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Still Harbor #1
Falling for the P.I.
Savor the sweetness of new love with Bliss's new romance...
She could never trust a cop...
Teacher Kate Abbott's fresh start in Still Harbor was the beginning of the life that she and her two best friends always imagined for themselves. Still, being a working single parent of a special needs daughter hasn't exactly improved Kate's love life. But Kate's preference for nachos over men quickly disappears when she meets the oh-so-sexy Matt Lane.
Until she finds out he's a cop.
Matt is a former cop-turned-private investigator, and he knows fear when he sees it. A cop clearly spooked Kate...or hurt her. Still, something about the gorgeous professor catches his attention, and despite his "no settling down" policy, he can't resist her. But all of the attraction in the world won't be enough to overcome Kate's past...
She could never trust a cop...
Teacher Kate Abbott's fresh start in Still Harbor was the beginning of the life that she and her two best friends always imagined for themselves. Still, being a working single parent of a special needs daughter hasn't exactly improved Kate's love life. But Kate's preference for nachos over men quickly disappears when she meets the oh-so-sexy Matt Lane.
Until she finds out he's a cop.
Matt is a former cop-turned-private investigator, and he knows fear when he sees it. A cop clearly spooked Kate...or hurt her. Still, something about the gorgeous professor catches his attention, and despite his "no settling down" policy, he can't resist her. But all of the attraction in the world won't be enough to overcome Kate's past...
225 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 6, 2015
39 people are currently reading
868 people want to read
About the author
Victoria James
30 books1,025 followersVictoria James is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance.
She is a hopeless romantic who is living her dream, penning happily-ever-after's for her characters in between managing kids and the family business. Writing on a laptop in the middle of the country in a rambling old Victorian house would be ideal, but she's quite content living in suburbia with her husband, their two young children, and very bad cat.
She is a hopeless romantic who is living her dream, penning happily-ever-after's for her characters in between managing kids and the family business. Writing on a laptop in the middle of the country in a rambling old Victorian house would be ideal, but she's quite content living in suburbia with her husband, their two young children, and very bad cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
September 15, 2015
4 - "Stop drooling and start walking." Stars!
Falling for the P.I. is the first book that I have read by this author, and I will certainly be coming back again and reading more of the Still Harbor Series. Victoria James managed to catch my attention with Matt and Kate’s story, and get me so invested in it that I read it in a couple of hours (I may have even extended my lunch break at work to do so!).
There is a certain charm about the authors writing, as well as the story-line, and although it is carrying a little drama in its themes, Falling for the P.I. was for the most part a heart-warming and easy to get along with read.
”Whatever it is you’re running from, you’re safe with me.”
Kate struggles with trust, having spent her life being rejected and let-down by those that are supposed to love and look out for her, she has now made a life for herself with her Foster-Sisters Cara and Alex, as well as their adoptive daughters. So it is an extreme struggle for her to let Matt in, especially as she has her own adopted daughter and her needs to take into account as well.
”Don’t assume I’m like everyone else.”.
Matt gave me the warm fuzzies; sweet at the right time, dominant when it was necessary, but an absolute darling throughout the whole book.
”I’ll always believe you.”
As a start to a series this book really does well in giving you enough background of the secondary characters without detracting from the story building between the main couple. I liked my introduction to the town and people of Still Harbor and will be looking to visit again soon.
Luckily the wait isn’t too long, as Falling for Her Enemy is due for release in early November, and I cannot wait to get my hands on it!
Falling for the P.I. is the first book that I have read by this author, and I will certainly be coming back again and reading more of the Still Harbor Series. Victoria James managed to catch my attention with Matt and Kate’s story, and get me so invested in it that I read it in a couple of hours (I may have even extended my lunch break at work to do so!).
There is a certain charm about the authors writing, as well as the story-line, and although it is carrying a little drama in its themes, Falling for the P.I. was for the most part a heart-warming and easy to get along with read.
”Whatever it is you’re running from, you’re safe with me.”
Kate struggles with trust, having spent her life being rejected and let-down by those that are supposed to love and look out for her, she has now made a life for herself with her Foster-Sisters Cara and Alex, as well as their adoptive daughters. So it is an extreme struggle for her to let Matt in, especially as she has her own adopted daughter and her needs to take into account as well.
”Don’t assume I’m like everyone else.”.
Matt gave me the warm fuzzies; sweet at the right time, dominant when it was necessary, but an absolute darling throughout the whole book.
”I’ll always believe you.”
As a start to a series this book really does well in giving you enough background of the secondary characters without detracting from the story building between the main couple. I liked my introduction to the town and people of Still Harbor and will be looking to visit again soon.
Luckily the wait isn’t too long, as Falling for Her Enemy is due for release in early November, and I cannot wait to get my hands on it!
March 21, 2017
ARC requested through Netgalley, and kindly provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange for a honest review.
I loved every minute of this book. I find myself tongue tied while trying to describe what I loved so much about this book, as seems to be the case the more I like a book. This is my first read from Victoria James and I think she will now be one of my go-to authors. I love her writing style. The story flowed really well. I was engaged with all of the characters from almost the first paragraph and couldn’t put it down. I ended up staying up way too late last night finishing this story.
Kate is a single mom of an adopted girl with special needs and is very distrustful of cops. (With good reason!!!) Matt is a former cop. This sets the stage for what turned into a great story.
Their first encounter at a bar was super amusing. Kate, while trying her hand at flirting with Matt, gets busted for an embarrassing food order.
Matt works on breaking down Kate’s emotional walls and he ends up falling for both her and her daughter, Janie. His protectiveness of both Kate and Janie was so endearing. My heart broke for Kate and all she she had to deal with on her own.
I also loved the Canadian locale and poutine references.
This was a great story!!! Can't wait for the second book in the series.
I loved every minute of this book. I find myself tongue tied while trying to describe what I loved so much about this book, as seems to be the case the more I like a book. This is my first read from Victoria James and I think she will now be one of my go-to authors. I love her writing style. The story flowed really well. I was engaged with all of the characters from almost the first paragraph and couldn’t put it down. I ended up staying up way too late last night finishing this story.
Kate is a single mom of an adopted girl with special needs and is very distrustful of cops. (With good reason!!!) Matt is a former cop. This sets the stage for what turned into a great story.
Their first encounter at a bar was super amusing. Kate, while trying her hand at flirting with Matt, gets busted for an embarrassing food order.
“Kate nodded, smiling, relaxing a bit, until three giant platters of potato skins, deep-fried shrimp, French fries, and onion rings appeared in front of her. The waitress beamed down at her. "I'm so happy I spotted you over here. I know you were desperate for these so I thought I'd bring them right out. I've got wet naps and a bib for you, because it gets really messy. Oh, and just wave me over when you want dessert.”
Matt works on breaking down Kate’s emotional walls and he ends up falling for both her and her daughter, Janie. His protectiveness of both Kate and Janie was so endearing. My heart broke for Kate and all she she had to deal with on her own.
I also loved the Canadian locale and poutine references.
This was a great story!!! Can't wait for the second book in the series.
August 13, 2015
High school teacher Kate Abbott is living her dream. With her two sisters and their adopted daughters, she finally has created a whole new family and doesn't need a man in her life. That's until she meets Matt Lane, a sexy but sensitive former police detective now private investigator. But, it's the police connection that spooks her and he's determined to find out why.
I liked the story, the characters and the romance for the most part but felt like Matt did all the work with minimal returns from Kate. It also didn't work for me that her underlying issues weren't revealed until nearly 80% into the book. It was too drawn out without any hint of what may have happened to her, which really impacted the romance. I was really pleased, however, that the storyline included a special needs child, which presented some of the challenges faced by not only the children but the parents raising them.
This was a feel-good romance that didn't have the same appeal for me as the Red River series, primarily because of the protracted issues that took too long to unfold. Matt was certainly a highlight and I adored how he embraced Kate's daughter. I'm hoping that the next stories have that spark and charm I've come to expect. 3.5 stars
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
I liked the story, the characters and the romance for the most part but felt like Matt did all the work with minimal returns from Kate. It also didn't work for me that her underlying issues weren't revealed until nearly 80% into the book. It was too drawn out without any hint of what may have happened to her, which really impacted the romance. I was really pleased, however, that the storyline included a special needs child, which presented some of the challenges faced by not only the children but the parents raising them.
This was a feel-good romance that didn't have the same appeal for me as the Red River series, primarily because of the protracted issues that took too long to unfold. Matt was certainly a highlight and I adored how he embraced Kate's daughter. I'm hoping that the next stories have that spark and charm I've come to expect. 3.5 stars
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
June 25, 2015
I think Entangled screwed up with labeling this title... This should be a Red-Hot Bliss book based on their submission guidelines...
The door never closes in this one. As I was reading I thought oh dang I must have mistakenly accepted a review copy of a Red Hot Bliss title. Not so this is a regular bliss title. Frustrating.
Please note my frustration with this book is not with the actual writing or story-line. I found the characters in this story to be likable and the unknown element of Kate's past to be intriguing. It does have a strong focus on family and looking out for each other.
