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Hearts #5.75
Cross My Heart
Iris Garrigan has nothing.
Well, that’s not entirely true. She has her trusty Doc Martin boots. She has her Bowie obsession. And she has the stray cat that sneaks into her bed and keeps her company at night – it’s a quid pro quo relationship. The cat gets a warm body and she gets something alive beside her when she would otherwise be alone.
She also has a job. Sure, washing dishes hardly has her rolling in dough, but with no permanent abode, it’s the best she can do. She knows her new boss only lets her work in his restaurant out of pity, but she isn’t above cashing in on a little human compassion if it means she can survive to live another day.
Everything is going fine until Liam Cross starts to take notice of her, poking his newly minted police badge where it doesn’t belong. And if he doesn’t quit soon her not so legal living situation could find her in hot waters. Little does she know, Liam isn’t just being nosy, he’s trying to help. Iris has no idea that he’s been watching her for months, and that he’s completely enamored with her strange and peculiar ways.
When Liam discovers her secret Iris has two options: stay and face the music or run for the hills.
***Cross My Heart is a contemporary romance novella and tells the story of the youngest Cross brother, Liam Cross.***
Well, that’s not entirely true. She has her trusty Doc Martin boots. She has her Bowie obsession. And she has the stray cat that sneaks into her bed and keeps her company at night – it’s a quid pro quo relationship. The cat gets a warm body and she gets something alive beside her when she would otherwise be alone.
She also has a job. Sure, washing dishes hardly has her rolling in dough, but with no permanent abode, it’s the best she can do. She knows her new boss only lets her work in his restaurant out of pity, but she isn’t above cashing in on a little human compassion if it means she can survive to live another day.
Everything is going fine until Liam Cross starts to take notice of her, poking his newly minted police badge where it doesn’t belong. And if he doesn’t quit soon her not so legal living situation could find her in hot waters. Little does she know, Liam isn’t just being nosy, he’s trying to help. Iris has no idea that he’s been watching her for months, and that he’s completely enamored with her strange and peculiar ways.
When Liam discovers her secret Iris has two options: stay and face the music or run for the hills.
***Cross My Heart is a contemporary romance novella and tells the story of the youngest Cross brother, Liam Cross.***
94 pages, ebook
First published January 31, 2017
45 people are currently reading
926 people want to read
About the author
L.H. Cosway
57 books5,920 followersL.H. Cosway lives in Ireland. Her inspiration to write comes from music. Her favourite things in life include writing stories, food, musical comedy, and of course, books. She thinks that imperfect people are the most interesting kind. They tell the best stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 174 reviews
February 8, 2017
4 Stars!!
'Cross my Heart' was what I call “the perfect novella” – sweet and sexy, with an engaging story-line and two well portrayed characters. I loved this little gem as much as I loved the previous full length novels in the series, so obviously, I wanted Iris and Liam’s story to be longer. If you are a fan of this series and a fan of opposites attract stories, you don’t want to miss this one.
“I was a glass half full kind of girl. I had to be, otherwise I’d be a hand me the crack pipe kind of girl.”
Iris had a hard life growing up. She was placed into foster care at fourteen when her mother died of an overdose, now at twenty being homeless, without any family and friends, struggling every day to survive. Iris works as a dishwasher at “The Grub Hut”, Lee Cross’s restaurant. It’s not the ideal job, but she’s grateful Lee took a chance on her and gave her a job. All Iris wants is to save enough money to complete for a deposit to get her own apartment. Iris is trying to keep for herself, at work and on the streets and she does a good job, until someone starts to notice her.
“He was singularly the prettiest man I’d ever laid eyes on.”
Liam is Lee’s young brother. Once a car thief, he is now a police officer. He had been intrigued by Iris from the moment he laid his eyes on her. Her sad eyes, her tattoos, her black, almost blue hair, everything is fascinating to Liam. He wants to get to know her, to be her friend and most of all to protect her.
The relationship between these two starts to change one day, when Liam figures out Iris lives on the streets and offers her a place to stay.
“His kindness, his basic human decency, was more than I’d experienced in a very long time.”
Just like any other book I’ve read by this author, 'Cross my Heart' was fantastically written and I honestly couldn’t put it down. I loved everything about this little gem – how the two main characters were portrayed, how the story progressed, the heart-warming romance and of course the supporting characters.
The story was short, yet very engaging from beginning until the end and the two main characters so endearing. I loved Iris. My heart broke for this poor, lonely girl whose life was so hard for so many years. She was hard working, sweet and such a fighter. Her imaginary friend, David Bowie was fantastic and I enjoyed their entertaining dialogue. Liam was such a wonderful hero. I loved how determined he was to help Iris, how good he was with her, how sweet, caring, patient and protective he was from the very beginning.
I enjoyed how Iris and Liam’s tentative friendship slowly, but surely grew into something more and I loved them as a couple. They were so sweet, so great together. I really wanted their story to be a full-length novel.
All in all, 'Cross my Heart' was another great addition to the series; one you definitely must read if you love the Cross brothers.
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February 7, 2017
*****FIVE STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
He kissed me like he was dying of thirst. He kissed me like it was the last kiss he’d ever have.
I have only read a few LH Cosway books but I am definitely a HUGE fan of hers! My goal this year is to try to ease up on my ARC requests and make some time to read all of this author’s previous books!! CROSS MY HEART was simply FABULOUS!! My only complaint was that it was written as a novella instead of a full-length standalone. I loved the Hero and Heroine. It would have been awesome if we got to spend more time with them but that being said, the story was still highly entertaining!!
Iris is a twenty-year-old young woman who has had a rough start in life. Her drug addict mom died when she was fourteen which resulted in Iris ending up in foster care. As soon as she turned eighteen she was no longer a ward of the state and she was left to fend for herself. Currently, she works as a dishwasher for Lee Cross at his restaurant, and she’s trying to save up enough money for a down payment on an apartment. The poor girl is homeless and only has some clothes and an old sleeping bag as her worldly possessions. She sleeps in an abandoned building and lives off of bread and peanut butter. Her only two friends are a little stray cat that sleeps with her at night and her imaginary friend who is the deceased David Bowie. I loved Iris completely!! Her imaginary conversations with Bowie were one of my favorite aspects of this story! Iris’ determination to not let her hardships destroy her also made me admire her immensely.
Liam Cross is Lee’s younger brother who, in his youth, was a car thief, but now he’s turned his life around and he became a police officer. Since the day Iris started working in his brother’s restaurant, he has been intrigued by the beautiful girl with the sad eyes. Something about her has him feeling a fierce need to protect her. Iris has caught him staring at her on many occasions and on one hand, it freaks her out but also at the same time it excites her because she thinks Liam is just about the most beautiful man she’s ever seen.
