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Lone Star Burn Universe
Heartstrings
*This title is out of print*
Ryan Ward is desperate to escape her soul-sucking life. Between catering to the work demands of her ambitious father, a popular Washington senator, and extricating herself from her abusive ex-boyfriend, Ryan yearns for the life of which she once dreamed: that of a country singer/songwriter. But how does one of Washington’s elite shed the slimy skin of politics for cowboy boots and a Taylor six-string? And can she do it incognito?
Slade McCall traded money for passion when he left his high six-figure income for a Texas ranch to indulge in his love of the land and, more importantly, his autistic young daughter. With an intractable ex-wife and ranch demands beating him down, the last thing Slade needs in his life is a troubled woman with a fading black eye, the voice of an angel, and a dubious past. But when need outweighs common sense, he hires the would-be country singer for a short stint of housework at the ranch.
Ryan and Slade know tangling their hearts is a bad idea—she has a past to escape and a dream to pursue, and he has a ranch to build and a daughter to protect. But they can’t deny their desires or their hearts, and as their love strengthens it is put to the test. Someone is intent on physical harm, and Slade’s ex is determined to reconcile. Will the pressures destroy what Ryan and Slade have started to build? Or will they follow the sounds . . . of their Heartstrings . . .
Ryan Ward is desperate to escape her soul-sucking life. Between catering to the work demands of her ambitious father, a popular Washington senator, and extricating herself from her abusive ex-boyfriend, Ryan yearns for the life of which she once dreamed: that of a country singer/songwriter. But how does one of Washington’s elite shed the slimy skin of politics for cowboy boots and a Taylor six-string? And can she do it incognito?
Slade McCall traded money for passion when he left his high six-figure income for a Texas ranch to indulge in his love of the land and, more importantly, his autistic young daughter. With an intractable ex-wife and ranch demands beating him down, the last thing Slade needs in his life is a troubled woman with a fading black eye, the voice of an angel, and a dubious past. But when need outweighs common sense, he hires the would-be country singer for a short stint of housework at the ranch.
Ryan and Slade know tangling their hearts is a bad idea—she has a past to escape and a dream to pursue, and he has a ranch to build and a daughter to protect. But they can’t deny their desires or their hearts, and as their love strengthens it is put to the test. Someone is intent on physical harm, and Slade’s ex is determined to reconcile. Will the pressures destroy what Ryan and Slade have started to build? Or will they follow the sounds . . . of their Heartstrings . . .
135 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 7, 2016
3 people are currently reading
43 people want to read
About the author
Casey Hagen
65 books2,118 followersUSA Today Bestselling author Casey Hagen pens her stories from the salty air of Kennebunk, Maine. She's the author of over 30 books that would make your mama raise her eyebrows if she caught you reading them!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
August 26, 2017
Lone Star Burn: Heartstrings
By Casey Hagen
Lovely, heartwarming and entertaining – this was a delightful story to read today!
Running from an abusive boyfriend, manipulative father and life she does not want Ryan finds herself in trouble at Lucifer’s bar after singing on stage. To her rescue comes Slade. Slade has a new ranch, slightly autistic daughter and more work on his plate than most.
What I liked:
* Ryan’s strength, warmth, caring and heart
* Slade’s commitment to his daughter, willingness to help others and inner strength
* Myra – housekeeper/cook extraordinaire with a pithy way of saying things
* The comeuppance Lisa (ex-wife) and Cutter (the bad guy) eventually faced
* Ivy – the daughter with a heart of gold
* Well…all of it!
What I didn’t like:
* Can’t think of anything except the fact that I was not ready to say goodbye to the characters or the story!
Thank you to NK Author Services for the copy to read – this is my honest review.
5 Stars
By Casey Hagen
Lovely, heartwarming and entertaining – this was a delightful story to read today!
Running from an abusive boyfriend, manipulative father and life she does not want Ryan finds herself in trouble at Lucifer’s bar after singing on stage. To her rescue comes Slade. Slade has a new ranch, slightly autistic daughter and more work on his plate than most.
What I liked:
* Ryan’s strength, warmth, caring and heart
* Slade’s commitment to his daughter, willingness to help others and inner strength
* Myra – housekeeper/cook extraordinaire with a pithy way of saying things
* The comeuppance Lisa (ex-wife) and Cutter (the bad guy) eventually faced
* Ivy – the daughter with a heart of gold
* Well…all of it!
What I didn’t like:
* Can’t think of anything except the fact that I was not ready to say goodbye to the characters or the story!
Thank you to NK Author Services for the copy to read – this is my honest review.
5 Stars
June 11, 2016
I LOVED this book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I haven't used such a simple title to a review in so long - I can't help it, it's that simple, I loved this book!
The storyline was written extremely well, which in turn had you glued immediately. It's truly amazing how well the author gives you such an excellent read in less than 150 pages. She gives you an action packed story that a lot of 300 page stories have lacked. And because of my greedy needs - I would love for the story to continue because there is one aspect of Ryan's life that she didn't go into depth with. *hint hint
“I spent a lifetime protecting my heart, afraid it would break apart, you’ve had it from the start…Heartstrings.”
