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Cattle Creek #2
Healing a Heart
The author of Loving a Lawman invites you back to the ranch...
As cowboys, the Langston brothers of Cattle Creek, Texas, know it’s easy to mend a fence. Mending a broken heart, however, takes time...
Rancher Jake Langston prides himself on being the sensible type. But five years after the loss of his wife left him to raise their daughter alone, he indulges in a one-night stand with a sexy stranger. He thought he’d never see the woman again. Four months later, though, she’s standing in his drive with a big surprise.
Bryn Talbot wants nothing from the hunky cowboy who got her pregnant, but her Southern nature demands she at least tell him about it. When Jake’s family persuades her to stay for a while, she’s soon won over by their charms—and by Jake. But with the losses the two of them have suffered in the past, neither is sure if they’re ready to take the leap to forever...
As cowboys, the Langston brothers of Cattle Creek, Texas, know it’s easy to mend a fence. Mending a broken heart, however, takes time...
Rancher Jake Langston prides himself on being the sensible type. But five years after the loss of his wife left him to raise their daughter alone, he indulges in a one-night stand with a sexy stranger. He thought he’d never see the woman again. Four months later, though, she’s standing in his drive with a big surprise.
Bryn Talbot wants nothing from the hunky cowboy who got her pregnant, but her Southern nature demands she at least tell him about it. When Jake’s family persuades her to stay for a while, she’s soon won over by their charms—and by Jake. But with the losses the two of them have suffered in the past, neither is sure if they’re ready to take the leap to forever...
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 7, 2017
12 people are currently reading
138 people want to read
About the author
Amy Lillard
101 books672 followersI'm a wife, mother, and bona fide Southern belle. Published author, expert corn bread maker, and Squirrel Princess.
I live in Tulsa, though I was born in Mississippi. I moved to the Sooner State when I was seventeen and met my soul mate and best friend not long after. I've retained a little of my Mississippi accent though most people think I'm from Texas. (?) Rob and I have been married for over twenty years and have a son--a mom proclaimed prodigy, of course!
I love homemade tacos, nail polish, and romance novels--not necessarily in that order. I'm a big fan of country music, a staunch proponent of saving the Oxford comma, and I'm shamefully obsessed with all things Harry Potter.
I believe that God is love. I guess that's why I adore romances.
I have always been intrigued with the Amish culture, their gentle ways and slower-paced lifestyle. (And I love, love, love the fact that they stay married for their lifetime.) But until recently I never thought to blend this interest with my penchant for romance. Okay, okay, I'm a bit old-fashioned and even enjoy the gender roles that are present in this culture. I love to cook and take care of my family. Yes, that's me June Cleaver with a laptop.
I dislike people trying to convince me to read the Twlight series (I'll get to it or I won't, either way I'm good with it), gratuitous violence, and strawberry ice cream. (I know I'm alone on this last one, and again, I'm good with it.)
Favorite movies--(besides HP) French Kiss, Maid of Honor, A Lot Like Love, Just Married, and Sweet Home Alabama. Oh, and Miss Congeniality, Sabrina (both versions) and a 1940's movie called Dear Ruth. If you haven't seen it, you should! A-dorable. Anything with Doris Day and most all of Marilyn's and Audrey's.
I live in Tulsa, though I was born in Mississippi. I moved to the Sooner State when I was seventeen and met my soul mate and best friend not long after. I've retained a little of my Mississippi accent though most people think I'm from Texas. (?) Rob and I have been married for over twenty years and have a son--a mom proclaimed prodigy, of course!
I love homemade tacos, nail polish, and romance novels--not necessarily in that order. I'm a big fan of country music, a staunch proponent of saving the Oxford comma, and I'm shamefully obsessed with all things Harry Potter.
I believe that God is love. I guess that's why I adore romances.
I have always been intrigued with the Amish culture, their gentle ways and slower-paced lifestyle. (And I love, love, love the fact that they stay married for their lifetime.) But until recently I never thought to blend this interest with my penchant for romance. Okay, okay, I'm a bit old-fashioned and even enjoy the gender roles that are present in this culture. I love to cook and take care of my family. Yes, that's me June Cleaver with a laptop.
I dislike people trying to convince me to read the Twlight series (I'll get to it or I won't, either way I'm good with it), gratuitous violence, and strawberry ice cream. (I know I'm alone on this last one, and again, I'm good with it.)
Favorite movies--(besides HP) French Kiss, Maid of Honor, A Lot Like Love, Just Married, and Sweet Home Alabama. Oh, and Miss Congeniality, Sabrina (both versions) and a 1940's movie called Dear Ruth. If you haven't seen it, you should! A-dorable. Anything with Doris Day and most all of Marilyn's and Audrey's.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
March 7, 2017
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup.
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2fDz0Uw
Wow. Just. Wow. I expected to like Healing the Heart. But I didn't expect it to have such an emotional impact on me as a reader.
So real quick. Jake and Bryn? Well. They had a one night stand. And chickie got her self well and truly knocked up. And she's finally hunted down her future baby daddy to tell him what's going on and, erm, it does not go well.
Okay, so, from the get go I was a bit angry with the hero. He said something that was so off limits for me I was like homeboy best get to groveling and get there real fucking fast! lol But I was loving the heroine--who was trying her best-- and his family and really the book as well so I gave him a chance.
And as the book went I fell a little more in love with everyone. Even the jackass hero who, okay, had his reasons, maybe.
This was one hell of a rocky romance. A hard situation and trying to figure out how the hell to deal with it all and being an instant family. There were screw ups and the hero tested my nerves a few times but by the end he won me over and I was on board. There were some pretty funny moments, too, even in all the serious. So a rock solid four star read. I swear it wasn't all doom and gloom. lol
And then the wow. For about 15 hours I was just in a mood. Nothing overly bad was happening in my life but I was just feeling distraught, out of sorts and like having a frustration-cry. What the everliving hell, right? And then it hit me. The heroine. She was feeling trapped and unsettled and just having a hard time. And that was a serious whoa moment for me. While I usually empathize with characters and what they're going through it's rare for such a clear transfer of emotion to actually pass over to me and impact my daily life. I was so impressed by that. Goodness.
