Throttle

Jack 'Em Up #3

by Shauna Allen

I have a past. I have pain.
I don’t dwell on those because I have a future.
I’ve got my career and my wits. I don’t need love, or lust, or some man to make me complete. That’s for fairy tales.
Yeah, right.
Trace Berringer is the perfect male specimen, wrapped up in a smart, sexy, witty package, and while I may not need him, I sure want him. But he’s got a past of his own. One that may ultimately keep us apart.
~~~~~
Tori Waters has become both my fantasy and my nightmare.
I’ve wanted her since the moment we met, but she has walls a mile high.
Hell, so do I.
Sex and shameless flirting are one thing, but I’ve been burned and I can’t afford to go there again. My son is my heart, my soul. It’s just us against the world and I’d kill to protect him.
No one, definitely no woman, is going to hurt us again.
That is a promise.

***All books in the Jack 'Em Up series are standalones with HEA but if you'd like to enjoy them in order...
Burnout (Prequel - Blake & Delilah: The Beginning)
Crank (Book I - Blake & Delilah)
Torque (Book II - Jesse & Rachel)
Hitched (A Jack 'Em Up Wedding - Jesse & Rachel)
Throttle (Book III - Trace & Tori)
Rev (Book IV - Micah & Jewel)

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance

250 pages, ebook

First published November 20, 2015

About the author

Shauna grew up an only child with two open and loving parents in Central Texas. She’s married to her high school sweetheart and is the mother to three fantastic children, including one she recently sent off to the Air Force.

When she’s not reading or writing, Shauna is a freelance editor and lover of all things Gerard Butler.

She also writes Contemporary YA under the pen name SC Montgomery.

Shauna would love for you to visit her at her website at: www.shaunaallen.com
Facebook : http://www.facebook.com/shauna.allen.12
Twitter : http://tiny.cc/s0dlmw

Reviews

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an AWESOME story! It is very well written and the characters are amazing! The story will make you laugh and cry and want to "throttle" Ryder's biological mother. I just had a bad feeling about her. Because of her Trace has trust issues. Can Tori help Trace get over his trust problems and get on with his life and be happy? Read the book today it will make your day. Ryder is such a cute and adorable kid. I loved every minute of this book and hated to see it end. Can't wait for Jewel's and Micah's story.

[Cynthia · Rating 5 out of 5]

First I have to say this books name fits it well before you finish it you will want to Throttle Trace more than once. This is a very emotion ride in many ways, you have a past you must overcome, a future that isn't looking very bright, trust issues, an ex, a darling child, people who have been fantasizing about each other for a very long time. The author throws in a few surprises along the way that leaves you thinking this cannot be good. This is a pretty fast pace read that is highly entertaining. It is a very well written with a wonderful plot that at times you would love to grab a few heads and bang them together until they see reason. This author knows how to pull you in as she grips your heart as few tears fill your eyes.

If you have read the other books in this series than you know Trace has been lusting after Tori for a very long time. It does seem she has been doing a little lusting herself but who could blame her with a man this hot. Trace just cannot seem to get the nerve to ask Tori out until it is almost too late. Once he does things start rolling in a roller-coaster ride up and down they go as life gets in the way of true love. Trace has issues there is no doubt from the moment he finds he is a single father as the mother takes off to places unknown. His son always comes first but he can't help how Tori pulls him in. Now he must juggle his life between Tori and his son, oh wait let's not forget the ex which just made life more complicated. Just when you and he thinks life is great and love is on the way it throws a tailspin in his world leaving him scared and alone. He does have a lot going for him. He is sex walking on a stick, one hot man with trust issues. I would gladly take him off Tori hands if things do not work out.

Tori has had her eye on Trace for some time. She wonders why he never made a move on her. When he does life get very complicated as she moves on into her career with Trace and his son mixed up all in it. This is a sweet, sexy, caring lady that puts others first. Trace has his hand full but hers just got a little fuller as well. She has family issues she must face that has her world spinning out of control add Trace and his issues you have one hot mess. I really liked this lady she knows what the words "I love you" means. She gives space when needed and always there for her man when he needs her.

