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Sanctuary
Passion ignites and possibilities unfold. Welcome to the Windy City Romance series.
Gabe Jackson's military days are over, and she can't wait to reconnect with her Army buddies in Chicago to open the garage they always dreamed of. When she visits her canine companion Max, who was injured in a bomb blast, she's immediately attracted to the Sanctuary's owner.
Lori Turner nurses her broken heart and the rescued animals at the Sanctuary. Her brutal divorce damaged her confidence and her ability to trust, but when Gabe enters her life, solace and uncertainty intertwine.
As chemistry sparks and walls crumble, will Lori find the courage to trust again, or will secrets tear them apart?
Gabe Jackson's military days are over, and she can't wait to reconnect with her Army buddies in Chicago to open the garage they always dreamed of. When she visits her canine companion Max, who was injured in a bomb blast, she's immediately attracted to the Sanctuary's owner.
Lori Turner nurses her broken heart and the rescued animals at the Sanctuary. Her brutal divorce damaged her confidence and her ability to trust, but when Gabe enters her life, solace and uncertainty intertwine.
As chemistry sparks and walls crumble, will Lori find the courage to trust again, or will secrets tear them apart?
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
February 8, 2025
3.25 stars
I enjoyed the storyline in this book. I liked that mc Lori was the owner of an animal rescue sanctuary. Lori was a likable character who was working thru her past trauma with a cheating ex. Gabe was an Army Veteran who was recently getting back into civilian life. She and her Army pals open a business repairing and renovating cars.
Gabe was a portrayed as a very butch character, There were too many references to her physical development. She was described as very masculine and it was difficult picturing her as female. She was a very caring person and was a great friend to her army pals and good girlfriend to Lori.
Gabe's friend Solo, was a large part of the story along with her relationship with her wife and kids. Her story is left hanging, maybe we will find out what happens in the next book in the series.
I liked the book but the constant Butch/Femme references made me downgrade my rating of the book.
I enjoyed the storyline in this book. I liked that mc Lori was the owner of an animal rescue sanctuary. Lori was a likable character who was working thru her past trauma with a cheating ex. Gabe was an Army Veteran who was recently getting back into civilian life. She and her Army pals open a business repairing and renovating cars.
Gabe was a portrayed as a very butch character, There were too many references to her physical development. She was described as very masculine and it was difficult picturing her as female. She was a very caring person and was a great friend to her army pals and good girlfriend to Lori.
Gabe's friend Solo, was a large part of the story along with her relationship with her wife and kids. Her story is left hanging, maybe we will find out what happens in the next book in the series.
I liked the book but the constant Butch/Femme references made me downgrade my rating of the book.
January 5, 2025
Sweet story about mending a broken heart, overcoming past pain, and falling in love the first time. Lori runs an animal sanctuary and Gabe is fresh out of the army. A rescue service dog brings these two together in a slow burn romance. There’s quite a few characters, as this is book one in a series and golden retriever butch, Gabe is my favorite.
I wish there had been an actual first kiss scene. With the build up that Helena Harte creates in her writing, it could have been mind blowing. There’s no true third act break up, but there is enough tension that kept my interest in this medium low spice romance.
I wish there had been an actual first kiss scene. With the build up that Helena Harte creates in her writing, it could have been mind blowing. There’s no true third act break up, but there is enough tension that kept my interest in this medium low spice romance.
November 12, 2024
Book one in a series, so lots of sorting out characters though definite leads, though with openings for books 2 and 3 obvious. Enjoyable and I'll read on.
Read
August 27, 2025Won’t lie, I wanted to know WTW with solo and Janine at the end. It left me at a cliffhanger. I need to know how their story ends lol.
July 3, 2024
So sweet!
Lori owns an animal sanctuary where Max, a military companion to Gabe, is currently residing. Back in Chicago with plans to open a garage with her best friend, Gabe goes to visit Max and is instantly attracted to Lori. Broken hearted after her divorce, Lori is unsure whether the feelings she has for Gabe are enough to help her love and trust again.
Such a powerful and emotional story about kind hearted people existing in a cruel world. Both Gabe and Lori had such passion and devotion to those they cared about and loved, but for them both it came with hurt. Gabe had been through so much with the military and although she had all these feelings for Lori, she was completely open and honest, as was Lori, and then very respectful of Lori’s position emotionally and wishes when it came to not being ready to be in a relationship.
Lori was so kind and her divorce had somewhat destroyed her spark but she remained as dedicated as anything to the animals in her care. I loved how Gabe made her think twice though, and by just spending time together managed to slowly bring her some happiness again.
Gabe and Lori quickly realised what they shared was super special, and even as just friends to start they had an undeniable, instant connection. Surrounded by friends that added a little humour to the heavier emotional situations the story covered gave it a lovely lighthearted feel at times, making it a real feel good story. I really enjoyed getting to know both Gabe, Lori, and all their friends in such a great start to a series, so hoping they’ll all pop up again at some point in the future.
Such a great slow burn romance, with lots of emotional scenes, and a really lovely sentiment to the story of two people who really deserved happiness.
Lori owns an animal sanctuary where Max, a military companion to Gabe, is currently residing. Back in Chicago with plans to open a garage with her best friend, Gabe goes to visit Max and is instantly attracted to Lori. Broken hearted after her divorce, Lori is unsure whether the feelings she has for Gabe are enough to help her love and trust again.
