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The Wages of Silence
She vanished without a word for decades. This time, it might cost her life.
Hannah Holt was the girl of my dreams, the love of my life—until she walked away without warning, leaving our infant daughter behind. Thirty years later, she’s a Hollywood icon, beloved by millions … and a stranger to me.
I built a life in the military, forging a path I thought would give us a future. Instead, it seemed to be something that drove a wedge between us. Now, on my fiftieth birthday, she’s back—haunted, elusive, and still holding onto secrets.
She says her past silence wasn’t abandonment, it was protection. She can’t say more, not until she gathers enough evidence for a court-martial. Then, just as suddenly as she returned, Hannah vanishes again.
Only this time, she can’t be found.
Her agent is panicked. Her closest friend hasn’t heard from her. Her parents have no details. And the more I dig, the more it looks like Hannah was never running from me, but from something darker. Something that still wants her silence.
I have the training, the contacts, and the determination to find her. Now I need the truth—before the woman I’ve never stopped loving disappears for good.
Hannah Holt was the girl of my dreams, the love of my life—until she walked away without warning, leaving our infant daughter behind. Thirty years later, she’s a Hollywood icon, beloved by millions … and a stranger to me.
I built a life in the military, forging a path I thought would give us a future. Instead, it seemed to be something that drove a wedge between us. Now, on my fiftieth birthday, she’s back—haunted, elusive, and still holding onto secrets.
She says her past silence wasn’t abandonment, it was protection. She can’t say more, not until she gathers enough evidence for a court-martial. Then, just as suddenly as she returned, Hannah vanishes again.
Only this time, she can’t be found.
Her agent is panicked. Her closest friend hasn’t heard from her. Her parents have no details. And the more I dig, the more it looks like Hannah was never running from me, but from something darker. Something that still wants her silence.
I have the training, the contacts, and the determination to find her. Now I need the truth—before the woman I’ve never stopped loving disappears for good.
ebook
First published September 16, 2025
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16 people want to read
About the author
Erin FitzGerald
33 books149 followersErin believes every story should have a happy ending and that very few characters are completely irredeemable.
She lives in the Metro DC area with her husband and two children, in a house full of pets and plants.
She lives in the Metro DC area with her husband and two children, in a house full of pets and plants.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
September 17, 2025
Rating: Obsessed
🤠Later in Life (48 & 50)
🎥It's Always Been You (and no one else)
🤠Single Dad
🎥Second Chance Romance
🤠Military MMC
🎥Actress FMC
🤠Romantic Suspense
Erin, Erin, Erin! I didn’t think anything could top Lana and Mark’s story in Something Lost (Wolf Mountain Ranchers #1), but here I stand...humbled and corrected. 𝕓𝕠𝕨𝕤 𝕚𝕟 𝕡𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕤𝕖
This book was everything and hands-down the best of the series so far (I know I say that every time). I knew Levi’s story would be good, but hot damn! It was phenomenal! For him, it’s always been Hannah. He knew it, never fought it, and even when she came back decades later, he accepted the inevitable. He made it clear she wasn’t leaving him again without a fight.
Hannah has been carrying the weight of doing what she thought was right. Walking away to protect Levi and their daughter. Her every thought since then has been about survival, sacrifice, and trying to find her way back. She never wanted to leave, but she had to, and proving that truth nearly broke her.
The suspense in the second half had me glued to the pages, heart pounding. The twists, the betrayal, the reveals, and Hannah proving herself to be such a badass! Perfection.
And the Bensons. Their loyalty is unmatched. Donna and Ben shone in this story, quietly checking in on Hannah for thirty years even when everyone else believed she’d walked away. This also sets us up beautifully for Trystin and Ben’s story (which I’m already dying for). And, honestly, I wouldn’t say no to seeing Linc and Roshni (or even Roshni and Cole) get their own book someday. 😉😘
Also, shoutout to all the cameos from the Men of the First Brigade and Atholton series…looks like I’ve got more delicious security men to binge.
I’m so honored to call @erinfitzgeraldwrites a friend and grateful she welcomed me on her ARC team way back with Wolf Mountain Ranchers. Being along for the ride into this second-gen series has been pure joy. Thank you, Erin, for this ARC and for another unforgettable story at Colson Creek!
🤠Later in Life (48 & 50)
🎥It's Always Been You (and no one else)
🤠Single Dad
🎥Second Chance Romance
🤠Military MMC
🎥Actress FMC
🤠Romantic Suspense
Erin, Erin, Erin! I didn’t think anything could top Lana and Mark’s story in Something Lost (Wolf Mountain Ranchers #1), but here I stand...humbled and corrected. 𝕓𝕠𝕨𝕤 𝕚𝕟 𝕡𝕣𝕒𝕚𝕤𝕖
This book was everything and hands-down the best of the series so far (I know I say that every time). I knew Levi’s story would be good, but hot damn! It was phenomenal! For him, it’s always been Hannah. He knew it, never fought it, and even when she came back decades later, he accepted the inevitable. He made it clear she wasn’t leaving him again without a fight.
Hannah has been carrying the weight of doing what she thought was right. Walking away to protect Levi and their daughter. Her every thought since then has been about survival, sacrifice, and trying to find her way back. She never wanted to leave, but she had to, and proving that truth nearly broke her.
The suspense in the second half had me glued to the pages, heart pounding. The twists, the betrayal, the reveals, and Hannah proving herself to be such a badass! Perfection.
And the Bensons. Their loyalty is unmatched. Donna and Ben shone in this story, quietly checking in on Hannah for thirty years even when everyone else believed she’d walked away. This also sets us up beautifully for Trystin and Ben’s story (which I’m already dying for). And, honestly, I wouldn’t say no to seeing Linc and Roshni (or even Roshni and Cole) get their own book someday. 😉😘
Also, shoutout to all the cameos from the Men of the First Brigade and Atholton series…looks like I’ve got more delicious security men to binge.
I’m so honored to call @erinfitzgeraldwrites a friend and grateful she welcomed me on her ARC team way back with Wolf Mountain Ranchers. Being along for the ride into this second-gen series has been pure joy. Thank you, Erin, for this ARC and for another unforgettable story at Colson Creek!
October 29, 2025
Erin has hit the jackpot again with the Benson family. And at the moment Levi is my favourite man by far.
I was just in awe of this book and how found family is continued to be shown in all of her book. Also second chance made my heart warm.
Donna yet again being our favourite gal because she’s just hilarious 🤣 and such a mum I love it.
I was just in awe of this book and how found family is continued to be shown in all of her book. Also second chance made my heart warm.
Donna yet again being our favourite gal because she’s just hilarious 🤣 and such a mum I love it.
September 28, 2025
𝒯𝒽𝑒 𝒲𝒶𝑔𝑒𝓈 𝑜𝒻 SILENCE
By Erin Fitzgerald
LIVE now on Kindle Unlimited
#secondchance
#ranchlife
#exmilitary
#brotherbanter
#smalltownromance
#suspense
#foundfamily
#singleparent
#ErinFitzgerald
#ColsonCreekSerie
You definitely want to buckle up for Levi and Hannah’s second chance, small town romance because this is one wild ride. Hannah is a world renowned actress. She and Levi have been apart 30 years. Yes. 30 years. Since they were not much more than teenagers. And now Hannah is back in Colson Creek from Hollywood to face her past. Her family. And Levi Benson.
The Benson family is nothing if not entertaining and they are all part of this book. Erin gives us a lot of brother Ben in this story, definitely setting us up for the next Benson family book. Oh Ben. He’s gonna wreak havoc I think. And stepmom extraordinaire Donna is always present, keeps all the Benson boys in line with so much love and always feeding them - weekly Sunday family dinners are special.
“𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘋𝘰𝘯𝘯𝘢 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘯 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳. 𝘏𝘦𝘳 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴. 𝘏𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘫𝘶𝘥𝘨𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵, 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘥 𝘢𝘥𝘷𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘸𝘦 𝘢𝘴𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘪𝘵. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘩𝘶𝘨𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘪𝘦𝘴, 𝘩𝘰𝘵 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘰𝘤𝘤𝘢𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘮𝘶𝘨 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘪𝘤𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘮𝘢𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘰𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯.”
𝒯𝒽𝑒 𝒲𝒶𝑔𝑒𝓈 𝑜𝒻 SILENCE can be read as a stand alone but I promise that you will love each Benson brother and I highly recommend reading both Judah and Dan’s stories in the previous two books of this series. Judah and Dan found the women to bring light and love into their worlds and now it’s Levi’s second chance with Hannah. But she’s keeping secrets he has yet to uncover. Dangerous secrets that have haunted her for 30 years. It’s why she’s stayed away. Why she left Levi to raise their infant daughter. To keep them safe. And in the process, she knows that she broke Levi’s heart.
Hannah has always been the one for Levi and now that she’s returned to Colson Creek, he’s not about to let her go. Levi won’t survive her walking away a second time. He knows it. His family knows it. These two struggling with facing their feelings once again after so many years apart and suffering so much heartache will hurt. No lie.
“𝘍𝘰𝘳 𝘓𝘦𝘷𝘪 𝘉𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘰𝘯, 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘣𝘰𝘳 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘸𝘳𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴, 𝘭𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘮𝘦𝘭𝘵 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘪𝘮.”
But the Benson family, with their own brand of moral support, will make you wish you could join in a Sunday family dinner.
The second half of this compelling story focuses on Hannah’s capture and Levi and his ex-military buddies working to not only rescue her, but discover answers to questions about a military mission gone bad and a revenge plot against Levi. Page turner? You bet. Was I up late reading until the end? Absolutely.
Small town romance is always a fun read, but add in ranch life, the Benson family, and ex-military heroes, now private security specialists, and I was in heaven. Levi and Hannah will take you on a journey you won’t soon forget. Now I’m looking forward to Ben and Tristyn’s book and Erin, I wouldn’t be mad to see Lincoln get his HEA and I saw you teasing us with Hannah’s brother, Dan, and Roshni - maybe their own story too? Hint. Hint.
By Erin Fitzgerald
LIVE now on Kindle Unlimited
#secondchance
#ranchlife
#exmilitary
#brotherbanter
#smalltownromance
#suspense
#foundfamily
#singleparent
#ErinFitzgerald
#ColsonCreekSerie
You definitely want to buckle up for Levi and Hannah’s second chance, small town romance because this is one wild ride. Hannah is a world renowned actress. She and Levi have been apart 30 years. Yes. 30 years. Since they were not much more than teenagers. And now Hannah is back in Colson Creek from Hollywood to face her past. Her family. And Levi Benson.
The Benson family is nothing if not entertaining and they are all part of this book. Erin gives us a lot of brother Ben in this story, definitely setting us up for the next Benson family book. Oh Ben. He’s gonna wreak havoc I think. And stepmom extraordinaire Donna is always present, keeps all the Benson boys in line with so much love and always feeding them - weekly Sunday family dinners are special.
“𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘋𝘰𝘯𝘯𝘢 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘰𝘯 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳. 𝘏𝘦𝘳 𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴. 𝘏𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘯 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘫𝘶𝘥𝘨𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵, 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘥 𝘢𝘥𝘷𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘸𝘦 𝘢𝘴𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘪𝘵. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘩𝘶𝘨𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘰𝘰𝘬𝘪𝘦𝘴, 𝘩𝘰𝘵 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘰𝘤𝘤𝘢𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 𝘮𝘶𝘨 𝘰𝘧 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘸𝘪𝘤𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘮𝘢𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘰𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯.”
𝒯𝒽𝑒 𝒲𝒶𝑔𝑒𝓈 𝑜𝒻 SILENCE can be read as a stand alone but I promise that you will love each Benson brother and I highly recommend reading both Judah and Dan’s stories in the previous two books of this series. Judah and Dan found the women to bring light and love into their worlds and now it’s Levi’s second chance with Hannah. But she’s keeping secrets he has yet to uncover. Dangerous secrets that have haunted her for 30 years. It’s why she’s stayed away. Why she left Levi to raise their infant daughter. To keep them safe. And in the process, she knows that she broke Levi’s heart.
Hannah has always been the one for Levi and now that she’s returned to Colson Creek, he’s not about to let her go. Levi won’t survive her walking away a second time. He knows it. His family knows it. These two struggling with facing their feelings once again after so many years apart and suffering so much heartache will hurt. No lie.
“𝘍𝘰𝘳 𝘓𝘦𝘷𝘪 𝘉𝘦𝘯𝘴𝘰𝘯, 𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘣𝘰𝘳 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘴 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘸𝘳𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘺 𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴, 𝘭𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘺𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘮𝘦𝘭𝘵 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘪𝘮.”
But the Benson family, with their own brand of moral support, will make you wish you could join in a Sunday family dinner.
The second half of this compelling story focuses on Hannah’s capture and Levi and his ex-military buddies working to not only rescue her, but discover answers to questions about a military mission gone bad and a revenge plot against Levi. Page turner? You bet. Was I up late reading until the end? Absolutely.
Small town romance is always a fun read, but add in ranch life, the Benson family, and ex-military heroes, now private security specialists, and I was in heaven. Levi and Hannah will take you on a journey you won’t soon forget. Now I’m looking forward to Ben and Tristyn’s book and Erin, I wouldn’t be mad to see Lincoln get his HEA and I saw you teasing us with Hannah’s brother, Dan, and Roshni - maybe their own story too? Hint. Hint.
