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Heroes in Hardhats: Boston #1
Not Cassandra
Tucker Devons drives trucks…and owns Devons Brothers Excavating of Boston. The six-foot-two native of New Hampshire has enough work to keep him busy, but his love life sucks. The shark-like women he meets at city bars are anxious to sample his hard-won muscles, but aren’t too keen that he gets his hands dirty for a living. At thirty-seven, he’s beginning to doubt if the down-to-earth woman he fantasizes about truly exists.
Cassandra Merloff has clawed her way out of an oppressive home life in Minnesota only to end up being abused by a boyfriend in Boston. Oh, hell no. She needs to wait until the arrogant psychopath leaves the apartment, take the money she’s squirrelled away and run. Easier said than done. When the latest beating has her badly injured she flees, but a raging snowstorm threatens her very life.
Tuck’s unlikely encounter with Cassie has him meeting the woman with whom he could spend the rest of his life. But he needs to take it slowly. Cass is understandably skittish after having suffered at the hands of her boyfriend. Can Tuck tamp down his alpha personality long enough for Cass to trust him?
Cassandra Merloff has clawed her way out of an oppressive home life in Minnesota only to end up being abused by a boyfriend in Boston. Oh, hell no. She needs to wait until the arrogant psychopath leaves the apartment, take the money she’s squirrelled away and run. Easier said than done. When the latest beating has her badly injured she flees, but a raging snowstorm threatens her very life.
Tuck’s unlikely encounter with Cassie has him meeting the woman with whom he could spend the rest of his life. But he needs to take it slowly. Cass is understandably skittish after having suffered at the hands of her boyfriend. Can Tuck tamp down his alpha personality long enough for Cass to trust him?
- GenresRomance
209 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 12, 2017
32 people are currently reading
25 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
December 11, 2017
I couldn’t put this book down! The story is interesting, kept me on the edge of my seat and has great characters. I really liked Tuck and his brothers - I hope they get their own books. I look forward to reading more from this author.
I received a copy of this book from the author, my review has been voluntarily submitted.
I received a copy of this book from the author, my review has been voluntarily submitted.
November 19, 2025
I just finished this book and enjoyed it very much. I was pleasantly surprised and would not have bought the book based off the cover. It’s it a cute romance with humor that had me smiling and laughing, and there is also some spicey scenes. This book had me from the start!! She’s a self published author that I discovered!
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June 2, 2023🎁 FREE on Amazon today (6/2/2023)! 🎁
July 29, 2023
It was a good book, I liked it. The love part happened way too fast but still, it was good. Cassandra needed a little push to change the course of her life and Tuck gave her exactly that. He was there for her, not in an alpha way (sometimes) but in the patient way, he waited for her to be confortable with whatever she needed and followed her lead. The protective streak in him was enormous, watch out to anyone who dares to hurt his love. They were a good couple, they really fit and I liked that
December 9, 2017
oh this book was awesome! its about a woman who has had enough of her boyfriends abuse. so she escapes and ends up in a construction yard. she meets a hot guy there who wants to help her. will she take his help? read to find out what happens.
February 27, 2019
Not Cassandra
Hereos In Hardhats Book 1
LJ Vickery
Our story begins with Cassandra, a women stuck in an abusive relationship. Engaged to a surgeon named Eddie. She had been secretly, desperately planning her escape from him. Eddie liked to beat her although she wasn't really sure why, she did everything she could to make him happy to avoid her regular beatings.
This last time though, he went to far, time to run!
Tucker Devons (Tuck) arrived at his work trailer ready to start plowing the work area. His trailer door was open when he got there. He carefully walked in assuming he would find either some kids had broken in or possibly a squatter trying to get out of the cold.
What he found instead was someone fast asleep on his couch. Not just anyone, what he found was a battered beauty. His protective instincts kicked in, he wanted to protect her and find the jerk who was responsible for her bruises. He has three other brothers that have his back and want to help Cass. She doesn't know it yet but he has decided there is no way she is going to live in danger anymore. There is no way he is going to let anything else happen to his stubborn little peanut while she is getting her life back.
For reasons which you will have to read to find out, Cass ends up returning to her apartment. This time however, she has toughened herself up a bit. She decided she wasn't just going to be a silent punching bag anymore. Buying her time with Eddie, she saved her money from dog walking to get her life back again.
Now, Tuck has his own problems. He has been taking care of a childhood friend and her Autistic son Cody. The mother has it stuck in her mind that Tuck and she belong together.
Both Cass and Tuck have some issues to deal with!
Back to Cass though, Eddie is in big trouble. The only thing that can save his sorry butt is Cass (not in a good way).
