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Cedar Tree #7
Head Start
Nowadays Kendra Schmitt puts most of her time into the new clinic in Cedar Tree. Always the responsible one in her family, she has avoided any kind of entanglement. In particular with a persistent young investigator. With her schedule a bit more predictable, she is ready to explore a personal life and concedes to what turns out to be a disastrous blind date.
Junior member of the GFI team, Neil James, has seen and experienced more than most at his age. When his team becomes part of a task force investigating a series of murders in the area, his protective instincts kick into high gear. The victims' profiles closely match that of a certain physical therapist.
Neil has been trying unsuccessfully for over a year to get closer to Kendra. Now that she might be in danger, he’s determined to break through her resistance and goes all out to win her trust.
Especially now that the killer’s focus appears to have zeroed in on Kendra.
Junior member of the GFI team, Neil James, has seen and experienced more than most at his age. When his team becomes part of a task force investigating a series of murders in the area, his protective instincts kick into high gear. The victims' profiles closely match that of a certain physical therapist.
Neil has been trying unsuccessfully for over a year to get closer to Kendra. Now that she might be in danger, he’s determined to break through her resistance and goes all out to win her trust.
Especially now that the killer’s focus appears to have zeroed in on Kendra.
Unknown Binding
First published May 5, 2016
136 people are currently reading
257 people want to read
About the author
Freya Barker
83 books1,907 followersUSA Today bestselling author Freya Barker loves writing about ordinary people with extraordinary stories.
Driven to make her books about 'real' people; she creates characters who are perhaps less than perfect, each struggling to find their own slice of happy, but just as deserving of romance, thrills and chills in their lives.
Recipient of the ReadFREE.ly 2019 Best Book We've Read All Year Award for "Covering Ollie, the 2015 RomCon “Reader’s Choice” Award for Best First Book, “Slim To None”, and Finalist for the 2017 Kindle Book Award with “From Dust”, Freya continues to add to her rapidly growing collection of published novels as she spins story after story with an endless supply of bruised and dented characters, vying for attention!
Driven to make her books about 'real' people; she creates characters who are perhaps less than perfect, each struggling to find their own slice of happy, but just as deserving of romance, thrills and chills in their lives.
Recipient of the ReadFREE.ly 2019 Best Book We've Read All Year Award for "Covering Ollie, the 2015 RomCon “Reader’s Choice” Award for Best First Book, “Slim To None”, and Finalist for the 2017 Kindle Book Award with “From Dust”, Freya continues to add to her rapidly growing collection of published novels as she spins story after story with an endless supply of bruised and dented characters, vying for attention!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
June 7, 2016
Find all of my reviews at: http://52bookminimum.blogspot.com/
I knew I had to read Head Start as soon as I saw the synopsis because of reasons . . .
Also because it fell into the “I wanna bang that tiger in the hoodie” cover category.
Yep, I have zero shame and I luuuuuuuuurv Cougar Town. I also loved the idea of an older woman/younger male storyline and I immediately went and tried to bully Shelby into reading this with me. It was she who pointed out that we had not only read (and not enjoyed) a previous book in this series, but that said book provided a first in my time at Goodreads – getting trolled before even reading page 1. Normally I wouldn’t post a link to my own shit, but HERE is the exception because WTF?!?!?!?!
OF COURSE this one ended up being an auto-approval and since there was no chance for takebacks on my request I did what any self-respecting reader would do before beginning . . . .
And this is why fangirls should just STFU and shove their trollish comments firmly up their buttholes. Due to myaddiction to porn senility, I gave Freya Barker a second chance and ended up enjoying this waaaaaaaay more than Upper Hand.
The basics are that Neil works as an investigator for GFI and has been trying to get a taste of Kendra for quite some time. Due to the difference in their ages, however, Kendra was interested in zero part of that and instead set up a profile on match.com . . . where she finds a super creeper at best and potential serial killer at worst. With Kendra’s safety in jeopardy, Neil takes it upon himself to watch over her and y’all know what comes next . . . .
Yeah. It pretty much got the job done. Really I only had two complaints about this story, but those two issues grated enough that I remain firmly planted in 3 Star territory.
1. I hate pet names and “Pup”??????????
2. And this . . . .
“I’m a little nervous, since I’ve never done this before, but I’ve been able to do my face without too much damage for a few years now. As gently as I can, I slide the razor along one side of her labia.”
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOPE!
For any superfan waiting in the wings to tell me what an asshole I am for not having a grooming fetish or whatever the hell reason you come up with this time . . .
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, NetGalley!
ORIGINAL "REVIEW":
I tried to strong-arm the resident book pusher into reading this with me, but she has PTSD from one of the previous stories in this series and some unsexy granny panty menopause sexytimes. However, THIS one sounds like it might be a little bit of a Cougar Town experience so I'm all . . .
I knew I had to read Head Start as soon as I saw the synopsis because of reasons . . .
Also because it fell into the “I wanna bang that tiger in the hoodie” cover category.
Yep, I have zero shame and I luuuuuuuuurv Cougar Town. I also loved the idea of an older woman/younger male storyline and I immediately went and tried to bully Shelby into reading this with me. It was she who pointed out that we had not only read (and not enjoyed) a previous book in this series, but that said book provided a first in my time at Goodreads – getting trolled before even reading page 1. Normally I wouldn’t post a link to my own shit, but HERE is the exception because WTF?!?!?!?!
OF COURSE this one ended up being an auto-approval and since there was no chance for takebacks on my request I did what any self-respecting reader would do before beginning . . . .
And this is why fangirls should just STFU and shove their trollish comments firmly up their buttholes. Due to my
The basics are that Neil works as an investigator for GFI and has been trying to get a taste of Kendra for quite some time. Due to the difference in their ages, however, Kendra was interested in zero part of that and instead set up a profile on match.com . . . where she finds a super creeper at best and potential serial killer at worst. With Kendra’s safety in jeopardy, Neil takes it upon himself to watch over her and y’all know what comes next . . . .
Yeah. It pretty much got the job done. Really I only had two complaints about this story, but those two issues grated enough that I remain firmly planted in 3 Star territory.
1. I hate pet names and “Pup”??????????
2. And this . . . .
“I’m a little nervous, since I’ve never done this before, but I’ve been able to do my face without too much damage for a few years now. As gently as I can, I slide the razor along one side of her labia.”
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOPE!
For any superfan waiting in the wings to tell me what an asshole I am for not having a grooming fetish or whatever the hell reason you come up with this time . . .
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, NetGalley!
ORIGINAL "REVIEW":
I tried to strong-arm the resident book pusher into reading this with me, but she has PTSD from one of the previous stories in this series and some unsexy granny panty menopause sexytimes. However, THIS one sounds like it might be a little bit of a Cougar Town experience so I'm all . . .
April 27, 2016
What can I say? Freya Barker is a treasure of an author. With every book of hers that I've had the privilege to be a part of, she gets better and better. Head Start is no exception. This is the final installment of the Cedar Tree series and I am so sad to see it end. I have to say, besides Like Arrows, this was my fave book of the series.
Barker weaves an intricate and suspenseful tale filled with twists and turns. And I LOVED Neil!!! I love a story of unrequited love and there aren't a lot of them. Neil has had his sights set on Kendra for years now, but Kendra has never taken him very seriously. She has instead discarded him as the much younger and never serious, playful town playboy. But oh was she mistaken!!
Great story that will keep you hooked from start to finish. This one had more suspense than the previous installments. Great segue into her Rock Point FBI series which is her spin-off series to the Cedar Tree books, coming later this year! :))
Barker weaves an intricate and suspenseful tale filled with twists and turns. And I LOVED Neil!!! I love a story of unrequited love and there aren't a lot of them. Neil has had his sights set on Kendra for years now, but Kendra has never taken him very seriously. She has instead discarded him as the much younger and never serious, playful town playboy. But oh was she mistaken!!
