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Daniels Brothers #1
Behind Closed Doors
After her life in Columbus, Ohio falls apart, Elizabeth Marshall moves a little over an hour away to the small town of Springfield. She wants to start over—leave her past behind—and build something new for herself.
Christopher Daniels enjoys the simplicity of being a bachelor. He has no desire to change that philosophy…until Elizabeth shows up. He’s determined to resist her charms. But when her past begins to threaten her new life, it forces him into the role of protector.
Will he be able to resist Elizabeth and still keep her safe?
Christopher Daniels enjoys the simplicity of being a bachelor. He has no desire to change that philosophy…until Elizabeth shows up. He’s determined to resist her charms. But when her past begins to threaten her new life, it forces him into the role of protector.
Will he be able to resist Elizabeth and still keep her safe?
190 pages, ebook
First published January 19, 2012
983 people are currently reading
2177 people want to read
About the author
Sherri Hayes
31 books1,249 followersSherri picked up her first romance novel when she was twelve and immediately she was hooked. She would stay up reading long after everyone else in her house had gone to bed, needing to see the hero and heroine get their happily ever after. But Sherri never imagined becoming an author.
At the age of thirty, all that changed. After getting frustrated with the direction a television show was taking two of its characters, Sherri decided to try her hand at writing an alternative ending to give the characters the happy ending they deserved.
Since then, writing has become a creative outlet that allows her to explore a wide range of emotions, while having fun taking her characters through all the twists and turns she can create. You can find a current list of all of Sherri’s books and sign up for her newsletter at www.sherrihayesauthor.com.
At the age of thirty, all that changed. After getting frustrated with the direction a television show was taking two of its characters, Sherri decided to try her hand at writing an alternative ending to give the characters the happy ending they deserved.
Since then, writing has become a creative outlet that allows her to explore a wide range of emotions, while having fun taking her characters through all the twists and turns she can create. You can find a current list of all of Sherri’s books and sign up for her newsletter at www.sherrihayesauthor.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 172 reviews
February 11, 2012
Really 4.5 Stars
Elizabeth Marshall seemingly had the perfect life. Successful husband, beautiful home and a whole boat-full of money, she has the life that is the envy of many. That is, until the doors are closed and everyone has gone home. Then Elizabeth is subjected to the whims of a controlling man, a man who punishes imperfections with his fists. Then one night, everything changed. The controlling man was dead and Elizabeth was left to deal with accusations and judgement all by herself.
Six months after the death of the man that shall now be known only as The Ass, Elizabeth moves into a new town to escape the memories of that night. Determined to move on and start afresh, she doesn’t quite manage to shake the wounds that have been imprinted onto her soul. When her new neighbour Chris starts acting abrupt and gruff around her, part of her wants to run for the hills and stay the hell away from him. The problem is that the other part wants to fall into his arms.
Chris has been through a very nasty divorce. Married to a superficial woman who couldn’t keep her legs closed, he wanted to only to be left in peace to lick his wounds. Then Elizabeth moved in downstairs and became his walking, talking wet dream, sent to haunt his days and nights. He wants nothing to do with her, wants to only get on with his cosy little world. Then the threats start. Seems that someone wants to do Elizabeth harm and they are certainly not shy about showing it. Left with the option of seeing her harmed or try to keep her safe, Chris finds himself thrust into the dark world of Elizabeth’s past. Naming himself as her protector makes it very difficult for him to steer clear of her. Once the dust has settled and he knows she is safe, will he be able to walk away unscathed?
Well, this was as far removed from Ms Hayes’s last book as you can get but I enjoyed it all the same. The suspense plot was well crafted and wasn’t just there to propel the love story along. I really have a problem with half baked suspense plots but this was a good side plot in its own right. I’ll be honest, I’d guessed the identity of the stalker from the beginning and I have no idea why. Still, I enjoyed the escalation of the events, the uncertainty as to where it was going next. It kept the pages turning.
The bit of the story that I enjoyed the most was Chris’s reluctance to give into his initial lust. She knocked him on his knees from the moment he saw her, even finding her yoga pants and baggy shirt combo’s sexy (?!), but still he tried not to give in. I love this kind of story. I liked that it wasn’t because of her that he didn’t want to get involved but because of his witch of an ex-wife. This was not a Mr Darcy type reluctance (“I love you inspite of everything that you are” etc), he wasn’t questioning her worth. Even when he found out about the death of The Ass, he didn’t try to suggest that there was any other reason he didn’t want to get involved with her other than fear. I love a man who can own his feelings like that. He was so kind, protective and gruff...he made me a little swoony. I definitely swooned when he tried to take care of her, when he tried to help her even when he knew it would bring them closer together. I cheered when he put her in a big protective bubble for the majority of the book; it didn’t make my inner feminist scream as she really needed protecting!
I usually have a problem with abused women in a love story. It’s not that I don’t agree that they should never find love again; it’s just that I often think it’s too soon. These were different circumstances, they were perilous circumstances. Chris proved time and time again he would stand for Elizabeth, that he would keep her safe. Even with the emotional scars she undoubtedly had, there was very little doubt that she could fail to recognise how trustworthy he was. This is why I accepted their love story, that I did’t have a problem with the whole thing. I liked the growth of Elizabeth’s character over the tale but I do believe that she could only grow because of him. He gave her the safety that she needed to stop being so afraid whilst never trying to stifle her. She became a character I could like (rather than the scared little rabbit she was at the start) and I found I could settle into the tale.
I usually comment on the sex here but the majority of the sex in this book is off page or glossed over. I didn’t mind that, it gave the overall book a much more sweet tone that was probably more appropriate for the themes that it was dealing with. I am hoping that in the next brothers book (yes, Chris has brothers. Yes, we meet them all. Yes, they all sound hot) we get a little more of the smexy times but I suppose that depends entirely on his HEA. Either way, I can’t wait to read it.
A thrilling romantic suspense story which looks set to be the first in a fantastic series. With a gruff, protective man as the lead, I couldn’t help but adore every page.
