
September 14, 2021
#1 Vines — 3.75 Stars
#2 Paths — 4 Stars
Gifts was a killer! Had me on a chokehold from start to finish.
So, this book basically has everything I love in a romance: the bossy, badass alpha male hero; sassy, tough heroine; domestic, family centered romance while still delivering major on the edge of your seat mystery plotline; kids that actually act their age; the deep, emotional connection between the MC leads; enough actions and steamy scenes; zero unnecessary ex-wife drama. What more could I ask for? 😭❤
Furthermore, does all of that sound familiar to you? This book has all the KA feels, and I’m so happy I got to read it. I’m feeling rather burned out with her books at the moment, so this couldn’t have come at a better time. It goes without saying that those of you who read KA should try this book too. OR it could also be the perfect alternative for those who adore her stories but don’t vibe with her writing.
I read this as a standalone, but consider me HOOKED to your chain, dear author Brynne Asher! Not sure how the other books in the series could top this since this is already my favorite (just based on personal preferences), but I’m going to backtrack and start binging from the first book. Massive, huge, ginormous thanks to Corina for the recommendation! Wouldn’t have found this if it weren’t for you. 💕
#2 Paths — 4 Stars
Gifts was a killer! Had me on a chokehold from start to finish.
Single dad trope in all its glory.
Asa (43) is a former contract assassin. He worked for goverments all over the world in all sorts of ways that were on the hush-hush. Now, he fills his days training those who will follow his footsteps and taking care of his two teenage children.
Single mom with lots of hang-ups.
Keelie (36) is the mom (and dad) of two young kids and works as a high school counselor. Her crook of a husband died in an accident and left her with lots of unpaid debts and years of emotional baggage, turning her into a shell of a woman who pretends her way through life.
Hot sizzling romance.
The moment Asa comes into Keelie’s life, he claims permanent residence. That sounds too insta-love than I intended . . . I mean, he makes no bones about wanting Keelie in his life. He’s relentless to Keelie’s reluctance. He pretty much demands her into making a room in her life for him and his kids. Not in an arrogant and controlling way that raises red flags, but he’s rather sweet going about it.
There’s nothing sexier than watching Asa takes charge and protects with all his might. He’s patient with Keelie. Even when she pushes him away, he stands his ground and doesn’t waver. He gives her space while still being in her presence. He makes reassurances and promises but also proves that he’s all in for the long haul. Their chemistry was unmatched, and their romance was kinda insta-love but with a slow burn? I devoured it. 😭
Farmhouse/country living.
Keelie lives in a century-old dilapidated farmhouse that she’s currently renovating herself. She has a bevy of goats, two dogs, and a geriatric donkey. It’s a chaos in the Lockhart household, but it’s all in good fun. This is my favorite kind of setting for a small town romance.
Thrilling suspense.
Asa’s daughter gets roped into some kind of trouble she has no intention of being a part of. It puts the family in danger. There’s drive-by shooting, bullets flying, drug-dealers running, cops arresting people, threats coming from every angle. It was exciting and intense and scary, and I was riveted!
So, this book basically has everything I love in a romance: the bossy, badass alpha male hero; sassy, tough heroine; domestic, family centered romance while still delivering major on the edge of your seat mystery plotline; kids that actually act their age; the deep, emotional connection between the MC leads; enough actions and steamy scenes; zero unnecessary ex-wife drama. What more could I ask for? 😭❤
Furthermore, does all of that sound familiar to you? This book has all the KA feels, and I’m so happy I got to read it. I’m feeling rather burned out with her books at the moment, so this couldn’t have come at a better time. It goes without saying that those of you who read KA should try this book too. OR it could also be the perfect alternative for those who adore her stories but don’t vibe with her writing.
I read this as a standalone, but consider me HOOKED to your chain, dear author Brynne Asher! Not sure how the other books in the series could top this since this is already my favorite (just based on personal preferences), but I’m going to backtrack and start binging from the first book. Massive, huge, ginormous thanks to Corina for the recommendation! Wouldn’t have found this if it weren’t for you. 💕
February 2, 2024
Asa is the GOAT in a book with many goats 🐐
I am stuck between a 4 or 5 stars for this one, but because I loved Asa so much, I’m going with a 5. Asa is my favourite. I wasn’t even mad when he tried to end things with Keelie at first then changed his mind because he made up for it when she broke up with him and he refused to leave. HE REFUSED TO LEAVE HER BECAUSE HE PROMISED HER HE NEVER WOULD! That’s the shit that works in books but in real life would be a 🚩 and a call to police. I don’t even care either, I 👏🏻 Was 👏🏻 Here 👏🏻 For 👏🏻 It.
Again with this series, the heroine in this book wasn’t really anything special, she was strong in her way but I didn’t get why she thought she was so fucked up. She was actually pretty well adjusted considering the shit storm that was her life. And the suspense was good but I just couldn’t help thinking why the I dunno, seems like a lot of work but whatever. I’m still giving this a full 5 🌟 s.
Anyway if Asa was real I’d totally go fight Keelie for him, don’t tell my husband. He can never read these reviews. 🤫
I am stuck between a 4 or 5 stars for this one, but because I loved Asa so much, I’m going with a 5. Asa is my favourite. I wasn’t even mad when he tried to end things with Keelie at first then changed his mind because he made up for it when she broke up with him and he refused to leave. HE REFUSED TO LEAVE HER BECAUSE HE PROMISED HER HE NEVER WOULD! That’s the shit that works in books but in real life would be a 🚩 and a call to police. I don’t even care either, I 👏🏻 Was 👏🏻 Here 👏🏻 For 👏🏻 It.
Again with this series, the heroine in this book wasn’t really anything special, she was strong in her way but I didn’t get why she thought she was so fucked up. She was actually pretty well adjusted considering the shit storm that was her life. And the suspense was good but I just couldn’t help thinking why the I dunno, seems like a lot of work but whatever. I’m still giving this a full 5 🌟 s.
Anyway if Asa was real I’d totally go fight Keelie for him, don’t tell my husband. He can never read these reviews. 🤫
December 5, 2021
4 stars
I think this might be my favourite In the series so far. Maybe it’s the bossy alpha male (I’ll admit it was a little too much at some parts), maybe it’s the equally stubborn headstrong heroine, maybe it’s the goats, maybe it’s the single parents tropes, the kids -all of them- who I truly liked and they just added too much to the story, the chemistry, the steam, the suspense subplot, maybe it’s the no ex-wife drama (Danielle was pretty cool), or maybe it’s just Saylor. maybe it was all of that and more that made this story really enjoyable to read.
I think this might be my favourite In the series so far. Maybe it’s the bossy alpha male (I’ll admit it was a little too much at some parts), maybe it’s the equally stubborn headstrong heroine, maybe it’s the goats, maybe it’s the single parents tropes, the kids -all of them- who I truly liked and they just added too much to the story, the chemistry, the steam, the suspense subplot, maybe it’s the no ex-wife drama (Danielle was pretty cool), or maybe it’s just Saylor. maybe it was all of that and more that made this story really enjoyable to read.
October 24, 2017
5 Million 'The greatest Gift' Stars
WOW! WOW! WOW!
Every romance lover - specially the ones that love single parents trope - needs to one click the hell of this baby as soon as it's live! Believe me you won't regret it, because this book is EVERYTHING!!!
Perfect love story and main characters, perfect subplot, perfect secondary characters (even the pets!) : yes, that’s right, utter PERFECTION!
I have no doubt you will fall in love with this whole gang, and I most say I adored both Asa and Keelie, but this man… Swoon…
Her hair’s a mess of waves flowing out from underneath, and for some reason, I like the fact she didn’t feel the need to do herself up. Not that she needed to. I’d take her covered in paint any day.
