Captivating Barbara

by Joyce Palmer

Barbara Ryan is a woman of unwavering independence who longs for a soulmate to fulfill her dream of a traditional family. The last man she expected it to be was the commanding, overbearing detective who keeps meddling in her life, stirring her body and emotions in unexpected ways.

Detective Adam Sinclair sees beyond the irresistible young woman’s tough exterior. He recognizes her true sensuality, goodness, and vulnerability. After three years of holding back, Adam is determined to break through Barbara’s barriers to claim her heart, body, and soul.

When Barbara trusts the wrong man, Adam must intervene and persuade her that relying on others doesn’t make her weak, but is a blessing to embrace.

218 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 3, 2025

About the author

Joyce Palmer is a romance writer who enjoys reading, which she calls research. She writes Contemporary Romantic Suspense. She achieved her first published story in 2010. Her tales are fast-paced, featuring feisty heroines and well-built alpha heroes.

There is an abundance of spice and a touch of humor in every story. This author believes that explicit, intimate details enhance her characters and further develop their humanity. There is always a happily ever after, and all romantic relationships are heterosexual and monogamous.

Joyce holds a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing and English, and she has been married to her very own hero for more years than she wants to reveal. They live in Southwest Florida.

Her greatest desire is to write stories her readers will enjoy!

Reviews

[Angi · Rating 4 out of 5]

For more than three years, Adam has had feelings for Barbara. Barbara always keeps up a front and rarely shows vulnerability. When things in her life change and Adam becomes more persistent, their relationship changes. Adam is able to see past her defenses to who she really is. This is a good read.

I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nathalie DeSousa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a sizzling hot romance! Barbara has been pining and holding for Adam for quite some time. She is a strong female character, independent, funny, but also innocent and a dreamer. Her major dream is to find a soulmate and share her life and her body with him and she has set her eyes on Adam, He is an alpha dominating cop, who has his eyes set on Barbara. Though their attraction, chemistry and encounters are scorching hot, there are those moments in between when he takes the time to see her for who she is. THe book is filled with action, passion, twist, and mature conversation. Their relationship also changes as the book progresses, and you will love the world they create. A great book.

I received a free copy of this book via Evernight and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Danee · Rating 5 out of 5]

We're drawn into the lives of Barbara and Adam. He's been in love with her for a few years now. Barbara always stays strong and isn't one to show vulnerability. But that doesn't last long. When things happen that change her life, Adam is always there, giving her another reason not to give up on him. He doesn't have an easy time breaking through her walls, but gradually, they succeed. They can develop their budding relationship, and he can show her that it's not wrong to show vulnerability sometimes. I enjoyed reading their story.






I received an Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.