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I-Team #6.5
Soul Deep
Rancher Jack West knows what it means to love a woman with all his heart and to lose her far too soon. A widower for seven long years, he thinks love and romance are a part of his past. He devotes himself to his grown son and his family, the horses they raise, and the land that has been theirs for three generations. He doesn’t know that life has a surprise in store for him in the form of Janet Killeen, the lovely FBI agent he threw off his land last winter.
The bullet that left Janet Killeen seriously wounded also tore a hole through her life. All she wants is a little peace and quiet in the mountains, a chance to feel like herself again. That chance comes to an abrupt end when she goes off the road in a snowstorm and winds up stranded alone in a ditch. The last person on earth she wants to see is that arrogant jerk Jack West, no matter how handsome he is. But from the moment Jack finds her and offers her his hand, she realizes there’s far more to this gruff cowboy than she had imagined.
But trouble is brewing at Cimarron Ranch. A deranged man with an inscrutable motive is moving in for the kill, threatening to end Jack and Janet’s romance before they can claim a love that is … Soul Deep.
The bullet that left Janet Killeen seriously wounded also tore a hole through her life. All she wants is a little peace and quiet in the mountains, a chance to feel like herself again. That chance comes to an abrupt end when she goes off the road in a snowstorm and winds up stranded alone in a ditch. The last person on earth she wants to see is that arrogant jerk Jack West, no matter how handsome he is. But from the moment Jack finds her and offers her his hand, she realizes there’s far more to this gruff cowboy than she had imagined.
But trouble is brewing at Cimarron Ranch. A deranged man with an inscrutable motive is moving in for the kill, threatening to end Jack and Janet’s romance before they can claim a love that is … Soul Deep.
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First published June 28, 2015
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About the author
Pamela Clare
57 books4,313 followersUSA Today best-selling author Pamela Clare began her writing career as a columnist and investigative reporter and eventually became the first woman editor-in-chief of two different newspapers. Along the way, she and her team won numerous state and national honors, including the First Amendment Award and the National Journalism Award for Public Service. In 2011, she was honored by the Colorado Pro Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists with their Keeper of the Flame Lifetime Achievement Award for her work. A single mother with two grown sons and two cats, she writes historical romance and contemporary romantic suspense within view of Colorado’s beautiful Rocky Mountains. She is a two-time RITA finalist (Surrender, Defiant) and a three-time Daphne du Maurier finalist (I-Team series). She loves history, having studied archaeology in college, and has traveled extensively, living for almost three years in Denmark, which feels like home to her. She attributes her love of historical romance with the years she spent visiting ruins and castles in Europe.
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July 15, 2015
3.5 I'd've-loved-to-give-it-more stars. Rating clarification see below. Review posted July 15, 2015
"What qualities would you look for in a woman?"
She was flirting with him--and he was flirting back.
He laughed. "If I had the mindset of a stallion, only one--willingness. For a male of any species, success at mating is all about spreading your seed."
"That's lovely." That also described a lot of the men she'd known.
"Fortunately, I am not ruled by biology. It's brains over balls."
"Meaning what?" She looked up, her gaze connecting with his.
"Meaning I spent thirty-eight years making a study of just one woman, trying to be the man she deserved."
In his words, Janet heard the love he'd felt for his wife. He'd been devoted to her, and he'd been faithful to her. Then he'd lost her.
A sixty-three-year-oldman hero is paired up with a forty-five-year-old woman heroine? I don't mind at all. Count me in!
So.
FBI agent Janet Killeen is on her way to Scarlet Springs to spend a week at the Forest Creek Inn. She wants to enjoy the aspens and sit on a horse again. After a very severe injury, she's ready to celebrate her survival and the end of an intense rehab. Though when a snow storm hits the land, she ends up in an embankment. Her bum leg makes it impossible for Janet to get out of that situation on her own and she has no other choice than to spend many long hours in her (cold) car. Until rancher and widower Jack West rescues her, that is.
"Well, hello, there, SA Killeen. It seems you've run into a little trouble."
Janet isn't amused at all that she has to accept Jack's help.
"Come on. I won't bite. I promise.
"You did last time."
"Last time, you were playing federal agent on my land. This time, your'e a stranded friend in need of my help."
Since the roads are closed, Jack invites Janet to spend a week at his gorgeous place called Cimarron Ranch. Reluctantly, Janet agrees. After all, their first encounter in Striking Distance wasn't the best *cough* and she's pleasantly surprised that gruff Jack can be very charming--among other things.
"(…)Besides, I'm forty-five."
"You don't look a day over thirty-eight." He gave her a devastatingly sexy smile. "And, hey, if an old codger like me can't play the age card, then neither can you."
She couldn't help but laugh. "It's different for men. You know that."
"You're a beautiful woman." The way he said it made her breath catch. Warmth rushed into her cheeks. "Is that you talking--or the Côte de Brouilly?"
"It takes more than a few glasses of wine to make me say things I don't mean--scotch if you want poetry."
Due to her injury, Janet's body will never be the same. With her impaired body, the chronic pain and nightmares, her life has become a daily challenge. It goes without saying that her days as a field agent are over and the prospect of a desk job doesn't thrill Janet at all. And something else is bothering her very much but in order to not spoil it for you I won't go into details. What I want to say, however, is that Jack was very patient, sweet and understanding. He's a very hard-working man who cares deeply for his loved ones and I not only adored his humor and thoughtfulness, but also how he took care of Janet. That man is truly golden. These two were the perfect match for each other and seized the opportunity for a second chance at love and happily ever after.
This made me laugh so hard:
The buildup during the first half was wonderful and sweet. And by sweet I really mean the good kind of sweet. Unfortunately, though, I've had some of the same issues that bothered me already in Striking Distance. Sap galore during the last third affected my reading experience negatively. Another issue I had was how fast Jack fell in love with Janet. Granted, it wasn't done badly but still. I'm just not the kind of reader who accepts insta-love so easily. Also, I can't deny it that I was a bit miffed when I had to deal once again with the same old Besides, that ramped up the schmaltz factor tremendously. I'm sorry because I really, really wanted to give this long novella a better rating, mainly because I did love sexy Jack.
Anyway, I'm still glad that I gave Soul Deep a go because I did like it overall. I'm sure that fans of Pamela Clare will devour this love story and readers who long to read a book that features older main protagonists should pick it up as well.
What it all comes down to it is the fact that the romance genre needs more mature main protagonists in their 40s, 50s and 60s.
Dear Authors,
I know that YA/NA sells big time. But, give it a thought. We all grow older and whether young or old, we want to experience the magic of love stories. Real life love stories as much as love stories in our book world featuring older couples--grey hair and wrinkles all inclusive. And, you know, experience is a damn sexy trait.
Keep in mind--no scratch that--believe it that mature characters might occupy more than a little niche in the romance market in the future. But to accomplish that, authors need to actually write those kind of stories in the first place. No stories, no readers to buy them, it's as simple as that.
Thank you.
Best,
Baba
Rating clarification
4 stars for the first half
2.5 to 3 stars for the second half, esp. the last third was way too sappy for me
Overall rating 3.25 to 3.5 stars
As a side note
Soul Deep can be read as a standalone.
"What qualities would you look for in a woman?"
She was flirting with him--and he was flirting back.
