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Deep in the Heart #1
Hardheaded
Construction tip #1: Never anger a hot-tempered woman who knows how to wield a sledgehammer. And right now, Jill Sadler is spitting mad. Her company is competing on the wildly popular show Texas Dream Home, and she intends to give it her all. The We Nail It Contractors, helmed by the man who once married her…and walked out twenty-four hours later. Jill can’t let Cal Reynolds take this round. Not when she has her foster sisters and years of righteous resentment spurring her on.
Winning the contest would do wonders for Cal’s firm. Getting under Jill’s skin is just a bonus. She paints him as a villain, though Cal had no choice but to leave. Yet being around Jill again—fiery on the outside, vulnerable and warm underneath—is setting off sparks that can’t be blamed on faulty wiring. And the only way to fix the Jill-size hole in his heart is to risk everything and see if this love is built to last…
Winning the contest would do wonders for Cal’s firm. Getting under Jill’s skin is just a bonus. She paints him as a villain, though Cal had no choice but to leave. Yet being around Jill again—fiery on the outside, vulnerable and warm underneath—is setting off sparks that can’t be blamed on faulty wiring. And the only way to fix the Jill-size hole in his heart is to risk everything and see if this love is built to last…
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2017
924 people are currently reading
553 people want to read
About the author
Kim Law
31 books836 followersKim Law is an award-winning bestselling author of contemporary romance. Kim writes epic love stories with heart, heat, and happily ever afters. Her novels are set mostly in small towns and contain a fun mix of drama, family & friends, and laughter. 😊 Her most recent release is Caught off Guard.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
November 2, 2017
The premise of three foster sisters, Jill, Trenton and Heather, owning and working in a construction company drew my attention.
However, it took me awhile to get into the book. It starts out really slow. There are a lot of interactions between the foster sisters in the beginning. I suppose it was necessary to show how close they are. And that definitely comes through. These three girls ended up on foster mom Aunt Blu’s doorstep after tragedies in their lives. The three are within a year’s age of each other. Once eighteen, they flew the coop to find their own way. They failed in their individual quests, came back home to Aunt Blu, and established Bluebonnet Construction.
Cal Reynolds took over his uncle’s construction company, We Nail It Contractors. It is very successful in Red Oak Falls, the small town they live in, and big competition for Bluebonnet Construction. Cal is also Jill’s ex. It took a long time to get the back story on these two, and it comes out in bits and pieces.
Aunt Blu enters Bluebonnet Construction in a house renovating contest. And their competition is none other than We Nail It Contractors. Lots of interaction between the film crew with Cal and Jill individually and between Cal and his uncle.
It took until almost halfway into the book for these two to let down their walls and begin interacting. Jill carries around a lot of anger and Cal uses his charm to get around answering too many questions. There were many issues between these two and communication wasn’t their forte for most of the book.
I have mixed feelings about this book. Definitely not my favorite from this author. I am curious about the other two women and I want to see how Cal and Jill are able to make it work.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the author.
However, it took me awhile to get into the book. It starts out really slow. There are a lot of interactions between the foster sisters in the beginning. I suppose it was necessary to show how close they are. And that definitely comes through. These three girls ended up on foster mom Aunt Blu’s doorstep after tragedies in their lives. The three are within a year’s age of each other. Once eighteen, they flew the coop to find their own way. They failed in their individual quests, came back home to Aunt Blu, and established Bluebonnet Construction.
Cal Reynolds took over his uncle’s construction company, We Nail It Contractors. It is very successful in Red Oak Falls, the small town they live in, and big competition for Bluebonnet Construction. Cal is also Jill’s ex. It took a long time to get the back story on these two, and it comes out in bits and pieces.
Aunt Blu enters Bluebonnet Construction in a house renovating contest. And their competition is none other than We Nail It Contractors. Lots of interaction between the film crew with Cal and Jill individually and between Cal and his uncle.
It took until almost halfway into the book for these two to let down their walls and begin interacting. Jill carries around a lot of anger and Cal uses his charm to get around answering too many questions. There were many issues between these two and communication wasn’t their forte for most of the book.
I have mixed feelings about this book. Definitely not my favorite from this author. I am curious about the other two women and I want to see how Cal and Jill are able to make it work.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC provided by NetGalley and the author.
November 27, 2017
Hardheaded is the first book of Deep in the Heart series and focuses on women empowerment, sisterhood, love, and second chances. Blue Bonnet Construction is owned by three sisters and mainly consist of women employees. Struggling to compete with other construction businesses, they enter a TV reality show in hopes for more exposure and business.This installment focuses on Jill, one of the three foster sisters who owns Blue Bonnet. Unfortunately, this show will ensure spending time with her ex-husband of twenty-four hours. Their relationship did not end well and they have not spoken in years. Yes, there are many things left unsaid but this show will give them a chance to hash things out...in a matter of speaking.
Just as any Kim Law novels, I was automatically drawn to the characters in this book. Specifically, Jill who’s had a rough young life and made a few mistakes, but obviously grown up and have learned to be a mature and a responsible woman. It was a treat to see her get her life back and ultimately getting a second chance that she desperately deserves.
Though it took some time for me to warm up to Cal, I did realize later that he deserves his second chance at a HEA too. Like Jill, he also had his issues that prevented him to fully commit. I did end up like him in the end. He had secrets that revealed his true feelings and I thought he was very sweet.
Ms. Law doesn’t just focus on the main characters. She takes the time to build the secondary characters which make the book even more appealing. Blu for one, an amazing lady who has done amazing things for her foster kids. And my favorite, the previous owner of one of the project house. She scared me a little in the beginning but by the end of the story, she had won my heart.
I love the HGTV theme in this novel and I love that it rooted from the author's experience with her own home construction. I love that she mentioned it at the end of the book. I’m truly excited to get more of this series. Good job, Ms. Law!
*ARC provided by author
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October 4, 2017
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....
I'm so glad that I started reading Kim Law. I've found that I've been really enjoying her books. Of the ones that I've read, I haven't found one that I didn't like.
Hard Headed is the start of a new series. I think you are just going to love the story line. I know I did. Not a huge fan of second chance romances and I've found that many of the authors I've been reading lately have book doing them. Because I enjoy so many of those authors I kinda had no choice but to try the stories.
Right away the author had me hooked when I found out that the characters were going to be on a home make-over reality show! What fun!!! I couldn't wait to see what was going to happen. I kinda have a thing for these kinds of shows so I was all for it. Plus the all female owned business of construction workers called to me. Then add two people on apposing teams that don't like each other!
Oh boy were we in for it!
You quickly realize that there is something between Jill and Cal. Did I mention that I often don't read blurbs? I like to go into a story cold. Since I didn't read it I didn't know much about the characters, which means I truly was enjoying it as it happened.
I usually like the hero more then the heroine (shocking right?) but in this case I didn't. I kinda couldn't stand him at first. I think it was because you knew something had happened between them but the author at first kept it hidden. I need to get into the story more to learn what it was but from Cal's thoughts he was turning me off a little.
As the story went on and I learned more about the two main characters I found my first impressions changing. I stopped thinking that Cal was a dick and learned that there was two sides of every story. This is why I love reading romances. So much going on!
In the end I was so happy that I read Hard Headed and can't wait for the next stories in the series. You'll love both Heather, Trenton and aunt Blu. I have a feeling there is more fun to come!
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ARC received for a honest review
I'm so glad that I started reading Kim Law. I've found that I've been really enjoying her books. Of the ones that I've read, I haven't found one that I didn't like.
Hard Headed is the start of a new series. I think you are just going to love the story line. I know I did. Not a huge fan of second chance romances and I've found that many of the authors I've been reading lately have book doing them. Because I enjoy so many of those authors I kinda had no choice but to try the stories.
Right away the author had me hooked when I found out that the characters were going to be on a home make-over reality show! What fun!!! I couldn't wait to see what was going to happen. I kinda have a thing for these kinds of shows so I was all for it. Plus the all female owned business of construction workers called to me. Then add two people on apposing teams that don't like each other!
Oh boy were we in for it!
You quickly realize that there is something between Jill and Cal. Did I mention that I often don't read blurbs? I like to go into a story cold. Since I didn't read it I didn't know much about the characters, which means I truly was enjoying it as it happened.
I usually like the hero more then the heroine (shocking right?) but in this case I didn't. I kinda couldn't stand him at first. I think it was because you knew something had happened between them but the author at first kept it hidden. I need to get into the story more to learn what it was but from Cal's thoughts he was turning me off a little.
As the story went on and I learned more about the two main characters I found my first impressions changing. I stopped thinking that Cal was a dick and learned that there was two sides of every story. This is why I love reading romances. So much going on!
In the end I was so happy that I read Hard Headed and can't wait for the next stories in the series. You'll love both Heather, Trenton and aunt Blu. I have a feeling there is more fun to come!
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ARC received for a honest review
June 7, 2018
it's an ok story. I needed a brain break after the behavioral econ escapade! I'd do 2.5 stars if I could, good reads needs to give us some decimal options!
October 12, 2017
This is the first book in a new series for Kim. I knew a bit about the book going into it, the female construction company and that made me want to read it more than anything. I love tough women that can handle themselves and stand on their own two feet.
So we meet Bluebonnet Construction. Made up of 3 foster sisters: Jill, Heather and Trenton. All raised by Aunt Blu. They do have other female employees and they also have been raised by Aunt Blu. They live in Red Oak Falls Texas and are well known for building she-sheds. They love what they do and would love to expand but still want to make people happy.
There is another construction company in town called U Nailed It. Run by Cal Reynolds. They always get the jobs that Bluebonnet bids on. Cal Reynolds is known for his charm and happens to be Jill's ex-husband. Mind you they were only married for 24 hours before Cal left Jill in Hollywood and headed back home to Red Oak Falls. They haven't spoken in 12 years either.
Aunt Blu signs the girls company up for a reality T.V. show in their town. They are picked to do it and their competition is none other than U Nailed It. Each company has to renovate a house in 6 weeks. Then they will be judged and the winner will be picked.
The book leads us through this competition, so many things happen. Jill and Cal deal with each other. There is a ghost living in one of the houses. (I loved this part) There is anger, hurt feelings, laughter and tears. Jill and Cal will learn a lot about themselves and why things happened the way they did, they will also learn that the past has to be dealt with before you can move into the future. There is a lot of emotional baggage for these two to sift through. They have to grow and figure what they want. And do a lot of it while cameras are rolling.
When I first started reading this book I felt like it was moving slow, and I was worried since I have loved everything that Kim has written so far. But I figured out that it was my fault for reading it when I was too tired. I started it over the next day and was so happy to be reading it. Kim always gives us so much heart, emotion and touching stories. This one is definitely a winner in my book. I am waiting to see what she does with the other girls, it should be fun.
“I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.”
So we meet Bluebonnet Construction. Made up of 3 foster sisters: Jill, Heather and Trenton. All raised by Aunt Blu. They do have other female employees and they also have been raised by Aunt Blu. They live in Red Oak Falls Texas and are well known for building she-sheds. They love what they do and would love to expand but still want to make people happy.
There is another construction company in town called U Nailed It. Run by Cal Reynolds. They always get the jobs that Bluebonnet bids on. Cal Reynolds is known for his charm and happens to be Jill's ex-husband. Mind you they were only married for 24 hours before Cal left Jill in Hollywood and headed back home to Red Oak Falls. They haven't spoken in 12 years either.
Aunt Blu signs the girls company up for a reality T.V. show in their town. They are picked to do it and their competition is none other than U Nailed It. Each company has to renovate a house in 6 weeks. Then they will be judged and the winner will be picked.
The book leads us through this competition, so many things happen. Jill and Cal deal with each other. There is a ghost living in one of the houses. (I loved this part) There is anger, hurt feelings, laughter and tears. Jill and Cal will learn a lot about themselves and why things happened the way they did, they will also learn that the past has to be dealt with before you can move into the future. There is a lot of emotional baggage for these two to sift through. They have to grow and figure what they want. And do a lot of it while cameras are rolling.
When I first started reading this book I felt like it was moving slow, and I was worried since I have loved everything that Kim has written so far. But I figured out that it was my fault for reading it when I was too tired. I started it over the next day and was so happy to be reading it. Kim always gives us so much heart, emotion and touching stories. This one is definitely a winner in my book. I am waiting to see what she does with the other girls, it should be fun.
“I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.”
November 1, 2017
Hardheaded, Deep in the Heart Book 1, Kim Law
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: General fiction (adult), Romance
I usually love Montlake books, so it came as a bit of a shock that though I liked this book, that was all :-(
Its a good story, has some terrific characters ( I especially liked Little and Big Red!), and the premise of the show added a different edge.
Its just that somehow for me the whole thing failed to really gel, I didn't really ever feel the settings of the characters were real. That's so important to me, I read to get lose in another world, to lose this life for a while and immerse myself in another.
Here though I just always felt like an onlooker, so though I enjoyed the story, when I reached the end I didn't feel sad, didn't miss characters I'd come to love, and I know its a story that's a one time read only for me.
I can't really explain why I feel this way. Its possibly that all the characters were so nice, and I use that word deliberately. There wasn't any nastiness, jealousies, the closest it got was Marci ( I think that was her name ) calling Jill a two-bit orphan, or something along those lines.
With all these "good" characters there wasn't any friction, and for me that makes a book.
I love it when sparks fly, I love some genuine temper. Though Jill flipped a couple of times it wasn't as if she didn't have provocation, and that's the only hint of any real drama I felt.
The issues between Jill and Cal were really storm-in-a-teacup, and I just couldn't see how they were so at odds about what the other wanted, how the other felt when they were supposed to be so close, so in love. Yes they were young when they married but did they ever actually talk to each other?
I just couldn't see things would play out as they did and it didn't feel right.
Stars: Three, a decent read, but lacked real emotion and drama for me.
ARC supplied for review purposes by Netgalley and Publishers
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: General fiction (adult), Romance
I usually love Montlake books, so it came as a bit of a shock that though I liked this book, that was all :-(
Its a good story, has some terrific characters ( I especially liked Little and Big Red!), and the premise of the show added a different edge.
Its just that somehow for me the whole thing failed to really gel, I didn't really ever feel the settings of the characters were real. That's so important to me, I read to get lose in another world, to lose this life for a while and immerse myself in another.
Here though I just always felt like an onlooker, so though I enjoyed the story, when I reached the end I didn't feel sad, didn't miss characters I'd come to love, and I know its a story that's a one time read only for me.
I can't really explain why I feel this way. Its possibly that all the characters were so nice, and I use that word deliberately. There wasn't any nastiness, jealousies, the closest it got was Marci ( I think that was her name ) calling Jill a two-bit orphan, or something along those lines.
With all these "good" characters there wasn't any friction, and for me that makes a book.
I love it when sparks fly, I love some genuine temper. Though Jill flipped a couple of times it wasn't as if she didn't have provocation, and that's the only hint of any real drama I felt.
The issues between Jill and Cal were really storm-in-a-teacup, and I just couldn't see how they were so at odds about what the other wanted, how the other felt when they were supposed to be so close, so in love. Yes they were young when they married but did they ever actually talk to each other?
I just couldn't see things would play out as they did and it didn't feel right.
Stars: Three, a decent read, but lacked real emotion and drama for me.
ARC supplied for review purposes by Netgalley and Publishers
October 30, 2017
Hardheaded is kind of ripped from the reality TV headlines! We all know about cable TV shows taking on home improvement. Well, Hardheaded is all about that and more!
This is the first book in the new series, Deep in the Heart. Bluebonnet Construction is run by three women, who were foster sisters, Jill, Trenton, and Heather. Their former foster mother enters them into a TV reality show, Texas Dream Home, and they’re chosen to be on the show. Their competition will be, We Nail It Contractors, a company that is owned by Jill’s ex-husband, Cal. Talk about AWKWARD! Of course, the producers of the show want to see lots of conflict between Jill and Cal, and they sometimes get that! It’s difficult to work through personal issues, when you’ve got a TV camera in your face!