Elizabeth Marshall seemingly had the perfect life. Successful husband, beautiful home and a whole boat-full of money, she has the life that is the envy of many. That is, until the doors are closed and everyone has gone home. Then Elizabeth is subjected to the whims of a controlling man, a man who punishes imperfections with his fists. Then one night, everything changed. The controlling man was dead and Elizabeth was left to deal with accusations and judgement all by herself.
Six months after the death of the man that shall now be known only as The Ass, Elizabeth moves into a new town to escape the memories of that night. Determined to move on and start afresh, she doesn’t quite manage to shake the wounds that have been imprinted onto her soul. When her new neighbour Chris starts acting abrupt and gruff around her, part of her wants to run for the hills and stay the hell away from him. The problem is that the other part wants to fall into his arms.
Chris has been through a very nasty divorce. Married to a superficial woman who couldn’t keep her legs closed, he wanted to only to be left in peace to lick his wounds. Then Elizabeth moved in downstairs and became his walking, talking wet dream, sent to haunt his days and nights. He wants nothing to do with her, wants to only get on with his cosy little world. Then the threats start. Seems that someone wants to do Elizabeth harm and they are certainly not shy about showing it. Left with the option of seeing her harmed or try to keep her safe, Chris finds himself thrust into the dark world of Elizabeth’s past. Naming himself as her protector makes it very difficult for him to steer clear of her. Once the dust has settled and he knows she is safe, will he be able to walk away unscathed?
Well, this was as far removed from Ms Hayes’s last book as you can get but I enjoyed it all the same. The suspense plot was well crafted and wasn’t just there to propel the love story along. I really have a problem with half baked suspense plots but this was a good side plot in its own right. I’ll be honest, I’d guessed the identity of the stalker from the beginning and I have no idea why. Still, I enjoyed the escalation of the events, the uncertainty as to where it was going next. It kept the pages turning.
The bit of the story that I enjoyed the most was Chris’s reluctance to give into his initial lust. She knocked him on his knees from the moment he saw her, even finding her yoga pants and baggy shirt combo’s sexy (?!), but still he tried not to give in. I love this kind of story. I liked that it wasn’t because of her that he didn’t want to get involved but because of his witch of an ex-wife. This was not a Mr Darcy type reluctance (“I love you inspite of everything that you are” etc), he wasn’t questioning her worth. Even when he found out about the death of The Ass, he didn’t try to suggest that there was any other reason he didn’t want to get involved with her other than fear. I love a man who can own his feelings like that. He was so kind, protective and gruff...he made me a little swoony. I definitely swooned when he tried to take care of her, when he tried to help her even when he knew it would bring them closer together. I cheered when he put her in a big protective bubble for the majority of the book; it didn’t make my inner feminist scream as she really needed protecting!
I usually have a problem with abused women in a love story. It’s not that I don’t agree that they should never find love again; it’s just that I often think it’s too soon. These were different circumstances, they were perilous circumstances. Chris proved time and time again he would stand for Elizabeth, that he would keep her safe. Even with the emotional scars she undoubtedly had, there was very little doubt that she could fail to recognise how trustworthy he was. This is why I accepted their love story, that I did’t have a problem with the whole thing. I liked the growth of Elizabeth’s character over the tale but I do believe that she could only grow because of him. He gave her the safety that she needed to stop being so afraid whilst never trying to stifle her. She became a character I could like (rather than the scared little rabbit she was at the start) and I found I could settle into the tale.
I usually comment on the sex here but the majority of the sex in this book is off page or glossed over. I didn’t mind that, it gave the overall book a much more sweet tone that was probably more appropriate for the themes that it was dealing with. I am hoping that in the next brothers book (yes, Chris has brothers. Yes, we meet them all. Yes, they all sound hot) we get a little more of the smexy times but I suppose that depends entirely on his HEA. Either way, I can’t wait to read it.
A thrilling romantic suspense story which looks set to be the first in a fantastic series. With a gruff, protective man as the lead, I couldn’t help but adore every page.
December 11, 2012
What a great story . this is a great book about finding new love and learning to love again . it had pulled me in right from the start.
Elizabeth Marshall spent the last nine years doing all the things she was supposed to do. She went to a good college. Married a man with a promising future. Elizabeth even had a nice house in a respectable part of town. There was even the promise of 2.4 kids in her future. From the outside everything looked picture perfect.
One night, six months ago, the world she lived in came crashing down. Her husband dead and her friends gone, Elizabeth moves to the small town of Springfield to start a new life for herself where no one knows who she is or anything to do with her past.
Christopher Daniels enjoys the simplicity of his bachelor life. After his divorce three years ago, he swore off women. He has no desire to change that philosophy.
When Elizabeth Marshall moves into the apartment below him in the small Victorian house, she makes him begin to reconsider the motto he’s lived by for the last three years: women are trouble. She is everything is ex wife was not and it doesn’t help that she is his wet dream come to life.
He is determined to resist her charms, however when someone starts sending threatening messages to Elizabeth, he finds himself in the role of protector. Can he protect Elizabeth and still be able to resist the pull she has on his body and his heart
The main characters Elizabeth and Chris, they had both experienced pain in their past and had trust issues. There is some great chemistry between Elizabeth and Chris.
They were perfect for one another, needed one another and didn't even know it. They came together in a very slow and sweet way that was completely realistic.
Elizabeth Marshall spent the last nine years doing all the things she was supposed to do. She went to a good college. Married a man with a promising future. Elizabeth even had a nice house in a respectable part of town. There was even the promise of 2.4 kids in her future. From the outside everything looked picture perfect.
One night, six months ago, the world she lived in came crashing down. Her husband dead and her friends gone, Elizabeth moves to the small town of Springfield to start a new life for herself where no one knows who she is or anything to do with her past.
Christopher Daniels enjoys the simplicity of his bachelor life. After his divorce three years ago, he swore off women. He has no desire to change that philosophy.
When Elizabeth Marshall moves into the apartment below him in the small Victorian house, she makes him begin to reconsider the motto he’s lived by for the last three years: women are trouble. She is everything is ex wife was not and it doesn’t help that she is his wet dream come to life.
He is determined to resist her charms, however when someone starts sending threatening messages to Elizabeth, he finds himself in the role of protector. Can he protect Elizabeth and still be able to resist the pull she has on his body and his heart
The main characters Elizabeth and Chris, they had both experienced pain in their past and had trust issues. There is some great chemistry between Elizabeth and Chris.
