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Cole
After leaving the military as a Marine Scout Sniper, he suffered from PTSD and was barely functioning most days. Nightmares plagued him most nights and it took him three years to be a functioning part of society. While out running off a nightmare, he finds a woman stumbling out of the woods, barely alive. She looks to him for protection. She looks to him to save her. Can he overcome his own demons to keep the woman he is falling in love with out of the hands of a killer?
Alex
She has suffered through her parents being murdered in front of her. She spent years in foster care, shuffled from one unloving home to the next. Now she's been kidnapped and if she doesn't figure out how to escape, she will die at the hands of the man who killed her parents. She needs someone to protect her and love her. Can Cole be that man or will her kidnapper find her and take her from the man she has come to love?
After leaving the military as a Marine Scout Sniper, he suffered from PTSD and was barely functioning most days. Nightmares plagued him most nights and it took him three years to be a functioning part of society. While out running off a nightmare, he finds a woman stumbling out of the woods, barely alive. She looks to him for protection. She looks to him to save her. Can he overcome his own demons to keep the woman he is falling in love with out of the hands of a killer?
Alex
She has suffered through her parents being murdered in front of her. She spent years in foster care, shuffled from one unloving home to the next. Now she's been kidnapped and if she doesn't figure out how to escape, she will die at the hands of the man who killed her parents. She needs someone to protect her and love her. Can Cole be that man or will her kidnapper find her and take her from the man she has come to love?
209 pages, ebook
First published September 20, 2017
608 people are currently reading
377 people want to read
About the author
Giulia Lagomarsino
123 books829 followersGiulia Lagomarsino is the author of the action-packed series Owens Protective Services, along with four other series that feature hot men, strong women, and storylines that will leave you laughing, crying, and begging for more. To find her reading order, visit her website http://giulialagomarsinoauthor.com or join her reading group https://www.facebook.com/groups/Giuli....
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 194 reviews
March 3, 2021
Dark and twisty!
Almost like a soap opera sometimes you wonder just how many awful things can happen to one person in a lifetime Cole finds Alex running in the woods after escaping a serial killer who had held her and tortured her for five months, the same one who had killed her parents in front of her when she was a small child.
He is not finished without her yet, though as she is safe with Cole, the killer is out there searching for her. Planning his next game and never letting her go. The story is about two people overcoming tremendous odds and obstacles to be together. PTSD plays a major part in both of their stories. There is a lot of angst and drama as well as nightmares and actual scares...
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Almost like a soap opera sometimes you wonder just how many awful things can happen to one person in a lifetime Cole finds Alex running in the woods after escaping a serial killer who had held her and tortured her for five months, the same one who had killed her parents in front of her when she was a small child.
He is not finished without her yet, though as she is safe with Cole, the killer is out there searching for her. Planning his next game and never letting her go. The story is about two people overcoming tremendous odds and obstacles to be together. PTSD plays a major part in both of their stories. There is a lot of angst and drama as well as nightmares and actual scares...
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Amazon|Twitter|BookBub
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June 14, 2023DNF
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It stayed on the list for so long and I read others ahead and I ended up losing interest... maybe I'll come back later.
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It stayed on the list for so long and I read others ahead and I ended up losing interest... maybe I'll come back later.
Want to read
April 5, 2018💝 FREE on Amazon today (4/5/2018)!💝
September 14, 2018
It's amazing when we have several books from the same series to read because you can just end one and start the next right away. This was me when I grabbed this book.
Do you know Giulia Lagomarsino? Well, I didn't knew her but after reading the first book I knew that I needed more so here I am.
Her writing is simple yet pretty detailed, full of meaning and feelings with a touch of hotness into the mix... Just go for it.
Cole is her latest release and it's the second book from the For The Love Of A Good Woman series and you must read the first book. Only then you can read this despite the fact that they are standalones. Just go for it and you'll not regret it.
This book tells the stories of Cole and Alex.
When Cole left the military he was in a bad shape. He suffered from PTSD and living each day was a struggle that he didn't knew if he was gonna make it. After 3 years he's a little better but his demons keep hunting him... Can he overcome it?
Alex suffered what no one should. She saw her parents being murdered and that day is imprinted on her memory. Being taken to the foster care system made her suffer even more but she would eventually be free... It's what she thought. Now she just wants to escape... But can she?
Jesus... I'm still shaking. What the hell happened?
The plot is amazing, well written, super engaging and intense. Jeez the suspense level was high as a kite.
There were parts of the story that I was so freaking scared. Dayum... Things were happening and I saw myself shouting for them to runaway.
Reading this was like riding the most bumped rollercoaster of the world. Once I started to read it I couldn't put it down because the need to know more was killing me. Dayum... Just Dayum.
Giulia this series is getting so much better. Can't wait to start the new book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Do you know Giulia Lagomarsino? Well, I didn't knew her but after reading the first book I knew that I needed more so here I am.
Her writing is simple yet pretty detailed, full of meaning and feelings with a touch of hotness into the mix... Just go for it.
Cole is her latest release and it's the second book from the For The Love Of A Good Woman series and you must read the first book. Only then you can read this despite the fact that they are standalones. Just go for it and you'll not regret it.
This book tells the stories of Cole and Alex.
When Cole left the military he was in a bad shape. He suffered from PTSD and living each day was a struggle that he didn't knew if he was gonna make it. After 3 years he's a little better but his demons keep hunting him... Can he overcome it?
Alex suffered what no one should. She saw her parents being murdered and that day is imprinted on her memory. Being taken to the foster care system made her suffer even more but she would eventually be free... It's what she thought. Now she just wants to escape... But can she?
Jesus... I'm still shaking. What the hell happened?
