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Caught Out

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I have carried a secret for six years.
Lied to protect the one who matters most.
The day I would be confronted was inevitable.

So why am I shocked and unprepared when cricket superstar Jardine Kumble walks into my restaurant and demands I speak to him?

It doesn’t matter that my heart still calls for his in the dark of night.
That I have a new life, one I built to survive the pain of giving him up.

He had a dream of playing international cricket for Australia, and I helped him to achieve it.
If he finds out the truth, the fall out will break my heart all over again.

I have to stay away only this time I don’t have the strength…

Caught Out is a full length, stand alone romance with no cliff hangers and a guaranteed happily ever after. It is recommended for readers to start with the prequel novella, Jardine before reading Caught Out.

296 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 17, 2017

28 people are currently reading
133 people want to read

About the author

Leesa Bow

26 books577 followers
Best selling Australian author, Leesa Bow writes alphas with a fierce determination to win, and the women who will push for them to fight harder.
Her love of sports romance came from inspiration from her sporty family.
Leesa loves nothing more than to curl up with a good book, and a glass of South Australian wine.


You can sign up for Leesa's email newsletter at: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...

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Website: https://www.leesabow.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Profile Image for Lucii Dixon.
1,104 reviews54 followers
January 20, 2017
Another outstanding read from this author! It was beautiful, passionate and addictive. The characters are full of personality and they're really fun to read about.

I did find some bits to be a bit OTT. Jardine, at the start, was way too bossy and reminded me of a guy that wants to run the life of his partner, not go through life WITH her. That did annoy me. But also, I love a woman character who has a bit of stubbornness but Ava's was a bit too much. It was like she continued to pick fights when there was no reason to. Not only that, but she's a bit clingy. Everyone misses their partner if they go away but hers was extreme. I think she only thought about herself instead of anyone else.

Regardless of these few things, 5 stars is definitely given to this awe-inspiring read. I was hooked from page one!
Profile Image for Candice.
831 reviews2 followers
February 17, 2017
I really enjoyed reading this book. It's so passionate and wow. Really takes your breath away. The story pulled me in and kept me captive. I couldn't put it down for anything. When reading about Jardine and Ava it really makes you want that type of relationship. Even though they were part for 6 years they still have this intense spark to them. Really glad I got to read this book. And I honestly hope more are in the works. Can't get enough. Great book.
Profile Image for Angelina.
742 reviews
August 5, 2017
Caught Out by Leesa Bow is the story of Ava and Jardine. It can be read as a standalone but I would recommend reading the prequel, Jardine, as it will help you to better understand the history between this couple.

Six years ago Ava walked away from the man she loved so he could follow his dreams of playing for the Australian cricket team. She was heart broken to let Jardine go but she's built herself a new life and loves being a mother to her 5 year old son. Just as she's offered the opportunity to become a partner at the restaurant where she works, Jardine unexpectedly reenters her life and wants answers as to why Ava ended their relationship. Ava made decisions that Jardine wasn't aware of and she's not sure how to explain them to him or if he'll ever forgive her.

Jardine was devastated when Ava ended their relationship but he's never forgotten about his first love and when he returns to Adelaide during a short break from playing the game he loves, he's surprised to find Ava living and working there. Despite his anger towards her, he sees it as the ideal opportunity to finally get the answers he's wanted for years but Ava seems determined to avoid him and he wants to know why. Will Jardine get the answers he demands and if he does, will he be able to forgive Ava for making the decisions she did for them both?

“Carpe Diem - Seize the day”

Having read Jardine and awarding it 5 stars, I was looking forward to reading the continuation of Ava and Jardine’s story. I wasn't disappointed and I'm so glad that I had the chance to read their amazing story about strength, self-sacrifice, forgiveness and second chances. I loved it from start to finish and didn't want it to end. It's so refreshing to read a book about a sport other than hockey or college football. Don't get me wrong, I love some of the authors who write books around those sports but it's also great to read something different.

Whilst this is a love story, Leesa Bow also incorporates just enough about the game of cricket and doesn't overload the reader with too much information or detail. It takes an author with skill to get the balance just right and Leesa Bow definitely achieves it. I spent many hours as a teenager watching our local cricket team play (I'm in the UK) but I wish they'd had their own Jardine to make it much more fun to watch lol.

