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Upon a Star #1
Last Hope
A tale of resilience and second chances in a world where love and danger intertwine.
In Devon Miller's world, darkness has a name. And a face. She’s been haunted by violence since childhood, unable to escape its grip. Left for dead one night, she finds herself on the doorstep of Riley Burns, a famous music manager with whom she shared a fiery connection months ago.
Riley Burns is the best at what he does. The famous artists he represents and considers family fulfill his professional dreams. But behind his successful persona, Riley leads a lonely life, and secrets he’s recently uncovered about his own family threaten to unravel everything. The mysterious woman he met at a party a year ago still lingers in his thoughts, but despite his best efforts, he never found her after she vanished without a trace.
Bruised and on the run from a dangerous past, Devon has no one to trust—except the one man who made her feel seen and cherished, even if just for a few hours. Riley becomes her safe haven, helping her stand strong against the demons that haunt her. What Devon doesn’t know is that her presence in Riley’s life is the missing puzzle piece he desperately needs to bring new meaning to his own existence.
As they grow closer, their friendship blossoms into something meaningful and beautiful. Together, they must learn to forgive and trust that life can shine brighter after tragedy.
Can Devon leave her past behind and embrace the possibility of true love and hope, or will it threaten to shatter the life she and Riley are building?
Last Hope is a captivating journey of love, hope, and the power of second chances. It is a standalone novel in the Carter Hills Band universe.
In Devon Miller's world, darkness has a name. And a face. She’s been haunted by violence since childhood, unable to escape its grip. Left for dead one night, she finds herself on the doorstep of Riley Burns, a famous music manager with whom she shared a fiery connection months ago.
Riley Burns is the best at what he does. The famous artists he represents and considers family fulfill his professional dreams. But behind his successful persona, Riley leads a lonely life, and secrets he’s recently uncovered about his own family threaten to unravel everything. The mysterious woman he met at a party a year ago still lingers in his thoughts, but despite his best efforts, he never found her after she vanished without a trace.
Bruised and on the run from a dangerous past, Devon has no one to trust—except the one man who made her feel seen and cherished, even if just for a few hours. Riley becomes her safe haven, helping her stand strong against the demons that haunt her. What Devon doesn’t know is that her presence in Riley’s life is the missing puzzle piece he desperately needs to bring new meaning to his own existence.
As they grow closer, their friendship blossoms into something meaningful and beautiful. Together, they must learn to forgive and trust that life can shine brighter after tragedy.
Can Devon leave her past behind and embrace the possibility of true love and hope, or will it threaten to shatter the life she and Riley are building?
Last Hope is a captivating journey of love, hope, and the power of second chances. It is a standalone novel in the Carter Hills Band universe.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 22, 2022
123 people are currently reading
2093 people want to read
About the author
Emmanuelle Snow
29 books203 followersSoulfully Beautiful Love Stories
Busy writing your next book boyfriend!
USA Today Bestselling author Emmanuelle Snow is a contemporary author of mature YA and New Adult love stories, who likes to give life to strong characters who’ll fight with all they have to reach their life goals and find their own happiness.
Emmanuelle is in love with love. Especially those complicated, deep, and passionate feelings that make a relationship extraordinary and complex, all at the same time.
She likes her characters to be believable and relatable! And her stories laced with raw emotions.
Grab a tissue box (or two)!
♥Join her ARC team, The Snowmates:
https://emmanuellesnow.com/pages/snow...
♥Visit her bookstore:
http://emmanuellesnow.com
Book series
Carter Hills Band Universe
Busy writing your next book boyfriend!
USA Today Bestselling author Emmanuelle Snow is a contemporary author of mature YA and New Adult love stories, who likes to give life to strong characters who’ll fight with all they have to reach their life goals and find their own happiness.
Emmanuelle is in love with love. Especially those complicated, deep, and passionate feelings that make a relationship extraordinary and complex, all at the same time.
She likes her characters to be believable and relatable! And her stories laced with raw emotions.
Grab a tissue box (or two)!
♥Join her ARC team, The Snowmates:
https://emmanuellesnow.com/pages/snow...
♥Visit her bookstore:
http://emmanuellesnow.com
Book series
Carter Hills Band Universe
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March 5, 2023Last Hope is Riley and Devon's story. It's a longer, more complete, and more complex version of the book Men and Country - Riley novella as now you get their entire story and Devon's POV through the hell she lived to her hopeful future.
Hope and Country is a story of love but also one of darkness and hurtful past. It's filled with love and hope, and will keep you on the edge of your seat while you laugh, cry, and rage through the pages.
This emotional love story is one that will stick with you even after you've read the last page.
Hope and Country is a story of love but also one of darkness and hurtful past. It's filled with love and hope, and will keep you on the edge of your seat while you laugh, cry, and rage through the pages.
This emotional love story is one that will stick with you even after you've read the last page.
February 28, 2022
Another great read! I read this book in one day, could not put down. This story from the start had me crying, broke my heart. The topic of abuse is a tough one and the author did a fantastic job of portraying the very emotional experiences. Devon had such strength dealing with a traumatic and very brutal situation that no one should ever have to experience. Riley was so supportive and perfect for Devon showing his love, patience and caring. He helped Devon overcome her struggles, especially his thoughtfulness giving Devon the puppy Hope. Love this series and highly recommend this book.
I was given this ARC for an honest review.
I was given this ARC for an honest review.
February 23, 2022
In ‘Hope and Country’ we read the story of Devon and Riley. Riley grew up wanting for nothing. Now he is the manager of one of the most successful country stars. His life seems perfect. But when he locks eyes with Devon, he knows his life hasn’t been perfect yet. After locking eyes with Devon he just knows he has to get to know her. And luckily for him, she feels exactly the same. But unfortunately Devon’s life isn’t as easy, and before they really get the opportunity to know each other they are forced apart.
‘Hope and Country’ was definitely an easy romantic read I couldn’t put down. I loved both Devon and Riley from the start, and I just had to know how their story would go. The setting was simple, but perfect and I couldn’t stop reading till I read every single page. We both get to read Devon and Riley’s point of few in this book, which was great. I loved reading their story through both their eyes.
Funny enough, in Pink and Country I thought things moved a bit to slow at times, in this book things moved way to fast. Not in a bad way, but I just really wanted more time with these two characters. Their chemistry is amazing, and I loved their story. Every imperfect little detail of their story! And Devon’s story was just.. Wow! I wanted to climb inside this book and help her out. She definitely deserved a great guy like Riley.
I always love it when an author is able to make me feel all kinds of emotions. And with ‘Hope and Country’, Emmanuelle definitely managed that. This read was romantic, fun, sad, heartbreaking and wonderful.