They were perfect for one another, needed one another and didn't even know it. They came together in a very slow and sweet way that was completely realistic.
February 9, 2012
This was a great story, with amazing characters and a nice twist in the plot to keep a reader guessing until the very end the ‘who dunnit’ and if Elizabeth and Chris can make their relationship work, despite the drama overload. Sherri Hayes is a new to me author, but when the opportunity to review the book came up I gave it a shot and I am really glad that I did. The book kept me enthralled from the first meeting between Elizabeth and Chris and I was dying to find out all the details that only the ending could give me. I would definitely recommend this book to another reader looking for something with both romance and suspense thrown together, and this book has made a place for itself on my keeper shelf. You will not be disappointed in this one; Sherri Hayes is an author to watch out for!
To read Rhys' entire review please visit:
http://www.guiltypleasuresbookreviews...
To read Rhys' entire review please visit:
http://www.guiltypleasuresbookreviews...
July 8, 2024
4 stars - English Ebook
Second chance, small town romance with a mystery, thriller twist. Loved it.
Second chance, small town romance with a mystery, thriller twist. Loved it.
June 11, 2012
I'll admit this book was slow starting for me. I was extremely frustrated with Chris' angry caveman act, as well as Elizabeth's scared mouse one. I understood the point of it, but the author really beats it in your head in the beginning. I was close to giving up when the book finally took a turn and got interesting. At which then I wasn't able to put it down.
Once the mystery started and Chris let down his guard, the book got really good. I liked the element of suspense in this one - I never figured out who the person behind all of the harrassing was. I love when a book keeps me guessing and I don't know 'who dun it' until the end.
I also loved the supporting cast of characters. Chris' brothers and mom were awesome. And Jan, the landlady/family friend, was such a sweet woman always looking out for the both of them. The people that surrounded them made the story more enjoyable.
I look forward to reading the next installment about Chris' brother, Gage.
PS - this is low on the spice factor. So if you're looking for that - it's a modest book in that area.
Once the mystery started and Chris let down his guard, the book got really good. I liked the element of suspense in this one - I never figured out who the person behind all of the harrassing was. I love when a book keeps me guessing and I don't know 'who dun it' until the end.
I also loved the supporting cast of characters. Chris' brothers and mom were awesome. And Jan, the landlady/family friend, was such a sweet woman always looking out for the both of them. The people that surrounded them made the story more enjoyable.
I look forward to reading the next installment about Chris' brother, Gage.
PS - this is low on the spice factor. So if you're looking for that - it's a modest book in that area.
January 24, 2012
Behind Closed Doors is not only a great mystery, but it is a story about second chances and new love. Both Elizabeth and Christopher have been hurt in the past by their spouses. Yet, they are drawn to each other from the first. I loved them together and it was so fun watching them fall in love with each other. The epilogue was just so sweet! The peripheral characters, especially Christopher's family, round out the story nicely. I hope Ms. Hayes will feature more of the brothers in future books! The mystery of who is trying to scare Elizabeth was well written. I was kept guessing until the end and I will admit that I was wrong about who it was..I love when that happens! I definitely recommend this book. It will suck you right in and you won't want to put it down until you finish it!
January 27, 2013
I have read three other books by this author, so I was not at all surprised how easily I was wrapped up in the story of "Behind Closed Doors".
The story of Chris and Elizabeth is not at all the typical love story. I was drawn in from the start wondering about their separate pasts and how they had come to live one floor apart in Springfield, Ohio. The plot is well thought out and was a true page turner. The possible villain in this story numbered more than one and kept me guessing until the big reveal.
Overall, Ms. Hayes does it again with this Romantic/Suspense. I can't wait to read the second novel in the Daniel's Brothers series, "Red Zone".
The story of Chris and Elizabeth is not at all the typical love story. I was drawn in from the start wondering about their separate pasts and how they had come to live one floor apart in Springfield, Ohio. The plot is well thought out and was a true page turner. The possible villain in this story numbered more than one and kept me guessing until the big reveal.
Overall, Ms. Hayes does it again with this Romantic/Suspense. I can't wait to read the second novel in the Daniel's Brothers series, "Red Zone".
February 25, 2012
Loved the book! I have been a fan of Sherri Hayes for a while and couldn't wait for this book to be published. It did not disappoint!
February 8, 2012
27 year old Elizabeth Marshall is finally free from the shackles that has bound her when she had been married to Jared, the man who had slowly and surely chipped away any self-confidence or feeling self-worth she might have had before she had married him. To start over afresh, Elizabeth makes her way towards Springfield, Ohio where she gets more than she bargained for when she meets the larger than life Christopher Allen Daniels.
32 year old Christoper is a cynic when it comes to women. The ultimate betrayal at the hands of his ex-wife Carol leaves Chris with a bad taste in his mouth when it comes to getting close to any woman, even though he is tempted to from time to time. But none has tested his resolve to stay away from the fairer sex as much as his new housemate Elizabeth, who from the very first encounter he desires with everything that is primal deep inside of him.
Though Chris is determined to ignore Elizabeth and the effect she has on his control and baser emotions, all his best laid plans somehow fly out the window when circumstances find both of them spending time with each other. Little by little Chris starts to see that Elizabeth is nothing like his ex-wife though his insecurities remain and Elizabeth starts to feel safe and secure in the fact that she is all woman and more than enough when it comes to Chris.
But somehow the fragile connection that is forged between these two is tested when someone starts threatening Elizabeth, somebody out to settle a score and out for Elizabeth’s blood. Chris is surprised at the ferocity of all the protective instincts that flare to life deep inside of him and from then on there is no turning back for either Chris or Elizabeth as their relationship grows and fosters and is tested against all the hurdles that they face along the way.
It would be an understatement to say that I loved the 1st installment of the Daniel Brothers series. Chris the hero was just ultra-yummy. Brooding, tortured and a hot mess of a man who just made me go weak at the knees with his carnal thoughts about a woman who brings forth too much emotion from him right from the start. Chris doesn’t want or need any complications in his life, and he certainly doesn’t want that off-kilter feeling that strikes him whenever Elizabeth is around. But, when push comes to shove, there is none like Chris, his protective nature which just set off all the right emotions deep inside of me and I couldn’t have asked for more from him, a hero I adored on all counts.
