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Donnelley Brothers #4
A Tender Touch
“It’s not about trusting another…it’s about trusting yourself enough.”
Ember Brighton has spent her entire life walking on eggshells around men. After her father’s betrayal when she was twelve years old, she was left to pick up the pieces of her mother that the man had left behind. Although she’s faced her every day since his abandonment with her chin held high, inside, Ember is a ruin.
For the past ten years, Ember has bottled her pain inside so tight, she’s never found the strength to face it head on, so that she can lay it to rest. It’s not until the day that she arrives at The Donnelley Ranch to visit her best friend, Kamilla, that Ember finds herself working alongside the only man in the world strong enough to release the pain inside of her, so that he can help her fight it.
Luke Donnelley is anything but intimidated by Ember’s pain and cold shoulder. Instead, he is determined to break down her guard, so that he can prove to her she is worthy of love and affection. Luke’s armor against Ember’s frosty front is hot, and before she knows it her defenses are melting against the one man who has the power to destroy her.
Will Ember listen to her heart and fall into the romance of Luke Donnelley’s charms, or will she keep running, praying to find somewhere safe and without the risk love presents?
A Tender Touch is book four in The Donnelley Brother Series. This story belongs to Ember Brighton and Luke Donnelley, as it focuses on their journey of both finding and capturing love. Throughout this novel, you’ll enjoy more interactions with the characters of the previous three novels, and of course, Gracie Donnelley.
Ember Brighton has spent her entire life walking on eggshells around men. After her father’s betrayal when she was twelve years old, she was left to pick up the pieces of her mother that the man had left behind. Although she’s faced her every day since his abandonment with her chin held high, inside, Ember is a ruin.
For the past ten years, Ember has bottled her pain inside so tight, she’s never found the strength to face it head on, so that she can lay it to rest. It’s not until the day that she arrives at The Donnelley Ranch to visit her best friend, Kamilla, that Ember finds herself working alongside the only man in the world strong enough to release the pain inside of her, so that he can help her fight it.
Luke Donnelley is anything but intimidated by Ember’s pain and cold shoulder. Instead, he is determined to break down her guard, so that he can prove to her she is worthy of love and affection. Luke’s armor against Ember’s frosty front is hot, and before she knows it her defenses are melting against the one man who has the power to destroy her.
Will Ember listen to her heart and fall into the romance of Luke Donnelley’s charms, or will she keep running, praying to find somewhere safe and without the risk love presents?
A Tender Touch is book four in The Donnelley Brother Series. This story belongs to Ember Brighton and Luke Donnelley, as it focuses on their journey of both finding and capturing love. Throughout this novel, you’ll enjoy more interactions with the characters of the previous three novels, and of course, Gracie Donnelley.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 6, 2015
4 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
About the author
Alannah Carbonneau
61 books373 followersBorn and raised in Alberta, Canada, Alannah Carbonneau is only a short drive away from the Rocky Mountains that have a staring place in so many of her novels. With seventeen novels and counting currently available on Amazon, Alannah is not only a full-time author, but a full-time mom of two beautiful boys, and wife to an amazing man who always has her back. She lives in a rambling ranch house that needs way too many renos and has one too many cats, but she is happy and in love.
With a solid circle of friends and family, and a very manly, supportive husband who does his best to make sure his family is taken care of, Alannah’s novels feature manly men (sometimes they can be a LOT manly) and friend/family relationships weaved into the stories, because life is about a whole mess of people, and although this is fiction, the best fiction is sprinkled with sweet (and sometimes not so sweet) bits of reality.
Because she loves romance, Alannah writes Contemporary and New Adult Romance. Soon to be released is the Creekwood Valley Series that has ties to the reader beloved Donnelley Brother Series, where light suspense and romance weave to create titillating stories that not only steal your heart but keep you on the edge of your seat. She is the author of the highly rated Teach Me Series, an emotional read about love, life and lessons learned. Our Dark Design is a standalone erotic romance peppered with enough suspense to keep you turning the pages, and The Choice is an entirely unconventional standalone romance about three.
She is currently working on a Cross World Fantasy Romance Series for Adults she can’t wait to share with you, because this will feature hot men who are a little bit dominant and a lot protective who are head over heels in love with stubborn, magnificent women.
When Alannah isn’t writing or spending time with her three men, she can be found in her garden, or with a paint brush in hand. But no matter where she is or what she’s doing, you can bet that she’s thinking of a love story she can share with you.
With a solid circle of friends and family, and a very manly, supportive husband who does his best to make sure his family is taken care of, Alannah’s novels feature manly men (sometimes they can be a LOT manly) and friend/family relationships weaved into the stories, because life is about a whole mess of people, and although this is fiction, the best fiction is sprinkled with sweet (and sometimes not so sweet) bits of reality.