The plot is amazing, well written, super engaging and intense. Jeez the suspense level was high as a kite.
There were parts of the story that I was so freaking scared. Dayum... Things were happening and I saw myself shouting for them to runaway.
Reading this was like riding the most bumped rollercoaster of the world. Once I started to read it I couldn't put it down because the need to know more was killing me. Dayum... Just Dayum.
Giulia this series is getting so much better. Can't wait to start the new book.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
February 16, 2018
I was asked to give my honest opinion in exchange for reading for free.Well who says no to free books? I sure don't!
I'm usually not one too read books about other characters in the book as I always want another about the main characters, but all of Giulia books are about different people. I really enjoyed Jack, but I have to say even though not reading the rest of the series yet Cole is my all time favorite. It may change as the series goes on.
This book is fantastic! It has drama, romance, suspense and a spitfire of a man! I couldn't put it down! It was well written and by the end of it I was kicking myself because I read it too fast and it was over!
"Forget that I happened you mean."
"No, I mean that I'm confused and you're pushing. That doesn't encourage me to get to know you. I need time."
"Well, I need you! I can give you time. What I can't give you is a free pass to up and leave. We had something and you're gonna rip it away?"
"I keep waiting for the other shoe to drop. My life is not all flowers and fairy tales. It's been horrible and I've been alone for most of it. I'm sorry, but I'm not ready to take that step with you. You're asking me to put all my trust in you that this will work and I can't. I can date you and learn to love you, but I can't just put it all out there at once."
"Learn to love me?"
Gah this book had me in tears, had me smiling like and idiot and at one point I wanted to chuck the damn book across the room!
"What if I said I didn't want to go home?"
"Don't fuck with me, Alex. I'm done playing games where we figure out what you want."
If your looking for the next heartbreakingly good romance, suspense book then look no further. This book was absolutely fantastic!
I'm usually not one too read books about other characters in the book as I always want another about the main characters, but all of Giulia books are about different people. I really enjoyed Jack, but I have to say even though not reading the rest of the series yet Cole is my all time favorite. It may change as the series goes on.
This book is fantastic! It has drama, romance, suspense and a spitfire of a man! I couldn't put it down! It was well written and by the end of it I was kicking myself because I read it too fast and it was over!
"Forget that I happened you mean."
"No, I mean that I'm confused and you're pushing. That doesn't encourage me to get to know you. I need time."
"Well, I need you! I can give you time. What I can't give you is a free pass to up and leave. We had something and you're gonna rip it away?"
"I keep waiting for the other shoe to drop. My life is not all flowers and fairy tales. It's been horrible and I've been alone for most of it. I'm sorry, but I'm not ready to take that step with you. You're asking me to put all my trust in you that this will work and I can't. I can date you and learn to love you, but I can't just put it all out there at once."
"Learn to love me?"
Gah this book had me in tears, had me smiling like and idiot and at one point I wanted to chuck the damn book across the room!
"What if I said I didn't want to go home?"
"Don't fuck with me, Alex. I'm done playing games where we figure out what you want."
If your looking for the next heartbreakingly good romance, suspense book then look no further. This book was absolutely fantastic!
September 10, 2018
Nail biting suspense and sweet romance come together in a heart pounding read with Cole. Cole and Alex’s story grabs you right from the start and keeps you flying through the pages non stop. I was drawn in just as much by the shocking twists as I was by the serious swoon with this one. Every time I thought I knew what was coming I was surprised again keeping me constantly on my toes. All of that mystery and suspense is balanced out with a beautiful love that wraps around your heart.
I loved nearly everything about Cole and Alex. Good and bad, ups and downs, these two were magnificent through it all! This book would have been a solid five stars for me, but after all the twists and turns and epic breathtaking moments I was a bit let down by how fast the ending was. I would have loved to have had more details filled out on things that had occurred. Overall though, this a fantastic fast paced suspenseful romance that will steal your heart!
I loved nearly everything about Cole and Alex. Good and bad, ups and downs, these two were magnificent through it all! This book would have been a solid five stars for me, but after all the twists and turns and epic breathtaking moments I was a bit let down by how fast the ending was. I would have loved to have had more details filled out on things that had occurred. Overall though, this a fantastic fast paced suspenseful romance that will steal your heart!
September 10, 2018
This is the 2nd book in this series, and can be read as a standalone. Cole and Alex are both haunted by their pasts, and have many obstacles to overcome in order to accept themselves and move on with living. This is a well written emotional rollercoaster from beginning to end, and is filled with suspense, mystery, thrills, heartbreak, and romance. I was totally hooked and intrigued throughout, and cannot wait to read the next book in this amazing series! I highly recommend this talented authors’ work for all readers!
September 9, 2018
Spunky N Sassy Rating: 4.0
~~~~~~~~~~Lindsey's ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
This book was suspenseful and kept me reading with every page.
~~~~~~~~~~Lindsey's ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review~~~~~~~~~~
This book was suspenseful and kept me reading with every page.
June 2, 2025
This book was middle of the road, certainly better than Jack for me but not as good as other books I’ve read by this author. It focuses on Cole and Alex.
When she was young, Alex watched her parents be tortured to death and the killer was after her ever since. He finally captures her and brutalizes her for over a month. She manages to escape and is rescued by Cole. Knowing she’s in horrific shape he takes care of her. Cole has his own demons. He was a sniper in the military and discharged because of a bad case of PTSD. He still suffers from it but in taking care of Alex, it helps a great deal with his own issues.
I found this too dark to really enjoy it. Things get even worse for the two before they start to get better and the book ends somewhat suddenly without real healing. I wasn’t really satisfied with the ending and for those reasons I can’t rate it any higher.
