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The Night Horde SoCal #5
Rest & Trust
Sherlock is the Intelligence Officer of the Night Horde SoCal. It’s his job to find and control information, to keep boundaries around what is known by whom. He’s managed himself the same way, always keeping his club life and his personal life in separate boxes, not wanting to share either with the other. Lately, though, as his brothers settle down, one by one, and become family men, he’s been sensing an empty space between his boxes. He needs someone to need him. For himself, not for his skill.
Sadie is rebuilding her life after it fell apart publicly and exposed years-old secrets. She is learning to trust herself and everybody else, learning how to live in the world without the buffers she’d needed for so long. It’s a struggle every day, but she’s trying to master her needs one at a time.
They meet when Sadie needs rescue. When she literally runs to Sherlock for it, he helps the strange, frantic girl without a second thought. In the way of rescuers, Sherlock feels responsible for her. And for him, that feeling holds a potent allure.
It’s not so easy between them: Sadie is afraid to need, ashamed to be needy, worried what it could mean if she were to trust someone enough to let her guard down.
But Sherlock is determined and patient. He’s one of the good guys, and he’s found someone who understands him and who needs to take what he needs to give. He’s not going to let her go.
Note: explicit sex and violence.
Sadie is rebuilding her life after it fell apart publicly and exposed years-old secrets. She is learning to trust herself and everybody else, learning how to live in the world without the buffers she’d needed for so long. It’s a struggle every day, but she’s trying to master her needs one at a time.
They meet when Sadie needs rescue. When she literally runs to Sherlock for it, he helps the strange, frantic girl without a second thought. In the way of rescuers, Sherlock feels responsible for her. And for him, that feeling holds a potent allure.
It’s not so easy between them: Sadie is afraid to need, ashamed to be needy, worried what it could mean if she were to trust someone enough to let her guard down.
But Sherlock is determined and patient. He’s one of the good guys, and he’s found someone who understands him and who needs to take what he needs to give. He’s not going to let her go.
Note: explicit sex and violence.
ebook
First published September 12, 2015
About the author
Susan Fanetti
84 books1,418 followersI was born and raised in the Midwest, but I was transplanted into the dusty soil of Northern California and have apparently taken root there. An inveterate geek and gamer, I am a fan of many things considered pop culture and maybe even lowbrow.
As a reader, my favorite genres are science fiction and fantasy, but as a writer, I've found my home in romance--or perhaps it's better to say simply "love stories." I have a yen to try other genres, too, at some point, but for now my muse wants to tell stories about lovers and families.
I write for the joy of it, and I write stories that I want to read. If others like them, too, that's just the cherry on top. I’m not interested in rules and formulae. I follow my muse and my characters and let them take me where they want to go, wherever that might be. I like big emotions, dark and light.
I like complicated characters with flaws and weaknesses as well as strengths, and I like each character’s strengths and weaknesses to be different from those of other characters. I’m much more concerned that my characters be interesting and diverse than that they be widely considered to be likable. I try to create people, not types.
Likewise, I want my stories each to be distinct from the others. Once I’ve told a story, I don’t want to tell it again. So even within a series, one of my books might be very different from the next. Some might be very dark, others equally mild.
That isn’t to say there aren’t trends and recurrences in my work. I’m drawn to certain themes and settings, and my muse has her favorite toys and tools. But I guard against those tendencies becoming a formula.
Find my blog at www.susanfanetti.com
Find my FB author page: https://www.facebook.com/authorsusanf...
A note: I don't spend much time here on Goodreads. I try not to read any reviews of my own work. Besides, this is a site for readers, but since I write at a fairly manic pace, and read and edit for other writers, I don't have much time to read recreationally. Mainly, I log on to update my info. So if you message me here, it might be a while before I see it.
As a reader, my favorite genres are science fiction and fantasy, but as a writer, I've found my home in romance--or perhaps it's better to say simply "love stories." I have a yen to try other genres, too, at some point, but for now my muse wants to tell stories about lovers and families.
I write for the joy of it, and I write stories that I want to read. If others like them, too, that's just the cherry on top. I’m not interested in rules and formulae. I follow my muse and my characters and let them take me where they want to go, wherever that might be. I like big emotions, dark and light.
I like complicated characters with flaws and weaknesses as well as strengths, and I like each character’s strengths and weaknesses to be different from those of other characters. I’m much more concerned that my characters be interesting and diverse than that they be widely considered to be likable. I try to create people, not types.
Likewise, I want my stories each to be distinct from the others. Once I’ve told a story, I don’t want to tell it again. So even within a series, one of my books might be very different from the next. Some might be very dark, others equally mild.
That isn’t to say there aren’t trends and recurrences in my work. I’m drawn to certain themes and settings, and my muse has her favorite toys and tools. But I guard against those tendencies becoming a formula.
Find my blog at www.susanfanetti.com
Find my FB author page: https://www.facebook.com/authorsusanf...
A note: I don't spend much time here on Goodreads. I try not to read any reviews of my own work. Besides, this is a site for readers, but since I write at a fairly manic pace, and read and edit for other writers, I don't have much time to read recreationally. Mainly, I log on to update my info. So if you message me here, it might be a while before I see it.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
August 26, 2015
"That's why, little outlaw. You make me whole."
I'm not sure what I can say. Obviously I am a huge fan of Fanetti's work, her stories never let me down. Sometimes they are challenging, brutal and heartbreaking, but her storytelling ability is superb. She never fails to create authentic characters, who manage to tug at my heart, characters who make a mark on my heart and soul. Geez, I sound like such a fan-girl, but it's the truth. Sherlock and Sadie's story was addicting, I could not stop reading. It was unique, and had the perfect blend of steam and emotion.
Sherlock the the Intelligence Officer for the Night Horde, he is a little different from his brothers, he loves technology and gaming, he likes keeping his personal and MC life separate, but with so many brothers coupling up he is starting to want a little more. When Sadie comes barreling into his life, he finds himself feeling responsible for the 'little outlaw'.
"Because I like you, little outlaw. Spikes and all."
Sadie has not had an easy life, after a public breakdown, her years of drug addition have come to light. 1 year sober and she is still learning how to live clean. As she and Sherlock grow closer she struggles with normal aspects of a relationship, jealously, and trust. She is afraid, but he is patient and not willing to let go of her.
"I like being strong for you. I love you for who you are. You can rest with me, Sadie."
Another Fanetti win for me. I devoured this book within hours. I am equal parts anxious and scared for the next and final book of the SoCal Night Horde.
I'm not sure what I can say. Obviously I am a huge fan of Fanetti's work, her stories never let me down. Sometimes they are challenging, brutal and heartbreaking, but her storytelling ability is superb. She never fails to create authentic characters, who manage to tug at my heart, characters who make a mark on my heart and soul. Geez, I sound like such a fan-girl, but it's the truth. Sherlock and Sadie's story was addicting, I could not stop reading. It was unique, and had the perfect blend of steam and emotion.
Sherlock the the Intelligence Officer for the Night Horde, he is a little different from his brothers, he loves technology and gaming, he likes keeping his personal and MC life separate, but with so many brothers coupling up he is starting to want a little more. When Sadie comes barreling into his life, he finds himself feeling responsible for the 'little outlaw'.
"Because I like you, little outlaw. Spikes and all."
Sadie has not had an easy life, after a public breakdown, her years of drug addition have come to light. 1 year sober and she is still learning how to live clean. As she and Sherlock grow closer she struggles with normal aspects of a relationship, jealously, and trust. She is afraid, but he is patient and not willing to let go of her.
"I like being strong for you. I love you for who you are. You can rest with me, Sadie."
Another Fanetti win for me. I devoured this book within hours. I am equal parts anxious and scared for the next and final book of the SoCal Night Horde.
August 26, 2015
Dear Susan Fanetti,
How do you make each book better then the previous? You boggle my mind!
Not sure if I was supposed to be smiling like a lunatic while tears rolled down my face ... I think that's called insanity? But I love that you put me there.
I love that you made me cry AGAIN. I love that you write characters with heart and soul. I love that you can put me in a day long (or even week long) tailspin of aftershock (aka book hangover). And I adore that you can make me feel like my real life has been enriched from reading one of your books.
Trick (Knife & Flesh) will remain my fave Night Horde man (NO, fuck that, he's my fave fictional man, period) but DAMN! Sherlock & Sadie were absolutely perfect. I'd be a complete liar if I didn't admit to having a giant crush on Sherlock and maybe even Gordon, oh and quite possibly Sadie too.
The drama going on with the MC is crazy! (Why, Susan? Why?) But I'm so glad that you're not afraid to cross lines or make political statements. The plot is so friggin' THICK right now, I can hardly stand it!