‘Hope and Country’ was definitely an easy romantic read I couldn’t put down. I loved both Devon and Riley from the start, and I just had to know how their story would go. The setting was simple, but perfect and I couldn’t stop reading till I read every single page. We both get to read Devon and Riley’s point of few in this book, which was great. I loved reading their story through both their eyes.
Funny enough, in Pink and Country I thought things moved a bit to slow at times, in this book things moved way to fast. Not in a bad way, but I just really wanted more time with these two characters. Their chemistry is amazing, and I loved their story. Every imperfect little detail of their story! And Devon’s story was just.. Wow! I wanted to climb inside this book and help her out. She definitely deserved a great guy like Riley.
I always love it when an author is able to make me feel all kinds of emotions. And with ‘Hope and Country’, Emmanuelle definitely managed that. This read was romantic, fun, sad, heartbreaking and wonderful.
February 19, 2022
If you follow my reviews you know that I'm a big fan of
Emmanuelle Snow
. Ever since I grabbed the first book I can't seem to find one thing wrong with her writing.. Well maybe that's not true because the last 3 books(novellas) were all too damn SHORT!
I loved everything about Riley and Devon. Well it was hard to read about the abuse she endured but I loved Riley because he never gave up hope in finding her.
They were perfect for each other and when her troubles finally came to and end all that was left was a smile and a heart so full it felt like it would explode. Perfect ending for a (un)perfect couple.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog ***
I loved everything about Riley and Devon. Well it was hard to read about the abuse she endured but I loved Riley because he never gave up hope in finding her.
They were perfect for each other and when her troubles finally came to and end all that was left was a smile and a heart so full it felt like it would explode. Perfect ending for a (un)perfect couple.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog ***
February 22, 2022
*ARC Review* I had the chance to read Hope and Country by @snowemmanuelle, another installment in her Carter Hills Band series. This book follows Riley, Carters manager, and Devon, the woman he met briefly at a country music part but stole his heart. Both felt an instant connection but unfortunate circumstances kept them apart but then brought them back together.
This is an emotional book and has some pretty heavy triggers for domestic violence. I think the author did a good job with a sensitive subject matter and showing the bravery someone would have to escape such a situation. Devon had some major healing to to do and Riley was just the man to encourage her. I like that he gave her a space safe to heal. They have a sweet love story....full of hope.
This is an emotional book and has some pretty heavy triggers for domestic violence. I think the author did a good job with a sensitive subject matter and showing the bravery someone would have to escape such a situation. Devon had some major healing to to do and Riley was just the man to encourage her. I like that he gave her a space safe to heal. They have a sweet love story....full of hope.
June 5, 2023
Thank you Emmanuelle Snow for the ARC. You know I have been waiting for this to find closure.
𝗧𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀:
~ Let me start off by saying this book is totally different from any other Carter Hills Band book I have read. In a good way! Not many authors would address such a big yet delicate topic the way Snow has addressed in-depth and in detail.
~ When I read Men & County: Riley's novella I knew I wanted to hear Devon's side of the story and now that I have read it, it has given me the closure that I was seeking.
~ This was a fast-paced read that I devoured within the day. It had me hooked from the beginning and there is soo much I want to say but I cannot put it into words.
~ It was fate that brought Ry and Devon together. This was the perfect love at first sight book I have read. This has made me believe in fate and timing.
~ Riley is this amazing, ever the gentleman, selfless, loving, caring, and kindhearted guy and is Devon's knight shining armor she always wished for since she was a kid.
~ Devon is an amazingly smart woman with a traumatic life, brought up in a violent household and constantly surrounded by physical ab*se, b@ttery, and domestic violence.
~ Devon thought her overprotective stepbrother was a haven of sorts. But he turned out to be a delusional psychotic b@stard. I can't believe Robbie turned out the same as his wife-be@ting father. But was it a shock? No, they say the apple doesn't fall far from the tree na?
~ I was a crying mess from the very beginning. Not a surprise again! Snow's books just know to tug on all my heartstrings and at all my emotions.
~ When Devon was praying for her mom to save her to give her strength, I just couldn't bear it anymore. The memories of her loving mother are what's keeping her alive through all the abuse ohmygosh.
~ The pain devon was feeling, the constant fear she had to live with, the mental struggle she was going through was palpable from the mere words that Snow had used to describe it. This is why I love Emmanuelle Snow's writing.
~ Even though I read most of the parts in the novella the emotions I felt never changed. I constantly had gooseflesh and shivers running through my entire body and every emotion was intensified.
~ The thought that these things actually happen in the world even if most of the time we are unaware of it makes it really scary.
~ This book was not only about the darkness but it was about pure love, hope, spice, family, and friendships on point with just the right amount without overpowering the storyline at all. In fact, it just made it better.
~ And every time Ry said, "My Woman" or "My girl" gosh I was melting. I had butterflies. God my emotions were going crazy
~ Truly Snow's writing plays with the readers' hearts.
~ Puppies... OMG! Yass and naming the pup Hope. Need I say more?
~ Man I am a sucker for shower scenes ;)
~ He wrote her a song. OMG! I am a sucker for the romantics. And getting carter to sing because he is not talented in that department man my p@nties were melting
~ Devon is the best fictional example and inspiration of "You held me down, but I got up, Get ready 'cause I've had enough" (Katy Perry)
~ Dev's and Ry's relationship shows us that relationships and true love are meant to be about supporting each other and not about one being better than the other and facing each other's fears together
~ At the start of the book I was a crying mess and towards the end, I couldn't wipe the smile off my face or the happiness in my heart. This is truly a happily ever after that even me as a reader felt with every cell in my body.
~ This was such an inspirational and motivational book. It shows that we should not succumb to the violence to the brutality of it that we should never give up on ourselves.
𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗜 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸?
Oh, my word! This is a must-read!
𝗧𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀:
~ Let me start off by saying this book is totally different from any other Carter Hills Band book I have read. In a good way! Not many authors would address such a big yet delicate topic the way Snow has addressed in-depth and in detail.
~ When I read Men & County: Riley's novella I knew I wanted to hear Devon's side of the story and now that I have read it, it has given me the closure that I was seeking.
~ This was a fast-paced read that I devoured within the day. It had me hooked from the beginning and there is soo much I want to say but I cannot put it into words.
~ It was fate that brought Ry and Devon together. This was the perfect love at first sight book I have read. This has made me believe in fate and timing.
~ Riley is this amazing, ever the gentleman, selfless, loving, caring, and kindhearted guy and is Devon's knight shining armor she always wished for since she was a kid.
