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Oak Grove #3
One Last Chance
She's escaped an abusive relationship, he's hiding from the horrors that followed him home. Can the two of them find the courage to face their pain, heal, and find love?
Rachel Bennett has had enough. She’s finally found the strength to leave her bastard of a boyfriend with the help of her childhood friend and deputy sheriff, Sawyer. But the hurt runs deep, as do the family secrets that drove her down the spiral of self-destruction. She’s determined to start life fresh, but with nowhere to go, she finds herself staying with Sawyer.
Sawyer Truman has loved Rachel as long as he can remember. He joined the Army Reserves after high school to prove to himself—and Rachel—he’s the right man for her. He returns from Afghanistan, demons hot on his trail, to find Rachel shacking up with a new boyfriend. He fears he’s lost his one chance with Rachel. It doesn’t take long before he sees what no one wants to admit—Rachel is being abused. After one too many calls to her house, he convinces Rachel to leave Shane. What he didn’t expect to happen was to find her living in his guest room.
As Rachel heals from her abusive relationship, Sawyer and Rachel grow closer. But will a lingering family secret threaten to ruin Rachel’s fragile psyche? Will Sawyer’s unspoken love for Rachel survive and grow?
Rachel Bennett has had enough. She’s finally found the strength to leave her bastard of a boyfriend with the help of her childhood friend and deputy sheriff, Sawyer. But the hurt runs deep, as do the family secrets that drove her down the spiral of self-destruction. She’s determined to start life fresh, but with nowhere to go, she finds herself staying with Sawyer.
Sawyer Truman has loved Rachel as long as he can remember. He joined the Army Reserves after high school to prove to himself—and Rachel—he’s the right man for her. He returns from Afghanistan, demons hot on his trail, to find Rachel shacking up with a new boyfriend. He fears he’s lost his one chance with Rachel. It doesn’t take long before he sees what no one wants to admit—Rachel is being abused. After one too many calls to her house, he convinces Rachel to leave Shane. What he didn’t expect to happen was to find her living in his guest room.
As Rachel heals from her abusive relationship, Sawyer and Rachel grow closer. But will a lingering family secret threaten to ruin Rachel’s fragile psyche? Will Sawyer’s unspoken love for Rachel survive and grow?
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About the author
Nancy Stopper
16 books189 followersThanks for visiting my profile. I'm a new Contemporary Romance author and I'm so excited about the possibilities. I've been falling in love with characters in books for a long time, and even more so now that they are speaking through me for other readers.
I've been remiss in updating my shelves but I'll be doing that soon, so check out some of my favorite reads, including some that I've read over and over because, yeah, they're just that good.
I'd love it if you'd add my books to your TBR shelf. If you want to find out more about me, click over to my website: http://www.nancystopper.com
I've been remiss in updating my shelves but I'll be doing that soon, so check out some of my favorite reads, including some that I've read over and over because, yeah, they're just that good.
I'd love it if you'd add my books to your TBR shelf. If you want to find out more about me, click over to my website: http://www.nancystopper.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
May 9, 2021
Did Not Like Rachel
How many ways can I say that Rachel was an immature, selfish, self centered, psychologically damaged character. Oh, I forgot weak and wish washy. I have no idea how Sawyer had the capacity to stand to be around her much less fall in love with her. Spoiler: Her parents separated...Her mother ‘had an affair’ (sorry but NO, if they were separated its not technically an affair) and Rachel felt the SHAME of it...wait, what? What does her parents marriage have to do with her in the first place. Should they have told her? Sure but to act the way that Rachel did was just ridiculous. I come from a family of 5 kids and we were all treated differently BECAUSE we were all DIFFERENT. Rachel feels slighted bc her parents treated her differently than the boys. What a crock. What is she? 12 yrs old for cripes sake? As far as the domestic abuse, you don’t just ‘get over it’ that fast. She talks about how strong she is to her brothers and to Sawyer but she is still stupid enough to drive around with her window down and get taken instead of fighting back as Sawyer taught her to do. IDK if all of the characters are like this in their own stories but I can say this one was enough for me.
How many ways can I say that Rachel was an immature, selfish, self centered, psychologically damaged character. Oh, I forgot weak and wish washy. I have no idea how Sawyer had the capacity to stand to be around her much less fall in love with her. Spoiler: Her parents separated...Her mother ‘had an affair’ (sorry but NO, if they were separated its not technically an affair) and Rachel felt the SHAME of it...wait, what? What does her parents marriage have to do with her in the first place. Should they have told her? Sure but to act the way that Rachel did was just ridiculous. I come from a family of 5 kids and we were all treated differently BECAUSE we were all DIFFERENT. Rachel feels slighted bc her parents treated her differently than the boys. What a crock. What is she? 12 yrs old for cripes sake? As far as the domestic abuse, you don’t just ‘get over it’ that fast. She talks about how strong she is to her brothers and to Sawyer but she is still stupid enough to drive around with her window down and get taken instead of fighting back as Sawyer taught her to do. IDK if all of the characters are like this in their own stories but I can say this one was enough for me.