Such a powerful and emotional story about kind hearted people existing in a cruel world. Both Gabe and Lori had such passion and devotion to those they cared about and loved, but for them both it came with hurt. Gabe had been through so much with the military and although she had all these feelings for Lori, she was completely open and honest, as was Lori, and then very respectful of Lori’s position emotionally and wishes when it came to not being ready to be in a relationship.
Lori was so kind and her divorce had somewhat destroyed her spark but she remained as dedicated as anything to the animals in her care. I loved how Gabe made her think twice though, and by just spending time together managed to slowly bring her some happiness again.
Gabe and Lori quickly realised what they shared was super special, and even as just friends to start they had an undeniable, instant connection. Surrounded by friends that added a little humour to the heavier emotional situations the story covered gave it a lovely lighthearted feel at times, making it a real feel good story. I really enjoyed getting to know both Gabe, Lori, and all their friends in such a great start to a series, so hoping they’ll all pop up again at some point in the future.
Such a great slow burn romance, with lots of emotional scenes, and a really lovely sentiment to the story of two people who really deserved happiness.
July 2, 2024
3.5 Stars
May 21, 2024
Every word, sentence, page, and chapter of Helena Harte's latest release is polished to perfection. Sanctuary is a paradigm in sublime intoxication, the type that serves to feed and nourish a reader's romantic heart...all the way to its core.
Without a shred of doubt, Sanctuary is a delight to read - an absolute dream of a story, and one that I adored getting thoroughly lost in. This slow-burn, friends-to-lovers romance is a tale you won't want to miss out on.
Gabe Jackson is finally in a position to breathe life into her post-Army plans. A grease monkey of the first order, her dream to own a female-run garage in Chicago seems the perfect way to re-enter civilian life. The clincher is reuniting with her old Army buddies for this next life adventure, knowing that also includes her ex-service canine companion - Max, who is being well cared for at the Sanctuary just outside of the city.
The Sanctuary and the multitude of ex-service and rescue animals it cares for, is all Lori Tuner has left to hold onto after a devastating matrimonial betrayal. But Lori isn't yet a block of ice, and when Gabe arrives to visit Max as he recovers from a bomb blast, Lori can't deny the flicker of desire that stirs below the torrent of insecurity and hurt. As Lori entertains the very real, very chiselled, very rock solid idea that is Gabe and a night of passion, a nuanced past experience lurks in the shadows, awaiting the light of day.
There is so, so, so much to relish in this story. Harte has crafted meaningful symbiotic relationships between every single character that appears across the pages of this book. The overall story and individual paths of those characters flow in and around each other, and yet still meld together beautifully when required. I love that the premise of this series seems set to focus on a core friendship group, and I'm truly excited to (hopefully) get to know Solo, Shay, Ellery, Rosie, Beth, Woodchuck and RB's individual stories; and of course bump into Lori and Gabe again along the way.
The story does address the aftermath of cheating, depicting the damage that being cheated on can do to a person, and the lasting repercussions that arise because of the actions of another. The trajectory of the story also poses the question of whether there can ever be a valid reason (note not an excuse(!)) for cheating. I'm not sure I'm convinced, but to see the question play out on the page between Gabe and Lori worked well in terms of believable romantic angst and an interesting and engaging plot point. There's also a hint of debate concerning physical vs emotional cheating in Solo and Janie's relationship; I'm curious to see how that unfolds, hopefully in a future book.
If cheating is a touchy subject for you as a reader, do not be put off by its inclusion in Gabe and Lori's journey. The cheating itself is a recent past experience and very much not on the page; the focus remains firmly on how that experience is overcome and ultimately about finding the missing jigsaw piece that often awaits at the end of the long road to openness and wholeness.
Sanctuary has elegantly laid the steadfast foundations of friendship. From ex-military, found families to the humble unification rooted within the animal care profession, the bonds between friends and friendship groups are tangible. There's a veritable starburst of stories waiting to spill unabashed from this Windy City nucleus, and I cannot contain my euphoria, nor patience, at the tales that clamour for release from this group of handsome butches and sumptuous femmes.
On that, I so appreciate that throughout all of Harte's novels, she truly leans into every facet of a character's identity, whether that be butch, femme or anything in between. Harte gives meaning and depth to much more than the stereotypical outward presentation of her characters and is consistent in displaying consent and comfortableness openly on the page and in dialogue.
This series opener absolutely must be on every Sapphic romance readers to read list. As the inaugural Windy City story the bar has been set insanely high, and I cannot wait to see whose story we get to peek into next.
Without a shred of doubt, Sanctuary is a delight to read - an absolute dream of a story, and one that I adored getting thoroughly lost in. This slow-burn, friends-to-lovers romance is a tale you won't want to miss out on.
Gabe Jackson is finally in a position to breathe life into her post-Army plans. A grease monkey of the first order, her dream to own a female-run garage in Chicago seems the perfect way to re-enter civilian life. The clincher is reuniting with her old Army buddies for this next life adventure, knowing that also includes her ex-service canine companion - Max, who is being well cared for at the Sanctuary just outside of the city.
The Sanctuary and the multitude of ex-service and rescue animals it cares for, is all Lori Tuner has left to hold onto after a devastating matrimonial betrayal. But Lori isn't yet a block of ice, and when Gabe arrives to visit Max as he recovers from a bomb blast, Lori can't deny the flicker of desire that stirs below the torrent of insecurity and hurt. As Lori entertains the very real, very chiselled, very rock solid idea that is Gabe and a night of passion, a nuanced past experience lurks in the shadows, awaiting the light of day.