~ Devon is an amazingly smart woman with a traumatic life, brought up in a violent household and constantly surrounded by physical ab*se, b@ttery, and domestic violence.
~ Devon thought her overprotective stepbrother was a haven of sorts. But he turned out to be a delusional psychotic b@stard. I can't believe Robbie turned out the same as his wife-be@ting father. But was it a shock? No, they say the apple doesn't fall far from the tree na?
~ I was a crying mess from the very beginning. Not a surprise again! Snow's books just know to tug on all my heartstrings and at all my emotions.
~ When Devon was praying for her mom to save her to give her strength, I just couldn't bear it anymore. The memories of her loving mother are what's keeping her alive through all the abuse ohmygosh.
~ The pain devon was feeling, the constant fear she had to live with, the mental struggle she was going through was palpable from the mere words that Snow had used to describe it. This is why I love Emmanuelle Snow's writing.
~ Even though I read most of the parts in the novella the emotions I felt never changed. I constantly had gooseflesh and shivers running through my entire body and every emotion was intensified.
~ The thought that these things actually happen in the world even if most of the time we are unaware of it makes it really scary.
~ This book was not only about the darkness but it was about pure love, hope, spice, family, and friendships on point with just the right amount without overpowering the storyline at all. In fact, it just made it better.
~ And every time Ry said, "My Woman" or "My girl" gosh I was melting. I had butterflies. God my emotions were going crazy
~ Truly Snow's writing plays with the readers' hearts.
~ Puppies... OMG! Yass and naming the pup Hope. Need I say more?
~ Man I am a sucker for shower scenes ;)
~ He wrote her a song. OMG! I am a sucker for the romantics. And getting carter to sing because he is not talented in that department man my p@nties were melting
~ Devon is the best fictional example and inspiration of "You held me down, but I got up, Get ready 'cause I've had enough" (Katy Perry)
~ Dev's and Ry's relationship shows us that relationships and true love are meant to be about supporting each other and not about one being better than the other and facing each other's fears together
~ At the start of the book I was a crying mess and towards the end, I couldn't wipe the smile off my face or the happiness in my heart. This is truly a happily ever after that even me as a reader felt with every cell in my body.
~ This was such an inspirational and motivational book. It shows that we should not succumb to the violence to the brutality of it that we should never give up on ourselves.
𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗜 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸?
Oh, my word! This is a must-read!
May 19, 2023
Thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book for an honest review.
I didn't think these books could get any better... and along comes Riley and Devon. Devon's story is heartbreaking and difficult to read but Riley is amazing!!
I didn't think these books could get any better... and along comes Riley and Devon. Devon's story is heartbreaking and difficult to read but Riley is amazing!!
February 20, 2022
This is book four in The Carter Hills Band Series and it is Riley and Devon's story and omg it is such an emotional and must read. Riley and Devon met one night at a party only for Devon to walk out with a man that spelled danger and even though Riley tried to find her there was no trace and it was if she just vanished. Devon and Robbie were step siblings and when there parent's died he took over caring for her only her life wasn't her own and he wouldn't let her go anywhere or do anything and as he was a police officer he was protected by a lot of people and now the abuse to Devon was getting so bad at times by Robbie that Devon feared for her life and she knew that one day she would not survive and he would kill her so she needed to some how disappear where hopefully he can't find her like he did before. Riley was still trying to find Devon and after another drinking session he arrives home to find a body on his front porch of a badly battered woman only to have a shock when it turned out to be Devon lying there. Omg my heart broke while reading everything that that Devon had gone through and I felt like I was there with her living through it all and feeling her pain. I absolutely loved this book and even though it was so sad in places I had to keep turning the pages to see what the outcome would be. Riley and Devon had strong and intense chemistry and they were so perfect together and it was truly beautiful to watch Devon grow and come into her own while healing from everything and Riley was such a remarkable man who was so caring, supportive, loving and protecting Devon throughout everything without pushing her to do anything that she wasn't ready for. Emmanuelle Snow is an amazing author and writer and I definitely recommend you read this book and others by her and you will definitely not be disappointed.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.
I Voluntarily Reviewed a Copy of This Book.
March 9, 2022
It’s no secret, Emmanuelle Snow is one of my favorite romance authors and one of the reasons I read this genre. I have loved every single book I’ve read by her, and I’m happy to report, Hope and Country is another wonderful, five star read in my opinion.
Devon and Riley may be two of my favorite characters Emmanuelle Snow has written to date. It’s hard to write out why, I just felt so connected to them from the start and absolutely loved reading their journey. Their chemistry is fantastic and if someone told me they were real people instead of characters in a book, I’d 100% believe them. That’s why I love Emmanuelle Snow’s writing so much.
The book is perfectly paced. Once again, I found myself up all night, reading until the end. I need to learn to start Emmanuelle Snow’s books earlier so I can get some sleep! What more can I say? I absolutely loved this book and cannot wait to read more from this author.
Highly, highly recommended!
Thank you to Digital Reads Book Tours for the free review copy. All opinions are my own and unbiased.
Devon and Riley may be two of my favorite characters Emmanuelle Snow has written to date. It’s hard to write out why, I just felt so connected to them from the start and absolutely loved reading their journey. Their chemistry is fantastic and if someone told me they were real people instead of characters in a book, I’d 100% believe them. That’s why I love Emmanuelle Snow’s writing so much.
The book is perfectly paced. Once again, I found myself up all night, reading until the end. I need to learn to start Emmanuelle Snow’s books earlier so I can get some sleep! What more can I say? I absolutely loved this book and cannot wait to read more from this author.
Highly, highly recommended!
Thank you to Digital Reads Book Tours for the free review copy. All opinions are my own and unbiased.
April 21, 2022
This was a love story at its core, but not the kinds that was all steam and no substance. But a book that took a topic like physical abuse head-on to show courage and strength that we women have.
Abuse was a tough subject, and I loved the fact the emotional aspect of it was treated sensitively in the book. Emotions galore were packed in the book, each page had evoked something from me.
The strength of the writing was in choosing words that showed the connection between two souls. That formed a direct bridge to my heart. Though it was difficult to read such about abuse, I liked that the story did not trigger me as the author filled the pages with vibes of hope.
The characters. They stole my heart. Devon by the courage of her heart and Riley by his sensitivity, caring, and the honest way that we helped Devon find herself.
Being a romance, the book had its slow burn romance. But it was so much more than that. It foretold a story that we needed to read with our hearts.
Abuse was a tough subject, and I loved the fact the emotional aspect of it was treated sensitively in the book. Emotions galore were packed in the book, each page had evoked something from me.
