Jasmine Grace believed love had abandoned her, leaving only the deep regrets of a painful past. Then Steve Lincoln strides into her life—a rugged military veteran with haunted eyes and a heart barricaded by scars. Their connection ignites faster than a Texas wildfire.
Haunted by his own demons, Steve fears that surrendering to love will unleash the monster he believes himself to be. Yet, their kids see what Jasmine and Steve can’ two souls meant to heal each other.
As sunsets paint the Texas sky in hues of gold and amber, Jasmine and Steve confront their pasts, embrace second chances, and, just maybe, learn to trust in love again...
With a degree in international marketing and a varied career path that includes content management for a web firm, marketing direction for a high-profile sports agency, and a two-year stint with a renowned literary agency, award-winning author Alexa Padgett has returned to her first love: writing fiction.
Alexa spent a good part of her youth traveling. From Budapest to Belize, Calgary to Coober Pedy, she soaked in the myriad smells, sounds, and feels of these gorgeous places, wishing she could live in them all—at least for a while. And she does in her books.
She lives in New Mexico with her husband, children, and Great Pyrenees pup, Ash. When not writing, schlepping, or volunteering, she can be found in her tiny kitchen, channeling her inner Barefoot Contessa.
This wonderful, later-in-life romance wraps up an amazing series, and I’ve been eager to have Mama Grace's story since we first met her. We also get to reconnect with our favorite characters from the series (Cam and Jenna, you still own my heart) and catch up with their lives and see how their families have grown.
This one deals with some tough subjects, but let's face it. Very few make it to their fifth decade in life unscathed. If you’re familiar with the series, you already know a lot about Jasmine Grace, the matriarch of the family, but we get the bigger picture on Steve Lincoln – his struggles and challenges and what made him the man he is.
While a lot of the story deals with past trauma and finally laying it to rest, it's beautifully balanced with strong family bonds, good-natured joking, and adorably entertaining children. If nothing else, this heartfelt romance shows us it's never too late to learn and grow, and it's never too late to find love. While I'm sad to say goodbye, this authentic, emotive, and endearing seasoned romance is the perfect ending to a phenomenal series.
I really enjoyed this book despite NOT having read any books in the two related series. The love and emotional connection between all of the characters practically leaps off the page and warmed my heart.
The gaps in my knowledge of the backstories of the various characters and couples didn’t dampen my enjoyment of the book, though it did leave me curious and intrigued for their stories.
This is truly an incredible epilogue for two series that gives readers an extended look at the characters’ lives after their own stories.
I received a free ARC from the author; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
Jasmine is a grandmother, who has made plenty of terrible mistakes… like having kids with two brothers. Jensen died 35 years ago, and was the father to her twin boys. She married his younger brother Laurence and had a girl with him. But he abused Cam.
Steve is also a military guy, as was Jensen. He’s carrying his own load of baggage. I liked that this book focused on an older couple (we met Jasmine’s grown kids previously). They had a ton of issues to deal with. Recommend.
This book was so emotional from both characters. They each did not see what they bought to others. The love they had for one another was amazing and they were meant for eachother.
Reading a later in life love story is always a pleasure. Jasmine and Steve come to the story with lots of personal baggage, but decide to give love a try. Together they learn to confront their pasts, and open themselves up to love. This is the 4th book in the Austin After Dark series, but my first, and I was able to follow the characters and story easily.
Thank you Alexa Padget and Wildfire marketing for the e-ARC of this story
After a life filled with pain since her first husband died, Jasmine wants love and companionship, but the man she's looking to seems to have too much baggage for that to ever happen. She can tell him all she wants, that he deserves love, but until he believes it too, she and Steve are destined to just be friends of a sort.
Steve knows he should just leave Jasmine to the dating it seems she's picked up, but he just can't. He can't let go of the vision he has in mind - of the two of them together for the rest of their lives. But he has so much baggage on his shoulders, in his heart that he can't figure out how to get out from behind it. If he really wants Jasmine to be his forever, he needs to figure himself out, because she deserves love with someone who isn't so damaged that he can't even tell her how he feels.
This later in life (50s) story really tugs at the heartstrings. Jasmine and Steve both had so much pain they were carrying around, and really deserved to live out the rest of their lives surrounded by love, their children, and their grandchildren. I hurt for both of them, especially Steve, and wondered how/if he was going to get rid of all the weight he carried in his heart. Thank God they found each other and all the love and healing they deserved.
ARC provided by Wildfire Marketing Solutions for an honest review.