This book .... THIS BOOK!!! I curse you for making me feel so anxious and sad and hurt. I applaud you for making me laugh and smile and love. I beg you to NEVER STOP making me feel this way!
Love always,
Kim
(crazy, devoted fan for life)
Thank you to the author for providing me advance access to this amazing book!
How do you make each book better then the previous? You boggle my mind!
Not sure if I was supposed to be smiling like a lunatic while tears rolled down my face ... I think that's called insanity? But I love that you put me there.
I love that you made me cry AGAIN. I love that you write characters with heart and soul. I love that you can put me in a day long (or even week long) tailspin of aftershock (aka book hangover). And I adore that you can make me feel like my real life has been enriched from reading one of your books.
Trick (Knife & Flesh) will remain my fave Night Horde man (NO, fuck that, he's my fave fictional man, period) but DAMN! Sherlock & Sadie were absolutely perfect. I'd be a complete liar if I didn't admit to having a giant crush on Sherlock and maybe even Gordon, oh and quite possibly Sadie too.
The drama going on with the MC is crazy! (Why, Susan? Why?) But I'm so glad that you're not afraid to cross lines or make political statements. The plot is so friggin' THICK right now, I can hardly stand it!
This book .... THIS BOOK!!! I curse you for making me feel so anxious and sad and hurt. I applaud you for making me laugh and smile and love. I beg you to NEVER STOP making me feel this way!
Love always,
Kim
(crazy, devoted fan for life)
Thank you to the author for providing me advance access to this amazing book!
August 26, 2015
FLOVED IT
Four reasons I loved REST & TRUST:
1. Sadie! She’s a complex heroine. She’s an almost 25 year old woman who works in the geek world. She’s smart and by smart I mean - during her high school and university days she graduated the top of her class. Unfortunately, this Fanetti woman has a heartbreaking past. Her past tore me up. It made me want to hug my kids and wrap them in bubblewrap. Even though Sadie’s brokenness made me want to tuck her in my pocket and protect her… she was strong.
2. Sherlock! He’s a grade-A geek. While he’s a bad boy biker don’t let appearances fool you because he has the heart of gold. The loyalty he has for his club and for the people in his life was honorable. A lot of guys would have seen Sadie in her “fizzy” state (lack of control) and walked away from her. But not Sherlock he became what she needed - actually he was already what she need; someone she could trust to be there for her no matter what. Plus, Sherlock is a Horde and those men seemed attract women who are multifaceted.
”You can trust me, Sadie. Believe in us.”
3. Gordon! I love this secondary character. He’s like a father figure to Sadie. He brought me to tears because of the love and support he gave Sadie. Especially in her darkest hours.
4. Family is where it’s at. The Horde family is complex and yet it’s simple too. How all these bikers are connected together to form a complex family tree and yet it’s really simple why this family dynamic works so well together. The support and respect they have for one another creates an unbreakable bond between the brotherhood. OMG - all the Horde children were so adorable. I wanted to be there in the room with Sadie playing with all the kids and tying their shoelaces when they came undone.
Four is my favorite number and while there are more things I loved about this book I’m going to let you discover them on your own. I did have another one of those moments when I started REST & TRUST where I knew I was going to love this one. I’m not sure how Ms. Fanetti keeps making me say, “This is my new favorite” but she’s done it again. I’m in love with this story. I love how the characters are flawed and how their story feels authentic. I could imagine this as someone’s love story in the real world. If you haven’t read anything by Ms. Fanetti you’re missing out.
BELIEVE THE HYPE this series is AWESOME!
✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦
RELEASE DATE: September 12, 2015
pre-order | order: http://amzn.to/1NXy9I7
SERIES:
Continuing story where secondary characters from the first book become the main focus in subsequent books.
Book 1 - Muse | Book 2 - Demon | Book 3 - Connor | Book 4 - Trick | Book 5 - Sherlock
To find out if there will be more books in the series click here.
Side Trips
Book 2.5 - Nolan | Book 3.5
**Complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.**
Four reasons I loved REST & TRUST:
1. Sadie! She’s a complex heroine. She’s an almost 25 year old woman who works in the geek world. She’s smart and by smart I mean - during her high school and university days she graduated the top of her class. Unfortunately, this Fanetti woman has a heartbreaking past. Her past tore me up. It made me want to hug my kids and wrap them in bubblewrap. Even though Sadie’s brokenness made me want to tuck her in my pocket and protect her… she was strong.
2. Sherlock! He’s a grade-A geek. While he’s a bad boy biker don’t let appearances fool you because he has the heart of gold. The loyalty he has for his club and for the people in his life was honorable. A lot of guys would have seen Sadie in her “fizzy” state (lack of control) and walked away from her. But not Sherlock he became what she needed - actually he was already what she need; someone she could trust to be there for her no matter what. Plus, Sherlock is a Horde and those men seemed attract women who are multifaceted.
”You can trust me, Sadie. Believe in us.”
3. Gordon! I love this secondary character. He’s like a father figure to Sadie. He brought me to tears because of the love and support he gave Sadie. Especially in her darkest hours.
4. Family is where it’s at. The Horde family is complex and yet it’s simple too. How all these bikers are connected together to form a complex family tree and yet it’s really simple why this family dynamic works so well together. The support and respect they have for one another creates an unbreakable bond between the brotherhood. OMG - all the Horde children were so adorable. I wanted to be there in the room with Sadie playing with all the kids and tying their shoelaces when they came undone.
Four is my favorite number and while there are more things I loved about this book I’m going to let you discover them on your own. I did have another one of those moments when I started REST & TRUST where I knew I was going to love this one. I’m not sure how Ms. Fanetti keeps making me say, “This is my new favorite” but she’s done it again. I’m in love with this story. I love how the characters are flawed and how their story feels authentic. I could imagine this as someone’s love story in the real world. If you haven’t read anything by Ms. Fanetti you’re missing out.
BELIEVE THE HYPE this series is AWESOME!
✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦✦
RELEASE DATE: September 12, 2015
pre-order | order: http://amzn.to/1NXy9I7
SERIES:
Continuing story where secondary characters from the first book become the main focus in subsequent books.
Book 1 - Muse | Book 2 - Demon | Book 3 - Connor | Book 4 - Trick | Book 5 - Sherlock
To find out if there will be more books in the series click here.
Side Trips
Book 2.5 - Nolan | Book 3.5
**Complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.**
August 26, 2015
5 "Little Outlaw" STARS
“To rest and trust; to give your soul in confidence: I need someone to pour myself into.” – Sylvia Plath
Every single one of Susan's characters are perfection in their imperfections.
I'd often wondered about Sherlock and like all of the other Horde men, was thrilled to know him better. Susan has the power to cast a spell that makes me fall for each of her heroes (or perhaps anti-heroes) no matter their past or perhaps because of them! Of course, I've loved some more than others but each one is unique yet the perfect fit for the beautiful tapestry that is the Night Horde.
The heroine, Sadie, was just as strong and formidable as all of Susan's other heroines and yes, also with a heart-rending tale of her own that has made her who she is today. Perfect in her imperfection.
The need, the hurt, the strength, the courage, and the love was palpable in this story and so moving.
“Loving somebody was hard and painful and scary, but it was also awesome and exciting and…fulfilling…”
“Even when he kissed her, she bent to him. He got off on that, too. She needed him; she trusted him. It felt good. Filled him up.”
Another wonderful story in the Night Horde SoCal series as this one takes us closer to the end of this series and also nearer to the, sure to be, unforgettable yet inevitable clash with the Mexican drug cartel.
For more reviews and blog posts.
“To rest and trust; to give your soul in confidence: I need someone to pour myself into.” – Sylvia Plath
Every single one of Susan's characters are perfection in their imperfections.
I'd often wondered about Sherlock and like all of the other Horde men, was thrilled to know him better. Susan has the power to cast a spell that makes me fall for each of her heroes (or perhaps anti-heroes) no matter their past or perhaps because of them! Of course, I've loved some more than others but each one is unique yet the perfect fit for the beautiful tapestry that is the Night Horde.
The heroine, Sadie, was just as strong and formidable as all of Susan's other heroines and yes, also with a heart-rending tale of her own that has made her who she is today. Perfect in her imperfection.
The need, the hurt, the strength, the courage, and the love was palpable in this story and so moving.
“Loving somebody was hard and painful and scary, but it was also awesome and exciting and…fulfilling…”
“Even when he kissed her, she bent to him. He got off on that, too. She needed him; she trusted him. It felt good. Filled him up.”