The author takes us through, anger management issues, abandonment issues, and others. The characters are well thought out and believable. Although second chance tropes aren’t my favorite, this one is made believable since Jill and Cal were only married for 24 hours! I can’t wait for Heather and Trenton’s books!
I was an ‘accidental’ Kim Law fan. I won a book on a FB contest and that was it! I subsequently went out and bought her whole back list and look forward to her new titles!
This is the first book in the new series, Deep in the Heart. Bluebonnet Construction is run by three women, who were foster sisters, Jill, Trenton, and Heather. Their former foster mother enters them into a TV reality show, Texas Dream Home, and they’re chosen to be on the show. Their competition will be, We Nail It Contractors, a company that is owned by Jill’s ex-husband, Cal. Talk about AWKWARD! Of course, the producers of the show want to see lots of conflict between Jill and Cal, and they sometimes get that! It’s difficult to work through personal issues, when you’ve got a TV camera in your face!
The author takes us through, anger management issues, abandonment issues, and others. The characters are well thought out and believable. Although second chance tropes aren’t my favorite, this one is made believable since Jill and Cal were only married for 24 hours! I can’t wait for Heather and Trenton’s books!
I was an ‘accidental’ Kim Law fan. I won a book on a FB contest and that was it! I subsequently went out and bought her whole back list and look forward to her new titles!
October 29, 2017
This is a slow read for me. It takes some getting into the story. The characters are defined but lacking in that quality that just grabs you from page one.
The backstory is there and the believe-ability is there but just not the heart of the characters which is unusual for Kim Law.
You have two hard headed, stubborn people that have been hurt by family. As they deal with becoming adults and how they want to be seen. What you don't get until about two thirds into the book is the why they are like they are to each other. Once you have that the rest just falls into place but by then you are just really.
Don't get me wrong, some of you will say nah it is a great book and i enjoyed it and they could be right. I am just use to seeing the characters grab me from page one and not let me go until I have read their story and root for them.
I did get to that point about two-thirds into the book. and let me tell you. I was hoping Jill would kick Cal's butt good and proper. For two people to know as much about each other they were so clueless as to what the other really wanted and needed. When they finally figured it out it was too late or was it..
You read the book for yourself and decide.
The backstory is there and the believe-ability is there but just not the heart of the characters which is unusual for Kim Law.
You have two hard headed, stubborn people that have been hurt by family. As they deal with becoming adults and how they want to be seen. What you don't get until about two thirds into the book is the why they are like they are to each other. Once you have that the rest just falls into place but by then you are just really.
Don't get me wrong, some of you will say nah it is a great book and i enjoyed it and they could be right. I am just use to seeing the characters grab me from page one and not let me go until I have read their story and root for them.
I did get to that point about two-thirds into the book. and let me tell you. I was hoping Jill would kick Cal's butt good and proper. For two people to know as much about each other they were so clueless as to what the other really wanted and needed. When they finally figured it out it was too late or was it..
You read the book for yourself and decide.
November 11, 2017
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
3.5* stars
This is the first book in a new series, and I am looking forward to future installments. There is something rather hopeful about second chance romances, and this is no exception, although I wasn't convinced it would for quite a while - wow, stubbornness can slow things down!
I rather liked the tv show basis to the story, as it made us viewers as well. Getting some elements told whilst filming adding an degree of funny/angst to the tale. There some really funny moments from the sisters. Although we get both sides of the story, I was very uncertain as to whether I could grow to like Cal, thankfully it all worked out in the end. Just took a while to convince me, I guess.
For a low anxiety, fun and romantic second chance story, this makes for good reading - be patient in the beginning, and it will all work out in the end.
3.5* stars
This is the first book in a new series, and I am looking forward to future installments. There is something rather hopeful about second chance romances, and this is no exception, although I wasn't convinced it would for quite a while - wow, stubbornness can slow things down!
I rather liked the tv show basis to the story, as it made us viewers as well. Getting some elements told whilst filming adding an degree of funny/angst to the tale. There some really funny moments from the sisters. Although we get both sides of the story, I was very uncertain as to whether I could grow to like Cal, thankfully it all worked out in the end. Just took a while to convince me, I guess.
For a low anxiety, fun and romantic second chance story, this makes for good reading - be patient in the beginning, and it will all work out in the end.
October 27, 2017
This was a very enjoyable story about a TV competition between two construction companies renovating a house each to win the best house prize, and a second chance at a lost love.
Jill owns Bluebonnet Construction, along with her two foster sisters, Trenton and Heather. Their foster Mother, Blu, entered them for the Texas Dream Home contest without them knowing, and they actually get picked! Unfortunately they then find out the competition is We Nail It Contractors, owned and run by Jill's ex-husband, Cal. Jill and Cal were only married 24 hours before he left her and came home. Jill then went off to LA for 6 years, eventually coming home, where she proceeded to completely ignore Cal since then.
Of course the production crew were waiting for tempers to fly between hot-headed Jill and Call all the time, and being in such close proximity it certainly wasn't dull! I really liked the setting for the story, a Texas town, and the foster sister back story - there was even a really lovely story about a ghost in one of the houses. Very entertaining, easy-reading book. I look forward to reading all about Heather and Trenton's stories in the future.
Jill owns Bluebonnet Construction, along with her two foster sisters, Trenton and Heather. Their foster Mother, Blu, entered them for the Texas Dream Home contest without them knowing, and they actually get picked! Unfortunately they then find out the competition is We Nail It Contractors, owned and run by Jill's ex-husband, Cal. Jill and Cal were only married 24 hours before he left her and came home. Jill then went off to LA for 6 years, eventually coming home, where she proceeded to completely ignore Cal since then.
Of course the production crew were waiting for tempers to fly between hot-headed Jill and Call all the time, and being in such close proximity it certainly wasn't dull! I really liked the setting for the story, a Texas town, and the foster sister back story - there was even a really lovely story about a ghost in one of the houses. Very entertaining, easy-reading book. I look forward to reading all about Heather and Trenton's stories in the future.
October 15, 2017
I adore the The Wildes of Birch Bay series, so was very eager to read more from the author, the begining of a new series and excited to receive an advanced copy from the author for an honest review. While the Birch Bay series dealt with Narcissistic Personality Disorder and how it affects not only the person afflicted with it, but also the family members, in this book, the main character has anger management issues, from past hurts by people who were suppose to love her and guilt. AS in all the author's books, the characters are richly developed. After Blu Johnson, lost her husband and three children in a car wreck, she started fostering girls at her farm, Bluebonnet Farms, teaching them construction along the way. The first three girls were Jill Sanders, Heather and Trenton. As they reached adulthood, they went their separate ways, but eventually came back to Red Oak Falls and created a construction company, Bluebonnet Construction. They have filled a niche, building small hide-a-ways for woman, but they want to expand. However, every larger job they bid for seems to go to We Nail It Constructors, owned by Jill's ex. They were only married for 24 hours, before he left her in Vegas and she took off for Hollywood. Since she came back, she has refused to speak to him, burning with a hatred, that one can only feel for someone they also love. Blu entered them in a reality show, Texas Dream Home and now they are competing against We Nail It. Can these two get over their anger with each other, knocking down the walls around their hearts and reclaim the love they still have? There's even a ghost in the story. What more can you ask for?
November 6, 2017
Hardheaded (Deep in the Heart #1) by Kim Law
4 stars
M/F Second chance romance
Triggers: Suicide, Adoption, Alcoholism, Anger issues
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
This is a sweet story about coming home, being happy and letting things go.
I will admit that at first, this was hard for me to really get in to. However, I am glad that I stuck with it, because despite all of the blunders and hardheadedness in the story, it turned out to be a great story about forgiving, love and moving forward.
We are given glimpses of what was before - the kind of relationship that Jill and Cal had when they were young, in love and thought nothing could go wrong. The way that the story was written, I liked that we were given just snippets. I found myself looking forward to seeing what happened next.
