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Arrested Hearts
Officer Randi Hartwell doesn’t always play by the rules when it comes to the law—or women. Committing herself to a job she hates is a sacrifice she owes her brother. After all, she cost him his life. But when Randi pulls over Jule Chapin for a traffic stop, Jule stirs up feelings that challenge those beliefs.
Eight months ago, Jule’s girlfriend died of a sudden heart attack at age thirty-two. Now Jule is on a mission to avoid the same fate by drastically changing her lifestyle. In her desire to find meaning in her own life, falling for a reckless cop doesn’t fit into her plans at all.
The two are drawn to each other for reasons they can’t explain. When the stress of police work threatens to push Randi over the edge, they discover that life and death decisions are more complicated than they thought.
Eight months ago, Jule’s girlfriend died of a sudden heart attack at age thirty-two. Now Jule is on a mission to avoid the same fate by drastically changing her lifestyle. In her desire to find meaning in her own life, falling for a reckless cop doesn’t fit into her plans at all.
The two are drawn to each other for reasons they can’t explain. When the stress of police work threatens to push Randi over the edge, they discover that life and death decisions are more complicated than they thought.
312 pages, Paperback
First published December 13, 2016
9 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
Holly Stratimore
3 books12 followersHolly Stratimore has spent a lifetime expressing herself creatively. She has played guitar and composed songs since the age of ten, performed at open mikes and benefit shows, and volunteers as the musician every summer at a day camp for special needs students. She discovered a joy for writing fiction during high school when she wrote seven humorous stories that featured herself and her friends as the characters. In 2007, Holly began devoting her creative energies to writing lesbian romance novels.
A native New Englander, Holly enjoys cheering for the Boston Red Sox, attending concerts, walks on the beach, backyard barbecues, and making people laugh—and groan—with her puns and quick wit. She and her wife live in New Hampshire.
A native New Englander, Holly enjoys cheering for the Boston Red Sox, attending concerts, walks on the beach, backyard barbecues, and making people laugh—and groan—with her puns and quick wit. She and her wife live in New Hampshire.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
February 24, 2018
'Netgalley ARC provided by The Publisher in exchanged for an honest review'
There were lots of things that the author let us know about in this book but what really stuck with me is its recognition that most people are very complicated and flawed also you can have some things figured out and get others completely,destructively wrong and at times its up to us to decide which ones are worth sticking with despite their bad behaviors and which ones are toxic for us despite the things they finally get right in their life in the end 'patience is really a virtue' The narrative was so good,with excellent pacing and editing,awesome writing and good topics that was that top centralize subject in this book,love the chemistry between the main and supporting cast,very impress with the dialogue and how the author describe the sex scenes because it was much more about making love and the little side story with the family drama was just enjoyable and finally at the core of this story is how they really felt about each other all readers saw was 'LOVE' Great ending and i do advise everyone to read this book when it hit the bookstore!
There were lots of things that the author let us know about in this book but what really stuck with me is its recognition that most people are very complicated and flawed also you can have some things figured out and get others completely,destructively wrong and at times its up to us to decide which ones are worth sticking with despite their bad behaviors and which ones are toxic for us despite the things they finally get right in their life in the end 'patience is really a virtue' The narrative was so good,with excellent pacing and editing,awesome writing and good topics that was that top centralize subject in this book,love the chemistry between the main and supporting cast,very impress with the dialogue and how the author describe the sex scenes because it was much more about making love and the little side story with the family drama was just enjoyable and finally at the core of this story is how they really felt about each other all readers saw was 'LOVE' Great ending and i do advise everyone to read this book when it hit the bookstore!
December 2, 2016
I enjoyed this book quite a bit. Liking it so much may have some to do with the awful book I read before this, in comparison, but anyway this book was better than I expected it to be.
I know some people were bothered about the corrupt cop aspect of Randi. While I didn't like her actions, I was okay that she was such a flawed character. I think sometimes main characters in lesfic can be a little too perfect. To me it's a sign of a good author who can take an unlikable character and make you root and feel for them, and that exactly what Straitmore did in this book.
