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Second Shot #1
Serving Trouble
Five years ago, Josie Fairmore left timber country in search of a bright future. Now she's back home with a mountain of debt and reeling from a loss that haunts her. Desperate for a job, she turns to the one man she wishes she could avoid. The man who rocked her world one wild night and then walked right out of it.
Former Marine Noah Tager is managing his dad's bar and holding tight to the feeling that his time overseas led to failure. The members of his small town think he's a war hero, but after everything he's witnessed, Noah doesn't want a pat on the back. The only thing he desires is a second chance with his best friend's little sister.
Josie's determined to hold onto her heart and not repeat her mistakes, but when danger arrives on Noah's doorstep and takes aim at Josie, they just might discover that sometimes love is worth the risk.
Former Marine Noah Tager is managing his dad's bar and holding tight to the feeling that his time overseas led to failure. The members of his small town think he's a war hero, but after everything he's witnessed, Noah doesn't want a pat on the back. The only thing he desires is a second chance with his best friend's little sister.
Josie's determined to hold onto her heart and not repeat her mistakes, but when danger arrives on Noah's doorstep and takes aim at Josie, they just might discover that sometimes love is worth the risk.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 2, 2016
31 people are currently reading
827 people want to read
About the author
Sara Jane Stone
23 books577 followersSara Jane Stone lives near New York's Hudson River with her very supportive real-life hero, two lively young children, a lazy Burmese cat, and a very active dog. When she is not finger painting with the kids, she loves writing sexy stories, staying up past her bedtime reading red-hot romance, and chatting with her readers on Facebook.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
March 14, 2016
4 - "I knew you wouldn't let me down." Stars!
Sara’s Independence Falls series was in my top ten of 2015, so I was extremely happy to hear that she was shifting over to the neighboring town of Forever, for her new, Second Shot series, as it means we get a whole new cast of characters, as well as a few catch-ups with people from the previous series.
If you haven’t read the prequel novella to this book Running Wild I recommend that you do, you can find my review for it here –
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Although it now isn’t being offered for free (Running Wild was included in the back of my ARC, so hopefully it will be in the released copy as well), it is still worth a read as it gives you an important look at the relationship between Josie and Noah, prior to them leaving town. Her for college, and him for the Marines. Things are different five years on, and although Noah always planned to return, Josie didn’t and the choice wasn’t one made lightly.
The ghosts from Forever were hell bent on haunting her.
This is a multi-layered story, with things going on aside from Josie and Noah’s reconnection, the one thing that they both have in common in relation to their return to Forever is that the chemistry that was so strong between them then, is just as strong now. Being her brothers best friend, crushing on Noah as a teenager came with its own set of difficulties, add into the fact that she is the daughter of the towns Police Chief and those issues are doubled. Noah has never been in any doubt that he isn’t good enough for Josie, and he is far from the hero that she believes him to be, even if his words and actions then and now are to the contrary.
People changed. They hardened. They took hits and got back up, leaving their heart beaten and wrecked on the ground.
I loved this book, it’s not epically long, but the story doesn’t lose any of its impact for it. Both Noah and Josie have had a huge amount happen to them in the last five years, and as the story progressed you began to understand how those things had impacted their lives and made them into the people they now are.
The side story with Noah's colleague Caroline was an excellent addition to the plot, and I really hope that she and Josh get a book of their own at some point, because the pie-making hottie deserves his happily ever, especially after he saw all his brothers settle down as the Independence Falls Series progressed.
"I want you in my life… Because I’m waking up to the fact that it sucks to face the world alone."
Another absolute winner from this author, and I cannot wait to see where the series takes us next, no title as yet but the second book is due for release in June, so not too long to wait!
ARC generously provided via Edelweiss, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
Sara’s Independence Falls series was in my top ten of 2015, so I was extremely happy to hear that she was shifting over to the neighboring town of Forever, for her new, Second Shot series, as it means we get a whole new cast of characters, as well as a few catch-ups with people from the previous series.
If you haven’t read the prequel novella to this book Running Wild I recommend that you do, you can find my review for it here –
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Although it now isn’t being offered for free (Running Wild was included in the back of my ARC, so hopefully it will be in the released copy as well), it is still worth a read as it gives you an important look at the relationship between Josie and Noah, prior to them leaving town. Her for college, and him for the Marines. Things are different five years on, and although Noah always planned to return, Josie didn’t and the choice wasn’t one made lightly.
The ghosts from Forever were hell bent on haunting her.
This is a multi-layered story, with things going on aside from Josie and Noah’s reconnection, the one thing that they both have in common in relation to their return to Forever is that the chemistry that was so strong between them then, is just as strong now. Being her brothers best friend, crushing on Noah as a teenager came with its own set of difficulties, add into the fact that she is the daughter of the towns Police Chief and those issues are doubled. Noah has never been in any doubt that he isn’t good enough for Josie, and he is far from the hero that she believes him to be, even if his words and actions then and now are to the contrary.
People changed. They hardened. They took hits and got back up, leaving their heart beaten and wrecked on the ground.
I loved this book, it’s not epically long, but the story doesn’t lose any of its impact for it. Both Noah and Josie have had a huge amount happen to them in the last five years, and as the story progressed you began to understand how those things had impacted their lives and made them into the people they now are.
The side story with Noah's colleague Caroline was an excellent addition to the plot, and I really hope that she and Josh get a book of their own at some point, because the pie-making hottie deserves his happily ever, especially after he saw all his brothers settle down as the Independence Falls Series progressed.
"I want you in my life… Because I’m waking up to the fact that it sucks to face the world alone."
Another absolute winner from this author, and I cannot wait to see where the series takes us next, no title as yet but the second book is due for release in June, so not too long to wait!
