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Three Keys Ranch #1
Hearts Unleashed
The shared love of a retired military dog unexpectedly brings together two PTSD survivors in this heartfelt debut novel.
After an IED ends his military career, Major John Rathborne struggles to re-adjust to civilian life. Haunted by the death of his brother-in-arms, John’s determined to find his canine partner, Koda, now retired and re-homed. The last place he expects to find her is on a ranch in Absarokee, Montana, where he lands a foreman job and a chance at a new start.
Unfortunately, ranch manager Katie Locke just wants the new guy gone. She can’t shake the trauma from the night she was attacked, and God knows she doesn’t need some stranger invading her safe haven. She can’t ignore John’s brooding presence, and even her dog shares an uncanny bond with him. But when her father suffers a heart attack, Katie has no option but to put her differences with John aside to save the future of Three Keys Ranch.
As they slowly find a common bond and their attraction heats up, both realize they must heal from their past wounds if they want to explore a relationship. But John hasn’t told Katie about certain parts of his past—including that he and Koda had been partners in Afghanistan. Then he learns someone is out to destroy the ranch, and Katie is in their crosshairs. Has John opened his heart too late?
After an IED ends his military career, Major John Rathborne struggles to re-adjust to civilian life. Haunted by the death of his brother-in-arms, John’s determined to find his canine partner, Koda, now retired and re-homed. The last place he expects to find her is on a ranch in Absarokee, Montana, where he lands a foreman job and a chance at a new start.
Unfortunately, ranch manager Katie Locke just wants the new guy gone. She can’t shake the trauma from the night she was attacked, and God knows she doesn’t need some stranger invading her safe haven. She can’t ignore John’s brooding presence, and even her dog shares an uncanny bond with him. But when her father suffers a heart attack, Katie has no option but to put her differences with John aside to save the future of Three Keys Ranch.
As they slowly find a common bond and their attraction heats up, both realize they must heal from their past wounds if they want to explore a relationship. But John hasn’t told Katie about certain parts of his past—including that he and Koda had been partners in Afghanistan. Then he learns someone is out to destroy the ranch, and Katie is in their crosshairs. Has John opened his heart too late?
304 pages, ebook
First published September 25, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
September 7, 2017
Hearts Unleashed is about two emotionally and physically scarred people. He has wounds from an IED and is searching for his K-9 partner Koda that was adopted out. She was hurt in an attack and is the one who adopted Koda, who helps her feel safe.
I was really interested after reading the description but after getting to about 30% I realized it wasn't my cup of tea. Even before that I was having problems but by that point it cemented it wasn't for me.
I am not a fan of school yard relationship tactics. To me, being mean to each other does not inspire romance. That continues until the very end of the book.
I never understood why he didn't tell them about Koda. It just didn't seem like a big deal to me. I also didn't understand how no one put 2 + 2 together.
There were a few instances throughout that had me asking 'why?' Things that didn't make any sense or didn't enhance the story.
We get many flashbacks from John so we are very familiar with what happened to him but we don't get the same with Katie. We never even know for sure what happened to her until close to the end. Even then she doesn't ever talk about it. It is said many times that the ranch is hers too but I don't really feel that way. Her Dad hired John and he pretty much took everything over. Anytime her being the boss was brought up it was more in a mocking way. She wasn't taken seriously by anyone.
I wanted to tell both of them to grow up already. They were both incredibly rude. They both needed to work on themselves.
I didn't like the ending. Nothing happened until about the 3/4 mark and by then I hoped for something really good to make up for it. (I'm not going to say what I want different because of spoilers.) By the time it got to the good part it was over way too fast. Not much of an explanation was offered either. It was just done and we were supposed to accept that little excuse. We already knew who the bad guy was since the beginning so we needed something shocking to make up for it.
The writing itself was well done. It just needed to be loosened up a little. The dialogue was too stilted.
***I received an ARC through Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.***
I was really interested after reading the description but after getting to about 30% I realized it wasn't my cup of tea. Even before that I was having problems but by that point it cemented it wasn't for me.
I am not a fan of school yard relationship tactics. To me, being mean to each other does not inspire romance. That continues until the very end of the book.
I never understood why he didn't tell them about Koda. It just didn't seem like a big deal to me. I also didn't understand how no one put 2 + 2 together.
There were a few instances throughout that had me asking 'why?' Things that didn't make any sense or didn't enhance the story.
We get many flashbacks from John so we are very familiar with what happened to him but we don't get the same with Katie. We never even know for sure what happened to her until close to the end. Even then she doesn't ever talk about it. It is said many times that the ranch is hers too but I don't really feel that way. Her Dad hired John and he pretty much took everything over. Anytime her being the boss was brought up it was more in a mocking way. She wasn't taken seriously by anyone.
I wanted to tell both of them to grow up already. They were both incredibly rude. They both needed to work on themselves.
I didn't like the ending. Nothing happened until about the 3/4 mark and by then I hoped for something really good to make up for it. (I'm not going to say what I want different because of spoilers.) By the time it got to the good part it was over way too fast. Not much of an explanation was offered either. It was just done and we were supposed to accept that little excuse. We already knew who the bad guy was since the beginning so we needed something shocking to make up for it.
The writing itself was well done. It just needed to be loosened up a little. The dialogue was too stilted.
***I received an ARC through Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.***
December 22, 2017
A beautiful and heart-wrenching story-line about an ex-soldier experiencing PTSD and a tough rancher girl with some terrors of her own to deal with. She wants nothing to do with this new foreman her father just hired, but soon she'll have to acknowledge he's a great asset for their ranch because he works his ass off and in the meantime he keeps falling in love with this ranch and it's owners. Right after John starts working at the ranch little 'accidents' starting to happen around the ranch with the cattle and later on with Katie and John has a gut feeling something's way off about the new farmhand he hired for Katie's dad, Peter. Is John able to keep Katie safe? Or are his secrets about his past and his connection to Koda gonna get him fired?
I wanted John and Katie getting together so much and for them to be each other's anchors and I loved how real it all felt to me. I wanted to find out who was targeting them and to see how everything would develop after John's past with Koda would be out in the open and known to Katie and her father. Like I said, I couldn't stop reading, because I was dead set on getting my answers hehe.
John and Katie warm up to one another and form a deeper growing bond, that'll have your heart melt at the spot. And the sexy times are just perfect, prrr! The connection and growing bond between these characters is so intense, deep and felt so real and beautiful. I loved reading their stories and see how they intertwined. This was just a really, really great developed romance!
And to top it all of there's this Ex-army dog present that stole my heart big time. Koda is amazing <3 I loved how the author reserved 'room' for this dog's character in the story and I couldn't get enough of it. The way Koda is a key line in John and Katie's story is so beautifully written and developed as well. It's obvious the author has a love for dogs and really knows how to write them down in a way you feel you are truly connected to the animal you're reading about, and I loved it so much!