There is so, so, so much to relish in this story. Harte has crafted meaningful symbiotic relationships between every single character that appears across the pages of this book. The overall story and individual paths of those characters flow in and around each other, and yet still meld together beautifully when required. I love that the premise of this series seems set to focus on a core friendship group, and I'm truly excited to (hopefully) get to know Solo, Shay, Ellery, Rosie, Beth, Woodchuck and RB's individual stories; and of course bump into Lori and Gabe again along the way.
The story does address the aftermath of cheating, depicting the damage that being cheated on can do to a person, and the lasting repercussions that arise because of the actions of another. The trajectory of the story also poses the question of whether there can ever be a valid reason (note not an excuse(!)) for cheating. I'm not sure I'm convinced, but to see the question play out on the page between Gabe and Lori worked well in terms of believable romantic angst and an interesting and engaging plot point. There's also a hint of debate concerning physical vs emotional cheating in Solo and Janie's relationship; I'm curious to see how that unfolds, hopefully in a future book.
If cheating is a touchy subject for you as a reader, do not be put off by its inclusion in Gabe and Lori's journey. The cheating itself is a recent past experience and very much not on the page; the focus remains firmly on how that experience is overcome and ultimately about finding the missing jigsaw piece that often awaits at the end of the long road to openness and wholeness.
Sanctuary has elegantly laid the steadfast foundations of friendship. From ex-military, found families to the humble unification rooted within the animal care profession, the bonds between friends and friendship groups are tangible. There's a veritable starburst of stories waiting to spill unabashed from this Windy City nucleus, and I cannot contain my euphoria, nor patience, at the tales that clamour for release from this group of handsome butches and sumptuous femmes.
On that, I so appreciate that throughout all of Harte's novels, she truly leans into every facet of a character's identity, whether that be butch, femme or anything in between. Harte gives meaning and depth to much more than the stereotypical outward presentation of her characters and is consistent in displaying consent and comfortableness openly on the page and in dialogue.
This series opener absolutely must be on every Sapphic romance readers to read list. As the inaugural Windy City story the bar has been set insanely high, and I cannot wait to see whose story we get to peek into next.
February 27, 2025
A long novel that didn’t feel long. Pacing was perfectly judged and at no point did my mind wander from the book or the characters.
There was humour, heat and three dimensional characters that I really enjoyed getting to know.
I loved Lauri's internal thoughts especially in the opening chapters.
The book held my attention and the “forbidden” (their rules, not any actual forbidden norms) was off the charts. A couple of phrases, showing the want didn’t appeal to me, but a couple of phrases in a long novel is nothing.
I found myself strangely compelled to read this book at every opportunity. Which in a single plot romance is unusual. I liked the characters and the way they were revealed. At about 80%, when things are moving forward, one still has a secret, they go to tell…… but the other does the whole, “not tonight….tell me later” plot device, which got a slight eyebrow raise from me….. It never goes well, but what did go well is the way the writer dealt with the delay….. oh boy!
Some great lines, great pacing and a long hot scene, although the non intimate build up scenes are among the few I’ve ever read that the chemistry is shown rather than told. Great job.
There was humour, heat and three dimensional characters that I really enjoyed getting to know.
I loved Lauri's internal thoughts especially in the opening chapters.
The book held my attention and the “forbidden” (their rules, not any actual forbidden norms) was off the charts. A couple of phrases, showing the want didn’t appeal to me, but a couple of phrases in a long novel is nothing.
I found myself strangely compelled to read this book at every opportunity. Which in a single plot romance is unusual. I liked the characters and the way they were revealed. At about 80%, when things are moving forward, one still has a secret, they go to tell…… but the other does the whole, “not tonight….tell me later” plot device, which got a slight eyebrow raise from me….. It never goes well, but what did go well is the way the writer dealt with the delay….. oh boy!
Some great lines, great pacing and a long hot scene, although the non intimate build up scenes are among the few I’ve ever read that the chemistry is shown rather than told. Great job.
June 27, 2024
Great Read
April 15, 2026
this is so slow paced but definitely a great read
June 2, 2024
“Sanctuary” by Helena Harte
This book is my new happy place! I absolutely love it. I’m in love with both ex-soldier and mechanic, Gabe and Sanctuary owner and all around angel, Lori. And the group of friends surrounding them are all amazing. I hope to see a LOT more books in the “Windy City Romance” world!
Helena Harte is a fantastic author. This story had me from page one and only got better with each turn of the page. This book is definitely going on my “Read Again” bookshelf.
Not to mention that I want to spend a lot of time at the all female garage as well as at “Bonnie’s Brew” next door. Thank you, Helena Harte!!!
This book is my new happy place! I absolutely love it. I’m in love with both ex-soldier and mechanic, Gabe and Sanctuary owner and all around angel, Lori. And the group of friends surrounding them are all amazing. I hope to see a LOT more books in the “Windy City Romance” world!
Helena Harte is a fantastic author. This story had me from page one and only got better with each turn of the page. This book is definitely going on my “Read Again” bookshelf.
Not to mention that I want to spend a lot of time at the all female garage as well as at “Bonnie’s Brew” next door. Thank you, Helena Harte!!!
June 8, 2024
The story is so nicely written, with very interested characters. The dialogues some times felt too long in some parts, but overall the book is so good. I fully enjoyed it.