Great story that will keep you hooked from start to finish. This one had more suspense than the previous installments. Great segue into her Rock Point FBI series which is her spin-off series to the Cedar Tree books, coming later this year! :))
October 30, 2020
I've been uber picky recently about my books. This series is awesome. The stories are great. The writing is very good. The books are LONG so there is no rushing through the story. The narration is spot on. I thought I wasn’t a fan of Tanya Eby but she killed it reading these books. Noel Harrison also did a fantastic job bringing these characters to life.
The last two book in this series were off the charts good. The plot deviated from the usual twists and turns to give the subject matter and plot full time to mature. With several topics being woven in and out of the book, it worked very well. Really I could just re read this whole series while I have it checked out of the library. Ms. Barker is a FAAB (Fav Author Auto Buy) for me. Enjoy ~
The last two book in this series were off the charts good. The plot deviated from the usual twists and turns to give the subject matter and plot full time to mature. With several topics being woven in and out of the book, it worked very well. Really I could just re read this whole series while I have it checked out of the library. Ms. Barker is a FAAB (Fav Author Auto Buy) for me. Enjoy ~
January 8, 2017
Favorite Quotes:
“No Karly, I'm not going on a singles' cruise with you... Because those things are like a floating sausage fests.”
“I accept, because really – when a young guy built like a tank offers to help you move, especially after your family ditched you for an aquatic meat market, you don't pass it up.”
“That twatwaffle has a potty-mouth and a temper. Think I'll pass on a second date, and change my phone number.”
“Dare to be happy Kenny. There's no payoff without a little risk, and regrets are so much harder to carry to your grave than mistakes are.”
“Mr. Henderson is no more than five foot six, if he even makes that, and so thin, a stiff wind would blow him off. To hear her talk about him you'd think she was married to a big strapping lumberjack type, but I guess it really is all in the eye of the beholder and Mrs. Henderson adores her husband. I'm sure to her he is all that and more.”
“You know, those scars, just like this whole experience, will become part of who you are. Claim them. Make them yours. He may have put you through hell, put those marks on you, but it's in your control how much more of you you'll let him have.”
My Review:
I am totally enamored with Freya Barker, Cedar Tree, and all its residents. I have three more books in this series to read so I can look forward to three more adventuresome trips. I have relished reading each and every Freya Barker book I've picked up and find her writing style to consistently be of high quality while also intriguing, engrossing, well-paced, self-contained, and simply delicious. Her love stories are always sweet, sexy, supportive, and sensual, with frequent hits of humor to go along with the intrigue and suspense. Head Start involves a twisted and cruel serial killer who commits insidious and heinous crimes. The crimes were gruesome and had me cringing, yet I could not put my kindle down and appreciated how the aftermath was handled. I was also quite pleased to see a humorous cougar character incorporated in the story, as I always like seeing my own species being well represented. I hope this is really not the end of the Cedar Tree series, as I would never tire of following their adventures and want to remind Ms. Barker that there is still a town full of residents, and I am sure a cougar to two, yet to explore.
“No Karly, I'm not going on a singles' cruise with you... Because those things are like a floating sausage fests.”
“I accept, because really – when a young guy built like a tank offers to help you move, especially after your family ditched you for an aquatic meat market, you don't pass it up.”
“That twatwaffle has a potty-mouth and a temper. Think I'll pass on a second date, and change my phone number.”
“Dare to be happy Kenny. There's no payoff without a little risk, and regrets are so much harder to carry to your grave than mistakes are.”
“Mr. Henderson is no more than five foot six, if he even makes that, and so thin, a stiff wind would blow him off. To hear her talk about him you'd think she was married to a big strapping lumberjack type, but I guess it really is all in the eye of the beholder and Mrs. Henderson adores her husband. I'm sure to her he is all that and more.”
“You know, those scars, just like this whole experience, will become part of who you are. Claim them. Make them yours. He may have put you through hell, put those marks on you, but it's in your control how much more of you you'll let him have.”
My Review:
I am totally enamored with Freya Barker, Cedar Tree, and all its residents. I have three more books in this series to read so I can look forward to three more adventuresome trips. I have relished reading each and every Freya Barker book I've picked up and find her writing style to consistently be of high quality while also intriguing, engrossing, well-paced, self-contained, and simply delicious. Her love stories are always sweet, sexy, supportive, and sensual, with frequent hits of humor to go along with the intrigue and suspense. Head Start involves a twisted and cruel serial killer who commits insidious and heinous crimes. The crimes were gruesome and had me cringing, yet I could not put my kindle down and appreciated how the aftermath was handled. I was also quite pleased to see a humorous cougar character incorporated in the story, as I always like seeing my own species being well represented. I hope this is really not the end of the Cedar Tree series, as I would never tire of following their adventures and want to remind Ms. Barker that there is still a town full of residents, and I am sure a cougar to two, yet to explore.
May 28, 2016
This author is amazing! Head Start is only the second book I've read of Freya Barker but she has blown me away with both books. There is so much feeling in her stories and she does such an amazing job of writing the perspective a person who has suffered trauma. The Heros she writes are everything you can dream up. They are strong, protective and reliable men who take care of the people they love. The heroines are strong, independent women who have suffered a trauma and rise above it all. The emotions you get in these stories are intense. I love the way she writes her supporting characters as just that, supporting the H and h and becoming the non traditional family. And let me tell you, the dedication the author writes to her son in this book almost made me cry! You have to read it when you pick up this book.
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 16, 2020
Audiobook: Narrators - Tanya Eby and Noel Harrison
Now that I’ve reached the end of this series, I’m going to definitely be missing not only all the amazing characters, but these narrators as well. They do such a great job of pulling me into the world this author has created. I feel like I’m a part of the community and I could reach out and touch each character they’ve brought to life.
I’ve been waiting for Neil’s story and I wasn’t disappointed. I’m not a fan of older woman/younger man, but the age difference didn’t have a huge impact on this couple or their story so I was able to move on. Neil was all I wanted him to be and everything that Kendra needed. I did miss a bit of his humor but then again, he’s caught up in a lot of drama that has Kendra at its center for a good portion of the book.
This was a tad darker with a pretty rough villain which had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. As all of the books in this series, this was filled with action, friendship, family and most of all romance. The total loyalty and protectiveness all of these heroes have had are what I look for in my books and Neil was right up there with the rest.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Now that I’ve reached the end of this series, I’m going to definitely be missing not only all the amazing characters, but these narrators as well. They do such a great job of pulling me into the world this author has created. I feel like I’m a part of the community and I could reach out and touch each character they’ve brought to life.
I’ve been waiting for Neil’s story and I wasn’t disappointed. I’m not a fan of older woman/younger man, but the age difference didn’t have a huge impact on this couple or their story so I was able to move on. Neil was all I wanted him to be and everything that Kendra needed. I did miss a bit of his humor but then again, he’s caught up in a lot of drama that has Kendra at its center for a good portion of the book.
This was a tad darker with a pretty rough villain which had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. As all of the books in this series, this was filled with action, friendship, family and most of all romance. The total loyalty and protectiveness all of these heroes have had are what I look for in my books and Neil was right up there with the rest.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
December 12, 2019
Freya...you keep making your characters real. And here we go with Neil and Kendra. Whay can I say. I love them. Freya's men love and respect real women. Hello Neil. Again on the scene..with Kenda. I don't want this series to end, but if it ends strong it's good. Freya's writing us so realistic. This book is no different. Our hunky 32 is matched with our 40 bump bump. Their intangled life is what intrigues us. Kendra and Neil's story makes me turn the page. I want more I love the May December relationship that I will never understand. Damn The Cedar Tree series..I love them all. Read them. Highly recommended
May 6, 2016
Reviewing on behalf of Trile B's Book Blog
OMG!!
You know the saying "Go out with a bang"?
Well bloody hell Freya Barker has certainly achieved that with Neil and Kendra's story, the 7th and final book of the Cedar Tree series!
