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Hometown Heroes #1
Whole Again
John Lawrence loved Vicki Masterson his entire life. They grew up together. But it wasn’t meant to be.
After John is disabled in Iraq, that couldn’t be more obvious. He struggles to start a new career while dealing with a prosthetic leg. Vicki recovers from divorce along with her own paralyzing self-doubt.
Enter "Growing Strong" - Vicki’s grandmothers landscaping business and a new start for both of them. Can they can get over themselves and their own insecurities to build a life together?
After John is disabled in Iraq, that couldn’t be more obvious. He struggles to start a new career while dealing with a prosthetic leg. Vicki recovers from divorce along with her own paralyzing self-doubt.
Enter "Growing Strong" - Vicki’s grandmothers landscaping business and a new start for both of them. Can they can get over themselves and their own insecurities to build a life together?
193 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 18, 2017
63 people are currently reading
561 people want to read
About the author
Colleen S. Myers
26 books790 followersColleen plays many roles. Not only is she a veteran, a mother, and a practicing physician, but she is a USA Today bestselling writer of science fiction and contemporary romances. Colleen's dreams include surviving her son's teenage years, exploring every continent on this planet, except Antartica, cause that's way too cold, and winning the Nobel peace prize. Dream BIG! Currently, she is working on There Will Be Blood, the second in her YA Paranormal Romance series. In the meantime, look for her at https://www.colleensmyers.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
May 2, 2017
(I received an advance copy of this book for free. Thanks to Kindle Scout.)
This was an adult contemporary romance story, featuring an ex-marine.
The characters in this were okay but I didn’t really love either of them, I don’t know why. Vicki’s grandmother was quite a quirky character though.
The storyline in this was about John and Vicki reconnecting and beginning a romance, after John lost his foot whilst fighting in Iraq. We also had a storyline about someone slashing Vicki’s tyres and trying to kill her, with a bit of mystery over who was behind it. There were a couple of steamy sex scenes, but overall the book didn’t hold my attention very well.
The ending to this was a bit of a cliff-hanger.
6.25 out of 10
“He’d always been sexy, but now something about him screamed badass.”
This was an adult contemporary romance story, featuring an ex-marine.
The characters in this were okay but I didn’t really love either of them, I don’t know why. Vicki’s grandmother was quite a quirky character though.
The storyline in this was about John and Vicki reconnecting and beginning a romance, after John lost his foot whilst fighting in Iraq. We also had a storyline about someone slashing Vicki’s tyres and trying to kill her, with a bit of mystery over who was behind it. There were a couple of steamy sex scenes, but overall the book didn’t hold my attention very well.
The ending to this was a bit of a cliff-hanger.
6.25 out of 10
May 17, 2017
I’m in yet another review slump, I’m sorry this is a few days late.
Here I go.
I really liked the idea behind the story that this book offered. I liked the idea of reconnecting, and I have a soft spot for romance books with characters who are/used to be soldiers. Plus, this book has a disabled character! Yay!
But it’s not perfect: while the characters were okay-written, they weren’t exceptionally enjoyable. The snippets of the characters’ traits, along with the mystery that fails to be acknowledged properly has me feeling as if it’s not finished, and the author wanted to do more with the story.
I understand that it’s part of a series, but the way it’s organized, and the way not a lot is explained at the end has me doubting that it will be in the next book too. Guess I’ll just have to wait and see.
Copy received through NetGalley
Here I go.
I really liked the idea behind the story that this book offered. I liked the idea of reconnecting, and I have a soft spot for romance books with characters who are/used to be soldiers. Plus, this book has a disabled character! Yay!
But it’s not perfect: while the characters were okay-written, they weren’t exceptionally enjoyable. The snippets of the characters’ traits, along with the mystery that fails to be acknowledged properly has me feeling as if it’s not finished, and the author wanted to do more with the story.
I understand that it’s part of a series, but the way it’s organized, and the way not a lot is explained at the end has me doubting that it will be in the next book too. Guess I’ll just have to wait and see.
Copy received through NetGalley
June 4, 2017
John Lawrence loved Vicki Masterson his entire life, she was the rich kid with the heart of gold who dated the football players.
Years later, John is disabled in Iraq and loses the lower part of one leg. He returns home and is looking for a job. Vicki is now divorced and also looking for a job, they both interview for Vicki's grandmother's multimillion dollar gardening business "Growing Strong". Vicki's family are trying to get her to date, after the divorce she lost all their mutual fake friends and before the divorce she lost touch with her real friends. John's friends and family are also trying to get him to date. But when they start to date things go wrong immediately, they run into Vicki's ex-husband and someone is playing pranks on her and making threatening phone calls.
I don't know whether I got a duff ARC but my book appeared to go straight from the baddie making a move to what appeared to be the epilogue with no gotcha moment. Also this seemed confused about whether it was a small tow, homecoming hero romance or a romantic suspense and it didn't quite nail either genre. The grandmother was supposed to be kooky and funny but she seemed inappropriate and odd.
Didn't really get going and then ended abruptly. Motives unclear and baddie apparently still at large.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
EDIT: apologies, this should have been a two star rating, not one star!