April 20, 2024
Promising new series set in Chicagoland
This is the first book I've read by Helena Harte and it's the first in the Windy City Romance series. I am already curious to see which secondary characters in Sanctuary get upgraded to mains in the other books of the series. I have guesses about who they may be and want to see if I'm right when those books are published, and to read more about them as individuals as well as when they couple up for some romance.
For readers who love Butch and Femme characters and relationship dynamics, Sanctuary is right up your alley. The characters identify themselves, their friends, and love interests as one or the other in a less subtle way than I've come across in my lesfic reading over the years (with the exception of older lesfic wlw stories when that seemed to be the norm). At times I found the reiteration of the butch and femme labels tiresome and limiting to a degree; other readers may feel different depending on their views of, and associations with, those terms. Also
the relationship between Lori and her mom, what they talk about together was eyebrow raising a few times.
Since this is book one in a series, there is groundwork being laid here with an abundance of lesbian characters to introduce and have interact. I wonder what else will carry over from this book thru the rest of the series, if details dropped in passing here will be important in future books or not. Both mains Lori and Gabe have their moments lusting for the other early on to the point where they nearly sound like they're animals in heat ready to act on the basest of instincts rather than what's more typically depicted as attraction between women outside of erotica, at least in the books I've read to date; had one of them been a male character thinking this way about a female character in a mainstream story, it'd be considered problematic but maybe this is the norm in modern day butch femme romance stories. I'd need to read more of them to be able to better judge if that's the trend or just the way these particular characters were written for this story. I'm curious to read the rest of the series when it's released to see how characters develop, both those who will be mains and in the spotlight as well as those secondaries who were mains here or have yet to have their time as mains.
Although I am new to Helena Harte's writing I did recognize a couple of Easter eggs that point to at least one of her other books written under a different pen name as well as a recent book by her writer wife. There may be more than what I spotted but the beauty of Easter eggs is that they are a nice bonus for fans to catch and those who don't recognize them for what they are still can fully enjoy the story regardless.
This is the first book I've read by Helena Harte and it's the first in the Windy City Romance series. I am already curious to see which secondary characters in Sanctuary get upgraded to mains in the other books of the series. I have guesses about who they may be and want to see if I'm right when those books are published, and to read more about them as individuals as well as when they couple up for some romance.
For readers who love Butch and Femme characters and relationship dynamics, Sanctuary is right up your alley. The characters identify themselves, their friends, and love interests as one or the other in a less subtle way than I've come across in my lesfic reading over the years (with the exception of older lesfic wlw stories when that seemed to be the norm). At times I found the reiteration of the butch and femme labels tiresome and limiting to a degree; other readers may feel different depending on their views of, and associations with, those terms. Also
the relationship between Lori and her mom, what they talk about together was eyebrow raising a few times.
Since this is book one in a series, there is groundwork being laid here with an abundance of lesbian characters to introduce and have interact. I wonder what else will carry over from this book thru the rest of the series, if details dropped in passing here will be important in future books or not. Both mains Lori and Gabe have their moments lusting for the other early on to the point where they nearly sound like they're animals in heat ready to act on the basest of instincts rather than what's more typically depicted as attraction between women outside of erotica, at least in the books I've read to date; had one of them been a male character thinking this way about a female character in a mainstream story, it'd be considered problematic but maybe this is the norm in modern day butch femme romance stories. I'd need to read more of them to be able to better judge if that's the trend or just the way these particular characters were written for this story. I'm curious to read the rest of the series when it's released to see how characters develop, both those who will be mains and in the spotlight as well as those secondaries who were mains here or have yet to have their time as mains.
Although I am new to Helena Harte's writing I did recognize a couple of Easter eggs that point to at least one of her other books written under a different pen name as well as a recent book by her writer wife. There may be more than what I spotted but the beauty of Easter eggs is that they are a nice bonus for fans to catch and those who don't recognize them for what they are still can fully enjoy the story regardless.
May 20, 2024
Sanctuary is the first Helena Harte book I have read and, thankfully, the first in a new series from her. It is clear from very early in the story that Harte is carefully crafting a rich and diverse cast of characters for the series, and each of them is worthy of the attention I am sure they will get in future books.
For this first story, the two main characters are complex, interesting, endearing, and had me rooting for their HEA from very early on. Harte masterfully depicts the complex trauma of a veteran in MC Gabe, being careful to accurately represent the challenges of reintegration without dwelling on this aspect of the character journey. Intentionally so, Gabe is the perfect mix of butch strength and feminine vulnerability, and her journey in this book is perfectly written.
I found it harder to like Lori initially, but as the initial emotional coldness of her character unfolded to expose a deeply hurt and vulnerable woman, she grew into a character worthy of the storyline. The supporting cast are diverse, fun, complex and every single one of them is deserving of their own MC role in this series, so I can't wait for more! Each of them adds something valuable to this story, though, which should have been a difficult task considering there are a number of them. Harte manages this beautifully though, and while this reads as a standalone, it is very clearly intended as the first in a well-developed (and now highly anticipated) series.
This is a slow burn kind of read, but by mid-way, I couldn't put it down. The characters all feel familiar and like old friends, and the storyline is also familiar, but different enough that it will keep you engaged, right through to the last words. I'd consider this book less of an easy read than some in the romance genre, but definitely could become a comfort re-read for those who like the butch femme dynamic, or the military veteran MC trope. Well worth a read, and I look forward to the next instalment!!