After Iris ends up nearly freezing to death one night when she loses her makeshift living quarters in an abandoned building, Lee offers her a room to rent in his house. His brother Stu has moved out and he offers his old room to Iris for a very minimal fee. Things heat up pretty quickly between Iris and Liam once they start living underneath the same roof. Although there is definitely the “insta-love” factor going on here, I still enjoyed this novella so much!! I hope that maybe LH might write another installment for this lovable couple.
CROSS MY HEART releases on January 31st!
Nook: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-h...
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-...
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
He kissed me like he was dying of thirst. He kissed me like it was the last kiss he’d ever have.
I have only read a few LH Cosway books but I am definitely a HUGE fan of hers! My goal this year is to try to ease up on my ARC requests and make some time to read all of this author’s previous books!! CROSS MY HEART was simply FABULOUS!! My only complaint was that it was written as a novella instead of a full-length standalone. I loved the Hero and Heroine. It would have been awesome if we got to spend more time with them but that being said, the story was still highly entertaining!!
Iris is a twenty-year-old young woman who has had a rough start in life. Her drug addict mom died when she was fourteen which resulted in Iris ending up in foster care. As soon as she turned eighteen she was no longer a ward of the state and she was left to fend for herself. Currently, she works as a dishwasher for Lee Cross at his restaurant, and she’s trying to save up enough money for a down payment on an apartment. The poor girl is homeless and only has some clothes and an old sleeping bag as her worldly possessions. She sleeps in an abandoned building and lives off of bread and peanut butter. Her only two friends are a little stray cat that sleeps with her at night and her imaginary friend who is the deceased David Bowie. I loved Iris completely!! Her imaginary conversations with Bowie were one of my favorite aspects of this story! Iris’ determination to not let her hardships destroy her also made me admire her immensely.
Liam Cross is Lee’s younger brother who, in his youth, was a car thief, but now he’s turned his life around and he became a police officer. Since the day Iris started working in his brother’s restaurant, he has been intrigued by the beautiful girl with the sad eyes. Something about her has him feeling a fierce need to protect her. Iris has caught him staring at her on many occasions and on one hand, it freaks her out but also at the same time it excites her because she thinks Liam is just about the most beautiful man she’s ever seen.
After Iris ends up nearly freezing to death one night when she loses her makeshift living quarters in an abandoned building, Lee offers her a room to rent in his house. His brother Stu has moved out and he offers his old room to Iris for a very minimal fee. Things heat up pretty quickly between Iris and Liam once they start living underneath the same roof. Although there is definitely the “insta-love” factor going on here, I still enjoyed this novella so much!! I hope that maybe LH might write another installment for this lovable couple.
CROSS MY HEART releases on January 31st!
Nook: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-h...
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-...
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
February 10, 2017
4.25 STARS
It’s no secret that I’m a huge L.H. Cosway fan and this novella lead me to wanting and BEGGING for so much more of this couple. Though I’m not sure if that will happen, I’ll have to take this story for what it is. That being said, I adored the hero and the heroine and that darn cat and even David Bowie.
Once again, L.H. Cosway brings fans back into the bosom of the Cross clan and it was pretty terrific being home for this reader.
Iris Garrigan is a homeless woman who has been surviving and saving her money while working for Lee Cross at his restaurant. None of the Cross’s know the truth about Iris. Iris catches the eye of Lee’s brother turned copper Liam’s attention. Daily Liam watches Iris and tries to get to break through the hard exterior of our girl covered in tatts.
“His kindness, his basic human decency, was more than I’d experienced in a very long time.”
This is a terrific novella with a couple that most definitely deserves MORE pages in my opinion.
It’s no secret that I’m a huge L.H. Cosway fan and this novella lead me to wanting and BEGGING for so much more of this couple. Though I’m not sure if that will happen, I’ll have to take this story for what it is. That being said, I adored the hero and the heroine and that darn cat and even David Bowie.
Once again, L.H. Cosway brings fans back into the bosom of the Cross clan and it was pretty terrific being home for this reader.
Iris Garrigan is a homeless woman who has been surviving and saving her money while working for Lee Cross at his restaurant. None of the Cross’s know the truth about Iris. Iris catches the eye of Lee’s brother turned copper Liam’s attention. Daily Liam watches Iris and tries to get to break through the hard exterior of our girl covered in tatts.
“His kindness, his basic human decency, was more than I’d experienced in a very long time.”
This is a terrific novella with a couple that most definitely deserves MORE pages in my opinion.
October 16, 2019
Re read October 2019
4 stars!
Another fantastic addition to the hearts series with "Cross My Heart" the story of Liam and Iris.
This was a wonderful story and sweet but also heartbreaking especially for Iris. I loved her I thought she was such a brave girl, a fighter, the things she went through her situation were so heartbreaking. She humbled me, made me think of the things we take for granted. But in all her loneliness and despair she had her imaginary friend David Bowie, I have to say they had me smiling their convos were funny. Liam, so different from when we met him in "The Heart Of Blue" he now is a police officer, follows the rules but still the same loyal brother who loves his family fiercely.
Liam was so wonderful with Iris, patient but firm he kept at it till she gave in. I totally understood Iris's mistrust and hesitation with Liam, her pride was one of the things she held dearly. But once she opened up, not just to Liam, but to the whole family it was great. Seeing her happy surrounded by people who cared for her it made my heart squeeze painfully she truly deserved that happiness.
I loved everything about this book how Liam/Iris's started a tentative friendship that built to love. I just wished that we would of had a couple of chapters of them as an official couple. The ending was abrupt and left me wanting more. I hope we get to hear from them in the last book of the series.❤
4 stars!
Another fantastic addition to the hearts series with "Cross My Heart" the story of Liam and Iris.
This was a wonderful story and sweet but also heartbreaking especially for Iris. I loved her I thought she was such a brave girl, a fighter, the things she went through her situation were so heartbreaking. She humbled me, made me think of the things we take for granted. But in all her loneliness and despair she had her imaginary friend David Bowie, I have to say they had me smiling their convos were funny. Liam, so different from when we met him in "The Heart Of Blue" he now is a police officer, follows the rules but still the same loyal brother who loves his family fiercely.
Liam was so wonderful with Iris, patient but firm he kept at it till she gave in. I totally understood Iris's mistrust and hesitation with Liam, her pride was one of the things she held dearly. But once she opened up, not just to Liam, but to the whole family it was great. Seeing her happy surrounded by people who cared for her it made my heart squeeze painfully she truly deserved that happiness.
I loved everything about this book how Liam/Iris's started a tentative friendship that built to love. I just wished that we would of had a couple of chapters of them as an official couple. The ending was abrupt and left me wanting more. I hope we get to hear from them in the last book of the series.❤
February 5, 2017
5 - "Got a problem with the law, little punk?" Stars!
Cross My Heart is another absolutely stellar addition to L. H. Cosway’s Hearts Series. Once again the author took two polar-opposite characters and bring them together flawlessly.