EDITED 6/25/15 - I emailed the publisher and received the following reply -
"Good point Kathy! We are actually going to be editing the final book based on your (and other reviewer's) early feedback to make sure that Falling for the P.I. aligns more with our Bliss standards."
Content: Sex, innuendo and language (including the f word).
Clean to Medium heat level. Bliss books have lots of sexual tension, but closed-door (or no) sex scenes. Red-Hot Bliss books have 1-2 sex scenes.
The door never closes in this one. As I was reading I thought oh dang I must have mistakenly accepted a review copy of a Red Hot Bliss title. Not so this is a regular bliss title. Frustrating.
Please note my frustration with this book is not with the actual writing or story-line. I found the characters in this story to be likable and the unknown element of Kate's past to be intriguing. It does have a strong focus on family and looking out for each other.
EDITED 6/25/15 - I emailed the publisher and received the following reply -
"Good point Kathy! We are actually going to be editing the final book based on your (and other reviewer's) early feedback to make sure that Falling for the P.I. aligns more with our Bliss standards."
Content: Sex, innuendo and language (including the f word).
July 5, 2015
An exceptional read! I enjoyed this book very much, especially because I loved both main characters. Although its different from usual Bliss titles but I didn't mind that. Kate and Matt's story was worth the read.
Matt is ex-cop and a P.I. Kate is a high school teacher. There is some mystery around Kate's early life which adds intrigue and made it even more good. She has adopted a girl with Downs syndrome. Life is not easy for her girl and her. They are happy though and she feels as if finally her life is going on track. Then Matt enters their lives and things change. She has never had a relationship before. Her daughter, sisters and nieces are all that matters to her. Matt shows her what she has been missing in life and now she doesn't want to let him go... until her past ghosts come to haunt her,
It is touching story which shows hardships of life as well as all that is good. Book is well-written and I like all the characters.
P.S. I received an ARC of this book for review.
Matt is ex-cop and a P.I. Kate is a high school teacher. There is some mystery around Kate's early life which adds intrigue and made it even more good. She has adopted a girl with Downs syndrome. Life is not easy for her girl and her. They are happy though and she feels as if finally her life is going on track. Then Matt enters their lives and things change. She has never had a relationship before. Her daughter, sisters and nieces are all that matters to her. Matt shows her what she has been missing in life and now she doesn't want to let him go... until her past ghosts come to haunt her,
It is touching story which shows hardships of life as well as all that is good. Book is well-written and I like all the characters.
P.S. I received an ARC of this book for review.
August 9, 2015
4 heartwarming stars
I really enjoyed Falling for the P.I.
This was a sweet, heartwarming and fun read.
I loved both Kate and Matt, they were lovable and very relatable characters.
Their story touched my heart, I loved seeing them get together and fall in love.
And seeing Matt with Kate's little girl, oh boy did he make my heart swoon...
He was such a sweetheart, loved him!
By the end of the book I was left with all kinds of happy feels, highly recommend this book and I'm looking forward to the next installment of the Still Harbor series.
Thank you to Victoria James and Entangled Bliss via Netgalley for the advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
I really enjoyed Falling for the P.I.
This was a sweet, heartwarming and fun read.
I loved both Kate and Matt, they were lovable and very relatable characters.
Their story touched my heart, I loved seeing them get together and fall in love.
And seeing Matt with Kate's little girl, oh boy did he make my heart swoon...
He was such a sweetheart, loved him!
By the end of the book I was left with all kinds of happy feels, highly recommend this book and I'm looking forward to the next installment of the Still Harbor series.
Thank you to Victoria James and Entangled Bliss via Netgalley for the advance copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
August 8, 2015
It's always exciting to begin a new series by an author you love; new characters to fall in love with, new places to discover and a new storyline to immerse yourself in. Victoria James has brought all this with Falling for the P.I. and it quickly became evident that I too, was going to fall in love with the P.I.
This is a story with depth; engaging and emotive, it brings romance, angst, secrets and some drama. And despite being generally closed door, the intimacy between Matt and Kate is gently seductive. We have a couple who both have first-hand experience of domestic violence, it has understandably left a lasting imprint on both their lives but together they begin a journey of trust.
I adored this couple together. Despite showing a strength and determination, Kate's past has left her with vulnerabilities that begin to surface as the story progresses, but Matt's compassion and patience is heartwarming and sensitive, and not just to her but to her daughter; there are moments that hit home and actions that strike a chord.
This was an absolute pleasure to read and is an exceptional start to Victoria's Still Harbour series; she has a true gift in creating small-town romance with a family feel and I'm excited to see where she takes Alex and Cara's stories.
Copy received in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
This is a story with depth; engaging and emotive, it brings romance, angst, secrets and some drama. And despite being generally closed door, the intimacy between Matt and Kate is gently seductive. We have a couple who both have first-hand experience of domestic violence, it has understandably left a lasting imprint on both their lives but together they begin a journey of trust.
I adored this couple together. Despite showing a strength and determination, Kate's past has left her with vulnerabilities that begin to surface as the story progresses, but Matt's compassion and patience is heartwarming and sensitive, and not just to her but to her daughter; there are moments that hit home and actions that strike a chord.
This was an absolute pleasure to read and is an exceptional start to Victoria's Still Harbour series; she has a true gift in creating small-town romance with a family feel and I'm excited to see where she takes Alex and Cara's stories.
Copy received in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
August 21, 2015
This was a sweet and intense romance. It's filled with family, angst, secrets and chemistry.
Our heroine, Kate is a teacher who adopted a little girl with down syndrome. Kate had something happen in her past that has kept her closed off from relationships with men. Kate lived in foster homes growing up and connected with two other women who have become her "sisters". Kate lives with her sisters and their adopted daughters.
Our hero, Matt is a P.I. who didn't have the best childhood thanks to his Father, but he adored his mother and sister. He's had some heartache in his life. Matt's career as a cop ended due to an injury and his wife cheated on him with his partner which broke his heart.
We begin the story with Kate at a bar with her sisters, who encouraged her to let loose and try and maybe meet a guy. And in walks Matt who Kate finds very attractive and sparks fly. The story takes off from their as Matt works very hard at breaking down Kate's walls. Matt was wonderful with Kate's daughter and melted my heart in how he was so possessive and protective of his girls. We don't know till the end of the story what happened to Kate and why she was so stubborn in letting Matt in. But I LOVED Matt!!!Matt was a hot, sweet, patient and a gentlemen. He's what really made the story.
We have several themes that I love in my romance; family, angst, chemistry and a hot hero. Writing was good but at times the story did drag.Also wanted to say that this story is more "tame" in the sex department (closed door).
Our heroine, Kate is a teacher who adopted a little girl with down syndrome. Kate had something happen in her past that has kept her closed off from relationships with men. Kate lived in foster homes growing up and connected with two other women who have become her "sisters". Kate lives with her sisters and their adopted daughters.
Our hero, Matt is a P.I. who didn't have the best childhood thanks to his Father, but he adored his mother and sister. He's had some heartache in his life. Matt's career as a cop ended due to an injury and his wife cheated on him with his partner which broke his heart.
We begin the story with Kate at a bar with her sisters, who encouraged her to let loose and try and maybe meet a guy. And in walks Matt who Kate finds very attractive and sparks fly. The story takes off from their as Matt works very hard at breaking down Kate's walls. Matt was wonderful with Kate's daughter and melted my heart in how he was so possessive and protective of his girls. We don't know till the end of the story what happened to Kate and why she was so stubborn in letting Matt in. But I LOVED Matt!!!Matt was a hot, sweet, patient and a gentlemen. He's what really made the story.
We have several themes that I love in my romance; family, angst, chemistry and a hot hero. Writing was good but at times the story did drag.Also wanted to say that this story is more "tame" in the sex department (closed door).
August 10, 2015
Kate Abbot is a single parent who considers giving up her preference for nachos over men lifestyle when she meets Matt Lane until she finds out he’s a cop in this captivating contemporary romance.
Matt knows fear when he sees it and a cop clearly has Kate running scared and the reader can’t help but get drawn into this gripping romance as Matt struggles to help Kate overcome her past. The chemistry sizzles but the emotional hold that the past has on Kate cripples the relationship with lots of turmoil but Matt has patience, understanding and sweet romance in his arsenal as he prepares to win her over and did I mention the fact that he is sexy and has a protective nature that is sure to win hearts far and wide. The characters are strong compelling and grab the reader’s attention from the very beginning while the fast paced, smooth flowing plot captivates readers with lots of suspense and romance. Expectations builds as Matt tries to breech Kate’s walls and the emotional turbulence escalates as it soon become apparent that Kate’s past is closer than she thinks. Well written scenes and details bring the story to life while the emotionally gripping tale draws the reader in and captures the heart.
Kate and her sisters stories had me intrigued from the very beginning and I have to say that I was already planning on reading the next one, so that sneaky little hook about Alex just made me really want to know what happens next, so I am ready to read that next book…now!
Matt knows fear when he sees it and a cop clearly has Kate running scared and the reader can’t help but get drawn into this gripping romance as Matt struggles to help Kate overcome her past. The chemistry sizzles but the emotional hold that the past has on Kate cripples the relationship with lots of turmoil but Matt has patience, understanding and sweet romance in his arsenal as he prepares to win her over and did I mention the fact that he is sexy and has a protective nature that is sure to win hearts far and wide. The characters are strong compelling and grab the reader’s attention from the very beginning while the fast paced, smooth flowing plot captivates readers with lots of suspense and romance. Expectations builds as Matt tries to breech Kate’s walls and the emotional turbulence escalates as it soon become apparent that Kate’s past is closer than she thinks. Well written scenes and details bring the story to life while the emotionally gripping tale draws the reader in and captures the heart.
Kate and her sisters stories had me intrigued from the very beginning and I have to say that I was already planning on reading the next one, so that sneaky little hook about Alex just made me really want to know what happens next, so I am ready to read that next book…now!
August 10, 2015
Cheyenne's review posted at Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
I hate when I am super excited about a book, one whose blurb made me have super high hopes that I would love it, only for it to end up being just an okay read for me, not anything special. Sadly this is what happened with Falling For The P.I. I admit that I haven’t read anything by this author before so it may be a case of it is just this book or that I don’t mesh well with this author.
To be honest I was bored at times and thought a lot of Kate’s reasons for being so closed off, when I learned what they were, are in fact a cop out. I just didn’t understand the dynamics around her and her “sisters”. Kate’s back and forth with Matt almost gave me whiplash. I think it was her character that made me just not really enjoy the book as I hoped. Matt was a good guy, one with his own secrets, secrets that he shared hoping to have Kate open up. I loved how he was so protective and didn’t care what other’s thought if he confronted them over them doing something hurtful or rude. I wanted to love it for Matt alone, to bad his goodness couldn’t make me love Kate.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
I hate when I am super excited about a book, one whose blurb made me have super high hopes that I would love it, only for it to end up being just an okay read for me, not anything special. Sadly this is what happened with Falling For The P.I. I admit that I haven’t read anything by this author before so it may be a case of it is just this book or that I don’t mesh well with this author.
To be honest I was bored at times and thought a lot of Kate’s reasons for being so closed off, when I learned what they were, are in fact a cop out. I just didn’t understand the dynamics around her and her “sisters”. Kate’s back and forth with Matt almost gave me whiplash. I think it was her character that made me just not really enjoy the book as I hoped. Matt was a good guy, one with his own secrets, secrets that he shared hoping to have Kate open up. I loved how he was so protective and didn’t care what other’s thought if he confronted them over them doing something hurtful or rude. I wanted to love it for Matt alone, to bad his goodness couldn’t make me love Kate.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
May 23, 2025
Now I know I started this series out of order because I read book two forever ago. It was 2018 to be exact and now here I am in 2025 finally getting to the first book. I'm doing great, right?
In Falling for the P.I., you will meet Kate and Matt. They were an okay couple. Nothing really stood out to me when it came to their romance. It was cute; they both healed, and they fell in love along the way. No comments or questions are needed.
Though I do wish the issues surrounding Kate were brought up a bit earlier than they did. Then that way, it wouldn't feel so rushed to be resolved. Or maybe that's just me being weird and picky. I don't know but it was cute and has a happy ending.
In Falling for the P.I., you will meet Kate and Matt. They were an okay couple. Nothing really stood out to me when it came to their romance. It was cute; they both healed, and they fell in love along the way. No comments or questions are needed.
Though I do wish the issues surrounding Kate were brought up a bit earlier than they did. Then that way, it wouldn't feel so rushed to be resolved. Or maybe that's just me being weird and picky. I don't know but it was cute and has a happy ending.
August 10, 2015
Kate's sisters take her out one evening in an effort to get her to meet more people - especially of the male persuasion. She wasn't planning on really finding anyone to talk to until she sees Matt. She finds herself drawn to him, that is, until he tells her he's a former cop and currently part owner in P.I. company. She has something in her past that makes her refuse to see any law enforcement officer as a good guy/gal.
Matt can't believe he's met someone that actually has him thinking about settling down. He has a clear "No Commitment" policy going on and she's testing his limits. Kate clearly has issues, however, and not wanting to upset her, Matt sit idly by, biding his time waiting her for her to feel comfortable enough to open up to him.
When a link to Kate's past shows up in Matt's present, will their relationship strengthen or fall apart completely?
Kate and Matt both have pretty sketchy pasts - Loss, suicide, foster systems, alcoholic parents. Kate is starting over in a new city with 2 of her sisters that she lived with in foster homes. Kate and her sisters have each adopted a child, saving them from the life bouncing from foster home to foster home. Matt grew up in a home with an alcoholic father. He was shot in the line of duty, unable to recover enough to be a street cop, so he opened up a P.I. business.
There is a reason that Victoria James is one of my all-time favorite authors - she writes impassioned and realistic contemporary romances. To date, I've read all but 2 of her books (I have them and they will get read) and each one manages to evoke emotional responses from me. At the very least, I tear up during some part of the novel. Her characters are believable and realistically written. She touches on topics that are sensitive but she writes them with class and respect.
Victoria's writing is phenomenal. Her characters, the plot, themes, drama, and passion pull the reader in and keeps them engaged. There is true emotion that can be felt by those readers that become one with the books they read. I am able to get lost in the novels and put myself right into the middle of them. I feel for the characters and drawing on my emotions is what makes a book worth 5 stars for me. If I hurt with them, cry with/for them, laugh, or get angry, then the author did a fantastic job and has written the perfect book - or in the case of Victoria...books, for me.
Review copy courtesy of the publisher, at no cost, in exchange for an honest review. All opinions and thoughts about this book are my own.
Matt can't believe he's met someone that actually has him thinking about settling down. He has a clear "No Commitment" policy going on and she's testing his limits. Kate clearly has issues, however, and not wanting to upset her, Matt sit idly by, biding his time waiting her for her to feel comfortable enough to open up to him.
When a link to Kate's past shows up in Matt's present, will their relationship strengthen or fall apart completely?
Kate and Matt both have pretty sketchy pasts - Loss, suicide, foster systems, alcoholic parents. Kate is starting over in a new city with 2 of her sisters that she lived with in foster homes. Kate and her sisters have each adopted a child, saving them from the life bouncing from foster home to foster home. Matt grew up in a home with an alcoholic father. He was shot in the line of duty, unable to recover enough to be a street cop, so he opened up a P.I. business.
There is a reason that Victoria James is one of my all-time favorite authors - she writes impassioned and realistic contemporary romances. To date, I've read all but 2 of her books (I have them and they will get read) and each one manages to evoke emotional responses from me. At the very least, I tear up during some part of the novel. Her characters are believable and realistically written. She touches on topics that are sensitive but she writes them with class and respect.
Victoria's writing is phenomenal. Her characters, the plot, themes, drama, and passion pull the reader in and keeps them engaged. There is true emotion that can be felt by those readers that become one with the books they read. I am able to get lost in the novels and put myself right into the middle of them. I feel for the characters and drawing on my emotions is what makes a book worth 5 stars for me. If I hurt with them, cry with/for them, laugh, or get angry, then the author did a fantastic job and has written the perfect book - or in the case of Victoria...books, for me.
Review copy courtesy of the publisher, at no cost, in exchange for an honest review. All opinions and thoughts about this book are my own.
August 19, 2015
With all of the overly angsty books that are out these days, sometimes I need a sweet and easy read to curl up with and just get lost in the feel good emotions they evoke... And while I did get the sweetness with Falling for the P.I, it was a lot more drama filled than I was expecting.
Kate is out a bar with her sisters when they spot Matt walk in and her sisters demand that she make a move. Being a little wary, but still determined, Kate walks up to the bar only to be hit on by a belcher... Luckily, Matt swoops in and saves the day. All is going well until Kate realizes that Matt's a cop and she bolts.
Imagine both of their surprises when they run into each other on several separate occasions... Is it fate? Maybe, but Kate's still not sure that she can trust Matt when cops have let her down so much in the past.
Matt wasn't looking for a relationship after being burned before but there's something about Kate that makes him want the life that he used to dream about... A wife, kids, the whole nine yards... He just has to convince Kate that she can trust him with her secrets.
Watching Matt interact with Kate's daughter was definitely my favorite parts of this one. For a guy who stated in the beginning of the book that he wasn't good with kids, he sure knew how to treat her like she deserved to be treated, not differently because she had Down's Syndrome.
My main issue with Falling for the P.I. was Kate and her inability to open up. I had a pretty good idea why she feared cops, and while the mistrust and wariness was definitely warranted, I felt like she should have opened up to Matt a lot sooner, at least a little bit.
Overall, this was an okay read, and while it wasn't exactly what I was hoping for, I'm still glad I gave it a go.
*ARC kindly provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Kate is out a bar with her sisters when they spot Matt walk in and her sisters demand that she make a move. Being a little wary, but still determined, Kate walks up to the bar only to be hit on by a belcher... Luckily, Matt swoops in and saves the day. All is going well until Kate realizes that Matt's a cop and she bolts.
