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Out of Line #6
On the Line
Coming home…
I’ve hated Ben Rollins ever since he broke my heart in high school. I’ve never fully recovered from it…even though I ran away as far as I could. Now I’ve returned home, fleeing something worse than I could have ever imagined. When our Captain partners us up together, I’m forced to realize that what I feel for him isn’t hate at all. It’s far worse.
Second chances…
Sarah’s the one who got away. She never really explained her abrupt departure from my life, but to be honest, I no longer give a damn. What we’d once had was dead, and now I’m stuck with her at my side permanently, no matter how I feel about it. But when the truth comes out, and old secrets are unburied, being thrown together becomes so much more than a second chance…it becomes life or death.
And we have no intention of losing.
I’ve hated Ben Rollins ever since he broke my heart in high school. I’ve never fully recovered from it…even though I ran away as far as I could. Now I’ve returned home, fleeing something worse than I could have ever imagined. When our Captain partners us up together, I’m forced to realize that what I feel for him isn’t hate at all. It’s far worse.
Second chances…
Sarah’s the one who got away. She never really explained her abrupt departure from my life, but to be honest, I no longer give a damn. What we’d once had was dead, and now I’m stuck with her at my side permanently, no matter how I feel about it. But when the truth comes out, and old secrets are unburied, being thrown together becomes so much more than a second chance…it becomes life or death.
And we have no intention of losing.
- GenresRomanceContemporary
183 pages, ebook
First published November 20, 2017
8 people are currently reading
128 people want to read
About the author
Jen McLaughlin
35 books1,149 followersJen McLaughlin is the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of sexy books with Penguin Random House. Under her pen name, Diane Alberts, she is also a USA TODAY bestselling author of Contemporary Romance with Entangled Publishing. Her first release as Jen McLaughlin, Out of Line, hit the New York Times, USA TODAY and Wall Street Journal lists. She was mentioned in Forbes alongside E. L. James as one of the breakout independent authors to dominate the bestselling lists. She is represented by Louise Fury at The Bent Agency.
Though she lives in the mountains, she really wishes she was surrounded by a hot, sunny beach with crystal-clear water. She lives in Northeast Pennsylvania with her four kids, a husband, a schnauzer mutt, and three cats. Her goal is to write so many well-crafted romance books that even a non-romance reader will know her name.
Though she lives in the mountains, she really wishes she was surrounded by a hot, sunny beach with crystal-clear water. She lives in Northeast Pennsylvania with her four kids, a husband, a schnauzer mutt, and three cats. Her goal is to write so many well-crafted romance books that even a non-romance reader will know her name.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
November 28, 2017
What can I say? I'm a sucker for a new Jen McLaughlin Out of Line story and I will continue to read this series as long as Ms. McLaughlin writes them!
Ben and Sarah were sort of a mash up of an enemies to lovers/second chance romance story. If you look at their current situation and how their past has lead them to where there are now, you'll totally understand why it's a mix of those two tropes...two tropes I adore, by the way. A lost young love and broken hearts have turned them from high school sweethearts into frenemies, at best. Luckily fate has sort of stepped in and they are now forced to deal with the pain from the past. One of my fave things about Ms. McLaughlin's writing is how she manages to pull those deep feelings from her characters and get them right back to where they should be and in this case, it was back to the loving and not the fighting.
Oh, and I have to say how much I adore seeing more of the characters we have come to know and love through this series! Getting a peek at them in each book is such a treat.
Jam packed with emotion, this was another great addition to the series! Once again I have to say, if you haven't picked up this series yet, you really must. Thank you, Ms. McLaughlin, for another great read.
Ben and Sarah were sort of a mash up of an enemies to lovers/second chance romance story. If you look at their current situation and how their past has lead them to where there are now, you'll totally understand why it's a mix of those two tropes...two tropes I adore, by the way. A lost young love and broken hearts have turned them from high school sweethearts into frenemies, at best. Luckily fate has sort of stepped in and they are now forced to deal with the pain from the past. One of my fave things about Ms. McLaughlin's writing is how she manages to pull those deep feelings from her characters and get them right back to where they should be and in this case, it was back to the loving and not the fighting.
Oh, and I have to say how much I adore seeing more of the characters we have come to know and love through this series! Getting a peek at them in each book is such a treat.
Jam packed with emotion, this was another great addition to the series! Once again I have to say, if you haven't picked up this series yet, you really must. Thank you, Ms. McLaughlin, for another great read.
December 2, 2017
Rating: 3.75/5
Review to come!
Review to come!
November 25, 2017
Ben's romantic life was touched upon during I'll Be Home for Christmas with the mention of his ex-girlfriend, Sarah, and the way in which the end of their relationship had left Ben unwilling to risk emotional attachment with anyone else.