When she was young, Alex watched her parents be tortured to death and the killer was after her ever since. He finally captures her and brutalizes her for over a month. She manages to escape and is rescued by Cole. Knowing she’s in horrific shape he takes care of her. Cole has his own demons. He was a sniper in the military and discharged because of a bad case of PTSD. He still suffers from it but in taking care of Alex, it helps a great deal with his own issues.
I found this too dark to really enjoy it. Things get even worse for the two before they start to get better and the book ends somewhat suddenly without real healing. I wasn’t really satisfied with the ending and for those reasons I can’t rate it any higher.
September 9, 2018
Review by: Jennifer
(4 stars)
This is the second book in the For the Love of a Good Woman series, and this was so different from book one that it could have been two different authors. Most times an author has a writing style that they stick with, a sort of formula, and this leads to their books often reading like each other with different names but the situations are similar. This is NOT the case with Giulia Lagomarsino! Jack and Harper's book was a funny romantic story, while Cole and Alex's story played out like an episode of CSI or Criminal Minds with the love story just an added ingredient.
Cole has been home for three years and has still not really managed to conquer the demons that haunt him. He spends his days at his parent's house working with his father, and sometimes hanging out with his friends for an occasional poker night, but for the most part he keeps to himself. When on one of his runs, he stumbles onto Alex everything from that moment on changes. Alex has just escaped hell, having run for her life for over a day, but knowing that she still hasn't gone far enough. She is just past the point of exhaustion when she collapses. When Cole comes upon her and offers her help, she is insistent that he doesn't call the cops or takes her to the hospital. Taking her home is his only option and getting her help. Keeping this quiet was necessary as the person that tortured Alex was still out there, and he wasn't going to stop until he got what he wanted.
This was such a different read that it blew my mind. I really liked Alex and Cole as a couple, the action in the story did not stop and just kept you hooked. I was left with some questions, like why was Cole involved with the case in the first place, he had no need for Sean to involve him before even meeting Alex, after Alex that's a different story. I hated the ending, not that there was one, it just stopped. Bam that is folks no more from Cole and Alex and we are left going WTH we wanted more, we wanted to know more. I give this 4 stars.
(4 stars)
This is the second book in the For the Love of a Good Woman series, and this was so different from book one that it could have been two different authors. Most times an author has a writing style that they stick with, a sort of formula, and this leads to their books often reading like each other with different names but the situations are similar. This is NOT the case with Giulia Lagomarsino! Jack and Harper's book was a funny romantic story, while Cole and Alex's story played out like an episode of CSI or Criminal Minds with the love story just an added ingredient.
Cole has been home for three years and has still not really managed to conquer the demons that haunt him. He spends his days at his parent's house working with his father, and sometimes hanging out with his friends for an occasional poker night, but for the most part he keeps to himself. When on one of his runs, he stumbles onto Alex everything from that moment on changes. Alex has just escaped hell, having run for her life for over a day, but knowing that she still hasn't gone far enough. She is just past the point of exhaustion when she collapses. When Cole comes upon her and offers her help, she is insistent that he doesn't call the cops or takes her to the hospital. Taking her home is his only option and getting her help. Keeping this quiet was necessary as the person that tortured Alex was still out there, and he wasn't going to stop until he got what he wanted.
This was such a different read that it blew my mind. I really liked Alex and Cole as a couple, the action in the story did not stop and just kept you hooked. I was left with some questions, like why was Cole involved with the case in the first place, he had no need for Sean to involve him before even meeting Alex, after Alex that's a different story. I hated the ending, not that there was one, it just stopped. Bam that is folks no more from Cole and Alex and we are left going WTH we wanted more, we wanted to know more. I give this 4 stars.
July 13, 2018
received a copy in exchange I leave an honest review.
So lets see, without a doubt the very beginning ( the first chapter) got my attention to keep reading. Once I got the part where she was being help with rats and loads of spiders I felt the fear because I am extremely scared of spiders. I didn't expect that she would escape and be with Cole so quickly, but when it happened I felt a relief come across me as if I was watching a movie. Mind you books are really hard for me to stay interested in them. especially if they're slow to get to the point or subject of the writing. I read Jack and it took me days to read it. With cole it took me only 28-30 hours. It was slow at first and though sometimes I felt like I wanted to put it down for a minute, once the thrills started It kept me glued to the pages from the very beginning, and tensed up from the thrill of the not so precious moments they shared. Its romantic, beautiful that he would put aside his own PTSD shit storm in his brain to help a woman he found. Cole is the sensitive beautiful man some of us fantasize to have.
Romantic, adorable and most definitely a thriller and would recommend not only Cole, but any of the books Giulia writes. I'm now onto write a review of Logan and start the next book which is Drew.
So lets see, without a doubt the very beginning ( the first chapter) got my attention to keep reading. Once I got the part where she was being help with rats and loads of spiders I felt the fear because I am extremely scared of spiders. I didn't expect that she would escape and be with Cole so quickly, but when it happened I felt a relief come across me as if I was watching a movie. Mind you books are really hard for me to stay interested in them. especially if they're slow to get to the point or subject of the writing. I read Jack and it took me days to read it. With cole it took me only 28-30 hours. It was slow at first and though sometimes I felt like I wanted to put it down for a minute, once the thrills started It kept me glued to the pages from the very beginning, and tensed up from the thrill of the not so precious moments they shared. Its romantic, beautiful that he would put aside his own PTSD shit storm in his brain to help a woman he found. Cole is the sensitive beautiful man some of us fantasize to have.
Romantic, adorable and most definitely a thriller and would recommend not only Cole, but any of the books Giulia writes. I'm now onto write a review of Logan and start the next book which is Drew.