ARC generously provided via Edelweiss, and it was my absolute pleasure to provide the above honest review.
March 14, 2016
Kitty's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
4.5 stars
Wow. Serving Trouble was a really interesting, intense story. I was drawn in right from the beginning and really had a hard time putting it down to do little things like work. I kept turning the pages waiting to see where the story was going to go, dying to find out what was really happening in Noah and Josie’s lives. Who was threatening them? How were they going to get through Noah’s Hero Complex?
What else could possibly happen?
As the story progressed and I became more and more invested in the lives of Josie and Noah, I also wanted to slap Noah in the head and tell him to get over himself, get over his over-protectiveness and just open up to what was really in front of him. I wanted to hug Josie and tell her that things would work out for the best. But, when her brother Dominic, the Army Ranger, is hurt in combat I prayed that it would lead to both of them finally facing the love between them, the love that everyone around them saw. I wasn’t disappointed in the least.
Sara Jane Stone wrote a wonderful book. She gave us characters with flaws, with pasts and let them live up to them. She didn’t hide them, she didn’t try to fix them. She let the characters grow into each other and accept each other, flaws and all. A little like we have to do in real life. As she brought the story to a close, as we found out who the threat was and reality slapped both Josie and Noah in the face, love finally shined through and miracles happened. But, if you want the truth, what made me happier than Noah finally seeing the woman before him was the surprise after the Epilogue … the story before the story …. The Prequel to Serving Trouble. Questions raised during the book, explained after the story was over. I. Was. Thrilled. Then I was totally impressed that an author would do that.
I am not really sure where Sara Jane Stone is bringing us in the future but, what I am sure of is wanting to return to Forever to find out what is next.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
4.5 stars
Wow. Serving Trouble was a really interesting, intense story. I was drawn in right from the beginning and really had a hard time putting it down to do little things like work. I kept turning the pages waiting to see where the story was going to go, dying to find out what was really happening in Noah and Josie’s lives. Who was threatening them? How were they going to get through Noah’s Hero Complex?
What else could possibly happen?
As the story progressed and I became more and more invested in the lives of Josie and Noah, I also wanted to slap Noah in the head and tell him to get over himself, get over his over-protectiveness and just open up to what was really in front of him. I wanted to hug Josie and tell her that things would work out for the best. But, when her brother Dominic, the Army Ranger, is hurt in combat I prayed that it would lead to both of them finally facing the love between them, the love that everyone around them saw. I wasn’t disappointed in the least.
Sara Jane Stone wrote a wonderful book. She gave us characters with flaws, with pasts and let them live up to them. She didn’t hide them, she didn’t try to fix them. She let the characters grow into each other and accept each other, flaws and all. A little like we have to do in real life. As she brought the story to a close, as we found out who the threat was and reality slapped both Josie and Noah in the face, love finally shined through and miracles happened. But, if you want the truth, what made me happier than Noah finally seeing the woman before him was the surprise after the Epilogue … the story before the story …. The Prequel to Serving Trouble. Questions raised during the book, explained after the story was over. I. Was. Thrilled. Then I was totally impressed that an author would do that.
I am not really sure where Sara Jane Stone is bringing us in the future but, what I am sure of is wanting to return to Forever to find out what is next.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
July 3, 2016
What an awesome read! As expected the writing and story are great and these characters are simply heartbreakingly real. After joining the Marines 5 years ago, Noah Tager has returned to his hometown disillusioned and bitter. If the Marines taught him anything it was to trust no one. Josie Fairmore is also back and desperately needing a job. The one person she knows can help her is Noah but he seems determined to push her away. Josie refuses to take no for answer though and before long she has Noah breaking all his rules. Until trouble finds it's way to their doorstep!
An excellent book and one I highly recommend.
An excellent book and one I highly recommend.
December 20, 2016
Josie is back in Forever. When she left five years ago she had big dreams, but the only thing she has now is a mountain of debt. She has to move back in with her father and she needs to find a job quickly, so she can start paying off her loans. She will beg if she has to. Josie hasn't seen Noah since their passionate night before he left to join the Marines. He manages his dad's bar and Josie is determined to join his staff. She wants to prove herself and knows she has something to offer.
Noah is traumatized by the war. People think he's a hero, but he sees things differently. He wants to make a success of his bar and is reluctant to hire Josie. Noah didn't forget their night together and still fancies her. He knows he shouldn't date anyone who works for him, which means Josie is off-limits. His heart says something else though. Will there be a second chance for Noah and Josie or are their pasts too complicated for them to ever be together?
Serving Trouble is a very romantic story. Noah and Josie are fantastic together and I loved reading about their time at the bar. It's obvious they're made for each other. Josie is a sweet and capable woman. She loves with all her heart and I liked her fiery spirit. Noah is kind and caring. He's there for those who need him and he's incredibly protective. I loved Noah and Josie's connection, they belong together, there are sparks and their love runs deep. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to find out what would happen to them.
Josie and Noah both have been through something traumatic and my heart ached for them. Sara Jane Stone describes their troubles in an impressive sympathetic and understanding way. She knows how to write about emotions, both the good and the bad. There are plenty of meaningful scenes and I liked how realistic they felt. There's also a small, but gripping suspense aspect and I loved that in combination with the romance. Serving Trouble is an amazing story and I look forward to reading the rest of the A Second Shot series.
Noah is traumatized by the war. People think he's a hero, but he sees things differently. He wants to make a success of his bar and is reluctant to hire Josie. Noah didn't forget their night together and still fancies her. He knows he shouldn't date anyone who works for him, which means Josie is off-limits. His heart says something else though. Will there be a second chance for Noah and Josie or are their pasts too complicated for them to ever be together?