June 23, 2017
One Last Chance focuses on recovery from abuse, from PTSD, from secrets. The sweet falling in love romance is also a big part of this story. We've seen these characters on the periphery in previous books Rachel in a bad relationship and Sawyer as her brothers best friend. Though sad at times this story is not depressing, it's even suspenseful at times and the sexy times are HOT. The small town makes this tale even more intimate as you are enveloped in this well crafted novel.
March 8, 2022
Grabbed as a free read and a new author for me.
A whiny, immature heroine paired with a decent hero suffering PTSD, who deserved better.
I struggled to continue when this started off with an abusive situation but that resolved itself quickly, so okay, let’s continue on.
Rachel gets up the guts to leave Shane but it isn’t pretty and the police arrive to save her.
The responding officer is her old friend and Rachel won’t go with anyone else. She basically invites herself and moves in with Sawyer as she has nowhere else to go.
All because. Well, apparently Rachel has this big, huge secret that means she cannot go with any of her brothers, though she admits to knowing they love her.
She cannot go to her parents because, big reveal, her parents separated way back, over twenty years ago, for a short time and her mother had a brief fling, resulting in, you guessed it, Rachel
Rachel finds this scandalous, upsetting and blames her parents for everything.
She is unable to talk calmly with her parents about what she has found out. She won’t even talk to her brothers, or half-brothers, as they apparently won’t love her any more.
So instead, she moves out and chooses to live with an abusive boyfriend whose behaviour is escalating.
Really, how old is she, a teenager to be so angst ridden over something that is not really her business. She has had a great upbringing, parental love and family but a biological sperm donor who signed his rights away seems more important.
Yes her parents could have told her, but their reasoning is sound.
Her dad has been her dad since before she was born.
This is not good enough for her as she was treated differently than her brothers, um, yes, she’s a girl.
Her rudeness towards her parents was unacceptable but it’s all about her.
Rachel is having therapy to deal with being abused, go Rachel, but she seems to just brush off the nasty after effects of her encounters with Shane.
She is also chasing after Sawyer and instigates a sexual relationship.
Sawyer has his own demons after serving in Afghanistan but everything he does is in support of Rachel and her wants.
We also have self-defence training being learnt. Which she did at least try to use.
But whining about having no space, then driving with the car window down, making being grabbed by the ex-boyfriend easy, that was not clever.
Gee wiz, I’m being stalked but it’s okay for me to travel alone. That didn’t work out to well for poor Chloe, the brave dog, when they were walking.
All too farfetched and silly.
The bit of story that deals with the job of sheriff was okay. Not sure I accept Watson’s apology.
A whiny, immature heroine paired with a decent hero suffering PTSD, who deserved better.
I struggled to continue when this started off with an abusive situation but that resolved itself quickly, so okay, let’s continue on.
Rachel gets up the guts to leave Shane but it isn’t pretty and the police arrive to save her.
The responding officer is her old friend and Rachel won’t go with anyone else. She basically invites herself and moves in with Sawyer as she has nowhere else to go.
All because. Well, apparently Rachel has this big, huge secret that means she cannot go with any of her brothers, though she admits to knowing they love her.
She cannot go to her parents because, big reveal, her parents separated way back, over twenty years ago, for a short time and her mother had a brief fling, resulting in, you guessed it, Rachel
Rachel finds this scandalous, upsetting and blames her parents for everything.
She is unable to talk calmly with her parents about what she has found out. She won’t even talk to her brothers, or half-brothers, as they apparently won’t love her any more.
So instead, she moves out and chooses to live with an abusive boyfriend whose behaviour is escalating.
Really, how old is she, a teenager to be so angst ridden over something that is not really her business. She has had a great upbringing, parental love and family but a biological sperm donor who signed his rights away seems more important.
Yes her parents could have told her, but their reasoning is sound.
Her dad has been her dad since before she was born.
This is not good enough for her as she was treated differently than her brothers, um, yes, she’s a girl.
Her rudeness towards her parents was unacceptable but it’s all about her.
Rachel is having therapy to deal with being abused, go Rachel, but she seems to just brush off the nasty after effects of her encounters with Shane.
She is also chasing after Sawyer and instigates a sexual relationship.
Sawyer has his own demons after serving in Afghanistan but everything he does is in support of Rachel and her wants.
We also have self-defence training being learnt. Which she did at least try to use.
But whining about having no space, then driving with the car window down, making being grabbed by the ex-boyfriend easy, that was not clever.
