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Hart Brothers #3
Kestrel
Kestrel (A Hart Brothers Novel)
**This is the 3rd book in the series, but it is a Stand Alone Novel
**Not intended for readers under the age of 18 due to its mature content and strong language.
Two lives with horrific pasts. One chance meeting that changed them both forever.
“One look at her and I want to run. Frizzy hair, thick glasses, mom jeans, and ruffles up to her neck. Who the hell wears shit like that? What decade is she living in? My mother doesn’t even dress like that!”
Raised by a monster, Kestrel Hart somehow survived. Now that the monster is dead, he’s trying to move on, to pull himself together. Struggling with issues no one can imagine, he moves away from his family, from the brother who loves him, and the sister-in-law who supports and understands him the best.
Charleston, South Carolina is his new home. And he has a purpose. He’s opening up a new division of his brother’s corporation. But a surprise awaits him. Her name is Carter Drayton.
Carter’s past is also a painful one. She is dealing with the tragic death of her family. She’s healing in the only way she knows how.
Carter needs love. Kestrel craves human contact. Neither of them recognizes what’s right before their eyes. Will they see it before it’s too late?
Librarian's note: See alternate cover edition with this ASIN here.
**This is the 3rd book in the series, but it is a Stand Alone Novel
**Not intended for readers under the age of 18 due to its mature content and strong language.
Two lives with horrific pasts. One chance meeting that changed them both forever.
“One look at her and I want to run. Frizzy hair, thick glasses, mom jeans, and ruffles up to her neck. Who the hell wears shit like that? What decade is she living in? My mother doesn’t even dress like that!”
Raised by a monster, Kestrel Hart somehow survived. Now that the monster is dead, he’s trying to move on, to pull himself together. Struggling with issues no one can imagine, he moves away from his family, from the brother who loves him, and the sister-in-law who supports and understands him the best.
Charleston, South Carolina is his new home. And he has a purpose. He’s opening up a new division of his brother’s corporation. But a surprise awaits him. Her name is Carter Drayton.
Carter’s past is also a painful one. She is dealing with the tragic death of her family. She’s healing in the only way she knows how.
Carter needs love. Kestrel craves human contact. Neither of them recognizes what’s right before their eyes. Will they see it before it’s too late?
Librarian's note: See alternate cover edition with this ASIN here.
379 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 29, 2015
39 people are currently reading
372 people want to read
About the author
A.M. Hargrove
76 books2,461 followersOne day, on her way home from work as a sales manager, USA Today bestselling author, A. M. Hargrove, realized her life was on fast forward and if she didn't do something soon, it would be too late to write that work of fiction she had been dreaming of her whole life. So she made a quick decision to quit her job and reinvented herself as a Naughty and Nice Romance Author.
Reader, Writer, #WalterThePuppy Owner, Dark Chocolate Lover, Ice Cream Worshipper, Vodka Aficionado, Coffee Drinker, she believes coffee and ice cream should be added as part of the USDA food groups.
Connect with Annie here
Newsletter: http://amhargrove.com/mailing-list/
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Reader, Writer, #WalterThePuppy Owner, Dark Chocolate Lover, Ice Cream Worshipper, Vodka Aficionado, Coffee Drinker, she believes coffee and ice cream should be added as part of the USDA food groups.
Connect with Annie here
Newsletter: http://amhargrove.com/mailing-list/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/amhargroveauthor
Instagram: http://www.instagram/amhargroveauthor
Amazon: http://amazon.com/author/amhargrove
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/a-m-h...
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 57 reviews
July 4, 2016
It’s time to discover Kestrel’s story. The mysterious middle child. One that is lured in with touch, one that stood by the monster’s side, but not out of loyalty. Now that the Dragon is gone, Kestrel is left trying to create a new life for himself all while struggling with the choices he made out of fear and the abuse he suffered that was beyond his control.
When he moves to South Carolina, he didn’t expect the mousy woman who throws herself at his feet to wind him up quite like she has. Carter has lost everything. The only thing left in her life that makes it worth living is her drive as she works in her lab, trying to discover a cure to save lives, burdened by the fact that she could not save the ones that mattered the most. Knowing she has to sell her family’s home, she tries to strike a deal, unable to give up the sanctuary the home holds within the walls of her daughter’s room. But this isn’t lust at first sight, this is a man who gives into a whim and discovers he’s getting so much more than just a new house out of the deal.
We already knew K’s life was going to be fucked up. But I loved that once he saw Carter for more than just a nerdy, unkempt disaster – he gave in completely. I am a huge fan for when a hard ass hero falls head over heels in love and becomes mush for her, while not losing his edge anywhere else. I think Kestrel is my favorite of the brothers so far. Although we got a lot of Kolson between his two books – I adored Kestrel and this story a tad bit more.
When he moves to South Carolina, he didn’t expect the mousy woman who throws herself at his feet to wind him up quite like she has. Carter has lost everything. The only thing left in her life that makes it worth living is her drive as she works in her lab, trying to discover a cure to save lives, burdened by the fact that she could not save the ones that mattered the most. Knowing she has to sell her family’s home, she tries to strike a deal, unable to give up the sanctuary the home holds within the walls of her daughter’s room. But this isn’t lust at first sight, this is a man who gives into a whim and discovers he’s getting so much more than just a new house out of the deal.
We already knew K’s life was going to be fucked up. But I loved that once he saw Carter for more than just a nerdy, unkempt disaster – he gave in completely. I am a huge fan for when a hard ass hero falls head over heels in love and becomes mush for her, while not losing his edge anywhere else. I think Kestrel is my favorite of the brothers so far. Although we got a lot of Kolson between his two books – I adored Kestrel and this story a tad bit more.
