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Oil Knights #4
A Fearless Memory
The only thing I admire more than the old farmhouse next door is the guy who owns it. My best friend’s brother. I didn't mean to give my hot neighbor a full peep show when my puppy locks me outside in nothing but a towel. Yet Austen Knight pretends he didn’t see everything and offers me an interior design job—help him renovate the farmhouse I’ve adored since I was a kid. I’m a single mom trying to run a business in a small town. I can’t be alone with Austen day in and day out without igniting rumors that could hurt the career I’ve worked so hard for. But I need the money, and he’s leaving after the house is done and goes on the market. Turns out, renovating with him is fun. Working with him is addicting. And I look forward to our cold beer together after a long day. When works turns to pleasure, I should put a stop to what we’re doing, it’s not professional, but I can’t. Austen reignites something in me that I left behind long ago. He’s become so much more than my friend’s brother and my neighbor, but he’s going to be gone soon. Guys always leave in the end. I’ll be a struggling single mom again, and he’ll be nothing but a fearless memory.
Kindle Edition
First published May 16, 2024
82 people are currently reading
139 people want to read
About the author
Marie Johnston
103 books1,061 followersMarie Johnston is an award-winning, best-selling paranormal and contemporary romance writer. She grew up in the upper Midwest and planned to go to college for English. Didn't happen. She started college in accounting and was awful! Grabbing her inner science geek by the pocket protector, she changed to microbiology and medical technology where her only writing involved scientific articles and procedures.
Eventually, she left full-time work for full-time baby raising but kept thinking, "one day, I'd like to write a book." Finally, before any more time passed, Marie decided to buckle down and write. She loves it!
Eventually, she left full-time work for full-time baby raising but kept thinking, "one day, I'd like to write a book." Finally, before any more time passed, Marie decided to buckle down and write. She loves it!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 118 reviews
May 12, 2024
I've discovered that I really love later in life romances especially those that give a second chance at happiness, and the Oil Knights series is full of them.
A Fearless Memory is Austen and Vienne's story. Vienne is a divorced single mom who is trying to get her interior design business up and running. She has to be careful with her reputation if she wants to taken seriously as a businesswoman, but helping her hot neighbor remodel his farmhouse could kick start her career. She's not interested in a relationship with him and he'll be moving across the country in a matter of weeks anyway. They should keep their relationship strictly professional, but that's easier said than done when Austen seems to be the perfect man and exactly what Vienne has always wanted.
This story starts off with quite a bang and seriously had me laughing out loud within the first chapter. I kid you not, I had tears from laughing so hard! That first chapter totally drew me into this story. Now, in spite of a hilarious beginning, this isn't a rom-com. It's a contemporary romance featuring mature characters, family connections, a touch of drama, lots of steam, and characters that will tug at your heartstrings and make you fall in love with their love story.
I adored Austen and Vienne, but I honestly can't choose a favorite couple from this series. Each story, each couple, is unique and has their own individual charms. There is one Knight brother left to fall in love, and I can't wait to see how his story turns out next.
A Fearless Memory is Austen and Vienne's story. Vienne is a divorced single mom who is trying to get her interior design business up and running. She has to be careful with her reputation if she wants to taken seriously as a businesswoman, but helping her hot neighbor remodel his farmhouse could kick start her career. She's not interested in a relationship with him and he'll be moving across the country in a matter of weeks anyway. They should keep their relationship strictly professional, but that's easier said than done when Austen seems to be the perfect man and exactly what Vienne has always wanted.
This story starts off with quite a bang and seriously had me laughing out loud within the first chapter. I kid you not, I had tears from laughing so hard! That first chapter totally drew me into this story. Now, in spite of a hilarious beginning, this isn't a rom-com. It's a contemporary romance featuring mature characters, family connections, a touch of drama, lots of steam, and characters that will tug at your heartstrings and make you fall in love with their love story.
I adored Austen and Vienne, but I honestly can't choose a favorite couple from this series. Each story, each couple, is unique and has their own individual charms. There is one Knight brother left to fall in love, and I can't wait to see how his story turns out next.
May 8, 2024
i loved this!!! this series is so great & i’m such a big fan of it <3
i love books with mcs in their 30s+ because it’s fun to read about people older than me & seeing how they react to certain situations & what they do. in some books the mcs sometimes act childish & marie didn’t do that with vienne and austen and i appreciated that they had good communication & just worked so well together <3
the knights are such a great bunch and vienne has and will always fit in so well with them
thank you marie for the arc!!
i love books with mcs in their 30s+ because it’s fun to read about people older than me & seeing how they react to certain situations & what they do. in some books the mcs sometimes act childish & marie didn’t do that with vienne and austen and i appreciated that they had good communication & just worked so well together <3
the knights are such a great bunch and vienne has and will always fit in so well with them
thank you marie for the arc!!
May 30, 2024
4,5 ⭐️
I really enjoyed the story of Austen and Vienne.
I was intrigued by Austen and his past, and getting to know him better broke my heart.
Vienne and Austen are different but also similar in some ways. Vienne is a single mother of a teenage daughter, Catherine, who wants to do more remodeling with her business. At first, she doesn't want to work with Austen at first, but then, she accepts.
Austen is an ex-serviceman who bought the house right next door to Vienne's. His past is heartbreaking and I fell in love with him, a lot. The attraction between Vienne and Austen was good and I enjoyed it. I love the banter between them and their connection.
This is a very good read and I recommend it.
I really enjoyed the story of Austen and Vienne.
I was intrigued by Austen and his past, and getting to know him better broke my heart.
Vienne and Austen are different but also similar in some ways. Vienne is a single mother of a teenage daughter, Catherine, who wants to do more remodeling with her business. At first, she doesn't want to work with Austen at first, but then, she accepts.
Austen is an ex-serviceman who bought the house right next door to Vienne's. His past is heartbreaking and I fell in love with him, a lot. The attraction between Vienne and Austen was good and I enjoyed it. I love the banter between them and their connection.
This is a very good read and I recommend it.
May 17, 2024
“The only thing I admire more than the old farmhouse next door is the guy who owns it. My best friend’s brother.“
A Fearless Memory brings us back to Crocus Valley in this next edition in the Oil Knights series. We get the story of Vienne Ives and Austen Knight in this story about finding yourself when you find the other half of your soul. While their story isn’t smooth sailing by any means, these two aren’t fooling anyone with their sneaky ways. The book opens with a bang, and starts a flirtation that doesn’t stop.
Vienne is a woman who is trying to make a name for herself, while also moving past some poor decisions of her past. Austen is a man who is trying to adjust to civilian life after twenty years in the military. Together they find that sometimes what you never thought you needed is right next door. These are two characters that are trying to forge a new path in their lives. Vienne with a new business, and Austen with deciding what he truly wants to do. He is moving to Califorinia to open a security firm with some of his friends from his military days, but doesn’t seem trilled about it.
He is the Knight who is kind of on the outskirts.
As the story unfolds you realize that he unintentionally put himself there, and is having a hard time closing that gap. Vienne is working towards her own design business, but creating a business in her small town with people who don’t necessarily take her seriously because they knew her as a teen doesn’t alway work in her favor. Until Austen needs help rehabbing the house that he is currently living in…
A Fearless Memory works in all the right ways. I adore the way that Johnston creates the stories of these characters, and the maturity that lives within them. That isn’t to say that they don’t make boneheaded choices, or flounder in their thoughts/feelings. Because honestly, what human being doesn’t. She makes them real. She gives them real doubts, real fears, and real insecurities. If you haven’t added these stories to your TBR, please do. You will not be disappointed.
"The worst thing about having a hot neighbor was how often I caught myself looking out the window, hoping for a glimpse of that shirtless god."
PoP: 64%
A Fearless Memory brings us back to Crocus Valley in this next edition in the Oil Knights series. We get the story of Vienne Ives and Austen Knight in this story about finding yourself when you find the other half of your soul. While their story isn’t smooth sailing by any means, these two aren’t fooling anyone with their sneaky ways. The book opens with a bang, and starts a flirtation that doesn’t stop.
