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Hawkins Brothers #1
A Hero to Keep
Sometimes you have to fight for what - for who - you love.
Shannon Vanderhoff’s childhood taught her early on that nothing was hers to keep, not clothes, or toys, or even people. So she lives, loves, and lets go. She’s not looking for a hero.
But with custody of her traumatized six-year-old nephew on the line, she needs help. Charming Greg Hawkins, a comic book artist and art therapist insists he can coax Ryan into speaking again, enabling the boy to reveal what he saw the night of his mother’s death at his father’s hands. And though Shannon’s skeptical of Greg’s methods, there’s no denying that he brings light and color to their lives.
Greg, one of twelve siblings, knows anything worth having is worth fighting for. If anyone can prepare Shannon for the upcoming battle, it’s Greg and his family.
But will she fight to keep him, too?
A Hero to Keep is a contemporary family drama romance set near Lake Erie, featuring the Hawkins Family.
***This book was originally published under the title A Kid to the Rescue.***
Shannon Vanderhoff’s childhood taught her early on that nothing was hers to keep, not clothes, or toys, or even people. So she lives, loves, and lets go. She’s not looking for a hero.
But with custody of her traumatized six-year-old nephew on the line, she needs help. Charming Greg Hawkins, a comic book artist and art therapist insists he can coax Ryan into speaking again, enabling the boy to reveal what he saw the night of his mother’s death at his father’s hands. And though Shannon’s skeptical of Greg’s methods, there’s no denying that he brings light and color to their lives.
Greg, one of twelve siblings, knows anything worth having is worth fighting for. If anyone can prepare Shannon for the upcoming battle, it’s Greg and his family.
But will she fight to keep him, too?
A Hero to Keep is a contemporary family drama romance set near Lake Erie, featuring the Hawkins Family.
***This book was originally published under the title A Kid to the Rescue.***
228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2009
3954 people are currently reading
1413 people want to read
About the author
Susan Gable
21 books82 followersBooks have always been my constant companions, all the way back to when I was reading Gus, The Friendly Ghost from the Weekly Reader Book Club. I grew up in a house of readers, and my mom bought me books like other parents bought their kids candy. I did well in school, finishing my work quickly - so I could read. I never went anywhere without a book. It was no surprise that in high school, I was voted Class Bookworm - and scored the Valedictorian slot. (Yes, I was slightly geeky. But only slightly. Never mind what my high school classmates say. )
In elementary school, I loved writing stories and keeping a journal. In high school, I wrote lots of poetry filled with the usual teen-age angst. I wrote the lyrics to my brand-new high school's alma mater. But did I ever consider a career as a writer back then? No, not at all.
I went to college and became an elementary teacher, spending ten years passing on my love for books and reading to children. I adored being a teacher. I will admit, the year I was pregnant with my son, I actually started a novel for young adults, and I outlined a concept for some children's series books. But, those things fell by the wayside.
Then I moved from New Jersey, the state where I'd been born and raised and worked for all those years. After a one year stint in West Virginia, I landed in Erie, Pennsylvania. I absolutely love Erie - though I love it most in June, July, and August. But I discovered that getting a teacher's certificate in PA is....well, not easy, to say the least. I taught in a private school here the first year, then I homeschooled my son for a year. At the end of that year, I needed SOMETHING to restore my sanity (let me just say that I admire those who can homeschool successfully - for me, I wanted to trade my son, whom I love very much, in for 25 kids that belonged to other people) - and I turned to writing fiction.
I started by dabbling in fanfiction, and wrote like a woman possessed. (After all, I did hear voices in my head. ) I learned a lot about the craft of writing from other fanfiction writers. Over and over again, romances surfaced in my fanfiction stories.
Then, in Dec. 1999, I decided that I was going to go for it. I made it my New Year's Resolution to learn all I could about writing romance, and to do it. I had a five-year goal - I wanted to sell a novel by the time I turned 40 - five years from then. I did reserve the right to modify that goal in the future. I signed up for an on-line writing romance class, joined Romance Writers of America and Pennwriters, and started writing my first romance novel.
Which had some serious failings. ;-) But I finished it. A whole novel. And sent off a query letter and received the rite-of-passage, a form rejection. I retitled the book, reworked it toward another publisher, sent off another query, received another rejection. Hey, no one ever said it was going to be easy.
Meanwhile, I'd started another book, and while the characters were a lot of fun, I wasn't totally sure where the story was going.
Somehow, the basic premise for The Baby Plan was born while I was playing with GMC's (Goal, Motivation, & Conflicts) for that other book. Then, Harley sprang to life, and that was it. The other book had to be abandoned, because Harley insisted I write her story. She wouldn't let me rest.
In February of 2002, I got THE CALL from Harlequin Superromance ®, saying they wanted to buy The Baby Plan. I did my best to act dignified on the phone, then yelled like a banshee when I hung up. To say I was thrilled is the understatement of the century.
I've now gone Indie with my books, and I'm loving being in complete control over the decisions I make with my books. I hope you enjoy them.
In elementary school, I loved writing stories and keeping a journal. In high school, I wrote lots of poetry filled with the usual teen-age angst. I wrote the lyrics to my brand-new high school's alma mater. But did I ever consider a career as a writer back then? No, not at all.
I went to college and became an elementary teacher, spending ten years passing on my love for books and reading to children. I adored being a teacher. I will admit, the year I was pregnant with my son, I actually started a novel for young adults, and I outlined a concept for some children's series books. But, those things fell by the wayside.
Then I moved from New Jersey, the state where I'd been born and raised and worked for all those years. After a one year stint in West Virginia, I landed in Erie, Pennsylvania. I absolutely love Erie - though I love it most in June, July, and August. But I discovered that getting a teacher's certificate in PA is....well, not easy, to say the least. I taught in a private school here the first year, then I homeschooled my son for a year. At the end of that year, I needed SOMETHING to restore my sanity (let me just say that I admire those who can homeschool successfully - for me, I wanted to trade my son, whom I love very much, in for 25 kids that belonged to other people) - and I turned to writing fiction.