Because she loves romance, Alannah writes Contemporary and New Adult Romance. Soon to be released is the Creekwood Valley Series that has ties to the reader beloved Donnelley Brother Series, where light suspense and romance weave to create titillating stories that not only steal your heart but keep you on the edge of your seat. She is the author of the highly rated Teach Me Series, an emotional read about love, life and lessons learned. Our Dark Design is a standalone erotic romance peppered with enough suspense to keep you turning the pages, and The Choice is an entirely unconventional standalone romance about three.
She is currently working on a Cross World Fantasy Romance Series for Adults she can’t wait to share with you, because this will feature hot men who are a little bit dominant and a lot protective who are head over heels in love with stubborn, magnificent women.
When Alannah isn’t writing or spending time with her three men, she can be found in her garden, or with a paint brush in hand. But no matter where she is or what she’s doing, you can bet that she’s thinking of a love story she can share with you.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
January 7, 2015
I was lucky enough to be given this to read for an honest review.
Having read the other 3 books in the Donnelley Brother's series, I was really looking forward to book 4, and I was not disappointed.
A Tender Touch is Luke's story, Luke is the youngest brother and the horseman. Ember is Kali's friend and comes to the ranch for six months to decide which path her life should take. She has come to the Ranch every year, except one, since she was 13, it is where her love of horses started and her day dreams of Luke, but then he had never noticed her. This is their story, but yu get a chance to catch up on the lives of the other 3 brothers and the Donnelley woman too.
I love Alannah's use of English she can weave a story and capture you as you read. A beautiful love story and definite must read.
Having read the other 3 books in the Donnelley Brother's series, I was really looking forward to book 4, and I was not disappointed.
A Tender Touch is Luke's story, Luke is the youngest brother and the horseman. Ember is Kali's friend and comes to the ranch for six months to decide which path her life should take. She has come to the Ranch every year, except one, since she was 13, it is where her love of horses started and her day dreams of Luke, but then he had never noticed her. This is their story, but yu get a chance to catch up on the lives of the other 3 brothers and the Donnelley woman too.
I love Alannah's use of English she can weave a story and capture you as you read. A beautiful love story and definite must read.
February 18, 2015
Really have no idea how to review this book. It was absolutely amazing and i'm so sad to have finished this series ! You'll need tissues that's for sure as this is another emotionally charged book, just like the rest in the series x
January 6, 2015
Reviewed by Kindle Friends Forever.
Are we gluttons for punishment ‘cos we have no idea how all of you feel about this series? Have you read these books? Even though Rachel hasn’t read the whole series, I literally lapped them up and if you haven’t, why not? A ‘ book drug’ would be an understated word for one of the best epic stories which starts off strongly and finishes with a BANG! This is without a doubt, our kind of read. The author titillates the reader to extremes! However, do we really have to say goodbye to the Donnelley’s Wild Land Tours? Erm… yes, we do! Four books, four stories, four handsome men and their kick-ass women who will never let them get away with anything, is over! And we are the first ones to have withdrawal symptoms. A big yes here! So what did you think Rachel as I know this is the first book you’ve read in this series?
Well Sharon, I feel short changed as I’ve only read this book which I might add, I thoroughly enjoyed, but I feel somewhat cheated as I feel I’ve missed out on other Donnelly brothers and if they are anything like Luke, then where do I sign up for more alpha male sweet and sexy hotness as that is what you get with Luke!
They’re all drop-dead gorgeous Rachel. So my advice to you is start reading the other books, like now! Luke is the last on his mother’s ‘get my sons married list.’ But is he really? Wait and see because this mother hen isn’t as in control of her youngest son as she thought she was. Destiny plays a huge part in his story. Would that beautiful girl come back? Well, she does. With her hang ups, trust issues, and why? Nonetheless than her father. What a b*****d. She heard, she believed and she’s living her private hell. Her trust in men is zero with a big zero on the left-hand side!
I’m so pleased you mentioned Luke’s mother, Gracie, Sharon. I adored her! She was such a warm hearted, insightful lady. Without the relationship she built with Ember before she took a leap of faith to try and make a fresh start then I don’t think Ember would have made the decision she did. When Ember felt nervous and unsure about her relationship with Luke she was there to reassure her and helped Ember when her mother couldn’t.
Let’s get back to Luke. Horrendously attractive, a sense of humour which will ball you over, truly won our hearts. How any man has the patience he has, is undoubtedly a virtue. We’d have ran out of it in the middle of the brilliant story; kudos for him because he waited. Not only that, he believed in Ember. What happens when one doesn’t want to confess to their most intimate feelings? This was the crux of the problem throughout the story.