Another wonderful story in the Night Horde SoCal series as this one takes us closer to the end of this series and also nearer to the, sure to be, unforgettable yet inevitable clash with the Mexican drug cartel.
For more reviews and blog posts.
August 27, 2015
4.5 Everyone Has A Need Stars * * * * 1/2
Over the years, with our advancements in technology taking the lead on many of the day do day activities we do, we have become like little satellites circling around in our own orbits... and only inter-connecting through other means then the physical.
That is not to say all of it is wrong, bad or unproductive...After all I am writing this review to share my feelings with all of you... out there in countries other than my own, cities I haven't visited and with hearts and minds I have grown to appreciate and care for through this site. But it is to point out how our lives and how we live it is very different from the generations before us...
And after reading Rest & Trust, it was so smart of Fanetti to present a love story for those who were of this generation; who worked and loved the mental challenges of the technology and who also were serious gamers... those who lived on line... whose passion for this medium was just as rabid as those who eat, drink and die for sport.
This latest addition of the SoCal Night Horde series covers so many important topics and presents them in this coming together of Sherlock and Sadie. These two will be like missing puzzle pieces for each other... He, being the one she will be able to finally trust fully; she, being the perfect woman, understanding and loving things he does, open to him being in control and her allowing him to be needed.
We already knew Sherlock. He was presented to us earlier in this serious, a tech officer of the SoCal Night Horde before they became the SoCal division. He was Bart's counterpart and together they fought side by side against the cartel which tried to destroy the Horde. He came through the fire and now was there making sure the security for the Horde was strong for whatever was to come. He was talented, savvy and smart in how he worked through different sites... not making any trails or disturbances... seeking the necessary information.
We also knew from conversations, Sherlock was seeing all of his brothers find their way to their women... There had been a shift... men who had worked hard, lived hard and played harder...were coming to mental places in their heads and seeking what they needed without knowing it...Women came into their lives and these men found their solace...lives became more.
Sherlock knew what he had always wanted... to be needed... to have someone want to have him take care of them. He had been involved for years with a woman who had the best kids. He loved them and played with both. He had been cast, though, in a no mans land of not being able to parent them or guide them by their mother. This woman had set up this emotional manipulation of on again off again with Sherlock. He kept coming back due to the kids and the way she got him with how he liked his sex. He wasn't into kinky stuff... just wanted complete control with him calling the shots at all time. It was his thing.
This was sort of working until it wasn't and the cause of the final break was eye opening for Sherlock. He realized finally what his position was in this "relationship". He had been played by her and he finally made the break he needed.
Sadie is in transition...she is learning to live life clean. It has been more than a year since she used and everyday is a challenge. This pixie punk smart techie had a life of covering up. As a child she lost her mom early and her dad tried to do right as best he could. Unfortunately he didn't pay enough attention and Sadie became a victim of a babysitter and druggie boyfriend. They used her and abused her... starting at a very young 12, warping Sadie's ideas of how sex and life should be. She never shared with her father because she didn't want him to think he had let her down...He was all she had left.
Her interests were computers... she could do it alone without having to deal with people she had no interest in. She was an avid gamer with talents. Her job was easy enough as a help desk person and her work buddies made fun chatter during the down time. She had become addicted to H and Oxy with skills of a ninja... hiding and functioning at a very high level until one day she didn't.
She had a massive breakdown and it was the first step to her recovery. She went through the rehab and after acquired a sponsor who changed her life. This man was able to get Sadie to see her way clear of the need for H and Oxy... to try to help her through the times she felt "fizzy"... and he was always there for her. She had made it past a year, received her chip and was trying to become less isolated. Something her sponsor advised...doing things outside her house. After the meltdown, her boss allowed her to work from home... good because it was more comfortable for her...no so good because she was always alone with her thoughts...open to thinking about other ways to distract herself from using... like cleaning non stop or doing something which was more intense....
These two characters meet when Sadie is doing an outside activity... helping with a protest against a big corporate giant. She is just doing the low level stuff of passing out flyers, giving information etc. The protesters have blocked the streets and Sherlock on his bike is restless; not liking all the blocked lanes, he jumps the sidewalk and is looking for an alternate way of getting out of there.
In a flash, shots ring out and chaos happens. Sadie is pulled by the leader of the group down and then told to run for safety. She is stunned and then takes off seeing Sherlock, his bike and a means of escape. She jumps on the back of the bike and screams at him to go as the cops are shooting at people. Sherlock takes off with this woman on the back of his bike and rides till they clear the area. He pulls over, steps off the bike and taking her with him. He discovers she has been shot through the arm. He offers to take her to the hospital but she wants nothing of that...so he then offers to fix her up. Moments pass as both look at each other...Sadie needs to make a decision... she will go with him.
It is at this moment so much is addressed and presented to us... We have Sadie, an addict fighting to remain clean. She knows she cannot take any medication to dull the pain of stitches as it will throw her back into her void. Sherlock not knowing any of this offers her Oxy to help and Sadie is strong enough to tell him she is an addict. She also declines booze as that would be a slippery slope. This exchange of information also touches on how messed up Sherlock is right now without the "sudo- family" he thought he had created with his ex and her kids. He has been drinking a lot with hangovers every morning. His house is a map to all the booze he has consumed and Sadie tells him he is on his way to falling off the cliff and having a problem. Sherlock doesn't like hearing that because he has no desire to repeat anything his brother has done.
These two connect and in their heads are attracted to what they see and experience so far... Sadie is hyped from the pain of the stitches and shock of what really happened. She reaches out and kisses Sherlock, first tentatively, then bolder. She needs to have some kind of distraction/release or she will use... As much as Sherlock would love to take her, shove her up against the wall and do her...he feels this is not the way...she just was shot... she needs to settle. He takes her home and leaves her there. Luckily a dejected Sadie calls her sponsor.
The romance of these two fulfills a basic part of who we are as humans, to need someone - to feel needed. These two were the perfect halves for each other. Sadie never was able to let someone take care of her. She felt compelled to let her dad think everything was ok when it was far from it. By always being in "control of her addiction" she could never rest and let someone else help her.
Sherlock had wanted a normal family for a very long time...it caused him to take the crap his ex dished out. It stemmed from the childhood of a missing father and overworked mom. He had a brother who took on raising him until the brother became the lost teenager. His brother was still physically there but due to whatever demons he carried, he became an addict early and with the ugly pull of Meth.
This is a true love story and that means acceptance of each other fully. Each have demons they have lived with for a long time... each want to give, care and be there. They work together and are better for it.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention Sherlock is "gifted" in many ways... he is patient with Sadie... guiding her and helping her "adjust" ah hmm and it is something to read about... just sayin'...
But with Fanetti... there is always more... and this installment is no different. She touches on more political issues and a very descriptive insight to addiction. All types of addiction. We have characters who are entrenched, those who have broken free and those who are working to adjust to life so very different without their drug of choice. We see how addictive personalities can substitute other actions to take the place of the first addition. Some positive, others not so much. It is a constant challenge.
The other continuing pull to this series is the Horde...they are at a brink... La Zora has been manipulating the drug trade, the players and the market for quite sometime... and indications are... she has been working off a big picture for an ultimate goal. How she involved the Horde with their personal losses and their reaction to them and her is just the start of the grand finale coming.
This story worked on so many levels, showing how technical mediums can create the new ways of connecting and interacting but with the core of the old... the human need to touch and love. The next book seems to be the last chapter and my gut is telling me it will be intense.
●●●●●●●●●● Before Reading ●●●●●●●●●●
Stayed up, eyes droopy but wanting my Fanetti fix...
Clicked and now I can dream about my upcoming time with Sherlock :D
~~~~ The Countdown Begins ~~~~
About 6 hours to go until Sherlock and I get up close and personal....
●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●
I have taken out my calendar and circled a date for mid September...
Why you may ask...
Is it back to school time...
Is it some family obligation...
No, it is my chance to experience
Sherlock's "Come to Jesus moment"...
He is hit by the love-stick and falls for the woman he will have to convince she should let him love her...
I have never wanted September 12th to come so bad...
Rest & Trust (Night Horde, SoCal #5)
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
Over the years, with our advancements in technology taking the lead on many of the day do day activities we do, we have become like little satellites circling around in our own orbits... and only inter-connecting through other means then the physical.
That is not to say all of it is wrong, bad or unproductive...After all I am writing this review to share my feelings with all of you... out there in countries other than my own, cities I haven't visited and with hearts and minds I have grown to appreciate and care for through this site. But it is to point out how our lives and how we live it is very different from the generations before us...
And after reading Rest & Trust, it was so smart of Fanetti to present a love story for those who were of this generation; who worked and loved the mental challenges of the technology and who also were serious gamers... those who lived on line... whose passion for this medium was just as rabid as those who eat, drink and die for sport.