Jill and Cal both have major issues that they need to work through.
I really hated Cal during parts of this story. He made me cry for Jill's sake. However, the secondary characters in this book, especially Jill's sisters were hilarious and pushy and I really enjoyed how they shaped the story.
The competitive nature of all of the characters helped push the storyline along and in the end, I really liked how it turned out.
I hope the other sisters get their turn!
4 stars
M/F Second chance romance
Triggers: Suicide, Adoption, Alcoholism, Anger issues
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
This is a sweet story about coming home, being happy and letting things go.
I will admit that at first, this was hard for me to really get in to. However, I am glad that I stuck with it, because despite all of the blunders and hardheadedness in the story, it turned out to be a great story about forgiving, love and moving forward.
We are given glimpses of what was before - the kind of relationship that Jill and Cal had when they were young, in love and thought nothing could go wrong. The way that the story was written, I liked that we were given just snippets. I found myself looking forward to seeing what happened next.
Jill and Cal both have major issues that they need to work through.
I really hated Cal during parts of this story. He made me cry for Jill's sake. However, the secondary characters in this book, especially Jill's sisters were hilarious and pushy and I really enjoyed how they shaped the story.
The competitive nature of all of the characters helped push the storyline along and in the end, I really liked how it turned out.
I hope the other sisters get their turn!
October 30, 2017
Girl Power, with an all girl construction company, Bluebonnet Construction which is owned by three foster sisters, Jill, Trenton and Heather. Their foster mom has entered them into a TV reality show. where their competition is Jill's ex husband Cal's, company, We Nail It Contractors. Lots of conflict and banter between Jill and Cal, will keep you turning the pages.
A second chance romance between Jill and Cal, since their first marriage only lasted for 24 hours with a misunderstanding. Loved how Jill was so strong. while working through her abandonment and anger issues.
A great start to a new series, loved the secondary characters. Can't wait to read their stories. I highly recommend this story.
A second chance romance between Jill and Cal, since their first marriage only lasted for 24 hours with a misunderstanding. Loved how Jill was so strong. while working through her abandonment and anger issues.
A great start to a new series, loved the secondary characters. Can't wait to read their stories. I highly recommend this story.
September 29, 2017
4 1/2 Star Review.....
This was my first read by Kim Law, and so thoroughly enjoyable.
Great characters, a fabulous storyline and some exceptionally quirky parts that made me constantly chuckle out load. Cal’s conversations will Lily were one of the highlights for me, as you don’t often find a hard-working construction guy, who talks to his cat!
Jill is a take no prisoners’ type of gal, and her history with Cal was always destined to make fiery reading. I loved this story and can’t wait to read what comes next in the series. Basically, a great first book!
This was my first read by Kim Law, and so thoroughly enjoyable.
Great characters, a fabulous storyline and some exceptionally quirky parts that made me constantly chuckle out load. Cal’s conversations will Lily were one of the highlights for me, as you don’t often find a hard-working construction guy, who talks to his cat!
Jill is a take no prisoners’ type of gal, and her history with Cal was always destined to make fiery reading. I loved this story and can’t wait to read what comes next in the series. Basically, a great first book!
July 7, 2020
Hardheaded is a really good second chance love story. Talk about having your work cut out for you. Jill Sadler and Cal Reynolds were once married. Unfortunately, the marriage only lasted for 24 hours, with Cal leaving over a misunderstanding. Now the two find themselves competing against each other on the reality show Texas Dream Home.
All's fair in love and war as these two go at it on and off camera. I loved the banter between these two.
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it.**
All's fair in love and war as these two go at it on and off camera. I loved the banter between these two.
**Received a copy from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed it.**
October 23, 2017
I received a free advanced copy of this book from the publisher. This is my unbiased voluntary review.
Kim Law has done it again. She has provided her readers with another outstanding story with the most heartfelt characters you will ever find. First of all, there’s Aunt Blu with her pearls of wisdom. Then you have Jill and Cal, competing for the best makeover of two homes all while being filmed every minute of the day. Since they were married and divorced within 24 hours you could say without a doubt there is some history and bad blood between the two. It made for a great story from one of the best storytellers of our day. Thank you, Kim, for another great story. Looking forward to the next one in the series.
Kim Law has done it again. She has provided her readers with another outstanding story with the most heartfelt characters you will ever find. First of all, there’s Aunt Blu with her pearls of wisdom. Then you have Jill and Cal, competing for the best makeover of two homes all while being filmed every minute of the day. Since they were married and divorced within 24 hours you could say without a doubt there is some history and bad blood between the two. It made for a great story from one of the best storytellers of our day. Thank you, Kim, for another great story. Looking forward to the next one in the series.
June 4, 2018
This book is a first in a new series about foster sisters. This is Jill’s story.
I was drawn to it by the setting —- a home improvement tv show. I love HGTV. Heehee. Plot wise: there are some funny moments, tear-inducing scenes, and heart-tugging feels in the story. Sometimes, however, I found a few parts to be dragging. And if I were in a bitchy mood, I’d probably be annoyed at some of the MC’s behavior (both H and h). But I didn’t let myself get nit picky and just kept reading.
All that said, at it’s heart, this second chance romance is about forgiveness and family.
I was drawn to it by the setting —- a home improvement tv show. I love HGTV. Heehee. Plot wise: there are some funny moments, tear-inducing scenes, and heart-tugging feels in the story. Sometimes, however, I found a few parts to be dragging. And if I were in a bitchy mood, I’d probably be annoyed at some of the MC’s behavior (both H and h). But I didn’t let myself get nit picky and just kept reading.
All that said, at it’s heart, this second chance romance is about forgiveness and family.
January 2, 2018
I received a copy of this book as a Goodreads giveaway. This was a cute story. If you enjoy the TV shows where houses are rehabbed and lighthearted romance, this book is for you! The story was sweet and the characters were likable right away. Jill and her foster sisters started an all-female construction company. They become fairly well known for their she-sheds, but want to be considered a contender for larger home remodeling and building projects as well. Jill's foster mother Blu enters their company into a contest to be on a TV show to rehab a local home. Jill's ex-husband's construction company is selected as their competitor. Sparks fly. It was a great read.
October 30, 2017
Kim Law is one of my favorite authors, and once again she knocked it out of the park with her new novel, Hardheaded. Hardheaded is the first book in the Deep in the Heart series. This is a story that is filled with an interesting storyline, and a cast of characters that are as unique as they are intriguing. Hardheaded is a story about three foster sisters...Jill, Heather and Trenton, and their foster mother, Aunt Blu. Even though this story lays the groundwork about these three women, this is really Jill's story...and what an amazing story it is! The best thing about reading the first book in a new series is knowing there will be more novels to follow. The second book in the series, Softhearted, is expected to be released on April 10, 2018.
Jill, Heather and Trenton have been trying to find a way to compete in a field predominantly run by men...the construction business. Bluebonnet Construction is their business, and at the moment, they are known as Queens of the She-Sheds..."sheds" built by women, for women. If only they could find a way to prove to people that they are just as good as any construction company run by men...that is what they need to do in order for people to take them seriously. Everything begins to change when Aunt Blu informs them that she entered them in a contest to appear on the hit television show, Texas Dream Home. The three women are skeptical at first, but quickly warm to the idea and realize that this just might be the big break that they have been looking for.
Cal Reynolds, owner of We Nail It Contractors, never applied to be a contestant on Texas Dream Home. Truth be told, the producers sought him out, and after thinking it over, he decided the free publicity would be great for his company. The fact that he would be competing against his ex-wife's company on the show was the icing on the cake for him. He has known from the start that he would be competing against Bluebonnet Construction, however, Jill had no clue until the filming was due to start. Cal witnesses firsthand the exact moment when Jill realizes that he is her competition. He was looking forward to this day...until he saw her reaction.