Gee wiz, I’m being stalked but it’s okay for me to travel alone. That didn’t work out to well for poor Chloe, the brave dog, when they were walking.
All too farfetched and silly.
The bit of story that deals with the job of sheriff was okay. Not sure I accept Watson’s apology.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2017
**Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book.**
Third time is the book charm!
Sawyer has been waiting for the call. Either he will arrive in time to save Rachel from her abusive boyfriend or he will show up to find her body. He hopes it isn't the latter. But Shane has been getting more out of control lately and something has to give. Sawyer just wishes Rachel would leave Shane before it comes to that.
Leaving is exactly what Rachel wishes she could do. But escaping Shane's grasp isn't as easy as walking out the door. He'll follow her and he will always find her. He's said as much and she'd be dumb not to believe him. Yet, when the opportunity arises, Rachel sees a way out and she takes it.
Unfortunately, Shane isn't the only one that Rachel wants to avoid after escaping Shane. She's been avoiding her family for months because she holds a secret that could rip her family apart. Her brothers, however, are too protective to let her off the hook. Staying with Sawyer might be Rachel's only hope. And as she grows closer to Sawyer, she must decide if she's willing to take a chance on love again.
I've liked Sawyer since I met him earlier in the series. He seemed like a sweet guy with a nice sense of humor. I was glad to see him get his turn to find a match. We also saw glimpses of Rachel throughout the previous books and it was clear to see that she was suffering in her current relationship with Shane.
So when the book started, I knew where we were headed. I was surprised to see how quickly Rachel managed to escape Shane's clutches. It worked out for the best, though. I can only take so much of a woman being abused before I start to get irritated with the woman for taking it. I know, I'm not the most sympathetic because I was raised to stand up for yourself and recognize the signs of abuse to catch them early on.
Rachel had reached a breaking point and she wanted to get away from Shane. I was impressed with her strength and admired her courage for leaving. She put on a brave face even when there was turmoil boiling within. The secret that she kept was a big one and I still wonder how that will play out in the future, if ever.
This book flowed steadily and the plot was filled with ups and downs that kept the pacing at a nice speed. I read the entire thing in two sittings and listened on text-to-speech while working. I never chose to put it down, only when I had to. That's always a good sign.
The romance was slower to build in this book, for good reason. Yet, the sexual tension was still there and plentiful. Once the couple started making strides of naughty proportions, I was pleased with the progress. As usual, the bedroom scenes were nicely written and our couple made a good pair in pretty much every way.
In closing...
I think this was a perfect match and well-written story. Michael's book starts off with a bang and I'm curious to see if he will come out of his shell. Five suns!
Full review on blog: http://uptildawnbookblog.blogspot.com/2017/07/review-release-blitz-one-last-chance-by.html
July 17, 2017
An intense and passionate romance of surviving and healing!
One Last Chance is an intense and passionate romance. A powerful and touching romance, One Last Chance is full of emotion .The main character, Rachel, learns how to heal and survive the horrific abuse suffered at the hands of her boyfriend, Shane. With the compassion and love of Sawyer, Rachel can heal while finding her independence.
The story line is fresh and moves along at a steady pace. This is an intense yet delightful story that will captivate you and keep your attention from the beginning to the end. This story hooked me from the very start and I could not put it down. The characters are easy to connect with and are well developed. Nancy does a great job of taking a hard and sensitive subject matter and bringing to light the feelings that the victim has and the different aspects and triggers that go along with it. It is obvious this author does their research. The situations are realistic and the characters draw the reader into the story. The reader will hurt and cry, laugh and rejoice along with the characters.
I have had the pleasure to read several books by Nancy Stopper. This author hasn't disappointed me yet! Nancy Stopper has done a superior job on every book in the Oak Grove series. I recommend this book (and the series) to anyone that enjoys sweet, intense and passionate romance stories.
One Last Chance is an intense and passionate romance. A powerful and touching romance, One Last Chance is full of emotion .The main character, Rachel, learns how to heal and survive the horrific abuse suffered at the hands of her boyfriend, Shane. With the compassion and love of Sawyer, Rachel can heal while finding her independence.
The story line is fresh and moves along at a steady pace. This is an intense yet delightful story that will captivate you and keep your attention from the beginning to the end. This story hooked me from the very start and I could not put it down. The characters are easy to connect with and are well developed. Nancy does a great job of taking a hard and sensitive subject matter and bringing to light the feelings that the victim has and the different aspects and triggers that go along with it. It is obvious this author does their research. The situations are realistic and the characters draw the reader into the story. The reader will hurt and cry, laugh and rejoice along with the characters.
I have had the pleasure to read several books by Nancy Stopper. This author hasn't disappointed me yet! Nancy Stopper has done a superior job on every book in the Oak Grove series. I recommend this book (and the series) to anyone that enjoys sweet, intense and passionate romance stories.