‘’I don’t know what that something is, but I’ll be damned if I let you face it alone. So until you can stop running and let me catch you, I’ll be right here beside you, running until you stop. And when you’re too tired to run another step, I’ll be there to hold you up. When you’re too exhausted to keep fighting, I’ll fight for you.’’
Ember is totally dependent on her mother. She’s a fiery red-head with a difference. This sky-blue-eyed young woman is loyal to a tee and can’t let go of the past. How the author takes the reader through such a dramatic period in the life of this sensitive person’s hardship is more than commendable and uncomfortable, too. Her sensitivity regarding the abandonment of one’s children was well-described throughout this story. Ember’s sufferance brought tears to our eyes through many passages in this story.
Kami hitched up with Kyke, and she’s got a lot to be thankful for. If it wasn’t for her bestie, Ember, her life would have taken a turn for the worse. Now it’s her turn to return the favour to Ember with sound advice. Will she take it?
‘’You’re going to keep being afraid until you leap.’’ She smiled softly. ‘’But once you’re in the air, falling, you’ll finally find that you can fly.’’
I loved Kami, Sharon. She was totally no nonsense in terms of kicking Ember up the back side when she needed it. She completely understood Embers reluctance in starting a relationship with Luke, but so wanted her friend to find love. And I think she knew Luke was the guy for her bestie! In fact, I loved all the secondary characters in this book including all the other girlfriends and wives of the Donnelly brothers.
Two souls, two entities are meant for each other. Ms. Carbonneau has brought them together in such a way that their story enchanted us. Her description of their surroundings easily drew us in to a marvellous scenery of seasons which totally took our breath away. The banter between all the protagonists is outstanding. Humour and romance was what I really needed for a brilliant ending. You gave it all. Sex? You made Rachel and I wait, but boy oh boy, was it worth it. Thank you Ms Carbonneau! Bravo!
Our favourite quote in a book we just hate to say goodbye to: “If you said you were interested in f*****g me, I’d say great. We’d have fun and I’d definitely wet your, uh, prune.”
Reviewers Note: Although this book can be read as a standalone we feel it’s best to read them in order to fully enjoy the Donnelly brothers’ stories.
Are we gluttons for punishment ‘cos we have no idea how all of you feel about this series? Have you read these books? Even though Rachel hasn’t read the whole series, I literally lapped them up and if you haven’t, why not? A ‘ book drug’ would be an understated word for one of the best epic stories which starts off strongly and finishes with a BANG! This is without a doubt, our kind of read. The author titillates the reader to extremes! However, do we really have to say goodbye to the Donnelley’s Wild Land Tours? Erm… yes, we do! Four books, four stories, four handsome men and their kick-ass women who will never let them get away with anything, is over! And we are the first ones to have withdrawal symptoms. A big yes here! So what did you think Rachel as I know this is the first book you’ve read in this series?
Well Sharon, I feel short changed as I’ve only read this book which I might add, I thoroughly enjoyed, but I feel somewhat cheated as I feel I’ve missed out on other Donnelly brothers and if they are anything like Luke, then where do I sign up for more alpha male sweet and sexy hotness as that is what you get with Luke!
They’re all drop-dead gorgeous Rachel. So my advice to you is start reading the other books, like now! Luke is the last on his mother’s ‘get my sons married list.’ But is he really? Wait and see because this mother hen isn’t as in control of her youngest son as she thought she was. Destiny plays a huge part in his story. Would that beautiful girl come back? Well, she does. With her hang ups, trust issues, and why? Nonetheless than her father. What a b*****d. She heard, she believed and she’s living her private hell. Her trust in men is zero with a big zero on the left-hand side!
I’m so pleased you mentioned Luke’s mother, Gracie, Sharon. I adored her! She was such a warm hearted, insightful lady. Without the relationship she built with Ember before she took a leap of faith to try and make a fresh start then I don’t think Ember would have made the decision she did. When Ember felt nervous and unsure about her relationship with Luke she was there to reassure her and helped Ember when her mother couldn’t.
Let’s get back to Luke. Horrendously attractive, a sense of humour which will ball you over, truly won our hearts. How any man has the patience he has, is undoubtedly a virtue. We’d have ran out of it in the middle of the brilliant story; kudos for him because he waited. Not only that, he believed in Ember. What happens when one doesn’t want to confess to their most intimate feelings? This was the crux of the problem throughout the story.
‘’I don’t know what that something is, but I’ll be damned if I let you face it alone. So until you can stop running and let me catch you, I’ll be right here beside you, running until you stop. And when you’re too tired to run another step, I’ll be there to hold you up. When you’re too exhausted to keep fighting, I’ll fight for you.’’
