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Callahan: Wounded Heroes
A promise to a fallen brother-in-arms. A baby he never expected. The one woman he shouldn’t want. And a threat he can’t ignore.
When I stepped off the bus in Haven Springs, I was determined to keep a promise I’d made to my fellow Marine, Shawn O’ deliver the engagement ring he’d bought for Lainey Beaumont.
The firefight that killed Shawn left me with permanent injuries and scars—and the guilt of surviving weighs heavy on me. Romance was the last thing on my mind. Then I met Lainey. She’s strong, beautiful, and determined to build a life for herself and her baby—Shawn’s baby he never even knew about. Every time I feel that spark of attraction, the guilt hits me like a punch to the gut—like I’m betraying my best friend.
As I help Lainey navigate the challenges of single motherhood, I realize there’s more to Haven Springs than meets the eye. A threatening letter hints at secrets someone wants to keep buried—and my protective instincts flare as danger creeps closer.
In a town where everyone knows your name—and your past—I find myself drawn to Lainey in ways I never expected. But can I overcome the guilt and embrace the future, or will the ghosts of the past keep us apart forever?
When I stepped off the bus in Haven Springs, I was determined to keep a promise I’d made to my fellow Marine, Shawn O’ deliver the engagement ring he’d bought for Lainey Beaumont.
The firefight that killed Shawn left me with permanent injuries and scars—and the guilt of surviving weighs heavy on me. Romance was the last thing on my mind. Then I met Lainey. She’s strong, beautiful, and determined to build a life for herself and her baby—Shawn’s baby he never even knew about. Every time I feel that spark of attraction, the guilt hits me like a punch to the gut—like I’m betraying my best friend.
As I help Lainey navigate the challenges of single motherhood, I realize there’s more to Haven Springs than meets the eye. A threatening letter hints at secrets someone wants to keep buried—and my protective instincts flare as danger creeps closer.
In a town where everyone knows your name—and your past—I find myself drawn to Lainey in ways I never expected. But can I overcome the guilt and embrace the future, or will the ghosts of the past keep us apart forever?
- GenresSuspenseMilitary Fiction
364 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 16, 2025
214 people are currently reading
129 people want to read
About the author
Tess Summers
42 books664 followersUSA Today and Amazon best-selling author, Tess Summers is a former business woman and teacher who always loved writing but never seemed to have time to sit down and write a short story, let alone a novel. Now battling MS, her life changed dramatically, and she has finally slowed down enough to start writing all the stories she'd been wanting to tell, including the fun and sexy ones! Married over twenty-five years with three grown children, Tess is a former dog foster mom who ended up failing and adopting them instead. She and her husband (and their six dogs) split their time between the desert of Arizona and the lakes of Michigan, so she's always in a climate that's not too hot and not too cold, but just right!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
June 10, 2025
I loved this book! I thought the character development was very well done and the plot was good. It’s a romantic suspense and I thought the suspense part developed well. The story draws you in from the beginning and really holds your attention well. There were some very heartwarming moments too. I don’t do spoilers, but I will say Hugh’s word of advice to Adam near the end of the book is absolutely perfect. I can’t wait for the rest of the books in this series!
I received an advance review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 7, 2025
Adam Callahan was Shawn best friend and he has hard time to answer the question “ why not me “. With this PTSD weighting heavily he is on mission, delivering engagement ring to Lainey.
He wasn’t expecting that this mission will change his life forever.
What happens ? Enjoy reading this wonderful story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
He wasn’t expecting that this mission will change his life forever.
What happens ? Enjoy reading this wonderful story.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 2, 2025
Pretty boring for the most part.
And maybe it's just me, but her boyfriend had died only 5 months ago & she's drooling over Adam & hopping into bed with him. Author didn't go into a lot of detail about FMC's feelings for old boyfriend. She was sad that their son would grow up without his father, but it didn't seem like she was anywhere near devastated by his death.
And maybe it's just me, but her boyfriend had died only 5 months ago & she's drooling over Adam & hopping into bed with him. Author didn't go into a lot of detail about FMC's feelings for old boyfriend. She was sad that their son would grow up without his father, but it didn't seem like she was anywhere near devastated by his death.
June 16, 2025
Torn between duty to fallen comrade / human condition
Adam Callahan and Shawn O’Brien were unattached brothers in arms in the Middle East.
This is a story about an honest and honorable man dealing with survivors' guilt and trying to do the right thing from his perspective.
Shawn asked Adam to witness his last / will testament in case something happened to Shawn while in the Middle East. Adam felt that their Captain would be a better choice. Shawn then asked one favor of Adam, if something happened, he had an engagement ring for his girlfriend in his safe at parent’s home. Would Adam give it to his girlfriend? Adam agreed.
While on a mission, Adams’ humvee was hit by an IED which Adam did not see, he was injured. Shawn and a number of others came to Adam’s team rescue. But in the process of fighting off the insurgents an RPG hit Shawn’s vehicle. Their Captain was badly burned and Shawn was killed. Both Captain and Adam were airlifted to Germany, while recovering there, Shawn was laid to rest in Haven Springs, SC..
Adam arrived in Haven Springs, SC, to keep his promise to Shawn and visit his grave to pay his respects. Once he arrived in town, he stopped to grab a bite to eat, and met Brian S., who it turned out was Shawn’s best friend growing up. Brian a police Sergeant, took Adam to the cemetery to visit Shawn’s grave, where Adam voiced his guilty feelings about Shawn being killed. Adam felt that if he had not missed the IED on the side of the road, Shawn and team would not have come to rescue him and the others.