Cass has been kidnapped, Eddie is in deep trouble when Tuck finds him!
Eddie is in big trouble, more than Tuck is able to handle. Well, good thing one of his brothers knows just how to take care of these kinds of things. A special group is called in, S.O.S. (search and save) are called to take care of things. Eddie has made some really bad enemies. The kind that only a trained group of professionals can deal with. If you have read any other of LJ Vickery's books you may recognize the group. If not you really should check them out.
Two separate story lines come together here, Cass and Tuck's stories. These two are so darned lovable you just can't help but love them.
This Author has a way of pulling you in and making you feel like you are right there with them.
I adore her writing and can not wait for more!
Not Cassandra
Hereos In Hardhats Book 1
LJ Vickery
Our story begins with Cassandra, a women stuck in an abusive relationship. Engaged to a surgeon named Eddie. She had been secretly, desperately planning her escape from him. Eddie liked to beat her although she wasn't really sure why, she did everything she could to make him happy to avoid her regular beatings.
This last time though, he went to far, time to run!
Tucker Devons (Tuck) arrived at his work trailer ready to start plowing the work area. His trailer door was open when he got there. He carefully walked in assuming he would find either some kids had broken in or possibly a squatter trying to get out of the cold.
What he found instead was someone fast asleep on his couch. Not just anyone, what he found was a battered beauty. His protective instincts kicked in, he wanted to protect her and find the jerk who was responsible for her bruises. He has three other brothers that have his back and want to help Cass. She doesn't know it yet but he has decided there is no way she is going to live in danger anymore. There is no way he is going to let anything else happen to his stubborn little peanut while she is getting her life back.
For reasons which you will have to read to find out, Cass ends up returning to her apartment. This time however, she has toughened herself up a bit. She decided she wasn't just going to be a silent punching bag anymore. Buying her time with Eddie, she saved her money from dog walking to get her life back again.
Now, Tuck has his own problems. He has been taking care of a childhood friend and her Autistic son Cody. The mother has it stuck in her mind that Tuck and she belong together.
Both Cass and Tuck have some issues to deal with!
Back to Cass though, Eddie is in big trouble. The only thing that can save his sorry butt is Cass (not in a good way).
Cass has been kidnapped, Eddie is in deep trouble when Tuck finds him!
Eddie is in big trouble, more than Tuck is able to handle. Well, good thing one of his brothers knows just how to take care of these kinds of things. A special group is called in, S.O.S. (search and save) are called to take care of things. Eddie has made some really bad enemies. The kind that only a trained group of professionals can deal with. If you have read any other of LJ Vickery's books you may recognize the group. If not you really should check them out.
Two separate story lines come together here, Cass and Tuck's stories. These two are so darned lovable you just can't help but love them.
This Author has a way of pulling you in and making you feel like you are right there with them.
I adore her writing and can not wait for more!
Not Cassandra
December 9, 2017
I received a free copy of this book from the author.
I really enjoyed this book. Its not about a great topic and something a lot of us don't talk about. It happens every second of every day no matter what skin color you are or gender. It doesn't discriminate. There are a-holes everywhere and yes women included.
Cassie is a victim of abuse but she's had enough and tries to leave. Only to find out her ex found her stash but she was out in the cold freezing. Takes shelter in a trailer and is found by Tuck. Wow....Tucker is a really good guy. Too nice I think sometimes. He's also got that alpha quality too. Protective. These 2 hit it off well and there is instant chemistry. Like wowza. I wouldnt have thought Cassie would be all that open to that but she is. I think because she's not had anything with Eddie in a long time...she never loved him. Cassie has made it clear she wants to make her own choices and stand on her own 2 feet. Its a struggle for him but he agrees with her and knows if he doesnt he'd lose her. I wont spill anymore but its a great read. I do wonder why she goes back knowing Eddie would still beat on her. Was it worth it to make a few extra bucks when her neighbor offered her a room and she could have just worked anyways? I dont know that part baffled me but being a woman abused I guess its hard to say. Maybe Cassie wanted to prove to Eddie he didnt break her like he think and she wanted to show the new her who wouldnt always take his crap? Anyways, I just wondered that part. I found his brothers to be funny and his parents were awesome. Good book.
I really enjoyed this book. Its not about a great topic and something a lot of us don't talk about. It happens every second of every day no matter what skin color you are or gender. It doesn't discriminate. There are a-holes everywhere and yes women included.