This a beautiful love story of a man who went from Cooperate America to being a Cowboy and then he meets an unknown who is also not a "rancher" either. This book made me laugh out loud, gave me angst, and left me feeling fulfilled - There is also some steam involved that one romance reader does not want to miss. Let's just say, some woman would fantasize and swoon! GAH! Have I said I love this book.
"Her rosy skin begged to be touched. Tasted. Savored. She was going to leave. Soon. Heaven help him, he wanted this, at least this, before she went."
This is the first time I have ever read anything from this author and going forward I will be sure to continue to read more of her books. She's a smart writer, you can see it clearly in how she executed the flow of the story - Well Done, I'm a very happy reader! Must Read!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I haven't used such a simple title to a review in so long - I can't help it, it's that simple, I loved this book!
The storyline was written extremely well, which in turn had you glued immediately. It's truly amazing how well the author gives you such an excellent read in less than 150 pages. She gives you an action packed story that a lot of 300 page stories have lacked. And because of my greedy needs - I would love for the story to continue because there is one aspect of Ryan's life that she didn't go into depth with. *hint hint
“I spent a lifetime protecting my heart, afraid it would break apart, you’ve had it from the start…Heartstrings.”
This a beautiful love story of a man who went from Cooperate America to being a Cowboy and then he meets an unknown who is also not a "rancher" either. This book made me laugh out loud, gave me angst, and left me feeling fulfilled - There is also some steam involved that one romance reader does not want to miss. Let's just say, some woman would fantasize and swoon! GAH! Have I said I love this book.
"Her rosy skin begged to be touched. Tasted. Savored. She was going to leave. Soon. Heaven help him, he wanted this, at least this, before she went."
This is the first time I have ever read anything from this author and going forward I will be sure to continue to read more of her books. She's a smart writer, you can see it clearly in how she executed the flow of the story - Well Done, I'm a very happy reader! Must Read!!
June 12, 2016
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I read this one right after reading Judy Kentrus’ Lone Star Burn Kindle World novella. I don’t know if it’s a requirement for Kindle World novellas but the storyline was a bit similar. However, even if they sounded so alike, the characters from the above-mentioned novella and this one were very individual that even though the story line have a few similarities, I didn’t confuse the characters that I was reading. Which, considering that I am so bad at remembering names is a plus because I tend to easily mix up characters.
I love reading this kindle world because it gave me a glimpse at my favorite characters from my favorite author which to me made them sound more real. That aside, the author did a wonderful job with her characters that I pulled into them as well. I also like the bit of diversity with Ivy’s condition although it wasn’t very obvious that you could easily forget about it as you read along. It would have been nice if the author showed a little bit more of what it’s like and showed how to better understand her condition. But since it’s a novella, there was probably not enough room to do that.
All in all, I can say I like the story and I’d sure like to give the other novels of this author a try.
I read this one right after reading Judy Kentrus’ Lone Star Burn Kindle World novella. I don’t know if it’s a requirement for Kindle World novellas but the storyline was a bit similar. However, even if they sounded so alike, the characters from the above-mentioned novella and this one were very individual that even though the story line have a few similarities, I didn’t confuse the characters that I was reading. Which, considering that I am so bad at remembering names is a plus because I tend to easily mix up characters.
I love reading this kindle world because it gave me a glimpse at my favorite characters from my favorite author which to me made them sound more real. That aside, the author did a wonderful job with her characters that I pulled into them as well. I also like the bit of diversity with Ivy’s condition although it wasn’t very obvious that you could easily forget about it as you read along. It would have been nice if the author showed a little bit more of what it’s like and showed how to better understand her condition. But since it’s a novella, there was probably not enough room to do that.
All in all, I can say I like the story and I’d sure like to give the other novels of this author a try.
July 15, 2016
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
This book was so flippen sweet.
Ryan was a rich senators daughter who ran away because her boyfriend who happens to be her fathers PR Person hit her. So she just packed up and left. She was working in a bar waiting tables and also singing when she tried to help one of her fellow waitresses who was being harassed by a customer. The customer then turned ugly and that's how she met Slade McCall (even his name is sexy)
Slade hot cowboy comes to Ryan's rescue when said customer was literally choking her. So he helps Ryan but he doesn't have time for a serious relationship as he has a ranch that needs looking after as well as a autistic daughter that needs her father.
So Ryan loses her job and while Slade and his daughter is out shopping for a horse he runs into her again and offers her a job. Ryan is only staying until she has enough money to move and pursue her music. However she didn't count on getting so close to Slade and his daughter
This book was a true romance book. And Ryan's journey of looking for a place that she can call her home. And Slade didn't know what he was looking for until he met Ryan.
Short and Sweet and a bit of heartache
Review done on behalf of Book Boyfriends and Bookgasms
This book was so flippen sweet.