Ben and Sarah were high school sweethearts with one of those relationships everyone was certain would last forever. Unfortunately, an incident altered the path of their future and their identities. Immaturity and a lack of communication meant both Ben and Sarah never achieved closure on their relationship and have been harboring resentment from different perspectives on the events creating the demise of their relationship.
Ten years later, Ben and Sarah are partners in the police force, neither of which is exactly happy with the situation especially as Sarah has a lot of animosities directed towards her from the other members of the force. Although nobody is aware of the burdens Sarah carries with her both from the necessary return to her hometown and the trauma she had endured during her time away.
Although their pairing together is a form of deterrent to Ben and Sarah building a relationship, it is obvious that they still have smokin' hot chemistry that inevitably will combust. Whether it blows them up with it remains to be seen.
When the past Sarah thought she escaped follows her into her new life, Ben provides the support and security she never allowed herself to need after the end of their relationship.
I loved the way Ben seamlessly shrugged off the playboy persona he wore like a suit of armor and accepted the undeniable fact that Sarah is the only one for him. Equally but without the same level of positivity, Sarah realizes that no other man will ever compare to Ben ♥
Jen touches on the topic of domestic violence within the narrative; starkly portraying the way in which abusers cleverly alienate their victims from friends and families and gradually undermine their self-confidence escalating from verbal to physical brutality.
The chapters are short and action-packed maintaining the tension throughout the story. Just remember true love conquers all ♥
Ben and Sarah were high school sweethearts with one of those relationships everyone was certain would last forever. Unfortunately, an incident altered the path of their future and their identities. Immaturity and a lack of communication meant both Ben and Sarah never achieved closure on their relationship and have been harboring resentment from different perspectives on the events creating the demise of their relationship.
Ten years later, Ben and Sarah are partners in the police force, neither of which is exactly happy with the situation especially as Sarah has a lot of animosities directed towards her from the other members of the force. Although nobody is aware of the burdens Sarah carries with her both from the necessary return to her hometown and the trauma she had endured during her time away.
Although their pairing together is a form of deterrent to Ben and Sarah building a relationship, it is obvious that they still have smokin' hot chemistry that inevitably will combust. Whether it blows them up with it remains to be seen.
When the past Sarah thought she escaped follows her into her new life, Ben provides the support and security she never allowed herself to need after the end of their relationship.
I loved the way Ben seamlessly shrugged off the playboy persona he wore like a suit of armor and accepted the undeniable fact that Sarah is the only one for him. Equally but without the same level of positivity, Sarah realizes that no other man will ever compare to Ben ♥
Jen touches on the topic of domestic violence within the narrative; starkly portraying the way in which abusers cleverly alienate their victims from friends and families and gradually undermine their self-confidence escalating from verbal to physical brutality.
The chapters are short and action-packed maintaining the tension throughout the story. Just remember true love conquers all ♥
November 30, 2017
It's not easy to come home when you left with bridges burning at your heels. That's how things went down when Sarah left after high school, and reappearing to get a job beside her ex and his father is uncomfortable to say the least. She doesn't have a lot of friends in town - seeing as you can't write history when you're not around, and Ben was there to do just that.
To be fair, he only knew his side of the story, and only told the truth of what he knew. Sarah couldn't wait to get away from him and ditch all the plans they had for the future. No explanations, no niceties, no excuses. Ben's not thrilled that she's back after all this time, and he doesn't really care if it's not easy on her either. Especially since his dad decided to make them partners. Even if it's just to try and run her out of town again.
Funny thing that - she has a really good reason for being back, and it's not something that she'll be able to leave behind again. Sarah knew she'd have a hard road to navigate, but she's up to the challenge. Once Ben figures that out, and learns the whole truth behind then and now, perspectives change - and it's easy to see his one true love in a better light again.
----------------------------
This story was fairly short but really good! I like Jen's Out of Line books, and I'm gonna go back and re-read the series soon now that I've picked this one up.
There's also a suspense element to the book that I didn't get to in my synopsis, but I didn't want to get too long with the review. It's also really engrossing. I enjoyed the fact that while there were tropy elements, nothing got dragged out long enough to irritate me. On the down-side, it was a short-ish book, which left me wanting a bit more in the development area. Not a deal-breaker.
I give On the Line 4.5 totally forgotten blind dates.