Serving Trouble is a very romantic story. Noah and Josie are fantastic together and I loved reading about their time at the bar. It's obvious they're made for each other. Josie is a sweet and capable woman. She loves with all her heart and I liked her fiery spirit. Noah is kind and caring. He's there for those who need him and he's incredibly protective. I loved Noah and Josie's connection, they belong together, there are sparks and their love runs deep. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to find out what would happen to them.
Josie and Noah both have been through something traumatic and my heart ached for them. Sara Jane Stone describes their troubles in an impressive sympathetic and understanding way. She knows how to write about emotions, both the good and the bad. There are plenty of meaningful scenes and I liked how realistic they felt. There's also a small, but gripping suspense aspect and I loved that in combination with the romance. Serving Trouble is an amazing story and I look forward to reading the rest of the A Second Shot series.
March 25, 2016
This was a decent story, but it seemed the same as the prequel novella, and thus didn't hold my interest for long periods of time. The romantic suspense plot felt ill fitted to the book, but I kinda saw the twist coming.
The characters were somewhat engaging overall, but I found myself more interested in Caroline's story than any other! Noah had the whole protective nature thing going on, which is somewhat appealing, but he came off to wishy washy to be an actual hero to Josie. My heart goes out to Josie, though, no one should experience what she had to go through, and yet she did it alone! She was definitely strong and stubborn, but also took it a bit far at times. It was a good story, but it just was missing something to make it really good.
The characters were somewhat engaging overall, but I found myself more interested in Caroline's story than any other! Noah had the whole protective nature thing going on, which is somewhat appealing, but he came off to wishy washy to be an actual hero to Josie. My heart goes out to Josie, though, no one should experience what she had to go through, and yet she did it alone! She was definitely strong and stubborn, but also took it a bit far at times. It was a good story, but it just was missing something to make it really good.
March 9, 2016
This (and it's prequel) were my first reads from this author. All in all, it was an okay read. Kept me turning the pages and I do look forward to more stories in the series, but there was nothing sensational in the story line. Review to come...
April 2, 2016
Serving Trouble is the first story in the Second Shot series, a name which implies second chance romances and that’s indeed what this story is about. There is a prequel novella, Running Wild, which takes place a few years earlier and features the same couple, Noah and Josie, and their ill timed one night stand, but it doesn’t have to be read in order to keep up with this one. Josie has returned home, having experienced a devastating loss and being under a mountain of debt, one she hopes to work off by getting a job at Noah’s bar. After all, five years ago he’d promised that he’d always be there to help her, and now she needs that help. But Noah’s not the same man anymore. After his stint in the military, he came home a changed man, and one he doesn’t want anyone relying on too much for fear of letting them down, as happened with one of his teammates, a woman named Caroline. And as it turns out, Josie isn’t the only one needing help, as Caroline has also shown up on Noah’s doorstep, fearing for the consequences of what happened overseas. When it appears that someone is threatening Josie and Caroline, Noah has his hands full, balancing his job, his buried feelings for Josie, and his desire to protect his friend Caroline. Can Noah and Josie find their way back to each other before it’s too late?
There’s quite a lot going on in this story, as it is the main introduction to what will obviously be a series with at least a few books. This means there are several characters introduced, and some hints as to where the story will go next, along with the main romance between Noah and Josie. It should be made clear that there isn’t a love triangle here – Caroline and Noah are platonic friends only, but he’s the one she turned to when she had problems in Afghanistan, and he’s the only one she trusts now with the fallout of those events. Noah ends up hiring both Josie (reluctantly, as he still feels a strong attraction to her) and Caroline (to keep her under his protection). It’s no wonder he is portrayed as a tired man, as he never seems to get much rest from either worrying about one of the girls, or about keeping his dad’s bar afloat, or his concerns over his friendship with his best friend Dominic (who also happens to be Josie’s brother). So part of the conflict comes from the classic ‘best friend’s sibling forbidden attraction’ scenario, and part of it comes from Noah’s desire not to hurt Josie again as he did in the past. But Josie’s not alone in wanting to keep things with Noah on a less personal level. She’s not anxious to fall into a relationship with him, after the first time around didn’t go so well, and because of her recent experiences. Still, this doesn’t stop them from giving into that attraction that burns between them in some steamy love scenes.
The suspense plot definitely plays an important role in the story, as Caroline’s presence in Noah’s life brings the danger of the past into the present. The story took some twists and turns that I didn’t expect, so that was a pleasant surprise. The plot felt somewhat busy to me, there was a lot going on with a lot of different people, which was to set the stage for the series but didn’t always work in its favor. While the sex scenes between Noah and Josie were quite steamy, unfortunately, I didn’t feel a lot of chemistry between them as a couple, and for me, there was a lack of sexual tension. But I appreciated how Noah and Josie both came across as believable characters – not perfect, but trying their best to cope with their pasts and make things better for the future. They get their happy ending, and the plot is left open for the next book in the series, which I’m looking forward to reading. 3 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via Edelweiss for review.
This review appears as a blog post at: http://straightshootinbookreviews.com...
There’s quite a lot going on in this story, as it is the main introduction to what will obviously be a series with at least a few books. This means there are several characters introduced, and some hints as to where the story will go next, along with the main romance between Noah and Josie. It should be made clear that there isn’t a love triangle here – Caroline and Noah are platonic friends only, but he’s the one she turned to when she had problems in Afghanistan, and he’s the only one she trusts now with the fallout of those events. Noah ends up hiring both Josie (reluctantly, as he still feels a strong attraction to her) and Caroline (to keep her under his protection). It’s no wonder he is portrayed as a tired man, as he never seems to get much rest from either worrying about one of the girls, or about keeping his dad’s bar afloat, or his concerns over his friendship with his best friend Dominic (who also happens to be Josie’s brother). So part of the conflict comes from the classic ‘best friend’s sibling forbidden attraction’ scenario, and part of it comes from Noah’s desire not to hurt Josie again as he did in the past. But Josie’s not alone in wanting to keep things with Noah on a less personal level. She’s not anxious to fall into a relationship with him, after the first time around didn’t go so well, and because of her recent experiences. Still, this doesn’t stop them from giving into that attraction that burns between them in some steamy love scenes.