Brian then took Adam to the O’Brien’s, and found out that Shawn had a little boy a couple of months old from his Mom. They went to Shawn’s room to get the ring. Brian then dropped Adam off at Beaumont Bakery, where he caught Shawn’s girlfriend, Lainey, dancing around inside the bakery. His first impression, she was beautiful, but off limits. His survivor’s guilty surfacing. His intention, give her the ring and be on his way the next day back to his family in the East.
Lainey’s character is a new business owner and an unwed first time Mom trying to find her way in the world in a small town, where everyone knows your business. She is Protestant and Shawn’s family very Catholic, which causes friction where baby Conor is concerned. Then enter Adam, Shawn’s comrade in arms. Lainey / Adam hit it off and feel comfortable around each other, talking about Shawn and things in general.While Lainey steps away to take care of Conor, Adam falls asleep on her couch. The next morning as Adam leaves to get on a bus home to Massachusetts, he is attacked by someone wielding a baseball bat. He lands in the local hospital with stitches and possible concussion. So Adam stays with Brian while he recovers and is offered a job by the Police Chief of Haven Springs. He is torn between respecting his Marine brother, Shawn, and his growing attraction to Lainey and his strong connection to Conor
Lainey receives a threatening letter, so now the mystery is who attacked Adam, and are the 2 events connected. Adam ends up staying with Lainey to protect Conor and her. His feelings for Lainey are complicated and he swings between guilt and attraction to Lainey. Adam fears that both Brian and the O’Brians would be upset about his feelings for Lainey due to Shawn. Alan Callahan, Adams’ brother, brings his truck and belongings to Haven Springs. Adam’s older brother and Brian can see that both Lainey and Adam are attracted to each other. Each in their own way mentions that it is ok for Adam to want to be with Lainey. But more threats and a kidnapping take place to bring Adam to his senses about his feelings for Lainey and Conor.
Callahan has rich and likeable characters, while the storyline easily flows and fits in our current culture. This is a worthwhile read and you will not be disappointed with the turn of events.
Adam Callahan and Shawn O’Brien were unattached brothers in arms in the Middle East.
This is a story about an honest and honorable man dealing with survivors' guilt and trying to do the right thing from his perspective.
Shawn asked Adam to witness his last / will testament in case something happened to Shawn while in the Middle East. Adam felt that their Captain would be a better choice. Shawn then asked one favor of Adam, if something happened, he had an engagement ring for his girlfriend in his safe at parent’s home. Would Adam give it to his girlfriend? Adam agreed.
While on a mission, Adams’ humvee was hit by an IED which Adam did not see, he was injured. Shawn and a number of others came to Adam’s team rescue. But in the process of fighting off the insurgents an RPG hit Shawn’s vehicle. Their Captain was badly burned and Shawn was killed. Both Captain and Adam were airlifted to Germany, while recovering there, Shawn was laid to rest in Haven Springs, SC..
Adam arrived in Haven Springs, SC, to keep his promise to Shawn and visit his grave to pay his respects. Once he arrived in town, he stopped to grab a bite to eat, and met Brian S., who it turned out was Shawn’s best friend growing up. Brian a police Sergeant, took Adam to the cemetery to visit Shawn’s grave, where Adam voiced his guilty feelings about Shawn being killed. Adam felt that if he had not missed the IED on the side of the road, Shawn and team would not have come to rescue him and the others.
Brian then took Adam to the O’Brien’s, and found out that Shawn had a little boy a couple of months old from his Mom. They went to Shawn’s room to get the ring. Brian then dropped Adam off at Beaumont Bakery, where he caught Shawn’s girlfriend, Lainey, dancing around inside the bakery. His first impression, she was beautiful, but off limits. His survivor’s guilty surfacing. His intention, give her the ring and be on his way the next day back to his family in the East.
Lainey’s character is a new business owner and an unwed first time Mom trying to find her way in the world in a small town, where everyone knows your business. She is Protestant and Shawn’s family very Catholic, which causes friction where baby Conor is concerned. Then enter Adam, Shawn’s comrade in arms. Lainey / Adam hit it off and feel comfortable around each other, talking about Shawn and things in general.While Lainey steps away to take care of Conor, Adam falls asleep on her couch. The next morning as Adam leaves to get on a bus home to Massachusetts, he is attacked by someone wielding a baseball bat. He lands in the local hospital with stitches and possible concussion. So Adam stays with Brian while he recovers and is offered a job by the Police Chief of Haven Springs. He is torn between respecting his Marine brother, Shawn, and his growing attraction to Lainey and his strong connection to Conor
Lainey receives a threatening letter, so now the mystery is who attacked Adam, and are the 2 events connected. Adam ends up staying with Lainey to protect Conor and her. His feelings for Lainey are complicated and he swings between guilt and attraction to Lainey. Adam fears that both Brian and the O’Brians would be upset about his feelings for Lainey due to Shawn. Alan Callahan, Adams’ brother, brings his truck and belongings to Haven Springs. Adam’s older brother and Brian can see that both Lainey and Adam are attracted to each other. Each in their own way mentions that it is ok for Adam to want to be with Lainey. But more threats and a kidnapping take place to bring Adam to his senses about his feelings for Lainey and Conor.
Callahan has rich and likeable characters, while the storyline easily flows and fits in our current culture. This is a worthwhile read and you will not be disappointed with the turn of events.
June 8, 2025
5 ++STARS Slow burn to forever love.
Adam Callahan left the military after being severely injured in a mission gone wrong. He suffers not so much from his injuries but from survivor’s guilt. His best friend, Shawn, died while on the rescue mission to save Adam. Shawn O’Brien had recently asked Adam if, in the event of something happening to him, Adam would give his girlfriend the engagement ring Shawn had bought for her when he was last home. Tragically, Adam had to travel to Haven Springs, South Carolina, to fulfill this request.
Lainey Beaumont is sad about the loss of her boyfriend, Shawn. She is sad mainly because her baby Conor will never know Shawn, his father. Alone, Lainey has created a life for the two of them. She handles motherhood like a pro, and she recently opened a bakery to provide income for them. To keep Conor close to her, they live in the apartment above the bakery. The townspeople have gathered around to give Lainey support. Brian O’Shaughnesse, a local Police sergeant, was Shawn’s childhood best friend, and now he watches over Lainey and Conor. Brian befriends Adam, even helps push Adam toward Lainey. I love Brian so much.
The small gossipy town knows all about everything. They are kind and respectful toward Adam. Then, when Adam meets Lainey and Conor, he’s in love. Wow, if only he could …but he can’t lust after Shawn’s girl.
This town is not all friendly, though. Someone is targeting Lainey, and the undercurrent of fear is intensifying as incidents escalate. Most of the characters in this story are fantastic, people you want as neighbors, but the couple of bad ones are rotten to the core.
The romance between Adam and Lainey is a slow burn, but it's going to be a forever kind of love. I love Conor because this little two-month-old guy has everyone wrapped around his finger. The Wounded Heroes series got off to a great start with ‘Callahan’. I expect the same with book 2, “O’Shaughnessy”, Brian's story. I’m eager to read it when it's released. Linda
Adam Callahan left the military after being severely injured in a mission gone wrong. He suffers not so much from his injuries but from survivor’s guilt. His best friend, Shawn, died while on the rescue mission to save Adam. Shawn O’Brien had recently asked Adam if, in the event of something happening to him, Adam would give his girlfriend the engagement ring Shawn had bought for her when he was last home. Tragically, Adam had to travel to Haven Springs, South Carolina, to fulfill this request.
Lainey Beaumont is sad about the loss of her boyfriend, Shawn. She is sad mainly because her baby Conor will never know Shawn, his father. Alone, Lainey has created a life for the two of them. She handles motherhood like a pro, and she recently opened a bakery to provide income for them. To keep Conor close to her, they live in the apartment above the bakery. The townspeople have gathered around to give Lainey support. Brian O’Shaughnesse, a local Police sergeant, was Shawn’s childhood best friend, and now he watches over Lainey and Conor. Brian befriends Adam, even helps push Adam toward Lainey. I love Brian so much.
The small gossipy town knows all about everything. They are kind and respectful toward Adam. Then, when Adam meets Lainey and Conor, he’s in love. Wow, if only he could …but he can’t lust after Shawn’s girl.
This town is not all friendly, though. Someone is targeting Lainey, and the undercurrent of fear is intensifying as incidents escalate. Most of the characters in this story are fantastic, people you want as neighbors, but the couple of bad ones are rotten to the core.
The romance between Adam and Lainey is a slow burn, but it's going to be a forever kind of love. I love Conor because this little two-month-old guy has everyone wrapped around his finger. The Wounded Heroes series got off to a great start with ‘Callahan’. I expect the same with book 2, “O’Shaughnessy”, Brian's story. I’m eager to read it when it's released. Linda
June 15, 2025
Callahan: Wounded Heroes by Tess Summers is a beautifully written romance about Adam and Lainey. Adam returns home from war to fulfill a promise to his friend who was killed. He finds himself very attracted to Lainey, his friend's girlfriend and the feeling is mutual. Adam struggles with acting on his attraction as he feels it is a betrayal to his dead friend. The character's in this story are well developed and the supporting characters are so interesting. You are drawn into both Lainey and Adam's world and their heads as the story is written from both their point of view. Lainey has a two month old who Adam is so wonderful with. So much is added to this romance with all the supporting characters' different interactions with Adam. Brian, a local Police sergeant, was her boyfriend Shawn’s best friend, and now he watches over Lainey and Conor. Brian befriends Adam and Adam thinks Brian will disapprove of any relationship he has with Lainey. Brian is a fantastic supporting character and I can't wait for his story. Adam's brother also becomes a part of the story. I hope he gets a story, too. Even her deceased boyfriend's parents add to the development of the story . There is a suspense element, as well, that puts both Lainey and Adam in danger. which adds some twists to the story. There is a HEA but the journey is so beautifully written, I couldn't out it down. I stayed up into the wee hours to finish it. Grab a copy and sit down comfortably to enjoy a lovely romance come to life. then go look for the rest of the series. I plan to.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 17, 2025
Laniey and Adam meet under terrible circumstances. Shawn was Adam’s marine brother but lanieys boyfriend. Adam was tasked with giving Lainey Shawn’s ring if he didn’t make it back. Which is why he is now in Haven Springs and why he just got jumped coming out of Lainey’s apartment?
He was here to give the gift and head home to Lanscastle to start his life after being discharged from the marines, what he didn’t plan for was to fall in love with his best fiends girlfriend and his little boy Conner who he never knew. Adam was living with guilt that he was here and Shawn was not. He thought it should be the other way. But when Shawn and Adam met it was for a reason, Shawn knew Adam would be perfect for Lainey if something would ever happen to him. He was planning for the future when he shouldn’t have had too.
Laniey was shocked when Adam came to haven springs, she knew right away he was a marine but she didn’t know why Adam was there until Adam told her the story. Adam decides to stay in haven spring until this persons who is treating Laniey and beat him up is found. Two nasty notes later come to find out if was the land lords wife and she was trying to protect Laniey in a way. Bless her.