I also was happy there wasn't unneeded angst in this book. While there was conflict and plenty of things to keep the storyline moving, conversations and actions felt realistic to me. There was none of that breaking up aspect because characters don't communicate, that is so common in romances.
While I didn't think the characters were the most likely couple, I did feel the chemistry and I thought the sex scenes were good and steamy. I felt the characters made each other better and I enjoyed them as a couple. I also was happy about the ending. It wasn't rushed and I felt it was a nice wrap up for the main characters.
Songs Unfinished, Straitmore's other book, is on my to read list, and I would not hesitate to read her books in the future.
An ARC was given to me by Bold Strokes Books, for a honest review.
I know some people were bothered about the corrupt cop aspect of Randi. While I didn't like her actions, I was okay that she was such a flawed character. I think sometimes main characters in lesfic can be a little too perfect. To me it's a sign of a good author who can take an unlikable character and make you root and feel for them, and that exactly what Straitmore did in this book.
I also was happy there wasn't unneeded angst in this book. While there was conflict and plenty of things to keep the storyline moving, conversations and actions felt realistic to me. There was none of that breaking up aspect because characters don't communicate, that is so common in romances.
While I didn't think the characters were the most likely couple, I did feel the chemistry and I thought the sex scenes were good and steamy. I felt the characters made each other better and I enjoyed them as a couple. I also was happy about the ending. It wasn't rushed and I felt it was a nice wrap up for the main characters.
Songs Unfinished, Straitmore's other book, is on my to read list, and I would not hesitate to read her books in the future.
An ARC was given to me by Bold Strokes Books, for a honest review.
November 15, 2016
Holly Stratimore is a new author for me because I did not read her debut Songs Unfinished. But I was able to conclude that the protagonist of Arrested Hearts, police officer Randi, was a secondary character there. Randi, in fact, was my only problem with this book. I started to warm up to her quite late in the story, because she was portrayed as a reckless, corrupt and angry person. For some time I did not understand what the other protagonist, factory worker (a very rare occupation in lesfic!) Jule, saw in Randi that made her choose Randi as her love interest (except being gorgeous of course like most of the characters in lesfic).
Aside from that, I found this story interesting and well-written with good pacing and dialogue. Will read the author's first book Songs Unfinished, as well as future books.
3.5 stars, rounded up
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
Aside from that, I found this story interesting and well-written with good pacing and dialogue. Will read the author's first book Songs Unfinished, as well as future books.
3.5 stars, rounded up
*ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley*
July 9, 2018
This was so much better than I expected. Initially I wasn't thrilled by Randi as a character. Besides the anger management and impulse control issues, she was essentially using her position as police officer to coerce women into bed with her and that put me off her quite a bit. To my surprise I found that as her character developed I started liking her more. Jule is a much more likeable character from the outset. I enjoyed the reality of their pasts, their jobs and their emotional struggles.
Well worth reading.
Well worth reading.
November 15, 2016
*I received this book from NetGalley, and Bold Strokes Books in return for a fair review.*
A book about a cop and a factory worker. I was excited to read this one after reading and rather enjoying the author's first book.
Characters
Officer Randi Hartwell is a thirty-something police officer who hates her job, is corrupt (), and - in general - hates her life. Oh, and she's a player.
Friends: Nikki from the band that appeared in this author's first book.
pets: none
drink of choice: unknown, though known to drink beer.
Jule Chapin is around 32 years old and is a factory worker. She spends her free time drinking, smoking and in general hanging around wasting time - or at least she did. Very early on in the book she decides to turn her life around (based partly on the fact that her longish term girlfriend had dropped dead on her, about a year before the start of this book).
Friends: Mostly Brenda, though she also hangs out with/hung out with Kathy and Toni - all three are fellow factory workers with Jule.
pet: dog - Sirius.
Drink of choice: something other than alcohol.