July 12, 2017
Loved this story of two damaged souls of finding love again. With the help of childhood friend, Sawyer, Rachel leaves an abusive relationship. Sawyer has always loved Rachel at a distance, he is fighting his own demons from Afghanistan. Can Rachel trust and open her heart again to Sawyer.
A great story with plenty of emotions, yes I did shed a tear or two. Realistic characters with true to life problems, that many people face. Looking forward to the next story in the series.
A great story with plenty of emotions, yes I did shed a tear or two. Realistic characters with true to life problems, that many people face. Looking forward to the next story in the series.
July 5, 2017
This is the third book in this great series and the one I have been waiting to read. It’s Racheal’s story and we have had an insight into her life in the last two books not know she is not in a very healthy relationship. But there is a bigger secret to her story that even her brothers don’t know about yet? The book did not let me down and had me turning each page with eagerness to learn more. I received a free copy of the book and have voluntarily written an honest review.
Full review can be found at www.readingfortheloveofbooks.com
Full review can be found at www.readingfortheloveofbooks.com
September 18, 2017
Nancy stopper at her best. It's difficult to choose between the Bennett's brothers and sister, every love story is best than the previous one. Rachel and Sawyer had had a crush on each other for a long time but they didn't know. Finally Sawyer can help Rachel escape an abusing relationship, but he has his own baggage. Can they be happy together? Can the secret in the Bennett family torn all them apart? A very good love story.
July 24, 2017
WOW! This series has been an enjoyable read, but this is the best one so far.
This one is about the Bennett sister, Rachel, and we find out why she has become so withdrawn and estranged from her family.
Full of turmoil and angst, Nancy handles the subject with care. I was so happy to read about Rachel's HEA.
Now I'm interested to read about Michael...
This one is about the Bennett sister, Rachel, and we find out why she has become so withdrawn and estranged from her family.
Full of turmoil and angst, Nancy handles the subject with care. I was so happy to read about Rachel's HEA.
Now I'm interested to read about Michael...
July 25, 2017
I loved Sawyer and Rachel's story. They both have issues, but are there for each other. The love shines through in this story, even with all the baggage. A definite must-read!
August 6, 2017
Absolutely fantastic book! Rachel has been a victim of domestic abuse for a year and a half when she finally realizes she has to get out before she is dead. She calls for 911 for help and Sawyer, a deputy with the police, is the first on the scene to help her. This is a great book about recovering from domestic abuse and learning to love oneself and the right person. It also touches on how family secrets can hurt and tear apart families. I enjoyed this book tremendously and can't recommend it strongly enough. I received a free copy and am voluntarily writing a review because I think it is such a great book I want others to know about it.
July 7, 2017
The third book in the Oak Grove series is Rachel’s story. Rachel’s story, which includes her childhood crush Sawyer, is about emotional pain, secrets, physical and emotional abuse, and PTSD. Family secrets started Rachel down a path where she connected with Shane, an abuser. Her family knew it but, until Rachel figured it out for herself, would not leave. When she does, Sawyer, an Army vet and current police officer in Oak Grove, is there for her. Both crushed on each other but did not act on their crushes growing up. Both have emotional scars that run deep and need to be healed. Can both get through those deep scars to realize what they really want and need? “One Last Chance” is a great story about healing, time, and final realizations that was wonderfully written. I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. This in no way sways my opinion.
June 24, 2017
Absolutely love this book! The series has been great and each installment just makes it better. The story of Rachel and Sawyer is very realistic, but it is great to see the happily ever after.
June 25, 2017
One Last Chance takes readers inside the head and hearts of two people who refuse to be victims anymore. Rachel is a woman broken by secrets and beat down by life. Sawyer is the one person that stands between her and total despair, but his own demons make him a flight risk. Can two damaged souls become united in love? Anything is possible in Oak Grove. Rachel and Sawyer are a perfect example of how, Ms. Stopper merges fiction and realism to create courageous and informative stories. Not only does One Last Chance inspire, it just might have the power to heal others in similar situations.
November 12, 2020
Writing wasn’t very good . Just a list of things -no feels . Sawyer the better of the two characters in my opinion.
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July 11, 2017
One Last Chance is a powerful, touching, emotion filled, authentic story about healing and surviving domestic abuse and PTSD. It is about learning to trust and love again, about family, forgiveness, and acceptance. It is a story that had me in tears because of the raw and real feelings that burst from the pages and touched my heart.
Rachel Bennett's story has been building up through the series. First, it was just the hints that something was not right, and then it escalated into more information about the abusive situation she lived in. The anticipation was high as I started the book, and from the first page, it pulled me into the story that I inhaled, forgetting everything else around me.