Throughout the book there's just enough angst in the story-line to keep you on the edge. All the elements in this book - the writing style, romance development, character development, story-line development - are in great balance with each other. I'm in love with the settings as well. I've never been to Montana though, but I've seen movies and stuff online about these ranches out there and it's been a dream of mine to go to a ranch like this some day. I could really picture myself out there in the pastures, on horse back, between the cattle and admiring the view all around. Everything's beautifully and visually written, amazing!
This was such an amazing read, damn! I'm really sad I've already finished the story- but I just couldn't stop once I started. I really can't wait to read more of Paris Wynters! For every romance reader out there who loves an amazing (ranch) setting, a great romance developing, great characters and a fast-paced story-line; You need this book in your life!!!! I don't have any flaws to talk about so this book definitely deserves it's 5 star rating. I had my fair share of teared up moments, knots in my stomach and butterflies flying around in it as well. Just LOVED it!
I wanted John and Katie getting together so much and for them to be each other's anchors and I loved how real it all felt to me. I wanted to find out who was targeting them and to see how everything would develop after John's past with Koda would be out in the open and known to Katie and her father. Like I said, I couldn't stop reading, because I was dead set on getting my answers hehe.
John and Katie warm up to one another and form a deeper growing bond, that'll have your heart melt at the spot. And the sexy times are just perfect, prrr! The connection and growing bond between these characters is so intense, deep and felt so real and beautiful. I loved reading their stories and see how they intertwined. This was just a really, really great developed romance!
And to top it all of there's this Ex-army dog present that stole my heart big time. Koda is amazing <3 I loved how the author reserved 'room' for this dog's character in the story and I couldn't get enough of it. The way Koda is a key line in John and Katie's story is so beautifully written and developed as well. It's obvious the author has a love for dogs and really knows how to write them down in a way you feel you are truly connected to the animal you're reading about, and I loved it so much!
Throughout the book there's just enough angst in the story-line to keep you on the edge. All the elements in this book - the writing style, romance development, character development, story-line development - are in great balance with each other. I'm in love with the settings as well. I've never been to Montana though, but I've seen movies and stuff online about these ranches out there and it's been a dream of mine to go to a ranch like this some day. I could really picture myself out there in the pastures, on horse back, between the cattle and admiring the view all around. Everything's beautifully and visually written, amazing!
This was such an amazing read, damn! I'm really sad I've already finished the story- but I just couldn't stop once I started. I really can't wait to read more of Paris Wynters! For every romance reader out there who loves an amazing (ranch) setting, a great romance developing, great characters and a fast-paced story-line; You need this book in your life!!!! I don't have any flaws to talk about so this book definitely deserves it's 5 star rating. I had my fair share of teared up moments, knots in my stomach and butterflies flying around in it as well. Just LOVED it!
September 30, 2017
*4.5*
I started Paris Wynters' Hearts Unleashed when I was going through a bit of a reading rut. All my previous books had left me feeling underwhelmed, and I wanted nothing more than for that to to change. So I figured what better way to fix it then with a romance that sounded equal parts emotional and adorable.
The result? From the first page, I was completely immersed in the story of John, Katie, and, most importantly, Koda! Hearts Unleashed had me smiling, laughing, tearing up, and even feeling a little frustrated, as John and Kaite? Yeah, loved them dearly, but boy where they utterly bullheaded sometimes.
John and Katie are what I would call complicated characters. Both having been through traumatic experiences (Katie with an attack she barely survived and John loosing a brother and even some of his own life to an IED) and suffering from PTSD in varying ways. Both have come to live there lives by being as bottled up as possible regarding their emotions. For Katie, that means staying close to home, and only trusting her father, and for John, that means putting all his worries and stress into the bottle. I have to admit that at first I didn't really like either one of them that much. I hated the way that Katie treated John. I completely understood why she'd be so unwilling to accept new people into her life, but goodness was she just plain out rude and cold to him - so much so that it had me cringing a bit at times. John, on the other hand, was likable on the surface, but John was so unwilling to see that even with his best friend's loss, he still had a life worth fighting for.
As the book progressed, John and Katie slowly come together and start making some real progress. I loved that for the majority of the book that this relationship was almost completely platonic and friend like. Sure, there was some sexual tension building (have to get the romance going!) but a bigger part of this book revolved around two people - two that were more alike than they'd like to admit - fighting their demons and learning to love themselves again. I loved this transition, and I especially loved seeing both Katie and John become happier and healthier because of it.
The plot in this was 100% addictive AND there was even a bit of a mystery involved! One of my favorite parts of Hearts Unleashed was seeing the daily activities at Katie's ranch. I enjoyed the characters it brought to the mix (Katie's dad and their longtime vet) as well as the little pieces of drama and community that came form such a close-knit group. As hinted to above, I also loved seeing the slow-burning, enemies to friends to lovers romance play out. It had me hooked the whole way through, dying to know WHEN Katie and John would FINALLY get off their high horses and get together! Lastly, the mystery! I don't want to say too much about it, but it was the perfect little add-on, and I especially loved how Paris perfectly intertwined into other parts of the book. Some parts of me saw the bad guy coming but other parts of me was still slightly shocked.
In all, Hearts Unleashed is the perfect romance read. Mixing together an emotional and romantic storyline as well as an adorable dog that you can't help but love, Hearts Unleashed will have you staying up way past your bed time, saying "one more chapter, one more chapter!" I simply can't wait to see what Paris writes next!
Grade: A
I started Paris Wynters' Hearts Unleashed when I was going through a bit of a reading rut. All my previous books had left me feeling underwhelmed, and I wanted nothing more than for that to to change. So I figured what better way to fix it then with a romance that sounded equal parts emotional and adorable.
The result? From the first page, I was completely immersed in the story of John, Katie, and, most importantly, Koda! Hearts Unleashed had me smiling, laughing, tearing up, and even feeling a little frustrated, as John and Kaite? Yeah, loved them dearly, but boy where they utterly bullheaded sometimes.
John and Katie are what I would call complicated characters. Both having been through traumatic experiences (Katie with an attack she barely survived and John loosing a brother and even some of his own life to an IED) and suffering from PTSD in varying ways. Both have come to live there lives by being as bottled up as possible regarding their emotions. For Katie, that means staying close to home, and only trusting her father, and for John, that means putting all his worries and stress into the bottle. I have to admit that at first I didn't really like either one of them that much. I hated the way that Katie treated John. I completely understood why she'd be so unwilling to accept new people into her life, but goodness was she just plain out rude and cold to him - so much so that it had me cringing a bit at times. John, on the other hand, was likable on the surface, but John was so unwilling to see that even with his best friend's loss, he still had a life worth fighting for.
As the book progressed, John and Katie slowly come together and start making some real progress. I loved that for the majority of the book that this relationship was almost completely platonic and friend like. Sure, there was some sexual tension building (have to get the romance going!) but a bigger part of this book revolved around two people - two that were more alike than they'd like to admit - fighting their demons and learning to love themselves again. I loved this transition, and I especially loved seeing both Katie and John become happier and healthier because of it.