I honestly want to go into more details, but I do not want to ruin any part of this awesome story. Kim Law, once again, beautifully weaves together this amazing story with a well-developed cast of characters. The end result of her vivid and descriptive storytelling skills will hold you captive from beginning to end. The author tells both sides of the story in regards to the short-lived marriage, giving insight into the views of Jill, as well as Cal. I felt the show was a bit deceptive for not telling Bluebonnet Construction who their competition would be, but then again, as in real life, it is always about the ratings! The three women are as different as night and day, but their bond is unbreakable, and they always have each other's backs...no matter what. Aunt Blu is a force to be reckoned with...and a character you will easily love and respect at the same time. She has a heart of gold, but is no soft touch. She made sure these three girls/women learned how to survive in a man's world, and taught them as much as she possibly could. This is the reason why the women started their own the construction business...skills that they were taught by Aunt Blu when they were younger.
Cal is a complex character, one that initially sets out to put Jill in her place, but his reactions speak otherwise. The satisfaction he expected to feel is replaced by a confusing mix of emotions once he actually sees the way Jill reacts to the news of his company being her competition. It is obvious that both Cal and Jill have many unresolved feelings, and following their journey was definitely fascinating!
Overall, this is an extremely well-written kickoff to a new series that is guaranteed to not disappoint! This is a story filled with laughter and tears, heart and emotion, and plenty of emotional baggage to add to the storyline. The other focus of this story is the bond between family. Family is not just people bound to you by blood, as the characters prove to us through this heartwarming story. This book has quickly become one of my favorites, and I am hoping that it will become one of yours as well! Now I will be patiently waiting for Softhearted (the second book in the Deep in the Heart series) to be released on April 10, 2018.
I would like to thank Kim Law, as well as Montlake Romance and NetGalley, for allowing me the opportunity to read and review this wonderful book. My views are my own and are in no way influenced by anyone else.
Jill, Heather and Trenton have been trying to find a way to compete in a field predominantly run by men...the construction business. Bluebonnet Construction is their business, and at the moment, they are known as Queens of the She-Sheds..."sheds" built by women, for women. If only they could find a way to prove to people that they are just as good as any construction company run by men...that is what they need to do in order for people to take them seriously. Everything begins to change when Aunt Blu informs them that she entered them in a contest to appear on the hit television show, Texas Dream Home. The three women are skeptical at first, but quickly warm to the idea and realize that this just might be the big break that they have been looking for.
Cal Reynolds, owner of We Nail It Contractors, never applied to be a contestant on Texas Dream Home. Truth be told, the producers sought him out, and after thinking it over, he decided the free publicity would be great for his company. The fact that he would be competing against his ex-wife's company on the show was the icing on the cake for him. He has known from the start that he would be competing against Bluebonnet Construction, however, Jill had no clue until the filming was due to start. Cal witnesses firsthand the exact moment when Jill realizes that he is her competition. He was looking forward to this day...until he saw her reaction.
I honestly want to go into more details, but I do not want to ruin any part of this awesome story. Kim Law, once again, beautifully weaves together this amazing story with a well-developed cast of characters. The end result of her vivid and descriptive storytelling skills will hold you captive from beginning to end. The author tells both sides of the story in regards to the short-lived marriage, giving insight into the views of Jill, as well as Cal. I felt the show was a bit deceptive for not telling Bluebonnet Construction who their competition would be, but then again, as in real life, it is always about the ratings! The three women are as different as night and day, but their bond is unbreakable, and they always have each other's backs...no matter what. Aunt Blu is a force to be reckoned with...and a character you will easily love and respect at the same time. She has a heart of gold, but is no soft touch. She made sure these three girls/women learned how to survive in a man's world, and taught them as much as she possibly could. This is the reason why the women started their own the construction business...skills that they were taught by Aunt Blu when they were younger.
Cal is a complex character, one that initially sets out to put Jill in her place, but his reactions speak otherwise. The satisfaction he expected to feel is replaced by a confusing mix of emotions once he actually sees the way Jill reacts to the news of his company being her competition. It is obvious that both Cal and Jill have many unresolved feelings, and following their journey was definitely fascinating!
Overall, this is an extremely well-written kickoff to a new series that is guaranteed to not disappoint! This is a story filled with laughter and tears, heart and emotion, and plenty of emotional baggage to add to the storyline. The other focus of this story is the bond between family. Family is not just people bound to you by blood, as the characters prove to us through this heartwarming story. This book has quickly become one of my favorites, and I am hoping that it will become one of yours as well! Now I will be patiently waiting for Softhearted (the second book in the Deep in the Heart series) to be released on April 10, 2018.
I would like to thank Kim Law, as well as Montlake Romance and NetGalley, for allowing me the opportunity to read and review this wonderful book. My views are my own and are in no way influenced by anyone else.
November 1, 2017
Sometimes a brash exterior hides a vulnerable jewel underneath in both houses and humans. It is a challenge to recognize that and then do what is necessary to unearth the beauty that is hidden within.
Home remodeling shows seem to be the rage these days and attract a diverse group of fans. But some shows, like Texas Dream Home in Hardheaded by Kin Law, attempt to expand the excitement of home remodeling with as much personal drama as they can create. The producers of this show hit the jackpot with two houses in need of a new faces and bodies in the small town of Red Oak Falls. Add to that two home remodeling businesses that are run by former lovers who were married for just one day years ago after a Las Vegas wedding. Jill Sadler is the co-owner of Bluebonnet Construction with her two step sisters, all orphans who were brought together by their “Aunt Blu”. They have made a name for themselves making “she-sheds” , the female version of the man cave but are interested in moving on to bigger and better projects. Calhoun Reynolds, the owner of We Nail It, is not only the competition, but also Sadler’s former one day husband and he has the “go-to” remodeling business in town. Both Jill and Cal work in removing and building new walls in houses that need renovation but in their personal lives, they are entrenched in brick walls they built to protect their vulnerabilities.
When one begins this novel there are all kinds of questions such as why were Jill and Cal only married for one day? What happened after that? How can they work on houses side by side with such intense negative feelings about each other? Reading the novel will answer these basic questions but also many more that arise as the story progresses. It was interesting learning why and how these two individuals wound up in such tormented lives and how the work they do, remodeling houses, is what they need to do individually as human beings to open up to improved personal existences. Both individuals have interesting backstories which explain how they became the people they are today. I am sure that many people will be able to identify with some of the situations that Jill and Cal have experienced and will feel their pain.
But this book has many other interesting characters, as well. On Jill’s side there is Aunt Blu, who raised Jill and her two step sisters, Heather and Trenton. On Cal’s side there is Neil, his Dad, Uncle Rodney, and Granny. Then there are the production people on the show whose goal it is to ramp up the drama to peak levels to attract viewers. Plus the ghostly Mrs. Wainwright who plays a special role. Add in a few town people and other characters and one feels like they are at home in Red Oak Falls and can’t wait to see who wins the competition. I also enjoyed Aunt Blu’s life lessons which introduce each chapter. I like the fact that this is a series and am looking forward to learning more about the other characters and their life adventures.
This is my third Kim Law novel and I just love reading her books. I feel like I’m reading about people I know who are either friends or family. There is such an ease to her prose and it feels like going back home after a long time away. If you are interested in watching others as they face complications in their lives and create ways to deal with those problems that might not be constructive, then this is a book for you. You might actually see yourself in parts and maybe you can envision a way out for yourself as you watch Jill and Cal try to do the same thing. We all want a happy ending but are we willing to take the risk to try and get there?
I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my unbiased, voluntary review.
Home remodeling shows seem to be the rage these days and attract a diverse group of fans. But some shows, like Texas Dream Home in Hardheaded by Kin Law, attempt to expand the excitement of home remodeling with as much personal drama as they can create. The producers of this show hit the jackpot with two houses in need of a new faces and bodies in the small town of Red Oak Falls. Add to that two home remodeling businesses that are run by former lovers who were married for just one day years ago after a Las Vegas wedding. Jill Sadler is the co-owner of Bluebonnet Construction with her two step sisters, all orphans who were brought together by their “Aunt Blu”. They have made a name for themselves making “she-sheds” , the female version of the man cave but are interested in moving on to bigger and better projects. Calhoun Reynolds, the owner of We Nail It, is not only the competition, but also Sadler’s former one day husband and he has the “go-to” remodeling business in town. Both Jill and Cal work in removing and building new walls in houses that need renovation but in their personal lives, they are entrenched in brick walls they built to protect their vulnerabilities.