December 3, 2017
Sarah and Ben have been apart for a decade and neither one has really recovered the absence of the other in their lives. Sarah left abruptly and didn't explain to Ben why she suddenly wanted to attend Duke University - just that their relationship was over. Ben gave in to Sarah's demands during their relationship and gave her what she wanted when she left - her freedom. Sarah moves back home to take care of her ailing mother who has dementia and it is getting progressively worse. Sarah gets a job as Ben's partner on the police force and refuses to let him know the exact reason why she left. I really get annoyed when a character does something dramatic, juvenile and spiteful and then refuses to acknowledge their actions. Sarah was such a character and, even after being confronted with being wrong, refused to say she was sorry. Her inability to take responsibility for blowing their lives apart made me dislike her a lot. She blamed others for the mess she was in when, in reality, she caused her life to be where it was. Her abusive ex wouldn't have been in the picture if not for her refusal to stay in town and make sure he was put behind bars for good. She wasn't very bright at points and it was hard for me to fathom her as a detective, let alone dedicated enough to stick with something. Ben had ample reason to dislike her and make her pay for her abandonment of him. Instead he rose above it all and tried to be there for her when it became apparent she didn't really have anyone. I liked Ben and wanted him to find happiness and closure. I did like how he stepped up and did what was necessary to make sure she was protected against her ex. The story did wrap up nicely and I liked how Ben stood up to his father for what was right.
November 28, 2017
Can we just get Marie and Hernadez's story? The wait has become tiring. Now that Hernadez has a new partner we can make her jealous just enough for her to realize her feelings for him and then we can get the party started.
I am not sure why I wanted to read this book since second chance romances are not my thing, but to be fair I liked the book with the exception of one thing. Before you ask it has nothing to do with Marie and Hernadez. It has to do with the reason Ben and Sarah broke up ten years ago. It was one of the silliest and most cliche reasons I would have guessed. I cannot believe that Sarah just left without demanding an explanation. Poor Ben. He tried to do something good and he paid for it. I wonder why he didn't chase her though. Another tiny thing I didn't like is the reminder that Ben and Grace had a past. Honestly, I end up hating one-night stands more than a relationship when it comes to other people. I was feeling awkward every time Ben and Grace had to interact. I didn't get their explaining either. Anyway, I was mostly not happy with the reason Sarah left in the first place. Also, she didn't come off as an experienced detective, but rather as a rookie. I thought she had more experience on the force.
To be fair to the book, once everything was out things got immediately better for me and the main couple (of course). Ben and Sarah never stopped having feelings for each other even if they buried them deep after they broke up.Everything became easier for them even if the force's rules prevented them from getting together. I loved how Ben acted in the end when he tried to get to Sarah and it showed how much he loved her. With a little reluctance, I would recommend the book.
I am not sure why I wanted to read this book since second chance romances are not my thing, but to be fair I liked the book with the exception of one thing. Before you ask it has nothing to do with Marie and Hernadez. It has to do with the reason Ben and Sarah broke up ten years ago. It was one of the silliest and most cliche reasons I would have guessed. I cannot believe that Sarah just left without demanding an explanation. Poor Ben. He tried to do something good and he paid for it. I wonder why he didn't chase her though. Another tiny thing I didn't like is the reminder that Ben and Grace had a past. Honestly, I end up hating one-night stands more than a relationship when it comes to other people. I was feeling awkward every time Ben and Grace had to interact. I didn't get their explaining either. Anyway, I was mostly not happy with the reason Sarah left in the first place. Also, she didn't come off as an experienced detective, but rather as a rookie. I thought she had more experience on the force.
To be fair to the book, once everything was out things got immediately better for me and the main couple (of course). Ben and Sarah never stopped having feelings for each other even if they buried them deep after they broke up.Everything became easier for them even if the force's rules prevented them from getting together. I loved how Ben acted in the end when he tried to get to Sarah and it showed how much he loved her. With a little reluctance, I would recommend the book.
December 1, 2017
On the Line is a tale of second chance romance filled with a bit of danger.
Sarah and Ben parted ways years ago because of a mistake - though neither knew the full details until they confront it now in the present. Their feelings never left though nor did the memories. And even though they both thought they hated each other for what they believed the other did, they soon realized that hate was the last thing they felt.
When Sarah came home - it wasn't because she wanted to - it was to get away from something worse than the past. It was also to do right by her mother. Being partnered with her ex wasn't exactly what she expected, but she can get through it as long as she's safe. But when the past comes to find her - she finds herself in a dangerous situation where she must rely on Ben for more than just a work partnership.
Ben's blamed Sarah for years for leaving, and now that she's back he keeps trying to push her away, to force her out. But at the first sign of danger - he's all in on protecting her and he'll risk anything to make sure she stays safe.
One the Line will pull you in and keep you hooked, flipping each page with an intense curiousity to how things will work out, holding your breath for Ben and Sarah to realize how powerful their connection is, and heart pounding wondering when the danger will strike and how it will happen. Jen McLaughlin composed the suspense elements of this story splendidly, working them into the angst of two exes with more than a little animosity working closely together and trying to work through their feelings.