Plot
A cop pulls over a woman who is on her way home from a bar. The cop claims she pulled the woman over because of the bumper sticker (no not the rainbow one, the one about how her dog is smarter than an honor roll student). The cop then proceeds to order the woman to walk a straight line; and performs an illegal search and seizure while the woman is distracted - finding an illegal substance. The cop then produces this substances and cockily says 'sleep with me or I'll arrest you'; to which the woman responds with a 'I'd prefer to be arrested.' And this is how Jule and Randi meet.
For some unfathomable reason, Jule can't stop thinking about 'Officer Hartwell', despite, you know, how they first meet. Oddly, Randi also has a certain problem of keeping Jule off her mind. And so the two gingerly circle each other. Jule continuing to attempt to better her life (stop smoking and drinking, taking up jogging/exercise/yoga/dating 'appropriate' women); while Randi continues to stalk and harass Jule (and get caught up in a serial sexual rapist case (she keeps finding the victims, but isn't assigned to the case)).
Overall
I do not find corrupt cops fun, and do not find sexual harassment funny or sexy. An argument could be made about consent, choices, etc. - well 1) I mention sexual harassment and not rape; 2) cops and the justice system are intimidating.
It's quite possible that I could have and would have given a higher rating but for both the use of sexual harassment in the story with the addition of the hand waving - the, well because of a traumatic experience . . . it's okay. Hmm, no. No. No.
So we are in a case of - I liked the book (for the most part) despite my strong opinions on the matters of corrupt cops, and weak justifications for poor behavior.
Oh, as an aside - there is a massive amount of sex in this book. Also a bunch of softball played, if we are filling out 'other stuff that occurs in the book' type things.
Rating: 3.55
November 8 2016
A book about a cop and a factory worker. I was excited to read this one after reading and rather enjoying the author's first book.
Characters
Officer Randi Hartwell is a thirty-something police officer who hates her job, is corrupt (), and - in general - hates her life. Oh, and she's a player.
Friends: Nikki from the band that appeared in this author's first book.
pets: none
drink of choice: unknown, though known to drink beer.
Jule Chapin is around 32 years old and is a factory worker. She spends her free time drinking, smoking and in general hanging around wasting time - or at least she did. Very early on in the book she decides to turn her life around (based partly on the fact that her longish term girlfriend had dropped dead on her, about a year before the start of this book).
Friends: Mostly Brenda, though she also hangs out with/hung out with Kathy and Toni - all three are fellow factory workers with Jule.
pet: dog - Sirius.
Drink of choice: something other than alcohol.
Plot
A cop pulls over a woman who is on her way home from a bar. The cop claims she pulled the woman over because of the bumper sticker (no not the rainbow one, the one about how her dog is smarter than an honor roll student). The cop then proceeds to order the woman to walk a straight line; and performs an illegal search and seizure while the woman is distracted - finding an illegal substance. The cop then produces this substances and cockily says 'sleep with me or I'll arrest you'; to which the woman responds with a 'I'd prefer to be arrested.' And this is how Jule and Randi meet.
For some unfathomable reason, Jule can't stop thinking about 'Officer Hartwell', despite, you know, how they first meet. Oddly, Randi also has a certain problem of keeping Jule off her mind. And so the two gingerly circle each other. Jule continuing to attempt to better her life (stop smoking and drinking, taking up jogging/exercise/yoga/dating 'appropriate' women); while Randi continues to stalk and harass Jule (and get caught up in a serial sexual rapist case (she keeps finding the victims, but isn't assigned to the case)).
Overall
I do not find corrupt cops fun, and do not find sexual harassment funny or sexy. An argument could be made about consent, choices, etc. - well 1) I mention sexual harassment and not rape; 2) cops and the justice system are intimidating.
It's quite possible that I could have and would have given a higher rating but for both the use of sexual harassment in the story with the addition of the hand waving - the, well because of a traumatic experience . . . it's okay. Hmm, no. No. No.
So we are in a case of - I liked the book (for the most part) despite my strong opinions on the matters of corrupt cops, and weak justifications for poor behavior.
Oh, as an aside - there is a massive amount of sex in this book. Also a bunch of softball played, if we are filling out 'other stuff that occurs in the book' type things.