Ryan was a rich senators daughter who ran away because her boyfriend who happens to be her fathers PR Person hit her. So she just packed up and left. She was working in a bar waiting tables and also singing when she tried to help one of her fellow waitresses who was being harassed by a customer. The customer then turned ugly and that's how she met Slade McCall (even his name is sexy)
Slade hot cowboy comes to Ryan's rescue when said customer was literally choking her. So he helps Ryan but he doesn't have time for a serious relationship as he has a ranch that needs looking after as well as a autistic daughter that needs her father.
So Ryan loses her job and while Slade and his daughter is out shopping for a horse he runs into her again and offers her a job. Ryan is only staying until she has enough money to move and pursue her music. However she didn't count on getting so close to Slade and his daughter
This book was a true romance book. And Ryan's journey of looking for a place that she can call her home. And Slade didn't know what he was looking for until he met Ryan.
Short and Sweet and a bit of heartache
Review done on behalf of Book Boyfriends and Bookgasms
June 13, 2016
What a lovely book. Really nice to see a couple of different backgrounds in the series. Ryan Ward trying to escape the political world of her father and abusive boyfriend Carter, Slade McCall a rancher who gave up the big city to go back to his roots and i find it very touching that the author touches on Autism even if it only mentions it a few times. Worth the reading and definitely recommend it to my friends
October 16, 2018
Slade McCall comes from a long line of wealthy ranchers. As well as he went out on his own after he went off to college and stayed. He was in the corporate world for seven miserable years. Married, had a daughter, and divorced.
Ivy, his daughter was being bullied for her mild form case of autism, which you barely notice that she in on the ranch. You see the marriage that should have never been had fallen apart. He will never be sorry though because he got Ivy, the best part out of the whole thing.
Although, all that wealth and all it cost to get him where he is would never get back the time with his dad who passed away nine-months-ago. They had moved from the homestead their family had owned for generations, too many memories for his mom, which was a twenty-five-thousand-acre spread. They moved onto the spread he now owns. The place he has and calls home is Rockland Ranch which is fifty-five-thousand-acres.
Not to mention he had taken on the added responsibility of being a big brother figure to his cousin, Matt. Whose parents died in a plane crash, and is well on his way to a drinking problem if he can’t get a handle on it. They had an agreement that he would have a roof, meals, and a job if he could maintain the two-drink max, and stick to drinking at the respectable bar in town.
On this night he went to check on him he was not at the bar they had agreed on. You got it, he was at the seedy bar know for all the wrong you can think of sex, drugs, and rowdy people. As he was looking for Matt an angel on stage starts singing and catches his attention.
Which is unusual for him to take notice because he really had not taken notice. For he had no time for anything or anyone in his life other than what was in his life right now. This woman was one of the most beautifully simple beauties he had ever seen in a long time.
She had a rich singing voice on that echoed in his ear and down to his groining area, it was so soft that it captivated him. Her fingers gracefully worked the strings of her guitar. She had the crowd in the palm of her hand. All the men were watching for sure.
After her song, he turns to look for his cousin when he hears the crowd take a collective breath together. The atmosphere changes too making him aware of his surroundings. He turns to see this woman who had been on stage with Cutter in most instances a choke hold. For manhandling her friend who couldn't get away from him. With her being so small and Cutter so damn big it was not an even fight at all. When Slade sees Cutter reaches back and grabs Ryan in a choke hold and cutting off her airway.
Cutter swings her around to the front to get her in a better grip. He gets both hands around her neck and starts calling her all kinds of nasty names. Then he starts applying more pressure. Not one man close to the situation is going to her aid. So, without even thinking about it, Slade dodges tables.
Slade grabs Cutter by the neck and tells him to let her go. He starts applying the same pressure to his neck as he has on hers. He’s not laughing or calling names. When he lets go Slade eases up a little because by then the sheriffs take cutter to the ground but not before he can grab for Ryan’s guitar and break the neck off her guitar.
As Cutter was being handcuffed he was making threats. Someone lost their job, got stiffed their pay, and no money to pay for transportation repairs. Plus, Cutter broke the neck of her guitar so no way to make a living either. Find out how Ryan plans to make a living while her truck and guitar get fixed.
Loved this story. The characters are full of life and totally real. I loved the strength and true heart that Ryan carried with her no matter what. That she knew what it was like to be without a mom and to fight for a daddy’s attention. So, she gave Slade her thoughts even when he didn’t want them. She stayed true to herself. Loved Slade’s protectiveness of those he loves but the women in his life for sure. I give this: 5++++ stars. Provided by netgalley.com. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
Ivy, his daughter was being bullied for her mild form case of autism, which you barely notice that she in on the ranch. You see the marriage that should have never been had fallen apart. He will never be sorry though because he got Ivy, the best part out of the whole thing.
Although, all that wealth and all it cost to get him where he is would never get back the time with his dad who passed away nine-months-ago. They had moved from the homestead their family had owned for generations, too many memories for his mom, which was a twenty-five-thousand-acre spread. They moved onto the spread he now owns. The place he has and calls home is Rockland Ranch which is fifty-five-thousand-acres.
