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The Donovans #13

In The Arms of a Donovan

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When the safest place she knows…

The last year of Amber McNair’s life has been a whirlwind of jet-setting back and forth across the country, smiling for the cameras and speaking on behalf of full-figured women worldwide. While grateful for the opportunity to become a national foundation’s spokesperson on the growing obsession with body image, Amber is exhausted and hasn’t had a moment to enjoy herself in far too long. The final leg of the promotional tour being held on a seven night cruise was a godsend. The sexy guy on the boat that takes her breath away from the first second she sees him, is a delicious perk; but Amber’s been heartbroken before, so this time, she’s not so sure she should indulge.

…is in his arms.

Brandon Donovan is at his company’s annual morale-boosting and celebratory event. After years of attending the boring weekend-long stays at some secluded resort, this time, Brandon finds himself on a Caribbean cruise. Timing could not be worse for him to be somewhat off the grid, considering what he and his cousins have just learned about the Senior Donovans, but meeting the charming and beautiful spokesperson for a national company is refreshing. Spending a sultry and sensual night with her was more rewarding than he could have ever imagined. Until he learns that she may not be who she says she is and that her true identity may lead him to the man who claims to be a Donovan.

**AUTHOR'S NOTE: This book is #13 in a series. While it may not be necessary to read each book that has come before this one, it is highly recommended that HEART OF A DONOVAN, EMBRACED BY A DONOVAN and WRAPPED IN A DONOVAN be read before reading this book, as there is a continuing plot in each of these stories.

285 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 12, 2016

66 people are currently reading
78 people want to read

About the author

A.C. Arthur

184 books918 followers
AC Arthur has worked as a paralegal in every field of law since high school, but her first love is and will always be writing romance. She’s written and won awards for her acclaimed Donovans and Shadow Shifters contemporary and paranormal romance series. Under her pen name, Lacey Baker, she created the quaint small town of Sweetland and wrote the novelization for the Original Hallmark Channel Movie, A Gingerbread Romance.

After years of hosting reader appreciation events, AC created the One Love Reunion, an event designed to bring readers and authors together to celebrate their love of books.

AC resides in Maryland with her family, where she’s currently working on her next book…or watching Criminal Minds.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Profile Image for April.
77 reviews32 followers
September 6, 2016
This is a great book so many Real Life Issue plus I love the Donovan series they are a Real Family with Problems that We all deal with....Great Job A.C. Arthur can't until the next Donovan book!!!!
Profile Image for SassyMama.
1,016 reviews4 followers
May 17, 2016
LOVE the Donovan's...I MUST say the secrets coming out of the Elder Donovan's closets kept me turning the pages...the intriguing mystery surrounding this family is quite a page-turner...and I can hardly wait to see what kind of relationship if any the family will develop with Dane...that being said I found the romance between Brandon and Amber to be lukewarm...and what should have been the focal point of the story was secondary and I was more CAUGHT UP in the family drama...and what was going on behind the scenes with the Elders, Bailey, Brynne and Dane...but still a worthy addition to this series. I'm DEFINITELY hoping the next book is coming soon!
Profile Image for Dafort.
619 reviews19 followers
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May 21, 2016
In the Arms of a Donovan picks up where Wrapped in a Donovan left off and we find the Senior Donovans are now ready to reveal the secret that they have kept from the family. Once the secret has been revealed the offspring decide to take matters into their own hands. Brandon Donovan meets Amber McNair while on a Caribbean cruise. The initial meeting on the pool deck to the walk on the beach, the attraction was apparent between these two. As they embarked on a cruise fling, each thought the affair would end when they disembarked in Florida. Little did either realize how affected they both were from the effects of their cruise love affair. Back in their respective cities, the two cannot stop thinking about each other. As Brandon deals with the family secret, Amber is never far from his thoughts. Amber takes matter into her own hands and pays a visit to Brandon and the affair rekindles. As more revelations unfold, Brandon discovers something about Amber that will question the validity of their relationship. Will the truth help or hinder this budding romance? Read in the Arms of a Donovan to find out.
This Donovan installment was a good read. Mrs. Arthur did a good job weaving this storyline that will leave readers with their mouth hanging open, with all the twists that pop up in this book as well as root for Brandon and Amber. Once Brandon noticed Amber’s pedicured feet, he was a goner. Readers will fall in love with Brandon’s character as he is a serious but fun loving guy that values family. Amber is a strong independent woman comfortable with her in her own skin and even though she has been heartbroken before, she decides to take a chance with Brandon. Once Brandon learns of her true identity, the relationship is put through the test. As for the secondary storyline with the man claiming he may be a Donovan, readers are in for a page turner. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and yes finding out #whosthedaddy. Hats off to Mrs. Arthur. I can’t wait for the next installment.
Profile Image for Celeste .
582 reviews6 followers
May 15, 2016
Amber and Brandon what the heart wants

With the twists and turns one was intrigued on how romance would be intertwined. Brandon and Amber were not the anticipated couple but what I enjoyed most were the subject matters addressed. Mental illness and body shaming, they were addressed in a manner that made you want to sit back and evaluate your position. It brought an element that kept you reading and wanting to learn more. It was good that Dane and the other Donovan's learned who the biological father was, one knew it couldn't be the obvious choice. I looked forwarded to how that would be revealed and how each family member would adapt or react. No one disappointed as it was authentic raw emotions. Funny how small the world is and how Amber connected to this all. It was good for Amber and Brandon to admit their truths so they could move forward on what is sure to be a ride of a lifetime.