Rating: 3.55
November 8 2016
June 6, 2021
3.5 stars
I have a love hate relationship with this story. Hate might be too strong of a word, so I’ll try again. I really enjoyed this story until Randi became aggressive and violent. It’s one thing to abuse her position as an officer of the law by accepting sexual favours, something that wasn’t given a lot of page time and, funnily enough, I understood it came from her low self-esteem.
However, it’s quite something else to beat on suspects despite their crime. It felt like her outbursts were a way to add conflict to the story. Considering the reader is kept guessing what happened to her brother Stevie, and what her father had done, I didn’t think it was necessary. And I lost any thread of respect I had for Randi.
I liked Jule/Julianna to a point, but she was possibly the worst person Randi could’ve hooked up with due to Jule being an enabler. Something Juliana eventually wakes up to. Good for Jule trying to adopt a clean lifestyle after the death of her lover.
Readers who enjoy knowing what characters are wearing at almost every change of scene will appreciate those details in this story.
I very much enjoyed the glimpses of the band members, and as a softball fan, those outings were fun for me to read too. In summary, just like swinging a bat at a softball, this story was hit and miss for me.
Copy provided by Bold Strokes Books, via NetGalley
I have a love hate relationship with this story. Hate might be too strong of a word, so I’ll try again. I really enjoyed this story until Randi became aggressive and violent. It’s one thing to abuse her position as an officer of the law by accepting sexual favours, something that wasn’t given a lot of page time and, funnily enough, I understood it came from her low self-esteem.
However, it’s quite something else to beat on suspects despite their crime. It felt like her outbursts were a way to add conflict to the story. Considering the reader is kept guessing what happened to her brother Stevie, and what her father had done, I didn’t think it was necessary. And I lost any thread of respect I had for Randi.
I liked Jule/Julianna to a point, but she was possibly the worst person Randi could’ve hooked up with due to Jule being an enabler. Something Juliana eventually wakes up to. Good for Jule trying to adopt a clean lifestyle after the death of her lover.
Readers who enjoy knowing what characters are wearing at almost every change of scene will appreciate those details in this story.
I very much enjoyed the glimpses of the band members, and as a softball fan, those outings were fun for me to read too. In summary, just like swinging a bat at a softball, this story was hit and miss for me.
Copy provided by Bold Strokes Books, via NetGalley
March 4, 2020
I love this book - superb. Real emotional angst that reduced me to tears - totally believable. One of the three best books I've read this year.
November 21, 2016
I am rating this book 2.5 stars.
I struggled with this book it just wasn't for me. I was completely turned off by the scene of when Jule is pulled over by Randi. I find it frustrating that some people think because you are a lesbian its ok to basically sexually harass someone (like the fact that you are not a man its ok and someone wouldn't be scared, well your wrong!). It set the wrong feel for the book from the start. It just felt off and therefore I really struggled to like the characters and feel any connection for that matter.
They were both full of contradictions which was just annoying. For example Randi saying she doesn't mess with other people’s girlfriends yet when she propositioned Jule in the first place she knew Jule had a girlfriend.
Just not my thing but that's just me.
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
I struggled with this book it just wasn't for me. I was completely turned off by the scene of when Jule is pulled over by Randi. I find it frustrating that some people think because you are a lesbian its ok to basically sexually harass someone (like the fact that you are not a man its ok and someone wouldn't be scared, well your wrong!). It set the wrong feel for the book from the start. It just felt off and therefore I really struggled to like the characters and feel any connection for that matter.
They were both full of contradictions which was just annoying. For example Randi saying she doesn't mess with other people’s girlfriends yet when she propositioned Jule in the first place she knew Jule had a girlfriend.
Just not my thing but that's just me.
I was given this book by NetGalley for an honest review.
November 14, 2016
*The copy provided by NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books Inc. in exchange for an honest review*
This book could be exactly someone's cup of tea, but it certainly wasn't mine. I didn't like the characters, especially Randi - I found her almost repulsive. Plus - she's a corrupt law officer that is using her law enforcement position to get girls - and not in a good, fetish kind of way. Plus, I could never find a justification for sexual harassment, no matter of a traumatic reason behind it. It's a big NO for me.