For this first story, the two main characters are complex, interesting, endearing, and had me rooting for their HEA from very early on. Harte masterfully depicts the complex trauma of a veteran in MC Gabe, being careful to accurately represent the challenges of reintegration without dwelling on this aspect of the character journey. Intentionally so, Gabe is the perfect mix of butch strength and feminine vulnerability, and her journey in this book is perfectly written.
I found it harder to like Lori initially, but as the initial emotional coldness of her character unfolded to expose a deeply hurt and vulnerable woman, she grew into a character worthy of the storyline. The supporting cast are diverse, fun, complex and every single one of them is deserving of their own MC role in this series, so I can't wait for more! Each of them adds something valuable to this story, though, which should have been a difficult task considering there are a number of them. Harte manages this beautifully though, and while this reads as a standalone, it is very clearly intended as the first in a well-developed (and now highly anticipated) series.
This is a slow burn kind of read, but by mid-way, I couldn't put it down. The characters all feel familiar and like old friends, and the storyline is also familiar, but different enough that it will keep you engaged, right through to the last words. I'd consider this book less of an easy read than some in the romance genre, but definitely could become a comfort re-read for those who like the butch femme dynamic, or the military veteran MC trope. Well worth a read, and I look forward to the next instalment!!
May 19, 2024
I’m so hooked on this great story.
It’s a series, it has butch and femme main characters and there is a supporting cast of ex-army. The final seller for me is an eighty-pound Belgian Malinois war hero suffering from PTSD.
The main characters are brilliantly described in the early chapters and it’s possible to see their issues and problems. Lori is the owner of the Sanctuary a home for ex-service animals, and she’s recovering from a loveless marriage and divorce, enjoying the company of dogs and horses rather than people. She provides a place for Max the Belgian Malinois to recover from a bomb blast that has left him emotionally cowed.
The other main character is Gabe, a butch ex-Sergeant who was Max’s handler and in the same bomb blast. She has recovered from her injuries with no emotional aftereffects. She has managed to get together with her friends from the Army and the group are opening a garage. She is instantly attracted to Lori when on a first visit to see Max. Gabe and Lori and how they progress are part of the threads of this first episode of the series.
Other characters include Lori and Gabe’s best friends who are always on hand to give advice, the ex- army friends from the garage, a veterinary and Lori’s parents. I just can’t wait to see which of them gets to star in the next episode. I want to know more about all these characters, and the story leaves you wanting more.
Helena Harte takes the large cast in her stride, and successfully ensures we aren’t overwhelmed with people by cleverly keeping your attention where she wants it. It’s not an easy balance to get right, but she has done it exceptionally well.
It's an enchanting start to the series and I’m already looking forward to the second episode.
It’s a series, it has butch and femme main characters and there is a supporting cast of ex-army. The final seller for me is an eighty-pound Belgian Malinois war hero suffering from PTSD.
The main characters are brilliantly described in the early chapters and it’s possible to see their issues and problems. Lori is the owner of the Sanctuary a home for ex-service animals, and she’s recovering from a loveless marriage and divorce, enjoying the company of dogs and horses rather than people. She provides a place for Max the Belgian Malinois to recover from a bomb blast that has left him emotionally cowed.
The other main character is Gabe, a butch ex-Sergeant who was Max’s handler and in the same bomb blast. She has recovered from her injuries with no emotional aftereffects. She has managed to get together with her friends from the Army and the group are opening a garage. She is instantly attracted to Lori when on a first visit to see Max. Gabe and Lori and how they progress are part of the threads of this first episode of the series.
Other characters include Lori and Gabe’s best friends who are always on hand to give advice, the ex- army friends from the garage, a veterinary and Lori’s parents. I just can’t wait to see which of them gets to star in the next episode. I want to know more about all these characters, and the story leaves you wanting more.
Helena Harte takes the large cast in her stride, and successfully ensures we aren’t overwhelmed with people by cleverly keeping your attention where she wants it. It’s not an easy balance to get right, but she has done it exceptionally well.
It's an enchanting start to the series and I’m already looking forward to the second episode.
May 22, 2024
Helene Harte has started a new series and if this first book is any indication, the rest will be great reads also. Set in Chicagoland this new Windy City series.
Helene Harte has masterfully depicted a war hero in Gabe, trying to reenter civilian life. She is a strong character and is settling in to open a garage she and the other females she served with talked about during their tour.
Lori, the other MC owns the sanctuary who loves rehabbing the animals but appears to be a cold person. As the story progresses, we find her attitude is from being deeply hurt from a previous relationship. She prefers to spend time with the animals rather than people. Lori is rehabbing Max, a Belgian Malinois who is afraid of loud noises, fireworks, and most people stemming from a bomb blast that has left him emotionally distant and fearful.
Gabe was Max’s handler, and she stops at the Sanctuary to see him, where she meets Lori. Gabe finds her interesting and looks forward to getting to know her.
The women working with Gabe are a mix of interesting characters. I look forward to seeing how each of them develops into possibly MCs in the rest of the books in this series. Each of the women are characters in their own right.
This is a slow burn, but one that will have you turning the pages as it progresses.
I enjoyed seeing the Easter Eggs from a book under another name & a reference to a book written by her wife.
They in no way detract from this book but are an enjoyable find to those of us who have read them.
I look forward to reading more books in this series.
Helene Harte has masterfully depicted a war hero in Gabe, trying to reenter civilian life. She is a strong character and is settling in to open a garage she and the other females she served with talked about during their tour.