The suspense plot definitely plays an important role in the story, as Caroline’s presence in Noah’s life brings the danger of the past into the present. The story took some twists and turns that I didn’t expect, so that was a pleasant surprise. The plot felt somewhat busy to me, there was a lot going on with a lot of different people, which was to set the stage for the series but didn’t always work in its favor. While the sex scenes between Noah and Josie were quite steamy, unfortunately, I didn’t feel a lot of chemistry between them as a couple, and for me, there was a lack of sexual tension. But I appreciated how Noah and Josie both came across as believable characters – not perfect, but trying their best to cope with their pasts and make things better for the future. They get their happy ending, and the plot is left open for the next book in the series, which I’m looking forward to reading. 3 stars.
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the publisher via Edelweiss for review.
This review appears as a blog post at: http://straightshootinbookreviews.com...
January 31, 2016
Josie Fairmore left Forever five years ago armed with a full ride to college and in search of what she hoped to be a start at a better life for herself. She wanted to prove to her family and the residents of Forever that she was far better than the rumored reputation they labeled her with, and was on a mission to not let her past mistakes define her future. But after a devastating loss, leads to another failed relationship, and some unforeseen debt, she is left with no other alternative then to leave college and return home. The idea of returning home, and having nothing to really show for the last five years is almost more than she can bare, but she knows her options have ran out, and this is really her last resort. With her with debt looming, she knows she needs to find a job fast, so she turns to the one person she knows she can count on to help her and not pass judgement. The problem is the last time she saw him he broke her heart, and she is afraid that her lingering feelings for him may have her heart betraying her once again...
Noah Tagart returned home from overseas armed with lots of regret and the feeling that he let a lot of people down. His hometown welcomes him home with open arms, and is quite proud of their hometown hero, often wanting to boast about his accomplishments, but Noah would rather not discuss any of it. What was supposed to be a way to help out his family, turned out to be one of the worst experiences in his life, and he would love nothing more than to leave it buried in his past. He is ready to move on, and is ready to focus on finding his happily ever after with the girl who walked away with his heart five years ago, and now that she has returned home he plans to do all he can to keep her Forever permanently. But Josie isn't so willing to turn her heart over to the man who broke it all those years ago...
Nothing wins me over like a alpha football player with a gentle heart or a strong and capable soldier coming to the rescue, and with this story I feel like I got the best of both worlds, Noah completely stole my heart from the get go and had me swooning like a fool the whole way through. After meeting Josie and Noah in Running Wild, I have been dying for the opportunity to make a return visit to Forever and see just what Ms. Stone had in store for these two well crafted characters. This story immediately pulled me right back into the thick of things and had me flying right through the pages in search of answers to the questions that have been lingering with me for the last few weeks... and staying up well past my bedtime to find them!! Ms. Stone has definitely outdone herself with this one, this addictive little read warmed my heart, kept me on the edge of my seat, and satisfied every one of my literary cravings!! Highly recommend you give it try, you will not be disappointed!!
ARC kindly provided by the publisher in exchange for a honest and unbiased review.
Noah Tagart returned home from overseas armed with lots of regret and the feeling that he let a lot of people down. His hometown welcomes him home with open arms, and is quite proud of their hometown hero, often wanting to boast about his accomplishments, but Noah would rather not discuss any of it. What was supposed to be a way to help out his family, turned out to be one of the worst experiences in his life, and he would love nothing more than to leave it buried in his past. He is ready to move on, and is ready to focus on finding his happily ever after with the girl who walked away with his heart five years ago, and now that she has returned home he plans to do all he can to keep her Forever permanently. But Josie isn't so willing to turn her heart over to the man who broke it all those years ago...
Nothing wins me over like a alpha football player with a gentle heart or a strong and capable soldier coming to the rescue, and with this story I feel like I got the best of both worlds, Noah completely stole my heart from the get go and had me swooning like a fool the whole way through. After meeting Josie and Noah in Running Wild, I have been dying for the opportunity to make a return visit to Forever and see just what Ms. Stone had in store for these two well crafted characters. This story immediately pulled me right back into the thick of things and had me flying right through the pages in search of answers to the questions that have been lingering with me for the last few weeks... and staying up well past my bedtime to find them!! Ms. Stone has definitely outdone herself with this one, this addictive little read warmed my heart, kept me on the edge of my seat, and satisfied every one of my literary cravings!! Highly recommend you give it try, you will not be disappointed!!
ARC kindly provided by the publisher in exchange for a honest and unbiased review.
February 23, 2017
3.5 stars
March 8, 2016
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads, so here is my review. I am a sucker for a military story and when it is a U.S. Marine, well I am all over it. And Noah did not disappoint. He joined the service to help his family because the country bar that has been in his family for years was not bringing in enough money to cover the bills. So he is the all around hero, he doesn't feel he is but he still has a heart of gold and wants to save everyone, especially Josie. She is the daughter of the town police chief and the sister to his best friend and he has been in love with her for years. But he will tell you that he is not in love with her. After he serves a few tours and comes back home to run the bar, after his dad breaks his leg, he only wants to survive each day and be left alone. When Josie shows up looking for a job, she is suppose to be finishing up college in Portland. He refuses to hire he until she calls him out about not hiring anyone yet because the "now hiring" sign is still up. He wants to know why she is back home so soon, can she trust him with her secret? Will he tell her brother? Will they give in to the attraction between them and not let their true feelings take over? And why is Caroline in town and looking for Noah and who is chasing her? This is a really good story and will keep you on the edge of your seat until the end which is not the end because if you didn't happen to read the beginning of what happened between Noah and Josie the night before Noah left for boot camp, it is at the end of this book. So you can get it here. Which was a bonus for me and I liked that too. I hope there is more for this series.