Ember is totally dependent on her mother. She’s a fiery red-head with a difference. This sky-blue-eyed young woman is loyal to a tee and can’t let go of the past. How the author takes the reader through such a dramatic period in the life of this sensitive person’s hardship is more than commendable and uncomfortable, too. Her sensitivity regarding the abandonment of one’s children was well-described throughout this story. Ember’s sufferance brought tears to our eyes through many passages in this story.
Kami hitched up with Kyke, and she’s got a lot to be thankful for. If it wasn’t for her bestie, Ember, her life would have taken a turn for the worse. Now it’s her turn to return the favour to Ember with sound advice. Will she take it?
‘’You’re going to keep being afraid until you leap.’’ She smiled softly. ‘’But once you’re in the air, falling, you’ll finally find that you can fly.’’
I loved Kami, Sharon. She was totally no nonsense in terms of kicking Ember up the back side when she needed it. She completely understood Embers reluctance in starting a relationship with Luke, but so wanted her friend to find love. And I think she knew Luke was the guy for her bestie! In fact, I loved all the secondary characters in this book including all the other girlfriends and wives of the Donnelly brothers.
Two souls, two entities are meant for each other. Ms. Carbonneau has brought them together in such a way that their story enchanted us. Her description of their surroundings easily drew us in to a marvellous scenery of seasons which totally took our breath away. The banter between all the protagonists is outstanding. Humour and romance was what I really needed for a brilliant ending. You gave it all. Sex? You made Rachel and I wait, but boy oh boy, was it worth it. Thank you Ms Carbonneau! Bravo!
Our favourite quote in a book we just hate to say goodbye to: “If you said you were interested in f*****g me, I’d say great. We’d have fun and I’d definitely wet your, uh, prune.”
Reviewers Note: Although this book can be read as a standalone we feel it’s best to read them in order to fully enjoy the Donnelly brothers’ stories.
January 9, 2015
I can't believe that this was the last book in this series.
I can at least say I have had the pleasure of reading all the other books in this series, they were all amazing and this was no exception.
I've only had a few authors capture my heart with a series of books, I find some authors just drag out story after story and I get bored.
The only other author that captured me with a series similar to the way these books make me feel is Abbi glines.
I've never really wanted to know about every other character in stories, yet I found myself craving to have more from this series. Even now I can say I'd read more, I've in no way had my fill.
We've had Logan and Reeses story - The heartbroken Widow.
Kyle and kamillas story - The abusive relationship.
Collin and Hadleys story - The loss of a brother/Best friend.
Now..............we have Luke and Embers story, and let me tell you it's an emotional one.
Have you ever had someone tell you they wished you'd never been born ?
That you were a mistake, you ruined their life?
Well let me tell you, my brother went through this whilst we were kids and it was awful, it still torments him now.
To know you weren't wanted by a parent, is a horrible feeling.
This is what Ember goes through in her life, imagine hearing that at the age of 13.
You can imagine why she doesn't want to open her heart to anyone, after all if her father could say that to her , what's stopping someone else?
She saw her mother break down and she knows her heart can't deal with that type of heartbreak.
Ember is in a bind she is stuck in limbo, not knowing what to do with her life she has just finished 4 years in college, but now she needs to do another 4 years in university and she doesn't know if she wants to do that.
She decides to think on things whilst she's at the Donnelley Ranch, visiting her best friend Kamilla.
Ember has been coming to the Donnelley Ranch for 10 years, and for those 10 years she's had a crush on Luke Donnelley the youngest of the brothers.
Although he's never even noticed Ember, or so she thought.
Whilst all the other books we saw Gracie Donnelley doing all the matchmaking, this one will make you giggle because its the other Donnelley wives and (Soon to be wife) that play Cupid in this one.
Whilst visiting, Ember gets a job in the stables working along side Luke, every girls dream job, or so you'd think, for Ember this could be a fate worse than death.
Of course we know she's attracted to Luke, but she can't let herself feel for him.
Will Luke break down those barriers Ember has spent years building around her heart?
He certainly makes for a great case, I love how genuinely smitten he is with her.
"Whatever itis you're trying to outrun, Ember, I want you to understand that I'll outrun you. I won't let you scare me away-because I know there's something you're afraid of. I don't know what that something is, but I'll be damned if I let you face it alone. So until you can stop running and let me catch you, I'll be right here beside you, running with you, until you stop. And when you're too tired to run another step, I'll be there to hold you up. When you're too exhausted to keep fighting, I'll fight for you."
This makes my heart melt, I absolutely love the concept of True love, I believe everyone should let their heart experience it.
The Donnelley Brother's always take my heart to warm fuzzy places, they are our very own living prince Charming, with a quadrupled case of hotness thrown in for good measures.
I love how Alannah can take you to such emotional places, but you always leave the book with a smile on your face and your heart well and truly sated.
Im so glad i took the time to read these books I honestly hope they eventually become available in paperback form because they will take pride and place on my bookshelf.