I don't know what to do now that Ava and Jardine’s story is over because I loved this couple from the start and will miss them. Ava did what she thought was right and put Jardine before herself. Some readers will hate Ava for the decisions she made but I never felt this towards her and could understand why she did what she did. Sometimes we do what we think is the right thing when it's actually the wrong thing. I believe Ava and Jardine were destined to meet again because their story wasn't over.

Leesa Bow is a new author to me but having read Jardine and Caught Out, I'll definitely be keeping up to date with her and reading other books she writes. In fact, I'm already looking forward to reading Winning the Game, which I have on my Kindle! I fully recommend that you download Jardine and Caught Out today and be prepared to read about an amazing couple who prove that making mistakes doesn't always mean your relationship is over.
656 reviews3 followers
May 24, 2017
Caught One was provided to me for an honest review and was my first read by Leesa Bow. Ava and Jardine were madly in love at age 18. They shared the same hopes and dreams and planned a future together. As hopes and dreams changed and unexpected circumstances complicated things Ava wanted the best for Jardine. She wanted him to not be held down and have the chance to follow his dreams so she vanished from his life. For six years Jardine tried to find answers and move forward with his life, as did Ava, until the two met by chance again. Their feelings for each other were as strong as ever, as if no time was lost, but Ava's secrets hung between them and tested Jardine's trust, love and a future with Ava.

If you love a good second chance and sports romance you'll love Caught One. The characters were well developed and I felt connected to both of them. Ava made tough decisions that may not have been right, but she worked hard to be the strong, independent woman she was. Jardine was sweet and only had eyes for Ava. Despite her secrets he found a way to forgive her and build the life he always wanted.
Profile Image for Blogging For The Love  Of Authors And Their Books.
202 reviews20 followers
June 15, 2017
***Kim's Review!!***

I received an ARC for my honest review.

After reading Jardine, which is the prequel novella to this book. I couldn't wait to read this one, and find out what happened with Ava and Jardine! You do not have to have read Jardine first, but you should because it's so good!

Ava broke up with Jardine 6 years ago, breaking both their hearts in the process, but she did what she thought was right for Jardine and his Cricket career. Now 6 years on he's sat in her restaurant and he's not leaving until he gets answers! Ava has kept something from Jardine all this time and when he finds out there's sure to be fireworks!

I loved Jardine and Ava, and the pure raw emotion from both characters in the book had me filling up with tears throughout. This is a beautiful second chance romance story, with the added bonus it features a hot superstar cricket player! I highly recommend it! Five stars


***Nic's Review!!***

I received an ARC for my honest review.

I give this book a 4.5 star rating. Ava and Jardine are two souls who's love is the forever kind. But it just wasn't mean to be at the time. Six years later they find each other. The heat and love is not missing. Second chances is what it is all about. This book was beautifully written about two lost souls. Second chance to come true. I enjoyed this story about Ava and Jardine. Love little Louise too. I am glad this end in a happy ever after. Great job on the character build.
Profile Image for Debra.
3,467 reviews13 followers
February 24, 2017
This is the first book by Leesa Bow that I have read. I enjoyed the cricket background, even though it is not a sport I am familiar with. The story line of second chance love is one of my favorites to read. And the story of Ava and Jardine was one to love. Here different cultures of the two lovers came into play in the original break up. And one obstacle that needed to be cleared up. I enjoyed L. Bow's style of writing and will look forward to more of her works.
489 reviews1 follower
August 3, 2017
Ava broke Jardine's heart when she broke up with him when he became a professional cricket player versus going to medical school with her as they had planned...not only did she break his heart, but she left town without telling him the truth about why she broke up with him! Now, six years later they accidentally run into each other and when he realizes that they still have feelings for each other, he refuses to leave until he gets the answers that she refused to give him 6 years ago! Will they be able to find their way back to one another or will his cricket super stardom ways and her lies tear them apart for good? Great second chance story!
Profile Image for Rebecca.
2,264 reviews35 followers
March 14, 2018
WOW what can I say I loved it six years on since what happened to Jardine and Ava. so with what Ava did back then destroy them or bring them back together. She so desperately wants to keep it a secret but as time goes on she knows in her heart she needs to tell him. Oh so beautiful loving and heartbreaking but WOW when you read it you'll understand why I couldn't put it down.
Profile Image for Jenn.
288 reviews
March 10, 2017
This book can be read as a complete standalone. I had the opportunity read the prequel novella prior to reading this and felt that it really added to the emotions of the story and gave a bit more insight to some scenes. I was worried that it might have given some spoilers, but luckily it did not. The book takes place in Australia. The majority of the book is written in Ava's POV but there are a few chapters focusing on Jardine written in third person-there was no headings on those chapters so I did find that a bit odd. I found Ava and Jardine's characters to be very likable. Given the hurdles they had to overcome, they both proved to be very strong. Overall I really enjoyed this second chance romance. It was a good read and moved at a steady pace. The ending was well written, providing closure for the main characters.

