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Silver Springs #2
No One But You
Librarian's note: An alternate cover edition can be found here
New York Times bestselling author Brenda Novak welcomes you to Silver Springs, a picturesque small town in Southern California where even the hardest hearts can learn to love again
Struggling to make ends meet after a messy divorce, Sadie Harris is at the end of her tether. Her waitressing gig isn't enough to pay the bills let alone secure primary custody of her son, Jayden, a battle she refuses to lose. Desperate, she accepts a position assisting Dawson Reed the same Dawson Reed who recently stood trial for the murder of his adoptive parents. Joining him at his isolated farm seems risky, but Sadie is out of options.
Dawson has given small town Silver Springs plenty of reasons to be wary, but he's innocent of the charges against him. He wants to leave his painful past behind and fix up the family farm so he can finally bring his dependent sister home where she belongs.
As Sadie and Dawson's professional relationship grows into something undeniably personal, Sadie realizes there's more to Dawson than the bad boy everyone else see she has a good heart, one that might even be worth fighting for.
New York Times bestselling author Brenda Novak welcomes you to Silver Springs, a picturesque small town in Southern California where even the hardest hearts can learn to love again
Struggling to make ends meet after a messy divorce, Sadie Harris is at the end of her tether. Her waitressing gig isn't enough to pay the bills let alone secure primary custody of her son, Jayden, a battle she refuses to lose. Desperate, she accepts a position assisting Dawson Reed the same Dawson Reed who recently stood trial for the murder of his adoptive parents. Joining him at his isolated farm seems risky, but Sadie is out of options.
Dawson has given small town Silver Springs plenty of reasons to be wary, but he's innocent of the charges against him. He wants to leave his painful past behind and fix up the family farm so he can finally bring his dependent sister home where she belongs.
As Sadie and Dawson's professional relationship grows into something undeniably personal, Sadie realizes there's more to Dawson than the bad boy everyone else see she has a good heart, one that might even be worth fighting for.
448 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 30, 2017
1145 people are currently reading
3100 people want to read
About the author
Brenda Novak
238 books6,963 followersIt was a shocking experience that jump-started Brenda Novak’s bestselling author career.
“I caught my day-care provider drugging my children with cough syrup and Tylenol to get them to sleep while I was away,” Brenda says. “It was then that I decided that I needed to do something from home.”
However, writing was the last profession she expected to undertake. In fact, Brenda swears she didn’t have a creative bone in her body. In school, math and science were her best subjects, and when it came time to pick a major in college, she chose business.
Abandoning her academic scholarship to Brigham Young University at the age of 20 in order to get married and start a family, Brenda dabbled in commercial real estate, then became a loan officer.
“When I first got the idea to become a novelist, it took me five years to teach myself the craft and finish my first book,” Brenda admits. “I learned how to write by reading what others have written. The best advice for any would-be author: read, read, read….”
Brenda sold her first book, and the rest is history. Now a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, she continues to publish two or three novels a year, in a variety of genres.
Brenda and her husband, Ted, live in Sacramento and are the proud parents of five children—three girls and two boys. Now that they are empty-nesters, she spends her free time babysitting her two grandchildren.
When she’s not with her family or writing, Brenda is usually raising money for diabetes research. To date, she's raised almost $2.6 million. Her youngest son, Thad, has diabetes, and Brenda is determined to help him and others like him. She also enjoys traveling, watching sporting events and biking--she rides an amazing 20 miles every day!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-...
“I caught my day-care provider drugging my children with cough syrup and Tylenol to get them to sleep while I was away,” Brenda says. “It was then that I decided that I needed to do something from home.”
However, writing was the last profession she expected to undertake. In fact, Brenda swears she didn’t have a creative bone in her body. In school, math and science were her best subjects, and when it came time to pick a major in college, she chose business.
Abandoning her academic scholarship to Brigham Young University at the age of 20 in order to get married and start a family, Brenda dabbled in commercial real estate, then became a loan officer.
“When I first got the idea to become a novelist, it took me five years to teach myself the craft and finish my first book,” Brenda admits. “I learned how to write by reading what others have written. The best advice for any would-be author: read, read, read….”
Brenda sold her first book, and the rest is history. Now a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, she continues to publish two or three novels a year, in a variety of genres.
Brenda and her husband, Ted, live in Sacramento and are the proud parents of five children—three girls and two boys. Now that they are empty-nesters, she spends her free time babysitting her two grandchildren.
When she’s not with her family or writing, Brenda is usually raising money for diabetes research. To date, she's raised almost $2.6 million. Her youngest son, Thad, has diabetes, and Brenda is determined to help him and others like him. She also enjoys traveling, watching sporting events and biking--she rides an amazing 20 miles every day!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 633 reviews
July 21, 2017
Dawson Reed was accused of murdering his parents and after a year of imprisonment, was acquitted and released. His mentally handicapped adult sister was cared for during that time by a state institute and he wants to bring her home. Sadie Harris answers his ad to be a caregiver and housekeeper, even though she's fearful of him as the whole town believes he's guilty of the murders. But Sadie's desperate as she needs the extra money to finalize her divorce from her abusive husband who happens to be a Silver Springs police officer.
This was a chilling story with some very strong themes. Dawson and Sadie are both tragic, he because he's not been able to mourn his brutally murdered parents who he loved and suffers the scorn and judgment of a town who passed a sentence that a jury didn't. She is the mother of a sensitive 5-year old son and both are being stalked and menaced by her estranged husband, Sly (aptly named). While these two came together under tough circumstances, they really were well suited for each other. Her support came at a time when it was sorely needed and he gave her the protection, enough that it gave her much needed confidence to stand up to her husband and force his hand.
I loved this story and both characters. It was interesting how the police angle tied into current events, showing how one unsuitable officer could taint an entire department and how their failure to address his issues complicate the matter. It was deftly handled without indicting law enforcement. While Dawson and Sadie's relationship developed very quickly, I liked how it's still open ended with both recognizing they have a lot to learn about each other. This definitely has a strong suspense angle, which suited me perfectly. I'm enjoying this rather unconventional series.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
This was a chilling story with some very strong themes. Dawson and Sadie are both tragic, he because he's not been able to mourn his brutally murdered parents who he loved and suffers the scorn and judgment of a town who passed a sentence that a jury didn't. She is the mother of a sensitive 5-year old son and both are being stalked and menaced by her estranged husband, Sly (aptly named). While these two came together under tough circumstances, they really were well suited for each other. Her support came at a time when it was sorely needed and he gave her the protection, enough that it gave her much needed confidence to stand up to her husband and force his hand.