Elizabeth was just plain wonderful. I love heroines who are dainty, feminine and are not trying to prove every second of the day that they are as strong as or stronger than men. I especially loved how Sherri handled the abuse that Elizabeth had gone through and how Sherri portrayed the journey of self-discovery Elizabeth goes through and how she emerges that much stronger because of what she had been through. Her need for a man who is as crazy about her, maybe even more so, and the way Chris manages to chase away those shadows of self-doubt that continue to linger long after was one of the best parts of the story. I loved that it wasn’t just Chris who was the giver in their relationship. Rather Elizabeth too acts as the soothing balm that soothes the tattered and frayed edges of Chris’s heart and shatters down the walls of reserve that has held his emotion intact until Elizabeth turns up in his life.
Though the villain was easy to figure out more than half way into the story, the element of suspense in the novel proved to make this already well-rounded tale of romance that much more enticing. For me, the Daniel brothers and the whole family signifies a family as it should be. Relationships of the believable and heartwarming kind is what you find here and those bits certainly added towards making the story a well developed tale in all aspects. I am so looking forward to the story of each and every brother in the family, and up next is Gage’s story, the playboy and the pro-football player and I will continue to wonder what Sherri has got in store for him. Winter 2013 seems so far away right now and the wait seems like an endless one.
For fans of tortured heroes, abused heroines who together finds the beauty that is love as it heals all scars and wounds on the surface and on the inside; this one’s for you!
Rating=4.5/5
Original review posted on MBR's Realm of Romance
32 year old Christoper is a cynic when it comes to women. The ultimate betrayal at the hands of his ex-wife Carol leaves Chris with a bad taste in his mouth when it comes to getting close to any woman, even though he is tempted to from time to time. But none has tested his resolve to stay away from the fairer sex as much as his new housemate Elizabeth, who from the very first encounter he desires with everything that is primal deep inside of him.
Though Chris is determined to ignore Elizabeth and the effect she has on his control and baser emotions, all his best laid plans somehow fly out the window when circumstances find both of them spending time with each other. Little by little Chris starts to see that Elizabeth is nothing like his ex-wife though his insecurities remain and Elizabeth starts to feel safe and secure in the fact that she is all woman and more than enough when it comes to Chris.
But somehow the fragile connection that is forged between these two is tested when someone starts threatening Elizabeth, somebody out to settle a score and out for Elizabeth’s blood. Chris is surprised at the ferocity of all the protective instincts that flare to life deep inside of him and from then on there is no turning back for either Chris or Elizabeth as their relationship grows and fosters and is tested against all the hurdles that they face along the way.
It would be an understatement to say that I loved the 1st installment of the Daniel Brothers series. Chris the hero was just ultra-yummy. Brooding, tortured and a hot mess of a man who just made me go weak at the knees with his carnal thoughts about a woman who brings forth too much emotion from him right from the start. Chris doesn’t want or need any complications in his life, and he certainly doesn’t want that off-kilter feeling that strikes him whenever Elizabeth is around. But, when push comes to shove, there is none like Chris, his protective nature which just set off all the right emotions deep inside of me and I couldn’t have asked for more from him, a hero I adored on all counts.
Elizabeth was just plain wonderful. I love heroines who are dainty, feminine and are not trying to prove every second of the day that they are as strong as or stronger than men. I especially loved how Sherri handled the abuse that Elizabeth had gone through and how Sherri portrayed the journey of self-discovery Elizabeth goes through and how she emerges that much stronger because of what she had been through. Her need for a man who is as crazy about her, maybe even more so, and the way Chris manages to chase away those shadows of self-doubt that continue to linger long after was one of the best parts of the story. I loved that it wasn’t just Chris who was the giver in their relationship. Rather Elizabeth too acts as the soothing balm that soothes the tattered and frayed edges of Chris’s heart and shatters down the walls of reserve that has held his emotion intact until Elizabeth turns up in his life.
Though the villain was easy to figure out more than half way into the story, the element of suspense in the novel proved to make this already well-rounded tale of romance that much more enticing. For me, the Daniel brothers and the whole family signifies a family as it should be. Relationships of the believable and heartwarming kind is what you find here and those bits certainly added towards making the story a well developed tale in all aspects. I am so looking forward to the story of each and every brother in the family, and up next is Gage’s story, the playboy and the pro-football player and I will continue to wonder what Sherri has got in store for him. Winter 2013 seems so far away right now and the wait seems like an endless one.
For fans of tortured heroes, abused heroines who together finds the beauty that is love as it heals all scars and wounds on the surface and on the inside; this one’s for you!
Rating=4.5/5
Original review posted on MBR's Realm of Romance
January 31, 2012
What a great ending for my last read of the year!
This review is also posted at UTC Book Blog
Behind Closed Doors is an awesome start to this series and a series I’m sure to follow. Though it’s slow to start, the romance, sexual tension and suspense to this story were enjoyable.
The Daniels Brothers Series consists of four brothers, Paul, Christopher, Trent and Gage. Chris, our first brother, is a divorcee of three years, a proud business owner, and he's enjoying his life alone without the trouble of any women. He has long sworn off women since his ugly divorce until a beautiful woman moved into the apartment below. And to his surprise, this woman will put him in the unavoidable position of becoming her protector.
It’s sweet how a present-time man can still bring out his “defender gene” when its called upon. Ms. Hayes had not only created a 20th century Knight in shining armor, she has also given us a fine Alpha male. Oh yes, this alpha know when to mark what belongs to him.
Elizabeth Marshall is a beautiful woman indeed, with a hell of a history. She had moved to Springfield to get away from her past, only to have it haunt her present. Unfortunately, moving one hour away is just not far enough to hide or to start a new life. This girl just had the worse luck to have a stalker who means business. She’s not my favorite heroine though I commend her for dealing with the issues at hand with composure. A survival of the fittest if you will.