The plot in this was 100% addictive AND there was even a bit of a mystery involved! One of my favorite parts of Hearts Unleashed was seeing the daily activities at Katie's ranch. I enjoyed the characters it brought to the mix (Katie's dad and their longtime vet) as well as the little pieces of drama and community that came form such a close-knit group. As hinted to above, I also loved seeing the slow-burning, enemies to friends to lovers romance play out. It had me hooked the whole way through, dying to know WHEN Katie and John would FINALLY get off their high horses and get together! Lastly, the mystery! I don't want to say too much about it, but it was the perfect little add-on, and I especially loved how Paris perfectly intertwined into other parts of the book. Some parts of me saw the bad guy coming but other parts of me was still slightly shocked.
In all, Hearts Unleashed is the perfect romance read. Mixing together an emotional and romantic storyline as well as an adorable dog that you can't help but love, Hearts Unleashed will have you staying up way past your bed time, saying "one more chapter, one more chapter!" I simply can't wait to see what Paris writes next!
Grade: A
September 29, 2017
The premise had all the things I like wounded veteran, dog, ranch/farm setting. I liked that on touched on PTSD and struggle. John mostly his portrayal was well done. While Katie may have trauma of her own she acts tough. Both of these two characters are scarred emotionally and physically who struggle in their own ways.
As I read on though I wasn't keen on the heroine she can be mean. Yes I know you experienced something horrible but I don't think that allows one to be nasty. It's not until later we find out to her really which I felt could have been helpful to know earlier when what happened while John we know establishes character. The secret of Koda being his partner is a question mark I never found answers to, Katie knows she has past. I would actually be happy that my dog was a service member or helped in a way. I think mostly John wants his dog back and Katie is no walk in the park.
John and Katie can be bickering and rude to one another which goes on till the end. It doesn't scream I like someone who likes each other or romantic to me. Felt like a headache, two children squabbling. There were things that were glossed over that could have made it better in some aspects. It was easy to guess who the villain is well for me anyway.
As a debut it's not bad. It started slow and picked up and rushed to the end. The writing ok, a little sharpening and refining of the flow and dialogue. I really did like the dog best, the premise was good just needed more likable characters.
*** ARC received for an honest review ***
As I read on though I wasn't keen on the heroine she can be mean. Yes I know you experienced something horrible but I don't think that allows one to be nasty. It's not until later we find out to her really which I felt could have been helpful to know earlier when what happened while John we know establishes character. The secret of Koda being his partner is a question mark I never found answers to, Katie knows she has past. I would actually be happy that my dog was a service member or helped in a way. I think mostly John wants his dog back and Katie is no walk in the park.
John and Katie can be bickering and rude to one another which goes on till the end. It doesn't scream I like someone who likes each other or romantic to me. Felt like a headache, two children squabbling. There were things that were glossed over that could have made it better in some aspects. It was easy to guess who the villain is well for me anyway.
As a debut it's not bad. It started slow and picked up and rushed to the end. The writing ok, a little sharpening and refining of the flow and dialogue. I really did like the dog best, the premise was good just needed more likable characters.
*** ARC received for an honest review ***
October 11, 2017
Hearts Unleashed was a clash of two broken people. John and Katie have first hand knowledge of trauma and heartbreak. Unwilling to share their pasts, they both rely on Koda. The dog that loves them both. Koda knows and they will learn that their hearts are bigger than they thought.
A heartfelt and wonderfully emotive story line and true depth to the characters made this a book a wonderful read. Tears fell and chuckles erupted while I read. Sometimes I just wanted to shake a little sense into each of them! I'm definitely glad I took the chance to read Hearts Unleashed.
A heartfelt and wonderfully emotive story line and true depth to the characters made this a book a wonderful read. Tears fell and chuckles erupted while I read. Sometimes I just wanted to shake a little sense into each of them! I'm definitely glad I took the chance to read Hearts Unleashed.
September 24, 2017
This book had everything I love:
*broken hero (who just happens to be a military man)
*damaged heroine
*a dog
The connection that John and Katie had with a little help from Koda was so good to read. I was so not prepared for what these two had to endure.
I great read, I look forward to reading more from Ms. Wynters.
Reviewed by: A Book Nerd
*broken hero (who just happens to be a military man)
*damaged heroine
*a dog
The connection that John and Katie had with a little help from Koda was so good to read. I was so not prepared for what these two had to endure.
I great read, I look forward to reading more from Ms. Wynters.
Reviewed by: A Book Nerd
September 25, 2017
Trauma, recovery and love…
John and Katie’s story was a sweet, slow build story that saw two people, both scarred by traumatic events, brought together by a shared love…
An IED shattered John’s life while a brutal attack changed Katie’s forever. Trust is low on Katie’s list and that is evident when John starts working at the ranch that was supposed to be her safe haven. She resents him, fears him and is suspicious from their first meeting that something wasn’t quite right with him.
“She wished she could be a kid again…”
The writing felt old-fashioned, almost flowery at times, reminding me of sweet romances I read years ago. Fluttery curtains and beautiful landscape didn’t take away from the emotional turmoil both characters were dealing with. Told from both points of view, it was easy to see and feel John’s struggle with the accident and the loss of his friend. Holding onto Koda was a link to his fallen comrade as well as the comfort and love he still yearned for. Katie was open about her fears as well though I was left with many questions. Her anger and attitude seemed over the top at times when I didn’t understand what had happened to make her so.
An unexpected plot twist brought some surprising edges to this gentle romance, the perfect read for a rainy Sunday afternoon curled in front of the fire…
September 3, 2017
It's a sweet story. Two damaged characters plus a dog with issues too.
They both had issues so it was difficult for both of them to get close to other people.
A good storyline and we'll developed characters.
ARC.
They both had issues so it was difficult for both of them to get close to other people.
A good storyline and we'll developed characters.
ARC.
September 7, 2017
Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review"
3.5 stars
This was an easy and enjoyable read with a wounded hero (a former soldier) and a wounded heroine. I loved the part about the relationship between the dog, Koda, and the main characters, John and Katie.
But what I found most admirable about “Hearts Unleashed” was the depiction of John’s PTSD, sense of guilt and panic attacks and the painful lingering effects of his extensive physical injuries. Paris Wynters wrote the character in such a realistic way that we, readers, see and feel how he hurts, how he feels beaten and worn (the analogy with an old man is quite effective). The wounded veteran’s struggle to overcome all his serious problems and get on with his life is realistic and powerful and the author doesn’t sugarcoat it, so, kudos Ms. Wynters!
The novelty here is that the heroine isn’t a character I really liked, but, in spite of that - or perhaps because of it - I appreciated the way the author crafted this cantankerous, sometimes hostile young woman. Katie is dealing with serious issues too (“Everyone has their own pain”, John remarks).