I loved this story and both characters. It was interesting how the police angle tied into current events, showing how one unsuitable officer could taint an entire department and how their failure to address his issues complicate the matter. It was deftly handled without indicting law enforcement. While Dawson and Sadie's relationship developed very quickly, I liked how it's still open ended with both recognizing they have a lot to learn about each other. This definitely has a strong suspense angle, which suited me perfectly. I'm enjoying this rather unconventional series.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review)
June 7, 2017
No One But You
Brenda Novak
Received from Netgalley
NO ONE BUT YOU is the second book in the Silver Springs series by Brenda Novak. Silver Springs s a small town in Southern California.
NO ONE BUT YOU is the story of Sadie and Dawson. Sadie left her husband one year ago and is raising their son pretty much on her own. Her husband Sly, is a police officer in Silver Springs and is making her life a living hell. He will do anything to get her to come back to him, but Sadie isn't having any of it. Sly is a controlling and harasses Sadie over and over again. How much more can she take? She lives in a tiny guest cottage with second hand furniture and tries to get by on her small salary she makes as a waitress at the local diner. Soon she finds out about a job out on a remote farm. She needs to make more money! Someone needs a caretaker for their sister. Here she meets Dawson.
Dawson just got out of prison after a year. He was accused of murdering his adoptive parents, but after a year of trials, he was acquitted. Now he is back on the family artichoke farm trying to get it ready for his disabled sister to move back home. He did not kill his parents, but no one in town believes him. They all look at him like they know he got away with murder. That is until he meets Sadie. NO ONE BUT YOU is all about Sadie and Dawson trying to put their lives back together. Sadie accepts the job from Dawson and they work on putting the farm back together. Vandals did a lot of damage while he was away. Sly is not happy with this arrangement and let's them both know about it. Once Sadie and Dawson get to know each other, their story really takes off. Sly begins to harass both of them and the things he does are unbelievable as a police officer!
The suspense and twists and turns in NO ONE BUT YOU will have you staying up late to finish! While it is the second book in the series, you don't have to read the first one to enjoy this one. It works quite well as a stand alone. The pace of the story is perfect, not too fast and not too slow. I really think I liked this book better than the first one and I loved that one. Just the right amount of mystery, suspense, and romance to keep me hooked on each and every page. I can't wait to continue with this series.
Brenda Novak
Received from Netgalley
NO ONE BUT YOU is the second book in the Silver Springs series by Brenda Novak. Silver Springs s a small town in Southern California.
NO ONE BUT YOU is the story of Sadie and Dawson. Sadie left her husband one year ago and is raising their son pretty much on her own. Her husband Sly, is a police officer in Silver Springs and is making her life a living hell. He will do anything to get her to come back to him, but Sadie isn't having any of it. Sly is a controlling and harasses Sadie over and over again. How much more can she take? She lives in a tiny guest cottage with second hand furniture and tries to get by on her small salary she makes as a waitress at the local diner. Soon she finds out about a job out on a remote farm. She needs to make more money! Someone needs a caretaker for their sister. Here she meets Dawson.
Dawson just got out of prison after a year. He was accused of murdering his adoptive parents, but after a year of trials, he was acquitted. Now he is back on the family artichoke farm trying to get it ready for his disabled sister to move back home. He did not kill his parents, but no one in town believes him. They all look at him like they know he got away with murder. That is until he meets Sadie. NO ONE BUT YOU is all about Sadie and Dawson trying to put their lives back together. Sadie accepts the job from Dawson and they work on putting the farm back together. Vandals did a lot of damage while he was away. Sly is not happy with this arrangement and let's them both know about it. Once Sadie and Dawson get to know each other, their story really takes off. Sly begins to harass both of them and the things he does are unbelievable as a police officer!
The suspense and twists and turns in NO ONE BUT YOU will have you staying up late to finish! While it is the second book in the series, you don't have to read the first one to enjoy this one. It works quite well as a stand alone. The pace of the story is perfect, not too fast and not too slow. I really think I liked this book better than the first one and I loved that one. Just the right amount of mystery, suspense, and romance to keep me hooked on each and every page. I can't wait to continue with this series.
October 24, 2017
Been having a crazy month, and all I want to do is to surround myself in comfort reads. *sigh*
-----
Wait. Did I say comfort?
This book was actually super suspenseful… and scary in a #too real-kind of way.
It is a good, emotional book. Here we have two characters who have the worst luck in life at the moment. My heart is utterly shattered reading what they both have gone through. I feel suffocated along with them when terrible people make them feel trapped.
However, they have persevered and fought It is also oh-so-very satisfying to see them find solace and support in one another when the whole world has abandoned them (hence, the title name). I love that they mutually help each other, and naturally fall in love when they see how good of a person the other is.
Overall, I’m giving this 3.5 stars. Brenda Novak is always spot-on for making moving, realistic books that simultaneously hurt and soothe. The book has slow pacing, but it does not bother me here because I like the gradual development in the relationship between Sadie and Dawson.
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level?
Tears-worthy?
Humor?
Favorite scene?
What age level would be appropriate?
-----
Wait. Did I say comfort?
This book was actually super suspenseful… and scary in a #too real-kind of way.
It is a good, emotional book. Here we have two characters who have the worst luck in life at the moment. My heart is utterly shattered reading what they both have gone through. I feel suffocated along with them when terrible people make them feel trapped.
However, they have persevered and fought It is also oh-so-very satisfying to see them find solace and support in one another when the whole world has abandoned them (hence, the title name). I love that they mutually help each other, and naturally fall in love when they see how good of a person the other is.
Overall, I’m giving this 3.5 stars. Brenda Novak is always spot-on for making moving, realistic books that simultaneously hurt and soothe. The book has slow pacing, but it does not bother me here because I like the gradual development in the relationship between Sadie and Dawson.
Things that you might want to know (WARNING: Spoilers below)
Happy/satisfying ending?
Love triangle? Cheating? Angst level?
Tears-worthy?
Humor?
Favorite scene?
What age level would be appropriate?
June 16, 2017
***** 4.5 Stars *****
Can be read as a standalone.
Brenda Novak blew me away with No One But You. I couldn't put this down!
This story is so much more than just romance. There's some mystery and suspense added into the mix. My heart was literally beating faster during certain scenes.
In my opinion, I found this better than the previous book in the series. The story had a lot of layers and it was a touch darker. I also liked how there were more characters involved and it just gave the reader a better feel of Silver Springs. I can't wait to read the next book!
Can be read as a standalone.
Brenda Novak blew me away with No One But You. I couldn't put this down!
This story is so much more than just romance. There's some mystery and suspense added into the mix. My heart was literally beating faster during certain scenes.
In my opinion, I found this better than the previous book in the series. The story had a lot of layers and it was a touch darker. I also liked how there were more characters involved and it just gave the reader a better feel of Silver Springs. I can't wait to read the next book!
July 13, 2017
4 Stars****
A hot and forbidden romance, plus the small town setting make No One But You a delightful and entertaining story, written by the talented Brenda Novak.
Dawson Reed spent a year in jail wrongfully accused of murdering both of his adoptive parents. Even though he was acquitted by the law, most of the habitants of the Silver Springs town still believe he is a murderer. Dawson doesn't care what people think, he loved his parents and after loosing everything he is only focused on bringing his family's farm back to life so he can start producing and to be able bring his sister Angela back to her home, where she belongs.
Dawson needs a caregiver for his disabled sister and also someone who can help him clean the house and cook. Only a desperate person would want to take a job working for a man with such dangerous reputation. Sadie Harris is that person. She needs a job; she going through a nasty divorce, her controlling ex is making her life hell, but Sadie is determined to move on with her life and to raise her child away from the violent ex.
Dawson and Sadie need each other, both have a ton of emotional baggage but quickly they realize how there's a fierce attraction and also an overwhelming familiarity between them. When their passion finally takes over, they are faced with a disapproving township and the wrath of Sadie's ex.
This story had a lot of angst and passion. I enjoyed the unpredictability of the story and this author's writing style. So I would definitely recommend this book to my angst junky friends.
A hot and forbidden romance, plus the small town setting make No One But You a delightful and entertaining story, written by the talented Brenda Novak.
Dawson Reed spent a year in jail wrongfully accused of murdering both of his adoptive parents. Even though he was acquitted by the law, most of the habitants of the Silver Springs town still believe he is a murderer. Dawson doesn't care what people think, he loved his parents and after loosing everything he is only focused on bringing his family's farm back to life so he can start producing and to be able bring his sister Angela back to her home, where she belongs.
Dawson needs a caregiver for his disabled sister and also someone who can help him clean the house and cook. Only a desperate person would want to take a job working for a man with such dangerous reputation. Sadie Harris is that person. She needs a job; she going through a nasty divorce, her controlling ex is making her life hell, but Sadie is determined to move on with her life and to raise her child away from the violent ex.
Dawson and Sadie need each other, both have a ton of emotional baggage but quickly they realize how there's a fierce attraction and also an overwhelming familiarity between them. When their passion finally takes over, they are faced with a disapproving township and the wrath of Sadie's ex.
This story had a lot of angst and passion. I enjoyed the unpredictability of the story and this author's writing style. So I would definitely recommend this book to my angst junky friends.
May 29, 2017
Menacing, romantic and engaging!
This is a suspenseful story that highlights the harassment and stigma that surrounds those accused of committing a crime and reminds us just how dangerous the abuse of power can truly be.
The writing is clear and precise. The characters are tenacious, resilient and strong. And the plot is a captivating mix of emotion, drama, violence, injustice, obsession, trust, manipulation, jealousy, corruption, and murder.
Overall this is a quick, easy, enjoyable read with a unique storyline, interesting characters, exceptional tension, and a nice wrapped-up ending.
Thank you to Harlequin Books and Goodreads Giveaways for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at http://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
This is a suspenseful story that highlights the harassment and stigma that surrounds those accused of committing a crime and reminds us just how dangerous the abuse of power can truly be.
The writing is clear and precise. The characters are tenacious, resilient and strong. And the plot is a captivating mix of emotion, drama, violence, injustice, obsession, trust, manipulation, jealousy, corruption, and murder.
Overall this is a quick, easy, enjoyable read with a unique storyline, interesting characters, exceptional tension, and a nice wrapped-up ending.
Thank you to Harlequin Books and Goodreads Giveaways for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at http://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
Read
July 19, 2017"Novak is at the top of her game and keeps the amazing stories coming, especially with this latest installment! This is a story about a man trying to get his life back after being wrongfully accused of a heinous crime and a woman trying to make it on her own after a divorce. Each is facing shame and scandal. Novak makes it so readers feel every emotion the characters experience: the anger, the passion, the fear. She is a magician of words, and continues to deliver books that draw readers in"
(4 1/2 stars TOP PICK! @ RT Book Reviews).
Miniseries: Silver Springs
(4 1/2 stars TOP PICK! @ RT Book Reviews).
Miniseries: Silver Springs
March 9, 2019
This wasn't a bad book; it just wasn't what I was looking for at the time I started it. I enjoyed the storytelling style of the author and the multiple povs through which the story was told, but I largely found this book to be boring. It was definitely more of a character driven story, featuring two characters who are struggling to put their pasts behind them.
Ms. Novak did a good job conveying the fear and helplessness that the h felt toward her soon to be ex husband. But it was so overwhelming. And while I understood why, I wasn't necessarily jumping for joy at reading a story about domestic verbal/borderline physical abuse. It felt realistic to me and though I can appreciate it for telling a hard to swallow truth, I didn't enjoy it. The h was scared all the time and of everything. And it was frustrating as someone who doesn't like to see female characters cowering for anyone. The suspense also wasn't all that suspenseful because we see the inner thoughts of the villain of this story. We hear all about the villain's motives and plans which served to spoil what was to come.
And lastly, there were the MCs themselves. I don't usually like it when the H is so handsome while the h is a homely little thing. So that's completely my bias when I'm reading the story. If you don't mind that, you'll probably enjoy the slowish development of feelings between the MCs. The H has had lots of sex with many different women. He's enjoyed himself but not as much as with the h, of course. So I guess there's that. Then there's the h, who doesn't feel all that attractive and has only had unfulfilling, boring sex with one man. But of course, when the H gets to know the h, she becomes more beautiful in his eyes. So I suppose that's nice too. And we don't have any run-ins with his exes or former F buddies, in bathrooms or around town or anywhere. So I appreciated that as well.
Don't get me wrong. The H was a good guy. He had a lot going for him. He did right by his sister. He did right by the h. But safety
I was hoping for more from this book, but please don't let my personal preferences stop you from reading this. It was engagingly written and safe. I just couldn't get behind the feelings the MCs had for each other.
Ms. Novak did a good job conveying the fear and helplessness that the h felt toward her soon to be ex husband. But it was so overwhelming. And while I understood why, I wasn't necessarily jumping for joy at reading a story about domestic verbal/borderline physical abuse. It felt realistic to me and though I can appreciate it for telling a hard to swallow truth, I didn't enjoy it. The h was scared all the time and of everything. And it was frustrating as someone who doesn't like to see female characters cowering for anyone. The suspense also wasn't all that suspenseful because we see the inner thoughts of the villain of this story. We hear all about the villain's motives and plans which served to spoil what was to come.