July 13, 2018
I really liked their story , although in the beginning the part where she propose herself in exchange for Ell’ room I was a little puzzled ... but apart from this really nice reading !
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2015
Quick review:
Cover: Pretty
Rating: NC-7
Steaminess: HOT HOT HOT
Thumbs Up: 4.5
Overall: Yummy
Characters: Well Done
Plot: Two broken souls on the mend
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Kestrel
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
I love a romance that has a little more substance than just good sex. And this book has the sex, but it also has that something extra. A little mystery, a little danger, and a whole lot of can’t stop turning the page. What I love about a broken man.
For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:
http://www.mybookboyfriend.net/2015/0...
Cover: Pretty
Rating: NC-7
Steaminess: HOT HOT HOT
Thumbs Up: 4.5
Overall: Yummy
Characters: Well Done
Plot: Two broken souls on the mend
Page Turner: Yes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: Yes
Book Boyfriend: Kestrel
SUMMARY (50 words or less)
I love a romance that has a little more substance than just good sex. And this book has the sex, but it also has that something extra. A little mystery, a little danger, and a whole lot of can’t stop turning the page. What I love about a broken man.
For a full review and yummy pic, see my blog post at:
http://www.mybookboyfriend.net/2015/0...
July 29, 2015
Holy Sh*t Yourself Balls was this a good book!! I wish I knew about this series and read the first two books about Kolston and Gabby, but you get pretty much all of the recap about them in this book, so I'll pass. This is an amazing.... I mean AMAZING book!! I laughed my ass off, cried more times than I can count (all over just one subject matter..you'll figure out what it is in the first few pages) , and was breaking out in a sweat over the HOT SEX all over this book! I love me some good smutty sex, but this was off the charts! AND, this book is a book that really has huge development. From where this book starts to where it ends... It kind of blew me away. Not too many books I can think of go so far from right to left.
Anyway, I highly recommend this book! I love discovering a good new author, and Mrs. Hargrove does not disappoint! I can not WAIT to read the final book on Kade! Just reading that excerpt on the next book has my kindle feigning to get its fingers on it :)
*ARC provided by Netgalley*
Anyway, I highly recommend this book! I love discovering a good new author, and Mrs. Hargrove does not disappoint! I can not WAIT to read the final book on Kade! Just reading that excerpt on the next book has my kindle feigning to get its fingers on it :)
*ARC provided by Netgalley*
September 10, 2015
The good thing about Kestrel by A.M. Hargrove, is that even though it is the third in the series, it definitely can be read as a stand alone.
However, that may be the only thing I found good about this book.
I’m giving it one star because I actually made it to the end. I think only to see how the train wreck ended. This feels so harsh, but it was just such a mess.
It starts fine enough, young woman has lost her entire family. She’s broken and broke. You learn that she’s in cancer research but the taxes on the house she inherited are breaking her.
But then all of this happens –
The money situation never really mapped out for me. She was left $100K, I assume she makes decent money, but the taxes nearly bankrupt her within 4 years. But, I don’t live in Charleston. This could be totally legit, it definitely made me pause and do some math. Not something I want to do while reading.
Anyway…then she throws herself at the potential buyer of the house. I’m talking, indecent proposal shit here. It was all kinds of strange. She’s a nerd, not a sex pot so it really felt out of character. I get it, you’re desperate to have access to the house but offering up your mom jean clad ass to a complete stranger is crazy town territory.
Kestrel (awesome name – that’s why it got an extra half star) kept telling her he was so bad and evil but his actions never supported that. Ever. He was actually a very sweet guy. All his talk about his dark past, was just that, talk.
I could make a huge list of inconsistencies, but I won’t. I’ll just say it was full of them and I struggled. A lot.
Not the book for me.
1.5 Stars
However, that may be the only thing I found good about this book.
I’m giving it one star because I actually made it to the end. I think only to see how the train wreck ended. This feels so harsh, but it was just such a mess.
It starts fine enough, young woman has lost her entire family. She’s broken and broke. You learn that she’s in cancer research but the taxes on the house she inherited are breaking her.
But then all of this happens –
The money situation never really mapped out for me. She was left $100K, I assume she makes decent money, but the taxes nearly bankrupt her within 4 years. But, I don’t live in Charleston. This could be totally legit, it definitely made me pause and do some math. Not something I want to do while reading.
Anyway…then she throws herself at the potential buyer of the house. I’m talking, indecent proposal shit here. It was all kinds of strange. She’s a nerd, not a sex pot so it really felt out of character. I get it, you’re desperate to have access to the house but offering up your mom jean clad ass to a complete stranger is crazy town territory.
Kestrel (awesome name – that’s why it got an extra half star) kept telling her he was so bad and evil but his actions never supported that. Ever. He was actually a very sweet guy. All his talk about his dark past, was just that, talk.
I could make a huge list of inconsistencies, but I won’t. I’ll just say it was full of them and I struggled. A lot.
Not the book for me.
1.5 Stars
July 7, 2015
DNF at 68%.
Wow, just WOW! That was a BAD book.
EVERY SINGLE PERSON in this series is just completely screwed up.
I mean Gabby and Kolson were bad and Kestrel was close behind but Carter? She was the worst character so far.
I get it, losing your child is horrible and probably the worst thing ever... but building your dead child a shrine in your house is probably not really healthy... but then Carter has to sell the house but wants to keep her dead daughters old room, so she tries to seduce the buyer with sex in order to be allowed to visit this room. Sorry but... WHAT?!
This girls needs a very good therapist and new friends because hers just SUCK!
Carter is a very, very smart woman (which is mentioned so often but is kind of hard to believe because and has very bad friends and actually behaves like a crazy person most of the time).