The whole story was beautifully written, but Asa was just far and beyond everything! I’m a sucker for an older, more mature Alpha (you know how much I hate immature Hs, lol) and this man really was THE BEST! Loving, patient and protective of the ones he loved but still remaining a true man’s man, OMG, I just melted and swooned all throughout the book with his actions and his words.
If a kiss could be a promise, then he just professed his declaration—heart and soul.
I’m calling dibs, I tell you, because he went straight to my top Best Book Boyfriend list, and he’s without a doubt my FAVorite of Brynne’s heroes.
“I hope you’re wet, baby. I plan to bury myself in you so deep, you’ll feel where I’ve been for a week.”
Kellie was just as incredible, and SO STRONG! I hurt for her and her past and admired her resilience and strength – and of course her kickass spirit- and I was so glad Asa crossed paths with her, giving her a much needed breath of passion and happiness into her life!
Finding each other’s soul mate, your other half truly is the greatest gift of them all! <3 <3 <3 <3 <3
I’m home—for the first time since I moved to the farm, I’m home because I’m in his arms.
I look around at what might seem like bedlam to others—but to us, it’s become a perfect kind of chaos.
ARC kindly provided by the author for an honest review
For full Review with Release Blitz, check out my Blog Post,
http://gisspotreviews.com/index.php/2...
WOW! WOW! WOW!
Every romance lover - specially the ones that love single parents trope - needs to one click the hell of this baby as soon as it's live! Believe me you won't regret it, because this book is EVERYTHING!!!
Perfect love story and main characters, perfect subplot, perfect secondary characters (even the pets!) : yes, that’s right, utter PERFECTION!
I have no doubt you will fall in love with this whole gang, and I most say I adored both Asa and Keelie, but this man… Swoon…
Her hair’s a mess of waves flowing out from underneath, and for some reason, I like the fact she didn’t feel the need to do herself up. Not that she needed to. I’d take her covered in paint any day.
The whole story was beautifully written, but Asa was just far and beyond everything! I’m a sucker for an older, more mature Alpha (you know how much I hate immature Hs, lol) and this man really was THE BEST! Loving, patient and protective of the ones he loved but still remaining a true man’s man, OMG, I just melted and swooned all throughout the book with his actions and his words.
If a kiss could be a promise, then he just professed his declaration—heart and soul.
I’m calling dibs, I tell you, because he went straight to my top Best Book Boyfriend list, and he’s without a doubt my FAVorite of Brynne’s heroes.
“I hope you’re wet, baby. I plan to bury myself in you so deep, you’ll feel where I’ve been for a week.”
Kellie was just as incredible, and SO STRONG! I hurt for her and her past and admired her resilience and strength – and of course her kickass spirit- and I was so glad Asa crossed paths with her, giving her a much needed breath of passion and happiness into her life!
Finding each other’s soul mate, your other half truly is the greatest gift of them all! <3 <3 <3 <3 <3
I’m home—for the first time since I moved to the farm, I’m home because I’m in his arms.
I look around at what might seem like bedlam to others—but to us, it’s become a perfect kind of chaos.
ARC kindly provided by the author for an honest review
For full Review with Release Blitz, check out my Blog Post,
http://gisspotreviews.com/index.php/2...
June 21, 2025
*4.35* I listened to the first half and read the second (note to self: renew your library audiobooks next time), which made the pacing feel a little choppy, so my completely my fault there.
Asa (43) is book boyfriend material. Phew that man literally doesn’t take no for an answer...in a very modern, sexy way, not an icky way. He’s been a bit of an absent parent to his two teens, but he’s all in now.
Grumpy teenagers
A herd of goats
A geriatric donkey
Light mystery/thriller vibes
Forced proximity
Both single parents
Deceased ex
Small town feel
He falls first
Hea
Keelie (36) is working full-time as a high school counselor, and managing a rundown farmhouse with a donkey, goats, and zero time for nonsense. She’s also the mother to two young kids.
A family-centered, contemporary romance, with some bullets flying and mystery plotline.
Asa (43) is book boyfriend material. Phew that man literally doesn’t take no for an answer...in a very modern, sexy way, not an icky way. He’s been a bit of an absent parent to his two teens, but he’s all in now.
Grumpy teenagers
A herd of goats
A geriatric donkey
Light mystery/thriller vibes
Forced proximity
Both single parents
Deceased ex
Small town feel
He falls first
Hea
Keelie (36) is working full-time as a high school counselor, and managing a rundown farmhouse with a donkey, goats, and zero time for nonsense. She’s also the mother to two young kids.
A family-centered, contemporary romance, with some bullets flying and mystery plotline.
September 19, 2023
This book was an amazing read from start to finish!
I was rocked by the first two books in The Killers series and this one took me to a new level of intense ride. Gift is a story that completely blew me away. Brynne Asher is an incredible storyteller and I became a huge fan of her work. Everything is spot on. Love the way she portrays her characters and brings a captivating story to life. Each component perfectly fitting the plot-line, the pace and build up is perfectly delivered that allows us readers to experience it right along with the characters.
This story has it all. The perfect blend of suspense and action, humor and angst, smoldering chemistry and romance, some ups and downs, funny and emotional moments, entertaining banters, friendship, family, passion, romance, love, and some interesting twists and turns. All that and so much more ! Keelie and Asa are two fantastic characters. I loved them together as a couple and individually. Asa is alpha-male at its finest and totally swoon worthy! Watching him carefully dismantle Keelie’s defenses and get her to trust him had to be one of the sweetest things ever.
"My heart strums as his breath feathers across my face. Oxygen. Heartbeats. Life. But more than all that combined… Trust. And it’s not just any man. This is Asa. No one in my life has made my heart speed, my blood warm, and my head spin without thought. The want and need is taking over my brain and body."
Together these two grew into exactly who they were supposed to be. Their love didn’t come easy but I think all the hard work they had to do made their love so much stronger.
« I’ll lay the world at your feet, baby, but don’t ever expect space from me. You ask for that again, there’ll be hell to pay.”
This is probably my favorite book in the series so far. That's saying a lot since the entire series is amazing and this one is like the cherry on top. Bring on the next one, Ms Asher! I’m so ready for Jarvis’ story!
I was rocked by the first two books in The Killers series and this one took me to a new level of intense ride. Gift is a story that completely blew me away. Brynne Asher is an incredible storyteller and I became a huge fan of her work. Everything is spot on. Love the way she portrays her characters and brings a captivating story to life. Each component perfectly fitting the plot-line, the pace and build up is perfectly delivered that allows us readers to experience it right along with the characters.
This story has it all. The perfect blend of suspense and action, humor and angst, smoldering chemistry and romance, some ups and downs, funny and emotional moments, entertaining banters, friendship, family, passion, romance, love, and some interesting twists and turns. All that and so much more ! Keelie and Asa are two fantastic characters. I loved them together as a couple and individually. Asa is alpha-male at its finest and totally swoon worthy! Watching him carefully dismantle Keelie’s defenses and get her to trust him had to be one of the sweetest things ever.
"My heart strums as his breath feathers across my face. Oxygen. Heartbeats. Life. But more than all that combined… Trust. And it’s not just any man. This is Asa. No one in my life has made my heart speed, my blood warm, and my head spin without thought. The want and need is taking over my brain and body."
Together these two grew into exactly who they were supposed to be. Their love didn’t come easy but I think all the hard work they had to do made their love so much stronger.
« I’ll lay the world at your feet, baby, but don’t ever expect space from me. You ask for that again, there’ll be hell to pay.”
This is probably my favorite book in the series so far. That's saying a lot since the entire series is amazing and this one is like the cherry on top. Bring on the next one, Ms Asher! I’m so ready for Jarvis’ story!