Lori, the other MC owns the sanctuary who loves rehabbing the animals but appears to be a cold person. As the story progresses, we find her attitude is from being deeply hurt from a previous relationship. She prefers to spend time with the animals rather than people. Lori is rehabbing Max, a Belgian Malinois who is afraid of loud noises, fireworks, and most people stemming from a bomb blast that has left him emotionally distant and fearful.
Gabe was Max’s handler, and she stops at the Sanctuary to see him, where she meets Lori. Gabe finds her interesting and looks forward to getting to know her.
The women working with Gabe are a mix of interesting characters. I look forward to seeing how each of them develops into possibly MCs in the rest of the books in this series. Each of the women are characters in their own right.
This is a slow burn, but one that will have you turning the pages as it progresses.
I enjoyed seeing the Easter Eggs from a book under another name & a reference to a book written by her wife.
They in no way detract from this book but are an enjoyable find to those of us who have read them.
I look forward to reading more books in this series.
April 8, 2026
Ready for the release of book 3, this book 1 was free. Give me a free book and as long as it's good I will read it and repay the gift with a review.
This is Book 1 - and introduces a whole host of women - who I am assuming will feature throughout the series set around Chicago. This series features an animal sanctuary - I never tire of reading about rescue dogs. We also have a host of women who have left the army and are looking to open a garage nearby. Give us the sanctuary owner - just divorced - and her best friend - and the vet - and mix them together with the ex army buddies and I reckon there's no limit to the amount of books that can be written in this series.
This is well written. It's a good story and it draws on research into the area and links in historical and current figures that actually exist(ed). I do like it when books do that - it's really clever. So there is research into cars, the army, sanctuaries, some social history from the 1930s, and therapy.
What I really liked about this was that the discussion/thinking between the characters explains a lot about relationships and friendships. It's almost a social story - and I'm all for that. It's therapeutic and educational. If you were in doubt about what is/isn't acceptable behaviour, you can learn from this book.
It's also fun when you meet the characters to spot who will be pairing up and starring in their own drama in a future book. This book tells the story of Lori and Gabe.
This is Book 1 - and introduces a whole host of women - who I am assuming will feature throughout the series set around Chicago. This series features an animal sanctuary - I never tire of reading about rescue dogs. We also have a host of women who have left the army and are looking to open a garage nearby. Give us the sanctuary owner - just divorced - and her best friend - and the vet - and mix them together with the ex army buddies and I reckon there's no limit to the amount of books that can be written in this series.
This is well written. It's a good story and it draws on research into the area and links in historical and current figures that actually exist(ed). I do like it when books do that - it's really clever. So there is research into cars, the army, sanctuaries, some social history from the 1930s, and therapy.
What I really liked about this was that the discussion/thinking between the characters explains a lot about relationships and friendships. It's almost a social story - and I'm all for that. It's therapeutic and educational. If you were in doubt about what is/isn't acceptable behaviour, you can learn from this book.
It's also fun when you meet the characters to spot who will be pairing up and starring in their own drama in a future book. This book tells the story of Lori and Gabe.
May 19, 2024
The well-paced narrative and intricately built world make Sanctuary by Helena Harte an incredibly enjoyable book to read. It was a must read on my list and falls into a lot of categories including, ex-military, butch/femme, found family.
Gabe Jackson, 38, is an Army veteran who has completed tours and has twenty years’ service under her belt. Her dream was to open a garage in Chicago with a band of tight-knit friends, who have remained loyal and supportive through all their ups and downs.
Lori Turner, 31, who runs the Sanctuary for animals, is currently rehabilitating Max, an ex-service dog who was injured whilst on duty. At The Sanctuary, he can recover and learn to trust again at his own pace.
Compassionate writing with interesting characters, including Max, bring a uniqueness to the story. It's impressive how, despite feeling an instant connection, the main characters prioritise and uphold a strong sense of respect for each other's personal boundaries.
I have already recommended this book to friends. Thanks to Butterworth Books, I received an ARC for my honest review.
Gabe Jackson, 38, is an Army veteran who has completed tours and has twenty years’ service under her belt. Her dream was to open a garage in Chicago with a band of tight-knit friends, who have remained loyal and supportive through all their ups and downs.
Lori Turner, 31, who runs the Sanctuary for animals, is currently rehabilitating Max, an ex-service dog who was injured whilst on duty. At The Sanctuary, he can recover and learn to trust again at his own pace.
Compassionate writing with interesting characters, including Max, bring a uniqueness to the story. It's impressive how, despite feeling an instant connection, the main characters prioritise and uphold a strong sense of respect for each other's personal boundaries.
I have already recommended this book to friends. Thanks to Butterworth Books, I received an ARC for my honest review.
January 11, 2025
Very Sweet 😍
I don’t think I have ever read a lez rom where one of the MC’s was a military vet, let alone a supporting cast of 5 others.
Having said that, there is only tangential references to the armed forces experience, but more so, interactive army life, and its effect on their lives once they are free of that environment.
This is a very slow burn story about one marvelously altruistic main character whose family is almost angelic in her support.
Sadly she is been severely damaged by her previous marriage to a bitch who she only refers to as “the lawyer”!
As fate would have it, her attempt to restore a traumatized army dog (this is her occupation) brings her into meeting a Medal of Honor winner whose goal is to begin her civilian life and reclaim Max who was her service dog, but morphs into winning the heroine’s damaged heart.
Sparks fly, naturally, but both have histories that present obstacles (naturally lol)
The rest of the novel is filled with idiosyncratic characters who both promote and in some cases interfere with, the progress of their obviously meant to be romance.