I loved how this relationship was built on friendship, taking it slow and building up to some very hot sex scenes. Both are scared to give their hearts for totally different reasons. There is no way you can read this story and not walk away with it touching your heart. This was a very well written and well thought out plot. I have waited a long time for this story and it was well worth the wait. It touched me in so many ways from so many angles as the author send you twists that will leave you in a tailspin. This is a book you will not want to put down and leaving you wanting the next book in this series in your hands today. It looks to be even better than this one. Each book in this series is better than the last. I loved the characters their issues will break your heart over and over again. Ms. Allen is another of my go to authors. You know whatever she writes will grip you and pull you in as she gives you day to day issues with believable characters. You will smile, laugh and have tears in your eyes before you read the last page. I love this author and her writing style as she pulls you in and gives you a compelling read of insecurity, doubt, fear, along with hope, dreams and love. This is one outstanding read you do not want to miss.

[Misty (Reds Romance Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trace Berringer finds it extremely hard to trust women after being burnt by one in the worst kind of way, which ultimately left him a single dad. The idea of putting his trust in another woman scares him beyond belief and is something that he normally shies away from, that is until he meets Tori Waters. Until meeting her, he has always kept his relationships with women on the one night basis, but something about her has him reconsidering his rules, she has an effect on him that he can't explain, but wants to explore, even if it means letting her in. She is good with his son, and understands that they are a packaged deal, but the closer they get the more his mind keeps telling him to run. He wants to let her in, but he's just not sure if he's ready to give her the power to break his heart...

Tori Waters is finally ready to leave the waitress world behind and begin her knew career as a therapist at a local grade school. One of the first students to walk through her door, captures her heart in a matter of minutes, and just so happens to belong to the handsome man who captured her attention at her previous job. Seeing him again has awakened something in her that she is scared to explore for fear of putting her new job at risk. But no matter how hard she tries to fight her feelings and attraction for him, he keeps edging his way farther into her heart...

This is third installment in the Jack'em Up series, and I have to say that with each new installment I become more and more impressed with Ms. Allen's writing, she is DEFINITELY a master at her craft!!
This story was filled with passion, compassion, intensity, and a WHOLE lot of heart, and I LOVED every minute I spent reading it!! If you haven't read this series yet, you are totally missing out on some exceptionally written stories that are bound to warm your heart and leave you with a new book boyfriend or two!!

ARC given in exchange for a honest and unbiased review.

[Amber Tinsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book in return for leaving an honest review.
I loved this book. Hard. First off, I have a notorious so secret love for hot mechanics. So this series has definitely scratched that itch for me. But throw in a single dad into the mix and I swear I swooned so hard I might have broken something. As a single mom I found it super easy to connect with Trace. All his struggles, well they are real ya'll. I was so, So, hoping that Trace and Tori could come together without a cosmic rift almost tearing them apart. But that rift, holy bat cave Batman, it was major. Between Ryder's...I don't even want to say the word mother, because let's be honest a mother that piece of work is not...showing up, and Tori's mom passing away from cancer, I swear I didn't think I would ever recover from that emotional bomb. As a parent, I felt Traces pain and fear down to my bones. As a child who has lost a parent, I felt Tori's grief as if it were my own. Tori is definitely made of some strong stuff. She is super understanding when it comes to the complexity of having a relationship with a single parent. Because you really aren't just dating that parent. And it made my heart so damn happy to see the bond that she was able to form with Ryder. Even knowing where Trace was coming from, I can't lie there were times I wanted one shake some sense into that man.
This book was just wow. I honestly thought Rachel and Jesse would be hard to top. I connected with that book and their story on a deep, almost painful level. But Shauna out different her self with Trace and Tori. Like bases loaded, bottom of the 9th, knocked it outta the park, out did herself. Her books always find a way to just blow my emotions to hell and back but leave me completely over the moon happy.