The strength of the writing was in choosing words that showed the connection between two souls. That formed a direct bridge to my heart. Though it was difficult to read such about abuse, I liked that the story did not trigger me as the author filled the pages with vibes of hope.
The characters. They stole my heart. Devon by the courage of her heart and Riley by his sensitivity, caring, and the honest way that we helped Devon find herself.
Being a romance, the book had its slow burn romance. But it was so much more than that. It foretold a story that we needed to read with our hearts.
February 28, 2022
Once again Emmanuelle Snow has created such amazing work. I went through an emotional journey with this story, I had happy tears, sad tears and laughter. It was just so heartfelt and pure. I couldn't put the book down. I felt so much for the characters throughout and was glad for their happy ending. I honestly don't think I've been so emotional over a book as I was with this. What a great addition to the Carter Hills books
Thank you Emmanuelle for creating such a wonderful journey for these two characters. Your writing is stellar and I can't wait tobsee what you come up with next
Thank you Emmanuelle for creating such a wonderful journey for these two characters. Your writing is stellar and I can't wait tobsee what you come up with next
February 22, 2022
I received this as an arc from the author and I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review.
This was hands down my favorite Emmanuelle Snow book. It was so well written and had such a great pace, not too fast and not too slow. I felt like I got to know both Devon and Riley, and I was invested in their story.
The storyline was both heartwarming and heartbreaking and I couldn’t help shedding a tear. I can’t wait to read more from this author.
This was hands down my favorite Emmanuelle Snow book. It was so well written and had such a great pace, not too fast and not too slow. I felt like I got to know both Devon and Riley, and I was invested in their story.
The storyline was both heartwarming and heartbreaking and I couldn’t help shedding a tear. I can’t wait to read more from this author.
February 22, 2022
Riley and Devon's story was magical. Their instant connection, their undeniable chemistry and their heartbreaking journey to each other. As hard as her journey was to get back into his life, it makes you love them both so much more. Riley is a knight in shining armor that every little girl has dreamed of. Read this one, you won't be sorry.
February 22, 2022
Wow, what an emotional story! It was quite sad when reading about the years of abuse that Devon endured. I actually had tears in my eyes. Luckily, she was able to find Devon to help her heal, but it was an emotional roller coaster to say the least. This was a more complete story and not a novella. It was well written and I would highly recommend it.
March 6, 2022
This was a romantic read that one broke my heart and made my cry many times. I enjoyed the book so much I couldn’t put it down. I believe that the author was able to not only portray all the real feelings of abuse but also made it real. She made you feel everything they were feeling in the story. I truly loved Riley and Devon’s story. It gives you hope that sometimes it all works out it the end.
May 27, 2023
Not as good as the others in the series, that i`ve read.
But enjoyable nontheless. I enjoyed reading about Devon and her life. But her relationship with Riley felt forced and a bit awkward.
I got this eARC from Netgalley
But enjoyable nontheless. I enjoyed reading about Devon and her life. But her relationship with Riley felt forced and a bit awkward.
I got this eARC from Netgalley
March 13, 2022
Devon after going through a lot of domestic abuse finds solace in Riley's arms. Riley gives her the love, hope, courage and support that she always needed. Riley encourages her to stand up for herself and face the fears of her life.
The author has yet again made me fall in love with her characters. After reading her other books I was so eager to read this one and I absolutely devoured this story. Riley is so perfect as a human and the amount of trust and love between them is just amazing. The author has handled the sensitive topic like domestic abuse brilliantly.
I completed this book in just a few hours as I couldn't hold myself back from all the emotions that the story had. The romance between Devon and Riley is portrayed so well. I enjoyed reading this book and this story will stay in my heart forever. Can't wait to read other books by the author.
Thank you @digitalreadspr and @snowemmanuelle for having me onboard for this book tour. I'm so glad I got a chance to read this book.
The author has yet again made me fall in love with her characters. After reading her other books I was so eager to read this one and I absolutely devoured this story. Riley is so perfect as a human and the amount of trust and love between them is just amazing. The author has handled the sensitive topic like domestic abuse brilliantly.
I completed this book in just a few hours as I couldn't hold myself back from all the emotions that the story had. The romance between Devon and Riley is portrayed so well. I enjoyed reading this book and this story will stay in my heart forever. Can't wait to read other books by the author.
Thank you @digitalreadspr and @snowemmanuelle for having me onboard for this book tour. I'm so glad I got a chance to read this book.
March 10, 2022
I read this book as part of the book tour and I am greatful for having the opportunity to read it. It is an emotional read and dives into the heavy topic of domestic violence. The author did a great job with dealing with such a sensitive subject and you could feel Devon's pain and longing for change. I think the bravery of a person to escape such a horror is well portrayed in the story. Riley really shows up as a classic knight in shining armor and is the right person to encourage Devon's bravery and to support her in her healing. Hope and love thrive throughout this story. If you enjoy a sweet love story this is a book for you.
February 22, 2022
Emmanuelle Snow has done it again! This second chance romance grabbed my heart and never let go. I adore the characters that Emmanuelle creates, and Riley and Devon are no different.
This story not only focuses on the love between the two characters, but also on Devon's traumatic past. The way that the trauma she endured was brought into the story felt realistic. I personally have never been through anything like Devon, but I feel like the topic of abuse was done justice within this story.
I truly love Riley and Devon, and I'm so happy that they have found their way back to each other. Both of these characters are so amazing and strong in their own ways. Thank you Emmanuelle for an arc of this book.
This story not only focuses on the love between the two characters, but also on Devon's traumatic past. The way that the trauma she endured was brought into the story felt realistic. I personally have never been through anything like Devon, but I feel like the topic of abuse was done justice within this story.
I truly love Riley and Devon, and I'm so happy that they have found their way back to each other. Both of these characters are so amazing and strong in their own ways. Thank you Emmanuelle for an arc of this book.
December 30, 2022
Beautiful - all of Emmanuelle Snow’s books are absolutely beautiful! Tearjerkers, completely pull at the heartstrings, but completely magical.
Each one has major trigger warnings (please check her website before just diving in), which is why they are so emotionally powerful, but once you finish, you will feel as though you lived the lives of the characters. You can feel the research she has done - all are so well-written you would believe you are reading her own emotional journey and story.
This one - Hope and Country - is especially powerful. Having read pretty much everything Emmanuelle has written already, and not having many triggers, I went in blind, only knowing this was Riley’s book. I wanted to be surprised … and boy was I! The depth of emotion I went through on this roller coaster was huge! From the moment Riley and Devon spot each other from across a crowded industry party, until he helps to disentangle her from her abusive step-brother’s control… this is a hard one to get out of your mind.