Overall, I find the both characters immature, annoying and because of that - even the good parts of the book (for instance, it has very good sex scenes), didn't seem appealing to me.
This book could be exactly someone's cup of tea, but it certainly wasn't mine. I didn't like the characters, especially Randi - I found her almost repulsive. Plus - she's a corrupt law officer that is using her law enforcement position to get girls - and not in a good, fetish kind of way. Plus, I could never find a justification for sexual harassment, no matter of a traumatic reason behind it. It's a big NO for me.
Overall, I find the both characters immature, annoying and because of that - even the good parts of the book (for instance, it has very good sex scenes), didn't seem appealing to me.
July 3, 2018
There seemed to be mixed ratings for this book. I’ve decided to ignore the low ratings and give this book a shot based on some good reviews from the usual suspect. No regrets there and I enjoyed reading the book. The pace was just nice and the ending wasn’t rushed. The main characters, Randi & Jule, are individuals with ‘baggage’ and complex characters - more so for Randi, who lived life precariously as she believed she’s the reason tragedy struck her family. Jule, on the other hand, wants to improve her quality of life after the death of her girlfriend. The book tells us the journey of how Randi & Jule came together and make their relationship work.
December 7, 2016
"I want to know you. Five one-syllable words that had shaken her to the core."
I formed my poor opinion of Officer Randi Hartwell from the opening scenes of this novel. I loathe players. They add to the stereotype of lesbians as sexual predators. When Randi pulls over Jule and proceeds to sexually harass her thanks to an unlawful search and seizure I was in full hate mode. If not for Jule showing more spine than I gave her credit for I may have packed in this read early. I'm glad I didn't.
I enjoyed watching Jule recognize her own downward spiral following the death of her girlfriend and begin taking the steps needed to lead a healthier life. I found it interesting that having survived a drunken and unmotivated partner she would once again be attracted to the volatile Randi. As damaged as Randi is portrayed,Jule showed a surprising willingness to overlook flaws and insecurities and focus on the good she could see in the woman.
Kudos to the author for slowly unravelling Randi’s serious psychological issues. Understanding how fragile her psyche is goes a long way to rehabilitating her character in the eyes of this reader. Her love of Sirius, dogs in general and the teens she tries to protect also help us understand why Jule continues to be attracted to Randi.
Redemption Stories are always worth a read.
ARC received with thanks from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley for review.
March 19, 2017
This book reeled me in with the title and the cover alone. I'm a sucker for lesbian cop stories. Randi is a bit of a naughty cop though. She crosses some lines that some people may be uncomfortable with. I was a little uncomfortable myself, but I got this from NetGalley and wanted to review as my part of the bargain. Can't do that if I don't at least try it. So yay for ARC's because it's what compelled me to continue reading. So glad I did.
Holly Stratimore has a way with words. She made me overcome my initial misgivings about the corrupt cop. I followed her journey and character growth and ended up becoming a fan. Jule is much easier to like so the pair became quite enjoyable. The sex was very good. :) Always a big plus.
NetGalley ARC received for an unbiased review.
Holly Stratimore has a way with words. She made me overcome my initial misgivings about the corrupt cop. I followed her journey and character growth and ended up becoming a fan. Jule is much easier to like so the pair became quite enjoyable. The sex was very good. :) Always a big plus.
NetGalley ARC received for an unbiased review.
November 22, 2016
Review of Arrested hearts by Holly Stratimore
This is the first book I've read by this author and decided to give it a try as I like cop stories mixed with romance. Unfortunately, it didn't satisfy my expectations.
One of my issues with this book - that has been mentioned by other reviewers - is that the main characters meet in a context of sexual harassment. Basically, Randi, a police officer, stops Jule's car not due to a traffic violation but because she saw a decal that caught her attention. To make matters worse, she asks for sex in exchange of forgiveness when she finds Jule had marijuana in her car... Seriously? This might be a turn-on for some people but it didn't work for me at all.