There are detailed domestic violence situations in the story, as well as nightmarish PTSD episodes that might be a trigger to some. They are very well done, respectfully and thoughtfully towards the survivors, yet filled with rough images of a true to life situations.
Sawyer Truman, the trustworthy, honorable, kind, patient, protective man was the perfect person for Rachel in every way. His support to Rachel during her healing is immeasurable, he would do anything to help her find herself again, to learn to stand up for herself again, to find the new Rachel who takes control of her own life.
As the time passes and their closeness brings more intimacy, the romantic feelings from their past develop into something much more, something passionate, something beautiful, lasting, the forever and a day kind of love. It is so beautifully done, absolutely adorable how the adoration Sawyer feels for Rachel helps her to find herself again.
The timing, in the story, is perfect. The healing takes time, the development of the characters as well as their feelings takes its time to grow and cultivate. There are several elements that keep the intensity high, the nightmares, the palpable fear of new attacks, the family secrets, and the angst of new chances, new beginnings, new careers, and new life, love, future. The story is well written flowing off the pages seamlessly with constant new twists in the characters lives making it impossible to put down until the very satisfying end.
The Bennett family has made an impact on me and found their way to my heart. The stories have the small town charm, yet are filled with such life-like, real, authentic emotions that it is easy to connect with the protagonists, and feel their joys and sorrows. Each story seems to top the previous one, yet all the books can be read as standalone stories.
A poignant and heartrending story that still manages to inspire, encourage, and deliver a beautiful message of love, trust, family, and forgiveness.
~ Five Spoons
Rachel Bennett's story has been building up through the series. First, it was just the hints that something was not right, and then it escalated into more information about the abusive situation she lived in. The anticipation was high as I started the book, and from the first page, it pulled me into the story that I inhaled, forgetting everything else around me.
There are detailed domestic violence situations in the story, as well as nightmarish PTSD episodes that might be a trigger to some. They are very well done, respectfully and thoughtfully towards the survivors, yet filled with rough images of a true to life situations.
Sawyer Truman, the trustworthy, honorable, kind, patient, protective man was the perfect person for Rachel in every way. His support to Rachel during her healing is immeasurable, he would do anything to help her find herself again, to learn to stand up for herself again, to find the new Rachel who takes control of her own life.
As the time passes and their closeness brings more intimacy, the romantic feelings from their past develop into something much more, something passionate, something beautiful, lasting, the forever and a day kind of love. It is so beautifully done, absolutely adorable how the adoration Sawyer feels for Rachel helps her to find herself again.
The timing, in the story, is perfect. The healing takes time, the development of the characters as well as their feelings takes its time to grow and cultivate. There are several elements that keep the intensity high, the nightmares, the palpable fear of new attacks, the family secrets, and the angst of new chances, new beginnings, new careers, and new life, love, future. The story is well written flowing off the pages seamlessly with constant new twists in the characters lives making it impossible to put down until the very satisfying end.
The Bennett family has made an impact on me and found their way to my heart. The stories have the small town charm, yet are filled with such life-like, real, authentic emotions that it is easy to connect with the protagonists, and feel their joys and sorrows. Each story seems to top the previous one, yet all the books can be read as standalone stories.
A poignant and heartrending story that still manages to inspire, encourage, and deliver a beautiful message of love, trust, family, and forgiveness.
~ Five Spoons
July 12, 2017
This is a good book, but tackles a hard subject-abuse. Rachel Bennett had let Shane abuse her for the last time. She had never seen him like this and was afraid for her life. She tried to call 911 before Shane knocked the phone out of her hand, but she didn't know if the call went through. Alter awhile she could hear sirens coming. Sawyer Truman was the first there and went on to save Rachel. After Rachel was checked out at the hospital, she needed somewhere to stay. The shelter's were filled up and she did not want to go with her over protective brothers nor her parents. She asked if she could stay with Sawyer and he said of course.
Sawyer has been in love with Rachel since they were teenagers. Sawyer was three years older and didn't feel like she was old enough to be with him yet. He enlisted in the Army and went off to Afghanistan. When he came back, he was emotionally messed up. By the time he was getting better Rachel was dating Shane. Sawyer and her brothers had tried to get her away from Shane earlier, it she wasn't ready. Rachel had a crush on Sawyer growing up, but never told anyone. Something happened that Rachel found out about that put her spiraling out of control and into Shane's arms. The story was handled well of how Rachel needed to get help, become strong again, learn to feel good about herself, and forgive some people. I loved Sawyer and Rachel together. I think they made the other stronger. I also loved Sawyer's dog, Chloe. She was a real hero in the story. I strongly encourage you to read the book. I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
Sawyer has been in love with Rachel since they were teenagers. Sawyer was three years older and didn't feel like she was old enough to be with him yet. He enlisted in the Army and went off to Afghanistan. When he came back, he was emotionally messed up. By the time he was getting better Rachel was dating Shane. Sawyer and her brothers had tried to get her away from Shane earlier, it she wasn't ready. Rachel had a crush on Sawyer growing up, but never told anyone. Something happened that Rachel found out about that put her spiraling out of control and into Shane's arms. The story was handled well of how Rachel needed to get help, become strong again, learn to feel good about herself, and forgive some people. I loved Sawyer and Rachel together. I think they made the other stronger. I also loved Sawyer's dog, Chloe. She was a real hero in the story. I strongly encourage you to read the book. I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
July 9, 2017
I loved, loved, loved One Last Chance by Nancy Stopper, the third book in her Oak Grove series. In Rachel Bennett, younger sister, has had enough of her abusive and controlling bastard of a boyfriend with the help of her childhood friend and deputy sheriff, Sawyer Truman. Rachel’s downward spiral began because of family secrets which caused a deep hurt within. She is determined to start life fresh, but not trusting anyone; she stays with Sawyer, her former crush.
Sawyer has loved Rachel for as long as he can remember, spending many days hanging at her home with her brothers. He joined the Army Reserves after high school. However, when he returns from Afghanistan, with nightmares and horrific memories, he finds Rachel living with a new boyfriend and fears he's lost his chance with Rachel. It doesn't take long before he sees what no one wants to admit, Rachel is being abused. After one too many calls to her house, he convinces Rachel to leave Shane. What he didn't expect was to find her living in his guest room. As Rachel heals from her abusive relationship, Sawyer and Rachel grow closer.
I truly loved reading this book. Ms. Stopper did an outstanding job keeping me interested in this story. I highly recommend this book to other readers and am looking forward to the next entry in this series which is supposed to feature older brother Michael.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Sawyer has loved Rachel for as long as he can remember, spending many days hanging at her home with her brothers. He joined the Army Reserves after high school. However, when he returns from Afghanistan, with nightmares and horrific memories, he finds Rachel living with a new boyfriend and fears he's lost his chance with Rachel. It doesn't take long before he sees what no one wants to admit, Rachel is being abused. After one too many calls to her house, he convinces Rachel to leave Shane. What he didn't expect was to find her living in his guest room. As Rachel heals from her abusive relationship, Sawyer and Rachel grow closer.
I truly loved reading this book. Ms. Stopper did an outstanding job keeping me interested in this story. I highly recommend this book to other readers and am looking forward to the next entry in this series which is supposed to feature older brother Michael.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
July 11, 2017
Nancy Stopper has quickly become one of my favorite authors. One Last Chance is her third entry in the Oak Grove series. It is a great story but was a very emotional read for me.
Sawyer Truman’s heart has belonged to Rachel Bennet for years. He came back from his tour in Afghanistan to discover the girl he loved was in a serious relationship with someone else. He has a job as a sheriff in his hometown but carries a lot of baggage with him after serving in Afghanistan.
Rachel Bennet discovered secrets about herself that shattered her self confidence and pushed her away from her family. Her once loving relationship with her boyfriend Shane has become one filled with verbal and physical abuse and she hasn't shown up for her shifts at brother Joey’s bar. Sawyer and her brothers want her to leave Shane, and when her breaking point comes and she has suffered enough at the hands of Shane, she manages a 9-1-1 call and is rescued by Sawyer and several other deputies.
With Shane in jail and a restraining order in place, Rachel begins to put her life together protected by Sawyer, the friend she has had a crush on for years.
I received an advance readers copy of One Last Chance from the author for an honest and fair review.
Sawyer Truman’s heart has belonged to Rachel Bennet for years. He came back from his tour in Afghanistan to discover the girl he loved was in a serious relationship with someone else. He has a job as a sheriff in his hometown but carries a lot of baggage with him after serving in Afghanistan.
Rachel Bennet discovered secrets about herself that shattered her self confidence and pushed her away from her family. Her once loving relationship with her boyfriend Shane has become one filled with verbal and physical abuse and she hasn't shown up for her shifts at brother Joey’s bar. Sawyer and her brothers want her to leave Shane, and when her breaking point comes and she has suffered enough at the hands of Shane, she manages a 9-1-1 call and is rescued by Sawyer and several other deputies.
With Shane in jail and a restraining order in place, Rachel begins to put her life together protected by Sawyer, the friend she has had a crush on for years.
I received an advance readers copy of One Last Chance from the author for an honest and fair review.