Imagine both of their surprises when they run into each other on several separate occasions... Is it fate? Maybe, but Kate's still not sure that she can trust Matt when cops have let her down so much in the past.
Matt wasn't looking for a relationship after being burned before but there's something about Kate that makes him want the life that he used to dream about... A wife, kids, the whole nine yards... He just has to convince Kate that she can trust him with her secrets.
Watching Matt interact with Kate's daughter was definitely my favorite parts of this one. For a guy who stated in the beginning of the book that he wasn't good with kids, he sure knew how to treat her like she deserved to be treated, not differently because she had Down's Syndrome.
My main issue with Falling for the P.I. was Kate and her inability to open up. I had a pretty good idea why she feared cops, and while the mistrust and wariness was definitely warranted, I felt like she should have opened up to Matt a lot sooner, at least a little bit.
Overall, this was an okay read, and while it wasn't exactly what I was hoping for, I'm still glad I gave it a go.
*ARC kindly provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 12, 2015
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley from Entangled Publishing for an honest review. As soon as I started the book I remembered the author always builds a unique characteristic or social issue around the hero/heroine into her stories. In this case, Kate's adopted daughter, Janie, has Down's syndrome.
Childhood is hard enough. Kids tend to be ignorant and hurt or bully others they find different from themselves. Even as adults we do it due to insecurities. It's more painful when the adults let it happen or the children pick it up from their parent's actions (or lack of action). It says it's ok and the cycle never breaks. This story tells the struggles parents/caregivers of children with special needs go through - emotionally and physically. Kate is imperfectly human. She doesn't have the answers and is navigating difficult situations the best way she can to protect those she loves.
Aside from the story's awareness of these families, Ms. James did an excellent job building tension and suspense around Kate's past and how it connects to Matt's friend/mentor. I thought I had it figured out, but I was totally off! The other characters were great. Sabrina! Kate has two "sisters" (foster care) who will obviously be the heroines for future books. I'm also crossing my fingers we see more of Matt's business partner and friend, Liam.
Childhood is hard enough. Kids tend to be ignorant and hurt or bully others they find different from themselves. Even as adults we do it due to insecurities. It's more painful when the adults let it happen or the children pick it up from their parent's actions (or lack of action). It says it's ok and the cycle never breaks. This story tells the struggles parents/caregivers of children with special needs go through - emotionally and physically. Kate is imperfectly human. She doesn't have the answers and is navigating difficult situations the best way she can to protect those she loves.
Aside from the story's awareness of these families, Ms. James did an excellent job building tension and suspense around Kate's past and how it connects to Matt's friend/mentor. I thought I had it figured out, but I was totally off! The other characters were great. Sabrina! Kate has two "sisters" (foster care) who will obviously be the heroines for future books. I'm also crossing my fingers we see more of Matt's business partner and friend, Liam.
November 10, 2015
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley/Entangled Publishing for an honest review. "Falling for the P.I." was a great story and is book one in the "Still Harbor" series. The author got my attention right away. Kate has had a rough life. It is hard for Kate to trust other people especially men and cops. Alex and Cara are like sisters to her. Together they have created their own family. Kate meets Matt who is a former cop. As the story progresses their relationship goes through a lot of ups and downs. There are things that Kate has not been able to share with Matt. Their romance was sweet and Matt showed lots of patience and compassion. I enjoyed all the supporting characters too. This book has romance, importance of family, and intrigue. I look forward to reading the next book in the Still Harbor series and other books by Victoria James.
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July 1, 2015
Another hit read from Victoria James! An emotion packed read that had a bit of everything - hearts and flowers, secrets, emotional dramas and tense scenes that keep readers glued to the story.
4 Stars
*Review copy received from Entangled Publishing for an honest review
4 Stars
*Review copy received from Entangled Publishing for an honest review
May 1, 2016
I loved this book! It was my first read by this author and it won't be the last for sure. The writing is gripping and entertaining.
August 11, 2015
Read the full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.
Note: This ARC was provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Falling for the P.I. is the first novel in the new contemporary romance series entitled Still Harbor from bestselling author Victoria James and is set in the fictional province of Still Harbor, Canada. Kate Abbott doesn't want to keep looking over her shoulder and living in fear that the man who wreaked such havoc on her life as a child and teenager had found her. Very few know of what she endured--two of whom were already gone, two others who are her best friends, those who refused to believe her claims, and the man who made traumatized her. Meeting Matt Lane allows her to experience an attraction like no other but finding out that he's a former police officer turned private investigator has her fortifying each of her walls.
But as they both take chances on one another, their relationship develops, and Kate needs to decide if being with Matt is worth the risk of her sharing with him her past, even if it means he may walk away after.
Kate and Matt are two people who have lived with domestic abuse and both have dealt with it in their respective ways. You can tell right away that Matt is a man like no other--patient and understanding, wanting to get answers to the countless questions popping in his head but willing to only push so far and wait until Kate fully trusts him. The way he was with Janie had me sighing contentedly, and I actually liked that his initial reaction to realizing that Kate had a child felt honest and real rather than idealized. What was going on between the two of them was certainly more of a slow burn but one that was easy to accept and appreciate because of Kate's history. There's a twist that is introduced early on, but as a reader, you can't help but anticipate when it's all going to come to a head and when Kate learns what connects her to Matt. The story is like a fire that's stoked but is never let out of control nor is it extinguished prematurely.
I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the cast of characters, but I did notice that there were moments that felt abrupt and there was also a problem with continuity a time or two. Of course, this could be due to my reading an advanced reader's copy (ARC), and my hope when it comes to stuff like this is that everything that needs to be addressed editing-wise will have been addressed before the book's release. Still, I was more than satisfied with how everything played out and the epilogue has me more than curious about what Matt learned about Alexandra McAllister, Kate's younger sister, and Alex's daughter Cassandra and what the second book in the series will have in store for readers. Falling for the P.I. was a heartrending and heartwarming story about the power of love, whether it be romantic or familial, can help us overcome even the most trying of circumstances in our lives. I'm giving this first in the Still Harbor series 4.5 stars, rounded off to five stars. ♥
Note: This ARC was provided by Entangled Publishing in exchange for an honest review.
Falling for the P.I. is the first novel in the new contemporary romance series entitled Still Harbor from bestselling author Victoria James and is set in the fictional province of Still Harbor, Canada. Kate Abbott doesn't want to keep looking over her shoulder and living in fear that the man who wreaked such havoc on her life as a child and teenager had found her. Very few know of what she endured--two of whom were already gone, two others who are her best friends, those who refused to believe her claims, and the man who made traumatized her. Meeting Matt Lane allows her to experience an attraction like no other but finding out that he's a former police officer turned private investigator has her fortifying each of her walls.
But as they both take chances on one another, their relationship develops, and Kate needs to decide if being with Matt is worth the risk of her sharing with him her past, even if it means he may walk away after.
Kate and Matt are two people who have lived with domestic abuse and both have dealt with it in their respective ways. You can tell right away that Matt is a man like no other--patient and understanding, wanting to get answers to the countless questions popping in his head but willing to only push so far and wait until Kate fully trusts him. The way he was with Janie had me sighing contentedly, and I actually liked that his initial reaction to realizing that Kate had a child felt honest and real rather than idealized. What was going on between the two of them was certainly more of a slow burn but one that was easy to accept and appreciate because of Kate's history. There's a twist that is introduced early on, but as a reader, you can't help but anticipate when it's all going to come to a head and when Kate learns what connects her to Matt. The story is like a fire that's stoked but is never let out of control nor is it extinguished prematurely.
I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the cast of characters, but I did notice that there were moments that felt abrupt and there was also a problem with continuity a time or two. Of course, this could be due to my reading an advanced reader's copy (ARC), and my hope when it comes to stuff like this is that everything that needs to be addressed editing-wise will have been addressed before the book's release. Still, I was more than satisfied with how everything played out and the epilogue has me more than curious about what Matt learned about Alexandra McAllister, Kate's younger sister, and Alex's daughter Cassandra and what the second book in the series will have in store for readers. Falling for the P.I. was a heartrending and heartwarming story about the power of love, whether it be romantic or familial, can help us overcome even the most trying of circumstances in our lives. I'm giving this first in the Still Harbor series 4.5 stars, rounded off to five stars. ♥
December 31, 2015
First reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Still Harbor is a new beginning, a place to set down roots and grow for Kate, her daughter Janie – as well as for her created family of two other sisters and their children. Kate has discovered that blood does not make a family, but friendship bonds certainly can develop a new kind of family based on more than simply a shared gene pool. A professor who really doesn’t want, need or expect anything in life beyond her family, Kate is about to find out that what you think you need and what truly matters are two different things.
Matt’s been there, done that and has the ratty tee shirt and broken mug to prove it. He has absolutely no interest nor intent of being tied down to one woman ever again. Once a cop always a cop, even when you can no longer be a cop – Matt now has his private investigator work to keep him on his toes and on the edge of a career he once loved. And he’s going to need those skills when he feels the sparks fly between him and one lovely lady who wants absolutely nothing to do with a former cop. To her.. once a cop, always a cop — and never, ever a cop in her life.
Falling for the P. I. is the exciting beginning of a new series. The first book in a series will always set the bar as to whether I will pick up the rest or leave them on the shelf. Perhaps that is harsh, but in a world with thousands of new titles each year and only so much time to read in a lifetime, I pick what I want to read long term very carefully. The Still Harbor series started off very strong, with an engaging couple, a mystery, touches of suspense and secondary characters that I want to learn more about… and that is why the first novel is important to me. It sets up the emotions and the desire to know more… or not care at all. On this one – I care.
Matt is loving and gentle with Kate’s adopted daughter, Janie – as the parent of a special needs child myself, this rang true and perhaps moved this novel and series into the favorite category for me because this can be tricky to get right and not ignored or over the top. Matt would do just about anything for his two lovely ladies, keeping them safe and in his life has become a priority. Kate has had an extremely painful past, and it is so easy to understand why she has trust issues.
Kate and Matt are a spark filled, likeable, interesting couple. And their love story, while rocky at points, proves that love with the right person is worth the risks.
I would highly recommend Falling for the P. I. for romance readers who enjoy a small town feel, deeply engaged couples and secondary characters who make you long to move time forward so you can get to their stories.
*I received an e-ARC of Falling for the P. I. from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
Still Harbor is a new beginning, a place to set down roots and grow for Kate, her daughter Janie – as well as for her created family of two other sisters and their children. Kate has discovered that blood does not make a family, but friendship bonds certainly can develop a new kind of family based on more than simply a shared gene pool. A professor who really doesn’t want, need or expect anything in life beyond her family, Kate is about to find out that what you think you need and what truly matters are two different things.
Matt’s been there, done that and has the ratty tee shirt and broken mug to prove it. He has absolutely no interest nor intent of being tied down to one woman ever again. Once a cop always a cop, even when you can no longer be a cop – Matt now has his private investigator work to keep him on his toes and on the edge of a career he once loved. And he’s going to need those skills when he feels the sparks fly between him and one lovely lady who wants absolutely nothing to do with a former cop. To her.. once a cop, always a cop — and never, ever a cop in her life.
Falling for the P. I. is the exciting beginning of a new series. The first book in a series will always set the bar as to whether I will pick up the rest or leave them on the shelf. Perhaps that is harsh, but in a world with thousands of new titles each year and only so much time to read in a lifetime, I pick what I want to read long term very carefully. The Still Harbor series started off very strong, with an engaging couple, a mystery, touches of suspense and secondary characters that I want to learn more about… and that is why the first novel is important to me. It sets up the emotions and the desire to know more… or not care at all. On this one – I care.
Matt is loving and gentle with Kate’s adopted daughter, Janie – as the parent of a special needs child myself, this rang true and perhaps moved this novel and series into the favorite category for me because this can be tricky to get right and not ignored or over the top. Matt would do just about anything for his two lovely ladies, keeping them safe and in his life has become a priority. Kate has had an extremely painful past, and it is so easy to understand why she has trust issues.
Kate and Matt are a spark filled, likeable, interesting couple. And their love story, while rocky at points, proves that love with the right person is worth the risks.
I would highly recommend Falling for the P. I. for romance readers who enjoy a small town feel, deeply engaged couples and secondary characters who make you long to move time forward so you can get to their stories.
*I received an e-ARC of Falling for the P. I. from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
August 11, 2015
If more first dates featured the world's best poutine, surely the world would be a better place? ;)
I had so much fun reading this book! As always, Ms. James's sense of humor shines through in her writing. There were so many giggle-worthy scenes (and more than a few snort-worthy as well), that I couldn't possibly have kept track of them all. The ongoing joke of "Mr. Art Zibbits" was especially entertaining. (I could explain it here, but really it'll be funnier if you read it yourself straight from the source.)
Once again Ms. James has created characters it's easy to fall for quickly. Matt is an all-around great guy; he's almost too perfect, except for his "no single mothers / no long-term relationship" rule. (Which he actually turns around on pretty quickly--but it's hard to find fault with it, given his aforementioned awesomeness and the fact that you just want him to be with Kate. So. Much.)
Kate has been through a lot--she lost her entire family as a teen and was put into the foster system; before that she and her mother were victims of domestic violence--but she's turned her life around. She's adopted a beautiful little girl and is opening a home for women and children escaping domestic violence in her new home town. Trust isn't something that comes easy to her, however, and though she doesn't want anyone to fight her battles for her, she has a hard time dealing with people who are rude to or about Janie, her special needs daughter.
Matt learned at an early age to stand up to bullies and defend those who cannot defend themselves; together the two of them will come to see that their differences will make them stronger together.
Falling for the P.I. is a fairly short novel; but there's so much there!
There's just something about starting a new series from an author you enjoy--so many infinite possibilities--it's kind of like starting a new school year, but without the anticipatory homework dread ;) Ms. James gives us a lot to look forward to in her newest series, Still Harbor--three sisters-of-the-heart (each of whom has adopted a little girl, and they're raising them all together) two of whom are decidedly single at the novel's end; solid supporting characters in Matt's mother, sister, and business partner; the thrill of a new fictional location to explore--this book has all that and more. A mystery with Kate's sister Alex and her daughter is suggested in the epilogue--hopefully we won't have to wait too long to find out what it is!
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
I had so much fun reading this book! As always, Ms. James's sense of humor shines through in her writing. There were so many giggle-worthy scenes (and more than a few snort-worthy as well), that I couldn't possibly have kept track of them all. The ongoing joke of "Mr. Art Zibbits" was especially entertaining. (I could explain it here, but really it'll be funnier if you read it yourself straight from the source.)
Once again Ms. James has created characters it's easy to fall for quickly. Matt is an all-around great guy; he's almost too perfect, except for his "no single mothers / no long-term relationship" rule. (Which he actually turns around on pretty quickly--but it's hard to find fault with it, given his aforementioned awesomeness and the fact that you just want him to be with Kate. So. Much.)
Kate has been through a lot--she lost her entire family as a teen and was put into the foster system; before that she and her mother were victims of domestic violence--but she's turned her life around. She's adopted a beautiful little girl and is opening a home for women and children escaping domestic violence in her new home town. Trust isn't something that comes easy to her, however, and though she doesn't want anyone to fight her battles for her, she has a hard time dealing with people who are rude to or about Janie, her special needs daughter.
Matt learned at an early age to stand up to bullies and defend those who cannot defend themselves; together the two of them will come to see that their differences will make them stronger together.
Falling for the P.I. is a fairly short novel; but there's so much there!
There's just something about starting a new series from an author you enjoy--so many infinite possibilities--it's kind of like starting a new school year, but without the anticipatory homework dread ;) Ms. James gives us a lot to look forward to in her newest series, Still Harbor--three sisters-of-the-heart (each of whom has adopted a little girl, and they're raising them all together) two of whom are decidedly single at the novel's end; solid supporting characters in Matt's mother, sister, and business partner; the thrill of a new fictional location to explore--this book has all that and more. A mystery with Kate's sister Alex and her daughter is suggested in the epilogue--hopefully we won't have to wait too long to find out what it is!
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 30, 2015
To read this review and others like it check out my site at www.homelovebooks.com
So I do love the whole private idea profession, just sounds like so much fun to me, plus it lends itself to a lot of great plot ideas to go with. So I picked up this book because I thought this book was going to focus more on the job profession of the guy, well mainly because of the title. But I was totally wrong, yes the guy is a P.I., but his job really doesn't come into play all this much in this book, regardless it was a good read for me.
So we start the book meeting our heroine, Kate, who is out with her sisters and they are trying to get her a guy. I liked her relationship with her sisters right off the bat, I love their banter together and how supportive they seem to be with each other. After spending more time with her sisters throughout the book I have to admit I can't imagine living with MY sisters, but for Kate it totally works, they are the support system that they all need for each other. Kate is a really good person who is overcoming a really hard past, she has some seriously demons in her past that make her more than a little skidish, but she is doing good things with her life and I like that about her.
So Matt is a really good guy, he's sweet and patient, and even though he had an initial fierce attraction to Kate, he couldn't see himself getting involved with a single mom. But the more he got to know her and her daughter Janie, the more you could see him just falling for both of them. I loved how open Matt was with Kate, like he knew the only way to get her to let him in and trust him would be for him to open up to her first. He is absolutely so cute when he is spending time Janie, they have such cute moments together, and I love how protective he is of her, it's just great too read.
This book had really good build up and character building throughout. At the end there is kind of a build up of suspense that I actually really enjoyed reading. One of my biggest complaints about the book though is that when it got to the hot and steamy scene the author just totally cut to black and then they had a tiny little talk about it and it was over. I wish the scene had been longer, just showing the emotional connection, not necessarily the physical. Other than that it was a good read for me.
So I do love the whole private idea profession, just sounds like so much fun to me, plus it lends itself to a lot of great plot ideas to go with. So I picked up this book because I thought this book was going to focus more on the job profession of the guy, well mainly because of the title. But I was totally wrong, yes the guy is a P.I., but his job really doesn't come into play all this much in this book, regardless it was a good read for me.