Each book in the series can be read as a standalone but you REALLY don't want to miss out on all these wonderful yet REAL characters.
Not read any of them yet??? Then what on earth have you been doing!!
Below are the links to all of the previous Cedar Tree books.
Slim To None (#1) You'll love Gus and Emma!
Amazon: myBook.to/SlimToNone
B&N: http://bit.ly/1L0IU9e
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1hfICni
iBooks: http://apple.co/1FMynCt
Scribd: http://bit.ly/1L0J4gJ
Hundred To One (#2) Seb and Arlene.
Amazon: myBook.to/HundredToOne
B&N: http://bit.ly/1M68wCu
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1RkbLuF
iBooks: http://apple.co/1N8iIQA
Scribd: http://bit.ly/1QPgq6K
Against Me (#3) Caleb and Katie.
Amazon: myBook.to/AgainstMe
B&N: http://bit.ly/1j5cBjJ
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1L8EX6Q
iBooks: http://apple.co/1JJzyxA
Scribd: http://bit.ly/1Ocuqdh
Clean Lines (#4) Naomi and Joe.
Amazon: myBook.to/CleanLines
B&N: http://bit.ly/1jCIgJ9
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1Vuxfpb
iBooks: http://apple.co/1hfILqQ
Scribd: http://bit.ly/1MNvVeP
Upper Hand (#5) Clint and Beth.
Amazon: myBook.to/UpperHand
B&N: http://bit.ly/1M68JFN
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1MNvYr6
iBooks: http://apple.co/1M68KJY
Scribd: http://bit.ly/UpperHandScrbd
Like Arrows (#6) Malachi and Kimeo
Amazon: myBook.to/LikeArrows
B&N: http://bit.ly/LikeArrowsNook
Kobo: http://bit.ly/LikeArrowsKobo
iBooks: http://bit.ly/LikeArrowsiBooks
I've made no secret of the fact I love this series (infact I've loved all of Freya's books to some extent) but for me Head Start brought the familiarity of the wonderful Cedar Tree 'family' and all the emotions they usually bring out but also an amazing depth (much like From Dust, and that was one of my books of the year last year!)
Head Start will most definitely be one of my books of the year this year!
Neil......where oh where do I start!?
Mmm hmm man is he someone special.
He may be a junior member of GFI but he has experienced so much more than many people ever will.
He has made no secret of the fact that he'd like to get closer to Kendra, a physical therapist at the new clinic in Cedar Tree, for the last year but she hasn't wanted a bar of him, thinking the age gap to be too much.
A case comes into GFI that appears may be a little too close to home, the previous victims profiles bares a resemblance to Kendra and puts Neil's protective instincts on high alert.
Will this be the opening he needs to get Kendra to realise they may just be perfect for one another?
This book had EVERYTHING I could want, it made me laugh out loud, groan in annoyance, had my hand itchng to slap certain people, made butterflies swarm in my stomach, made my heart fooking break and big ugly snot bubble cry and had me gasping in horror but ultimately Neil and Kendra have secured their place in my heart FOREVER!!
I'm not going to give away any more of their story as you quite simply NEED to be #oneclickingit right the fook now! ;)
Writing this review was so hard because as much as I totally and utterly adored Neil and Kendra's story in Head Start and was excited to share my thoughts, it also brought home the fact that this is the end for the characters of Cedar Tree who have become a firm favourite since discovering them last January.
I look forward to reading whatever Freya writes next
Congratulations Freya on another unbelievabley good book.
OMG!!
You know the saying "Go out with a bang"?
Well bloody hell Freya Barker has certainly achieved that with Neil and Kendra's story, the 7th and final book of the Cedar Tree series!
Each book in the series can be read as a standalone but you REALLY don't want to miss out on all these wonderful yet REAL characters.
Not read any of them yet??? Then what on earth have you been doing!!
Below are the links to all of the previous Cedar Tree books.
Slim To None (#1) You'll love Gus and Emma!
Amazon: myBook.to/SlimToNone
B&N: http://bit.ly/1L0IU9e
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1hfICni
iBooks: http://apple.co/1FMynCt
Scribd: http://bit.ly/1L0J4gJ
Hundred To One (#2) Seb and Arlene.
Amazon: myBook.to/HundredToOne
B&N: http://bit.ly/1M68wCu
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1RkbLuF
iBooks: http://apple.co/1N8iIQA
Scribd: http://bit.ly/1QPgq6K
Against Me (#3) Caleb and Katie.
Amazon: myBook.to/AgainstMe
B&N: http://bit.ly/1j5cBjJ
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1L8EX6Q
iBooks: http://apple.co/1JJzyxA
Scribd: http://bit.ly/1Ocuqdh
Clean Lines (#4) Naomi and Joe.
Amazon: myBook.to/CleanLines
B&N: http://bit.ly/1jCIgJ9
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1Vuxfpb
iBooks: http://apple.co/1hfILqQ
Scribd: http://bit.ly/1MNvVeP
Upper Hand (#5) Clint and Beth.
Amazon: myBook.to/UpperHand
B&N: http://bit.ly/1M68JFN
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1MNvYr6
iBooks: http://apple.co/1M68KJY
Scribd: http://bit.ly/UpperHandScrbd
Like Arrows (#6) Malachi and Kimeo
Amazon: myBook.to/LikeArrows
B&N: http://bit.ly/LikeArrowsNook
Kobo: http://bit.ly/LikeArrowsKobo
iBooks: http://bit.ly/LikeArrowsiBooks
I've made no secret of the fact I love this series (infact I've loved all of Freya's books to some extent) but for me Head Start brought the familiarity of the wonderful Cedar Tree 'family' and all the emotions they usually bring out but also an amazing depth (much like From Dust, and that was one of my books of the year last year!)
Head Start will most definitely be one of my books of the year this year!
Neil......where oh where do I start!?
Mmm hmm man is he someone special.
He may be a junior member of GFI but he has experienced so much more than many people ever will.
He has made no secret of the fact that he'd like to get closer to Kendra, a physical therapist at the new clinic in Cedar Tree, for the last year but she hasn't wanted a bar of him, thinking the age gap to be too much.
A case comes into GFI that appears may be a little too close to home, the previous victims profiles bares a resemblance to Kendra and puts Neil's protective instincts on high alert.
Will this be the opening he needs to get Kendra to realise they may just be perfect for one another?
This book had EVERYTHING I could want, it made me laugh out loud, groan in annoyance, had my hand itchng to slap certain people, made butterflies swarm in my stomach, made my heart fooking break and big ugly snot bubble cry and had me gasping in horror but ultimately Neil and Kendra have secured their place in my heart FOREVER!!
I'm not going to give away any more of their story as you quite simply NEED to be #oneclickingit right the fook now! ;)
Writing this review was so hard because as much as I totally and utterly adored Neil and Kendra's story in Head Start and was excited to share my thoughts, it also brought home the fact that this is the end for the characters of Cedar Tree who have become a firm favourite since discovering them last January.
I look forward to reading whatever Freya writes next
Congratulations Freya on another unbelievabley good book.
May 5, 2016
Holy tater tits, I can't believe this is the last Cedar Tree book! Oh, and I am SO stealing that saying from Kendra!
Neil and Kendra have been dancing around each other for years, but the pretty 40 year old physical therapist is one stubborn and independent woman. She spent too many years watching her mom got full-out cougar after her dad died, so to say that Kendra has a chip on her shoulder about dating a younger man would be an understatement. Neil is sick and tired of being labeled a kid; at 32, he has seen and done things he wishes he could forget and he has an old soul regardless of the date on his birth certificate. Just when he finally thinks he is making a small amount of progress tearing down Kendra's defenses, he and the GFI crew are pulled in to assist the FBI with a case involving a possible serial killer on the loose in the area. With a sinking heart, Neil realizes Kendra fits the profile, and worse yet, she may already have become his target. The race is on to find the person responsible for the disappearance of local women, and the tension rises as Neil stakes his claim and vows to protect Kendra at all costs. Of course their friends are determined to "help" them both finally see the light which can be less than helpful at times, but they all have good hearts and good intentions.
My favorite thing about this series has been the ongoing theme of the importance of family, regardless of blood ties, and it holds true until the end. Not a single one of the Cedar Tree crew has had an easy path in life but they all found each other and have been working on healing their invisible scars.
"Don’t know whether you’ve noticed, but there are a lot of people with fucked up backgrounds here in Cedar Tree. All different kinds of fucked up, but we make up the best family a man can have." - Gus
All of the familiar faces from this series rally around Kendra and Neil to provide much needed support and love. Kendra has been a bit of a loner after watching her sister and mom work their way through the population of eligible bachelors in her hometown, and Neil has spent years locking down his emotions after his experiences in the military and the judgment of his family. Now, they will both need to learn to lean on others in their time of need as Kendra has to endure horrific experiences in order to emerge on the other side able to find the beauty in life, and Neil has to finally face the demons of his past in order to find the future he has been hoping for. Oh, and for all the times Neil has wished for mental bleach after walking in on one or another of his friends in a compromising position, he finally understands the allure of kitchen sex!
While this book didn't quite capture me in the way that Like Arrows did, Malachi Whitetail was a tough act to follow and Head Start is still both a great read and a wonderful end to a series that has become a favorite for me. This story certainly had some gut wrenching moments that brought tears to my eyes as well as a few that had me giggling or outright howling with laughter. Although Neil wasn't as alpha as some of the other male heroes of the series, he definitely has the protective gene in spades with a sensitivity to Kendra's emotions and needs that had me swooning time and again. I am fairly certain that this is just goodbye for now as I have a sneaking suspicion that some of these characters may make appearances in some of Ms. Barker's upcoming stories, but time will tell if I am right on that or not. 4.5 STARS
Neil and Kendra have been dancing around each other for years, but the pretty 40 year old physical therapist is one stubborn and independent woman. She spent too many years watching her mom got full-out cougar after her dad died, so to say that Kendra has a chip on her shoulder about dating a younger man would be an understatement. Neil is sick and tired of being labeled a kid; at 32, he has seen and done things he wishes he could forget and he has an old soul regardless of the date on his birth certificate. Just when he finally thinks he is making a small amount of progress tearing down Kendra's defenses, he and the GFI crew are pulled in to assist the FBI with a case involving a possible serial killer on the loose in the area. With a sinking heart, Neil realizes Kendra fits the profile, and worse yet, she may already have become his target. The race is on to find the person responsible for the disappearance of local women, and the tension rises as Neil stakes his claim and vows to protect Kendra at all costs. Of course their friends are determined to "help" them both finally see the light which can be less than helpful at times, but they all have good hearts and good intentions.
My favorite thing about this series has been the ongoing theme of the importance of family, regardless of blood ties, and it holds true until the end. Not a single one of the Cedar Tree crew has had an easy path in life but they all found each other and have been working on healing their invisible scars.
"Don’t know whether you’ve noticed, but there are a lot of people with fucked up backgrounds here in Cedar Tree. All different kinds of fucked up, but we make up the best family a man can have." - Gus
All of the familiar faces from this series rally around Kendra and Neil to provide much needed support and love. Kendra has been a bit of a loner after watching her sister and mom work their way through the population of eligible bachelors in her hometown, and Neil has spent years locking down his emotions after his experiences in the military and the judgment of his family. Now, they will both need to learn to lean on others in their time of need as Kendra has to endure horrific experiences in order to emerge on the other side able to find the beauty in life, and Neil has to finally face the demons of his past in order to find the future he has been hoping for. Oh, and for all the times Neil has wished for mental bleach after walking in on one or another of his friends in a compromising position, he finally understands the allure of kitchen sex!
While this book didn't quite capture me in the way that Like Arrows did, Malachi Whitetail was a tough act to follow and Head Start is still both a great read and a wonderful end to a series that has become a favorite for me. This story certainly had some gut wrenching moments that brought tears to my eyes as well as a few that had me giggling or outright howling with laughter. Although Neil wasn't as alpha as some of the other male heroes of the series, he definitely has the protective gene in spades with a sensitivity to Kendra's emotions and needs that had me swooning time and again. I am fairly certain that this is just goodbye for now as I have a sneaking suspicion that some of these characters may make appearances in some of Ms. Barker's upcoming stories, but time will tell if I am right on that or not. 4.5 STARS
May 6, 2016
4.5 stars! Neil has his heart set on Kendra. Kendra can't see past his age, and that he is younger than she is. She is 40; he is 32. Neil suffers from PTSD, and there is one particular incident from his past that haunts his dreams. In a way, working on this case with a serial killer is his way to redemption, at least that is what he initially thought it was. The story starts with the first victim. The predator stalks women on online dating sites that fit a specific pattern. The murders are piling up as Neil, Gus, and the others search for the links between the murders and to find the killer before he strikes again.
Kendra was an interesting heroine. Her replacement cuss words were fairly amusing. "Holy Schnikes". She was contacted by the killer from the online dating site. It wasn't until they met that she trusted her instincts and decided to decline any further invitations. Thus unintentionally escalating the situation.
I was absorbed in twists in the story. What would happen next and whose body they would find kept me guessing. I liked that Kendra was kick ass, defended herself, and helped to solve the whereabouts of another victim. This strengthened the story for me. I liked Kendra's strength and independence. I liked that Neil gave her the space to let him in. And the very sexy scenes popped.
Then there are the other characters from the previous standalone novels in the series. I've only read books 1, 2, and now 7. Emma and Gus from book 1 show up as do Arlene and Seb from book 2. It's lovely how they have become a community, a family of friends. Some of them work together, some are just friends. I enjoyed that dynamic.
I'm not fond of serial killer stories, but in this case, there was a strong enough story line. The discoveries of other bodies and the condition that they were in made it a bit gruesome. and this is what keeps this from being a 5-star read for me. That and I didn't really like Neil calling Kendra "Pup".
Note: I received an advance review copy from the author. I have 1-clicked books 1-6 in the series. I will be reading the rest of the books in the series as I have enjoyed this one.
She's his "Pup", an endearment that was not endearing to me.
Kendra was an interesting heroine. Her replacement cuss words were fairly amusing. "Holy Schnikes". She was contacted by the killer from the online dating site. It wasn't until they met that she trusted her instincts and decided to decline any further invitations. Thus unintentionally escalating the situation.
I was absorbed in twists in the story. What would happen next and whose body they would find kept me guessing. I liked that Kendra was kick ass, defended herself, and helped to solve the whereabouts of another victim. This strengthened the story for me. I liked Kendra's strength and independence. I liked that Neil gave her the space to let him in. And the very sexy scenes popped.
Then there are the other characters from the previous standalone novels in the series. I've only read books 1, 2, and now 7. Emma and Gus from book 1 show up as do Arlene and Seb from book 2. It's lovely how they have become a community, a family of friends. Some of them work together, some are just friends. I enjoyed that dynamic.
I'm not fond of serial killer stories, but in this case, there was a strong enough story line. The discoveries of other bodies and the condition that they were in made it a bit gruesome. and this is what keeps this from being a 5-star read for me. That and I didn't really like Neil calling Kendra "Pup".
Note: I received an advance review copy from the author. I have 1-clicked books 1-6 in the series. I will be reading the rest of the books in the series as I have enjoyed this one.
She's his "Pup", an endearment that was not endearing to me.
December 31, 2018
We have gotten to know and love Neil throughout the series. He is GFI's resident computer geek who is loyal and always there. But we really don't get to see what he is really like until this book. He comes completely out of his hidden shield. He may be the younger of the bunch be he has seen enough over the years to make him older and wiser than one would expect. Now if he can just convince Kendra, he will be headed in the right direction.