And lastly, there were the MCs themselves. I don't usually like it when the H is so handsome while the h is a homely little thing. So that's completely my bias when I'm reading the story. If you don't mind that, you'll probably enjoy the slowish development of feelings between the MCs. The H has had lots of sex with many different women. He's enjoyed himself but not as much as with the h, of course. So I guess there's that. Then there's the h, who doesn't feel all that attractive and has only had unfulfilling, boring sex with one man. But of course, when the H gets to know the h, she becomes more beautiful in his eyes. So I suppose that's nice too. And we don't have any run-ins with his exes or former F buddies, in bathrooms or around town or anywhere. So I appreciated that as well.
Don't get me wrong. The H was a good guy. He had a lot going for him. He did right by his sister. He did right by the h. But safety
I was hoping for more from this book, but please don't let my personal preferences stop you from reading this. It was engagingly written and safe. I just couldn't get behind the feelings the MCs had for each other.
July 10, 2017
Great story. I'm glad to start a new series by BN. I loved Whiskey Creek and was sorry to see it end. So somehow I missed the first of this series but I will go back and find it.
This was an interesting story that kept me interested and turning pages. At first you think the major part of the story is going to be about the hero's problems. He had an interesting back story as a man acquitted of the murder of his parents. But of course he is tarred with that brush since the real killer is unknown. But really the majority of the story is about the problems of the woman who is trying to get away from her verbally abusive husband without driving him over the edge into physical violence.
The characterization was really well done and everyone was believable even the bad guy. The only person who I didn't really like sad to say was the hero's sister who was mentally challenged. I think she was supposed to come across as really sweet but she seemed rather scary with the puppy hugging thing and the claiming of the heroine's son, and I'm not sure I would every have been comfortable having my 5 year old around her. I think that was just a failure of characterization rather than a deliberate choice of the author though and may just be me.
The relationship was a bit too insta love for me. I would actually have enjoyed seeing them get together over a longer period of time. But with the heroine's plight that wasn't really an option. Still over all I liked it and am anxious to read the rest of the series.
This was an interesting story that kept me interested and turning pages. At first you think the major part of the story is going to be about the hero's problems. He had an interesting back story as a man acquitted of the murder of his parents. But of course he is tarred with that brush since the real killer is unknown. But really the majority of the story is about the problems of the woman who is trying to get away from her verbally abusive husband without driving him over the edge into physical violence.
The characterization was really well done and everyone was believable even the bad guy. The only person who I didn't really like sad to say was the hero's sister who was mentally challenged. I think she was supposed to come across as really sweet but she seemed rather scary with the puppy hugging thing and the claiming of the heroine's son, and I'm not sure I would every have been comfortable having my 5 year old around her. I think that was just a failure of characterization rather than a deliberate choice of the author though and may just be me.
The relationship was a bit too insta love for me. I would actually have enjoyed seeing them get together over a longer period of time. But with the heroine's plight that wasn't really an option. Still over all I liked it and am anxious to read the rest of the series.
February 20, 2017
Sadie Harris is desperate to find a job that makes more money than her current job of waiting on tables. She is going through a messy divorce from a controlling and manipulative man who happens to be a police officer in town. She is willing to take any job so that she can better support her young son who she is hoping to get primary custody.
Dawson Reed is desperate to start his life over. He just spent one year in prison for his parents murder. He didn't commit the crime, but the town does not care, in their eyes he is guilty. He returns home with a desire to farm the land and bring his developmentally disabled sister home and enjoy their lives.
Sadie accepts a job from Dawson. Her duties will be cleaning the house, cooking meals and helping to look out for his sister once she moves back home. Sadie faces backlash from her soon to be ex-husband or taking the job.
As Sadie and Dawson begin to get comfortable with each other and get to know each other, the story takes off. Obviously this book is a romance but there are also other themes to this book as well - starting over, love, fear, crime, emotional abuse bordering on domestic violence, violence, etc.
I really enjoyed this story. It was a very fast and engaging read. There was a little "meat" to this story as it dealt with various issues.. I found it hard to put this book down as I wanted to know more about both of these characters individually and as a couple. I liked how they began with a tentative employer/employee relationship to a friendship that grew into romance. The story was very believable and the pacing of the book was spot on.
Received from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Dawson Reed is desperate to start his life over. He just spent one year in prison for his parents murder. He didn't commit the crime, but the town does not care, in their eyes he is guilty. He returns home with a desire to farm the land and bring his developmentally disabled sister home and enjoy their lives.
Sadie accepts a job from Dawson. Her duties will be cleaning the house, cooking meals and helping to look out for his sister once she moves back home. Sadie faces backlash from her soon to be ex-husband or taking the job.
As Sadie and Dawson begin to get comfortable with each other and get to know each other, the story takes off. Obviously this book is a romance but there are also other themes to this book as well - starting over, love, fear, crime, emotional abuse bordering on domestic violence, violence, etc.
I really enjoyed this story. It was a very fast and engaging read. There was a little "meat" to this story as it dealt with various issues.. I found it hard to put this book down as I wanted to know more about both of these characters individually and as a couple. I liked how they began with a tentative employer/employee relationship to a friendship that grew into romance. The story was very believable and the pacing of the book was spot on.
Received from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 17, 2018
Novak nunca me defrauda y esta vez tampoco. En sus novelas siempre entremezcla la lucha interna emocional de sus personajes con problemas cotidianos que cualquiera de nosotros puede tener, así que suelen ser historias maravillosas, para nada aburridas.
Dawson, el personaje principal masculino, sencillamente, me ha enamorado. Un hombre noble y fiel a sí mismo que lucha por demostrar que es íntegro y, sobre todo, inocente.
Sadie. ¡Ay, qué os puedo contar de ella! A través de ella me he sentido identificadísima, no porque haya sufrido acoso al mismo nivel que ella sino porque la obsesión de los ex (y los que no son ex) está a la orden del día y, por desgracia, eso sí lo que he sufrido en mi piel.
Desde luego, una novela recomendadísima. ¿Qué os voy a decir?
Dawson, el personaje principal masculino, sencillamente, me ha enamorado. Un hombre noble y fiel a sí mismo que lucha por demostrar que es íntegro y, sobre todo, inocente.
Sadie. ¡Ay, qué os puedo contar de ella! A través de ella me he sentido identificadísima, no porque haya sufrido acoso al mismo nivel que ella sino porque la obsesión de los ex (y los que no son ex) está a la orden del día y, por desgracia, eso sí lo que he sufrido en mi piel.