Cassie is a victim of abuse but she's had enough and tries to leave. Only to find out her ex found her stash but she was out in the cold freezing. Takes shelter in a trailer and is found by Tuck. Wow....Tucker is a really good guy. Too nice I think sometimes. He's also got that alpha quality too. Protective. These 2 hit it off well and there is instant chemistry. Like wowza. I wouldnt have thought Cassie would be all that open to that but she is. I think because she's not had anything with Eddie in a long time...she never loved him. Cassie has made it clear she wants to make her own choices and stand on her own 2 feet. Its a struggle for him but he agrees with her and knows if he doesnt he'd lose her. I wont spill anymore but its a great read. I do wonder why she goes back knowing Eddie would still beat on her. Was it worth it to make a few extra bucks when her neighbor offered her a room and she could have just worked anyways? I dont know that part baffled me but being a woman abused I guess its hard to say. Maybe Cassie wanted to prove to Eddie he didnt break her like he think and she wanted to show the new her who wouldnt always take his crap? Anyways, I just wondered that part. I found his brothers to be funny and his parents were awesome. Good book.
December 12, 2017
This was a great book, but I haven't read anything by LJ Vickery that wasn't fantastic. Cassie decides she's had enough with her abusive boyfriend and leaves but she has nothing. So instead of freezing to death, she takes shelter in a trailer where Tuck finds her. Tuck is such a nice, sweet, patient, and caring guy. I absolutely loved him!! He knows he can't push her and has to go at her pace even though they have instant chemistry between them. We get to see how this relationship plays out and then things go a bit down hill when Cassie takes a step back...I won't give away any spoilers. But I was a bit disappointed in her, at the same time, I've never been in a physically abusive relationship so I don't know what was going through her mind. Needless to say, you should read this if you like contemporary romance, a strong, alpha male with a protective side with the patience of a saint and a woman who is still strong but needs to believe in herself again!!
Received a free copy of this book fro the author
Received a free copy of this book fro the author
December 14, 2017
Not Cassandra by LJ Vickery has all the necessary requirements for a great romance. Damsel in distress, Knight is shining armour, really really bad guys but this one has a very hard subject that you don't usually see in a romance book physical and mental abuse. Cassandra has an abusive boyfriend and she is trying to get away from him when she meets Tuck. Tuck wins alpha boyfriend of the year sweet, giving, easy going and so protective. Even before Cassie became involved with Tuck he needed to protect her from whoever was hurting her.
This book was sweet, humorous, intense and has some great family values in it. Character development was graphic and detailed and the tactful way that the abuse and autism was handled is a measure of the talented author who wrote it.
This book was sweet, humorous, intense and has some great family values in it. Character development was graphic and detailed and the tactful way that the abuse and autism was handled is a measure of the talented author who wrote it.
November 3, 2022
She got taken in by a handsome face once and now she's stuck in an abusive relationship. Cassie Merliff has been manipulated most of her life. First by her parents both, emotionally and psychologically and now by her boyfriend. Having her life and choices decided for her has gone far enough. Extracting herself from her currents circumstances is a tough one. Meeting Tucker Devons was fortuitous even if the circumstances were not the best. Tuck is captivated by the obviously abused Cass but realizes he has to tiptoe around her carefully if he wants to be able to help her. He's a caretaker and nurter by nature. He's got a simultaneous problem that's been escalating in the past six months that keeps raking him away from Cassie. Resolving both will not be easy but he's determined.
September 25, 2023
Let me start by saying that I'm super excited to read another book by one of my faves, LJ Vickery - as always! At first, I thought this was the start of a brand new series, but I was pleasantly surprised that there was a connection to SOS Del (a whole new gang to love, by the way). Definitely wasn't expecting that as a twist, but somehow I know I should have been, considering how clever Vickery is. As expected, there were strong characters and a well-developed plot and brilliant writing. Vickery sure knows how to keep me on my toes! Waiting for the next one for sure!
December 14, 2017
Cassie is trying to escape her abusive boyfriend when she happens upon Tucker, a construction worker. They try to fight their attraction to each other at the beginning. Eventually her ex causes some trouble for her, but in the end it works out. I loved this book. I'm not a big fan of contemporary romance, but LJ's books draw me in.
April 28, 2021
Great read!
New to this author but glad to have taken the chance. Great story, awesome characters and good ending. Can't wait to read on about what the brothers get up to and a furthering on Cody. Read the book in one sitting. Could not put it down!!
New to this author but glad to have taken the chance. Great story, awesome characters and good ending. Can't wait to read on about what the brothers get up to and a furthering on Cody. Read the book in one sitting. Could not put it down!!