I started by dabbling in fanfiction, and wrote like a woman possessed. (After all, I did hear voices in my head. ) I learned a lot about the craft of writing from other fanfiction writers. Over and over again, romances surfaced in my fanfiction stories.
Then, in Dec. 1999, I decided that I was going to go for it. I made it my New Year's Resolution to learn all I could about writing romance, and to do it. I had a five-year goal - I wanted to sell a novel by the time I turned 40 - five years from then. I did reserve the right to modify that goal in the future. I signed up for an on-line writing romance class, joined Romance Writers of America and Pennwriters, and started writing my first romance novel.
Which had some serious failings. ;-) But I finished it. A whole novel. And sent off a query letter and received the rite-of-passage, a form rejection. I retitled the book, reworked it toward another publisher, sent off another query, received another rejection. Hey, no one ever said it was going to be easy.
Meanwhile, I'd started another book, and while the characters were a lot of fun, I wasn't totally sure where the story was going.
Somehow, the basic premise for The Baby Plan was born while I was playing with GMC's (Goal, Motivation, & Conflicts) for that other book. Then, Harley sprang to life, and that was it. The other book had to be abandoned, because Harley insisted I write her story. She wouldn't let me rest.
In February of 2002, I got THE CALL from Harlequin Superromance ®, saying they wanted to buy The Baby Plan. I did my best to act dignified on the phone, then yelled like a banshee when I hung up. To say I was thrilled is the understatement of the century.
I've now gone Indie with my books, and I'm loving being in complete control over the decisions I make with my books. I hope you enjoy them.
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August 8, 2020DNF 12%
Looks like my book funk is continuing. I did not like the heroine in this book at all. From the very beginning, she was annoying and irritated me. By the time I hit 12%, it was obvious where the storyline was going and I definitely was not interested. This is on me because I grabbed this book to read as part of a challenge (read a book for its cover), so I didn’t read the blurb.
I usually do not rate books that I don’t finish.
Looks like my book funk is continuing. I did not like the heroine in this book at all. From the very beginning, she was annoying and irritated me. By the time I hit 12%, it was obvious where the storyline was going and I definitely was not interested. This is on me because I grabbed this book to read as part of a challenge (read a book for its cover), so I didn’t read the blurb.
I usually do not rate books that I don’t finish.
January 9, 2012
I enjoyed this book, the hero Greg was great, not only was he a comic book artist but also an art therapist for kids and he was great with our wary heroine and her traumatized nephew.
The heroine started out not so great, she had zero experience with kids and was struggling doing her job while taking care of a nephew who had seen his father murder his mother and refused to talk, as a last resort she went to Greg expecting a nerd and finding someone amazing with a big heart, willing to let his sister fight for custody for her and more.
Her childhood had taught her not get attached but Greg teaches her differently, how to fight for her nephew. They are kind of opposites, Greg from a big family, while Shannon doesn't like ties but she learns though she does push away Greg in the process.
Greg was truly awesome, loving and willing to go to a woman who had pushed him away.
On to Hayden's book now.
The heroine started out not so great, she had zero experience with kids and was struggling doing her job while taking care of a nephew who had seen his father murder his mother and refused to talk, as a last resort she went to Greg expecting a nerd and finding someone amazing with a big heart, willing to let his sister fight for custody for her and more.
Her childhood had taught her not get attached but Greg teaches her differently, how to fight for her nephew. They are kind of opposites, Greg from a big family, while Shannon doesn't like ties but she learns though she does push away Greg in the process.
Greg was truly awesome, loving and willing to go to a woman who had pushed him away.
On to Hayden's book now.
October 11, 2017
I liked this one. The writing was a little rough at times, but overall it was a good story with a gentle, compassionate Hero. The H is a comic book artist and art therapist who works with sick kids at a cancer center and individually with abused kids. The h becomes responsible for her nephew after a traumatic event and he won't speak.
There were several side characters to this book because the Hawkins Family has 12 kids including the H. I'm sure that was to set the stage for plenty of future books in the series, but the author did a good job of not letting the larger cast overtake this story. The h had a bit of an odd background that was hard to get handle on but I grew to like her. I didn't love her, but I think her characterization was essential to the story of the H and the kid that the author wanted to tell.
I would read more in this series, at least about the brothers. I never did warm up to the sisters, but that is pretty common for me. I often skip the women's books in these family sagas because they are often written as mouthy, "feisty", and bratty trying to keep up with all the brothers. I got the same vibe from the little bit we see of the sisters in A Hero to Keep.
There were several side characters to this book because the Hawkins Family has 12 kids including the H. I'm sure that was to set the stage for plenty of future books in the series, but the author did a good job of not letting the larger cast overtake this story. The h had a bit of an odd background that was hard to get handle on but I grew to like her. I didn't love her, but I think her characterization was essential to the story of the H and the kid that the author wanted to tell.
I would read more in this series, at least about the brothers. I never did warm up to the sisters, but that is pretty common for me. I often skip the women's books in these family sagas because they are often written as mouthy, "feisty", and bratty trying to keep up with all the brothers. I got the same vibe from the little bit we see of the sisters in A Hero to Keep.
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August 28, 2018
What a great heartwarming story! I wish there were so much more stories like this one. This story really touched my heart!
This book was one of the most emotional reads, a total page-turner.
I'd like to read more books from this series or another books from this author. It was my first but will not be the last one for sure.
I liked everything: the author's writing style, main characters and second characters, the plot...
I wish the heroine were more interested in hero, she looked like she had one foot away from this relationship. The whole book she was pushing this great guy away. But looking at her childhood, what can i say? I understand her totally. But when she must look after her nephew i loved the way she was trying to make his life better. Although she did not have any ideas about good family, about solid family relationships.
The hero, ... sigh. The hero was just such a great, strong, patient guy. He’s got this heart of gold, i would say he was book boy-friend material, LOL.
This hero is totally a hero to keep! LOL
He just had so much patience! This girl really every single day was about to turn and run from him. But any way he was patient with her. He is just so nice, clever, yummy guy.
There was some disturbing ex-girlfriend actions. She was a bit but stalkerish. She did not accept “NO” from our her. Girl, get some brain, please!