Note to the author: if you want a smart character... actions speak louder than words .
This is going to be last book of this series. Every books was worse than the book before.
Wow, just WOW! That was a BAD book.
EVERY SINGLE PERSON in this series is just completely screwed up.
I mean Gabby and Kolson were bad and Kestrel was close behind but Carter? She was the worst character so far.
I get it, losing your child is horrible and probably the worst thing ever... but building your dead child a shrine in your house is probably not really healthy... but then Carter has to sell the house but wants to keep her dead daughters old room, so she tries to seduce the buyer with sex in order to be allowed to visit this room. Sorry but... WHAT?!
This girls needs a very good therapist and new friends because hers just SUCK!
Carter is a very, very smart woman (which is mentioned so often but is kind of hard to believe because and has very bad friends and actually behaves like a crazy person most of the time).
Note to the author: if you want a smart character... actions speak louder than words .
This is going to be last book of this series. Every books was worse than the book before.
August 21, 2015
So far Kestrel is the "Hart" man for me! His book was full of passion and intrigue from the very first page...
HOT HOT HOT!!!!
4.5 passionately amazing stars...
Full review to be written soon...
HOT HOT HOT!!!!
4.5 passionately amazing stars...
Full review to be written soon...
March 29, 2015
Kestrel is on the mend after living under his late father’s abuse and control. Although he has the love and support of family. He needs to be on his own. He grabs at the opportunity to open up a new division of his brother’s company. It is just what he needs to focus on rebuilding his life.
While taking a tour of a house he is interested in buying he meets Carter, who happens to own the house. He is completely shocked to see such a beautiful woman hiding behind clothes that shouldn’t be allowed in this decade. He is even more shocked at a proposal she makes to him. She isn’t his type at all but yet, there is something about her that pulls him. He takes her under his wing and is able to bring out the person she was.
They develop an unlikely friendship and quickly the lines between that friendship begin to blur. Once they give into their temptation for one another, there is no looking back. They have found what they each craved in each other.
Unfortunately their happiness is short lived and an unexpected danger threatens their future. Kestrel has fought his demons for too long and will not lose another person to evil. He will do everything he can to protect the ones he loves.
My heart just broke for Kestrel. Neglected of touch and human contact as a child, he craves touch like we need the air to breathe. The last thing he wanted to a relationship but Carter came into his life and then everything changed.
Kestrel is amazing. He is gorgeous, caring and scared. He was able to overcome his demons with the help of Carter.
Carter suffered a loss that not many people recover from. She tries to move on with her life but instead of living it, she hides behind her frumpy clothes and her research. When Kestrel buys her home, she is devastated and just can’t let go. You know that saying… desperate times call for desperate measures? She is broken and Kestrel helps her to be the person she was before her loss.
Even though they are both broken, I loved how together they were slowly able to piece each other back up. It wasn’t planned or expected. A heart achingly beautiful story of overcoming your demons, understanding it is ok to let go of the past so that you can embrace the future.
A.M. did a wonderful job. I can’t wait to see what she has coming next!
While taking a tour of a house he is interested in buying he meets Carter, who happens to own the house. He is completely shocked to see such a beautiful woman hiding behind clothes that shouldn’t be allowed in this decade. He is even more shocked at a proposal she makes to him. She isn’t his type at all but yet, there is something about her that pulls him. He takes her under his wing and is able to bring out the person she was.
They develop an unlikely friendship and quickly the lines between that friendship begin to blur. Once they give into their temptation for one another, there is no looking back. They have found what they each craved in each other.
Unfortunately their happiness is short lived and an unexpected danger threatens their future. Kestrel has fought his demons for too long and will not lose another person to evil. He will do everything he can to protect the ones he loves.
My heart just broke for Kestrel. Neglected of touch and human contact as a child, he craves touch like we need the air to breathe. The last thing he wanted to a relationship but Carter came into his life and then everything changed.
Kestrel is amazing. He is gorgeous, caring and scared. He was able to overcome his demons with the help of Carter.
Carter suffered a loss that not many people recover from. She tries to move on with her life but instead of living it, she hides behind her frumpy clothes and her research. When Kestrel buys her home, she is devastated and just can’t let go. You know that saying… desperate times call for desperate measures? She is broken and Kestrel helps her to be the person she was before her loss.
Even though they are both broken, I loved how together they were slowly able to piece each other back up. It wasn’t planned or expected. A heart achingly beautiful story of overcoming your demons, understanding it is ok to let go of the past so that you can embrace the future.
A.M. did a wonderful job. I can’t wait to see what she has coming next!
April 1, 2015
Ahhhh!!!! Kestrel...
I really enjoyed getting to know him. He was nothing like I expected. After the few times we met him in Freeing Her and Freeing Him, I had a whole different notion of who he was...
BUT...with all of the events prior, Kestrel had a chance to really shine even more...
Kestrel had so much to still get over and allowing someone to get close just wasn't in the cards for him..and then he meets Carter...
Carter is such a quirky and brilliantly smart girl...and I know I laughed so many times throughout this book...
But most of that was to cover up the devastating hurt that has altered her life...
I can't go in to details...you must discover all of this on your own..
BUT...this is an awesome book with a great budding romance for two people with pasts that had them believing that they may never have the happily ever after..
Do they actually get it??
HA!!! I am not going to tell...but an amazingly captivating tale that enthralls you from start to finish...
A definite must read!!!
I really enjoyed getting to know him. He was nothing like I expected. After the few times we met him in Freeing Her and Freeing Him, I had a whole different notion of who he was...
BUT...with all of the events prior, Kestrel had a chance to really shine even more...