This latest addition of the SoCal Night Horde series covers so many important topics and presents them in this coming together of Sherlock and Sadie. These two will be like missing puzzle pieces for each other... He, being the one she will be able to finally trust fully; she, being the perfect woman, understanding and loving things he does, open to him being in control and her allowing him to be needed.
We already knew Sherlock. He was presented to us earlier in this serious, a tech officer of the SoCal Night Horde before they became the SoCal division. He was Bart's counterpart and together they fought side by side against the cartel which tried to destroy the Horde. He came through the fire and now was there making sure the security for the Horde was strong for whatever was to come. He was talented, savvy and smart in how he worked through different sites... not making any trails or disturbances... seeking the necessary information.
We also knew from conversations, Sherlock was seeing all of his brothers find their way to their women... There had been a shift... men who had worked hard, lived hard and played harder...were coming to mental places in their heads and seeking what they needed without knowing it...Women came into their lives and these men found their solace...lives became more.
Sherlock knew what he had always wanted... to be needed... to have someone want to have him take care of them. He had been involved for years with a woman who had the best kids. He loved them and played with both. He had been cast, though, in a no mans land of not being able to parent them or guide them by their mother. This woman had set up this emotional manipulation of on again off again with Sherlock. He kept coming back due to the kids and the way she got him with how he liked his sex. He wasn't into kinky stuff... just wanted complete control with him calling the shots at all time. It was his thing.
This was sort of working until it wasn't and the cause of the final break was eye opening for Sherlock. He realized finally what his position was in this "relationship". He had been played by her and he finally made the break he needed.
Sadie is in transition...she is learning to live life clean. It has been more than a year since she used and everyday is a challenge. This pixie punk smart techie had a life of covering up. As a child she lost her mom early and her dad tried to do right as best he could. Unfortunately he didn't pay enough attention and Sadie became a victim of a babysitter and druggie boyfriend. They used her and abused her... starting at a very young 12, warping Sadie's ideas of how sex and life should be. She never shared with her father because she didn't want him to think he had let her down...He was all she had left.
Her interests were computers... she could do it alone without having to deal with people she had no interest in. She was an avid gamer with talents. Her job was easy enough as a help desk person and her work buddies made fun chatter during the down time. She had become addicted to H and Oxy with skills of a ninja... hiding and functioning at a very high level until one day she didn't.
She had a massive breakdown and it was the first step to her recovery. She went through the rehab and after acquired a sponsor who changed her life. This man was able to get Sadie to see her way clear of the need for H and Oxy... to try to help her through the times she felt "fizzy"... and he was always there for her. She had made it past a year, received her chip and was trying to become less isolated. Something her sponsor advised...doing things outside her house. After the meltdown, her boss allowed her to work from home... good because it was more comfortable for her...no so good because she was always alone with her thoughts...open to thinking about other ways to distract herself from using... like cleaning non stop or doing something which was more intense....
These two characters meet when Sadie is doing an outside activity... helping with a protest against a big corporate giant. She is just doing the low level stuff of passing out flyers, giving information etc. The protesters have blocked the streets and Sherlock on his bike is restless; not liking all the blocked lanes, he jumps the sidewalk and is looking for an alternate way of getting out of there.
In a flash, shots ring out and chaos happens. Sadie is pulled by the leader of the group down and then told to run for safety. She is stunned and then takes off seeing Sherlock, his bike and a means of escape. She jumps on the back of the bike and screams at him to go as the cops are shooting at people. Sherlock takes off with this woman on the back of his bike and rides till they clear the area. He pulls over, steps off the bike and taking her with him. He discovers she has been shot through the arm. He offers to take her to the hospital but she wants nothing of that...so he then offers to fix her up. Moments pass as both look at each other...Sadie needs to make a decision... she will go with him.
It is at this moment so much is addressed and presented to us... We have Sadie, an addict fighting to remain clean. She knows she cannot take any medication to dull the pain of stitches as it will throw her back into her void. Sherlock not knowing any of this offers her Oxy to help and Sadie is strong enough to tell him she is an addict. She also declines booze as that would be a slippery slope. This exchange of information also touches on how messed up Sherlock is right now without the "sudo- family" he thought he had created with his ex and her kids. He has been drinking a lot with hangovers every morning. His house is a map to all the booze he has consumed and Sadie tells him he is on his way to falling off the cliff and having a problem. Sherlock doesn't like hearing that because he has no desire to repeat anything his brother has done.
These two connect and in their heads are attracted to what they see and experience so far... Sadie is hyped from the pain of the stitches and shock of what really happened. She reaches out and kisses Sherlock, first tentatively, then bolder. She needs to have some kind of distraction/release or she will use... As much as Sherlock would love to take her, shove her up against the wall and do her...he feels this is not the way...she just was shot... she needs to settle. He takes her home and leaves her there. Luckily a dejected Sadie calls her sponsor.
The romance of these two fulfills a basic part of who we are as humans, to need someone - to feel needed. These two were the perfect halves for each other. Sadie never was able to let someone take care of her. She felt compelled to let her dad think everything was ok when it was far from it. By always being in "control of her addiction" she could never rest and let someone else help her.
Sherlock had wanted a normal family for a very long time...it caused him to take the crap his ex dished out. It stemmed from the childhood of a missing father and overworked mom. He had a brother who took on raising him until the brother became the lost teenager. His brother was still physically there but due to whatever demons he carried, he became an addict early and with the ugly pull of Meth.
This is a true love story and that means acceptance of each other fully. Each have demons they have lived with for a long time... each want to give, care and be there. They work together and are better for it.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention Sherlock is "gifted" in many ways... he is patient with Sadie... guiding her and helping her "adjust" ah hmm and it is something to read about... just sayin'...
But with Fanetti... there is always more... and this installment is no different. She touches on more political issues and a very descriptive insight to addiction. All types of addiction. We have characters who are entrenched, those who have broken free and those who are working to adjust to life so very different without their drug of choice. We see how addictive personalities can substitute other actions to take the place of the first addition. Some positive, others not so much. It is a constant challenge.
The other continuing pull to this series is the Horde...they are at a brink... La Zora has been manipulating the drug trade, the players and the market for quite sometime... and indications are... she has been working off a big picture for an ultimate goal. How she involved the Horde with their personal losses and their reaction to them and her is just the start of the grand finale coming.
This story worked on so many levels, showing how technical mediums can create the new ways of connecting and interacting but with the core of the old... the human need to touch and love. The next book seems to be the last chapter and my gut is telling me it will be intense.
●●●●●●●●●● Before Reading ●●●●●●●●●●
Stayed up, eyes droopy but wanting my Fanetti fix...
Clicked and now I can dream about my upcoming time with Sherlock :D
~~~~ The Countdown Begins ~~~~
About 6 hours to go until Sherlock and I get up close and personal....
●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●●
I have taken out my calendar and circled a date for mid September...
Why you may ask...
Is it back to school time...
Is it some family obligation...
No, it is my chance to experience
Sherlock's "Come to Jesus moment"...
He is hit by the love-stick and falls for the woman he will have to convince she should let him love her...
I have never wanted September 12th to come so bad...
Rest & Trust (Night Horde, SoCal #5)
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
August 27, 2015
June 2020 - Sherlock surprises each time I read his story. There's something so stoic and strong about his character that holds everything together as it's falling apart. A lot happens in this book and the way it all plays out always leave me gripping my kindle.
Re-read as part of the series Aug/Sept 2017 - A new appreciation for this particular book of the series. A fonder understanding of Sadie and a new found connection to Sherlock. Their story holds true to real life and the undercurrent of emotions through trials and tribulations each one of us could potentially face. I loved this re-read.
5+ ”Then let me hold your hand.” Stars
Rest & Trust marks Book Six in Susan Fanetti’s Night Horde SoCal series and stars Sherlock and Sadie. Each time I sit down with a Fanetti book I’m so eager to learn about two new characters. She shapes the series so we as readers fall in love with the club and their families individually then collectively as a group so we can continue feeling that love through the eyes of each new set of characters. Sitting down with Sherlock and Sadie, two people whom I’ll come to know intimately, ready to read and preparing myself to be rocked by their connection – it’s one of my favorite feelings of when reading a Fanetti book. If you take nothing from my review or you don’t want to bother reading the whole drawn out thing, no sweat, just take this:
READ THIS SERIES. MEET THESE CHARACTERS. EXPERIENCE THIS AUTHOR’S WRITING.