Not to mention he had taken on the added responsibility of being a big brother figure to his cousin, Matt. Whose parents died in a plane crash, and is well on his way to a drinking problem if he can’t get a handle on it. They had an agreement that he would have a roof, meals, and a job if he could maintain the two-drink max, and stick to drinking at the respectable bar in town.
On this night he went to check on him he was not at the bar they had agreed on. You got it, he was at the seedy bar know for all the wrong you can think of sex, drugs, and rowdy people. As he was looking for Matt an angel on stage starts singing and catches his attention.
Which is unusual for him to take notice because he really had not taken notice. For he had no time for anything or anyone in his life other than what was in his life right now. This woman was one of the most beautifully simple beauties he had ever seen in a long time.
She had a rich singing voice on that echoed in his ear and down to his groining area, it was so soft that it captivated him. Her fingers gracefully worked the strings of her guitar. She had the crowd in the palm of her hand. All the men were watching for sure.
After her song, he turns to look for his cousin when he hears the crowd take a collective breath together. The atmosphere changes too making him aware of his surroundings. He turns to see this woman who had been on stage with Cutter in most instances a choke hold. For manhandling her friend who couldn't get away from him. With her being so small and Cutter so damn big it was not an even fight at all. When Slade sees Cutter reaches back and grabs Ryan in a choke hold and cutting off her airway.
Cutter swings her around to the front to get her in a better grip. He gets both hands around her neck and starts calling her all kinds of nasty names. Then he starts applying more pressure. Not one man close to the situation is going to her aid. So, without even thinking about it, Slade dodges tables.
Slade grabs Cutter by the neck and tells him to let her go. He starts applying the same pressure to his neck as he has on hers. He’s not laughing or calling names. When he lets go Slade eases up a little because by then the sheriffs take cutter to the ground but not before he can grab for Ryan’s guitar and break the neck off her guitar.
As Cutter was being handcuffed he was making threats. Someone lost their job, got stiffed their pay, and no money to pay for transportation repairs. Plus, Cutter broke the neck of her guitar so no way to make a living either. Find out how Ryan plans to make a living while her truck and guitar get fixed.
Loved this story. The characters are full of life and totally real. I loved the strength and true heart that Ryan carried with her no matter what. That she knew what it was like to be without a mom and to fight for a daddy’s attention. So, she gave Slade her thoughts even when he didn’t want them. She stayed true to herself. Loved Slade’s protectiveness of those he loves but the women in his life for sure. I give this: 5++++ stars. Provided by netgalley.com. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
August 21, 2017
Ryan is a senator daughter and she needs to leave DC behind and survive on her own doing what she loves - singing.
Slade is a rancher who is trying to due what is best for his daughter and the ranch. He has so many balls in the air he can't think straight so the last thing he needs is for the singer at the local bar to catch his eye.
When Slade saves Ryan she is grateful but she is not sure what she is going to do next.
This story about people looking for the second chance. Slade is so focused on his daughter and the ranch and trying to forget about is ex-wife that he can't even believe he has it in him to care about, let alone love someone.
Ryan needs to discover who she is and what makes her happy. After leaving the abusive relationship she is weary of men and can't understand why she is so attracted to Slade.
This is a story that may pull at your heartstrings and sometimes you have to take a leap of faith.
I received this book and am giving an honest voluntary review.
Slade is a rancher who is trying to due what is best for his daughter and the ranch. He has so many balls in the air he can't think straight so the last thing he needs is for the singer at the local bar to catch his eye.
When Slade saves Ryan she is grateful but she is not sure what she is going to do next.
This story about people looking for the second chance. Slade is so focused on his daughter and the ranch and trying to forget about is ex-wife that he can't even believe he has it in him to care about, let alone love someone.
Ryan needs to discover who she is and what makes her happy. After leaving the abusive relationship she is weary of men and can't understand why she is so attracted to Slade.
This is a story that may pull at your heartstrings and sometimes you have to take a leap of faith.
I received this book and am giving an honest voluntary review.
March 1, 2018
Loved this story of Ryan hightailing it to safety after her boyfriend/father's protege uses her a punching bag. Landing at Lucifier's Bar, Ryan gets about exactly what the name of the bar stands for "hell". Coming to the rescue is none other than sexy Slade McCall- a local rancher and single dad.
The chemistry of the two works great in the book- they just have a pull towards one another that everyone feels. When Ryan is in desparate need of a job Slade delivers. He is fiercly protective of his daughter that his warning to Ryan not to hurt Ivy when Ryan adores the child. Ryan has found something in this ranch that completely fits. Admitting that to herself and Slade is another story.
When a dangerous encounter brings the two much closer a blast from Slade's past does her best to tear that apart. Heartstrings are harder to cut as they can be much stronger.
Loved that this was in Ruth Cardello Lone Star world.