I cannot wait for Micah's story, I have a feeling that one might be a bit harder to survive.

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ooh, I've been waiting for Trace's story since I met the single father in Crank! He's been eyeing Tori in the Funky Monkey for AGES, and I was SO thrilled when he finally got up the nerve to talk to her in this one!

Trace has some trust issues, and justly so. Other than his immediate family members, he hasn't exactly had the best experiences with women. And on top of all that, he has Ryder to think about. But he's such an amazing man, and it was so hard to watch him struggle with opening his heart up to Tori.

Tori didn't exactly have a charmed childhood. With her dad leaving while she was still growing up, and for really shitty reasons, plus all the work she had to do to get where she is now, she doesn't have a good reason to trust anyone outside of herself. But she is the most incredible woman, and is absolutely brilliant with children, and she deserves so much more than being alone for the rest of her life.

Watching Trace and Tori fall for each other was beautiful. Even the God-awful parts where they royally screwed up. And as usual, Trace's group of friends are amazing, funny, warm, and the absolute key to keeping everyone together.

As usual, as much as I love and adore the main characters, my favoritist character in the book was hands down Trace's son, Ryder. I wish I would have done a better job of highlighting while I was reading, because he said and did some of the most adorable, honest things!

Anyway, this one's definitely worth a read! And if you haven't read the rest of the series, get on it already! :)

Your Not-So-Anonymous Book Junkie

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was provided a copy of this book for a honest review.

Where to start? I simply LOVE a book where the characters get to know each other before jumping into bed.

Within the pages of Throttle we find out what makes Trace tick, what makes him do the things he does and find that it really is all about his son, Ryder. Except for the brief momemt when he sees Tori Waters across the bar. Taking a chance, he goes up to her only to have her turn him down for a date.

Tori Waters is back in town after finishing her Masters. She's starting a new job at the elementary school and wants to put all her focus on that, but after seeing Trace at the bar, she can't help but have daydreams about what might have been.

When they keep meeting unexepectedly, Trace takes another chance and asks Tori out and is surprised when she accepts. As their friendship, then romance, progresses, its nice to see the couple really get to know each other, to develop a bond that can withstand just about anything. Or can it?

When Ryder's biological mother returns to town and demands to see him, Trace is upset and does his best to do the right thing for his son, even if it makes him unhappy. While Trace is dealing with this, Tori is dealing with problems of her own that puts a strain on their growing relationship.

Lots of cameos from the rest of the Jack'Em Up crew to keep the reader satisfied about their favorite characters from the previous books.

[Mariela Bustos · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of, the covers are just hot. If that does not catch your attention, the story will. I didn't think Shauna Allen could outbeat the Cupid's Chronicles but she did. Ladies if you haven't read her other series what are you waiting for. I loveeee her books. This series just as hot and sexy, with a twist that I love. I find myself still in tears for both the joy and sadness this book brings me. Love is not easy, and especially not when a child is involved. Travel through this Journey with Trace and Tori to see where there paths will lead. I found myself in turmoil at trying to figure out why, and wondering about other characters. So many moments that will grip your heart, and reflect in your own circumstances. Sometimes life is not easy, but we chose to either complicated it more, or help ease some of the pain.

Mind you, this story is definitely touching, but boy those it have its hot steamy moments. Trace is definitely the whole package that has you wishing to meet a guy like that in real life. And ladies if you have, show them how much you love and appreciate them like Tori does.

I fell in love with Ryder the most, and I know that Micah might be the last in the series but I can't help to hope for his story. Maybe a few other characters as well.

This book also held a bit of mystery that has me guessing what will happen next. So five raving stars with one eagerly awaiting heart for the next story in the series that will have my heart fully involved.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Of the 4 guys that make up Jack 'Em Up Trace Berringer  has always had me intrigued. Seven years ago a one night stand informed him he was a father and then promptly left him to raise his son all by himself. Trace never saw himself as being a single dad but as soon as he saw his son he fell in love and strives to be the best father. He has chosen to not get involved in relationships. He's always there for his son but he also has huge trust issues about women due to what his son's mother did to him. So for years he's just quitely lusted after Tori Waters who worked as a bartender while she went to school to get her child psychology degree. Now that she's graduated she is the elementary schools new guidance counselor where Trace's son attends. After Ryder has an altercation at school and assigned to see Tori Trace finally gets the nerve to ask Tori out.