October 24, 2017
***IT'S ALIVE!!!***
One of his many gifts...Asa can change a tyre 😉
***4.5 Stars***
It’s like Brynne Asher has looked into my mind and created men who do it for me. I think the trick is to make them mature (but not too old), handsome (but not pretty) and bossy (but not dictatorial). Her Killers have all lived a little, made mistakes they’ve learnt from and know exactly what they want, and do everything needed to get it. Put him in a pair of jeans, t-shirt and work boots…I pretty much have my perfect man. Add the beard and hot body…I’ve died and gone to heaven.
Asa is my kind of man. Well, he is now. Kinda have to say, I wouldn't have wanted a bar of him when he was younger. Taking risks, not being around and putting work before the family is definitely not the right man for me. Now, he’s done a flip and he's good...damn good. Unfortunately, his ex and two kids are only getting the good now. The ex-wife has moved on but the kids, well, now it’s time for him to show them that he’s all in and wants to be there for them. Bugger of a thing though, that he’s taken on the teenage years. Oh well, he should have been there from the beginning so I guess he kind of deserves it.
Anyways, Asa is looking after his kids full time as his ex-wife has moved away with her husband for his work. To be honest, I found it refreshing that the ex, wasn’t a psych chicken and was only mildly annoying. One thing that Asa and his ex-wife agree on, their 15-year-old daughter is acting more sullen, anti-social and unhealthy than expected. Sure, girls of that age can be that way but this is extreme. Time to bring in the big guns…the School Counsellor, who also happen to be the hot chick he rescued on the weekend.
Keelie is a very, very busy woman and no time for emotional entanglements. Between her two kids, work commitments, looking after their menagerie of animals and doing a refurb on her house, there’s no time for fun. Her first attempt, after the death of her husband, to try and have fun, completely backfires. Deciding to stick to her original plan, she writes off the fun portion of her life. Her kids come first. They have all had enough drama and upheaval and Keelie is not willing to put herself and her kids at risk for more. If only the hot Dad (to one of her students) got the memo.
Again, Brynne Asher has written a fun and entertaining read. Gifts is sexy and provides us with steamy scenes that made me squirm. We are treated to a mystery that I only worked out who the villain was when he was practically hand delivered to me. My original guess was incorrect and I ended up feeling a touch guilty that I had given him squinty eyes and judged him wrong. The additional characters were fantastic and I loved that we were able to catch up with the other Killers and their better halves.
I cannot recommend this author enough. Her stories are entertaining and always leave me with a big grin on my face. If you like your heroes handsome, bossy and mature, you will love Brynne Asher’s books.
Stacey is Sassy, received a complimentary copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
One of his many gifts...Asa can change a tyre 😉
***4.5 Stars***
It’s like Brynne Asher has looked into my mind and created men who do it for me. I think the trick is to make them mature (but not too old), handsome (but not pretty) and bossy (but not dictatorial). Her Killers have all lived a little, made mistakes they’ve learnt from and know exactly what they want, and do everything needed to get it. Put him in a pair of jeans, t-shirt and work boots…I pretty much have my perfect man. Add the beard and hot body…I’ve died and gone to heaven.
Asa is my kind of man. Well, he is now. Kinda have to say, I wouldn't have wanted a bar of him when he was younger. Taking risks, not being around and putting work before the family is definitely not the right man for me. Now, he’s done a flip and he's good...damn good. Unfortunately, his ex and two kids are only getting the good now. The ex-wife has moved on but the kids, well, now it’s time for him to show them that he’s all in and wants to be there for them. Bugger of a thing though, that he’s taken on the teenage years. Oh well, he should have been there from the beginning so I guess he kind of deserves it.
Anyways, Asa is looking after his kids full time as his ex-wife has moved away with her husband for his work. To be honest, I found it refreshing that the ex, wasn’t a psych chicken and was only mildly annoying. One thing that Asa and his ex-wife agree on, their 15-year-old daughter is acting more sullen, anti-social and unhealthy than expected. Sure, girls of that age can be that way but this is extreme. Time to bring in the big guns…the School Counsellor, who also happen to be the hot chick he rescued on the weekend.
Keelie is a very, very busy woman and no time for emotional entanglements. Between her two kids, work commitments, looking after their menagerie of animals and doing a refurb on her house, there’s no time for fun. Her first attempt, after the death of her husband, to try and have fun, completely backfires. Deciding to stick to her original plan, she writes off the fun portion of her life. Her kids come first. They have all had enough drama and upheaval and Keelie is not willing to put herself and her kids at risk for more. If only the hot Dad (to one of her students) got the memo.
Again, Brynne Asher has written a fun and entertaining read. Gifts is sexy and provides us with steamy scenes that made me squirm. We are treated to a mystery that I only worked out who the villain was when he was practically hand delivered to me. My original guess was incorrect and I ended up feeling a touch guilty that I had given him squinty eyes and judged him wrong. The additional characters were fantastic and I loved that we were able to catch up with the other Killers and their better halves.
I cannot recommend this author enough. Her stories are entertaining and always leave me with a big grin on my face. If you like your heroes handsome, bossy and mature, you will love Brynne Asher’s books.
Stacey is Sassy, received a complimentary copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
June 11, 2021
I adored everything about this book. This is one of those rare instances that I wanted to immediately re-read it when I finished. It had me smiling like a goof, sighing over Asa and fawning over the kids, goats and the donkey. This author really knows how to pull you in with every single character she introduces you to and that includes the animals.
If that wasn’t enough, Asa was an incredible Hero. Out of every comment/action he had in this book, there was only one time I didn’t like what he did and he made up for it immediately. That in itself is rare to find. He was mature, persistent, consistent, protective and one of the best dads I’ve read about. Not only was he a great dad for his own kids but the way he was there for Keelie’s kids was what put this man over the top.
I also liked Keelie as a heroine. She was a strong character and I love the fact that her and Asa’s ex-wife got along. No pettiness. All they cared about were the kids. She does have a lot of insecurities she deals with in the book due to her deceased husband, but that just showcased how good of a man Asa was with how he handled it. I also liked that there was no pining for the dead husband. To me that makes it hard to focus on the couple in the book.
Really, everything was handled in a way that brought greater enjoyment to my read of this story. The suspense was exciting and really brought out that protective gene in Asa. I think it’s safe to say I loved this book and highly recommend it!
If that wasn’t enough, Asa was an incredible Hero. Out of every comment/action he had in this book, there was only one time I didn’t like what he did and he made up for it immediately. That in itself is rare to find. He was mature, persistent, consistent, protective and one of the best dads I’ve read about. Not only was he a great dad for his own kids but the way he was there for Keelie’s kids was what put this man over the top.
I also liked Keelie as a heroine. She was a strong character and I love the fact that her and Asa’s ex-wife got along. No pettiness. All they cared about were the kids. She does have a lot of insecurities she deals with in the book due to her deceased husband, but that just showcased how good of a man Asa was with how he handled it. I also liked that there was no pining for the dead husband. To me that makes it hard to focus on the couple in the book.
Really, everything was handled in a way that brought greater enjoyment to my read of this story. The suspense was exciting and really brought out that protective gene in Asa. I think it’s safe to say I loved this book and highly recommend it!
September 22, 2021
It was the best one of the series, no doubt 🤍🤍🤍🤍
I might had fallen in love with Crew and Grady but honestly, if I had to marry someone, Asa would be my book husband.
Come on, there’s something about a strong man, who takes care of you, your children, manages to build things, buys you a car, takes care of your farm animals AND can kill someone with his bare hands (not this being the main point or anything).
”And As I stand here, watching goats hustle my way followed by a geriatric donkey, I realize she’s right. I’ve become a ranch-hand, rounding up livestock for the day.
But for her- I’d do anything.”
If that’s not the cheesiest most perfect line of all times, I don’t know what I’m doing anymore. It even combines ranchs for God’s sake.