Vienne is a woman who is trying to make a name for herself, while also moving past some poor decisions of her past. Austen is a man who is trying to adjust to civilian life after twenty years in the military. Together they find that sometimes what you never thought you needed is right next door. These are two characters that are trying to forge a new path in their lives. Vienne with a new business, and Austen with deciding what he truly wants to do. He is moving to Califorinia to open a security firm with some of his friends from his military days, but doesn’t seem trilled about it.
He is the Knight who is kind of on the outskirts.
As the story unfolds you realize that he unintentionally put himself there, and is having a hard time closing that gap. Vienne is working towards her own design business, but creating a business in her small town with people who don’t necessarily take her seriously because they knew her as a teen doesn’t alway work in her favor. Until Austen needs help rehabbing the house that he is currently living in…
A Fearless Memory works in all the right ways. I adore the way that Johnston creates the stories of these characters, and the maturity that lives within them. That isn’t to say that they don’t make boneheaded choices, or flounder in their thoughts/feelings. Because honestly, what human being doesn’t. She makes them real. She gives them real doubts, real fears, and real insecurities. If you haven’t added these stories to your TBR, please do. You will not be disappointed.
"The worst thing about having a hot neighbor was how often I caught myself looking out the window, hoping for a glimpse of that shirtless god."
PoP: 64%
May 24, 2024
Absolutely loved this book! I am obsessed with the Oil Knights Series!
Vienne has sworn off relationships due to her amazing picks in the past. She’s taking care of her teenage daughter and trying to grown her business. She never expected for her sexy neighbor to become her client or for them to work in such close proximity. Austen is retired military and a relationship was never in the cards for him. He’s just here to flip his house and move to LA, not start a serious relationship. So they are both on the same page, no strings, nothing past these next few weeks.
Man does that blow up in their faces!
I absolutely adored them both. Austen was sweet and tried showing her that it’s ok to stand up for yourself! And she showed him that he’s not forgotten by his family. And I’m a sucker for a nickname, Honey V!!
Please do yourself a favor and go read this book/series!!
Vienne has sworn off relationships due to her amazing picks in the past. She’s taking care of her teenage daughter and trying to grown her business. She never expected for her sexy neighbor to become her client or for them to work in such close proximity. Austen is retired military and a relationship was never in the cards for him. He’s just here to flip his house and move to LA, not start a serious relationship. So they are both on the same page, no strings, nothing past these next few weeks.
Man does that blow up in their faces!
I absolutely adored them both. Austen was sweet and tried showing her that it’s ok to stand up for yourself! And she showed him that he’s not forgotten by his family. And I’m a sucker for a nickname, Honey V!!
Please do yourself a favor and go read this book/series!!
June 2, 2024
I love the Knight family books...and the boys get more dreamy as the series goes along. Pity there is only one left and no doubt Elliott's book will be amazing.
Austen moves next door to Vienne, a single mum. His plan, since retiring from the army, is to do up his house and move to California to work in a security company with some buddies. I love Austen! His sincerity and commitment is gorgeous but he doesn't believe, after his ridiculous parents, that he is relationship material. I really felt for him with the way his family acted toward him, both as a child and an adult. Vienne was a little annoying, in how she doubted both herself (thanks Dave the douchebag) and Austen...but she finally gets it! Highly recommend this series.
Austen moves next door to Vienne, a single mum. His plan, since retiring from the army, is to do up his house and move to California to work in a security company with some buddies. I love Austen! His sincerity and commitment is gorgeous but he doesn't believe, after his ridiculous parents, that he is relationship material. I really felt for him with the way his family acted toward him, both as a child and an adult. Vienne was a little annoying, in how she doubted both herself (thanks Dave the douchebag) and Austen...but she finally gets it! Highly recommend this series.
May 13, 2024
I didn’t think I would be able to pick a favourite Knight sibling but then along came Austen 😍
This series and family just make me so happy and I absolutely loved seeing more of Vienne in this book!
From the very first chapter I knew the vibes of this were going to immaculate and Marie didn’t let me down.
So much fun, lighthearted but with realistic characters that you can’t help but love!
❤️ single mom
❤️ found family
❤️ small town
❤️ neighbors to lovers
❤️ retired army MMC
This series and family just make me so happy and I absolutely loved seeing more of Vienne in this book!
From the very first chapter I knew the vibes of this were going to immaculate and Marie didn’t let me down.
So much fun, lighthearted but with realistic characters that you can’t help but love!
❤️ single mom
❤️ found family
❤️ small town
❤️ neighbors to lovers
❤️ retired army MMC
May 21, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Back with one of my favorite families we follow Austen and Vienne. They are neighbors and know eachother through Austens sister who is Viennes best friend. Vienne is a single mom who works multiple jobs but wishes she could do interior design full time. She has always love the house that Austem bought next door to her and she takes the opportunity to help him remodeled and design it. They are so attracted to each other but keep one another at arms length. I appreciate the way that Vienne made him feel cared about and seen. The way Austen worshipped the ground that she walked on was so adorable and the way he built her up was so swoony. I loved the cameos from the other siblings and can’t wait for the last book!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Back with one of my favorite families we follow Austen and Vienne. They are neighbors and know eachother through Austens sister who is Viennes best friend. Vienne is a single mom who works multiple jobs but wishes she could do interior design full time. She has always love the house that Austem bought next door to her and she takes the opportunity to help him remodeled and design it. They are so attracted to each other but keep one another at arms length. I appreciate the way that Vienne made him feel cared about and seen. The way Austen worshipped the ground that she walked on was so adorable and the way he built her up was so swoony. I loved the cameos from the other siblings and can’t wait for the last book!
May 16, 2024
I enjoyed this book. It was entertaining and sweet. My heart hurt for Austin because it seemed like his family kind of just forgot he was there half the time. I did like that his family realized this and was trying to make amends.
Vienne was such an amazing mom! I loved watching Austin encourage her to be the woman that she always was and to not tone herself down for anyone.
Dave, well, Dave needed a good punch to the face. He was a dick. I do wish we saw him and Catherine (daughter) working out any issues they had and him finally realizing that well he is a dick😂😂 Taking Catherine's room away and giving it to the baby should of been a HUGE deal but it was glossed over and we never really saw the resolution to that or that hurt it caused her.
All in all, it was a good read, and I'm super excited for Eliot's book.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Vienne was such an amazing mom! I loved watching Austin encourage her to be the woman that she always was and to not tone herself down for anyone.
Dave, well, Dave needed a good punch to the face. He was a dick. I do wish we saw him and Catherine (daughter) working out any issues they had and him finally realizing that well he is a dick😂😂 Taking Catherine's room away and giving it to the baby should of been a HUGE deal but it was glossed over and we never really saw the resolution to that or that hurt it caused her.
All in all, it was a good read, and I'm super excited for Eliot's book.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 17, 2024
I’m so happy Austen is home and retired from the military! The last thing he was looking for was Vienne, the single mom to a teen next door. Hiring her as his interior designer should have been an easy decision, but he loads on necklaces and bracelets woven their way into his heart. The problem is, Vienne had been burned by several men and trusting her heart again was the last thing in her agenda. Vienne also has to worry about how her teen daughter will take the news of her daughter dating the neighbor.
June 7, 2024
Austen Knight, I’ve been waiting for him. He is the third brother, retired military.
Instead of moving back home to the family ranch, he lands in Crocus Valley with his other siblings. He likes to be busy and wants to take some time adjusting to civilian life, so he decides to buy the old farmhouse his brother had rented and renovate it. Lucky for him his neighbor is a great designer.
Vienne Ives is a hometown girl, moved away for college and returned a single mom with a headstrong teenager in tow. Her character was a bit standoffish in the early books. We learn she has suffered some humiliating moments and her daughter some taunts at school over her love life. Vienne is trying to build an interior design business and more gossip or innuendo will be a problem.
Their meet cute involves a puppy, a towel and a highly embarrassing moment. Working together and becoming friends is worrisome for V. Good thing Austen is patient and a great listener. I really enjoyed seeing V rediscover herself and let go of her worries. Austen has spent years avoiding his family. Having this time, getting to know his nieces & nephews and be more than the absent brother/uncle has been life changing. Maybe it’s time he stopped running away?
It’s a great story and has all the elements Johnston excels at, healing broken hearts and mending family ties.
Instead of moving back home to the family ranch, he lands in Crocus Valley with his other siblings. He likes to be busy and wants to take some time adjusting to civilian life, so he decides to buy the old farmhouse his brother had rented and renovate it. Lucky for him his neighbor is a great designer.