February 8, 2016
This is my first book by Ms. Stone and I absolutely enjoyed reading every page of it. I really enjoyed the plot and the characters. Josie went through a major heartbreak but I loved the fire she had by wanting to pay the bills that she owned to the hospital and the doctors who helped keep her baby alive for the 27 days they could. She was a really strong heroine and very inspiring.
I also really enjoyed Noah. Sure everyone says he comes off as a jerk and sometimes he does but overall he has a good heart. He helps his old friend Caroline when she comes to town, he helped Josie by giving her a job and a chance, and he saves a box of kittens from the side of the road and brings them home.
Right away when these two see each other for the first time in 5 years you can tell not only do they have a past but an attraction that hasn't dulled with time. They also have really great chemistry and when they open up they get each other. It's pretty much like they can save one another.
I have to admit there were a few moments in this book when I felt myself tearing up. I also said okay okay one more chapter before I call it a night but one chapter became two and before I knew it I was at the end of the book but still left wanting more.
I love second chance at love stories and falling in love with your best friends little sister stories. Guess what?!? This is both so it's a win win in my book.
All characters are well written and interesting. Not once during this story did I find myself bored or wanting to skim over words. Overall I was completely satisfied on how it turned out.
I think this series has great potential and I'm excited to see what will happen with Caroline and who she will end up with. Also Josie's brother and Noah's best friend will be coming home after being hurt over seas. I just hope we get more in 2016 and not have to wait :-)
March 14, 2016
My first ever Sara Jane Stone book, opening it i was so excited there is always a certain thrill too opening up a book by an author you haven't read before.
Josie has always seemed too have been the town's wild child. But now as she has returned home with her tail between her legs or so too speak, she needs to keep strong and fight on. Josie has allot of baggage but she is determines to prove everyone wrong about there impressions of her. First, she has too get a job...and one that she can keep her decorum and dignity in tact.
Noah so does not need any distraction's especially those of Josie in his own bar. He also does not need to think or visualise about that certain night 5 whole years ago. He definitely does not need or want to think about what she had said then or how she would look at a replay of that night today.
For some unknown reason, he just cannot say no to Josie. So he just caves in and gives her a job, but he will not give her anything else! He just cannot! Or will he! He just won't be anyone's hero any more, so why does he still help and pick up all these strays? Its like something inside of him will not give up on the under dog.
Josie and Noah are so running scared, but will these two decide to run in too each others arms or run away in fear of the unknown?
This book was beautifully written and was a super fun read. nothing too intense just fun and romantic. I was surprised and overjoyed by the prequel of Josie and Noah's story at the end. It made it just that extra bit amazing.
Noah was my favourite he was sweet sexy and so has the hero complex about him, and Josie well she just wants people too no she is not the same she is different and is not like she use too and well running in too Noah again was a plus...
4 Out Of 5 Hearts From Cariad Books
Josie has always seemed too have been the town's wild child. But now as she has returned home with her tail between her legs or so too speak, she needs to keep strong and fight on. Josie has allot of baggage but she is determines to prove everyone wrong about there impressions of her. First, she has too get a job...and one that she can keep her decorum and dignity in tact.
Noah so does not need any distraction's especially those of Josie in his own bar. He also does not need to think or visualise about that certain night 5 whole years ago. He definitely does not need or want to think about what she had said then or how she would look at a replay of that night today.
For some unknown reason, he just cannot say no to Josie. So he just caves in and gives her a job, but he will not give her anything else! He just cannot! Or will he! He just won't be anyone's hero any more, so why does he still help and pick up all these strays? Its like something inside of him will not give up on the under dog.
Josie and Noah are so running scared, but will these two decide to run in too each others arms or run away in fear of the unknown?
This book was beautifully written and was a super fun read. nothing too intense just fun and romantic. I was surprised and overjoyed by the prequel of Josie and Noah's story at the end. It made it just that extra bit amazing.
Noah was my favourite he was sweet sexy and so has the hero complex about him, and Josie well she just wants people too no she is not the same she is different and is not like she use too and well running in too Noah again was a plus...
4 Out Of 5 Hearts From Cariad Books
October 9, 2019
Reviewed by JoAnne
Book provided by Edelweiss for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
This book was not what I expected, it was better. Noah and Josie have a history. They were childhood friends since Noah was one of her brother’s best friends. They’ve been apart for five years. She went off to college and had some unexpected events in her life before leaving school and eventually running home. Noah enlisted in the Marines and after returning home he’s back to running his father’s bar with some upgrades and some differences. They meet up again when Josie shows up at Noah’s bar looking for a job. While overqualified and never being a waitress she knows if she gets her foot in the door she can do better.
There are family and friends, dark secrets, fear, hate, anger, protectiveness, tears, reminisces, sorrow, happiness, laughter, small town life and gossips, adventures, some danger, lots of loving and love. There are quite a few unexpected twists to the story line but they only make it better. The characters are multi-faceted and you usually don’t get what you see. Dig deeper and the real characters eventually come to light. The friendships are real as well as how they’re there for each other even when they shouldn’t be. There is nice closure and some loose ends tied up but the ending left me wanting more. The nice surprise was that at the end of the story the prequel to this one and how Noah and Josie first connected was given in Running Wild. It really filled in the background nicely and was short and sweet.