Keelie was a great character too, she said she was fucked up, but really, life gave her a few sour lemons she had to process but she was a strong character who stood her ground and was kind.
Kids, farm animals, a bit of action, this book was great! Now onto the last one! 😭
I might had fallen in love with Crew and Grady but honestly, if I had to marry someone, Asa would be my book husband.
Come on, there’s something about a strong man, who takes care of you, your children, manages to build things, buys you a car, takes care of your farm animals AND can kill someone with his bare hands (not this being the main point or anything).
”And As I stand here, watching goats hustle my way followed by a geriatric donkey, I realize she’s right. I’ve become a ranch-hand, rounding up livestock for the day.
But for her- I’d do anything.”
If that’s not the cheesiest most perfect line of all times, I don’t know what I’m doing anymore. It even combines ranchs for God’s sake.
Keelie was a great character too, she said she was fucked up, but really, life gave her a few sour lemons she had to process but she was a strong character who stood her ground and was kind.
Kids, farm animals, a bit of action, this book was great! Now onto the last one! 😭
October 24, 2017
NOW LIVE!
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Brynne Asher takes the single dad trope and makes it her bitch. First Cam from Athica Lane *insert swoon here* and now Asa in all his badass glory. My ovaries just can't handle all this hotness!
Asa and Kellie were absolutely amazing together and they may actually be my favorite couple from this series. Kellie had a lot of hang-ups and was content to live her life with only her two kids, rundown house, and a yard full of farm animals to worry about. Then Asa came along an didn't give her a choice but to make room in her life for him and his kids. I loved that pushiness of his. It wasn't in an arrogant way at all and when he put himself in her life it was actually very sweet. You could tell he really cared about Keelie and also that she was scared but did care about Asa too, and that's what made me love them as a couple so much.
There was a lot of suspense and questions throughout the story as well that captivated me. It's honestly not that often that I can be truly surprised or left in the dark while reading but this book was able to leave me scratching my head. Even when I was positive I knew what was going on I was then proved wrong and I loved that so much.
This book could be read as a standalone but to get the full effect of of Asa and all the secondary characters I think all three books should be read together. This book is a huge recommend from me and I think any lover of the single dad trope will enjoy this one.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Brynne Asher takes the single dad trope and makes it her bitch. First Cam from Athica Lane *insert swoon here* and now Asa in all his badass glory. My ovaries just can't handle all this hotness!
Asa and Kellie were absolutely amazing together and they may actually be my favorite couple from this series. Kellie had a lot of hang-ups and was content to live her life with only her two kids, rundown house, and a yard full of farm animals to worry about. Then Asa came along an didn't give her a choice but to make room in her life for him and his kids. I loved that pushiness of his. It wasn't in an arrogant way at all and when he put himself in her life it was actually very sweet. You could tell he really cared about Keelie and also that she was scared but did care about Asa too, and that's what made me love them as a couple so much.
There was a lot of suspense and questions throughout the story as well that captivated me. It's honestly not that often that I can be truly surprised or left in the dark while reading but this book was able to leave me scratching my head. Even when I was positive I knew what was going on I was then proved wrong and I loved that so much.
This book could be read as a standalone but to get the full effect of of Asa and all the secondary characters I think all three books should be read together. This book is a huge recommend from me and I think any lover of the single dad trope will enjoy this one.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
January 18, 2024
A very entertaining book about sex, guns and goats.
October 14, 2017
Oh my gawd!!! I am so in love with Asa and Keelie! Usually, it’s all about the hero, you know? But not this time. I absolutely fell in love with this heroine. She’s had to put on a façade for so long. Struggled to find something normal that works for her and her children. Filled with so much anger and distrust, scared of what might happen in life, her character touched me in a way I’ve never been affected by a heroine before.
But don’t think for a second I didn’t tumble completely in love with Asa Hollingsworth as well. Oh dear lord! The man gives a whole new definition to dedication, protection and love. And then there’s the fact that I’m sure there wouldn’t be a woman around that doesn’t swoon should his attention shift to her. Or heck, to even be in the same room as him would cause swoonage in anyone that looked his way.
Together this couple took me to a wonderfully giddy, sometimes angsty, always wanting more, place. This is how romance is done!
Keelie meets Asa while ditched during a blind date. Literally, ditched. We quickly learn that the ability to change tires should be the main prerequisite when looking for a man. Asa fits the bill and despite Keelie’s decision to never date again, he pushes himself into her and her children’s lives all while gifting her with the things her life has been missing.
There is plenty of drama here with Asa’s daughter as well as Keelie’s emotional issues, but in true Brynne Asher fashion we ride the storm knowing that the end is going to leave us breathless, satiated, and happy. I loved the twist at the end, knowing it would be there but unsure where or how until it actually happened. The epilogue was spot on and so dang awesome I had to reread it immediately…just because I could.
If you haven’t read the previous books in this series, no worries. They each stand alone. However, I recommend you remedy that injustice immediately! After you read this one of course. No need to wait.
Okay, so I’m going to let you know that a friend of mine forced this author to let me have an advanced copy and Ms. Asher was too nice to say no. So yes, this is a review of an ARC but if you can’t tell it’s completely honest, all you have to do is check out the verified purchase on my Amazon review when this goes live.
And one last thing…If I had a pantry and an Asa, my farm would be a perfect kind of chaos as well.
Dual POV
Safe, safe, safe! No ow/om…safe!
Possible triggers – only if you are sensitive to drug usage (off page and not by any of the main or close secondary characters)
But don’t think for a second I didn’t tumble completely in love with Asa Hollingsworth as well. Oh dear lord! The man gives a whole new definition to dedication, protection and love. And then there’s the fact that I’m sure there wouldn’t be a woman around that doesn’t swoon should his attention shift to her. Or heck, to even be in the same room as him would cause swoonage in anyone that looked his way.
Together this couple took me to a wonderfully giddy, sometimes angsty, always wanting more, place. This is how romance is done!
Keelie meets Asa while ditched during a blind date. Literally, ditched. We quickly learn that the ability to change tires should be the main prerequisite when looking for a man. Asa fits the bill and despite Keelie’s decision to never date again, he pushes himself into her and her children’s lives all while gifting her with the things her life has been missing.
There is plenty of drama here with Asa’s daughter as well as Keelie’s emotional issues, but in true Brynne Asher fashion we ride the storm knowing that the end is going to leave us breathless, satiated, and happy. I loved the twist at the end, knowing it would be there but unsure where or how until it actually happened. The epilogue was spot on and so dang awesome I had to reread it immediately…just because I could.
If you haven’t read the previous books in this series, no worries. They each stand alone. However, I recommend you remedy that injustice immediately! After you read this one of course. No need to wait.
Okay, so I’m going to let you know that a friend of mine forced this author to let me have an advanced copy and Ms. Asher was too nice to say no. So yes, this is a review of an ARC but if you can’t tell it’s completely honest, all you have to do is check out the verified purchase on my Amazon review when this goes live.
And one last thing…If I had a pantry and an Asa, my farm would be a perfect kind of chaos as well.
Dual POV
Safe, safe, safe! No ow/om…safe!
Possible triggers – only if you are sensitive to drug usage (off page and not by any of the main or close secondary characters)
February 15, 2022
4 ❤️❤️❤️❤️⭐️s
Gifts was for me the most enjoyable story in this series (up to now), because it was totally different and veered off the pattern that was set in the 1st and 2nd parts.
I loved the dynamic in Asa and Keelie’s story, it was solid and felt so real. Their romance was very well executed, there was some drama, both main characters were over 35 y.o. and single parents.
In the near future I will continue with the rest of the series!
Gifts was for me the most enjoyable story in this series (up to now), because it was totally different and veered off the pattern that was set in the 1st and 2nd parts.