Vienne Ives is a hometown girl, moved away for college and returned a single mom with a headstrong teenager in tow. Her character was a bit standoffish in the early books. We learn she has suffered some humiliating moments and her daughter some taunts at school over her love life. Vienne is trying to build an interior design business and more gossip or innuendo will be a problem.
Their meet cute involves a puppy, a towel and a highly embarrassing moment. Working together and becoming friends is worrisome for V. Good thing Austen is patient and a great listener. I really enjoyed seeing V rediscover herself and let go of her worries. Austen has spent years avoiding his family. Having this time, getting to know his nieces & nephews and be more than the absent brother/uncle has been life changing. Maybe it’s time he stopped running away?
It’s a great story and has all the elements Johnston excels at, healing broken hearts and mending family ties.
May 18, 2024
Amazon
Vienne's first meeting with her new neighbor is the stuff of rom-com gold, involving a puppy and only a towel for cover. But what happens between her and Austen after is decidedly not fluffy rom-com vibing. She's had horrible luck in the love department, the only good to ever come of it is her daughter, and Austen's home, temporarily, from the military. So neither is looking for, nor wants, a permanent relationship. If only their hearts agreed with them...
Austen's plan was to come home, flip a house, then leave. But his new neighbor, who happens to be his sister's best friend, is giving him second thoughts. She and her daughter are coming to mean everything to him. Temporary is looking to turn permanent, if he can get his Honey V on the same page.
For a couple not looking for love, Vienne and Austen sure found it, in delicious, heartfelt fashion. Austen is absolutely a wonderful bbf - head over heels for his off-limits Honey V and determined to help her find her confidence and backbone, giving her the support no one else in their small town gave her. Vienne had it rough, had such bad luck with the relationships in her life, with the exception of her daughter and her found family, thankfully Austen came into her life to booster her self confidence. I'm not sure which Knight is going to fall in love next, but I know I'm impatiently waiting for their story!
ARC provided by The Author Agency for an honest review.
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May 20, 2024
Regretfully I haven't read all the books in this series, but each book is a standalone so it wasn't a problem and I enjoyed reading this one the 4th book in the series. It's a great story. Vienne is a single mum and an interior designer wanting to get her small business off the ground and like I said a single mum to a daughter. So renovating her handsome neighbors house could be the thing she needs to help her little growing business. He just so happens to be her friends brother Austen Knight. Austen has retired from the military and bought a house to flip, it just so happens it is next door to a gorgeous woman, and his sisters best friend...So she probably should be off limits, but love has other ideas. Working close together to make the house phenomenal they get to know one another and the chemistry and attraction is apparent...They get along so well and have fun together. But the growing attraction is frightening for Vienne she has her daughter to think about and her heart. Because Austen isn't staying in town when the house is complete he will leave to pursue his dream of opening up a security business. But despite this, their easy going friendship soon turns into passion...Austen is just so swoony, honestly he is perfect, he is not just gorgeous and sexy, he is also so supportive and attentive...I loved him.. Vienne is strong, independent, and hard working but there is a vulnerability to her also.. as she worries about other people all the time and is not being herself, she is a great Mum but is struggling to make ends meet. This is a book that was emotional as well as compelling and I felt for the characters and what they felt inside about their lives and situations. I liked Marie Johnston's writing and the characters she created and I liked the way the story unraveled. Fearless Memory is a fantastic read. Very enjoyable with all the feels.
5 Stars.- Cat W.
What a wonderful small town, single mom, sexy neighbor story this was! I really enjoyed this book and definitely need to get my hands on the other books in this series. The writing is fabulous and the characters are all so great! Austen is the sexy neighbor that Vienne is set on keeping away from. However, it doesn't help that he is the brother of her best friend so he's often around. When Austen gives Vienne the chance of a lifetime to remodel a historic house in their small town she is hesitant at first because she is worried about the rumors that will go around if they are working so close together. I really loved how strong of a woman Vienne is throughout this story and how she is always putting what she feels is best for her daughter first. I also loved watching Austen slowly get through the wall that she has built around her heart. He is so understanding of what she needs and he realizes that she has been burned in the past and is scared of opening up to anyone else. The other problem is that Austen's time in the town is only supposed to be short. Will these two get their happily ever after? You need to one click this ASAP to find out! 4 stars- Alisa
5 Stars.- Cat W.
What a wonderful small town, single mom, sexy neighbor story this was! I really enjoyed this book and definitely need to get my hands on the other books in this series. The writing is fabulous and the characters are all so great! Austen is the sexy neighbor that Vienne is set on keeping away from. However, it doesn't help that he is the brother of her best friend so he's often around. When Austen gives Vienne the chance of a lifetime to remodel a historic house in their small town she is hesitant at first because she is worried about the rumors that will go around if they are working so close together. I really loved how strong of a woman Vienne is throughout this story and how she is always putting what she feels is best for her daughter first. I also loved watching Austen slowly get through the wall that she has built around her heart. He is so understanding of what she needs and he realizes that she has been burned in the past and is scared of opening up to anyone else. The other problem is that Austen's time in the town is only supposed to be short. Will these two get their happily ever after? You need to one click this ASAP to find out! 4 stars- Alisa
May 17, 2024
Vienne (V or Honey V as Austen calls her) is not looking for love or a relationship. She is a divorced mother of a teenage daughter and has had rotten luck with the opposite sex. She has sworn off men and is concentrating on getting her interior design business established and raising her daughter. The good old boy network and rumours about her personal life certainly aren’t making it easy to do so. She never expected her hot, former military neighbour to want to hire her to help him with renovating his old house so he can sell it. She has a few reasons not to take the job, including her own attraction to him. Vienne doesn’t know Austen well enough to know if they could work well together, and she doesn’t want anything to mess up her relationship with his family who have become more like her family than friends. They would be working alone for the most part and that might not help her reputation any. In the end, she takes on the job because she just can’t afford not to take it.
Austen is in town to spend time with his siblings. After a twenty year stint in the military he has recently retired and trying to adjust to civilian life again. He doesn’t plan on staying in town long after he gets his house renovated and sold. He will be joining his military buddies in their security business. His family has gotten used to not having him around and don’t really include them in their lives, so he sees no reason to stay. He isn’t looking for love or a relationship either, but that doesn’t mean he hasn’t noticed the gorgeous single mother next door or that he wouldn’t want to spend some time with her, especially alone and in his bed. He is glad that she excepted his job offer and knows they will work well together.
They most definitely have some combustible chemistry, and resisting each other soon proves futile. They aren’t looking for permanence, and want to keep what is happening between them to themselves. Austen is proof that not all guys are the same. He has the charm and flirting down pat, but there is much more substance to him. He is impressed with V’s work, offers her support, urges her to stand up for herself, to take no prisoners and to be confident in her abilities. Austen also has a great rapport with her daughter and doesn’t mind spending time with both her and V. What happens next? Could they possibly build a future together? Do they want to?
These characters and their story are engaging, realistic and memorable. I couldn’t stop reading until I finished this book and I still want to know more. I look forward to reading the next book in the series. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this fantastic book.
Austen is in town to spend time with his siblings. After a twenty year stint in the military he has recently retired and trying to adjust to civilian life again. He doesn’t plan on staying in town long after he gets his house renovated and sold. He will be joining his military buddies in their security business. His family has gotten used to not having him around and don’t really include them in their lives, so he sees no reason to stay. He isn’t looking for love or a relationship either, but that doesn’t mean he hasn’t noticed the gorgeous single mother next door or that he wouldn’t want to spend some time with her, especially alone and in his bed. He is glad that she excepted his job offer and knows they will work well together.
They most definitely have some combustible chemistry, and resisting each other soon proves futile. They aren’t looking for permanence, and want to keep what is happening between them to themselves. Austen is proof that not all guys are the same. He has the charm and flirting down pat, but there is much more substance to him. He is impressed with V’s work, offers her support, urges her to stand up for herself, to take no prisoners and to be confident in her abilities. Austen also has a great rapport with her daughter and doesn’t mind spending time with both her and V. What happens next? Could they possibly build a future together? Do they want to?
These characters and their story are engaging, realistic and memorable. I couldn’t stop reading until I finished this book and I still want to know more. I look forward to reading the next book in the series. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this fantastic book.