Family connections and dynamics play an important role is this emotional and heartwarming book. Jasmine and Steve are both in their fifties, seen plenty of life’s ups and downs and have weathered it all. They have both had tragedy and pain in their lives and have found the strength to move forward. Regrets have found their place on their souls, though, and they are both working hard for redemption, at least in the eyes of their children. At this point in their lives, neither think that love or a relationship is in store for them. They have gotten used to living alone, keeping their emotional turmoil to themselves. Their deepest hope is to deepen their bonds with the children they feel they have failed to protect and nurture as they should have in the past.
Though they have known each other for years and have an established a rapport, a recent incident has set them at odds to each other. Now, they seem to irritate each other to no end, and do their best to deny their attraction to the other. Jasmine is tired of being alone and lonely, and is ready for a relationship, hopefully with Steve. She enlists the women she calls her daughters to help her in her cause. They have seen the sparks between them, the interest and the fleeting glances, and are more than willing to help. Unfortunately, Steve has let his demons gain the upper hand and they keep him from pursuing Jasmine, from claiming the love he knows she would offer him. As their story goes forward, both are forced to confront their pasts, let go of the pain and regrets, and face their fears in order to open their hearts to love. Only then, can they find the happily ever after that they both deserve.
I enjoyed this older in life, another chance at love story. I loved the chemistry and connection between Steve and Jasmine. They could understand each other’s pain and regrets, not make light of it or dismiss it as others might. Their shared love of cooking and the importance of family bonds to them both gave them more layers of connection. Their struggle to put the past and all the pain behind touched my heart, as did the love and support of their family members. The conclusion of this book left me smiling and very happy.
This is book four in An Austin After Dark series and it is Jasmine and Steve’s story and omg this is definitely a must read but get the tissues ready because you are going to need them. I have been patiently waiting for Mama Grace’s story and Alexa Padgett definitely didn’t disappoint her readers with this book. Jasmine and Steve have both gone through a lot in their lives because Jasmine’s husband and Steve’s father were both abusive which left lasting effects on both of them but especially on Steve who has so much baggage and demons that he carries around with him and when they end up spending a explosive night together Jasmine was upset and hurt when Steve said it was a mistake and couldn’t happen again. The attraction and chemistry between them was so strong and they both deserve a chance of happiness but Steve is denying it and Jasmine is just letting nature take it’s course while still being there for everyone but when Jasmine with the help of her family decided to introduce her to men to date something happens which starts a chain reaction that makes Steve go back to sort out and confront his past so that he can eventually hope to have a future with Jasmine who is the only woman that he has ever loved. Wow this book certainly takes you on a rollercoaster ride of so many emotions with everything that this family have gone and still going through in their lives and you find yourself hoping that Jasmine and Steve can communicate, trust and put their pasts behind them because they are so perfect together and for each other in every single way and both deserve all the happiness in the world but like every relationship there will be many ups and downs and it will not be plain sailing but together there love for each other is so strong and will last a lifetime. I absolutely love this book and series and I couldn’t put it down because it was so addictive and the storyline pulled you in and kept your attention throughout. I definitely recommend you read this book and series and you will not be disappointed.
I recently finished reading His Saving Grace by Alexa Padgett, and I must say, it left a lasting impression on me. This heartwarming and emotional romance beautifully captures the power of second chances in a way that resonated deeply.
From the moment I met Steve and Jasmine, I was drawn into their world. Both characters are well-developed and relatable, each carrying their own burdens of trauma and loss. Their journey toward healing and trust was incredibly moving, and I found myself rooting for them as they supported each other in confronting their pasts. The way Padgett handles sensitive topics like PTSD and guilt is commendable; it adds a layer of authenticity to their struggles.
One of the highlights of the story for me was the lively, meddlesome blended family surrounding Steve and Jasmine. Their children play a pivotal role in pushing the couple together, providing both comic relief and emotional support. I loved how these family dynamics added richness to the narrative and made the characters feel even more real.
What struck me most about His Saving Grace is its emotional depth. This isn’t just a light, fluffy romance; it tackles heavy issues that made me reflect on real pain and heartbreak. Yet, Padgett masterfully balances this angst with tender moments of connection and hope. I found myself fully invested in their journey, and the emotional stakes felt genuine.
The romance between Steve and Jasmine felt authentic and organic. Their connection ignites quickly, but they face realistic obstacles along the way. I appreciated how Padgett avoided clichés and instead crafted a relationship that felt true to life. It was refreshing to see characters navigate their feelings in such a relatable manner.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed His Saving Grace. It’s a fantastic addition to the Austin After Dark series and a must-read for anyone who appreciates emotional, character-driven romance. Alexa Padgett has delivered a heartfelt story about resilience, forgiveness, and the transformative power of love that I won’t soon forget.