When one begins this novel there are all kinds of questions such as why were Jill and Cal only married for one day? What happened after that? How can they work on houses side by side with such intense negative feelings about each other? Reading the novel will answer these basic questions but also many more that arise as the story progresses. It was interesting learning why and how these two individuals wound up in such tormented lives and how the work they do, remodeling houses, is what they need to do individually as human beings to open up to improved personal existences. Both individuals have interesting backstories which explain how they became the people they are today. I am sure that many people will be able to identify with some of the situations that Jill and Cal have experienced and will feel their pain.
But this book has many other interesting characters, as well. On Jill’s side there is Aunt Blu, who raised Jill and her two step sisters, Heather and Trenton. On Cal’s side there is Neil, his Dad, Uncle Rodney, and Granny. Then there are the production people on the show whose goal it is to ramp up the drama to peak levels to attract viewers. Plus the ghostly Mrs. Wainwright who plays a special role. Add in a few town people and other characters and one feels like they are at home in Red Oak Falls and can’t wait to see who wins the competition. I also enjoyed Aunt Blu’s life lessons which introduce each chapter. I like the fact that this is a series and am looking forward to learning more about the other characters and their life adventures.
This is my third Kim Law novel and I just love reading her books. I feel like I’m reading about people I know who are either friends or family. There is such an ease to her prose and it feels like going back home after a long time away. If you are interested in watching others as they face complications in their lives and create ways to deal with those problems that might not be constructive, then this is a book for you. You might actually see yourself in parts and maybe you can envision a way out for yourself as you watch Jill and Cal try to do the same thing. We all want a happy ending but are we willing to take the risk to try and get there?
I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my unbiased, voluntary review.
November 22, 2017
Competing against her ex on Texas Dream home is not ideal, but Jill Sadler is determined to keep things professional and not let her usual quick-firing temper gets the best of her. However, no matter how hard she tries to ignore the sparks that still fly between them, Jill finds herself giving in. But will their second chance at happy ever after work out, or will Jill be left heartbroken all over again?
This is the first book I've read by Ms. Law, and it's a book that I absolutely loved because it combines two superb tropes in the enemy to lovers trope and second chance romance trope; encompasses fantastic main and secondary characters where the heroine shares such a tight bond with her foster sisters; and wonderful dialogue that had me loving the growing relationship between the hero and heroine, as they begin to find their way back to each other. Will the pair be able to forgive each other for the past? The way this story started had me loving what the heroine and her family are doing, as the photos they're having taken sound exciting and definitely something that could bring in more business for their construction company.
As for the dialogue, it was highly entertaining due to the hero and heroine's past; the tension between these two that made me think Jill was going to lose her infamous temper sooner rather than later; and the growing relationship between the hero and heroine that had me hoping Jill would be able to forgive Cal for what happened between them in the past. Moreover, the heroine was hard-working, driven, resilient and I liked how determined she was to win the contest. Would Jill's team show up Cal's? Yet, what I liked most of all is the tight bond the heroine shared with her family, which makes them the right people to give her advice. While the hero, he's a total family man and would do anything for those he loves, which is proven by the decision he made in the past that tore him and Jill apart; hard-working and driven with how well his company has done in the construction industry; and I liked how determined he was to earn the heroine's forgiveness, because they need to get over the past, if they're to have any chance at a future.
Overall, Ms. Law has delivered a really compelling read in this book where the chemistry between this couple was fantastic and strong; the romance wonderful; and the ending left me completely satisfied, as Cal was going to have to go big or go home. Certainly, what he does to prove to the heroine that he wants a second chance at forever is huge and definitely was something that took me completely by surprise. Since Cal giving up control of something that was very important to him was something I never imagined he'd do. Will the heroine accept all that he's offering? I would recommend Hardheaded by Kim Law, if you enjoy the enemy to lovers trope, second chance romances or books by authors Jamie Beck, Jill Sanders, Terri Osburn and Catherine Bybee.
October 26, 2017
When Jill Sadler and her 2 foster sisters’ company, Bluebonnet Construction, are chosen to participate in the reality TV show, Texas Dream Home, they are hoping to get some much-needed exposure to elevate their company from “she-shed” builders to full-on home remodeling and reconstruction. Little did she realize that their competition would be their local nemesis, We Nailed It Contractors, headed by Calhoun Reynolds, her despised ex-husband. Jill hasn’t spoken to Cal in 12 years: not since he dumped her 24 hours after their Las Vegas wedding, nor in the six years she’s been back home in Red Oak Falls, Texas. Cal, though, has communicated with her by under-bidding Bluebonnet on any job he could. The competition might be the way for Jill to finally beat Cal and exact a little revenge.
But when hammers start swinging, the passion and attraction these two have for each other overcomes the lingering anger and resentment. And everyone around them – family, friends, television crew members, and even the ghost of a woman that owned one of the homes being rebuilt – all conspire to get these two back together.
On top of being a downright good story, there were several elements that I really liked. The story is set in my home state, and although I love reading stories set in exotic locations, I enjoy “coming home” as well. Next, as one of the many addicts of the house remodeling, DIY, house flipper television shows, I thought it was fun that the story would center around one of these. Then, there is the women vs. the men nature of the competition. One of my favorite of the shows on right now is Texas Flip and Move. Oftentimes, this show features this very same element pitting either The Snow Sisters or Gary’s Girls against The Lone Wolf, Randy Martin. (I love them all.)
I recommend this book for any contemporary romance readers especially those that enjoy stories that feature second chances at romance.
SPOILER: I think it is interesting to note that the book features a very timely issue. Currently, every news program is running the story of Hollywood mega-producer, Harvey Weinstein, and numerous allegations of years of sexual harassment of actresses. Our heroine in will reveal that the final reason she returns home is after a similar incident happens to her.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader copy of this book.
But when hammers start swinging, the passion and attraction these two have for each other overcomes the lingering anger and resentment. And everyone around them – family, friends, television crew members, and even the ghost of a woman that owned one of the homes being rebuilt – all conspire to get these two back together.
On top of being a downright good story, there were several elements that I really liked. The story is set in my home state, and although I love reading stories set in exotic locations, I enjoy “coming home” as well. Next, as one of the many addicts of the house remodeling, DIY, house flipper television shows, I thought it was fun that the story would center around one of these. Then, there is the women vs. the men nature of the competition. One of my favorite of the shows on right now is Texas Flip and Move. Oftentimes, this show features this very same element pitting either The Snow Sisters or Gary’s Girls against The Lone Wolf, Randy Martin. (I love them all.)
I recommend this book for any contemporary romance readers especially those that enjoy stories that feature second chances at romance.
SPOILER: I think it is interesting to note that the book features a very timely issue. Currently, every news program is running the story of Hollywood mega-producer, Harvey Weinstein, and numerous allegations of years of sexual harassment of actresses. Our heroine in will reveal that the final reason she returns home is after a similar incident happens to her.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader copy of this book.
November 12, 2017
I have never read a modern day romance quite like this. I have read ones that include construction crews, but this one blew those away. I loved that this was rival construction crews, involved an all woman's crew, that it was not just a friendly rivalry but a televised event and lastly that the competing crews held exes. A story can not get more juicy than that. I thought it was hilarious how the author came about this topic to include an all woman's construction crew based on a bad experience with lazy males coming and trying to avoid doing work on her house.
I might have easily foreseen the ending but the journey on how they would figure out how to be in the same room by the end still intrigued me. I want more badly than anything to watch this pieced together on TV after all the chaos going on behind the scenes. I want to see which scenes they truly left out or if they ended up including a montage of the tantrums, then the hilarious audio footage that was captured after the countless times that everyone forgot their mikes were still on and revealing deep dark secrets.