There was not cheating in this book.
This book was one of the most emotional reads, a total page-turner.
I'd like to read more books from this series or another books from this author. It was my first but will not be the last one for sure.
I liked everything: the author's writing style, main characters and second characters, the plot...
I wish the heroine were more interested in hero, she looked like she had one foot away from this relationship. The whole book she was pushing this great guy away. But looking at her childhood, what can i say? I understand her totally. But when she must look after her nephew i loved the way she was trying to make his life better. Although she did not have any ideas about good family, about solid family relationships.
The hero, ... sigh. The hero was just such a great, strong, patient guy. He’s got this heart of gold, i would say he was book boy-friend material, LOL.
This hero is totally a hero to keep! LOL
He just had so much patience! This girl really every single day was about to turn and run from him. But any way he was patient with her. He is just so nice, clever, yummy guy.
There was some disturbing ex-girlfriend actions. She was a bit but stalkerish. She did not accept “NO” from our her. Girl, get some brain, please!
There was not cheating in this book.
March 20, 2019
What a great story and so heartwarming. This is the story of a little boy, 6 years old, who witnessed his father kill his mother. That left the boy with his aunt, Shannon Vanderhoff, who has no siblings left. Greg Hawkins, however, is one of twelve siblings who happens to do art therapy.
Shannon falls in love with her nephew and will protect him at any cost. She's not so sure about Greg's art therapy but decides to give it a chance because her nephew has not talked since his mother's murder and maybe Greg can help him open up and they can find out more about what happened on that awful night.
This is a story of loss, love, and an inside look at something that maybe a lot of people aren't very aware of: art as a form of therapy, especially for children who can't verbalize traumatic events. It's about love between family and between a man and a woman who had no intentions of falling in love.
Shannon falls in love with her nephew and will protect him at any cost. She's not so sure about Greg's art therapy but decides to give it a chance because her nephew has not talked since his mother's murder and maybe Greg can help him open up and they can find out more about what happened on that awful night.
This is a story of loss, love, and an inside look at something that maybe a lot of people aren't very aware of: art as a form of therapy, especially for children who can't verbalize traumatic events. It's about love between family and between a man and a woman who had no intentions of falling in love.
April 28, 2017
I did NOT read all this book! I do NOT recommend this book. I got about 30% of the way into it and was already feeling uncomfortable because of the language issues (why is it "okay" for adults to use bad language but not for kids?) and then it suddenly went sensual! Up until then I had liked the main characters especially the little boy, but after just a bit of the other stuff, I started skipping pages. I jumped ahead, found the climax with the little boy, skimmed it and really didn't much care for anything else.
This is NOT a clean read. It is NOT something I would ever want to read again.
This is NOT a clean read. It is NOT something I would ever want to read again.
June 18, 2017
3.5 stars.
Good. Entertaining. Kept my attention. There were just some parts that I didn't care for..
Good. Entertaining. Kept my attention. There were just some parts that I didn't care for..
May 19, 2017
4.5 Stars
Such a beautifully written story to read, full of super heroes and imaginations. Shannon and Greg's story didn't start because of some romance that was long lost, but because of Ryan's tragic situations and their ability to bring back a little boys spirit that was robbed from him. This book is a definite roller coaster with all the drama that goes on, but it is definitely worth reading.
Such a beautifully written story to read, full of super heroes and imaginations. Shannon and Greg's story didn't start because of some romance that was long lost, but because of Ryan's tragic situations and their ability to bring back a little boys spirit that was robbed from him. This book is a definite roller coaster with all the drama that goes on, but it is definitely worth reading.
May 29, 2017
Ugh this book! I was not ready for the feelings that came with it. I was glad hat everything had worked out in the end. I'll have to look into the rest of the series to know who's story comes next
June 5, 2025
Shannon was a little difficult to like, to begin with, but the story was quite sweet.
April 2, 2017
This was a beautiful story of a woman, Shannon who always seemed to lose everything she cared about. When she gets custody of her nephew after his dad killed her sister, she tries to keep her distance emotionally. She ends up taking him to art therapy to help him through seeing his mom murdered. She gets close to the therapist, Greg but in order to have a relationship with Greg and her nephew she needs to learn to love. This story is about love being patient and long sufering.
April 11, 2024
**MINOR SPOILERS**
This book is the first book in the Hawkins Family trilogy. It can be read as a standalone. Characters from the next two books are introduced. The story is heartwarming.
Shannon is the younger of two sisters. Her older sister was living with a violent man, Trevor, who is from a rich family. One night, he murders Shannon’s sister, not realizing that their son, Ryan, is watching. Trevor is used to his family getting him out of trouble and expects the same to happen in this circumstance.
Trevor has told Ryan that he is not to speak one word about what happened. As a result, when Shannon begins caring for him, he does not speak at all. After months of trying to reach him in different ways, she tries art therapy with Greg.
Greg is wonderful with the kids that he is working with. They have various problems. The therapy was great for Ryan and Shannon is asked to draw as well. It helps Greg understand them both a bit better. The author is a good advocate for the idea.
Ryan was a wonderful character. I really liked him.
When Shannon was growing up, her father often gave away her things. He would tell her that other people would need the things more. As a result, she does not hold on to things or even people. She is not a fighter. During this book, she learns to fight for Ryan. It was difficult for her to do so but …spoiler… she finally does. I was glad of it. She was hurting herself by denying herself anything good and cutting herself off from caring for others. Hopefully, once she has taken this important first step to fighting for people, she would continue to do so with the help and support of Greg and his family. They were all a positive influence.
Unfortunately, Greg’s program at the university is in danger of being cut. Spoiler…desperate, Greg invites reporters to see the work he does in order to bring positive publicity to the program. He ambushes Shannon with the idea. She arrives with Ryan and discovers reporters present. They had already spoken with other parents, so she was not singled out, but she rushes away because she does not want to speak, nor does she want Ryan to do so. She was upset about it and rightly so. I dropped the book a star for how Greg handled this. There was absolutely no reason for him not to talk to Shannon about this in advance. It came across as unkind for him to do this, but it also seemed out of character. He is a very kind and giving man.