I loved the dynamic in Asa and Keelie’s story, it was solid and felt so real. Their romance was very well executed, there was some drama, both main characters were over 35 y.o. and single parents.
In the near future I will continue with the rest of the series!
November 14, 2017
There are books you read and books that just CONSUME your whole fucking life.
That’s what Gifts by Brynne Asher did for me the second I started reading it to the very last page.
Brynne Asher has this way with her writing that is so fucking beautiful and just flows wonderfully that you completely forget your life around you.
I bet her fucking grocery list is poetic.
When I first read Athica Lane last year I just knew this author was something very special and after reading Gifts I knew I was right.
I lost hours of sleep with this story just because I couldn’t put it down. Even thanked my dogs for waking me up in the middle of the night just so I could catch a few more hours with these characters and their lives.
Her writing style will always be one of my favourites.
So much suspense, whirlwind of emotions, awesome kids, a donkey named Jasmine, a few too many goats, holy-fucking-alpha, finger banging and a heroine who loves a blow-job.
I FUCKING LOVED IT!!!
I dare you to fucking not to fall in love with this woman’s stories, writing and characters.
Definitely a top favourite read this year ♥️
April 26, 2024
REREAD 2024 - I was in the mood for some single mom, alpha dad, add some cute kids and even cuter goats. Perfect read for a rainy Sunday!
⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯
A warning right here - I'm going to GUSH!!!!
This was my first book by Brynne Asher and it ROCKED!!! OMG - I was hooked, enchanted, and in LOVE. I don't know how I could have missed this author but I'm so glad I found her while reading a fellow bloggers review.
This book had EVERYTHING I love about a great romance.
A dose of Kristen Ashley.
This is a HUGE compliment when I say that Gifts gave me the KA feel. Brynne Asher wrote two AMAZING characters that had me glued to the pages, and I didn't want the book to end. That's an amazing feeling right there.
I was head over heels in love with Asa. He was in charge, protective, deliciously alpha, but also extremely kind and loving. Honestly, there isn't a guy out there that could be more perfect than him - in a non-perfect way if that makes any sense.
Because who really wants a guy that is perfect, right?
Asa was the perfect mix of flawed, stubborn, demanding and controlling. After so many years of doing his thing, working for the government in all sorts of ways that weren't kosher, settling down was only half of his daily struggle. He suddenly had to take care of his two teenage kids that weren't as placid as he would have liked it. But I was surprised how well he did. He tried his best, and put real effort into rebuilding relationships and trust between himself and his children - and it showed!!I don't know why but 'single dads' do it for me. And the way he treaded Keelie's kids was just the icing on the cake.
Hot and sexy
The chemistry between Asa and Keelie was HOOOOOTTT!!! Brynne Asher found this perfect balance of a thrilling arc and a good amount of sexy times that didn't take away from the story nor did it become redundant. Their sexual attraction was palpable, moreover the couple couldn't' have been more perfectly matched.
Keelie's sassy and stubborn personality (but never so stubborn that she got herself into danger because of it), and Asa's fondness of said sassy and stubborn woman made me so HAPPY!!! It was a true pleasure reading this book.
The author is truly talented!!!
This book was close to perfection. It had one captivating and thrilling plot, more than one arc which the author handled splendidly, characters that were spectacular, superb dialogues, and a wonderful writing style. I truly couldn't have been happier.
So, if you like the sound of all of it, don't wait, start reading now!!
⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯ ⎯
A warning right here - I'm going to GUSH!!!!
This was my first book by Brynne Asher and it ROCKED!!! OMG - I was hooked, enchanted, and in LOVE. I don't know how I could have missed this author but I'm so glad I found her while reading a fellow bloggers review.
This book had EVERYTHING I love about a great romance.
A dose of Kristen Ashley.
This is a HUGE compliment when I say that Gifts gave me the KA feel. Brynne Asher wrote two AMAZING characters that had me glued to the pages, and I didn't want the book to end. That's an amazing feeling right there.
I was head over heels in love with Asa. He was in charge, protective, deliciously alpha, but also extremely kind and loving. Honestly, there isn't a guy out there that could be more perfect than him - in a non-perfect way if that makes any sense.
Because who really wants a guy that is perfect, right?
Asa was the perfect mix of flawed, stubborn, demanding and controlling. After so many years of doing his thing, working for the government in all sorts of ways that weren't kosher, settling down was only half of his daily struggle. He suddenly had to take care of his two teenage kids that weren't as placid as he would have liked it. But I was surprised how well he did. He tried his best, and put real effort into rebuilding relationships and trust between himself and his children - and it showed!!I don't know why but 'single dads' do it for me. And the way he treaded Keelie's kids was just the icing on the cake.
Hot and sexy
The chemistry between Asa and Keelie was HOOOOOTTT!!! Brynne Asher found this perfect balance of a thrilling arc and a good amount of sexy times that didn't take away from the story nor did it become redundant. Their sexual attraction was palpable, moreover the couple couldn't' have been more perfectly matched.
Keelie's sassy and stubborn personality (but never so stubborn that she got herself into danger because of it), and Asa's fondness of said sassy and stubborn woman made me so HAPPY!!! It was a true pleasure reading this book.
The author is truly talented!!!
This book was close to perfection. It had one captivating and thrilling plot, more than one arc which the author handled splendidly, characters that were spectacular, superb dialogues, and a wonderful writing style. I truly couldn't have been happier.
So, if you like the sound of all of it, don't wait, start reading now!!
May 23, 2025
6/08/21
Now available on Audio!!!! 🗣🎧
Audible link: https://www.audible.com/pd/Gifts-Audi...
5 Killer Stars!!
Gifts by Brynne Asher is the third book in The Killer series and (as of right now) is my absolute favorite so far. Although….books one and two are awesome too so that’s saying something! I don’t read many single dad books but, thanks to Brynne Asher I’m going to have to consider this Genre. Asa Hollingsworth is just the type of man I love to read about. He’s all ALPHA. He's hot, he’s bossy, he’s a loving dad, and he’s loyal friend.
Keelie is a High School Counselor and a single parent who has a ton of worries and responsibilities on her shoulders. She tries her hardest to put up a strong façade so it appears like she’s is coping but, deep down Keelie is ready to crack. Keelie needs Asa and his super strong shoulders to lean on but, first she needs to trust Asa and all the feelings she’s having. I loved the development of Keelie and Asa's relationship throughout the story, Asa is a steamroller!! I adored all the kids Saylor and Knox (Keelie's children), Emma and Levi (Asa's children) and Keelie's extended family, you’ll love her Aunt Lillian Rose she’s a feisty southern woman and a hoot.
Asa and Keelie have a chance meeting on the side of the road and are immediately attracted to one another but each go their separate ways. When Asa has an appointment with Emma’s school counselor and finds Keelie is the school counselor and this time he doesn’t let this encounter pass. He totally bullies himself into her life, her children’s lives, and her old farmhouse.
There is a serious side this story as well. The suspense of wondering exactly what was going on, especially with Asa's daughter Emma had me stumped, I was intrigued with trying to figure out who was behind the threat. Seeing Crew and Grady along with their families was awesome, and it made me want to reread their books! I am defiantly looking forward to more of this series….hopefully soon!!
Read dates:
10/17/2017
06/08/2021
05/21/2025
October 31, 2017
What can I say about this book that would be more telling than, it's my favorite book of 2017? I can't think of anything, but if you need more, there's this...
A hot, bossy guy with an awesome name.
A heroine who is sweet AND strong.
Steamy smexy times.
A believable love story.
An entertaining plot that will leave you guessing.
Great side characters complete with WELL-WRITTEN kids.
And goats and a donkey!
I love all of Brynne Asher's books, but she truly outdid herself with Gifts. I highly recommend it.
A hot, bossy guy with an awesome name.