Kestrel had so much to still get over and allowing someone to get close just wasn't in the cards for him..and then he meets Carter...
Carter is such a quirky and brilliantly smart girl...and I know I laughed so many times throughout this book...
But most of that was to cover up the devastating hurt that has altered her life...
I can't go in to details...you must discover all of this on your own..
BUT...this is an awesome book with a great budding romance for two people with pasts that had them believing that they may never have the happily ever after..
Do they actually get it??
HA!!! I am not going to tell...but an amazingly captivating tale that enthralls you from start to finish...
A definite must read!!!
June 21, 2015
***A gifted copy was provided by NETGALLEY my honest review******
This was not a good book. I could barely finish it. The Female MC was left this huge home and lots of cash. , has a great job but has to take a mortgage to pay for the house ? Seriously?!!
Ook, then she jumped all over the main male MC whose interested in buying the house and offers her body for sex in exchange for him keeping her dead daughter’s room EXACTLY the same way—do you get me on this??!!! Creepy!! The story just got weirder and weirder from there. And from there, the plot got even stranger- yes there was sex involved between the MCs but the absurdness of the plot made me just not like this story. I would not recommend this story. I would be willing to read this author again but not this story.
My rating: 2.0 **
This was not a good book. I could barely finish it. The Female MC was left this huge home and lots of cash. , has a great job but has to take a mortgage to pay for the house ? Seriously?!!
Ook, then she jumped all over the main male MC whose interested in buying the house and offers her body for sex in exchange for him keeping her dead daughter’s room EXACTLY the same way—do you get me on this??!!! Creepy!! The story just got weirder and weirder from there. And from there, the plot got even stranger- yes there was sex involved between the MCs but the absurdness of the plot made me just not like this story. I would not recommend this story. I would be willing to read this author again but not this story.
My rating: 2.0 **
April 10, 2015
This was a new-to-me author so I wasn't sure what to expect, but I enjoyed the book! There was romance, hot sex, danger, sadness, comedy, and more hot sex. Carter was one of those characters that just blossomed and grew. You could see it happening slowly throughout the book. I liked Kestrel from the beginning of the book and knew he was going to be one of those alpha men who, when they fall, falls hard. And he did. As in real life, bad sh*t happens to good people. But it's how the characters come out stronger for it is what I love. This book was different than most books I've previously read and for that alone I liked it and recommend it.
August 19, 2020
Third book from Hart Brothers.
This could be standalone and all of Hart brother's has been abused by their father a.k.a. Dragon ever since he was adopted at young age. Ever since Dragon's death, he decided to move to South Carolina to work for his brother's HTS new branch.
While he was searching for a house, he meets very strange home owner Carter. She was very different looking the most of the girls he is use to. She was wearing hideous clothes and suggests very weird proposition for him regarding the house.
Carter lost everyone she loved 4 years ago in unexpected hurricane while she was attending a seminar. She wasn't living the life, she was just existing. Upkeep of her house is draining her finances and she doesn't have any other choice than to sell the house that connects to her family. She was determined to sell but she is afraid she would lose her connection so she propose new owner with unusual requests.
Carter intregues Kestrel and he feels she is very special in different ways. So he decided to take her offer and buy the house and that's start of their unique relationship. They are not sure what they are but enjoying each others company.
Carter is a brilliant researcher and in the midst of finding the cure for cancer and while she is very devoted in this fields, she is naive in relationship. Kestrel sees beyond her smart, nerdiness and sees beautiful soul.
They are falling in love but nothing comes easy for both of them. They will have to trust each other for their HEA. However, it may cost more than what they expected.
Hart brothers have enough problems and they find all these women who could help them but they do have enough of their troubles on their own. It was emotional until the very end. It was good to see Kolson and Gabby. Suspense until the end. I can't wait to read about his youngest brother.
Thanks to Netgalley and author for ARC in exchange for honest review.
This could be standalone and all of Hart brother's has been abused by their father a.k.a. Dragon ever since he was adopted at young age. Ever since Dragon's death, he decided to move to South Carolina to work for his brother's HTS new branch.
While he was searching for a house, he meets very strange home owner Carter. She was very different looking the most of the girls he is use to. She was wearing hideous clothes and suggests very weird proposition for him regarding the house.
Carter lost everyone she loved 4 years ago in unexpected hurricane while she was attending a seminar. She wasn't living the life, she was just existing. Upkeep of her house is draining her finances and she doesn't have any other choice than to sell the house that connects to her family. She was determined to sell but she is afraid she would lose her connection so she propose new owner with unusual requests.
Carter intregues Kestrel and he feels she is very special in different ways. So he decided to take her offer and buy the house and that's start of their unique relationship. They are not sure what they are but enjoying each others company.
Carter is a brilliant researcher and in the midst of finding the cure for cancer and while she is very devoted in this fields, she is naive in relationship. Kestrel sees beyond her smart, nerdiness and sees beautiful soul.
They are falling in love but nothing comes easy for both of them. They will have to trust each other for their HEA. However, it may cost more than what they expected.
Hart brothers have enough problems and they find all these women who could help them but they do have enough of their troubles on their own. It was emotional until the very end. It was good to see Kolson and Gabby. Suspense until the end. I can't wait to read about his youngest brother.
Thanks to Netgalley and author for ARC in exchange for honest review.
April 16, 2018
It's been awhile since I read the first two so I had to refresh my memory a little, and even then I was still a little lost, so I don't really recommend this as a standalone book.
I just couldn't get into this book. It moved entirely too slow for me. I knew right away that they way Carter was handling her grief (aka not at all) would really bother me, and it did. I'm not a mom, and I've never lost a child so maybe I can't relate. It was obviously though that it wasn't healthy, proof and point, what she was willing to do with a total stranger to keep her daughter's room intact. The very same room that no one even knew about.
