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Heroes of Evers, Texas #1
Love and Protect
Laura Kensington is a desperate woman. She knows that if she doesn't flee, not only is her life in danger, so is the life of her unborn child. With everything to lose, she flees to Evers, Texas with a new identity, taking refuge on the ranch of Cade Bishop, a man who firmly believes in second chances. Drawn to Cade, Laura finds comfort in his passion and his love, yet she fears he sees her as merely another needy case. But when her past resurfaces, bringing grave peril into her world once more, Cade is Laura’s only hope. Relentless enemies, ones both anticipated and unexpected, are drawing closer by the day, ensnaring her in a deadly web of deception, betrayal, and murder. And her only chance to break free lies in Cade's powerful will, unrelenting protection, and loving heart.
255 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 25, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 345 reviews
September 19, 2014
A few parts charmed me, but the last third felt like formulaic TV show bad guy writing, kind of meh.
The parts I liked: I was intrigued with her knowledge and dreams about organic seed breeding. I loved how she set up an email account at the library and sent pictures of her abused self.
I was charmed with the lipstick scene in the store. She picked up a lipstick. Cade said “Why do you need that? You’re beautiful. You shouldn’t cover your face with that stuff.” His words were so reminiscent of her abusive husband’s criticism and control that Laura hurriedly replaced the makeup on the shelf. Both of them recognized what happened, and an uncomfortable silence froze the air between them. Cade said “Laura, I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean it that way. I’d never try to tell you what to do. I just meant that you look beautiful without makeup.” He then immediately began shoving as much makeup as he could into the basket on his arm saying “You should definitely get some makeup. It’ll look great on you. Here.” She starts laughing.
Some women need to hear this: “The man was a monster. But you, you’re an amazing woman to have survived that.”
I did not like: She was on the run and staying with people on a ranch. It was a great place to stay. They wanted to take care of her and let her live there forever. She would not have to worry about a job or paying the rent. Yet Laura kept thinking she had to leave. She had to go to a city find a job so she could pay the rent. I wasn’t buying the logic. It felt contrived to create conflict.
Bottom line: it had some good parts and some not-so-good parts. Maybe being inside the bad guys’ heads with something interesting would have made it better.
There are three sex scenes. They are vaguely done with no body parts mentioned. The first one is a paragraph long. The others are one to two sentences long.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Story length: 208 pages. Swearing language: moderate but not often used. Sexual language: mild to none. Number of sex scenes: 3. Setting: current day mostly Texas with some Connecticut and Kansas. Copyright: 2013. Genre: contemporary romance.
The parts I liked: I was intrigued with her knowledge and dreams about organic seed breeding. I loved how she set up an email account at the library and sent pictures of her abused self.
I was charmed with the lipstick scene in the store. She picked up a lipstick. Cade said “Why do you need that? You’re beautiful. You shouldn’t cover your face with that stuff.” His words were so reminiscent of her abusive husband’s criticism and control that Laura hurriedly replaced the makeup on the shelf. Both of them recognized what happened, and an uncomfortable silence froze the air between them. Cade said “Laura, I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean it that way. I’d never try to tell you what to do. I just meant that you look beautiful without makeup.” He then immediately began shoving as much makeup as he could into the basket on his arm saying “You should definitely get some makeup. It’ll look great on you. Here.” She starts laughing.
Some women need to hear this: “The man was a monster. But you, you’re an amazing woman to have survived that.”
I did not like: She was on the run and staying with people on a ranch. It was a great place to stay. They wanted to take care of her and let her live there forever. She would not have to worry about a job or paying the rent. Yet Laura kept thinking she had to leave. She had to go to a city find a job so she could pay the rent. I wasn’t buying the logic. It felt contrived to create conflict.
Bottom line: it had some good parts and some not-so-good parts. Maybe being inside the bad guys’ heads with something interesting would have made it better.
There are three sex scenes. They are vaguely done with no body parts mentioned. The first one is a paragraph long. The others are one to two sentences long.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Story length: 208 pages. Swearing language: moderate but not often used. Sexual language: mild to none. Number of sex scenes: 3. Setting: current day mostly Texas with some Connecticut and Kansas. Copyright: 2013. Genre: contemporary romance.
May 24, 2018
While it was a sweet story -- and I appreciated that the couple took time with the relationship; understandable since the heroine is a victim of domestic abuse -- but I didn't enjoy the storytelling that had multiple POVs, including from the villain, the dead husband's brother, and the private investigators. Why would I need to know what the PIs were thinking anyway?!? And I thought the romance itself didn't have that much spark.
My favorite scenes were all involving the animals -- the cat birthing scene, the first time Red the dog melts towards Cade, the horse eating mints from Laura's hands -- and none involving (only) the humans *snickers*.
My favorite scenes were all involving the animals -- the cat birthing scene, the first time Red the dog melts towards Cade, the horse eating mints from Laura's hands -- and none involving (only) the humans *snickers*.
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July 10, 2016
This one wasn’t for me. Twenty-five year pregnant old Laura finds herself unexpectedly a widow when her abusive husband dies of a heart attack. Fearful that her husband’s family will seek custody of her unborn child, Laura accepts the help of a sympathetic doctor and flees to a remote farm, where she meets the gentle Cade, who just happens to have a way with abused animals…. Oh dear.
I didn’t find the story authentic, I was bored by the alternate chapters with her husband’s business partner trying to find her. If the romance works for me, than I think I overlook any other issues I have but in this case I found the romance flat, derivative with no spark.
I didn’t find the story authentic, I was bored by the alternate chapters with her husband’s business partner trying to find her. If the romance works for me, than I think I overlook any other issues I have but in this case I found the romance flat, derivative with no spark.
August 2, 2016
Full review at Smart Bitches, Trashy Books
The world is a great big dumpster fire right now and it’s got me all depressed. So when I picked up Love and Protect by Lori Ryan I was just hoping for a decent romantic suspense read–what I got was a surprisingly comforting, healing book that brought tears to my eyes.