Desde luego, una novela recomendadísima. ¿Qué os voy a decir?
January 15, 2018
Another really good one in this series. This had a lot more suspense and mystery.
June 7, 2017
This review was originally posted on (un)Conventional Bookviews
No One But You had all the romance, the suspense and the strong characters I've come to know and love when I pick up a Novak novel.
Jayden and Dawson weren't very likely to become romantically involved, and that just made their romance better in my opinion! No One But You showed that the one person who may seem respectable on the outside may be far from it, while the one other people think badly on have mostly good qualities and can be both loyal and trustworthy. Dawson had been through more than just a rough patch, accused of killing his adoptive parents, he was finally judged not guilty by a court and the jury, however, his townspeople weren't so sure about him being innocent.
No One But You also showed how difficult life had been for Jayden, but for completely different reasons than the difficulties Dawson had faced. A cop with anger issues, and who didn't take no for an answer, Jayden's soon-to-be ex-husband was not only scary, he also had the police force behind him to back him up - even when he treated Jayden and his son horribly.
The character development in No One But You was tremendous, both Dawson and Jayden grew a lot during the span of the story, and I enjoyed how they managed to be open-minded even when the odds were thoroughly against them. They both had a lot to lose, but they still fought for love and what they felt was right.
Written in third person point of view, past tense, the story was nicely paced, not too fast, but not slow either. The suspense was well done and kept me wondering. There were some sightings of characters from Finding Our Forever, and I enjoyed both Silver Spring and the characters that inhabit it. While No One But You is the second book in a series, it can be read as a stand alone.
The prospect of maintaining her freedom brought such relief, such exhilaration. Finally she had something to be happy about. She'd struck a deal with Dawson in spite of Sly. That single act of defiance felt good, as if she was taking another leap forward in regaining control of her life.
But what did she know? She'd barely met him. Maybe she was letting his gorgeous face and jawdropping body get in the way of her good judgement.
Why wouldn't he let her go? What good was having her come back if she didn't love him? And how could he even pretend ot love her? A man didn't treat a woman he cared about the way Sly treated her.
No One But You had all the romance, the suspense and the strong characters I've come to know and love when I pick up a Novak novel.
Jayden and Dawson weren't very likely to become romantically involved, and that just made their romance better in my opinion! No One But You showed that the one person who may seem respectable on the outside may be far from it, while the one other people think badly on have mostly good qualities and can be both loyal and trustworthy. Dawson had been through more than just a rough patch, accused of killing his adoptive parents, he was finally judged not guilty by a court and the jury, however, his townspeople weren't so sure about him being innocent.
No One But You also showed how difficult life had been for Jayden, but for completely different reasons than the difficulties Dawson had faced. A cop with anger issues, and who didn't take no for an answer, Jayden's soon-to-be ex-husband was not only scary, he also had the police force behind him to back him up - even when he treated Jayden and his son horribly.
The character development in No One But You was tremendous, both Dawson and Jayden grew a lot during the span of the story, and I enjoyed how they managed to be open-minded even when the odds were thoroughly against them. They both had a lot to lose, but they still fought for love and what they felt was right.
Written in third person point of view, past tense, the story was nicely paced, not too fast, but not slow either. The suspense was well done and kept me wondering. There were some sightings of characters from Finding Our Forever, and I enjoyed both Silver Spring and the characters that inhabit it. While No One But You is the second book in a series, it can be read as a stand alone.
The prospect of maintaining her freedom brought such relief, such exhilaration. Finally she had something to be happy about. She'd struck a deal with Dawson in spite of Sly. That single act of defiance felt good, as if she was taking another leap forward in regaining control of her life.
But what did she know? She'd barely met him. Maybe she was letting his gorgeous face and jawdropping body get in the way of her good judgement.
Why wouldn't he let her go? What good was having her come back if she didn't love him? And how could he even pretend ot love her? A man didn't treat a woman he cared about the way Sly treated her.
January 28, 2025
When you finish a book in 3 days how can it not be good? I was rooting for the main characters in this book from the very beginning, and I thought about them when I wasn’t reading.
April 14, 2017
I don't know how to account for the lack of negative reviews except that I guess everyone but me knew better than to read it in the first place. This is really bad, guys. Like "how do I politely tell my friend that she's not a good writer" bad.
It over-explains everything, always telling and never showing. The characters are one-dimensional and constantly tell each other things they already know for the sake of exposition. Dependent characters (a kid, a mentally disabled sister) are used to signify that the person taking care of them is a Good Character. The dirty ex-husband, who could not be more Abusive and Evil, is literally named Sly. And this is all in the first three chapters.
I'm sorry, I almost never give up on books that I win for review, but life is too darn short.
(I received this book for free through a Goodreads giveaway.)
It over-explains everything, always telling and never showing. The characters are one-dimensional and constantly tell each other things they already know for the sake of exposition. Dependent characters (a kid, a mentally disabled sister) are used to signify that the person taking care of them is a Good Character. The dirty ex-husband, who could not be more Abusive and Evil, is literally named Sly. And this is all in the first three chapters.
I'm sorry, I almost never give up on books that I win for review, but life is too darn short.
(I received this book for free through a Goodreads giveaway.)
August 18, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. I found it on the street in front of a bookstore in Beacon, NY, one of my favorite towns, and it was free, so I took it. My sister yelled at me, of course, but I don't care. She doesn't control my life, and if I see "Free Books," you best believe I'm going to stop. I picked up three, I believe, and I even used my niece's stroller to port them for me :)
That being said, I'm reading Robin Hobb's Rain Wilds quartet, and I didn't order the third one in time to have it ready when I finished the second book, so I needed something to fill the gap. Since I knew I was going to Atlantic City, I chose to read this one since it seemed like a good beach read. I ended up reading most of it before the trip (or at least half) and reading the rest in the car and in bed, but I did read some of it on the beach!
I like books like this--they're simple, straightforward, everyday life books that have good characterization and well-paced plotting. They're stories, not just books, if that makes sense. Anyway, this reminded me of a Lifetime movie in a way, sort of Hallmarky but with more edge. I liked the main characters a lot, and I was so invested in what would happen for them. I loathed the antagonist, the main female character Sadie's ex-husband, Sly. He is terrible, and everything he did or said made me mad. I talked aloud to him quite a bit while reading in my backyard. Just a terrible jerk. I have to say the ending did surprise me a bit. It escalated more than I thought it would, which is a good thing because it didn't fall short and end up being anti-climactic.