Sarah and Ben parted ways years ago because of a mistake - though neither knew the full details until they confront it now in the present. Their feelings never left though nor did the memories. And even though they both thought they hated each other for what they believed the other did, they soon realized that hate was the last thing they felt.
When Sarah came home - it wasn't because she wanted to - it was to get away from something worse than the past. It was also to do right by her mother. Being partnered with her ex wasn't exactly what she expected, but she can get through it as long as she's safe. But when the past comes to find her - she finds herself in a dangerous situation where she must rely on Ben for more than just a work partnership.
Ben's blamed Sarah for years for leaving, and now that she's back he keeps trying to push her away, to force her out. But at the first sign of danger - he's all in on protecting her and he'll risk anything to make sure she stays safe.
One the Line will pull you in and keep you hooked, flipping each page with an intense curiousity to how things will work out, holding your breath for Ben and Sarah to realize how powerful their connection is, and heart pounding wondering when the danger will strike and how it will happen. Jen McLaughlin composed the suspense elements of this story splendidly, working them into the angst of two exes with more than a little animosity working closely together and trying to work through their feelings.
November 29, 2017
Though the truth behind their big understanding years ago was a bit flimsy--she was convinced he cheated, he believed she'd just up and left him with zero provocation--you just can't go wrong with a solid second chance romance, which is what Out of Line has to offer. The alternating first person POV allows readers to really get to know both Sarah and Ben, and knowing what they're both feeling and going through in the present time makes you want to forgive any mistakes they might have made back then--after all, they were just kids, and mistakes are par for the course, right?
Once their past relationship misunderstandings were dealt with, the book became pretty near un-put-downable as they tried to fight their still very real attraction for each other (which dials up the angst, thanks to the department's no fraternization policy) and a big part of Sarah's reason for moving back to her hometown becomes a very real threat to her and everyone she cares about. Honestly, I might have stopped breathing for a couple of pages there. Spoiler alert--they manage to fight their way to a feel-good HEA, and have a few cute moments with other series couples along the way. (No worries, though--this one works pretty well as a standalone if you haven't read all--or even any--of the others in the series.)
Now, enough with the torture! Bring us Marie and Hernandez's story already ;)
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Once their past relationship misunderstandings were dealt with, the book became pretty near un-put-downable as they tried to fight their still very real attraction for each other (which dials up the angst, thanks to the department's no fraternization policy) and a big part of Sarah's reason for moving back to her hometown becomes a very real threat to her and everyone she cares about. Honestly, I might have stopped breathing for a couple of pages there. Spoiler alert--they manage to fight their way to a feel-good HEA, and have a few cute moments with other series couples along the way. (No worries, though--this one works pretty well as a standalone if you haven't read all--or even any--of the others in the series.)
Now, enough with the torture! Bring us Marie and Hernandez's story already ;)
Rating: 4 stars / B+
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
November 27, 2017
When I found out the were more books being published for the Out of Line series I didn't hesitate to sign up for them, I've really missed being in this world again, and knowing I could binge read two books within a few weeks made this an even easier decision to make.
On the Line is Ben and Sarah's story. This duo used to be a couple until Sarah left, only to return home years later, with no reason for either. Ben isn't taking her return to work easily, especially as he lost his partner to her, and is determined to force her out the force.
It's made pretty clear from the start a reason for Sarah's return, and also why she left in the first place, but as the story progresses another story is brought to light, and we see the real reason she came back and what she is running from. Sarah is a character who I admired, she has gone through so much, and is dealing with so much in her home life, to see how she copes with work and doesn't shatter into a thousand piece is beyond me, but I like how she can be strong and tough, but then a different person at home.
Ben was a person who I just wanted to push out of the car, his initial attitude just didn't sit well with me and I really wanted to know why Sarah being back was such a big problem to him. But as the story progresses we see a different side to him, a caring side (which was super sweet) as well as a protective side and I loved how protective of Sarah he was.
On the Line was a book that took it's time getting to the end of the journey. I loved that we get to see Ben and Sarah as partners in work, working to get jobs done but also seeing the not so nice side to their relationship, but as the story progressed seeing this slowly change over time was refreshing. It didn't feel rushed or forced and did feel natural. Towards the end of On the Line, the action and pace of the book does pick up and move a lot faster, but this fits perfectly with what is going on within the pages at the time, and I must admit I felt so nervous and anxious over it all.
Like the previous book, On the Line also gives us a chance to catch up with the previous characters and see what they are up to. It also leaves an unfinished story with a pair of characters that really just need to get their own act together in their own story.
Final Verdict
On the Line was a tense read and kept me wanting to know what would happen next and which path would be taken. It deals with domestic violence in a sensitive way, whilst also encouraging the victim to speak out and not hide away in shame. I loved the characters within the pages and would love another story for the singletons in the series.
On the Line is Ben and Sarah's story. This duo used to be a couple until Sarah left, only to return home years later, with no reason for either. Ben isn't taking her return to work easily, especially as he lost his partner to her, and is determined to force her out the force.
It's made pretty clear from the start a reason for Sarah's return, and also why she left in the first place, but as the story progresses another story is brought to light, and we see the real reason she came back and what she is running from. Sarah is a character who I admired, she has gone through so much, and is dealing with so much in her home life, to see how she copes with work and doesn't shatter into a thousand piece is beyond me, but I like how she can be strong and tough, but then a different person at home.
Ben was a person who I just wanted to push out of the car, his initial attitude just didn't sit well with me and I really wanted to know why Sarah being back was such a big problem to him. But as the story progresses we see a different side to him, a caring side (which was super sweet) as well as a protective side and I loved how protective of Sarah he was.
On the Line was a book that took it's time getting to the end of the journey. I loved that we get to see Ben and Sarah as partners in work, working to get jobs done but also seeing the not so nice side to their relationship, but as the story progressed seeing this slowly change over time was refreshing. It didn't feel rushed or forced and did feel natural. Towards the end of On the Line, the action and pace of the book does pick up and move a lot faster, but this fits perfectly with what is going on within the pages at the time, and I must admit I felt so nervous and anxious over it all.
Like the previous book, On the Line also gives us a chance to catch up with the previous characters and see what they are up to. It also leaves an unfinished story with a pair of characters that really just need to get their own act together in their own story.
Final Verdict
On the Line was a tense read and kept me wanting to know what would happen next and which path would be taken. It deals with domestic violence in a sensitive way, whilst also encouraging the victim to speak out and not hide away in shame. I loved the characters within the pages and would love another story for the singletons in the series.
November 28, 2017
My thoughts:
This is a wonderfully fast read; a great love story.
I started reading Jen McLaughlin books by reading book 6 - I'll be Home for Christmas - and fell in love with the characters, thus clinching what I am now calling "The Jen McLaughlin Marathon" because I absolutely must know more about all of these fantastic people she has created. So now that I have read books 6 & 7, I plan to go back and start at the beginning and read books 1 - 5.
Now - more about this book...
The chapters are short, the pace is fast and the emotions are high!
Ben and Sarah are both broken hearted.
Sarah has become a police officer, she believes she hates Ben for breaking her heart and has returned to their hometown after 10 years - with secrets; one that threatens to overwhelm her, and one that threatens to kill her.
Ben has followed in his father's footsteps, becoming a police officer, he still loves Sarah and is still baffled by why she ran away, but fears he will never again be with her.
Ben's dad is the police chief and harboring anger at Sarah for breaking his son's heart, partners them up on the force - ensuring they will be together with no possible chance of ever being "together".
So...you have the past crashing into the present and threatening the future.
The author takes you on a rollercoaster ride of turmoil, drama and a good dose of fear as Ben and Sarah come to terms with what happened in the past and the realization that they want a future.
Enter the villian, Vinnie, the ex-boyfriend with a possessive streak and a violent side...
What would you do for the love of your life? Would you risk it all?
When love and life are On the Line...what happens...who wins...what become of our fearless Ben and our victim turned survivor Sarah? You have to read to find out! Enjoy the ride!
This is a wonderfully fast read; a great love story.
I started reading Jen McLaughlin books by reading book 6 - I'll be Home for Christmas - and fell in love with the characters, thus clinching what I am now calling "The Jen McLaughlin Marathon" because I absolutely must know more about all of these fantastic people she has created. So now that I have read books 6 & 7, I plan to go back and start at the beginning and read books 1 - 5.
Now - more about this book...
The chapters are short, the pace is fast and the emotions are high!
Ben and Sarah are both broken hearted.
Sarah has become a police officer, she believes she hates Ben for breaking her heart and has returned to their hometown after 10 years - with secrets; one that threatens to overwhelm her, and one that threatens to kill her.
Ben has followed in his father's footsteps, becoming a police officer, he still loves Sarah and is still baffled by why she ran away, but fears he will never again be with her.
Ben's dad is the police chief and harboring anger at Sarah for breaking his son's heart, partners them up on the force - ensuring they will be together with no possible chance of ever being "together".
So...you have the past crashing into the present and threatening the future.
The author takes you on a rollercoaster ride of turmoil, drama and a good dose of fear as Ben and Sarah come to terms with what happened in the past and the realization that they want a future.
Enter the villian, Vinnie, the ex-boyfriend with a possessive streak and a violent side...
What would you do for the love of your life? Would you risk it all?
When love and life are On the Line...what happens...who wins...what become of our fearless Ben and our victim turned survivor Sarah? You have to read to find out! Enjoy the ride!
November 28, 2017
When the sacrifices are too high…when a broken past is all that exists…when the bitterness and hurt feelings still remain…that’s when people need to decide if putting everything on the line for a second choice is worth the price they might pay in both their personal and professional lives, and most of the time, it’s never a black and white situation, which means there’s a middle ground between right and wrong, and that’s exactly where readers find the hero and heroine in Jen McLaughlin’s newest release, On The Line.
There’s a lot to be dealt with in Ben and Sarah’s story, and because it’s a rather short novel, the pace moves quickly. There are 10 years of bitterness and hurt to wade through, but that actually happens fairly soon in the story, which I was happy about because I hate it when miscommunications and dealing with past pain is drawn out simply to create unneeded angst. McLaughlin makes it known that Ben and Sarah’s current issues are more important than what happened all those years ago; they are not the same people they were when abrupt decisions were made, so while some may think their past issues were resolved too easily, what they dealing with in present-day due to their duties as police officers as well as the mayhem that Sarah’s ex is causing are of higher importance than their hurt feelings from their teenage years.
Ben and Sarah’s story is a bit of a slow burn in the sense that their relationship status seems to be in limbo for most of the story; at first, they’re partners who don’t want to be paired then as the story progresses, their dynamics change a number of times and the push and pull of their attraction as well as their dormant feelings for one another continue to play on their decisions as to how far past the line they’re willing to go.
4 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
There’s a lot to be dealt with in Ben and Sarah’s story, and because it’s a rather short novel, the pace moves quickly. There are 10 years of bitterness and hurt to wade through, but that actually happens fairly soon in the story, which I was happy about because I hate it when miscommunications and dealing with past pain is drawn out simply to create unneeded angst. McLaughlin makes it known that Ben and Sarah’s current issues are more important than what happened all those years ago; they are not the same people they were when abrupt decisions were made, so while some may think their past issues were resolved too easily, what they dealing with in present-day due to their duties as police officers as well as the mayhem that Sarah’s ex is causing are of higher importance than their hurt feelings from their teenage years.
Ben and Sarah’s story is a bit of a slow burn in the sense that their relationship status seems to be in limbo for most of the story; at first, they’re partners who don’t want to be paired then as the story progresses, their dynamics change a number of times and the push and pull of their attraction as well as their dormant feelings for one another continue to play on their decisions as to how far past the line they’re willing to go.
4 Poison Apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
December 3, 2017
Sarah's back in town after fleeing to go to college leaving friends, family and her boyfriend behind. With more reason's to stay away she decides to come back to care for her mother even when her new job asa a detective puts her right next to said boyfriend...
For Ben, dealing with Sara's departure was torture. With no explanation and no idea what made her suddenly change her mind but now she's back and her partner and he can't decide if he wants her gonne or he wants her back.
You guys! Ben is such a great man I can't believe Sarah left at all. When danger comes knocking at Sarah's door, he makes sure to keep her safe, even when that pputs both their jobs at risk.
I love the chemestry they have, even though many years have pass and there were so many feelings for both of them tehy couldn't keep away.
Jen also gives us a glimpse at all the characters we know and love from the series, watching them having fun all together was one of the high points for me.
On The Line is a great second chance story, Ben and Sarah have to let their owwn past go and see how much they are willing to risk to be together again.
Sarah's a really strong character. I loved how despite everything that happened, she doesn't regret her desition, she knows she's stronger than before for all she went through. Ben is the perfect man, willing to risk his life's for other and willing to give everything Sarah needs. I mean the guy can knit and sing! What more than a caring, hot man who sings AND knits can you ask?
Jen McLaughlin gives us a great addition to the series, and a story worth of spending the night up reading. Sarah and Ben's chemestry is off the charts. With a fast pace and a sit-at-the-edge-of-your-seat thriller, On The Line keeps you going from the first page. Love, danger and action make for a great combination in this book you can't miss.
For Ben, dealing with Sara's departure was torture. With no explanation and no idea what made her suddenly change her mind but now she's back and her partner and he can't decide if he wants her gonne or he wants her back.
You guys! Ben is such a great man I can't believe Sarah left at all. When danger comes knocking at Sarah's door, he makes sure to keep her safe, even when that pputs both their jobs at risk.
I love the chemestry they have, even though many years have pass and there were so many feelings for both of them tehy couldn't keep away.
Jen also gives us a glimpse at all the characters we know and love from the series, watching them having fun all together was one of the high points for me.
On The Line is a great second chance story, Ben and Sarah have to let their owwn past go and see how much they are willing to risk to be together again.
Sarah's a really strong character. I loved how despite everything that happened, she doesn't regret her desition, she knows she's stronger than before for all she went through. Ben is the perfect man, willing to risk his life's for other and willing to give everything Sarah needs. I mean the guy can knit and sing! What more than a caring, hot man who sings AND knits can you ask?
Jen McLaughlin gives us a great addition to the series, and a story worth of spending the night up reading. Sarah and Ben's chemestry is off the charts. With a fast pace and a sit-at-the-edge-of-your-seat thriller, On The Line keeps you going from the first page. Love, danger and action make for a great combination in this book you can't miss.
September 9, 2018
I was busy reading Out of Line by the same author and was getting very bored, because I knew it ended on a cliff hanger. I tried to find out what happens with those characters by reading reviews in the rest of the series and came across this book which links loosely to the book I am currently reading, but can be read as a stand alone. You do not have to have read the other books to understand or appreciate this one.
I read it all in one day and enjoyed it more than Out of Line, I could connect with the characters more (perhaps because they were slightly older). Sarah and Ben were high-school sweethearts. She thinks he cheated on her so she leaves to go to another college to study to be a cop. She has to come back to her home town as her mom has Dementia and she needs to look after her.
She is paired with Ben again who isn't happy about working with her because she broke his heart. They do quickly get over this and decide to work like normal partners who have each others back. This then escalates when Sarah's abusive-ex shows up in town and starts to threaten her. She fears that he will be the death of her.
When trouble comes to looking for Sarah, Ben will do whatever it takes to protect her, and as with most books it does have a HEA.
There were some bits that I didn't like about the book, the fact that she ran off thinking Ben cheated on her and didn't even try and speak to him. She even changed majors, who uproots their whole life like that because of something they *think* happened and don't know happened? Then their was the animosity towards her when she does come back - after ten years would a whole department of people hold grudges for Ben?
I might be allowing my views of Out of Line affecting me too much, as I didn't enjoy that book.
I read it all in one day and enjoyed it more than Out of Line, I could connect with the characters more (perhaps because they were slightly older). Sarah and Ben were high-school sweethearts. She thinks he cheated on her so she leaves to go to another college to study to be a cop. She has to come back to her home town as her mom has Dementia and she needs to look after her.
She is paired with Ben again who isn't happy about working with her because she broke his heart. They do quickly get over this and decide to work like normal partners who have each others back. This then escalates when Sarah's abusive-ex shows up in town and starts to threaten her. She fears that he will be the death of her.
When trouble comes to looking for Sarah, Ben will do whatever it takes to protect her, and as with most books it does have a HEA.
There were some bits that I didn't like about the book, the fact that she ran off thinking Ben cheated on her and didn't even try and speak to him. She even changed majors, who uproots their whole life like that because of something they *think* happened and don't know happened? Then their was the animosity towards her when she does come back - after ten years would a whole department of people hold grudges for Ben?
I might be allowing my views of Out of Line affecting me too much, as I didn't enjoy that book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 28, 2017
I keep coming back to books by Jen McLaughlin and there definitely is a reason why. I love the chemistry between her characters. It is easy to root for them no matter how much they want to torture each other with denying their love. But there isn't much denial in ON THE LINE. It's there initially, but they get over that really fast! (Thank goodness!) The love between these characters and the heat is off the charts! I'm so glad that they don't fight it and even joke about their inability to "keep it professional".
Sarah returns to town with secrets that are deep and painful. Her history and the life she had after she left Ben drive the main storyline, but it was her relationship with her mother really touched home. It's something that my family is dealing with now with my grandmother.
And Ben - his protective instinct was made him most desirable and his constant love for Sarah. He exudes it. I love this side of his character.
I wouldn't have minded to know more about their relationship as teenagers. Sarah carelessly threw what they had away. Some flashbacks to who they were and what they had would have helped develop more of that part of the story.
Favorite Quote:
"What we have between us . . . it's real. This isn't just me f**king around, or having a fling. For me? It's you. It's always been you." - Just another reason to love Ben.
I really liked ON THE LINE. Like any good book, I wish it was longer. Or maybe I just read it too fast. It's a book that I'll most definitely read again, share with my friends, and recommend to readers who like drama and intense passion. Like really intense. 😉
Sarah returns to town with secrets that are deep and painful. Her history and the life she had after she left Ben drive the main storyline, but it was her relationship with her mother really touched home. It's something that my family is dealing with now with my grandmother.
And Ben - his protective instinct was made him most desirable and his constant love for Sarah. He exudes it. I love this side of his character.
I wouldn't have minded to know more about their relationship as teenagers. Sarah carelessly threw what they had away. Some flashbacks to who they were and what they had would have helped develop more of that part of the story.
Favorite Quote:
"What we have between us . . . it's real. This isn't just me f**king around, or having a fling. For me? It's you. It's always been you." - Just another reason to love Ben.
