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True North
Scarred. Hopeless. Lost.
Alexa Cross leaves Los Angeles with a scarred heart, beat-up car, and a secret. She’s ready to move on and leave her past behind, but fate has had a way of knocking her right back down. Marooned in the middle of nowhere—she imagines misfortune has dealt its final blow, but this time, destiny seems to have a different plan when she ends up in a place aptly called The Last Resort.
Reassembling shattered lives is what innately sexy, bar owner, Zane Abbamonte, does best, and it rarely ends well for him. When he sees a woman stranded on the side of the road, desperate and alone, the otherwise irascible biker rescues her without hesitation, but Zane harbors secrets of his own. When Alexa begins to uncover the truth about Zane, the weight of her past comes crashing back. Her instincts say, “Run!” but her heart tells her to stay.
Glimpsing the chance for a future together, Zane and Alexa must confront their “ghosts” and navigate through their fears. Will The Last Resort be the end of their encounter or the beginning of everything they desire?
Find out in True North.
170 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 13, 2014
111 people are currently reading
448 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Collins
172 books1,087 followersKelly Collins is a bestselling, award-winning author of feel-good small-town romance filled with heart, heat, and happily-ever-afters. Her books are perfect for readers who crave heartwarming contemporary love stories, sassy heroines, and slow-burn romances with cinnamon roll heroes you’ll wish were real.
With humor, charm, and emotional depth, Kelly brings to life tight-knit towns, unforgettable characters, and the kind of love that feels like coming home. When she’s not plotting her next happily-ever-after, she’s sipping strong coffee and dreaming up heroes who are tough on the outside and gooey in the middle.
Come for the charm, stay for the swoon—and don’t be surprised if you fall in love with the whole town.
Visit www.authorkellycollins.com to grab a free book and discover your next favorite escape.
Click “Follow” to get updates on new releases, special deals, and exclusive content.
You can learn more about Kelly at www.authorkellycollins.com.
VISIT MY LINKS and Get a FREE BOOK!
https://msha.ke/kellycollinsbooks#links
COME FIND ME ON BOOKBUB
www.bookbub.com/authors/kelly-collins
With humor, charm, and emotional depth, Kelly brings to life tight-knit towns, unforgettable characters, and the kind of love that feels like coming home. When she’s not plotting her next happily-ever-after, she’s sipping strong coffee and dreaming up heroes who are tough on the outside and gooey in the middle.
Come for the charm, stay for the swoon—and don’t be surprised if you fall in love with the whole town.
Visit www.authorkellycollins.com to grab a free book and discover your next favorite escape.
Click “Follow” to get updates on new releases, special deals, and exclusive content.
You can learn more about Kelly at www.authorkellycollins.com.
VISIT MY LINKS and Get a FREE BOOK!
https://msha.ke/kellycollinsbooks#links
COME FIND ME ON BOOKBUB
www.bookbub.com/authors/kelly-collins
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
January 6, 2015
I love surprises and this little freebie was packed with pleasant surprises from the very start. One small “twist” simply stole my heart and kept me thrilled with my lucky draw. A first read by this author, I definitely will look for future stories by Kelly Collins.
Both the main characters, Alexa and Zane, are normal everyday people working to make a living and hoping to find true happiness and love. Up to this point, they each have had a few bumps in the road making them a little standoffish and leery of each other. The attraction is immediate but the relationship takes its time in building into what becomes combustible. From their first encounter alongside a hot and lonely roadside, I was hooked. Alexa and Zane are just very likeable and captivating to get to know.
You’ll also enjoy meeting the zany and endearing cast of secondary characters who keep this one in the happy zone. True North is a sweet and sexy gem that brought with it a fun-filled afternoon of reading.
December 29, 2014
I was gifted a copy of True North by Kelly Collins for a book club I belong to. It's my first exposure to her stories, and will definitely not be my last. I devoured this story in one sitting. I was so happy to finally read a love story that actually seemed plausible and real. No billionaire, no school girl, no 'this is just too good to be true' theme. The story starts with Alexa, newly divorced after a terrible marriage, heading anywhere but where she was, to start a new life. Along the way she hits a bump in the road, and is rescued by Zane, a gruff, inpatient, bulk of a man. He offers her a job at his bar to help her get back on her feet, and to help get him out of being left high-and-dry by a non-existent waitstaff. Along the way, the two become friends, and while trying to deny their attraction, and with both of them dealing with the little surprises life has thrown their way, love takes hold and starts to fill them both with a new sense of hope. The past always has a way of coming back to haunt us though, and when it does, will Alexa and Zane be strong enough to overcome? Definitely worth reading to find out. You will not be disappointed.
April 7, 2016
Favorite Quotes:
“I’m not willing to give up anything right now. Selfish as it may seem, I want it all, and I want it now. I’m a modern day Veruca Salt.”
“You’ll never get to the end of my story, sweets. I’m a work in progress; I’m regularly getting edited and re-released.”
“The best part of my day is coming home to find you cleaning. It’s the best type of foreplay imaginable. I just love a man with dishpan hands. It’s a total turn on.”
My Review:
True North is a steamy and sweet second chance at life and romance for a weary pair of strangers. A dusty road ride rescue outside a small town leads to an entirely new world for a newly divorced woman whose only goal and direction was to leave her old life in her rear view mirror. She was rescued in more ways than one by the end of this quick and emotive story. The characters were likable and endearing, and the story was easy to follow and heart squeezing at times. Kelly Collins has mastered the art of sensual romance.
“I’m not willing to give up anything right now. Selfish as it may seem, I want it all, and I want it now. I’m a modern day Veruca Salt.”
“You’ll never get to the end of my story, sweets. I’m a work in progress; I’m regularly getting edited and re-released.”
“The best part of my day is coming home to find you cleaning. It’s the best type of foreplay imaginable. I just love a man with dishpan hands. It’s a total turn on.”
My Review:
True North is a steamy and sweet second chance at life and romance for a weary pair of strangers. A dusty road ride rescue outside a small town leads to an entirely new world for a newly divorced woman whose only goal and direction was to leave her old life in her rear view mirror. She was rescued in more ways than one by the end of this quick and emotive story. The characters were likable and endearing, and the story was easy to follow and heart squeezing at times. Kelly Collins has mastered the art of sensual romance.
December 28, 2014
I was gifted this book through Clip's Chapter Chat, the author generously provided us with copies of True North and we all give an honest reviews in return. Thank you for allowing me to be part of this!
True North by Kelly Collins is such a sweet story about starting over. When everything is falling down around you, all you want to do is run. Alexa did just that, she ran from her failed marriage, away from a disappointed family and away with a secret.
Alexa starts out without very much money, a beat up car, cheap clothes and her laptop. She is looking for a fresh start, three hours out of the gate, and that cheap car breaks down on her. Just her luck, she is in the middle of no where in horrible heat! After being out for several hours someone finally rescues her!
Zane, a swoon worthy bar owner, with secrets of his own is her hero (even if she doesn't want to admit that). He ends up putting her to work, not offering her a job but more or less making her work. Things are a little rocky for them at first. She makes judgments on his behaviors without all the information.
Both of these characters have had a hard go of things, both are hiding secrets. They both have been done wrong. Both of them are lost and think that they can't get past the things in their past, that no one will ever really love them again.
This was such a sweet read and I really felt the pain that Alexa had for her problems. Then the love she shared for Zane and his "little family". Such a heartwarming read, and will leave you hoping you will get more stories about Zane and Alexa.
In my honest opinion, I give True North 4 Stars!
True North by Kelly Collins is such a sweet story about starting over. When everything is falling down around you, all you want to do is run. Alexa did just that, she ran from her failed marriage, away from a disappointed family and away with a secret.
Alexa starts out without very much money, a beat up car, cheap clothes and her laptop. She is looking for a fresh start, three hours out of the gate, and that cheap car breaks down on her. Just her luck, she is in the middle of no where in horrible heat! After being out for several hours someone finally rescues her!
Zane, a swoon worthy bar owner, with secrets of his own is her hero (even if she doesn't want to admit that). He ends up putting her to work, not offering her a job but more or less making her work. Things are a little rocky for them at first. She makes judgments on his behaviors without all the information.
Both of these characters have had a hard go of things, both are hiding secrets. They both have been done wrong. Both of them are lost and think that they can't get past the things in their past, that no one will ever really love them again.
This was such a sweet read and I really felt the pain that Alexa had for her problems. Then the love she shared for Zane and his "little family". Such a heartwarming read, and will leave you hoping you will get more stories about Zane and Alexa.
In my honest opinion, I give True North 4 Stars!
December 26, 2014
Great Hearts Come With Great Wounds
Alexa is running from her past, a failed marriage, and a secret of her own. Not sure of where she's going and what she wants in life, Alexa leaves the only world she's ever known and the people who was supposed to love her and sets out on a journey to find herself.....
The journey to find herself starts out rough. Alexis car breaks down, leaving her hot, stranded, and dehydrated. After hours of being stranded in the sweltering heat, Zane a muscular, handsome stranger comes to Alexis rescue.
Zane...a man of mystery, bar owner, and secrets of his own helps Alexis pick up the pieces of her broken heart, and teaches her to trust again.
This story is about two people who are lost. Two people that think that there past makes them "unreedemable" in the eyes of others until they find in each other the love and acceptance that they both have desperately been looking for.
Zane is swoon worthy and almost to good to be true. He becomes the compass in the darkness that Alexis is searching for. Alexis is a woman whose heart is a deep ocean of secrets, letting her past dictate her future.
Alexis never expected to find her home in his arms. Zane hadn't realized until recently how meaningless his life had been without having her to share it with.
This book will leave you wanting more. Kelly Collins did an amazing job with this story and hopefully there will be more in the future for Alexis and Zane's story, that it just won't end there.
(Donated Novel from the Author) (Written Reviewby Rory Lampley)
Alexa is running from her past, a failed marriage, and a secret of her own. Not sure of where she's going and what she wants in life, Alexa leaves the only world she's ever known and the people who was supposed to love her and sets out on a journey to find herself.....
The journey to find herself starts out rough. Alexis car breaks down, leaving her hot, stranded, and dehydrated. After hours of being stranded in the sweltering heat, Zane a muscular, handsome stranger comes to Alexis rescue.
Zane...a man of mystery, bar owner, and secrets of his own helps Alexis pick up the pieces of her broken heart, and teaches her to trust again.
This story is about two people who are lost. Two people that think that there past makes them "unreedemable" in the eyes of others until they find in each other the love and acceptance that they both have desperately been looking for.
Zane is swoon worthy and almost to good to be true. He becomes the compass in the darkness that Alexis is searching for. Alexis is a woman whose heart is a deep ocean of secrets, letting her past dictate her future.
Alexis never expected to find her home in his arms. Zane hadn't realized until recently how meaningless his life had been without having her to share it with.
This book will leave you wanting more. Kelly Collins did an amazing job with this story and hopefully there will be more in the future for Alexis and Zane's story, that it just won't end there.
(Donated Novel from the Author) (Written Reviewby Rory Lampley)
November 16, 2014
>Book Review - True North
>This is a stand alone book and ends with an HEA.
>Alexa just escaped a bad marriage and a horrible divorce that succeeded in separating her from her parents also. She leaves with just some money and her purse. Driving a piece of crap car, Alexa beaks down in a deserted area out side of LA. Fate brings Zane by in his truck to rescue her and her car. Living in a motel across the street from a bar, Alexa enters the bar to a new life.
>Zane is a single father, struggling to raise his son, care for an ailing mother and run a bar. Alexa begins working for him and the sparks fly. The romance happens quickly and is beautiful to see. I thought there would be a bit of a custody battle, but nothing like that ever came to fruition. The scenes with baby Aaron and his grandma were so touching. I would have liked more interaction with some of the bar "regulars", but other than that, this story was a sweet HEA with a sexy, alpha lead, a woman who is learning her worth and the cutest baby ever!
> This book is for an adult (18+) audience due to sexual content. I recommend this story for anyone who enjoys a positive love story.
November 17, 2014
This is a book that makes you feel. you will feel loss, hope, despair and love!! (And there is a bit of hot,sexy steam thrown in too!!)
Alexa and Zane are two people who are lost. Life hasn't gone to plan for either of them. They have both found themselves in less than ideal situations.
That is, until they find each other.
They don't try to fix each other, instead they heal together.
Alexa & Zane embark on a journey teaching them what is like to be in an equal relationship and not be taken for granted.
Their story is about their past bringing then into their present & giving them a future to look forward to.
There are a couple of twists in here to keep you on your toes, but over all this is a true love story.
Kelly Collins has captured the true meaning of what it is to love and be loved.
I am determined not to give any spoilers in this review, but, I will warn you, before you start reading True North, you need to settle into a comfy chair with your cup of tea, coffee or glass of wine, because once you start reading this beautiful treasure, you won't want to put it down until the end. (Oh you may want to keep some tissues handy too!!)
Alexa and Zane are two people who are lost. Life hasn't gone to plan for either of them. They have both found themselves in less than ideal situations.
That is, until they find each other.
They don't try to fix each other, instead they heal together.
Alexa & Zane embark on a journey teaching them what is like to be in an equal relationship and not be taken for granted.
Their story is about their past bringing then into their present & giving them a future to look forward to.
There are a couple of twists in here to keep you on your toes, but over all this is a true love story.
Kelly Collins has captured the true meaning of what it is to love and be loved.
I am determined not to give any spoilers in this review, but, I will warn you, before you start reading True North, you need to settle into a comfy chair with your cup of tea, coffee or glass of wine, because once you start reading this beautiful treasure, you won't want to put it down until the end. (Oh you may want to keep some tissues handy too!!)
April 7, 2016
I received a copy from the Author in return for an honest review.
What a sweet, comfortable and comforting story this was for me to read in the wee small hours of this morning.
Alexa is seeking her true north when her clunker car breaks down miles from anywhere. Along comes a Good Samaritan and her life and his are changed forever. Alexa has had a rough time for several years and is finally striking out on her own to regroup, find her true self again and locate a place to settle down – little did she believe she would find it in smallish town Sugar Glen. Working as a waitress in Zane’s bar provides a new fulfilling experience for her. She eventually learns Zane is more than he appears to be at first glimpse and that there is great friend potential with perhaps more of a relationship to be explored in the future. This is was a fun read and though I don’t usually enjoy first person present tense stories this one worked. I enjoyed the development of Alexa and Zane’s relationship and the fact that there were no terrible break-ups in their relationship just past problems from their lives to deal with together.
What a sweet, comfortable and comforting story this was for me to read in the wee small hours of this morning.
Alexa is seeking her true north when her clunker car breaks down miles from anywhere. Along comes a Good Samaritan and her life and his are changed forever. Alexa has had a rough time for several years and is finally striking out on her own to regroup, find her true self again and locate a place to settle down – little did she believe she would find it in smallish town Sugar Glen. Working as a waitress in Zane’s bar provides a new fulfilling experience for her. She eventually learns Zane is more than he appears to be at first glimpse and that there is great friend potential with perhaps more of a relationship to be explored in the future. This is was a fun read and though I don’t usually enjoy first person present tense stories this one worked. I enjoyed the development of Alexa and Zane’s relationship and the fact that there were no terrible break-ups in their relationship just past problems from their lives to deal with together.
September 9, 2015
sweet story 4.5 stars
This was s pleasant surprise. This book grabs your attention from page 1. All the characters were likeable , except Tyler, the story was well paced, & kept you entertained. I really enjoyed this one.
This was s pleasant surprise. This book grabs your attention from page 1. All the characters were likeable , except Tyler, the story was well paced, & kept you entertained. I really enjoyed this one.
May 4, 2016
What a sweet book, I love books with a single dad, I love the way Zane is, I understand the way Alexa after everything that happened to her. The story was so, so sweet. All those misunderstandings was funny. Alexa is an awesome girl, strong even when she feels weak.
February 21, 2018
So cute
Loved it. I kept expecting the worse, the other shoe to drop but was happy to get a happy ending.
Loved it. I kept expecting the worse, the other shoe to drop but was happy to get a happy ending.
February 17, 2018
Awesome
Wow so inspiring, such hope, and beyond sweet to have the best happen from a chance encounter was awesome. Well worth reading.
Wow so inspiring, such hope, and beyond sweet to have the best happen from a chance encounter was awesome. Well worth reading.
April 18, 2016
What a lovely heartwarming story of one girl running away from the man who is her worse nightmare to the man who could be her dream come true. It is pretty bad when you walk away leaving everything behind pick up a piece of junk car buy second hand clothes just to get away from those you thought loved you who let you down. One crazy ex who never liked you must less love you. All it takes is one action, one word and your whole world falls apart.
Alex's is on the run from anything and very thing she has ever known. All it took was one cheating ex and her estranged family to know she must find some peace. On the way her car breaks down when an overpowering man stops and gives her a lift. She made the mistake of going to his bar to eat where he pushes her to clean tables and serve his customers. JUST who does he think he is? One night he goes too far pushing her to the edge as she goes to his house to give him a piece of her mind only to find the most unexpected surprise of her life.
Zane would be any women’s dream man he might be a little pushy it is just his protectiveness coming out. He is a big bad biker dude who bought a bar when his mother needed him to come home. He has the heart of gold but NO BODY and I mean NO BODY messes with those he loves.
This author took my heart and handed it back to me with her writing style that took my breath away. She gives you the big bad man and turns him in to a softy that you just want to grab and take home to mother. Then comes along Alex who breaks your heart as you learn her story just how much does one person have to deal with before they break. Zane is about to find out when he blows his top cutting Alex to pieces with his words. Now he must fix it as he finds out just what caused her melt down. Can he find the words to melt her heart and make her give them the chance to find a HAE?
Just when you think you have a handle on the story the author throws in a twist that rips your heart out or makes you laugh and you think I sure wasn’t expecting that. Out of all the romances I have read I can’t think of two people who deserve to be together then these two. This was a story I could relate to when I was young I had a friend who married and after the baby came she found herself more or less in Alex shoes. I would have to say that is the most mind blowing thing a women can go through.
The author gives you a story with wonderful characters that will just about bring you to tears from their issues to their ending. I was so invested in this story I didn’t want it to end. The author gives you everything you come to expect from true romance: anger, hurt, lost souls, betrayal, secrets, a past, two hearts that beat as one to make this one of the best reads for 2016. The author put a lot of time and thought into writing this. I really doubt you could read this and not have it touch you. I know you will fall in love with the characters as much as I have. I laughed out loud, smiled, chuckled and was almost in tears throughout this outstanding story.
This was a highly entertaining read with an even pace as the characters learn about each other. It is filled with smiles, passion that will curl your toes. The first kiss really got to me how he made her feel special. When his secret comes out and he finds out what she was thinking I totally lost it laughing hard never saw that coming. When you find out Alex whole secret you want to cry for her again never saw that coming. This book is full of one surprise after another. I totally loved this story. You are so going to love this story and this author.
Alex's is on the run from anything and very thing she has ever known. All it took was one cheating ex and her estranged family to know she must find some peace. On the way her car breaks down when an overpowering man stops and gives her a lift. She made the mistake of going to his bar to eat where he pushes her to clean tables and serve his customers. JUST who does he think he is? One night he goes too far pushing her to the edge as she goes to his house to give him a piece of her mind only to find the most unexpected surprise of her life.
Zane would be any women’s dream man he might be a little pushy it is just his protectiveness coming out. He is a big bad biker dude who bought a bar when his mother needed him to come home. He has the heart of gold but NO BODY and I mean NO BODY messes with those he loves.
This author took my heart and handed it back to me with her writing style that took my breath away. She gives you the big bad man and turns him in to a softy that you just want to grab and take home to mother. Then comes along Alex who breaks your heart as you learn her story just how much does one person have to deal with before they break. Zane is about to find out when he blows his top cutting Alex to pieces with his words. Now he must fix it as he finds out just what caused her melt down. Can he find the words to melt her heart and make her give them the chance to find a HAE?
Just when you think you have a handle on the story the author throws in a twist that rips your heart out or makes you laugh and you think I sure wasn’t expecting that. Out of all the romances I have read I can’t think of two people who deserve to be together then these two. This was a story I could relate to when I was young I had a friend who married and after the baby came she found herself more or less in Alex shoes. I would have to say that is the most mind blowing thing a women can go through.
The author gives you a story with wonderful characters that will just about bring you to tears from their issues to their ending. I was so invested in this story I didn’t want it to end. The author gives you everything you come to expect from true romance: anger, hurt, lost souls, betrayal, secrets, a past, two hearts that beat as one to make this one of the best reads for 2016. The author put a lot of time and thought into writing this. I really doubt you could read this and not have it touch you. I know you will fall in love with the characters as much as I have. I laughed out loud, smiled, chuckled and was almost in tears throughout this outstanding story.
This was a highly entertaining read with an even pace as the characters learn about each other. It is filled with smiles, passion that will curl your toes. The first kiss really got to me how he made her feel special. When his secret comes out and he finds out what she was thinking I totally lost it laughing hard never saw that coming. When you find out Alex whole secret you want to cry for her again never saw that coming. This book is full of one surprise after another. I totally loved this story. You are so going to love this story and this author.
May 10, 2016
Please note this review may contain spoilers.
TRUE NORTH has been on my TBR list for a while and I finally decided it was time to read it. Zane rescues Alexa from her broken down car in the middle of nowhere. He takes her to his bar and quickly puts her to work as a way for her to earn some cash. Her initial opinion of him is not a good one, but everyone in town seems to love him, and when she learns the truth about what keeps him upstairs most of the day, it’s not long until she’s falling in love with him too.
Alexa is haunted by a bad marriage and a family that failed to protect her. Her husband may have left her slightly broken, but she’s strong and she’s determined to put herself back together. She wants nothing more than to go back to being the woman she was before her husband walked into her life. I really liked that about her. Zane is a nice guy and a protector. He has a soft spot for woman and children in need after his father abandoned his family when he was a child. They’re a very sweet couple, though I did think their sexy talk was a little mushy.
TRUE NORTH is a stand-alone and is told in Alexa’s POV. It was an enjoyable read, but I didn’t love it as much as I was hoping to. The story and romance moves very quickly and within a few days they meet, fall in love and move in together. Being that Zane like to protect people, he’s seeks out to get justice for Alexa and in the end, the HEA comes with everything being tied up neatly in a little bow.
For more reviews, please visit our website: www.romancebetweenthesheets.com
TRUE NORTH has been on my TBR list for a while and I finally decided it was time to read it. Zane rescues Alexa from her broken down car in the middle of nowhere. He takes her to his bar and quickly puts her to work as a way for her to earn some cash. Her initial opinion of him is not a good one, but everyone in town seems to love him, and when she learns the truth about what keeps him upstairs most of the day, it’s not long until she’s falling in love with him too.
Alexa is haunted by a bad marriage and a family that failed to protect her. Her husband may have left her slightly broken, but she’s strong and she’s determined to put herself back together. She wants nothing more than to go back to being the woman she was before her husband walked into her life. I really liked that about her. Zane is a nice guy and a protector. He has a soft spot for woman and children in need after his father abandoned his family when he was a child. They’re a very sweet couple, though I did think their sexy talk was a little mushy.
TRUE NORTH is a stand-alone and is told in Alexa’s POV. It was an enjoyable read, but I didn’t love it as much as I was hoping to. The story and romance moves very quickly and within a few days they meet, fall in love and move in together. Being that Zane like to protect people, he’s seeks out to get justice for Alexa and in the end, the HEA comes with everything being tied up neatly in a little bow.
For more reviews, please visit our website: www.romancebetweenthesheets.com
April 8, 2016
True North by Kelly Collins
Alexa Cross walks out of the court house, buys a used car, buys some clothes at a thrift store and rest of things she needs at Walmart. Heads for the highway and away from family, ex-husband and home. Away from life as she knew it. She had been dealt a rotten hand and needed a new fresh start.
Zane Abbamonte sees a woman on the side of the road and could not stop in time and Alexa thought he was just another person that would not stop. Who would know there was so little amount of traffic on that stretch of road? But Zane was able to turn around and head back to rescue Alexa.
Alexa and Zane are both carrying secrets. Zane owns a bar and he is a biker. Zane offers a job to Alexa as waitress at the bar and as she works there she sees young gals coming in, going up stairs and later Zane comes down buttoning his shirt, smelling of a fresh shower and Alexa's mind goes wild and she feels Zane is not decent. However there is a completely different reason.
Soon Zane breaks down the walls around Alexa and Alexa finds out things about Zane. Do they have a future together at the Last Resort Bar?
You have to read to find out, Kelly Collins is to be commended for writing a story that kept me reading and reading till the end. Such a good book and you really get to know Zane and Alexa!
Alexa Cross walks out of the court house, buys a used car, buys some clothes at a thrift store and rest of things she needs at Walmart. Heads for the highway and away from family, ex-husband and home. Away from life as she knew it. She had been dealt a rotten hand and needed a new fresh start.
Zane Abbamonte sees a woman on the side of the road and could not stop in time and Alexa thought he was just another person that would not stop. Who would know there was so little amount of traffic on that stretch of road? But Zane was able to turn around and head back to rescue Alexa.
Alexa and Zane are both carrying secrets. Zane owns a bar and he is a biker. Zane offers a job to Alexa as waitress at the bar and as she works there she sees young gals coming in, going up stairs and later Zane comes down buttoning his shirt, smelling of a fresh shower and Alexa's mind goes wild and she feels Zane is not decent. However there is a completely different reason.
Soon Zane breaks down the walls around Alexa and Alexa finds out things about Zane. Do they have a future together at the Last Resort Bar?
You have to read to find out, Kelly Collins is to be commended for writing a story that kept me reading and reading till the end. Such a good book and you really get to know Zane and Alexa!
August 19, 2016
3.5 stars
Really enjoyable quick, light, sweet story. An entertaining short listen with a HEA.
A second chance at love. Just when you don't expect it everything falls into place.
Really good lead characters. Zane is a stand-up honorable guy whose life has recently been turned upside down for a very lovable reason. Alexis has had her self worth and confidence destroyed by her ex-husband. The attraction is almost immediate but it takes a bit before they explore this attraction. Once they do sparks fly. Zane knows what he wants, now he needs to convince Alexis she is where she belongs.
The narration is done by Olga Wihelmine. This is the first time I have heard her narration of a book. She did a really good job, although there is not really any difference between her female and male voices. Clearly spoken. Nice voice, easy on the ears. I would definitely listen to more books she narrates.
Audio sounds hollow and you can hear the recording crackling in the background at times in the beginning. At the start of chapter 2 the sound is different and I didn't notice it anymore.
This audiobook was provided by author, narrator or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBoom.com
Really enjoyable quick, light, sweet story. An entertaining short listen with a HEA.
A second chance at love. Just when you don't expect it everything falls into place.
Really good lead characters. Zane is a stand-up honorable guy whose life has recently been turned upside down for a very lovable reason. Alexis has had her self worth and confidence destroyed by her ex-husband. The attraction is almost immediate but it takes a bit before they explore this attraction. Once they do sparks fly. Zane knows what he wants, now he needs to convince Alexis she is where she belongs.
The narration is done by Olga Wihelmine. This is the first time I have heard her narration of a book. She did a really good job, although there is not really any difference between her female and male voices. Clearly spoken. Nice voice, easy on the ears. I would definitely listen to more books she narrates.
Audio sounds hollow and you can hear the recording crackling in the background at times in the beginning. At the start of chapter 2 the sound is different and I didn't notice it anymore.
This audiobook was provided by author, narrator or publisher at no cost in exchange for an unbiased review courtesy of AudiobookBoom.com
January 26, 2017
DNF@ 43%
These characters have no personality at all. Are you kidding me that she has never done any work as a bartender or a waitress and she works like a pro the very first day with it being as busy as it was??? Yeah, right. And I'm sorry, but if you think a guy is having sex with teenager girls, and you are a decent human being, wouldn't you say something and try to stop it??? I mean, yeah, she wasn't going to be there long, but wouldn't you at least not want to work for him? That's just strange.
Maybe it's mentioned later in the book, but when he tells her that this woman called him from a hospital and he's to pick up his son, he doesn't even question that it's his?? I mean yeah I would go to the hospital but it seemed like he didn't even question that the baby was his or not.
Also, a tiny little thing, and I don't have kids so maybe this happens, but I got to the point where they go to the diner to eat food and he puts the baby on the seat next to him, it sounded like he put just the baby, who is only a couple months old on a dirty bench seat...wouldn't he need some sort of carrier or something? I don't know it just seemed weird. But again that's such a small thing but when the story isn't going anywhere like this one was, the little things like that are more annoying.
These characters have no personality at all. Are you kidding me that she has never done any work as a bartender or a waitress and she works like a pro the very first day with it being as busy as it was??? Yeah, right. And I'm sorry, but if you think a guy is having sex with teenager girls, and you are a decent human being, wouldn't you say something and try to stop it??? I mean, yeah, she wasn't going to be there long, but wouldn't you at least not want to work for him? That's just strange.
Maybe it's mentioned later in the book, but when he tells her that this woman called him from a hospital and he's to pick up his son, he doesn't even question that it's his?? I mean yeah I would go to the hospital but it seemed like he didn't even question that the baby was his or not.
Also, a tiny little thing, and I don't have kids so maybe this happens, but I got to the point where they go to the diner to eat food and he puts the baby on the seat next to him, it sounded like he put just the baby, who is only a couple months old on a dirty bench seat...wouldn't he need some sort of carrier or something? I don't know it just seemed weird. But again that's such a small thing but when the story isn't going anywhere like this one was, the little things like that are more annoying.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2016
Received this book from the Author for an honest review
If you have not read a book by Kelly get this one because Kelly knows
how to draw you on to her stories.
This book starts off with Alexa getting away from a bad marriage. She has broken down
she was at the side of the road for a few hours and she was just about to give up hope of
anyone stopping to give her a hand. At first Zane drove past her and she thought that was it but he
came back and took her to the next town which he also live in. he drop her off at the motel and got
someone to go and get her car to be repaired. Zane was the owner of the pub just over the road from
the motel. Alexa went over the road and Zane order her to serve in the pub .
That is the beginning of the story of how they met.
Alexa starts to have feelings for Zane and she falls in love with is baby son.
Will Alexa be able to put all of her hurts behind her to make a new life fore herself
and will she give Zane a change.
This is a beautiful story of how you do not have to let one bad relationship spoil everything
for you in the future
If you have not read a book by Kelly get this one because Kelly knows
how to draw you on to her stories.
This book starts off with Alexa getting away from a bad marriage. She has broken down
she was at the side of the road for a few hours and she was just about to give up hope of
anyone stopping to give her a hand. At first Zane drove past her and she thought that was it but he
came back and took her to the next town which he also live in. he drop her off at the motel and got
someone to go and get her car to be repaired. Zane was the owner of the pub just over the road from
the motel. Alexa went over the road and Zane order her to serve in the pub .
That is the beginning of the story of how they met.
Alexa starts to have feelings for Zane and she falls in love with is baby son.
Will Alexa be able to put all of her hurts behind her to make a new life fore herself
and will she give Zane a change.
This is a beautiful story of how you do not have to let one bad relationship spoil everything
for you in the future
May 23, 2017
https://celebrityreaders.wordpress.co...
The beginning was great. Then it just kinda lost steam. I felt her journey to find herself became something else entirely by the end. There were too many cliches thrown in. Misconceptions, deliberate misunderstandings, stuff like that. And I was rolling my eyes in the beginning but held out hope that it would get better. But then…
Everything seemed to be over-explained. As if the author didn’t think the reader would get the subtle nuances of the relationship. Which in turn forced the relationship to progress before it was ready. They moved in together incredibly early, especially for him being a parent. And I get the suspending of reality in a book, but I felt this was just too much to ask of us. And its not like I don’t get it could happen, hell, I moved in my then boyfriend (now-husband) two months after we started dating so I get a fast progressing love story. This one was just beyond my ability to believe.
By the end I was a bit disappointed honestly. It was a feel good book with no real climax. And sometimes those are good. but this time, for me, it was only okay.
The beginning was great. Then it just kinda lost steam. I felt her journey to find herself became something else entirely by the end. There were too many cliches thrown in. Misconceptions, deliberate misunderstandings, stuff like that. And I was rolling my eyes in the beginning but held out hope that it would get better. But then…
Everything seemed to be over-explained. As if the author didn’t think the reader would get the subtle nuances of the relationship. Which in turn forced the relationship to progress before it was ready. They moved in together incredibly early, especially for him being a parent. And I get the suspending of reality in a book, but I felt this was just too much to ask of us. And its not like I don’t get it could happen, hell, I moved in my then boyfriend (now-husband) two months after we started dating so I get a fast progressing love story. This one was just beyond my ability to believe.
By the end I was a bit disappointed honestly. It was a feel good book with no real climax. And sometimes those are good. but this time, for me, it was only okay.
February 3, 2022
Wow! This book was the first one I have read by Kelly Collins and it will certainly not be my last after reading this!
Alexa's car has broken down on a desert highway as she is escaping her ex-husband and past life. She is stranded out on the highway for several hours before being picked up by Zane, the owner of the bar Last Resort in the next town.
Alexa begins to waitress for Zane and although she is very attracted to him she is confused by the young girls headed up to his place. When Alexa is called to help out Zane in the middle of the night she learns his secret and becomes even more attracted to him.
Although Alexa wants to be happy she has many issues with self-image and confidence after her marriage unraveled and is not sure she is ready to trust again. When Tabitha, a fling from Zane's past shows up she must decide what she really wants from Zane and if she is ready to give herself completely to him.
As Alexa begins to share all of her secrets with Zane they must come to terms with everything and will Zane really turn out to be her saving grace?
Alexa's car has broken down on a desert highway as she is escaping her ex-husband and past life. She is stranded out on the highway for several hours before being picked up by Zane, the owner of the bar Last Resort in the next town.
Alexa begins to waitress for Zane and although she is very attracted to him she is confused by the young girls headed up to his place. When Alexa is called to help out Zane in the middle of the night she learns his secret and becomes even more attracted to him.
Although Alexa wants to be happy she has many issues with self-image and confidence after her marriage unraveled and is not sure she is ready to trust again. When Tabitha, a fling from Zane's past shows up she must decide what she really wants from Zane and if she is ready to give herself completely to him.
As Alexa begins to share all of her secrets with Zane they must come to terms with everything and will Zane really turn out to be her saving grace?
April 1, 2016
Received this book for an honest review from the author.
Taking Charge of My Destiny.
Finally free from the past and now I am taking back control of my life. Leaving the courthouse and getting in my junk heap of a car heading true north to my future.
Alexa has suffered a lot in the last four years trying to make her parents happy, staying married to a man that does not want you and giving up your free will. When everything comes crashing down there is no one in her corner and she feels all alone.
Taking control of her life leaves her stranded in the deserted highway on her way to a new life. The one person to stop and show her some kindness will help kick start her new chapter in life.
Zane life has changed in the last two years and he is the happier for it. Helping Alexa will change his life for the better. Two souls will help each other seal the hurts of the past.
The story was well worth reading.
Taking Charge of My Destiny.
Finally free from the past and now I am taking back control of my life. Leaving the courthouse and getting in my junk heap of a car heading true north to my future.
Alexa has suffered a lot in the last four years trying to make her parents happy, staying married to a man that does not want you and giving up your free will. When everything comes crashing down there is no one in her corner and she feels all alone.
Taking control of her life leaves her stranded in the deserted highway on her way to a new life. The one person to stop and show her some kindness will help kick start her new chapter in life.
Zane life has changed in the last two years and he is the happier for it. Helping Alexa will change his life for the better. Two souls will help each other seal the hurts of the past.
The story was well worth reading.
April 5, 2016
I received a copy from the Author in return for an honest review.
This was not my first Kelly Collins book. "The Dean's List" was my first and I loved it.
I have to say that I started out a little confused by the way Zane treats Alexa at the beginning of the story (sort of like she owes him big time for rescuing her). But by the time I hit the 22% mark, the story took a turn for the better. At this point you get to see what Zane's motivation is and what is actually happening in his life and he becomes really likable. Alexa remains a question mark for almost 2/3 of the book (at this point you get her back complete back story) and you finally get to understand why she acts like she does.
Once Zane's *secret/hidden truth/motivation* comes to light the story really picks up and it becomes the nucleus drawing these two together. Once Alexa is drawn into his life, she can slowly learn that there really are "Good Guys". This book is well worth reading and has no cliffhanger.
This was not my first Kelly Collins book. "The Dean's List" was my first and I loved it.
I have to say that I started out a little confused by the way Zane treats Alexa at the beginning of the story (sort of like she owes him big time for rescuing her). But by the time I hit the 22% mark, the story took a turn for the better. At this point you get to see what Zane's motivation is and what is actually happening in his life and he becomes really likable. Alexa remains a question mark for almost 2/3 of the book (at this point you get her back complete back story) and you finally get to understand why she acts like she does.
Once Zane's *secret/hidden truth/motivation* comes to light the story really picks up and it becomes the nucleus drawing these two together. Once Alexa is drawn into his life, she can slowly learn that there really are "Good Guys". This book is well worth reading and has no cliffhanger.
January 5, 2015
What a really sweet story , It had me hooked from beginning to end I just couldn't put it down. The story is about Alexa who is newly divorced from a terrible marriage and has decided to up and leave all the bad memories, she has no idea where she is going she just has to leave. Zane is a very gruff man but he is very sweet. They become friends after Alexa breaks down on the side of the road and Zane rescues her, Alexa has to stay in town for a little bit whilst her car gets sorted so after being let down by his waitstaff Zane offers Alexa a job.
The relationship builds throughout the book which I thought was great. This was the first book I have read by this author and I cannot wait to read more of her books. I loved the whole story and fell in love with the characters from the start. Great read recommend this to everyone,.
The relationship builds throughout the book which I thought was great. This was the first book I have read by this author and I cannot wait to read more of her books. I loved the whole story and fell in love with the characters from the start. Great read recommend this to everyone,.
September 16, 2016
Audiobook - narration, Olga Wilhelmine - really good. Maybe a little fast now and again, but she has a lovely voice and good timing and character interpretation!
Loved this story! It's a sweet tale of Zane and Alexa, who are both great people but have been dealt a lot of crap in their lives. Zane picks up a sobbing Alexa, whose been stranded over 3 hrs on the side of the road, and gives her a ride into town. He (a little high handedly) gets her to wait tables for him in his bar and the banter and fun begins.
If I had one complaint about this book, it's that I wish it were longer! These were such likable characters with an entertaining cast of secondary characters that I just feel like I want to hang around with them a little more.
Nicely done, enjoyable listen!
I received a copy of this audiobook free of charge from AudiobookBoom in exchange for an unbiased review.
Loved this story! It's a sweet tale of Zane and Alexa, who are both great people but have been dealt a lot of crap in their lives. Zane picks up a sobbing Alexa, whose been stranded over 3 hrs on the side of the road, and gives her a ride into town. He (a little high handedly) gets her to wait tables for him in his bar and the banter and fun begins.
If I had one complaint about this book, it's that I wish it were longer! These were such likable characters with an entertaining cast of secondary characters that I just feel like I want to hang around with them a little more.
Nicely done, enjoyable listen!
I received a copy of this audiobook free of charge from AudiobookBoom in exchange for an unbiased review.
November 20, 2014
Alexa finds her true north when she finds herself in the middle of a 4 yr fake marriage. She packs up and leaves with her suitcase and her bank account heading north in a beat up car only to break down on the side of the road.
This story sucks you in from the beginning and keeps you there till the very end. You will not want to put it down. Zane rescues Alexa from the side of the road and shows her what true love is all about but not without some amazing twist that I will not spoil for you. Wanna find out well you will have to read! You won't be disappointed:) Everyone needs a Zane in their life!
This story sucks you in from the beginning and keeps you there till the very end. You will not want to put it down. Zane rescues Alexa from the side of the road and shows her what true love is all about but not without some amazing twist that I will not spoil for you. Wanna find out well you will have to read! You won't be disappointed:) Everyone needs a Zane in their life!
May 21, 2015
True North came highly recommend. After reading it I can see why! I absolutely loved this book. All the characters are easily relatable, and the story is true to life. Hurtful things happen to good people and it brings them down, however there will always be a chance to get back on track and look up and just head True North! That's what happens with Alexa when she heads 'True North'. She meets Zane and he turns her life into something she's never experienced! With Zane she experiences things she's never known! They change each other for the good! I highly recommend this book to any and all! It's a true love story, starting with heartbreak and ending with a HEA!
May 24, 2015
I'm not usually a fan of books written in first person. I have read many which were badly written so I'm quite skeptical when I read a book and finds out that it's written in first person. But True North was really well written. It was interesting, well-paced and emotional. Zane makes the perfect book boyfriend. Even though he appeared gruff at first, he turned out to be someone very different. You'd definitely fall in love with him.
March 31, 2016
I received a copy from the Author in return for an honest review.
I loved this story! I couldn't put the book down.
Alexa is a person who has suffered a lot from her ex-husband and her family and decides to give a fresh start to her life. Although things didn't start so well, Zane offers her a job, and from there things seem to improve. And when little Aaron comes, you can't help but fall in love with him!
This is a beautiful story, I loved from the start!
I loved this story! I couldn't put the book down.
Alexa is a person who has suffered a lot from her ex-husband and her family and decides to give a fresh start to her life. Although things didn't start so well, Zane offers her a job, and from there things seem to improve. And when little Aaron comes, you can't help but fall in love with him!
This is a beautiful story, I loved from the start!
May 11, 2017
Renewal
Alexa was getting out of town ASD fast as she could. She didn't get far, her car broke down in the heat. Zane came back to help her after he passed on the road. He brought her to the motel across from his bar. She went in to eat. He needed a waitress. The rest is history.
Alexa was getting out of town ASD fast as she could. She didn't get far, her car broke down in the heat. Zane came back to help her after he passed on the road. He brought her to the motel across from his bar. She went in to eat. He needed a waitress. The rest is history.
June 25, 2017
Wow, such a wonderful story of help, friendship, love, joy and hope. Zane steals the heart of Alexa. Aaron seals the heart of both. A true love story. Everyone should read they won't be disappointed.
I received a copy from the author in exchange for this honest review
I received a copy from the author in exchange for this honest review
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