Kendra has swept into town with her partnership with Naomi at the Clinic. She is a super hard working woman who has a special softness for her clients. She was welcomed into the little family of Cedar Tree with open arms. She keeps herself busy and doesn't put her focus on her personal life. Not sure that she needs the headaches that dating and love tend to bring. Or at least that is what she has watched while growing up with a single mom raising her and her little sister.
When things start to get a little crazy once again in Cedar Tree, Kendra finds herself in the thick of things this time. But GFI is quick to get involved and do what they can to help. The more time that Neil and Kendra spend together the harder she find it to keep her guard up. Neil slowly slips behind the shield. But can they both open up and share the whys of who they are? Will Kendra be able to completely let him in? Can Neil keep he safe while finding the madman who is still trying to get her?
Freya has a special way of weaving her characters into your heart. She keeps you guessing and flipping pages with the intrigue and suspense of the story but finds a way to mix love and happiness in there somewhere. The family of friends that she has created in Cedar Tree is one of acceptance, pride, encouragement, love and loyalty. We could only hope that in our lives we find these kind of people.
I am so very sad to see the end of a great series but I can see that it is time to move forward. I can't wait to see what Freya will come up with next for us. I know that she will bring us more real, strong people that we can relate to while reading.
Great Job once again, I can't recommend the Cedar Tree Series enough. Give it a try.
Kendra has swept into town with her partnership with Naomi at the Clinic. She is a super hard working woman who has a special softness for her clients. She was welcomed into the little family of Cedar Tree with open arms. She keeps herself busy and doesn't put her focus on her personal life. Not sure that she needs the headaches that dating and love tend to bring. Or at least that is what she has watched while growing up with a single mom raising her and her little sister.
When things start to get a little crazy once again in Cedar Tree, Kendra finds herself in the thick of things this time. But GFI is quick to get involved and do what they can to help. The more time that Neil and Kendra spend together the harder she find it to keep her guard up. Neil slowly slips behind the shield. But can they both open up and share the whys of who they are? Will Kendra be able to completely let him in? Can Neil keep he safe while finding the madman who is still trying to get her?
Freya has a special way of weaving her characters into your heart. She keeps you guessing and flipping pages with the intrigue and suspense of the story but finds a way to mix love and happiness in there somewhere. The family of friends that she has created in Cedar Tree is one of acceptance, pride, encouragement, love and loyalty. We could only hope that in our lives we find these kind of people.
I am so very sad to see the end of a great series but I can see that it is time to move forward. I can't wait to see what Freya will come up with next for us. I know that she will bring us more real, strong people that we can relate to while reading.
Great Job once again, I can't recommend the Cedar Tree Series enough. Give it a try.
April 28, 2016
Head Start is yet another winner! I love Cedar Tree and all the folks living there. One of my favorite things about this series is that while each novel is an independent story centered around one couple, you get glimpses of the rest of the gang. I love "catching up" with our past couples and seeing how they are doing. And who is having more babies!
As for this book, Neil and Kendra are wonderful together. Neil is a true hero, dealing with PTSD as a veteran, as well as being a good, kind and loving man. He's adored Kendra for years, but she's always felt he was too young for her. When he finally gets his opportunity to show her all he is, it takes some time and work, but he won't give up. As with all of Freya's books, I especially appreciate her heroines. Kendra is a smart, sassy and independent woman who has some reservations with any relationship, but especially one with the younger Neil. I love seeing Kendra's insecurities and how she chooses to overcome them. Kendra could easily be a friend and someone I would trust and turn to in rough times. Couldn't ask for more from your book buddy!
This Cedar Tree novel seemed to have even more of the mystery/suspense angle, which I love. I was kept on my toes and unsure of how things were going to turn out until the very end. At one point, I was ugly crying and cussing out Freya, but she got me past that and onto the ending I needed.
I was blessed with an ARC of this book, but asked for an honest review.
As for this book, Neil and Kendra are wonderful together. Neil is a true hero, dealing with PTSD as a veteran, as well as being a good, kind and loving man. He's adored Kendra for years, but she's always felt he was too young for her. When he finally gets his opportunity to show her all he is, it takes some time and work, but he won't give up. As with all of Freya's books, I especially appreciate her heroines. Kendra is a smart, sassy and independent woman who has some reservations with any relationship, but especially one with the younger Neil. I love seeing Kendra's insecurities and how she chooses to overcome them. Kendra could easily be a friend and someone I would trust and turn to in rough times. Couldn't ask for more from your book buddy!
This Cedar Tree novel seemed to have even more of the mystery/suspense angle, which I love. I was kept on my toes and unsure of how things were going to turn out until the very end. At one point, I was ugly crying and cussing out Freya, but she got me past that and onto the ending I needed.
I was blessed with an ARC of this book, but asked for an honest review.
September 10, 2018
4.5 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, suspense, pain, murder, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Slim To None (Cedar Tree Series Book 1)
Hundred To One (Cedar Tree #2)
Against Me (Cedar Tree #3)
Clean Lines (Cedar Tree #4)
Upper Hand (Cedar Tree #5)
Like Arrows (Cedar Tree #6)
This is Kendra and Neil’s story. Kendra knows Neil is attracted to her but she is older and thinks he needs someone younger. She pushes him away at every opportunity. But Neil is not after a quick lay he wants a forever with Kendra. He just needs her to see it. When a killer has Kendra in his sights Neil makes his move. He stays close to protect her but is he really getting into her heart. After multiple misunderstandings they are finally letting down walls but it is snatched away when the killer closes in. The killer must have Kendra and will use any means necessary. Can she protect those she loves? Or will she have to eventually give the killer just what he wants? Can Neil protect Kendra or will she go against him? If the killer gets to her will she ever be the same?
I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, suspense, pain, murder, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Slim To None (Cedar Tree Series Book 1)
Hundred To One (Cedar Tree #2)
Against Me (Cedar Tree #3)
Clean Lines (Cedar Tree #4)
Upper Hand (Cedar Tree #5)
Like Arrows (Cedar Tree #6)
This is Kendra and Neil’s story. Kendra knows Neil is attracted to her but she is older and thinks he needs someone younger. She pushes him away at every opportunity. But Neil is not after a quick lay he wants a forever with Kendra. He just needs her to see it. When a killer has Kendra in his sights Neil makes his move. He stays close to protect her but is he really getting into her heart. After multiple misunderstandings they are finally letting down walls but it is snatched away when the killer closes in. The killer must have Kendra and will use any means necessary. Can she protect those she loves? Or will she have to eventually give the killer just what he wants? Can Neil protect Kendra or will she go against him? If the killer gets to her will she ever be the same?
I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
I recommend this book.
November 28, 2025
I loved the ending to Freya's Cedar Tree series. It was not what I expected but no matter what, I loved it. We've all known for how many books now that Neil had a crush on Kendra but Kendra felt she was too old for him. We all thought she was crazy but what could we do??
Neil was the funny little brother of the team. But we didn't know his back story until now. We didn't know his comedy was a front to hide the trauma and tragedy of his younger years. Did that make me feel any different about him?? Yes it did - it made me love him even more! And surprise, surprise, wait until you find out Neil's real age.
We knew Kendra was a take no prisoners kind of woman and she was trying everything she could think of to convince Neil they weren't going to work. Who knew that was going to get her into trouble?!? She had to let Neil into her life but, throughout the drama, she realized that she doesn't regret it and actually can't wait to let him in even more.
I'm sure my fellow readers are just as sad as I am to say good-bye to the Cedar Tree "family". But thank goodness, Freya has a new series and a new "family" for us to meet and get to know.
Neil was the funny little brother of the team. But we didn't know his back story until now. We didn't know his comedy was a front to hide the trauma and tragedy of his younger years. Did that make me feel any different about him?? Yes it did - it made me love him even more! And surprise, surprise, wait until you find out Neil's real age.
We knew Kendra was a take no prisoners kind of woman and she was trying everything she could think of to convince Neil they weren't going to work. Who knew that was going to get her into trouble?!? She had to let Neil into her life but, throughout the drama, she realized that she doesn't regret it and actually can't wait to let him in even more.