It was nice seeing that Carter was able to move on eventually. It's sad that it took a total stranger to accomplish that instead of her so called "friends". It was hard getting through the book. Especially since I was waiting for SOMETHING interesting to happen. Throw a little drama in. It was too smooth sailing. By the time something did happen (80% of the way through) it was blatantly obviously what was happening. But at least they had their happily ever after...
P.S. to the author- angel babies are babies that have gone to heaven before or after birth, so it really bothered me that it was used to describe their future kids.
I just couldn't get into this book. It moved entirely too slow for me. I knew right away that they way Carter was handling her grief (aka not at all) would really bother me, and it did. I'm not a mom, and I've never lost a child so maybe I can't relate. It was obviously though that it wasn't healthy, proof and point, what she was willing to do with a total stranger to keep her daughter's room intact. The very same room that no one even knew about.
It was nice seeing that Carter was able to move on eventually. It's sad that it took a total stranger to accomplish that instead of her so called "friends". It was hard getting through the book. Especially since I was waiting for SOMETHING interesting to happen. Throw a little drama in. It was too smooth sailing. By the time something did happen (80% of the way through) it was blatantly obviously what was happening. But at least they had their happily ever after...
P.S. to the author- angel babies are babies that have gone to heaven before or after birth, so it really bothered me that it was used to describe their future kids.
August 7, 2017
I read Kestrel as a stand alone but will now be going back to read the other 2 books in the series Freeing Her and Freeing Him.
Kestrel and Carter captivated me from the beginning. Once I started reading it I didn't want to put it down.
I don't want to give anything away but this was a great story with 2 great lead characters.
Talk about total opposites.
Carter's life the last 4 years has been full of loss and pain. She is alone and devotes her life to her work. Carter is selling her parents home after trying for 4 years to keep up with taking care of it but she isn't mentally ready to let it go. Kestrel is trying to overcome the past of his father and become a be a better person. He relocates to Charleston, SC where he is looking to purchase a home. An unusual bond starts between the two of them.
Kestrel and Carter are both broken in different ways. It wasn't easy for them but together they were slowly able to overcome their past and build a life together
Kestrel and Carter captivated me from the beginning. Once I started reading it I didn't want to put it down.
I don't want to give anything away but this was a great story with 2 great lead characters.
Talk about total opposites.
Carter's life the last 4 years has been full of loss and pain. She is alone and devotes her life to her work. Carter is selling her parents home after trying for 4 years to keep up with taking care of it but she isn't mentally ready to let it go. Kestrel is trying to overcome the past of his father and become a be a better person. He relocates to Charleston, SC where he is looking to purchase a home. An unusual bond starts between the two of them.
Kestrel and Carter are both broken in different ways. It wasn't easy for them but together they were slowly able to overcome their past and build a life together
March 3, 2019
So many tears
All of the Hart Brothers and West Brothers books have been extremely emotional, but this one definitely had me crying more than any of the others. Although it was a relief that Carter didn’t go through a traumatic childhood, it was even more debilitating for me to imagine the loss of a child, let alone your entire family. Her trauma was entirely differently, yet arguably even more life altering. In a way, I believe her nurturing, motherly love is exactly what Kestrel needed to heal and Kestrel’s protective, storm roller ways were what Carter needed to open up and live again. It’s funny that both Kolson and Kestrel fell for brilliant Doctors, helping to make the world a better place, who made them better men, but weren’t afraid to put up a fight either. Those Hart brothers certainly have a type!
All of the Hart Brothers and West Brothers books have been extremely emotional, but this one definitely had me crying more than any of the others. Although it was a relief that Carter didn’t go through a traumatic childhood, it was even more debilitating for me to imagine the loss of a child, let alone your entire family. Her trauma was entirely differently, yet arguably even more life altering. In a way, I believe her nurturing, motherly love is exactly what Kestrel needed to heal and Kestrel’s protective, storm roller ways were what Carter needed to open up and live again. It’s funny that both Kolson and Kestrel fell for brilliant Doctors, helping to make the world a better place, who made them better men, but weren’t afraid to put up a fight either. Those Hart brothers certainly have a type!
May 11, 2019
Absolutely amazing. I was intrigued with Kestrel’s story from the moment he was introduced- I’m a sucker for a wounded man. Wow- this one really knocked my socks off.
I ugly cried SO many times while reading this, it was ridiculous. The way she writes about sells, about Carter’s loss, I can’t think of anything more realistic. It certainly made me snuggle my little guy closer.
The thing I most liked about this was the brokeness. Off thing to say, really, but it’s true. With Gabby’s story, I empathized, but couldn’t relate, having never gone through anything close to what she did. But Carter’s loss? That’s 100% relatable. The loss of a parent (or both parents, in this case) is devastating. The loss of a child? That would destroy anyone. The brokenness that brought Kestrel and Carter together was perfect, and made for a very memorable, amazing story.
I ugly cried SO many times while reading this, it was ridiculous. The way she writes about sells, about Carter’s loss, I can’t think of anything more realistic. It certainly made me snuggle my little guy closer.
The thing I most liked about this was the brokeness. Off thing to say, really, but it’s true. With Gabby’s story, I empathized, but couldn’t relate, having never gone through anything close to what she did. But Carter’s loss? That’s 100% relatable. The loss of a parent (or both parents, in this case) is devastating. The loss of a child? That would destroy anyone. The brokenness that brought Kestrel and Carter together was perfect, and made for a very memorable, amazing story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2018
Kestrel is the third book of the Hart Brothers Series. While it could potentially be read prior to reading the first two books of the series, I would highly recommend reading them in order.
Kestrel had an abusive upbringing and Carter has lived through a mother’s worst nightmare. When Kestrel walks into Carter’s house with the intention to purchase it, neither one is prepared for the emotional healing that will take place. This book is full of healing, steamy romance, and a touch of suspense. I loved the “ugly duckling” feel of this story. Carter is not your typical blond bombshell and Kestrel isn’t even attracted to her at first. It was amazing to watch as their attraction unfold instead of the typical “list at first sight”.
Kestrel had an abusive upbringing and Carter has lived through a mother’s worst nightmare. When Kestrel walks into Carter’s house with the intention to purchase it, neither one is prepared for the emotional healing that will take place. This book is full of healing, steamy romance, and a touch of suspense. I loved the “ugly duckling” feel of this story. Carter is not your typical blond bombshell and Kestrel isn’t even attracted to her at first. It was amazing to watch as their attraction unfold instead of the typical “list at first sight”.
May 5, 2019
Kestrel and Carter's story is so sweet and beautiful that I fell in love with both of them immediately. Both characters have their own dramatic and horrible past they have to overcome. It is inspiring to see what strong and amiable personalities evolved despite that past.
I felt drawn in with the very first page and had to read on and on to enjoy this beautiful love story.
It felt like a punch in the gut as fate struck mid-story and everything spiralled out of control…
This absolutely is another must-read by this gifted author… a real page turner!
I felt drawn in with the very first page and had to read on and on to enjoy this beautiful love story.
It felt like a punch in the gut as fate struck mid-story and everything spiralled out of control…
This absolutely is another must-read by this gifted author… a real page turner!
April 2, 2019
Enjoyed
This Series is a good one. Yes not intended for anyone young but they all are. This Author is very good and I'm sure I'll enjoy more. By the way this is a Four part series I have read the previous two, Thank you
This Series is a good one. Yes not intended for anyone young but they all are. This Author is very good and I'm sure I'll enjoy more. By the way this is a Four part series I have read the previous two, Thank you
January 19, 2020
Carter and Kestrel are definitely soul mates. They have lead very different lives but they have so many things in common. They help bring each other out of the darkness. I loved the passion they had for each other. A wonderfully well written story.
May 5, 2020
Story of Kestrel very heartwrenching
I really enjoyed this story because of the subject matter. This book had a few "mechanical" errors that sometimes distracted me possibly because of my dyslexia, but I still consider it a 5-star novel.
I really enjoyed this story because of the subject matter. This book had a few "mechanical" errors that sometimes distracted me possibly because of my dyslexia, but I still consider it a 5-star novel.
February 22, 2018
Great book
August 11, 2018
Great book!
I love all of A M Hargrove's work and this is no exception. Loved Carter and Kestrel.. The plot was very good and the pace was great...another winner!!!!
I love all of A M Hargrove's work and this is no exception. Loved Carter and Kestrel.. The plot was very good and the pace was great...another winner!!!!
March 30, 2015
*Gifted for an honest review* 5 Stars
“I kiss her. Really kiss her. Like it’s the first, last, with no in between. I don’t want there to be a beginning or an end to us. I want us to be a circle that goes round and round forever.”
With some standalones that come from series you do get that feeling that you are missing some part of the story when you jump into a later book. I have read the first Hart Brothers but haven’t managed to read the second so I do know a little about Kolson and Gabby, but I didn’t find myself needing that story in order to fully appreciate this one. That’s the sign of a really good series standalone. So firstly, hats off for that! Secondly, the nature of Carter and her job were done with style. And what should have perhaps have felt like information overload with regards to her profession, didn’t feel like that at all, it held my interest. When you are dealing with jargon in fictional books it is sometimes difficult to keep the reader engaged whilst trying to be descriptive with a piece of information that is essential. Carters jargon filled moments are most definitely needed in order to understand the twist that comes later. The prologue in this novel sets up a false sense of security for the reader as it’s a beautiful memory and it lulls you to believe that this will be how things are. It’s quite a strong prologue and devastating all at the same time.
Kestrel and Carter are characters that grow on you, at first I wasn’t sure what I felt for them individually and collectively but it was a slow seduction and it didn’t take long to bring both of them into my heart. Kestrel is no nonsense, sweet in a strange kind of way and quirky, but definitely a bit of a nutball, an adorable nutball however. I saw no wolf in Kestrel, just perhaps his demons coming out to play now and again. Again, you’re dealing with broken people who find strength in each other and struggle to find their way. I guess in that sense it would seem a little predictable but it is the basis for a good storyline if the plot is done well. It is, very well. This romantic suspense has a different edge to it that I enjoyed very much. The secondary characters bring a little something else to the mix and I found that I couldn’t quite figure the angle of one or two. The twist may seem a little obvious but this is so well written that I really didn’t bother about that, I was guessing for much of the book though. There was one sentence however that just cut me down, and I sat agape for about 5 minutes thinking “oh no…” my heart sank so fast, and whichever way it was meant, in that moment it really hurt!
There are a lot of good things in here. Suspense, high drama, emotional conflict and scorching hot scenes (phew), all that combined makes for a read that I really couldn’t put down in all honesty. The writing style is clean, it’s an easy read in those terms and the story does flow rather well too. Thoroughly enjoyable and highly recommended. Thank you Anne!
April 2, 2015
Kestrel is a stand-alone in the Hart Brothers series. Reading the other two novels first, Freeing Her and Freeing Him, will add more depth to several of the characters, but you won't miss a beat if you have not read them.