Seems like the perfect setup to the start of a good relationship right? Well Trace's trust issues and Tori's reluctance to get involved with a parent along with a heartbreaking situation with Tori's mom and Ryder's mom coming back into the picture cause problems for the two. Tori ended up being the stronger one relationship wise and had to deal with Trace breaking her heart a time or two before he finally came to his senses.

[Belinda Joyner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when I think Shauna Allen can't make the Jack 'EM Up series any better she brings us Throttle and we get to see how a single dad handles a new woman in his life and keep his son his number one priority. Trace has been raising his son Ryder alone since the day he was born and the woman that gave birth to him wants no part of motherhood. On the night of friend and coworker Jesse bachelor party, Trace bumps into a woman that once worked at the Funky Monkey and that caught his eye now after a chance meeting and a dance together things start to heat up for them but with the threat of Ryder's drug addict mother wanting to be part of his life now and Trace not trusting love or knowing how to share his life with anyone but his son can these two stand a chance. The relationship gets a jump start when Ryder's school counselor turns out to be Tori the waitress from the Funky Monkey.
Life takes a different turn for these two when the heat turns up but family issues and Tori's mother illness takes toll on the relationship and then when Trace lets his guard down and let's Ryder's mom take part of his life she also takes off with their son. A must read to see how Trace and Tori handle everything that's taking place in their lives.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

In my humble opinion, Shauna Allen can do no wrong. With each new release, her writing is only getting better. If you're after swoon-worthy heroes and intelligent, strong heroines, she'll have you covered.

Sexy and poignant, Throttle is the story of single father Trace and Tori, a local schoolteacher who's just as smitten with him as he is with her. The couple's fledgling bond is put to the test when the mother of Trace's young son arrives back in town to cause trouble and Tori faces a family crisis. Can Trace ever find it in him to open his heart fully to her when his son's wellbeing is at stake?

Trace was such a good guy but I was incredibly frustrated by his refusal to trust Tori. He kept pushing and pushing her away but thankfully, she was more patient with him than most women would have been. Admittedly, it's the struggle toward their HEA that made it all the more sweeter.

There's a mystery surrounding a serial rapist preying on blondes that needs to be resolved so I can only assume that it's going to be a part of Jewel and Micah's book. Can't wait to get to know them better!

[Mary Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible roller-coaster romance delivering all the feels, many surprised me. Trace is a single Dad and is very protective of his son Ryder, after Kristi left shortly after he was born. He is jaded and unwilling to let another woman into their lives. Ryder is 7 and as school begins, it appears not having a mother around is taking a toll on this little boy. Tori worked at the Funky Monkey while going to school and always enjoyed when Trace came to the bar but now she finds herself across from him as Ryder's school counselor. Trace has always been attracted to Tori, now that Ryder has brought these 2 together in a different capacity, will they acknowledge the sparks between them? Or will Trace push her away to protect the bubble he's created for Ryder? Along the way, Kristi reappears, what does this mean for Ryder? Trace? Tori is faced with some difficult family issues. I was captivated by Tori and Trace's journey and yes, there were tears. Truly a spectacular romance to dive into. I was given a copy for an honest review.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been waiting for Trace and Tori and was it ever worth the wait! Shauna has created this great series and it just keeps getting better and better.

Tori was just a waitress in the bar when she noticed Trace. And he noticed her too. But never made a move. And now she's back as guidance counselor at the school where his son goes. When she sees Trace again the attraction is as strong as ever.

Trace has always put his son first. And has decided to seal his heart off after his sons mother did him wrong.
But seeing Tori has changed his mind at least in the dating pool.