Fanetti once again starts off strong by reaching deep to cultivate feelings from her readers. Provoking us from the beginning with emotions of contempt for the ugliness inside humans provides a strong base of which to build our connection to Sherlock. From that point forward we realize Sherlock as decent, kind, strong, and willing to protect any one in his life. He roots himself so easily and so far within our hearts because Fanetti makes us feel so much for him with her prose especially when it eventually comes to caring for Sadie.
Sherlock is different from his brothers, a fact he readily admits, but he’s no less part of the brotherhood and the bond that makes these men strong as a unit. He trusts and wants to be trusted, he wants Sadie as an extension of himself. He wants to help her be comfortable with who she is because he trusts in her; his need for her to trust in him is great. And he’s funny. Very dryly humorous. Just downright funny. Something I wasn’t expecting. Sherlock’s honesty even when he’s not being completely forthcoming attracts Sadie. Because through his honesty we see this borderline sarcastic, sort of jag off kind of man and it’s really hot. Fanetti rocks Sherlock’s world in Rest & Trust more than once in very profound ways exposing his vulnerabilities and his strength as a man. There were two notable times silent tears streamed down my face as I saw the world through Sherlock. It was another mesmerizing Fanetti experience.
With each Fanetti book I highlight at some point the strength of a Fanetti woman. Susan Fanetti, in her usual candid way that I’ve come to deeply respect and admire over the course of 19 books and 2 years, once said:
“I don’t set out to write Strong Female Characters. I set out to write women and men and children. People I can fall in love with, because I have to love them to write them.”
Finding the words to talk about my feelings over this statement is tricky but I’m going to do my best especially in regards to Fanetti women. I’m doing so because it’s important to me with each Fanetti review to comment on the strength of her women for a multitude of reasons I prefer not to divulge except that I need to purge what’s in my head when I finish plus I want other women to know and broadcast that woman ARE strong. Some are weaker than others in some aspects of life. Some fight battles others will never understand. Some are poisoned with demons all their lives. Some are polished and classy yet sad and alone. Some recognize the fullness of their life without taking advantage more easily than others. But we’re all women; each of us so completely gifted with the ability to stand up when the world wants to put us down. And we’re all completely and fully capable of being strong.
Sadie Ballard does not have a happy past yet her inner will to trust, to live and love, to be loved – it’s unmatched. With each and every Fanetti female character I learn a new way to be stronger as a woman, and Sadie is no exception. In my humble opinion, Susan Fanetti can write a strong woman because she is a strong woman - this being an observation from her prose being the most honest and forthright I’ve ever read. Fanetti quite delicately recognizes flaws in her women, not as flaws per se, but character traits to exploit. This exploitation, not mocking, but painful, real, and explicitly candid allowing me to step into the world of her characters and find a new facet of my own strength during the time these heroines find/rediscover/redefine their own strength.
This character, this woman – Sadie - learns to love herself again through Sherlock. She learns to rest and to trust. She redefines her own meaning of strength. Sadie Ballard is a real woman with real scars revealing both her hurts and her joys. Sadie Ballard powered through her own defenses to open to a man she never expected. Sadie Ballard in all the ways she thought ill of herself, completes that very same man. Sadie Ballard showed me a new kind of strong. Sadie Ballard is a freaking warrior and you all should meet her.
There’s such educated power to her characters beyond the surface - always two halves to the whole, two sides to every story. This power in some ways reveals itself as manifestations of social issues in our world brought to light in such an honest way you can’t help take notice. For example, if Fanetti includes a part regarding abortion you can guarantee she presents both sides of the coin. If protests are a part of her book she highlights the good and the bad of such an event. All of these issues brought to light in an educational, informative way not to persuade me but to inform me. It’s a brilliant part of the story structure, series structure, and honesty of her characters that further entrenches you in her world.
As with all Fanetti books, the plot of the Night Horde SoCal falls perfectly in line after the people living in the story. This is truly an exploration of two people finding themselves through each other being comfortable and content more so than ever before. I’m so in love with Sherlock and Sadie more so than I thought I would be because of the hard fought journey Susan Fanetti had them live. In typical Fanetti fashion, you can expect the hard parts to hit you hard and the soft parts to melt your heart.
And just to say, Rest & Trust does heat up the plot for the SoCal Horde in such a way I know life in Madrone will irrevocably change in the final installment. The Night Horde SoCal will never be the same as their allies and enemies are expanding and changing, and the lives of their members become more and more personal to our hearts. I’m not ready for it to end but all good things and all that jazz….
I’ll tell you one last thing though – I know in my heart Susan Fanetti will rock our worlds to end the SoCal series. The emotional Fanetti masochist in me can hardly freaking wait.
Favorite Quotes:
”Welcome to the club, little outlaw.”
”I feel right when I’m with you. I want my life with you.”
”You don’t have to be strong for me. You don’t have to be anything you’re not. I like being strong for you. I love you for who you are.”
My review for the entire 5++ star Night Horde SoCal Series in order:
Book 1: Strength & Courage
Book 2: Shadow & Soul
Book 2.5: Today & Tomorrow
Book 3: Fire & Dark
Book 3.5: Dream & Dare
Book 4: Knife & Flesh
**Rest & Trust generously provided in exchange for an honest review.**
Re-read as part of the series Aug/Sept 2017 - A new appreciation for this particular book of the series. A fonder understanding of Sadie and a new found connection to Sherlock. Their story holds true to real life and the undercurrent of emotions through trials and tribulations each one of us could potentially face. I loved this re-read.
5+ ”Then let me hold your hand.” Stars
Rest & Trust marks Book Six in Susan Fanetti’s Night Horde SoCal series and stars Sherlock and Sadie. Each time I sit down with a Fanetti book I’m so eager to learn about two new characters. She shapes the series so we as readers fall in love with the club and their families individually then collectively as a group so we can continue feeling that love through the eyes of each new set of characters. Sitting down with Sherlock and Sadie, two people whom I’ll come to know intimately, ready to read and preparing myself to be rocked by their connection – it’s one of my favorite feelings of when reading a Fanetti book. If you take nothing from my review or you don’t want to bother reading the whole drawn out thing, no sweat, just take this:
READ THIS SERIES. MEET THESE CHARACTERS. EXPERIENCE THIS AUTHOR’S WRITING.
Fanetti once again starts off strong by reaching deep to cultivate feelings from her readers. Provoking us from the beginning with emotions of contempt for the ugliness inside humans provides a strong base of which to build our connection to Sherlock. From that point forward we realize Sherlock as decent, kind, strong, and willing to protect any one in his life. He roots himself so easily and so far within our hearts because Fanetti makes us feel so much for him with her prose especially when it eventually comes to caring for Sadie.
Sherlock is different from his brothers, a fact he readily admits, but he’s no less part of the brotherhood and the bond that makes these men strong as a unit. He trusts and wants to be trusted, he wants Sadie as an extension of himself. He wants to help her be comfortable with who she is because he trusts in her; his need for her to trust in him is great. And he’s funny. Very dryly humorous. Just downright funny. Something I wasn’t expecting. Sherlock’s honesty even when he’s not being completely forthcoming attracts Sadie. Because through his honesty we see this borderline sarcastic, sort of jag off kind of man and it’s really hot. Fanetti rocks Sherlock’s world in Rest & Trust more than once in very profound ways exposing his vulnerabilities and his strength as a man. There were two notable times silent tears streamed down my face as I saw the world through Sherlock. It was another mesmerizing Fanetti experience.
With each Fanetti book I highlight at some point the strength of a Fanetti woman. Susan Fanetti, in her usual candid way that I’ve come to deeply respect and admire over the course of 19 books and 2 years, once said:
“I don’t set out to write Strong Female Characters. I set out to write women and men and children. People I can fall in love with, because I have to love them to write them.”
Finding the words to talk about my feelings over this statement is tricky but I’m going to do my best especially in regards to Fanetti women. I’m doing so because it’s important to me with each Fanetti review to comment on the strength of her women for a multitude of reasons I prefer not to divulge except that I need to purge what’s in my head when I finish plus I want other women to know and broadcast that woman ARE strong. Some are weaker than others in some aspects of life. Some fight battles others will never understand. Some are poisoned with demons all their lives. Some are polished and classy yet sad and alone. Some recognize the fullness of their life without taking advantage more easily than others. But we’re all women; each of us so completely gifted with the ability to stand up when the world wants to put us down. And we’re all completely and fully capable of being strong.