September 17, 2025
This emotional and suspenseful second chance romance is a mesmerizing read. Both Levi and Hannah are such fascinating characters and draw my empathy and earnest desire to see them finally have their happily ever after. They were once best of friends, then young lovers and even had a child together. Everyone had been blindsided when she left Levi and their daughter behind to pursue her acting career, and cutting off all communication. Now she is back in her small home town for an extended stay for the first time in thirty years. Though she is in town to spend time with her seriously father, being near Levi, the only man she has ever loved, is constantly on her mind. Levi has no idea of the real reason she left him or that she was just as heartbroken as him.
Levi is stunned to see Hannah again after thirty years of silence and being left to raise their daughter alone. He tells himself to keep his guards up, to not let her get close enough to rip his heart out again, but his heart refuses to listen. His heart is steadfast, true to one woman only…..Hannah. Levi has had no other relationships since her and his whole life has become centred on his work and his family. His family is very aware of his feelings, the renewed spark in his soul and can’t help hoping for a second chance for him and Hannah.
The path forward is not an easy one as secrets are revealed, dangerous trouble comes calling and their fears, doubts and tumultuous emotions come into play. His family is there through it all, offering support, advice and encouragement, some of it hilarious (his brothers), some of it thoughtful and profound (his dad and stepmom). Readers get to see the true measure of Levi’s love for Hannah, his devotion and his very protective and possessive side. He uses his specialized skills to keep his lady love and his family safe. Readers also get to see the vulnerable and softer side of Hannah that she has had to hide for years, the side that has always loved Levi and would do anything to keep him safe. This book induced some tears, some laughter and some sighs as I read it and I loved it all.
I wholeheartedly recommend this mesmerizing book.
Levi is stunned to see Hannah again after thirty years of silence and being left to raise their daughter alone. He tells himself to keep his guards up, to not let her get close enough to rip his heart out again, but his heart refuses to listen. His heart is steadfast, true to one woman only…..Hannah. Levi has had no other relationships since her and his whole life has become centred on his work and his family. His family is very aware of his feelings, the renewed spark in his soul and can’t help hoping for a second chance for him and Hannah.
The path forward is not an easy one as secrets are revealed, dangerous trouble comes calling and their fears, doubts and tumultuous emotions come into play. His family is there through it all, offering support, advice and encouragement, some of it hilarious (his brothers), some of it thoughtful and profound (his dad and stepmom). Readers get to see the true measure of Levi’s love for Hannah, his devotion and his very protective and possessive side. He uses his specialized skills to keep his lady love and his family safe. Readers also get to see the vulnerable and softer side of Hannah that she has had to hide for years, the side that has always loved Levi and would do anything to keep him safe. This book induced some tears, some laughter and some sighs as I read it and I loved it all.
I wholeheartedly recommend this mesmerizing book.
September 13, 2025
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 is the 3rd book in the Colson Creek series by Erin FitzGerald, featuring an emotional second chance, romantic suspense story for Hannah and Levi! She’s back after disappearing for decades, and leaving Levi and their baby girl to pick up the pieces alone. Yes, she fulfilled her Hollywood stardom dreams, but what was the real story? As the secrets and lies unravel, it becomes apparent that Hannah left to protect those she loved, but is the danger really gone? Can Levi’’s old military training and connections pay off before it’s too late?
I went into this one with questions and a bit of skepticism, because that’s a long time to be apart without explaining the truth, especially with a child between you. I’m not sure if I could look past Hannah making that choice for me, if I’m honest, but I enjoyed the depth of the emotion of these characters, and how the raw and gritty nature of that emotion and the suspense aspect was balanced by the banter and meddling of the family. The romance was a great blend of tension, spice, and swoon as two people meant to be together fought through painful and intriguing twists, past and present, for a chance at the happiness they’ve always deserved! I’m always down for some band of brothers camaraderie thrown in to help with an action-packed situation, not to mention the small town charm. I was definitely in my feelings for much of this story! What a fantastic read!! As far as the compelling characters around this couple go, I definitely can’t wait for the next story!!
I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶
I went into this one with questions and a bit of skepticism, because that’s a long time to be apart without explaining the truth, especially with a child between you. I’m not sure if I could look past Hannah making that choice for me, if I’m honest, but I enjoyed the depth of the emotion of these characters, and how the raw and gritty nature of that emotion and the suspense aspect was balanced by the banter and meddling of the family. The romance was a great blend of tension, spice, and swoon as two people meant to be together fought through painful and intriguing twists, past and present, for a chance at the happiness they’ve always deserved! I’m always down for some band of brothers camaraderie thrown in to help with an action-packed situation, not to mention the small town charm. I was definitely in my feelings for much of this story! What a fantastic read!! As far as the compelling characters around this couple go, I definitely can’t wait for the next story!!
I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶
September 15, 2025
The Wages of Silence, the third installment in Erin FitzGerald’s Colson Creek series delivers an emotional punch with its mix of second-chance romance, small-town warmth, and edge-of-your-seat suspense.
This time, the spotlight is on Hannah and Levi—a couple whose past is riddled with heartbreak, unanswered questions, and decades of separation.
When Hannah left years ago, chasing Hollywood dreams while leaving behind Levi and their daughter, it seemed like an unforgivable choice. Now she’s back, but the truth behind her disappearance is far more complicated—and dangerous—than anyone realized. As long-buried secrets rise to the surface, it becomes clear that her absence was never about abandoning love.
What I appreciated most was how Erin balanced raw, gut-level emotion with moments of levity. The Benson family banter and the bond between Levi and his brothers-in-arms brought humour and light into an otherwise intense story.
At the same time, the romance between Hannah and Levi brimmed with tension, longing, and the kind of hard-earned passion that makes second-chance stories so satisfying.
Levi’s military past weaves seamlessly into the suspense thread, and paired with Colson Creek’s small-town charm and family-centered heart, it makes the setting feel both familiar and compelling.
Overall, this book is a powerful blend of romance, suspense, and family bonds. If you enjoy heartfelt second chances wrapped in danger, love, and laughter, this book—and the Colson Creek series as a whole—belongs on your shelf.
This time, the spotlight is on Hannah and Levi—a couple whose past is riddled with heartbreak, unanswered questions, and decades of separation.
When Hannah left years ago, chasing Hollywood dreams while leaving behind Levi and their daughter, it seemed like an unforgivable choice. Now she’s back, but the truth behind her disappearance is far more complicated—and dangerous—than anyone realized. As long-buried secrets rise to the surface, it becomes clear that her absence was never about abandoning love.