His Saving Grace: A Later in Life Military Veteran Romance (An Austin After Dark Book 4) by Alexa Padgett is a 2nd chance romance between Steve, the biological father of Nash (platinum record rock star), and a close family friend Jasmine, known as mama to all close loved ones. His Saving Grace is about two characters who have loved and lost and live with past regrets but attempt to move on. Steve wants to move on, but trauma from his past has stunted his ability to move forward in a relationship with Jasmine, even though he craves closeness and love. Jasmine desires the companionship and closeness she once had with her first husband, who died serving in the military decades ago. Jasmine’s second husband was the brother of her first husband, which has left her with emotional scars and a lifetime of regrets. After a one-and-done with Steve, Jasmine had hoped for more. Add in the meddling girl crew of her two daughters-in-law, her daughter, and a close family friend, which leads to many dates that lead to disaster. At the same time, Steve looks on, seeping in jealously. Alexa Padgett gives the matriarch of her Austin After Dark series her HEA in this interlocking stand-alone love story.
Perfection absolute perfection!!! That’s exactly what Alexa’s Austin after Dark Series was and is !!! Worth every book and every couple I have found myself falling more and more in love and the emotions every single journey has stirred in me well I without a doubt was not prepared for . That being said . His Saving Grace just might be my favorite so far . Jasmine and Steve I cannot really put into words exactly why but they just touched my heart so deeply and the connection I felt to both well no words can explain it . Both Jasmine and Steve have been through so much in their lives , painful pasts full of regrets , demons and tragedy. But maybe just maybe what they needed all along was each other . It was so beautiful watching them learn to love again and helping each other heal . I cannot remember the last time a book stirred so many different and unexpected emotions quite the way this one did . I mean utterly speechless, yelling outta frustration, being glued to the edge of my seat anticipating what would happen from one second to the next , smiling, laughing, crying and rooting so freaking hard .
As the final installment in the Austin After Dark series, as well as the involving characters from the Oblivion series, His Saving Grace brings Jasmine “Mama Grace” together with her longtime “crush”, Steve Lincoln. Now that the adult children are settled in their lives, Jasmine has the time and opportunity to look inward and realizes that she is lonely—that she wishes for companionship, courtship and friendship of a partner. She is very attracted to Steve, and he to her, however his demons cause him sufficient guilt that he won’t be a good partner for her, or a father to Nash. It takes a crisis to bring Steve to the realization that hew might lose Jasmine, and he needs to act quickly and decisively to save this relationship.
How appropriate the title of this new book is: “His Saving Grace”. A play on words. Jasmine is truly Steve’s Saving Grace. She loves wholly and loyally. Her understanding , patience and insight into his pain helps him to heal and foster better awareness as a partner and parent.
As I read this heartwarming romance, I was reminded of all the people I have met over the years who have been survivors of despicable acts at the hands of malicious people. Not everyone has the strength to work through their pain and face the past, but for those who do, there can be joyous new beginnings. Jasmine has left her past behind and is ready to find love and companionship again, despite her age. Steve adds a spark to her life, but he is even more damaged than she is and it takes the collective action of all the Graces and their extended family to bring Steve and Jasmine together. The road is not easy, but Steve discovers that he is stronger than he thought and the affirmation he receives from his son confirms it. The novel comes to a sweet conclusion, bringing closure to their past lives and hope and light for the future. I received a copy of this romance as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
His Saving Grace is the 4th and final book in the Austin After Dark series and should be read after the other books and preferably the Oblivion series as well since this is Jasmine - Mama Grace - and Steve Lincoln's story. It also serves as an extended epilogue for both series as we catch up with all their children and their children. His Saving Grace is about overcoming trauma, forgiving oneself for past mistakes, learning to trust again and finding new strength in your partner's love. It's full of passion, family, tears and laughter. A wonderful mix of emotions that gave me all the feels and left me with a smile on my face and a hankering for pie! Sad to see the series end but a fitting finale. I was lucky to have received an advanced copy from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
An endearing story about the life, romance and love between a couple in their fifties. Steve is fifty, ex military and has a rough past and upbringing. Jasmine is fifty four and has her own issues of suffering a bad husband and bad marriage. Their offspring have also suffered from their parents bad experiences. Family, love and loving, trust and happiness are at the fore front of their minds. The story opens with bad feeling between them after Steve ghosted Jasmine following a night of passion. His strong hold on healthy living is also a bone of contention between them, because her cooking is solid and she sees him as interfering. Reaching an understanding is marred by misunderstanding and coming to terms with past events is the path for healing, which Steve recognises after Jasmine has tried dating and one man turns nasty. Two families healing together.