He laughed. "If I had the mindset of a stallion, only one--willingness. For a male of any species, success at mating is all about spreading your seed."
"That's lovely." That also described a lot of the men she'd known.
"Fortunately, I am not ruled by biology. It's brains over balls."
"Meaning what?" She looked up, her gaze connecting with his.
"Meaning I spent thirty-eight years making a study of just one woman, trying to be the man she deserved."
In his words, Janet heard the love he'd felt for his wife. He'd been devoted to her, and he'd been faithful to her. Then he'd lost her.
"(…) In the meantime, I promise not to kiss you again. However, if you kiss me first, I will kiss you back. I think that's only fair, don't you?"
A sixty-three-year-old
So.
FBI agent Janet Killeen is on her way to Scarlet Springs to spend a week at the Forest Creek Inn. She wants to enjoy the aspens and sit on a horse again. After a very severe injury, she's ready to celebrate her survival and the end of an intense rehab. Though when a snow storm hits the land, she ends up in an embankment. Her bum leg makes it impossible for Janet to get out of that situation on her own and she has no other choice than to spend many long hours in her (cold) car. Until rancher and widower Jack West rescues her, that is.
"Well, hello, there, SA Killeen. It seems you've run into a little trouble."
Janet isn't amused at all that she has to accept Jack's help.
"Come on. I won't bite. I promise.
"You did last time."
"Last time, you were playing federal agent on my land. This time, your'e a stranded friend in need of my help."
Since the roads are closed, Jack invites Janet to spend a week at his gorgeous place called Cimarron Ranch. Reluctantly, Janet agrees. After all, their first encounter in Striking Distance wasn't the best *cough* and she's pleasantly surprised that gruff Jack can be very charming--among other things.
"(…)Besides, I'm forty-five."
"You don't look a day over thirty-eight." He gave her a devastatingly sexy smile. "And, hey, if an old codger like me can't play the age card, then neither can you."
She couldn't help but laugh. "It's different for men. You know that."
"You're a beautiful woman." The way he said it made her breath catch. Warmth rushed into her cheeks. "Is that you talking--or the Côte de Brouilly?"
"It takes more than a few glasses of wine to make me say things I don't mean--scotch if you want poetry."
Due to her injury, Janet's body will never be the same. With her impaired body, the chronic pain and nightmares, her life has become a daily challenge. It goes without saying that her days as a field agent are over and the prospect of a desk job doesn't thrill Janet at all. And something else is bothering her very much but in order to not spoil it for you I won't go into details. What I want to say, however, is that Jack was very patient, sweet and understanding. He's a very hard-working man who cares deeply for his loved ones and I not only adored his humor and thoughtfulness, but also how he took care of Janet. That man is truly golden. These two were the perfect match for each other and seized the opportunity for a second chance at love and happily ever after.
This made me laugh so hard:
The buildup during the first half was wonderful and sweet. And by sweet I really mean the good kind of sweet. Unfortunately, though, I've had some of the same issues that bothered me already in Striking Distance. Sap galore during the last third affected my reading experience negatively. Another issue I had was how fast Jack fell in love with Janet. Granted, it wasn't done badly but still. I'm just not the kind of reader who accepts insta-love so easily. Also, I can't deny it that I was a bit miffed when I had to deal once again with the same old Besides, that ramped up the schmaltz factor tremendously. I'm sorry because I really, really wanted to give this long novella a better rating, mainly because I did love sexy Jack.
Anyway, I'm still glad that I gave Soul Deep a go because I did like it overall. I'm sure that fans of Pamela Clare will devour this love story and readers who long to read a book that features older main protagonists should pick it up as well.
What it all comes down to it is the fact that the romance genre needs more mature main protagonists in their 40s, 50s and 60s.
Dear Authors,
I know that YA/NA sells big time. But, give it a thought. We all grow older and whether young or old, we want to experience the magic of love stories. Real life love stories as much as love stories in our book world featuring older couples--grey hair and wrinkles all inclusive. And, you know, experience is a damn sexy trait.
Keep in mind--no scratch that--believe it that mature characters might occupy more than a little niche in the romance market in the future. But to accomplish that, authors need to actually write those kind of stories in the first place. No stories, no readers to buy them, it's as simple as that.
Thank you.
Best,
Baba
Rating clarification
4 stars for the first half
2.5 to 3 stars for the second half, esp. the last third was way too sappy for me
Overall rating 3.25 to 3.5 stars
As a side note
Soul Deep can be read as a standalone.
March 9, 2018
I am giving this little Novella a 3.5 Stars. As much as I love the series, and as much as I like both Janet and Jack, I have to be honest, I think the hero was just too old. All I could think about was how many years could they really have together. Now I am not saying that people in their 60s can't have love and romance, hell I plan on having all the above and great sex still in my 60s but, it was kinda of off putting to read about it. Maybe it's because I worked in a nursing home for years and years taking care of elderly men and women. So I had a hard time picturing a ripped, toned 63 year old with a sex drive of a man in his 20s. Also I don't think it helped that the heroine's name was Janet, which is my grandma's name lol. Overall I enjoyed it but I would have enjoyed it more if Jack was in his 50s.
July 27, 2015
It isn't often enough that we get a romance story that involves an older couple. So when I saw a friends review for Soul Deep and realized that the two main characters were older and wiser, I knew I’d really enjoy it.
This story centers on Jack West who is 63 and Janet Killeen who is 45. Their story was just as sexy and sensual as any other romance and the buildup between them was just perfect.
Jack had met Janet once before. He was a bit of a brut with her but didn’t expect their paths to cross again. But as Mother Nature is kicking up her heals, causing quite a bit of snowfall, he finds himself offering her shelter. Jack didn’t realize that Janet would be that someone to get his heart and soul racing once again.
Jack ~ He was dreamy. My heart still races a bit just thinking about him. He loved with his words, his touches and his mouth. Jack had loved once before and knew what it took to make a woman happy. But as he found himself wanting Janet, he knew everything would be different, everything would be even more wonderful.
Janet ~ was a strong independent woman. Most of her adult life was spent building her career and very little time was spent trying to find that perfect man. Her desires and needs were hidden behind some physical and emotional scars. Janet needed that physical contact and that became very apparent the day the Jack came back into her life.
Janet is making her way to Scarlet Springs to spend a week enjoying the Aspens and whatever else comes her way. She was still healing from a serious injury she endured while on duty as a FBI agent. She didn’t expect to be at the mercy of Jack West but she found herself with no other choice. It wouldn’t be too much of a hardship though. Jack’s beautiful home was Cimarron Ranch and so much of what Janet was missing would be at her finger tips.
Spending time with Jack on his Ranch was giving Janet back pieces of her life that she thought she had lost. It wasn’t just Jack that was helping her heal it was his horses too. Jack knew the longer she stayed with him there would be no turning back. He was a widower and he wasn’t sure if he’d ever fall in love again. But Janet was stealing his heart away.
Of course this wouldn’t be a typical Pamela Clare book if there wasn’t some
mystery and suspense. It was more of an undertone and a tad predictable but it served its purpose and I rolled with it. The ending was sweet but I wish that she hadn't .
If you have read and enjoyed this series, don’t miss out on this one. Don’t miss out on the oh so sexy Jack West.
July 8, 2015
Story Rating ~ 5 STARS!
Hero Rating ~ 5 HUGE STARS!