May 16, 2024
Friends to lovers. Best friends brother. Not always my favourite genres, but I do love this series and this author always writes a good book, so here we go…..
Both points of view are in this book, and that’s something I really like to read.
Austen Knight hasn’t had much to say in the previous books. But his presence is felt in this one. Not a grumpy reclusive character I was expecting. He’s funny, charming and a thoughtful character. But he’s not going to stay forever, once the house he’s living in is remodelled he’s leaving again!
We’ve seen Vienne is previous books, so I was glad she finally got a story. Vienne is working hard at building her career. She loves her interior designing business, it’s been hard but rewarding. If only she could put her feelings in a box for Austen and bury them, it would be so much easier working for him! She doesn’t need gossip about them sabotaging her business. And anyway what’s the point in getting attached, he won’t be around forever?!
Whilst dancing around each other and their feelings, Austen really helps her with her confidence, she’s unsure about her choice of business, unsure about herself and just a bag of indecision all round. And in return Vienne has helped Austen with his issues concerning his childhood (not going to say too much as I think it’s part of the story.) They are great together and really complement each other, but with the elephant in the room (Austen’s imminent departure) neither want to commit to anything more than a little fun…..
But if gossips find out about them, then how will the town view her? Will she lose the business she’s been working so hard to build?
So can Austen stay? Can Vienne make a go of her business?
And can we have Eliot’s book soon 😜
Another great story about a family who never seem to have a shortage of people to chat about.
A little angst, a few naughty 😜 scenes and when we finally get down to business 🥵 wow!
So do you need to read in order? No, not really, they all stand on their own pretty well, there are few people we e met before pop in and out, but if you’ve not read them before it won’t detract from the story. But I’ve read and loved them all, and at some point I’m going back from the beginning to reconnect.
Grab the book, you won’t be sorry.
🦋
Both points of view are in this book, and that’s something I really like to read.
Austen Knight hasn’t had much to say in the previous books. But his presence is felt in this one. Not a grumpy reclusive character I was expecting. He’s funny, charming and a thoughtful character. But he’s not going to stay forever, once the house he’s living in is remodelled he’s leaving again!
We’ve seen Vienne is previous books, so I was glad she finally got a story. Vienne is working hard at building her career. She loves her interior designing business, it’s been hard but rewarding. If only she could put her feelings in a box for Austen and bury them, it would be so much easier working for him! She doesn’t need gossip about them sabotaging her business. And anyway what’s the point in getting attached, he won’t be around forever?!
Whilst dancing around each other and their feelings, Austen really helps her with her confidence, she’s unsure about her choice of business, unsure about herself and just a bag of indecision all round. And in return Vienne has helped Austen with his issues concerning his childhood (not going to say too much as I think it’s part of the story.) They are great together and really complement each other, but with the elephant in the room (Austen’s imminent departure) neither want to commit to anything more than a little fun…..
But if gossips find out about them, then how will the town view her? Will she lose the business she’s been working so hard to build?
So can Austen stay? Can Vienne make a go of her business?
And can we have Eliot’s book soon 😜
Another great story about a family who never seem to have a shortage of people to chat about.
A little angst, a few naughty 😜 scenes and when we finally get down to business 🥵 wow!
So do you need to read in order? No, not really, they all stand on their own pretty well, there are few people we e met before pop in and out, but if you’ve not read them before it won’t detract from the story. But I’ve read and loved them all, and at some point I’m going back from the beginning to reconnect.
Grab the book, you won’t be sorry.
🦋
May 15, 2024
This is the 4th book in this series but could probably be read as a standalone. It would be better if you read the series in order because of recurring characters and their history. Austen is the mostly unknown Knight sibling because he's been away in the military. Now that he's back, he is often forgotten by his siblings. They forget to invite him to things and don't really understand what he's been doing for the last twenty years. This adds a layer of angst to his story, however he's unwilling to discuss this with them and resolve the issue since he'll be leaving again soon anyway.
Vienne is the frustratingly unsure single parent who lives next door to him. He's renovating an old house so that he can sell it and use the profits to fund his investment in a new security company with his military buddies. She's a struggling interior designer so desperate for work that she worries about every little thing that could affect her business. She's previously been shamed for dating the local vet who gets around. Even her teenage daughter was bullied for that mistake. So she's gun shy since Austen will be leaving soon.
In the beginning, she doesn't want to get involved with him because he's leaving, however later she's so worried about being hurt that she doesn't want a relationship. This felt like a confusing change. Her ex is a piece of work, as are several other characters who treat her like she's never grown up. I wanted her to have more of a backbone and stop diminishing herself. She constantly limited herself and her opportunities because she was too unsure and that converted into being overly concerned with her reputation. Her private life reputation, not her professional reputation.
I really like Austen and I like the entire Knight family. V was more unsure and hesitant than I wanted for him, but he was all-in with her. It took a while for her heart to convince her head what was best for her. The heat level is high and they have a very interesting beginning intimacy which was fun to read.
I received a free ARC and this is my honest review.
Vienne is the frustratingly unsure single parent who lives next door to him. He's renovating an old house so that he can sell it and use the profits to fund his investment in a new security company with his military buddies. She's a struggling interior designer so desperate for work that she worries about every little thing that could affect her business. She's previously been shamed for dating the local vet who gets around. Even her teenage daughter was bullied for that mistake. So she's gun shy since Austen will be leaving soon.
In the beginning, she doesn't want to get involved with him because he's leaving, however later she's so worried about being hurt that she doesn't want a relationship. This felt like a confusing change. Her ex is a piece of work, as are several other characters who treat her like she's never grown up. I wanted her to have more of a backbone and stop diminishing herself. She constantly limited herself and her opportunities because she was too unsure and that converted into being overly concerned with her reputation. Her private life reputation, not her professional reputation.
I really like Austen and I like the entire Knight family. V was more unsure and hesitant than I wanted for him, but he was all-in with her. It took a while for her heart to convince her head what was best for her. The heat level is high and they have a very interesting beginning intimacy which was fun to read.
I received a free ARC and this is my honest review.
May 16, 2024
A heart fluttering, happy sighing, perfect romance! A sexy single mom, the hot ex-military guy next door, a brutally embarrassing awkward moment, a little forced proximity and chemistry for days blended to perfection with doubts, insecurities, and the fear of handing over your heart.
After Vienne gives her neighbor an accidental peep show she’s beyond embarrassed, but her super hot neighbor acts like he didn’t see everything and offers her an interior design job. She has her doubts about taking it, small town gossip is brutal and a single mom in and out of a single guys house day after day will definitely start some serious rumors. Especially when he’s your best friends brother. But she could use the job for the money and for the reference for her fledgling business. She never expected Austen to be so much fun to work with, it’s addicting, and the beers on the porch at the end of the day are nice and she finds herself looking forward to it. When things start to go from work to pleasure, she knows she should put a stop to it, it’s not professional and when the house is done Austen is leaving town. But she can’t, Austen reignites something inside her that she thought was gone and she doesn’t want to give it up. She’s going to enjoy it while he’s here before she goes back to being a struggling single mom and he becomes just a memory.
Love this book! Austen is a phenomenal book boyfriend, supportive, he hangs on Vienne’s every word, worships everything about her, and he can see her. And Vienne, so relatable, realizing that she’s dimmed her own light to fit what her ex-husband needed, what the town thinks of her, what her family thinks of her, something I think we all do more than we care to admit. It’s got the spice you need, it’s got enough banter to balance the serious, and it’s a read that just feels good as your reading it and totally satisfies all your HEA needs.
After Vienne gives her neighbor an accidental peep show she’s beyond embarrassed, but her super hot neighbor acts like he didn’t see everything and offers her an interior design job. She has her doubts about taking it, small town gossip is brutal and a single mom in and out of a single guys house day after day will definitely start some serious rumors. Especially when he’s your best friends brother. But she could use the job for the money and for the reference for her fledgling business. She never expected Austen to be so much fun to work with, it’s addicting, and the beers on the porch at the end of the day are nice and she finds herself looking forward to it. When things start to go from work to pleasure, she knows she should put a stop to it, it’s not professional and when the house is done Austen is leaving town. But she can’t, Austen reignites something inside her that she thought was gone and she doesn’t want to give it up. She’s going to enjoy it while he’s here before she goes back to being a struggling single mom and he becomes just a memory.
Love this book! Austen is a phenomenal book boyfriend, supportive, he hangs on Vienne’s every word, worships everything about her, and he can see her. And Vienne, so relatable, realizing that she’s dimmed her own light to fit what her ex-husband needed, what the town thinks of her, what her family thinks of her, something I think we all do more than we care to admit. It’s got the spice you need, it’s got enough banter to balance the serious, and it’s a read that just feels good as your reading it and totally satisfies all your HEA needs.
May 15, 2024
Regrettfully I haven't read all the books in this series,but each book is a standalone so it wasn't a problem and I enjoyed reading this one the 4th book in the series.
Its a great story.
Vienne is a single mum and an interior designer wanting to get her small buisness off the ground and like I said a single mum to a daughter.
So renovating her handsome neighbours house could be the thing she needs to help her little growing buisness.He just so happens to be her friends brother Austen Knight.
Austen has retired from the military and bought a house to flip,it just so happens it is next door to a gorgeous woman,and his sisters best friend...So she probably should be off limits,but love has other ideas.
Working close together to make the house phenomenal they get to know one another and the chemisrty and attraction is apparent...They get along so well and have fun together.But the growing attraction is frightening for Vienne she has her daughter to think about and her heart.Because Austen isn't staying in town when the house is complete he will leave to pursue his dream of opening up a security buisness.
But despite this their easy going friendship soon turns into passion...Austen is just so swoony honestly he is perfect he is not just gorgeous and sexy, he is also so supportive and attentive..I loved him..
Vienne is strong and independent hard working but there is a vunerability to her also.. as she worrys about other people all the time and is not being herself,she is a great Mum but is struggling to make ends meet.
This is a book that was emotional as well as compelling and I felt for the characters and what they felt inside about their lives and situations.
I liked Marie Johnston's writing and the characters she created and I liked the way the story unravelled.
Fearless Memory is a fantastic read
Very enjoyable with all the feels.
5 Stars.
Its a great story.
Vienne is a single mum and an interior designer wanting to get her small buisness off the ground and like I said a single mum to a daughter.
So renovating her handsome neighbours house could be the thing she needs to help her little growing buisness.He just so happens to be her friends brother Austen Knight.
Austen has retired from the military and bought a house to flip,it just so happens it is next door to a gorgeous woman,and his sisters best friend...So she probably should be off limits,but love has other ideas.
Working close together to make the house phenomenal they get to know one another and the chemisrty and attraction is apparent...They get along so well and have fun together.But the growing attraction is frightening for Vienne she has her daughter to think about and her heart.Because Austen isn't staying in town when the house is complete he will leave to pursue his dream of opening up a security buisness.
But despite this their easy going friendship soon turns into passion...Austen is just so swoony honestly he is perfect he is not just gorgeous and sexy, he is also so supportive and attentive..I loved him..
Vienne is strong and independent hard working but there is a vunerability to her also.. as she worrys about other people all the time and is not being herself,she is a great Mum but is struggling to make ends meet.
This is a book that was emotional as well as compelling and I felt for the characters and what they felt inside about their lives and situations.
I liked Marie Johnston's writing and the characters she created and I liked the way the story unravelled.
Fearless Memory is a fantastic read
Very enjoyable with all the feels.
5 Stars.
May 16, 2024
Book #4 in the Oil Knights series focuses on Austen, former military man and largely absent Knight brother (because of his military career), and Vienne, single mom and best friend to both Aggie and Sutton Knight (so enmeshed with the Knight family). Neighbors for a few months until Austen moves to California, will they be able to deny their chemistry and keep their hearts safe?
Marie Johnston works her trademark magic and delivers a heartfelt and steamy novel. Austen’s story is one we haven’t heard from the Knight family, and explores a middle child’s struggle even through adulthood, fighting patterns and family dynamics and growing self awareness. Vienne’s journey as a single-mom re-claiming herself and standing in herself is relatable and heart-breaking because of this relatability. I was immediately invested in Vienne - her struggles as a business owner in a small-town where gender and newness to town are badges that mean more than they should, as a single-mother sort of co-parenting a teenager with a man who refuses to meet halfway on anything, and as a woman wanting love and passion but scared of misstepping and burning bridges (both with friends and with herself).
A Fearless Memory is a “will they/won’t they” story that morphs into a “how will they” story that delivers on insightful observations about sibling relationships, friendships, co-parenting, and romantic entanglements. There’s plenty of steam and heart-thumping foreplay (new kink unlocked via the window scenes. IFYKYK) and the HEA that we love. Both Austen and Vienne become fully realized and complex characters from the supporting guest stars they’ve been in the previous Oil Knights books, and I truly enjoyed getting to know them.
I received an advance review copy for free from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.
Marie Johnston works her trademark magic and delivers a heartfelt and steamy novel. Austen’s story is one we haven’t heard from the Knight family, and explores a middle child’s struggle even through adulthood, fighting patterns and family dynamics and growing self awareness. Vienne’s journey as a single-mom re-claiming herself and standing in herself is relatable and heart-breaking because of this relatability. I was immediately invested in Vienne - her struggles as a business owner in a small-town where gender and newness to town are badges that mean more than they should, as a single-mother sort of co-parenting a teenager with a man who refuses to meet halfway on anything, and as a woman wanting love and passion but scared of misstepping and burning bridges (both with friends and with herself).
A Fearless Memory is a “will they/won’t they” story that morphs into a “how will they” story that delivers on insightful observations about sibling relationships, friendships, co-parenting, and romantic entanglements. There’s plenty of steam and heart-thumping foreplay (new kink unlocked via the window scenes. IFYKYK) and the HEA that we love. Both Austen and Vienne become fully realized and complex characters from the supporting guest stars they’ve been in the previous Oil Knights books, and I truly enjoyed getting to know them.
I received an advance review copy for free from the author, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.
May 21, 2024
I've been a huge fan of Marie's books and loved both genres. So before even reading this book I knew I was going to love it.
This was Austen's story, the 3rd Knight Brother.
I loved Austen's character. He was funny, broken but strong, compassionate and so understanding. He has been in the army for 20 years as an escape from awful parents. Now retired, he bought the quant house to redo and sell. He plans to move away to start a new business with his Ex Army buddies. So he has no relationship in sight for the short term, although his next door neighbour has held all his thoughts hostage.
Vienne is a single mum, divorce and a line of bad choices men. Her ex husband has diminished the strong sassy Vienne. She is secretly obsessed with her neighbour, best friends brother and a member of her found family. So he is a total no go, but watching secretly is no crime.
It all starts from that fateful event with just a towel and being locked out haha. This is where she gets her cute pet name 'Honey V'!!!!
I loved how Austen gave her strength each day and helped her unknowingly to become the old strong and fearless Vienne. He is just soo amazing.
But they're working together and family are too close to jeopardise things.
With only weeks left Vienne's wall start to crumble and they enter a quick fling. Only there is nothing quick about it.
But Austen is leaving and Vienne can't have another scandal if she is to grow her interior design business to kick off.
These two were just all kind of hotness. A lot of emotional turmoil, heartbreak, personal growth for the both characters, found family, witty banter and hot spice. I could see them as the next HGTV renovation couples!! I would watch Austen in action haha.
Now only 1 more brother is left and I am so looking forward to Eliot's story.
This was Austen's story, the 3rd Knight Brother.
I loved Austen's character. He was funny, broken but strong, compassionate and so understanding. He has been in the army for 20 years as an escape from awful parents. Now retired, he bought the quant house to redo and sell. He plans to move away to start a new business with his Ex Army buddies. So he has no relationship in sight for the short term, although his next door neighbour has held all his thoughts hostage.
Vienne is a single mum, divorce and a line of bad choices men. Her ex husband has diminished the strong sassy Vienne. She is secretly obsessed with her neighbour, best friends brother and a member of her found family. So he is a total no go, but watching secretly is no crime.
It all starts from that fateful event with just a towel and being locked out haha. This is where she gets her cute pet name 'Honey V'!!!!
I loved how Austen gave her strength each day and helped her unknowingly to become the old strong and fearless Vienne. He is just soo amazing.
But they're working together and family are too close to jeopardise things.
With only weeks left Vienne's wall start to crumble and they enter a quick fling. Only there is nothing quick about it.
But Austen is leaving and Vienne can't have another scandal if she is to grow her interior design business to kick off.
These two were just all kind of hotness. A lot of emotional turmoil, heartbreak, personal growth for the both characters, found family, witty banter and hot spice. I could see them as the next HGTV renovation couples!! I would watch Austen in action haha.
Now only 1 more brother is left and I am so looking forward to Eliot's story.
May 8, 2024
I received a complimentary early release e-book prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Austen is a new character in this series as he is related to the Oil Knights, he has been in the military and is just now back. So, we as readers have just met him. He is retired and is trying to rebuild this old farmhouse so he can resell it before he moves to California for a security job with some of his military buddies.
V is a single mom to a daughter, and she has had some sexual relationships that have embarrassed her daughter. Namely to Dr. Wyatt the town casual sex vet doctor. She is also friends with the Oil Knights women, and so all this happened in a previous book. She is trying to be better than that and make her daughter proud. So, when Austin moves next door and is super sexy, she tries to avoid him. All this becomes very hard when he wants to hire her to help him renovate his house next door.
Both V and Austin are around the same age but it's a bit of forbidden as V is trying to go for a guy who wants a relationship, so she doesn't embarrass her daughter again. Meanwhile Austen is only wanting casual, he plans to leave town.
When V needs to make money to pay for her daughter's camp she has to take Austen's job and so the very hot attraction develops. Can she resist her sexy next-door neighbor that she works with and is the brother of her best friends when she will see him at family events? And did I mention their bedrooms look into each other's windows.
If you are thinking this book sounds hot, well yes, it is. These two have lots of sex fun. Some even from their bedrooms with each other. So, if you like a spicier book and less of a plot, then you will love this book.
Austen is a new character in this series as he is related to the Oil Knights, he has been in the military and is just now back. So, we as readers have just met him. He is retired and is trying to rebuild this old farmhouse so he can resell it before he moves to California for a security job with some of his military buddies.
V is a single mom to a daughter, and she has had some sexual relationships that have embarrassed her daughter. Namely to Dr. Wyatt the town casual sex vet doctor. She is also friends with the Oil Knights women, and so all this happened in a previous book. She is trying to be better than that and make her daughter proud. So, when Austin moves next door and is super sexy, she tries to avoid him. All this becomes very hard when he wants to hire her to help him renovate his house next door.
Both V and Austin are around the same age but it's a bit of forbidden as V is trying to go for a guy who wants a relationship, so she doesn't embarrass her daughter again. Meanwhile Austen is only wanting casual, he plans to leave town.
When V needs to make money to pay for her daughter's camp she has to take Austen's job and so the very hot attraction develops. Can she resist her sexy next-door neighbor that she works with and is the brother of her best friends when she will see him at family events? And did I mention their bedrooms look into each other's windows.
If you are thinking this book sounds hot, well yes, it is. These two have lots of sex fun. Some even from their bedrooms with each other. So, if you like a spicier book and less of a plot, then you will love this book.
May 12, 2024
Oh how I have been waiting for this story. “A Fearless Memory” is a steamy, heartfelt and swoony neighbors to lovers romance that was a great addition to the “Oil Knights” series.
Vivenne is a single mom who has a small business and is trying to succeed in a small town. Despite her always being professional, some women in the town have their insecurities of a single woman working on projects where their husbands might be involved. Austen Knight is back home after retiring from the military. He’s there temporarily to renovate a house he bought and then move to California to open a security firm with his friends. Austen sees the potential in Vivienne and hires her to help with his house. The two had an interesting first meet and the attraction is very much there but neither is looking for a long term thing.
I loved Vivenne and Austen so much! I loved that they were older, established in life but still trying to expand their careers. Vivenne is an amazing mom, a savvy interior designer and I loved how hard she was working to make her career a success. Austen had me swooning from the beginning. He was great at his career in the military and I loved how he wanted to use that experience to open a security firm. He’s close with his family in town but there is still some distance due to all the years he was deployed or on a base in a different state. From the moment the two had their encounter outside her house, the chemistry was there and brewing. I loved all the teasing they had and the late night meetings, those scenes were sizzling hot. These two also connected on a deep, emotional level which made their relationship even sweeter. The ending was great and I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
Vivenne is a single mom who has a small business and is trying to succeed in a small town. Despite her always being professional, some women in the town have their insecurities of a single woman working on projects where their husbands might be involved. Austen Knight is back home after retiring from the military. He’s there temporarily to renovate a house he bought and then move to California to open a security firm with his friends. Austen sees the potential in Vivienne and hires her to help with his house. The two had an interesting first meet and the attraction is very much there but neither is looking for a long term thing.
I loved Vivenne and Austen so much! I loved that they were older, established in life but still trying to expand their careers. Vivenne is an amazing mom, a savvy interior designer and I loved how hard she was working to make her career a success. Austen had me swooning from the beginning. He was great at his career in the military and I loved how he wanted to use that experience to open a security firm. He’s close with his family in town but there is still some distance due to all the years he was deployed or on a base in a different state. From the moment the two had their encounter outside her house, the chemistry was there and brewing. I loved all the teasing they had and the late night meetings, those scenes were sizzling hot. These two also connected on a deep, emotional level which made their relationship even sweeter. The ending was great and I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
May 16, 2024
Beware of some spoilers
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ARC Review:
TITLE: Fearless Memory
AUTHOR: Marie Johnston
SERIES: Oil Knights Book ⅘
RATING: 4 stars
Spice: Open Door ( 2/3 chilli peppers)
MY FAVE TROPES (from this book and series)
-refinding family
-single mum
-outside antics ;)
- His Pov from her getting locked out the house
- dirty talking MMC
REVIEW:
I have loved Vienne as a side character throughout this series and am so glad to see her as a FMC.
In this book we see how her past relationships have shaped how she trusts Austen and how their relationships progresses and how they tackle issues.
I also love seeing Viennes relationship with Catherine (her daughter) , though I would have loved to see more of Catherine as she was not in this book much (away at volleyball camp and at her Dads).
Austen was a bit of an enigma in this series and it was great to see more of him and his character. I liked how he was with Catherine even before the relationship with Vienne started.
I liked how he pushed Vienne out of her comfort zone in a sense of making her see herself in a different way (e.g with the volleyball match vs her daughter and ex).
Loved seeing the past 3 couples from the books (this series) and more of their HEA’s and how their relationships are evolving and also seeing them from other POVs.
We also got some new side characters with Viennes' family and how her relationship evolved in this book from the start and how Austen had a hand in it.
The spice in this book was WOW, loved it, also Austen has a mouth! And some of the scenes and Austen's mind …
I really enjoyed this book and this series, and can not wait for the next and last of the series.
Also thanks to the Author for the ARC
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.
.
ARC Review:
TITLE: Fearless Memory
AUTHOR: Marie Johnston
SERIES: Oil Knights Book ⅘
RATING: 4 stars
Spice: Open Door ( 2/3 chilli peppers)
MY FAVE TROPES (from this book and series)
-refinding family
-single mum
-outside antics ;)
- His Pov from her getting locked out the house
- dirty talking MMC
REVIEW:
I have loved Vienne as a side character throughout this series and am so glad to see her as a FMC.
In this book we see how her past relationships have shaped how she trusts Austen and how their relationships progresses and how they tackle issues.
I also love seeing Viennes relationship with Catherine (her daughter) , though I would have loved to see more of Catherine as she was not in this book much (away at volleyball camp and at her Dads).
Austen was a bit of an enigma in this series and it was great to see more of him and his character. I liked how he was with Catherine even before the relationship with Vienne started.
I liked how he pushed Vienne out of her comfort zone in a sense of making her see herself in a different way (e.g with the volleyball match vs her daughter and ex).
Loved seeing the past 3 couples from the books (this series) and more of their HEA’s and how their relationships are evolving and also seeing them from other POVs.
We also got some new side characters with Viennes' family and how her relationship evolved in this book from the start and how Austen had a hand in it.
The spice in this book was WOW, loved it, also Austen has a mouth! And some of the scenes and Austen's mind …
I really enjoyed this book and this series, and can not wait for the next and last of the series.
