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I built my tech company, Savant, from the ground up. Now, I want to give back, making iPhone apps for kids with disabilities. I'm a billionaire multiple times over, but money doesn't matter to me. 

She's the only thing that matters. 

And I left her. Eight years ago, after high school graduation, I fled the scene, leaving her heartbroken. A mafia psycho infiltrated my family and my father killed himself, leaving his five sons orphaned and alone. I couldn't take it. Even she couldn't help me. No one could.
 
I'm willing to put my heart in my hands and beg for forgiveness. I've grown up, and now I'm ready to make her mine. But my lingering desire for Haylee puts everything in perspective. For the first time in my life, I see a future with a woman. I want to create a family, and earn my second chance. 

Eight years later, I know we probably shouldn't get involved again. Even though her lips tell me to get lost, the look in her hypnotic eyes tells me everything I need to know. She wants me. And I sure as hell never stopped wanting her. Her lush curves beg me to possess them.

But she's been hiding something from me. Haylee has a daughter. Atlee has my eyes--and the moment I meet that precious little girl, I know she's mine. And I realize that everything I thought I knew about life and love was wrong. 

Dead wrong. 

One touch and I'm lost. I want it all, and I'll take it. Nothing's going to stop me... not even the man who's responsible for my father's death. If he thinks he can keep my family away from me, he's got another thing coming.

238 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 19, 2017

222 people are currently reading
179 people want to read

About the author

Colleen Charles

152 books1,183 followers
After 26 years in Corporate leadership at a Fortune 500, I discovered people within the organization lacked integrity. I’d always known deep in my soul that I was trying to fit a square peg in to a round hole since I’m the typical creative type. I miss my staff but I don’t miss the corporate world. It’s been said that the Universe will let you know if something isn’t right for you. The first time, it will hit you with a pebble. Then a brick. Then a boulder. Let’s just say that I got flattened. When my fifteen pound toy dog, Nigel, was threatened, I knew it was time to say goodbye.
It’s true.
Here’s what I found within the first thirty days of being free. Writing stories from my heart that readers love means more to me than working myself in to an early grave for people who only care about their bottom line.
My heart has never been more full and my soul has never been more satisfied.
I’ve never worked so hard in my life but it doesn’t even feel like work. It’s worth it. All of it. Because it’s about the joy that’s found within the journey. The highs and the lows because I get to write stories for all of you.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for reading, enjoying and recommending the stories that I write. When you share my work with others, nothing is more rewarding. Your word of mouth is my very best friend … that, and your reviews. There is nothing more important to me than all of you.
I love to hear from my readers and answer all communications personally. You can find me at:

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5 stars
128 (54%)
4 stars
64 (27%)
3 stars
28 (11%)
2 stars
12 (5%)
1 star
3 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
Profile Image for Mindy Lou's Book Review.
3,016 reviews800 followers
April 1, 2018
Dnf @ 37%. Just couldn’t get into it.

-Hero left and never looked back for 8 years.
-Heroine was pregnant when Hero left
-when Hero enters back into h’s life, she doesn’t tell him he has a daughter. I gave up before he found out.
-Hero and daughter has high functioning Asperger’s.

Borrowed on Kindle Unlimited
Profile Image for Expresso.
877 reviews139 followers
September 25, 2017
Never judge a book by its cover! My opinion of the cover at first glance, “oh boy another trendy bad boy romance.” Wrong-o Betty Lou! I’m so happy the blurb convinced me to give this wonderfully amazing story a chance!

It’s incredibly difficult to keep my attention in this genre. Contemporary romance is my least favorite but every now and again, I stumble across a gem of a read. This story checked every box! Kudos to Charles for tackling a very tough subject and OWNING it! Your research and commitment regarding this sensitive subject are obvious and appreciated! Ford and his beautiful daughter, Atlee, are delightful characters and captured my heart immediately! Haylee and Ford are super hot and their hot/cold/super hot relationship are what movies are made of! Last but definitely not least, incorporating the mafia dude into their history and allowing said guy to affect their present and perhaps their future (read the story to find out for sure) is sheer genius! Well done, Ms. Charles! Bravo!

Five stars!
204 reviews
December 9, 2017
Here we are again in another episode of the Caldwell brothers series, and the arch villain Giovanetti is still at large… in spite of all the times I have mentally strangled him, or pushed him off his building, or…quietly buried him in the Nevada desert. Never mind. I just know we’ll get him this time.