** Copy of this book received in exchange for my honest review.
** Reviewed for Kylie's Fiction Addiction.
Profile Image for wendy Shelton(obsessedbybooks).
2,554 reviews27 followers
March 12, 2017
Ava never got over her love Jardine but she wasn't going to be the reason he live his dream, so she left him, it was for his own good but that was 7 years ago, her life is great and she's taking care of her son, she never dream her one regret would be back in her life, she hasn't to push him away but can she? Jardine never really got over Ava, now he's back and wants her and answers, can he handle what she gives him?
Profile Image for Christie72 (Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews).
1,453 reviews32 followers
February 17, 2017
~4 1/2 Stars~

Fantastic story of second chances! Jardine and Ava were in love when they were young. Jardine was just beginning to make his mark in the world of cricket. Ava was so incredibly proud and supportive of him, even if Jardine’s controlling father was against their relationship. When circumstances throw Ava a curveball, she does what she believes is unselfish….she breaks it off, crushing Jardine. Ava works hard to make a life for herself, despite her heartbreak. Six years later, she’s raising her son, Louis, and doing quite well for herself, even though she’s never forgotten Jardine. Jardine unexpectedly comes back into her life. Not only is he determined to find out the truth behind their breakup, he is also set on winning her back. But, she is keeping a secret that could potentially ruin any chance of having a future with him.

Both Ava and Jardine tugged at my heartstrings. I felt sorry for Jardine. He was a good guy, and honestly loved Ava and never wanted to live without her. I respected Ava immensely for building a life for herself and making her son her first priority. However, I was also very angry at her for not allowing Jardine to be a part of her life. I know she made her decision based on what she thought was best for Jardine and because of his father’s feelings towards her….but still….it wasn’t fair. I could only hope she would make up for it, and she did.

This was the love story about Jardine and Ava, but yet it was deeper. It was a story of hope, love, and second chances. Most importantly, it was about making up for past mistakes and forgiveness. Without spoiling too much, Jardine’s father isn’t as bad as he first seems. I love a good second chance romance with all the feels, and this one was both for me. If you are looking for a well-written and emotional book, give this one a try. The bonus is you will get some insight to the world of cricket.

***Read and Reviewed for Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews***

Profile Image for Helena Cooper.
91 reviews5 followers
November 16, 2020
5 star must read

I loved loved loved this book. It was one I struggled to put down. It was the perfect ending to Ava and Jardine's story.
Profile Image for Tracy Fritts.
1,478 reviews36 followers
March 3, 2017
These is the first I have read of Leesa Bow books I received it has an arc. I really enjoyed read about second chances and I enjoyed reading about the game of cricket and heritage of the characters. Wonderful storyline and it was very well written.
Profile Image for Ezza.
742 reviews4 followers
February 26, 2017
I was totally hooked to this story from the start.


I had so many emotions while reading Caught Out

Jardine and Ava have history Ava left home thinking it would be the best for all of them. When a chance encounter throws them back together 6 years later they both still have feeling for each other.
Nut Ava is hiding a big secret and knows that when Jardine finds out he will hate her.