Years later, John is disabled in Iraq and loses the lower part of one leg. He returns home and is looking for a job. Vicki is now divorced and also looking for a job, they both interview for Vicki's grandmother's multimillion dollar gardening business "Growing Strong". Vicki's family are trying to get her to date, after the divorce she lost all their mutual fake friends and before the divorce she lost touch with her real friends. John's friends and family are also trying to get him to date. But when they start to date things go wrong immediately, they run into Vicki's ex-husband and someone is playing pranks on her and making threatening phone calls.
I don't know whether I got a duff ARC but my book appeared to go straight from the baddie making a move to what appeared to be the epilogue with no gotcha moment. Also this seemed confused about whether it was a small tow, homecoming hero romance or a romantic suspense and it didn't quite nail either genre. The grandmother was supposed to be kooky and funny but she seemed inappropriate and odd.
Didn't really get going and then ended abruptly. Motives unclear and baddie apparently still at large.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
EDIT: apologies, this should have been a two star rating, not one star!
April 17, 2017
Vicki "Vee" a recent divorcee, finally on her own for the first time. John - a war amputee - starting over again with life, an internship and finishing his MBA. Both had a secret crush on the other during high school that they never acted on. Vicki is starting a new life and new career when the threats and violence begin. John jumps in to protect her and the sparks between the two are electric! First in the Hometown Heroes series. Ends on a cliff hanger style and I'm looking forward to reading the next installment and solving the mystery.
May 22, 2017
The great thing about NetGalley is free books! The bad thing about NetGalley is you don't get a preview of a book before you get them. I love to read, but the bad thing about me is that I am incapable of not finishing a book once I've downloaded it - even if it's free!
Whole Again has one of my favorite story tropes - the wounded war hero - which is what drew my interest to the book. But it didn’t take long for things to start falling apart for me, and there were a number of issues I had with the book.
For starters, I’m not buying the characterizations - the hero says he has trouble talking to girls, but was smooth and witty the first time he ran into the heroine and her grandmother. He’s confident and cocky one minute, and plagued with insecurities the next. Sometimes the “I like you, but I’m not good for you so I’m pushing you away” back-and-forth thing works, but I wasn’t feeling it this time.
And the heroine...she doesn't recognize the girl who was a good friend during high school? Also, I'm not categorically opposed to "slut shaming" if a character acts like one, but to go there just because you see a woman talking to the man you're interested doesn't sit well with me.
The book moved at such a slow pace...30% and they are just going on their first date. At this point, I'm more interested in the secret baby story going with John's best friend.
But I forge on…
Then I get to the verbal sparring between the heroine’s mother and the heroine’s former mother-in-law. They call each other “inbred little twerps” and “old bat” and I'm thinking “I don't know how much more of this I can read…” The dialogue is stiff and corny, and I realize I don't care about either of these characters.
Continuing on...we get to some action in the story! Vicki leaves her mother's house to four slashed tires, and there's nothing more about it? She walks out of the house, sees the flat tires, and the next sentence is a new chapter with a new day. No call to the police, no tow truck? We learn she did a couple chapters later, but it seems odd not to mention it then.
Finally, we get some backstory about our hero’s time in the military. When John wakes up in the hospital, he discovers his foot has been amputated and decides he's going to try to walk on it. That's when I decided I'm done. I can buy a lot of unrealistic things, but the dude would be on too many painkillers and would hardly be able to move, but I'm supposed to believe he was actually able to get up and tries to put weight on his raw stump? Nope. I'm done.
This is officially my first "Did Not Finish." I've got too many other things I want to read to waste my time on this ridiculousness. I'm tapping out at 51 percent. I'll probably give the second book in the Hometown Heroes series a try (if it's about Sara and Brae), but if that book isn't a whole lot better, this author is going on my "Do Not Read This Author" list.
*ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Whole Again has one of my favorite story tropes - the wounded war hero - which is what drew my interest to the book. But it didn’t take long for things to start falling apart for me, and there were a number of issues I had with the book.
For starters, I’m not buying the characterizations - the hero says he has trouble talking to girls, but was smooth and witty the first time he ran into the heroine and her grandmother. He’s confident and cocky one minute, and plagued with insecurities the next. Sometimes the “I like you, but I’m not good for you so I’m pushing you away” back-and-forth thing works, but I wasn’t feeling it this time.
And the heroine...she doesn't recognize the girl who was a good friend during high school? Also, I'm not categorically opposed to "slut shaming" if a character acts like one, but to go there just because you see a woman talking to the man you're interested doesn't sit well with me.
The book moved at such a slow pace...30% and they are just going on their first date. At this point, I'm more interested in the secret baby story going with John's best friend.
But I forge on…
Then I get to the verbal sparring between the heroine’s mother and the heroine’s former mother-in-law. They call each other “inbred little twerps” and “old bat” and I'm thinking “I don't know how much more of this I can read…” The dialogue is stiff and corny, and I realize I don't care about either of these characters.