A heroine who is sweet AND strong.
Steamy smexy times.
A believable love story.
An entertaining plot that will leave you guessing.
Great side characters complete with WELL-WRITTEN kids.
And goats and a donkey!
I love all of Brynne Asher's books, but she truly outdid herself with Gifts. I highly recommend it.
November 26, 2024
3.5 stars
it didn't hit the spots that i was looking for, but it was an enjoyable read overall.
it didn't hit the spots that i was looking for, but it was an enjoyable read overall.
October 11, 2017
Spoiler Free.
5 Gifts Stars.
I loved every single moment of this book. Hook, line and sinker it is fun, exciting, sweet, smexy with a fantastic plot. Fab secondary characters. Be it Aunt Lillian Rose or the kiddies. Don’t let me forget the million goats. Jasmine the donkey and Ryder the poodle.
Some might even say that it is darker and more serious than the first two books where that may be. That is the exact reason I can give it the full 5 stars.
It pushed all my buttons that make a book great for me. You need to one click this one asap. The writing style keeps on getting better when I think it can’t be topped it is. Oddly in the other series the third was fan-effing-tastic and here it is the same. Coincidence? I think not.
Ladies I would love to introduce you to Asa Hollingsworth.
BTW how badass and alpha is that name? Very. Had me swooning all over the place. I tell ya.
43 years old and a total DILF. He’s retired from the business and is adjusting to looking after his kids. Yes, even better the DILF has kids. Okay so they are 18 and 15 but nevertheless. That overprotective side just comes out more. And the way he is with the others? Be still my beating heart.
Plain and simple he is the shit.
Keelie Lockhart (totally love that name as well) is getting by. Saturdays are her worst days. Mondays are her best. WTF? Yeah I know cray-cray-crazy. Life hasn’t been kind to her but she has made the best out of a shitty situation. Keelie is a fab heroine and one of the best to date for me anyway. She is strong and sassy and vulnerable. But she didn’t get her shite together quick enough for me.
Never thinking that Asa would ever find someone again in life a flat tire changes that for him. I thought that it was all a bit slow paced but when I really thought about it, it made sense I mean they have four kids and a ton of animals but when those sexy times came?
Off. The. Charts.
Once again a book I highlighted the hell out of but you know spoiler free.
When you get to the end of Gifts hopefully like you will let out a happy sigh put it down and want to pick it up
A Killers R Us store has to be opened for sure cause Asa might be one in a million but knowing Ms. Asher she will not only be wandering over to the dark side. I know that she can pull it off. Jarvis seems to get on particularly well in the underworld of crime and grime.
5 Gifts Stars.
I loved every single moment of this book. Hook, line and sinker it is fun, exciting, sweet, smexy with a fantastic plot. Fab secondary characters. Be it Aunt Lillian Rose or the kiddies. Don’t let me forget the million goats. Jasmine the donkey and Ryder the poodle.
Some might even say that it is darker and more serious than the first two books where that may be. That is the exact reason I can give it the full 5 stars.
It pushed all my buttons that make a book great for me. You need to one click this one asap. The writing style keeps on getting better when I think it can’t be topped it is. Oddly in the other series the third was fan-effing-tastic and here it is the same. Coincidence? I think not.
Ladies I would love to introduce you to Asa Hollingsworth.
BTW how badass and alpha is that name? Very. Had me swooning all over the place. I tell ya.
43 years old and a total DILF. He’s retired from the business and is adjusting to looking after his kids. Yes, even better the DILF has kids. Okay so they are 18 and 15 but nevertheless. That overprotective side just comes out more. And the way he is with the others? Be still my beating heart.
Plain and simple he is the shit.
Keelie Lockhart (totally love that name as well) is getting by. Saturdays are her worst days. Mondays are her best. WTF? Yeah I know cray-cray-crazy. Life hasn’t been kind to her but she has made the best out of a shitty situation. Keelie is a fab heroine and one of the best to date for me anyway. She is strong and sassy and vulnerable. But she didn’t get her shite together quick enough for me.
Never thinking that Asa would ever find someone again in life a flat tire changes that for him. I thought that it was all a bit slow paced but when I really thought about it, it made sense I mean they have four kids and a ton of animals but when those sexy times came?
Off. The. Charts.
Once again a book I highlighted the hell out of but you know spoiler free.
When you get to the end of Gifts hopefully like you will let out a happy sigh put it down and want to pick it up
A Killers R Us store has to be opened for sure cause Asa might be one in a million but knowing Ms. Asher she will not only be wandering over to the dark side. I know that she can pull it off. Jarvis seems to get on particularly well in the underworld of crime and grime.
February 5, 2023
4.5 stars rounded up
This series has been so well reviewed, this is going to be shorter. The adorable animals and the family dynamics pushed this rating up for me. I also liked that while this third book in the series still had danger and suspense, the source was different and had me guessing a bit. Plus the H in this book was amazing, all alpha while still being sweet and caring, and very protective. Even though, like some of my friends' reviews have mentioned, there's a questionable and weird frictiony time in their relationship where I wasn't ok with how either the H or h was acting. Thankfully, for the most part, I liked both main characters and the supporting characters (loved the kids). The h had understandable hang-ups, though she let them control her too much, and I wanted her sister to apologize for some harsh words about the h's feelings during the weird time. But the h had a lot of strengths to balance out those hang-ups, like independence, determination, and compassion. Like the other books, this one has a great epilogue and I ended the book feeling happy with the romance. Written in first person, multi-POV (side characters too). No ow/om drama (h is a widow and her husband was awful and H is divorced, though the ex isn't awful) and neither are virgins (both have been celibate for years).
Other friends have read the H's son's story, Levi, and didn't enjoy it as much as this book, but I'm still going to give it a shot because I liked him a lot in this book and his relationship with his girlfriend sounds so sweet.
This series has been so well reviewed, this is going to be shorter. The adorable animals and the family dynamics pushed this rating up for me. I also liked that while this third book in the series still had danger and suspense, the source was different and had me guessing a bit. Plus the H in this book was amazing, all alpha while still being sweet and caring, and very protective. Even though, like some of my friends' reviews have mentioned, there's a questionable and weird frictiony time in their relationship where I wasn't ok with how either the H or h was acting. Thankfully, for the most part, I liked both main characters and the supporting characters (loved the kids). The h had understandable hang-ups, though she let them control her too much, and I wanted her sister to apologize for some harsh words about the h's feelings during the weird time. But the h had a lot of strengths to balance out those hang-ups, like independence, determination, and compassion. Like the other books, this one has a great epilogue and I ended the book feeling happy with the romance. Written in first person, multi-POV (side characters too). No ow/om drama (h is a widow and her husband was awful and H is divorced, though the ex isn't awful) and neither are virgins (both have been celibate for years).
Other friends have read the H's son's story, Levi, and didn't enjoy it as much as this book, but I'm still going to give it a shot because I liked him a lot in this book and his relationship with his girlfriend sounds so sweet.
February 4, 2018
I ❤ Asa
I so enjoyed this addition to the series! Great hero, interesting storyline and fantastic kids as secondary characters. I didn't realize until after I started that the heroine was a widow. I'm just not crazy about that trope. I rarely can be convinced that the hero/heroine wasn't second best. However, the fact that the couple was well on their way to divorce before he died helped.
HERO~ Asa was amazing. I loved reading about an older hero (43). He was a great secondary character in the first two books and I was glad to see him get his story. He was alpha, loyal and devoted. After years of only seeing his kids for a week here and there, he was happy to have them with him permanently. He stepped up when they needed him most. I loved his alpha tendencies. With Keely constantly keeping him at arms length, he didn't back down. He knew what he wanted (and her too) and didn't let her ruin it.