I liked that the heroine made a move on John. The romantic storyline was slow in the beginning and then, suddenly, felt a bit rushed for my taste.
+++I'm grateful to the publisher, Crimson Romance, and NetGalley for providing a free copy+++
3.5 stars
This was an easy and enjoyable read with a wounded hero (a former soldier) and a wounded heroine. I loved the part about the relationship between the dog, Koda, and the main characters, John and Katie.
But what I found most admirable about “Hearts Unleashed” was the depiction of John’s PTSD, sense of guilt and panic attacks and the painful lingering effects of his extensive physical injuries. Paris Wynters wrote the character in such a realistic way that we, readers, see and feel how he hurts, how he feels beaten and worn (the analogy with an old man is quite effective). The wounded veteran’s struggle to overcome all his serious problems and get on with his life is realistic and powerful and the author doesn’t sugarcoat it, so, kudos Ms. Wynters!
The novelty here is that the heroine isn’t a character I really liked, but, in spite of that - or perhaps because of it - I appreciated the way the author crafted this cantankerous, sometimes hostile young woman. Katie is dealing with serious issues too (“Everyone has their own pain”, John remarks).
I liked that the heroine made a move on John. The romantic storyline was slow in the beginning and then, suddenly, felt a bit rushed for my taste.
+++I'm grateful to the publisher, Crimson Romance, and NetGalley for providing a free copy+++
September 5, 2019
I received a free review copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really was looking forward to reading this book. Unfortunately, it turned out that I couldn't stand the female MC and was iffy on the male MC. I found Katie to be obnoxious, vicious, disrespectful, and just downright unlikable. While some of her response could be passed as her PTSD, it was over the top. I wasn't sure how I felt about John. On one hand, his reaction to his PTSD seemed appropriate, he did let Katie be basically abusive towards him. Apologizing doesn't make it so it didn't happen. And lusting after the one heaping abuse on your head, for no reason you know of, makes no sense.
I also felt that not recognizing the other also had PTSD when each had such visible and strong episodes in front of the other was implausible. I simply lost all interest in the story as I pushed through.
2 stars because it was a great and original concept.
I really was looking forward to reading this book. Unfortunately, it turned out that I couldn't stand the female MC and was iffy on the male MC. I found Katie to be obnoxious, vicious, disrespectful, and just downright unlikable. While some of her response could be passed as her PTSD, it was over the top. I wasn't sure how I felt about John. On one hand, his reaction to his PTSD seemed appropriate, he did let Katie be basically abusive towards him. Apologizing doesn't make it so it didn't happen. And lusting after the one heaping abuse on your head, for no reason you know of, makes no sense.
I also felt that not recognizing the other also had PTSD when each had such visible and strong episodes in front of the other was implausible. I simply lost all interest in the story as I pushed through.
2 stars because it was a great and original concept.
January 5, 2021
This was a good read. Not into cowboys normally but I do enjoy the author's writing. And with the military theme that runs across her writing, I knew there would be aspects of the story I would love. Plus, who doesn't love a dog, especially a hero dog. Overall, the book was well done and I loved the sex scenes. They were definitely emotionally driven. The bad guy was a bit easy to figure out who it was, but that's okay. It wasn't really a major part of the story and didn't take away from it either.
August 15, 2020
This was a great story. It was well written and fast paced. The chemistry between the characters was sizzling hot. This book has everything you need to keep you turning pages hot sexy men, steamy scenes and some conflict thrown in. I cannot wait for what this author writes next.
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October 18, 2017
When an IED kills his best friend and leaves John Rathborne with a career ending injury, he struggles with PTSD as well as adjusting to military life. He makes it his mission to find his military dog, Koda, who was mistakenly given to a civilian family to adopt in the hopes to return a bit of normalcy to his life. When he discovers Koda is living in a ranch in Montana, John applies for the job of foreman in the hopes of not only finding his lost dog, but making a new start.
Katie Locke was brutalized at the hands of an unknown attacker and struggles with the traumas and fears left over from that attack. Her new dog, Koda, helps to ease those moments of panic and helps her get through her day to day duties on the ranch by being by her side. The last thing she needs is a stranger showing up to destroy the little piece of mind she has.
Katie truly wants nothing to do with John and can’t quite understand why Koda has warmed up to him so quickly. John has hidden his past from Katie and her father in the fear that they will fire him, when he not only needs this job, but also needs to be around Koda. When Katie’s father has a heart attack, however, she must gather her courage and put her trust in John to save the ranch she so dearly loves.
All is not as it seems, however, and danger lurks in ways that Katie and John can’t even imagine, as someone is definitely out to get the ranch, and will stop at nothing until they have it. It’s up to John to discover the threat before it’s too late.
Hearts Unleashed was truly a beautiful story of healing. Both John and Katie are suffering from PTSD and, as readers, we see just how debilitating the fears and flashbacks can be. Koda is the thread that binds both together. Her love, loyalty and support offer both a steadiness that they are currently missing in their lives.
Both Katie and John are extremely independent people and their chemistry sparks immediately, even though they both dance around it for a time not willing to explore what is before them. I enjoyed watching them learn about one another and come to respect their boundaries and gain an understanding of how what they both were going through and how to work through it, first as co-workers, then as friends and finally, as something more. It’s a fabulous slow burn with enough suspense to really keep readers invested and turning page after page. 4.5 stars.
Katie Locke was brutalized at the hands of an unknown attacker and struggles with the traumas and fears left over from that attack. Her new dog, Koda, helps to ease those moments of panic and helps her get through her day to day duties on the ranch by being by her side. The last thing she needs is a stranger showing up to destroy the little piece of mind she has.
Katie truly wants nothing to do with John and can’t quite understand why Koda has warmed up to him so quickly. John has hidden his past from Katie and her father in the fear that they will fire him, when he not only needs this job, but also needs to be around Koda. When Katie’s father has a heart attack, however, she must gather her courage and put her trust in John to save the ranch she so dearly loves.
All is not as it seems, however, and danger lurks in ways that Katie and John can’t even imagine, as someone is definitely out to get the ranch, and will stop at nothing until they have it. It’s up to John to discover the threat before it’s too late.
Hearts Unleashed was truly a beautiful story of healing. Both John and Katie are suffering from PTSD and, as readers, we see just how debilitating the fears and flashbacks can be. Koda is the thread that binds both together. Her love, loyalty and support offer both a steadiness that they are currently missing in their lives.
Both Katie and John are extremely independent people and their chemistry sparks immediately, even though they both dance around it for a time not willing to explore what is before them. I enjoyed watching them learn about one another and come to respect their boundaries and gain an understanding of how what they both were going through and how to work through it, first as co-workers, then as friends and finally, as something more. It’s a fabulous slow burn with enough suspense to really keep readers invested and turning page after page. 4.5 stars.
March 16, 2018
I received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review.