I do have to say that this book contains triggers of mental and emotional abuse, stalking, and harassment. If you've ever been bullied, followed around, and mistreated, this book could definitely make you relive the trauma. I was getting upset, and thank God, that's never happened to me. It says something for Novak that she wrote such realistic conflicts, but it's tough to get through in parts because it's frustrating. I felt helpless, so I can imagine that someone who's been through what Sadie has would feel it even more.
Overall, I really liked this book, and I'm passing it on to the same sister who yelled at me for picking up yet another book. I won't rub it in. Actually, I probably will.
Side note: it's intense that Novak became a writer because she found her daycare providers abusing her children, so she found a job she could do from home to be there with them instead, and it turned into this great career for her--she said it took her 5 years to become an actual writer, to learn the craft and the trade and to get her first book published, but I love that she did this as a protective mom and turned it into something that can help others, too.
That being said, I'm reading Robin Hobb's Rain Wilds quartet, and I didn't order the third one in time to have it ready when I finished the second book, so I needed something to fill the gap. Since I knew I was going to Atlantic City, I chose to read this one since it seemed like a good beach read. I ended up reading most of it before the trip (or at least half) and reading the rest in the car and in bed, but I did read some of it on the beach!
I like books like this--they're simple, straightforward, everyday life books that have good characterization and well-paced plotting. They're stories, not just books, if that makes sense. Anyway, this reminded me of a Lifetime movie in a way, sort of Hallmarky but with more edge. I liked the main characters a lot, and I was so invested in what would happen for them. I loathed the antagonist, the main female character Sadie's ex-husband, Sly. He is terrible, and everything he did or said made me mad. I talked aloud to him quite a bit while reading in my backyard. Just a terrible jerk. I have to say the ending did surprise me a bit. It escalated more than I thought it would, which is a good thing because it didn't fall short and end up being anti-climactic.
I do have to say that this book contains triggers of mental and emotional abuse, stalking, and harassment. If you've ever been bullied, followed around, and mistreated, this book could definitely make you relive the trauma. I was getting upset, and thank God, that's never happened to me. It says something for Novak that she wrote such realistic conflicts, but it's tough to get through in parts because it's frustrating. I felt helpless, so I can imagine that someone who's been through what Sadie has would feel it even more.
Overall, I really liked this book, and I'm passing it on to the same sister who yelled at me for picking up yet another book. I won't rub it in. Actually, I probably will.
Side note: it's intense that Novak became a writer because she found her daycare providers abusing her children, so she found a job she could do from home to be there with them instead, and it turned into this great career for her--she said it took her 5 years to become an actual writer, to learn the craft and the trade and to get her first book published, but I love that she did this as a protective mom and turned it into something that can help others, too.
January 11, 2019
I was really reluctant to read this one. I started it in March last year but put it back down after listening to 40 minutes or so. I though the plot was tense and hard to get through. But I picked it up yesterday although I still weren't easy with the plot, I got through it and enjoyed it too.
November 20, 2021
Excellent easy mystery romance! It is part of a series but definitely able to be a stand alone book. Excited to read the next in the series 😌
February 8, 2018
Story had a helpless victim feel.
Sadie filed for divorce and left her husband Sly who is a vicious mean bully cop. Other cops believe Sly, not Sadie. Sly sabotages Sadie's job attempts because he wants her back and dependent on him. She gets a job working for Dawson on his farm. Dawson was accused of killing his parents but acquitted. The locals and cops still believe he is guilty. Sly wants to do bad things and frame Dawson. Throughout the story I felt helpless and worried. I prefer books where the hero or heroine do smart or interesting things, not just worry about surviving the bad guy.
I’m reminded of Rose Madder by Stephen King - a similar story about a woman who runs away from her abusive cop husband. He was worse than Sly. But I enjoyed watching what Rose and others did. It was entertaining.
This book is romantic suspense so there is a happy ending for the good guys.
AUDIOBOOK NARRATOR:
Veronica Worthington was ok, but at times she read like she was in a hurry. Her voice is ok but almost has a harsh feeling. I prefer a slightly softer voice.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Copyright: 2017. Genre: romantic suspense.
Sadie filed for divorce and left her husband Sly who is a vicious mean bully cop. Other cops believe Sly, not Sadie. Sly sabotages Sadie's job attempts because he wants her back and dependent on him. She gets a job working for Dawson on his farm. Dawson was accused of killing his parents but acquitted. The locals and cops still believe he is guilty. Sly wants to do bad things and frame Dawson. Throughout the story I felt helpless and worried. I prefer books where the hero or heroine do smart or interesting things, not just worry about surviving the bad guy.
I’m reminded of Rose Madder by Stephen King - a similar story about a woman who runs away from her abusive cop husband. He was worse than Sly. But I enjoyed watching what Rose and others did. It was entertaining.
This book is romantic suspense so there is a happy ending for the good guys.
AUDIOBOOK NARRATOR:
Veronica Worthington was ok, but at times she read like she was in a hurry. Her voice is ok but almost has a harsh feeling. I prefer a slightly softer voice.
DATA:
Narrative mode: 3rd person. Copyright: 2017. Genre: romantic suspense.
May 22, 2017
Being such a big fan of Brenda Novak's it pains me to give one of her books such a low rating. I really think this one didn't work for me mostly because of the issues addressed. The writing as expected was stellar, the characters well developed, and the story moved along nicely. What I didn't like was the abusive ex husband Sadie has to deal with. I wanted her to stand up to him so she really frustrated me. Dawson was just as frustrating to me. Why did he want to stay in a small-minded town that hated him so much? Being frustrated with the two main characters just made me angry rather than the relaxing escape I usually find while reading.
June 14, 2017
Predictable crazy ex husband. Romance? "I'm attracted" but "I must not let myself care."
It was pretty dang boring.
It was pretty dang boring.
June 3, 2017
Between 3 1/2 and 4.
This is one was so much better than the first!
(Not clean)
This is one was so much better than the first!
(Not clean)
December 19, 2022
3⭐️
Brenda Novak, es una autora de romántica que parece que escribe siempre lo mismo.
Recuerdo haber empezado este libro hace mucho tiempo y después abandonarlo.
No es que sea una mala historia es que es bastante simple y tiene poco que aportar. No está mal para una tarde de domingo. Me recuerda a las películas de amor que ponen de sobremesa el fin de semana.
Los personajes son bastante planos, el malo es muy malo, el bueno es muy bueno y así la chica no puede por menos que enamorarse. Por supuesto con un crío pequeño de por medio, que parece que hace que la historia sea mejor.
Para una lectura rápida está bien.