I really liked ON THE LINE. Like any good book, I wish it was longer. Or maybe I just read it too fast. It's a book that I'll most definitely read again, share with my friends, and recommend to readers who like drama and intense passion. Like really intense. 😉
November 29, 2017
Posted on What I'm Reading
On the Line was a pretty good read. First off, I fell in love with Ben. Oh my gosh, who wouldn't fall in love with this guy. Seriously, a good guy. I was all for him getting revenge on his ex, but he wouldn't do that. When he sees that Sarah was in real trouble, he put aside his anger and helped her. Now, Sarah I didn't like her on principle that she broke Ben's heart. So, it took me a good portion of the book to even forgive Sarah. I had a hard time with her, because she needed some help, but had a little too much pride to even ask.
Like I said On The Line was a pretty good read. You don't have to worry about reading the previous books in the series to follow what is going on in this story. The focus is on Ben and Sarah's second chance at love. They both have feelings toward one another, but the past, their job is kind of getting in the way of their rekindling relationship. They don't automatically fall back into one another arms, because Sarah still doesn't trust Ben. We also have the issue that brings Sarah home, actually a couple. Overall, On the Line might be an emotional read for those who might have been in Sarah situation, but still a good read.
Copy provided by author.
On the Line was a pretty good read. First off, I fell in love with Ben. Oh my gosh, who wouldn't fall in love with this guy. Seriously, a good guy. I was all for him getting revenge on his ex, but he wouldn't do that. When he sees that Sarah was in real trouble, he put aside his anger and helped her. Now, Sarah I didn't like her on principle that she broke Ben's heart. So, it took me a good portion of the book to even forgive Sarah. I had a hard time with her, because she needed some help, but had a little too much pride to even ask.
Like I said On The Line was a pretty good read. You don't have to worry about reading the previous books in the series to follow what is going on in this story. The focus is on Ben and Sarah's second chance at love. They both have feelings toward one another, but the past, their job is kind of getting in the way of their rekindling relationship. They don't automatically fall back into one another arms, because Sarah still doesn't trust Ben. We also have the issue that brings Sarah home, actually a couple. Overall, On the Line might be an emotional read for those who might have been in Sarah situation, but still a good read.
Copy provided by author.
November 28, 2017
This is a story in which the subject matter in the plot line resonates. Ben & Sarah's story was hinted at in "I'll Be Home For Christmas", and I was so glad to be able to read it so soon after.
Ben & Sarah have missed out on a lot. Immaturity, distance & time have gotten in the way of what each felt would have been the best relationship of their lives. Now, together in the same town, at the same job, and as partners, they're being denied a second chance at happiness for more than one reason. As one of those reasons threaten to permanently ensure that two are never together in life, Ben & Sarah must hash out the past and decide how much they are willing to sacrifice to be together.
I liked the suspense and action in the novel. There was a build up to it all that was realistic and fit the story line well. I liked that we caught up with the characters from previous installments in the series. The icing on the cake would be for us to have Hernandez & Marie's story, like, next week!
I voluntarily read an reviewed an ARC of this book, and recommend you pick up a copy of this book.
Ben & Sarah have missed out on a lot. Immaturity, distance & time have gotten in the way of what each felt would have been the best relationship of their lives. Now, together in the same town, at the same job, and as partners, they're being denied a second chance at happiness for more than one reason. As one of those reasons threaten to permanently ensure that two are never together in life, Ben & Sarah must hash out the past and decide how much they are willing to sacrifice to be together.
I liked the suspense and action in the novel. There was a build up to it all that was realistic and fit the story line well. I liked that we caught up with the characters from previous installments in the series. The icing on the cake would be for us to have Hernandez & Marie's story, like, next week!
I voluntarily read an reviewed an ARC of this book, and recommend you pick up a copy of this book.
January 10, 2018
I love love love this series!!! Ben and Sarah where together in high school, making plans for a future and then one day Sarah was gone. She left town and didn't look back.
Fast forward to now, Sarah is back and determined to stay, despite the hard feels of those around her.
Can old wounds be healed by the truth that wasn't known then? Will Sarah be able to rebuild the relationships burned by the past?
I cannot wait for Hernandez's book but at the same time I don't want it to end!!
Fast forward to now, Sarah is back and determined to stay, despite the hard feels of those around her.
Can old wounds be healed by the truth that wasn't known then? Will Sarah be able to rebuild the relationships burned by the past?
I cannot wait for Hernandez's book but at the same time I don't want it to end!!
November 26, 2017
3.5 Cocktails
I love this series and was looking forward to Ben and Sarah’s story. While it was good, it couldn’t compare to the level of angst and emotion that I loved about Finn and Carrie’s story.
I love this series and was looking forward to Ben and Sarah’s story. While it was good, it couldn’t compare to the level of angst and emotion that I loved about Finn and Carrie’s story.
March 10, 2018
Rating: 3.75/5
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