And besides, there’s this distraction in the form of the latest Caldwell brother to come home to Vegas. Ford is, well, one hot nerd… In my mind sort of with a Clark Kent sort of vibe. And his particular magic has to do with writing computer code, which is a step in the right direction of knocking off the aforesaid Bad Guy.

Hope springs eternal, as they say. But Ford is about to meet up with his lost love, and suddenly other things are on my mind…
Why in the world does Haley hate him so much?

Oh, Ford. What did you do? But then, of course, you had no idea. But you made life changing decisions without notice, didn’t you? Now just look at the mess you made! And you made something else, too. Didn’t you?

And Haley… Okay, you have reason. Your heart never recovered. And you have a child to love and protect. Really?? Doesn’t Ford have a right to know?

You know, somehow, in these books, I always end up frustrated with so many people all at the same time. And there’s lots of surprises… bad ones, and good ones… and-- Wow! Ford may be my favorite Caldwell yet.

Bottom line: 5 stars, because second chances are important in life.
329 reviews1 follower
September 21, 2017
I loved everything about this book! I love Ford. He is such a strong character. He is so different from his alpha male brothers, the bookish, nerdy, geeky male who has only recently discovered there might be a reason he is the way he is. I love how he comes home to Vegas and makes the best out a sad situation and fights for what he wants.

Haylee is such a strong willed woman. A single mom with a special needs child that will do whatever it takes to make sure her little girl has everything she needs. Right down to her pet pig Gerald. She has had some tall hurdles to overcome, but it has only made her stronger.

This book is by far my favorite of the series. Haylee is so easy to relate to, and Ford just draws you right in. Their story was so easy to read, it flowed so well and was truly captivating, page 1 to the end. I can't wait to see which brother gets his story next, and of course, what will happen in the continuing Dante saga.

Don't miss out on these books, they are way to good to pass up!
Profile Image for Beth C..
1,863 reviews15 followers
September 22, 2017
Love the Caldwell Brothers!