I mean, it’s still a romantic suspense so there is some violence–this isn’t a comfort read the way a traditional Regency is. Also trigger warning for discussions of domestic violence and rape.
So often romantic suspense heroes solve violence with more violence–and I get some of that appeal. I get the desire to see a really bad person beaten up or scared or even killed. This book takes a totally different approach, and while Cade does wish Patrick were alive just so he could beat the shit out of him, it’s an approach that I don’t think I see often enough. Ryan focuses her writing on the healing from trauma, not the trauma itself.
Cade, and the magical ranch where horses and dogs and cats are healed and rehabilitated was a balm to my soul as well. Sure there was some action, some sex, some chase scenes–and that was all well done, but this middle bit of the book, on that sleepy ranch where Cade was keeping his distance but still signaling to Laura that she wasn’t alone, man that just SLAYED me.
I would recommend Love and Protect to readers who are leery of romantic suspense as well. Yes, there’s the murder-plot side of things, but the book is never bloody or scary. There’s action and some suspenseful moments, but it’s nothing that I think would actively cause anyone to be scared. That said, I read some pretty creepy shit so my tolerance is high. Also, obviously, the themes of domestic violence and discussion of rape will not suit everyone.
But if you’re looking for a feel good book, I think this is it. It made feel better about my world for sure.
- Elyse
The world is a great big dumpster fire right now and it’s got me all depressed. So when I picked up Love and Protect by Lori Ryan I was just hoping for a decent romantic suspense read–what I got was a surprisingly comforting, healing book that brought tears to my eyes.
I mean, it’s still a romantic suspense so there is some violence–this isn’t a comfort read the way a traditional Regency is. Also trigger warning for discussions of domestic violence and rape.
So often romantic suspense heroes solve violence with more violence–and I get some of that appeal. I get the desire to see a really bad person beaten up or scared or even killed. This book takes a totally different approach, and while Cade does wish Patrick were alive just so he could beat the shit out of him, it’s an approach that I don’t think I see often enough. Ryan focuses her writing on the healing from trauma, not the trauma itself.
Cade, and the magical ranch where horses and dogs and cats are healed and rehabilitated was a balm to my soul as well. Sure there was some action, some sex, some chase scenes–and that was all well done, but this middle bit of the book, on that sleepy ranch where Cade was keeping his distance but still signaling to Laura that she wasn’t alone, man that just SLAYED me.
I would recommend Love and Protect to readers who are leery of romantic suspense as well. Yes, there’s the murder-plot side of things, but the book is never bloody or scary. There’s action and some suspenseful moments, but it’s nothing that I think would actively cause anyone to be scared. That said, I read some pretty creepy shit so my tolerance is high. Also, obviously, the themes of domestic violence and discussion of rape will not suit everyone.
But if you’re looking for a feel good book, I think this is it. It made feel better about my world for sure.
- Elyse
June 5, 2024
I was given this book at a convention a few months ago. It was an enjoyable read, and I finished it in one day. A very easy and quick read and good if you want a sweet story with some light suspense. Cade was a wonderful character; so understanding, sweet and patient. Laura was likable and I felt they fit together nicely. The author definitely set things up for future books by presenting the small town of Evers, Texas that looks out for its own. I would have liked to know more about Laura's personal life/past in regards to her brother and upbringing. But the book was more about her future than her past. Alec presented an interesting villain as he became more unhinged.
The only things that bothered me were a few issues with realism:
1. For someone who has been so badly abused, Laura is very trusting of strangers when she first makes her escape. She immediately trusts Dr. Samuels and goes to TX to stay with strangers. And then she is surprisingly comfortable with Shane and Cade for someone who has been mentally, emotionally and physically abused by men all her life.
2. Even though the book spans about a month, Laura and Cade's relationship was a little too perfect considering her past. Laura was a virgin when she married and her husband raped her on their wedding night. He can only get aroused by beating her, so she's never had a good sexual experience. I just felt everything seemed too perfect and Laura was much too trusting and comfortable with Cade's touch for someone who had been so badly hurt/terrorized for almost 3 years. It just seemed like Laura’s trauma wasn’t taken seriously.
However, these were small issues and didn't really detract too much from the story if you're willing to just sit back and read a simple story about a woman escaping a bad situation and finding love again. I hope one of the future books in the series will be about Shane.
Content Warning: Laura’s husband was abusive and raped her regulary
The only things that bothered me were a few issues with realism:
1. For someone who has been so badly abused, Laura is very trusting of strangers when she first makes her escape. She immediately trusts Dr. Samuels and goes to TX to stay with strangers. And then she is surprisingly comfortable with Shane and Cade for someone who has been mentally, emotionally and physically abused by men all her life.
2. Even though the book spans about a month, Laura and Cade's relationship was a little too perfect considering her past. Laura was a virgin when she married and her husband raped her on their wedding night. He can only get aroused by beating her, so she's never had a good sexual experience. I just felt everything seemed too perfect and Laura was much too trusting and comfortable with Cade's touch for someone who had been so badly hurt/terrorized for almost 3 years. It just seemed like Laura’s trauma wasn’t taken seriously.
However, these were small issues and didn't really detract too much from the story if you're willing to just sit back and read a simple story about a woman escaping a bad situation and finding love again. I hope one of the future books in the series will be about Shane.
Content Warning: Laura’s husband was abusive and raped her regulary
January 27, 2016
OH, Wow, YES!
Fans of Kathleen Brooks will be drawn to the characters, love, and suspense in this beautiful novel. Once Laura learns she is pregnant, she knows she must find a way to leave her wealthy and abusive husband, but before she is ready to leave, he dies of a heart attack. Rather than feeling that life will be better now, she realizes that she still needs to get away from his controlling mother before the woman who raised a monster finds a way to steal her grandson away from Laura.
When a kind an insightful doctor helps her leave town she never imagines the warm welcome and good people she will meet in Evers, Texas. But she also never imagines that there is more to her husband’s death than a heart attack.
I read it under the title Ever Hopeful in the collection, Love on the Edge. I bought the next the next one ASAP and am so glad that the third one will be coming out under the new SilverHart label.
Fans of Kathleen Brooks will be drawn to the characters, love, and suspense in this beautiful novel. Once Laura learns she is pregnant, she knows she must find a way to leave her wealthy and abusive husband, but before she is ready to leave, he dies of a heart attack. Rather than feeling that life will be better now, she realizes that she still needs to get away from his controlling mother before the woman who raised a monster finds a way to steal her grandson away from Laura.
When a kind an insightful doctor helps her leave town she never imagines the warm welcome and good people she will meet in Evers, Texas. But she also never imagines that there is more to her husband’s death than a heart attack.
I read it under the title Ever Hopeful in the collection, Love on the Edge. I bought the next the next one ASAP and am so glad that the third one will be coming out under the new SilverHart label.
July 16, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. I thought Laura's struggles with coming to terms with her abuse, fear and emotions was very well done. It was a great mix with Cade's patient and caring personality. It made sense that he understood her so well and saw beyond her fear and uncertainty since he worked with abused animals. Add in a little suspense and it was a wonderful romance. It was nice to see Laura grow stronger and to see Cade see the strength that she had.
September 21, 2020
Good start to series. Interested to see how the next book goes with the Sheriff
January 1, 2016
This is the 2nd book I have read from this author if you have ready any of her work you know why she is a bestselling author not only in the NY Times but in USA Today. Two things this author brings to her books is a thrilling read full of passion and a page turner you will not want to put down. Ms. Ryan knows how to hold her readers attention as she fills her pages with wonderful thrilling plots. "Love and Protect is the first one in this series once you put the book down you can't wait for the next one. What you find in this book is a very abused women who finds out her husband has dies. She is relieved but must see his body to believe she is finally free. What she finds at the hospital are her husband's family with one wicked mother-in-law. One look and she knows she is in trouble, now she is on the run not only for her life but her babies as well. Not only is her husband's family trying to say she is a danger to herself and her unborn child but her husband's partner is after her as well. The only person on her side is the doctor who has been trying to get her to leave her abusive husband. With his help she is able to leave town and get away to his friends who will help her. The question is how long will she be safe before they find her. If they find her will they kill her or lock her way taking her baby away from her.
Laura is a wonderful caring person who has known no other life but abuse. When she finds out she is expecting she knows she must get away from her husband. She puts the plan into motion but her husband dies first. Thinking she is finally free that is until she meets her mother-in-laws eyes she realizes she will never be free. You are going to love this lady with her kind and sweet ways. There was nothing I didn't like about her reading her pain was very painful. You find yourself cheering for her hoping for the best and then your heart will drop out when they finally track her down.
Cade what is there not to love about this man or his family. He has the patients of a saint giving all the room you need to make your way. He is always there to catch you when and if you fall. He has a way with animals that is unreal as he turns them around to find new homes. He is tall and handsome always wears a smile as he pulls you in wishing he could be yours. He is willing to help Laura any way he can but finds he is falling for her in a big way. I wouldn't call him alpha just the sweetest most caring man alive who sweeps you off your feet before you know what has happen.
Ms. Ryan gives you wonderful characters you can relate to some you will love others you will not like at all. She puts a story together that will hold your interest and keep you entertained throughout the read. Your heart will break from the first page and throughout the book at different times as she paints a picture of what Laura has had to deal with. She will make you smile as she brings Laura out of her cage to become the delightful women she is. She throws some twist that will get your heart pumping and some passion that will melt your heart. Just as you think all might work out she throws a few more twist in. When the end comes you will be left with a smile on your face as she warms your heart. This plot is outstanding you can tell the author puts a lot of thought and time in to her writing giving you a story that will stay with you after you put the book down. This is one story you do not want to miss. I have come to love this author knowing she will take me away giving me a thrilling read and bring the biggest smile to my face. This was a book I didn't want to put down and I didn't want to end. I can hardly wait for the next one to come out. I recommend you give this author a try any of her books are a winner. I am sure once you read Love and Protect you will be as hooked on this series as I am.
Laura is a wonderful caring person who has known no other life but abuse. When she finds out she is expecting she knows she must get away from her husband. She puts the plan into motion but her husband dies first. Thinking she is finally free that is until she meets her mother-in-laws eyes she realizes she will never be free. You are going to love this lady with her kind and sweet ways. There was nothing I didn't like about her reading her pain was very painful. You find yourself cheering for her hoping for the best and then your heart will drop out when they finally track her down.
Cade what is there not to love about this man or his family. He has the patients of a saint giving all the room you need to make your way. He is always there to catch you when and if you fall. He has a way with animals that is unreal as he turns them around to find new homes. He is tall and handsome always wears a smile as he pulls you in wishing he could be yours. He is willing to help Laura any way he can but finds he is falling for her in a big way. I wouldn't call him alpha just the sweetest most caring man alive who sweeps you off your feet before you know what has happen.
Ms. Ryan gives you wonderful characters you can relate to some you will love others you will not like at all. She puts a story together that will hold your interest and keep you entertained throughout the read. Your heart will break from the first page and throughout the book at different times as she paints a picture of what Laura has had to deal with. She will make you smile as she brings Laura out of her cage to become the delightful women she is. She throws some twist that will get your heart pumping and some passion that will melt your heart. Just as you think all might work out she throws a few more twist in. When the end comes you will be left with a smile on your face as she warms your heart. This plot is outstanding you can tell the author puts a lot of thought and time in to her writing giving you a story that will stay with you after you put the book down. This is one story you do not want to miss. I have come to love this author knowing she will take me away giving me a thrilling read and bring the biggest smile to my face. This was a book I didn't want to put down and I didn't want to end. I can hardly wait for the next one to come out. I recommend you give this author a try any of her books are a winner. I am sure once you read Love and Protect you will be as hooked on this series as I am.
December 28, 2015
Well-written, deeply emotional and suspenseful…
This is the first book in the Heroes of Evers, Texas series that can be read as a stand-alone.
All Laura Kensington has known in life is abuse, from her father and then the wealthy man she married who was supposed to be her savior. In a twist of fate, just as she was putting plans into action to escape her abusive husband she’s informed he’s died of a heart attack. For just a few moments she lets herself believe she’s free until her mother-in-law attempts to take control, she knows she’ll never be allowed to raise her unborn child as she sees fit if at all. So ahead of schedule and with less funds than planned she runs with the help of a kindly doctor she’s known to his friends in Texas.
Not meaning to stay long in Texas Laura just needs time to regroup, to evaluate her next steps but the family she’s with is so kind and caring. Not knowing her history when her flight makes the news they offer her their support and assistance, letting hope grow. The son of the woman who has given her shelter surprisingly attracts her, he seems to know how to deal with her without setting off her fears and she knows instinctively that he would never hurt a woman but she’s got to learn to stand on her own two feet especially with a child on the way.
Cade Bishop is a rescuer of animals, a protector by nature. He’s a sexy, handsome man who runs a ranch for his mother, his brother’s a lawyer who lives in town. Their family has money but they are down to earth people. When his mother takes in a stray woman a friend referred to them he finds himself drawn to her, he senses her fearfulness and vulnerabilities and wants to help her but does he just want to save her because saving is second nature to him or because she makes him long for something more?
Escaping a rich and powerful family known in the media is not easy. I really liked the townsfolk of Evers, for though they recognized Laura from the news they protected her, that’s what small town people do, they take care of those they consider their own and Laura became theirs, something Laura didn’t expect considering the people she has known in her life. She’s going to need all the help she can get for battle with the family she ran from is beginning and there’s someone else out there that means her harm but sometimes amid the enemies you didn’t know you had you also find allies.
I loved this story, it’s well-written, deeply emotional and suspenseful with characters you can’t help but get invested in; their stories touch your heartstrings. Laura showed much growth and inner strength, she rose above the circumstances she found herself in. It’s not easy to leave all you’ve ever known even if the situation is abusive. It took strength to make the plans to leave and then actually go on the run. Cade is a wonderful, caring man, his nature the perfect complement to the woman Laura is. He’s so empathic, patient, and understanding yet also strong, very much an alpha.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first book in the Heroes of Evers, Texas series that can be read as a stand-alone.
All Laura Kensington has known in life is abuse, from her father and then the wealthy man she married who was supposed to be her savior. In a twist of fate, just as she was putting plans into action to escape her abusive husband she’s informed he’s died of a heart attack. For just a few moments she lets herself believe she’s free until her mother-in-law attempts to take control, she knows she’ll never be allowed to raise her unborn child as she sees fit if at all. So ahead of schedule and with less funds than planned she runs with the help of a kindly doctor she’s known to his friends in Texas.
Not meaning to stay long in Texas Laura just needs time to regroup, to evaluate her next steps but the family she’s with is so kind and caring. Not knowing her history when her flight makes the news they offer her their support and assistance, letting hope grow. The son of the woman who has given her shelter surprisingly attracts her, he seems to know how to deal with her without setting off her fears and she knows instinctively that he would never hurt a woman but she’s got to learn to stand on her own two feet especially with a child on the way.
Cade Bishop is a rescuer of animals, a protector by nature. He’s a sexy, handsome man who runs a ranch for his mother, his brother’s a lawyer who lives in town. Their family has money but they are down to earth people. When his mother takes in a stray woman a friend referred to them he finds himself drawn to her, he senses her fearfulness and vulnerabilities and wants to help her but does he just want to save her because saving is second nature to him or because she makes him long for something more?
Escaping a rich and powerful family known in the media is not easy. I really liked the townsfolk of Evers, for though they recognized Laura from the news they protected her, that’s what small town people do, they take care of those they consider their own and Laura became theirs, something Laura didn’t expect considering the people she has known in her life. She’s going to need all the help she can get for battle with the family she ran from is beginning and there’s someone else out there that means her harm but sometimes amid the enemies you didn’t know you had you also find allies.
I loved this story, it’s well-written, deeply emotional and suspenseful with characters you can’t help but get invested in; their stories touch your heartstrings. Laura showed much growth and inner strength, she rose above the circumstances she found herself in. It’s not easy to leave all you’ve ever known even if the situation is abusive. It took strength to make the plans to leave and then actually go on the run. Cade is a wonderful, caring man, his nature the perfect complement to the woman Laura is. He’s so empathic, patient, and understanding yet also strong, very much an alpha.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 14, 2016
Living in the shadow of abuse, the main protagonist of the book Laura, has had a tough life. When she gets married she simply exchanges her father's abuse for her husband's. The predator continues to prey and she remains a victim, till he dies. Now she finally has a chance to reclaim her life, but she is in a very vulnerable state. Pregnant, no friends to turn to and a mother in law out to get her pound of flesh, Laura runs and hides on a ranch. That's where she meets the protector of a kind she has no experience about. Cade shows her that he can be everything she ever wished for, his family is great as well. However that's when her past catches up with her. The story is well narrated and Lori is at her best creating romance between Laura and Cade.
I received a free copy of the ebook for an honest opinion
I received a free copy of the ebook for an honest opinion
February 7, 2017
I loved this 1st book's story line. I loved the action in this story. I loved the hot & steamy scenes. I loved Laura's character. I loved Laura's strength in this story. My heart broke for Laura for the abuse she suffered. I loved Justin's character. My heart broke for Justin. I loved all the Bishops. I loved the ending. Awesome job Ms. Ryan.