Well done Alannah another great book to a fantastic series, I can't wait to read your next books.
You never cease to amaze me with your work, beyond amazing.
I can at least say I have had the pleasure of reading all the other books in this series, they were all amazing and this was no exception.
I've only had a few authors capture my heart with a series of books, I find some authors just drag out story after story and I get bored.
The only other author that captured me with a series similar to the way these books make me feel is Abbi glines.
I've never really wanted to know about every other character in stories, yet I found myself craving to have more from this series. Even now I can say I'd read more, I've in no way had my fill.
We've had Logan and Reeses story - The heartbroken Widow.
Kyle and kamillas story - The abusive relationship.
Collin and Hadleys story - The loss of a brother/Best friend.
Now..............we have Luke and Embers story, and let me tell you it's an emotional one.
Have you ever had someone tell you they wished you'd never been born ?
That you were a mistake, you ruined their life?
Well let me tell you, my brother went through this whilst we were kids and it was awful, it still torments him now.
To know you weren't wanted by a parent, is a horrible feeling.
This is what Ember goes through in her life, imagine hearing that at the age of 13.
You can imagine why she doesn't want to open her heart to anyone, after all if her father could say that to her , what's stopping someone else?
She saw her mother break down and she knows her heart can't deal with that type of heartbreak.
Ember is in a bind she is stuck in limbo, not knowing what to do with her life she has just finished 4 years in college, but now she needs to do another 4 years in university and she doesn't know if she wants to do that.
She decides to think on things whilst she's at the Donnelley Ranch, visiting her best friend Kamilla.
Ember has been coming to the Donnelley Ranch for 10 years, and for those 10 years she's had a crush on Luke Donnelley the youngest of the brothers.
Although he's never even noticed Ember, or so she thought.
Whilst all the other books we saw Gracie Donnelley doing all the matchmaking, this one will make you giggle because its the other Donnelley wives and (Soon to be wife) that play Cupid in this one.
Whilst visiting, Ember gets a job in the stables working along side Luke, every girls dream job, or so you'd think, for Ember this could be a fate worse than death.
Of course we know she's attracted to Luke, but she can't let herself feel for him.
Will Luke break down those barriers Ember has spent years building around her heart?
He certainly makes for a great case, I love how genuinely smitten he is with her.
"Whatever itis you're trying to outrun, Ember, I want you to understand that I'll outrun you. I won't let you scare me away-because I know there's something you're afraid of. I don't know what that something is, but I'll be damned if I let you face it alone. So until you can stop running and let me catch you, I'll be right here beside you, running with you, until you stop. And when you're too tired to run another step, I'll be there to hold you up. When you're too exhausted to keep fighting, I'll fight for you."
This makes my heart melt, I absolutely love the concept of True love, I believe everyone should let their heart experience it.
The Donnelley Brother's always take my heart to warm fuzzy places, they are our very own living prince Charming, with a quadrupled case of hotness thrown in for good measures.
I love how Alannah can take you to such emotional places, but you always leave the book with a smile on your face and your heart well and truly sated.
Im so glad i took the time to read these books I honestly hope they eventually become available in paperback form because they will take pride and place on my bookshelf.
Well done Alannah another great book to a fantastic series, I can't wait to read your next books.
You never cease to amaze me with your work, beyond amazing.
December 30, 2014
“Whatever it is you’re trying to outrun, Ember, I want you to understand that I’ll outrun you. I won’t let you scare me away – because I know there’s something you're afraid of. I don’t know what that something is, but I’ll be damned if I let you face it alone. So until you can stop running and let me catch you, I’ll be right here beside you, running with you, until you stop. And when you’re too tired to run another step, I’ll be there to hold you up. When you’re too exhausted to keep fighting, I’ll fight for you.” -Luke Donnelley in A Tender Touch by Alannah Carbonneau
Having read Counting Stars, A Safe Surrender and Taking Chances, Books 1-3 respectively in this series, I was really looking forward to seeing Luke have a Happy Ever After. Being the youngest of the Donnelley Brothers, we've seen snippets of his character throughout the previous books. He is the quiet little brother who sees his older brothers find love on the Donnelley Ranch.
Enter Ember, a young lady with a sad and trying past, trying to figure out what to do with her academic life that will later determine her career in the future. Having endured a horrifying experience with her father who walked out on her, set the tone for her future relationships with men. She cannot trust in them because the one person who should've taught her to trust and love never did.
After visiting the Donnelley Ranch as a child with her mother she discovered her love for horses, which led her to seek a career in veterinarian medicine with hopes of becoming a veterinarian. But the heavy decision on her shoulder of whether or not to pursue that dream leads her back to the ranch as an adult for an extended stay.