So we start the book meeting our heroine, Kate, who is out with her sisters and they are trying to get her a guy. I liked her relationship with her sisters right off the bat, I love their banter together and how supportive they seem to be with each other. After spending more time with her sisters throughout the book I have to admit I can't imagine living with MY sisters, but for Kate it totally works, they are the support system that they all need for each other. Kate is a really good person who is overcoming a really hard past, she has some seriously demons in her past that make her more than a little skidish, but she is doing good things with her life and I like that about her.
So Matt is a really good guy, he's sweet and patient, and even though he had an initial fierce attraction to Kate, he couldn't see himself getting involved with a single mom. But the more he got to know her and her daughter Janie, the more you could see him just falling for both of them. I loved how open Matt was with Kate, like he knew the only way to get her to let him in and trust him would be for him to open up to her first. He is absolutely so cute when he is spending time Janie, they have such cute moments together, and I love how protective he is of her, it's just great too read.
This book had really good build up and character building throughout. At the end there is kind of a build up of suspense that I actually really enjoyed reading. One of my biggest complaints about the book though is that when it got to the hot and steamy scene the author just totally cut to black and then they had a tiny little talk about it and it was over. I wish the scene had been longer, just showing the emotional connection, not necessarily the physical. Other than that it was a good read for me.
August 3, 2015
A woman with a horrible past but she has been able to become a woman with a career and a loving mother. Now she has a man that can shelter her if only she could open up to him.
This is the first story in this new series for Ms. James and I totally loved it. I love a story where I can connect with the characters and where the story seems so real. When Kate Abbott is introduced I couldn’t help but admire her for making a good life for herself but that was not the only thing, she adopted a beautiful little girl. It was painful to read how kids can be so cruel because of how they look but when the parents don’t do anything about it it’s just disgusting. Then there is Matt a man that is an ex-cop but now is a private detective. He has his own story and when he tells it I was happy that he was able to be the protector for his mom and sister. He also had a sad story and I would have thought Kate would have opened up to him sooner. Matt has this aura about him and when they meet it was like an explosion. But early on she learned that he used to be a cop but they had instant chemistry that couldn’t be put aside. I loved that Matt included Janie in some of their outings and that he treated her so kind and he defended her. Kate and Matt end up going out and get to know one another and soon they share a passionate kiss. They are meant to be but one man sees Matt as a soon and he won’t have Kate ruining his chance at the job he wants.
Falling for the PI was a great read. I love Ms. James creative writing. Her characters are well developed and their banter seemed so real. The emotions that I felt while reading this story were so many and yes there were a couple of tears. But no matter what my heart was filled with love because I knew that Matt would be there for her. I loved seeing Kate and her foster sisters in a loving home with the other adopted little girls. I also liked Matt’s mother and especially his little sister, Sabrina. As I was reading the epilogue I couldn’t believe that Ms. James was going to through in that bomb, I can’t wait to know what in the world is going on with Alex one of Kate’s foster sister’s.
I totally recommend this read!!!
Received ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an Honest Review
This is the first story in this new series for Ms. James and I totally loved it. I love a story where I can connect with the characters and where the story seems so real. When Kate Abbott is introduced I couldn’t help but admire her for making a good life for herself but that was not the only thing, she adopted a beautiful little girl. It was painful to read how kids can be so cruel because of how they look but when the parents don’t do anything about it it’s just disgusting. Then there is Matt a man that is an ex-cop but now is a private detective. He has his own story and when he tells it I was happy that he was able to be the protector for his mom and sister. He also had a sad story and I would have thought Kate would have opened up to him sooner. Matt has this aura about him and when they meet it was like an explosion. But early on she learned that he used to be a cop but they had instant chemistry that couldn’t be put aside. I loved that Matt included Janie in some of their outings and that he treated her so kind and he defended her. Kate and Matt end up going out and get to know one another and soon they share a passionate kiss. They are meant to be but one man sees Matt as a soon and he won’t have Kate ruining his chance at the job he wants.
Falling for the PI was a great read. I love Ms. James creative writing. Her characters are well developed and their banter seemed so real. The emotions that I felt while reading this story were so many and yes there were a couple of tears. But no matter what my heart was filled with love because I knew that Matt would be there for her. I loved seeing Kate and her foster sisters in a loving home with the other adopted little girls. I also liked Matt’s mother and especially his little sister, Sabrina. As I was reading the epilogue I couldn’t believe that Ms. James was going to through in that bomb, I can’t wait to know what in the world is going on with Alex one of Kate’s foster sister’s.
I totally recommend this read!!!
Received ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an Honest Review
August 4, 2015
I’ve missed this type of novels. That particular style within the contemporary genre is so much fun to read, while still emotionally engaging, that I always find myself surprised when I enjoy it.
Victoria James wrote this book for me. I dare you guys to argue or claim otherwise.
Kate and her pseudo sisters live together each with her daughter. Cara and Alex are determined to find a man for Kate, and boy do they find one.
Kate stays away from cops like they’re wildfire and she’s about to get burned. But her reasons are beyond valid. When she meets Matt at a bar, all bets are off, mainly because he simply can’t get her out of his mind.
There are many struggles in this book and many social misconceptions tackled with incredible finesse and style, and there’s a beautiful, beautiful love story weaved between two characters that in all fairness, are wonderfully perfect for each other, if not for their past.
James has the unique talent of writing Fade to Black sex scenes, making the reader feel like the sex scene isn’t actually missing. I’ve only encountered this from Rachel Harris and I’m thrilled another writer does this trick justice.
Back to the characters. Matt and Kate each have their skeletons they’ve dealt with long ago, but by which they lead their lives and karma-wise, unintentionally, do all they can to make sure never happen to anyone else. They do a great job at that, too, until they meet, and a single person in both their lives, past and present, is threatening to destroy them.
They each carry the story forward seamlessly, supported by fantastic characters in the form of Kate’s sisters and Matt’s partner and his mother and sister.
I absolutely loved this page turner and while it was a wee bit short for my liking (I’d have loved another FtB scene) I can’t but give it my highest rating and recommend it wholeheartedly for a quick weekend read to make your heart all warm and fuzzy, even with the touch of drama and frustration (at the world being so freakin’ unfair).
* NetGalley provided this Entangled: Bliss title in exchange for my honest review.
Victoria James wrote this book for me. I dare you guys to argue or claim otherwise.
Kate and her pseudo sisters live together each with her daughter. Cara and Alex are determined to find a man for Kate, and boy do they find one.
Kate stays away from cops like they’re wildfire and she’s about to get burned. But her reasons are beyond valid. When she meets Matt at a bar, all bets are off, mainly because he simply can’t get her out of his mind.
There are many struggles in this book and many social misconceptions tackled with incredible finesse and style, and there’s a beautiful, beautiful love story weaved between two characters that in all fairness, are wonderfully perfect for each other, if not for their past.
James has the unique talent of writing Fade to Black sex scenes, making the reader feel like the sex scene isn’t actually missing. I’ve only encountered this from Rachel Harris and I’m thrilled another writer does this trick justice.
Back to the characters. Matt and Kate each have their skeletons they’ve dealt with long ago, but by which they lead their lives and karma-wise, unintentionally, do all they can to make sure never happen to anyone else. They do a great job at that, too, until they meet, and a single person in both their lives, past and present, is threatening to destroy them.
They each carry the story forward seamlessly, supported by fantastic characters in the form of Kate’s sisters and Matt’s partner and his mother and sister.
I absolutely loved this page turner and while it was a wee bit short for my liking (I’d have loved another FtB scene) I can’t but give it my highest rating and recommend it wholeheartedly for a quick weekend read to make your heart all warm and fuzzy, even with the touch of drama and frustration (at the world being so freakin’ unfair).
* NetGalley provided this Entangled: Bliss title in exchange for my honest review.
August 27, 2015
4.5 Stars
Ms. James never ceases to impress me with her books, and this one was absolutely delightful to read. The plot was compelling, well-written and I loved how it started with Kate meeting Matt, and then running scared when she learns certain things about him.
As for the dialogue, there are so many aspects to it. It's a combination of sweet, intense, playful and emotional. The sweet moments are between Kate and her daughter, Janie. As well as between Matt and his sister. Those moments were the most memorable. Janie and Matt's sister seem so cute, and I couldn't help but like the pair as much as the two main characters. However, the playful dialogue was also just as memorable, as it reveals a different side of Kate that I didn't expect. Because until the moment she meets Matt, she seems so serious, so uptight. That I wasn't sure she knew how to be anything but. While with the intense and emotional dialogue, was all due to their back stories.
Immediately, I liked both Kate and Matt. They're well-developed, and their back stories make them the great characters they are. Kate's relationship with her daughter is a very special one. It seems Kate is trying to recapture some part of her past, and Janie helps her do that. Then there are the secondary characters that provide their own uniqueness to the story. Kate's two best friends are a real hoot, especially when they're trying to convince Kate to take a chance.