Continuing on...we get to some action in the story! Vicki leaves her mother's house to four slashed tires, and there's nothing more about it? She walks out of the house, sees the flat tires, and the next sentence is a new chapter with a new day. No call to the police, no tow truck? We learn she did a couple chapters later, but it seems odd not to mention it then.
Finally, we get some backstory about our hero’s time in the military. When John wakes up in the hospital, he discovers his foot has been amputated and decides he's going to try to walk on it. That's when I decided I'm done. I can buy a lot of unrealistic things, but the dude would be on too many painkillers and would hardly be able to move, but I'm supposed to believe he was actually able to get up and tries to put weight on his raw stump? Nope. I'm done.
This is officially my first "Did Not Finish." I've got too many other things I want to read to waste my time on this ridiculousness. I'm tapping out at 51 percent. I'll probably give the second book in the Hometown Heroes series a try (if it's about Sara and Brae), but if that book isn't a whole lot better, this author is going on my "Do Not Read This Author" list.
*ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
January 5, 2021
This was an alright book with great potential as it could use some more work.
This story is about John, a wounded war veteran, and Vicki, a divorcee. Both of their families urge them to take a chance and find someone. The chemistry between the characters was pretty good and they make a good couple.
This story does end on somewhat of a cliffhanger leaving loose ends.
This story is about John, a wounded war veteran, and Vicki, a divorcee. Both of their families urge them to take a chance and find someone. The chemistry between the characters was pretty good and they make a good couple.
This story does end on somewhat of a cliffhanger leaving loose ends.
May 13, 2017
"Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review"
3.5 stars
I really liked this romantic comedy about high school crushes reconnecting a few years later and read it with pleasure. There’s more foreplay and sensuality/eroticism (lips are so suggestive) than sex and I really enjoyed it.
The main characters – John Lawrence and Vicki Masterson -are realistic and the author, Colleen S. Meyers, manages to dodge stereotypes, a difficult task in romance about youngish couples. Their approach to love and sex is cautious, sometimes timid, and sweet, but very hot. I liked how their youth is really a part of them and infuses their behavior and actions.
The young wounded former Marine issues are convincingly portrayed and the same happens with the sometimes determined, sometimes insecure way he handles them.
Vicki doesn’t take herself too seriously. There were too many things happening to her and she was involved in a series of violent episodes but she took it all in her stride. Her apparent invincibility was a bit over the top.
There are a lot of secondary characters, some of them quirky (Vicki’s grandmother, Bentley), that create an interesting net of affections and possible romances.
I also liked how other types of emotions and feelings, like friendship and familial relationships, are important to the plot.
The dialogue is very good with some funny moments (I’ve learned some pickup lines popular among Marines). There’s some humor in the general tone of the book, sometimes self-reflexive – “His lips were so soft. Softer than they should be. Pillowy. What a stupid word. Velvety? Maybe.” (position 1655, 71%) – that is engaging.
I'm grateful to the publisher, Kindle Press/Barclay Publicity, and NetGalley for providing a free copy.
3.5 stars
I really liked this romantic comedy about high school crushes reconnecting a few years later and read it with pleasure. There’s more foreplay and sensuality/eroticism (lips are so suggestive) than sex and I really enjoyed it.
The main characters – John Lawrence and Vicki Masterson -are realistic and the author, Colleen S. Meyers, manages to dodge stereotypes, a difficult task in romance about youngish couples. Their approach to love and sex is cautious, sometimes timid, and sweet, but very hot. I liked how their youth is really a part of them and infuses their behavior and actions.
The young wounded former Marine issues are convincingly portrayed and the same happens with the sometimes determined, sometimes insecure way he handles them.
Vicki doesn’t take herself too seriously. There were too many things happening to her and she was involved in a series of violent episodes but she took it all in her stride. Her apparent invincibility was a bit over the top.
There are a lot of secondary characters, some of them quirky (Vicki’s grandmother, Bentley), that create an interesting net of affections and possible romances.
I also liked how other types of emotions and feelings, like friendship and familial relationships, are important to the plot.
The dialogue is very good with some funny moments (I’ve learned some pickup lines popular among Marines). There’s some humor in the general tone of the book, sometimes self-reflexive – “His lips were so soft. Softer than they should be. Pillowy. What a stupid word. Velvety? Maybe.” (position 1655, 71%) – that is engaging.
I'm grateful to the publisher, Kindle Press/Barclay Publicity, and NetGalley for providing a free copy.
May 8, 2017
Lacking depth
I could tell the author needed to be done with this book in a hurry. As soon as we were introduced to the background of the character it seemed as though they were rarely talked about again. For being a marine, John didn't seem to have the necessary traits to make a good one. The author wanted Vicki to be a strong heroine- but she just couldn't quite pull it off.
I could tell the author needed to be done with this book in a hurry. As soon as we were introduced to the background of the character it seemed as though they were rarely talked about again. For being a marine, John didn't seem to have the necessary traits to make a good one. The author wanted Vicki to be a strong heroine- but she just couldn't quite pull it off.