August 17, 2016
Laura and Cade what an awesome story, thrilling a sweet to the very end, I'm looking forward to visiting Evers again soon
October 15, 2019
pregnant, on the run from MIL who wants baby
June 12, 2021
Late to the party, but I’m here to stay
Kept me up way past my bedtime! Cant wait to read more from this series! All the feels and more!
Kept me up way past my bedtime! Cant wait to read more from this series! All the feels and more!
December 9, 2021
My first read of this author and definitely Going to continue with this series. I enjoyed Laura and Cade story so much. And can't wait to go back to the town Evers. 💚
February 17, 2018
La historia en esta novela comienza magnífica, tiene un gancho interesante que te hace seguir leyendo. Siento que a mitad del libro decae un poco pero sigue siendo rápido de leer.
Cade es un hombre de rancho que ama a los animales, sobre todo a los heridos y se encarga de ellos con toda la dulzura y paciencia del mundo. Laura es una mujer que hay sufrido abuso en su matrimonio y ahora viuda tiene que huir para guardar la seguridad de su bebé y de ella.
La manera de escribir me gusto la autora tiene una pluma muy ligera y rápida. Las partes en donde el villano actúa algunas me parecieron un poquitín de más y relantizaban la trama. La manera en que se enamoran los protagonistas no es la más pasional y se siente un poco plana, aún así cuando llegan a aceptar sus sentimientos todo fluye con tranquilidad.
Otra cosa que no me gustó fue la portada, pero viendo aquí en Goodreads veo que las cambiaron.
Sí recomiendo este libro, es rápido, dulce y el suspenso te mantienen entretenido.
Cade es un hombre de rancho que ama a los animales, sobre todo a los heridos y se encarga de ellos con toda la dulzura y paciencia del mundo. Laura es una mujer que hay sufrido abuso en su matrimonio y ahora viuda tiene que huir para guardar la seguridad de su bebé y de ella.
La manera de escribir me gusto la autora tiene una pluma muy ligera y rápida. Las partes en donde el villano actúa algunas me parecieron un poquitín de más y relantizaban la trama. La manera en que se enamoran los protagonistas no es la más pasional y se siente un poco plana, aún así cuando llegan a aceptar sus sentimientos todo fluye con tranquilidad.
Otra cosa que no me gustó fue la portada, pero viendo aquí en Goodreads veo que las cambiaron.
Sí recomiendo este libro, es rápido, dulce y el suspenso te mantienen entretenido.
November 2, 2018
4.5 Stars
Found a new cool author to follow and I really like that this book is the beginning off a series because not only do I like the writing style, but I really liked the characters and the secondary characters. The towns folk of Evers are small town friendly and supportive and there are lots of quirky people that I’m hoping we’ll see more of in future books. This one had a familiar ‘woman on the run’ theme but I really loved the ranch and the comfort that she finds in the family and town. Good read!
Found a new cool author to follow and I really like that this book is the beginning off a series because not only do I like the writing style, but I really liked the characters and the secondary characters. The towns folk of Evers are small town friendly and supportive and there are lots of quirky people that I’m hoping we’ll see more of in future books. This one had a familiar ‘woman on the run’ theme but I really loved the ranch and the comfort that she finds in the family and town. Good read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 19, 2022
3.5 stars
There was nothing wrong with this novel but it didn’t blow me out the water either. I don’t mind predictable story lines when they are well written and the writing here was good, but I would have preferred more interesting character development and something to surprise me in either the story line or the characters.
There was nothing wrong with this novel but it didn’t blow me out the water either. I don’t mind predictable story lines when they are well written and the writing here was good, but I would have preferred more interesting character development and something to surprise me in either the story line or the characters.
December 18, 2015
This is the first novel I have read by this author, and I enjoyed it very much. I'm looking forward to the next in the series.
Laura Kensington is getting ready to run from her physically abusive husband, and his dominating mother. Laura has recently found out she is pregnant, and can't risk her baby's life in this hopeless situation. She has hidden money, in contact with a person to help her get a false identity, and just waiting for her husband to go out of town on business. But to her shock, she is informed by the police her husband has died suddenly of a heart attack. All she felt was relief! Going to identify the body, she is confronted by his overbearing, alcoholic mother, insisting she go home with her so she can be taken care of. Laura knows it would be replacing one bully, with another. She is saved by a passing Dr. who she has seen on occasion in the ER for various injuries. He remembers her and steps in. He tells Martha Kensington Laura is being admitted overnight for observation because of shock. He secretly picks her up a block from the hospital makes a phone call, and she is reluctantly on her way to a family he knows will care for her. She has no other choice, and disappears.
Evers, Texas is a perfect example of life in a small town. Everyone know's each other's business, discusses it, but would never dream of talking about one of their own to strangers. The Bishop family is well known, the father was an amateur inventor, and stumbled upon a glue that was snapped up for use in industrial products, and made his family very wealthy. He passed away, and his wife May and sons Cade and Shane try to help all in the community they can. It is to the Bishop's that Laura is sent for safety.
This is a beautiful love story between Cade an animal rescuer, and Laura a women abused pregnant and on the run. Their is suspense, danger, and fear, but through it all Cade's protection keeps her close. I would highly recommend this contemporary romance for readers who enjoy a sweet love story, small towns, and the sizzle behind close doors. No cliffhangers, a major plus for me.
Pat Fordyce
Laura Kensington is getting ready to run from her physically abusive husband, and his dominating mother. Laura has recently found out she is pregnant, and can't risk her baby's life in this hopeless situation. She has hidden money, in contact with a person to help her get a false identity, and just waiting for her husband to go out of town on business. But to her shock, she is informed by the police her husband has died suddenly of a heart attack. All she felt was relief! Going to identify the body, she is confronted by his overbearing, alcoholic mother, insisting she go home with her so she can be taken care of. Laura knows it would be replacing one bully, with another. She is saved by a passing Dr. who she has seen on occasion in the ER for various injuries. He remembers her and steps in. He tells Martha Kensington Laura is being admitted overnight for observation because of shock. He secretly picks her up a block from the hospital makes a phone call, and she is reluctantly on her way to a family he knows will care for her. She has no other choice, and disappears.
Evers, Texas is a perfect example of life in a small town. Everyone know's each other's business, discusses it, but would never dream of talking about one of their own to strangers. The Bishop family is well known, the father was an amateur inventor, and stumbled upon a glue that was snapped up for use in industrial products, and made his family very wealthy. He passed away, and his wife May and sons Cade and Shane try to help all in the community they can. It is to the Bishop's that Laura is sent for safety.
This is a beautiful love story between Cade an animal rescuer, and Laura a women abused pregnant and on the run. Their is suspense, danger, and fear, but through it all Cade's protection keeps her close. I would highly recommend this contemporary romance for readers who enjoy a sweet love story, small towns, and the sizzle behind close doors. No cliffhangers, a major plus for me.
Pat Fordyce
January 9, 2017
Suspense
Lots of good reading here. The book starts with a bang and only gets better with every chapter. Very good
Lots of good reading here. The book starts with a bang and only gets better with every chapter. Very good
September 5, 2016
Laura Kennsington planned to leave her abusive husband, especially when she learned she's pregnant, but he died of a heart attack before she could. She was relieved when he died believing she was safe. She didn't factor in her wealthy mother-in-law trying to take her baby away from her. A doctor she had been seeing for years helps her get away by sending her to a ranch in Texas. She changes her name and appearance but the Kennsington family is famous so the people in the small town of Evers recognise her but pretend they don't, helping her hide. By this time the mother-in-law had hired investigators to find Laura. This brought out strong protective instincts in the ranch owner and the people of the town.
The ranch, owned by Cade Bishop, is a rehab for abused animals and retired racehorses. Cade believes in second chances for these animals as well as for Laura. The attraction is strong between this pair but both fight it.
I really liked this book and didn't want to put it down. The suspense had me wondering if Laura was going to be found, would she be able to keep her baby, would she get together with Cade? I like WINSEC stories and while Laura wasn't in that program, she was in hiding with a new identity so that had me wanting to read it right away. It was so well written that when we learned about the violence Laura endured it wasn't hard to handle because we didn't get detailed descriptions. I loved the characters. Laura turned out to be a much stronger woman that she thought she was. I liked her a lot. Cade was kind and gentle with the animals and Laura, for that matter, that you just had to like him. Being handsome didn't hurt either. I loved the way the people of Evers jumped in to help Laura even though they didn't know her.
I've easily given this book 5 stars and highly recommend it to romantic suspense readers.
The ranch, owned by Cade Bishop, is a rehab for abused animals and retired racehorses. Cade believes in second chances for these animals as well as for Laura. The attraction is strong between this pair but both fight it.
I really liked this book and didn't want to put it down. The suspense had me wondering if Laura was going to be found, would she be able to keep her baby, would she get together with Cade? I like WINSEC stories and while Laura wasn't in that program, she was in hiding with a new identity so that had me wanting to read it right away. It was so well written that when we learned about the violence Laura endured it wasn't hard to handle because we didn't get detailed descriptions. I loved the characters. Laura turned out to be a much stronger woman that she thought she was. I liked her a lot. Cade was kind and gentle with the animals and Laura, for that matter, that you just had to like him. Being handsome didn't hurt either. I loved the way the people of Evers jumped in to help Laura even though they didn't know her.
I've easily given this book 5 stars and highly recommend it to romantic suspense readers.
March 5, 2014
Lori Ryan
I cannot say enough good things about this wonderful, sweet-heart, small-town romance!
Laura Kensington has a plan to get out of her impossible situation and then a knock at her door changes those plans for good. After finding out her abusive husband is dead, she finds herself running from his family instead who she thought she would be running from: him. For not only is her life in danger but so is that of her unborn child who the infamous Kensingtons would love to get ahold of. Landing in Evers, Texas at the Bishop Ranch Laura doesn’t know what to expect but it sure wasn’t Cade Bishop.
Cade Bishop spends his days giving second chances to animals who need them and finds himself wanting to give Laura that second chance as well. A kind and patient man, Laura finds herself drawn to him. But danger is on its’ way. Will they be able to find a HEA among fate and second chances?
I felt for Laura right from the beginning and loved her determination to escape and make a better life for herself and her child even while the odds were stacked against her. Cade warmed my heart immediately. A man who is both patient and kind and spends his days rescuing abused animals just made my heart go “awwww”.
While on the sweeter side of romance, Ever Hopeful still has plenty of passion and will keep you turning the pages wondering what will happen next! Lori Ryan has a great start to her new series and I can’t wait to hear more!
***Review has been done in conjunction with BooksandBeyondFiftyShades.
For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: https://www.facebook.com/BooksandBeyo...***
I cannot say enough good things about this wonderful, sweet-heart, small-town romance!
Laura Kensington has a plan to get out of her impossible situation and then a knock at her door changes those plans for good. After finding out her abusive husband is dead, she finds herself running from his family instead who she thought she would be running from: him. For not only is her life in danger but so is that of her unborn child who the infamous Kensingtons would love to get ahold of. Landing in Evers, Texas at the Bishop Ranch Laura doesn’t know what to expect but it sure wasn’t Cade Bishop.
Cade Bishop spends his days giving second chances to animals who need them and finds himself wanting to give Laura that second chance as well. A kind and patient man, Laura finds herself drawn to him. But danger is on its’ way. Will they be able to find a HEA among fate and second chances?
I felt for Laura right from the beginning and loved her determination to escape and make a better life for herself and her child even while the odds were stacked against her. Cade warmed my heart immediately. A man who is both patient and kind and spends his days rescuing abused animals just made my heart go “awwww”.
While on the sweeter side of romance, Ever Hopeful still has plenty of passion and will keep you turning the pages wondering what will happen next! Lori Ryan has a great start to her new series and I can’t wait to hear more!
***Review has been done in conjunction with BooksandBeyondFiftyShades.
For more information regarding our reviews please visit our Fansite: https://www.facebook.com/BooksandBeyo...***
March 3, 2014
Ever Hopeful by Lori Ryan is book one the Evers, Texas Series. This story is about Laura Kensington who decided after a lifetime of abuse from her father and now her husband she must leave her life behind and start fresh and new to protect her unborn child. Before she can leaves her husband dies. His death can't stop her plan especially since she knows that her husband's family is ruthless and dangerous. Laura doesn't want to risk losing her baby to this powerful family. She knows her only choice is to continue with her plan. This leads Laura to a small town in Texas called Evers. Here she will have a second chance and where should will meet Cade Bishop a man who firmly believes in those second chances.
This is the first story I read by Lori Ryan and it is a great story. I had hard time putting down. There is suspense and romance throughout this touching story.
Laura is sweet, loving, and strong character. You can easily fall in love with Cade who is patience and kindhearted. I enjoyed watching these characters build their relationship. They both want a second chance at new beginnings.
I am big fan of small towns and I loved each of the towns people that Laura comes to meet. Just to name a few there is: May Bishop is true matriarch of her family who protects those she cares about. Cade's brother Shane is the town lawyer who has the best interest for his family.
I would highly recommend this book.
I can't wait to read the next books in the series.
This is the first story I read by Lori Ryan and it is a great story. I had hard time putting down. There is suspense and romance throughout this touching story.
Laura is sweet, loving, and strong character. You can easily fall in love with Cade who is patience and kindhearted. I enjoyed watching these characters build their relationship. They both want a second chance at new beginnings.
I am big fan of small towns and I loved each of the towns people that Laura comes to meet. Just to name a few there is: May Bishop is true matriarch of her family who protects those she cares about. Cade's brother Shane is the town lawyer who has the best interest for his family.
I would highly recommend this book.
I can't wait to read the next books in the series.
January 27, 2016
REVIEW –Love and Protect (Heroes of Evers, Texas Book 1) by Lori Ryan
Wow ~ absolutely wonderful! Love and Protect is an incredibly well written story about a broken woman who has hidden her private agony and anguish and must resolve the painful issues and replace her vulnerability with strength in order to explore a life where she can learn to trust again.
Lori has tackled the sensitive issues at the core of the story with warmth and depth while making the reader feel the pain and fear that Laura is experiencing, but still allowing them to feel the HOPE buried deep in her heart.
Both the fear that Laura experiences AND the anguish Cade feels when he learns about Laura’s torturous past is palpable and their emotions emanate from the page and resonate in the heart of the reader. I was frightened, horrified, sad, happy – I cried, I laughed, I HOPED, I believed.
The wonderful town of Evers illustrates small town America, where families and friends are interwoven and the citizens work together to create a positive, caring community.
Thank you for bringing us to Evers, Texas and sharing Laura and Cade’s story with us. I highly recommend this book and am anxiously (read impatiently!) waiting for the next installment of the Heroes of Evers, Texas Series!
I was provided the opportunity to read this book and share my honest opinion with other readers. It is with great respect for the author and story, as well as my pleasure as a reader, to rate Love and Protect five stars. Read it!!
Wow ~ absolutely wonderful! Love and Protect is an incredibly well written story about a broken woman who has hidden her private agony and anguish and must resolve the painful issues and replace her vulnerability with strength in order to explore a life where she can learn to trust again.
Lori has tackled the sensitive issues at the core of the story with warmth and depth while making the reader feel the pain and fear that Laura is experiencing, but still allowing them to feel the HOPE buried deep in her heart.
Both the fear that Laura experiences AND the anguish Cade feels when he learns about Laura’s torturous past is palpable and their emotions emanate from the page and resonate in the heart of the reader. I was frightened, horrified, sad, happy – I cried, I laughed, I HOPED, I believed.
The wonderful town of Evers illustrates small town America, where families and friends are interwoven and the citizens work together to create a positive, caring community.
Thank you for bringing us to Evers, Texas and sharing Laura and Cade’s story with us. I highly recommend this book and am anxiously (read impatiently!) waiting for the next installment of the Heroes of Evers, Texas Series!
I was provided the opportunity to read this book and share my honest opinion with other readers. It is with great respect for the author and story, as well as my pleasure as a reader, to rate Love and Protect five stars. Read it!!
February 10, 2014
Erin's Review
Ever Hopeful has to be one of the most touching stories I have ever read. My heart ached for Laura knowing what she went through, and soared when she finally got away. You feel the trepidation she felt on her journey to the unknown and her fear of discovery. Trusting strangers is something that has to be done and the longer Laura is at the ranch, the more it starts to feel like home, but she knows she can't stay....or can she?
Cade is the kindest, most gentle man there ever was. His patience with Laura melts you and his willingness to protect her shows his character. He sees what a beautiful woman she is, how fragile she is, how untrusting. Can he get her to open up, to trust him?
Laura is Cade's journey is slow and gentle. You get the feeling she is going to flee at any moment but Cade won't let her go. He devises an escape plan for her if things ever go awry and even begins to plan for her future on the ranch. Laura has dreams of her own she could never do when she was married, but now, they are not only attainable, but she has wonderful people to assist her every step of the way.
But the past is never too far behind. She knows it was only a matter of time. And the truth is worse than she ever imagined and puts her new life in danger.
The emotions you get from reading this story are very real. Anger, sadness, joy, and more importantly...Hope. A beautiful story with beautiful characters that weaves it's way in to your heart after the first sentence.
Ever Hopeful has to be one of the most touching stories I have ever read. My heart ached for Laura knowing what she went through, and soared when she finally got away. You feel the trepidation she felt on her journey to the unknown and her fear of discovery. Trusting strangers is something that has to be done and the longer Laura is at the ranch, the more it starts to feel like home, but she knows she can't stay....or can she?
Cade is the kindest, most gentle man there ever was. His patience with Laura melts you and his willingness to protect her shows his character. He sees what a beautiful woman she is, how fragile she is, how untrusting. Can he get her to open up, to trust him?
Laura is Cade's journey is slow and gentle. You get the feeling she is going to flee at any moment but Cade won't let her go. He devises an escape plan for her if things ever go awry and even begins to plan for her future on the ranch. Laura has dreams of her own she could never do when she was married, but now, they are not only attainable, but she has wonderful people to assist her every step of the way.
But the past is never too far behind. She knows it was only a matter of time. And the truth is worse than she ever imagined and puts her new life in danger.
The emotions you get from reading this story are very real. Anger, sadness, joy, and more importantly...Hope. A beautiful story with beautiful characters that weaves it's way in to your heart after the first sentence.
December 27, 2015
I really enjoyed this book! I read the original version of this story Ever Hopeful when it first came out and I was thrilled to get an ARC of this version from the author for a review (all views expressed here are my own and I was not compensated for my review or required to leave a positive review) I liked this story in its original incarnation but I loved this rewrite. This one is a little steamier and that was just like the whipped cream and cherry on top of a hot fudge sundae, it's great without them but even better with them.
Laura Kensington is on the run from her late husband’s family. Cade Bishop lives on a sprawling ranch and rehabs abused animals and retired racehorses. Cade is a firm believer in second chances and Laura is in desperate need of one. These two characters are strongly drawn to each other but also have their reasons for fighting the attraction.
I loved watching Laura and Cade fall in love, I loved his patience with her and her determination to get on with her life. I loved the town of Evers, TX, I loved May and Shane, this is an excellent book populated with love able characters and I'm really looking forward to more from this town, I can't wait for the next one!
Laura Kensington is on the run from her late husband’s family. Cade Bishop lives on a sprawling ranch and rehabs abused animals and retired racehorses. Cade is a firm believer in second chances and Laura is in desperate need of one. These two characters are strongly drawn to each other but also have their reasons for fighting the attraction.
I loved watching Laura and Cade fall in love, I loved his patience with her and her determination to get on with her life. I loved the town of Evers, TX, I loved May and Shane, this is an excellent book populated with love able characters and I'm really looking forward to more from this town, I can't wait for the next one!
December 30, 2015
Laura felt nothing but relief when she was told that her abusive husband had died of a heart attack. She couldn’t relax yet though. Her mother-in-law will come after her if only to get her unborn baby, the only link to her son. Laura had no choice but to run. The kindly ER doctor sent her to his friends in Texas to stay on their ranch. It was a wonderful place to heal, be safe, not to mention get to know Cade Bishop. Cade, a man who was amazing with hurting animals, and not to mention what he was doing to help her heal.
Cade Bishop thought Laura was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen and wanted nothing but to just protect her from the bad people who wanted to harm her. As Laura starts to heal and she and Cade become close, the bad guys close in.
No one writes love, romance and bad guys like Lori Ryan. This story has a strong hero and even though the heroine is a little beaten down, she is very strong in her own way. I love all the characters in this story. May, the mother of Shane and Cade, who is so loving and giving. Dr. Josh who jumped right in when Laura needed help. The entire town of Evers make you want to live among those fun, loyal people. You will definitely enjoy getting to know the people in this book as well as this great story of hope!
Cade Bishop thought Laura was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen and wanted nothing but to just protect her from the bad people who wanted to harm her. As Laura starts to heal and she and Cade become close, the bad guys close in.
No one writes love, romance and bad guys like Lori Ryan. This story has a strong hero and even though the heroine is a little beaten down, she is very strong in her own way. I love all the characters in this story. May, the mother of Shane and Cade, who is so loving and giving. Dr. Josh who jumped right in when Laura needed help. The entire town of Evers make you want to live among those fun, loyal people. You will definitely enjoy getting to know the people in this book as well as this great story of hope!
September 19, 2018
4.5 stars. This was my first book by this author, but won’t be my last. Such a sweet read. Laura is on the run, from her deceased husbands family, trying to protect her unborn baby. I know, I know, for all of you that don’t like the deceased spouse books, but here’s the thing, her husband beat and abused her terribly....so he’s null and void for me. She didn’t love him, she was scared of him, so in Sue’s world...he just doesn’t count. Anyway, the doctor that knew about the abuse helps her and she ends up on a ranch in Texas with the everyones future book boyfriend, Cade, who is about the sweetest damn thing, all while still being all man.
This was a great and safe read for me. No om or ow drama. A little pushing away from her, as you can understand. Just the story suspense. Great storyline and supporting characters, including the animals. I adored Red, just sayin. This was a bit of a pg read for me, but I still loved it, it just didn’t need it for me to be wrapped up in the book...which I was. Couldn’t put it down. Maybe a trigger for some with her past abuse, there was a scene that broke my heart. An epilogue and an hea. I loved it and look forward to reading more from this author, especially in this series. Psst...I saw that the next book is the sheriff’s...you’re welcome.
This was a great and safe read for me. No om or ow drama. A little pushing away from her, as you can understand. Just the story suspense. Great storyline and supporting characters, including the animals. I adored Red, just sayin. This was a bit of a pg read for me, but I still loved it, it just didn’t need it for me to be wrapped up in the book...which I was. Couldn’t put it down. Maybe a trigger for some with her past abuse, there was a scene that broke my heart. An epilogue and an hea. I loved it and look forward to reading more from this author, especially in this series. Psst...I saw that the next book is the sheriff’s...you’re welcome.
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