The home improvement hype is extremely relevant and a hot topic, so Hard Headed is coming at a perfect time. The background elements drew me in and made me love this book. The humor but real insight into issues like Aunt Blu being stuck in the middle of her foster daughter and the boy that had once loved and even married her daughter, but after breaking her heart was no longer allowed to hold that friendship with Blu. Then the strength it takes to confront close ones and get them real help for their issues instead of enabling their bad decisions. This story held depth and drew the reader in like they were part of this broken family which made the reunion even sweeter that all these outside elements fell back into place after the universe righted itself and they got back together.
I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
I might have easily foreseen the ending but the journey on how they would figure out how to be in the same room by the end still intrigued me. I want more badly than anything to watch this pieced together on TV after all the chaos going on behind the scenes. I want to see which scenes they truly left out or if they ended up including a montage of the tantrums, then the hilarious audio footage that was captured after the countless times that everyone forgot their mikes were still on and revealing deep dark secrets.
The home improvement hype is extremely relevant and a hot topic, so Hard Headed is coming at a perfect time. The background elements drew me in and made me love this book. The humor but real insight into issues like Aunt Blu being stuck in the middle of her foster daughter and the boy that had once loved and even married her daughter, but after breaking her heart was no longer allowed to hold that friendship with Blu. Then the strength it takes to confront close ones and get them real help for their issues instead of enabling their bad decisions. This story held depth and drew the reader in like they were part of this broken family which made the reunion even sweeter that all these outside elements fell back into place after the universe righted itself and they got back together.
I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
October 19, 2017
Take a stubborn woman, a tough Alpha man, throw in some personal history, add some head to head competition & stand back! Jill Sadler is one third of Bluebonnet Construction. Along with her foster sisters Heather & Trenton, Jill has moved back to the town she grew up in. They accidentally gained a reputation for building she-sheds, a tiny house mets man cave idea. They want to start getting bigger & more important jobs so Aunt Blu, their foster mother, enters them into a contest remodeling a house. One the first day of filming, Jill finds out her competition is her ex-husband. The one she'd been married to for less than 24 hours & has stubbornly refused to talk to since. How's she going to survive this?
Calhoun "Cal" Reynolds is the owner of We Nail It Contractors & is Jill's ex-husband. When the producers of the reality show asked him to be part of the show, he wasn't sure whether to agree or not. He was tired of Jill ignoring him so he decided to do it. He didn't realize how it was going to make him feel though. Can he get through to Jill? Does he want to?
Hardheaded is a tale of two people that have to learn to compromise, listen & see the other persons side. Cal & Jill's marriage didn't last because they were both immature, didn't listen & thought everything had to be their way. The characters in the story are well developed & each add dimension to the story. They are unpredictable too. Cal's interactions with his cat Lily & with the ghost Mrs. W are hilarious! The picture of this sexy, rugged Alpha male conversing with a cat or believing in ghosts is unexpected. Kim Law develops characters that elicit reactions from you whether good or bad. I can't wait to see what she gives us for Heather or Trenton's stories!
Calhoun "Cal" Reynolds is the owner of We Nail It Contractors & is Jill's ex-husband. When the producers of the reality show asked him to be part of the show, he wasn't sure whether to agree or not. He was tired of Jill ignoring him so he decided to do it. He didn't realize how it was going to make him feel though. Can he get through to Jill? Does he want to?
Hardheaded is a tale of two people that have to learn to compromise, listen & see the other persons side. Cal & Jill's marriage didn't last because they were both immature, didn't listen & thought everything had to be their way. The characters in the story are well developed & each add dimension to the story. They are unpredictable too. Cal's interactions with his cat Lily & with the ghost Mrs. W are hilarious! The picture of this sexy, rugged Alpha male conversing with a cat or believing in ghosts is unexpected. Kim Law develops characters that elicit reactions from you whether good or bad. I can't wait to see what she gives us for Heather or Trenton's stories!
October 30, 2017
I am a big fan of Kim Law and have read all of her books that I can get ahold of both in print and eBook. Hardheaded took me awhile to get into the book. The story begins with Jill Sadler and her two foster sisters posing for pictures in front of what they call She Sheds. They want to be taken seriously in the construction field but are finding themselves pigeonholed. Their foster mother signs them up to contestants on the TV show, Texas Dream Home.
Unbeknownst to Jill, her ex husband, Cal Reynolds who owns We Nail It Contractors, has been signed up to be their competition on the show. Jill hasn’t spoken to Cal since their twenty-four hour marriage took place eleven years ago, even though they have lived in the same town for the last five years. The show has set it up to see sparks.
I spent time wondering what happened to the two of them, since they had been so close before the marriage. What caused them to only be married for 24 hours? This is touched upon sporadically throughout the beginning and never really covered. It just felt off.
Once the competition starts, Jill starts to lose some of her anger at Cal and you begin to see what their relationship was before and the hope that it will be again.
This is where I started to get into the book more. The writing felt more like what I have read in the past with Kim Law. Jill’s character gained more depth and became more likeable. You start to see Cal and Jill’s relationship for how it was when they were young and the connection they still have. They just have to get past both of their issues.
While the story started slow, I am excited to read the next in the series (I hope!)
I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review.
Unbeknownst to Jill, her ex husband, Cal Reynolds who owns We Nail It Contractors, has been signed up to be their competition on the show. Jill hasn’t spoken to Cal since their twenty-four hour marriage took place eleven years ago, even though they have lived in the same town for the last five years. The show has set it up to see sparks.
I spent time wondering what happened to the two of them, since they had been so close before the marriage. What caused them to only be married for 24 hours? This is touched upon sporadically throughout the beginning and never really covered. It just felt off.
Once the competition starts, Jill starts to lose some of her anger at Cal and you begin to see what their relationship was before and the hope that it will be again.
This is where I started to get into the book more. The writing felt more like what I have read in the past with Kim Law. Jill’s character gained more depth and became more likeable. You start to see Cal and Jill’s relationship for how it was when they were young and the connection they still have. They just have to get past both of their issues.
While the story started slow, I am excited to read the next in the series (I hope!)
I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my unbiased review.
October 31, 2017
A new series from Kim Law, Deep in the Heart, starts with Hardheaded. Love the premise of the book: two competing construction crews on a reality TV show. Nothing new, right? Except that the hero and heroine of this story are ex’s. Enter Jill Sadler and Calhoun Reynolds. At its heart, I’d have to say the story is from the “female” construction crew perspective which makes the storyline fun, IMHO. There is a lot of backstory to cover, telling us all about how “the girls” grew up, their struggles, etc. It also introduces us to their adopted home town. I would think the rest of the series will be about Jill’s foster sisters.
Jill and Cal are the focus of Headheaded and they have some fun head-to-head run ins! Loved how they tried to one-up the other on the show. Made for some interesting scenes. Jill had some very big self-esteem issues to work through and to me, so did Cal. It wasn’t until about halfway that I felt they actually started to deal with them and made the story interesting. I especially loved the scenes inside the house Cal’s company is renovating (on the show) but you’ll have to read it yourself to enjoy – no spoilers from me.
The story about Jill’s family is pretty special and I loved ‘Aunt Blu’…she is just as I’d imagine a well-meaning southern, nosy ‘aunt’ would be. And definitely has a mind of her own! I’m hoping that the next book, which won’t have to set up a backstory, will bring us the “heart” of the story at a much quicker pace. I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
Jill and Cal are the focus of Headheaded and they have some fun head-to-head run ins! Loved how they tried to one-up the other on the show. Made for some interesting scenes. Jill had some very big self-esteem issues to work through and to me, so did Cal. It wasn’t until about halfway that I felt they actually started to deal with them and made the story interesting. I especially loved the scenes inside the house Cal’s company is renovating (on the show) but you’ll have to read it yourself to enjoy – no spoilers from me.
The story about Jill’s family is pretty special and I loved ‘Aunt Blu’…she is just as I’d imagine a well-meaning southern, nosy ‘aunt’ would be. And definitely has a mind of her own! I’m hoping that the next book, which won’t have to set up a backstory, will bring us the “heart” of the story at a much quicker pace. I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
November 1, 2017
"HGTV meets Texas" in this new book by Kim Law.