August 18, 2017
I read a lot of negative reviews before going into this, so was unsure what I was getting. What I got, was a quick, easy read that had action and romance. It is a storyline that looks it will continue on through the next story at least, but I wouldn't really say a cliff hanger.
The two main characters were fun and very much into each other. The supporting characters seem to be a hoot and there is a lot of room to grow with stories on each one. Definitely will continue the series.
The two main characters were fun and very much into each other. The supporting characters seem to be a hoot and there is a lot of room to grow with stories on each one. Definitely will continue the series.
June 2, 2017
Good book
good book. I think I will read it again. It seemed a little short to me....or maybe I read it too fast lol
good book. I think I will read it again. It seemed a little short to me....or maybe I read it too fast lol
May 17, 2017
There’s a lot of romantic suspense in this one that I didn’t know would be here and I was pleasantly surprised by in this book!
Both John and Vicki have had crushes on each other their entire lives! They shared one kiss before John went off to war. When he returns, he has lost a foot and hates anyone pitying him. Vicki lives in the same apartment complex as him. So there isn’t much that can get past the other. Their relationship starts off shaky and once he gets past his foot, things seem to skyrocket between the two.
They are getting to know each other and John kind of has word vomit and starts with cheesy pick up lines that he and his war buddies would always say! They are hilarious! Here are a few!
But someone is out to get Vicki! And when John is included in the threats, things go really downhill and for me it’s all suspense and action. I loved it! While it seems there is only one suspect, her ex, I knew it couldn’t be that simple! I kept saying yeah he is the one but maybe not, yes, no, ugh! I couldn't be for sure until the end who did it! But trying to figure out who is out to kill Vicki is hard work.
I loved all the characters. They were all different in their own light! I loved the crazy grandmother of Vicki’s. She just cracks me up! I want to be like her when I grow up! Hahaha! Then there are all the rich people and the hard to figure out ex-husband!
I am a sucker for wounded soldiers!
The end? Whoa! I need to get the next story to see what will happen next with Brae! And Flick, I hope he gets his story too! And there is really one creepy chapter in the end! It gave me the heeby jeebies!
Both John and Vicki have had crushes on each other their entire lives! They shared one kiss before John went off to war. When he returns, he has lost a foot and hates anyone pitying him. Vicki lives in the same apartment complex as him. So there isn’t much that can get past the other. Their relationship starts off shaky and once he gets past his foot, things seem to skyrocket between the two.
They are getting to know each other and John kind of has word vomit and starts with cheesy pick up lines that he and his war buddies would always say! They are hilarious! Here are a few!
Do you know karate? Because your body is really kicking.
Do you have a bandage? ‘Cause I just scraped my knee falling for you.
“Which way to the bedroom?” Aw look at that. Men do ask for directions sometimes.
But someone is out to get Vicki! And when John is included in the threats, things go really downhill and for me it’s all suspense and action. I loved it! While it seems there is only one suspect, her ex, I knew it couldn’t be that simple! I kept saying yeah he is the one but maybe not, yes, no, ugh! I couldn't be for sure until the end who did it! But trying to figure out who is out to kill Vicki is hard work.
I loved all the characters. They were all different in their own light! I loved the crazy grandmother of Vicki’s. She just cracks me up! I want to be like her when I grow up! Hahaha! Then there are all the rich people and the hard to figure out ex-husband!
I am a sucker for wounded soldiers!
The end? Whoa! I need to get the next story to see what will happen next with Brae! And Flick, I hope he gets his story too! And there is really one creepy chapter in the end! It gave me the heeby jeebies!
June 11, 2017
I have to start by saying that my favorite character in this novel was Vicki’s grandmother Joonie. She was such a strong and unique character, not to mention absolutely hilarious! I admired Vicki and her perseverance after finding her husband with another woman and then leaving him behind. I absolutely loved everything about John. He was handsome, caring, smart, romantic – just the perfect man wrapped up in a perfect package. I was absolutely rooting for them from the beginning and loved them together.
Early in the novel, you learn that Vicki’s ex-husband isn’t the sweetest guy around, and when strange things start happening to make Vicki feel threatened, it’s easy to suspect David. However, there are several important secondary characters in the novel making it difficult to determine exactly who the “bad guy” is. Nothing is black and white regarding motive or the guilty party, adding a fantastic element to this novel. It’s not simply a romance novel, but touches on the good and bad with family, strained and rekindled friendships, as well as, rebuilding one’s life after negative events.
Unfortunately, I did have issues with the ending of the novel. I felt that the resolution didn’t really come together properly. Several questions remained unanswered and a fairly important event was not mentioned after it happened, leaving me completely puzzled. I believe this is going to be a Hometown Heroes series, but it’s unclear if the second novel will continue with these characters to provide some finality, or if it will focus on new characters.
Overall I loved Whole Again and I am so happy to have read it. Despite my concerns about the ending, I found the story line unique and the characters engaging. Multiple elements were present in this novel making it appealing to fans of a variety of genres, and I look forward to reading book 2 in this series.
*THANKS TO NETGALLEY FOR PROVIDING THIS NOVEL IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.