The sex scenes were scorching, and illustrated the intense chemistry these two had from the start. They were perfect where they were in the story, and Kate couldn't have been in more capable hands. The fact that she trusted Matt enough to get up close and personal with -- despite his past profession and her fear for cops -- was remarkable. Because I wasn't sure they'd be able to get over that particular hurdle.
Overall, this was an excellent start to a new series for this author, and I can't wait to read the next one. I would recommend this to all romance readers, but especially those that love a hero willing to prove that love can overcome the painful memories of the past.
***Posted to Blog as well***
Ms. James never ceases to impress me with her books, and this one was absolutely delightful to read. The plot was compelling, well-written and I loved how it started with Kate meeting Matt, and then running scared when she learns certain things about him.
As for the dialogue, there are so many aspects to it. It's a combination of sweet, intense, playful and emotional. The sweet moments are between Kate and her daughter, Janie. As well as between Matt and his sister. Those moments were the most memorable. Janie and Matt's sister seem so cute, and I couldn't help but like the pair as much as the two main characters. However, the playful dialogue was also just as memorable, as it reveals a different side of Kate that I didn't expect. Because until the moment she meets Matt, she seems so serious, so uptight. That I wasn't sure she knew how to be anything but. While with the intense and emotional dialogue, was all due to their back stories.
Immediately, I liked both Kate and Matt. They're well-developed, and their back stories make them the great characters they are. Kate's relationship with her daughter is a very special one. It seems Kate is trying to recapture some part of her past, and Janie helps her do that. Then there are the secondary characters that provide their own uniqueness to the story. Kate's two best friends are a real hoot, especially when they're trying to convince Kate to take a chance.
The sex scenes were scorching, and illustrated the intense chemistry these two had from the start. They were perfect where they were in the story, and Kate couldn't have been in more capable hands. The fact that she trusted Matt enough to get up close and personal with -- despite his past profession and her fear for cops -- was remarkable. Because I wasn't sure they'd be able to get over that particular hurdle.
Overall, this was an excellent start to a new series for this author, and I can't wait to read the next one. I would recommend this to all romance readers, but especially those that love a hero willing to prove that love can overcome the painful memories of the past.
***Posted to Blog as well***
August 10, 2015
This story is so sweet. The characters are worthy and honest and not drama filled; or in other words, mature. I loved how the mystery and suspense built up and how you were given clues here and there but it wasn’t till the end was everything revealed. Tiny clues are much better than revealing too much too early or figuring everything out. The clues kept the suspense without killing me!
I really wanted to know the story behind Kate as well as Matt. Matt had an open heart when it came to Kate, surprising him. He had already had a failed marriage and didn’t believe in happy ever afters or children in his life. So Matt told his story piece by piece to Kate. Kate, on the other hand, kept her story to herself. It drove me crazy. I wanted to shout at her to trust him not just for him, but for me as well cause I wanted to know what happened to her. But Matt knew she had trust issues and that trust had to do with police officers. He would wait for her to open up! That’s a good man right there!! He knows when not to push a woman! Hehe!
Kate adopted a special needs child named Janie. She has Down’s syndrome. My light bulb on this didn’t go off until the end of the book. Nope, not gonna say any more on that! Kate adores Janie and has worked hard to give her everything she needs to thrive. Their love for each other was tender.
Kate and her two friends turned sisters since connecting as teens in foster care all live together in a house with their adopted daughters as well. They all are hard workers and professionals. They care for each other and help each other like family does. I was hoping to get their stories next and it looks like that may happen!
There was open door sex. Not normally seen in Bliss books. I did see from another blogger that the final print would be changed to reflect Bliss guidelines.
So, if you like a little mystery and suspense, overcoming your fears, learning to trust, special needs kids, Detectives, becoming a family, nick names like Mr. Zibbits ( I guarantee you will like that one, I still chuckle over it), charity events, and a sweet love story than look no further. This is it!
I really wanted to know the story behind Kate as well as Matt. Matt had an open heart when it came to Kate, surprising him. He had already had a failed marriage and didn’t believe in happy ever afters or children in his life. So Matt told his story piece by piece to Kate. Kate, on the other hand, kept her story to herself. It drove me crazy. I wanted to shout at her to trust him not just for him, but for me as well cause I wanted to know what happened to her. But Matt knew she had trust issues and that trust had to do with police officers. He would wait for her to open up! That’s a good man right there!! He knows when not to push a woman! Hehe!
Kate adopted a special needs child named Janie. She has Down’s syndrome. My light bulb on this didn’t go off until the end of the book. Nope, not gonna say any more on that! Kate adores Janie and has worked hard to give her everything she needs to thrive. Their love for each other was tender.
Kate and her two friends turned sisters since connecting as teens in foster care all live together in a house with their adopted daughters as well. They all are hard workers and professionals. They care for each other and help each other like family does. I was hoping to get their stories next and it looks like that may happen!
There was open door sex. Not normally seen in Bliss books. I did see from another blogger that the final print would be changed to reflect Bliss guidelines.
So, if you like a little mystery and suspense, overcoming your fears, learning to trust, special needs kids, Detectives, becoming a family, nick names like Mr. Zibbits ( I guarantee you will like that one, I still chuckle over it), charity events, and a sweet love story than look no further. This is it!
August 11, 2015
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for honest review* Thank You!
I think that by now it’s obvious that I love Victoria James. She can write some of the cutest love stories ever. I loved Red River series and her Tall Pines Ranch series. After reading those series, she’s on my auto buy list.
Falling for the PI is a cute book (I wouldn’t expect anything less at this point from her). I loved how she done the family dynamic in this series. Kate, the MC, you learn was placed in a group home after her family was tragically taken away from her. There she meets her two “sisters”, Alex and Cara. When the three sisters get older they decided to more in together with their adopted children. Kate adopts Janie, who has Down syndrome. You will find out why Janie has such a special place in Kate’s heart and I couldn’t love the reason any more. I loved that their not related but that doesn’t mean that their not family. I liked that this book shows that just because they’re not blood doesn’t mean they’re not family.
And I really liked Matt. He’s awesome. He’s a character that I really liked reading about. I also love how he is with his family and the way he is with Janie.
I did rate this book 3.75 stars only because of Kate. There is a particular scene where the three of them (Kate, Janie, and Matt) are out and somethings happen and Matt defends Janie. I loved what Matt done. I loved that he stood up for her. However, I didn’t like the way Kate reacted to what he done. I thought it was sweet as heck. There is just some small things like that that got annoying sometimes. But other than that, it was a definitely cute book.
I’m really excited for the next book in the Still Harbor series. I loved that this particular book took place during the fall. It was just so darn cute. If you liked her other series, then this one will be no exception.
June 21, 2016
Please note this review may contain spoilers.
FALLING FOR THE P.I. was a really nice read that I devoured in pretty much one sitting. Kate and Matt meet at a bar, but Kate flees when she sees a reminder from her past. But after they bump into each other a few more times by pure coincidence, Kate finds it harder to resist the man, despite him being an ex-cop. Matt knows Kate’s afraid of something and is determined to break down her walls, to get her to trust and confide in him.
Matt: “What if I told you I never dance? Ever. But for some reason, I feel compelled to dance with you.”
I liked Kate. She is strong, loyal and has so much love to give. Her bond with her two “sisters” can never be broken, and their selflessness is amazing and truly inspiring. But she’s been badly hurt in the past and has an ingrained mistrust of law enforcement. Even though her intuition is telling her that she can trust Matt, that he’s a good guy, she just can’t bring herself to tell him what he wants to know and it puts a strain on their relationship.
Now Matt I loved. I mean, loved. With one failed marriage under his belt, he’s not keen on getting married again and his dreams of having kids, of having a family, dissolved a long time ago. When he discovers that Kate has a daughter, you think he’d run away as fast as possible, but he stays put. The more he learns about her, the harder he falls, until he realises that with Kate and her daughter Janie, he has the family he forgot he once wanted. With Kate, he took his time, which is exactly what she needed. And he was absolutely charming when it came to Janie.
Matt: Kate wasn’t just a woman to go home with. She was a woman you built a home with.
FALLING FOR THE P.I. was very enjoyable even without a sex scene. That’s right, there’s not a single sex scene in the entire book. Matt and Kate made a great couple and deserved their HEA at the end. Kate’s interactions with her sisters was funny and heartwarming, and I’m looking forward to learning more about them in the following books in the series.
For more reviews, please visit our website: www.romancebetweenthesheets.com
FALLING FOR THE P.I. was a really nice read that I devoured in pretty much one sitting. Kate and Matt meet at a bar, but Kate flees when she sees a reminder from her past. But after they bump into each other a few more times by pure coincidence, Kate finds it harder to resist the man, despite him being an ex-cop. Matt knows Kate’s afraid of something and is determined to break down her walls, to get her to trust and confide in him.
Matt: “What if I told you I never dance? Ever. But for some reason, I feel compelled to dance with you.”
I liked Kate. She is strong, loyal and has so much love to give. Her bond with her two “sisters” can never be broken, and their selflessness is amazing and truly inspiring. But she’s been badly hurt in the past and has an ingrained mistrust of law enforcement. Even though her intuition is telling her that she can trust Matt, that he’s a good guy, she just can’t bring herself to tell him what he wants to know and it puts a strain on their relationship.