Heroine Rating ~ 5 - I LOVED HER TOO STARS!
Romance ~ 5 VERY ROMANTIC STARS!
Heat Level ~ 4 - I COULD REALLY FEEL THE HEAT STARS!
Ending ~ 5 - You NEVER KNOW WHERE LIFE CAN TAKE YOU STARS!
Overall Rating ~ 10 STARS BECAUSE 5 STARS JUSY ISN’T ENOUGH!
GOSH how I LOVED this one! It truly was an AMAZING read!
Janet Killeen was seriously wounded, shot in the hip by a sniper while on an FBI mission. She is finally out of rehab so she decides to get away and she sets off for the mountains. While she is driving the weather goes from bad to worse. The snow is coming down hard making her drive very difficult. Her car hits a fence post and goes down a steep hill. She tries with everything she has to make it out up the hill but her previous injuries makes this task impossible.
Jack West owns the Cimarron Ranch, he’s driving up the road to drop some feed off for his cows when he notices a car off the road berried in the snow. Jack immediately goes down to see if there is anyone who needs help.
Janet had met Jack a while ago and he treated her badly and kicked her off of his property. This time around Jack was a whole different person. He treated her kindly and was so gentle yet strong when helping her back up to the road.
With more snow on the way, Janet has to stay at the Cimarron Ranch with jack a few days. Each day they seem to get more attracted to each other. Jack was EVERYTHING I want my hero’s to be, kind, thoughtful and caring not to mention SEXY. He loved his wife but she died 7 years ago and as this story revolves we learn that life has its way of throwing just what you need right into your path.
There was just a bit of suspense added in, not as much as the usual Pamela Clare book. But you know what? It did not make one bit of difference to me.
It took a while for the heat to set in and there are reasons why for this. These scenes were VERY SENSUAL. I could really feel the attraction between them. Simply put, they were loving, tender, caring and sexy as hell.
The ending was FANTASTIC! I had a HUGE smile on my face, it could NOT have ended any better.
My overall thoughts are I’m SO DARN HAPPY I read this book. There was NEVER a moment I was bored. My heart and soul were engaged while reading this book. The characters and story line was phenomenal. All these reasons are why Pamela Clare is a MUST read author for me.
Special note : This is a part of a series, however I feel that it would read just fine as a standalone.
Hero Rating ~ 5 HUGE STARS!
Heroine Rating ~ 5 - I LOVED HER TOO STARS!
Romance ~ 5 VERY ROMANTIC STARS!
Heat Level ~ 4 - I COULD REALLY FEEL THE HEAT STARS!
Ending ~ 5 - You NEVER KNOW WHERE LIFE CAN TAKE YOU STARS!
Overall Rating ~ 10 STARS BECAUSE 5 STARS JUSY ISN’T ENOUGH!
GOSH how I LOVED this one! It truly was an AMAZING read!
Janet Killeen was seriously wounded, shot in the hip by a sniper while on an FBI mission. She is finally out of rehab so she decides to get away and she sets off for the mountains. While she is driving the weather goes from bad to worse. The snow is coming down hard making her drive very difficult. Her car hits a fence post and goes down a steep hill. She tries with everything she has to make it out up the hill but her previous injuries makes this task impossible.
Jack West owns the Cimarron Ranch, he’s driving up the road to drop some feed off for his cows when he notices a car off the road berried in the snow. Jack immediately goes down to see if there is anyone who needs help.
Janet had met Jack a while ago and he treated her badly and kicked her off of his property. This time around Jack was a whole different person. He treated her kindly and was so gentle yet strong when helping her back up to the road.
With more snow on the way, Janet has to stay at the Cimarron Ranch with jack a few days. Each day they seem to get more attracted to each other. Jack was EVERYTHING I want my hero’s to be, kind, thoughtful and caring not to mention SEXY. He loved his wife but she died 7 years ago and as this story revolves we learn that life has its way of throwing just what you need right into your path.
There was just a bit of suspense added in, not as much as the usual Pamela Clare book. But you know what? It did not make one bit of difference to me.
It took a while for the heat to set in and there are reasons why for this. These scenes were VERY SENSUAL. I could really feel the attraction between them. Simply put, they were loving, tender, caring and sexy as hell.
The ending was FANTASTIC! I had a HUGE smile on my face, it could NOT have ended any better.
My overall thoughts are I’m SO DARN HAPPY I read this book. There was NEVER a moment I was bored. My heart and soul were engaged while reading this book. The characters and story line was phenomenal. All these reasons are why Pamela Clare is a MUST read author for me.
Special note : This is a part of a series, however I feel that it would read just fine as a standalone.
July 16, 2015
I read this one with an open mind even though I wasn't sure I was going to be interested in a romance between an "older" couple. But being Pamela Clare, I knew that she could make this both interesting...and hot! And she did!
This was about beautiful FBI special agent Janet Killeen, 45, and still-hunky-at 63, rancher Jack West. Both Janet and Jack appeared in a previous book(s) (was it First Strike and Skin Deep?) as minor characters--Jack threw her off his ranch at one point (the why is muddled in my mind...but no matter). Anyhow, Janet got shot in the hip in one of those books, which effectively ruined her career as a field agent. After lots of rehab, she's ready to start her new 'desk' assignment, but first she'd like a week of R&R at a B&B outside of Denver. But she didn't count on running into a wicked snowstorm in late September...
Janet...
Too late to turn around and find some lodging, Janet drives on, and in the back of her mind she recalls that Jack West's ranch is in the area. She can't possibly stop there, could she? Not after the way he treated her before...
I just love when Mother Nature makes the decision for you! Janet's car goes off the road, and guess who finds her a day later buried under the snow?
Jack...
Loved these two together! I especially loved Jack! Oh my, he was quite frisky for a guy of 63.:) These two had some serious chemistry going on. Loved most of Jack's internal dialogue (but why did he keep referring to himself as amigo?) Loved his experience and how self aware he was. Loved how devoted he was to his late wife. Loved how he handled the sometimes 'frail' Janet. This guy knew what he wanted and went for it. Loved how he was there for Janet as she rehabbed not only physically, but mentally. And loved how Janet got her mojo back!
Call me shallow but I imagined Jack to have a body like this...
Fans of Ms. Clare, you'll want to read this one. Don't shy away because it's about an 'older' couple. These two were hot together and Jack proved that 63 is not old! This guy had it goin' on.:) 4 1/2 stars
*ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an honest review
This was about beautiful FBI special agent Janet Killeen, 45, and still-hunky-at 63, rancher Jack West. Both Janet and Jack appeared in a previous book(s) (was it First Strike and Skin Deep?) as minor characters--Jack threw her off his ranch at one point (the why is muddled in my mind...but no matter). Anyhow, Janet got shot in the hip in one of those books, which effectively ruined her career as a field agent. After lots of rehab, she's ready to start her new 'desk' assignment, but first she'd like a week of R&R at a B&B outside of Denver. But she didn't count on running into a wicked snowstorm in late September...
Janet...
Too late to turn around and find some lodging, Janet drives on, and in the back of her mind she recalls that Jack West's ranch is in the area. She can't possibly stop there, could she? Not after the way he treated her before...
I just love when Mother Nature makes the decision for you! Janet's car goes off the road, and guess who finds her a day later buried under the snow?
Jack...