After reconnecting Jardine finds out her secret from someone else

I liked getting both sides of the story with duel POV so you can see how they are both feeling in this heart warming second chance romance

ARC provided by the Author in return for an honest review
Profile Image for Cynthia Tatum reichel.
141 reviews
February 22, 2017
Jardine and Ava's story is amazing. This is the first book that I have read from this author and she has hooked me as a reader. Ava'sstory is a very complicated story and she felt letting Jardine go so he can accomplish his dream was the right thing to do. She has a friend with Oscar and he loves her just as much as Jardine but understands he will never have her heart. Jardine come back into her life to realize there is a lot more that he really didn't know. I don't understand the cricket game so when they talked about that I was very lost. The love story is what really caught me.

Strong writing I was hooked from the first word to the last. I will look forward to reading more from this author.

This review is written for KFA
210 reviews4 followers
February 17, 2017
When I heard that Leesa Bow would be releasing the followup to Jardine I was so happy and excited. I've been anxiously awaiting the conclusion of Jardine and Ava's journey to love. I was not disappointed in the least, and could not put this book down once I started. Their journey was not easy, and after battling trust issues on both ends you had to question whether they would end up together. I found myself nervous for them, and now that I've finished I miss this cast of characters. I always enjoy the ride Ms. Bow takes me on, and learning more about Australian culture is such a great adventure!
Profile Image for Kathy Rouchelle .
969 reviews15 followers
February 28, 2017
Very well written, wonderful storyline with well developed characters, even if I found Jardine and Ava just a little bit too much at times in their own way. It was still a wonderful read and I think anyone who loves sports romance books will thoroughly enjoy this book. The author did a great job giving life to her characters. The story flowed easily, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading their story.
Profile Image for Sophia Holt.
328 reviews7 followers
February 12, 2017
I didn't really know what to expect from this author and this book, haven't read any of her books (and i am assuming she has at least one book out)
I really enjoyed this book. A second chance at love book. Well written, good character growth..
You can read the blurb: ( i don't like giving spoilers)
Ava Walters never expected her ex-boyfriend and Indian superstar cricketer to walk into her restaurant six years after she left him. The break up almost ruined her, but she refused to deny him his dream of playing International cricket for Australia. With her life on track as co-owner of a fashionable restaurant, and supporting her five-year-old son alone, Ava cannot risk falling for his charm a second time.
After the initial shock of seeing her again, Jardine Kumble is determined to win Ava back. His gut tells him it’s more than ‘playing hard to get’ and he intends to get answers to why she is pushing him away...
I totally fell in love with Jardine, take no prisoners, go after what he wants type of guy! This story will definitely be a re-read for me. Nothing but positive vibes for this book.

Well done Leesa...*arc received for honest review*
Profile Image for Toni.
252 reviews
February 18, 2017
Sports romance!

This is the first sports romance I have read featuring cricket. I was a bit lost with game terminology, but that didn't deter my enjoyment of the story. I liked Jardine just fine, but I took me a while to warm up to Ava. She started out wishy washy and weak; but she got better towards the end.
131 reviews
February 21, 2017
I absolutely love Leesa Bow's other two books but this one didn't quite hit the same notes for me. Still, an enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Le Ann Foster.
739 reviews5 followers
February 14, 2017
What a great conclusion to Jardine and Ava story. I was a big fan of Jardine and Ava and I knew at the end of it that Leesa, would make things right between these two. I was happy that we got to see Oliver and Chloe and got to catch up with them.

This book is one of those feel good, love, and happiness type books and I truly enjoy reading it. With all the good, bad and ugly in this world , it nice to have a book that you can go to and escape for a little while and that is exactly what Leesa books does.

I can't wait to see what this Amazing author writes next, so ladies grab your glass of wine, your pj's, get conformable and let Jardine and Ava take you on their journey.

♡♡Received a ARC copy from the author in exchange for a honest review ♡♡
Profile Image for Pamela Stallings.
199 reviews8 followers
February 2, 2017
Loved this book!!! The writing was excellent, Leesa did a great job bringing her characters to life. The story flowed easily, I didn't feel it was rushed or too slow. It was perfect and I really enjoyed getting to know the characters. This book starts off 6 years after the first book Jardine. We get a few flashbacks. As a reader who didn't read the first book I felt the story was easy to follow. I would definitely recommend always reading the first book first just because they are connected but if you don't it's okay.