Jake and Bryn may not be perfect, their romance may not be easy, but overall these are characters you can root for and hope that they'll figure it all out and make a good life for themselves. I'm looking forward to the next brothers story for sure and seeing what Lillard can deliver.
August 29, 2017
Chaps, cowboys, surprise pregnancy – I was all in!
I read the first of the Cattle Creek series and it teased me with cowboys and love. Diving into Jake and Bryn’s story, I was hoping for an emotional connection and oh did I find it!
“How could she barely know anything about him yet pick him out of a crowd of cowboys in a heartbeat?"
Fate, chance or just (good?) luck have these two strangers suddenly bound together in a way they didn’t want, didn’t need and didn’t care for. Sometimes you don’t even know what you want, what you need, until life delivers it to you in an uncomfortable package. And there was a time limit to figuring things out – about five months or so….
Like the first read, this story was brimming with drama as both Jake and Bryn deal with loss and grief in their own unique and sometimes stubborn ways. Determined to keep each other at arm’s length, they become experts at arguing yet reconciling and, at the same time, finding out who their partner in parenting really is. I wanted to feel each and every one of those moments and I happily did just that. They and the secondary characters around them were easy to like and connect with, making this an emotional time for them but for me as well.
Drama that was just the right balance of sweet and funny moments, this story has made this series a “must read”. I hope there will be many more! ~Diane, 4 stars
I read the first of the Cattle Creek series and it teased me with cowboys and love. Diving into Jake and Bryn’s story, I was hoping for an emotional connection and oh did I find it!
“How could she barely know anything about him yet pick him out of a crowd of cowboys in a heartbeat?"
Fate, chance or just (good?) luck have these two strangers suddenly bound together in a way they didn’t want, didn’t need and didn’t care for. Sometimes you don’t even know what you want, what you need, until life delivers it to you in an uncomfortable package. And there was a time limit to figuring things out – about five months or so….
Like the first read, this story was brimming with drama as both Jake and Bryn deal with loss and grief in their own unique and sometimes stubborn ways. Determined to keep each other at arm’s length, they become experts at arguing yet reconciling and, at the same time, finding out who their partner in parenting really is. I wanted to feel each and every one of those moments and I happily did just that. They and the secondary characters around them were easy to like and connect with, making this an emotional time for them but for me as well.
Drama that was just the right balance of sweet and funny moments, this story has made this series a “must read”. I hope there will be many more! ~Diane, 4 stars
February 4, 2017
Healing a Heart (Cattle Creek #2) by Amy Lillard
Rancher Jake Langston prides himself on being the sensible type. But five years after the loss of his wife left him to raise their daughter alone, he indulges in a one-night stand with a sexy stranger. He thought he’d never see the woman again. Four months later, though, she’s standing in his drive with a big surprise. Bryn Talbot wants nothing from the hunky cowboy who got her pregnant, but her Southern nature demands she at least tell him about it. When Jake’s family persuades her to stay for a while, she’s soon won over by their charms—and by Jake. But with the losses the two of them have suffered in the past, neither is sure if they’re ready to take the leap to forever...
I love the cover art on this book, total cozy home holiday card feeling. If you read Loving a Lawman you have to pick Healing a Heart up, I had a hard time with the way Loving a Lawman ended but reading this book I think I love Loving a Lawman so much more.
Lillard gives readers a reason to hold onto hope that Jake and Bryn can get over their head butting to opening up the blanket of frustration and mule headed stubbornness to finding something more honest, deeper and real.
It took awhile for these two to really capture me until now because there was so much tension and clashing that it was almost off putting however the investment was well worth the time both Lillard and myself as the reader have put into them.
Although Loving a Lawman was Jess and Seth's story we know these two from that book and have been waiting to see what would happen with these two since.
This is a complex dual layer emotional turmoil love but totally worth it in the end. I really enjoyed Healing a Heart. Way to go Lillard.
Amy Lillard
This title will be available for purchase on February 7, 2017!
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews has a QR code for your phone!
Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews received a print copy. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews received a print copy in exchange for an honest review from Berkley Publishing.
If any of Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews has been helpful please stop by to like my post or leave a comment to let me know what you think. I love hearing from followers!
Thank you so much for stopping by!
Rancher Jake Langston prides himself on being the sensible type. But five years after the loss of his wife left him to raise their daughter alone, he indulges in a one-night stand with a sexy stranger. He thought he’d never see the woman again. Four months later, though, she’s standing in his drive with a big surprise. Bryn Talbot wants nothing from the hunky cowboy who got her pregnant, but her Southern nature demands she at least tell him about it. When Jake’s family persuades her to stay for a while, she’s soon won over by their charms—and by Jake. But with the losses the two of them have suffered in the past, neither is sure if they’re ready to take the leap to forever...
I love the cover art on this book, total cozy home holiday card feeling. If you read Loving a Lawman you have to pick Healing a Heart up, I had a hard time with the way Loving a Lawman ended but reading this book I think I love Loving a Lawman so much more.
Lillard gives readers a reason to hold onto hope that Jake and Bryn can get over their head butting to opening up the blanket of frustration and mule headed stubbornness to finding something more honest, deeper and real.
It took awhile for these two to really capture me until now because there was so much tension and clashing that it was almost off putting however the investment was well worth the time both Lillard and myself as the reader have put into them.
Although Loving a Lawman was Jess and Seth's story we know these two from that book and have been waiting to see what would happen with these two since.
This is a complex dual layer emotional turmoil love but totally worth it in the end. I really enjoyed Healing a Heart. Way to go Lillard.
Amy Lillard
This title will be available for purchase on February 7, 2017!
Krissys Bookshelf Reviews has a QR code for your phone!
Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews received a print copy. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews received a print copy in exchange for an honest review from Berkley Publishing.
If any of Krissy's Bookshelf Reviews has been helpful please stop by to like my post or leave a comment to let me know what you think. I love hearing from followers!
Thank you so much for stopping by!
February 8, 2017
I have been waiting for this book since I finished LOVING A LAWMAN and I've got to say it was really worth the wait! I expected fireworks which I got, but the story had so much heart and emotion to it, and some humor too.