This is the fourth book in this impressive series, and this is Jasmine and Steve’s journey. Jasmine has given up that love is on the cards for her again after having a past that is full of regrets and pain. Steve is a military veteran, who is haunted by his own demons. Can these two confront their demons, and have another chance at love? This is a beautifully written story which is an emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, trauma, angst, heartbreak, trust, regrets, intrigue, passion, turmoil, second chances, healing, resolution, later in life romance, and love, which leads to an entertaining, inspirational, sweet, and heartwarming page turner. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
When it comes to her past certain decisions that Jasmine has made has brought happiness and certain decisions have brought regrets, but she has emerged stronger because of that. She was not looking for love again but when it comes to Steve, she isn’t certain if it is destined for happiness or heartbreak.
Steve is living with the emotional scars of his past and he believes that he cannot give Jasmine what she needs. Their night together was unforgettable, but will that be all they can have or will be able to face the demons of his past?
Jasmine and Steve take us on an emotional journey as the past is impacting the present and the future and they must decide if what they share is worth fighting for.
A fitting ending: I thought it was wonderful and unique having a later in life romance close out this series. It would be best to read these books in order as there are interconnecting characters and a progressive timeline. I did find it quite heavy and sad at times as it deals with past trauma but I enjoyed the resolution both within the family and for Jasmine personally. Both Jasmine and Steve had been through a lot and it was lovely seeing them come to the realisation that despite their age and pasts, they were still very much deserving of love and happiness. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
I am SO glad that Jasmine "Mama Grace" and Steve got their HEA! This was the perfect ending to the Austin After Dark series. Sadly, it deals with some very heavy issues that are a part of real life, so be mindful to the author's warning of possible triggers! I believe that Alexa Padgett handled these subjects with dignity and compassion. Jasmine and Steve have been dancing around each other for years. With a blended family, their relationship is complicated and combustible. With each carrying a ton of baggage and guilt, it seems impossible for these two to find their way to a happily ever after. But with the help of their meddling children, their HEA ending was epic! 4 stars
Jasmine and Steve’s story is about family, trust, love and putting the past behind them. These two have tipped toed around each other for a while, both wanting more, but Steve’s holding back. He’s not worthy of having Jasmine and she thinks their one night is something he regrets. I loved how the girls came together to help Jasmine get her man, by showing him there are plenty of men out there who would like to date her and to ruffle his feathers a bit, but she only has eyes for him. Loved the banter, the love and emotions from the whole family and showing us that you can overcome adversity and your past if you are willing to let it go. I enjoyed their story.
This was a really beautiful romance. Filled with intense emotions, deep feelings and a razor-sharp poignancy, Jasmine and Steve's story is like a full body workout for your heart. To simply say that this book yanked on my heartstrings and had me all wrapped up in my feels seems like an understatement
Jasmine and Steve have scars from previous relationships. Both are reluctant to give another try. Loved and lost but both had the strength to move on. Their relationship turns into a healing process for both of them. They both see hope in each other. A feel good second chance at love that is written very well and enjoyable to read.
Sweet romance with older main characters giving them both a second chance to love. Both having to over some mistakes they made in their younger days with their children and feel worthy of the love they've found with each other. I received an advance review copy and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
This was my first story in the series and I absolutely loved it! I could tell there were others but did not feel like I missed anything (although I do want to go back and read them now). The author provides enough information to fill the reader in without it being too much.
This is a deeply emotional read that had me hooked from beginning to end. So good!!
Broken to BEAUTIFUL Another great read in this standalone interwoven series that is packed with emotions from angst to heartfelt tears, laughter and tantalizing passion. A well paced story that grabbed my attention from the start and at times was hard to step away but in the end this is a beautifully written later in life second chance story that had me twisted and feeling an array of emotions.
Jasmine and Steve’s second chance at love and happiness is an amazing story full of raw emotions, demons from their past, struggles. The family bond, the side characters from all the books in the series makes for an amazing story.
Even though I'm much younger this gives hope that you can find romance at any age. I absolutely loved Steve and Jasmines story. I honestly haven't read the others in the series but now I do. The chemistry was great and it was well written.
Painful pasts, unpredictable futures, lost souls and broken hearts are the setting for this book. Getting past all of that with the help of your families love and support, make it that much sweeter.
I really enjoyed Steve and Jasmine’s story. I’m so glad to read Steve’s story after reading about him in Nash’s book. I’m so glad him and Jasmine got a happy ending. I loved Jasmine and her witt. What a fantastic mom to have. These two loved dancing around liking each other until her girls decided to take matters into their hands and then boy did chaos start. This was a really good book one that I enjoyed and definitely recommend along with the entire series.