Pero no se le puede pedir mucho más. Creo que me vuelvo otra vez a la fantasía a ver si encuentro historias más entretenidas.
Brenda Novak, es una autora de romántica que parece que escribe siempre lo mismo.
Recuerdo haber empezado este libro hace mucho tiempo y después abandonarlo.
No es que sea una mala historia es que es bastante simple y tiene poco que aportar. No está mal para una tarde de domingo. Me recuerda a las películas de amor que ponen de sobremesa el fin de semana.
Los personajes son bastante planos, el malo es muy malo, el bueno es muy bueno y así la chica no puede por menos que enamorarse. Por supuesto con un crío pequeño de por medio, que parece que hace que la historia sea mejor.
Para una lectura rápida está bien.
Pero no se le puede pedir mucho más. Creo que me vuelvo otra vez a la fantasía a ver si encuentro historias más entretenidas.
February 14, 2018
Very good book about two people who are trying to put their lives back together. Sadie is in the midst of a difficult divorce from her controlling and abusive husband. Her job as a waitress isn't enough to make ends meet and desperation has her accepting a job working for Dawson. Dawson has spent a year in prison as he stood trial for the murder of his parents. He's been acquitted, but the people of Silver Springs still believe that he is guilty. He is trying to get the farm and house fixed up so that he can bring his disabled sister back home. Sadie is the only one who has agreed to work for him.
I loved the development of the relationship between Sadie and Dawson. Sadie is understandably nervous about her job. The justice system says that Dawson is innocent, but it's difficult not to be influenced by the constant negativity of the people around her. I loved that Dawson is patient and understanding of her fears. It doesn't take long for Sadie's heart to convince her that Dawson is innocent. They quickly move from employer/employee to friends, and then more. I ached for Sadie, whose soon-to-be-ex doesn't want to let her go and does everything he can to sabotage her efforts at independence. I loved the way that Dawson stood behind her and gave her the support she needed to fight back. I also hurt for Dawson, who had never truly had a chance to mourn the loss of his parents. He buries his pain in his determination to bring the farm back to life and bring his sister home. I loved Sadie's faith in him and how she stands up for him against his detractors. I especially loved the scene with Sadie and the social worker who came to investigate for Dawson's sister's release. Neither Sadie nor Dawson had started out wanting or expecting any kind of relationship. Sadie is reluctant to trust her judgment after what she has been through with Sly and now believes that love is just a fairytale. Dawson is just too busy with fixing the farm to have time, plus he believes that his trashed reputation will prevent any woman from wanting him. I loved watching them grow closer as they spent time together. It was especially sweet to see Dawson with Sadie's son, Jayden. It was clear that Dawson would be a terrific father. I liked that they didn't fight their growing attraction too hard. Giving in opened their hearts to the possibility of a future for them. I liked the epilogue and how it brought Dawson and the town back together.
The book had two suspense storylines - Dawson's search for his parents' true murderer, and the problems that Sadie was having with Sly. I liked Dawson's determination to prove his innocence and his persistence in pursuing each lead that he got. It really seemed like finding a needle in a haystack until one particular connection was discovered. The problems with Sly were much more intense. He is an abusive, controlling man, who enjoys the power trip of being a police officer. From the beginning, he uses intimidation to prevent Sadie from getting the jobs that would enable her to earn more money. When that doesn't work on Dawson, he steps up his attempts to drive Sadie back to him. His actions escalate, becoming more and more dangerous to both Sadie and Dawson. It was frustrating to see the way that he had the support of his fellow officers, who not only refused to see what he was doing but also participated in some of the intimidation. I loved the support that Dawson gave Sadie and seeing the steps she went through to solve the problem. The final confrontation was intense with a surprise twist to its resolution.
I loved the development of the relationship between Sadie and Dawson. Sadie is understandably nervous about her job. The justice system says that Dawson is innocent, but it's difficult not to be influenced by the constant negativity of the people around her. I loved that Dawson is patient and understanding of her fears. It doesn't take long for Sadie's heart to convince her that Dawson is innocent. They quickly move from employer/employee to friends, and then more. I ached for Sadie, whose soon-to-be-ex doesn't want to let her go and does everything he can to sabotage her efforts at independence. I loved the way that Dawson stood behind her and gave her the support she needed to fight back. I also hurt for Dawson, who had never truly had a chance to mourn the loss of his parents. He buries his pain in his determination to bring the farm back to life and bring his sister home. I loved Sadie's faith in him and how she stands up for him against his detractors. I especially loved the scene with Sadie and the social worker who came to investigate for Dawson's sister's release. Neither Sadie nor Dawson had started out wanting or expecting any kind of relationship. Sadie is reluctant to trust her judgment after what she has been through with Sly and now believes that love is just a fairytale. Dawson is just too busy with fixing the farm to have time, plus he believes that his trashed reputation will prevent any woman from wanting him. I loved watching them grow closer as they spent time together. It was especially sweet to see Dawson with Sadie's son, Jayden. It was clear that Dawson would be a terrific father. I liked that they didn't fight their growing attraction too hard. Giving in opened their hearts to the possibility of a future for them. I liked the epilogue and how it brought Dawson and the town back together.
The book had two suspense storylines - Dawson's search for his parents' true murderer, and the problems that Sadie was having with Sly. I liked Dawson's determination to prove his innocence and his persistence in pursuing each lead that he got. It really seemed like finding a needle in a haystack until one particular connection was discovered. The problems with Sly were much more intense. He is an abusive, controlling man, who enjoys the power trip of being a police officer. From the beginning, he uses intimidation to prevent Sadie from getting the jobs that would enable her to earn more money. When that doesn't work on Dawson, he steps up his attempts to drive Sadie back to him. His actions escalate, becoming more and more dangerous to both Sadie and Dawson. It was frustrating to see the way that he had the support of his fellow officers, who not only refused to see what he was doing but also participated in some of the intimidation. I loved the support that Dawson gave Sadie and seeing the steps she went through to solve the problem. The final confrontation was intense with a surprise twist to its resolution.
October 31, 2019
This book just might be my absolute favorite book by Brenda Novak! Shhhh.... I know I say that after every book of hers that I read. This one though.... I LOVE a good suspenseful romance story.
Sadie Harris is trying to finally put an end to her marriage but she's struggling financially and her ex is doing everything he can to make it harder on her. She ends up working for Dawson Reed and all you-know-what breaks loose.
I didn't want to put this book down once I started it. Of course, I'm like that with all of her books but this one was so suspenseful. If you haven't started this new series, you should do so. I can't wait to read the next one!