I have yet to read a Hargrove book that does not suck me in. Kestrel is no different. The book opens with a blow to the stomach and intrigue sets in. Carter is introduced with events that would rock anyone's ship. She was dealt a debilitating blow, but her healing was a sweet process to behold. I liked how her character grew throughout the book. She's the nerdy girl that people seem to tolerate. There were moments that I wanted to pull her aside and have a girl talk, like seriously.
Kestrel is "the big bad wolf" (as he calls himself) that wasn't. He's had his share of terror to deal with, but he is working through it. Kestrel is honest, blunt and doesn't play games. I was pleasantly surprised with his character, a breath of fresh air.
{K-"Making love, having sex...whatever you call it, is about mutual pleasure. Not you laying here, enduring an unpleasant experience."
C-"Oh, it wasn't all unpleasant."
K-"Let's do this again. My way....."
C-"What are you doing?"
K-"Showing you what mutual pleasure is all about."}
Okay, seriously....can we get some men to take notes. So, yeah, the HEAT is not lacking in this tale of transformation.
I laughed, rolled my eyes, felt their pain and wanted to lash out and punch someone while reading this story. Carter and Kestrel's first encounter was a mess! Broken, nerdy genius meets tortured, dark, and swoon worthy! I thought he would tuck tail and run, seriously. The main characters endured so much and yet more seizes them. Will they get a break? Will friends and family be a support?? You'll need to read it to find out.
It was also nice to see characters from the other novels pulled into the story. I enjoyed Drex and Gemini and to see them make an appearance prodded me to reread their story!
This book does have adult content (including sex and language). The writing flows smoothly. There were a few typos, but it did not take away from the story. I have read almost everything by this author and I have yet to be disappointed. My favorite series is still Guardians of Vesturon and Dark Waltz though.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have yet to read a Hargrove book that does not suck me in. Kestrel is no different. The book opens with a blow to the stomach and intrigue sets in. Carter is introduced with events that would rock anyone's ship. She was dealt a debilitating blow, but her healing was a sweet process to behold. I liked how her character grew throughout the book. She's the nerdy girl that people seem to tolerate. There were moments that I wanted to pull her aside and have a girl talk, like seriously.
Kestrel is "the big bad wolf" (as he calls himself) that wasn't. He's had his share of terror to deal with, but he is working through it. Kestrel is honest, blunt and doesn't play games. I was pleasantly surprised with his character, a breath of fresh air.
{K-"Making love, having sex...whatever you call it, is about mutual pleasure. Not you laying here, enduring an unpleasant experience."
C-"Oh, it wasn't all unpleasant."
K-"Let's do this again. My way....."
C-"What are you doing?"
K-"Showing you what mutual pleasure is all about."}
Okay, seriously....can we get some men to take notes. So, yeah, the HEAT is not lacking in this tale of transformation.
I laughed, rolled my eyes, felt their pain and wanted to lash out and punch someone while reading this story. Carter and Kestrel's first encounter was a mess! Broken, nerdy genius meets tortured, dark, and swoon worthy! I thought he would tuck tail and run, seriously. The main characters endured so much and yet more seizes them. Will they get a break? Will friends and family be a support?? You'll need to read it to find out.
It was also nice to see characters from the other novels pulled into the story. I enjoyed Drex and Gemini and to see them make an appearance prodded me to reread their story!
This book does have adult content (including sex and language). The writing flows smoothly. There were a few typos, but it did not take away from the story. I have read almost everything by this author and I have yet to be disappointed. My favorite series is still Guardians of Vesturon and Dark Waltz though.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 29, 2015
*ARC recieved in return for an honest review
A massive 5 stars, love, love, LOVED IT!!
***Although Kestrel can be read as a stand alone, I'd recommend reading Freeing Her and Freeing Him first to give you more background on the Kestrel and his brothers.***
I had the honour and privilege to be a part of this story right from the beginning at it's beta stage and I was totally surprised with the direction Kestrel's story went. It was an incredibly touching and highly emotional story and saying I loved it doesn't seem enough for how I feel about Kestrel. I'm a huge fan of A.M. Hargrove and her work and this, in my opinion, is her best yet.
I have to admit, when I first met Kestrel in Freeing Him, I didn't much like him. He was too much under his father's influence and, dare I say, I didn't trust him. Saying that, I knew he was going to be more messed up than his brother, Kolson, and I couldn't wait to dive into his story. It promised to be full of dark twists & turns. How wrong was I??
I loved the way Kestrel's story played out. Instead of giving us a similar, tortured story to Kolson's but darker, A.M. Hargrove decided to show us Kestrel after he'd worked through most of his issues which, for me, was a great move. I now adore Kestrel, I find him even hotter than Kolson!!
Kestrel, is packed with plenty of scorching heat, nail biting suspense and emotional, tug-at-your-heartstrings drama. I was totally gripped throughout. I couldn't put my kindle down, I had to keep on reading until I reached the end.
I can't recommend Kestrel highly enough. Go 1-click now!!
Well done Annie, on a truly awesome story. I'm now waiting with baited breath for Kade's story, wherever that takes me.
Full review on makemydaybooks.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03...
A massive 5 stars, love, love, LOVED IT!!
***Although Kestrel can be read as a stand alone, I'd recommend reading Freeing Her and Freeing Him first to give you more background on the Kestrel and his brothers.***
I had the honour and privilege to be a part of this story right from the beginning at it's beta stage and I was totally surprised with the direction Kestrel's story went. It was an incredibly touching and highly emotional story and saying I loved it doesn't seem enough for how I feel about Kestrel. I'm a huge fan of A.M. Hargrove and her work and this, in my opinion, is her best yet.