I look forward to the other installments as it has been a ride to see how the Donovan's stick together and find love in the process.
Profile Image for Brenda  Larnell.
442 reviews26 followers
May 18, 2016
And the drama continues.Amber McNair and Brandon Donovan's love story is just one of the storylines of this book. There is so much more going on. I did enjoy the latest Donovan love conquest, however, the 'who dunnit' element was equally entertaining. We find out which Donovan brother sired Dane. We know for sure that Darla Donovan's death was no accident, and who killed her. There were two serious issues of mental illness and body shaming, that the author included in this novel which helped to make it a great read. This was one of the best Donovan family stories I've read. Can't wait for the next one,
Profile Image for Matysha.
386 reviews2 followers
May 12, 2016
After reading this story, I was reminded again why I fell in love with AC Arthur books. This story had the love we look for in romance stories with the suspenseful edge we come to expect from Arthur. She has a way with the pen that makes you want more before you're even finished. This story was so good I wished it never ended but knowing there's a continuation in the future gives me hope. I recommend this story 1000%. It definitely a tale you don't want to miss. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Debra Outlaw.
146 reviews2 followers
December 30, 2017
Surprise, surprise, surprise.

The story was interesting and lots of secrets. But I wanted to see more action. I am constantly looking for the NAVY SEALS to do something outstanding. How is it they only know things after the fact? Dane seemed more in the know than anyone else. I didn't like that. I was hoping he wasn't a Donovan...... anyway an interesting read. Cannot wait for next book.
Profile Image for Selina Durio.
2,523 reviews12 followers
May 24, 2016
I didn't think this series could get any better, I was wrong! Ms. Arthur has added so many new twist t the story line and characters that I'm truly waiting impatiently for the next installment. To find out a character, from the first books, true role in everything evolving was a shocker. I also enjoyed how this book dealt with another issue important to society, mental illness and the stigma that goes along with it.
17 reviews
May 19, 2016
Great

I love these series.......I recently started reading A.C Authur because I just wanted a new author I am so glad I did......I love the fact there's a story line it has mystery and romance.......I love the fact that Amber was a plus size woman......I truly enjoy "The Donavans"......A.C Authur is one of my new favorite authors
Profile Image for Geri Evans.
668 reviews
July 10, 2024
Those Donovan’s Though!! 🤗🤗

I’m so glad I picked up this book again to continue reading about those Donovans! This was a great read!! Full of drama, unrequited love, true love, family, secrets, mental disorders and so much more! There was never a dull moment! Can hardly wait to read the next one!!

This series is everything!! I thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend it you reading about those Donovan! You’ll be so glad you did!! So go grab your copies now! You can thank me later!! Kudos, Ac Arthur!! 💜💜
Profile Image for Mary Calton Gerard.
1,216 reviews6 followers
August 19, 2024
Head spinning!

Racism, young men whores, body shaming and mental illness. The body shaming organization was mentioned briefly and the character Amber, portrayed well as confident, bold and high self-esteem. Mental illness is continuing with a character. The book is intriguing and the series is entertaining.
770 reviews3 followers
November 19, 2016
Intense and revealing!

This book revealed a lot of secrets that the brothers were hiding. A new love was found between Amber and Brandon but it was almost lost due to whose related to who. A
I love all the twists and turns that this book offered.
Profile Image for Deborah C. Fidderman.
520 reviews2 followers
May 10, 2017
Great story

I couldn't put this book down. All the intriguing story lines and families that are connected kept me reading until the end of the book. I recommend this book to everyone.
163 reviews
June 12, 2020
Awesome book

Because it's an awesome book I like that Brandon finally realized that it's not amber's fault that her family member is trying to hurt his family and I would recommend this book to all the women in my family
217 reviews
October 17, 2025
Hooked

OMG!!! THIS SERIES IS EVERYTHING!!! I didn't see this coming at all!!! Okay. Brandon and Amber story was cute. But the other things going on? FIRE!!! A.C. you did the darn thing with this one. I can't wait for the next one and then the ending.
19 reviews1 follower
July 18, 2017
Great series!!

I love this series. The twist, turns, suspense and most of all how the family comes together! Luv it! Q
Profile Image for Idalopesmarques.
64 reviews
January 17, 2022
Wow I was not expecting this. What a crazy plot. This one had me in tears and at the same time upset. Talk about twisted. I think something was missing in Dane's persona.
Profile Image for Deena.
540 reviews11 followers
January 19, 2017
You ARE the father!!!!