Since he lost his wife in childbirth, Jake Langston has devoted himself to the family ranch and his daughter, but even he has needs. So while away on a business trip, he decides to let out some steam with a willing companion but that one night stand goes horribly wrong when she shows up at his door with a surprise for him four months later.
Family means a lot to Bryn Talbot and for someone that has lost all of hers, it would be wrong for her keep her pregnancy a secret from the father, even though she only finds out his identity thanks to a magazine profile. He may be rude and annoying but he has a warm and welcoming family and she lets herself be convinced to spend some time getting to know his family.
Bryn and Jake both come with a boatload of issues. Jake still harbors guilt over his marriage and the death of his wife, while Bryn is still grieving the loss of her sister, so it's obvious that these two have their hearts on lock-down. However, the chemistry between them makes it clear that the passion they shared that one night was not a one-off thing. But is marriage to a man she barely knows the solution to their dilemma? How can they both participate in their child's life when they live on both sides of the country? Will they let themselves find happiness with each other? And can they let themselves enjoy the second chance they have - for Bryn, another chance at family and for Jake, another chance to make a success of his relationship?
This was a really great story with very enjoyable characters and my favorites turned out to be Jake's daughter and Bryn's friend. Can someone say drama overload? In a good way, of course. Jake seemed to be clueless about women (even with his mom, grandma and daughter under the same roof with him), with the way he kept his foot in his mouth all the time!
This book will make you smile and tear up lots of times and the title is so appropriate! Jake and Bryn had a lot of healing to do in order to find happiness again. Even though their relationship started out unconventionally and they did everything from the end to the beginning, Jake and Bryn will have you rooting for them to find their happy ending. This series as a whole is really a must read.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely mine.
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Since he lost his wife in childbirth, Jake Langston has devoted himself to the family ranch and his daughter, but even he has needs. So while away on a business trip, he decides to let out some steam with a willing companion but that one night stand goes horribly wrong when she shows up at his door with a surprise for him four months later.
Family means a lot to Bryn Talbot and for someone that has lost all of hers, it would be wrong for her keep her pregnancy a secret from the father, even though she only finds out his identity thanks to a magazine profile. He may be rude and annoying but he has a warm and welcoming family and she lets herself be convinced to spend some time getting to know his family.
Bryn and Jake both come with a boatload of issues. Jake still harbors guilt over his marriage and the death of his wife, while Bryn is still grieving the loss of her sister, so it's obvious that these two have their hearts on lock-down. However, the chemistry between them makes it clear that the passion they shared that one night was not a one-off thing. But is marriage to a man she barely knows the solution to their dilemma? How can they both participate in their child's life when they live on both sides of the country? Will they let themselves find happiness with each other? And can they let themselves enjoy the second chance they have - for Bryn, another chance at family and for Jake, another chance to make a success of his relationship?
This was a really great story with very enjoyable characters and my favorites turned out to be Jake's daughter and Bryn's friend. Can someone say drama overload? In a good way, of course. Jake seemed to be clueless about women (even with his mom, grandma and daughter under the same roof with him), with the way he kept his foot in his mouth all the time!
This book will make you smile and tear up lots of times and the title is so appropriate! Jake and Bryn had a lot of healing to do in order to find happiness again. Even though their relationship started out unconventionally and they did everything from the end to the beginning, Jake and Bryn will have you rooting for them to find their happy ending. This series as a whole is really a must read.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely mine.
Want more? Subscribe to my Newsletter on The Sassy Bookster.
Follow me on Twitter | Tumblr | Bloglovin’.
Like my page on Facebook.
February 9, 2017
As this story opens I am reminded of the first book in this series, Loving A Lawman, and we met a rather unhappy Jake. Now these Langtson men sure must be some hunks, and now Jake has them dropping by his door, just hoping he will marry them, right!
So when Byrn shows up you can tell he wants her to hit right back on the road, but she has a good story for him, and her conscious wants her to share. To say he is flabbergasted is an understatement and he doesn’t seem to take the news very well, now it is his time to pay the piper, and our Bryn isn’t a shrinking violet, but she is very tenderhearted.
I loved staying at this beautiful Texas ranch, and I could just picture the surroundings through the eyes of the author, made me want to move there! There is also a precocious five years old Wesley, and she will melt your heart, and she does Byrn's.
These two have a lot to work out and a limited amount of time to do so, and they are both hurting, you have to hope that they will find love and new meaning for their lives in a very short period of time.
I received this book through Net Galley and the author, and was not required to give a positive review.
So when Byrn shows up you can tell he wants her to hit right back on the road, but she has a good story for him, and her conscious wants her to share. To say he is flabbergasted is an understatement and he doesn’t seem to take the news very well, now it is his time to pay the piper, and our Bryn isn’t a shrinking violet, but she is very tenderhearted.
I loved staying at this beautiful Texas ranch, and I could just picture the surroundings through the eyes of the author, made me want to move there! There is also a precocious five years old Wesley, and she will melt your heart, and she does Byrn's.
These two have a lot to work out and a limited amount of time to do so, and they are both hurting, you have to hope that they will find love and new meaning for their lives in a very short period of time.
I received this book through Net Galley and the author, and was not required to give a positive review.
December 18, 2016
review to be on joyfully reviewed
February 7, 2017
Jake has been a shell of a man the last five years all he has done is worked and raised his daughter and since that magazine named him the 15th richest bachelor women come from all over. When Bryn shows up at Jakes ranch he tries to send her away but his grandma won't have any of that. Jake suffers through the introductions and when he gets to why Bryn is there she tells him she is pregnant from a one night stand they had. Jake is furious and he tells he have an abortion he didn't care but when she goes to leave his mother makes him stop and think so he apologizes and gets Bryn to promise to come back. Bryn knew this was a bad idea and when she calls her best friend Nick he convinces her to go back for the babies sake. Jake is a lot gentler now and introduces her to his daughter Weston whose mother died giving birth to her and Westin is just full of questions. Jake is still full of guilty because Cecilia died and she wasn't happy there but Jake begged her to try. Bryn doesn't think she can compete with Jakes deceased wife but this is the first time she has felt like a part of a family since her sister died. Jake is bound and determined to get Bryn to keep the baby on the ranch with him, he has offered to marry her even but Bryn wants it all. This story had me tearing up a lot but I give Bryn a ton of credit for seeking out and finding Jake to share the news of the baby with him I don't think many women would have. This story will pull at your heartstrings and by the end of it you feel like you know them personally.