Early in the novel, you learn that Vicki’s ex-husband isn’t the sweetest guy around, and when strange things start happening to make Vicki feel threatened, it’s easy to suspect David. However, there are several important secondary characters in the novel making it difficult to determine exactly who the “bad guy” is. Nothing is black and white regarding motive or the guilty party, adding a fantastic element to this novel. It’s not simply a romance novel, but touches on the good and bad with family, strained and rekindled friendships, as well as, rebuilding one’s life after negative events.
Unfortunately, I did have issues with the ending of the novel. I felt that the resolution didn’t really come together properly. Several questions remained unanswered and a fairly important event was not mentioned after it happened, leaving me completely puzzled. I believe this is going to be a Hometown Heroes series, but it’s unclear if the second novel will continue with these characters to provide some finality, or if it will focus on new characters.
Overall I loved Whole Again and I am so happy to have read it. Despite my concerns about the ending, I found the story line unique and the characters engaging. Multiple elements were present in this novel making it appealing to fans of a variety of genres, and I look forward to reading book 2 in this series.
*THANKS TO NETGALLEY FOR PROVIDING THIS NOVEL IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW.
May 13, 2017
I simply cannot fathom what was going through the author's mind to have ended this story where she did. It reads as if there is a chapter or two missing at the end. The hero and heroine don't know who the villain is, although the reader does, when it ends. I understand this is book one of the series, but even if the books will not be standalones in the series, some things need to be tidied up for the ending. Here are way too many things left hanging.
Until the ending, even though there are a lot of content editing issues that need to be addressed, I was going to give this four stars for the story and grandmother character, if for nothing else.
At the time this book was published, the author had five additional books published. Given that, I would expect a much better, more polished manuscript. Consistency errors abound throughout as do awkward phrasing and metaphor issues. Even wrong character names are used. This is in need of a good content editor.
While amusing at times, the characters many times exhibit outlandish behavior outside who the characters are supposed to be. There are girlie brawls in clothing stores by a character who seemingly shouldn't be prone to such display, and a CEO of a local firm making a jealousy confrontation in a restaurant where he not only shoves another character into/onto a table but shoves another table's wine onto the floor in a temper tantrum. So yeah, the characters are in need of some serious editorial help.
While the underlying story is a good one, the author needs to learn and practice more basic writing skills to take her work where it should be.
I was provided a copy of this book by the Kindle Scout program.
Until the ending, even though there are a lot of content editing issues that need to be addressed, I was going to give this four stars for the story and grandmother character, if for nothing else.
At the time this book was published, the author had five additional books published. Given that, I would expect a much better, more polished manuscript. Consistency errors abound throughout as do awkward phrasing and metaphor issues. Even wrong character names are used. This is in need of a good content editor.
While amusing at times, the characters many times exhibit outlandish behavior outside who the characters are supposed to be. There are girlie brawls in clothing stores by a character who seemingly shouldn't be prone to such display, and a CEO of a local firm making a jealousy confrontation in a restaurant where he not only shoves another character into/onto a table but shoves another table's wine onto the floor in a temper tantrum. So yeah, the characters are in need of some serious editorial help.
While the underlying story is a good one, the author needs to learn and practice more basic writing skills to take her work where it should be.
I was provided a copy of this book by the Kindle Scout program.
September 26, 2020
(audiobook+ebook) I liked it, but although the narration wasn’t exactly bad, it was dull at times and I’m pretty sure I’d have liked it more as an ebook than as an audiobook.
I love me some veteran coming back home damaged, both physically and mentally. And I especially enjoy when they’re loved anyway–because, let’s face it, everyone deserves to be loved, and that goes for war heroes too. I was a bit disappointed that the focus was mainly on the physical though.
As a second chance romance, it worked well, and it worked even better as a romantic suspense. There’s a real plot here–one not resolved by the end of the book–with threats, violence, and even some deaths. I’m not sure the explanation will be good enough, but at least it kept me on the edge of my seat.
I’m not sure I’ll be reading the next book in the series, but this one was still enjoyable.
Quickie
- Series: Hometown heroes #1 (not a standalone as some plot points stay unresolved)
- Hashtags: #romantic suspense #military romance #small town romance #second chance #rich girl #divorcee #veteran #missing limb
- Triggers: some war events with blood and death, violence and death threats
- Main couple: Vicki Masterson & John Lawrence
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 3/5
- + the suspense aspect was interesting
- – basically, they’re still so much into each other that there’s barely any romancing
I love me some veteran coming back home damaged, both physically and mentally. And I especially enjoy when they’re loved anyway–because, let’s face it, everyone deserves to be loved, and that goes for war heroes too. I was a bit disappointed that the focus was mainly on the physical though.
As a second chance romance, it worked well, and it worked even better as a romantic suspense. There’s a real plot here–one not resolved by the end of the book–with threats, violence, and even some deaths. I’m not sure the explanation will be good enough, but at least it kept me on the edge of my seat.
I’m not sure I’ll be reading the next book in the series, but this one was still enjoyable.