What I appreciated most was how Erin balanced raw, gut-level emotion with moments of levity. The Benson family banter and the bond between Levi and his brothers-in-arms brought humour and light into an otherwise intense story.
At the same time, the romance between Hannah and Levi brimmed with tension, longing, and the kind of hard-earned passion that makes second-chance stories so satisfying.
Levi’s military past weaves seamlessly into the suspense thread, and paired with Colson Creek’s small-town charm and family-centered heart, it makes the setting feel both familiar and compelling.
Overall, this book is a powerful blend of romance, suspense, and family bonds. If you enjoy heartfelt second chances wrapped in danger, love, and laughter, this book—and the Colson Creek series as a whole—belongs on your shelf.
September 21, 2025
Erin’s books show us a different side of love and life. Her characters are a little broken, far from perfect, yet so deeply relatable. We can picture them in our everyday lives and quickly grow fond of them. I adore this imperfect family—all of them! Those foul-mouthed brothers, and Donna too. Despite all their flaws, they are a true family, and it shines through in every conversation and interaction.
This story is about love! Pure, raw, unfiltered love, with no pretenses. It’s about two people who have loved each other from afar, unable to be together even when the chance was there.
“It means something strong and lasting, something that’s not reduced by time or distance. It means I’ve got your back in everything, even when you think you don’t need me.”
I never imagined a love story with a thirty-year gap could be rekindled so beautifully, but Erin did a splendid job of bringing them back together. Everything made sense, and it felt like exactly what their story needed.
I especially loved the suspense, the tension, and even the little pangs of anguish throughout the book—right up until they finally gave in to each other again, and came to terms with everything that had happened over those three decades. We felt all the longing, all the grief that nearly tore them apart, and it was such a relief when things finally began to unfold.
And, I believe we’ll have Ben’s story next. And with that ending... i need it ASAP! I cant't wait to know their story!
But after this book, I can’t help but wonder—will Lancaster have his own story too? Can I beg a little for it? 🤭
This story is about love! Pure, raw, unfiltered love, with no pretenses. It’s about two people who have loved each other from afar, unable to be together even when the chance was there.
“It means something strong and lasting, something that’s not reduced by time or distance. It means I’ve got your back in everything, even when you think you don’t need me.”
I never imagined a love story with a thirty-year gap could be rekindled so beautifully, but Erin did a splendid job of bringing them back together. Everything made sense, and it felt like exactly what their story needed.
I especially loved the suspense, the tension, and even the little pangs of anguish throughout the book—right up until they finally gave in to each other again, and came to terms with everything that had happened over those three decades. We felt all the longing, all the grief that nearly tore them apart, and it was such a relief when things finally began to unfold.
And, I believe we’ll have Ben’s story next. And with that ending... i need it ASAP! I cant't wait to know their story!
But after this book, I can’t help but wonder—will Lancaster have his own story too? Can I beg a little for it? 🤭
September 9, 2025
Having never read a Benson book before, I was a little nervous I wouldn’t understand what was going on. But I was assured it was a standalone. I probably should have read the first two before I read this one. I think I would’ve enjoyed it more, but that’s on me.
Basic summary, Hollywood starlet comes back to the farm to take care of her dad who has stage three cancer. She is overwhelmed by the demons she left behind, including an ex husband and young baby who is now grown-up. Our main male character has never lost his love for his ex-wife. Lots of teasing from the family, lots of drama, but as these books do, ended with a happy ending, the main characters together as they always should’ve been.
It’s not that I didn’t enjoy it, it just felt very predictable. It also felt like the family of the main male character was VERY pushy about the relationship between the two main characters. WAY too pushy. Honestly, I don’t know how the main female character stood it for as long as she did in the relationship they had when they were a teenagers. I think I would’ve run for the hills, no matter how much the family was better than my own.
This is a great read if you were looking for something with closed door spice, a happy ending, and a family of brothers to fall in love with. I’m giving it three and three-quarter stars, removing a star and a quarter because the family was too much, and I enjoy more spice in my books.
Thank you for the arc, all opinions on my own.
Basic summary, Hollywood starlet comes back to the farm to take care of her dad who has stage three cancer. She is overwhelmed by the demons she left behind, including an ex husband and young baby who is now grown-up. Our main male character has never lost his love for his ex-wife. Lots of teasing from the family, lots of drama, but as these books do, ended with a happy ending, the main characters together as they always should’ve been.
It’s not that I didn’t enjoy it, it just felt very predictable. It also felt like the family of the main male character was VERY pushy about the relationship between the two main characters. WAY too pushy. Honestly, I don’t know how the main female character stood it for as long as she did in the relationship they had when they were a teenagers. I think I would’ve run for the hills, no matter how much the family was better than my own.
This is a great read if you were looking for something with closed door spice, a happy ending, and a family of brothers to fall in love with. I’m giving it three and three-quarter stars, removing a star and a quarter because the family was too much, and I enjoy more spice in my books.
Thank you for the arc, all opinions on my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2025
ʙᴏᴏᴋ ʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ 📖: ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴀɢᴇꜱ ᴏꜰ ꜱɪʟᴇɴᴄᴇ
The Colson Creek Series has been one of my favorite. The name The Wages of Silence, after reading the book, is the perfect name. This is packed full of some big feelings and the second chance for Hannah and Levi that should have always been their only chance. I really enjoyed the romantic suspense on who did it and bringing back Levi’s former military brothers.
You get all the big family, small town feels and the brothers constant banter that have you laughing. I really recommend reading this series in order. They could be read as a standalone but all the Benson brothers play a big role in each book since family is a strong presence there will be more enjoyment together.
I normally don’t mention spice and if you have not read Erin’s books she is known for strong characters and amazing plots her spice is more on the diet side meaning it has spice the camera is on in the room but it is not solely focused on the couple.
Hannah and Levi get their perfect happy ending but man Erin really give me a shock of an ending setting up on Ben’s book!! I am putting it out there Linc needs his own story, Donna has adopted him into the fold so he is like an honorary Benson!
▪️ Small Town ▪️ It Was Always You ▪️ Single Parent ▪️ Midlife ▪️ Second Chance ▪️ Romantic Suspense ▪️ Brotherly Banter ▪️ Found Family ▪️ Mine ▪️ Touch Her and ☠️ ▪️ Forehead Kisses ▪️ My Wife
The Colson Creek Series has been one of my favorite. The name The Wages of Silence, after reading the book, is the perfect name. This is packed full of some big feelings and the second chance for Hannah and Levi that should have always been their only chance. I really enjoyed the romantic suspense on who did it and bringing back Levi’s former military brothers.
You get all the big family, small town feels and the brothers constant banter that have you laughing. I really recommend reading this series in order. They could be read as a standalone but all the Benson brothers play a big role in each book since family is a strong presence there will be more enjoyment together.