November 8, 2018
A long nightmare for Cole and Alex … 3.5 stars
This suspenseful thriller features an ex-military sniper suffering from PTSD and a woman haunted by a recent, brutal abduction. Cole and Alex are broken souls – each with their own demons who surprisingly find solace, and love from one another. Both are strong-willed individuals who are determined to overcome their fears and to live as normal a life as possible. I found the story to be a little over-long and particularly gruesome at times – especially when the villain described his delinquency and his enjoyment of brutality and killing. I wasn’t prepared for the twist at the end and had to wonder with everything else that had transpired if this was even necessary. Sometimes less is more. There’s plenty of mystery, suspense, drama, brutality, violence and a bittersweet romance with some steamy scenes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This suspenseful thriller features an ex-military sniper suffering from PTSD and a woman haunted by a recent, brutal abduction. Cole and Alex are broken souls – each with their own demons who surprisingly find solace, and love from one another. Both are strong-willed individuals who are determined to overcome their fears and to live as normal a life as possible. I found the story to be a little over-long and particularly gruesome at times – especially when the villain described his delinquency and his enjoyment of brutality and killing. I wasn’t prepared for the twist at the end and had to wonder with everything else that had transpired if this was even necessary. Sometimes less is more. There’s plenty of mystery, suspense, drama, brutality, violence and a bittersweet romance with some steamy scenes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 31, 2023
I have not read one book from this author that I have not thoroughly loved. I see her name and must get the book; it really is a no brainer. Her writing is addictive, and I am hooked. This is another explosive story for this wonderful series. The intensity and anticipation are palpable and just explodes of the pages. This author does romance like no one else. Just make sure to read in reading order.
November 16, 2018
This is an exciting action packed suspense filled romance story.Cole is ex military suffering with ptsd.When things get to tough he goes for a run and then goes to his parents home where he designs custome wood furniture.He's dad works beside him no talking unless Cole wants to talk.She's a emotionally damaged woman that watched her parents be murdered in front of her when she was only eight years old.She's never felt safe always working for a while then moving and starting over somewhere new.It has been five years since she visited her parents graves but now after she spent the day visiting them she's on her way home.She has to use the restroom so she stops at a rest area it's dark and no other cars are there.When she gets out of her car the hairs on the back of her neck stand up and she feels like she's being watched.After using the restroom she's headed back to her car when she feels like she's in danger.She starts walking faster when all of a sudden she's slammed to the ground she tries to escape but he's too strong then she feels a needle in her neck and blacks out.He calls her little Lexi the name her father used too call her.She's trapped in a root cellar and tied up her hands are tied above her head to the wall that has a ring in it.her legs are tied.When he comes down an laughs an evil laugh an tells her they are going to start their game.He tortures her for hours then leaves.Alex knows she must find away how to escape or she will die here because she has no one who will look for her .She been captive for five months she's weak and the torture makes her wish for death.One day she manages to escape she runs as far in the woods as she can until she's so tired she passed out then when she wakes up she starts running again when she hits the road at the edge of the woods she sees a man running at first she's afraid it's him but when she sees it isn't she's frozen to the spot the man asks if she's ok and when she doesn't answer she passed out.To awaken with beautiful blue eyes looking down at her he tells her he won't hurt her but she needs a hospital she says no hel l find me.So he tells her his name and he takes her into his house to help her clean up she's filthy and he takes her dirty close off her an puts her into the shower he washed her multiple times before she's clean and wraps her in a big warm towel.He takes her into his bedroom and puts one of his shirts on her an Ricks her into bed.This story is what nightmares are made of all the things Alex went through.Cole thinks she may have been taken by a serial killer his friend asks him to overlook a file containing information on several woman that had been taken and starved then tortured to death.Sean's sister escaped after ten days an still hasn't recovered.Will Cole and his friends keep Alex alive?Will they be able to stop her from being taken again?When a madman is one step ahead.the twists and turns to this story will keep you on the edge of your seat and riveted until the very last page.I can hardly wait to see what's next by this multi talented author.
September 6, 2018
What a thrilling thriller! Holy Heck is Cole different than Jack. Not only in personality, but the story its self is way different. Cole is book two in the For the Love of a Good Woman series. It can be read as a stand-alone, but I suggest you read them together. Cole is a romantic thriller. It has mystery, romance, and truly heart-breaking moments. I will put the disclaimer that there are some things in this book that might be triggers, so if you have those, you might want to avoid this.
The plot of this book had me interested from the beginning. Holy heck did our main girl, Alex, go through a terrible life so far. She is just surviving day to day and not really living. Then the unthinkable happens. Will she be strong enough to make it through? I think this book does a great job describing PTSD. Not only does it discuss it in regards to a former military man, but it also talks about civilians going through serious situations and how PTSD effects them.
Alex is a resilient character. She is truly amazing. I do not know how she stayed so level headed through everything that she had to go through. At times, I felt like maybe she was a little too okay, but then she would have a set back and my heart would break for her. Cole is a strong character. He made it through war and came back broken. He is just surviving until fate gives him a purpose. I loved Cole.
The heat in this book is there, but in a different way. The heat is muted, which is what I expect from a mystery thriller. Especially this one. I don’t feel like it would have been good had they jumped into bed right away. It would have felt forced. The way the heat was done in this book was better. It was organic and felt perfect for these characters.
The writing style of this book was good. The pace was steady. Again, I feel the author was a little wordy and that the book went on a bit too long, but I liked the book. This book actually gave me nightmares. That is how well the book was written. I was able to feel what the characters felt. I will say that this author was rough on poor Alex. She just couldn’t get a break.
Overall, I liked this book. It kept me on the edge of my seat. I didn’t put it down until I read the very last word. I hope that we get to see more of this couple in future books because I felt the book ended kind of suddenly. I would like to feel like their story is more resolved. I would recommend this book to others.
