Settling Scores

Piper Anderson #5

by Danielle Stewart

Willow has been saved from a painfully dark past and handed a bright future. By all accounts, she should be happy. But no one seems to understand that escaping evil hasn’t left her feeling free of it. The more people try to hold her close, the harder she fights to get away. Even the unconditional support from Edenville isn’t enough to help her keep her head above water.


On a journey to settle scores and find answers to questions that haunt her memories, Willow hopes to mend her heart.


Meanwhile, the man she has pushed away time and again fights to show her the only chance she has at happiness is opening her heart to the love that is right in front of her. But even Josh’s loyalty has its limits; how long before even he gives up on her, considering she’s already given up on herself?

Genres: Romantic Suspense, Romance

230 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 10, 2014

About the author

Writing is a way to make a lot of different people do exactly what you want them to do. When I can’t get my toddler to listen to me, I turn to my characters. They always cooperate!

I currently live in Charlotte, North Carolina with my husband and seven year old son. I have perfected the ability to write in a noisy house and create story lines while folding laundry.

Ten Things to know about me:

1. I have a fear of whales. All whales. The noise they make. The sight of them (even on tv). I don't think this phobia has a name and I've never met anyone else who feels this way. I blame it on the 3D movie when I was 7 at the Boston Museum of Science. (Thanks Dad.)

2. When I get hungry it brings out the worst in me. My friends and family know to keep me well fed. They pack snacks now.

3. I can cook but not bake. Not even a little. Not even a box of brownies.

4. If there is a song I like it is normal to hear me listening to it a hundred times (give or take) in a row.

5. I do not, under any circumstances, read directions. Who has time for that? Making mac & cheese by the seat of my pants for the last 25 years.

6. Like a black-out drunk, I have lost hours of my life mysteriously to Pinterest. If you haven't tried it yet... don't. Save your self.

7. Before I became a mother, lots of things grossed me out. Now nothing does.

8. My favorite food is food... my least favorite food is no food. I love food. (apply the same rule to wine)

9. I do not have a green thumb. I have the kind of thumb that kills any type of plant ever given to me. Whatever kind of thumb that is... I have it.

10. Writing has changed my life. Not just the career it's created but the way I feel when I write. If you have something you love to do I hope you get the opportunity to do it.



Piper Anderson Series:
Book 1: Chasing Justice (FREE)
Book 2: Cutting Ties
Book 3: Changing Fate
Book 4: Finding Freedom
Book 5: Settling Scores
Book 6: Battling Destiny
Book 7: Chris & Sydney Collection (Choosing Christmas & Saving Love)

Betty's Journal - Bonus Material (suggested to be read after Book 4 to avoid spoilers)

The Edenville Series:
Book 1: Flowers in the Snow (FREE!)
Book 2: Kiss in the Wind
Book 3: Stars in a Bottle
Book 4: Fire in the Heart (pre-order)

The Clover Series:
(Book 1 & 2) Half My Heart & Change My Heart (FREE)
(Book 3) All My Heart
(Book 4) Facing Home

The Rough Waters Series:
Book 1: The Goodbye Storm(FREE)
Book 2: The Runaway Storm
Book 3: The Rising Storm

The Barrington Billionaire Series
Book 1: Fierce Love (Free)
Book 2: Wild Eyes
Book 3: Crazy nights
Book 4: Loyal Hearts

The Piper Anderson Legacy Mystery
Book 1: Three Seconds to Rush (Free)
Book 2: Just for a Heartbeat
Book 3: Not just an Echo

Stand Alones:
Yours for the Taking
Sweet Rendezvous
Running from Shadows

Reviews

[Heather Fortman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Stunned (in a good way!)!!

Words cannot describe this book accurately. No, it’s not a bad thing. I’m just left... speechless over this book. I know what the others in series are like; they’re all wonderful and speak in ways to your heart as a reader that doesn’t come along often. There just aren’t enough positive words that I can use to carry on this series with Settling Scores, it’s just THAT GOOD!

Yes, it’s a tear jerker but it’s a still a fantastic read. One you will surely not want to miss! The story is riveting and snaps your attention from the prolog to the epilog, drawing you into the mind of the characters and carrying you along the river of their adventures. And it’s not all smooth sailing, there are mental twists and turns that you don’t expect and don’t show up on any map or thought process you could hope to plot out.

[Gabrielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I totally was not expecting all that occurred in Settling Scores, but that is what I love about the Piper Anderson Series and how all the stories coincide together and I can picture what is happening as I read because The writing is amazing. And I absolutely enjoyed Willow's story and glad to see that past characters came back and great read about the new characters. And even though I hate cliff hangers, I am glad that the Piper Anderson series is not over yet and looking forward to book 6 Battling Destiny in September..absolutely Can't wait!! This series is awesome and a must read!! It has drama, suspense, comedy. You will
Laugh, cry, maybe even get angry and sad. You feel like you are apart of the family and We all wish we Had Someone like Betty to give us advice when we don't know we even need it :)

[Donna Seger kilroy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The whole Piper Anderson series is like nothing I have read before. These books are about what happens on this earth daily. It's about murder, child trafficking, family and a whole lot more. But these stories all find there happiness and love with one another. They find that thou damaged, they can still find love..