Greg also draws comic books.
The Hawkins family is wonderful and the family everyone wishes they had. Supportive parents, siblings that stand up for each other. Funny interactions. One small thing was realistic but improbable. The family had 12 children. Greg is in the middle.
It is a heartwarming story. I probably won’t continue reading the trilogy as the other two story lines do not interest me, but I did end this book with a nice feeling. It is a quick, sweet read.
This book is the first book in the Hawkins Family trilogy. It can be read as a standalone. Characters from the next two books are introduced. The story is heartwarming.
Shannon is the younger of two sisters. Her older sister was living with a violent man, Trevor, who is from a rich family. One night, he murders Shannon’s sister, not realizing that their son, Ryan, is watching. Trevor is used to his family getting him out of trouble and expects the same to happen in this circumstance.
Trevor has told Ryan that he is not to speak one word about what happened. As a result, when Shannon begins caring for him, he does not speak at all. After months of trying to reach him in different ways, she tries art therapy with Greg.
Greg is wonderful with the kids that he is working with. They have various problems. The therapy was great for Ryan and Shannon is asked to draw as well. It helps Greg understand them both a bit better. The author is a good advocate for the idea.
Ryan was a wonderful character. I really liked him.
When Shannon was growing up, her father often gave away her things. He would tell her that other people would need the things more. As a result, she does not hold on to things or even people. She is not a fighter. During this book, she learns to fight for Ryan. It was difficult for her to do so but …spoiler… she finally does. I was glad of it. She was hurting herself by denying herself anything good and cutting herself off from caring for others. Hopefully, once she has taken this important first step to fighting for people, she would continue to do so with the help and support of Greg and his family. They were all a positive influence.
Unfortunately, Greg’s program at the university is in danger of being cut. Spoiler…desperate, Greg invites reporters to see the work he does in order to bring positive publicity to the program. He ambushes Shannon with the idea. She arrives with Ryan and discovers reporters present. They had already spoken with other parents, so she was not singled out, but she rushes away because she does not want to speak, nor does she want Ryan to do so. She was upset about it and rightly so. I dropped the book a star for how Greg handled this. There was absolutely no reason for him not to talk to Shannon about this in advance. It came across as unkind for him to do this, but it also seemed out of character. He is a very kind and giving man.
Greg also draws comic books.
The Hawkins family is wonderful and the family everyone wishes they had. Supportive parents, siblings that stand up for each other. Funny interactions. One small thing was realistic but improbable. The family had 12 children. Greg is in the middle.
It is a heartwarming story. I probably won’t continue reading the trilogy as the other two story lines do not interest me, but I did end this book with a nice feeling. It is a quick, sweet read.
April 10, 2024
Superheroes come in all forms. And, a lot of times they can come in pint-size balls of truth. This is what we find when we meet, Ryan Schaffer. Most people, when they see him, see a boy with a problem talking and hearing. However, during this time he’s a boy who can not talk due to severe trauma.
What you are seeing in truth is yes a boy who can talk, but chooses not to at this time. Maybe, later when it’s safer, and he is a six-year-old boy walking, he is a sponge absorbing a wealth of information. At that age, so much can be absorbed stored, and used at a later time. Do not underestimate the young or the power of the human mind. Which is proved in this story.
We find out Ryan is now living with his aunt Shannon Vanderhoff because he witnessed his father, Trevor Schaffer cause the death of his mother, Willow by way of affixation. Since his mother had been killed and his grandparents, Patty and Lloyd Schaffer were out of the country. It left only the one living relative, on Willow’s side available to care for the child, Shannon.
She drops everything and goes to care for him at the drop of a hat. Doesn’t matter that her life has been turned upside down, that she had to change up her lifestyle, and when the press wouldn’t leave them alone and was traumatizing her nephew further she even moved him across the state to her apartment. All to ensure not only his safety but his mental health, and his care as far as finding the best, as far as his trauma treatment was concerned.
When she finds Greg Hawkins, who was working out of Erie University's Children's Center doing an art therapy program. Ms. Vanderhoff was having her biggest problem with the fact that he was a comic book artist. So, some of the moms were filling her in because they needed his program for their children. And, it's close to being on the chopping block.
"Greg Hawkins isn't just a comic book artist, Ms. Vanderhoff. He's got a master's degree in art therapy. And he doesn't only work with cancer kids. He's had amazing results with children who need empowerment. Children like Ryan."
This is the crux of the story she has a hard time believing, in the fact that people can and will help. That people will be reliable and that she can commit and love too. When the miracle of all miracles happens is it worth the outcome? Can she handle it? I say read it and find out. You won't regret it. A very good book. Don't hate his grandparents, too much.
What you are seeing in truth is yes a boy who can talk, but chooses not to at this time. Maybe, later when it’s safer, and he is a six-year-old boy walking, he is a sponge absorbing a wealth of information. At that age, so much can be absorbed stored, and used at a later time. Do not underestimate the young or the power of the human mind. Which is proved in this story.
We find out Ryan is now living with his aunt Shannon Vanderhoff because he witnessed his father, Trevor Schaffer cause the death of his mother, Willow by way of affixation. Since his mother had been killed and his grandparents, Patty and Lloyd Schaffer were out of the country. It left only the one living relative, on Willow’s side available to care for the child, Shannon.
She drops everything and goes to care for him at the drop of a hat. Doesn’t matter that her life has been turned upside down, that she had to change up her lifestyle, and when the press wouldn’t leave them alone and was traumatizing her nephew further she even moved him across the state to her apartment. All to ensure not only his safety but his mental health, and his care as far as finding the best, as far as his trauma treatment was concerned.
When she finds Greg Hawkins, who was working out of Erie University's Children's Center doing an art therapy program. Ms. Vanderhoff was having her biggest problem with the fact that he was a comic book artist. So, some of the moms were filling her in because they needed his program for their children. And, it's close to being on the chopping block.