When his son has trouble at school and she has to counsel him they decide to take it slow. But with those kind of sparks flying it does.t take long for them to come together.

As Tori and Trace grow closer will she be able to rack his hard heart and prove she's around for the long haul?
Will Trace prove himself the man she needs him to be?
Or will a horrible tragedy rip them apart before they ever have a chance to see what could be?

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nobody can write a tear-jerker like Shauna Allen. The kind of heart wrenching story that you just can’t put down. It just has to be read in one sitting.

Trottle is the third in her Jack Em Up Series that so far have been amazing stories but this one about Trace and Tori is my favorite. Any story about a dad raising a little boy all alone because the child’s mother is MIA is cause to pull out the Kleenex.

Trace had eyes for Tori ever since she worked at the bar where he and his friends frequently hung out. However, now that she is working at his son’s school he isn’t sure if he wants to pursue this thing he is feeling for her or not. Things get really complicated when they start being best friends and then it all turns into something more. Even as their relationship grows Trace still has a hard time with trust because all he wants to do is protect himself and his son from hurt. When the mother of Trace’s son comes around wanting to see him things go from bad to worse. Check out this wonderful story of learning to trust again.

[Beth Cutwright · Rating 5 out of 5]

I so loved the story of Rachel and Jesse, and to my great surprise, Shauna Allen is to blame that I love the story of Tori and Trace even more. This was a story of substance,dealing with cancer, pasts, single parenting, and so much more. These characters were real to me as they struggled to find love during trying times in their lives.

Shauna is always able to provide a smooth storyline, twists and turns and a bumpy ride to true love. I believe she is keenly aware that anything worth having is worth working for. It is certainly true for the mechanics at Jack 'Em Up. They work hard, both at the garage and in their spare time.

Shauna Allen is a Favorite of mine. She can write such realistic stories about everyday people and everyday problems with bouts of tension, angst and a bit of humor on the side. She is able to pull the reader in early on, compelling them to read from start to finish with whatever time they have available to them.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book for my honest review.

What can I say? I loved this book. Shauna Allen always writes the best everyday heroes, and Trace Berringer is no exception. I really liked Trace and Tori in this book. They both come from very different backgrounds, but they are both strong in the face of some very difficult circumstances. Once again, Shauna did a fabulous job of switching between two different voices telling the story from both Trace and Tori's points of view. She also captured Trace's son Ryder beautifully. At times, I was reminded of my own boys when they were that young. Every time I read one of these books, I wish these people were real, so I could really be friends with them. I don't know how it could get any better than that.

[Crystal Yawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full of Feels.
Trace and Tori's story is wrapped full of emotion-. happy, sad, scared, pissed, love, friendship, tears etc. I cried and laughed in the same chapter.
Trace is a kick butt dad. butting Ry first in everything he does while holding onto the betrayal and anger towards Ry's mom who abandoned them at birth.
Tori is the new school counselor with a task of helping Ry, with the bonus of Trace. She has her own past hurts which makes her an extremely relatable character.
we welcome back all our old friends at Jack em up for an awesome story. Micah's story can't come soon enough.

Lots of laughs too-
“I’m sure. Plus, I might’ve told him I’m seeing someone.”
His frown melted into a cocky grin. “Yeah?”
“Well, sure. The mailman’s been showing me a real good time.”

[Desiree · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an ARC for an honest review but yet again it is one I would have wanted to get my grubby Jack Em Up loving hands on then anyway. Can I just say that I needed this book? The emotional things that it delve into, the heart, the feels....OMG the FEELS!!!! Shauna Allen has done it again, every time I read about these sexy mechanics I don't think one can top the other.

Blake was so HOT! Then Jesse (Oh gawd Jesse!!!) then sweet, sexy, Trace....*fans self* and his little minime Ry and Tori had just the sass, strength, and nurturing sweetness to balance them out!!