I read the book in one day. I By the end of chapter one, I had become so interested in the characters and so curious about their fates, that I just couldn’t stop reading. I really liked it! The protagonists in Hearts Unleashed, John and Katie, have each been hurt, mentally and physically, by terrible events: John by war and Katie by violent crime.
When John first arrives at Three Keys Ranch as the newly hired foreman, his life has been decimated. The IED that ripped through his body in Afghanistan and killed his best friend has left him suffering physical pain, scars, and PTSD. He is in search of the one thing that still has meaning for him: his loyal partner, a military dog named Koda.
Although I really liked John from the beginning, it took a while for me to warm up to Katie. Perhaps that was by the author’s design. Suffering from anxiety and serious trust issues, she can be rude, contentious, and generally hard to get along with—as John soon finds out. The author does a great job of exploring the psychological issues of people who feel “damaged” by the traumatic events they have endured. There is a poignant scene early in the book where John meets a young woman in a bar, only to find that she is repulsed by the sight of his scars. Written from his point of view, this scene communicates well the hopelessness, embarrassment, and shame that John feels.
Although many serious and sad issues are dealt with in the book, surprisingly, on the whole, the tone is not dark or depressing. In fact, I found the evolving relationship between John and Katie hopeful and uplifting. And, of course, there is Koda. An ever-present reminder of loyalty and renewal, Koda (a PTSD survivor herself) is always there to love, support, and protect. And there is nothing like a good dog to make a story complete.
I highly recommend Hearts Unleashed to anyone looking for a satisfying, enjoyable, and heart-tugging read. The characters are compelling, the plot is well-paced, and the dialog is believable and natural. Paris Wynters definitely has a bright future in writing, and I will be keeping an eye out for more of her books!
I read the book in one day. I By the end of chapter one, I had become so interested in the characters and so curious about their fates, that I just couldn’t stop reading. I really liked it! The protagonists in Hearts Unleashed, John and Katie, have each been hurt, mentally and physically, by terrible events: John by war and Katie by violent crime.
When John first arrives at Three Keys Ranch as the newly hired foreman, his life has been decimated. The IED that ripped through his body in Afghanistan and killed his best friend has left him suffering physical pain, scars, and PTSD. He is in search of the one thing that still has meaning for him: his loyal partner, a military dog named Koda.
Although I really liked John from the beginning, it took a while for me to warm up to Katie. Perhaps that was by the author’s design. Suffering from anxiety and serious trust issues, she can be rude, contentious, and generally hard to get along with—as John soon finds out. The author does a great job of exploring the psychological issues of people who feel “damaged” by the traumatic events they have endured. There is a poignant scene early in the book where John meets a young woman in a bar, only to find that she is repulsed by the sight of his scars. Written from his point of view, this scene communicates well the hopelessness, embarrassment, and shame that John feels.
Although many serious and sad issues are dealt with in the book, surprisingly, on the whole, the tone is not dark or depressing. In fact, I found the evolving relationship between John and Katie hopeful and uplifting. And, of course, there is Koda. An ever-present reminder of loyalty and renewal, Koda (a PTSD survivor herself) is always there to love, support, and protect. And there is nothing like a good dog to make a story complete.
I highly recommend Hearts Unleashed to anyone looking for a satisfying, enjoyable, and heart-tugging read. The characters are compelling, the plot is well-paced, and the dialog is believable and natural. Paris Wynters definitely has a bright future in writing, and I will be keeping an eye out for more of her books!
August 17, 2020
A fast moving, action packed story of a soldier, John being discharged from the military after being seriously injured in an IED explosion, where his friend Dirk was killed. Also, John suffered greatly from PTSD, as he had changed seats with Dirk, so John could fix the leash on his service dog, Coda. John should have gotten Coda, when he was discharged, but due to his long hospital stay and some other problems Coda was adopted out to a private family. As soon as John was able to get out of the hospital, he started searching for Coda. He was able to find a job on a ranch as foreman near where he was living, and fortunately it was with the same family that adopted Coda. The ranch was owned by Mitch and Katie Locke. They had gotten Coda as a protector for Kate, after she was attacked and almost killed.It
Besides the attack on Katie at work the Locke Family was having a string of bad luck at the ranch. Broken fences, and unreliable ranch hands. Katie was fearful to hire anyone else, they had so much trouble but her father insisted that they needed the foreman. She was determined that she was not going to like him and after she met him she knew he was hiding something. John decided not to tell them about his connection to Coda, because he felt Katie needs Coda more than he did.
John soon felt that there was a real threat to Katie and he was determined to protect her. He was not sure where the threat was coming from, but to many things kept happening that were not accidents. He would just have to keep watch until he unraveled this intriguing mystery.
The romance between John and Katie was electrifying when ever they were together. They were naturally drawn to each other, but neither felt worthy of a mate do to their physical disfigurement and emotional/mental status of their past. Somehow they always found themselves together helping each other through the rough patches. Of course they had Coda right there to help both of them. This was a wonderful romantic story with a little suspense thrown in for good measure. Well worth the read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Besides the attack on Katie at work the Locke Family was having a string of bad luck at the ranch. Broken fences, and unreliable ranch hands. Katie was fearful to hire anyone else, they had so much trouble but her father insisted that they needed the foreman. She was determined that she was not going to like him and after she met him she knew he was hiding something. John decided not to tell them about his connection to Coda, because he felt Katie needs Coda more than he did.
John soon felt that there was a real threat to Katie and he was determined to protect her. He was not sure where the threat was coming from, but to many things kept happening that were not accidents. He would just have to keep watch until he unraveled this intriguing mystery.
The romance between John and Katie was electrifying when ever they were together. They were naturally drawn to each other, but neither felt worthy of a mate do to their physical disfigurement and emotional/mental status of their past. Somehow they always found themselves together helping each other through the rough patches. Of course they had Coda right there to help both of them. This was a wonderful romantic story with a little suspense thrown in for good measure. Well worth the read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 22, 2021
Wonderful read
Hearts Unleashed is the first book in the Three Keys Ranch series by Paris Wynters. I originally read this book when it was first released but somehow did not review it. The story is a well written and fantastic story about Katie and John. Paris outdid herself with this story as it has so much depth of emotion and heart that it will break you but then put you back together and make you soar. John suffered an IED explosion in Afghanistan and has been working to overcome the results of it. But after a long stay at the hospital the service dog, Coda, that he worked with was retired and adopted by a family. John should have adopted Coda himself so he decides to search for him. What he finds is not only Coda but also a job as he is hired as a ranch foreman by Mitch, Katie's dad, as he wants to help the Veteran out. Katie is working for her father doing the books at the family ranch. But Katie is also suffering from an attack that has left her with PTSD. Add on the fact that the family ranch has been having things go unexpectedly wrong at the ranch. With Coda there John settles into his job but does not tell Mitch or Katie about his attachment to Coda. Both Katie and John may be attracted to each other but they are both also determined to not get involved in any relationship and end up with a prickly way of being towards each other. But when John feels there may be an actual threat against Katie he is determined to protect her and keep her safe, not matter what it takes. There is a mystery happening that he is going to have to figure out. Along the way John and Katie grow closer and become a sort of support system to each other. Their relationship does make a hot and sexy left turn into love and a HEA, which also includes Coda of course.