~~~
LIVE on AMAZON -
Kindle US: http://amzn.to/2kIlNuX
Kindle UK: http://amzn.to/2kCtq74
Kindle DE: http://amzn.to/2kgGPDO
Kindle CA: http://amzn.to/2jsHUo4
Kindle AU: http://amzn.to/2kIowoc
~~~
Pre-Order Links:
Nook: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-h...
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-...
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
Cross My heart will be published separately on iBooks on January 31st
~~~
Liam and Iris’s story is a sweet romance, and once again a Cross, just like the rest of his brothers stole a little piece of my heart. The Cross family as a whole comes across a little ‘rough & ready’ but you see again that their hearts are in the right place, when homeless Iris is bought into the family fold, although Liam 100% does not see her in a sisterly light!
"Why are you so nice to me?"
"Because I like you. And because for some reason I desperately want to make those sad eyes of yours happy."
This novella is part of the Box-Set of the previous books in the series, and it was great to catch up with the rest of the Cross contingent through the telling of Liam and Iris’ story. I cannot wait to read Trevor’s book, Hearts on Air which is due for release in the Spring.
ARC generously provided by the author, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
Cross My Heart is another absolutely stellar addition to L. H. Cosway’s Hearts Series. Once again the author took two polar-opposite characters and bring them together flawlessly.
~~~
LIVE on AMAZON -
Kindle US: http://amzn.to/2kIlNuX
Kindle UK: http://amzn.to/2kCtq74
Kindle DE: http://amzn.to/2kgGPDO
Kindle CA: http://amzn.to/2jsHUo4
Kindle AU: http://amzn.to/2kIowoc
~~~
Pre-Order Links:
Nook: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-h...
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-...
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
Cross My heart will be published separately on iBooks on January 31st
~~~
Liam and Iris’s story is a sweet romance, and once again a Cross, just like the rest of his brothers stole a little piece of my heart. The Cross family as a whole comes across a little ‘rough & ready’ but you see again that their hearts are in the right place, when homeless Iris is bought into the family fold, although Liam 100% does not see her in a sisterly light!
"Why are you so nice to me?"
"Because I like you. And because for some reason I desperately want to make those sad eyes of yours happy."
This novella is part of the Box-Set of the previous books in the series, and it was great to catch up with the rest of the Cross contingent through the telling of Liam and Iris’ story. I cannot wait to read Trevor’s book, Hearts on Air which is due for release in the Spring.
ARC generously provided by the author, and it was my pleasure to provide the above honest review.
February 7, 2017
FIVE COLORFUL STARS*****
Short, and simple, but vibrant and full of unstoppable romance; L.H COSWAY style. Cross My Heart is one of those books that was made to conquer your heart, and you won't even have a choice in the matter. By the time you are done reading it, your heart will feel happy and your soul will sing and dance to the tunes of David Bowie. I simply CAN'T GET ENOUGH of the Cross brothers.
Iris works as a dishwasher at The Grub Hut, which is Lee Cross's restaurant. She works hard to try to save enough money to complete for a deposit to get her own apartment, and finally be able to stop living on the streets. Iris carries a lot of sadness, her mum died of a drug overdose when she was young, and Iris was forced into foster care system, until she reached eighteen, and ever since then she's has had no place to live. Her best, and only friend died in a gang related accident leaving Iris all alone in this world. But don't think of Iris as a victim, she's not! This girl is a fighter, and a hard worker who doesn't take crap from nobody.
Iris keeps to herself, she doesn't socialize with anybody at work; her only friends are a stray cat that keeps following her everywhere, and the an imaginary friend in the form of the spirit of David Bowie.
Liam Cross changed his life around completely, he went from being a car thief to police officer. Liam has been watching Iris closely, ever since she started working at his brother' restaurant. He feels a pull towards her, Iris, the girl with deep sadness in her eyes and colorful skin.
At first Liam offers Iris a friendship but he is very attracted to her and it wont be long before these two surrender to the explosive attraction that takes over all their thoughts during the day and all their dreams at night.
I loved this book, just like any other book that I've ever read by this author. She has a magic pen that creates amazing characters that will stay in our hearts forever. Cross My Heart being a novella, it felt like eating a small piece of your favorite chocolate, and I WANTED MORE!!!!!
In other words, I wanted this book to go on forever. What I'll do is, I'll re-read every single book in this series again, and hopefully that will quench my thirst for the Cross brothers.
If you haven't tried this series, please do, it's a TOTAL WINNER OF THE HEART.
Short, and simple, but vibrant and full of unstoppable romance; L.H COSWAY style. Cross My Heart is one of those books that was made to conquer your heart, and you won't even have a choice in the matter. By the time you are done reading it, your heart will feel happy and your soul will sing and dance to the tunes of David Bowie. I simply CAN'T GET ENOUGH of the Cross brothers.
Iris works as a dishwasher at The Grub Hut, which is Lee Cross's restaurant. She works hard to try to save enough money to complete for a deposit to get her own apartment, and finally be able to stop living on the streets. Iris carries a lot of sadness, her mum died of a drug overdose when she was young, and Iris was forced into foster care system, until she reached eighteen, and ever since then she's has had no place to live. Her best, and only friend died in a gang related accident leaving Iris all alone in this world. But don't think of Iris as a victim, she's not! This girl is a fighter, and a hard worker who doesn't take crap from nobody.
Iris keeps to herself, she doesn't socialize with anybody at work; her only friends are a stray cat that keeps following her everywhere, and the an imaginary friend in the form of the spirit of David Bowie.
Liam Cross changed his life around completely, he went from being a car thief to police officer. Liam has been watching Iris closely, ever since she started working at his brother' restaurant. He feels a pull towards her, Iris, the girl with deep sadness in her eyes and colorful skin.
At first Liam offers Iris a friendship but he is very attracted to her and it wont be long before these two surrender to the explosive attraction that takes over all their thoughts during the day and all their dreams at night.
I loved this book, just like any other book that I've ever read by this author. She has a magic pen that creates amazing characters that will stay in our hearts forever. Cross My Heart being a novella, it felt like eating a small piece of your favorite chocolate, and I WANTED MORE!!!!!
In other words, I wanted this book to go on forever. What I'll do is, I'll re-read every single book in this series again, and hopefully that will quench my thirst for the Cross brothers.
If you haven't tried this series, please do, it's a TOTAL WINNER OF THE HEART.
November 11, 2020
**NOW AVAILABLE AS A SINGLE TITLE HERE**
5 Stars (Fourth Read 11/11/2020)
5 Stars (Third Read 1/17/2018)
5 Stars (Second Read 6/13/2017)
5 Stars (First Read 2/5/2017)
I may be obsessed...
Still just as awesome, but man, I wish it was longer 😭
So, lemme start by saying that I freaking looooove when one of the main characters is homeless.
I have no idea why, but it's one of my favorite tropes <3 I can't recall a single novel I've disliked with this theme and I'm begging authors to write more! Pretty, pretty please!! Also, if anyone out there knows of a good one, send them my way!! Okay, I'm done fangirling about this... now I'm going to fangirl about this novella.
It. Was. AWESOME! I loved these two characters. Iris was the perfect blend of sensitive and funny. She had a hard life, and even though she recognized that, she didn't let herself wallow. Her ability to laugh and have a positive spirit was beautiful in spite of the fact that she was in a fair amount of pain. And then we have Liam... *sigh* He was perfect. My favorite kind of hero: sweet and swoon-worthy! I loved how he accepted Iris right away; she was definitely unique but Liam wanted all of her. I could quote all the reasons why I love these two, but I'd pretty much be quoting the entire novella, because there wasn't much about this that I didn't adore. Like many others I do wish this was full-length but that's just because I'm a greedy bastard and I always want more of Cosway's words :)
You know the author is talented when she can make you fall in love this deeply, cry like a baby, and swoon this hard, and it's just a freaking novella. If you're looking for a quick, sweet read, you could definitely read this independently of the rest of the series. But this series (and the author in general) are incredible, and *stern face* you should be reading them. If you haven't...
Please get on it ;)
Safety:
Closure:
5 Stars (Fourth Read 11/11/2020)
5 Stars (Third Read 1/17/2018)
5 Stars (Second Read 6/13/2017)
5 Stars (First Read 2/5/2017)
I may be obsessed...
Still just as awesome, but man, I wish it was longer 😭
So, lemme start by saying that I freaking looooove when one of the main characters is homeless.
I have no idea why, but it's one of my favorite tropes <3 I can't recall a single novel I've disliked with this theme and I'm begging authors to write more! Pretty, pretty please!! Also, if anyone out there knows of a good one, send them my way!! Okay, I'm done fangirling about this... now I'm going to fangirl about this novella.
It. Was. AWESOME! I loved these two characters. Iris was the perfect blend of sensitive and funny. She had a hard life, and even though she recognized that, she didn't let herself wallow. Her ability to laugh and have a positive spirit was beautiful in spite of the fact that she was in a fair amount of pain. And then we have Liam... *sigh* He was perfect. My favorite kind of hero: sweet and swoon-worthy! I loved how he accepted Iris right away; she was definitely unique but Liam wanted all of her. I could quote all the reasons why I love these two, but I'd pretty much be quoting the entire novella, because there wasn't much about this that I didn't adore. Like many others I do wish this was full-length but that's just because I'm a greedy bastard and I always want more of Cosway's words :)
You know the author is talented when she can make you fall in love this deeply, cry like a baby, and swoon this hard, and it's just a freaking novella. If you're looking for a quick, sweet read, you could definitely read this independently of the rest of the series. But this series (and the author in general) are incredible, and *stern face* you should be reading them. If you haven't...
Please get on it ;)
Safety:
Closure:
February 4, 2017
A quick, brilliant read from L.H. Cosway, this time delving into the romance of the youngest Cross brother, Liam, and heroine Iris. And Iris is a true heroine. I loved her story for its originality (I haven't as yet come across her particular backstory in romance), its rawness and authenticity. Iris was a wonderful mix of strength and vulnerability. Liam is determined and solid, an alpha-type without being overbearing, and Iris has his complete intense focus (le sigh). As always with a Cosway book the h & H are exactly what the other needs, and have addictive amounts of sexual and emotional chemistry between them. Novel, Novella, paragraph, sentence... word... if Cosway writes it, I will definitely read it. In a heartbeat.
June 1, 2017
Excellent!
Read
August 30, 2023The Heart Series boxset is LIVE everywhere! Get the first four books in the Hearts series, plus the BRAND NEW bonus novella, Cross My Heart for just 99c until the end of today! <3 <3 <3
February 16, 2017
OMG WHYYY does
Cross My Heart (#5.75)
have to be a novella, WHHHYYY? It ended too soon. This little story packed all the punch of a full novel, by L. H. Cosway. It had character development, a bit of angst and steam, and a whole lot of sexual tension.
Homeless and all alone, Iris is struggling to survive. Having been homeless for two years, she's a fighter! And even though she doesn't have much to call her own, her pride will not allow her to take handouts. Resisting help is partly due to her pride and largely to do with the distrust in people which formed as she was bounced from one foster care to another and eventually to the streets. Her break came when Lee Cross hired her to work in his restaurant. Not only was she earning money, but the days she worked she knew she would be eating.
Liam Cross noticed Iris instantly. There was something about her that intrigued him, she was elusive and she was beautiful. After many days of watching her, Liam finally decides to find out more about the beautiful Iris. What he finds breaks his heart. He can't let it go. He can't let her go.
With this novella, Cosway proved you don't have to have 400 pages for a story to be good. And perhaps there's something to that, here there was no filler, just a deliciously good story!
Get the first four books in L.H. Cosway’s Hearts series, plus the BRAND NEW bonus novella, Cross My Heart. The Hearts Boxset Bundle includes: Six of Hearts (book #1) Hearts of Fire (book #2) King of Hearts (book #3) Hearts of Blue (book #4) Cross My Heart (bonus novella #5.75)
**I received an Advanced Reader Copy. This did not influence my opinion of the book, nor my review.**
Homeless and all alone, Iris is struggling to survive. Having been homeless for two years, she's a fighter! And even though she doesn't have much to call her own, her pride will not allow her to take handouts. Resisting help is partly due to her pride and largely to do with the distrust in people which formed as she was bounced from one foster care to another and eventually to the streets. Her break came when Lee Cross hired her to work in his restaurant. Not only was she earning money, but the days she worked she knew she would be eating.
Liam Cross noticed Iris instantly. There was something about her that intrigued him, she was elusive and she was beautiful. After many days of watching her, Liam finally decides to find out more about the beautiful Iris. What he finds breaks his heart. He can't let it go. He can't let her go.
With this novella, Cosway proved you don't have to have 400 pages for a story to be good. And perhaps there's something to that, here there was no filler, just a deliciously good story!
Get the first four books in L.H. Cosway’s Hearts series, plus the BRAND NEW bonus novella, Cross My Heart. The Hearts Boxset Bundle includes: Six of Hearts (book #1) Hearts of Fire (book #2) King of Hearts (book #3) Hearts of Blue (book #4) Cross My Heart (bonus novella #5.75)
**I received an Advanced Reader Copy. This did not influence my opinion of the book, nor my review.**
June 29, 2019
Homeless Girl Iris Meets David Bowie
David Bowie Is Iris's Imaginary Friend Whom She Talks To.....Outloud Where Liam Can Hear Her
Liam Is An Ex-Criminal Who Became A Cop...Not Sure How That Works
Most Of The Conversations Occur Between Iris And David Bowie In His Different Personas
Liam Feels Like A Side Note In This Romance Taking A Backstage To David Bowie
This Book Was A Tribute To David He Will Be Missed
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXgku...
David Bowie Is Iris's Imaginary Friend Whom She Talks To.....Outloud Where Liam Can Hear Her
Liam Is An Ex-Criminal Who Became A Cop...Not Sure How That Works
Most Of The Conversations Occur Between Iris And David Bowie In His Different Personas
Liam Feels Like A Side Note In This Romance Taking A Backstage To David Bowie
This Book Was A Tribute To David He Will Be Missed
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXgku...
February 6, 2017
Cross my Heart is a beautifully moving romance. It has wonderful blend of hope, sweetness, and love. Perfect from start to finish.
This novella packs a big emotional punch. I think the pacing was just right and it had everything! Iris and Liam’s relationship developed naturally. It was so sweet and touching to know them.
Iris is one tough cookie. I loved her optimism, strength and vulnerability. I must admit I had my doubts about her when she started talking with David Bowie. But then I realized, just as Liam did later on, that given her situation it was ok to have some quirks and that that one in particular helped as a coping mechanism. I felt so much for her and anxiously wanted her to have a better future.
I was completely intrigued by her. I desperately wanted to know how the Cross family would affect her. I liked the quiet attraction between Liam and Iris and knew that having similar backgrounds would help them establish a strong bond, I just didn’t know how and enjoyed how it developed.
Those Cross boys are absolutely delectable. I’ve wanted to know all of them since I met them. I loved getting to know Liam who’s turned out to be a determined and strong man. Although I wish I could have had more of him because I’m a greedy reader who treasures every tidbit I get from the characters I’ve come to care about.
Cross My Heart is novella #5.75 in the A Hearts series by L.H. Cosway. Told from the heroine’s point of view with a happy ending.
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This novella packs a big emotional punch. I think the pacing was just right and it had everything! Iris and Liam’s relationship developed naturally. It was so sweet and touching to know them.
Iris is one tough cookie. I loved her optimism, strength and vulnerability. I must admit I had my doubts about her when she started talking with David Bowie. But then I realized, just as Liam did later on, that given her situation it was ok to have some quirks and that that one in particular helped as a coping mechanism. I felt so much for her and anxiously wanted her to have a better future.
I was completely intrigued by her. I desperately wanted to know how the Cross family would affect her. I liked the quiet attraction between Liam and Iris and knew that having similar backgrounds would help them establish a strong bond, I just didn’t know how and enjoyed how it developed.
Those Cross boys are absolutely delectable. I’ve wanted to know all of them since I met them. I loved getting to know Liam who’s turned out to be a determined and strong man. Although I wish I could have had more of him because I’m a greedy reader who treasures every tidbit I get from the characters I’ve come to care about.
Cross My Heart is novella #5.75 in the A Hearts series by L.H. Cosway. Told from the heroine’s point of view with a happy ending.
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August 30, 2019
Me hubiera gustado que fuera un libro más largo pero aún así fue una lectura muy amena y si no le hizo un libro largo a Liam quedo conforme con su novella.
Siempre es un placer encontrarse con los hermanos Cross, todos tienen un no sé que, que los amas Lee y Trev son mis favs pero Trev es mi number one 😍😍😍
Siempre es un placer encontrarse con los hermanos Cross, todos tienen un no sé que, que los amas Lee y Trev son mis favs pero Trev es mi number one 😍😍😍
February 4, 2017
This was a shortish, yet perfectly formed, feel good romance with all of the feels.
Iris is 20 and homeless, but working in Lee Cross's kitchen. Lee's little policeman bro Liam sees her and can't stay away.
I loved this so much. Their chemistry put a smile on my face, and for a novella, the romance was pretty slow burn. I loved seeing Iris get what she deserved. And her Bowie obsession was a stroke of genius, so poignant, especially to a fellow Bowie fan (me). Liam was kinda hot in his police uniform, but he's perceptive too, not a knuckle dragging alpha, more of a solid hero you can rely on, but with a cheeky twinkle in his eye just like his older brothers.
I wish it'd been a full length story, I really, really do. I'd happily read beautifully paced and sensitively written romances like this all day, but books of this quality are a rareity imho. How fantastic when you find one though eh? *sigh*
Complete story that stands alone but featuring the Cross family from the Hearts series. Available in the box set The Hearts Series.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
Highly recommended.
Iris is 20 and homeless, but working in Lee Cross's kitchen. Lee's little policeman bro Liam sees her and can't stay away.
I loved this so much. Their chemistry put a smile on my face, and for a novella, the romance was pretty slow burn. I loved seeing Iris get what she deserved. And her Bowie obsession was a stroke of genius, so poignant, especially to a fellow Bowie fan (me). Liam was kinda hot in his police uniform, but he's perceptive too, not a knuckle dragging alpha, more of a solid hero you can rely on, but with a cheeky twinkle in his eye just like his older brothers.
I wish it'd been a full length story, I really, really do. I'd happily read beautifully paced and sensitively written romances like this all day, but books of this quality are a rareity imho. How fantastic when you find one though eh? *sigh*
Complete story that stands alone but featuring the Cross family from the Hearts series. Available in the box set The Hearts Series.https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
Highly recommended.
May 23, 2019
Esta novela es la prueba irrefutable de que a veces no es necesario que un libro tenga un monton de paginas o una trama rebuscada para ser una autentica maravilla, Cross My Heart es una historia sencilla y sin grandes giros que te atrapa con su dulzura y con una pareja protagonista que te hace desear abrazarlos de lo muy adorables que son.
Iris y Liam fueron dos protagonistas geniales, tanto asi que realmente me hubiera gustado que su libro hubiera sido mas largo, puesto que esta novela se me paso en un instante y eso que intente dosificar los capitulos para asi poder disfrutar de su historia de amor durante mas tiempo pero ni siquiera asi consegui lo que queria, que era que, esta lectura fuera eterna.
En definitiva, Cross My Heart no tiene nada que envidiarle a libros con mas paginas, ademas la autora tiene un don para la escritura, es asombrosa la forma en la que se mete bajo la piel con lo que escribe.
Muy muy recomendable, no solo este pequeño relato, sino toda la saga, es magnifica.
4 Estrellas!!
September 9, 2017
This little novella packed a huge punch. I expected to enjoy it but I didn't expect for it to affect me as much as it did. At less than 100 pages I felt more than I have with most of the full length novels I read in the last few months. I completely fell in love with both Liam and Iris and felt for them both so much. I even teared up at a couple points and that is extremely unusual for me. Everything Iris had been through with being homeless really hit me and her coping mechanism added such a depth and endeared her to me more than I'd ever expect a character to in such a short time. I loved this so much. The pacing, the characters, the build up, it was all perfect and I'm so glad I didn't miss out on reading this addition to the series. This is definitely one not to be missed!
August 31, 2025
⭐⭐💫
2½ stars.
➕ What I liked :
Some of the sweet moments.
That the main characters ages did not differ that much.
Experienced heroine.
Kind of opposites attract romance/story.
A hero that is not the formulaic and “standard” romance hero when it comes to his height… he is not tall … but he is not short either… more like average.
A hero and heroine that are ordinary people with ordinary jobs… not a billionaire/millionaire and actress or something like that.
➖ What I disliked:
Very rushed even for a novella.
The hero was a little too pushy… even if parts of it was about him wanting to help the heroine.
That the hero insisted on Not using protection.
Believability/plausibility issues… plot-holes… contradictions etc.
(London and many of the surrounding areas/boroughs to London are and have been very expensive to live in….
London often/consistently ranks as the most expensive in Europe for both residential and retail properties, with significant differences in absolute cost and value for money when compared to cities like Paris, Zurich, Berlin.
London and many of the surrounding areas/boroughs to London consistently also ranks as the most expensive region for renters, with average monthly rents around £2300 in 2025. These high rents mean Londoners often need to earn significant salaries to afford housing…. And the competition for rentals in London is extremely fierce…. There is very high demand from numerous tenants for a low supply of available properties.
There are of course a few more “affordable” areas/boroughs to London and around London with “lower” rents but they are still not low or “affordable” to many people that do not have average or high/very high salary…. And these areas are mostly in places where people have to commute … and that is not affordable in London.
So a very young woman with a very low paying job would/could Not afford to rent a place of her own… and/or a room in a flat-share would also be expensive and very very hard to get for a young woman with a very low paying job.
That the heroine would rather almost freeze to death than try to find a bed/shelter in a night shelter/homeless shelter or just stay for a few hours to get warm and have a shower and maybe a hot meal… or ask for or accept any kind of help (there is pride and then there is nonsensical OTT pride) in such a exposed and desperate situation most people (even very prideful ones) would ask for some kind of help or go to a night shelter/homeless shelter rather than freeze… they would check even if the chance was low for a bed/shelter because there are so many homeless people… because they would rather be warm and somewhat safe even if very temporary … than freeze and be totally exposed to the cold etc.
And the heroines pride was a little all over the place?? She did what she had to do to survive (squatting and shoplifting) …. and she did this for years until she found a employer that cared enough to give her a chance… but before that she had no issues to do those things to survive… criminal/illegal things …. but she was too proud to ask for help or/and try to go to a homeless shelter/ night shelter or food-bank? Or accept help when it was offered or available?
Of course there are many vulnerable people that fall through the cracks and have issues and problems with authorities etc. and don’t get the help they need or are seen/heard which is so wrong and sad….. But it seems like the heroine either thought she was not worthy or worth help so could not accept it or just too OTT proud ?? Or was she just no offered any help at all or dismissed???
And the entire situation with the hero and his brothers background and the hero being a police officer with his background and his brothers background…. According to info from British people I know ...It is Not impossible in the UK ( to become a police officer with a criminal record) but it makes it much much harder if you have a criminal record and also if your family members have… and there are also other things that disqualify a person from becoming a police officer.
The heroine would have trust issues or even severe trust issues from being in foster care… but also from being homeless for 2 years.
So it is very understandable that the heroine had trouble trusting the hero and his family etc. but also other people… But the way the heroine and the situation in the book/plot was written made it so she went from being alert and wary/cautious but also suspicious and closed off to being trusting/very trusting and open but also vulnerable with the hero and others way too fast and easily.)
The hero is not a tall hero which is good and different etc.👍👍 But he is not short either just not tall but average and he still “dwarfs” the heroine because she is the rather formulaic and “standard” romance heroine petite/short and slender.
Some weird/problematic/prejudice word choices and/or comments about homeless people.
2½ stars.
➕ What I liked :
Some of the sweet moments.
That the main characters ages did not differ that much.
Experienced heroine.
Kind of opposites attract romance/story.
A hero that is not the formulaic and “standard” romance hero when it comes to his height… he is not tall … but he is not short either… more like average.
A hero and heroine that are ordinary people with ordinary jobs… not a billionaire/millionaire and actress or something like that.
➖ What I disliked:
Very rushed even for a novella.
The hero was a little too pushy… even if parts of it was about him wanting to help the heroine.
That the hero insisted on Not using protection.
Believability/plausibility issues… plot-holes… contradictions etc.
(London and many of the surrounding areas/boroughs to London are and have been very expensive to live in….
London often/consistently ranks as the most expensive in Europe for both residential and retail properties, with significant differences in absolute cost and value for money when compared to cities like Paris, Zurich, Berlin.
London and many of the surrounding areas/boroughs to London consistently also ranks as the most expensive region for renters, with average monthly rents around £2300 in 2025. These high rents mean Londoners often need to earn significant salaries to afford housing…. And the competition for rentals in London is extremely fierce…. There is very high demand from numerous tenants for a low supply of available properties.
There are of course a few more “affordable” areas/boroughs to London and around London with “lower” rents but they are still not low or “affordable” to many people that do not have average or high/very high salary…. And these areas are mostly in places where people have to commute … and that is not affordable in London.
So a very young woman with a very low paying job would/could Not afford to rent a place of her own… and/or a room in a flat-share would also be expensive and very very hard to get for a young woman with a very low paying job.
That the heroine would rather almost freeze to death than try to find a bed/shelter in a night shelter/homeless shelter or just stay for a few hours to get warm and have a shower and maybe a hot meal… or ask for or accept any kind of help (there is pride and then there is nonsensical OTT pride) in such a exposed and desperate situation most people (even very prideful ones) would ask for some kind of help or go to a night shelter/homeless shelter rather than freeze… they would check even if the chance was low for a bed/shelter because there are so many homeless people… because they would rather be warm and somewhat safe even if very temporary … than freeze and be totally exposed to the cold etc.
And the heroines pride was a little all over the place?? She did what she had to do to survive (squatting and shoplifting) …. and she did this for years until she found a employer that cared enough to give her a chance… but before that she had no issues to do those things to survive… criminal/illegal things …. but she was too proud to ask for help or/and try to go to a homeless shelter/ night shelter or food-bank? Or accept help when it was offered or available?
Of course there are many vulnerable people that fall through the cracks and have issues and problems with authorities etc. and don’t get the help they need or are seen/heard which is so wrong and sad….. But it seems like the heroine either thought she was not worthy or worth help so could not accept it or just too OTT proud ?? Or was she just no offered any help at all or dismissed???
And the entire situation with the hero and his brothers background and the hero being a police officer with his background and his brothers background…. According to info from British people I know ...It is Not impossible in the UK ( to become a police officer with a criminal record) but it makes it much much harder if you have a criminal record and also if your family members have… and there are also other things that disqualify a person from becoming a police officer.
The heroine would have trust issues or even severe trust issues from being in foster care… but also from being homeless for 2 years.
So it is very understandable that the heroine had trouble trusting the hero and his family etc. but also other people… But the way the heroine and the situation in the book/plot was written made it so she went from being alert and wary/cautious but also suspicious and closed off to being trusting/very trusting and open but also vulnerable with the hero and others way too fast and easily.)
The hero is not a tall hero which is good and different etc.👍👍 But he is not short either just not tall but average and he still “dwarfs” the heroine because she is the rather formulaic and “standard” romance heroine petite/short and slender.
Some weird/problematic/prejudice word choices and/or comments about homeless people.
February 14, 2017
A cute quick read, really enjoyed it. And love the cover!
May 31, 2020
OM gawd this one made me cry ! Iris what a hard life, she got right to my heart. This was a short one but had so much inside. <3
February 6, 2017
**COVER REVEAL**
Cross My Heart, A Hearts Novella (#5.75)
***Special pre-order price of just 99c!***
Get the first four books in L.H. Cosway’s Hearts series
The Hearts Boxset Bundle includes:
Six of Hearts (book #1)
Hearts of Fire (book #2)
King of Hearts (book #3)
Hearts of Blue (book #4)
Cross My Heart (bonus novella #5.75)
Synopsis
Iris Garrigan has nothing.
Well, that’s not entirely true. She has her trusty Doc Martin boots. She has her Bowie obsession. And she has the stray cat that sneaks into her bed and keeps her company at night – it’s a quid pro quo relationship. The cat gets a warm body and she gets something alive beside her when she would otherwise be alone.
She also has a job. Sure, washing dishes hardly has her rolling in dough, but with no permanent abode, it’s the best she can do. She knows her new boss only lets her work in his restaurant out of pity, but she isn’t above cashing in on a little human compassion if it means she can survive to live another day.
Everything is going fine until Liam Cross starts to take notice of her, poking his newly minted police badge where it doesn’t belong. And if he doesn’t quit soon her not so legal living situation could find her in hot waters. Little does she know, Liam isn’t just being nosy, he’s trying to help. Iris has no idea that he’s been watching her for months, and that he’s completely enamored with her strange and peculiar ways.
When Liam discovers her secret Iris has two options: stay and face the music or run for the hills.
***Cross My Heart is a contemporary romance novella and tells the story of the youngest Cross brother, Liam Cross.***
Pre-Order Links
Nook: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-h...
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-...
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
Cross My heart will be published separately on iBooks on January 31st
** There will be no pre-order for Amazon **
November 4, 2019
For a novella, this has so much heart, depth and emotion. I’ve never been homeless but this author brought that condition and all the struggle that it entails to life in such a way I felt as though I were experiencing it with Iris. And when Liam begins to reach out to her, I wanted her to jump towards him instead of being careful and withdrawn. But she has been taught to keep to herself and watching him bring her out of the dark and into his light was wonderful.
While we don’t get Liam’s point of view, it’s so obvious he’s taken with Iris and is just a good, solid man at heart. I loved the way he slowly cajoled her out of her shell until she began to open up to him. His protective streak isn’t over the top but it was enough to make me love him all the more.
This doesn’t have a lot of drama and the angst is from the life she leads and the battles she faces daily. There isn’t any real couple time once Iris and Liam finally get together so I’m hoping I’ll see more of them in future books. I’m amazed at how this little book touched every part of my heart.
Heroine POV
Safe
Triggers
February 3, 2017
02/01/17 - I liked this one except the scene where they do not use protection. Just because you trust someone, does not mean that they don't have an STD.
I wish it was not a novella.
01/31/17 - I do not really care for the cover. It does not have the HEARTS series feel...
I wish it was not a novella.
01/31/17 - I do not really care for the cover. It does not have the HEARTS series feel...
March 22, 2018
3 Quickie Stars
Liam Cross is a Cop. Iris lives on the street.
When Iris gets a job working for Liam's brother Lee, she lands squarely on his radar. He doesn't know her story, but he really wants to. And when she shows up for work one day nearly blue with cold, he doesn't take no for an answer any more.
Iris doesn't let anyone in, least of all cops.
This is a quick little opposites attract story, with some sweet moments that are endearing. Overall, it lacked the depth I've come to expect from Cosway but that's not unusual considering the length.
Liam Cross is a Cop. Iris lives on the street.
When Iris gets a job working for Liam's brother Lee, she lands squarely on his radar. He doesn't know her story, but he really wants to. And when she shows up for work one day nearly blue with cold, he doesn't take no for an answer any more.
Iris doesn't let anyone in, least of all cops.
This is a quick little opposites attract story, with some sweet moments that are endearing. Overall, it lacked the depth I've come to expect from Cosway but that's not unusual considering the length.
March 4, 2017
3.5 stars!
February 7, 2017
4.5 stars!!
One of the reasons I love L.H. Cosway is because no matter the length of her stories, each and every one of them is packed with emotion. The feels in the novella rival those of full length novels and it's no surprise that she continues to impress.
Cross My Heart features twenty-four year old Liam, the youngest of the Cross brothers. He had a hard childhood and was forced into a life of crime. However, with the support of his family, he turned his life around and now works as a police constable.
Iris is twenty years old, living on the streets, and just trying to get by. She works at The Grub Hut for Lee Cross (from Hearts of Blue ). She is lucky for the warmth and meals she receives during the day at work but the nights are long, lonely, and cold.
Liam stops by The Grub Hut all the time and always tries to get Iris to open up. Whether she likes it or not, he has become somewhat of a constant in her life since she started working for his brother. Then, Lee offers her an opportunity that she can't pass up. She and Liam end up becoming friends, comforting each other, and eventually becoming something more, something beautiful.
I devoured Cross My Heart. I really wish it was a full-length novel because I. WANT. MORE!! It was a super quick read but still delivered an amazing and complete story and I couldn't read it fast enough. The feels were gorgeous and the plot entertaining and believable. Like all of the other Cosway books I have read, this one is well-written, entertaining, and beautifully imagined.
The characters are well-developed and fascinating. The immense description and emotion put into both Iris and Liam's characters made me feel like I knew them on a personal level. I loved how their relationship progressed; it was believable, exciting, and beautiful. There was obvious chemistry between Liam and Iris but she was out of her element and I could feel how reserved she was. I felt their connection and the sexual tension that was building the more time they spent together. There was a nice amount of banter and I loved that Liam was stubborn and didn't take no for an answer.
I was so excited when I heard Liam was getting a story of his own even if it was just a novella and he is so much better than I could have imagined. He's sweet, sexy, supportive, and honest. He broke down the barriers that encased Iris' heart, accepted her for who she was, and understood her completely.
I loved his protective streak and his genuinely sweet side. He gave me such a warm and tingly feeling inside and put a smile on my face.
*SWOON*
Iris was wonderful. I loved her sweet, quirky personality, her instant likability, and the fact that she knew who she was. Her life hadn't been easy, especially the past few years and yet she remained positive even when life was almost unbearable. Her hope was beautiful and it showed her strength and proved that she was a survivor.
Overall, this was a wonderful addition to the Hearts series. I am so glad we got to see more of the Cross clan and can't wait for more. Up next, One Epic Night, the novella featuring the Trevor and Reya from the sixth and final Hearts book, Hearts in Air.
I have to give a shout out to Bowie. He was there for Iris when she needed a friend and I love the part he played in her life. I love all things Bowie too and loved the titles of the chapters.