The chemistry of the two works great in the book- they just have a pull towards one another that everyone feels. When Ryan is in desparate need of a job Slade delivers. He is fiercly protective of his daughter that his warning to Ryan not to hurt Ivy when Ryan adores the child. Ryan has found something in this ranch that completely fits. Admitting that to herself and Slade is another story.
When a dangerous encounter brings the two much closer a blast from Slade's past does her best to tear that apart. Heartstrings are harder to cut as they can be much stronger.
Loved that this was in Ruth Cardello Lone Star world.
September 12, 2017
Ryan has left her city life behind her, fed up with being taken for granted and put up on by her father, especially after her ex used her for a punch bag . She plays her guitar and write country song travelling from town to town but after on handsy customer it all turns nasty and she needs saving. Slade only went in to the bar to get his cousin but he couldn't take his eyes off the singer, when he did for seconds all hell broke loose. This is a great story with characters you instantly like and hate, it's not all roses there are some great scenes that will have you on the edge of your seat. Really enjoyed this andwill definitely be looking for more from this author.
December 30, 2021
I devoured this book!!
It will definitely pull on the heartstrings!
Ryan wants to be her own woman and not controlled by who her dad is.
Slade has changed his life and has his daughter to care for and protect.
By chance Ryan and Slade's paths cross. She needs a job and he needs help on the farm.
Will their heartstrings be pulled together or will Slade's ex wife interfer? Will Ryan hang about long enough or just till she gets enough money together?
It will definitely pull on the heartstrings!
Ryan wants to be her own woman and not controlled by who her dad is.
Slade has changed his life and has his daughter to care for and protect.
By chance Ryan and Slade's paths cross. She needs a job and he needs help on the farm.
Will their heartstrings be pulled together or will Slade's ex wife interfer? Will Ryan hang about long enough or just till she gets enough money together?
January 27, 2017
A Feel Good Story
This novella is sweet, romantic and full of life. Ryan is on the run from her abusive ex and ambitious father. Slade has given up city life for his love of the farm and his autistic daughter. He employs Ryan for some short term help and learns there is so much more to loving and living ~
This novella is sweet, romantic and full of life. Ryan is on the run from her abusive ex and ambitious father. Slade has given up city life for his love of the farm and his autistic daughter. He employs Ryan for some short term help and learns there is so much more to loving and living ~
July 19, 2017
Heartstrings was a short sweet book that had me hooked from the first words. Ryan and Slade had an immediate connection. I liked their playful banter and the relationship Ryan had with his daughter.
The drama helped keep the story moving but it was more violent then I had anticipated..
I received a copy for a honest review
The drama helped keep the story moving but it was more violent then I had anticipated..
I received a copy for a honest review
June 13, 2018
Really sweet Novella and a must read. This is Ryan and Slade's I just loved these two she is on the run from an abusive ex and he has moved from the city for life on his farm because that's whats best for his autistic daughter they meet when she goes to work for him. If you are looking for a feel-good romance then this is well worth reading
October 5, 2017
3.5 Stars. A very sweet romance book.
June 9, 2016
I really loved this short but full of life story. The heroine in the story, Ryan-- a rich senator’s daughter, she had this fire, this zest to live her life and make it count after all she had been through. Ryan is running from her past-- an abusive boyfriend and a father who ignored her. She ends up in a bar performing when some drunk gets super grabby and tries to choke her but she is saved by Slade McCall, a super sexy and handsome cowboy. Come to find out, he needs a help on his ranch and being that Ryan has no money, Slade offers her a temporary position on his ranch.
The story has some twists and turns that gets the blood going and the passions moving in the story. There are other players in this story, including Slade’s estranged wife who is so manipulative and evil. Slade was such a good man who is honorable and loves his daughter. And Ryan is a sweet woman who is just wanting to find her slice of happiness in life- Slade and Ryan are a great couple together—the outside forces trying to break them apart make this story interesting and the added twist and turns with how Ryan took to Ivy, Slade’s autistic daughter, make this such a sweeter story. I would have liked a follow up/ epilogue to see how the characters were doing say 6 months to 1 yr from now but the way the story ended was beautiful as it way.
My rating: 4.5 stars ****
**I was given an ARC by Like A Boss Promotions in exchange for an honest review***
The story has some twists and turns that gets the blood going and the passions moving in the story. There are other players in this story, including Slade’s estranged wife who is so manipulative and evil. Slade was such a good man who is honorable and loves his daughter. And Ryan is a sweet woman who is just wanting to find her slice of happiness in life- Slade and Ryan are a great couple together—the outside forces trying to break them apart make this story interesting and the added twist and turns with how Ryan took to Ivy, Slade’s autistic daughter, make this such a sweeter story. I would have liked a follow up/ epilogue to see how the characters were doing say 6 months to 1 yr from now but the way the story ended was beautiful as it way.
My rating: 4.5 stars ****
**I was given an ARC by Like A Boss Promotions in exchange for an honest review***
June 8, 2016
That first chapter may not seem like much to most people, yet to me it's the most important part of a story. Why? It sets the tone for the rest of the book and introduces the major players. It determines if the story will be worthwhile or a waste of valuable time.