HEROINE~ I'm sure I am in the minority on this, but Keely was not my favorite heroine. I just got over her pushing away really quick. She just left me confused and wanting to shake her. I mean who pushes away Asa Hollingsworth like that?
SEXUAL HISTORY~ Neither virgins- Asa was NOT a manwhore in any way, shape or form.
OM/OW DRAMA ~ No OM drama. No OW drama but his ex shows up but they are on good terms and she is remarried.
STEAM steamier in the second half
VIOLENCE No violence of a sexual nature
SECONDARY CHARACTERS Great kids and a some appearances from Crew and Grady and their ladies
SAFETY Safe- neither with others after meeting
ENDING~ Good epilogue 4 years later
Merged review:
I so enjoyed this addition to the series! Great hero, interesting storyline and fantastic kids as secondary characters. I didn't realize until after I started that the heroine was a widow. I'm just not crazy about that trope. I rarely can be convinced that the hero/heroine wasn't second best. However, the fact that the couple was well on their way to divorce before he died helped. I was convinced that if the ex was still alive, they wouldn't be married.
HERO~ Asa was amazing. I loved reading about an older hero (43). He was a great secondary character in the first two books and I was glad to see him get his story. He was alpha, loyal and devoted. After years of only seeing his kids for a week here and there, he was happy to have them with him permanently. He stepped up when they needed him most. I loved his alpha tendencies. With Keely constantly keeping him at arms length, he didn't back down. He knew what he wanted (and her too) and didn't let her ruin it.
HEROINE~ I'm sure I am in the minority on this, but Keely was not my favorite heroine. I just got over her pushing away really quick. She just left me confused and wanting to shake her. I mean who pushes away Asa Hollingsworth like that?
SEXUAL HISTORY~ Neither virgins- Asa was NOT a manwhore in any way, shape or form.
OM/OW DRAMA ~ No OM drama. No OW drama but his ex shows up but they are on good terms and she is remarried.
STEAM steamier in the second half
VIOLENCE No violence of a sexual nature
SECONDARY CHARACTERS Great kids and a some appearances from Crew and Grady and their ladies
SAFETY Safe- neither with others after meeting
ENDING~ Good epilogue 4 years later
I so enjoyed this addition to the series! Great hero, interesting storyline and fantastic kids as secondary characters. I didn't realize until after I started that the heroine was a widow. I'm just not crazy about that trope. I rarely can be convinced that the hero/heroine wasn't second best. However, the fact that the couple was well on their way to divorce before he died helped.
HERO~ Asa was amazing. I loved reading about an older hero (43). He was a great secondary character in the first two books and I was glad to see him get his story. He was alpha, loyal and devoted. After years of only seeing his kids for a week here and there, he was happy to have them with him permanently. He stepped up when they needed him most. I loved his alpha tendencies. With Keely constantly keeping him at arms length, he didn't back down. He knew what he wanted (and her too) and didn't let her ruin it.
HEROINE~ I'm sure I am in the minority on this, but Keely was not my favorite heroine. I just got over her pushing away really quick. She just left me confused and wanting to shake her. I mean who pushes away Asa Hollingsworth like that?
SEXUAL HISTORY~ Neither virgins- Asa was NOT a manwhore in any way, shape or form.
OM/OW DRAMA ~ No OM drama. No OW drama but his ex shows up but they are on good terms and she is remarried.
STEAM steamier in the second half
VIOLENCE No violence of a sexual nature
SECONDARY CHARACTERS Great kids and a some appearances from Crew and Grady and their ladies
SAFETY Safe- neither with others after meeting
ENDING~ Good epilogue 4 years later
Merged review:
I so enjoyed this addition to the series! Great hero, interesting storyline and fantastic kids as secondary characters. I didn't realize until after I started that the heroine was a widow. I'm just not crazy about that trope. I rarely can be convinced that the hero/heroine wasn't second best. However, the fact that the couple was well on their way to divorce before he died helped. I was convinced that if the ex was still alive, they wouldn't be married.
HERO~ Asa was amazing. I loved reading about an older hero (43). He was a great secondary character in the first two books and I was glad to see him get his story. He was alpha, loyal and devoted. After years of only seeing his kids for a week here and there, he was happy to have them with him permanently. He stepped up when they needed him most. I loved his alpha tendencies. With Keely constantly keeping him at arms length, he didn't back down. He knew what he wanted (and her too) and didn't let her ruin it.
HEROINE~ I'm sure I am in the minority on this, but Keely was not my favorite heroine. I just got over her pushing away really quick. She just left me confused and wanting to shake her. I mean who pushes away Asa Hollingsworth like that?
SEXUAL HISTORY~ Neither virgins- Asa was NOT a manwhore in any way, shape or form.
OM/OW DRAMA ~ No OM drama. No OW drama but his ex shows up but they are on good terms and she is remarried.
STEAM steamier in the second half
VIOLENCE No violence of a sexual nature
SECONDARY CHARACTERS Great kids and a some appearances from Crew and Grady and their ladies
SAFETY Safe- neither with others after meeting
ENDING~ Good epilogue 4 years later
October 26, 2017
3.5 stars.
********SOME SPOILERS********
What I like about the book?
~Hero is 43 years old. He's a wonderful father.
~Heroine is 35 years old. She's a wonderful mother. She's a somewhat strong woman.
~Cute kids, especially the heroine's kids who are younger than the hero's kids.
~The animals.
What I didn't like?
~I get the hero being an alpha and all, the heroine and his daughter were in her car during a drive by, he told her that they meaning his kids and him were staying at her house. Uhh excuse me but does he pays the mortgage for her house? No... so why the hell he thinks he can demand that he's staying in her house? They haven't even slept together, they had just shared some kisses and he thinks he can demand sh*t? Oh I get that he wanted to protect them but he could have just asked instead of demanding.
~The hero's daughter. If she was my daughter I would have slap some sense into this girl. Ugh this girl drove me mad.
~The heroine inviting the hero's ex wife to stay over at her house. To have the ex of the man you sleeping with under your roof? Oh yeah that wouldn't be awkward at all. (She doesn't stay though) but just asking the ex wife of your lover seems awkward. If my hubby had an ex wife whom he had kids with I wouldn't invite her to stay over at my house. The same house that I live with my husband.? Nope that would be a f*ck no.
~The heroine becomes somewhat of a friend with the ex. Again I wouldn't be friends with my husband's ex.
~No epilogue. #epiloguewhorehere. I wanted them to at least have a baby of their own. I love when the MCs have babies.
********SOME SPOILERS********
What I like about the book?
~Hero is 43 years old. He's a wonderful father.
~Heroine is 35 years old. She's a wonderful mother. She's a somewhat strong woman.
~Cute kids, especially the heroine's kids who are younger than the hero's kids.
~The animals.
What I didn't like?
~I get the hero being an alpha and all, the heroine and his daughter were in her car during a drive by, he told her that they meaning his kids and him were staying at her house. Uhh excuse me but does he pays the mortgage for her house? No... so why the hell he thinks he can demand that he's staying in her house? They haven't even slept together, they had just shared some kisses and he thinks he can demand sh*t? Oh I get that he wanted to protect them but he could have just asked instead of demanding.
~The hero's daughter. If she was my daughter I would have slap some sense into this girl. Ugh this girl drove me mad.
~The heroine inviting the hero's ex wife to stay over at her house. To have the ex of the man you sleeping with under your roof? Oh yeah that wouldn't be awkward at all. (She doesn't stay though) but just asking the ex wife of your lover seems awkward. If my hubby had an ex wife whom he had kids with I wouldn't invite her to stay over at my house. The same house that I live with my husband.? Nope that would be a f*ck no.
~The heroine becomes somewhat of a friend with the ex. Again I wouldn't be friends with my husband's ex.
~No epilogue. #epiloguewhorehere. I wanted them to at least have a baby of their own. I love when the MCs have babies.