Reviewed on behalf of Once upon an Alpha
Reviewed on behalf of Once upon an Alpha
January 15, 2019
4 stelle e mezza
Questo libro mi è piaciuto un po' meno del precedente, forse perché sono stata delusa dal comportamento di Jake, mentre la protagonista femminile ha conquistato il mio cuore: penso che solo grazie a lei riesca a dare mezza stella in più.
I fratelli sono 5, quindi mi aspettavo altri 3 libri, ma mi sa che la serie finisce con questo: peccato.
Questo libro mi è piaciuto un po' meno del precedente, forse perché sono stata delusa dal comportamento di Jake, mentre la protagonista femminile ha conquistato il mio cuore: penso che solo grazie a lei riesca a dare mezza stella in più.
I fratelli sono 5, quindi mi aspettavo altri 3 libri, ma mi sa che la serie finisce con questo: peccato.
April 30, 2017
Jake and Bryn have both suffered loss. They’re damaged, not sure if they’re ready to let someone into their lives, and they need some healing to make them whole again. So, when a one-night stand leaves Bryn pregnant, Jake’s not exactly thrilled. And when his family convinces Bryn to stay, they slowly start to heal and figure out where things are headed.
Okay so, I’m not going to lie, if you’re going to pick up this book, AVOID THE AUDIOBOOK. The book itself is frustrating because, for the majority of the book, Bryn is frustrated then the narrator’s annoying narration only compounded to the frustration I felt.
Even though I felt frustrated on Bryn’s behalf, I found myself liking her. She’s been through a lot and suffered so much loss but she’s a tough cookie and she’s slowly figuring how to dig herself out of her grief. Jake’s another story; I ended up disliking him from the start. I know that’s he still dealing with the death of his wife, but he was such a wanker. As the book progressed, I started warming up to Jake but never found myself actually liking him and I think that had to do with the surly way the narrator portrayed him.
So, this was my first time listening to Rebecca Estrella and I have to say she’s not my favorite narrator. She made Bryn whiney, Jake was surly, and she portrayed a five-year-old little girl as if she was a tween.
This is the second book in the Cattle Creek series and it works well as a standalone. It also offered up just enough information on Jake’s brothers to pique my curiosity about the books to come.
Overall, this book sort of put me through the wringer and made me want to scream on Bryn’s behalf. I wished that I would have actually read this one because I’m wondering if my opinion of Jake would have changed.
Okay so, I’m not going to lie, if you’re going to pick up this book, AVOID THE AUDIOBOOK. The book itself is frustrating because, for the majority of the book, Bryn is frustrated then the narrator’s annoying narration only compounded to the frustration I felt.
Even though I felt frustrated on Bryn’s behalf, I found myself liking her. She’s been through a lot and suffered so much loss but she’s a tough cookie and she’s slowly figuring how to dig herself out of her grief. Jake’s another story; I ended up disliking him from the start. I know that’s he still dealing with the death of his wife, but he was such a wanker. As the book progressed, I started warming up to Jake but never found myself actually liking him and I think that had to do with the surly way the narrator portrayed him.
So, this was my first time listening to Rebecca Estrella and I have to say she’s not my favorite narrator. She made Bryn whiney, Jake was surly, and she portrayed a five-year-old little girl as if she was a tween.
This is the second book in the Cattle Creek series and it works well as a standalone. It also offered up just enough information on Jake’s brothers to pique my curiosity about the books to come.
Overall, this book sort of put me through the wringer and made me want to scream on Bryn’s behalf. I wished that I would have actually read this one because I’m wondering if my opinion of Jake would have changed.
December 9, 2016
Healing A Heart ( Cattle Creek #2)
By: Amy Lillard
Healing A Heart is book two in Cattle Creek Series by Amy Lillard. Ms Lillard writes Amish and Contemporary and this is one off her contemporary books. The author grabbed me right at the start and had me hanging on till the end. There were times when I was laughing and other times I was holding my breath and had tears in my eyes. The story and the characters both were well written and easy to follow. This is Jake and Bryn’s story . A one night stand between these two ended up more than they bargained for . Four months later Bryn ends up on Jake’s door steps in Texas. Things go back and forth between these two. Bryn still thinks that Jake is a handsome cowboy. Do they still have feeling for each other, but they don’t even know each other? Jake is still having guilt feeling over his late wife. He is left raising his small daughter, who captured my heart right away. Will Jake ever get over his late wife to love again? What will Bryn do she has no family to go back to? How will Jake’s family treat Bryn? I enjoyed Healing A Heart and hope there will be a Third book in this series.
I was given a complementary copy of this book , but was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.
By: Amy Lillard
Healing A Heart is book two in Cattle Creek Series by Amy Lillard. Ms Lillard writes Amish and Contemporary and this is one off her contemporary books. The author grabbed me right at the start and had me hanging on till the end. There were times when I was laughing and other times I was holding my breath and had tears in my eyes. The story and the characters both were well written and easy to follow. This is Jake and Bryn’s story . A one night stand between these two ended up more than they bargained for . Four months later Bryn ends up on Jake’s door steps in Texas. Things go back and forth between these two. Bryn still thinks that Jake is a handsome cowboy. Do they still have feeling for each other, but they don’t even know each other? Jake is still having guilt feeling over his late wife. He is left raising his small daughter, who captured my heart right away. Will Jake ever get over his late wife to love again? What will Bryn do she has no family to go back to? How will Jake’s family treat Bryn? I enjoyed Healing A Heart and hope there will be a Third book in this series.
I was given a complementary copy of this book , but was not told that I had to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.
February 10, 2017
This was an emotionally tough book for me. Jake has been through so much. He lost his first wife in childbirth and he’s experiencing total recall in this new situation with Bryn and her pregnancy. Jake thinks that getting married is the only way to solve this “problem” but Bryn is definitely NOT on board with that plan. She doesn’t want to marry a man who doesn’t love her. But her desire for family is tugging her head—and her heart—in all kinds of directions.