I'm sure my fellow readers are just as sad as I am to say good-bye to the Cedar Tree "family". But thank goodness, Freya has a new series and a new "family" for us to meet and get to know.
June 20, 2016
3.5 stars
Pretty classic Freya Barker and if you love this series I am sure you will enjoy Head Start. Neil is the youngest GFI investigator and gets tired of being made to feel that way. He has the hots for Kendra who is a few years older and has led Neil on a merry chase for a year because she feels he is too young. Neil isn’t having any more of it when he realizes she is using a dating site. And if that’s wasn’t enough she has attracted a serial killer in the process. So of course in true alpha fashion Neil rides to rescue and won’t take no for an answer. I enjoyed Neil and Kendra’s story and I was quite shocked by what happens to Kendra. I would say the only thing I didn’t care for was the pet name “Pup” and all the silly phrases Kendra used. Overall this was a good addition to the Cedar Tree series.
* copy received via netgalley for review*
Pretty classic Freya Barker and if you love this series I am sure you will enjoy Head Start. Neil is the youngest GFI investigator and gets tired of being made to feel that way. He has the hots for Kendra who is a few years older and has led Neil on a merry chase for a year because she feels he is too young. Neil isn’t having any more of it when he realizes she is using a dating site. And if that’s wasn’t enough she has attracted a serial killer in the process. So of course in true alpha fashion Neil rides to rescue and won’t take no for an answer. I enjoyed Neil and Kendra’s story and I was quite shocked by what happens to Kendra. I would say the only thing I didn’t care for was the pet name “Pup” and all the silly phrases Kendra used. Overall this was a good addition to the Cedar Tree series.
* copy received via netgalley for review*
April 26, 2016
Another superb book by one of my favourite writers. You certainly get plenty for your money with this one . Murder, mystery and suspense , a full on romance and a humanitarian story as well. All three are blended into this very enjoyable novel and just as one theme is finished the second and third carry on to a very clever conclusion. Right up there with her best efforts this is a must for any reader of any one of those genres . A definite buy .
May 5, 2016
“Have you got the Head Start review done?”
“Ehhhhhhh……………….” avoids answering my blog partner in crime bestie and procrastinates further……….
“I really need that review?”
“Ehhhhhhh……………….” Runs off to reread and write review late as usual…………….
“Where’s your fecking review?”
LEAVE ME ALONE I’M HAVING A COUGAR MOMENT, THAT BOY HAS IT GOING ON!
“But you’ve read it before”
I know! But Oh Boy, second time is just as good…………………
Sooooo eventually……………….
Here I go attempting to do justice in any way shape or form to Head Start, Cedar Tree #7, the last in this series and what a way to play out. I loved the twists, turns, surprises and suspense, I loved that the whole gang is in here, the banter is thick and fast, heavy with sarcasm, wit, affection and love, I adored Neil and Kendra, the dynamic between them, his determination to woo and win his woman, her insecurities; so very real and relatable, the hidden layers peeled away to reveal very much a man not a boy and the book boyfriend cougar moments Freya gave me!
If you have followed The Cedar Tree series then you already know as I’ve said before that Ms Barker writes real, heart-warming, emotional, hot books with characters whose banter, friendships and stories will have you rooting for them, getting serious feels for them, purchasing new batteries for toys because the sex is HOT as FUCK, and she effortlessly throws in suspense, intrigue, fabulous funny sarcasm and humour. She dares to go where few authors will risk, writing older characters with health issues, disabilities, the reality and the fantasy seamlessly intertwined and breathtakingly beautiful.
The overwhelming factor for me that makes all of these such an enjoyable read is the amazing banter between all the characters, primary and secondary. The affection, humour and love shines through, the teasing, flirting, arguing, dirty sexy talk and insults flung around through these books make them a pleasure to experience. Like every family, whether blood or choice, they will frustrate and exasperate you – you will be rooting for them while screaming at them!
“What just happened? I asked still a bit stunned when he has me tucked in the passenger seat. “Family; Cedar Tree style. That’s what just happened.”
This for lovers of the series will probably be the most highlighted and quoted part of the book, simple but with such impact and is Cedar Tree summed up.
The delightful surprise to this final book, Head Start, is we have a younger man claiming an older woman (I reserve my right to call dibs on said boy toy!), as well as twists and turns with a heavier dose of suspense and intrigue that keeps you guessing in what for me was the most mystery thriller orientated story of the series, and as with each and every one of The Cedar Tree books it has its own personality, its own quirks, each couple very different, each journey told with such sensitivity, warmth and so flawless that no matter which man, woman, trial and tribulation is being told we are committed, invested and 100% so deeply involved that when we finish it’s sad because these characters are not just fiction that brings a few hours pleasure, they are people who live in our heads, to each of us the image may be different, the interpretation to a certain extent our own, but real, inspirational, giving pleasure and memories that live on long after that final page, reread and loved long after publication.
Neil showed hidden depths and went from being a secondary character with whom I hadn’t really bonded to a man boy of my fantasies, Kendra has a strength and inner beauty I never expected, as a couple they worked so well.
BUT I am going to say here and now in print that if I had to pick just one, only one it would be Gus.
Why?
Because he has the biggest balls…….
Ask Emma!
Read Head Start.
You’ll get it!
But yeah, if it was just one, Gus.
And Caleb.
#greedybitch
#CedarTree
#alphareal
#hotasfuck
“Ehhhhhhh……………….” avoids answering my blog partner in crime bestie and procrastinates further……….
“I really need that review?”
“Ehhhhhhh……………….” Runs off to reread and write review late as usual…………….
“Where’s your fecking review?”
LEAVE ME ALONE I’M HAVING A COUGAR MOMENT, THAT BOY HAS IT GOING ON!
“But you’ve read it before”
I know! But Oh Boy, second time is just as good…………………
Sooooo eventually……………….
Here I go attempting to do justice in any way shape or form to Head Start, Cedar Tree #7, the last in this series and what a way to play out. I loved the twists, turns, surprises and suspense, I loved that the whole gang is in here, the banter is thick and fast, heavy with sarcasm, wit, affection and love, I adored Neil and Kendra, the dynamic between them, his determination to woo and win his woman, her insecurities; so very real and relatable, the hidden layers peeled away to reveal very much a man not a boy and the book boyfriend cougar moments Freya gave me!
If you have followed The Cedar Tree series then you already know as I’ve said before that Ms Barker writes real, heart-warming, emotional, hot books with characters whose banter, friendships and stories will have you rooting for them, getting serious feels for them, purchasing new batteries for toys because the sex is HOT as FUCK, and she effortlessly throws in suspense, intrigue, fabulous funny sarcasm and humour. She dares to go where few authors will risk, writing older characters with health issues, disabilities, the reality and the fantasy seamlessly intertwined and breathtakingly beautiful.
The overwhelming factor for me that makes all of these such an enjoyable read is the amazing banter between all the characters, primary and secondary. The affection, humour and love shines through, the teasing, flirting, arguing, dirty sexy talk and insults flung around through these books make them a pleasure to experience. Like every family, whether blood or choice, they will frustrate and exasperate you – you will be rooting for them while screaming at them!
“What just happened? I asked still a bit stunned when he has me tucked in the passenger seat. “Family; Cedar Tree style. That’s what just happened.”
This for lovers of the series will probably be the most highlighted and quoted part of the book, simple but with such impact and is Cedar Tree summed up.
The delightful surprise to this final book, Head Start, is we have a younger man claiming an older woman (I reserve my right to call dibs on said boy toy!), as well as twists and turns with a heavier dose of suspense and intrigue that keeps you guessing in what for me was the most mystery thriller orientated story of the series, and as with each and every one of The Cedar Tree books it has its own personality, its own quirks, each couple very different, each journey told with such sensitivity, warmth and so flawless that no matter which man, woman, trial and tribulation is being told we are committed, invested and 100% so deeply involved that when we finish it’s sad because these characters are not just fiction that brings a few hours pleasure, they are people who live in our heads, to each of us the image may be different, the interpretation to a certain extent our own, but real, inspirational, giving pleasure and memories that live on long after that final page, reread and loved long after publication.