Bluebonnet Construction is an all woman company whose claim to fame is building the latest rage ... "she-sheds." Jill Sadler, one third owner of Bluebonnet, is a stubborn Texas woman who knows how to yield a sledgehammer and who knows what she wants! Cal Reynolds is her ex- husband who taught her how to use that sledgehammer and who owns We Nail it Construction... their biggest competitor. A national television competition pits the two companies against each other in a contest in which two homes are to be refurbished.
Jill sees this contest as a way to rise above their reputation and to be seen as a true construction company. Only one roadblock stands in her way... her anger towards her ex-husband Cal. Can she contain it and put it to good use in focusing on the remodeling? Cal knows what he is getting himself into but agrees to doing the reality show in spite of it.
Their on and off screen chemistry is palpable and they struggle to keep their past in the past. Will this contest give them a fresh start or will their past continue to haunt them? Speaking of haunting... they may just get a little nudge from the beyond! Honesty, forgiveness and compromise are the keys to their reconciliation but are they willing?
I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the next book in the series. Jill's foster sisters, Trenton and Heather, who own Bluebonnet Construction along with her, have their own stories to tell and I am sure they will be just as entertaining!
Note: I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
Bluebonnet Construction is an all woman company whose claim to fame is building the latest rage ... "she-sheds." Jill Sadler, one third owner of Bluebonnet, is a stubborn Texas woman who knows how to yield a sledgehammer and who knows what she wants! Cal Reynolds is her ex- husband who taught her how to use that sledgehammer and who owns We Nail it Construction... their biggest competitor. A national television competition pits the two companies against each other in a contest in which two homes are to be refurbished.
Jill sees this contest as a way to rise above their reputation and to be seen as a true construction company. Only one roadblock stands in her way... her anger towards her ex-husband Cal. Can she contain it and put it to good use in focusing on the remodeling? Cal knows what he is getting himself into but agrees to doing the reality show in spite of it.
Their on and off screen chemistry is palpable and they struggle to keep their past in the past. Will this contest give them a fresh start or will their past continue to haunt them? Speaking of haunting... they may just get a little nudge from the beyond! Honesty, forgiveness and compromise are the keys to their reconciliation but are they willing?
I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the next book in the series. Jill's foster sisters, Trenton and Heather, who own Bluebonnet Construction along with her, have their own stories to tell and I am sure they will be just as entertaining!
Note: I received a free, advance copy of this book from the publisher. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
October 30, 2017
This story is one of those where you just cheer for one character and then another. And another. They are written that great! This one includes a second chance romance with the chance for several stories at once.
Jill Sadler was raised in a loving home with several other foster children and started a construction/repair business with two of them. Aunt Blu, their foster mother, had taught them life skills as well as practical ones that they had turned into a business. But no one was taking them seriously – based on the fact that ex boyfriend Cal Reynolds’ company always outbid them so all they got were small jobs. Among the latest were female versions of the ‘man cave’ that were affectionately called ‘she sheds’.
A reality show had contacted them about refurbishing a local home in a contest and they took the challenge as a way to show the town that they could do bigger and better things even though they worked with all women crews. The opponent turned out to be no other than her ex. And she was on a mission to prove something. She hadn’t spoken to him in years and wasn’t about to now.
Cal knew exactly what he was getting into with the reality show. He had his own mission and didn’t intend to lose either! Jill would talk to him one way or another.
A funny, warm love story that will have you laughing out loud and punching your fist in the air while you cheer them both on to victory!
I received an ARC from the publisher for an honest and unbiased review. No compensation was promised or received for this review.
Jill Sadler was raised in a loving home with several other foster children and started a construction/repair business with two of them. Aunt Blu, their foster mother, had taught them life skills as well as practical ones that they had turned into a business. But no one was taking them seriously – based on the fact that ex boyfriend Cal Reynolds’ company always outbid them so all they got were small jobs. Among the latest were female versions of the ‘man cave’ that were affectionately called ‘she sheds’.
A reality show had contacted them about refurbishing a local home in a contest and they took the challenge as a way to show the town that they could do bigger and better things even though they worked with all women crews. The opponent turned out to be no other than her ex. And she was on a mission to prove something. She hadn’t spoken to him in years and wasn’t about to now.
Cal knew exactly what he was getting into with the reality show. He had his own mission and didn’t intend to lose either! Jill would talk to him one way or another.
A funny, warm love story that will have you laughing out loud and punching your fist in the air while you cheer them both on to victory!
I received an ARC from the publisher for an honest and unbiased review. No compensation was promised or received for this review.
November 10, 2017
This is a sweet love story about two hard-headed people. Jill and her two foster sisters have opened their own construction business, they had hoped to move into new construction before any of them hit thirty. The trouble was that every job that they bid on they lost the bid to Jill's ex and his construction business. The girls just knew he was underbidding them just to take business away from them. In a last-ditch effort to get their business name well known they agree to take part in one of those reality shows about flipping houses. The show is a contest between two businesses to see which one does a better job flipping their house. Jill is blindsided when she discovers that the team that will be competing against her team of builders is none other than her ex-husbands' team of builders and her ex-husband Calhoun Reynolds. Jill had not spoken one word to Cal since she had returned home to live and started her business. She hated the man for what he had done to her all those years ago.
Cal, had agreed to do the show just to bother Jill, everything he did was done to get under her skin but she still had not said one word to him since she had returned home. Cal was determined to change that and to get even with her for hurting him all those years ago. The unexpected twists in this book are great.
This book is such a cute love story, I really enjoyed it. Add the terrific supporting characters in the mix with the well written main characters and you will not be sorry that you read this one. I can not wait for the next book in this series to come out
October 31, 2017
I always know I’m in for a treat with a new release from Kim Law. When I received an invitation from the publisher, via Net-Galley, I eagerly agreed to read and review the first book in her new series, Deep in the Heart.
As with all Ms. Law’s books, the characters are real and flawed, the plot is intriguing and there’s plenty of emotions running high. Although it took me time to become enmeshed in the story, once I did I was fully engaged.
Jill’s character is a bit of a mixed bag for me. There were many things I loved about, but a few that didn’t work for me. She carried bull-headed to a whole new level. However, her loyalty to her foster sister and foster mom in admirable.
I felt the same way about Cal, maybe even more so. He is just as bull-headed as Jill, but he allows fear of love to rule his decisions, which keeps him doing the same thing over and over again.
Let’s talk about the romance. While there is definitely plenty of chemistry between Jill and Cal, they don’t even kiss until well over the halfway point of the book. I began to think this one was not going to have any heated scenes. Alas, Ms. Law came through, just a little later than I’m used to with her books. I’m not saying the sexual tension is absent, it just could have been stronger. A few heated kisses sprinkled in would have helped a lot.
Nonetheless, I really love the premise for this series and look forward to reading her foster sisters’ stories. While this is not my favorite book by Ms. Law, it’s a good story and well worth reading. Happy reading!
As with all Ms. Law’s books, the characters are real and flawed, the plot is intriguing and there’s plenty of emotions running high. Although it took me time to become enmeshed in the story, once I did I was fully engaged.
Jill’s character is a bit of a mixed bag for me. There were many things I loved about, but a few that didn’t work for me. She carried bull-headed to a whole new level. However, her loyalty to her foster sister and foster mom in admirable.
I felt the same way about Cal, maybe even more so. He is just as bull-headed as Jill, but he allows fear of love to rule his decisions, which keeps him doing the same thing over and over again.
Let’s talk about the romance. While there is definitely plenty of chemistry between Jill and Cal, they don’t even kiss until well over the halfway point of the book. I began to think this one was not going to have any heated scenes. Alas, Ms. Law came through, just a little later than I’m used to with her books. I’m not saying the sexual tension is absent, it just could have been stronger. A few heated kisses sprinkled in would have helped a lot.
Nonetheless, I really love the premise for this series and look forward to reading her foster sisters’ stories. While this is not my favorite book by Ms. Law, it’s a good story and well worth reading. Happy reading!
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