Ratings:
Plot: 4/5
Characters: 5/5
Heat: 5/5
Writing Style: 4/5
Overall: 4/5
*Reviewed for Seraphim Book Reviews*
The plot of this book had me interested from the beginning. Holy heck did our main girl, Alex, go through a terrible life so far. She is just surviving day to day and not really living. Then the unthinkable happens. Will she be strong enough to make it through? I think this book does a great job describing PTSD. Not only does it discuss it in regards to a former military man, but it also talks about civilians going through serious situations and how PTSD effects them.
Alex is a resilient character. She is truly amazing. I do not know how she stayed so level headed through everything that she had to go through. At times, I felt like maybe she was a little too okay, but then she would have a set back and my heart would break for her. Cole is a strong character. He made it through war and came back broken. He is just surviving until fate gives him a purpose. I loved Cole.
The heat in this book is there, but in a different way. The heat is muted, which is what I expect from a mystery thriller. Especially this one. I don’t feel like it would have been good had they jumped into bed right away. It would have felt forced. The way the heat was done in this book was better. It was organic and felt perfect for these characters.
The writing style of this book was good. The pace was steady. Again, I feel the author was a little wordy and that the book went on a bit too long, but I liked the book. This book actually gave me nightmares. That is how well the book was written. I was able to feel what the characters felt. I will say that this author was rough on poor Alex. She just couldn’t get a break.
Overall, I liked this book. It kept me on the edge of my seat. I didn’t put it down until I read the very last word. I hope that we get to see more of this couple in future books because I felt the book ended kind of suddenly. I would like to feel like their story is more resolved. I would recommend this book to others.
Ratings:
Plot: 4/5
Characters: 5/5
Heat: 5/5
Writing Style: 4/5
Overall: 4/5
*Reviewed for Seraphim Book Reviews*
September 13, 2018
HOLY HELL! This book packed quite the punch right out of the gate, and it didn't slow down at all! Cole was a Marine Scout Sniper who left the military with a severe case PTSD, so he stays to himself a lot. He comes across Alex while running, barely alive while stumbling out of the woods. See, Alex has escaped, after months of torture, the evil clutches of a serial murderer that no one can catch, so she's a mess. Somehow, these two tortured people filled with nightmares connect, and bring some sort of peace to each other. However, there's still that killer on the loose, who doesn't like loose ends and is actively hunting her, so can Cole keep it together in order to keep her safe? Yeah, this book in the series was all about the suspense, that's for sure. The twists were everywhere, which not only had me dropping loud f-bombs, but kept me on the edge of my seat with a racing heart that took some time to calm down after I finished the story. And trust me, they were crazy layered upon insane. In between the whole psychopath hunting her, she finally let Cole in enough to have some sexy times that lit the sheets on fire, as danger seems to heighten emotions quicker. Then of course, there's the cast of secondaries that added depth to the story from previous & future books. The best part of this story was Giulia Lagomarsino's way with writing such realistic PTSD throughout this story, because besides Cole's issues, Alex obviously had a whole bunch on her own, and she didn't get better overnight. I love this series, and cannot wait for the next book, and HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL!
November 17, 2018
I'm behind on my ARCs, but it seems I saved the best for last. Review to come, but so far I'm enjoying this suspenseful and well written story.
****Updated review******
Well, just when you get to catch your breath and maybe start getting a little impatient with the storyline the sh$t hits the fan again. What Alex has been through and goes through in this story.....I think I'd be catatonic. Thankfully she's got Cole, although she nearly screws that up. But with the love and support of Cole our heroine recovers. I like the realistic HEA, as a sugar coated version just wouldn't work here. Cole is hot, sweet, yummy, considerate, and unfortunately fictional. Yeah, I wanted to smack Alex a time or two but the girl had her issues to work out.
This was a great read with great characters who were well developed. Alex was abducted and tortured, so be warned. If you're looking for warm and fuzzy, this book is more on the nail biting side of things. You do have some warm and fuzzy as well as a few steamy moments, but this is mostly suspenseful wondering when and how they'll catch the psychopath, waiting for the something bad to happen, keeping Alex safe, and Alex and Cole working through everything. This can be read as a standalone, but is part of a series that I am now going to dive into. Great read which I definitely recommend!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
****Updated review******
Well, just when you get to catch your breath and maybe start getting a little impatient with the storyline the sh$t hits the fan again. What Alex has been through and goes through in this story.....I think I'd be catatonic. Thankfully she's got Cole, although she nearly screws that up. But with the love and support of Cole our heroine recovers. I like the realistic HEA, as a sugar coated version just wouldn't work here. Cole is hot, sweet, yummy, considerate, and unfortunately fictional. Yeah, I wanted to smack Alex a time or two but the girl had her issues to work out.
This was a great read with great characters who were well developed. Alex was abducted and tortured, so be warned. If you're looking for warm and fuzzy, this book is more on the nail biting side of things. You do have some warm and fuzzy as well as a few steamy moments, but this is mostly suspenseful wondering when and how they'll catch the psychopath, waiting for the something bad to happen, keeping Alex safe, and Alex and Cole working through everything. This can be read as a standalone, but is part of a series that I am now going to dive into. Great read which I definitely recommend!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 21, 2021
Wow! Soooo bad!!!
Major mistakes again! Sigh. Storyline that was crazy and wouldn’t happen and didn’t make sense!!!