The story is so good. I laughed, I loved and I wept right alongside Jake, Bryn and the rest of the Langston family. Many curveballs are thrown and this family keeps on fighting. It’s a beautiful story you don’t want to miss. Make sure you’ve got your tissues handy!
HEALING A HEART is exactly that. It’s a journey of healing with all the good, the bad and the ugly that comes along with life. I am honored to have read such a powerful and amazing story. I highly recommend the series.
***ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All conclusions reached are my own***
The story is so good. I laughed, I loved and I wept right alongside Jake, Bryn and the rest of the Langston family. Many curveballs are thrown and this family keeps on fighting. It’s a beautiful story you don’t want to miss. Make sure you’ve got your tissues handy!
HEALING A HEART is exactly that. It’s a journey of healing with all the good, the bad and the ugly that comes along with life. I am honored to have read such a powerful and amazing story. I highly recommend the series.
***ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All conclusions reached are my own***
February 6, 2017
Firstly I love the cover of this book, I just want to sit in that chair on that Texas ranch.
My favourite character of this whole book was Wesley, that girl captured my heart and to me was the intricate character to bring Jake and Bryn together.
This story flowed beautifully and jumped ahead at parts and I did not feel as if I missed out on where their relationship strengthened.
Jake's mother's story must continue into the next book as it was not resolved by the end. I also have not read the first book of this series but we meet his brother and Jessie.
Now onto Jake, my only complaint is that we did not see him open up to Bryn about his hang ups until the 95% mark after she gives birth. I really wanted him to open up to Bryn and I felt a bit deflated after the custody chapter with the lawyer, it did not feel resolved to me.
Overall a lovely romantic story that kept me turning the pages and gave me wonderful moments of love, family and new beginnings.
My favourite character of this whole book was Wesley, that girl captured my heart and to me was the intricate character to bring Jake and Bryn together.
This story flowed beautifully and jumped ahead at parts and I did not feel as if I missed out on where their relationship strengthened.
Jake's mother's story must continue into the next book as it was not resolved by the end. I also have not read the first book of this series but we meet his brother and Jessie.
Now onto Jake, my only complaint is that we did not see him open up to Bryn about his hang ups until the 95% mark after she gives birth. I really wanted him to open up to Bryn and I felt a bit deflated after the custody chapter with the lawyer, it did not feel resolved to me.
Overall a lovely romantic story that kept me turning the pages and gave me wonderful moments of love, family and new beginnings.
October 11, 2019
Healing a Heart is book 2 in Amy Lillard's A Cattle Creek Novels. I usually read more Amish novels but since Ms. Lillard writes both I decided to try this series. I have not been disappointed. I already love that the author gives the reader well rounded characters who the reader can relate. Her story lines are well researched an developed which leaves the reader wanting to turn the pages.
The story begins by Bryn and Jake indulging in a one night stand. However, each believes they will never see one another again. As fate would have it, the one night stand brings with it a lifetime commitment. Will they be able to find a solution? I not only laughed but I cried during this story. The characters interaction was well done and very realistic. I held my breath as I turned the page to see what would happen next. You will not be disappointed. I look forward to the next installment.
I receive a copy from the author. The review and my enjoyment of the series is strictly my own.
The story begins by Bryn and Jake indulging in a one night stand. However, each believes they will never see one another again. As fate would have it, the one night stand brings with it a lifetime commitment. Will they be able to find a solution? I not only laughed but I cried during this story. The characters interaction was well done and very realistic. I held my breath as I turned the page to see what would happen next. You will not be disappointed. I look forward to the next installment.
I receive a copy from the author. The review and my enjoyment of the series is strictly my own.
September 11, 2019
I give this book 5 stars simply because Amy knows how to turn out a good story and add some humor in as well. And this was even better than the first book Seth and Jesse's story.
I actually laughed out loud on the city bus! I ran across a cute scene in the book that made me roll! Of course I got some weird stares but who cares. What's it matter if I'm enjoying the book? None at all!!
Jake is just too hilarious!! I loved seeing him squirm when Bryn said some things that was totally off the wall and even embarrassed him. That just tickled me pink!!
I loved the kissing scenes lol!! There's nothing like the kissing the hottest dude on earth and him being a cowboy to boot!!! Yummy!! That's what Jake Langston is!
I wanted to smack Bryn for not seeing what clearly is in front of her eyes!!
I can't leave out my most favorite character of all and that's Jake's Grandma Esther. She's a gem who doesn't judge other people and I think she should be a comedian lol!!
There really isn't anything that I didn't like and that is my honest opinion.
Overall I just enjoy a good book and this one is certainly no exception!!
I really recommend this read. If you don't have family then these people will welcome you with open arms. They did me.
My thanks to the author for a copy of this book. NO compensations were received. All opinions are my own.
I actually laughed out loud on the city bus! I ran across a cute scene in the book that made me roll! Of course I got some weird stares but who cares. What's it matter if I'm enjoying the book? None at all!!
Jake is just too hilarious!! I loved seeing him squirm when Bryn said some things that was totally off the wall and even embarrassed him. That just tickled me pink!!
I loved the kissing scenes lol!! There's nothing like the kissing the hottest dude on earth and him being a cowboy to boot!!! Yummy!! That's what Jake Langston is!
I wanted to smack Bryn for not seeing what clearly is in front of her eyes!!
I can't leave out my most favorite character of all and that's Jake's Grandma Esther. She's a gem who doesn't judge other people and I think she should be a comedian lol!!
There really isn't anything that I didn't like and that is my honest opinion.
Overall I just enjoy a good book and this one is certainly no exception!!
I really recommend this read. If you don't have family then these people will welcome you with open arms. They did me.
My thanks to the author for a copy of this book. NO compensations were received. All opinions are my own.
July 1, 2020
My review originally posted on Romancing-the-Book.com is shown below:
Healing a Heart is a western romance and a nice continuation of book one in the Cattle Creek series, Loving a Lawman . The Langston's are once again front and center but this time it's Jake's story. He and Bryn happen to meet at a bar in Austin and have a one night stand but never are in touch again. He's from Texas and the fifteenth most eligible bachelor in Texas. She's from Georgia and had only been in Austin for a weekend with her best friend, Rick. When she shows up on Jake's doorstep at the family ranch where he lives with his five year old daughter, his mom and his grandmother, he thinks she's just another gold digger who has seen the article. She's seen it but she's not there for the reasons he thinks she is.
Jake and Bryn never seem to be on the same page at the same time. They definitely have communication problems. They're either all in or taking a step back. Bryn feels her home is in Georgia although there's no one there but a few friends and Jake doesn't want to make waves and let his feelings for Bryn be known due to heartaches from his past. She misunderstands his feelings which is totally understandable because they never talk about his first wife who died or his feelings for her both then and now. But when he does let his guard down and lets Bryn know his feelings there's definitely a storm brewing! We learn of their individual pasts and why they each act the way they do. His daughter Wesley is like a breath of fresh air, his grandmother is a hoot and his mom has too much stuff on her mind to always be the whirlwind she usually is.
There are family and friends, small town gossips, the small town of Cattle Creek, celebrations, secrets, illness, sadness, tears, heartache, misunderstandings, fear, happiness, laughter, lots of loving and ultimately love. The ranch hands and the horses give another layer to the story. The characters were complex and the descriptions of the land, the ranch, the horses and ranching were vivid. The story was sometimes choppy within a chapter. There was closure with the epilogue but it ended too abruptly for me and really focused on five year old Wesley. There are three more Langston brothers that need their stories to be told. I hope we meet up with everyone in future books in the series.
Lillard is one of my go to authors. I love her Amish books that transport me to where the story is being told.
Healing a Heart is a western romance and a nice continuation of book one in the Cattle Creek series, Loving a Lawman . The Langston's are once again front and center but this time it's Jake's story. He and Bryn happen to meet at a bar in Austin and have a one night stand but never are in touch again. He's from Texas and the fifteenth most eligible bachelor in Texas. She's from Georgia and had only been in Austin for a weekend with her best friend, Rick. When she shows up on Jake's doorstep at the family ranch where he lives with his five year old daughter, his mom and his grandmother, he thinks she's just another gold digger who has seen the article. She's seen it but she's not there for the reasons he thinks she is.
Jake and Bryn never seem to be on the same page at the same time. They definitely have communication problems. They're either all in or taking a step back. Bryn feels her home is in Georgia although there's no one there but a few friends and Jake doesn't want to make waves and let his feelings for Bryn be known due to heartaches from his past. She misunderstands his feelings which is totally understandable because they never talk about his first wife who died or his feelings for her both then and now. But when he does let his guard down and lets Bryn know his feelings there's definitely a storm brewing! We learn of their individual pasts and why they each act the way they do. His daughter Wesley is like a breath of fresh air, his grandmother is a hoot and his mom has too much stuff on her mind to always be the whirlwind she usually is.
There are family and friends, small town gossips, the small town of Cattle Creek, celebrations, secrets, illness, sadness, tears, heartache, misunderstandings, fear, happiness, laughter, lots of loving and ultimately love. The ranch hands and the horses give another layer to the story. The characters were complex and the descriptions of the land, the ranch, the horses and ranching were vivid. The story was sometimes choppy within a chapter. There was closure with the epilogue but it ended too abruptly for me and really focused on five year old Wesley. There are three more Langston brothers that need their stories to be told. I hope we meet up with everyone in future books in the series.
Lillard is one of my go to authors. I love her Amish books that transport me to where the story is being told.
February 8, 2017
Healing a Heart is the second book in the Cattle Creek Series by Amy Lillard, I have been given the honor of reading this book prior to its release and it is indeed an honor, not to mention I could not wait to read this continuation of Loving a Lawman. Bryn and Jake have an amazing connection on a night out. Emotions win out and the two connect and have great memories only to find out that the connection is greater than the both of them. Bryn arrives at the "Ranch" to share her happy news with Jake and his family, her announcement is met with mixed reviews. With great hesitation Bryn agrees to stay at the "Ranch" for a brief period of time so that her and Jake see if they really have a connection that can last. Bryn begins to find some missing pieces to her life and that family is so important. Can the magic spark survive? Can Love conquer all? Can being part of a real family help Jake win her heart? Don't miss this wonderful escape to Cattle Creek. Thank you Amy Lillard for the opportunity to read this amazing book.
December 8, 2016
Amy Lillard is one of my favorite authors. She writes both Amish and contemporary books.This was among her contemporary books.
Because of a night together, Bryn finds herself in a situation which causes her to speak to Jake regarding the results of that night spent together. His immediate response was not one that she agreed with, but as his family asks her to stay with them for a while she finds herself drawn to Jake and he to her.
This story was very well written, however, not the genre I normally would read. I enjoyed the book but being that it was a contemporary book there were some parts that I quickly passed over. The story was good and I enjoyed reading it.
I received an ebook copy from Netgalley for my honest review, which I have given.
Because of a night together, Bryn finds herself in a situation which causes her to speak to Jake regarding the results of that night spent together. His immediate response was not one that she agreed with, but as his family asks her to stay with them for a while she finds herself drawn to Jake and he to her.
This story was very well written, however, not the genre I normally would read. I enjoyed the book but being that it was a contemporary book there were some parts that I quickly passed over. The story was good and I enjoyed reading it.
I received an ebook copy from Netgalley for my honest review, which I have given.
December 1, 2016
A night not too long ago causes life changes for two people who may have never found each other again, if not for a huge surprise. The relationship between Jake and Bryn has ups and downs. Each person carries their own sadness in life and has trouble accepting the new possibilities. This is a touching story of trust and love and new relationships. I enjoyed this story very much. I received a copy from the author and this is my honest, personal opinion.
December 30, 2016
I enjoyed this book by Amy Lillard. She never disappoints me. This was a very good western romance. This story lives up to the name. I enjoyed getting to know Bryan and Jake and his daughter. Great story. I received an ebook copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest opinion.
October 12, 2019
Reviewed by JoAnne
Book provided by the author
Healing a Heart is a western romance and a nice continuation of book one in the Cattle Creek series, Loving a Lawman . The Langston's are once again front and center but this time it's Jake's story. He and Bryn happen to meet at a bar in Austin and have a one night stand but never are in touch again. He's from Texas and the fifteenth most eligible bachelor in Texas. She's from Georgia and had only been in Austin for a weekend with her best friend, Rick. When she shows up on Jake's doorstep at the family ranch where he lives with his five year old daughter, his mom and his grandmother, he thinks she's just another gold digger who has seen the article. She's seen it but she's not there for the reasons he thinks she is.