Given her experience with horses, she is paired up to work with Luke Donnelley who is in charge of the horse riding lessons and tours. But Luke doesn't know Ember has had a crush on Luke for over ten years. This opportunity puts her in front of the only man she's ever had feelings for.
The connection these two share is intense, and while Ember likes him, she has vowed to not allow anything to tamper that working relationship. Hence, Luke is put in the infamous friend-zone and that is where their mutual admiration grows, eventually blossoming into pure love.
I love this series with a passion and I cannot say enough adjectives that would properly portray how well written and authentic this series is. I swear there is a ranch in the mountains of Alberta housing the Donnelley family and the remarkable men the author has brought to life. A Tender Touch was no exception, and it was the perfect way to close such a well written and awe inspiring series. I hope there is a follow-up book in the near future. A girl can wish, right?
Five incredible stars. You've done it again, Ms. Carbonneau. Brava.
Having read Counting Stars, A Safe Surrender and Taking Chances, Books 1-3 respectively in this series, I was really looking forward to seeing Luke have a Happy Ever After. Being the youngest of the Donnelley Brothers, we've seen snippets of his character throughout the previous books. He is the quiet little brother who sees his older brothers find love on the Donnelley Ranch.
Enter Ember, a young lady with a sad and trying past, trying to figure out what to do with her academic life that will later determine her career in the future. Having endured a horrifying experience with her father who walked out on her, set the tone for her future relationships with men. She cannot trust in them because the one person who should've taught her to trust and love never did.
After visiting the Donnelley Ranch as a child with her mother she discovered her love for horses, which led her to seek a career in veterinarian medicine with hopes of becoming a veterinarian. But the heavy decision on her shoulder of whether or not to pursue that dream leads her back to the ranch as an adult for an extended stay.
Given her experience with horses, she is paired up to work with Luke Donnelley who is in charge of the horse riding lessons and tours. But Luke doesn't know Ember has had a crush on Luke for over ten years. This opportunity puts her in front of the only man she's ever had feelings for.
The connection these two share is intense, and while Ember likes him, she has vowed to not allow anything to tamper that working relationship. Hence, Luke is put in the infamous friend-zone and that is where their mutual admiration grows, eventually blossoming into pure love.
I love this series with a passion and I cannot say enough adjectives that would properly portray how well written and authentic this series is. I swear there is a ranch in the mountains of Alberta housing the Donnelley family and the remarkable men the author has brought to life. A Tender Touch was no exception, and it was the perfect way to close such a well written and awe inspiring series. I hope there is a follow-up book in the near future. A girl can wish, right?
Five incredible stars. You've done it again, Ms. Carbonneau. Brava.
January 13, 2015
Ember is Kami's best friend. She has been going to the Ranch since she was 13. She thinks of it as her home away from home. She doesn't trust men easily and wants a life that she can own up to by herself.
Luke is the youngest of the Donnelly brothers. He is also the quietest one, well except around Ember. He's had a crush on her for a while.
Ohhhhh man. This book is the best one out of the series. All of them were sooooooo good, but this one is my favorite!! I absolutely love the fact that Luke tells her like it is. He tells her he will be behind or beside her until she stops running. He knows how she is. I love that he was able to get her to fully trust him!!
"Because without you, Its not life, it's not living; it's just existing."
This is without a doubt one of the best books and series I've read in a while! I highly recommend this series!!
5 out of 5 stars
Luke is the youngest of the Donnelly brothers. He is also the quietest one, well except around Ember. He's had a crush on her for a while.
Ohhhhh man. This book is the best one out of the series. All of them were sooooooo good, but this one is my favorite!! I absolutely love the fact that Luke tells her like it is. He tells her he will be behind or beside her until she stops running. He knows how she is. I love that he was able to get her to fully trust him!!
"Because without you, Its not life, it's not living; it's just existing."
This is without a doubt one of the best books and series I've read in a while! I highly recommend this series!!
5 out of 5 stars
March 28, 2015
I absolutely loved this series. Each brother became my favorite but I have to say Luke was the sweetest. Logan even showed a softer side in this book. I was sad to see it end but I hope to see more of them in the future.
March 16, 2015
I enjoyed all 4 books and I'm sad that there aren't more brothers to write about. Hate for the series to end. Great books and highly recommend.
March 18, 2015
Oh my goodness, absolutely loved this series! I really hope there is a novella about them, I miss the characters already!
October 2, 2024
Donnelly Brothers
I loved reading this series along with the Creekwood Valley series. The men all sounded so dreamy and found their perfect women.
I loved reading this series along with the Creekwood Valley series. The men all sounded so dreamy and found their perfect women.
January 30, 2015
Oh my goodness pass the biggest box of tissues you can find please!!!