"Greg Hawkins isn't just a comic book artist, Ms. Vanderhoff. He's got a master's degree in art therapy. And he doesn't only work with cancer kids. He's had amazing results with children who need empowerment. Children like Ryan."
This is the crux of the story she has a hard time believing, in the fact that people can and will help. That people will be reliable and that she can commit and love too. When the miracle of all miracles happens is it worth the outcome? Can she handle it? I say read it and find out. You won't regret it. A very good book. Don't hate his grandparents, too much.
July 8, 2017
A Hero to Keep: Hawkins Family Book 1 is by Susan Gable. This book deals with the use of art therapy to help traumatized young people become able to overcome the trauma they have experienced and deal with it. It is also used to help with cancer treatment. The book is very realistic and the characters could walk off the pages and live among us. It is very good and can easily be read in one short sitting.
Greg Hawkins was a comic artist who also had a deep interest in using art therapy to help young people deal with the stresses of battling cancer and other things. He worked out of Erie University’s Children’s Center at the moment; however, he was soon going to have to find another place to continue his group work as well as the funding to set the program up. The University was no longer going to fund his work. Meanwhile, he had his work with cancer patients to keep his mind occupied.
Shannon Vanderhoff was watching Greg interact with his cancer patients along with a social worker. She was trying to decide whether or not to allow Greg to work with her nephew Ryan. Ryan had come to live with her two-and-a-half months ago following the death of his mother, Shannon’s sister, and his father’s arrest for her murder. Ryan had witnessed the murder but would not speak about it or anything else. It was children like Ryan that Greg worked with empowering them to voice their opinions about their care. Reluctantly, Shannon was coming to the agreement to allow Greg to work with Ryan.
Will Greg work with Shannon and Ryan? Will he be able to help them without causing undue problems for them?
Greg Hawkins was a comic artist who also had a deep interest in using art therapy to help young people deal with the stresses of battling cancer and other things. He worked out of Erie University’s Children’s Center at the moment; however, he was soon going to have to find another place to continue his group work as well as the funding to set the program up. The University was no longer going to fund his work. Meanwhile, he had his work with cancer patients to keep his mind occupied.
Shannon Vanderhoff was watching Greg interact with his cancer patients along with a social worker. She was trying to decide whether or not to allow Greg to work with her nephew Ryan. Ryan had come to live with her two-and-a-half months ago following the death of his mother, Shannon’s sister, and his father’s arrest for her murder. Ryan had witnessed the murder but would not speak about it or anything else. It was children like Ryan that Greg worked with empowering them to voice their opinions about their care. Reluctantly, Shannon was coming to the agreement to allow Greg to work with Ryan.
Will Greg work with Shannon and Ryan? Will he be able to help them without causing undue problems for them?
July 9, 2018
Omg, this was such an amazing book for me! My first connection with the book is that is it is based out of my area here in Ohio. The locations and events were familiar but more than that the story was an addictive one by itself. The H, Greg Hawkins, comes from a large loving family and is a famous comic book creator. His passion is artistic therapy. He has a masters in it and was definitely made to work with children. I was instantly pulled in and effected by all these children battling cancer and how through art it gave them the power and faith they needed to inspirethemto fight the good fight.
Shannon has lost all the people close to her and has learned through that experience to distance herself and not allow anyone to become permanent in her life. It all changes when her 6 year old nephew, Ryan, comes to live with her. Ryan witnessed his mother (Shannon's sister, Willow) being killed by his father. Since that day he hasn't spoken a word. Through suggestion Shannon is urged to take Ryan to work with Greg. It was compelling and so enjoyable to see the story unfold at that point. The painting Greg did for Ryan and the artichoke pizza to the the super hero tie Ryan wore to step to the witness stand. Shannon dressing up as lady O had me cracking up. So many emotions came to me while I read. I hated to see it end and will most definitely read about the rest of the Hawkins family. Its a beautiful thing watching characters show such simple affection and compassion as someone struggles with trusting in the power of love. To think I found this on the freebie list. Enjoy!
Shannon has lost all the people close to her and has learned through that experience to distance herself and not allow anyone to become permanent in her life. It all changes when her 6 year old nephew, Ryan, comes to live with her. Ryan witnessed his mother (Shannon's sister, Willow) being killed by his father. Since that day he hasn't spoken a word. Through suggestion Shannon is urged to take Ryan to work with Greg. It was compelling and so enjoyable to see the story unfold at that point. The painting Greg did for Ryan and the artichoke pizza to the the super hero tie Ryan wore to step to the witness stand. Shannon dressing up as lady O had me cracking up. So many emotions came to me while I read. I hated to see it end and will most definitely read about the rest of the Hawkins family. Its a beautiful thing watching characters show such simple affection and compassion as someone struggles with trusting in the power of love. To think I found this on the freebie list. Enjoy!
May 9, 2024
I enjoyed this story but have mixed feelings about the writing style. The characters were well developed, the plot was well executed & there were many corny bits of dialogue that were just not my taste. Others may enjoy the quirky lighter moments, so maybe it's just me.
I'm not certain if this is a trope, but I do not mesh with characters like Shannon who believe why should they get attached to or love someone when they'll only get hurt. I thought she was toughening up as the story progressed but nope, her negative thinking blew up a perfectly good thing she had going for her & she knew it.
Glen, an art therapist with an art history degree was a gem. He had a beautiful way with children fighting cancer & others who have experienced trauma. He also wrote super hero comic books which themes he used to help embolden them to fight their battle.
The best character for me was five year old Ryan, traumatized by the death of his mother while watching it happen. He would not speak, would only nod or shake his head & early bond with Glen through art therapy, to me was a major part of the heartfelt story.
While Shannon only had Ryan as family, Glen's parents had a houseful of children & grandchildren which lit up the book with sibling rivalry, sassy conversations & funny stories that all large families share. These parts were also a favorite.
I did like the book but the annoying heroine got on my nerves which led to dropping a star. Overall though, it was a pretty good story.
I'm not certain if this is a trope, but I do not mesh with characters like Shannon who believe why should they get attached to or love someone when they'll only get hurt. I thought she was toughening up as the story progressed but nope, her negative thinking blew up a perfectly good thing she had going for her & she knew it.