I sooo loved that Ford got his second chance! As the billionaire tech guru brother that moved to San Francisco after their father's death. Ford had a health secret that no one knew about, while his high school girlfriend, and love of his life, Haylee, had an even bigger secret. Since Ford returned to Las Vegas to help Nixon with his tech and revenge on Dante, he had been searching for Haylee, but hadn't been able to find her. All the while she was working in his brothers casino.
With so many secrets and bad feelings between them, could they possibly get past all of it and start over? And what nastiness would Dante pull with regards to Ford and Haylee? (Because you know he's gonna cause some trouble!)
This was such a sweet second chance story! I love the way it worked out! The Caldwell family unit that is forming is beautiful! But my favorite part of the story might just be the pet pig's name! Lol! (And yay! We got more Reghan and his silly jokes!) Can't wait to see what's in store for Carter!
Profile Image for Linda Rea.
2,190 reviews15 followers
September 21, 2017
I just loved this series so far and Haylee and Ford are one of my favorites. When Ford deserted Haylee when his father died he didn't know she was pregnant and seven years later he still doesn't. Haylee and her daughter live in the seediest part of town but Haylee is standing on her own two feet but when she finds out her daughter may lose her therapist she has to find a job. Ford is in town developing a new app he seeks Haylee out but she loves him and still doesn't tell him about their daughter. When Dante sticks his nose in to make a deal Haylee has no choice but to take it or tell Ford and she doesn't know if she can because what if he takes her away?
I loved how independent Haylee was but if you love someone you could be a little dependent.
I requested this book for free from the author and I have chosen to review it
Profile Image for Gladys.
14k reviews163 followers
April 7, 2018
This is a very emotional second chance romance. Ford and Haylee's began years ago and it was meant to last forever, That all changed after high school graduation when Ford walked away without one single word of goodbye. Now, eight years later fate draws these two back together for another shot to get the HEA they were denied. Can Ford convince Haylee to forgive him and risk her heart again? Will secrets tear them further apart? These characters are complex, the story moving, the plot engaging, and the emotions strong. Ford, Haylee, and Atlee's story is sure to touch your heart. It is beautiful, real and unique. An absolutely amazing read that I highly recommend. I am posting a completely honest, voluntary review after reading this book.
Profile Image for Sophie Koufes.
1,994 reviews27 followers
September 22, 2017
Description:
Book Three in The Calwell Brothers Series
Ford Caldwell - Tech Company Billionaire
Haylee - Single mom with a special needsomeone child. High school girlfriend - The one that got away
Can be read as a standalone with supporting characters crossover, but better to read in order.
This is a second chance romance with secrets & lies that could keep them apart forever. A heartrending story that deals with real life issues. Characters are well seasoned, complex, & witty. I like how it begins with a prologue that gets you intrigued & wanted to read more. A sweet & sexy spicy read with a bit of humour on the side. I volunteerly reviewed an advanced reading copy of this novel.
2,366 reviews12 followers
November 24, 2019
5 stars
I purchased a copy of the steamy novel Kickback: The Caldwell Brothers Book 3:Ford and Haylee By Colleen Charles and this review was given freely.
An ironic second chance at love story ending in a cliffhanger. Tech billionaire Ford returns to Las Vegas to help his brothers continue the fight against Dante but receives more than he anticipated when he finds out that Haylee, the girlfriend he left behind,has been struggling financially and hiding a daughter from him. The vivid descriptions and diverse and at times quirky characters make this story of a wealthy down to earth family with at times clueless alpha males an emotion packed and heartwarming romance.
632 reviews4 followers
September 22, 2017
This was a very good Second Chance book with Hayley, Ford and Atlee and all of the great characters!Colleen has written another book which, will hold your attention ! Her Las Vegas Demon, her Southern friend, her Tarot Card Reader and of course, the rest of Ford's brothers -4- all real cute and his sister! I loved Attlee with her Wonder Woman attire and of course, her best friend the pot bellied pig. Plus, standing with her hips cocked and one hand on one hip, can't you just see her? A book I would recommend!
488 reviews1 follower
September 21, 2017
Book 3 of the Caldwell Brothers is Ford's story. Ford is the family tech geek. When his father died right after his high school graduation, he took off without a word and broke his girl friend Haylee's heart! Now 8 years later he's back and he's determined to make things right with Haylee! Can she forgive him for leaving her 8 years ago or will her own secrets destroy them permanently? Loved reading Kickback and I highly recommend it!
Profile Image for Shawnee.
60 reviews2 followers
September 28, 2017
I love Ford. He is so nerdy that it makes my heart ache for him. His loss unimaginable and his actions afterward are angering at best and can certainly see why Haylee would want to stay away.

Haylee is so strong and as a mom with a special needs child myself I can completely relate to her. Her devotion & strength for her daughter only makes me love her more.

This is my favorite yet but cannot wait for more Caldwell Brothers books.
3,931 reviews31 followers
October 1, 2017
I am loving the Caldwell family! Ford was the high school geek turned high tech billionaire, but he left behind his love as well as even more than he bargained for. This second chance romance fit right into the series seamlessly. The brothers are all so lovable. And Haylee, all the while was right under Ford's nose! Great characters and dynamics, and yes, there's such thing as a sexy alpha geek! Loved this, and can't wait for the next in the series! 😍
Profile Image for Tamra Delasalle Padgett.
377 reviews4 followers
October 3, 2017
Is Ford ready for lots of changes?

Another great book in the Caldwell Brothers series. Ford didn't know his life was about to change completely but he was ready for it. To have her back in his life was all he ever wanted but he would be getting more than just her. Grab your copy of Ford's story and be ready to read this from start to finish. Great writing one again Colleen Charles.
Profile Image for Jennifer Hevern.
314 reviews7 followers
December 9, 2017
I can not get enough of Colleen Charles' Caldwell Brothers series. I absolutely love these books. Kickback is no exception! I keep saying this but, Charles writes these brothers so incredibly swoon-worthy! And all of their leading ladies are strong and feisty. And of course the steam between them is pretty good too 😉. And don't get me started about Dante. That guy makes me want to crawl in the book and ring his neck myself. Can't wait to see how it all ends up in the next book Pony Boy.
Profile Image for Joanna Esposito.
11 reviews
July 9, 2018
Colleen Charles has done it again. Ford Caldwell has returned home a successful businessman after running away after his fathers death leaving Haylee behind without even saying goodbye. When their paths cross Ford realizes she is everything to him. Will Haylee share her secret with Ford and take him back? This is the 3rd book in a series but is also a stand alone story. Fall in love with this family more with each book.
Profile Image for Diane falcon.
15 reviews
September 21, 2017
Way to go.. another great read..