This is a wonderful book that is well written. The story is nicely plotted and the characters are well developed with a lot of depth, showing bot their hurt, dark and sweet/caring sides. Plus you just have to love the way Coda is there for both John and Katie along the way. This book is a winner and I hope that Paris does write another in this series.
Hearts Unleashed is the first book in the Three Keys Ranch series by Paris Wynters. I originally read this book when it was first released but somehow did not review it. The story is a well written and fantastic story about Katie and John. Paris outdid herself with this story as it has so much depth of emotion and heart that it will break you but then put you back together and make you soar. John suffered an IED explosion in Afghanistan and has been working to overcome the results of it. But after a long stay at the hospital the service dog, Coda, that he worked with was retired and adopted by a family. John should have adopted Coda himself so he decides to search for him. What he finds is not only Coda but also a job as he is hired as a ranch foreman by Mitch, Katie's dad, as he wants to help the Veteran out. Katie is working for her father doing the books at the family ranch. But Katie is also suffering from an attack that has left her with PTSD. Add on the fact that the family ranch has been having things go unexpectedly wrong at the ranch. With Coda there John settles into his job but does not tell Mitch or Katie about his attachment to Coda. Both Katie and John may be attracted to each other but they are both also determined to not get involved in any relationship and end up with a prickly way of being towards each other. But when John feels there may be an actual threat against Katie he is determined to protect her and keep her safe, not matter what it takes. There is a mystery happening that he is going to have to figure out. Along the way John and Katie grow closer and become a sort of support system to each other. Their relationship does make a hot and sexy left turn into love and a HEA, which also includes Coda of course.
This is a wonderful book that is well written. The story is nicely plotted and the characters are well developed with a lot of depth, showing bot their hurt, dark and sweet/caring sides. Plus you just have to love the way Coda is there for both John and Katie along the way. This book is a winner and I hope that Paris does write another in this series.
June 7, 2020
John is a former soldier who was wounded in a battle that also took his best friend. He blames himself and now has to find his way in the civilian world all while trying to overcome emotional, psychological and physical issues. He finds a job on a ranch near his hometown where he works as the foreman. Katie is a former trauma nurse who was physically assaulted at work. She retreats to her father's ranch to help out and heal. John and Katie are constantly at odds. They both want the same thing, to work the ranch and help it prosper. When danger lurks they must learn to work together.
This is a wonderful story of two people who have been scared by their past trying to heal and move on with life. Both John and Katie must overcome their issues with PTSD, trust issues, and their need to forgive others and themselves. They both are struggling to find their place in the world and their purpose once their lives have been derailed by tragedy. They seem to take two steps forward and one step back until they begin working together and then they must figure out the attraction and feelings they have for one another.
Wynters does a great job of showing what it is like for someone dealing with pasts hurts both physical and emotional. The characters are well written and relatable. She also does a great job of describing the setting making the reader feel like they are right there on the ranch with them. Wynters also weaves in the use of a therapy dog as Katie has a dog to help deal with her anxiety and fear. This same dog was John's working dog while he was serving overseas.
Overall this is a great book! It has all the elements that someone who loves romantic suspense would be looking for. There is romance, mystery, intrigue and the heartfelt issues each character is dealing with. I definitely recommend this book.
This is a wonderful story of two people who have been scared by their past trying to heal and move on with life. Both John and Katie must overcome their issues with PTSD, trust issues, and their need to forgive others and themselves. They both are struggling to find their place in the world and their purpose once their lives have been derailed by tragedy. They seem to take two steps forward and one step back until they begin working together and then they must figure out the attraction and feelings they have for one another.
Wynters does a great job of showing what it is like for someone dealing with pasts hurts both physical and emotional. The characters are well written and relatable. She also does a great job of describing the setting making the reader feel like they are right there on the ranch with them. Wynters also weaves in the use of a therapy dog as Katie has a dog to help deal with her anxiety and fear. This same dog was John's working dog while he was serving overseas.
Overall this is a great book! It has all the elements that someone who loves romantic suspense would be looking for. There is romance, mystery, intrigue and the heartfelt issues each character is dealing with. I definitely recommend this book.
August 20, 2024
Snark,snark, and double snark.
Holy cow, I was so impressed by the blurb that I couldn't wait to start this book.
However, although the plotline was on track, the writing was sporadic. The nice and the bitchy just roll up and down like a yoyo. There was so many loose ends that didn't tie throughout the story and I kept asking but what about....????
So many issues that are kept secret and bottled up that it gets in the way of the story intent. The up and down emotional outbursts from the H and h had my head spinning. It got to be annoying after awhile. I had 90 minutes left to go and still nothing was resolved or revealed.
It eeked out and frustrated me.
Especially when both of them insult each other and bicker over emotional moods that neither of them know about.
I was so disappointed as I wanted to like this book. I liked the suspense of the adversary and i began to get an inkling of how this was going to play out.
And sadly the male narrator Gabriel De Leon was just awful. He spoke in short staccato sentences and I had to speed up the narration, but as it turned back to the female voice, Amy Hall, I had to drop it back. This was irritating to no end.
Unfortunately I won't go to book 2 mainly due to the male narrator.
I enjoyed Ms Wynters writing in her other series "Navy seals of little creek"better
Holy cow, I was so impressed by the blurb that I couldn't wait to start this book.
However, although the plotline was on track, the writing was sporadic. The nice and the bitchy just roll up and down like a yoyo. There was so many loose ends that didn't tie throughout the story and I kept asking but what about....????
So many issues that are kept secret and bottled up that it gets in the way of the story intent. The up and down emotional outbursts from the H and h had my head spinning. It got to be annoying after awhile. I had 90 minutes left to go and still nothing was resolved or revealed.
It eeked out and frustrated me.
Especially when both of them insult each other and bicker over emotional moods that neither of them know about.
I was so disappointed as I wanted to like this book. I liked the suspense of the adversary and i began to get an inkling of how this was going to play out.
And sadly the male narrator Gabriel De Leon was just awful. He spoke in short staccato sentences and I had to speed up the narration, but as it turned back to the female voice, Amy Hall, I had to drop it back. This was irritating to no end.
Unfortunately I won't go to book 2 mainly due to the male narrator.
I enjoyed Ms Wynters writing in her other series "Navy seals of little creek"better
October 5, 2017
This story is beautiful, heart-wrenching, and makes you feel like its a true story. For Paris's Debut Novel I can see her going places in the future. I know I will be a reader for life. The way Paris portray's PTSD in a soldier couldn't be more spot on.