I normally don’t mention spice and if you have not read Erin’s books she is known for strong characters and amazing plots her spice is more on the diet side meaning it has spice the camera is on in the room but it is not solely focused on the couple.
Hannah and Levi get their perfect happy ending but man Erin really give me a shock of an ending setting up on Ben’s book!! I am putting it out there Linc needs his own story, Donna has adopted him into the fold so he is like an honorary Benson!
▪️ Small Town ▪️ It Was Always You ▪️ Single Parent ▪️ Midlife ▪️ Second Chance ▪️ Romantic Suspense ▪️ Brotherly Banter ▪️ Found Family ▪️ Mine ▪️ Touch Her and ☠️ ▪️ Forehead Kisses ▪️ My Wife
September 22, 2025
Hannah and Levi were young lovers, married, and had a daughter together. Levi is crushed when Hannah leaves him, without explanation, to raise their daughter alone and pursues a career in Hollywood. She broke his heart but he never stopped loving her. She’s been gone for 30 years and became a well-known, much-loved icon. Now she’s back in town and he’ll do anything to protect his heart. He can’t go through that pain again and knows that after Hollywood, there’s no way she would settle for their small town. As they spend more time together, though, Levi realizes he can't just shut his feelings off. She's the only woman he's ever loved, and he wants a life with her.
When Hannah goes missing again, it’s under different circumstances. This time Levi isn’t left in the dark like before. He has some clues and vows to use his military training and contacts to rescue Hannah and bring her home where she belongs. With him.
Twists, turns, secrets, threats, blackmail, kidnapping, family dynamics, suspense, and more! I knew this was a second chance romance but didn’t know it was going to lead to such a suspense-filled ending. Loved it!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
When Hannah goes missing again, it’s under different circumstances. This time Levi isn’t left in the dark like before. He has some clues and vows to use his military training and contacts to rescue Hannah and bring her home where she belongs. With him.
Twists, turns, secrets, threats, blackmail, kidnapping, family dynamics, suspense, and more! I knew this was a second chance romance but didn’t know it was going to lead to such a suspense-filled ending. Loved it!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 10, 2025
“Levi Benson had been the boy to love me in a quiet, steady sort of way. He didn’t loudly profess his undying love in front of throngs of people. He was just good, solid, constant, steady, and easy going. It was the kind of quiet reliable love I hadn’t known how to appreciate until I’d thrown it away.”
There is still at least one book left in this series, but at this point Levi is my favorite Benson brother.
Left to raise their daughter and mend a broken heart on his own, with no explanation, was not the way Levi Benson envisioned his life after marrying the girl of his dreams. How could she just walk away without a word? Had he, their daughter and the life they were building meant so little to her? The glitz, glam and bright lights of California were not something he could compete with. There couldn’t possibly be any other explanation as to why Hannah would leave other than this small town Minnesota life with him was just not what she wanted....or could there?
I don’t think I was even 3 chapters in and this book broke my heart. But then just like she always does, Erin pieced it back together piece by piece, until it was whole again. A good mix of banter, spice, and suspense will make you not want to put this one down. Hannah and Levi’s story will not disappoint. Happy Reading!
There is still at least one book left in this series, but at this point Levi is my favorite Benson brother.
Left to raise their daughter and mend a broken heart on his own, with no explanation, was not the way Levi Benson envisioned his life after marrying the girl of his dreams. How could she just walk away without a word? Had he, their daughter and the life they were building meant so little to her? The glitz, glam and bright lights of California were not something he could compete with. There couldn’t possibly be any other explanation as to why Hannah would leave other than this small town Minnesota life with him was just not what she wanted....or could there?
I don’t think I was even 3 chapters in and this book broke my heart. But then just like she always does, Erin pieced it back together piece by piece, until it was whole again. A good mix of banter, spice, and suspense will make you not want to put this one down. Hannah and Levi’s story will not disappoint. Happy Reading!
September 16, 2025
Thank you to @erinfitzgeraldwrites for this wonderful #gifted e-book.
The Benson brothers make a riveting return in Book 3 of the Colson Creek Series!
Hannah and Levi’s story unfolds with a captivating blend of secrets, mystery, and desire. Erin’s writing shines as she masterfully crafts suspense for each couple in her books, making every page a journey toward love. The gradual revelation of secrets propels the characters closer together, adding depth to their romance. I particularly appreciate that Hannah and Levi are a bit older, bringing an added layer of depth to their relationship. The charming farm setting is a delight, and I love how the women take charge, showcasing their strength and leadership.
The dynamic among the Benson brothers is a highlight, filled with witty banter and fierce loyalty—not just to each other but to those who join their family.
What I truly admire about Erin's storytelling is her ability to tee up the next brother's journey, leaving us eager for more. Ben's story is bound to be an absolute thrill, and I can hardly wait for the next installment!
The Benson brothers make a riveting return in Book 3 of the Colson Creek Series!
Hannah and Levi’s story unfolds with a captivating blend of secrets, mystery, and desire. Erin’s writing shines as she masterfully crafts suspense for each couple in her books, making every page a journey toward love. The gradual revelation of secrets propels the characters closer together, adding depth to their romance. I particularly appreciate that Hannah and Levi are a bit older, bringing an added layer of depth to their relationship. The charming farm setting is a delight, and I love how the women take charge, showcasing their strength and leadership.
The dynamic among the Benson brothers is a highlight, filled with witty banter and fierce loyalty—not just to each other but to those who join their family.
What I truly admire about Erin's storytelling is her ability to tee up the next brother's journey, leaving us eager for more. Ben's story is bound to be an absolute thrill, and I can hardly wait for the next installment!
September 23, 2025
As always Erin’s books do not disappoint. Book 3 in the series and I am enjoying all of them thus far. The Benson men are true keepers!
Finally we get Levi’s story. A second chance romance with the one who got away. Single dad , heart broken as the love of his life disappears from him and his daughter’s life. He is left alone for 20 years always left wondering “why”.
I knew I would love the characters from the start. Erin really writes a good MMC especially and those Benson men they are die hards for the woman they love, hard working, touch her and die type men. I loved Hannah’s character too.. although I do feel like their age felt a lot younger than they were.
This book put my mind through a rollercoaster, from being angry, emotional and sympathetic and happy too. I loved Levi and Hannah’s story even though it took a lot of time and heartbreak to get there. I have been enjoying the suspenseful / mystery pieces through the book but I feel like they are very similar at times especially with Beckett and Hannah’s story .. these Benson men love women who get themselves into trouble!
All in all another enjoyable book :)
Finally we get Levi’s story. A second chance romance with the one who got away. Single dad , heart broken as the love of his life disappears from him and his daughter’s life. He is left alone for 20 years always left wondering “why”.