I look forward to reading more books by stone if this is her caliber of writing. I also hope I won’t have to wait too long for the next book in the Second Shot series.
Favorite Quote: …She could take care of herself and the man who mistook a box of kittens for a bomb. For one night. Beyond that?
Book provided by Edelweiss for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
This book was not what I expected, it was better. Noah and Josie have a history. They were childhood friends since Noah was one of her brother’s best friends. They’ve been apart for five years. She went off to college and had some unexpected events in her life before leaving school and eventually running home. Noah enlisted in the Marines and after returning home he’s back to running his father’s bar with some upgrades and some differences. They meet up again when Josie shows up at Noah’s bar looking for a job. While overqualified and never being a waitress she knows if she gets her foot in the door she can do better.
There are family and friends, dark secrets, fear, hate, anger, protectiveness, tears, reminisces, sorrow, happiness, laughter, small town life and gossips, adventures, some danger, lots of loving and love. There are quite a few unexpected twists to the story line but they only make it better. The characters are multi-faceted and you usually don’t get what you see. Dig deeper and the real characters eventually come to light. The friendships are real as well as how they’re there for each other even when they shouldn’t be. There is nice closure and some loose ends tied up but the ending left me wanting more. The nice surprise was that at the end of the story the prequel to this one and how Noah and Josie first connected was given in Running Wild. It really filled in the background nicely and was short and sweet.
I look forward to reading more books by stone if this is her caliber of writing. I also hope I won’t have to wait too long for the next book in the Second Shot series.
Favorite Quote: …She could take care of herself and the man who mistook a box of kittens for a bomb. For one night. Beyond that?
March 5, 2016
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This book brought together so many complex plot points and wove them together seamlessly into a wondeful story in which you can't help but fall in love along side Noah and Josie.
Both left the small town of Forever in search of a new beginning, leaving the past - and who they were - behind. Noah joined the Marines where he learned that being a good Marine sometimes meant not blindly following those who gave the orders, especially if those orders harmed the men and women that followed said orders. Josie found herself in college and in love but gave it all up when she found out she was pregnant and the baby's father left her high and dry. Determined not to be the statistic everyone in small town thought she would become, she stayed away.
Coming home, Josie has no choice but to turn to Noah. He promised her five years ago that if she ever needed anything, all she had to do was ask. Now she needs a job - a no questions asked, pays on time job. Against his better judgment, Noah gives her a job, silently wishing that she wasn't his best friends little sister.
Over the course of the book, we are introduced to several characters that become integral parts of Noah and Josie's story and I can only hope that we see them again in the coming books.
~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~
This book brought together so many complex plot points and wove them together seamlessly into a wondeful story in which you can't help but fall in love along side Noah and Josie.
Both left the small town of Forever in search of a new beginning, leaving the past - and who they were - behind. Noah joined the Marines where he learned that being a good Marine sometimes meant not blindly following those who gave the orders, especially if those orders harmed the men and women that followed said orders. Josie found herself in college and in love but gave it all up when she found out she was pregnant and the baby's father left her high and dry. Determined not to be the statistic everyone in small town thought she would become, she stayed away.
Coming home, Josie has no choice but to turn to Noah. He promised her five years ago that if she ever needed anything, all she had to do was ask. Now she needs a job - a no questions asked, pays on time job. Against his better judgment, Noah gives her a job, silently wishing that she wasn't his best friends little sister.
Over the course of the book, we are introduced to several characters that become integral parts of Noah and Josie's story and I can only hope that we see them again in the coming books.
~~Wicked Reads Review Team~~
March 11, 2016
After reading the prequel novella, Running Wild, I was ready to dive right in to Serving Trouble to see where Josie and Noah's story would pick up several years later. Here in this story, they both start off extremely guarded around each other, reluctant and wary. But Josie needs Noah's help and despite his reluctance he still can't keep himself from helping her out.
There's some good supporting characters-unbalanced Caroline, sweet and supportive Josh, Josie's father and her brother Dominic (even though we don't see a lot of them). The author does a good job of setting up situations with these characters to ensure a solid foundation for future books in the series.
There's plenty of sexual tension in the story-eventually spilling over of course-then to add to that there are outside factors to add drama and complicate Josie and Noah's relationship. There's one particular plot arc that creates the bulk of the drama (the "danger" mentioned in the blurb), and the suspense from this continually builds throughout the story, and doesn't necessarily lead to the outcome you'd expect. For me, the resolution actually felt a bit anti-climactic compared to the buildup that leads to the bit confrontational scene.
The writing is very good, and the story did keep my attention the whole way through, even if the conclusion felt a bit calm compared to suspense that had built up. This was a 3.5-star read for me, and I'm intrigued to see where the series heads from here. Recommended for romance fans 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
There's some good supporting characters-unbalanced Caroline, sweet and supportive Josh, Josie's father and her brother Dominic (even though we don't see a lot of them). The author does a good job of setting up situations with these characters to ensure a solid foundation for future books in the series.
There's plenty of sexual tension in the story-eventually spilling over of course-then to add to that there are outside factors to add drama and complicate Josie and Noah's relationship. There's one particular plot arc that creates the bulk of the drama (the "danger" mentioned in the blurb), and the suspense from this continually builds throughout the story, and doesn't necessarily lead to the outcome you'd expect. For me, the resolution actually felt a bit anti-climactic compared to the buildup that leads to the bit confrontational scene.
The writing is very good, and the story did keep my attention the whole way through, even if the conclusion felt a bit calm compared to suspense that had built up. This was a 3.5-star read for me, and I'm intrigued to see where the series heads from here. Recommended for romance fans 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
March 12, 2016
Josie’s been through a lot and she’s fought hard – and is still fighting- to get through it all. I admire her character’s strength and I wanted a better life for her. A former marine, Noah has seen more than anyone’s share of turmoil. Although he’s back home, like many others, he still lives with the terror. On the surface, the man that returned is not the man that left, however, deep down, he still has the same essence.