Alex is a drifter after having witnessed her parents brutal murder when she was only 8. After visiting their graves she stops at a rest stop and her parents murderer just happens to be going past, and sees her. ?????? He takes her prisoner and tortures her until she manages to escape. She runs into Cole who lives out in the middle of nowhere, as he suffers from ptsd. He puts her in the shower, (Severely tortured by a man and trusts a stranger to put her in the shower???) He looks after her and they fall in love. Worst plot line ever!!! Her torturer is so amazingly strong and talented that he manages to find her, subdue and injure all of her bodyguards and attack her. Yes really!!!! Oh good grief!!!
If you’re still going to read this book, I’ll give you fair warning. So many spelling mistakes, fact checking non existent, when you have a catheter in you don’t need the bathroom as that’s what it does, it empties your bladder!!!, and I really want to know how Sean as a detective manages to run round at their beck and call every time they need him! Finally his friends are horrid!! When she has been injured yet again and Cole goes off in a sulk (her words) non of his friends go to see her apart from the occasional visit! So I really don’t want to read their books!!!
Major mistakes again! Sigh. Storyline that was crazy and wouldn’t happen and didn’t make sense!!!
Alex is a drifter after having witnessed her parents brutal murder when she was only 8. After visiting their graves she stops at a rest stop and her parents murderer just happens to be going past, and sees her. ?????? He takes her prisoner and tortures her until she manages to escape. She runs into Cole who lives out in the middle of nowhere, as he suffers from ptsd. He puts her in the shower, (Severely tortured by a man and trusts a stranger to put her in the shower???) He looks after her and they fall in love. Worst plot line ever!!! Her torturer is so amazingly strong and talented that he manages to find her, subdue and injure all of her bodyguards and attack her. Yes really!!!! Oh good grief!!!
If you’re still going to read this book, I’ll give you fair warning. So many spelling mistakes, fact checking non existent, when you have a catheter in you don’t need the bathroom as that’s what it does, it empties your bladder!!!, and I really want to know how Sean as a detective manages to run round at their beck and call every time they need him! Finally his friends are horrid!! When she has been injured yet again and Cole goes off in a sulk (her words) non of his friends go to see her apart from the occasional visit! So I really don’t want to read their books!!!
November 15, 2018
So this is the second book in this series and I am totally hooked and cannot wait to read each and every one of these books. The close group of guys that this series focuses around are just amazing. I have to remind myself, these are just book characters but hot damn they suck you in and I don't think they have spit me out yet. lol
This book centers around Cole who we got a brief intro to in Jack and Harper's book. Cole was a sniper in the army and has since been released with PTSD. He has recently found his solitude out in the country so he purchased a home outside of town which has helped. Cole is still struggling with his own triggers and life when he returns from a run after a bad night of nightmares and a woman is running out of the woods towards him. He takes her in as she is terrified and attempts to help her. This is a process that becomes healing to both Cole and Alex but it also opens up the past and the ghosts come out to linger. This is an amazing story of how this group of guys come together to support and help one another and one of their own to find that one true love. This is a well written great story, you will be hooked.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book as an ARC from BookSprout.
This book centers around Cole who we got a brief intro to in Jack and Harper's book. Cole was a sniper in the army and has since been released with PTSD. He has recently found his solitude out in the country so he purchased a home outside of town which has helped. Cole is still struggling with his own triggers and life when he returns from a run after a bad night of nightmares and a woman is running out of the woods towards him. He takes her in as she is terrified and attempts to help her. This is a process that becomes healing to both Cole and Alex but it also opens up the past and the ghosts come out to linger. This is an amazing story of how this group of guys come together to support and help one another and one of their own to find that one true love. This is a well written great story, you will be hooked.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book as an ARC from BookSprout.
March 25, 2021
Cole and Alex’s story had so much drama, suspense and twists in that I didn’t know where this story was going to go next and I loved it.
In Cole and Alex, we are given two really strong characters that together become something amazing their growth through the book as individuals and a couple was written beautifully. I’m a fan of Giulia’s ex-military heroes and every single one reads as unique and swoon worthy. Cole is no exception his actions and thoughts throughout the book both built me up and broke my heart alongside his. Alex is a formidable woman and the admiration I have for her character is largely in part due to the imagery provoked by Giulia’s writing. Giulia has this ability to create vivid scenes in your head through her words and it adds so much more to the reader experience, there were some parts where I felt as though I was in the room with the characters.
I think ‘Cole’ is a strong example of Giulia’s talent to weave the hot and heavy romance with the slow-paced swoon inducing kind. Add in some humour, suspense and action and this romantic thriller has just that little bit of everything. I think it will be hard to replace this one as my favourite of the series.
In Cole and Alex, we are given two really strong characters that together become something amazing their growth through the book as individuals and a couple was written beautifully. I’m a fan of Giulia’s ex-military heroes and every single one reads as unique and swoon worthy. Cole is no exception his actions and thoughts throughout the book both built me up and broke my heart alongside his. Alex is a formidable woman and the admiration I have for her character is largely in part due to the imagery provoked by Giulia’s writing. Giulia has this ability to create vivid scenes in your head through her words and it adds so much more to the reader experience, there were some parts where I felt as though I was in the room with the characters.
I think ‘Cole’ is a strong example of Giulia’s talent to weave the hot and heavy romance with the slow-paced swoon inducing kind. Add in some humour, suspense and action and this romantic thriller has just that little bit of everything. I think it will be hard to replace this one as my favourite of the series.
June 7, 2024
I felt this book was more of a thriller than a romance. It was a lot different to Jack’s story but I felt that it was a good book.
It was interesting that the author introduced PTSD on two different situations, and how it can effect people differently but also how it can help two people come together.
Cole & Alex’s story was both heartbreaking but strong willed. They have both been through so much but they use their strength of one another to get through the days one by one.