Quickie
- Series: Hometown heroes #1 (not a standalone as some plot points stay unresolved)
- Hashtags: #romantic suspense #military romance #small town romance #second chance #rich girl #divorcee #veteran #missing limb
- Triggers: some war events with blood and death, violence and death threats
- Main couple: Vicki Masterson & John Lawrence
- Hotness: 4/5
- Romance: 3/5
- + the suspense aspect was interesting
- – basically, they’re still so much into each other that there’s barely any romancing
June 8, 2017
John Lawrence has returned from the war missing a foot. He has his friends and he is looking at finishing his MBA applying for an internship at a local business when he runs into Vicki Masterson who he went to high school with. They both have struggles to overcome. Him his foot and her a divorce from not a very nice guy. He wants to go out with and when he catches her in a fib and she realizes that the women she saw at his place was actually someone they went to school with she decides to go out with him. They have more than an attraction to one another and the one kiss they shared in high school is nothing what they share in his apartment. She has no problem with his injuries form the war she is just happy that they have met up again. Now the problem is someone begins to terrorize her and when her car explodes they know now that all of the signs before were not a joke, but who is it? Why are they doing it to her? These are all good questions and will be answered when you read this book. I also liked the supporting characters in this book especially Vicki’s grandmother she was a hoot. Overall a very good book. I got this book from Netgalley.com I gave it 4 stars. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com
June 10, 2017
When I first read the blurb for this I thought this book was going to go one direction. Then when I started reading it, it went in a completely different direction.
I loved the main guy in the story, John. Wounded over seas in Iraq, he's slowly getting his life back together. Vicki was an good female character. She's finally coming into her own after divorcing her husband that cheated on her and being told what to do for most of her life. They knew each other in high school but never acted on their attraction to one another.
Coming into this story I was definitely not expecting being thrown into a plot about someone trying to kill One of the main characters. It didn't bother me that the plot went that way, but at least have a hint of the plot in the blurb. I was looking forward to what I thought I'd be reading, a sweet romance, and was disappointed when it didn't play out that way and got a who's trying to kill me plot instead.
Also the way the bad guy tries to kill Vicki was just so over the top it was too unbelievable for me. There were multiple over the top attempts too, and it just took away from the story for me personally.
All in all it wasn't what I was expecting. However, the side characters were great, and I'll probably read more of the series at some point.
I grabbed this book as a freebie off of Amazon.
I loved the main guy in the story, John. Wounded over seas in Iraq, he's slowly getting his life back together. Vicki was an good female character. She's finally coming into her own after divorcing her husband that cheated on her and being told what to do for most of her life. They knew each other in high school but never acted on their attraction to one another.
Coming into this story I was definitely not expecting being thrown into a plot about someone trying to kill One of the main characters. It didn't bother me that the plot went that way, but at least have a hint of the plot in the blurb. I was looking forward to what I thought I'd be reading, a sweet romance, and was disappointed when it didn't play out that way and got a who's trying to kill me plot instead.
Also the way the bad guy tries to kill Vicki was just so over the top it was too unbelievable for me. There were multiple over the top attempts too, and it just took away from the story for me personally.
All in all it wasn't what I was expecting. However, the side characters were great, and I'll probably read more of the series at some point.
I grabbed this book as a freebie off of Amazon.
January 10, 2020
John, who has loved Vicki since he was 8 years old, meets up with her after his return from Iraq where he lost part of his one leg. This fact he tries to hide from everyone except his closest friends.
Vicki realizes that she is falling in love with him and there are some very amusing scenes when they try to get amorous but keep on being interrupted.
Then there is a pretty hectic mystery to be solved, a car bomb explosion, an ex husband and his mother to contend with, some pretty supportive and sometimes very amusing friends and the outspoken and really lovable grandmother, as well as a bit of heat in this well written and enjoyable book.
It is one of those stories that I personally wished would go on and on - I enjoyed it that much.
Meghan Kelly has done another outstanding narration and brings her amazing repertoire into play with wonderful results.
I love everything about this audiobook and highly recommend it!
I listened to a promotional copy of the audiobook and my unbiased review above is given voluntarily.
Vicki realizes that she is falling in love with him and there are some very amusing scenes when they try to get amorous but keep on being interrupted.
Then there is a pretty hectic mystery to be solved, a car bomb explosion, an ex husband and his mother to contend with, some pretty supportive and sometimes very amusing friends and the outspoken and really lovable grandmother, as well as a bit of heat in this well written and enjoyable book.
It is one of those stories that I personally wished would go on and on - I enjoyed it that much.
Meghan Kelly has done another outstanding narration and brings her amazing repertoire into play with wonderful results.
I love everything about this audiobook and highly recommend it!
I listened to a promotional copy of the audiobook and my unbiased review above is given voluntarily.
July 19, 2017
Wow Colleen Myers writes one classic romance/mystery with a punch! When beginning this book I really thought this was a classic love story. High school friends, who are both crushing on each other but do nothing about it, meet a few years later. He was injured while in the marines and she still reeling from an ugly divorce. They meet and sparks fly. Normal romance right? Wrong as things progress the story shifts, to an exciting mystery. Someone is out to kill Vicki and John might just be in the way. He being a Marine will not give up protecting her even if it kills him. She has absolutely no idea who could be doing this. The twists kept getting me. Every time I thought I figured it out new details emerge! Myers loves leaving cliffhangers. I am not too sure if I like them because I like closure well no closure here...now I am on pins and needles waiting for the next book. Well written!!
September 6, 2020
John Lawrence has loved Vicki Masterson all his life but didn't think it was meant to be. He joined the Marines but is now home with a prosthetic leg and lots of self-doubt. Vicki is recovering from a divorce and has her own self-doubt but also has feelings for John. As they both wind up working for her grandmother's company can they overcome their doubts and build something together. That is if they survive as someone comes after Vicki.
I got a copy of this book free from Hidden Gems in exchange for an honest review. While it was a good book, there were some errors that took away from the storyline for me. Those included mostly grammatical errors and typos but there was also at least one inconsistency. Otherwise, I enjoyed the book and characters for the most part. There were times I wondered at their actions. There's also a bit of a cliffhanger at the ending.
I got a copy of this book free from Hidden Gems in exchange for an honest review. While it was a good book, there were some errors that took away from the storyline for me. Those included mostly grammatical errors and typos but there was also at least one inconsistency. Otherwise, I enjoyed the book and characters for the most part. There were times I wondered at their actions. There's also a bit of a cliffhanger at the ending.
July 23, 2017
Whole Again by Colleen S. Myers is an entertaining contemporary romance. Two old friends have had the biggest crush on each other. Now, one is recently divorced and the other has just returned from war with a prosthetic leg. Each character has struggles to overcome before they can move forward. Insecurities, drama, and danger. Life is complex. Inside Whole Again, there's a brewing romance, risks, fears, and life threatening situations. Colleen S. Myers has created an exciting read from the first page. Never a dull moment. Intriguing, realistic, and heartfelt. Overall, I recommend this novella to all.
September 4, 2020
I received an ARC from Hidden Gems for the promise of an honest review.
It was good. I liked John and Vicki. John is back from being a Marine who lost his foot. Vicki is fresh from a divorce. They knew each other in high school and kissed the night before John left to join the Marines. They never forgot each other. A chance encounter lead to the the rekindling of attraction. You would think this would lead to a HEA but someone is out to kill Vicki. John had sworn to protect her as they hunt to find her potential killer.
I like Ms. Myers writing style. It is easy to read and follow the story. It doesn't take much to figure out who is behind Vicki's trouble but it is an entertaining read.
It was good. I liked John and Vicki. John is back from being a Marine who lost his foot. Vicki is fresh from a divorce. They knew each other in high school and kissed the night before John left to join the Marines. They never forgot each other. A chance encounter lead to the the rekindling of attraction. You would think this would lead to a HEA but someone is out to kill Vicki. John had sworn to protect her as they hunt to find her potential killer.
I like Ms. Myers writing style. It is easy to read and follow the story. It doesn't take much to figure out who is behind Vicki's trouble but it is an entertaining read.
September 21, 2020
The story of John and Vicki was sweet enough. However, I just couldn't get into their characters very well. Perhaps there needed to be more back story. John and Vicki went to high school together. I think John had a lot of friends, but it didn't seem that Vicki did. Vicki came from money and was expected to marry someone of a certain affluence, so she married David.
David was caught cheating on her by Vicki herself, and I wasn't able to get a good read on that whole relationship. She continued to speak to him after they divorced, but insisted she wanted nothing to do with him.
John pined over Vicki ever since high school. He served time in the military and sustained an injury that left him permanently wounded. He went to college and had almost completed his MBA when he reconnected with Vicki.
Their relationship quickly becomes more than friendship. This should have been the main focus of the story, but there was this side story of someone wanting to harm Vicki that didn't seem to make a whole lot of sense to me. And I didn't really feel that situation was really resolved.
I would have liked to know what happened to Vicki's ex-husband and former mother-in-law.
The story was not what I expected, but it was okay.
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
David was caught cheating on her by Vicki herself, and I wasn't able to get a good read on that whole relationship. She continued to speak to him after they divorced, but insisted she wanted nothing to do with him.
John pined over Vicki ever since high school. He served time in the military and sustained an injury that left him permanently wounded. He went to college and had almost completed his MBA when he reconnected with Vicki.
Their relationship quickly becomes more than friendship. This should have been the main focus of the story, but there was this side story of someone wanting to harm Vicki that didn't seem to make a whole lot of sense to me. And I didn't really feel that situation was really resolved.
I would have liked to know what happened to Vicki's ex-husband and former mother-in-law.
The story was not what I expected, but it was okay.
I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 21, 2020
I liked the characters and storyline but was a little disappointed by the ending. The romance between John and Vicki is great and the mystery and suspense is so gripping that I stayed up half the night to finish which is why I feel kind of cheated that there was no resolution on an important part of the plot. This was probably the author's way of providing a chilling twist (and it was!) except that I didn't get closure on that part of the story. I suppose it's possible there will be resolution in the next book but since it's focused on a different couple, it doesn't seem likely. Overall this is an enjoyable read. 3.75 stars.