Audio note - Emmanuelle has put her books onto Google Play audio, but all are read by AI (artificial intelligence), one automated voice. Being a computer, it can’t determine between a lot of words spelled the same, proper pronounciation, and doesn’t give a real performance like a human audiobook narrator (#humanvoicesonly). Being a huge audiophile for a dozen years, it was extremely hard listening to a lifeless computer voice. Get the ebook, until this is produced by humans!
Otherwise, I highly recommend not only this book (this might be my second fave in the series, after Pink), but the entire Carter Hills Band series!
I received an advance listen copy from the author and this is my honest feedback.
Each one has major trigger warnings (please check her website before just diving in), which is why they are so emotionally powerful, but once you finish, you will feel as though you lived the lives of the characters. You can feel the research she has done - all are so well-written you would believe you are reading her own emotional journey and story.
This one - Hope and Country - is especially powerful. Having read pretty much everything Emmanuelle has written already, and not having many triggers, I went in blind, only knowing this was Riley’s book. I wanted to be surprised … and boy was I! The depth of emotion I went through on this roller coaster was huge! From the moment Riley and Devon spot each other from across a crowded industry party, until he helps to disentangle her from her abusive step-brother’s control… this is a hard one to get out of your mind.
Audio note - Emmanuelle has put her books onto Google Play audio, but all are read by AI (artificial intelligence), one automated voice. Being a computer, it can’t determine between a lot of words spelled the same, proper pronounciation, and doesn’t give a real performance like a human audiobook narrator (#humanvoicesonly). Being a huge audiophile for a dozen years, it was extremely hard listening to a lifeless computer voice. Get the ebook, until this is produced by humans!
Otherwise, I highly recommend not only this book (this might be my second fave in the series, after Pink), but the entire Carter Hills Band series!
I received an advance listen copy from the author and this is my honest feedback.
March 27, 2023
meh but not horrible
This book popped up on my Facebook scrolling. Devon and Riley are drawn together the first time they lay eyes on each other, but Riley soon realizes Devon is currently living a nightmare. With nowhere else to turn, Devon decides to trust Riley with her life - literally.
A healing journey filled of trust, fear and love is what Devon is granted when Riley steps into her life.
I feel the rush to love was very abrupt. I wanted to know more about these characters’ backgrounds to feel a little more of a connection to them. They were pretty obsessed with each other so that started to feel stale about 40% into the book. The other sense of him being her “savior” was a little overdone.
TRIGGER WARNINGS
domestic violence
Alcoholism
Stalking
This touches VERY heavily on the domestic violence so please be aware of that before reading.
Overall a 2.5 for me!
This book popped up on my Facebook scrolling. Devon and Riley are drawn together the first time they lay eyes on each other, but Riley soon realizes Devon is currently living a nightmare. With nowhere else to turn, Devon decides to trust Riley with her life - literally.
A healing journey filled of trust, fear and love is what Devon is granted when Riley steps into her life.
I feel the rush to love was very abrupt. I wanted to know more about these characters’ backgrounds to feel a little more of a connection to them. They were pretty obsessed with each other so that started to feel stale about 40% into the book. The other sense of him being her “savior” was a little overdone.
TRIGGER WARNINGS
domestic violence
Alcoholism
Stalking
This touches VERY heavily on the domestic violence so please be aware of that before reading.
Overall a 2.5 for me!
March 11, 2023
Thumbs Down
Baffled by the 5* reviews. The writing is awful — I’m a hopeless optimist so I fought the urge to stop reading several times. So so sick of hearing “ya” — love ya, here for ya. Ugh!
The story was about twice as long as it needed to be, because the author retold several stories from both points of view — Devon and Riley. And there was not much difference.
Devon was being physically abused by her step brother. Every time he was drunk he went to her apartment and “beat the shit out of her”. Why is she opening the door? Why not have a knife to fight back?! He was a cop so no one believed her — I’ve read stories with that storyline before and they worked. Here it did not.
The love at first sight did not work for me — especially because Devon was written as a pretty pathetic character. This author is a one and done for me.
Baffled by the 5* reviews. The writing is awful — I’m a hopeless optimist so I fought the urge to stop reading several times. So so sick of hearing “ya” — love ya, here for ya. Ugh!
The story was about twice as long as it needed to be, because the author retold several stories from both points of view — Devon and Riley. And there was not much difference.
Devon was being physically abused by her step brother. Every time he was drunk he went to her apartment and “beat the shit out of her”. Why is she opening the door? Why not have a knife to fight back?! He was a cop so no one believed her — I’ve read stories with that storyline before and they worked. Here it did not.
The love at first sight did not work for me — especially because Devon was written as a pretty pathetic character. This author is a one and done for me.
February 23, 2022
Hope and Country by Emmanuelle Snow
⭐️4/5
🔥4/5
First I gave it 4/5 steam wise because while the scenes were detailed I didn’t feel they were dirty. Story is of an instant connection but bad situation prevents anything from happening until things get really bad. I liked how it was an HEA and all things get wrapped up.
⭐️4/5
🔥4/5
First I gave it 4/5 steam wise because while the scenes were detailed I didn’t feel they were dirty. Story is of an instant connection but bad situation prevents anything from happening until things get really bad. I liked how it was an HEA and all things get wrapped up.
March 22, 2022
Great idea and premise. Execution was mostly cringe. There were some sweet moments, but all of the accents, and the love scenes were just cringy and mostly made me feel weird.
February 22, 2022
Come back to the Carter Hills band for another emotional ride. Emmanuelle Snow brings us Carter's manager story this time. We have met Riley in the other books but we get to really know him now. This book has some really touchy subjects so if you have some triggers please consider those before reading. Emmanuelle's writing does well dealing with these topics and while it can be hard to read these things I believe she did justice to the matter.
If you like second-chance romance, a battered heroine who is strong even when she is made to feel weak, a man who is both sweet and fierce, and want to ride an emotional roller coaster then give Hope and Country a go.
'In the last year, Devon had become my whole world even if right now I was only on the periphery of hers. In the end, even if she chose not to love me, I knew I would cherish her and these memories of time spent together forever. But I would also do my damndest to make sure she saw how important she was to me. That I could be her happy ending. Hers to love.'
One night at a music party Riley spots the woman across the room in the red dress, he's never had such a visceral instant urge for a woman before. He watched her while she watched him and when he makes his move to her he only finds his need for her build as the minutes pass.