Neil showed hidden depths and went from being a secondary character with whom I hadn’t really bonded to a man boy of my fantasies, Kendra has a strength and inner beauty I never expected, as a couple they worked so well.
BUT I am going to say here and now in print that if I had to pick just one, only one it would be Gus.
Why?
Because he has the biggest balls…….
Ask Emma!
Read Head Start.
You’ll get it!
But yeah, if it was just one, Gus.
And Caleb.
#greedybitch
#CedarTree
#alphareal
#hotasfuck
May 13, 2016
I want to start by saying (again) that one of the things I love most about this series is the fact it has mature characters not just in age either. That is a rare, hard to find thing in this genre of the book world these days, hopefully that starts to change but I won’t hold my breath. So this series was refreshing from that alone but this book, finally, finally a book where the h is older than the H. Granted it isn’t the astronomical 20+ year age difference that is the over used “in” thing in so many books, you know 40 something man, 20 something twit, just an average age difference with the h being older for a nice change. This whole series, even with a bump or two for me, has been so great. Freya’s writing has improved with every novel she has put out and she continues to grow as an author. She also continues to do things that most authors avoid like the age of her characters, the fact that some have disabilities, all are pretty much every day normal people, but they do have some pretty crazy things happen to them. Although if it weren’t for that it would be hard to tell if these people were real or fictional so keeping the crazy around keeps things real, fictional.
But onto this book….
I was interested in Neil since he first appeared in this series and he did not disappoint. I loved him. I loved Kendra but have to admit in the beginning I was worried since she kept some information from Neil. I was afraid she would be stubborn and not use her brain, which I might add was throwing up warning signs to her like the robot on Lost in Space slinging his arms screaming “danger Will Robinson danger”. So I was glad to see she proved to be rather level headed in that as well as letting go of her fears of being with Neil.
There were only two things that annoyed me that I need to vent out. First Neil and that whole Kara mess. Sorry but no Neil, just no. The display in the diner was so disrespectful and rude to Kendra. Not to mention Kara should know better, for me anyway there is like a girl code that you just don’t do that to your “friend” when they have a woman. Then that whole thing when Neil barely had time for Kendra due to the case but had time for Kara, um no Neil, no. There comes a time when your woman comes before any of your friends. Then there was Kendra taking off because of her sister after Neil telling her to wait where she was safe. I understand the panic just not the thought process of her actions. I wasn’t crazy about the way Kendra handled that but it was her only strike for me and I understand why she did it so it didn’t take away from her character. Well and when the others folks did that thing towards the end it grated….when Neil and Kendra got like 15 minutes alone in the new house before everyone just barged in, that kind of thing annoys me. I know they mean well but let them have some time together without the intrusion, it comes across as rude to me not endearing.
But anyway I loved their story and how they worked through their personal issues together from the beginning. At times it seemed easy but then again if you act like a rational adult and converse your feelings to each other…..relationships can be pretty easy and perfectly awesome. The way they worked through the trauma together was even better. These two were both strong amazing characters that were so great together. I was also proud of Kendra at the end, I felt like she would do something like that to those scars and I was so glad to see she took that back. I will miss these guys now that this series is over but hopefully we’ll see them again in some way. Joe's book has always been my favorite but sorry Joe and Naomi, Neil and Kendra just took that spot by far.
But onto this book….
I was interested in Neil since he first appeared in this series and he did not disappoint. I loved him. I loved Kendra but have to admit in the beginning I was worried since she kept some information from Neil. I was afraid she would be stubborn and not use her brain, which I might add was throwing up warning signs to her like the robot on Lost in Space slinging his arms screaming “danger Will Robinson danger”. So I was glad to see she proved to be rather level headed in that as well as letting go of her fears of being with Neil.
There were only two things that annoyed me that I need to vent out. First Neil and that whole Kara mess. Sorry but no Neil, just no. The display in the diner was so disrespectful and rude to Kendra. Not to mention Kara should know better, for me anyway there is like a girl code that you just don’t do that to your “friend” when they have a woman. Then that whole thing when Neil barely had time for Kendra due to the case but had time for Kara, um no Neil, no. There comes a time when your woman comes before any of your friends. Then there was Kendra taking off because of her sister after Neil telling her to wait where she was safe. I understand the panic just not the thought process of her actions. I wasn’t crazy about the way Kendra handled that but it was her only strike for me and I understand why she did it so it didn’t take away from her character. Well and when the others folks did that thing towards the end it grated….when Neil and Kendra got like 15 minutes alone in the new house before everyone just barged in, that kind of thing annoys me. I know they mean well but let them have some time together without the intrusion, it comes across as rude to me not endearing.
But anyway I loved their story and how they worked through their personal issues together from the beginning. At times it seemed easy but then again if you act like a rational adult and converse your feelings to each other…..relationships can be pretty easy and perfectly awesome. The way they worked through the trauma together was even better. These two were both strong amazing characters that were so great together. I was also proud of Kendra at the end, I felt like she would do something like that to those scars and I was so glad to see she took that back. I will miss these guys now that this series is over but hopefully we’ll see them again in some way. Joe's book has always been my favorite but sorry Joe and Naomi, Neil and Kendra just took that spot by far.
May 29, 2016
Holly fudgesticks!
Head Start, the 7th book in the Cedar Tree series is my first experience with Freya Barker's writing and she has impressed me from the first pages. Now I have added 6 new books to my reading list and I cannot wait to get to them.
This is Kendra and Neil story. And what a story this is.
Kendra is a mature 40-year-old woman, physiotherapist and the object of Neil's desires for more than a year. She is funny, smart, caring, and loves to use invented swearing words and in fact likes Neil, if only a little.
Neil, the youngest team member of GFI investigative team is much younger than Kendra (8 years) and so easily dismissed by her. After a year if wanting he has finally lost his patience and is ready to bring down Kendra's defense walls.
He has his opportunity to convince Kendra that age has nothing to do with love when she needs to move houses and gets in trouble: a weird online meet that turns to a date and later turns into a life and death situation. The unwanted obsession that follows Kendra eventually creates a strong bond between the characters.
What follows is a great, intense suspense story with twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat, unable to put the reader down.
There is an amazing depth to the book and characters that took me by surprise. Both characters are real, multidimensional and with every page that I turned added a new layer to them.
Neil was a pleasant surprise, protective without suffocating, reliable and strong with a lot of patience to convince Kendra he is looking for a relationship.
I can totally understand Kedra's reluctance and judgment on Neil that allowed her to keep him at distance.
I loved the fact that when she understood how badly she misjudged Neil she was "woman" enough to admit. To be honest there was more to Neil than met the eye. His laid back attitude was hiding the past that that was still haunting him but his maturity was impressive:
"I cannot control how they act. I can only control how I allow myself to react, he said sagely".
After few misunderstandings, their relationship just worked.
The end found me wanting to read more from Freya Barker so I am glad I didn't read the previous books.
This book and amazingly exceptional and I need a new reviewing system.
I have read a lot of books until now in so many genres and the more I read the more I know what I like so when a book received 5 stars from me, well, it was well deserved. Now I have encountered Freya Barker's story and I fell it needs more. So this is a strong 6+ stars book or more.
It has everything that I could want in a story: humor, love, laughter, suspense, depth and great characters. Freya Barker's own life experiences, realizations were added to her characters and story. So well done!
I highly recommend this book and series and definitely, I will pick up the other books in the series or any other books that Freya Barker will write in the future.