Loved these two together! I especially loved Jack! Oh my, he was quite frisky for a guy of 63.:) These two had some serious chemistry going on. Loved most of Jack's internal dialogue (but why did he keep referring to himself as amigo?) Loved his experience and how self aware he was. Loved how devoted he was to his late wife. Loved how he handled the sometimes 'frail' Janet. This guy knew what he wanted and went for it. Loved how he was there for Janet as she rehabbed not only physically, but mentally. And loved how Janet got her mojo back!
Call me shallow but I imagined Jack to have a body like this...
Fans of Ms. Clare, you'll want to read this one. Don't shy away because it's about an 'older' couple. These two were hot together and Jack proved that 63 is not old! This guy had it goin' on.:) 4 1/2 stars
*ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an honest review
March 27, 2018
Its not your typical “cookie cutter” type of couple. He’s a lot older, and she’s in her mid forties. And it worked, the love story was super sweet, no drama, no back and forth, very entertaining.
December 3, 2022
This is tough to say, because it’s REALLY difficult to find decent love stories with older couples, but this wasn’t my favorite. Jack (63) and Janet (45) met in a previous book. She, as an FBI agent and he, an asshole cowboy who kicks her off his ranch.
This is a second chance for Jack, he’s been a widower for 7 years after his high school sweetheart has passed. Janet hasn’t been lucky in love. She’s recovering from being shot, the bullet ripping through her body. She had to have multiple corrective surgeries, including one repairing her vaginal muscles and hip. This author doesn’t shy away from using correct terms for everything here. It was refreshing after reading so many ‘thrusting members’ and ‘swollen channels.’
I loved how sensitive Jack with Janet and her body insecurities. He’s beyond loving and respectful, it was refreshing after reading so many fake alpha males.
I wished the narrator (Kaleo Griffith) didn’t make Jack sound like an old grandpa. That was partially why it was difficult to enjoy. Nothing like listening to a sex scene with grandpa. I didn’t bother me that Jack isn't your typical 63-year-old. He’s super fit and healthy.
This is a second chance for Jack, he’s been a widower for 7 years after his high school sweetheart has passed. Janet hasn’t been lucky in love. She’s recovering from being shot, the bullet ripping through her body. She had to have multiple corrective surgeries, including one repairing her vaginal muscles and hip. This author doesn’t shy away from using correct terms for everything here. It was refreshing after reading so many ‘thrusting members’ and ‘swollen channels.’
I loved how sensitive Jack with Janet and her body insecurities. He’s beyond loving and respectful, it was refreshing after reading so many fake alpha males.
I wished the narrator (Kaleo Griffith) didn’t make Jack sound like an old grandpa. That was partially why it was difficult to enjoy. Nothing like listening to a sex scene with grandpa. I didn’t bother me that Jack isn't your typical 63-year-old. He’s super fit and healthy.
February 28, 2016
4 Second Chance at Love Stars!!
I totally fell in love with this couple and enjoyed their road to happiness. This book is a reminder that it's never to late in life to find love!! Jack is widower who's very sweet but has a hard edge when needed, he's a gentleman rancher with a hot, hard, toned body and at the age of sixty-three he's fallen in love for the second, and last time in his life. Janet is an FBI agent in her mid 40's and has been through a lot with an injury she received in the line of duty (Striking Distance) she is still recovering and has not nor may ever truly heal. Their romance starts slow but once they give into their mutual attraction their romance is on fire , let's just say that Jack is a very, very, virile and attentive lover!!
We get a bit of Nate, Megan, and sweet Emily from Skin Deep, there's a side story and I myself found that part of the book a bit slow. All in all, the romance and mystery side story were a bit predictable but still totally worth reading. We are treated to a truly heartwarming read, I'm so happy that Jack gets a second chance at love and we get a great little epilogue!!!
Looking forward to more "I-Team" action with Holly's story Seduction Game, due to be released on October, 20th 2015!!!
I totally fell in love with this couple and enjoyed their road to happiness. This book is a reminder that it's never to late in life to find love!! Jack is widower who's very sweet but has a hard edge when needed, he's a gentleman rancher with a hot, hard, toned body and at the age of sixty-three he's fallen in love for the second, and last time in his life. Janet is an FBI agent in her mid 40's and has been through a lot with an injury she received in the line of duty (Striking Distance) she is still recovering and has not nor may ever truly heal. Their romance starts slow but once they give into their mutual attraction their romance is on fire , let's just say that Jack is a very, very, virile and attentive lover!!
We get a bit of Nate, Megan, and sweet Emily from Skin Deep, there's a side story and I myself found that part of the book a bit slow. All in all, the romance and mystery side story were a bit predictable but still totally worth reading. We are treated to a truly heartwarming read, I'm so happy that Jack gets a second chance at love and we get a great little epilogue!!!
Looking forward to more "I-Team" action with Holly's story Seduction Game, due to be released on October, 20th 2015!!!
October 28, 2015
Soul Deep is a deeply romantic and incredibly sexy story. It was refreshing to read about Jack and Janet, a mature man and woman who don't play games, who know what they want, and do what they have to, to get it.
Just a note: This novella is part of the I-Team series (I-Team After Hours) but works perfectly as a standalone.
Just a note: This novella is part of the I-Team series (I-Team After Hours) but works perfectly as a standalone.
August 14, 2025
An I-Team After Hours novella and number 6.5 in the I-Team series by Pamela Clare. Janet Killeen is a 45 year old FBI agent who was injured in the line of duty. She is on her way to spend a few weeks in the mountains but due to a snow storm she gets stuck in a ditch instead. Rancher Jack West, Nate West's father Skin Deep, finds Janet and brings her to his ranch. They have met before but not under good circumstances. Jack threw Janet off his land the year before when she was trying to do her job Striking Distance.
A sweet but with some spice romance with an older couple. Jack is 63 and Janet is 18 years younger at 45. Jack had a wonderful and fulfilling life with his first wife but she has been gone for 7 years. I love this story! I love this entire series! This being a novella means it wasn't as long as her full length books but it didn't have that novella feel. I felt quite satisfied at the end and didn't feel like I missed anything with it being so short. It had the right balance of romance and suspense and moved at a fast but not too fast pace. I highly recommend this series and urge fans to check out the novellas in the series too.
If you're already a Pamela Clare fan, or interested in learning more about her and her books, be sure to stop by our Pamela Clare Fan Group here on Goodreads!
A sweet but with some spice romance with an older couple. Jack is 63 and Janet is 18 years younger at 45. Jack had a wonderful and fulfilling life with his first wife but she has been gone for 7 years. I love this story! I love this entire series! This being a novella means it wasn't as long as her full length books but it didn't have that novella feel. I felt quite satisfied at the end and didn't feel like I missed anything with it being so short. It had the right balance of romance and suspense and moved at a fast but not too fast pace. I highly recommend this series and urge fans to check out the novellas in the series too.
If you're already a Pamela Clare fan, or interested in learning more about her and her books, be sure to stop by our Pamela Clare Fan Group here on Goodreads!
November 19, 2017
Nope, nope and nope.
Sorry but any book in which the Hero claims he was raised in the 70s and "loves bush" is just not for me! It was just gross the way he said it. It made me feel she was having sex with grandpa - oh wait - SHE WAS!!!!