Jake and Bryn never seem to be on the same page at the same time. They definitely have communication problems. They're either all in or taking a step back. Bryn feels her home is in Georgia although there's no one there but a few friends and Jake doesn't want to make waves and let his feelings for Bryn be known due to heartaches from his past. She misunderstands his feelings which is totally understandable because they never talk about his first wife who died or his feelings for her both then and now. But when he does let his guard down and lets Bryn know his feelings there's definitely a storm brewing! We learn of their individual pasts and why they each act the way they do. His daughter Wesley is like a breath of fresh air, his grandmother is a hoot and his mom has too much stuff on her mind to always be the whirlwind she usually is.
There are family and friends, small town gossips, the small town of Cattle Creek, celebrations, secrets, illness, sadness, tears, heartache, misunderstandings, fear, happiness, laughter, lots of loving and ultimately love. The ranch hands and the horses give another layer to the story. The characters were complex and the descriptions of the land, the ranch, the horses and ranching were vivid. The story was sometimes choppy within a chapter. There was closure with the epilogue but it ended too abruptly for me and really focused on five year old Wesley. There are three more Langston brothers that need their stories to be told. I hope we meet up with everyone in future books in the series.
Lillard is one of my go to authors. I love her Amish books that transport me to where the story is being told.
Book provided by the author
Healing a Heart is a western romance and a nice continuation of book one in the Cattle Creek series, Loving a Lawman . The Langston's are once again front and center but this time it's Jake's story. He and Bryn happen to meet at a bar in Austin and have a one night stand but never are in touch again. He's from Texas and the fifteenth most eligible bachelor in Texas. She's from Georgia and had only been in Austin for a weekend with her best friend, Rick. When she shows up on Jake's doorstep at the family ranch where he lives with his five year old daughter, his mom and his grandmother, he thinks she's just another gold digger who has seen the article. She's seen it but she's not there for the reasons he thinks she is.
Jake and Bryn never seem to be on the same page at the same time. They definitely have communication problems. They're either all in or taking a step back. Bryn feels her home is in Georgia although there's no one there but a few friends and Jake doesn't want to make waves and let his feelings for Bryn be known due to heartaches from his past. She misunderstands his feelings which is totally understandable because they never talk about his first wife who died or his feelings for her both then and now. But when he does let his guard down and lets Bryn know his feelings there's definitely a storm brewing! We learn of their individual pasts and why they each act the way they do. His daughter Wesley is like a breath of fresh air, his grandmother is a hoot and his mom has too much stuff on her mind to always be the whirlwind she usually is.
There are family and friends, small town gossips, the small town of Cattle Creek, celebrations, secrets, illness, sadness, tears, heartache, misunderstandings, fear, happiness, laughter, lots of loving and ultimately love. The ranch hands and the horses give another layer to the story. The characters were complex and the descriptions of the land, the ranch, the horses and ranching were vivid. The story was sometimes choppy within a chapter. There was closure with the epilogue but it ended too abruptly for me and really focused on five year old Wesley. There are three more Langston brothers that need their stories to be told. I hope we meet up with everyone in future books in the series.
Lillard is one of my go to authors. I love her Amish books that transport me to where the story is being told.
August 3, 2018
This is my first and only book by this author and
the fact that I almost finished it is a miracle on itself.
Not only is the male lead a complete heartless asshole
but Bryn the h takes idiot to a whole new level.
The first interaction they had once she told him
she was pregnant was to ask her to get an abortion.
Then he spent half of the book regretting the babies
and the new added responsibility while she spent
it lusting over the guy. A guy who I might add has been
an asshole to her and not exactly prince charming.
By page 200, he takes her to his attorneys office
so she can sign all of her parental rights over to
him without her knowledge. On page 206, he admits
through internal dialogue that when he told her he
loved her it was a ploy to get her to stay. In his words,
telling her he loved her was an "exaggeration" because
he was attracted to her and he cared for her but
he did not love her. WTF kind of hero is this????
How can this book have such high ratings when
the H was no hero and the h was TSTL.
Also, Rick Bryn's best friend scolds her when
she tells him that Jake wants to take the babies away
from her. In his eyes she was the one wrong
because she refused to marry Jake to begin with
so it was the only logical thing that Jake could have
done. WTF, even the best friend of the story was
a complete douche and from what I hear the guy
in the first book is even worse.
Towards the end of the book Bryn agrees to marry
Jake basically because it's either marry him or
lose her children. By page 218, I started skimming
because I couldn't stand both Jake and Bryn.
I really wish I could slap the living daylights out
of Jake.
the fact that I almost finished it is a miracle on itself.
Not only is the male lead a complete heartless asshole
but Bryn the h takes idiot to a whole new level.
The first interaction they had once she told him
she was pregnant was to ask her to get an abortion.
Then he spent half of the book regretting the babies
and the new added responsibility while she spent
it lusting over the guy. A guy who I might add has been
an asshole to her and not exactly prince charming.
By page 200, he takes her to his attorneys office
so she can sign all of her parental rights over to
him without her knowledge. On page 206, he admits
through internal dialogue that when he told her he
loved her it was a ploy to get her to stay. In his words,
telling her he loved her was an "exaggeration" because
he was attracted to her and he cared for her but
he did not love her. WTF kind of hero is this????
How can this book have such high ratings when
the H was no hero and the h was TSTL.
Also, Rick Bryn's best friend scolds her when
she tells him that Jake wants to take the babies away
from her. In his eyes she was the one wrong
because she refused to marry Jake to begin with
so it was the only logical thing that Jake could have
done. WTF, even the best friend of the story was
a complete douche and from what I hear the guy
in the first book is even worse.
Towards the end of the book Bryn agrees to marry
Jake basically because it's either marry him or
lose her children. By page 218, I started skimming
because I couldn't stand both Jake and Bryn.
I really wish I could slap the living daylights out
of Jake.