Glen, an art therapist with an art history degree was a gem. He had a beautiful way with children fighting cancer & others who have experienced trauma. He also wrote super hero comic books which themes he used to help embolden them to fight their battle.
The best character for me was five year old Ryan, traumatized by the death of his mother while watching it happen. He would not speak, would only nod or shake his head & early bond with Glen through art therapy, to me was a major part of the heartfelt story.
While Shannon only had Ryan as family, Glen's parents had a houseful of children & grandchildren which lit up the book with sibling rivalry, sassy conversations & funny stories that all large families share. These parts were also a favorite.
I did like the book but the annoying heroine got on my nerves which led to dropping a star. Overall though, it was a pretty good story.
September 18, 2017
Greg is an art therapist, and his passion is helping kids to center and find themselves through art. He usually spends his time counseling kids suffering from cancer, and drawing his own personal comics. However, when a woman named Shannon needs help with her troubled nephew, he decides to give his assistance at a discounted rate. This 6 year old boy isn't just troubled however, he has seen his mother murdered by his father in front of him, and has gone mute since then. Shannon also has her own inner demons that have been resurfacing since the murder of her sister and her temporary adoption of her nephew. It is Greg's job to help put this broken family back together through his art.
Lately, I have become tired of romance novels. I didn't stop reading them, but the stories had started to blend together and become completely forgettable. This story stood out to me.
No character in this book is perfect, which is something that I found to be refreshing. All of the situations were realistic and the story showed how murder can affect everyone in families both on the side of the murderer and the victim. My favorite character int he story was the little boy Ryan, as he grew with Greg's help and overcame his fears. He was stronger than most of the adults in the story, and brought positivity to the group even at such a young age.
I recommend this to someone looking for an adult romance with tear-jerking storyline.
Lately, I have become tired of romance novels. I didn't stop reading them, but the stories had started to blend together and become completely forgettable. This story stood out to me.
No character in this book is perfect, which is something that I found to be refreshing. All of the situations were realistic and the story showed how murder can affect everyone in families both on the side of the murderer and the victim. My favorite character int he story was the little boy Ryan, as he grew with Greg's help and overcame his fears. He was stronger than most of the adults in the story, and brought positivity to the group even at such a young age.
I recommend this to someone looking for an adult romance with tear-jerking storyline.
April 7, 2021
From a structural perspective, I see how this all fits together: there are character arcs for each lead, a romance arc for them together, a "getting past trauma" arc for the kid that leads into a "now we're a family" ending.
So it's not lacking anything in terms of plot, but somehow through the whole thing, I was never moved. Maybe Shannon's cold/distant attitude at the beginning never really lifted and cast a pall over everything else for me; maybe I never fully invested in the "fight" they were fighting to work things out.
Despite clocking in at over 200 pages, though, I actually feel like parts of this were rushed--Greg and Shannon leap into physical intimacy much earlier than I expected, even if that first encounter doesn't get horizontal. I never really felt their chemistry, so seeing them get all passionate out of basically nowhere was a sour note, and as the story progressed, it kept getting sourer, because they were supposed to not form a romantic or sexual relationship for reasons, but the story would have me believe that they were just too hot for each other to let that stop them. No, I don't believe you, story, they've got no zing to speak of.
This was a freebie I picked up ages ago by a new-to-me author, and I finally got to it, and it's just so-so. Not going to continue the series, can't particularly recommend this for any standout feature, it's just functional and kind of dry.
So it's not lacking anything in terms of plot, but somehow through the whole thing, I was never moved. Maybe Shannon's cold/distant attitude at the beginning never really lifted and cast a pall over everything else for me; maybe I never fully invested in the "fight" they were fighting to work things out.
Despite clocking in at over 200 pages, though, I actually feel like parts of this were rushed--Greg and Shannon leap into physical intimacy much earlier than I expected, even if that first encounter doesn't get horizontal. I never really felt their chemistry, so seeing them get all passionate out of basically nowhere was a sour note, and as the story progressed, it kept getting sourer, because they were supposed to not form a romantic or sexual relationship for reasons, but the story would have me believe that they were just too hot for each other to let that stop them. No, I don't believe you, story, they've got no zing to speak of.
This was a freebie I picked up ages ago by a new-to-me author, and I finally got to it, and it's just so-so. Not going to continue the series, can't particularly recommend this for any standout feature, it's just functional and kind of dry.
May 2, 2018
This is a new to me author. A Hero to Keep offers a pretty good story but I wouldn’t call it captivating. The characters didn’t really click for me. They were OK and there’s nothing that I disliked, there just wasn’t anything I was overly thrilled with. The book held my interest but I didn’t have a hard time putting it down if I needed to.
Greg Hawkins comes from a huge family. He’s one of twelve kids. He’s never known life without love and support from a bunch of people. Shannon has learned to never get too attached to anything because it’s not going to last. She had one messed up childhood. She has no family except for her nephew, Ryan. Ryan has come to live with Shannon since his mother, Shannon’s sister, died. It wasn’t a natural death. Nope. Ryan was a witness to her murder. Ever since that tragic day, Ryan has not spoken and Shannon is at her wit’s end. She was referred to Greg Hawkins who runs an art therapy group and she’s decided to come see what it’s all about.
Shannon can be a rather annoying individual. Greg is everything you’d expect and then some. The story was good but there were many times it just didn’t flow right. There are some hilarious scenes, mainly when the Hawkins get together. They are a heartwarming family.
Greg Hawkins comes from a huge family. He’s one of twelve kids. He’s never known life without love and support from a bunch of people. Shannon has learned to never get too attached to anything because it’s not going to last. She had one messed up childhood. She has no family except for her nephew, Ryan. Ryan has come to live with Shannon since his mother, Shannon’s sister, died. It wasn’t a natural death. Nope. Ryan was a witness to her murder. Ever since that tragic day, Ryan has not spoken and Shannon is at her wit’s end. She was referred to Greg Hawkins who runs an art therapy group and she’s decided to come see what it’s all about.
Shannon can be a rather annoying individual. Greg is everything you’d expect and then some. The story was good but there were many times it just didn’t flow right. There are some hilarious scenes, mainly when the Hawkins get together. They are a heartwarming family.
October 18, 2017
I haven’t read a book written by Susan Gable before I picked up this book, but I know I will be reading more. As soon as I started reading A Hero to Keep I was engrossed in this story. I didn’t want to put it down.
A Hero to Keep is a beautifully written book. Not only did I love the story, but I loved the way it made me feel. I experienced a so many feelings while reading it. The characters were amazing.
I loved Ryan and I wanted to give him a huge hug. What he had to go through made me teary. Shannon exasperated me at times, but I loved her personal growth. I loved Greg as soon as I “met” him. He was definitely a superhero, in more ways than one.
Even though there were so many times I got a bit teary while reading this book, there were also times I’m sure I had a smile on my face while I was reading it, especially the end.
I can’t finish this review without mentioning the Hawkins family. I couldn’t imagine a family so big, but by the end I wished I was part of it. As soon as I finished A Hero to Keep I downloaded the next one in the series, A Family to Keep.
I gave A Hero to Keep 5 beautiful stars.
Written by Karen from A Thousand Lives Book Blog
A Hero to Keep is a beautifully written book. Not only did I love the story, but I loved the way it made me feel. I experienced a so many feelings while reading it. The characters were amazing.
I loved Ryan and I wanted to give him a huge hug. What he had to go through made me teary. Shannon exasperated me at times, but I loved her personal growth. I loved Greg as soon as I “met” him. He was definitely a superhero, in more ways than one.
Even though there were so many times I got a bit teary while reading this book, there were also times I’m sure I had a smile on my face while I was reading it, especially the end.
I can’t finish this review without mentioning the Hawkins family. I couldn’t imagine a family so big, but by the end I wished I was part of it. As soon as I finished A Hero to Keep I downloaded the next one in the series, A Family to Keep.
I gave A Hero to Keep 5 beautiful stars.
Written by Karen from A Thousand Lives Book Blog
May 3, 2018
I loved this heart-warming story. After his father was sent to prison for killing his mother, Shannon gained custody of her 6-year-old nephew. The poor little guy was so traumatized after witnessing the murder, he wouldn’t speak. Since she had no experience with children, being single and an only child, she had no idea how to help him. But she was determined to find a way. She was skeptical of Greg’s art therapy. But it seemed to work with other traumatized kids so she let him try with her nephew. She was amazed at the difference the art program and being around Greg’s huge family had made in him.
This book had me laughing, crying and smiling a lot. My heart broke for the little boy. And for Shannon for that matter. Some parts of her childhood were pretty unhappy. It was sad that she never let herself get attached to anything because she knew it would be given away. Greg was the complete opposite. He came from a large family that he could always count on. I loved this family and want to know more about them.
This was an incredible book with lots of ups and downs that I highly recommend.
This book had me laughing, crying and smiling a lot. My heart broke for the little boy. And for Shannon for that matter. Some parts of her childhood were pretty unhappy. It was sad that she never let herself get attached to anything because she knew it would be given away. Greg was the complete opposite. He came from a large family that he could always count on. I loved this family and want to know more about them.
This was an incredible book with lots of ups and downs that I highly recommend.
May 15, 2017
3.5 stars rounded up...
This was a quick and enjoyable read about a woman, Shannon, who grew up in a troubled home - you didn't get to keep anything so you learned not to get attached to stuff. She brings a new definition to minimalism. Her sister is murdered and the suspect is the husband. While he is on trial she receives guardianship of her nephew, Ryan. Ryan supposedly witnessed the murder and is very traumatized and is not speaking.
She is led to Greg who is an art therapist as well as a comic strip artist. He makes a really great "hero" in this book. The story line with Ryan, Greg and Shannon is such a good story line. I really enjoyed it. There were times where it went a little "too much" in some scenes which I think some other reviewers mentioned. There is a line on saccharine and corny that can be crossed. But the story for me just really worked.
This is the first book that I have read by Susan Gable and I would definitely read others in this series.
Note: This was first published in 2009 and was re-published in 2017 in e-book format. It still felt fresh and current.
This was a quick and enjoyable read about a woman, Shannon, who grew up in a troubled home - you didn't get to keep anything so you learned not to get attached to stuff. She brings a new definition to minimalism. Her sister is murdered and the suspect is the husband. While he is on trial she receives guardianship of her nephew, Ryan. Ryan supposedly witnessed the murder and is very traumatized and is not speaking.
She is led to Greg who is an art therapist as well as a comic strip artist. He makes a really great "hero" in this book. The story line with Ryan, Greg and Shannon is such a good story line. I really enjoyed it. There were times where it went a little "too much" in some scenes which I think some other reviewers mentioned. There is a line on saccharine and corny that can be crossed. But the story for me just really worked.
This is the first book that I have read by Susan Gable and I would definitely read others in this series.
Note: This was first published in 2009 and was re-published in 2017 in e-book format. It still felt fresh and current.
July 5, 2017
I don't even know where to begin with this book. I guess professionally Greg is kind of creepy because he got involved with his patients aunt - ick. But then you have Shannon (who they at two points call Shenadoah - one of which is in a court of law sooo yeah I don't get that) who has some irrational hatred of super heroes and explanations like pow! kerplunk! and kick cancer's butt! I could see if she had an issue with violence on tv, but who's ever made the argument that violence in comics leads to real life violence?
So much happens out of order for my brain processing and then you have Greg being rather insensitive to the fact that Shannon's SISTER was MURDERED but she doesn't seem to mind? Really? Plus she's a pseudo artist? I mean ugh...
This story had great potential but I think it needed peer review or writers edit's or something else to make it pop properly. I got a headache with all the hot/cold hurt feelings and ping ponging.
So much happens out of order for my brain processing and then you have Greg being rather insensitive to the fact that Shannon's SISTER was MURDERED but she doesn't seem to mind? Really? Plus she's a pseudo artist? I mean ugh...
This story had great potential but I think it needed peer review or writers edit's or something else to make it pop properly. I got a headache with all the hot/cold hurt feelings and ping ponging.