John is back after being medically discharged from the military. Trying to make his way in the civilian world after an IED blew his world to shreds including his body. He's broken in more ways than one. Physical damage, PTSD, as well as thinking he's not good enough for anyone or anything. Katie is the rancher's daughter. She's tough as nails and doesn't take any bull from anyone. But like John shes broken as well.
With John now head foreman on her ranch little things start happening around it. Will John be able to keep Katie safe or will his past and the secrets he's keeping get him fired and leave Katie alone?
John and Katie don't like one another from the beginning but through this entire read, you feel like you are part of the relationship as it grows. The connection they have is noticeable from the beginning but they are both so stubborn and bullheaded it takes them a little while to come into it. I cannot wait to see what Paris brings us next.
John is back after being medically discharged from the military. Trying to make his way in the civilian world after an IED blew his world to shreds including his body. He's broken in more ways than one. Physical damage, PTSD, as well as thinking he's not good enough for anyone or anything. Katie is the rancher's daughter. She's tough as nails and doesn't take any bull from anyone. But like John shes broken as well.
With John now head foreman on her ranch little things start happening around it. Will John be able to keep Katie safe or will his past and the secrets he's keeping get him fired and leave Katie alone?
John and Katie don't like one another from the beginning but through this entire read, you feel like you are part of the relationship as it grows. The connection they have is noticeable from the beginning but they are both so stubborn and bullheaded it takes them a little while to come into it. I cannot wait to see what Paris brings us next.
March 19, 2018
I received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review. This Western Romance centers on Katie, a rancher’s daughter who has difficulty trusting strangers after being attacked at her job as a nurse, and John, a veteran with both physical and mental wounds from his service who is hired to work as the ranch foreman.
While at times the characters’ early anger and antagonistic reactions are forced and overly intense (especially those over John’s canine partner that Katie had adopted), the reason behind these overreactions is due to the subject matter that I found most poignant: the depth and difficulty of surviving after trauma. The more I learned about these characters and their experiences, the more I cared and was drawn in by the story. I especially appreciated the inclusion of tough subjects like survivor’s guilt, that alcohol does not have to be interfering with work to be a problem, and that life doesn’t go back to normal after a traumatic incident even when the body has healed.
Both Katie and John have deeply moving backstories that would each be worth reading on their own, yet together they create an intriguing romance focusing on that long road of recovery and finding love with people who understand your pain.
While at times the characters’ early anger and antagonistic reactions are forced and overly intense (especially those over John’s canine partner that Katie had adopted), the reason behind these overreactions is due to the subject matter that I found most poignant: the depth and difficulty of surviving after trauma. The more I learned about these characters and their experiences, the more I cared and was drawn in by the story. I especially appreciated the inclusion of tough subjects like survivor’s guilt, that alcohol does not have to be interfering with work to be a problem, and that life doesn’t go back to normal after a traumatic incident even when the body has healed.
Both Katie and John have deeply moving backstories that would each be worth reading on their own, yet together they create an intriguing romance focusing on that long road of recovery and finding love with people who understand your pain.
January 21, 2021
An IED brings an end to Major John Rathborne’s military career. When he gets the foreman job at a Montana ranch, he has the opportunity to start over. He also gets a super-big surprise when he finds his military canine partner, Koda, now retired and re-homed here.
Katie Locke doesn’t want the new foreman around. They don’t get along. But Koda, Katie's companion and protector, has some sort of bond with the man. She doesn’t know that John was Koda's handler. When Katie’s dad is out of commission and they need John’s help more than ever, John and Katie will have to make peace and work together for the good of the ranch. Can Koda’s love for the two people in his life help them put aside their own issues and realize they are good together? Would they let their wounds from their pasts hold them back? And could they find out what was going on with the odd happenings at the ranch? Was Katie in danger?
This was a good story line that will pull the reader in. Koda’s presence was essential to both of them and gave them a strong link to each other. John is protective of Katie and will hopefully find out the source of the ranch’s troubles before something worse happens. Grab your copy and see what the solution is!
Katie Locke doesn’t want the new foreman around. They don’t get along. But Koda, Katie's companion and protector, has some sort of bond with the man. She doesn’t know that John was Koda's handler. When Katie’s dad is out of commission and they need John’s help more than ever, John and Katie will have to make peace and work together for the good of the ranch. Can Koda’s love for the two people in his life help them put aside their own issues and realize they are good together? Would they let their wounds from their pasts hold them back? And could they find out what was going on with the odd happenings at the ranch? Was Katie in danger?
This was a good story line that will pull the reader in. Koda’s presence was essential to both of them and gave them a strong link to each other. John is protective of Katie and will hopefully find out the source of the ranch’s troubles before something worse happens. Grab your copy and see what the solution is!
September 13, 2017
I loved this book! Wynters does a great job of helping the reader to feel what the characters are going through. Though I have no personal experience to base it on, I felt that her portrayal of the PTSD was sensitive and realistic. She showed that there is no "easy" fix for "getting over it." It's a very personal struggle for each person (or dog!) it affects. I loved seeing the bond between John and Koda as much as I did watching the attraction grow between John and Katie. They each had demons to overcome and had a hard time accepting that anyone could help them through that. I appreciated the growing (and earned) trust between Katie and John. And in Peter, Wynters developed a character that the reader loves to hate. I could hear and feel the smugness, the 'smarm' whenever he was in a scene--never quite trusting him but not knowing if it was personality or true badness. Wynters did a great job of including cowboys and military in this book--two of my favorite romantic genres! I look forward to more from Wynters.
I was given a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was given a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 14, 2018
*I received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review.*
Hearts Unleashed features John and Katie, two stubborn survivors butting heads on a Montana ranch. John is a former Staff Sergeant and Katie is a former nurse, but fate brought them together to work on Katie’s family ranch. Add into the mix a retired military Belgian Malinois with quite the personality, and your attention is grabbed before you know it. I read this book start to finish in about two hours, drawn in by the narrative and writing style. I recommend this to anyone who likes a sweet romance that isn’t afraid to broach sensitive topics.
Addressing issues such as PTSD and survivor’s guilt is always tricky, but Wynters approaches it in a way that seems to truly represent the reality. John and Katie both heal and grow throughout the course of the book, even after a rocky start and some lingering trust issues. The slow build of their interactions, including their sharp back-and-forth and simmering sexual tension, culminates in what a genuine relationship really feels like. Definitely a five star book!
Hearts Unleashed features John and Katie, two stubborn survivors butting heads on a Montana ranch. John is a former Staff Sergeant and Katie is a former nurse, but fate brought them together to work on Katie’s family ranch. Add into the mix a retired military Belgian Malinois with quite the personality, and your attention is grabbed before you know it. I read this book start to finish in about two hours, drawn in by the narrative and writing style. I recommend this to anyone who likes a sweet romance that isn’t afraid to broach sensitive topics.
Addressing issues such as PTSD and survivor’s guilt is always tricky, but Wynters approaches it in a way that seems to truly represent the reality. John and Katie both heal and grow throughout the course of the book, even after a rocky start and some lingering trust issues. The slow build of their interactions, including their sharp back-and-forth and simmering sexual tension, culminates in what a genuine relationship really feels like. Definitely a five star book!
June 6, 2020
I just finished reading Hearts Unleashed (Three Keys Ranch Book 1) by Paris Wynters and wow!!! What a fantastic book! This book was about Katie and John. Katie worked on her father's farm in accounting and John was hired as the new ranch hand. Both of them have had some horrific things happen in their lives and were just trying to move on and survive. They really did not get along at all at first. But something happened and their relationship shifted so to say. Both were not eager for a relationship because of their physical and emotional scars. But love has a way of sneaking up on you and that is what happened to Katie and John. It was such an emotional book. I really felt for the characters and even cried at one point. I love a book that just pulls me in when reading and that is this book. Yes, there is drama and yes there is romance and yes there is happiness and most of all is love. I received this book in exchange for an honest opinion. I loved it and highly recommend reading it!!
January 23, 2023
I got this during the fill your kindle event. I really enjoyed this book. We meet John who’s military career has just ended due to a IED. He suffers from PTSD and is struggling to readjust to civilian life again. John is determined to be reunited with K9 partner Koda. The last place he expects to find her is at a ranch where he’s just taken a new foreman position. Unfortunately Kate could care less about John and wants him gone. She can’t help but notice that Koda has a bond with him. But when Kate’s dad has a heart attack she has no choice but to lean on John. But John hasn’t told Kate about his past even when feelings arise.
I loved our two main characters in his book. The chemistry they had and how they both work through their emotions and past left me in awe. The way Kate helps John with his nightmares was something very special. I liked that this wasn’t just your regular ranch romance their was some elements of suspense that I definitely wasn’t expecting. I also loved Koda!!! She is the smartest most loyal dog ever!!
I loved our two main characters in his book. The chemistry they had and how they both work through their emotions and past left me in awe. The way Kate helps John with his nightmares was something very special. I liked that this wasn’t just your regular ranch romance their was some elements of suspense that I definitely wasn’t expecting. I also loved Koda!!! She is the smartest most loyal dog ever!!
August 21, 2018
Great characters with emotional appeal
I was intrigued by this one from the start, where both main characters have PTSD, then adding a dog into the storyline made it a must read for me. I thought the author did a great job of describing the emotional and physical struggles of both John and Katie. I loved John, though Katie was a little pricklier (if for good reason), and I really felt their pain and was urging both of them on even when I didn't always agree with the decisions they made.
This is a debut work by a new author, and I did feel like it could use some polish. The flow was a little uneven for me (this could partly be the use of flashbacks, which I'm rarely a fan of, though I understand why the author used them) and the ending seemed a bit abrupt.
Great characters with emotional appeal made for a great debut effort. This is an author to watch for and one I'll definitely be willing to read again. 3.5 to 4 stars
B2B Kelly
I was intrigued by this one from the start, where both main characters have PTSD, then adding a dog into the storyline made it a must read for me. I thought the author did a great job of describing the emotional and physical struggles of both John and Katie. I loved John, though Katie was a little pricklier (if for good reason), and I really felt their pain and was urging both of them on even when I didn't always agree with the decisions they made.
This is a debut work by a new author, and I did feel like it could use some polish. The flow was a little uneven for me (this could partly be the use of flashbacks, which I'm rarely a fan of, though I understand why the author used them) and the ending seemed a bit abrupt.
Great characters with emotional appeal made for a great debut effort. This is an author to watch for and one I'll definitely be willing to read again. 3.5 to 4 stars
B2B Kelly
August 10, 2020
Katie's dad hires John as their new ranch manager - Mitch is a sucker for a vet in need of a job. From the beginning, Katie and John don't like each other, and their snide and sometimes nasty comments reflect those feelings. They're two broken souls, physically and emotionally. His injuries are the result of an IED blast in Afghanistan - she was attacked one night at the hospital. Their common ground is Koda, the dog they both love. Koda is Katie's companion and protector, but John was Koda's handler in the service. This is an emotional and heartwarming book. John and Katie have to figure out how to work together, especially after her father get sick. It's a two-steps-forward-one-step-back as they learn how to get along and trust each other. There's a mystery to be solved as well - things happening on the ranch. This is my first read from this author, but most certainly not the last.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 30, 2017
This is a voluntary review of an advanced copy.
At first, it was hard to see John and Katie together as they both has so much trauma to overcome. As the story progressed, you could see that they would be good for each other but Katie just kept her walls up and was so prickly toward John. I almost felt sorry for him that she was so grouchy but then they had been burned so many times before with men who took advantage of them.
Along with the budding romance, there was some intrigue to the story along with a few twists. It was not hard to figure out who was the bad guy but his motive was unexpected and all that he had planned and done was a surprise.
In the end, they have grown and pushed past some of their hurts to start healing and can begin a relationship. I loved that Koda can now have both the people that she loves in her life!
At first, it was hard to see John and Katie together as they both has so much trauma to overcome. As the story progressed, you could see that they would be good for each other but Katie just kept her walls up and was so prickly toward John. I almost felt sorry for him that she was so grouchy but then they had been burned so many times before with men who took advantage of them.
Along with the budding romance, there was some intrigue to the story along with a few twists. It was not hard to figure out who was the bad guy but his motive was unexpected and all that he had planned and done was a surprise.
In the end, they have grown and pushed past some of their hurts to start healing and can begin a relationship. I loved that Koda can now have both the people that she loves in her life!
October 2, 2017
Oh my, I felt this story and I felt it deep..might or might not have cried ;)
John is trying to get back on his feet after his injuries that caused his military career to end. He starts working at a ranch but between Katie, the ranch manager, the owner's daughter, and his PTSD, he doesn't have it easy.
Both Katie and John have issues and the attraction between them causes more problems than not, since neither can cope well with it.
But as they are forced to work together their relationship start to change, but there are still secrets betweem them and strange things happening.
I have to say it took me a while to warm up to the characters, but while I took to John easily, Katie was the hardest for me..once I got the hang of it tho I was all in.
I loved the story and the twists, it made me feel for the characters and cheer for them to be better and happy.
John is trying to get back on his feet after his injuries that caused his military career to end. He starts working at a ranch but between Katie, the ranch manager, the owner's daughter, and his PTSD, he doesn't have it easy.
Both Katie and John have issues and the attraction between them causes more problems than not, since neither can cope well with it.
But as they are forced to work together their relationship start to change, but there are still secrets betweem them and strange things happening.
I have to say it took me a while to warm up to the characters, but while I took to John easily, Katie was the hardest for me..once I got the hang of it tho I was all in.
I loved the story and the twists, it made me feel for the characters and cheer for them to be better and happy.
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