Also thanks to the Author for the ARC
May 17, 2024
Austen Knight has been an enigma in this Knight family series. Austen is the brother that wasn’t around due to his job in the military. When he retires and finds himself in Crocus Valley to spend some extended time near his siblings, he wasn’t anticipating falling for his smart, sassy, single mom neighbor.
Vienne befriended the Knight ladies, and I will be 100% honest I wasn’t always sure how I felt about her. She definitely is very guarded and I think people judge her unfairly. Vienne is a hard working single mom dead set on making her dreams come true!
I love how Austen makes it clear to Vienne from the start that he is interested in her, and in any way that he can get her. Austen is aware that Vienne is a little nervous to trust a man, and the way they ease into their relationship is just wow. SO HOT! Goodness sakes, friends! I was fanning myself and giddy for our friend Vienne. And the way that Austen was with her, the way he showed her in so many ways that he respected her, adored her, and cherished her was just so so perfect. Austen was everything that Vienne needed. But Vienne also was who Austen needed, she saw him for the kind, hardworking, sensitive and loving man he is. She saw how his childhood impacted him throughout his life, and stood up for him but in a very gentle and not abrasive way. Austen and Vienne truly complement and bring out the best in one another. If you love a small town, with nosy family members, fun family banter, and some serious fan yourself, then this series and book needs to be on your TBR list! I am so so so so ready for Eliot’s book…..but I am also a little sad to say goodbye to Crocus Valley and the Knight family because they are something special!
Vienne befriended the Knight ladies, and I will be 100% honest I wasn’t always sure how I felt about her. She definitely is very guarded and I think people judge her unfairly. Vienne is a hard working single mom dead set on making her dreams come true!
I love how Austen makes it clear to Vienne from the start that he is interested in her, and in any way that he can get her. Austen is aware that Vienne is a little nervous to trust a man, and the way they ease into their relationship is just wow. SO HOT! Goodness sakes, friends! I was fanning myself and giddy for our friend Vienne. And the way that Austen was with her, the way he showed her in so many ways that he respected her, adored her, and cherished her was just so so perfect. Austen was everything that Vienne needed. But Vienne also was who Austen needed, she saw him for the kind, hardworking, sensitive and loving man he is. She saw how his childhood impacted him throughout his life, and stood up for him but in a very gentle and not abrasive way. Austen and Vienne truly complement and bring out the best in one another. If you love a small town, with nosy family members, fun family banter, and some serious fan yourself, then this series and book needs to be on your TBR list! I am so so so so ready for Eliot’s book…..but I am also a little sad to say goodbye to Crocus Valley and the Knight family because they are something special!
May 13, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
“Did you do something to her?” Only in my dreams, very vividly and explicitly. “I helped her into her house when she got locked out.””
I’m coming to love these Knight Brothers and every single woman in their lives. And Austen is absolutely no exception. Marie Johnston has continued the lovely world in Crocus Valley in the 4th installment following Austen & Vienne (“V” or “Honey V”)!
A best friend’s brother - “workplace” romance is what you’ll find. And you’ll find that Austen is every bit the jovial, supportive, encouraging MMC we all love to fall in love with. He sees all of Vienne (quite literally in fact), who she was - who she is - and who she could be. And wants every bit of it…though he is somewhat slow to his own realization. Vienne is healing from her own self doubts, and through Austen’s encouragement finds her way back to her true loves, passions, & thoughts.
This is a slooooow burn…there is so much tension build up, and it so dang delicious. There’s bits of spice & sass to tide you over, just enough to keep it interesting until finally the gates open!
Their hurtles thankfully are overcome and they finally EACH let go of their fears & anxieties. And once they finally do it’s go time, firing on all cylinders.
Here’s what else I LOVED…the epilogue was just epic. And the peek at Sutton&Wilder literally had me in tears (in the best way of course!)! Go dive into the Knight Family world — because you, like me, need to now find out who’s going to bring Eliot Knight to his knees!
“God help me. This woman was a dream I didn’t know I had.”
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
“Did you do something to her?” Only in my dreams, very vividly and explicitly. “I helped her into her house when she got locked out.””
I’m coming to love these Knight Brothers and every single woman in their lives. And Austen is absolutely no exception. Marie Johnston has continued the lovely world in Crocus Valley in the 4th installment following Austen & Vienne (“V” or “Honey V”)!
A best friend’s brother - “workplace” romance is what you’ll find. And you’ll find that Austen is every bit the jovial, supportive, encouraging MMC we all love to fall in love with. He sees all of Vienne (quite literally in fact), who she was - who she is - and who she could be. And wants every bit of it…though he is somewhat slow to his own realization. Vienne is healing from her own self doubts, and through Austen’s encouragement finds her way back to her true loves, passions, & thoughts.
This is a slooooow burn…there is so much tension build up, and it so dang delicious. There’s bits of spice & sass to tide you over, just enough to keep it interesting until finally the gates open!
Their hurtles thankfully are overcome and they finally EACH let go of their fears & anxieties. And once they finally do it’s go time, firing on all cylinders.
Here’s what else I LOVED…the epilogue was just epic. And the peek at Sutton&Wilder literally had me in tears (in the best way of course!)! Go dive into the Knight Family world — because you, like me, need to now find out who’s going to bring Eliot Knight to his knees!
“God help me. This woman was a dream I didn’t know I had.”
May 26, 2024
Alright, book lovers, get ready to swoon because A Fearless Memory by Marie Johnston is here, and it’s a gem!
Me, giggling like a schoolgirl and almost spilling my coffee within the first chapter. Yup, that's how it starts—Vienne, our fabulous single mom, gets locked outside by her puppy in nothing but a towel. Enter Austen Knight, her smoking hot neighbor, and best friend's brother. Talk about a meet-cute!
Vienne is trying to kickstart her interior design biz in the small town of Crocus Valley while juggling mom duties. She’s got a tough shell because of past drama, but she's strong and relatable. Austen, fresh out of the military, buys the old farmhouse next door and hires Vienne to help renovate. What starts as hammering nails turns into sparks flying everywhere!
Austen is adjusting to civilian life, reconnecting with his family, and figuring out his next steps. Vienne, meanwhile, is trying to shed her past and build something new. Their chemistry is off the charts, making it impossible to keep things strictly professional. Austen is patient, a great listener, and oh-so-sweet, which makes their romance even more delicious.
This book has all the feels: laughter, tears, and a lot of heartwarming moments. It’s about healing, family ties, and finding love when you least expect it. Marie Johnston’s writing is on point, making Vienne and Austen’s story one you won’t want to put down.
If you love second chances, steamy romance, and characters that feel like real people, A Fearless Memory is your next must-read. Trust me, add this to your TBR and thank me later!
Me, giggling like a schoolgirl and almost spilling my coffee within the first chapter. Yup, that's how it starts—Vienne, our fabulous single mom, gets locked outside by her puppy in nothing but a towel. Enter Austen Knight, her smoking hot neighbor, and best friend's brother. Talk about a meet-cute!
Vienne is trying to kickstart her interior design biz in the small town of Crocus Valley while juggling mom duties. She’s got a tough shell because of past drama, but she's strong and relatable. Austen, fresh out of the military, buys the old farmhouse next door and hires Vienne to help renovate. What starts as hammering nails turns into sparks flying everywhere!
Austen is adjusting to civilian life, reconnecting with his family, and figuring out his next steps. Vienne, meanwhile, is trying to shed her past and build something new. Their chemistry is off the charts, making it impossible to keep things strictly professional. Austen is patient, a great listener, and oh-so-sweet, which makes their romance even more delicious.
This book has all the feels: laughter, tears, and a lot of heartwarming moments. It’s about healing, family ties, and finding love when you least expect it. Marie Johnston’s writing is on point, making Vienne and Austen’s story one you won’t want to put down.
If you love second chances, steamy romance, and characters that feel like real people, A Fearless Memory is your next must-read. Trust me, add this to your TBR and thank me later!
May 7, 2024
4.75 stars. Vienne, the female interior designer lead, remembers being a brash, bold, enthusiastic teen, but life has worn her down somewhat and she’s a far more risk-averse single mum. Whilst she has a huge crush on her next-door neighbour/best friends’ brother, she knows it’s not worth risking their relationship on a short term thing when he’s already got his exit planned.