March 24, 2024
A HERO TO KEEP by Susan Gable -- This was a free download from Amazon Kindle with an interesting promotion. Six-year-old Ryan, child of a difficult marriage, witnesses his mother strangled and killed by his father. He reacts to the trauma by clinging to his aunt Shannon, given custody by his dead mother. He also goes silent, not speaking. Searching for help, Shannon enrolls him in an art therapy class for sick and traumatized children, led by the handsome, charming Greg, himself from a large, loving family of twelve siblings. Greg is an art therapist an comic book artist who, through art, encourages and treats the traumatized kids. As Ryan expresses himself through drawing and taking on a persona of a comic book hero, he is able to finally recall and recount his trauma in court, there in a custody battle with his imprisoned father's parents. A HERO TO KEEP is an enjoyable, easy read, good characters, interesting plot and relationships, romance, and some sex.
August 3, 2020
The characters were real. They were depicted so well through their actions and words. I hate it when authors resort to telling their readers what their characters are like instead of showing them. Susan Gable expertly shows us all sides of her characters, the good and the bad, making them totally believable. I loved reading about the Hawkins family as well, and the growing relationship between Shannon and her nephew, Ryan, whom she grew to love, was heartfelt. I don't understand why some critics gave this book only 1 star when they had praise for the book except for the fact that there were sex scenes in it. The sex scenes made the characters all the more real. It's a real part of life. I can understand deducting a star from the rating, but rating it as only 1 star for that reason alone? That doesn't make sense to me and it's very unfair to the author, who wrote a beautiful love story.
June 29, 2017
Great first book of a series
This book was well written and sure to bring tears to the eyes of its readers. A young boy witnessed a horrific death of his mother, moved away from all he knew to live with an aunt he barely knew. That in itself is sad but read on and you will find yourself cheering the characters on as they deal with trials, sadness, and disappointments. Shannon does come from a large family nor does she expect much put of life but that will all change when she gets custody of her nephew, Ryan. Greg is a comic book writer, art therapist. When he meets Shannon his world is turned upside down. But can he get through to her and Ryan before its too late? What does the future hold? You will have to read the boom to find out.
This book was well written and sure to bring tears to the eyes of its readers. A young boy witnessed a horrific death of his mother, moved away from all he knew to live with an aunt he barely knew. That in itself is sad but read on and you will find yourself cheering the characters on as they deal with trials, sadness, and disappointments. Shannon does come from a large family nor does she expect much put of life but that will all change when she gets custody of her nephew, Ryan. Greg is a comic book writer, art therapist. When he meets Shannon his world is turned upside down. But can he get through to her and Ryan before its too late? What does the future hold? You will have to read the boom to find out.
October 16, 2019
A tender story of tragedy and redemption! A wonderful read!
Shannon and her nephew Ryan, meet Greg who treats children with emotional issues, by using art therapy! A Hero to Keep, is very informative about the success of psychologists who use this type of treatment for kids! Greg is able to use art as a form of communication for traumatized children with horrific emotional damage! He is also able to help Shannon embrace her new role as a mom to her deceased sisters son!
A tear worthy and page turning story of resiliency and redemption after a unimaginable debacle! Of course while healing Ryan, Shannon and Greg discover sizzling chemistry and deep, abiding love! It just takes a lot of angst to get their HEA! A Hero to Keep indeed! Enjoy!
Shannon and her nephew Ryan, meet Greg who treats children with emotional issues, by using art therapy! A Hero to Keep, is very informative about the success of psychologists who use this type of treatment for kids! Greg is able to use art as a form of communication for traumatized children with horrific emotional damage! He is also able to help Shannon embrace her new role as a mom to her deceased sisters son!
A tear worthy and page turning story of resiliency and redemption after a unimaginable debacle! Of course while healing Ryan, Shannon and Greg discover sizzling chemistry and deep, abiding love! It just takes a lot of angst to get their HEA! A Hero to Keep indeed! Enjoy!
June 5, 2021
Talk about a hard book to rate! If going by the like-ablity of the characters then it would be a 3 because the main female “Shannon” was not really likeable for most of the book.
Loved Greg though and his family and the dynamics played out with the siblings.
And Ryan?! Who couldn’t love the little traumatized little boy whose world is in chaos.
Taking that out of the equation though the story did draw me in. It had me on the edge of my seat in some scenes waiting for the outcome. Other times I was laughing at some of the escapades.
So, overall I gave it a 4 only because as great as the story was there was very little warm fuzzies for Shannon. She was unlikeable for most of the story. Talk about someone who gives up to easily.
Loved Greg though and his family and the dynamics played out with the siblings.
And Ryan?! Who couldn’t love the little traumatized little boy whose world is in chaos.
Taking that out of the equation though the story did draw me in. It had me on the edge of my seat in some scenes waiting for the outcome. Other times I was laughing at some of the escapades.
So, overall I gave it a 4 only because as great as the story was there was very little warm fuzzies for Shannon. She was unlikeable for most of the story. Talk about someone who gives up to easily.
March 28, 2024
Of course, they had to do it. Again. Ruin a perfectly womderful story with pornography. Completely unnecessary. The story of a talented art therapist bringing a traumatized, mute 6 year old through a harrowing time, and dragging his initially-reluctant-but-also-overwhelmed maternal aunt along for the opening up party, ruined by pornography.
Why?
This author is a GIFTED natural storyteller, one who could have described the deep physical attraction without the tawdry blow-by-blow details of their encounters.
I will NOT be reading the rest of the series, even though the author is very good. I don't want my story intterrupted because some idiot in a romance writers' workshop and/or group told her sex sells and she wouldn't succeed as a writer without the smut...and she believed them.
Why?
This author is a GIFTED natural storyteller, one who could have described the deep physical attraction without the tawdry blow-by-blow details of their encounters.
I will NOT be reading the rest of the series, even though the author is very good. I don't want my story intterrupted because some idiot in a romance writers' workshop and/or group told her sex sells and she wouldn't succeed as a writer without the smut...and she believed them.
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