Earl, this NASTY man. Just needs to go for in a whole. I can’t even repay what he was doing to this poor girl. But the way I was shocked when it was him who had Adam beat up and then kidnapped her in the last bit of the story. I was not expecting that!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
He was here to give the gift and head home to Lanscastle to start his life after being discharged from the marines, what he didn’t plan for was to fall in love with his best fiends girlfriend and his little boy Conner who he never knew. Adam was living with guilt that he was here and Shawn was not. He thought it should be the other way. But when Shawn and Adam met it was for a reason, Shawn knew Adam would be perfect for Lainey if something would ever happen to him. He was planning for the future when he shouldn’t have had too.
Laniey was shocked when Adam came to haven springs, she knew right away he was a marine but she didn’t know why Adam was there until Adam told her the story. Adam decides to stay in haven spring until this persons who is treating Laniey and beat him up is found. Two nasty notes later come to find out if was the land lords wife and she was trying to protect Laniey in a way. Bless her.
Earl, this NASTY man. Just needs to go for in a whole. I can’t even repay what he was doing to this poor girl. But the way I was shocked when it was him who had Adam beat up and then kidnapped her in the last bit of the story. I was not expecting that!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 1, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Emotional, gripping, and full of heart. A beautiful story of healing and second chances.
Callahan: Wounded Heroes is the kind of story that pulls you in from the very first line and doesn’t let go. It’s an emotional journey rooted in grief, guilt, and ultimately, love. Tess Summers does an incredible job of blending action, emotional depth, and slow-burn romance in a way that feels natural and deeply personal.
The hero, haunted by a promise to a fallen friend and weighed down by the scars of war, returns to a small town to deliver an engagement ring to the woman his friend left behind—only to discover she’s now a single mother to a child the father never got to meet. The dynamic between him and Lainey is full of tension, heartache, and longing. Every moment they share feels earned, layered with guilt, trust, and vulnerability.
Lainey is such a strong female lead—resilient, loving, and determined to build a life for her child while facing shadows from her past. Their journey together, especially as danger creeps closer and secrets unravel, is compelling and tender.
This book has everything I love: a tortured hero, a fierce heroine, small-town secrets, slow-burning attraction, and an undercurrent of suspense. It’s a story about doing the right thing, even when it hurts—and learning to forgive yourself along the way.
Highly recommended for fans of military romance, wounded heroes, and emotional stories that balance heat and heart perfectly.
Callahan: Wounded Heroes is the kind of story that pulls you in from the very first line and doesn’t let go. It’s an emotional journey rooted in grief, guilt, and ultimately, love. Tess Summers does an incredible job of blending action, emotional depth, and slow-burn romance in a way that feels natural and deeply personal.
The hero, haunted by a promise to a fallen friend and weighed down by the scars of war, returns to a small town to deliver an engagement ring to the woman his friend left behind—only to discover she’s now a single mother to a child the father never got to meet. The dynamic between him and Lainey is full of tension, heartache, and longing. Every moment they share feels earned, layered with guilt, trust, and vulnerability.
Lainey is such a strong female lead—resilient, loving, and determined to build a life for her child while facing shadows from her past. Their journey together, especially as danger creeps closer and secrets unravel, is compelling and tender.
This book has everything I love: a tortured hero, a fierce heroine, small-town secrets, slow-burning attraction, and an undercurrent of suspense. It’s a story about doing the right thing, even when it hurts—and learning to forgive yourself along the way.
Highly recommended for fans of military romance, wounded heroes, and emotional stories that balance heat and heart perfectly.
June 6, 2025
Wounded Heros
Adam Callahan was a former Second Lt. USMC and was keeping a promise he made to Shawn, his brother in arms, that he would deliver the engagement ring Shawn bought for his girlfriend Lainey Beaumont if anything happened. Both Adam and Shawn served in the US Marine Corps and were overseas when Shawn was killed and Adam wounded.
Little did Adam know when he got off the bus in Haven Springs, South Carolina to see Lainey that she had a two month old little boy named Conor, the son Shawn never knew about before he died. She was determined to build a life for her and her son and opened her own bakery.
When Lainey gets a threatening letter Adam steps in to help keep her and Conor safe while they try to figure out who did this.
Even though Lainey and Adam have chemistry and start getting close he is having survivor guilt and romance wasn't something that had been on his mind.
Can Adam overcome the guilt and more importantly keep Lainey and Conor safe especially when things are starting to heat up?
5 stars
Loved this story. Got to love a small town and everyone knowing your business.
Can't wait for Brian's story and hopefully we see a story for Alan, Adam's brother.
Adam Callahan was a former Second Lt. USMC and was keeping a promise he made to Shawn, his brother in arms, that he would deliver the engagement ring Shawn bought for his girlfriend Lainey Beaumont if anything happened. Both Adam and Shawn served in the US Marine Corps and were overseas when Shawn was killed and Adam wounded.
Little did Adam know when he got off the bus in Haven Springs, South Carolina to see Lainey that she had a two month old little boy named Conor, the son Shawn never knew about before he died. She was determined to build a life for her and her son and opened her own bakery.
When Lainey gets a threatening letter Adam steps in to help keep her and Conor safe while they try to figure out who did this.
Even though Lainey and Adam have chemistry and start getting close he is having survivor guilt and romance wasn't something that had been on his mind.
Can Adam overcome the guilt and more importantly keep Lainey and Conor safe especially when things are starting to heat up?
5 stars
Loved this story. Got to love a small town and everyone knowing your business.
Can't wait for Brian's story and hopefully we see a story for Alan, Adam's brother.
June 8, 2025
If you love a wounded hero along with a spicy romance, this is definitely for you!