February 5, 2017
Wow these Langston men sure are hot, sexy, alpha, and attitudes to match! In this story we get to follow Jake, who happens to be Texas's 15th most eligible bachelor! Unfortunately, with this title comes women who want to rock his world so to speak and marry him, of course. Jake wants nothing to do with this trail of women. He lost his wife five years ago during childbirth, so his world has consisted of raising his daughter, Wesley, while working on his ranch. One night he decides to go out get drunk, and have fun and forget.....
Bryn has a one-night stand with a hot cowboy thinking she'd never see him again....surprise!! Karma has a way of biting you in the butt!
A car pulls into Jake's driveway and he thinks, here we go again with someone wanting to be his wife. However, the girl is different, yet familiar (things are about to become real familiar). He gives her that Jake attitude and she blurts out she's pregnant and he's the father! He tells her the first thing that comes to his mind.....
I was a little upset at Jake for what he said to Bryn and thank goodness he rectified his diarrhea of the mouth. Poor Jake, he's still in love with his deceased wife and here Bryn is pregnant with his child knowing that he's still hurting from losing his wife.
Good story! Not only was Jake a sweet hot cowboy overall, I loved Bryn as well as Jake's mom and especially his feisty grandmother!! This story had me captivated from the beginning until the end!
Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha
Bryn has a one-night stand with a hot cowboy thinking she'd never see him again....surprise!! Karma has a way of biting you in the butt!
A car pulls into Jake's driveway and he thinks, here we go again with someone wanting to be his wife. However, the girl is different, yet familiar (things are about to become real familiar). He gives her that Jake attitude and she blurts out she's pregnant and he's the father! He tells her the first thing that comes to his mind.....
I was a little upset at Jake for what he said to Bryn and thank goodness he rectified his diarrhea of the mouth. Poor Jake, he's still in love with his deceased wife and here Bryn is pregnant with his child knowing that he's still hurting from losing his wife.
Good story! Not only was Jake a sweet hot cowboy overall, I loved Bryn as well as Jake's mom and especially his feisty grandmother!! This story had me captivated from the beginning until the end!
Reviewed on behalf of Once Upon An Alpha
September 12, 2017
Back at the farm, and this installment centers around Jake and Bryn. Jake’s family plays a dynamic role in this story. When Jake and Bryn met up for a one night stand but accepted the fact that they would never see each other and go about their business. Unfortunately, timing was not on this couple’s side. Four months later, Bryn found herself in a situation and knew that the baby was Jake’s. Although she did not want or expect anything from Jake, her upbringing forced her to let him know that the baby was his.
All that Bryn has ever wanted was a family of her own, and she never expected that Jake would fulfill her dreams. His family was extremely welcoming and invited her to stay for a few days. Jake’s wife passed away, and he refused to ever love again. However, Bryn and now the baby are pulling on his heartstrings.
The writing, story, and the character building were easy to follow. The love scenes between Bryn and Jake were not forced. The narrator was excellent and really brought the characters to life. All around good read!
Thanks to Tantor Media for supplying me with this audio in exchange for a honest review.
All that Bryn has ever wanted was a family of her own, and she never expected that Jake would fulfill her dreams. His family was extremely welcoming and invited her to stay for a few days. Jake’s wife passed away, and he refused to ever love again. However, Bryn and now the baby are pulling on his heartstrings.
The writing, story, and the character building were easy to follow. The love scenes between Bryn and Jake were not forced. The narrator was excellent and really brought the characters to life. All around good read!
Thanks to Tantor Media for supplying me with this audio in exchange for a honest review.
October 10, 2019
I enjoyed my first visit to the little town of Cattle Creek, Texas, where everyone knows everyone and their business. Jake and Bryn were hurting people but each for different reasons. They were realistic characters that caused me to feel for them more than once. Jake lost his wife in childbirth and was raising his five year old daughter with the help of his mom and grandmother. Bryn had lost both her parents and was raising her younger sister when she found out the sister had cancer. When the sister passed away she felt lost and alone, no more family.
Bryn travels from Georgia to Texas to let Jake know she’s pregnant from their one night stand. Thus begins a series of misunderstandings, hurt feelings and confusion between the two. Wesley, Jake’s young daughter was a delight. She added some cute additions to the story. Then they experience some unexpected developments regarding the pregnancy. Along with the ups and downs of everyday life, I got to know all the characters that made this story fulfilling and complete.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author but was not required to write a review positive or otherwise. All opinions are strictly my own.
Bryn travels from Georgia to Texas to let Jake know she’s pregnant from their one night stand. Thus begins a series of misunderstandings, hurt feelings and confusion between the two. Wesley, Jake’s young daughter was a delight. She added some cute additions to the story. Then they experience some unexpected developments regarding the pregnancy. Along with the ups and downs of everyday life, I got to know all the characters that made this story fulfilling and complete.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author but was not required to write a review positive or otherwise. All opinions are strictly my own.
October 3, 2019
No matter the genre, Amy Lillard’s books should be on your must-read list! From the first page, you don’t want to put the book down and, when you finish the book, you’re not ready for it to end.
I loved going back to Cattle Creek, Texas and spending time with the Langston family. Pick up a copy and read Jake and Bryn’s story.
I loved going back to Cattle Creek, Texas and spending time with the Langston family. Pick up a copy and read Jake and Bryn’s story.
November 23, 2019
This is book 2 in the Cattle Creek series. I was hooked in from the very beginning. I loved this cowboy romance story. There were times I found myself laughing and other times I found myself crying. I didn't want it to end that's how great it was. It did not disappoint. I was given a copy from the author all opinions are my own.
March 31, 2018
Healing a Hart is the first book I have read from Ms. Lillard. I found it to be a wonderful read that brought hope to Jake and Bryn. Starting a new for them both, after learning trust, and love is possible even after neither had expected to find it .
July 2, 2017
Nice quick cheesy read (given to me by my mom, so it was free, so I read it). Not bad as far as cliche goes.
July 21, 2017
Great story....I'm going to try and find first book in series. New author for me.
September 13, 2017
This book was fun to read. I enjoyed the different storyline & the little girl's comments. Didn't realize this was the 2nd in a series, so have ordered the 1st one to catch up!
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