May 16, 2017
A great second chance love story. Two high school sweethearts who lost their way and both ended up in different direction. He in Iraq where he lost a leg and she was recovering from a divorce. Someone is trying to kill her and he comes back in the picture to protect her while working as an interen at her grandmother's business.. . The spark is rekindled, but does it survive? And is he able to protect her? A well written story with heartwarming characters. Both are wounded in their own way and are they able to become whole again?
April 29, 2020
Audio book review
This is a fabulous book. The author wrote a strong story that has depth, mystery and love .
Hero is John. He’s an ex marine . Heroine is Vicki .
Both John and Vicki get together again after a time of separation .
Vicki needs help trying to find out who’s after her. There is death threats against Vicki and the person slashes her tire . That’s where John comes in. They try to figure it out together. Grab it and find out who and why .
Meghan Kelly performance was beautiful, beyond fantastic. She always nails down the story with her doing all the characters.
This is a fabulous book. The author wrote a strong story that has depth, mystery and love .
Hero is John. He’s an ex marine . Heroine is Vicki .
Both John and Vicki get together again after a time of separation .
Vicki needs help trying to find out who’s after her. There is death threats against Vicki and the person slashes her tire . That’s where John comes in. They try to figure it out together. Grab it and find out who and why .
Meghan Kelly performance was beautiful, beyond fantastic. She always nails down the story with her doing all the characters.
May 29, 2017
Description:
Hometown Heroes Series #1
A second chance romantic suspense novel.
John Lawrence - Disabled Marine injured in Iraq struggling to start a new career with a prosthetic leg.
Vicki Masterson - Recently Divorced. School Girl Crush John never got over.
A light read that has a intriguing plot. With crazy antics & humorous moments to keep you entertained. Supporting characters add a good mix to the story. Ends with a little cliffhangar. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series about Brae & Sara.
Hometown Heroes Series #1
A second chance romantic suspense novel.
John Lawrence - Disabled Marine injured in Iraq struggling to start a new career with a prosthetic leg.
Vicki Masterson - Recently Divorced. School Girl Crush John never got over.
A light read that has a intriguing plot. With crazy antics & humorous moments to keep you entertained. Supporting characters add a good mix to the story. Ends with a little cliffhangar. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series about Brae & Sara.
May 29, 2017
Vicki and John grew up together but have gone their own ways in life. Vicki is now divorced and John has returned home from war with a prosthetic leg. They are both having difficult times in their lives but have now found themselves wondering if they can have a life together.
I love 2nd chance stories and I really enjoyed Whole Again. And I think the title is perfect!
Colleen S. Myers story and characters left me wanting the next book NOW!
I love 2nd chance stories and I really enjoyed Whole Again. And I think the title is perfect!
Colleen S. Myers story and characters left me wanting the next book NOW!
July 6, 2017
Some Reservations.
I received this book through the Kindle Scout Program but it has taken awhile for it to reach the top of my reading list. In addition to being a romance, there is a suspense element and what starts off as seeming harassment quickly escalates. For me with regard to the latter, there were a number of things that seemed illogical (no spoilers). I liked the characters and Joonie (Vicki's grandmother) in particular was a hoot.
Note: Strong language throughout.
I received this book through the Kindle Scout Program but it has taken awhile for it to reach the top of my reading list. In addition to being a romance, there is a suspense element and what starts off as seeming harassment quickly escalates. For me with regard to the latter, there were a number of things that seemed illogical (no spoilers). I liked the characters and Joonie (Vicki's grandmother) in particular was a hoot.
Note: Strong language throughout.
July 26, 2017
I won this book on Goodreads.
I loved this book from the moment I started reading it. I fell in love with Vickie and John almost intently.
This book made me laugh a lot ( Joonie is the best grandmother ever!), it had a lot of twists and turns and was very well written.
Anyone looking for a good laugh and lots of action (not the sexual kind, that that's there too!) needs to read this book.
I can wait to get my hands on the rest of this series when it comes out!
I loved this book from the moment I started reading it. I fell in love with Vickie and John almost intently.
This book made me laugh a lot ( Joonie is the best grandmother ever!), it had a lot of twists and turns and was very well written.
Anyone looking for a good laugh and lots of action (not the sexual kind, that that's there too!) needs to read this book.
I can wait to get my hands on the rest of this series when it comes out!
October 11, 2017
Crazy good read!
I started reading this book thinking it was a typical steamy romance but got soooo much more. The mental conflict, steamy chemistry, laughter, and surprising plot made this a fun nail biter I could not put down. "Grams" was hilarious and the addition of all the side characters that you grow fond of makes this a hopeful series that will not disappoint. I was pleasantly surprised by this book.
I started reading this book thinking it was a typical steamy romance but got soooo much more. The mental conflict, steamy chemistry, laughter, and surprising plot made this a fun nail biter I could not put down. "Grams" was hilarious and the addition of all the side characters that you grow fond of makes this a hopeful series that will not disappoint. I was pleasantly surprised by this book.
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