I have to admit, when I first met Kestrel in Freeing Him, I didn't much like him. He was too much under his father's influence and, dare I say, I didn't trust him. Saying that, I knew he was going to be more messed up than his brother, Kolson, and I couldn't wait to dive into his story. It promised to be full of dark twists & turns. How wrong was I??
I loved the way Kestrel's story played out. Instead of giving us a similar, tortured story to Kolson's but darker, A.M. Hargrove decided to show us Kestrel after he'd worked through most of his issues which, for me, was a great move. I now adore Kestrel, I find him even hotter than Kolson!!
Kestrel, is packed with plenty of scorching heat, nail biting suspense and emotional, tug-at-your-heartstrings drama. I was totally gripped throughout. I couldn't put my kindle down, I had to keep on reading until I reached the end.
I can't recommend Kestrel highly enough. Go 1-click now!!
Well done Annie, on a truly awesome story. I'm now waiting with baited breath for Kade's story, wherever that takes me.
Full review on makemydaybooks.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03...
March 26, 2015
Two broken people trying to mend their hearts for different reasons. The geeky scientist and the insanely complicated business man. Kestrel Hart finds himself in a new local and meets Carter Drayton. The adage 'opposites attract' is the understatement of the year as far as these two are concerned. Their chance meeting changes their lives forever, or is it fate?
This is a wonderfully written story with impeccably laid out characters. I laughed and found myself griping my chest at points. The sexual tension between these two? It's undeniable. You can feel it and you will need an occasional time out. ;) Kestrel? Yeah, I want one. You can't help but fall in love with these two. You can't help but have your heart break for their stories. I was sucked in from the very first page and finished in one sitting. I couldn't put it down.
How is it possible that this is the first book by AM Hargrove that I've read?? Seriously, where has she been hiding? I LOVED this story! This is part of a series but can be read as a standalone, and I know this, because I've not read the others in the series, yet. This book was perfect as a standalone and I #oneclicked the other books the minute I closed my kindle!!
December 18, 2015
I really love this series and the brothers but I'm having trouble rating this. I was going for 5 stars but then in the end there were things that I didn t like so it ends up being more of a 3.5 for me. Kestrel was wonderful and if you read this as a standalone you have no idea why the fuck he keeps saying he is bad and not worthy. His actions were so swoon worthy, he is this big guy with a kind heart, honest, witty and funny. It took some time to warm up to Carter bc the whole shrine room for her daughter was weird like hell and I just didn t care for her at the beginning. I kept skipping parts of her story bc Kestrel's interaction with his secretary was so damn funny to read. When they get together they are great and I love the no drama couple, I like to see them heal each other, open to each other etc. The first thing that turned me off was the author's need to always put the women in life or death situations. I hated that Gabby again was the one in dear situation, she had 2 books and lots of close calls was it really necessary for her to be shot 3 times? This was Kestrel's and Carter's book should have been ab their struggles not ab Gabby, once again on death's door. At least change it up a little and have the men in the hospital if you insist. It just felt a bit too much of "been there done that". Then, Carter's reaction of "Why did he leave me?" was a bit over dramatic since the guy told her why, that he ll come back for her and that he loves her. So her pity party was pretty pathetic since she knew why he was doing that. The good thing is that their separation doesn t take long.
All in all I'd recommend this series bc the brothers are really great characters and the writing style is funny and it flows easily.
All in all I'd recommend this series bc the brothers are really great characters and the writing style is funny and it flows easily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2015
**ARC provided by publisher for honest review***
Main Characters: Kestrel & Carter
Cover: 6
Rating: A
Steaminess: B
New to this author? Yes
Overall: Awesome
Plot: a full circle story that will have you crying and swooning
Page Turner: sometimes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: yes
HEA:
Insta-Love: no
Alpha-ness: 6
Romance: 6
Love Story: 9
Angst: 5
Worth the read? Yes
Stand Alone: yes
Part of a series? Yes
So I was crying by the first 10 pages I was totally hooked and hoped for some sort of conspiracy theory to make it untrue, but alas it was. That said after the beginning it started sweet and romantic,and I was very interested to see how thing developed. Then towards the middle I felt like it was dragging, and in thinking back was trying to figure out what I would take out to make it more interesting but really you couldn't take anything out because you would lose the connection you felt to the characters. It really seemed like the happily ever after was coming at the Christmas time scene, then BOOM! It was insane page turning after that. Very good book and I suspect a great series as well, just another series I will need to read to see what all has happened prior to this book. On that note, don't be afraid to pick this one up if you haven't read the others, the author does a great job of making you feel like you are in the story while giving you pieces of the back story when needed!
Main Characters: Kestrel & Carter
Cover: 6
Rating: A
Steaminess: B
New to this author? Yes
Overall: Awesome
Plot: a full circle story that will have you crying and swooning
Page Turner: sometimes
Series Cont.? Yes
Recommend: yes
HEA:
Insta-Love: no
Alpha-ness: 6
Romance: 6
Love Story: 9
Angst: 5
Worth the read? Yes
Stand Alone: yes
Part of a series? Yes
So I was crying by the first 10 pages I was totally hooked and hoped for some sort of conspiracy theory to make it untrue, but alas it was. That said after the beginning it started sweet and romantic,and I was very interested to see how thing developed. Then towards the middle I felt like it was dragging, and in thinking back was trying to figure out what I would take out to make it more interesting but really you couldn't take anything out because you would lose the connection you felt to the characters. It really seemed like the happily ever after was coming at the Christmas time scene, then BOOM! It was insane page turning after that. Very good book and I suspect a great series as well, just another series I will need to read to see what all has happened prior to this book. On that note, don't be afraid to pick this one up if you haven't read the others, the author does a great job of making you feel like you are in the story while giving you pieces of the back story when needed!
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