I knew I would love the characters from the start. Erin really writes a good MMC especially and those Benson men they are die hards for the woman they love, hard working, touch her and die type men. I loved Hannah’s character too.. although I do feel like their age felt a lot younger than they were.
This book put my mind through a rollercoaster, from being angry, emotional and sympathetic and happy too. I loved Levi and Hannah’s story even though it took a lot of time and heartbreak to get there. I have been enjoying the suspenseful / mystery pieces through the book but I feel like they are very similar at times especially with Beckett and Hannah’s story .. these Benson men love women who get themselves into trouble!
All in all another enjoyable book :)
September 28, 2025
Thank you Erin for the arc! I was so ready to see Levi get his woman 🥰
If you’ve read Erin’s earlier books, then The Wages of Silence will be one for you! You’ll see some familiar faces come back to help Levi in his time of need 🖤 I definitely wasn’t expecting to see so many new characters three books into a series, but it was a nice touch!
Hannah & Levi’s happily ever after has been a long time coming. But Erin never lets you get a smooth ending without a few plot twists 😉 I don’t know if I’d be as quick to forgive as Levi for Hannah’s departure, but some wise words from Erik Benson seem to help move things along, as per usual ❤️
The family support is unignorable (we’re pretending that’s a word 😜) when it comes to the Benson family - I wasn’t sure what to expect going into Levi’s story, given his professional background, but one thing that remains steadfast is the love of the Benson family unit. It just makes me that much more excited for Ben’s story! Because ma’am, that epilogue? We need context and details ASAP! (pretty please) 😅😂🫶🩷
The Wages Of Silence, book 3 in Erin’s Colson Creek series, is available now!
If you’ve read Erin’s earlier books, then The Wages of Silence will be one for you! You’ll see some familiar faces come back to help Levi in his time of need 🖤 I definitely wasn’t expecting to see so many new characters three books into a series, but it was a nice touch!
Hannah & Levi’s happily ever after has been a long time coming. But Erin never lets you get a smooth ending without a few plot twists 😉 I don’t know if I’d be as quick to forgive as Levi for Hannah’s departure, but some wise words from Erik Benson seem to help move things along, as per usual ❤️
The family support is unignorable (we’re pretending that’s a word 😜) when it comes to the Benson family - I wasn’t sure what to expect going into Levi’s story, given his professional background, but one thing that remains steadfast is the love of the Benson family unit. It just makes me that much more excited for Ben’s story! Because ma’am, that epilogue? We need context and details ASAP! (pretty please) 😅😂🫶🩷
The Wages Of Silence, book 3 in Erin’s Colson Creek series, is available now!
September 13, 2025
I have really enjoyed this series so far and was excited when the ARC for this book arrived. The Benson brothers are quite something so looked forward to Levi’s story.
I was 40 pages in and knew I had fallen in love with Levi Benson. The older brother who has never recovered from the love of his life Hannah leaving many years before. When she is back events unfurl and this is a whirlwind of a story. No spoilers as you need to experience all the twists and turns of the angsty, emotional and dramatic at times story.
A wonderful tale of second chances, family, Hollywood, small town and it’s full of humour and love. Very little spice but the story didn’t need it. I loved Levi and Hannah - a beautifully told story about lost love and second chances. Just gorgeous to read and I couldn’t put it down. I loved ever that the leads are older and it just makes this even more special.
Throughout there are sprinkles of the future story of Ben - a story I also look forward to.
I received this as an ARC - these are my thoughts given voluntarily
I was 40 pages in and knew I had fallen in love with Levi Benson. The older brother who has never recovered from the love of his life Hannah leaving many years before. When she is back events unfurl and this is a whirlwind of a story. No spoilers as you need to experience all the twists and turns of the angsty, emotional and dramatic at times story.
A wonderful tale of second chances, family, Hollywood, small town and it’s full of humour and love. Very little spice but the story didn’t need it. I loved Levi and Hannah - a beautifully told story about lost love and second chances. Just gorgeous to read and I couldn’t put it down. I loved ever that the leads are older and it just makes this even more special.
Throughout there are sprinkles of the future story of Ben - a story I also look forward to.
I received this as an ARC - these are my thoughts given voluntarily
October 15, 2025
I have been absolutely let speechless by this book. Hannah and Levi have taken the number one spot of my favorite contemporary romance couples. The longing and the heat between these two is unmatched. Erin definitely loves to torture your heart with all her characters but these two loved to do it the most but in a good way.
Levi no matter how hard he tried never stopped loving Hannah but wouldn’t say it in fear she would leave again. And Hannah thought that she was doing what she thought was best for Levi. I kept screaming in my head at them both to just grow a pair and tell each other how they feel and everything that has happened. It was frustrating but so worth the wait when they finally did. I may have cried when it happened but that’s okay🥹
When you started this book make sure that you have the rest of the day free because you won’t wanna put the book down. Trust me it was all I could think about while I was working. I couldn’t wait to get home to read the rest of their story. I am still thinking about this book weeks later.
Levi no matter how hard he tried never stopped loving Hannah but wouldn’t say it in fear she would leave again. And Hannah thought that she was doing what she thought was best for Levi. I kept screaming in my head at them both to just grow a pair and tell each other how they feel and everything that has happened. It was frustrating but so worth the wait when they finally did. I may have cried when it happened but that’s okay🥹
When you started this book make sure that you have the rest of the day free because you won’t wanna put the book down. Trust me it was all I could think about while I was working. I couldn’t wait to get home to read the rest of their story. I am still thinking about this book weeks later.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2025
The Wages of Silence is part of the Colson Creek romance series. Levi and Hannah have a past and share a daughter, but Hannah has been in California for the past thirty years pursuing her acting career. Now she’s returning home to help her dad and she’s back in Levi’s life again. Hannah never told anyone why she left all those years ago, but her past is about to merge with her presence once again. Will Levi be able to win Hannah over again or will outside forces keep them apart?
I have enjoyed this series from the beginning and was excited to see Levi’s story. This romance was easy to get into and had me invested from the beginning. The suspense and mystery elements of this book really drove the storyline and made it a quick read. I liked Levi and Hannah together and enjoyed their story. If you like second chance, small town romances this is a great book to check out. Now I can’t wait to see what comes next in this series!
I have enjoyed this series from the beginning and was excited to see Levi’s story. This romance was easy to get into and had me invested from the beginning. The suspense and mystery elements of this book really drove the storyline and made it a quick read. I liked Levi and Hannah together and enjoyed their story. If you like second chance, small town romances this is a great book to check out. Now I can’t wait to see what comes next in this series!
September 15, 2025
Hannah left town and left Levi & their infant daughter behind. Now, 30 years later, the hollywood star is back in town and wants to stay. Levi never knew the reason why she left but turns out it was way more complicated than he expected. I adored Levi. His heart was always on Hannah - she was ingrained deep in his soul - and he never moved on from her. Hannah had her reasons for disappearing, but her heart was always with Levi too. I definitely was rooting for their HEA.
I love this Benson family. They have each other's backs no matter what. Once that suspense really started, I couldn't stop. I NEEDED to know what was happening. So many twists and turns and it kept me on the edge of my seat. And that ending though!! Erin, why did you do that to me?! I need Ben's book, STAT.
What to expect:
🩵Romantic Suspense
🩵Later in Life (48/50)
🩵Single Dad
🩵Second Chance
🩵It's Always Been You
The Wages of Silence releases September 16. Thank you Erin FitzGerald for this ARC.
I love this Benson family. They have each other's backs no matter what. Once that suspense really started, I couldn't stop. I NEEDED to know what was happening. So many twists and turns and it kept me on the edge of my seat. And that ending though!! Erin, why did you do that to me?! I need Ben's book, STAT.
What to expect:
🩵Romantic Suspense
🩵Later in Life (48/50)
🩵Single Dad
🩵Second Chance
🩵It's Always Been You
The Wages of Silence releases September 16. Thank you Erin FitzGerald for this ARC.
September 17, 2025
I swear this series just keeps getting better. This is my favorite so far. The Wages of Silence is a small town, second chance, suspenseful romance packing Erin's signature angst, feels, and heartfelt writing style. The story is told in dual pov and follows the MCs Hannah and Levi. This was the book that many of us have been waiting on and it was EVERYTHING I hoped it would be. I vibed so hard on this one. I loved the characters, the representation, and the backstory. The suspenseful plot was another great element which always makes Erin's story so addictive and this book kept me fully immersed. If you love small town, suspenseful romance and haven't tried any of Erin's books you are missing out. This series is so good, a TBR MUST.
Title: The Wages of Silence📚
Author: Erin Fitzgerald
Series: Colson Creek (book 3)
Themes & Tropes:
🩵Small Town
🤎Found Family
💛It Was Always You
🩵Single Parent
🤎 Second Chance
💛 Military Representation
Overall, loved this read.♥️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐.5
Title: The Wages of Silence📚
Author: Erin Fitzgerald
Series: Colson Creek (book 3)
Themes & Tropes:
🩵Small Town
🤎Found Family
💛It Was Always You
🩵Single Parent
🤎 Second Chance
💛 Military Representation
Overall, loved this read.♥️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐.5
September 14, 2025
What a page turner! I absolutely loved Levi and Hannah’s story. Perfect second chance romance
Levi and Hannah seemed to be in love back in the day. They were married and had a daughter. One day Hannah was gone leaving Levi to raise Jessa. Wait til you find out why she left! She came back after 30 years because of her dad. Why? You will see. Now that she’s back, what is in store for Levi and Hannah? Can they get back what they had? Will Hannah’s secret tear them apart for good or bring them closer together? It surely seems like Levi is guarded, but his feelings for Hannah still seem to be there. When a certain event happens and Hannah goes missing again, will she be found? Wait til you find out!
My favorite saying in this book was “Never Let Go.” Toward the end you will see why. Now I’m ready for Ben’s story.
Levi and Hannah seemed to be in love back in the day. They were married and had a daughter. One day Hannah was gone leaving Levi to raise Jessa. Wait til you find out why she left! She came back after 30 years because of her dad. Why? You will see. Now that she’s back, what is in store for Levi and Hannah? Can they get back what they had? Will Hannah’s secret tear them apart for good or bring them closer together? It surely seems like Levi is guarded, but his feelings for Hannah still seem to be there. When a certain event happens and Hannah goes missing again, will she be found? Wait til you find out!
My favorite saying in this book was “Never Let Go.” Toward the end you will see why. Now I’m ready for Ben’s story.
October 21, 2025
So, no one writes romance with suspense as Erin does, and I think this best the other two innthe Colson creek series.
The crazy bantering family is all over the place but share so much love so that my heart melts every time. I wrote to Erin when I started reading that this book feels like a warm hug, to come home.
I’ve been looking forward to Levi and Hannah’s book from the start because I really liked the movie star trope. That trope was not the biggest part of this book, instead it focuses on their way back to each other after 30 years apart.
There are so many side characters popping in from all of Erin’s previous books, which made me wanna buy them (the books) all straight away, but that would ruin me financially….
So there is a lot of heartbreak and some pining, sadness as well as heartwarming moments. And then comes the mystery on top..
The crazy bantering family is all over the place but share so much love so that my heart melts every time. I wrote to Erin when I started reading that this book feels like a warm hug, to come home.
I’ve been looking forward to Levi and Hannah’s book from the start because I really liked the movie star trope. That trope was not the biggest part of this book, instead it focuses on their way back to each other after 30 years apart.
There are so many side characters popping in from all of Erin’s previous books, which made me wanna buy them (the books) all straight away, but that would ruin me financially….
So there is a lot of heartbreak and some pining, sadness as well as heartwarming moments. And then comes the mystery on top..
September 9, 2025
Erin Fitzgerald has added another brilliant book to this great series set in Colson Creek, Minnesota and featuring the Benson brothers. Levi Benson has never got over wife Hannah leaving him for the bright lights of Hollywood, but when he enters the family house one day he comes face to face with her. It appears that she is now back. The chemistry between them is still very much there but he wants answers to why she originally left. As the book develops we find out her reasons for leaving Levi literally holding the baby when she moved to Hollywood leaving him and baby daughter Jessa behind. She says it was for their safety but initially won’t say anymore than that. I really love how this is paced with plenty of drama, sexual tension, steamy scenes but also some humour. The lives of each brother and their families is touched on throughout showing how close knit they are. Thank you very much to Erin for the ARC ~ really looking forward to the next one!
September 17, 2025
The Wages of Silence follows the second chance love story of Levi and Hannah, and is Book 3 in the Colson Creek series. There is something bittersweet about their reunion after so many years forced to be apart and the author does well to convey the weight of their missed time together without it bringing the whole story down into sadness. I loved how the main characters are drawn back to each other -like moths to a flame. The author paints farm life and large blended families so well that it is easy to imagine the lives of the characters, and easy to fall in love with them. I am incredibly excited to read Ben’s story next -especially after his last words at the end of this book! I highly recommend this series!
September 15, 2025
The Colson Creek series continues with this book in which we get to know Levi’s and Hannah’s story.
These two are getting their second chance at love and let me tell you they won’t miss it.