Devon can't take her eyes from the gorgeous man across the room, despite that her friend hasn't shown up she can't make herself leave. She takes in every feature and movement he makes and when he approaches her heart races to get to know him more.
The chance to see what could be is torn from them because when Riley has to step away to clean himself up after a spill, the darkness Devon keeps hidden appears to whisk her away. Riley manages to catch a glimpse of her as she's urged into the elevator and the man she is with. He can't shake the look in her eyes and despite him trying to get to her and then track her after she just seems to have disappeared.
Riley can't shake the feeling that she needs help and that he has to find her but after weeks of trying he has gotten no closer to discovering who she is and where she is. Devon is just keeping her head down, it's really the only thing she can do. If she can just do what Robbie wants then maybe she can find a way out. She is stronger than he says and somehow she will break free.
A year later when Devon is at her wit's end she escapes Robbie's grasp, so goes to the only place she knows that he wouldn't look for her. It's the house she's driven past and wanted to approach for a whole year. Finding out exactly who Carter Hills manager is wasn't that hard and while it may have been a bit creepy to know where Riley lived it could be what saves her life.
Riley returns home shocked by the body on his doorstep. When he gets a chance to really look he finds a broken and beaten Devon. The woman he's thought of for a year has found him, but what has she endured in all that time. He is full of anger for her and if he thought it would help he'd hunt down her tormentor. Instead, Riley has the ability to provide her with safety and the connections to get help to bring him down.
All of the same desire lays underneath the surface for both of them, Riely is careful with Devon and lets her take the lead. Neither can deny how much they want each other though. While Devon plans where to from here, Riley plans on how to keep her with him forever. If they can make Devon feel safe and bring Robbie to justice they may just have a chance at something real.
Happy Reading.
If you like second-chance romance, a battered heroine who is strong even when she is made to feel weak, a man who is both sweet and fierce, and want to ride an emotional roller coaster then give Hope and Country a go.
'In the last year, Devon had become my whole world even if right now I was only on the periphery of hers. In the end, even if she chose not to love me, I knew I would cherish her and these memories of time spent together forever. But I would also do my damndest to make sure she saw how important she was to me. That I could be her happy ending. Hers to love.'
One night at a music party Riley spots the woman across the room in the red dress, he's never had such a visceral instant urge for a woman before. He watched her while she watched him and when he makes his move to her he only finds his need for her build as the minutes pass.
Devon can't take her eyes from the gorgeous man across the room, despite that her friend hasn't shown up she can't make herself leave. She takes in every feature and movement he makes and when he approaches her heart races to get to know him more.
The chance to see what could be is torn from them because when Riley has to step away to clean himself up after a spill, the darkness Devon keeps hidden appears to whisk her away. Riley manages to catch a glimpse of her as she's urged into the elevator and the man she is with. He can't shake the look in her eyes and despite him trying to get to her and then track her after she just seems to have disappeared.
Riley can't shake the feeling that she needs help and that he has to find her but after weeks of trying he has gotten no closer to discovering who she is and where she is. Devon is just keeping her head down, it's really the only thing she can do. If she can just do what Robbie wants then maybe she can find a way out. She is stronger than he says and somehow she will break free.
A year later when Devon is at her wit's end she escapes Robbie's grasp, so goes to the only place she knows that he wouldn't look for her. It's the house she's driven past and wanted to approach for a whole year. Finding out exactly who Carter Hills manager is wasn't that hard and while it may have been a bit creepy to know where Riley lived it could be what saves her life.
Riley returns home shocked by the body on his doorstep. When he gets a chance to really look he finds a broken and beaten Devon. The woman he's thought of for a year has found him, but what has she endured in all that time. He is full of anger for her and if he thought it would help he'd hunt down her tormentor. Instead, Riley has the ability to provide her with safety and the connections to get help to bring him down.
All of the same desire lays underneath the surface for both of them, Riely is careful with Devon and lets her take the lead. Neither can deny how much they want each other though. While Devon plans where to from here, Riley plans on how to keep her with him forever. If they can make Devon feel safe and bring Robbie to justice they may just have a chance at something real.
Happy Reading.
February 20, 2022
Gritty and thrilling, Hope and Country is by far Emmanuelle Snow's best book so far! It encompasses a complex and emotional love story, rooted in tragedy and hope!
First of all, a HUGE thank you to @snowemmanuelle and Shalini from @bookstarcreviews for offering me this ARC and for brightening my days with such a beautiful read!
I was more than delighted to see such an optimistic male character as Riley; his personality is grounded in a fundamental belief that there IS a silver lining in everything, that there is light in the darkest hour, that you can find a sliver of strength in weakness. However, his optimism does not distort the reality he lives in and does not make him groundless in a world filled with pain, drama and despair. I loved that he didn’t feel disconnected in his pursuit of hope, that he didn’t lose focus of the gravity of things by a blinded sense of beauty and goodness both when meeting Devon and when searching for her.
Devon, on the other hand, displays so much strength and inner determination even in the face of harsh reality, of danger, of pain, of trauma. Abuse is such a difficult subject for me to read because the mere thought of such tragedies happening all around the globe at this very moment wounds me so deeply, it’s visceral. But Emmanuelle treats this subject so gently, with so much care and respect towards Devon, that I, as the reader, felt that yes, I can continue -no, I NEED to continue reading and see what happens next.
The romance and chemistry between the two characters is both sweet and sizzling! Yet, aside from how beautifully their infatuation with each is written, what I found myself becoming entranced by is the healing they were both giving each other (especially the one being given by Riley to Devon). Seeing the end of their story marked by wide smiles and hope for the future truly healed my own heart.
I also want to congratulate Emmanuelle on the way she chose to write this entire book! You can see such growth in her writing style and world and character-building! This ARC of Hope and Country has been a great surprise, one that I am most grateful for and one that I’m sure all of you will enjoy once you give it a try!
4.5 stars!
First of all, a HUGE thank you to @snowemmanuelle and Shalini from @bookstarcreviews for offering me this ARC and for brightening my days with such a beautiful read!
I was more than delighted to see such an optimistic male character as Riley; his personality is grounded in a fundamental belief that there IS a silver lining in everything, that there is light in the darkest hour, that you can find a sliver of strength in weakness. However, his optimism does not distort the reality he lives in and does not make him groundless in a world filled with pain, drama and despair. I loved that he didn’t feel disconnected in his pursuit of hope, that he didn’t lose focus of the gravity of things by a blinded sense of beauty and goodness both when meeting Devon and when searching for her.