Please note: This novella is part of the The Hearts Series boxset bundle.
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
"Your life is just about to begin, Iris.”
One of the reasons I love L.H. Cosway is because no matter the length of her stories, each and every one of them is packed with emotion. The feels in the novella rival those of full length novels and it's no surprise that she continues to impress.
Cross My Heart features twenty-four year old Liam, the youngest of the Cross brothers. He had a hard childhood and was forced into a life of crime. However, with the support of his family, he turned his life around and now works as a police constable.
Iris is twenty years old, living on the streets, and just trying to get by. She works at The Grub Hut for Lee Cross (from Hearts of Blue ). She is lucky for the warmth and meals she receives during the day at work but the nights are long, lonely, and cold.
Liam stops by The Grub Hut all the time and always tries to get Iris to open up. Whether she likes it or not, he has become somewhat of a constant in her life since she started working for his brother. Then, Lee offers her an opportunity that she can't pass up. She and Liam end up becoming friends, comforting each other, and eventually becoming something more, something beautiful.
I devoured Cross My Heart. I really wish it was a full-length novel because I. WANT. MORE!! It was a super quick read but still delivered an amazing and complete story and I couldn't read it fast enough. The feels were gorgeous and the plot entertaining and believable. Like all of the other Cosway books I have read, this one is well-written, entertaining, and beautifully imagined.
The characters are well-developed and fascinating. The immense description and emotion put into both Iris and Liam's characters made me feel like I knew them on a personal level. I loved how their relationship progressed; it was believable, exciting, and beautiful. There was obvious chemistry between Liam and Iris but she was out of her element and I could feel how reserved she was. I felt their connection and the sexual tension that was building the more time they spent together. There was a nice amount of banter and I loved that Liam was stubborn and didn't take no for an answer.
“Um, where are we going?”
“To my house.”
“But—”
“I swear to God, Iris, if you lie to me one more time I’ll arrest you.”
“You can’t arrest me. I haven’t broken any laws,” I protested.
“I’ll think of something.”
“But then you’d be breaking the law.”
He shot me a dark look, and even though it was supposed to be threatening, it was kinda sexy. “I’ve done it before. I can do it again.”
I was so excited when I heard Liam was getting a story of his own even if it was just a novella and he is so much better than I could have imagined. He's sweet, sexy, supportive, and honest. He broke down the barriers that encased Iris' heart, accepted her for who she was, and understood her completely.
“You’re closed tight as a bank vault, Iris. You’re closed tight because you’ve been let down too many times.”
How could he possible know this?
“I know because I’ve been where you are.”
I loved his protective streak and his genuinely sweet side. He gave me such a warm and tingly feeling inside and put a smile on my face.
“People probably think you’re arresting me.”
Liam frowned. “How do you reckon that?”
I gestured to myself and laughed. “Just look at me; black hoodie, dirty hair, tattoos, mean face. I’ve got criminal written all over me.”
He stopped and stood in front of me, his expression gentle. “That’s not what I see.”
His words made my throat clog as I stared at him head-on. “What do you see?”
“Intriguing fashion sense, hair so black it’s almost blue, skin that’s a work of art, gorgeous face. No, strike that. Beautiful fucking face. Sad eyes.”
...
"Why are you so nice to me?"
Liam's fingers touched my chin and tilted my head up so I was looking at him again. "Because I like you. And because for some reason I desperately want to make those sad eyes of yours happy."
*SWOON*
Iris was wonderful. I loved her sweet, quirky personality, her instant likability, and the fact that she knew who she was. Her life hadn't been easy, especially the past few years and yet she remained positive even when life was almost unbearable. Her hope was beautiful and it showed her strength and proved that she was a survivor.
I was a glass half full kind of girl. I had to be, otherwise I’d be a hand me the crack pipe kind of girl.
Overall, this was a wonderful addition to the Hearts series. I am so glad we got to see more of the Cross clan and can't wait for more. Up next, One Epic Night, the novella featuring the Trevor and Reya from the sixth and final Hearts book, Hearts in Air.
I have to give a shout out to Bowie. He was there for Iris when she needed a friend and I love the part he played in her life. I love all things Bowie too and loved the titles of the chapters.
Please note: This novella is part of the The Hearts Series boxset bundle.
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
Want to read
January 27, 2017You can get the Hearts series boxset which comes out January 31st.
There’s a special pre-order price of just 99c.
The Hearts Boxset Bundle includes:
Six of Hearts (book #1)
Hearts of Fire (book #2)
King of Hearts (book #3)
Hearts of Blue (book #4)
Cross My Heart (bonus novella #5.75)
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
There’s a special pre-order price of just 99c.
The Hearts Boxset Bundle includes:
Six of Hearts (book #1)
Hearts of Fire (book #2)
King of Hearts (book #3)
Hearts of Blue (book #4)
Cross My Heart (bonus novella #5.75)
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
April 18, 2017
It is no secret that I love the Hearts series, the whole family it's been revolving around lately, and Ms. Cosway's writing. When I saw that Liam was going to get a story but it would be a novella, I was both excited and disappointed. Excited because, yay we get his story. Disappointed, well, because I'm a greedy bitch and a novella is never enough. But then I read CROSS MY HEART and I have to honestly say I feel that Ms. Cosway did us right and delivered a good solid HEA for Liam Cross in such a short amount of pages. Once again, written with the Cosway flair that I know and love. I fell quickly in love with the words, even with the unlikely characters.Our heroine, Iris, has been homeless and squatting for a long time now. She's strong and determined to make something or herself and is working at Lee's restaurant. It's that determination that made me care for her. The fact that she just needed someone to extend a caring hand and give her the needed boost to get out of the situation she found herself in.
Liam might've come on a bit strong for my liking, taking charge of the situation and steering their relationship as well. But he did so with kid gloves. Not pushing when he wouldn't get away with it. Like the rest of the men in his family, Liam Cross will quickly find a spot in your heart.
Although this is to me the story that feels the youngest of the bunch (the heroine is quite young too), I still enjoyed how sweet it was. And as always, I love being with these characters so I say lets bring on more! I'm not ready for this series to end just yet.
*ARC provided by author
Reviewed by Francesca❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
February 7, 2017
This novella is the story of Liam, the youngest Cross brother and thief turned cop, and Iris, the homeless girl that works as a dishwasher in Lee's restaurant.
Iris aged out of foster care and is doing the best she can with the help of a stray cat and David Bowie. Lee sympathized with Iris's situation and gave her a job. Now Liam has taken an interest in her, as a human being and romantically. He's very compassionate.
Their love story is told quickly, yes, but it was still very sweet. I liked it.
Iris aged out of foster care and is doing the best she can with the help of a stray cat and David Bowie. Lee sympathized with Iris's situation and gave her a job. Now Liam has taken an interest in her, as a human being and romantically. He's very compassionate.
Their love story is told quickly, yes, but it was still very sweet. I liked it.
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