Our main characters are Ava and Jardine, they are high school sweethearts that are separated by others and by their dreams but are destined to be together no matter what obstacle comes their way. They definitely have to jump through some hoops to be together. I loved them together!! Sometimes I wanted to shake Ava and say just tell him already but I could also understand her worries. I'm so happy with how everything worked out in the end and I would love another book with this couple or maybe Oliver and Tessa. Amazing job Leesa!!!
Profile Image for Jessica Lerch.
145 reviews1 follower
Read
July 6, 2019
Caught Out - Ava & Jardine's story follows on from the Prequel Jardine, it could be read as a stand alone but to get the full story I'd recommend reading both, you'll love it all the more for it & wont be disappointed it's great!

Ava pushed Jardine away 6 years ago as a pregnant 18yo just finished highschool who did not let him know her little baby secret so he could fulfill his dream of being an international cricket star. This story is their second chance at love, it's a bumpy road to their HEA but they do get there.

Jardine is a very dominating, demanding character however I love that Ava has some balls of her own and doesn't let her guilt of pushing him away and him missing out on their childs life allow him to walk all over her coming back. To me too many women characters are soft so this was a huge win for me in Caught Out.

Both Ava & Jardine always had the love for one another that never faded so it was all about coming home to one another.
Profile Image for Kim Sutton.
597 reviews11 followers
February 18, 2017
I received an ARC for my honest review.

After reading Jardine, which is the prequel novella to this book. I couldn't wait to read this one, and find out what happened with Ava and Jardine! You do not have to have read Jardine first, but you should because it's so good!

Ava broke up with Jardine 6 years ago, breaking both their hearts in the process, but she did what she thought was right for Jardine and his Cricket career. Now 6 years on he's sat in her restaurant and he's not leaving until he gets answers! Ava has kept something from Jardine all this time and when he finds out there's sure to be fireworks!

I loved Jardine and Ava, and the pure raw emotion from both characters in the book had me filling up with tears throughout. This is a beautiful second chance romance story, with the added bonus it features a hot superstar cricket player! I highly recommend it! Five stars
Profile Image for Apache Flower.
45 reviews2 followers
February 5, 2017
Loved it!!! This is book 2 and if you have not read Jardine then you should really read it! Also it will answer a lot of questions you may have leading up to why Ava made the decision she made.

I really did enjoy this book and in fact this is actually my second time reading Caught Out! I loved it the first time I read it as well as this time. Even though I know nothing about cricket I really was hooked from where this story left off. If you love romance and happy endings you will love this book. It makes you feel as if they where people who you knew and watched them go through all the heartache and pain to finally be together! It shows you should never give up on true love!
Profile Image for Charli.
905 reviews11 followers
October 22, 2019
This is my favourite of Leesa's men of the bay series. It is simply a beautiful book. Second chance romance at its finest. I couldnt wait to read this after finishing Jardine and I was not disappointed. Jardine and Ava finally reunite and it is worth the wait. But what makes this book special is the supporting characters as well (Oliver SWOON).
I am not a sports fan at all, but Leesa has a way of writing that makes you interested! Real characters, real heart, real feels. This is a book I will read time and time again just to feel that same touching emotion.
5 stars is not enough for this book.
Profile Image for Aimie.
Author 16 books148 followers
April 27, 2020
I loved Ava and Jardine in their prequel ‘Jardine’, but seeing them all grown up was even better.
These two characters drew me in with their undeniable love and pain from the past.
I just wanted to hug them both and tell them it’s got to get better.
In the last couple of days of working through Leesa Bow’s books I have come to the conclusion that from here on out, she is high on my list of favourite authors. I love how she spins a story and pulls you in until long after you’ve turned the last page.
Profile Image for Nicole.
384 reviews25 followers
May 14, 2017
I give this book a 4.5 star rating. Ava and Jardine are two souls who's love is the forever kind. But it just wasn't mean to be at the time. Six years later they find each other. The heat and love is not missing. Second chances is what it is all about. This book was beautifully written about two lost souls. Second chance to come true. I enjoyed this story about Ava and Jardine. Love little Louise too. I am glad this end in a happy ever after. Great job on the character build.
Profile Image for Janice.
3,070 reviews
February 22, 2017
love secret baby stories but not this one; the heroine was very immature IMHO
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews

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