I appreciate that Randy has her issues due to a hard childhood. The author gradually peels off Randy's layers of self-preservation to eventually help the reader empathise with the character and understand her behaviour. However, I couldn't relate to either Randi or Jule personalities, neither I could feel their chemistry. Additionally, the subplot of a criminal on the loose was too much in the background to create a page turner thriller and was resolved in a haste without proper development.
Overall, an ok read but there are definitely better books if you are into criminal stories mixed with romance by, for example, Cari Hunter.
2.5 stars
ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley.
This is the first book I've read by this author and decided to give it a try as I like cop stories mixed with romance. Unfortunately, it didn't satisfy my expectations.
One of my issues with this book - that has been mentioned by other reviewers - is that the main characters meet in a context of sexual harassment. Basically, Randi, a police officer, stops Jule's car not due to a traffic violation but because she saw a decal that caught her attention. To make matters worse, she asks for sex in exchange of forgiveness when she finds Jule had marijuana in her car... Seriously? This might be a turn-on for some people but it didn't work for me at all.
I appreciate that Randy has her issues due to a hard childhood. The author gradually peels off Randy's layers of self-preservation to eventually help the reader empathise with the character and understand her behaviour. However, I couldn't relate to either Randi or Jule personalities, neither I could feel their chemistry. Additionally, the subplot of a criminal on the loose was too much in the background to create a page turner thriller and was resolved in a haste without proper development.
Overall, an ok read but there are definitely better books if you are into criminal stories mixed with romance by, for example, Cari Hunter.
2.5 stars
ARC provided by the publisher and Netgalley.
March 4, 2019
This was the first book of Stratimore’s I’ve read and I wonder consider reading another. The chemistry was definitely there between Randi and Jule and the romance was believable. This one was a little slow for me in the beginning. It wasn’t until about halfway through that I was able to get into it. I felt like the writing was a little choppy to start. The story and writing definitely took a turn for the better about 50-60% of the way through when it seemed Stratimore hit her stride.
February 19, 2017
An honest review thanks to NetGalley. This was a great book; it went in depth about loss and the pain and the difference in one's life once they lose someone. At first, I didn't like Randi, her cocky attitude and how she acted as a police officer. As we got to know her and her interaction with Jule my opinion began to change, just like most of the opinions of the secondary characters in this book. The characters were three dimensional and had such interesting back stories and interactions that you can't help but enjoy this read.
January 24, 2019
A nice rounded 3.75 for this one. I enjoyed it quite a bit! I thought Randi's character was written beautifully. She is flawed, she makes poor decisions, she has a temper, but the author delves into the "why" in a thoughtful, empathetic manner that makes her character very believable. Randi also has a strong sense of loyalty, kindness and human compassion that she can rely on to help get over her demons. Jule seemed a good balance to her, and it was refreshing to have such a mature mindset in a character, as she realized her own strengths and limitations when dealing with Randi. And....they communicate! Thank the sweet lord, they actually communicate. With one another. Face to face.
It does deal with a serial rapist, and even though it is more of a side-plot, I feel the ending to that was rather rushed for such a sensitive topic.
Steam factor: Pretty good, about a 3.5/5.
It does deal with a serial rapist, and even though it is more of a side-plot, I feel the ending to that was rather rushed for such a sensitive topic.
Steam factor: Pretty good, about a 3.5/5.
November 23, 2016
This was an interesting read because the main characters were different from many of the other characters I read about in lesfic. Jule Chapin is struggling to deal with the unexpected death of her girlfriend. Jule has decided to make major changes in her life so the same thing does not happen to her. Randi Hartwell is troubled, reckless and does not like her job. Jule and Randi meet under interesting circumstances and are drawn to each other. What was interesting for me was the range of likeability of the main characters, secondary characters and the profession of one of the characters. Jule is a factory worker and has desires to take on more responsibility. Randi is not very likeable because of her behavior and lack of respect for herself and her job. It was interesting to watch as the women morphed. Question: will the morph move them toward or away from each other.
Provided by publisher via NetGalley.
Provided by publisher via NetGalley.
October 14, 2019
Please Officer!
Who doesn’t love a woman in uniform??? Randi is a troubled soul, a cop with an attitude toward people who beat women and animals and a player to boot. She doesn’t believe she deserves any sort of meaningful happiness and is on a path to self-destruct. Julie’s lover suddenly dies and it makes her take a long hard look at herself. Not liking what she sees she sets off to make over her life. Things are about to change for both of them when Julie is pulled over…
I really like how Ms Stratimore writes. It is appealing and interesting, it makes me want to devour her words like a starving woman at a buffet. This story is so charming. I loved the characters. I fell a little in love with Randi and was drawn to her, worried about her and wanted so much for her to realize her worth. I got what I wanted and was so happy about it I cried a bit. Julie is pretty amazing herself. She has some issues of her own and faces them head on. Her patience and heart are pure gold. The romance was everything I could have hoped for, the sexy bits just that and the ending was just right. This book is one in a series of three (but they work as stand alones) and I KNOW you will want to read all three!!!
Who doesn’t love a woman in uniform??? Randi is a troubled soul, a cop with an attitude toward people who beat women and animals and a player to boot. She doesn’t believe she deserves any sort of meaningful happiness and is on a path to self-destruct. Julie’s lover suddenly dies and it makes her take a long hard look at herself. Not liking what she sees she sets off to make over her life. Things are about to change for both of them when Julie is pulled over…
I really like how Ms Stratimore writes. It is appealing and interesting, it makes me want to devour her words like a starving woman at a buffet. This story is so charming. I loved the characters. I fell a little in love with Randi and was drawn to her, worried about her and wanted so much for her to realize her worth. I got what I wanted and was so happy about it I cried a bit. Julie is pretty amazing herself. She has some issues of her own and faces them head on. Her patience and heart are pure gold. The romance was everything I could have hoped for, the sexy bits just that and the ending was just right. This book is one in a series of three (but they work as stand alones) and I KNOW you will want to read all three!!!
March 25, 2017
Excellent!
Randi comes from a family of cops. She has sworn to serve and protect too. But is this really what she wants? When Jule crosses her path, she begins to feel things she never thought she could feel. They both have scars and they both deserve love. Will they have that with each other or could the past rip them apart? It is an amazing touching story about two guarded hearts, resilience, a suitcase full of guilt, strength, hope, the right amount of drama and suspense and a great thrilling love. The characters are strong and vulnerable. The easy style of writing leaves you wanting more. I can highly recommend this wonderful book.
Randi comes from a family of cops. She has sworn to serve and protect too. But is this really what she wants? When Jule crosses her path, she begins to feel things she never thought she could feel. They both have scars and they both deserve love. Will they have that with each other or could the past rip them apart? It is an amazing touching story about two guarded hearts, resilience, a suitcase full of guilt, strength, hope, the right amount of drama and suspense and a great thrilling love. The characters are strong and vulnerable. The easy style of writing leaves you wanting more. I can highly recommend this wonderful book.
December 27, 2016
Nice and slow...
This was definitely a nice and slow pace book. I like the storyline that had the characters working on themselves before their relationship heated up. As for the characters Jules was ok, but I wasn't a fan of Randi at the start of the book. The more I learned Bout her the more I started Liking her. I would definitely recommend this book.
This was definitely a nice and slow pace book. I like the storyline that had the characters working on themselves before their relationship heated up. As for the characters Jules was ok, but I wasn't a fan of Randi at the start of the book. The more I learned Bout her the more I started Liking her. I would definitely recommend this book.
January 2, 2017
2.5 rounded to 3. I had a major issue with Randi in this book. She's a corrupt cop and I had a hard time getting over that. I liked Jule well enough but why would she be attracted to someone who tried to force her into something. I just don't get it. The book did get better as it progressed but I couldn't fully reconcile Randi's character from what she was to what she became. Obviously, not a great book for me.
February 18, 2018
Pretty good read. A bit slow at times. It was a bit hard for me to like Randi at first. I didn't like what she did when she first pulled Jule over. But as the story progressed, I grew to like her and really empathize with her.
ARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
ARC received from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
June 23, 2018
Very good book, for a second book, but I put 1/3 of the book to get used to the characters and their way of interacting. The develloped themes are interesting and instructive for young readers. This book has many assets, to read absolutely.
February 20, 2025
Truly working class protagonists, great story.
November 22, 2016
Publisher shared book for an honest review on netgallery and goodreads.
. This book was a joy to read from start to finish! The books summary is presented below. Thoughtful character development, the story paced nicely and finally I really enjoyed the writing. The book is about two different characters with tragic events. Yet, as much as those are discussed, there is also humor, friendship, and insightful ways about how we can reframe and transform our lives. The book isn't preachy either. It's great storytelling! And the author beautifully weaves the lives of two people, mainly Jule, who decides to get out of her self limiting rut, into how they support each other through change. . The book is well written and I highly recommend this read!
Officer Randi Hartwell doesn't always play by the rules when it comes to the law—or women. Years ago, tragedy destroyed her family and left her feeling guilty and unworthy of happiness. But when Randi pulls over Jule Chapin, Jule stirs up feelings that challenge those beliefs.
After her girlfriend dies of a sudden heart attack, Jule takes control of her life and decides she wants to live authentically, and she’ll do it her way. Falling for a reckless cop doesn't fit into her plans.
The two are drawn to each other, but when the pressures of her past threaten to push Randi over the edge, she must choose between who she is and who she wants to be, or risk losing everything—including Jule.
. This book was a joy to read from start to finish! The books summary is presented below. Thoughtful character development, the story paced nicely and finally I really enjoyed the writing. The book is about two different characters with tragic events. Yet, as much as those are discussed, there is also humor, friendship, and insightful ways about how we can reframe and transform our lives. The book isn't preachy either. It's great storytelling! And the author beautifully weaves the lives of two people, mainly Jule, who decides to get out of her self limiting rut, into how they support each other through change. . The book is well written and I highly recommend this read!
Officer Randi Hartwell doesn't always play by the rules when it comes to the law—or women. Years ago, tragedy destroyed her family and left her feeling guilty and unworthy of happiness. But when Randi pulls over Jule Chapin, Jule stirs up feelings that challenge those beliefs.
After her girlfriend dies of a sudden heart attack, Jule takes control of her life and decides she wants to live authentically, and she’ll do it her way. Falling for a reckless cop doesn't fit into her plans.
The two are drawn to each other, but when the pressures of her past threaten to push Randi over the edge, she must choose between who she is and who she wants to be, or risk losing everything—including Jule.
February 8, 2017
This was my first book by Holly Stratimore. The book for me started very rough. I like characters with flaws, but a corrupt police officer that uses her position to solicit sex from women..... Wow.. I just couldn't get over it. What kind of person must Officer Randi be that she disrespects women so much? I was ready to put the book down and walk away. At this point it was one star, only because it is the lowest possible. I hate to not finish a book, and it was so near the beginning I decided to carry on. I am actually glad I did because the beginning was the worst of it. Jule was actually a character I enjoyed, though I questioned her judgement quite often. She didn't have a great record of choosing women. Would you be able to fall in love with Officer Randi? I don't think I could. Romance is supposed to make you believe that the love is real, it could happen. I just couldn't buy it. My rating did go up and ended with 3 stars which is a pretty big improvement. It is just really difficult to come back from, "I want to stop reading this book, but guilt requires I continue." I am going to read her first novel and will give her a try in the future.
January 8, 2017
I rec'd a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. An emotional romance revolving around a cop Randi and civilian Jules. Nicely handled by the author, I eventually found empathy for Randi and delighted in the maturing of Jules' character. Flawed individuals persevered. 3.5 stars
May 11, 2019
I loved this book. I was hooked from the first chapter
The characters were written extremely well. The chemistry between Jule and Randi is evident from the start .
The story is so well written that I started and finished it in just one day, I couldn't put the book down.
Well worth reading and would recommend.
The characters were written extremely well. The chemistry between Jule and Randi is evident from the start .
The story is so well written that I started and finished it in just one day, I couldn't put the book down.
Well worth reading and would recommend.
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