This is a very enjoyable novel, filled with angst but very rewarding.
Enjoy 😘
I don’t think I have ever read a lez rom where one of the MC’s was a military vet, let alone a supporting cast of 5 others.
Having said that, there is only tangential references to the armed forces experience, but more so, interactive army life, and its effect on their lives once they are free of that environment.
This is a very slow burn story about one marvelously altruistic main character whose family is almost angelic in her support.
Sadly she is been severely damaged by her previous marriage to a bitch who she only refers to as “the lawyer”!
As fate would have it, her attempt to restore a traumatized army dog (this is her occupation) brings her into meeting a Medal of Honor winner whose goal is to begin her civilian life and reclaim Max who was her service dog, but morphs into winning the heroine’s damaged heart.
Sparks fly, naturally, but both have histories that present obstacles (naturally lol)
The rest of the novel is filled with idiosyncratic characters who both promote and in some cases interfere with, the progress of their obviously meant to be romance.
This is a very enjoyable novel, filled with angst but very rewarding.
Enjoy 😘
May 26, 2024
Helena Harte is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. Her characters feel real with emotions, back stories and interesting friends and situations. This, the first of the Windy City Romances, brings Gabe and Lauren together. Gabe is a soldier who has recently retired and Lauren own a sanctuary for animals who need a place to recover from abuse or horrows in their lives. In this case, Max, the dog, is placed in the Sanctuary after serving in the Army as a Bomb detecting dog who has lost his nerve. Gabe was one of the soldiers who handled him. she comes to visit Max and is swept up in her attraction to Lauren. wonderful Butch/Femme trope. In addition, there is a cast of friends on Gabe's side, who also served in the Army and come together to open an all-woman garage in Chicago. They all have stories which I am sure will develop in the next volume of the series. The attraction between Lauren and Gabe virtually sizzles. The author has a way of developing and writing about attraction that keeps the reader hoping for more in each chapter. This was a fun book to read.
May 11, 2024
I was captivated from the first page with this new release by Helena Harte. Handsome butch and beautiful femme pairing with outrageous chemistry. A found family that just works with ex-military bonds that feel unflappable.
I adore Harte's writing style and the way she brings characters from other books into her current books. Characters mentioned from both Robyn Nyx and Valden Bush, as well as previous characters from Harte's own books.
Each book gets better and better. The pairings she created have a wonderful connection and can tell they will be together for the long haul.
The empathy is done well, and the way the MCs read each other is masterful. The angst was expected. It was remedied timely and sufficiently. Each MC had a core group of support that was heartfelt.
I am excited to know that this book is the beginning of a series and will get to see the characters again. I look forward to the next book.
I adore Harte's writing style and the way she brings characters from other books into her current books. Characters mentioned from both Robyn Nyx and Valden Bush, as well as previous characters from Harte's own books.
Each book gets better and better. The pairings she created have a wonderful connection and can tell they will be together for the long haul.
The empathy is done well, and the way the MCs read each other is masterful. The angst was expected. It was remedied timely and sufficiently. Each MC had a core group of support that was heartfelt.
I am excited to know that this book is the beginning of a series and will get to see the characters again. I look forward to the next book.
April 29, 2026
There’s something so beautiful about watching two people find softness together after pain. Gabe has that grounded, protective presence (but she’s a marshmallow) while Lori brings warmth and vulnerability, and together they just work.
The chemistry between them was instant, no matter how hard they tried to keep it under control. Their story carries the perfect balance of longing, comfort, and emotional healing, making every moment feel deeply meaningful.
When is something a lie, is it even a lie if you just keep quiet?
And who knew soft, vulnerable Lori could bring so much heat to the bedroom in that first scene?
@authorhelenaharte wrote us this safe, intense, and full of longing romance and I absolutely loved their story. 📸📚
🧡🤍🩷 Meet Lori and Gabe as they navigate from friendship to lovers (oh and Max, the reason we got Lori and Gabe)
Follow them as the characters in The Windy City series grow!
The chemistry between them was instant, no matter how hard they tried to keep it under control. Their story carries the perfect balance of longing, comfort, and emotional healing, making every moment feel deeply meaningful.
When is something a lie, is it even a lie if you just keep quiet?
And who knew soft, vulnerable Lori could bring so much heat to the bedroom in that first scene?
@authorhelenaharte wrote us this safe, intense, and full of longing romance and I absolutely loved their story. 📸📚
🧡🤍🩷 Meet Lori and Gabe as they navigate from friendship to lovers (oh and Max, the reason we got Lori and Gabe)
Follow them as the characters in The Windy City series grow!
May 22, 2024
I think I love every one of Helena Harte's books more than the last one. I think this is my favorite. And it will be till the next. Lori runs a sanctuary for ex military dogs and horses. Helping them return to civilian life. Max is one of the dogs she is working with. His former handler is Gabe, who retired out of the service. They were both hurt in a bombing accident. Gabe is a dreamboat butch. Pure sexy hard body. And just Lori's ideal match. But she was married to a butch that broke her heart. And Gabe doesn't want to settle down. This book is full of back and forth pulling and pushing.Their attraction to each other is off the charts. Helena just keeps you going with will they or won't they. It is a well written book. It just kept my interest, and I didn't want it to end. Highly recommend. Enjoy.