Devon, on the other hand, displays so much strength and inner determination even in the face of harsh reality, of danger, of pain, of trauma. Abuse is such a difficult subject for me to read because the mere thought of such tragedies happening all around the globe at this very moment wounds me so deeply, it’s visceral. But Emmanuelle treats this subject so gently, with so much care and respect towards Devon, that I, as the reader, felt that yes, I can continue -no, I NEED to continue reading and see what happens next.
The romance and chemistry between the two characters is both sweet and sizzling! Yet, aside from how beautifully their infatuation with each is written, what I found myself becoming entranced by is the healing they were both giving each other (especially the one being given by Riley to Devon). Seeing the end of their story marked by wide smiles and hope for the future truly healed my own heart.
I also want to congratulate Emmanuelle on the way she chose to write this entire book! You can see such growth in her writing style and world and character-building! This ARC of Hope and Country has been a great surprise, one that I am most grateful for and one that I’m sure all of you will enjoy once you give it a try!
4.5 stars!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2022
"Devon. I'm in love with ya. This is real. And we're real."
Riley and Devon have one of the most scorching meet-cutes I have ever read. It wasn't lust at first sight or love at first sight....it is freaking catch the room on fire from the sparks igniting between them at first sight! Literally it only takes one look for each of them and they are goners for each other. Just when they settle into nice conversation the evening abruptly changes.
Devon just wants one night of fun without having to look over her shoulder. Her life has been anything but pleasant and she is basically in survival mode at this point to protect the few people she holds close to her heart. Having always relied on the one constant in her life, her step-brother, for feeling safe it is too late when she realizes he is no longer her safe person. Her one of fun comes halt when she is forced to leave and the last time she sees Riley is with pleading in her eyes.
Riley knows she was real yet cannot find any traces of her being at the party. He searches and searches for her with no luck. Whiskey becomes his new best friend. He wants nothing more than to find Devon and then one night she is there needing his help. He will stop at nothing to protect Devon....she is his world.
Devon always dreamed of being rescued by her knight in shining armor. Riley is for certain her knight in shining armor, soul mate, whatever you want to label it...they are definitely made for each other. Riley is so tender and patient with Devon, her safety and healing is of the utmost importance to him. He even goes as far as to adopt a puppy and makes it look like it is just for him but in all reality....it is for both of them. He wants her by his side....always.
These two just screamed match made in Heaven to me the entire time I was reading the book. The extreme slow burn that surrounds these two....yup makes the story that much better (I love slow burns). Then the spice level really turns up!!! Emmanuelle Snow has yet again given her readers a story that will stick with them for days to come. Now, I say bring on more Carter Hills band stories!!!
Riley and Devon have one of the most scorching meet-cutes I have ever read. It wasn't lust at first sight or love at first sight....it is freaking catch the room on fire from the sparks igniting between them at first sight! Literally it only takes one look for each of them and they are goners for each other. Just when they settle into nice conversation the evening abruptly changes.
Devon just wants one night of fun without having to look over her shoulder. Her life has been anything but pleasant and she is basically in survival mode at this point to protect the few people she holds close to her heart. Having always relied on the one constant in her life, her step-brother, for feeling safe it is too late when she realizes he is no longer her safe person. Her one of fun comes halt when she is forced to leave and the last time she sees Riley is with pleading in her eyes.
Riley knows she was real yet cannot find any traces of her being at the party. He searches and searches for her with no luck. Whiskey becomes his new best friend. He wants nothing more than to find Devon and then one night she is there needing his help. He will stop at nothing to protect Devon....she is his world.
Devon always dreamed of being rescued by her knight in shining armor. Riley is for certain her knight in shining armor, soul mate, whatever you want to label it...they are definitely made for each other. Riley is so tender and patient with Devon, her safety and healing is of the utmost importance to him. He even goes as far as to adopt a puppy and makes it look like it is just for him but in all reality....it is for both of them. He wants her by his side....always.
These two just screamed match made in Heaven to me the entire time I was reading the book. The extreme slow burn that surrounds these two....yup makes the story that much better (I love slow burns). Then the spice level really turns up!!! Emmanuelle Snow has yet again given her readers a story that will stick with them for days to come. Now, I say bring on more Carter Hills band stories!!!
February 20, 2022
Hope and Country by Emmanuelle Snow is a beautiful story about healing, trust, and safety. I was captivated from the beginning. Riley and Devon meet at a party and had an instant connection. I knew immediately that their story was one I didn't want to put down.
Devon's life is full of darkness. Despite this, she has this light about her. When her darkness shows up at the bar, she is forced to leave. Leaving me in suspense wanting to know more. As Devon's story unfolds, we learn that she has endured years of trauma and abuse. I felt sadness, helplessness, and then anger when I found out the one person who protected her turned out to be her worst nightmare.
Reilly is intrigued by Devon. After witnessing her being forced to leave the party he spends hours searching for her. A year later, he has hopes of running into the woman in the red dress that awakens something in his heart. Coming home late one night he finds Devon crumpled on his doorstep. Riley gives her shelter and hope. I found Riley to be the most caring, supportive, gentle, and selfless man. His only focus is Riley and her healing - physically, emotionally, and mentally. Despite the insta-attraction, this is a slow-burn romance. It is a beautifully written story of love and strength and finding the light after darkness.
~"𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑢𝑛 𝑎𝑙𝑤𝑎𝑦𝑠 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑠 𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑎𝑓𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑡𝑜𝑟𝑚.”
~"𝐼 𝑤𝑎𝑠 𝑚𝑦 𝑜𝑤𝑛 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑟. 𝐴𝑛𝑑 𝐼 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑑 𝑠ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑒 𝑜𝑛 𝑚𝑦 𝑜𝑤𝑛 𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑚𝑠."
~"𝐼'𝑚 𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑜𝑛𝑔𝑒𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑛 𝑚𝑦 𝑓𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑠".
For some reason I struggled with the characters names. In my mind I kept wanting to swap their names….Devon felt like a male name and Reilly a female name. Of course, this is a "me issue" but I had to pause my mind a few times. It did mess me up a few times.
4.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐
A story about trust, healing, and resilience after abuse.
The heroine had tremendous strength. The hero was caring and gentle.
❤ Emotional
❤ Slowburn
❤ Second Chance
❤ Insta-attraction
Devon's life is full of darkness. Despite this, she has this light about her. When her darkness shows up at the bar, she is forced to leave. Leaving me in suspense wanting to know more. As Devon's story unfolds, we learn that she has endured years of trauma and abuse. I felt sadness, helplessness, and then anger when I found out the one person who protected her turned out to be her worst nightmare.