Adam's left the marines, but has one last task to carry out for his fallen friend - give his engagement ring to his girlfriend. Adam feels guilt for Shawn's death, but what he doesn't expect is his reaction to Lainey, who is now a single mother to Conor, the baby Shawn never knew about. The story is set in a small town, where everyone knows everyone else's business, and enjoys the accompanying gossip.
Adam falls for Lainey and Lainey falls for Adam, although neither wants to admit it. When Adam moves in to protect her from some nasty threats, the inevitable happens. And boy, does it happen! Kitchen, shower, sometimes even the bedroom. Phew! The heat is off the scale!
As always Tess brings her characters to life in reality, facing the pitfalls as well as the happiness. The supporting players are rounded, likeable (Brian) and annoying (Granny). The threats set up the tension so well that I wasn't convinced the worse wouldn't happen. I'll leave it there as I don't want to give any spoilers.
However I love the way that Brian's story was introduced in the epilogue and I'm looking forward to reading that book in the future.
Adam's left the marines, but has one last task to carry out for his fallen friend - give his engagement ring to his girlfriend. Adam feels guilt for Shawn's death, but what he doesn't expect is his reaction to Lainey, who is now a single mother to Conor, the baby Shawn never knew about. The story is set in a small town, where everyone knows everyone else's business, and enjoys the accompanying gossip.
Adam falls for Lainey and Lainey falls for Adam, although neither wants to admit it. When Adam moves in to protect her from some nasty threats, the inevitable happens. And boy, does it happen! Kitchen, shower, sometimes even the bedroom. Phew! The heat is off the scale!
As always Tess brings her characters to life in reality, facing the pitfalls as well as the happiness. The supporting players are rounded, likeable (Brian) and annoying (Granny). The threats set up the tension so well that I wasn't convinced the worse wouldn't happen. I'll leave it there as I don't want to give any spoilers.
However I love the way that Brian's story was introduced in the epilogue and I'm looking forward to reading that book in the future.
June 7, 2025
I have to admit that it took me a few chapters to really get into this story, but once I did, I REALLY got into it!! I love how Adam formed a near instant bond with Lainey’s baby, and Lainey herself. His protective nature was evident in his military service, and in all other aspects of his life. Lainey was strong and pragmatic, and was making her way in life quite successfully, despite the hand she was dealt.
I don’t usually love romantic suspense, but the suspense aspect of this story didn’t make me feel too angsty! It’s romance, so obviously it’s going to turn out ok, but I just felt like Lainey’s two protectors would keep her safe. Also, there were a few clues about the “bad guys,” but it wasn’t totally obvious who they were going to be!
I love how quickly the small town embraced Adam when he arrived in town. Everyone had a completely different view of what happened on his tragic day, and continued to reassure him that he was not at fault. I was glad that he finally gave in to all the nudges toward Lainey that so many people were doling out!!
Overall, a good and easy read. It wasn’t my absolute favorite from Tess Summers, but I did like it enough to recommend it!!!
I don’t usually love romantic suspense, but the suspense aspect of this story didn’t make me feel too angsty! It’s romance, so obviously it’s going to turn out ok, but I just felt like Lainey’s two protectors would keep her safe. Also, there were a few clues about the “bad guys,” but it wasn’t totally obvious who they were going to be!
I love how quickly the small town embraced Adam when he arrived in town. Everyone had a completely different view of what happened on his tragic day, and continued to reassure him that he was not at fault. I was glad that he finally gave in to all the nudges toward Lainey that so many people were doling out!!
Overall, a good and easy read. It wasn’t my absolute favorite from Tess Summers, but I did like it enough to recommend it!!!
July 22, 2025
Adam Callahan is a Marine. He has permanent injuries and scars from a fire fight that killed his fellow Marine, Shawn O’Brien. Adam takes the bus to Haven Springs, South Carolina to fulfill a promise he made to Shawn. When he arrives, he meets Brian, who was Shawn’s best friend at home. Brian takes Adam to Shawn’s parents house. Adam explains that Shawn wanted his girlfriend Lainey Beaumont to have the engagement ring he bought before he deployed. He also finds out that Lainey was pregnant with Shawn’s baby and now has an eight-week old son Conor.
Lainey just opened Beaumont’s Bakery thanks to the money Shawn left her. She and Conor live in an apartment above the bakery. She feels bad that Shawn never knew she was pregnant. She wanted to tell him in person. She left college one semester shy of her bachelor’s degree in accounting to buy the bakery and start making a life for her and the baby.
I wanted Lainey and Adam to get together. I wanted Lainey to have a second chance at love. I also wanted Adam and Brian to find out who was making threats against Adam and Lainey.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lainey just opened Beaumont’s Bakery thanks to the money Shawn left her. She and Conor live in an apartment above the bakery. She feels bad that Shawn never knew she was pregnant. She wanted to tell him in person. She left college one semester shy of her bachelor’s degree in accounting to buy the bakery and start making a life for her and the baby.
I wanted Lainey and Adam to get together. I wanted Lainey to have a second chance at love. I also wanted Adam and Brian to find out who was making threats against Adam and Lainey.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 5, 2025
This is the second of Tess's Wounded Heroes books I have read, the first one being Sloane. Just as Sloane was a "can't put it down story" so is Callahan. Adam and Lainey are believable characters, each with their own flaws, misconceptions and sense of honor that made me root for them. They both overcome their misbeliefs over doing what's right to honor the memory of Adam's fallen brother in arms Shawn and Lainey's baby daddy and come to understand that them being together is exactly how it should be. They realize honoring Shawn by bonding over his son Conor and not fighting the feelings between each other, is what Shawn had a hand in making happen.
Tess gives us some unexpected surprises with a skeevy jerk and a misguided mystery person, who wants to warn Lainey. Thank goodness that Adam and Shawn's best friend Police Sergeant Brian O'Shaughnessy, come to the rescue! Love wins the day!
I'm looking forward to O'Shaughnessy getting to us!
Tess gives us some unexpected surprises with a skeevy jerk and a misguided mystery person, who wants to warn Lainey. Thank goodness that Adam and Shawn's best friend Police Sergeant Brian O'Shaughnessy, come to the rescue! Love wins the day!
I'm looking forward to O'Shaughnessy getting to us!
June 7, 2025
Heartwarming Steamy Romance
Adam Callahan never expected the chemistry and feelings that spring up when he is fulfilling his promise to his best friend, Shawn O’Brien. Lainey is Shawn’s girl not to mention Shawn’s baby mama. Adam intends to fight his attraction all the way, but then Lainey is in danger and he needs to protect her and her baby. Lainey finds Adam really handsome, in an athletic, boy-next-door way and a girl needs. She is a horrible person for even thinking such a thing. Adam was Shawn’s friend. Another emotional novel in Tess Summers’s “Wounded Heroes” Series. It is a well written small town romance that I could not put down as it pulled at my heartstrings. It has so many different elements woven into it as well as unexpected twists and turns that add to the read. Loved all the gossip of a small town. Cannot wait to read about Brian O’Shaughnessy, another of Shawn’s best friends, next.
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.
Adam Callahan never expected the chemistry and feelings that spring up when he is fulfilling his promise to his best friend, Shawn O’Brien. Lainey is Shawn’s girl not to mention Shawn’s baby mama. Adam intends to fight his attraction all the way, but then Lainey is in danger and he needs to protect her and her baby. Lainey finds Adam really handsome, in an athletic, boy-next-door way and a girl needs. She is a horrible person for even thinking such a thing. Adam was Shawn’s friend. Another emotional novel in Tess Summers’s “Wounded Heroes” Series. It is a well written small town romance that I could not put down as it pulled at my heartstrings. It has so many different elements woven into it as well as unexpected twists and turns that add to the read. Loved all the gossip of a small town. Cannot wait to read about Brian O’Shaughnessy, another of Shawn’s best friends, next.
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.
June 21, 2025
Book Review: Callahan
Author: Tess Summers
This book follows the story of Adam and Lainey.
Adam returns home from war to fulfill a promise to his friend Shawn that was killed. Once he gets there and meets Lainey, his best friend's girl, he finds himself very attracted to her. He feels guilty about it, but he can't deny his attraction to her. Lainey, now a single mother, is taking care of her 2 month old baby and is the owner of a bakery. She is sad that she lost Shawn and that her baby boy will never know his father. However, when she meets Adam, her attraction to him is immediate. Sparks fly between these two. However, when someone threatens to hurt Lainey and her baby, Adam promises to protect them at all cost. This situation gets them closer and they can no longer deny their attraction. I loved everything about this book. If you love: surprise pregnancy, military romance,best friend’s girl, Marine mmc, this book is for you.
Author: Tess Summers
This book follows the story of Adam and Lainey.
Adam returns home from war to fulfill a promise to his friend Shawn that was killed. Once he gets there and meets Lainey, his best friend's girl, he finds himself very attracted to her. He feels guilty about it, but he can't deny his attraction to her. Lainey, now a single mother, is taking care of her 2 month old baby and is the owner of a bakery. She is sad that she lost Shawn and that her baby boy will never know his father. However, when she meets Adam, her attraction to him is immediate. Sparks fly between these two. However, when someone threatens to hurt Lainey and her baby, Adam promises to protect them at all cost. This situation gets them closer and they can no longer deny their attraction. I loved everything about this book. If you love: surprise pregnancy, military romance,best friend’s girl, Marine mmc, this book is for you.
June 8, 2025
Adam served in the military with Lainey’s boyfriend Shawn. Shawn made Adam promise if anything happened to him that Adam would give Lainey the ring he had gotten for her. After Shawn died, Adam made the trip to see Lainey to discover she also had a baby. Shawn’s. Adam was very much attracted to her but had a difficult time giving in to the attraction because she was Shawn’s girl. After spending time with her and her son Conor, he couldn’t bring himself to leave and took a job as a police officer in town. The relationship builds from there but isn’t without its challenges. There’s even some suspense and mystery mixed in with an attack on Adam, damage to Lainey’s bakery and more action! Oh what a great read that keeps you on your toes and hoping for a happy ending. Also a great lead into the next book! Can’t wait!
June 16, 2025
4.5 stars
Great story with a very likable single mom and a very honorable male character. Lainey was amazing. She has gone through a lot with having to raise Conor herself and losing Shawn. She had those major moments of doubt and her mini freak outs whenever Conor was not in her sight? Totally what grows through a mom’s mind some times. Adam was also a great guy. He was so amazing with Conor and honestly with Lainey too. Always lifting her up and making sure she knew how strong and amazing she was for being able to do all she did. Fantastic couple. My biggest issue and why I took a half star off was I felt it took way too long for Adam to get his head on straight about Lainey and actually go for her. But other than that there was a depth to the characters and a mystery that actually had some surprises to it. Great stuff!
I did receive an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
Great story with a very likable single mom and a very honorable male character. Lainey was amazing. She has gone through a lot with having to raise Conor herself and losing Shawn. She had those major moments of doubt and her mini freak outs whenever Conor was not in her sight? Totally what grows through a mom’s mind some times. Adam was also a great guy. He was so amazing with Conor and honestly with Lainey too. Always lifting her up and making sure she knew how strong and amazing she was for being able to do all she did. Fantastic couple. My biggest issue and why I took a half star off was I felt it took way too long for Adam to get his head on straight about Lainey and actually go for her. But other than that there was a depth to the characters and a mystery that actually had some surprises to it. Great stuff!
I did receive an ARC and this is my honest opinion.
June 20, 2025
Emotional, beautiful and at times haunting
Callahan: Wounded Heroes is the first book in the Wounded Heroes Series. I will say first that this is an emotional story that will have you reaching for a whole box of tissues before you are done, but it is so worth all the tears and tissues in te end. The story finds Adam Callahan trying his best to navigate a promise he made to his best friend in the Middle East, Shawn O'Brien. The unit had been in a fire fight that left Shawn dead and Adam injured, both physically and mentally. But he promised to deliver an engagement ring to Shawn's love, Lainey Beaumont. It is a journey that will unravel some secrets, have more than a few surprises, tug at your heart and have you blushing at the romance, love and passion that grows. I really enjoyed this story and can't wait for the next book in the series.
Callahan: Wounded Heroes is the first book in the Wounded Heroes Series. I will say first that this is an emotional story that will have you reaching for a whole box of tissues before you are done, but it is so worth all the tears and tissues in te end. The story finds Adam Callahan trying his best to navigate a promise he made to his best friend in the Middle East, Shawn O'Brien. The unit had been in a fire fight that left Shawn dead and Adam injured, both physically and mentally. But he promised to deliver an engagement ring to Shawn's love, Lainey Beaumont. It is a journey that will unravel some secrets, have more than a few surprises, tug at your heart and have you blushing at the romance, love and passion that grows. I really enjoyed this story and can't wait for the next book in the series.
June 30, 2025
Adam goes to Haven Springs, SC to fulfill a promise to his fallen Marine brother. When he arrives he realizes that his friend has a son he knows nothing about and he is attracted to his friends girlfriend. Lainey finds herself a single mother when her boyfriend is killed in action. When his friend Adam comes to town, she finds herself attracted to him. But living in a small town where everyone knows your business, it's hard to move on. Lainey and Adam give in to their attraction but agree to keep it secret. When someone starts to threaten Lainey and her son, Adam, decides to stay and protect them. As small town gossip mill starts to talk about them, they decide to go their separate ways. However when Lainey disappears all bets are off. Overall, this was a great start to a new series and I cannot wait for the next installment.
November 20, 2025
When the two meet it definitely gave insta attraction/lust. I think they literally hooked up within days of barely knowing each other, but then don’t get together until basically the last chapter of the book which was just ridiculous to me. I love a good slow but that was just silly to me like c’mon🤦🏽♀️ I just wanted more from them. I feel like the suspense part kind of just got thrown in there and honestly the story could’ve held its own without it. The book happened really fast without there really being a pause, it was like go, go, go. I did enjoy the parts with baby Connor and Adam, those were cute. I just don’t think I’ll read another book by this author, her writing style doesn’t mesh up with me. The book was mainly dialogue and i don’t know it just felt unbalanced. I ended up skimming the last 10%.
June 19, 2025
So Good I Couldn’t Put It Down!
Adam was trying to keep his promise to his best friend, to take an engagement ring to his girl, Lainey. But his best friend was killed by a grenade launcher. Adam had been injured as well due to an IED, after he was healed he headed to the town she lived in and met her not realizing she had Shawn’s son. Adam and her were instantly attracted to each other, but Adam did not want to betray his friend. Things progressed, then he pulled the plug on the relationship, she got a threatening letter, he was asked to join the police force, other things happened, then she was kidnapped. He could no longer deny his love for her after she was saved. Wonderfully written and so worth reading!
Adam was trying to keep his promise to his best friend, to take an engagement ring to his girl, Lainey. But his best friend was killed by a grenade launcher. Adam had been injured as well due to an IED, after he was healed he headed to the town she lived in and met her not realizing she had Shawn’s son. Adam and her were instantly attracted to each other, but Adam did not want to betray his friend. Things progressed, then he pulled the plug on the relationship, she got a threatening letter, he was asked to join the police force, other things happened, then she was kidnapped. He could no longer deny his love for her after she was saved. Wonderfully written and so worth reading!
July 9, 2025
His Princess!
Adam was on a mission, to deliver his brother in arms last wish,to get the ring he was going to give his girl he had planned to give to her before he shipped out but there wasn't time and Shawn was killed in action,so he wasn't able to give her the ring,or see the son he didn't know about.Liany was Shawn 's girl,Conner's mom,also the town's baker.When Adam meets Liany he know he has his work cut out for him,how he can honor Shawn 's wishes and keep his hands of his girl when he is falling for her and his baby Conner.This a happy story except for Shawn, very enjoyable, some jealousy and bunch of mother hens with their rumor mill around town.I like the ending too!
Adam was on a mission, to deliver his brother in arms last wish,to get the ring he was going to give his girl he had planned to give to her before he shipped out but there wasn't time and Shawn was killed in action,so he wasn't able to give her the ring,or see the son he didn't know about.Liany was Shawn 's girl,Conner's mom,also the town's baker.When Adam meets Liany he know he has his work cut out for him,how he can honor Shawn 's wishes and keep his hands of his girl when he is falling for her and his baby Conner.This a happy story except for Shawn, very enjoyable, some jealousy and bunch of mother hens with their rumor mill around town.I like the ending too!
July 19, 2025
This is the 1st book in the Wounded Heroes Series by Tess Summers and this is Adam Callahan was a former Second Lt. USMC and Lainey Beaumont story. They meet when Adam goes to Haven Springs, South Carolina to fulfill a promise to Shawn and that was to deliver the engagement ring Shawn bought for his girlfriend Lainey Beaumont if anything should happen to him. When he arrived at Lainey's house, imagine his surprise discovering that Shawn had a two-month-old son Conner, who he would never meet! In this read you will discover survivor guilt, chemistry that both try to ignore, and a mystery stalker! What happens next, well you will have to read!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 14, 2025
Laney and Adam and baby Connor
Beautiful story, loved the dialogues, so quick, witty and funny, plus all the unexpected turns of events: very well thought.
Laney is a single mom who didn't plan on it, but despite her insecurities, she keeps on going, thankful for unexpected things, financial backup and help.
Adam is a wounded hero who strongly believes he's not worthy of Laney, because he's his best friend from the army, baby mama. Fortunately for him, faith has something else in store, however life in a small town lacks privacy 100% so it's very interesting to see how their relationship develops, ends, continues etc. Laney gets rejected a lot and hurt just because of the old "What would people say?"
Beautiful story, loved the dialogues, so quick, witty and funny, plus all the unexpected turns of events: very well thought.
Laney is a single mom who didn't plan on it, but despite her insecurities, she keeps on going, thankful for unexpected things, financial backup and help.
Adam is a wounded hero who strongly believes he's not worthy of Laney, because he's his best friend from the army, baby mama. Fortunately for him, faith has something else in store, however life in a small town lacks privacy 100% so it's very interesting to see how their relationship develops, ends, continues etc. Laney gets rejected a lot and hurt just because of the old "What would people say?"
June 7, 2025
Adam and Shawn are Marines and Shawn asked Adam to deliver the engagement ring to his girl in case something happens to him.
That's exactly what happens so when Adam is released from hospital, he travels to find Lainey. What he doesn't know is that she had Shawn's baby a few weeks ago and that he'll be tempted by Lainey.
The story is easy to read and a lot is happening so Adam decides to stay in Haven Springs for a while.
Thanks for this advanced copy. I enjoyed reading this book and would have given 5 stars but to staying realistic I only gave 4 because the story ended too fast for my liking 😉
That's exactly what happens so when Adam is released from hospital, he travels to find Lainey. What he doesn't know is that she had Shawn's baby a few weeks ago and that he'll be tempted by Lainey.
The story is easy to read and a lot is happening so Adam decides to stay in Haven Springs for a while.
Thanks for this advanced copy. I enjoyed reading this book and would have given 5 stars but to staying realistic I only gave 4 because the story ended too fast for my liking 😉
June 10, 2025
Once again a totally enjoyable read. I'm a very slow reader, so would normally take me a few weeks to read, but I was very fortunate to have a long haul flight, and I read the book for pretty much the whole journey (a 5.5hr flight and a 12 hour flight). That is quite a recommendation from me. I really enjoy Tess mentioning characters from previous books in the series, although I do find the sex scenes embarrassing. However that is easily resolved by just skimming those pages. 😂 The characters are very relatable but maybe a bit TOO nice. 😂 . The outcome of part of the story line had me guessing all the way through the book, with me changing my mind on several occasions. All in all, I thoroughly recommend it, and can't wait for the next book in the series.
August 7, 2025
Really liked how it started! But I just feel they (mostly the fmc moves too fast). It's only been 5 months since her boyfriend died and she is constantly thinking about jumping Adam's bones. And she acts rather immature about some things and her responses to his backing off ("you're turned off by my milky boob" ??)
I never got the feeling she really loved her boyfriend so I guess that may be why it's so easy for her that she moved on fast. But then Adam starts talking dirty at their first little tension spat and it felt forced and unnatural.
The chemistry began to fizzle for me quick amd i dnfd
I never got the feeling she really loved her boyfriend so I guess that may be why it's so easy for her that she moved on fast. But then Adam starts talking dirty at their first little tension spat and it felt forced and unnatural.
The chemistry began to fizzle for me quick amd i dnfd
June 11, 2025
This steamy read checks all the boxes and Adam Callahan is a dream come true. Lainey is such a strong female lead as she has started her own bakery while raising her son after his father was killed in action.
Adam served with Shawn and feels responsible for his death. He keeps his promise to retrieve and deliver the engagement ring that Shawn did not have a chance to give her. Adam finds Lainey irresistible yet struggles with survivor’s guilt.
The world building and character development is top notch. I found the characters to be relatable and look forward to more books in this series.
Adam served with Shawn and feels responsible for his death. He keeps his promise to retrieve and deliver the engagement ring that Shawn did not have a chance to give her. Adam finds Lainey irresistible yet struggles with survivor’s guilt.
The world building and character development is top notch. I found the characters to be relatable and look forward to more books in this series.
June 16, 2025
This book was absolutely amazing. Adam Callahan and Lainey have chemistry to spare and both deserve some good. They were brought into each others lives by tragedy and end up having some trouble finding them shortly after Adam found his way to the small town. Adam never expected what should have been a short visit to make good on a promise would turn his whole world upside down. There story is definitely exciting as Adam and Lainey navigate the danger that found them. You will not be able to put their story down once you start it.
June 16, 2025
Well rounded:
This was an enjoyable romantic suspense with a good mix of meaningful dialogue, drama and suspense. It featured a delightful romance with a cinnamon roll hero and feisty heroine. Adam and Lainey were perfect together however they had obstacles to overcome, especially with misplaced guilt and mysterious attacks.
I enjoyed getting to know the characters of this small town and look forward to hopefully continuing on with the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was an enjoyable romantic suspense with a good mix of meaningful dialogue, drama and suspense. It featured a delightful romance with a cinnamon roll hero and feisty heroine. Adam and Lainey were perfect together however they had obstacles to overcome, especially with misplaced guilt and mysterious attacks.
I enjoyed getting to know the characters of this small town and look forward to hopefully continuing on with the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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