July 12, 2017
This is my favorite Oak Grove novel so far! The series gets better and better. Finally, we get the backstory of Rachel, the youngest Bennett sibling. Rachel has been pulling away from her tight-knit family since she started dating Shane, 18 months prior. The Bennett brothers are all worried about her. They are convinced Shane is abusing her. Their fears are confirmed at the beginning of this book as Rachel finally calls for help. Her brother's best friend, Sawyer, is the deputy assigned to respond to the domestic abuse call. He gets Rachel out with minor injuries. She chooses to recuperate at Sawyer's house, rather than be smothered by her brothers. And she won't lean on her parents, due to a family secret she has uncovered. Sawyer has loved Rachel in secret for many years, and Rachel had a teenaged crush on him as well. With Sawyer's support, Rachel learns to find her way back to independence. With Rachel's help, Sawyer confronts his own fears of abandonment and loss. Ms. Stopper has told their love story with a lot of sensitivity to both domestic violence and PTSD. This is a heartbreakingly beautiful story of redemption, self-love, and second chances. I can't wait for the last remaining Bennett sibling, Michael's story.
July 12, 2017
Wow! Two difficult subjects dealt with in a very touching manner. Domestic abuse is a huge problem as is the emotional toll many men and women returning from active military duty face. Sawyer has already progressed on the road to healing and is just the right person to help encourage Rachel now that she's made the decision to leave her abusive boyfriend.
But there are bumps in the road - Sawyer dealing with his own personal issues as well as Rachel's hidden secret that began her spiral downward into allowing an abusive relationship to continue. Both must face the unresolved issues before they can move forward. And, as Rachel heals, she's determined to have a healthy relationship with Sawyer.
I really admired Sawyer for being such a patient man. The support he gave Rachel when she needed it most, on many occasions, helped her heal. And, in the end, it helped Sawyer deal with his past as well. It was very heartwarming to watch them both heal and grow stronger together, both within themselves and their relationship.
This is a feel-good story that, in the end, will put a smile on your face!
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book. This is my honest review.
But there are bumps in the road - Sawyer dealing with his own personal issues as well as Rachel's hidden secret that began her spiral downward into allowing an abusive relationship to continue. Both must face the unresolved issues before they can move forward. And, as Rachel heals, she's determined to have a healthy relationship with Sawyer.
I really admired Sawyer for being such a patient man. The support he gave Rachel when she needed it most, on many occasions, helped her heal. And, in the end, it helped Sawyer deal with his past as well. It was very heartwarming to watch them both heal and grow stronger together, both within themselves and their relationship.
This is a feel-good story that, in the end, will put a smile on your face!
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book. This is my honest review.
July 12, 2017
I discovered Nancy Stopper by chance when I received an ARC a while ago. I am enjoying the Oak Grove series so much. The Bennett family is all we hope in a book, they are a sweet family, even though they are not perfect (who is perfect anyway?!).
Rachel Bennett is living in an abusive relationship and has been beaten not only in her body, but her soul. Once so close to her brothers and Sawyer (her brother’s best friend), she has been away and withdrawn due to her abusive boyfriend.
Sawyer is a good guy, a veteran and now a police officer. He has always had a thing for Rachel, but she is the sister of his best friend and their timing was never right.
Through out this book we can read and feel Rachel’s maturing despite of her problems and trying to heal. Sawyer is a great part of this healing and amazingly her strength becomes his as well.
Nancy Stopper is a wonderful writer who creates real characters with deep feelings.
This book is wonderful and you will love it!
Rachel Bennett is living in an abusive relationship and has been beaten not only in her body, but her soul. Once so close to her brothers and Sawyer (her brother’s best friend), she has been away and withdrawn due to her abusive boyfriend.
Sawyer is a good guy, a veteran and now a police officer. He has always had a thing for Rachel, but she is the sister of his best friend and their timing was never right.
Through out this book we can read and feel Rachel’s maturing despite of her problems and trying to heal. Sawyer is a great part of this healing and amazingly her strength becomes his as well.
Nancy Stopper is a wonderful writer who creates real characters with deep feelings.
This book is wonderful and you will love it!
December 11, 2017
One Last Chance (Book 3 in Oak Grove Series)
By Nancy Stopper
Reviewed by Jaime Kurp
So I didn’t realize when I got this book that it was book 3 in the series. But it didn’t matter because this book grabbed me and I couldn't put it down. This story is about Rachel who finds paperwork in her parents attic that just rocks her world. So because of this her world turns upside down and she finds herself in an abusive relationship. She has completely cut everyone out of her life because of this man. Well she finally has enough and leaves him. Rachel now finds herself living with one of her brothers friends, Sawyer, the one that she had a crush on growing up. As you read you will learn her true feelings for Sawyer and can she just walk away from this other guy that has done nothing but hurt her. Rachel also learns about the paper she found and what it means. A very good book to curl up to and enjoy.