Reilly is intrigued by Devon. After witnessing her being forced to leave the party he spends hours searching for her. A year later, he has hopes of running into the woman in the red dress that awakens something in his heart. Coming home late one night he finds Devon crumpled on his doorstep. Riley gives her shelter and hope. I found Riley to be the most caring, supportive, gentle, and selfless man. His only focus is Riley and her healing - physically, emotionally, and mentally. Despite the insta-attraction, this is a slow-burn romance. It is a beautifully written story of love and strength and finding the light after darkness.
~"𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑢𝑛 𝑎𝑙𝑤𝑎𝑦𝑠 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑠 𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑎𝑓𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑡𝑜𝑟𝑚.”
~"𝐼 𝑤𝑎𝑠 𝑚𝑦 𝑜𝑤𝑛 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑟. 𝐴𝑛𝑑 𝐼 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑑 𝑠ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑒 𝑜𝑛 𝑚𝑦 𝑜𝑤𝑛 𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑚𝑠."
~"𝐼'𝑚 𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑜𝑛𝑔𝑒𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑛 𝑚𝑦 𝑓𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑠".
For some reason I struggled with the characters names. In my mind I kept wanting to swap their names….Devon felt like a male name and Reilly a female name. Of course, this is a "me issue" but I had to pause my mind a few times. It did mess me up a few times.
4.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐
A story about trust, healing, and resilience after abuse.
The heroine had tremendous strength. The hero was caring and gentle.
❤ Emotional
❤ Slowburn
❤ Second Chance
❤ Insta-attraction
March 4, 2023
A beautiful story about healing, trust, and safety. I was captivated from the beginning. Riley and Devon meet at a party and had an instant connection. I knew immediately that their story was one I didn't want to put down.
Devon's life is full of darkness. Despite this, she has this light about her. When her darkness shows up at the bar, she is forced to leave. Leaving me in suspense wanting to know more. As Devon's story unfolds, we learn that she has endured years of trauma and abuse. I felt sadness, helplessness, and then anger when I found out the one person who protected her turned out to be her worst nightmare.
Reilly is intrigued by Devon. After witnessing her being forced to leave the party he spends hours searching for her. A year later, he has hopes of running into the woman in the red dress that awakens something in his heart. Coming home late one night he finds Devon crumpled on his doorstep. Riley gives her shelter and hope. I found Riley to be the most caring, supportive, gentle, and selfless man. His only focus is Riley and her healing - physically, emotionally, and mentally. Despite the insta-attraction, this is a slow-burn romance. It is a beautifully written story of love and strength and finding the light after darkness.
~"𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑢𝑛 𝑎𝑙𝑤𝑎𝑦𝑠 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑠 𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑎𝑓𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑡𝑜𝑟𝑚.”
~"𝐼 𝑤𝑎𝑠 𝑚𝑦 𝑜𝑤𝑛 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑟. 𝐴𝑛𝑑 𝐼 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑑 𝑠ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑒 𝑜𝑛 𝑚𝑦 𝑜𝑤𝑛 𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑚𝑠."
~"𝐼'𝑚 𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑜𝑛𝑔𝑒𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑛 𝑚𝑦 𝑓𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑠".
For some reason I struggled with the characters names. In my mind I kept wanting to swap their names….Devon felt like a male name and Reilly a female name. Of course, this is a "me issue" but I had to pause my mind a few times. It did mess me up a few times.
4.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐
A story about trust, healing, and resilience after abuse.
The heroine had tremendous strength. The hero was caring and gentle.
❤ Emotional
❤ Slowburn
❤ Second Chance
❤ Insta-attraction
Devon's life is full of darkness. Despite this, she has this light about her. When her darkness shows up at the bar, she is forced to leave. Leaving me in suspense wanting to know more. As Devon's story unfolds, we learn that she has endured years of trauma and abuse. I felt sadness, helplessness, and then anger when I found out the one person who protected her turned out to be her worst nightmare.
Reilly is intrigued by Devon. After witnessing her being forced to leave the party he spends hours searching for her. A year later, he has hopes of running into the woman in the red dress that awakens something in his heart. Coming home late one night he finds Devon crumpled on his doorstep. Riley gives her shelter and hope. I found Riley to be the most caring, supportive, gentle, and selfless man. His only focus is Riley and her healing - physically, emotionally, and mentally. Despite the insta-attraction, this is a slow-burn romance. It is a beautifully written story of love and strength and finding the light after darkness.
~"𝑇ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑢𝑛 𝑎𝑙𝑤𝑎𝑦𝑠 𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑒𝑠 𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑎𝑓𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑠𝑡𝑜𝑟𝑚.”
~"𝐼 𝑤𝑎𝑠 𝑚𝑦 𝑜𝑤𝑛 𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑟. 𝐴𝑛𝑑 𝐼 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑑 𝑠ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑒 𝑜𝑛 𝑚𝑦 𝑜𝑤𝑛 𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑚𝑠."
~"𝐼'𝑚 𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑜𝑛𝑔𝑒𝑟 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑛 𝑚𝑦 𝑓𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑠".
For some reason I struggled with the characters names. In my mind I kept wanting to swap their names….Devon felt like a male name and Reilly a female name. Of course, this is a "me issue" but I had to pause my mind a few times. It did mess me up a few times.
4.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐
A story about trust, healing, and resilience after abuse.
The heroine had tremendous strength. The hero was caring and gentle.
❤ Emotional
❤ Slowburn
❤ Second Chance
❤ Insta-attraction
February 17, 2022
Devon and Riley’s story is a beautiful one with a lot of emotions. The subject matter is intense but it is handled very gently. Devon meets Riley at a party and once they make eye contact it’s attraction at first sight. See Devon hasn’t had an easy childhood having to stand in the shadows while her mother was treated so horribly and now she wants to be strong, she wants her freedom, but someone doesn’t allow her to have it. She finds herself trapped in this vicious cycle that her mother was with no hope of ever being free so her one night and one connection with Riley leaves such an intense impression on her she carries it with her for over a year. Riley is no stranger to the world of the famous as an agent for country talent, yet he seems to feel constantly alone until Devon. When Devon left the night they met he knew she was in some sort of trouble and never stopped looking for her to no avail. He knows deep down it was love at first sight, but will he ever see her again? When Devon comes around a year later she is unrecognizable because her stepbrother is such a villainous guy he hurts her relentlessly. Will Devon ever truly be free from her stepbrother or she will continuously fall to his ways? Can Riley help save her? What does the future look like when their present seems so drear? This book handles a sensitive subject as I said yet it also shows us Devon healing, learning to be brave again, and how the right people at our side can make a world of difference. I really enjoyed their story because although it was fast paced it was beautiful. The only thing was a few times when flashbacks to the past occurred I got slightly confused until I kept reading to the next chapter. Overall a great read about finding love, healing, and moving forward.
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