Austen, the male lead, retired from the military and he’s currently renovating a house before moving interstate to be part of the core group starting up a security business. He’s always been single and has no plans to change that, until he and Vienne start working together and he finds himself wondering why he’s no longer so enthusiastic about leaving. But Vienne also stated she didn’t want more than short term, out of concern for the impact on her daughter…
This story is dual POV, really well written, well edited, and a beautiful contemporary, small town romance. The focus here is really on character development and the way the lead characters grew as individuals and then into a relationship. I adored how supportive Austen was of Vienne, encouraging her to emerge from the shell she’d hidden herself in, due to repeated disappointments from previous partners. I enjoyed Austen’s realisation of how he could also change and his childhood baggage didn’t need to influence all his future choices. I enjoyed the way they worked together on the renovation. I laughed at some of the hilariously awkward moments. I also enjoyed their steamy intimate moments that were sensual and erotic. I appreciated the way Vienne’s daughter was integral to the story, and the thought that went into what sort of role model Vienne was trying to be for her.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
Austen, the male lead, retired from the military and he’s currently renovating a house before moving interstate to be part of the core group starting up a security business. He’s always been single and has no plans to change that, until he and Vienne start working together and he finds himself wondering why he’s no longer so enthusiastic about leaving. But Vienne also stated she didn’t want more than short term, out of concern for the impact on her daughter…
This story is dual POV, really well written, well edited, and a beautiful contemporary, small town romance. The focus here is really on character development and the way the lead characters grew as individuals and then into a relationship. I adored how supportive Austen was of Vienne, encouraging her to emerge from the shell she’d hidden herself in, due to repeated disappointments from previous partners. I enjoyed Austen’s realisation of how he could also change and his childhood baggage didn’t need to influence all his future choices. I enjoyed the way they worked together on the renovation. I laughed at some of the hilariously awkward moments. I also enjoyed their steamy intimate moments that were sensual and erotic. I appreciated the way Vienne’s daughter was integral to the story, and the thought that went into what sort of role model Vienne was trying to be for her.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
May 9, 2024
A Fearless Memory, the fourth standalone entry in Marie Johnston’s Oil Knights series, focuses on Austen Knight and his neighbor Vienne. Recently retired from the military, Austen is spending some time near his family before joining his former buddies in opening a new security firm. As the single mother of a teenager in a small town, Vienne feels like she has a lot to prove, and the last thing she wants is gossip to start about her and her hot neighbor Austen. Making things even more complicated, he’s related to all of her close friends. Past experience has taught her that nothing good ever lasts, and she really doesn’t want to lose the friend circle she’s just recently found. But when Austen asks her to help him remodel his house so he can flip it and sell it, she can’t say no to the work–or to him.
I really liked that this is a story about two mature adults with lives and responsibilities. It’s about so much more than just finding their person; it’s also about uncovering places where our perception of past experiences may be skewed, recognizing how those can impact our relationships with others (both romantically and within our extended families), and growing accordingly in order to have more fulfilling lives.
While this can be enjoyed completely as a standalone, I’d recommend starting at the beginning of the series to better understand the main characters’ relationships within their families and community writ large.
I really liked that this is a story about two mature adults with lives and responsibilities. It’s about so much more than just finding their person; it’s also about uncovering places where our perception of past experiences may be skewed, recognizing how those can impact our relationships with others (both romantically and within our extended families), and growing accordingly in order to have more fulfilling lives.
While this can be enjoyed completely as a standalone, I’d recommend starting at the beginning of the series to better understand the main characters’ relationships within their families and community writ large.
May 14, 2024
These books are getting better and better.
I have adored these last two books which doesn't mean I didn't enjoy the first two, but these last two are just swoon!!
Austen is just - oh my - he's a sexy, rugged cowboy/ex-military and truly has the right handle on being in a relationship and treating a woman right for someone who isn't looking for a relationship. Vienne is a struggling single mother, divorced, trying to start her own business, and honestly way too worried about what other people think which really holds her back.
I really liked her relationship with her teen daughter, Caroline, and the role model that she so valiantly tried to be for her. The shared love of volleyball was fun too!
Vienne reluctantly accepts, while salivating over it, the chance to remodel Austen's farmhouse. These two work very well together and flirtation leads to more...I kinda liked how they got there. ;-)
"'You didn't want more?" Vienne is asked. "'I wanted everything.'" she answers.
and Austen later on - "'Then it'll be my job for the rest of our lives to make sure you feel safe with me, that you trust me.'" Swoon!!
It takes a bit of courage on both their parts to realize what they are at risk of losing, but thanks to family and friends that are like family - love prevails!!
The epilogue was just everything too!
Looking forward to the last Knight brother to fall! Cannot wait!!
I voluntarily requested and read an advance reader copy.
I have adored these last two books which doesn't mean I didn't enjoy the first two, but these last two are just swoon!!
Austen is just - oh my - he's a sexy, rugged cowboy/ex-military and truly has the right handle on being in a relationship and treating a woman right for someone who isn't looking for a relationship. Vienne is a struggling single mother, divorced, trying to start her own business, and honestly way too worried about what other people think which really holds her back.
I really liked her relationship with her teen daughter, Caroline, and the role model that she so valiantly tried to be for her. The shared love of volleyball was fun too!
Vienne reluctantly accepts, while salivating over it, the chance to remodel Austen's farmhouse. These two work very well together and flirtation leads to more...I kinda liked how they got there. ;-)
"'You didn't want more?" Vienne is asked. "'I wanted everything.'" she answers.
and Austen later on - "'Then it'll be my job for the rest of our lives to make sure you feel safe with me, that you trust me.'" Swoon!!
It takes a bit of courage on both their parts to realize what they are at risk of losing, but thanks to family and friends that are like family - love prevails!!
The epilogue was just everything too!
Looking forward to the last Knight brother to fall! Cannot wait!!
I voluntarily requested and read an advance reader copy.
May 16, 2024
ARC Review: 4 ⭐️ 1.5 🌶️
I have been wondering and waiting for Austen’s story. And when I found out it was gonna be Vienne who he falls for?! I was SO excited!
Austen is a retired military police officer so he isn’t really around a lot in the other books so there is not much that we learned about him. Vienne we meet in book 2 as Cody’s neighbor who quickly becomes friends with Tova and all of the girls. She’s a single mom to a teenager daughter and has a bad past with men and she goes through a quick fling with Dr. Jake (ew)… but when her best friend’s brother moves into the house next door to renovate it and sell it when the summer is up.. absolutely nothing can go wrong. Especially when you lock yourself out of your house with a towel and he sees you *exposed* after you dropped your key on the ground 😉 He’s sweet and full of understanding, unlike any other men she’s ever been with. But he’s leaving at the end of the summer… and she has a reputation to withhold around town with her new interior design business.
I loved this book! I loved getting to know Austen and who he was and learning about Vienne and why she was so anti-man. Her reasons were very valid. I love how Austen came along and was the sweetest, most understanding and openly was not afraid to hide how he felt about Honey V 😉
Thank you Marie for the ARC to read and review early. Can’t wait for the next and final Knight brother! ❤️
I have been wondering and waiting for Austen’s story. And when I found out it was gonna be Vienne who he falls for?! I was SO excited!
Austen is a retired military police officer so he isn’t really around a lot in the other books so there is not much that we learned about him. Vienne we meet in book 2 as Cody’s neighbor who quickly becomes friends with Tova and all of the girls. She’s a single mom to a teenager daughter and has a bad past with men and she goes through a quick fling with Dr. Jake (ew)… but when her best friend’s brother moves into the house next door to renovate it and sell it when the summer is up.. absolutely nothing can go wrong. Especially when you lock yourself out of your house with a towel and he sees you *exposed* after you dropped your key on the ground 😉 He’s sweet and full of understanding, unlike any other men she’s ever been with. But he’s leaving at the end of the summer… and she has a reputation to withhold around town with her new interior design business.
I loved this book! I loved getting to know Austen and who he was and learning about Vienne and why she was so anti-man. Her reasons were very valid. I love how Austen came along and was the sweetest, most understanding and openly was not afraid to hide how he felt about Honey V 😉
Thank you Marie for the ARC to read and review early. Can’t wait for the next and final Knight brother! ❤️
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