I love this series and I can't wait for more.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review

It has been a long time since I read a book in a day. Throttle has to be my favorite of this series. This book has so much love. It made me cry, laugh and being a mom/daughter had my heart breaking. Shauna writes stories that are full of emotions and feelings of all kinds. This series just keeps getting better with each book. While this is Trace, Ryder and Tori’s story we also learn more about what’s happening in everyone else’s life. This series is a MUST!!!!!

[Rhonda Ziglar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Throttle by Shauna Allen, is like flying down the highway in a luxury car, smooth, fast and enjoyable. The story had some curves in it, single parent, drugs, illness and trust issues and flowed smoothly throughout the book. The characters become your family and friends you will be rooting for them and want to kill some of them. Shauna Allen has became my favorite author after reading two books by her. I am so excited to read more by this amazing author. Do yourself a favor and by this book and all her books you will love her writing.

I was given an ARC of this book, for my honest review.

[KimberlyDawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had been eagerly awaiting Trace and Tori's story, and I was not disappointed. Trace is a single father, and he had his eye on Tori for quite a while, but then she disappeared. When she resurfaces, he makes his move. Things get tense at home for Trace, and Tori is there for him. Yet Trace pushes her away. Can he find it in his heart to truly take a chance? A must-read!

[Juli Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome story!! Trace and Tori's journey to finding love, trust and happiness. Loved it!

[Stacey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trace is a single father of a seven year old son, Ryder, whose mother took off shortly after his birth. As a result, Trace has become distrustful of women, never letting any of them get close to him, let alone Ryder. But when he comes into contact with Tori, he's almost willing to give her a chance.

You can't help but feel for Trace. He didn't even know his one night stand was pregnant until she called him while she was in labor, then she disappears from their lives. He's left to raise his son, and often times he wonders if he's doing a good job with him. There are times he feels like he's failing as a father, especially when Ryder starts having issues at school. And when Ryder's mother shows up and starts demanding she be able to see her son, he's torn between keeping Ryder away from her or allowing her to spend time with him.

I liked Tori and how she was patient with Ryder, helping him work out the things that were bothering him and giving Trace ideas on how to help him. I did feel bad for her though, when Trace basically pushes her away after Ryder's mother does something terrible. It was like he lumped Tori in the same category as her, which wasn't fair because the two were as different as night and day.

I really enjoyed how Trace and Tori took their time to develop their relationship. They didn't immediate hop into one; they took their time and slowly built up a friendship, which gradually turned into more. It was nice to see them really take the time to get to know one another.

Characters from the previous books make appearances in this one, and it was nice to catch up with everyone. While it can be read as a stand alone, it would be best if you've read the others first to understand all the characters and their relationships with one another.

While I've enjoyed all the books in the series so far, this one has been my favorite. It's definitely worth giving it a read.

**A free copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**

[Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have a love/hate relationship with Throttle. I read the book in just a few hours because I had to know NOW how it was going to end. I was so anxious, and often agitated, about the story because Trace has this brick wall built around his heart, and I just couldn't see him ever overcoming his trust issues. The hate part? I felt horrible for Tori when Trace shut her out. I just couldn't imagine how he could possibly compare her to his ex, Kristi. The two are night & day, and I just couldn't get past him not realizing the difference! Luckily, Trace came to his senses. Honestly, I know the author's stories are sometimes gut-wrenching, but this one really put me thru the ringer. I have to say, it was totally worth it in the end. And the epilogue? Oh my word, it's perfection! Trace says to Tori, "I had no idea what was even missing in my life until you came along and filled the empty spaces." Sweet mercy, that line begs to be read over and over!
What, besides the epilogue, did I love? The friendship that Tori & Trace developed. I liked that they took their time to get to know each other, and that they included Ryder in their relationship. It was great to see Trace as such a devoted father! Also, the dynamics of the Jack'Em Up group of friends was, once again, front and center throughout the story. They offered up some amazing insights and advice!
My favorite lines came from Tori:
"Try harder," she whispered. "I really need my best friend back."
and..."I told you...you're already forgiven. I love you and that's part of the deal. Just try to limit your stupidity. Even I have my limits."