So many bombs dropped in this one! Roslyn's diagnosis, the Amber connection, as well as Jaydon's (did I miss this reveal in an earlier book? My mind is still blown!). Roslyn is one of the mostconniving, treacherous villains I've ever read about. Can't wait till she gets whatever is coming to her.

The mystery of who Dane's daddy is is finally revealed. And I was totally wrong in my guess of who the Daddy is. Not sure what I thought Dane's reaction would be, but it was definitely more low-key than it was. Or is he not the villain I thought he was? I guess we'll see.

Loved, loved, loved Amber and her confidence. She loved herself as she was and wouldn't allow anyone to make her feel less than fabulous. I liked Brandon, but sometimes he came off a little juvenile. I liked him and Amber as a couple, though.

Enjoyed this one. Eagerly looking forward to the next installment!
Profile Image for 'The Book Queen'.
6,009 reviews111 followers
June 3, 2016
A Tangled Weave Woven into A Love Story

Ms Arthur has tangled a weave of intrigue and romance in the same story.. Spoiler alert* If you have not read the two previous books you will need to because Roslyn's baby daddy is named* I like the cruise as the backdrop for Brandon and Amber's relationship. The plot twist with her family was unexpected, truly unexpected! I will say at times, there are nearly too many characters to keep the Donovan's, wives,girlfriends, cousins, friends etc. etc straight. I don't always see the need for all the extras in each story. Overall I like the story and development of the relationship between Brandon and Amber. The Seniors drama just needs to close out. The son, Dane; I don't think he is a friend.. His actions seem more like foe material.. A tangled weave with a mini cliffhanger again.
Profile Image for Cassandra Baker-Durham.
Author 8 books44 followers
May 19, 2016
A C Arthur knows how to spin a tale. Plus size model Amber McNair’s is ready for a break. She has been flying back and forth across the country delivering speeches on self-worth and encouragement. Her last event is a seven-night cruise where she plans to relax and regroup.

Brandon Donovan is at his company’s annual retreat and a tryst with a beautiful woman is the last thing on his mind. That is until he see's Amber lounging by the pool. He falls for her hook, line and sinker, but just wait until he finds out who she really is... Will her betrayal keep her in the arms of a Donavan? You'll have to read it to find out. Great story.
75 reviews
May 17, 2016
Oh my goodness A.C!!!!!!

This book is so good!! A.C. has continued to work her story telling magic into a fantastic novel and series. I love and appreciated the background stories and characters as much as the main characters Brandon and Amber. If you haven't read all of the series I highly recommended you do..
Profile Image for CHANDRA  FIELDS.
369 reviews1 follower
June 26, 2016
In The Arms of a Donovan: A Sexy BBW Billionaire Family Series Romance

As always A. C. Arthur hit oil out the box with this sexy romance. I love reading all of her books. They make your mouth water with anticipation of what's going to happen next! I catch wait for the next book in this series. I would definitely recommend this book to read!
Profile Image for Brenda Maxwell.
238 reviews9 followers
September 29, 2016
Terrifyingly Good

Ms Arthur's books are always mind-blowing. This one was no different. Talk about - how to get away with murder - Roslyn I just don't know. I understand the mental illness of it all, but...... Brandon and Amber I am glad you came to your senses. Why am I writing to these characters in the 1st person? Ms Arthur
a great story, but, please don't hurt Bailey.
Profile Image for Lena Neely.
135 reviews7 followers
May 20, 2016
Jesus take the Wheel

OMG! There are no words! Rosalyn is a nutcase. I can't wait til the next book. Kudos Ms. Arthur. You've got on sitting on the edge of our seat waiting for the next book in the series.
533 reviews
May 25, 2016
Wow

Haven't read so much hate in a long time. Mrs Arthur is a magician with words. I usually follow her paranormal series but she has hooked me with this series. I just hate waiting for the next book. She is a fantastic author.
Profile Image for Cynthia Taylor.
221 reviews1 follower
June 28, 2016
Elusive Brandon

Brandon has always held back the most intimate part of himself fearing another rejection. His vulnerability, strengths and families insight helps her m heal and move forward.
#readingandreviewingchallenge
Profile Image for Kyra Gates.
Author 14 books70 followers
July 15, 2016
Wow

I can hardly wait for the final book. I hope they catch this crazy woman fast. No body deserves that. I hope Dane will forgive and they forgive him, he'll his mom
Really didn't give anyone much of a choice. She's crazy!
Profile Image for Joyce M. H..
1,398 reviews19 followers
May 27, 2016
Great Donovan story, love it tremendously.
Just when I thought I had somethings figured out A.C. throws another curve ball.
Keep em coming A.C.
Profile Image for Sharon Simmons.
828 reviews7 followers
June 3, 2016
She's done it again!!

OMG Roslyn Ausby is a nut! I love the romance and mystery in this book. Actually, I love the Donavans and can't wait for the next book!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews

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