Casey Hagen left an impression. I received an ARC of Heartstrings in exchange for an honest review.
First impressions played an important role in the dynamic between Slade and Ryan. On the outside Ryan appeared to be a broken shell. but her most powerful asset proved to be her courage. It took bravery to leave her former life in the rear view mirror and fight for the ability to make her dreams come true. To leave behind the wealth, abuse, shallowness and routine to strike out on her own. This woman didn't know her own strength. Slade may have been the white knight Ryan needed but he is nobody's hero. His own baggage is shielded behind a wall of hurt and mistrust that is just as impenetrable as Ryan's. So much is stacked against this relationship but with a little bit of faith, the love of a child and an open heart - anything is possible. Heartstrings by Casey Hagen brought me to tears and I am not a crier. It's that moving of a novel.
Casey Hagen left an impression. I received an ARC of Heartstrings in exchange for an honest review.
First impressions played an important role in the dynamic between Slade and Ryan. On the outside Ryan appeared to be a broken shell. but her most powerful asset proved to be her courage. It took bravery to leave her former life in the rear view mirror and fight for the ability to make her dreams come true. To leave behind the wealth, abuse, shallowness and routine to strike out on her own. This woman didn't know her own strength. Slade may have been the white knight Ryan needed but he is nobody's hero. His own baggage is shielded behind a wall of hurt and mistrust that is just as impenetrable as Ryan's. So much is stacked against this relationship but with a little bit of faith, the love of a child and an open heart - anything is possible. Heartstrings by Casey Hagen brought me to tears and I am not a crier. It's that moving of a novel.
June 9, 2016
Ryan was running from an abusive boyfriend and a father who ignored her. She landed in a bar performing by playing her guitar. While a drunken cowboy tries to choke her she is saved by Slade, the best looking man in jeans she has ever seen.
Broke with nowhere to go, Slade offers Ryan a temporary job on his ranch, although quite reluctantly. He didn’t want his young daughter, Ivy, to get attached. But it was Slade who lost his heart. It turned out that Ryan was great with Ivy, which touched Slade all the more.
When Ivy’s mother, Lisa shows up, trouble starts!
This is such a sweet story about second chances at love and happiness. I really liked Slade’s character as he was a strong man, full of honor and was always helping when needed. Ryan’s character was stronger than she realized. When she met Slade and Ivy she knew she was home where she always wanted to be. This was well written, had a good plot and even a couple of pretty bad characters to add some spice.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
Broke with nowhere to go, Slade offers Ryan a temporary job on his ranch, although quite reluctantly. He didn’t want his young daughter, Ivy, to get attached. But it was Slade who lost his heart. It turned out that Ryan was great with Ivy, which touched Slade all the more.
When Ivy’s mother, Lisa shows up, trouble starts!
This is such a sweet story about second chances at love and happiness. I really liked Slade’s character as he was a strong man, full of honor and was always helping when needed. Ryan’s character was stronger than she realized. When she met Slade and Ivy she knew she was home where she always wanted to be. This was well written, had a good plot and even a couple of pretty bad characters to add some spice.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
June 9, 2016
Ryan was running from an abusive boyfriend and a father who ignored her. She landed in a bar performing by playing her guitar. While a drunken cowboy tries to choke her she is saved by Slade, the best looking man in jeans she has ever seen.
Broke with nowhere to go, Slade offers Ryan a temporary job on his ranch, although quite reluctantly. He didn’t want his young daughter, Ivy, to get attached. But it was Slade who lost his heart. It turned out that Ryan was great with Ivy, which touched Slade all the more.
When Ivy’s mother, Lisa shows up, trouble starts!
This is such a sweet story about second chances at love and happiness. I really liked Slade’s character as he was a strong man, full of honor and was always helping when needed. Ryan’s character was stronger than she realized. When she met Slade and Ivy she knew she was home where she always wanted to be. This was well written, had a good plot and even a couple of pretty bad characters to add some spice.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
Broke with nowhere to go, Slade offers Ryan a temporary job on his ranch, although quite reluctantly. He didn’t want his young daughter, Ivy, to get attached. But it was Slade who lost his heart. It turned out that Ryan was great with Ivy, which touched Slade all the more.
When Ivy’s mother, Lisa shows up, trouble starts!
This is such a sweet story about second chances at love and happiness. I really liked Slade’s character as he was a strong man, full of honor and was always helping when needed. Ryan’s character was stronger than she realized. When she met Slade and Ivy she knew she was home where she always wanted to be. This was well written, had a good plot and even a couple of pretty bad characters to add some spice.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
June 9, 2016
Casey Hagen has written a heartfelt story of a young girl, Ryan Ward, escaping her fathers expectations and an abusive boyfriend. She's surviving town to town playing her guitar and singing in small country dive bars until one night a drunken cowboy tries to choke her while she's trying to protect a co worker. She's rescued by a hot sexy Slade. But as helpful as Slade was the drunken cowboy destroys her guitar, her livelihood. Ryan is now left with no money to retrieve her truck from the shop, no way to get herself to the next town and no prospects for another job. When the handsome Slade and his daughter see Ryan on the side of the road waiting for a train that won't be through for a week, Slade's daughter talks him in to giving Ryan a job and a room until she can get her truck back. Casey has written a compelling story of lonely characters and second chances. A well written story with lovable characters. I laughed and I cried. A great afternoon feel good novella.