I’m always intrigued by second-chance love stories. I like understanding the changes the characters have made since their first union, and I especially enjoy reading about what brings them back together. The whole return-home-after-hitting-hard-times thing is going on, but nonetheless, it has it’s own charm and uniqueness. Unfortunately, there wasn’t as much to the relationship evolvement as I would’ve liked. Although the lovers did have a history together and did have a sexual encounter, they had never been in a relationship before, so I expected more between them before either decided they were – and have always been- in love with each other. I felt something was missing.
My heart went out to Caroline. I couldn’t imagine going through what she was going through. Being there for her said a lot about Noah, but I must admit, I expected more to come out of the story. I was all in, and I so wanted to see everyone get what they deserved, but somehow I felt cheated. It was like one big ol’ red herring – not really, but kinda. At least in my mind.
Despite all of this, the story managed to keep my interest.
I’m always intrigued by second-chance love stories. I like understanding the changes the characters have made since their first union, and I especially enjoy reading about what brings them back together. The whole return-home-after-hitting-hard-times thing is going on, but nonetheless, it has it’s own charm and uniqueness. Unfortunately, there wasn’t as much to the relationship evolvement as I would’ve liked. Although the lovers did have a history together and did have a sexual encounter, they had never been in a relationship before, so I expected more between them before either decided they were – and have always been- in love with each other. I felt something was missing.
My heart went out to Caroline. I couldn’t imagine going through what she was going through. Being there for her said a lot about Noah, but I must admit, I expected more to come out of the story. I was all in, and I so wanted to see everyone get what they deserved, but somehow I felt cheated. It was like one big ol’ red herring – not really, but kinda. At least in my mind.
Despite all of this, the story managed to keep my interest.
March 9, 2016
I will admit that this is the first book I've read by Stone. I just never had enough minutes in the day to read it before. I decided to read Running Wild first because I wasn't sure how important it might be for the story. I'm glad I did but it won't kill you if you don't read Running Wild first.
Since I did read it will say that I enjoyed it and because of it I got a better insight about both Josie and Noah.
Even though I felt for Josie, I really think that girl had trouble growing up. At times I just shook my head. Her life is worse now then it was those years back! Of course say that is also why this story is so good. You really see her growth and how she pulls herself up by her boot straps.
No Noah I liked right away and my heart broke for him in this story. He's come back from war a little broken.
What I really liked about these two is that even though it took a while for them to figure this out they are better as a couple then they are alone. They work. Each once fills up what the other needs in their live. It's very touching.
I found Serving Trouble to be a quick read that I very much enjoyed.
ARC received for honest review
Blog/Romancing the Readers: http://romancingthereaders.blogspot.c...
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Since I did read it will say that I enjoyed it and because of it I got a better insight about both Josie and Noah.
Even though I felt for Josie, I really think that girl had trouble growing up. At times I just shook my head. Her life is worse now then it was those years back! Of course say that is also why this story is so good. You really see her growth and how she pulls herself up by her boot straps.
No Noah I liked right away and my heart broke for him in this story. He's come back from war a little broken.
What I really liked about these two is that even though it took a while for them to figure this out they are better as a couple then they are alone. They work. Each once fills up what the other needs in their live. It's very touching.
I found Serving Trouble to be a quick read that I very much enjoyed.
ARC received for honest review
Blog/Romancing the Readers: http://romancingthereaders.blogspot.c...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
February 11, 2016
Josie has always been the town wild child. But as she returns home with her tail between her legs, she fights to keep strong. Her baggage has baggage but Josie aims to prove everyone wrong about her. First, she needs a job...preferably one where she can keep her clothes and dignity intact.
Noah does not need the distraction of Josie in his bar. He does not need to think about that night 5 years ago. He certainly does not need to think about what she said then or how she would look in a replay of that night now. But for some reason, he can't say no to Josie. So he gives her a job, but he won't give her anything else! He can't...?!? Can he? He says he won't be anyone's hero, so why does he keep picking up strays?
Josie and Noah are both running scared, but will they decide to run to each other or away in fear?
It was a fun read. No intense feels, no crying, just a fun ride for the reader. I can't say its the same for Noah and Josie though. I blew through it in one morning but I was pleasantly surprised by the prequel of Josie and Noah's story in the back. Makes for some extra fun.
reviewed for Reviews from the Heart
Noah does not need the distraction of Josie in his bar. He does not need to think about that night 5 years ago. He certainly does not need to think about what she said then or how she would look in a replay of that night now. But for some reason, he can't say no to Josie. So he gives her a job, but he won't give her anything else! He can't...?!? Can he? He says he won't be anyone's hero, so why does he keep picking up strays?
Josie and Noah are both running scared, but will they decide to run to each other or away in fear?
It was a fun read. No intense feels, no crying, just a fun ride for the reader. I can't say its the same for Noah and Josie though. I blew through it in one morning but I was pleasantly surprised by the prequel of Josie and Noah's story in the back. Makes for some extra fun.
reviewed for Reviews from the Heart
Want to read
March 7, 2016I don't usually post reviews for my own books. (If I didn't enjoy writing & reading them, I wouldn't share them with all of you:) But SERVING TROUBLE marks my 10th full-length romance novel. And while the number alone feels like an accomplishment, having the opportunity to share this story and these characters trumps the milestone. Josie Fairmore walked into my imagination four year ago and never left. But when I started writing, SERVING TROUBLE diverged from my carefully outlined plan for the book. I’m proud of all of my stories, but this one . . . this one captured my heart and ran away with it. I fell in love with Josie and Noah while writing their story—and I hope you will too.