I knew Tori was going to be a great character when we got her story, but I had no idea she would be so amazing! I have a serious girl crush on her! I want her to be my best friend!

Once again, this series continues to keep me totally enamored of the author's writing style!

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Throttle is the third book in the Jack 'Em Up series and the first book I have read by this very talented author. I really enjoyed the story and I have already purchased the first two books so I can meet the entire cast of characters that appear throughout this entertaining series. Throttle is very well written and has a great storyline featuring an adorable seven year old named Ryder and his single father Travis Berringer, who is a wonderful and dedicated father and takes his role as a single parent very seriously. I truly appreciated the relationship dynamics between parent and child, and was amused by the antics of this sweet, but troubled little boy who needs the mother who abandoned him when he was born. Tori Waters is a newly hired grade school counselor who is happy to step in and do what she can for this student when he strikes out against another student who teases him about not having a mother. Tori has no idea that Ryder's father is the same guy she used to flirt with when she was a waitress, before she went back to school and got her degree. Travis is thrilled that Tori has come back to town and he can't wait to act on the sexy fantasies he continues to have about her. As Tori counsels Ryder and passes on her suggestions to Trace, the attraction they feel continues to grow and though Tori is hesitant to mix her personal and professional lives, she can't deny the feelings she has for Travis and his sweet little boy. The road to their happily ever after has some speed bumps along the way with Travis's reluctance to commit and the return of Ryder's mother, but their story is a smart and sexy contemporary romance with a cast of characters that you will become emotionally invested in just as I did. I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another amazing installment in the Jack 'Em Up series by Shauna Allen. This story is about Trace and Tori. It can be read as a standalone, but I highly recommend the whole series if you have the time to read it.

Trace has been burnt before in a bad relationship and ended up with his son, but he would not trade anything for his son, he has just learned to be more cautious with his heart now. With Trace being guarded, he has not been interested in too many women along the way, just focusing on his career and raising his son. When Trace meets Tori at the bar he frequents, he knows that there is something special about her.

Tori is a waiter at the local bar, but is looking to finally get out and into her preferred profession of a therapist. Tori has not had much interest in men either since she has been trying to get her career going. When Tori gets a job as the counselor for the school in town, she never thought that she would happen to run into the same guy that had caught her attention at the bar, but guess what!!

When Trace's son has a few issues at school and Tori is the one to help him, Trace is surprised to see Tori at the school and even more surprised at how well she connects with his son. They begin to spend time together and the sparks begin to fly. Will Trace and Tori be able to let their pasts go in order to finally find their true loves? You have to read this one to find out. Such a great read that flows so easily and will have you turning the pages as fast as you can to get to the end, then you will be mad that it is the end. Lol. Thanks Shauna for another great read for us!

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book three in the Jack 'Em Up series was extremely emotional and powerful. There was so much mistrust, hurt, pain, sorrow, fear, but most of all love. I know most of those things seem negative, but really the story is about overcoming these emotions and making a happy life together. Trace and Ryder and Tori make a beautiful family, but the crazy ride to get there will keep the reader engaged to the end.

Tori is starting over in a new town and a new job that puts her in the path of the man she's wanted since she first saw him. She's got some pain and issues stemming for the past that hold her back and make her doubt the possibility of a future with Trace and Ryder.

Trace has held back since Kristi walked away from him and Ryder, not that he loved her, but she forever changed his life. Now his world revolves around the one person he loves more than anything, Ryder. He'll do anything to protect Ryder, physically and emotionally. That fierce protectiveness forces him to close himself off from relationships and love. But now he wants more with Tori, he doesn't know how to let go and love her.

Kristi's reappearance and her actions seemed a little predictable, as soon as she reappeared I knew what was going to happen. It didn't impact the story because I feel the real focus of that part of the story line was Trace's reaction and what it meant for Trace and Tori.

Overall, this was a fantastic read. The series just keeps getting better and I can't wait for Micah's story next!

[Shelly Wygant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let's meet Trace and Tori. This can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend all of the books in this series.