Now Matt I loved. I mean, loved. With one failed marriage under his belt, he’s not keen on getting married again and his dreams of having kids, of having a family, dissolved a long time ago. When he discovers that Kate has a daughter, you think he’d run away as fast as possible, but he stays put. The more he learns about her, the harder he falls, until he realises that with Kate and her daughter Janie, he has the family he forgot he once wanted. With Kate, he took his time, which is exactly what she needed. And he was absolutely charming when it came to Janie.
Matt: Kate wasn’t just a woman to go home with. She was a woman you built a home with.
FALLING FOR THE P.I. was very enjoyable even without a sex scene. That’s right, there’s not a single sex scene in the entire book. Matt and Kate made a great couple and deserved their HEA at the end. Kate’s interactions with her sisters was funny and heartwarming, and I’m looking forward to learning more about them in the following books in the series.
For more reviews, please visit our website: www.romancebetweenthesheets.com
August 13, 2015
Reviewed for Read Your Writes Book Reviews
When it comes to storytelling, for me, Victoria James can do no wrong. Her characters are people you want to know. She combines romance with just enough past tragedy to make you feel for the main characters. She also gives you just enough of a glimpse into the secondary characters to beg for their stories to be told. Victoria is also in my opinion, one of the best authors I know who has the ability to put children into a romance book and truly make them a part of the story.
I will admit to loving Victoria’s other books, so I was a little wary about starting a new series. I mean, my thought was there was no way she could keep giving me what I’ve come to expect. I was wrong. She can and she does. At its core, Falling for the P.I. deals with the difficult subject of domestic violence and shows the ramifications to the victims.
Matt Lane is a man who is done with serious, committed relationships. But he can’t manage to stay away from Kate Abbott and her daughter, Janie. Being their friend and protector is at the top of his list. Kate is a true survivor. She has this amazing strength and determination. She has a dark past that shapes her and will forever be with her. But with Matt’s help, she’s able to see that not every man chooses to look the other way and thinks it’s okay to dismiss a child because they’re different and belittle and/or physically put his hands on a woman or his kids.
Falling for the P.I. is the first book in the Still Harbor series, focusing on three foster sisters who reconnect in adulthood to create their own family, by adopting children of their own. Next up is the story of Alex, which guarantees to rock her world and that of her daughter and her sisters.
**Received a copy of the book courtesy of Entangled Publishing for an honest and unbiased opinion.**
When it comes to storytelling, for me, Victoria James can do no wrong. Her characters are people you want to know. She combines romance with just enough past tragedy to make you feel for the main characters. She also gives you just enough of a glimpse into the secondary characters to beg for their stories to be told. Victoria is also in my opinion, one of the best authors I know who has the ability to put children into a romance book and truly make them a part of the story.
I will admit to loving Victoria’s other books, so I was a little wary about starting a new series. I mean, my thought was there was no way she could keep giving me what I’ve come to expect. I was wrong. She can and she does. At its core, Falling for the P.I. deals with the difficult subject of domestic violence and shows the ramifications to the victims.
Matt Lane is a man who is done with serious, committed relationships. But he can’t manage to stay away from Kate Abbott and her daughter, Janie. Being their friend and protector is at the top of his list. Kate is a true survivor. She has this amazing strength and determination. She has a dark past that shapes her and will forever be with her. But with Matt’s help, she’s able to see that not every man chooses to look the other way and thinks it’s okay to dismiss a child because they’re different and belittle and/or physically put his hands on a woman or his kids.
Falling for the P.I. is the first book in the Still Harbor series, focusing on three foster sisters who reconnect in adulthood to create their own family, by adopting children of their own. Next up is the story of Alex, which guarantees to rock her world and that of her daughter and her sisters.
**Received a copy of the book courtesy of Entangled Publishing for an honest and unbiased opinion.**
August 6, 2015
For such a short read this book sure manages to pack an emotional punch. Right from the start this tale weaves the mystery of Kate’s past in with her current life and her relationship with Matt. It’s sweet at times, intense at others, and always enjoyable.
I liked Kate. She’s a woman who has clearly been through a lot, but she’s also built a great life for herself – living with her two (chosen) sisters and their three adopted daughters, she works at the local high school and is busy building up her own charity. She’s busy and content with the way things are, until her sisters encourage her to approach Matt and everything in her life seems to change.
I have to admit I found the idea that they’d lived near each other for a while but never met, a bit far-fetched considering how often they then bump into each other afterwards. But if you can put your cynicism aside, this is a lovely tale with a really sweet romance. Matt is an all-round great guy and I loved how he was with Janie, Kate’s daughter, even if I do think he changed his never-going-to-marry/stay-away-from-single-mothers tune a bit quick.
Part of that is no doubt due to the short length. Although on the whole this story manages to spin out Kate’s history and their developing relationship without messing with the pacing, I think it would have been nice if it had been a little longer. The emotional depth is cleverly done, but the aftermath did feel a little restricted.
On the whole this is really good. If you’re looking for something that’s short yet deep, that looks at the after effects of domestic abuse and paints a positive future for survivors, then this book does a good job. The read might be quick but it’s by no means forgettable. I look forward to seeing what happens next in Still Harbor.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
I liked Kate. She’s a woman who has clearly been through a lot, but she’s also built a great life for herself – living with her two (chosen) sisters and their three adopted daughters, she works at the local high school and is busy building up her own charity. She’s busy and content with the way things are, until her sisters encourage her to approach Matt and everything in her life seems to change.
I have to admit I found the idea that they’d lived near each other for a while but never met, a bit far-fetched considering how often they then bump into each other afterwards. But if you can put your cynicism aside, this is a lovely tale with a really sweet romance. Matt is an all-round great guy and I loved how he was with Janie, Kate’s daughter, even if I do think he changed his never-going-to-marry/stay-away-from-single-mothers tune a bit quick.
Part of that is no doubt due to the short length. Although on the whole this story manages to spin out Kate’s history and their developing relationship without messing with the pacing, I think it would have been nice if it had been a little longer. The emotional depth is cleverly done, but the aftermath did feel a little restricted.
On the whole this is really good. If you’re looking for something that’s short yet deep, that looks at the after effects of domestic abuse and paints a positive future for survivors, then this book does a good job. The read might be quick but it’s by no means forgettable. I look forward to seeing what happens next in Still Harbor.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
August 14, 2015
*ARC provided by Publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review *
Falling for the P.I. by Victoria James is a well-written, fast-paced contemporary romance, with a compelling heroine that pulled me right into her story and made me pay attention to her. I loved Kate right from the start, and I loved her interactions with her sisters, even when they irritated the hell out of her. Of course, Kate knows they both mean well. They want her to have a full life, more than she’s allowed herself to have lately, and they think Matt could help her achieve that. Except Matt’s a cop turned P.I. and the last thing Kate wants in her life is another cop, even a former one.
This was a great read for me. I loved the main characters. I found them both likable, relatable, heartfelt, and engrossing. They drew me into their story, and kept me there until the very last page. I loved that they had depth to them, and that their story wasn’t just surface but deep enough to matter, and to make their struggle over their feelings for each other matter, too.
This was a quick read with an excellent, fast-paced flow, but the story had a lot of heart in it, and Kate and Matt were both so easy to like and root for. I really loved this read a lot. The author did a fantastic job pulling everything together in this book and creating a beautiful and memorable love story for two people who were shown to really deserve to find their happily ever after.
If you’re like me and you love a good romantic love story with heart, depth, and a natural sense of realism, Falling For The P.I. by Victoria James is a terrific read and a fantastic start to the author’s Still Harbor series. Highly recommend checking this one out. I loved it!
4.5 Stars
Falling for the P.I. by Victoria James is a well-written, fast-paced contemporary romance, with a compelling heroine that pulled me right into her story and made me pay attention to her. I loved Kate right from the start, and I loved her interactions with her sisters, even when they irritated the hell out of her. Of course, Kate knows they both mean well. They want her to have a full life, more than she’s allowed herself to have lately, and they think Matt could help her achieve that. Except Matt’s a cop turned P.I. and the last thing Kate wants in her life is another cop, even a former one.
This was a great read for me. I loved the main characters. I found them both likable, relatable, heartfelt, and engrossing. They drew me into their story, and kept me there until the very last page. I loved that they had depth to them, and that their story wasn’t just surface but deep enough to matter, and to make their struggle over their feelings for each other matter, too.
This was a quick read with an excellent, fast-paced flow, but the story had a lot of heart in it, and Kate and Matt were both so easy to like and root for. I really loved this read a lot. The author did a fantastic job pulling everything together in this book and creating a beautiful and memorable love story for two people who were shown to really deserve to find their happily ever after.
If you’re like me and you love a good romantic love story with heart, depth, and a natural sense of realism, Falling For The P.I. by Victoria James is a terrific read and a fantastic start to the author’s Still Harbor series. Highly recommend checking this one out. I loved it!
4.5 Stars
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