I appreciate older MCs (as I am in my late 40s). But I did not like this story. I found the constant "presence" of the dead wife disturbing. And he felt old. I know he was in great shape, but the way he talked was not youthful. And he talked entirely too much about his late wife.
Sorry but any book in which the Hero claims he was raised in the 70s and "loves bush" is just not for me! It was just gross the way he said it. It made me feel she was having sex with grandpa - oh wait - SHE WAS!!!!
I appreciate older MCs (as I am in my late 40s). But I did not like this story. I found the constant "presence" of the dead wife disturbing. And he felt old. I know he was in great shape, but the way he talked was not youthful. And he talked entirely too much about his late wife.
December 6, 2019
Reporting a rare sighting >>> A true silver fox!
Of 63 years, no less. And she's 45. I loved the combination. I wish we'd get more sexy, older alpha men.
They have a (small but) bad history from the last book when he'd evicted the h, an FBI agent who was doing her job, from his ranch.
In the interim, she had got shot in the pelvis, lost a lot of movement in her leg and lost a bf as well.
Now, her car ends up in a ditch near his ranch, one snowy day. He rescues her and invites her to spend the week on his ranch, to relax and recuperate.
They slowly navigate their way out of the awkwardness and we get a lot of formal 'sorrys' and 'thank yous' that was a tad irksome. The attraction is mutual and instantaneous. but we are made to wait for the sex. Lol.
I like both mcs. The h is strong but sweet; but the H is dayumm perfect!
Solid 4 stars!
A minor suspense is added for the fill-up but it gels well with the whole horses background. Horses are a small but essential part of their story as the h gains back her confidence with their help.
Still, I was just a little antsy/dissatisfied at some level even though the story was moving along very satisfactorily. Hmmm.
But the ending and the epilogue blew me away! Their connection gets super solid and almost unbearably sweet. Everything was perfect and I reached that place where one unconsciously smiles while reading, if you know what I mean.
And I was antsy no more! :)
Of 63 years, no less. And she's 45. I loved the combination. I wish we'd get more sexy, older alpha men.
They have a (small but) bad history from the last book when he'd evicted the h, an FBI agent who was doing her job, from his ranch.
In the interim, she had got shot in the pelvis, lost a lot of movement in her leg and lost a bf as well.
Now, her car ends up in a ditch near his ranch, one snowy day. He rescues her and invites her to spend the week on his ranch, to relax and recuperate.
They slowly navigate their way out of the awkwardness and we get a lot of formal 'sorrys' and 'thank yous' that was a tad irksome. The attraction is mutual and instantaneous. but we are made to wait for the sex. Lol.
I like both mcs. The h is strong but sweet; but the H is dayumm perfect!
Solid 4 stars!
A minor suspense is added for the fill-up but it gels well with the whole horses background. Horses are a small but essential part of their story as the h gains back her confidence with their help.
Still, I was just a little antsy/dissatisfied at some level even though the story was moving along very satisfactorily. Hmmm.
But the ending and the epilogue blew me away! Their connection gets super solid and almost unbearably sweet. Everything was perfect and I reached that place where one unconsciously smiles while reading, if you know what I mean.
And I was antsy no more! :)
July 10, 2015
It's not often a novella is a 4.5 read for me. As usual, Pamela Clare's incredible talent shines. Kudos Pamela for including two out-of-the-norm MC's whose age you don't normally find in today's romantic tales...(Jack is 63 and Janet in her 40s)!
A totally engaging, sexy read! I loved it!
A totally engaging, sexy read! I loved it!
August 21, 2016
FBI Agent Janet Killeen is recovering from the devastating injury she suffered from a sniper's bullet. On her way to her vacation site, she gets stranded on the road when a bad snow storm suddenly sets in. She's discovered by Jack West as her car ended up near his ranch. Forced to wait out the storm for a few days, Janet settles in and gets to know the gruff man who once ordered her off his property.
I really enjoyed this mature romance. While we knew Jack was a good man from earlier stories, we didn't know much about Janet other than her brave actions that resulted in her career threatening injury. Her emotional and physical recovery set the tone for the story, coupled with Jack's sensitivity. It's a good story with some highly romantic moments.
There was a bit of mystery and suspense but the main focus was on the two people finding relationship in their later years in life. The ending was a little sappy but it worked. And, again, Kaleo Griffin's narration just made it even better.
I really enjoyed this mature romance. While we knew Jack was a good man from earlier stories, we didn't know much about Janet other than her brave actions that resulted in her career threatening injury. Her emotional and physical recovery set the tone for the story, coupled with Jack's sensitivity. It's a good story with some highly romantic moments.
There was a bit of mystery and suspense but the main focus was on the two people finding relationship in their later years in life. The ending was a little sappy but it worked. And, again, Kaleo Griffin's narration just made it even better.
November 1, 2015
This is a breath of fresh air!
I truly adored this book and adored that the main characters were older. Nowadays , MOST novels' H&H are in their 20’s and 30’s – AND! that can be tiring at times. So to read this and to see that older couple were showcased – not being portrayed as just mums and dads (or grandparents) in the sidelines, was indeed a breath of fresh air.
Jack. Oh Jack. You are a very caring individual. I had to check many times that Ms Clare has indeed written this character intended for a man coz what flows out from you, would normally come only from a woman (Sorry male species, but thats the truth!) You’re caring. You’re sweet. You’re sensitive. You know your way around the kitchen. You think ahead. You...YOU, sir are perfect, sexy and can sweep off any woman’s feet.
Janet. You didn’t come across as a strong character but I liked you just the same. My only complain to you and only because I think it didn’t fit well with your character was when you kept saying F* me during your intimacy with Jack. For me saying make love to me is MORE appropriate as you don't strike me as the raunchy type.
Nate, Megan and Miss Emily - sucha delight to see your brief appearances here. And the unexpected little surprise was indeed welcoming.
All in all this was well written.
Jack, for me, WAS the story and I’m real glad I read this and gotten to know him better.
Verdict: Highly Recommended
Rating: 4 stars
I truly adored this book and adored that the main characters were older. Nowadays , MOST novels' H&H are in their 20’s and 30’s – AND! that can be tiring at times. So to read this and to see that older couple were showcased – not being portrayed as just mums and dads (or grandparents) in the sidelines, was indeed a breath of fresh air.
Jack. Oh Jack. You are a very caring individual. I had to check many times that Ms Clare has indeed written this character intended for a man coz what flows out from you, would normally come only from a woman (Sorry male species, but thats the truth!) You’re caring. You’re sweet. You’re sensitive. You know your way around the kitchen. You think ahead. You...YOU, sir are perfect, sexy and can sweep off any woman’s feet.
Janet. You didn’t come across as a strong character but I liked you just the same. My only complain to you and only because I think it didn’t fit well with your character was when you kept saying F* me during your intimacy with Jack. For me saying make love to me is MORE appropriate as you don't strike me as the raunchy type.
Nate, Megan and Miss Emily - sucha delight to see your brief appearances here. And the unexpected little surprise was indeed welcoming.
All in all this was well written.
Jack, for me, WAS the story and I’m real glad I read this and gotten to know him better.
Verdict: Highly Recommended
Rating: 4 stars
August 28, 2015
This is one of the best novellas I've ever read. Pamela Clare has done it again! Just when I thought it couldn't get any better, it did! I really love her books because her writing is always excellent. Her writing style has me hooked, from the first page till the end.
The dialogue in this story sounded so natural and the main characters, both Jack and Janet, were incredibly charming. They made me smile, laugh, and cry, like I was right there with them throughout this entire book.
I loved the way they attracted to each other although there was an 18 year age difference between them, it wasn't a problem. Jack was a good and straightforward guy so that was why he had never hidden his feelings for Janet. The chemistry between them was so beautiful!
I enjoyed reading every single page of this book. It's worth reading!
I loved it!!!
The dialogue in this story sounded so natural and the main characters, both Jack and Janet, were incredibly charming. They made me smile, laugh, and cry, like I was right there with them throughout this entire book.
I loved the way they attracted to each other although there was an 18 year age difference between them, it wasn't a problem. Jack was a good and straightforward guy so that was why he had never hidden his feelings for Janet. The chemistry between them was so beautiful!
I enjoyed reading every single page of this book. It's worth reading!
I loved it!!!
July 6, 2015
I want to say welcome back PC and big squishy hug for all that you have been through. I was thrilled to see an older couple romance, Janet is 45 and Jack is 63. I thought that their romance was hot and the surprise ending was even lovelier. Some people may have an issue with it, but I was thrilled for them both. Jack kicked Janet off his property in the last PC book. Now not far from his property line, she gets stranded in an early Colorado snowstorm. Jack rescues her and then figures out the spark between them isn't all from the warmth of the fireplace. Wonderful read about second chances and never giving up hope for love.
January 18, 2025
My Review:
Soul Deep was such a endearing poignant read with all the thrilling swoony moments you can expect from Pamela Clare. Pamela Clare is just one of those authors that I adore and I have enjoyed most of her books. Its rare for me to come across one I don't care for. I was able to grab this one up in audio. I was so intrigued to see what this one would deliver. All I knew before coming into this one is that it featured an older couple and the heroine suffered a physical trauma.
The setup is the heroine, is a FBI agent, and she has loved her career although part of her has craved a family at times. But a career gives her stability, when a husband isn't guaranteed. While I struggle with this type of perspective from women, Pamela Clare made it resonate in a real way. I loved how she made it seem relatable even though that is not how I think for life for myself. She ends up stranded on the side of the road, and a sexy mature cowboy comes to her rescue, a man who isn't a big fan of hers. Janet is a woman that despite being focused on her career, is suffered from a severe trauma where she got shot and it damaged her hip and vagina even. Then we have our hero, who is a widow and father to a son who helps him run his ranch. He has been alone for a while now and being in such close proximity to Janet, makes him realize what he has been missing in his life.
Janet and Jack's relationship was heartwarming and thrilling all at once. I loved the suspense plot that builds in the story, but also seeing their romance, a romance between a mature age couple was superb and that ending...LOVED it! Overall I had a blast with Soul Deep and eager to dig deeper into this series.
Soul Deep was such a endearing poignant read with all the thrilling swoony moments you can expect from Pamela Clare. Pamela Clare is just one of those authors that I adore and I have enjoyed most of her books. Its rare for me to come across one I don't care for. I was able to grab this one up in audio. I was so intrigued to see what this one would deliver. All I knew before coming into this one is that it featured an older couple and the heroine suffered a physical trauma.
The setup is the heroine, is a FBI agent, and she has loved her career although part of her has craved a family at times. But a career gives her stability, when a husband isn't guaranteed. While I struggle with this type of perspective from women, Pamela Clare made it resonate in a real way. I loved how she made it seem relatable even though that is not how I think for life for myself. She ends up stranded on the side of the road, and a sexy mature cowboy comes to her rescue, a man who isn't a big fan of hers. Janet is a woman that despite being focused on her career, is suffered from a severe trauma where she got shot and it damaged her hip and vagina even. Then we have our hero, who is a widow and father to a son who helps him run his ranch. He has been alone for a while now and being in such close proximity to Janet, makes him realize what he has been missing in his life.
Janet and Jack's relationship was heartwarming and thrilling all at once. I loved the suspense plot that builds in the story, but also seeing their romance, a romance between a mature age couple was superb and that ending...LOVED it! Overall I had a blast with Soul Deep and eager to dig deeper into this series.
July 2, 2015
There isn't a Pamela Clare book that I dislike. She is such a great writer and tells the best stories. This is a woman who has had a rough time over the last year or so yet managed to write this beautiful love story.
This is the story of Jack West (Nate's father) and SA Kileen from Laura and Javier's book. Janet is 18 years younger than Jack but don't let that stop you from reading this book. Jack is well, Jack so that should be enough. He's a loving father and grandfather and an all around wonderful man. He's loved one woman his entire life and then he got to know Janet, whom he came to love.
Janet was shot and severely injured in the previous book and now has to sit a desk job at the FBI, which she already knows she is going to hate. She's taking a week to relax in the mountains before starting her new job. A slight accident leads her to staying at the Cimarron, Jack's ranch. And that, as they say, is history. :)
Jack and Janet truly get to know one another, while solving mysterious happenings at the ranch. Jack is so loving and patient with Janet. It is a very sweet love story.
The ending was a bit predictable but it was my favorite kind of ending so I had no problems with it whatsoever. I thought it was great!
Even though I am not a fan of promiscuous heroines, I am looking forward to Holly's story, cause, well, it is Pamela! :)
This is the story of Jack West (Nate's father) and SA Kileen from Laura and Javier's book. Janet is 18 years younger than Jack but don't let that stop you from reading this book. Jack is well, Jack so that should be enough. He's a loving father and grandfather and an all around wonderful man. He's loved one woman his entire life and then he got to know Janet, whom he came to love.
Janet was shot and severely injured in the previous book and now has to sit a desk job at the FBI, which she already knows she is going to hate. She's taking a week to relax in the mountains before starting her new job. A slight accident leads her to staying at the Cimarron, Jack's ranch. And that, as they say, is history. :)
Jack and Janet truly get to know one another, while solving mysterious happenings at the ranch. Jack is so loving and patient with Janet. It is a very sweet love story.
The ending was a bit predictable but it was my favorite kind of ending so I had no problems with it whatsoever. I thought it was great!
Even though I am not a fan of promiscuous heroines, I am looking forward to Holly's story, cause, well, it is Pamela! :)
July 13, 2015
4-4 ½ stars – Contemporary Romance
January 10, 2019
Mñe, puede que más por problema mío que del libro, pero es que no me interesaba nada la historia, una mera excusa para decirte que existen hombre mayores que están de toma pan y moja que pueden mojar el churro. Los personajes son un encanto pero es que la trama... Mñe. Y encima, con punto cursi. Megamñe 😂
September 19, 2015
Deep and Soulful Series
When it comes to romantic suspense, the I-Team series is as good as it gets. Of course i gobbled up this novella, 6.5 in the series.
This story involves Jack West, rancher from Skin Deep, and Janet Killeen, FBI special agent from Striking Distance. Jack and Janet are related to I-Team heroes and heroines: Jack's the father of Nate West, wounded vet from Afghanistan who falls in love with Megan Hunter, and Janet got shot while protecting reporter Laura Nilsson. Jack and Janet met once before, when Jack threw her off his ranch. So when Janet's car crashes in a snowstorm on a desolate highway near Jack's ranch, his help is the last she wants to seek.
But her disability from the gunshot wounds makes surviving the storm tenuous for Janet. Luckily, Jack notices her vehicle on the side of the road and comes to her rescue. To her surprise, he behaves like a gracious gentleman. He offers his place for her respite, and she's surprised again when she agrees to stay.
She took a bite of the chili, then stared at him in surprise. "This is really good."
"Damned straight it is. I'd feign modesty, but why bother?"
That made her smile, little dimples appearing in her cheeks.
The age of the characters is a unique aspect: Jack is 63 and Janet is 45. It's typically difficult for me to swallow large age differences between romantic partners, because I question what they have in common, coming from different generations. I think Pamela Clare pulls off a credible romance, despite the age difference. I also give her kudos for exploring a romance between older characters.
Jack explains to his son Nate:
"When you get to be my age, son, you don't have a lot of time for bullshit. I can't explain it. She and I just clicked. How long were you and Megan together before you knew you were in love with her?"
Nate opened his mouth, shut it, looked at the floor.
"Exactly."
Can't wait for Seduction Game!
When it comes to romantic suspense, the I-Team series is as good as it gets. Of course i gobbled up this novella, 6.5 in the series.
This story involves Jack West, rancher from Skin Deep, and Janet Killeen, FBI special agent from Striking Distance. Jack and Janet are related to I-Team heroes and heroines: Jack's the father of Nate West, wounded vet from Afghanistan who falls in love with Megan Hunter, and Janet got shot while protecting reporter Laura Nilsson. Jack and Janet met once before, when Jack threw her off his ranch. So when Janet's car crashes in a snowstorm on a desolate highway near Jack's ranch, his help is the last she wants to seek.
But her disability from the gunshot wounds makes surviving the storm tenuous for Janet. Luckily, Jack notices her vehicle on the side of the road and comes to her rescue. To her surprise, he behaves like a gracious gentleman. He offers his place for her respite, and she's surprised again when she agrees to stay.
She took a bite of the chili, then stared at him in surprise. "This is really good."
"Damned straight it is. I'd feign modesty, but why bother?"
That made her smile, little dimples appearing in her cheeks.
The age of the characters is a unique aspect: Jack is 63 and Janet is 45. It's typically difficult for me to swallow large age differences between romantic partners, because I question what they have in common, coming from different generations. I think Pamela Clare pulls off a credible romance, despite the age difference. I also give her kudos for exploring a romance between older characters.
Jack explains to his son Nate:
"When you get to be my age, son, you don't have a lot of time for bullshit. I can't explain it. She and I just clicked. How long were you and Megan together before you knew you were in love with her?"
Nate opened his mouth, shut it, looked at the floor.
"Exactly."
Can't wait for Seduction Game!
April 25, 2016
FBI agent Janet Killeen needed some R&R to mentally and physically heal from the last work assignment that left her body shredded by bullets. Unfortunately for her, she got caught in a serious snowstorm and was rescued Rancher Jack West.
This time on the Jack's ranch allowed Janet to try to redefine herself given some of her physical limitations. It allowed Jack to realize there is life after the death of his wife of 38 years. This was a journey of second chances!
I liked this story because Jack never treated Janet like an invalid. He expected her to work hard, and he didn't really pull his punches. It showed respect and allowed Janet to keep her dignity and self respect. It was pretty sweet watching this two put their painful past behind them and forge a new life together.
I will admit that I didn't remember either one from the prior books, so I had to do a little research. I do now remember Janet, but I think I would have enjoyed this book the same without the background information. I really appreciate every installment of this series leaves me feeling hopeful. The characters always seem to overcome their tragedies and get to the other side more optimistic about their lives. Even though it was a tad predictable, it was still enjoyable.
*Special thanks to Tantor audio for the audiobook given in exchange for an honest review.
This time on the Jack's ranch allowed Janet to try to redefine herself given some of her physical limitations. It allowed Jack to realize there is life after the death of his wife of 38 years. This was a journey of second chances!
I liked this story because Jack never treated Janet like an invalid. He expected her to work hard, and he didn't really pull his punches. It showed respect and allowed Janet to keep her dignity and self respect. It was pretty sweet watching this two put their painful past behind them and forge a new life together.
I will admit that I didn't remember either one from the prior books, so I had to do a little research. I do now remember Janet, but I think I would have enjoyed this book the same without the background information. I really appreciate every installment of this series leaves me feeling hopeful. The characters always seem to overcome their tragedies and get to the other side more optimistic about their lives. Even though it was a tad predictable, it was still enjoyable.
*Special thanks to Tantor audio for the audiobook given in exchange for an honest review.
April 20, 2021
I have revisited this one numerous times in audiobook format. The reading is excellent.
The story is too. Along with the romance there is also the mystery of who shot the bullet that grazed Jack's prized stallion.
Jack is just SOooo romantic!
...original review...
Jack and Janet. I kinda wished I read the story where these characters first connected before this one. But it's not necessary. This book was perfect just as it was!
Janet is an FBI agent just about recovered (as she'll ever be) from a bullet wound from her last assignment. I really like that the author treats a bullet wound with the realism it deserves! It's not like she'll be up and about a couple weeks later kicking bad-guy ass. Anyways, she is trying to make it up to highland Colorado to see the fall Aspens when an early blizzard causes her to drive off the road into a ditch just near Jacks's land. Jack and Janet have met before and it wasn't cordial, to say the least. So she is less than happy to find that she ends up at his place waiting out the weather. Jack, however, is not what she expected. He's 63 and she is 45. I love May/Dec romances, and this one is well done. There's concern on his part that he's too old, but then again, at that age he figures, what do you have to lose? Like all Pamela Clare stories, there is intrigue and suspense, but also romance. Her characters tend to be more practical and less likely to have TSTL moments. Janet is at a crossroads in her life. She can no longer do the job she loves because of her injury and deplores the idea of being a desk jockey. Jack has had a blessed life, but lost his wife 7 years earlier. There's no vilifying of the previous spouse, but at the same time, you never feel that Janet is second best. Truly a sweet read that I enjoyed very much!
The story is too. Along with the romance there is also the mystery of who shot the bullet that grazed Jack's prized stallion.
Jack is just SOooo romantic!
...original review...
Jack and Janet. I kinda wished I read the story where these characters first connected before this one. But it's not necessary. This book was perfect just as it was!
Janet is an FBI agent just about recovered (as she'll ever be) from a bullet wound from her last assignment. I really like that the author treats a bullet wound with the realism it deserves! It's not like she'll be up and about a couple weeks later kicking bad-guy ass. Anyways, she is trying to make it up to highland Colorado to see the fall Aspens when an early blizzard causes her to drive off the road into a ditch just near Jacks's land. Jack and Janet have met before and it wasn't cordial, to say the least. So she is less than happy to find that she ends up at his place waiting out the weather. Jack, however, is not what she expected. He's 63 and she is 45. I love May/Dec romances, and this one is well done. There's concern on his part that he's too old, but then again, at that age he figures, what do you have to lose? Like all Pamela Clare stories, there is intrigue and suspense, but also romance. Her characters tend to be more practical and less likely to have TSTL moments. Janet is at a crossroads in her life. She can no longer do the job she loves because of her injury and deplores the idea of being a desk jockey. Jack has had a blessed life, but lost his wife 7 years earlier. There's no vilifying of the previous spouse, but at the same time, you never feel that Janet is second best. Truly a sweet read that I enjoyed very much!
February 6, 2018
Better than I thought it was going to be. 3.5 stars
It’s just sweet and so very comfy.
I like the growing family that Jack has, and how Nate is happy with his father moving on.
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level? Other things to note?
Tears-worthy?
Humor?
Favorite scenes?
What age level would be appropriate?
It’s just sweet and so very comfy.
I like the growing family that Jack has, and how Nate is happy with his father moving on.
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level? Other things to note?
Tears-worthy?
Humor?
Favorite scenes?
What age level would be appropriate?
June 30, 2015
The last time Janet saw Jack West he was throwing her off his property. She was trying to do her job and keep the woman she was responsible for safe and he found the idea of her wanting to meet with each man on his ranch insulting. Now she was driving by the ranch in a blinding snow storm; and instead of asking for shelter she kept on driving. Then she was in a ditch.
I stayed up to 2am, I could not put it down.
I found Janet to be a strong independent woman in Striking Distance; and that respect grew even more in this novella. Janet has suffered so much since being shot while protecting Laura (Striking Distance), her life has changed and she is trying to adjust. One thing about the Cimarron it helps you heal.
Jack. Well I think the only one who sees his age of 63 years and thinks of him as older is Jack. Every time this man is on a page I see hero all over him and the age has no baring. He is strong, sensitive, caring, handsome and has a melt your heart quality. Age is just a number when you think of Jack and he can give many a contemporary hero competition in many "Best" categories. He is a cowboy through and through and that is my favorite part of him.
Yes Jack is in his sixties and Janet is in her later forties but do not think this is a mild romance. That man can kiss and a few other things too that might melt your e-reader.
The plot is concise; as all Pamela Clare plots are; and crafted. Not a detail wasted. Readers like me who log minute details in their head as they read will be so happy with all the small things for us to enjoy. My favorite part - the majority of this book (yes I know it is classified a novella - but come on it's 174 pages!) is on the ranch and we get to just relax. It is sort of a virtual get away; Pamela Clare writes about the Cimarron and I just feel relaxed like I am up there among the aspens and horses.
This is truly one of the best novella's I have ever read and definitely the best in 2015! If you are not a fan of Pamela Clare's I-Team (WHY NOT - they are wonderful) you will not be lost - there is enough backstory that anyone new to the series will be able to follow (and THEN you will go out and read the rest!). These I-Team after hours novellas are a wonderful way for us to catch-up with all of our favorite characters, I am thankful that Pamela Clare is giving us this wonderful gift. I will stay up late to read everyone!
I purchased this novella immediately after I saw it was released.
I stayed up to 2am, I could not put it down.
I found Janet to be a strong independent woman in Striking Distance; and that respect grew even more in this novella. Janet has suffered so much since being shot while protecting Laura (Striking Distance), her life has changed and she is trying to adjust. One thing about the Cimarron it helps you heal.
Jack. Well I think the only one who sees his age of 63 years and thinks of him as older is Jack. Every time this man is on a page I see hero all over him and the age has no baring. He is strong, sensitive, caring, handsome and has a melt your heart quality. Age is just a number when you think of Jack and he can give many a contemporary hero competition in many "Best" categories. He is a cowboy through and through and that is my favorite part of him.
Yes Jack is in his sixties and Janet is in her later forties but do not think this is a mild romance. That man can kiss and a few other things too that might melt your e-reader.
The plot is concise; as all Pamela Clare plots are; and crafted. Not a detail wasted. Readers like me who log minute details in their head as they read will be so happy with all the small things for us to enjoy. My favorite part - the majority of this book (yes I know it is classified a novella - but come on it's 174 pages!) is on the ranch and we get to just relax. It is sort of a virtual get away; Pamela Clare writes about the Cimarron and I just feel relaxed like I am up there among the aspens and horses.
This is truly one of the best novella's I have ever read and definitely the best in 2015! If you are not a fan of Pamela Clare's I-Team (WHY NOT - they are wonderful) you will not be lost - there is enough backstory that anyone new to the series will be able to follow (and THEN you will go out and read the rest!). These I-Team after hours novellas are a wonderful way for us to catch-up with all of our favorite characters, I am thankful that Pamela Clare is giving us this wonderful gift. I will stay up late to read everyone!
I purchased this novella immediately after I saw it was released.
July 29, 2015
It was really hard not to love this one from the start. From past stories Jack was a favorite, as was the Cimarron Ranch. The ranch seems to be a secret place of healing, something Janet sorely needed.
I had to laugh at how Janet and Jack met and how reluctant Janet was to seek help from Jack at the ranch. I sure wouldn't have sat in the snow all night long. I did like that Jack didn't let the first meeting stop him from helping Janet or welcoming her in his home. The quiet way that the two of them got to know each other was great! With each interaction building I found myself hoping for more and more with them, to the point when it did I was cheering.
I laughed as Jack told Nate about Janet and what was going on. Laughed more as each man later shared some common info with the other.
I really hope that we get to see more of this couple in future books, check-in's to see what new is happening on the ranch.
I had to laugh at how Janet and Jack met and how reluctant Janet was to seek help from Jack at the ranch. I sure wouldn't have sat in the snow all night long. I did like that Jack didn't let the first meeting stop him from helping Janet or welcoming her in his home. The quiet way that the two of them got to know each other was great! With each interaction building I found myself hoping for more and more with them, to the point when it did I was cheering.
I laughed as Jack told Nate about Janet and what was going on. Laughed more as each man later shared some common info with the other.
I really hope that we get to see more of this couple in future books, check-in's to see what new is happening on the ranch.
December 31, 2023
First read: Oct 2015
OLD PEOPLE GETTING FRISKY AYOOO
sigh. I love the slow burn between Jack and Janet. I LOVE.
Reread: Aug 2017
I've reread this novella more times than I could count, tbh. It's just a sweet second chance romance + bonding with horses + a bit of crime solving thrown in.
Also, shelving this one in May-Dec trope shelf is a bit pushing it because they both aren't exactly young (Jack's 63, Janet's 45) but the 18 year age gap still count, and Jack isn't exactly the typical single father in romance since his only son is in his mid thirties lmao anyway I still love Jack and Janet very much #couplegoals-
Reread: January 2021
WHY AM I SINGLE-
OLD PEOPLE GETTING FRISKY AYOOO
sigh. I love the slow burn between Jack and Janet. I LOVE.
Reread: Aug 2017
I've reread this novella more times than I could count, tbh. It's just a sweet second chance romance + bonding with horses + a bit of crime solving thrown in.
Also, shelving this one in May-Dec trope shelf is a bit pushing it because they both aren't exactly young (Jack's 63, Janet's 45) but the 18 year age gap still count, and Jack isn't exactly the typical single father in romance since his only son is in his mid thirties lmao anyway I still love Jack and Janet very much #couplegoals-
Reread: January 2021
WHY AM I SINGLE-
July 16, 2015
4.5 stars. Beautiful because the characters are not only likable, but admirable. The emotional ties are very strong and Pamela Clare does a brilliant job of weaving their lives together. Needless to say, the characters' maturity gives the story another dimension. No silliness, just conviction. Deeply satisfying.
Want to read
July 1, 2015A copy of the book was provided by Victory Editing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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