I loved how we got an update on Jack, Harper and their son Ethan. I just love series that include characters from past books 😊
As I mentioned above I did feel this story was more of a thriller, and even though it was a good read I didn’t enough it much than Jack’s story.
I also down rated this book because their was a trigger warning for me that I wasn’t expecting, and it was difficulty to get through that part. I understand why the author did that but it was still difficult/uncomfortable for me.
Overall it was a good read and I can’t wait to see what the other guys get up to next! x
Trigger Warnings: Animal Cruelty & Animal Death
It was interesting that the author introduced PTSD on two different situations, and how it can effect people differently but also how it can help two people come together.
Cole & Alex’s story was both heartbreaking but strong willed. They have both been through so much but they use their strength of one another to get through the days one by one.
I loved how we got an update on Jack, Harper and their son Ethan. I just love series that include characters from past books 😊
As I mentioned above I did feel this story was more of a thriller, and even though it was a good read I didn’t enough it much than Jack’s story.
I also down rated this book because their was a trigger warning for me that I wasn’t expecting, and it was difficulty to get through that part. I understand why the author did that but it was still difficult/uncomfortable for me.
Overall it was a good read and I can’t wait to see what the other guys get up to next! x
Trigger Warnings: Animal Cruelty & Animal Death
November 15, 2018
Alex has escaped her kidnapper and is running through the woods where she encounters Cole.
Alex has been to visit her parents graves and has to stop at a rest stop. She senses someone watching her and rushes into the restroom then turning tries to close the the but it is one that only closes slowly. A man in a ski mask pushes his way in and she tries to fight him off then she feel a sting on her neck and when she comes to she is secured in a windowless basement. The man comes in and flashes a knife before starting to cut her something that he keeps coming back and doing again and again then after months of planning she manages to escape. She runs through the woods as fast as she can in her weakened state until she encounter a man also running in the woods. Cole sees a woman in obvious distress and takes her to hid cabin after she refuses to go to hospital. An intriguing romance to relax and enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Alex has been to visit her parents graves and has to stop at a rest stop. She senses someone watching her and rushes into the restroom then turning tries to close the the but it is one that only closes slowly. A man in a ski mask pushes his way in and she tries to fight him off then she feel a sting on her neck and when she comes to she is secured in a windowless basement. The man comes in and flashes a knife before starting to cut her something that he keeps coming back and doing again and again then after months of planning she manages to escape. She runs through the woods as fast as she can in her weakened state until she encounter a man also running in the woods. Cole sees a woman in obvious distress and takes her to hid cabin after she refuses to go to hospital. An intriguing romance to relax and enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 16, 2018
I have a new fav Author... Gulia Lagomarsino and I'm addicted to her writing. This is the second book in the series and it's just as fantastic as the first, although unlike the first book being a romantic comedy this one is a romantic thriller. I love the way the books interact with each other but the theme changes by each book, the first book had me laughing out loud this one had me on the edge of my seat.....
Cole meets Alex when he finds her in the woods after having escaped from her kidnapper... not only does Cole save her he also falls in love with her really quickly but like all books the path isn't smooth by far. There are so many twists and turns and down right scary parts to this book, you don't want to turn the page in case it gets worse but you have to as you want things to get better.... the characters are really strong and you just feel really deep for them..
This is a top book and you could read it on it's own but I suggest you start from book one to get to know everyone as you go through each book...
Cole meets Alex when he finds her in the woods after having escaped from her kidnapper... not only does Cole save her he also falls in love with her really quickly but like all books the path isn't smooth by far. There are so many twists and turns and down right scary parts to this book, you don't want to turn the page in case it gets worse but you have to as you want things to get better.... the characters are really strong and you just feel really deep for them..
This is a top book and you could read it on it's own but I suggest you start from book one to get to know everyone as you go through each book...
August 9, 2022
Cole and Alex
This book was definitely squarely in the thriller category. I felt like the plot and storyline had all the makings of an epic thriller but it ended up being a little mild. There were time when I didn’t really connect with the pain or fear as much as acknowledge it was happening. I also felt like there were lulls in the story. Every time something big would happen there would be a period of time where Cole and Alex just kind of existed.
I did find myself routing for Cole to save Alex and the two of them together were so perfect. But in the second act of the book I had some major problems with his behavior. I felt like someone who had experienced as much as he did and had been through so much with his own PTSD would have been a little more patient and open to hearing what the woman he loved was trying to say.
Overall I liked this book. It had some dark themes but wasn’t as dark as I expected it to be. The romance was good, it’s progression seemed believable.
This book was definitely squarely in the thriller category. I felt like the plot and storyline had all the makings of an epic thriller but it ended up being a little mild. There were time when I didn’t really connect with the pain or fear as much as acknowledge it was happening. I also felt like there were lulls in the story. Every time something big would happen there would be a period of time where Cole and Alex just kind of existed.
I did find myself routing for Cole to save Alex and the two of them together were so perfect. But in the second act of the book I had some major problems with his behavior. I felt like someone who had experienced as much as he did and had been through so much with his own PTSD would have been a little more patient and open to hearing what the woman he loved was trying to say.
Overall I liked this book. It had some dark themes but wasn’t as dark as I expected it to be. The romance was good, it’s progression seemed believable.
December 30, 2022
Usually I wait until book three to fully process a new to me author, but this particular book has me in pause. Meaning I need to review now before I forget.
Cole is ex-military coping with PTSD. Alex is a drifter who is still mourning the murder of her parents. Two souls fighting demons. This is what pulled me in.
Alex is kidnapped and tortured. She manages to escape and finds herself in Cole's protection. From here there's SO MUCH that happens.
The first half of this story is dark and suspenseful. But then... there's more. Alex and Cole deal with the aftermath of surviving the killer which complicates their relationship....and then.. there's more.
The second half was somewhat exhausting. The main characters hurting one another. An emotional ping pong that was more fluff than content...and then... there's MORE! I seriously didn't know when the book would end.
As I stated in the beginning, I'm going to read book three to full grasp this author's writing style. However, if like a multi-complicated, long winded storyline, this series is for you.
Cole is ex-military coping with PTSD. Alex is a drifter who is still mourning the murder of her parents. Two souls fighting demons. This is what pulled me in.
Alex is kidnapped and tortured. She manages to escape and finds herself in Cole's protection. From here there's SO MUCH that happens.
The first half of this story is dark and suspenseful. But then... there's more. Alex and Cole deal with the aftermath of surviving the killer which complicates their relationship....and then.. there's more.
The second half was somewhat exhausting. The main characters hurting one another. An emotional ping pong that was more fluff than content...and then... there's MORE! I seriously didn't know when the book would end.
As I stated in the beginning, I'm going to read book three to full grasp this author's writing style. However, if like a multi-complicated, long winded storyline, this series is for you.
January 26, 2018
I received this book for an honest review. This is my second book by Giulia Lagomarsino and I enjoyed it just as much as the first book. It has a great story that was filled was intensity and suspense. I loved the emotional connection between the two main characters. Like the first book, the sex scenes in this book were well written and not repetitive. I also enjoyed catching up with the other characters from the first book and seeing their relationships from another point of view. This book is different from the first, but that is not a bad thing, both are romances but whereas the first was filled with lots of humour, this book contains a lot of drama that keeps you hooked. The author also did very well at showing the complexity of someone suffering from PTSD and how it affects those around them. This was a great romance and I would definitely recommend it to anyone. I can't wait to read more from this author!
November 22, 2020
For The Love of a Good Women series by Giulia Lagomarsino has been an interesting transition from the Reed Security series her reader loved so much. And I know it's nor fair to compare "children", but unfortunately I am. Although I liked Cole and Alex's story so much better than Jack and Harper's, there was still something missing for me. Alex has lived through hell, not just once but twice in her young life. I loved Alex, her resilience, strength, need to be independent while overcoming unbelievable terror. I loved Cole for the first 3/4 of the book. Again a strong, determined, protective man who sees what he wants and is determined to protect and love her. The whole drama of it all became way too much for me. It was like a never-ending story of psychopaths. I'm looking forward to Logan's story, fingers crossed.
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.
October 16, 2024
Cole and Alex
Wow what a read, I have read other linked series this one was first so reading in wrong order, I was shocked and Disappointed at book one nothing like other books I have read with this author but this book show this Authors work that I have Experience in other series. My God did I go on a journey how much can one women take and poor Cole (we all need a cole, where can I find one) This is a Thriller and a love story, ticks lots of boxes (not for the faint hearted) I am glad there was no sexual assault, there is a lot of violence and mind games but it keeps you routing for justice and wanting it solved. Alex's life has been hard from age 8 your heart can't help but hope for her.
Lovely writing and delivery loved both main characters and poor Sean see to much evil in the world.would of liked more Cara but her story is in another series.
This would make a great movie.
Wow what a read, I have read other linked series this one was first so reading in wrong order, I was shocked and Disappointed at book one nothing like other books I have read with this author but this book show this Authors work that I have Experience in other series. My God did I go on a journey how much can one women take and poor Cole (we all need a cole, where can I find one) This is a Thriller and a love story, ticks lots of boxes (not for the faint hearted) I am glad there was no sexual assault, there is a lot of violence and mind games but it keeps you routing for justice and wanting it solved. Alex's life has been hard from age 8 your heart can't help but hope for her.
Lovely writing and delivery loved both main characters and poor Sean see to much evil in the world.would of liked more Cara but her story is in another series.
This would make a great movie.
October 14, 2018
This was an incredible story about a woman who was kidnapped and tortured but was able to escape five months later before her body gave out on her. She ran from the kidnapper and and ended up at the home of a man suffering from PTSD and they struggle to help each other recover from the past horrors in their lives. But the kidnapper is still after her and there are more horrors that occur, including spiders, rats and snakes. It was all a little much for me as I try to read to escape from problems and this was all just too horrifying. But some readers look for this kind of thing in what they read so I still rated the book at least a four since the quality of the actual writing was good.. I read to the end to see if they could somehow reach an HEA.
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.
June 1, 2022
A tough read ....
Book 2 in the series and it's most definitely different from the easy going romcom of book 1!
Jack is home and dealing with PTSD from being a sniper in the war, when suddenly this woman turns up, she looks to be on death's door before she collapses.
Turns out she's escaped after months in captivity and there's a long road to recovery. But can Cole help considering what he's going through??
It's a tough read at times, the author hasn't spared any details when describing what Alex has been through so you'll need to prepare for that!
And although I loved that part of it - most of it! I do think some of it dragged a bit and then some bits seemed to jump 10 steps - it definitely wasn't an awful read!
I still enjoyed it and I'm off now to read the next one. I'm just saying I didn't love it all.
3.5/4 stars
Book 2 in the series and it's most definitely different from the easy going romcom of book 1!
Jack is home and dealing with PTSD from being a sniper in the war, when suddenly this woman turns up, she looks to be on death's door before she collapses.
Turns out she's escaped after months in captivity and there's a long road to recovery. But can Cole help considering what he's going through??
It's a tough read at times, the author hasn't spared any details when describing what Alex has been through so you'll need to prepare for that!
And although I loved that part of it - most of it! I do think some of it dragged a bit and then some bits seemed to jump 10 steps - it definitely wasn't an awful read!
I still enjoyed it and I'm off now to read the next one. I'm just saying I didn't love it all.
3.5/4 stars
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