I think Levi’s vulnerability is sweet, but somehow I don’t get it at his age. I would rather have a Levi more sure of himself, but that’s just me.
Hannah is a force, obviously she has her own reasons for every decision she’s made in the past, but I liked her and her boldness.
The brothers are bantering as always, this family doesn’t know how to talk normal to each other obviously.
And, I need to mention that I loooved the second part of the book more that the first. Erin, the action and the suspense was soo good! I was captivated by it.
Overall a great book, if you like midlife and second chance romance, small town and romantic suspense just grab it. You’ll love it too.
These two are getting their second chance at love and let me tell you they won’t miss it.
I think Levi’s vulnerability is sweet, but somehow I don’t get it at his age. I would rather have a Levi more sure of himself, but that’s just me.
Hannah is a force, obviously she has her own reasons for every decision she’s made in the past, but I liked her and her boldness.
The brothers are bantering as always, this family doesn’t know how to talk normal to each other obviously.
And, I need to mention that I loooved the second part of the book more that the first. Erin, the action and the suspense was soo good! I was captivated by it.
Overall a great book, if you like midlife and second chance romance, small town and romantic suspense just grab it. You’ll love it too.
September 15, 2025
Tropes:
-suspense
-found family
-single parent
-second chance
-it was always you
-small town
-midlife
The Wages of Silence is book three in the Colson Creek series and is Hannah and Levi's story.
This is a wonderful blend of storytelling with laughs but also suspense. Hannah is back in town, and the chemistry never left her and Levi.
Erin always knows how to write a story that intrigues you. There's depth to the story and filled with emotions. There isn't much spice in the book, but the story doesn't need it. It is a wonderful story of lost loves and second chances.
Releasing September 16, 2025. I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
-suspense
-found family
-single parent
-second chance
-it was always you
-small town
-midlife
The Wages of Silence is book three in the Colson Creek series and is Hannah and Levi's story.
This is a wonderful blend of storytelling with laughs but also suspense. Hannah is back in town, and the chemistry never left her and Levi.
Erin always knows how to write a story that intrigues you. There's depth to the story and filled with emotions. There isn't much spice in the book, but the story doesn't need it. It is a wonderful story of lost loves and second chances.
Releasing September 16, 2025. I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 22, 2025
I feel like I’ve said this a hundred times already, but one thing I know for sure is when I pick up an Erin Fitzgerald book, I’m about to experience some of the best writing and storytelling and she hasn’t let me down yet.
Like most of her books, this one was a slow burn, but it was packed with romance, a bit of mystery, and so much fun banter not only between Levi and Hannah but especially between the Benson brothers.
I was genuinely surprised by Levi and Hannah’s story particularly the secret reason she left and I absolutely loved watching them rediscover each other. Their journey felt real, emotional, and honest.And let me just say: the plot twists….I did not see them coming. Multiple moments completely shocked me.
One of my favorite scenes had to be when Levi saw Dante at the cabin his reaction was so unlike what Levi portrays, I couldn’t stop smiling. And of course, as always we continue to protect our queen Donna, now and forever.
So overall I really enjoyed this one and if you read this then you saw the last line … which means you know we’re all now (impatiently) waiting for Ben’s book!
Like most of her books, this one was a slow burn, but it was packed with romance, a bit of mystery, and so much fun banter not only between Levi and Hannah but especially between the Benson brothers.
I was genuinely surprised by Levi and Hannah’s story particularly the secret reason she left and I absolutely loved watching them rediscover each other. Their journey felt real, emotional, and honest.And let me just say: the plot twists….I did not see them coming. Multiple moments completely shocked me.
One of my favorite scenes had to be when Levi saw Dante at the cabin his reaction was so unlike what Levi portrays, I couldn’t stop smiling. And of course, as always we continue to protect our queen Donna, now and forever.
So overall I really enjoyed this one and if you read this then you saw the last line … which means you know we’re all now (impatiently) waiting for Ben’s book!
October 22, 2025
Levi and Hannah. Second chance romance. 30 years apart. What more could you need? Erin you have outdone yourself and I’m so glad this book helped pulled me farther out of my slump. This book is truly such a deep book and I am obsessed with your writing style. You always know how to keep me on the edge, always making me laugh, and always making sure I am bawling like a baby. I truly have loved every bit of this series and this book really stole my heart. The Bensons are so great and I absolutely love the character development throughout this series. I cannot thank you enough for giving me the opportunity to read this book!
October 30, 2025
Ohh the second chance romance!! Levi has been longing to have his girl back for decades. She left to pursue her big Hollywood dreams but left behind Levi and their sweet daughter. She comes back home to support her dad and all of the pent of feelings come rushing back. However, Levi is reserved and leery of letting her back in. Throughout the story, we find out the reasons behind her leaving and he begins to see where she thought she did the right thing. Their love that withstood decades of separation was beautiful!
The only thing that didn't quite hit like previous books in the series was the suspense. Her disappearing was done well but the actual rescue was a let down for me. Too easy and didn't really feel as real as the other suspense experience in the other books. Overall great book but I wish there was more in that section.
The only thing that didn't quite hit like previous books in the series was the suspense. Her disappearing was done well but the actual rescue was a let down for me. Too easy and didn't really feel as real as the other suspense experience in the other books. Overall great book but I wish there was more in that section.
September 10, 2025
ARC Review
I was so ready to go back to Colson Creek and Hannah and Levi's story did not disappoint. Once again Erin FitzGerald delivered and left me wanting more.
I was hooked on the tension between Levi and Hannah from the beginning. Their push and pull had me turning pages late at night. I really enjoyed the pace of the events in the book and the way the tension between Levi and Hannah developed.
The book was filled with secrets and suspense and kept me hooked all the way through.
Another great book. I can't wait to go back to Colson Creek again :)
I was so ready to go back to Colson Creek and Hannah and Levi's story did not disappoint. Once again Erin FitzGerald delivered and left me wanting more.
I was hooked on the tension between Levi and Hannah from the beginning. Their push and pull had me turning pages late at night. I really enjoyed the pace of the events in the book and the way the tension between Levi and Hannah developed.
The book was filled with secrets and suspense and kept me hooked all the way through.
Another great book. I can't wait to go back to Colson Creek again :)
September 17, 2025
Loved this! It's Levi & Hannah's story & it was a great one! They were married when they were young, but there's a lot going on here. She ends up leaving & stays away for a long time; but she has secrets & when her dad becomes ill, she goes back home. Unfortunately, when she left Levi & their daughter all those years ago, she left a mess in her wake. But she has secrets of her own & I'm so happy they were able to be together again. There's a lot happening here, secrets come to light & a lot of things are uncovered. Loved the spice & the story! Highly recommend this book & author!
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