Sadie Ballard does not have a happy past yet her inner will to trust, to live and love, to be loved – it’s unmatched. With each and every Fanetti female character I learn a new way to be stronger as a woman, and Sadie is no exception. In my humble opinion, Susan Fanetti can write a strong woman because she is a strong woman - this being an observation from her prose being the most honest and forthright I’ve ever read. Fanetti quite delicately recognizes flaws in her women, not as flaws per se, but character traits to exploit. This exploitation, not mocking, but painful, real, and explicitly candid allowing me to step into the world of her characters and find a new facet of my own strength during the time these heroines find/rediscover/redefine their own strength.
This character, this woman – Sadie - learns to love herself again through Sherlock. She learns to rest and to trust. She redefines her own meaning of strength. Sadie Ballard is a real woman with real scars revealing both her hurts and her joys. Sadie Ballard powered through her own defenses to open to a man she never expected. Sadie Ballard in all the ways she thought ill of herself, completes that very same man. Sadie Ballard showed me a new kind of strong. Sadie Ballard is a freaking warrior and you all should meet her.
There’s such educated power to her characters beyond the surface - always two halves to the whole, two sides to every story. This power in some ways reveals itself as manifestations of social issues in our world brought to light in such an honest way you can’t help take notice. For example, if Fanetti includes a part regarding abortion you can guarantee she presents both sides of the coin. If protests are a part of her book she highlights the good and the bad of such an event. All of these issues brought to light in an educational, informative way not to persuade me but to inform me. It’s a brilliant part of the story structure, series structure, and honesty of her characters that further entrenches you in her world.
As with all Fanetti books, the plot of the Night Horde SoCal falls perfectly in line after the people living in the story. This is truly an exploration of two people finding themselves through each other being comfortable and content more so than ever before. I’m so in love with Sherlock and Sadie more so than I thought I would be because of the hard fought journey Susan Fanetti had them live. In typical Fanetti fashion, you can expect the hard parts to hit you hard and the soft parts to melt your heart.
And just to say, Rest & Trust does heat up the plot for the SoCal Horde in such a way I know life in Madrone will irrevocably change in the final installment. The Night Horde SoCal will never be the same as their allies and enemies are expanding and changing, and the lives of their members become more and more personal to our hearts. I’m not ready for it to end but all good things and all that jazz….
I’ll tell you one last thing though – I know in my heart Susan Fanetti will rock our worlds to end the SoCal series. The emotional Fanetti masochist in me can hardly freaking wait.
Favorite Quotes:
”Welcome to the club, little outlaw.”
”I feel right when I’m with you. I want my life with you.”
”You don’t have to be strong for me. You don’t have to be anything you’re not. I like being strong for you. I love you for who you are.”
My review for the entire 5++ star Night Horde SoCal Series in order:
Book 1: Strength & Courage
Book 2: Shadow & Soul
Book 2.5: Today & Tomorrow
Book 3: Fire & Dark
Book 3.5: Dream & Dare
Book 4: Knife & Flesh
**Rest & Trust generously provided in exchange for an honest review.**
September 15, 2015
There For You by Flyleaf
This book was just as good as the others but for the first time in the series, I was left kind of needing more when it came to the romance.
Sadie is a recovering addict and a woman with a very messed up past. Sherlock has always compartmentalized his life and never really let anyone in but after a series of events he realizes realizes he wants to start a family and be needed and loved by someone. He wants to take care of someone, and be everything they need. And then Sadie and Sherlock met. It was completely by chance and it changed their life.
**It's going to be hard for me to explain my feelings about the couple unless you've read it and I apologize in advance if my review makes no sense.
I loved almost everything about Sadie and Sherlock both individually and as a couple but I did have a few problems that ultimately disrupted my perfect bliss in their book. And the main one being: I didn't feel secure in my feelings about Sadie and Sherlock together as a couple. To me, there were too many instances where I felt Sherlock was doing more harm than good and I wanted to see Sadie stand up on her own rather than needing him, even though that's exactly what Sherlock wanted. I also didn't like the train of events that lead up to a VERY big step in their relationship and I don't like how Sherlock always just brushes off his past relationship as if it was nothing when it was a big part of the actions he makes in this book. There were just too many things that weren't closed off in this book and I felt I needed more of them, as a couple. I needed to see them grow more, I needed to see Sadie go against her addiction and win. I felt unsure about them being together. I love them together but do I feel that Sherlock is the healthy choice for Sadie? Not 100% and it kills me to say that. I do love them together but if the author perhaps wanted to write a little novella for them I would totally be down for that.
As for the club business part of the book, well things are definitely changing and I'm extremely nervous and scared to read the final book. There's no way I'm going into that book blind, that's for sure. I'm scared for the group but there were a few nice parts involved with them, including the nice little tie-in with the previous MC series and a few of my favorites making an appearance.
Overall, I wouldn't say this was my favorite in the series but nonetheless it was still a great read. I know I'll be thinking and pondering about this book and the characters for quite a long time.
August 26, 2015
5 Healing Stars
Sherlock was in a relationship with mother of two on and off going on for six years. They ended abruptly due to her getting pregnant by Sherlock. He wanted to keep the baby but Taryn said other wise. That is how the book starts off and boy did it start off hardcore!! Then that is when Sherlock met His little outlaw, Sadie. Love it. I can't describe how amazing this book is. But I have to admit, I was pissed off about David and Gerald. I wanted more from them. Pissed off still thinking about it.
“You think I don’t know what I’m saying? I know. I know what I want. I’ve been living this stupid, empty life, thinking that I wanted it the way it was, all the parts in their own boxes. But that’s bullshit. I want a family. I want to have somebody to live for, to take care of. I want to mean something to somebody.”
“And then heard the unmistakable, heavy click of a gun being cocked behind him.”
“You’re going to put the gun down, and I’m going to turn around. No shooting tonight, okay?”
“At the door, he turned and faced Gordon, who’d been right behind him. “I’ve wanted to take care of her since the day I met her. I am her rock. I need that as much as she does.”
“Her beautiful mouth quivered, and he laid his finger on it. “That’s why, little outlaw. You make me whole.”
“This morning was the most amazing thing I’ve ever known. Don’t you dare apologize for needing me.”
“I always need you.”
“And I’ll always be here. Trust that. I need, too, little outlaw.” He put his hand on his son’s head. His other hand, he cupped around his girl’s cheek. “What I need is right here, and I’m never letting it go.”
Sherlock was in a relationship with mother of two on and off going on for six years. They ended abruptly due to her getting pregnant by Sherlock. He wanted to keep the baby but Taryn said other wise. That is how the book starts off and boy did it start off hardcore!! Then that is when Sherlock met His little outlaw, Sadie. Love it. I can't describe how amazing this book is. But I have to admit, I was pissed off about David and Gerald. I wanted more from them. Pissed off still thinking about it.
“You think I don’t know what I’m saying? I know. I know what I want. I’ve been living this stupid, empty life, thinking that I wanted it the way it was, all the parts in their own boxes. But that’s bullshit. I want a family. I want to have somebody to live for, to take care of. I want to mean something to somebody.”
“And then heard the unmistakable, heavy click of a gun being cocked behind him.”
“You’re going to put the gun down, and I’m going to turn around. No shooting tonight, okay?”
“At the door, he turned and faced Gordon, who’d been right behind him. “I’ve wanted to take care of her since the day I met her. I am her rock. I need that as much as she does.”
“Her beautiful mouth quivered, and he laid his finger on it. “That’s why, little outlaw. You make me whole.”
“This morning was the most amazing thing I’ve ever known. Don’t you dare apologize for needing me.”
“I always need you.”
“And I’ll always be here. Trust that. I need, too, little outlaw.” He put his hand on his son’s head. His other hand, he cupped around his girl’s cheek. “What I need is right here, and I’m never letting it go.”
October 9, 2015
No review for now. A "just-for-me" read.
August 27, 2015
4.5 Stars
Susan Fanetti does it again. This author is so freakin talented!!!
More to come.
Susan Fanetti does it again. This author is so freakin talented!!!
More to come.
September 8, 2015
Sherlock was an awesome hero, but I had my reservations about some of his actions that were detrimental to Sadie's well-being . The heroine Sadie is very damaged and it's very hard to put myself in her shoes and also justify her actions. She is also very young, so I had to make excuses also for her actions. I wasn't really sure Sherlock and his MC life were good for her given her background. In the end, Sherlock became the rock she needed. So I'm cool with it. It was a riveting read and I couldn't put this book down and stayed up late to finish. There's a big setup for the last book in the series. And knowing that the author doesn't shy away from certain things ,I am scared. :(
August 27, 2015
Normally with such a great epilogue I would give an extra star if I wasn't feeling the book. I couldn't, that's how much I didn't like this book/the couple. I don't enjoy/connect with addict characters. She was a recovering addict and cutter. This was really slow and flat for me. I skimmed the book from about 40% until the epilogue.