Sadie Harris is trying to finally put an end to her marriage but she's struggling financially and her ex is doing everything he can to make it harder on her. She ends up working for Dawson Reed and all you-know-what breaks loose.
I didn't want to put this book down once I started it. Of course, I'm like that with all of her books but this one was so suspenseful. If you haven't started this new series, you should do so. I can't wait to read the next one!
May 30, 2017
I had liked the previous book in this series, but this one snatched my heart. Impossible not to be sensitized by the story of Dawson and Sadie.
Beginning with Sadie's story, who was divorcing from her abusive husband (he hadn't YET beat her, but violence came in the form of words and some actions). He was not facilitating her life. Living in a small town, people did not want to go against him and offer her a better job where she could pay her expenses, especially with lawyer since she was fighting for the custody of her 5-year-old son .
Detail: Sly, Sadie's husband, was a cop. And he threat and bullies everybody.
That's when she decides to attend an interview to work at a ranch. Dawson Harris' ranch.
Dawson had spent a year in prison as justice tried to prove who killed his adoptive parents - and guilt at the time fell on his shoulders. The whole town believed in his guilt even after the evidence was circumstantial and he was released.
At first moment Sadie was worried, but she needed the money.
Dawson wanted to reinstate his parents' ranch and bring his sister Angela back. She was at a clinic in Los Angeles. She had mental limitation and would need a person with her to accompany her on her chores. He worked hard rebuilding the ranch haters had stolen while he was in jail, and in the fields.
As the days went by, Sadie realized Dawson could never have killed his parents. Friendship grew, as did the attraction between them.
Sly did not want to give the divorce before. Now, he would never let himself be traded for an ex-con.
A deep story about new beginning and resilient people.
Touching and romantic.
5 stars
ARC provided by the author's team
Beginning with Sadie's story, who was divorcing from her abusive husband (he hadn't YET beat her, but violence came in the form of words and some actions). He was not facilitating her life. Living in a small town, people did not want to go against him and offer her a better job where she could pay her expenses, especially with lawyer since she was fighting for the custody of her 5-year-old son .
Detail: Sly, Sadie's husband, was a cop. And he threat and bullies everybody.
That's when she decides to attend an interview to work at a ranch. Dawson Harris' ranch.
Dawson had spent a year in prison as justice tried to prove who killed his adoptive parents - and guilt at the time fell on his shoulders. The whole town believed in his guilt even after the evidence was circumstantial and he was released.
At first moment Sadie was worried, but she needed the money.
Dawson wanted to reinstate his parents' ranch and bring his sister Angela back. She was at a clinic in Los Angeles. She had mental limitation and would need a person with her to accompany her on her chores. He worked hard rebuilding the ranch haters had stolen while he was in jail, and in the fields.
As the days went by, Sadie realized Dawson could never have killed his parents. Friendship grew, as did the attraction between them.
Sly did not want to give the divorce before. Now, he would never let himself be traded for an ex-con.
A deep story about new beginning and resilient people.
Touching and romantic.
5 stars
ARC provided by the author's team
December 17, 2017
Sadie, a waitress who has left her verbally abusive husband, has custody of her son, Jayden. Her waitressing job is not helping her to make ends meet.
She sees an ad for a job and goes on the interview. She is hired by Dawson to help him get his house in order and to eventually be a caregiver for his sister. Dawson has spent the last year in jail for supposedly killing his parents, but was found not guilty. He is the town pariah and Sadie's soon to be ex-husband is not happy. He is trying to win Sadie back and puts all types of obstacles in her way, but she is determined to get out from under his thumb. Since he is on the police force, it means Sadie cannot go to the police, because they will gloss over any wrongdoings.
As Sadie and Dawson work to restore the damage done by vandals during his incarceration, their relationship become more than employer/employee.
4 stars
She sees an ad for a job and goes on the interview. She is hired by Dawson to help him get his house in order and to eventually be a caregiver for his sister. Dawson has spent the last year in jail for supposedly killing his parents, but was found not guilty. He is the town pariah and Sadie's soon to be ex-husband is not happy. He is trying to win Sadie back and puts all types of obstacles in her way, but she is determined to get out from under his thumb. Since he is on the police force, it means Sadie cannot go to the police, because they will gloss over any wrongdoings.
As Sadie and Dawson work to restore the damage done by vandals during his incarceration, their relationship become more than employer/employee.
4 stars
June 12, 2017
Oh, I just devoured this book! Sly was utterly awful, and yeah, really enjoyed them together! Need to read more!
May 30, 2017
Determination becomes obsession and then it becomes all that matters. - Jeremy Irvine
Dawson Reed has just been acquitted of murdering his adoptive parents - with a hatchet. He has spent a year in prison and most people in Silver Springs, California still think he is guilty of the crime.
He comes back to the artichoke farm that his parents owned and now that he owns to restart his life. He wants to get the house cleaned up (there was a lot of vandalism over the past year) and get it ready to bring his mentally disabled sister home to live.
Dawson posts an ad for a housekeeper/caretaker and Sadie Harris immediately answers it. She's trying to get out of an emotionally abusive marriage and needs more money to raise her five year-old son, Jayden. But her soon-to-be ex-husband, Sly, who is also a police officer, doesn't want to let her go.
This is an excellent story by author Novak. I've enjoyed books of hers in the past and this is probably my favorite out of all of them.
In-depth characters, an exciting, scary storyline about the fine line between love and obsession, and spicy romantic details makes this a book I'll be recommending to many of my friends and family - along with the readers of my reviews, of course.
I received this book from MIRA Books through Net Galley in exchange for my unbiased review.
Dawson Reed has just been acquitted of murdering his adoptive parents - with a hatchet. He has spent a year in prison and most people in Silver Springs, California still think he is guilty of the crime.
He comes back to the artichoke farm that his parents owned and now that he owns to restart his life. He wants to get the house cleaned up (there was a lot of vandalism over the past year) and get it ready to bring his mentally disabled sister home to live.
Dawson posts an ad for a housekeeper/caretaker and Sadie Harris immediately answers it. She's trying to get out of an emotionally abusive marriage and needs more money to raise her five year-old son, Jayden. But her soon-to-be ex-husband, Sly, who is also a police officer, doesn't want to let her go.
This is an excellent story by author Novak. I've enjoyed books of hers in the past and this is probably my favorite out of all of them.
In-depth characters, an exciting, scary storyline about the fine line between love and obsession, and spicy romantic details makes this a book I'll be recommending to many of my friends and family - along with the readers of my reviews, of course.
I received this book from MIRA Books through Net Galley in exchange for my unbiased review.
August 21, 2020
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