Wow what a journey it has been and such a wonderful one I simply don't want it to end. I don't want to read the last page, I don't want to close the last book and I really don't want the characters to cease to exist - although in my head and mostly in my heart they will always remain, especially the character of Gracie Donnelley.
They say every family has an anchor, a force that binds them together. Well Gracie is that glue throughout the whole series and she really is the constant that empowers her family through pure love.
This series is such an emotionally charged, heart warming read you are sure to feel the same as me. From the very first novel of Counting Stars the heart wrenching begins with Logan and Reece to the quest of survival with Kyle and Kami.
Then the search for safety with Collin and Hadley, to the final journey of discovery for Luke and Ember it's been more than could be measured in star awards issued to each novel.
This novel is as beautifully written with such wondrous style that is uniquely Alannah Carbonneau as the three before it. The language and illustration of the authors words paints a stunning picture of the books scenery, it will have you packing your bags and leaving for the Donnelley Ranch within a heartbeat. If ever there was a magical place of serenity, nature and healing brought to life through literature then this is it. Ms Carbonneau pulled out her magic wand that happened to be a pen and she created just that.
It is with no wonder then that when Ember Brighton comes to a cross roads in her life she retreats to her favourite place of tranquility to gain perspective and guidance. Here she reconnects with Luke Donnelley the fourth brother of the clan. Ember has known Luke for ten years having visited the ranch every summer through her teens, but Luke is no longer a wispy teenager that she had a slight crush on, he's grown into a man that Ember has a hard time resisting on all levels emotionally and spiritually.
Ember begins a journey of discovery looking for something, something that even she's not sure of what it is that she is looking for but ends up finding what she least expects.
The stories of these four brothers and the women that enter their lives will leave you like me in a state of dissonant, with your feelings conflicting and your emotions out of harmony simply because you will feel elation and happiness resonating from reading fantastic stories, yet feel an utter sadness and grief when the final chapter is read.
This series will leave the most un romantic sceptic truly believing in the power of love and the existence of soul mates.
I recommend it from sincerest bone in my body , you will love this.
Wow what a journey it has been and such a wonderful one I simply don't want it to end. I don't want to read the last page, I don't want to close the last book and I really don't want the characters to cease to exist - although in my head and mostly in my heart they will always remain, especially the character of Gracie Donnelley.
They say every family has an anchor, a force that binds them together. Well Gracie is that glue throughout the whole series and she really is the constant that empowers her family through pure love.
This series is such an emotionally charged, heart warming read you are sure to feel the same as me. From the very first novel of Counting Stars the heart wrenching begins with Logan and Reece to the quest of survival with Kyle and Kami.
Then the search for safety with Collin and Hadley, to the final journey of discovery for Luke and Ember it's been more than could be measured in star awards issued to each novel.
This novel is as beautifully written with such wondrous style that is uniquely Alannah Carbonneau as the three before it. The language and illustration of the authors words paints a stunning picture of the books scenery, it will have you packing your bags and leaving for the Donnelley Ranch within a heartbeat. If ever there was a magical place of serenity, nature and healing brought to life through literature then this is it. Ms Carbonneau pulled out her magic wand that happened to be a pen and she created just that.
It is with no wonder then that when Ember Brighton comes to a cross roads in her life she retreats to her favourite place of tranquility to gain perspective and guidance. Here she reconnects with Luke Donnelley the fourth brother of the clan. Ember has known Luke for ten years having visited the ranch every summer through her teens, but Luke is no longer a wispy teenager that she had a slight crush on, he's grown into a man that Ember has a hard time resisting on all levels emotionally and spiritually.
Ember begins a journey of discovery looking for something, something that even she's not sure of what it is that she is looking for but ends up finding what she least expects.
The stories of these four brothers and the women that enter their lives will leave you like me in a state of dissonant, with your feelings conflicting and your emotions out of harmony simply because you will feel elation and happiness resonating from reading fantastic stories, yet feel an utter sadness and grief when the final chapter is read.
This series will leave the most un romantic sceptic truly believing in the power of love and the existence of soul mates.
I recommend it from sincerest bone in my body , you will love this.
January 9, 2015
Oh my goodness pass the biggest box of tissues you can find please!!!
Wow what a journey it has been and such a wonderful one I simply don't want it to end. I don't want to read the last page, I don't want to close the last book and I really don't want the characters to cease to exist - although in my head and mostly in my heart they will always remain, especially the character of Gracie Donnelley.
They say every family has an anchor, a force that binds them together. Well Gracie is that glue throughout the whole series and she really is the constant that empowers her family through pure love.
This series is such an emotionally charged, heart warming read you are sure to feel the same as me. From the very first novel of Counting Stars the heart wrenching begins with Logan and Reece to the quest of survival with Kyle and Kami.