Both hero and heroine quickly absorbed me into their world of “that HOT guy/girl next door” scene. It’s a typical scene but one that never gets old once fully immersed into it. The sexual tension is definitely evident and their coming together was explosive!
I cannot wait to read more of these brothers and especially Trent. I love a good flirt. Unfortunately, I have heard from a “twitter bird” that his story will be last (boo). But alas this twitter bird promised the next brother will be very flirtatious and possibly even more seductive. (twitter bird is Ms. Hayes herself) *giggles*
NOTE: There will be Coffee Talk
February 9, 2012 Join us!
Come to the chat about this book
Click Here then you will have to sign in and select Book Release Party room!
*ARC provided by publisher
This review is also posted at UTC Book Blog
Behind Closed Doors is an awesome start to this series and a series I’m sure to follow. Though it’s slow to start, the romance, sexual tension and suspense to this story were enjoyable.
The Daniels Brothers Series consists of four brothers, Paul, Christopher, Trent and Gage. Chris, our first brother, is a divorcee of three years, a proud business owner, and he's enjoying his life alone without the trouble of any women. He has long sworn off women since his ugly divorce until a beautiful woman moved into the apartment below. And to his surprise, this woman will put him in the unavoidable position of becoming her protector.
It’s sweet how a present-time man can still bring out his “defender gene” when its called upon. Ms. Hayes had not only created a 20th century Knight in shining armor, she has also given us a fine Alpha male. Oh yes, this alpha know when to mark what belongs to him.
Elizabeth Marshall is a beautiful woman indeed, with a hell of a history. She had moved to Springfield to get away from her past, only to have it haunt her present. Unfortunately, moving one hour away is just not far enough to hide or to start a new life. This girl just had the worse luck to have a stalker who means business. She’s not my favorite heroine though I commend her for dealing with the issues at hand with composure. A survival of the fittest if you will.
Both hero and heroine quickly absorbed me into their world of “that HOT guy/girl next door” scene. It’s a typical scene but one that never gets old once fully immersed into it. The sexual tension is definitely evident and their coming together was explosive!
I cannot wait to read more of these brothers and especially Trent. I love a good flirt. Unfortunately, I have heard from a “twitter bird” that his story will be last (boo). But alas this twitter bird promised the next brother will be very flirtatious and possibly even more seductive. (twitter bird is Ms. Hayes herself) *giggles*
NOTE: There will be Coffee Talk
February 9, 2012 Join us!
Come to the chat about this book
Click Here then you will have to sign in and select Book Release Party room!
*ARC provided by publisher
May 7, 2012
Behind Closed Doors tells the story of Elizabeth Marshall and Chris Daniels, both of whom have been burned by previous relationships and have more or less sworn off ever having another.
Elizabeth moves to the small town of Springfield, OH, and becomes Chris' neighbor, something that irritates him greatly. She is nearly afraid of the big, burly, angry man she encounters upon moving in. He is angry because he feels drawn to her but keeps reminding himself that no woman will ever get into his heart again.
*yawns*
How original.
Not.
Eventually, after much reading and POV switches (all in 3rd person), we finally get a few answers and then the drama starts.
Chris falls for Elizabeth and vice versa. She gets asked on a date and he seethes until he gets a grip and tells her how he feels. A best friend pops up conveniently. Some reader questions finally get an answer. The obligatory sinister element is introduced. Oh, who could be after poor Elizabeth? It was glaringly obvious to me.
The interactions between the characters were rather unimaginative and the love scenes nothing I haven't read before. The only interesting character was Jan, the landlady. I didn't connect with any of the MCs or the supporting cast, who were all somewhat one-dimensional.
I was hoping to read something new and fresh.
This wasn't it.
I received a free ARC from the publisher via NetGalley. This makes me hope that the spelling, punctuation and grammatical errors contained within will be fixed prior to publication.
Elizabeth moves to the small town of Springfield, OH, and becomes Chris' neighbor, something that irritates him greatly. She is nearly afraid of the big, burly, angry man she encounters upon moving in. He is angry because he feels drawn to her but keeps reminding himself that no woman will ever get into his heart again.
*yawns*
How original.
Not.
Eventually, after much reading and POV switches (all in 3rd person), we finally get a few answers and then the drama starts.
Chris falls for Elizabeth and vice versa. She gets asked on a date and he seethes until he gets a grip and tells her how he feels. A best friend pops up conveniently. Some reader questions finally get an answer. The obligatory sinister element is introduced. Oh, who could be after poor Elizabeth? It was glaringly obvious to me.
The interactions between the characters were rather unimaginative and the love scenes nothing I haven't read before. The only interesting character was Jan, the landlady. I didn't connect with any of the MCs or the supporting cast, who were all somewhat one-dimensional.
I was hoping to read something new and fresh.
This wasn't it.
I received a free ARC from the publisher via NetGalley. This makes me hope that the spelling, punctuation and grammatical errors contained within will be fixed prior to publication.
November 18, 2012
This was freakin' fantastic! I totally loved the way the story sucked me in. Elizabeth was such a strong woman despite how much her husband had torn her down.
I knew who the killer was pretty early on, but what I didn't know was how it was all going to come out. Boy, that person was bonkers weren't they?!?
Anyway, this was such a great story. Sherri Hayes really does a great job with creating the whole world for you. The characters, even the minor ones, were realistic, the plot was great, and the romance was sweet and believable--not to mention pretty hot.
This story was a big departure from the Finding Anna series that first drew me to this author's work, but that didn't mean I enjoyed it any less. I can't wait for Gabe's story next, but the one I really want to see is Trent's. I really liked him in the book, so I can't wait for him to have his book.
I knew who the killer was pretty early on, but what I didn't know was how it was all going to come out. Boy, that person was bonkers weren't they?!?
Anyway, this was such a great story. Sherri Hayes really does a great job with creating the whole world for you. The characters, even the minor ones, were realistic, the plot was great, and the romance was sweet and believable--not to mention pretty hot.
This story was a big departure from the Finding Anna series that first drew me to this author's work, but that didn't mean I enjoyed it any less. I can't wait for Gabe's story next, but the one I really want to see is Trent's. I really liked him in the book, so I can't wait for him to have his book.
June 29, 2012
I finally started reading Sherri's book tonight..It's been in my stack of books for a while. I'm a little over half finished. I think I know who the "bad guy" is, but I'll be staying up late to finish and find out if I'm right.
June 17, 2012
This is the first book in the Daniels Brother’s series. There are 4 brothers, Paul, Chris, Trent and Gage. This book is about Chris’s story and the heroine is Elizabeth Marshall.
Elizabeth was in an abusive marriage that ended with her killing her husband in self defense. She has decided to leave Columbus, OH for a little town called Springfield to get away from the bad memories of her marriage and to where no one knew her or about her past. She finds a place with a widow named Jan that owns an historic old home that had been converted into 3 apartments one of which she lives in.
Chris Daniels is a little bitter after the way his marriage ended. He has sworn off women in the three years since his divorce. So he isn’t too happy when Elizabeth moves into the 2nd floor apartment to his 3rd floor at Jan’s since his libido has decided to come out of slumber at the site of Elizabeth. He notices right off the bat that Elizabeth seems skittish around him but refuses to care. And when he needs help desperately at work since his assistant just up and quit he lets Jan more or less shanghais him into hiring Elizabeth who wants a job.
These two dance around each other for quite a while, as both of their past issues keep getting in the way of either of them admitting they are attracted to each other. But after Elizabeth gets her first threat Chris’s protective instincts kick in and he wants nothing more than to keep her from harm. As there are a couple of people who would want to harm Elizabeth the mystery of who is doing some of the things keeps you guessing until the end.
The author did a great job of letting us as the reader watch both of them heal from their past pain. It was especially wonderful to see Elizabeth fight all the verbal abuse messages that constantly played in her head from her dead husband. It’s not an easy thing to get over years of verbal and physical abuse but with her own new found strength and Chris encouragement she manages to do it.
The secondary characters were also fun to meet. The author gave us a glimpse of the other three brothers which will have their own books.
Elizabeth was in an abusive marriage that ended with her killing her husband in self defense. She has decided to leave Columbus, OH for a little town called Springfield to get away from the bad memories of her marriage and to where no one knew her or about her past. She finds a place with a widow named Jan that owns an historic old home that had been converted into 3 apartments one of which she lives in.
Chris Daniels is a little bitter after the way his marriage ended. He has sworn off women in the three years since his divorce. So he isn’t too happy when Elizabeth moves into the 2nd floor apartment to his 3rd floor at Jan’s since his libido has decided to come out of slumber at the site of Elizabeth. He notices right off the bat that Elizabeth seems skittish around him but refuses to care. And when he needs help desperately at work since his assistant just up and quit he lets Jan more or less shanghais him into hiring Elizabeth who wants a job.
These two dance around each other for quite a while, as both of their past issues keep getting in the way of either of them admitting they are attracted to each other. But after Elizabeth gets her first threat Chris’s protective instincts kick in and he wants nothing more than to keep her from harm. As there are a couple of people who would want to harm Elizabeth the mystery of who is doing some of the things keeps you guessing until the end.
The author did a great job of letting us as the reader watch both of them heal from their past pain. It was especially wonderful to see Elizabeth fight all the verbal abuse messages that constantly played in her head from her dead husband. It’s not an easy thing to get over years of verbal and physical abuse but with her own new found strength and Chris encouragement she manages to do it.
The secondary characters were also fun to meet. The author gave us a glimpse of the other three brothers which will have their own books.
February 12, 2012
This Review is originally posted in my blog
Journey with Books
Behind Closed Doors is the first installment of Daniels Brothers Series. It has obviously captured my interest. It's a good way to start a series. Ms. Sherri Hayes definitely did the right thing on writing this book.
The characters really have an amazing chemistry. I love the way Ms. Sherri Hayes didn't rush the romance between Elizabeth and Christopher. It grew naturally with time which I think makes it much more believable considering both Elizabeth and Christopher were burned by love before.
The plot is also interesting. At first it kept me guessing. The phasing is just right. It wasn't too slow nor too fast. The progress is also natural. The suspense part of the story didn't overshadow the romance. It was quite mixed naturally which makes this book really nice.
Ms. Sherri Hayes wrote a book that would surely make the readers fall in love. It will make you believe in second chances, that even if bad things happen to you, you can still survive it and have the good things at the end. If you're a lover of a good suspense with a lot of doses of romance then this book is certainly for you.
This Review is originally posted in my blog
Journey with Books
June 23, 2013
It's a mystery, It's a love story, It's a story of personal growth after heartbreak and learning to trust again. Meet Chris Daniels, who has closed himself off from the world. Enter neighbor Elizabeth Marshall, who is running from the abuse she suffered. Can they open their doors enough to see inside the real person and not the facade? Sherri Hayes writes beautifully troubled women and the complex steps it takes to feel whole again.
December 12, 2017
I did love this read, I was immediately sucked into this world ...I love a good mystery ... I see some folks say it was very suspenseful ... & indeed it was ... I had 2 know the ending ...had to read it quickly to see the stopping put. Love the cover. I don't think I have read Sherri before, I did go through her collection, I have promoted her books before so she is one I have been meaning to read & finally I did start her style ... & I am such a new fan. I love books that include mystery ... or suspense ...whatever you wish to call that kind of genre ... & add in bits of romance, lust, and insta-steam!! Great read. Loved it!! ( ;
January 9, 2018
This is my first time reading something by this author. Wow, this book had my emotions all over the place. I really enjoyed reading about all Elizabeth went through. This book just goes to show you. We never know what happens to people behind closed doors. Cannot wait for the next book in this series.
June 23, 2019
Ooh my! I absolutely loved Elizabeth and Chris! I knew their relationship started off slow but with good reason. They both had a bad past that they both needed to work out. I’m glad that everything worked out well for them! Can’t wait to read more about the Daniels.
April 9, 2018
This was a very enjoyable read. I liked how it had a suspense feel to it. It was shocking as to why it happened. Thankfully, it was all settled in the end. Both Chris and Elizabeth deserved to be happy.
February 16, 2019
Idk why I forced myself to finish this book tbh.
October 17, 2020
First read by this author so looking forward to the brothers stories
November 16, 2017
Insta love - ugh. Otherwise, I like the set up for book 2.
November 28, 2014
I read "Behind Closed Doors" out of sheer faith in Sherri Hayes, because I adored her Finding Anna Series (e.g. "Slave, Need, Truth, & Trust).
I hesitated to read this at first, because I knew this book would not even resemble that series (hence my leap of faith). This was a completely vanilla book (not that the series I mentioned was heavily BDSM — it just was "kinkier" and had more of a psychological thriller/healing-from-trauma theme than this book). Anyway, I'm so glad I took that leap of faith!
I didn't find this (the first in a series of its own) to be lacking whatsoever! It flowed easily (and much too quickly) with a blend of romance, emotional angst based on past relationships (and the inherent trust issues associated with them), and suspense.
Our heroine, Elizabeth, attempted to start over after a traumatic event in her old life — only to find out that certain elements of that life weren't willing to release her just yet. Chris didn't want to be burned again after a vicious and painful divorce, so he kept his distance (frustratingly so at first) from Elizabeth. I personally love a strong man with chivalric values, because such a man couldn't leave a woman to fend for herself for long; he more than made up for his stubbornness in the beginning! Sparks flew despite all reservations on both sides, and romance bloomed despite of (or, perhaps, because of) the chaos that enveloped them both.
I adored Chris's family and the supporting characters. There was such warmth there; it added truth depth to the story. I was IN the story the entire time — not simply sitting with book in-hand.
I've never read a book with this particular balance of suspense, romance, mystery, and fire. It's difficult to categorize it properly, because it doesn't fit into just one category; it belongs in several.
I read some reviews that said the main perpetrator was obvious. I must be dense, because I didn't guess it until the very end. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and watching as Elizabeth and Chris overcame their destructive paths to work towards a brighter future. Great read!
**Currently $0.99 on Amazon**
I hesitated to read this at first, because I knew this book would not even resemble that series (hence my leap of faith). This was a completely vanilla book (not that the series I mentioned was heavily BDSM — it just was "kinkier" and had more of a psychological thriller/healing-from-trauma theme than this book). Anyway, I'm so glad I took that leap of faith!
I didn't find this (the first in a series of its own) to be lacking whatsoever! It flowed easily (and much too quickly) with a blend of romance, emotional angst based on past relationships (and the inherent trust issues associated with them), and suspense.
Our heroine, Elizabeth, attempted to start over after a traumatic event in her old life — only to find out that certain elements of that life weren't willing to release her just yet. Chris didn't want to be burned again after a vicious and painful divorce, so he kept his distance (frustratingly so at first) from Elizabeth. I personally love a strong man with chivalric values, because such a man couldn't leave a woman to fend for herself for long; he more than made up for his stubbornness in the beginning! Sparks flew despite all reservations on both sides, and romance bloomed despite of (or, perhaps, because of) the chaos that enveloped them both.
I adored Chris's family and the supporting characters. There was such warmth there; it added truth depth to the story. I was IN the story the entire time — not simply sitting with book in-hand.
I've never read a book with this particular balance of suspense, romance, mystery, and fire. It's difficult to categorize it properly, because it doesn't fit into just one category; it belongs in several.
I read some reviews that said the main perpetrator was obvious. I must be dense, because I didn't guess it until the very end. I enjoyed getting to know the characters and watching as Elizabeth and Chris overcame their destructive paths to work towards a brighter future. Great read!
**Currently $0.99 on Amazon**
April 2, 2012
4.5 Stars
My Review was published on Ruby's Books.
Behind Closed Doors is a great book and an amazing first book in a series. I think the first thing that drew my attention as I was reading the book was that the action wasn't rushed. I didn't at any moment felt like things were happening too fast or too slow or that they were forced. It felt sort of natural for things to happen at a precise moment and it was a really good thing.
I liked Elizabeth so much and my heart was breaking for her the entire time I was reading about her past. I liked the fact that in the end she finds closure and she gets to move on with her life with a man that really loved her. Elizabeth had that innocent air about her that I like a lot for some heroines. Not naive, but innocent, despite her past.
Chris was a very interesting hero. I liked the fact that he wasn't the type of guy who jumped to conclusions and the fact that he wanted to protect Elizabeth even before they got romantically involved. And I loved that he was always reassuring her, trying to make her feel wanted and precious without telling her that her insecurities were foolish. I also liked that he had sexy brothers *grins*
Behind Closed Doors has a lot of the themes I love, like mystery, romance, suspense and, my personal favorite, the story about second chances. It was a very sweet story and I am really curious about the other Daniels brothers. I really can't wait for their stories.
It was the first book by Sherri Hayes that I've read, but I know for sure I'll keep reading her books.
My Review was published on Ruby's Books.
Behind Closed Doors is a great book and an amazing first book in a series. I think the first thing that drew my attention as I was reading the book was that the action wasn't rushed. I didn't at any moment felt like things were happening too fast or too slow or that they were forced. It felt sort of natural for things to happen at a precise moment and it was a really good thing.
I liked Elizabeth so much and my heart was breaking for her the entire time I was reading about her past. I liked the fact that in the end she finds closure and she gets to move on with her life with a man that really loved her. Elizabeth had that innocent air about her that I like a lot for some heroines. Not naive, but innocent, despite her past.
Chris was a very interesting hero. I liked the fact that he wasn't the type of guy who jumped to conclusions and the fact that he wanted to protect Elizabeth even before they got romantically involved. And I loved that he was always reassuring her, trying to make her feel wanted and precious without telling her that her insecurities were foolish. I also liked that he had sexy brothers *grins*
Behind Closed Doors has a lot of the themes I love, like mystery, romance, suspense and, my personal favorite, the story about second chances. It was a very sweet story and I am really curious about the other Daniels brothers. I really can't wait for their stories.
It was the first book by Sherri Hayes that I've read, but I know for sure I'll keep reading her books.
April 4, 2012
Ok, I'll be honest, I read erotic romance. If there's suspense in the books, great, but give me my hot, explicit, preferably kinky, sex. When a friend of mine wanted me to check out this book, I was hesitant, but knowing that I enjoyed Ms. Hayes' writing in Slave, I decided to give it a chance. I just wasn't sure if my enjoyment of her writing would be enough. :) I was pleasantly surprised.
Chris and Elizabeth held my interest from the very beginning. I wanted to learn more about them, and, while the story didn't just pour it all out there, it did reveal the details of the characters and their lives at a good speed to keep the story moving and your interest peaked. I did want to shake some sense into Chris a time or two but overall he was pretty good. The interactions between Chris and Elizabeth throughout the book was fun and sweet.
I was pleased to find that Ms Hayes didn't do a lot of sex scene skips. You know the ones... where he carries her off to the bedroom and then you skip to the afterglow. While not explicit, the scenes that were there were nicely steamy.
I will confess that I heavily suspected the "bad guy" before it was confirmed. There was still the possibility it was someone else, but I was pretty certain.
I definitely enjoyed this book, and while romantic suspense won't take up top position in my reading preferences anytime soon, I am definitely interested in reading the second book in this series. Sherri Hayes will definitely stay on my list to watch.
Chris and Elizabeth held my interest from the very beginning. I wanted to learn more about them, and, while the story didn't just pour it all out there, it did reveal the details of the characters and their lives at a good speed to keep the story moving and your interest peaked. I did want to shake some sense into Chris a time or two but overall he was pretty good. The interactions between Chris and Elizabeth throughout the book was fun and sweet.
I was pleased to find that Ms Hayes didn't do a lot of sex scene skips. You know the ones... where he carries her off to the bedroom and then you skip to the afterglow. While not explicit, the scenes that were there were nicely steamy.
I will confess that I heavily suspected the "bad guy" before it was confirmed. There was still the possibility it was someone else, but I was pretty certain.
I definitely enjoyed this book, and while romantic suspense won't take up top position in my reading preferences anytime soon, I am definitely interested in reading the second book in this series. Sherri Hayes will definitely stay on my list to watch.
July 4, 2012
CLICK HERE TO READ MORE REVIEWS AT READING, EATING AND DREAMING I WAS BLAIR WALDORF
Ms. Hayes is on a roll. Behind Closed Doors, the first novel in a new adult companion series, was another smash hit by Sherri Hayes.
I really enjoy Ms. Hayes storytelling abilities. She does a great job sculpting the characters, explaining the character's past, and setting the stage.
Both of the main characters in Behind Closed Doors had trust issues from previous relationships. Elizabeth was abused and Chris was betrayed. It was very interesting to watch them work together to move past their issues. They were both resistant of each other at first, but their attraction and trust developed over time, until eventually, all of their walls came down. Behind Closed Doors was an entertaining adult romance with a suspenseful twist.
I can't wait to read the companion story to this novel coming Winter 2013. The next novel in this series is about Gage, Chris's brother.
I gave Behind Closed Doors (The Daniels Brothers #1) by Sherri Hayes 4 STARS. I recommend this novel.
-XOXO
READING, EATING AND DREAMING
Ms. Hayes is on a roll. Behind Closed Doors, the first novel in a new adult companion series, was another smash hit by Sherri Hayes.
I really enjoy Ms. Hayes storytelling abilities. She does a great job sculpting the characters, explaining the character's past, and setting the stage.
Both of the main characters in Behind Closed Doors had trust issues from previous relationships. Elizabeth was abused and Chris was betrayed. It was very interesting to watch them work together to move past their issues. They were both resistant of each other at first, but their attraction and trust developed over time, until eventually, all of their walls came down. Behind Closed Doors was an entertaining adult romance with a suspenseful twist.
I can't wait to read the companion story to this novel coming Winter 2013. The next novel in this series is about Gage, Chris's brother.
I gave Behind Closed Doors (The Daniels Brothers #1) by Sherri Hayes 4 STARS. I recommend this novel.
-XOXO
READING, EATING AND DREAMING
February 23, 2014
Reviewed by Ursula
Book provided by the publisher for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Love a sweet romance wrapped up in a mystery? This is the book for you! Sherri Hayes does a wonderful job making you fall in love with her characters; even the secondary ones! The Daniels family is great and make you wish you could find a man like any of the four Daniels brothers! With the mom being the only female in the group, you know she has to have a will of steel!
The attraction between the main characters was instant and combustible. The action, and interactions, throughout the story keep you reading. I didn’t want to put it down! It’s a quick read, but still pulls you in to the lives of Elizabeth and Chris. This is one of those books that you will want to keep in your permanent library so you can re-read it!
Book provided by the publisher for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Love a sweet romance wrapped up in a mystery? This is the book for you! Sherri Hayes does a wonderful job making you fall in love with her characters; even the secondary ones! The Daniels family is great and make you wish you could find a man like any of the four Daniels brothers! With the mom being the only female in the group, you know she has to have a will of steel!
The attraction between the main characters was instant and combustible. The action, and interactions, throughout the story keep you reading. I didn’t want to put it down! It’s a quick read, but still pulls you in to the lives of Elizabeth and Chris. This is one of those books that you will want to keep in your permanent library so you can re-read it!
November 20, 2012
Romantic suspense. Elizabeth Marshall is starting over. She has left all she knows to begin again in small town Ohio. She’s rented the second floor apartment in a historic home. Her upstairs neighbor is contractor Chris Daniels. He has been burnt by a cheating wife and wants nothing to do with women even if they are as sexy as his new neighbor. When Elizabeth’s apartment is vandalized and she starts receiving threats the big guy just can’t help himself from taking her under his wing and protecting her. Can he get past his past and help Elizabeth start over again?
This was a fun mystery and love story although there were times I wanted to slap each of the lead characters and say “get over it already”.
This was a fun mystery and love story although there were times I wanted to slap each of the lead characters and say “get over it already”.
August 15, 2012
I have to admit it took me a little while to really get into the story but once I did I couldn't wait until I could sit down with my Kindle again and continue reading. There's an obvious attraction between Elizabeth and Chris from the moment they meet as she moves into his apartment building. This story is full of suspense and even has a sweet semi-meddling neighbor who happens to be their landlord. You'll meet Chris's family and see how accepting they are of Elizabeth despite her history. If you have an undisturbed weekend you can breeze right through it.
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