Loved the ending with Dora and David Vega. I have been expecting/anticipating their comeback from the beginning. I can't wait for next book just for that reason.
As a whole, I have not liked this series' characters near as much as Signal Bend.
Re-read 10/2020. I should have read my review before reading this one, still didnt like characters.
Loved the ending with Dora and David Vega. I have been expecting/anticipating their comeback from the beginning. I can't wait for next book just for that reason.
As a whole, I have not liked this series' characters near as much as Signal Bend.
Re-read 10/2020. I should have read my review before reading this one, still didnt like characters.
August 27, 2015
4.5 stars.
pretty sure sherlock may be my new fave!
pretty sure sherlock may be my new fave!
August 28, 2015
I really like this one, sad to think only one more and this series will be over.
December 20, 2015
This series gets better and better with each book. I can't believe I enjoyed this book more than Trick's book, and I loved Trick's books. But this one was so good and so completely different from previous 4 books in the series. Heartbreaking but often so sweet. Sherlock and Sadie, both were super lovable and I very much enjoyed their interactions and connection. The biker story got much darker and deeper, which I enjoyed but wish certain deaths didn't happen. Now, I am really sad that I have only one book left in this series and I am scared to read because I know somebody is going to die...
September 12, 2015
*4.5 Another stellar read in this fantastic series! Many parts pulled at my heart strings and made my eyes tear up. Sadie's character is so well written - Ms Fanetti crafted her with such care that I could really feel the depth of her pain and understand why she developed her destructive coping mechanisms. Sherlock is everything I thought he would be - intelligent, alpha but oh, so tender to his Little Outlaw. It was great to read about two strong individuals become an even stronger couple.
As always, it's good to catch up with the entire Night Horde gang and their ever growing families. I'm real nervous about what La Zorra has up her sleeve! Looking forward to Ronin's story but so sad it will be the last book in the series.
As always, it's good to catch up with the entire Night Horde gang and their ever growing families. I'm real nervous about what La Zorra has up her sleeve! Looking forward to Ronin's story but so sad it will be the last book in the series.
January 2, 2017
Sherlock's tale.
I loved that in this romance the Horde brother, Sherlock is posed as the saviour to the h, Sadie. Sadie is a recovering addict who has just received her '12 months clean' chip. She is trying hard, for the first time in her life to face life, and it's hurdles, straight and sober.
Sherlock has been content to exist in a half assed, on again-off again relationship, with a woman he realises he doesn't even like, let alone love. In a moment of clarity, he realises he really wants what many of his brothers have found. A real family, a real relationship.
A chance meeting with Sadie sets them both on a new course. One that is not always smooth sailing.
And simmering in the background...the war with the cartels is threatening the families of the Horde.
4.5 stars
I loved that in this romance the Horde brother, Sherlock is posed as the saviour to the h, Sadie. Sadie is a recovering addict who has just received her '12 months clean' chip. She is trying hard, for the first time in her life to face life, and it's hurdles, straight and sober.
Sherlock has been content to exist in a half assed, on again-off again relationship, with a woman he realises he doesn't even like, let alone love. In a moment of clarity, he realises he really wants what many of his brothers have found. A real family, a real relationship.
A chance meeting with Sadie sets them both on a new course. One that is not always smooth sailing.
And simmering in the background...the war with the cartels is threatening the families of the Horde.
4.5 stars
November 26, 2015
If you only read one MC contemporary author, Susan Fanetti is the one!
Another emotionally gripping story with such rich and layered characters and the looming war between the drug Cartels with the Night Horde SoCal Club caught in the middle makes for a thrilling read.
Another emotionally gripping story with such rich and layered characters and the looming war between the drug Cartels with the Night Horde SoCal Club caught in the middle makes for a thrilling read.
July 16, 2018
**4.5**
I loved Sherlock & Sadie's story. Beware, there are triggers in this book, drug addiction & self harm!
As with most of Susan's books it's raw and in your face.
Susan's talented writing creates two characters that perfectly compliment one another and is exactly what each person needs in their life to move forward and make it complete.
The continuing Horde problems raise their ugly heads again in this book, the club has to deal with threats and loss.
Definitely another worthy read as part of the Night Horde SoCal series.
I loved Sherlock & Sadie's story. Beware, there are triggers in this book, drug addiction & self harm!
As with most of Susan's books it's raw and in your face.
Susan's talented writing creates two characters that perfectly compliment one another and is exactly what each person needs in their life to move forward and make it complete.
The continuing Horde problems raise their ugly heads again in this book, the club has to deal with threats and loss.
Definitely another worthy read as part of the Night Horde SoCal series.
July 28, 2020
Another great one. Grimm as well but a lot of love. I liked the geek things and the addict things.
![Profile Image for Michelle [Helen Geek].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1448463806i/5557851._CR0,13,200,200_.jpg)
March 26, 2017
March 2017 -- 4.5 Stars
March 27, 2016
Loved it!
This is a fine example of the need to be in the right head space, to read the right book, at the right time. When I first decided to read Rest & Trust, I realised after a couple of chapters a biker based genre wasn’t what I was in the mood for. I jotted down notes and moved on to another book. But Sadie and Sherlock haunted me…so as soon as it was time to reach for another book again, this was my first choice. My timing was perfect because on my second attempt it became a page turner.
Sadie’s capability to manage her struggles was inspirational. A newly reformed drug addict, her methods of keeping her demons at bay initially came across as swapping one vice for another. The tactics she engaged were little better than what she was trying desperately not to succumb to. Some days it was a moment by moment battle to stay clean. Her ability to function on such a high level was amazing. Continuously counting her consecutive drug-free days, she reached a 365-day milestone which heralded her determination and achievement far more than referring to it with the singular term of one year.
Sadie lands in Sherlock’s life when she is trying to escape from the same place at the same time he is. There’s something about the girl that catches his eye. It takes Sadie a bit longer to get on the same page as him, but then her reasons for moving quickly are very different to his. They are opposites in many respects but it is their similarities that underpin their relationship working as well as it did once they connect. They are an odd couple, she’s meticulously clean and tidy whereas he only tends to domestic chores when it becomes an issue for him…which is not often. Thankfully this comes as a shock to Sadie with his charm and good looks luring her into thinking he could be a good distraction.
My first impression was that this would be a story filled with moments that could have been avoided and the basis for a lot of frustration. It was the complete opposite. Rather than detracting from the story, Sadie’s determination and momentary lapses in coping added layers that enhanced the story. Sadie became a healthy contrast to Sherlock’s challenges and he was a better man for having her in his life.
The underpinning story of the Night Horde SoCal MC continues in Rest & Trust and provides relevant club and brotherhood times to compliment the romance between Sadie and Sherlock. Sadie has some kickass moments where she puts some well deserving people in their place when they try to bring her down. This is another good installment in the Night Horde SoCal series and with only one more book to go in this series it will be time to check out which other of Ms. Fanetti series I will read next.
What I struggled with:
*The unknown source of the trouble in the MC
*Tributes and customs (moving and sad at the same time)
*Her father’s inability to man up and be the man he should have been
*The innocent victims in relationships
*Users without a conscious
*His family
What I loved:
*The epilogue!!
*Sadie’s confidence
*Gordon – the best pseudo father she could hope for
*Sherlock’s love of being gifted trust
*The light-hearted moments
*Sisterhood and the support they selflessly gave
This is a fine example of the need to be in the right head space, to read the right book, at the right time. When I first decided to read Rest & Trust, I realised after a couple of chapters a biker based genre wasn’t what I was in the mood for. I jotted down notes and moved on to another book. But Sadie and Sherlock haunted me…so as soon as it was time to reach for another book again, this was my first choice. My timing was perfect because on my second attempt it became a page turner.
Sadie’s capability to manage her struggles was inspirational. A newly reformed drug addict, her methods of keeping her demons at bay initially came across as swapping one vice for another. The tactics she engaged were little better than what she was trying desperately not to succumb to. Some days it was a moment by moment battle to stay clean. Her ability to function on such a high level was amazing. Continuously counting her consecutive drug-free days, she reached a 365-day milestone which heralded her determination and achievement far more than referring to it with the singular term of one year.
Sadie lands in Sherlock’s life when she is trying to escape from the same place at the same time he is. There’s something about the girl that catches his eye. It takes Sadie a bit longer to get on the same page as him, but then her reasons for moving quickly are very different to his. They are opposites in many respects but it is their similarities that underpin their relationship working as well as it did once they connect. They are an odd couple, she’s meticulously clean and tidy whereas he only tends to domestic chores when it becomes an issue for him…which is not often. Thankfully this comes as a shock to Sadie with his charm and good looks luring her into thinking he could be a good distraction.