Another great read from Colleen...I can't wait to see what's next for the Caldwell brothers...I wanted to keep reading and see what happens next with haylee and ford...I love the single parent taking care of a disabled child...great way to put Aspergers out there. I couldn't put it down.. thanks Colleen...
Profile Image for Bella.
693 reviews31 followers
September 22, 2017
Terrific! My favourite of the Caldwell Brothers books so far. A heartfelt story that manages to incorporate some difficult themes in a mature and cohesive way, and also is (in true Colleen Charles style) very sexy, incredibly witty, and makes you long for your very own Caldwell billionaire! Must say that as hot as her men are, Colleen Charles' women are feisty, complex, and kickass too.
Profile Image for Lori.
1,056 reviews8 followers
September 22, 2017
Kickback

I love this series. These Caldwell brothers are a real force. The women they choose are equally formidable. Haylee is a strong independent single mom of a exceptional daughter. Wonder Woman was definitely the best character reference for this Mother and Daughter duo. I love this story from start to stop, and cannot wait for more Caldwell's!
355 reviews5 followers
September 24, 2017
I loved Ford and Haylee’s book!! I think Ford may be my new favorite Caldwell brother. When Ford comes back into Haylee’s life she is desperate to keep Atlee a secret from him. Precious little Atlee absolutely stole my heart! Love that little girl. The reasons Ford disappeared from Haylee’s life definitely weren’t what I was expecting. I really liked that twist. Fantastic second chance story!
7 reviews1 follower
January 4, 2018
Another beautiful story to enjoy

She's done it again in the third book of the Caldwell Brothers. We meet Ford, whose demons could rival any one of ours, and join him on a journey of self discovery. As he tries to keep trouble from befalling him and his brothers at the hands of the local mob boss, he attempts to thaw the heart of his high school sweetheart. If only he knew what secrets she, herself, held.
Profile Image for AWB.
843 reviews12 followers
January 14, 2018
I liked this one more than the second book, but not as much as the first. This brother made some mistakes, and owns up to them. Him working to get the h back, was a bit emotional. And I read it all in one setting to see how it all worked out. I just with the h would have been adult enough to have a sit down conversation to explain her feelings, instead of just running away from them.
Profile Image for Gretchen Mead.
26 reviews1 follower
December 24, 2017
This is the third book in the Caldwell series, and the books just keep getting better! This is Ford and Haylee's story. They are highschool lovers with a complicated past, determined to find out if they have a future. Dante continues to be a thorn in the side of the Caldwell's .
Profile Image for Shawndell Kirmer.
43 reviews2 followers
June 16, 2018
#3 is just as great

Ford & Haylee steal my heart in this 2nd chance romance! I love that this book is bringing more awareness to Asperger's & that throughout the series there is awareness of ceberal palsy. On to #4!
381 reviews
November 17, 2019
Rivalry with deceit

I love the rivalry between the casino owners. How a family sticks together even though some are handicapped is also very enlightening.if you love intrigue and romance then this book has that and more for the reader.
2,198 reviews7 followers
May 13, 2020
Enjoyed this story, not as much as the others. The heroine was just wishy washy, like given choices between the angel and the devil you would think she would choose the angel. Nope goes with the devil. Was just a little frustrating. Still a great read though.
Narration was great.
93 reviews
December 17, 2021
Emotions run rampant here

Heartthrobing emotional rollercoaster ride keeps him turning pages fast. Great characterization keeps you reading past your bedtime. Intrigue is the love of this story.
764 reviews
May 5, 2023
A must read

This series is spellbinding. You will enjoy this read. Hopefully we will see Dante get his just rewards soon this man us so despicable. The stuff he does continues to cause so much havoc to the brothers and their significant others. The man is pure evil.
Profile Image for Tamela.
308 reviews1 follower
September 21, 2017
Love it!

I so love the Caldwell brothers. This book pulls you in and keeps you going until the end. Well written series by an amazing author. Super excited for the next one.
Profile Image for Becky.
751 reviews6 followers
September 30, 2017
This is a second chance book about Ford and Haylee. Ford left town (and Haylee) right after highschool. But now he's back and in for some surprises! Loved this book!! Highly recommend!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews

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