November 5, 2024
Robyn Nyx uses her alter ego, Helena Harte, to deliver pretty traditional butch/femme romances. If that’s your bag then this will most definitely tick the boxes, as the author does this very well. All the suppressed longing (by both MC’s) is very effectively conveyed; even though the actual time frame is pretty short…it feels like they fight their feelings much longer than they actually do! There’s also a good set up for further books with the same characters introduced here. I see that book two moves on to Gabe and Lori’s best friends Shay and Rosie, but there’s potential for several more. I’m particularly interested to see how matters develop with Solo and Janie - am I alone in wondering whether ‘she who shall not be mentioned’, Lori’s ex, the loathsome ‘lawyer’, is going to raise her ugly head there?
May 21, 2024
If you like your butches hot and spicy with a soft inside, you’ll love Gabe, an ex-military soldier who realises her dream of setting up a garage with her best friends.
Enter a femme, Lori, who manages an animal sanctuary for ex-military animals. Bring them together as the Sanctuary rehabilitates the ex-military dog, Max, that Gabe used to work with, and you have sapphic catnip (dognip?)!
My favourite part was the sense of found family and the discussion about the significance of names - whether they’re given names or nicknames.
I loved the teasers for conflict and possibility in future books that have you waiting for the next instalment in the series.
Oh and did I say the hot butches? This is a treat for everyone who loves their sapphic romance with a steamier side.
Enter a femme, Lori, who manages an animal sanctuary for ex-military animals. Bring them together as the Sanctuary rehabilitates the ex-military dog, Max, that Gabe used to work with, and you have sapphic catnip (dognip?)!
My favourite part was the sense of found family and the discussion about the significance of names - whether they’re given names or nicknames.
I loved the teasers for conflict and possibility in future books that have you waiting for the next instalment in the series.
Oh and did I say the hot butches? This is a treat for everyone who loves their sapphic romance with a steamier side.
May 26, 2024
A gorgeous, kind-hearted animal lover meets a strapping ex-military mechanic. Sparks are flying! What’s not to love?
If you like your romance with plenty of slow burn and sexual tension, this is your next summer read.
It has all the hallmarks of a Helena Harte novel: strong and well-rounded butch/femme characters, an evocative US setting, and a whole cast of richly-drawn sidekicks and friends.
I enjoyed Harte's previous novel, Stunted Heart, for its thrilling scenes. This one is much more about the depths of the relationship building between Lori and Gabe until their attraction is just unstoppable.
You’ll enjoy it for the longing looks, the burning desire, and the smouldering passion.
If you like your romance with plenty of slow burn and sexual tension, this is your next summer read.
It has all the hallmarks of a Helena Harte novel: strong and well-rounded butch/femme characters, an evocative US setting, and a whole cast of richly-drawn sidekicks and friends.
I enjoyed Harte's previous novel, Stunted Heart, for its thrilling scenes. This one is much more about the depths of the relationship building between Lori and Gabe until their attraction is just unstoppable.
You’ll enjoy it for the longing looks, the burning desire, and the smouldering passion.
May 20, 2024
Very promising new series. Even though the butch-femme trope is not really my cup of tea it worked really well in this romance between Gabe and Lori. I loved the veteran crew with their garage, the story of Max the dog was a great connecting thread to keep Gabe and Lori in contact. I really hope we'll get the follow up in this series quickly so we can see what's in store for the rest of the lovable crew. I would definitely recommend this book for any romance lover out there and don't be put off with the storyline about cheating. (Normally not a big fan) It's used here to show the aftermath and effect on people in future relationships and It's written really well and believable.
May 26, 2024
Charge up your battery with ex-military butch, Gabe, who meets femme, Lori. Gabe and her army buddies start a new garage, and Lori runs an animal shelter where Gabe’s former service dog is recovering. How sweet is that? But be careful; your battery charging cycle might build up explosive chemicals, causing sparks and your engine to catch fire. Don't worry because it will be a slow, delicious process.
Poignant moments and flirting mix as attraction builds between Gabe and Lori. And there are the secondary characters that will also grab your attention. Shay and Solo were my favorites.
Sanctuary is another excellent novel by Helena Harte. If you like butch/femme stories, then don’t miss this one.
Poignant moments and flirting mix as attraction builds between Gabe and Lori. And there are the secondary characters that will also grab your attention. Shay and Solo were my favorites.
Sanctuary is another excellent novel by Helena Harte. If you like butch/femme stories, then don’t miss this one.
May 20, 2024
No more holding back
Home from deployment a group of friends, soldiers go about making their dream come true. Back in the desert, they talked about a garage business they would start together.
Their leader finds her canine companion in a nearby shelter and is immediately attracted to the shelter manager.
The two start developing a friendship that leads into a deeper connection through some twists and turns. After holding back for some time, they realize there’s no turning back.
Apparently, this is a start for a new series that will be interesting to follow.
Home from deployment a group of friends, soldiers go about making their dream come true. Back in the desert, they talked about a garage business they would start together.
Their leader finds her canine companion in a nearby shelter and is immediately attracted to the shelter manager.
The two start developing a friendship that leads into a deeper connection through some twists and turns. After holding back for some time, they realize there’s no turning back.
Apparently, this is a start for a new series that will be interesting to follow.
May 20, 2024
If you’re looking for a good butch/femme story with lots of furry friends and a sizzling slow burn romance, look no further. Helena has written a strong, good hearted butch and a loving, fabulous femme characters in this one. They both know their feelings for each other are real, but they take their time building a friendship first. All of the secondary characters play a part in this book, too. So if you’re looking for a really good rainy day read, that will have you smiling, as you read, grab this one and enjoy the story. You won’t be disappointed!
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