Then the search for safety with Collin and Hadley, to the final journey of discovery for Luke and Ember it's been more than could be measured in star awards issued to each novel.
This novel is as beautifully written with such wondrous style that is uniquely Alannah Carbonneau as the three before it. The language and illustration of the authors words paints a stunning picture of the books scenery, it will have you packing your bags and leaving for the Donnelley Ranch within a heartbeat. If ever there was a magical place of serenity, nature and healing brought to life through literature then this is it. Ms Carbonneau pulled out her magic wand that happened to be a pen and she created just that.
It is with no wonder then that when Ember Brighton comes to a cross roads in her life she retreats to her favourite place of tranquility to gain perspective and guidance. Here she reconnects with Luke Donnelley the fourth brother of the clan. Ember has known Luke for ten years having visited the ranch every summer through her teens, but Luke is no longer a wispy teenager that she had a slight crush on, he's grown into a man that Ember has a hard time resisting on all levels emotionally and spiritually.
Ember begins a journey of discovery looking for something, something that even she's not sure of what it is that she is looking for but ends up finding what she least expects.
The stories of these four brothers and the women that enter their lives will leave you like me in a state of dissonant, with your feelings conflicting and your emotions out of harmony simply because you will feel elation and happiness resonating from reading fantastic stories, yet feel an utter sadness and grief when the final chapter is read.
This series will leave the most un romantic sceptic truly believing in the power of love and the existence of soul mates.
I recommend it from sincerest bone in my body , you will love this.
Wow what a journey it has been and such a wonderful one I simply don't want it to end. I don't want to read the last page, I don't want to close the last book and I really don't want the characters to cease to exist - although in my head and mostly in my heart they will always remain, especially the character of Gracie Donnelley.
They say every family has an anchor, a force that binds them together. Well Gracie is that glue throughout the whole series and she really is the constant that empowers her family through pure love.
This series is such an emotionally charged, heart warming read you are sure to feel the same as me. From the very first novel of Counting Stars the heart wrenching begins with Logan and Reece to the quest of survival with Kyle and Kami.
Then the search for safety with Collin and Hadley, to the final journey of discovery for Luke and Ember it's been more than could be measured in star awards issued to each novel.
This novel is as beautifully written with such wondrous style that is uniquely Alannah Carbonneau as the three before it. The language and illustration of the authors words paints a stunning picture of the books scenery, it will have you packing your bags and leaving for the Donnelley Ranch within a heartbeat. If ever there was a magical place of serenity, nature and healing brought to life through literature then this is it. Ms Carbonneau pulled out her magic wand that happened to be a pen and she created just that.
It is with no wonder then that when Ember Brighton comes to a cross roads in her life she retreats to her favourite place of tranquility to gain perspective and guidance. Here she reconnects with Luke Donnelley the fourth brother of the clan. Ember has known Luke for ten years having visited the ranch every summer through her teens, but Luke is no longer a wispy teenager that she had a slight crush on, he's grown into a man that Ember has a hard time resisting on all levels emotionally and spiritually.
Ember begins a journey of discovery looking for something, something that even she's not sure of what it is that she is looking for but ends up finding what she least expects.
The stories of these four brothers and the women that enter their lives will leave you like me in a state of dissonant, with your feelings conflicting and your emotions out of harmony simply because you will feel elation and happiness resonating from reading fantastic stories, yet feel an utter sadness and grief when the final chapter is read.
This series will leave the most un romantic sceptic truly believing in the power of love and the existence of soul mates.
I recommend it from sincerest bone in my body , you will love this.
June 6, 2015
Fairly well written, but needs editing for grammar. This is a stand-alone book about one couple, with no cliffhanger. 3.5 stars, rounded up.
This is the fourth book I've read in the series, and for me, the weakest of the series. It's very angsty, with lots of feelings of unworthiness by the female lead, push-pull indecisive interactions, and unnecessary drama. The female lead has no idea what she wants in life or romance. The lead male character knows exactly what he wants, but isn't really clear with her.
Of course, it's a Donnelley Brothers story, so once his mother and soon-to-be sisters in law are involved, there's only one outcome possible.
Recommended for fans of the New Adult genre, the Canadian Rockies, and HEAs.
This is the fourth book I've read in the series, and for me, the weakest of the series. It's very angsty, with lots of feelings of unworthiness by the female lead, push-pull indecisive interactions, and unnecessary drama. The female lead has no idea what she wants in life or romance. The lead male character knows exactly what he wants, but isn't really clear with her.
Of course, it's a Donnelley Brothers story, so once his mother and soon-to-be sisters in law are involved, there's only one outcome possible.
Recommended for fans of the New Adult genre, the Canadian Rockies, and HEAs.
January 8, 2015
3.5 stars
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