March 10, 2016
3.5 Stars
This was a good story, but it lost my attention a little bit. The twist I didn't it see coming. It was a shock, bit it all made sense though. The characters were engaging. Truthfully I was more interested in two of the secondary characters then the main ones. I wasn't a huge fan of Noah. He had the whole protective nature which is hugely appealing, but for some reason he rubbed me the wrong way. My heart goes out to Josie no one should experience what she had to go through. This is a second chance romance and Noah and Josie deserve one. It was a good story, but it just was missing something to make it really good.
This was a good story, but it lost my attention a little bit. The twist I didn't it see coming. It was a shock, bit it all made sense though. The characters were engaging. Truthfully I was more interested in two of the secondary characters then the main ones. I wasn't a huge fan of Noah. He had the whole protective nature which is hugely appealing, but for some reason he rubbed me the wrong way. My heart goes out to Josie no one should experience what she had to go through. This is a second chance romance and Noah and Josie deserve one. It was a good story, but it just was missing something to make it really good.
February 26, 2016
Straight forward 2nd chance romance. Also, a best friends little sister romance so its a 2-fer! I enjoyed Josie and Noah. Noah has the tortured hero thing and Josie was a wild kid who has come home a bit tattered. Predictable? Sure. But, the book kept me reading and I finished it pretty quickly! Full review will be on the blog
March 9, 2016
I received this book as an ARC for a honest review. This book was read and reviewed by Stacy Aube for Cutting Muse Blog Review.
Praise for Sara Jane Stone. This is the first book I have read by this author and I got hooked right away. This book covers so many issues that were well written and believable to me. I will be looking for more from this author.
Praise for Sara Jane Stone. This is the first book I have read by this author and I got hooked right away. This book covers so many issues that were well written and believable to me. I will be looking for more from this author.
January 29, 2016
Neither bad nor good. A decent read.
August 28, 2020
It was a light and quick read even though it deals with some heavy issues. One character is dealing with emotional aftermath of a premature child. Another is dealing with sexual abuse by a boss. I'm guessing it was the author's writing style that made it work for me. I have to read the next one because an important side character in this one is a main character in that one.
August 19, 2017
[1.25 stars] book started out ok but then slowly its gets boring. at abt 60-70%, i was skimming through the book already but still force myself to finish it. overall the book is just bland. probably not gonna continue the series nor any book from this author.
June 8, 2018
Another 5 stars for Sara Jane Stone.
This is a wonderful book about family, friends and romance. The characters are believable and easy to like. I would recommend this series to anyone who likes small town romances
This is a wonderful book about family, friends and romance. The characters are believable and easy to like. I would recommend this series to anyone who likes small town romances
September 28, 2019
It was a very cute book with great, likeable characters. And the little novella at the end with their backstory was nice. I kinda wish I knew about it beforehand though, but you didn't need the backstory to enjoy the book.
March 8, 2018
Fast read and entertaining
August 9, 2017
Good read
It was a good story. A little suspense and lots of crazy. I definitely wanted to smack Noah a few times but overall a good read.
It was a good story. A little suspense and lots of crazy. I definitely wanted to smack Noah a few times but overall a good read.
March 18, 2016
Haunted by the loss of someone extremely important to her and in desperate need of a job to pay off a huge amount of debt, Josie Fairmore has returned to her hometown to ask her brother's best friend if she can work at his bar. The only thing is, she has to remember to keep her hands off him, even though Noah is everything she'd ever want in a man, if she was looking for a relationship.
Noah Tager hasn't laid eyes on Josie in five years. Not since he walked out on her after they spent an incredible night together. She's a gorgeous sight for sore eyes. Yet, after everything he's been through in his former career as a Marine, he can't possibly offer her anything more than friendship. Except, denying himself the chance at a future with Josie is harder than he thinks. Especially when she might just be the person he needs, to make him see that he's the hero everyone in their hometown believes him to be.
This is the first book I've read by this author, and I've got to say that it was a really good start to this new contemporary series by Ms. Stone. Right from the beginning, this story was fast-paced and highly engaging. Not only because it contains the brother's best friend trope, but because of the way it started. Josie is desperate to secure a job, and is willing to use any means necessary, even going as far as to throw the promise Noah made back in his face to get what she wants.
As for the dialogue, there were some nice light-hearted moments between Josie and Noah that showed how close they are, despite having not seen each other in five years. However, it was quite emotional as well, due to the main characters back stories, Noah helping a former marine and what happens to Josie's brother to make this couple realize that life is too short to deny what they both want -- a chance at a future.
I really liked both main characters. Josie is hard-working, independent and determined to solve her money troubles on her own. It was hard not to shed a few tears, for all that she's suffered. Yet, she's strong and that's what I liked most about her. How she dealt and is still dealing with the pain of losing someone she barely got to know comes through loud and clear in the narrative and dialogue.
While Noah, he's kind, caring, and honorable. Traits that have benefited him throughout his former career and life in general. He's also a protector, determined to help those that need him, which is proven by what he did in the past for an old teammate, and what he continues to do for her and Josie in the present. Yet, what I liked most about Noah is the fact that although he does his best to adhere to his best friends rule for him not to get involved with Josie, it's impossible. Because it seems they're a couple meant to be, and nothing can keep them apart, not after what happens to Josie's brother. So, of course, eventually this couple's intense chemistry spills over onto the pages in nicely-detailed sex scenes that prove life is too short for regrets.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book where the secondary characters brought a touch of suspense to this story, which kept me interested to find out the person responsible for making trouble. Indeed, the ending took me completely by surprise with Josie finding herself in trouble and then finally getting the happy ever after she deserved. I would recommend Serving Trouble by Sara Jane Stone, if you enjoy the brother's best friend trope.
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