[Pennie G Hutchinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

complications & confrontations!!

This is the best book so far. The research the author had to do to make it a believable saga was amazing. It is hard for some of us to realize that these things do happen in our world. Recommend this series to everyone who needs their eyes opened!! Great book, Danielle!!

[Mary Geraghty · Rating 3 out of 5]

Slightly disappointed by this story

Enjoyed the family Characters as much, however the storytelling did not hold me so much on this one. It all felt a bit fractured. Does not take away the other great reads. . Am a definite fan.

[Lisa Haddock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Piper Anderson Bk 5

This was a wonderful read from page 1 until the very end! I love the way the author has intertwined all of the characters backgrounds and twisted it into an amazing story! Can’t wait to read about Michael in the next book!

[Janice Reid · Rating 5 out of 5]

excellent book

The book was a very read. It held you in suspense from beginning to end. I highly recommend this book. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

[Tracey Quintin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an emotional journey for me as I read along as Willow’s soul was exposed. Through this series, I’ve read what Willow went through but not the depth of it and this book is HER story to tell with how it plays out for her. It made me realize that what you think will give you peace within always isn’t what you expect. It also made me realize that yes, some people make bad decisions and can’t get out of situations, but deep down, they DO have a caring soul buried within. Don’t always jump to judgment on people without knowing their story.

Not everyone is perfect, we all have our own flaws, our own stories, and that’s okay because folks STILL love us – this is EXACTLY what the Piper Anderson Series is about. As I’ve read each book in this series, I’ve found a piece of myself in every character Danielle has written – Danielle seems to know my soul, my background and my flaws. THAT is a true connection with a reader and what Danielle ALWAYS amazingly delivers! I don’t usually make mention in reviews of WHAT happens in a story, but there is something Danielle writes in this story that is hauntingly true to me: “For the first time, I’m not trying to be what I think people expect of me, or what they insist I should be. Out here, I’m just a girl on a mission, one I’ve nearly completed…” THIS IS SO ME! For many years, I always tried to be what I thought people wanted me to be. Danielle later writes: “Maybe when all of this is done, when I’ve accomplished what I set out to do…Someone who knows who she is, knows what she wants…I can create her story, and in the process wash away my own…” Before reading Settling Scores, I had recently come to the realization of I AM ME. I know what makes me happy now, I am no longer defined by what my life experiences were nor am I what people expect me to be and I’m so much more at peace. Reading this from Danielle SO hit home.

I so loved Willow’s journey and really loved being back home with the other characters that have become part of me and have become my family.

This book as well as every other book in this series has such well developed characters with real life issues addressed head on in such a true realistic manner. Danielle is an absolutely brilliant writer. What emotionally charged, amazing journeys she takes us on in her writing! When I THINK I know all there could be with each character, each book delivers more of their background to me. These books totally deliver and once you start you cannot put down, you’ll be captivated from the very start of each book.

This is an absolutely brilliant author and read. Very highly recommend you read! Bravo Danielle, there aren’t enough words to describe you as to why you are my #1 favorite author but what each of your books means to me. KEEP THEM COMING!

[Shy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Danielle Stewart brought us to a world where not only love matters, but also knowing oneself, family and friends.

I was been annoyed with Willow with the way she is in Book four - Finding Freedom. But in here, I've come to know here more and was almost brought to tears by everything she needed to went through...The question, "Would anyone still hate me, if they know how much I hate myself?" was like a slap in the face for me to open my heart for her.

I know Piper Anderson series was not only about suspense and romance, but more importantly Danielle Stewart weaved a great story of family and friendship in this series. In Settling Scores, she went another mile by showing us how import it is to know ourself too. How important it is to have people around us who can understand us when we can't even understand our self. Settling Scores is not only about dealing with the ghost of the past but also about learning how to face it and learning how to let go. Learning to accept that people can love us despite our flows and learning how to accept our self too.

It's probably why I am so hooked in this series. It's because it tells so much about the growth and journey of several people it feels like watching a five star movie and being on the scene yourself experiencing what the characters experienced first hand. Danielle Stewart had brought to life not perfect individuals with each characters but nonetheless very amazing people it feels so much as being a part of them and learning along with them.

I can't wait to start reading about Battling Destiny and finally unfold the puzzle of Michael's (My most favorite character of all) past.

[Maritza · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading the reviews I was ready with my tissues....however I didn't need them. Not to say the book wasn't good, I really enjoyed it, as I have immensely enjoyed every book so far in the Piper Anderson series....this one fell a little bit short for me. I enjoyed Josh and Willow's story, but I think since what happened to Piper in previous books was so graphic in detail, I expected the same in Willow's story. I cannot imagine the horrors of anyone caught in human trafficking, and I applaud anyone and everyone who has been able to survive, escape and help others escape. I think Danielle Stewart is amazing for bringing awareness to this issue, because it's something very real, and we don't hear enough about it. Can't wait to read about Michael!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Danielle Stewart does it again! Another amazing could not put down book.

Settling Scores is about Willow. She is on a quest to right wrongs and to find out who she really is. She has a hard time believing her adoptive parents love her after all she has done. She also finds it hard to believe that Josh cares for her. She tries everything she can to turn him away.

Willow also experiences an emotional time when she starts to remember what happened in the apartment before her brother kills their parents.

The book can be read as a stand alone, but I do recommend to read the other's in this series.

Cannot wait for the next book!

[Florence · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every time I think I have read the best book possible in this series Danielle comes out with a new one and absolutely blows my mind.... I read this book in 6 hours I absolutely could not put it down until I got to the end... I adore these characters and really want to live in Edenvlle... My heart broke for Willow through this whole book the struggles she was dealing with and not being able to feel worthy of love from anyone was so sad... This book made me laugh and cry sad and happy tears...

[Kurt Gullery · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can't Stop Reading

I was pleased with the high ratings of this series, but as I read there is not one thing that stands out that the author does best to justify these ratings. However I can't stop reading even though I have other things to do. Somehow I feel like I'm part of these stories and if I stop reading their lives will stop too, crazy. There is an emotional connection here, thank you Danielle Stewart, that is hard to accomplish.

[Shirley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow Willow is nothing what I expected and she is such a badass in this book and I can't believe Jedda and how he's treating her I know she been a bitch but wow! But I still love him for wanting to protect Willow still. The group are very much a part of what happens to Willow but she own her own a good bit except for Josh who we met in the last book and he gives her the strength to do what she needs to. Loving this book can't wait for more

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

An emotional, deep, realistic read.
Willow is such a beautiful character. The story starts off with Willow have inner turmoil.
As the story progresses & develops so does Willow
I especially was touched by the quotes throughout the story - quotes to consider and live by.
A well thought out, well written book!

[Sandy Duncan · Rating 5 out of 5]

More characters to love..Willow and Josh

Danielle Stewart leads you hanging at the end of each story introducing the next character in the the next book of this series. I love that. Willow, Josh, Crystal, Jedda..how their past shaped their future. I don't want to give the whole story away. it's worth reading. love this story too.

[Lucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book like i did the rest of the books in the series, Danielle Stewart is an amazing writer that hooks you in wanting more, i spent the whole time either crying, holding my breath or sitting on the edge of my seat wait to find out what happened next,so can't wait for the next book Danielle, you rock

[Megs C · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is a solid 3-star read- worth it if you follow the series but not the strongest of the series. I don't find the protagonist to be particularly engaging, or her rescuer/boyfriend, so I wasn't terribly invested in the story. But it's ok and I'll probably read the next book in the series bc I do like the characters overall.

[Diane Rowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great read

I have read every book in this series so far and each one keeps me hooked. I am looking g forward to the next one. Every character is someone you can rate too. Great Series!

[Cary · Rating 3 out of 5]

Boy this series sure deals with some mighty tough social issues... and this book is no different. We are reminded that family is not always blood relatives and that true family stands by you no mater what! Some foul language but not much sex.

[Linda Zelinsky · Rating 5 out of 5]

The more of this series I read the more I love the books. In this book Danielle makes it seem like the story is over in the first 5 chapters and then throws in more mystery for the reader to follow. Great book and so looking forward to Michael's story. Thank you for Danielle for a great series.

[Tonya VanWinkle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Willow's Story

I enjoyed Willow's story very much. I felt as if in some small ways I could connect with her. There are still small amounts of language that I prefer stories not use, but to each there own.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series and this latest addition did not disappoint!! All the characters are very engaging and fun to read about! Willow and Josh were great together and perfect for each other!!

[Nicole Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing book in the Piper Anderson series! These characters feel like family and I am l [king forward to hearing Michael ' s story in the next book! Great job @danielle stewart

[Kellie Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really good book... I couldn't put it down!!! We'll worth the read!!!!

[Phyllis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very good. I've been reading the whole series.

[Susan Chervak · Rating 5 out of 5]

Each book in this series just gets better..

Enjoying each and every book in the Piper Anderson series. Each book just gets better and I find I do not want this series to end.

[Joanne Reinhart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Relevant

Human trafficking and the torn lives it leaves behind.
Well done. Another must read from the Piper Anderson Series. Can't wait to see where we go now