My first impression was that this would be a story filled with moments that could have been avoided and the basis for a lot of frustration. It was the complete opposite. Rather than detracting from the story, Sadie’s determination and momentary lapses in coping added layers that enhanced the story. Sadie became a healthy contrast to Sherlock’s challenges and he was a better man for having her in his life.
The underpinning story of the Night Horde SoCal MC continues in Rest & Trust and provides relevant club and brotherhood times to compliment the romance between Sadie and Sherlock. Sadie has some kickass moments where she puts some well deserving people in their place when they try to bring her down. This is another good installment in the Night Horde SoCal series and with only one more book to go in this series it will be time to check out which other of Ms. Fanetti series I will read next.
What I struggled with:
*The unknown source of the trouble in the MC
*Tributes and customs (moving and sad at the same time)
*Her father’s inability to man up and be the man he should have been
*The innocent victims in relationships
*Users without a conscious
*His family
What I loved:
*The epilogue!!
*Sadie’s confidence
*Gordon – the best pseudo father she could hope for
*Sherlock’s love of being gifted trust
*The light-hearted moments
*Sisterhood and the support they selflessly gave
September 14, 2015
I have mixed feelings about this one. I'm somewhere between a mid 3 to a high 3 stars.
The H, Sherlock, is a contradiction. Part of a MC but also computer geek/game player. What I liked about him was his braininess, his sexiness even though piercings don't do it for me, and his nurturing spirit. He wanted to take care of people - his mom, his junkie brother, and definitely the h, Sadie. He was smart, controlling, and a slob (yuck). Sadie, the h, she is a mess. That's where I struggled. They had definite chemistry but she's got issues all over the place - recovering addict, abuse victim, current cutter. I kept wondering are they together because Sherlock wants to take care of her and God she really needs to be taken care of or is it because they really love each other? Or is their relationship a combination of chemistry, lust, caring, and real love?
Anyway, I liked Sherlock and I felt horrible for Sadie because what she went through was horrible. If anybody needed a HEA it was Sadie.
The H, Sherlock, is a contradiction. Part of a MC but also computer geek/game player. What I liked about him was his braininess, his sexiness even though piercings don't do it for me, and his nurturing spirit. He wanted to take care of people - his mom, his junkie brother, and definitely the h, Sadie. He was smart, controlling, and a slob (yuck). Sadie, the h, she is a mess. That's where I struggled. They had definite chemistry but she's got issues all over the place - recovering addict, abuse victim, current cutter. I kept wondering are they together because Sherlock wants to take care of her and God she really needs to be taken care of or is it because they really love each other? Or is their relationship a combination of chemistry, lust, caring, and real love?
Anyway, I liked Sherlock and I felt horrible for Sadie because what she went through was horrible. If anybody needed a HEA it was Sadie.
August 26, 2015
4.5 stars!
September 6, 2015
Good as always. But I think trouble is looming on the horizon.
September 12, 2015
Purchased September, 2015
It's after 5:30 a.m., so a review will have to wait. Guess, that says something all by itself, lol.
It's after 5:30 a.m., so a review will have to wait. Guess, that says something all by itself, lol.
September 2, 2015
Emotional Rollercoaster
Firstly, I want to say that I love this author, and this series. However, this book just didn't seem to have the pull of Ms. Fanetti's other books. The character, Sadie, was an emotional train wreck, and a recovering addict, to boot. As a psychotherapist, I felt like I was working(which is not why I read books). However, surprisingly, although Sadie had a sponsor, she did not have a therapist, and by golly, if anyone needed a therapist, it was Sadie! Miss Sadie fits the diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder, as if she was conjured by a diagnostic manual! Sherlock, our lead male character, gets sucked in by Sadie's "fizzy," quirky, sad, and clearly, broken neediness. He is compelled, as many good guys, to be her anchor and fill the void of her bottomless empty (an impossible task, BTW). As the relationship rides the rails of a rickety rollercoaster, the Horde MC's ongoing battle in the background just doesn't blend. It is like 2 stories connected by a fraying thread. This really messed with the overall flow of the book, which then seemed to highlight the emotionally, exhausting character of Sadie...like any Borderline, she was driving me up the wall, with her beautiful brokenness, and then to add salt to the wound, poor Sherlock forged ahead with his co-dependent rescues(Ugh)!
So, in closing, I think Ms. Fanetti wrote a very accurate portrayal of a very disturbed young woman, but due to the seriousness of this depiction, which included self-mutilation and disassociative episodes, I believe a therapist should have been woven into this story. Sherlock would not have been able to manage this, and really no one should have to manage emotional weight of this magnitude, without proper professional guidance. However, having said this, I realize this is just a novel, a work of fiction, and really, my assessment is clouded by my profession, which causes me to have concerns, that anyone reading this would think that love could conquer a quite deadly set of symptoms. If you or a loved one, suffer from a similar cluster of symptoms, portrayed in the character, Sadie, please seek professional guidance. BPD is a serious illness that is often life-threatening!!!
Firstly, I want to say that I love this author, and this series. However, this book just didn't seem to have the pull of Ms. Fanetti's other books. The character, Sadie, was an emotional train wreck, and a recovering addict, to boot. As a psychotherapist, I felt like I was working(which is not why I read books). However, surprisingly, although Sadie had a sponsor, she did not have a therapist, and by golly, if anyone needed a therapist, it was Sadie! Miss Sadie fits the diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder, as if she was conjured by a diagnostic manual! Sherlock, our lead male character, gets sucked in by Sadie's "fizzy," quirky, sad, and clearly, broken neediness. He is compelled, as many good guys, to be her anchor and fill the void of her bottomless empty (an impossible task, BTW). As the relationship rides the rails of a rickety rollercoaster, the Horde MC's ongoing battle in the background just doesn't blend. It is like 2 stories connected by a fraying thread. This really messed with the overall flow of the book, which then seemed to highlight the emotionally, exhausting character of Sadie...like any Borderline, she was driving me up the wall, with her beautiful brokenness, and then to add salt to the wound, poor Sherlock forged ahead with his co-dependent rescues(Ugh)!
So, in closing, I think Ms. Fanetti wrote a very accurate portrayal of a very disturbed young woman, but due to the seriousness of this depiction, which included self-mutilation and disassociative episodes, I believe a therapist should have been woven into this story. Sherlock would not have been able to manage this, and really no one should have to manage emotional weight of this magnitude, without proper professional guidance. However, having said this, I realize this is just a novel, a work of fiction, and really, my assessment is clouded by my profession, which causes me to have concerns, that anyone reading this would think that love could conquer a quite deadly set of symptoms. If you or a loved one, suffer from a similar cluster of symptoms, portrayed in the character, Sadie, please seek professional guidance. BPD is a serious illness that is often life-threatening!!!
October 14, 2015
This was another good addition to the Night Horde series, unfortunately I have serious reservations about this couple and their ability for a true HEA. I don’t want to give too much away, but the heroine Sadie is seriously troubled. We know from the beginning she’s a recovering drug addict, but the obstacles she’s trying to overcome are huge. The last thing she should be doing is getting involved with a man, especially one in a motorcycle club.
As much as I hate long separations for a couple in romanceland, this is a story where I would embrace a split. Sadie needed time to grow without all the drama surrounding Sherlock, the hero. Their decisions weren’t smart, they were very naïve and reckless. As much as I loved the characters individually, I can only imagine heartbreak and trouble for these two in the future.
Favorite quote- “She needs a rock,” Gordon answered Sherlock. “Strong and steady. She needs somebody who’ll let her be weak, but won’t make her weak. Who’ll hold her up when she’s tired.” **Gordon (Sadie’s Narcotics Anonymous sponsor)
As much as I hate long separations for a couple in romanceland, this is a story where I would embrace a split. Sadie needed time to grow without all the drama surrounding Sherlock, the hero. Their decisions weren’t smart, they were very naïve and reckless. As much as I loved the characters individually, I can only imagine heartbreak and trouble for these two in the future.
Favorite quote- “She needs a rock,” Gordon answered Sherlock. “Strong and steady. She needs somebody who’ll let her be weak, but won’t make her weak. Who’ll hold her up when she’s tired.” **Gordon (Sadie’s Narcotics Anonymous sponsor)
September 15, 2015
4.5 stars. I've always been intrigued by Sherlock and am happy he got his story. The details of Sadie's story will wreck your heart. Although she isn't my favorite Susan Fanetti heroine, the beauty of SF's characters is that even if you don't like them, you understand why they make the choices they do. The things that happened in Sturgis brought the tears. I am looking forward to and with a great deal of apprehension to the concluding book in the series.
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