By Nancy Stopper
Reviewed by Jaime Kurp
So I didn’t realize when I got this book that it was book 3 in the series. But it didn’t matter because this book grabbed me and I couldn't put it down. This story is about Rachel who finds paperwork in her parents attic that just rocks her world. So because of this her world turns upside down and she finds herself in an abusive relationship. She has completely cut everyone out of her life because of this man. Well she finally has enough and leaves him. Rachel now finds herself living with one of her brothers friends, Sawyer, the one that she had a crush on growing up. As you read you will learn her true feelings for Sawyer and can she just walk away from this other guy that has done nothing but hurt her. Rachel also learns about the paper she found and what it means. A very good book to curl up to and enjoy.
October 19, 2022
This is book 3 of the series but can be read as a stand alone. Rachel Bennett has let things from her past effect her present, which is being in a violent relationship. One night the violence really gets out of hand and luckily Rachel is able to dial 911. The first deputy on scene is Sawyer, her brothers and her friend. Once things get settle down, Rachel gets Sawyer to take her to the hospital to get checked out. While there Sawyer tries to find a spot for Rachel in one of the shelters but no one has an open bed. Due to a secret Rachel has, she refuses to go home with one of her brothers. or to her parents house. So she invites herself to Sawyers home. She feels safe with Sawyer and as time goes by she realizes her feelings for Sawyer growing. Then she realizes that Sawyer has strong feelings for her. As things are progressing, Rachel's abusive ex makes an appearance and puts everything in jeopardy.
Can they survive this threat?
Can they survive this threat?
July 16, 2017
Rachel had been abused by her boyfriend and her childhood friend Sawyer helps her get out of her bad situation.. We met Sawyer and Rachel briefly in the other books. Sawyer is a deputy sheriff and a military veteran. He is her brother's best friend and has always had a crush on Rachel. When nowhere to go she ends up staying in Sawyer's guest room. They are both two wounded souls damaged from abuse and PTSD, not to mention untold secrets lurking in the shadows. Not wanting to be a spoiler but are they able to make their growing attraction and love strong enough to survive all the roadblocks. A sweet romance that is sad at time and heartwarming at others. I received a complimentary copy and voluntarily chose to review this book. A great read.
December 7, 2017
This is the first time in reading this author with this drawing me to it. I like digging into ones that show how to live through real issues with depth behind them. This author will grab you with her characters doing just that. This centers around Rachel and Sawyer who also was in the military a fav of mine. That always changes a person for sure but anyways this is about them both having their own demons that capture your attention. As their time comes together (second chance) it starts out one way but then it turns into something else. Healing and trust grow with us being the witness. Since it is real life issues it is not a picnic all the way with it tugging on our emotions a time or two or three. I would read this author again that is for sure.
July 14, 2017
Each book in the Oak Grove series keeps getting better. The author did a great job of handling a tough subject and writing characters the reader falls in love with. Sawyer has seen Rachel being abused by Shane but without any desire for help on her part, he can't do anything. However, Rachel finally decides she has had enough and gets out. She is struggling with some information about her family so she turns to Sawyer for a place to stay. Can Sawyer keep his feelings hidden for long enough for Rachel to heal and deal with her family? A very good read, that I did not put down until I finished!
June 21, 2018
I might sound like a broken record but gosh darn it, Nancy Stopper did it again with another terrific book in the Oak Grove series. This book, I believe, is the best one yet. It had me reading non-stop and got me from the very first page. Page one is about Rachel who we met in that last book. Reading a series is so much fun because I like to know each of the characters.
The story goes from Rachel in an abusive relationship and a sheriff deputy, Sawyer, who has loved her for years. When Rachel finally gets her nerve to leave her abuser she relies on Sawyer until she could get her own act together.
This is a beautiful story of survival, growth and love.
The story goes from Rachel in an abusive relationship and a sheriff deputy, Sawyer, who has loved her for years. When Rachel finally gets her nerve to leave her abuser she relies on Sawyer until she could get her own act together.
This is a beautiful story of survival, growth and love.
August 22, 2017
One Last Chance by Nancy Stopper is an excellent book. This book is Rachel and Sawyer's story, and it deals with domestic violence, which is a difficult subject to write about AND read about. The author did a great job of making you feel as if you were right there along with Rachel during her struggles, while keeping the details real.
Sawyer had his own issues to deal with, but I really liked how the author showed his internal struggle to do the right thing for Rachel. He loved her enough to try to stay away from her...but it just didn't work. I loved the Happy Ever After, and it left me looking forward to the next story in this Oak Grove series.
Sawyer had his own issues to deal with, but I really liked how the author showed his internal struggle to do the right thing for Rachel. He loved her enough to try to stay away from her...but it just didn't work. I loved the Happy Ever After, and it left me looking forward to the next story in this Oak Grove series.
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