June 9, 2016
Such a sweet and touching story!
Ryan is on the run from an abusive ex. She just wants to be happy and play her guitar and write country songs. When she meets Slade part of her is intimidated by him, while another part is attracted to him. Slade is not interested in a relationship with anyone. He has a seven year old daughter and a ranch that need him. He doesn't need a damsel in distress in need of rescuing. His ex-wife has made him weary of women. With the help of his young daughter,Ivy, Slade decides to help Ryan. As Slade and Ryan get close, and Ivy becomes attached to Ryan also, Slade is wondering how long Ryan will stay, and what it will do to Ivy when she leaves. Can Slade convince Ryan that she belongs with him and Ivy? Or will Slade's ex reappear to try to get back what she walked away from? I loved this book, and look forward to reading more books from Casey Hagen.
Ryan is on the run from an abusive ex. She just wants to be happy and play her guitar and write country songs. When she meets Slade part of her is intimidated by him, while another part is attracted to him. Slade is not interested in a relationship with anyone. He has a seven year old daughter and a ranch that need him. He doesn't need a damsel in distress in need of rescuing. His ex-wife has made him weary of women. With the help of his young daughter,Ivy, Slade decides to help Ryan. As Slade and Ryan get close, and Ivy becomes attached to Ryan also, Slade is wondering how long Ryan will stay, and what it will do to Ivy when she leaves. Can Slade convince Ryan that she belongs with him and Ivy? Or will Slade's ex reappear to try to get back what she walked away from? I loved this book, and look forward to reading more books from Casey Hagen.
June 10, 2016
Heartstrings is a sweet Romantic novella.
Ryan is running from an abusive ex and a father who only see's his daughter as more of an asset than a family member. While working in a dive bar, trouble finds Ryan, and it is Slade, a hot Cowboy, that comes to her rescue.
A chance encounter makes their paths cross again and they quickly decide to see where a relationship will take them but due to unforeseen incidents, their relationship is tested.
Will love win after everything that has happened or will they both live with broken hearts?
This story is fast paced and everything happens within a small amount of time. Ryan and Slade are very easy to love.
If you love a good Romance story then this is it. It will definitely pull on your Heartstrings.
An ARC was given in exchange for an honest review.
Ryan is running from an abusive ex and a father who only see's his daughter as more of an asset than a family member. While working in a dive bar, trouble finds Ryan, and it is Slade, a hot Cowboy, that comes to her rescue.
A chance encounter makes their paths cross again and they quickly decide to see where a relationship will take them but due to unforeseen incidents, their relationship is tested.
Will love win after everything that has happened or will they both live with broken hearts?
This story is fast paced and everything happens within a small amount of time. Ryan and Slade are very easy to love.
If you love a good Romance story then this is it. It will definitely pull on your Heartstrings.
An ARC was given in exchange for an honest review.
June 12, 2016
Heartstrings - What a great title! This book pulled on mine! Ryan is on the run after leaving an abusive boyfriend. Her father is a senator that has never had time for her. Ryan is trying to make it on her own & is earning a living playing guitar & singing in bars. Her truck breaks down & she needs money to fix it so she accepts an offer to play in a dive. Slade steps in to help her after a mean bully starts choking her to death in the bar. When she doesn't get paid for that night, it leaves her with no money & no job. Slade sees her & offers her a bed & a job.
I loved this book! Casey has a writing style that pulls you into the story from the beginning. Her plot has twists & enough suspense to keep you involved. She has such wonderful supporting characters & manages to develop all of the characters fully. Excellent story for the price! You won't be sorry you purchased it.
I loved this book! Casey has a writing style that pulls you into the story from the beginning. Her plot has twists & enough suspense to keep you involved. She has such wonderful supporting characters & manages to develop all of the characters fully. Excellent story for the price! You won't be sorry you purchased it.
June 30, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
This is a beautiful and tender love story between Ryan, the young woman escaping from high profile life in Washington DC and a single father, Slade and daughter Ivy living on a ranch in Texas. The acceptance and tender moments that Ryan receives from Slade, Ivy and the rest of the ranch hands is so sweet and touching. She becomes the woman she always wanted to be while on the ranch. Naturally, Slade's ex-wife, Ivy's mother has other plans that don't include Ryan. Will her actions rule and derail what Ryan has found with Slade and Ivy?
The writing is excellent. The characters are engaging and well developed. The only thing I thought was missing, is finding out if Ryan ever confronted her father and ex-boyfriend?
This is a touching story that is worth the read. I recommend this book.
This is a beautiful and tender love story between Ryan, the young woman escaping from high profile life in Washington DC and a single father, Slade and daughter Ivy living on a ranch in Texas. The acceptance and tender moments that Ryan receives from Slade, Ivy and the rest of the ranch hands is so sweet and touching. She becomes the woman she always wanted to be while on the ranch. Naturally, Slade's ex-wife, Ivy's mother has other plans that don't include Ryan. Will her actions rule and derail what Ryan has found with Slade and Ivy?
The writing is excellent. The characters are engaging and well developed. The only thing I thought was missing, is finding out if Ryan ever confronted her father and ex-boyfriend?
This is a touching story that is worth the read. I recommend this book.
June 10, 2016
Loved this story. It was sweet, plenty of sarcasm, just enough hotness and danger too.
It was the perfect mix and is so easy to read and get lost in the pages.
Ryan is very sweet and caring, but she has a fire in her that won't let injustice go, and when she finds herself in a bad situation and she meets Slade and then his daughter, she forged a connection and found a place where she could be herself.
Slade has a hard time letting go or even thinking about a woman. He has a job that keeps him plenty occupied and a daughter to think about, an ex wife that comes and goes and plenty of friends. What he finds a hard time saying no to is someone that needs a hand, so when he finds Ryan he can't help himself.
I loved this two together and even more the interaction with Slade's daughter.
It was the perfect mix and is so easy to read and get lost in the pages.
Ryan is very sweet and caring, but she has a fire in her that won't let injustice go, and when she finds herself in a bad situation and she meets Slade and then his daughter, she forged a connection and found a place where she could be herself.
Slade has a hard time letting go or even thinking about a woman. He has a job that keeps him plenty occupied and a daughter to think about, an ex wife that comes and goes and plenty of friends. What he finds a hard time saying no to is someone that needs a hand, so when he finds Ryan he can't help himself.
I loved this two together and even more the interaction with Slade's daughter.
June 7, 2016
What a sweet story this is! Ryan is on the run. No idea where she is headed, but is done being a punching bag. Slade is in charge and not looking for a relationship after his marriage fell apart. He has a daughter and a ranch to worry about now, not a woman he saved from death's door at a bar. So how will Slade handle Ryan being around his home and his daughter? Can these 2 find love with one another or will the return of his ex wife ruin their plans. I absolutely enjoyed this story. It was well written and it was hard not to fall in love with Ryan. Short and sweet and pulls at your own heartstrings!
June 9, 2016
Heartstrings by Casey Hagen....What beautiful fun music Casey has given us in this story. This book has hit my #1 billboard charts of books. Casey Hagen has mastered the art of writing a story that pulls you in and you enjoy every word. I was laughing out loud one time that my husband thought I was crazy, the next moment sad, feeling the pain and even suspense to keep you on the edge. The characters are always amazing, Slade the perfect hero and new book boyfriend and Ryan I loved her, she is someone you want as a best friend. Do yourself a favor and buy this book you will not be sorry. I was given a complimentary book for an honest review.
June 10, 2016
Received ARC in exchange for an honest review
Ryan travels from town to town performing and surviving with her guitar. An incident occurs at Ryan's latest venue where Slade rescues her.
She comes from abusive relationships, a family of wealth and political influence.
Slade owns a ranch where he is a single father to a little girl.
As others break Ryan physically, the strength from within shines on.
Slade and Ryan help each other by giving insights from their upbringings. Beautiful story of facing your past and confronting your fears.
Ryan travels from town to town performing and surviving with her guitar. An incident occurs at Ryan's latest venue where Slade rescues her.
She comes from abusive relationships, a family of wealth and political influence.
Slade owns a ranch where he is a single father to a little girl.
As others break Ryan physically, the strength from within shines on.
Slade and Ryan help each other by giving insights from their upbringings. Beautiful story of facing your past and confronting your fears.
Read
July 26, 2016Ryan was broke and just looking to hitchhike to the next town to look for work. That is until the handsome cowboy. Slade shows up offering her work for two weeks. Little did either know but two weeks was not enough time. Slade was cautious having a woman around his daughter Ivy, because he didn't want her getting too attached. Ryan and Slade were meant to be together. Fate brought them together. I didn't want this story to end. Loved it. Everyone needs to read this
August 3, 2016
Casey Hagen does it again. A thoroughly feel good love story with a strong independent heroine to fall in love with, and a seriously sweet happily ever after. Ryan is a well written strong woman who is on a journey to find herself. The characters are developed nicely and are easy to identify with. Slade is a heart throb through and through. A great father, and good boss, and a down to earth man that puts his family first above all else.
Read
June 15, 2016This is the first book that I have read by Casey. At first I was skeptical. I get super nervous reading a new author. But as I kept reading I felt as if I have read all of her books. I thought the story was well thought of and developed. I thought the characters were just amazing. I am so going to have to tell my friends to check out Heartstrings cause I just know they will love it.
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