April 17, 2022
4.5 stars. This is (to my great surprise) the best book of the series. I really enjoyed it, and I expected to be annoyed because of all their kids/his ex wife/etc. I prefer my MCs to not have any entanglements from past relationships. It really worked well in this book though. Both the H and h were excellent parents, great with each other’s kids, and were clearly very much over their past relationships.
The reason this isn’t a perfect 5 star book in my mind is because I did feel that the hero was too pushy at times. I loved that the hero was totally unwilling to just walk away from the heroine, even when she was being difficult. Buuuut, there’s a fine line between persistence and being being an overly controlling asshole. I think the author walked a fine line with this hero and was just barely in the green with his actions & behavior because he was so great most of the time.
I will say, I’m also bummed that the epilogue didn’t have them with another baby. I understand the choice, but I love babies & I would have loved it.
Safe; heroine widowed about 2 years prior, celibate since her ex died, she doesn’t pine for him because they had a difficult relationship towards the end of his life. Hero divorced for over 10 years (forgot the exact number), his ex wife is remarried and doesn’t cause any OW drama. She does make an appearance but it doesn’t cause jealousy, and her and the heroine ended up getting along (for the sake of the kids & coparenting basically). They each have 2 kids. No OM/OW drama, no scenes with OM/OW, no cheating.
The reason this isn’t a perfect 5 star book in my mind is because I did feel that the hero was too pushy at times. I loved that the hero was totally unwilling to just walk away from the heroine, even when she was being difficult. Buuuut, there’s a fine line between persistence and being being an overly controlling asshole. I think the author walked a fine line with this hero and was just barely in the green with his actions & behavior because he was so great most of the time.
I will say, I’m also bummed that the epilogue didn’t have them with another baby. I understand the choice, but I love babies & I would have loved it.
Safe; heroine widowed about 2 years prior, celibate since her ex died, she doesn’t pine for him because they had a difficult relationship towards the end of his life. Hero divorced for over 10 years (forgot the exact number), his ex wife is remarried and doesn’t cause any OW drama. She does make an appearance but it doesn’t cause jealousy, and her and the heroine ended up getting along (for the sake of the kids & coparenting basically). They each have 2 kids. No OM/OW drama, no scenes with OM/OW, no cheating.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 6, 2017
Well now, here's the thing. I was really enjoying this read in spite of Keelie's insecurities because I got why she was so afraid to commit. But when she pulled a ridiculously childish "break up with him by text move" and started acting like the 15 year old kids she was counsellor for at school I kinda went off her in a big way because .... stupid!
Loved Asa, he's definitely the hottest of the bunch by a mile.
3.75 stars
Loved Asa, he's definitely the hottest of the bunch by a mile.
3.75 stars
June 21, 2021
I really like Gifts. The suspense, the romance, the sexy alpha hero. A wonderful package from Miss Asher. Sone part I can not help feeling sorry for Keelie.
The kids also wonderful addition to the story.
Miss Asher is relatively new to me. I only read few of her books. After Gifts, I am so looking forward for the next one.
4 stars
The kids also wonderful addition to the story.
Miss Asher is relatively new to me. I only read few of her books. After Gifts, I am so looking forward for the next one.
4 stars
November 24, 2017
One of the best books I’ve read this year. So in love with this story and this author!
December 27, 2017
This book was spectacular. From the first page I was hooked. This is my favorite book by this author to date.
Keelie got on my nerves a couple of times but not enough to bring down my enjoyment of the story. I kinda got it. She didn’t know how to deal with certain things happening in their lives.
Asa, Asa, Asa. Where to even start with him. He was pure romance perfection to me. He’s a badass, he’s protective, he’s tenacious when going for what he wants and he gives everything of himself to the people he loves.
The kids were all awesome and added so much to the story along with the goats, geriatric donkey dogs and cats.
I am so looking forward to the mysterious Jarvis’s story. I’ve only read the first book in this series so this can be read as a standalone but I will be going back to read the second.
Keelie got on my nerves a couple of times but not enough to bring down my enjoyment of the story. I kinda got it. She didn’t know how to deal with certain things happening in their lives.
Asa, Asa, Asa. Where to even start with him. He was pure romance perfection to me. He’s a badass, he’s protective, he’s tenacious when going for what he wants and he gives everything of himself to the people he loves.
The kids were all awesome and added so much to the story along with the goats, geriatric donkey dogs and cats.
I am so looking forward to the mysterious Jarvis’s story. I’ve only read the first book in this series so this can be read as a standalone but I will be going back to read the second.
November 22, 2017
5 Stars! Wow! Wow! Wow!
This book gave me the same feeling I got when I read my first Kristen Ashley book, The Gamble, my all time favorite by her. Gifts consumed me just like reading so many of KA's books did! While the 2 authors have similar writing styles, they also differ, but both of them make you feel like you're reading something very special...books that for sure will end up on your favorite's list and heroes that are to die for...Hooooo Weeeee Asa Hollingsworth!! What a man! Oh and that epilogue! Delicious!
Now I have to go back and read this series from the beginning.
Looks like Brynne Asher has herself a new fan and if you are a KA fan...read this now! I guarantee you won't regret it and will become a fan of her's too!
This book gave me the same feeling I got when I read my first Kristen Ashley book, The Gamble, my all time favorite by her. Gifts consumed me just like reading so many of KA's books did! While the 2 authors have similar writing styles, they also differ, but both of them make you feel like you're reading something very special...books that for sure will end up on your favorite's list and heroes that are to die for...Hooooo Weeeee Asa Hollingsworth!! What a man! Oh and that epilogue! Delicious!
Now I have to go back and read this series from the beginning.
Looks like Brynne Asher has herself a new fan and if you are a KA fan...read this now! I guarantee you won't regret it and will become a fan of her's too!
May 6, 2022
I liked the romance aspects of this book. The H was besotted with the h and he pursued her hard and I was there for it! The h was a widow who was on the brink of divorce so no lost love for her dead hubby. She tried several times to push the H away and he refused to let her. They were really cute together. They each had 2 kids and they got along great.
The suspense aspects of this story were a big FAIL for me. The H is supposed to be this former cop/security specialist/assassin-type guy who couldn't figure out the mystery of what was going on in their small town. They were more bumbling than the incompetent criminals. And the H's daughter drove me crazy. It was convenient to the plot for her to be so clueless but it didn't make much sense. And the final resolution was really stupid IMO. The suspense plot really ruined the book for me.
A lot of readers really loved this book, so maybe it just wasn't for me?
Safety
The suspense aspects of this story were a big FAIL for me. The H is supposed to be this former cop/security specialist/assassin-type guy who couldn't figure out the mystery of what was going on in their small town. They were more bumbling than the incompetent criminals. And the H's daughter drove me crazy. It was convenient to the plot for her to be so clueless but it didn't make much sense. And the final resolution was really stupid IMO. The suspense plot really ruined the book for me.
A lot of readers really loved this book, so maybe it just wasn't for me?
Safety
October 15, 2023
Reread Oct 14, 2023
I love Asa😭
This series just keeps getting better and better! I loved Asa and the crew! Normally I don't care for single father books, but since she was a single mother it worked for me. I also like how we didn't have the ex-wife drama that we normally do in books too, and this book was also more different than the first two, which I liked. The kids were also a little more realistic, and I loved them with Asa. Overall, great book and I Can't wait to read the next one.
I love Asa😭
This series just keeps getting better and better! I loved Asa and the crew! Normally I don't care for single father books, but since she was a single mother it worked for me. I also like how we didn't have the ex-wife drama that we normally do in books too, and this book was also more different than the first two, which I liked. The kids were also a little more realistic, and I loved them with Asa. Overall, great book and I Can't wait to read the next one.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 731 reviews