Trace is raising his son on his own since his mother decided to leave. I loved that Trace accepted the fact that he struggled with being a single father at times but no matter what he was there for his son. Because of his past he has a hard time with trust but that doesn't keep him from thinking about Tori.

Tori is back in town. When Trace sees her at the bar she used to work at he approaches her. She is not ready for a relationship as she puts everything she has into her new job.

Ms. Allen does a great job of writing about two great characters that have flaws and all. As Trace and Tori navigate from friendship to relationship it is not without the angst. As both of them deal with the walls around their hearts and their issues they struggle with their relationship. This story is heart wrenching and heart warming. Two individuals who deserve happiness but have to fight to get it.

Another great read in this series where your emotions will take a rollercoaster ride. The story flows so easily and will have you turning each page and rooting for Trace and Tori to have their HEA. Ms. Allen is a go to author for me as she writes a romantic read with steamy scenes, angst, and most importantly family and friendship.

I received a gift copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Cricket · Rating 5 out of 5]

Throttle is the third book in the "Jack 'Em Up " Series. This is Trace and Tori's story.
Throttle is my favorite in this series so far. Trace a single dad has had his eye on Tori for a while, but then she left town for months. Trace thought he would never see her again, but one night while out with his best friends he runs into her again and decides to finally make his move.
Tori has always been attracted to Trace and has wanted him to ask her out, but now when she is getting ready to begin her new career she is not sure that she has time for dating and is hesitant to agree to go out with him.
Trace is a wonderful single dad so when his son Ryder starts acting up in school Trace will do anything to help find out what is bothering Ryder, and that includes allowing the schools new counselor to spend time with Ryder each week. The fact that Tori is the new school counselor is just an added complication that he is not sure he needs.
Trace becomes much more active in Ryders school and home life and things are looking up, until Ryders estranged mother shows up and starts making demands.
Tori and Trace have become friends and decide to date, Tori is falling hard for Trace and Ryder, but Trace is so busy trying to protect both himself and Ryder from being hurt again that he begins to push her away.
I will not go on because I really do not want to give any spoilers away, so all I can add is snatch this one up you will love it!

[Fizza · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another amazing Jack 'Em Up novel. I enjoyed reading it as much as previous two books. The characters are all absolutely lovable and it is marvellous how smoothly the story flows. With all the twists and turns in the plot it still manages to be flawless in the way it's written. A must read for romance lovers, who are looking for light-hearted and touching story to brighten up their days.

Tori has recently started her new job as student counsellor. After hard work she is where she has always wanted to be. Her job is important to her and so is helping kids. Ryder is one of the students she is helping because he has issues. But what she doesn't anticipate is to feel wildly attracted to his father. It is becoming difficult for her to not be involved with a father of one of her students. But she can keep professional and personal lives separate.

Trace hasn't felt this way about any woman since Kristi left his son and never looked back. If a mother can do that to her son then can he trust any other woman? But Tori is different she is honest and open. He likes her and is willing to see where this thing goes.

Suddenly they are both in love with each other, trying to figure out how to make things work...

[Jennifer Fannan · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for a honest review*

This is Trace's book of the Jack 'Em Up Series. You do not have to read them all and this is a standalone. But for more background and history of the characters it best to read the series in order.

Trace is a hot, hard working, single dad. Did I say hot? Being a dedicated father makes him more desirable and sexy only if he could figure out that he is worth more than his looks. He has had his eyes on Tori for a while but she quit the bar that he used to see her at. He never approached her and has regretted it. But his only focus is his son and what kind of family life he can give him. When his son starts having problems in school the counselor steps in to help. To Trace's surprise it is Tori.

Tori has always liked Trace but he never seemed interested in her. She has always loved kids and wanted a family but just hasn't meet the right man. Fate has a way of helping bring to souls together. Tori desperately wants to help Trace with his son but the biological mother is back in the picture. Is Trace able to see what is in front of him or is he going to try to have the family he has always wanted with a woman he hates?