February 8, 2022
Finally secure in love and protection
MS Vickery , you have a great sense of your characters. So detailed in then all. Love reading your stories. Keep up the good work. This was a exciting series. Locations , storyline and your men are great in each story. Just super 😂🤗😇🤔😍
MS Vickery , you have a great sense of your characters. So detailed in then all. Love reading your stories. Keep up the good work. This was a exciting series. Locations , storyline and your men are great in each story. Just super 😂🤗😇🤔😍
December 14, 2017
Worth read. Heartwarming and fun. Scary to a point yet shows the truth about abusive relationships. Highly recommend.
April 13, 2021
loved this book.... definitely kept me entertained from start to finish with a great story line
August 17, 2022
Good read
Cass met Tuck when she was trying to get away from her Ex because he enjoyed beating her. Tuck saw the spilt lip and injuries that she was trying to hide.
Cass met Tuck when she was trying to get away from her Ex because he enjoyed beating her. Tuck saw the spilt lip and injuries that she was trying to hide.
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June 19, 2023Amz Purch. June 2, 2023
October 20, 2017
Marie's Tempting Reads ARC Review:
Not Cassandra is one of the most AMAZING Damsel in Distress/knight in shinning armor romances I HAVE EVER READ! I SWOONED, I SIGHED, I FELL IN ABSOLUTE HARD CORE LOVE with this story! Every time I think I found a new series from Miss Vickery that I love, she swoops in with something brand new and I fall in love with her new one. And yep, it happened again with Not Cassandra. This story is sweet, sexy, beautiful, caring, and just...everything I look for in a GREAT romance. Cassandra and Tuck are such a dreamy couple. Tuck's handsomeness and protective urges and the way he cares for Cassandra is truly heart melting and I couldn't help but to lust and love him. Cassandra NEEDS someone like Tuck. But I had to admire her strong will, her beauty, her kindness and just her experiences. I respect her and definitely enjoyed this romance.
The first thing that had the breath catching in my throat and had my heart racing was this downright GORGEOUS cover! The colors, the couple, and just everything about it, called to my inner romantic. And then that synopsis had me instantly wanting to dive in. I love a good rescue romance and this one was TOP NOTCH! There was heart breaking moments, super tender moments, sexy and passionate moments and every time Tuck took care of Cassandra, I just fell more and more under his spell. This book was just PERFECT! I can't wait and hope to get Tuck's brothers books in the VERY near future because I am ADDICTED to this new series. Best book ever!
Not Cassandra gets a SMOLDERING AND DREAMY FIVE SHOOTING STARS! Prepare yourself for a sweet and sexy read that will have your heart melting and your panties dropping!
Not Cassandra is one of the most AMAZING Damsel in Distress/knight in shinning armor romances I HAVE EVER READ! I SWOONED, I SIGHED, I FELL IN ABSOLUTE HARD CORE LOVE with this story! Every time I think I found a new series from Miss Vickery that I love, she swoops in with something brand new and I fall in love with her new one. And yep, it happened again with Not Cassandra. This story is sweet, sexy, beautiful, caring, and just...everything I look for in a GREAT romance. Cassandra and Tuck are such a dreamy couple. Tuck's handsomeness and protective urges and the way he cares for Cassandra is truly heart melting and I couldn't help but to lust and love him. Cassandra NEEDS someone like Tuck. But I had to admire her strong will, her beauty, her kindness and just her experiences. I respect her and definitely enjoyed this romance.
The first thing that had the breath catching in my throat and had my heart racing was this downright GORGEOUS cover! The colors, the couple, and just everything about it, called to my inner romantic. And then that synopsis had me instantly wanting to dive in. I love a good rescue romance and this one was TOP NOTCH! There was heart breaking moments, super tender moments, sexy and passionate moments and every time Tuck took care of Cassandra, I just fell more and more under his spell. This book was just PERFECT! I can't wait and hope to get Tuck's brothers books in the VERY near future because I am ADDICTED to this new series. Best book ever!
Not Cassandra gets a SMOLDERING AND DREAMY FIVE SHOOTING STARS! Prepare yourself for a sweet and sexy read that will have your heart melting and your panties dropping!
March 20, 2018
As with all of LJ's books this one did not disappoint. I actually read this a while ago and forgot to leave a review. I do know that I read it all in one sitting couldn't put it down. I love how she Incorporated the abuse I'm sure it hit the hearts of a lot of people including me. She always has a way of making you feel as though you are a part of her stories. Highly recommend!
November 7, 2017
this book is 1 that will stay with you and keep you involved until the end. this book contains abuse so it may cause a trigger.
I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book. This is book 1 of the new series Heroes in Hardhats by the author.
I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book. This is book 1 of the new series Heroes in Hardhats by the author.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews