No One's Surrender

Chadwell Hearts #3

by Kelly Walker

Chelsea Arnold is not a Chadwell, as her mother incessantly reminds her. And if she doesn’t learn to play the game, she’ll never see a dime of her new step-daddy’s money. So Chelsea puts on the act and dutifully follows the Chadwell family rules: everyone has to work in the family bar to learn life lessons. Little do they know, she already knows the biggest lesson of all: the best thing to be is underestimated. Then they’ll never see you coming. And in a few more weeks when she’s tucked enough cash away, she’ll be out of here, leaving her new family and her washed-up mother behind, because all Chelsea wants is freedom. Inheritance be damned.

But when her step-father learns he has a son he never knew about, it throws her plan off the tracks. While another son and an ex-wife sharing her husband’s affections are too much for Chelsea’s mother to handle and she heads for the hills, the rough around the edges Warren “Ware” Chadwell is enough to tempt Chelsea to stay. Despite the fact that all he has to offer is everything she’s determined to shy away from, the boy from the wrong side of the tracks knows how to push her buttons in all the right ways, no matter how wrong it is.

Genres: Romance, New Adult

ebook

First published December 26, 2014

About the author

Kelly Walker is a YA and NA author of several romantic titles, including the Souls of the Stones series. She has an unhealthy appreciation for chocolate, and a soft spot for rescued animals. Her best lessons on writing came from a lifetime of reading. She loves the fantastical, and the magical, and believes a captivating romance can be the most realistic magic of all. Kelly, her husband and her two children share their Virginia home with three dogs who walk her, and two cats who permit her to occasionally share their couch.

**A Kind Request** If you want to send me a message about one of my books, please do it through facebook or email. I don't check my GoodReads messages often and messages get lost beneath group messages.**

Reviews

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

* A review copy was provided by the author for the Blog Tour *

~~ 5 Ware Chadwell Stars ~~

No One's Surrender is the third book in Kelly Walker's Chadwell Hearts Series. This story was filled with secrets, lies, betrayal, suspense and romance. I was so excited to read this book when Ware (Warren) Chadwell was introduced at the end of book 2…No One's Hero. I knew this was going to be an interesting book, because I really liked Chelsea's character and I knew Ware would spice things up. This book can be read as a standalone, but to really get the best out of the story and characters this series should be read in the order they were written. This book also could technically be a spoiler for book 2 because of some of the information that is told early on in the book. Plus we got to see a lot of Tess and Axel in this book and you are going to want to know their backstory before going into this book.

Like the other books in this series, we are brought right into the thick of the story from the first page. That is one thing I LOVE about Kelly's writing. She doesn't fill her stories with a lot of extra information or drama that we don't need. This one was great in that because it's book 3 we had a lot of the character development already from previous books. Her stories are fairly quick reads and flow smoothly throughout the whole book. I love that her stories are also told in Dual POV so we get both sides of the story. This story had just the right amount of mystery and suspense that it made it really hard to put down.

Even though we got a lot of Tess and Axel in this book, the story is based on Chelsea and Ware. Like I said before, I really liked Chelsea in the other books. She is a strong and independent heroine. She wasn't going to use the Chadwell name to get her what she wanted. She refused to be like her mom and depend on a man to provide for her, she wanted to do it all on her own. We got a brief glimpse of Ware in book 2 but we got to fully meet him in this book. I knew his story was going to be good and it was. He was a great Hero….strong, swoony, independent, and strong willed. I loved him and Chelsea together, they complimented each other well. They have kind of a push and pull thing going on in the beginning, but what I loved most about Ware, was when he set his mind to something he didn't give up or back down. I think the best thing about this story were the surprises the author threw in and also that this couple didn't have the normal drama that we see in books of this genre. It was really refreshing :)

I would definitely recommend this book and series to anyone who loves a story that has a little bit of everything. A love story that has some humor, sexy times, drama, mystery and suspense. Her books will capture you right from the beginning and not let go until the last page and even then you will still want more. We got introduced to two new characters in this book and I am looking forward to the next book in the series because it is theirs and I think it will be a good one. I want to know about their background.

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[Renee W. Tyler, Battery Operated Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Let me control your pleasure and I promise you won't regret it. For just tonight, put yourself in my hands. Let me give you what you were craving when you invited me up here." ~ Ware

I was giving the chance to read all three books in this series, and let me start by saying that I think this was probably my favorite. With each book the stories got better and better.

When I started this book I thought that it was going to be all about Chelsea and wondering if she would find the happiness that she so longed for, but it turned out to sort of shift and become more about Warren. The way that Kelly Walker puts the book together will pull at your heart and wonder which direction she will finally turn your emotions.

This book as does the first two will keep you moving in the life of the Chadwell's. That is one thing that I really really liked, because if I am going to read a series I like them to keep me feeling connected with the members of the family from the previous books, and this one does not disappoint. Adding to that, I could feel the emotions that were floating all over the place between all aspects of the family. With the way that Kelly places the meeting between Ware and Chelsea, to the unexpected reuniting of them along with Axel and the rest of the group is what gets you from the beginning. Throw in the suspense of who keeps causing trouble has you wondering what will take place next. I will say that the way the story goes is nothing like I expected. To finally see the secrets that Warren holds will leave you breathless, because for me I was on an entirely different thought.

Now add into the ups and downs that Chelsea has to deal with in means of not only her mother, but trying to always be the fixer for everyone else, no one really sees her for her. Can Ware be the one person to finally get through to her and allow her to see that she deserves happiness as well? If you want to know, then jump in with both feet and read the Chadwell Series. I can say I think you will fall in love with this family.

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

First things first, a disclaimer. I wanted to buy this on release day but B&N was being slow, so Kelly Walker gave me a copy in exchange for an honest review. That in no way altered my opinion of the book.

HOLY CRAP!!! I thought it couldn't get any better after No One's Angel and No One's Hero, but I should have known that Chelsea would surpass all my expectations. She's pretty good at that, isn't she? Getting to know Ware was great too, even if I called his secret pretty early on in the story.

I devoured this book. When I went to bed after ringing in the New Year, I read a few chapters and then forced myself to set my NOOK aside, but as soon as I woke up I was grabbing for the e-reader first thing so I could finish up the story. I'm not even ashamed to admit that I had dreamed about all of the characters, imagining that I was a part of it all too.

These books are so freaking good, but I'm a little sad to hear that the next book might be the last and it will focus on River and Ian, two secondary characters from this book. What about Dougie? Seeing his struggles in this book since he and Chelsea split up made me want to see him meet somebody who was special, and right for him.

Also, can I just say that I'm super excited for Axel's upcoming novella? I so want to read about that very happy day (the one that in reality took place yesterday, December 31, 2014).

I am amazed by Kelly Walker's talents as a writer and I look forward to reading many more books by her in the future.

[Eesh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a surprisingly good read.

Surprising not because I thought it would be bad but because I've had such bad luck with the last few book that I was taken aback when I didn't instantly dislike something or someone.

The writing was better that in the last to books and so was the pacing. I had a complaint when it came to this series that I couls really feel the relationship between the two protagonists. That was also loads better.

I really like the characters as well. Especially Chelsea. She was smart and brave and even knew how to take advantage of the fact that everyone was always underestimating her awesomeness. Ware was a bit iffy in the beginning but I liked him later on, when I understood him better. I'm happy with the growth the characters showed as well.

I think this was the best book in the series, so far. It didn't blow me away but I enjoyed reading it. There were a few typos and a plot hole or two but it was, overall, a pleasant reading experience.

[Philomena Callan Cheekypee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this even more than the previous book if that's at all possible. Although this is a standalone I recommend reading the previous books as they are great reads.

This is Chelsea and Wares story. The mystery and suspense running through the story is gripping. I love how we get to read about the characters we met in the previous books.

Brilliant story. Looking forward to reading more from this author.

[Hailey · Rating 1 out of 5]

I didn't like this, it was boring. I also found the people quite rude towards each other either always glaring or snapping. I really disliked Chelsea and I didn't have the warm fuzzier about Ware. It also took a while to get to the point. Maybe that's why I found it boring. Not for me.

[Bethany · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

[Michelle Monroe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'd surrender for Ware!! :)

**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review**

I have fully enjoyed this series, starting with Axel and Tess (Arion and Angel) in No One's Angel, if you haven't read any of the first two books, you are really missing out. While each book can be read as a Stand Alone, Miss Walker does great with giving information that is necessary from previous books to understand what is going on, but I believe to get the entire back stories and get a feel for the supporting characters, you should maybe check out their books as well. :)

Chelsea is a spit fire! Her and her rusty spoon! LOL!! I was so excited to see she got her own story! We met her in No One's Angel, she is the Step Sister of Axel; her mother marrying his father. Although she thinks of Axel as her brother, and he thinks of her as his sister, she still guards her heart a little that 'just in case' she looses them, it won't hurt too bad.

Having her dad walk out on them when she was young, and Husband #2 as she calls him, do the same, Chelsea has always guarded herself that maybe one day, Axel's rich father would tire of her mother, casting her aside too just like all the other 'fathers' she has had. Her mother is very persistant in Chelsea finding a rich husband, like she did, so that she will always be taken care of. That is not what Chelsea wants, she doesn't want to be like her mother.

*I’m not using my looks to try to snag a husband and a last name that will open doors for me...and for her. No, I’m using it to make sure I fly under the radar, unnoticed and underestimated. Because when no one expects much from you, it’s easier to shock and surprise them when you’re finally ready to make your mark. And someday, you’d better believe I’m going to make mine. I’m never going to settle for just being a trophy wife. I’m not some d@mn prize or possession—or worse, a mindless decoration.

Chelsea is working at Tucks Tap, family owned bar run by Axel, and she is doing working as hard as she can to save up enough money to move away. To try to find her place.

That all changes in one night. When a guy at the bar gets too touchy feely with Chelsea, she finds her self being 'rescued' by the sexy southerner she noticed sitting at the bar earlier. The chemisty almost seems instant and puts her on fire. And Chelsea does the one thing she doesn't think she'd do, she invites him upstairs to her apartment above the bar. She doesn't do one night stands, but tonight, she is thinking that a reckless, hot, one night with a sexy stranger is just want she actually needs. No strings. No commitments. Besides she's leaving town soon, right?

Ware (the sexy guy from the bar), well, he is only in town for a few days. He doesn't do one night stands. No any more. But when the sexy bartender suggests just that...how can he refuse.

*Whatever she’s about to ask of me, I know I’m going to say yes, because something about her has me tied up in knots, helpless to deny her. I think maybe it’s a good d@mn thing I’m going home soon, because this chick could ruin me. A fling sounds all well and fun, but I don’t have that luxury any more.
“Come upstairs with me.”
I lift a teasing eyebrow. “Are you propositioning me, madam?”
She lets out a little laugh, and the tension around us eases. “What if I am?”
I’m going to regret this in the morning, but I’m going to revel in it tonight. “Then I accept.”

Ware has his own secrets, his own reasons for being in town. And when Chelsea finds out, its not exactly what either of them expected. He is the son of Tucker Chadwell, Axels brother, and her new step brother.

Things now get really complicated for Chelsea, thinking that her entire family will now crumble and she will loose yet again another father. When Tuckers ex-wife comes to town with the news that they had another son, will that cause trouble for Chelsea and her mother? Her mother is none to excited to have her husbands ex-wife and new son in her home. If they don't work out, will Tucker abandon Chelsea too? And can Ware make her see that they could be good together if she would only give him a chance? What about when she learns his secret about why he is in town and so eagarly wanting in on the Chadwell money? His reasons are not what Chelsea thinks.

*“Save it,” he snaps, jerking away from me. “It was a good f*ck. I’ve got it. Fool on me for expecting more. But Chelsea, I don’t have time in my life for something casual. The next girl I let in, she’s got to be willing to give it her all, no excuses. I’ve got too much at stake otherwise. So next time you want to f*ck away your sorrows, find someone else. I think I’m the one person in your life who truly sees who you are, and what you need, and I’ve only known you for a d@mn week. With everyone else, you let yourself be used and forgotten until you’re needed again, but I see you. And I could give you what you need. I would cherish you, and treat you like a motherf*cking princess. But you don’t want it, so fine. Keep on like you are, being everything to everyone, except true to yourself. And when you wake up cold and lonely, remember this moment, right now, when you threw away the chance to find out if we could be more.”

When Chelsea finally decides that if she were to explore where things could maybe go with Ware, its not the same as her mother, she is not being a gold digger. Technically, Ware didn't have any of the Chadwell fortune, and when she finds out just why he really came here to claim his title, she may just give him that chance that he wants.

When Ware stands her up at the Gala, she finds out just what kind of person he really is. Tucker gets a phone call from his ex-wife concerning Ware, they leave without hesitation. What they find when they get to Ware, is not what they expected. Shocking them both, and subsequently putting Chelsea in danger. Its finally time to show the world, just how much they underestimated Chelsea, and for her to finally realize who she is and where she belongs.

[Super*BETA*Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Chelsea and Ware's story. It was the perfect combination of romantic and funny with a dash of intrigue and action. I loved how stable Ware was. Although he was smitten with Chelsea from the moment he saw her, he wasn't a shallow character. He wasn't just a manwhore looking for a good time, we very quickly get to know the real Ware beneath the sexy exterior is sensitive and looking for a forever love. And as for Chelsea, I just adored her. She is so caring and loving. She is always worried about the people around her and wants everybody to be okay and happy. She is completely selfless, always putting others before herself, which is perhaps why she feels a bit lost sometimes. She is also really strong and no-nonsense (and loves to threaten people with her rusty spoon) which I loved about her. Overall, another awesome book from Kelly Walker.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm finding this to be a riveting series and will most likely be reading more of Ms. Walker's novels, in the future!

[D. L. Foley | My Last Romance · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed the end to this series. It's not perfect, but I enjoyed it.

[Algel Crestfall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Also posted at Tea-rrific Reads

I was so giddy to read No One's Surrender because all of Kelly's characters were amazing. And hot. If you have read No One's Angel (the book that started my love for Kelly. And Arion) and No One's Hero (I miss Kevin!), then you should probably not let this one pass. Even though you haven't read the books, it's alright because each of them can be read as a standalone. *wink*

I didn't expect what Ware's character would be: Axel's brother. When Ware and Chelsea met at the bar, which involved a little drama, they thought it will only be just a one night stand. They had an amazing night together and neither of them could get it out of their heads, though. Then they met again unexpectedly and I was really surprised when I reached that part. Because of the family drama, Chelsea and Ware had to deal with each other from that day on. Chelsea is working hard to earn money so she could stick to her plan of running away and to finally experience freedom, while Ware badly needed money for something very important to him so he had to work at the bar to earn money himself (that's one of the Chadwell rules, btw). Just when they thought their one night stand was over, they realized it's just the beginning of a new chapter in their lives -- they had to share a room together.

"I'd rather live in a cardboard box with someone who truly loves me, knowing we built it together, than in a glass castle, waiting for the other shoe to drop and shatter my happy ending." -Chelsea Arnold

As usual, Kelly put some thrill and action again (which I love about her style!) into this romance novel and I liked that part! Nick, Angel's ex, kept coming back into their lives and this time, his target was Chelsea. Well, let's skip that part for now, I don't want to end up writing spoilers, guys! Anyway, we all know that Axel is a pretty protective hottie when it comes to his loved ones, and he doesn't want to see Chelsea getting hurt. He never shipped Chelsea and Ware but what can he do? It's hard for them to stay away from each other. Plus, there is this twist in the story that touched my heart. I just love how Ware wanted to protect everyone he loves, just like his brother, Axel.

I think I might cheat on Axel. Ware is now my fave! Sorry, Axel. But you'll always be my first Chadwell sweetheart :))

No One's Surrender is another beautiful romance book by one of my favorite indie authors, Kelly Walker. If you're into New Adult books, this one's definitely a must-read!

[Wendy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have read the first two books in the series so I was excited to find out that there was gonna be more. Chelsea has been mentioned in the previous books so I was intrigued into what her book was going to be about.

Chelsea meets this sexy guy named Ware while doing her job as a bartender. They hit it off right away. After an awesome night together, they crossed paths again and neither expected the connection that was between the two. Now having to deal in close proximity with each other will prove to be a hardship. How will this affect them? Get ready to found out.

This was a great story. There were twists that I did not see coming and had me reading so fast so I could find out what happens next. I liked Chelsea’s character. She was very strong and vulnerable at the same time. I loved that Ware was able to see through her armor right away and was able to get to her. Ware was very sweet and determined when it comes to those he loves. When you discover some things about Ware, you just instantly feel for him. The connection between the two was very instant even in their first meeting. It was great and it worked for them. I enjoyed seeing their relationship progress from one night stand to friends to more. This story has a great combination of sweet and adventure. It was so great to see and hear about the previous characters in the series and how they’re doing especially Tess and Axel. He was such a scene-stealer but I loved it! This is such a great series and if you haven’t read it yet then you need to pick it up. It is so wonderful! Kelly does a great job at story-telling and making you feel for these characters. I can’t wait for the next books in this series.

[Brianna at Renee Entress's Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars!

Wow! What an amazing book. I will admit that I had not read the first two books in this series and found no issues keeping up with the story. This book totally rocked my world and I definitely plan to go back and read them. This author is also new to me and I cannot wait to read more by her.

This book was great. It had a beautiful romance that was sweet, sexy, and quite a few twists that had me flipping the pages as fast as I could to get to the end. This book was not your typical romance but in a good way (if that makes any sense?!). And I have to admit the synopsis does not do it justice but in a good way because this is one of those books that has a few surprises tucked into its sleeve along the way.

This is Chelsea and Ware's story. It won't be easy. Their story show you that sometimes when you think your is all mapped out, a curveball can shake your world and change everything you know. I loved Chelsea and Ware together. They definitely had a case of insta-love but it worked for them and in such a good way. It never felt forced so it made it feel real to me. I loved their connection and the crazy chemistry they had. And Ware made me swoon often.... always a plus!

I highly recommend this book.

Blog Tour---> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2015...

[Catherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

A one night stand with the sexy guy at the bar isn't usually what Chelsea does, but there is something about Ware that she doesn't want to pass up. With her planning her escape and him only gong to be in town for a few days it seems perfect. But what neither of them expected was to find themselves at the same home on thanksgiving day. Ware turns out to be the son her step dad never knew he had, and all he'll breaks loose when he and his mom show up. Ware needs money and in the Chadwell home you earn that money by working at the family bar. When it's suggested that he share the apartment above the bar with Chelsea, their one night stand takes on a new life. The more time they spend together the harder it is to stay away. Just when they are on that path Ware's secrets come out putting him and Chelsea in danger. Will they survive long enough to find out if what they have is the forever kind of live or will it be too late?
This book was amazing. I was so glad to not only get to read Chelsea 's story but read more about Axel and Tess, as I loved their story and was excited that they made an appearance again. If you haven't read this series yet then you definitely should.

Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog

[Carrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I struggled a bit with the beginning of Ware & Chelsea's story. While this could be read as a stand alone, I would recommend reading the first two books (not only cuz they're AWESOME, but also because they tie in pretty tightly w/ this one). I have read the first two, pretty close together to each other, but far enough in the past that I was a little lost w/ some of the history & needed to do a skim-through of them a couple chapters into this one.

Now, saying that, this story is also AWESOME! It's a little bit instant connection, it's a little bit adventurey, it's a little bit twisty, but it's a whole lotta sweet & charming! : ) We get to see a lot of Tess & Axel (from book 1, No One's Angel) & the author explanation for how that came about in this story is pretty nifty! We don't see as much Kevin & Lexi (from book 2, No One's Hero), but the small bit of their story that's in there picks up right from where their book left off.

And, this story has one of my favorite recent quotes/scenes - Ware tells Chelsea she's the hero & he's the damsel in distress! Brilliant! : )

[Kayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my favorite Chadwell Hearts. There's no contest. I loved Chelsea in the first book. I thought her character was very interesting. That's why I was so excited to read this. This book was exciting, sexy, and full of lots of emotion. Ware is a heartthrob. I loved his personality and the relationship between him and Chelsea. His nicknames for Chelsea were really sweet, like Kitten. I also liked how we got to see Arion act so protective over Chelsea. Brotherly love is so adorable. That part in the book where he stood up and said, "Let's get one thing straight you're always going to be my sister!" Such an aww moment. This story did a nice job with giving us a conclusion with the other Chadwell characters even though it wasn't centrally about them. I loved the first of the Chadwell Hearts books, I hated the second one (sorry, couldn't stand Lexi) but, I could definitely reread this book quite a few times.

[Purpinkrose · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this series. It the kind of series that will make you want to find that quite spot and read all three books at once. Once you start you just get lost in the world of Chadwell.

It's the story that once you start reading you don't want to stop. There was plenty of shouty moments and OMG, for me, a sign of a great book i think. Great character's who fit together like a jigsaw.

I will definitely read more by Kelly Walker. The story has plenty of that special ingredient that makes you just want to keep reading. AND there are hot men what more can you ask for right.

This book is an amazing read. And an author you need to get to know.


I give this book 5/5 stars.

[Missy G. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started the series with this book. You don't have to read the other books to start with this one. The story was good and well written. It starts off with an unexpected one night stand that surprisingly takes a twist the very next day. Suddenly after these two thought they would never see each other again the learn they will be sharing a family. Their chemistry together was intense and undeniable however I felt that a lot was lacking when it came to the intimate scenes. There were a couple of unexpected twist towards the end which helped even the book out so that it didn't grow dull. All in all it was a good book nothing fantastic but worth the time to read.

[Keri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Story!!

I couldn't put this one down. I've enjoyed the intensity of this series and the connection the characters have made with one another. I'm so happy to see Chelsea get her HEA. I never could have imagined where her story was gonna go. So many BAM moments throughout. You gotta read this one to find out all the exciting things that occurred. Plus Ware! What a special guy he turned out to be.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What the heck!!!! The situation in this book will blow your mind! I do recommend that you read the series in order! I, for one, will have to go back and catch up with the first 2 books! But this one, WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! GET YOUR COPY TODAY!!! Not hesitate, you will regret it!!


* received for an honest review*

[Srishti Ghosh · Rating 5 out of 5]

it was really an amazing read.

[Tina Lochbihler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love it

Wow love it. Love this series can't wait for more. This book keeps you going to make you turn your page to see what is going to happen. Must read....

[Marisela M. Chavez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I love everything about this book. Ware and Chelsea are just perfect. Can't wait to read more of Kelly Walker books.

[Kris · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5*

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love it

The story grabbed me and I literally couldn't stop reading! Just when I thought I had it figured out I realized I was completely wrong!

[Tina Lochbihler · Rating 5 out of 5]

can't wait for more... i want to know what's going on with river

[Amie · Rating 4 out of 5]

love it