So I am ending my review with a "quote":
"His mouth- Jesus, his mouth. Soft in touch but hard in demand, with tongue claiming my own dominantly while his gentle lips slip over mine. Bliss"
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Head Start, the 7th book in the Cedar Tree series is my first experience with Freya Barker's writing and she has impressed me from the first pages. Now I have added 6 new books to my reading list and I cannot wait to get to them.
This is Kendra and Neil story. And what a story this is.
Kendra is a mature 40-year-old woman, physiotherapist and the object of Neil's desires for more than a year. She is funny, smart, caring, and loves to use invented swearing words and in fact likes Neil, if only a little.
Neil, the youngest team member of GFI investigative team is much younger than Kendra (8 years) and so easily dismissed by her. After a year if wanting he has finally lost his patience and is ready to bring down Kendra's defense walls.
He has his opportunity to convince Kendra that age has nothing to do with love when she needs to move houses and gets in trouble: a weird online meet that turns to a date and later turns into a life and death situation. The unwanted obsession that follows Kendra eventually creates a strong bond between the characters.
What follows is a great, intense suspense story with twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat, unable to put the reader down.
There is an amazing depth to the book and characters that took me by surprise. Both characters are real, multidimensional and with every page that I turned added a new layer to them.
Neil was a pleasant surprise, protective without suffocating, reliable and strong with a lot of patience to convince Kendra he is looking for a relationship.
I can totally understand Kedra's reluctance and judgment on Neil that allowed her to keep him at distance.
I loved the fact that when she understood how badly she misjudged Neil she was "woman" enough to admit. To be honest there was more to Neil than met the eye. His laid back attitude was hiding the past that that was still haunting him but his maturity was impressive:
"I cannot control how they act. I can only control how I allow myself to react, he said sagely".
After few misunderstandings, their relationship just worked.
The end found me wanting to read more from Freya Barker so I am glad I didn't read the previous books.
This book and amazingly exceptional and I need a new reviewing system.
I have read a lot of books until now in so many genres and the more I read the more I know what I like so when a book received 5 stars from me, well, it was well deserved. Now I have encountered Freya Barker's story and I fell it needs more. So this is a strong 6+ stars book or more.
It has everything that I could want in a story: humor, love, laughter, suspense, depth and great characters. Freya Barker's own life experiences, realizations were added to her characters and story. So well done!
I highly recommend this book and series and definitely, I will pick up the other books in the series or any other books that Freya Barker will write in the future.
So I am ending my review with a "quote":
"His mouth- Jesus, his mouth. Soft in touch but hard in demand, with tongue claiming my own dominantly while his gentle lips slip over mine. Bliss"
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
May 13, 2016
Last summer I bought a book by Freya Barker at a signing, little did I know that from the first page she would become one of my favorite authors. Her Cedar Tree series was like an addiction, I went through the published ones like water until I had to wait for the next one to be written. I was heartbroken to learn that Head Start would be the last book in the series, but damn, what a way to end.
Neil has been somewhat of an enigma in the series: young, quiet, and technical, with a knack for walking in on couples getting hot and heavy. He’s made no bones about the fact that he wants Kendra, the local physical therapist. She on the other hand thinks he’s far too young for her and too much of a player; she constantly puts him off. When she finds herself in the middle a GFI and FBI investigation, which could end her life, Neil vows to not only protect her but also win her heart. The struggle between the couple is real, as is the passion.
Both Neil and Kendra are affected by the past. Kendra’s man-hungry mother and sister have colored her view on relationships. After finally deciding to put herself out there and actually date, her online choice is more than dangerous. Neil’s past is the complete antithesis of the sweet, shy, passionate IT tech everyone knows him as. His past reoccurs without warning and makes him leery of a true relationship, though he wants exactly that with Kendra. The pull between the couple is real, and the sex scenes are smoking hot, both common themes in the Cedar Tree series.
The suspense element is not so much a who done it but why the hell would someone do that. Ms. Barker is a master at creating suspenseful plots and weaving the romantic storyline through it. While the reader is introduced early in the story to the suspect, half the fun is following the trail of clues to find out if you followed all of the breadcrumbs to resolve the crime. Hell hath no fury like a man kept from the woman he loves, and Neil proves that to be true. When I read I love the layers: who did what, how do you know, and how is it resolved?
I love Ms. Barker’s character development. Each of the residents of Cedar Tree have become like old friends. Her men and women are real, with real problems and many have either physical or emotional limitations. Some have been damaged by their past, and they have more life experience than most fictional characters. All of her characters are strong, loving, and witty. The population of her fictional town may be an unconventional in many ways, but they form the strongest of bonds. They are family, a fact that Neil points out to Kendra in Head Start.
While I’m sad to see my Cedar Tree family end, I know that Ms. Barker will invent a new location and carry on her tradition of romantic suspense. I, for one, can hardly wait.
Neil has been somewhat of an enigma in the series: young, quiet, and technical, with a knack for walking in on couples getting hot and heavy. He’s made no bones about the fact that he wants Kendra, the local physical therapist. She on the other hand thinks he’s far too young for her and too much of a player; she constantly puts him off. When she finds herself in the middle a GFI and FBI investigation, which could end her life, Neil vows to not only protect her but also win her heart. The struggle between the couple is real, as is the passion.
Both Neil and Kendra are affected by the past. Kendra’s man-hungry mother and sister have colored her view on relationships. After finally deciding to put herself out there and actually date, her online choice is more than dangerous. Neil’s past is the complete antithesis of the sweet, shy, passionate IT tech everyone knows him as. His past reoccurs without warning and makes him leery of a true relationship, though he wants exactly that with Kendra. The pull between the couple is real, and the sex scenes are smoking hot, both common themes in the Cedar Tree series.
The suspense element is not so much a who done it but why the hell would someone do that. Ms. Barker is a master at creating suspenseful plots and weaving the romantic storyline through it. While the reader is introduced early in the story to the suspect, half the fun is following the trail of clues to find out if you followed all of the breadcrumbs to resolve the crime. Hell hath no fury like a man kept from the woman he loves, and Neil proves that to be true. When I read I love the layers: who did what, how do you know, and how is it resolved?
I love Ms. Barker’s character development. Each of the residents of Cedar Tree have become like old friends. Her men and women are real, with real problems and many have either physical or emotional limitations. Some have been damaged by their past, and they have more life experience than most fictional characters. All of her characters are strong, loving, and witty. The population of her fictional town may be an unconventional in many ways, but they form the strongest of bonds. They are family, a fact that Neil points out to Kendra in Head Start.
While I’m sad to see my Cedar Tree family end, I know that Ms. Barker will invent a new location and carry on her tradition of romantic suspense. I, for one, can hardly wait.
June 15, 2020
5 stars. 5 stars 5 stars!!!!
Holy Tater Tits! (Kendra-ism)
I don't give out a five star review lightly. To earn a five star review, it has to be goooood. This one is soooo good!
This book is number 7 in the Cedar Tree Novel series. I have not read the other six, so my tbr pile is about to get markedly larger. The writing is so superb, the characters are so well developed and likable, and real, and omg, it was so good to read a great book! I also added a few new cuss/swear words to my seemingly ever expanding vocabulary...lol
This is the story of Neil and Kendra (aka Kenny) as they try to nail down a serial killer in their town. It is action packed and their love story I so well written. I felt like I could identify with Kendra on so many levels because I too am a forty year old woman with scars (literal and mental) that keep me from being as confident as I want to be.
I also appreciate the fact that Kendra is a mature woman having a hot relationship with a slightly younger man. It cracked me up when Kendra thinks “My mind drifts to last night when, for the second night in a row, what started as a pleasant night on the couch watching Game of Thrones, ended up a hot sweaty tangled mess in bed. I’m discovering a whole new appreciation for the merits of youth. Stamina, regeneration, endurance, and the agility of lips and fingers that should be patented. The boy’s got serious skills.” I need a 30 something year old boy in my life too!
I shed a few tears when she talks about her surgical scars because I have a few of those myself… And his final reaction to them made me weep. She tries to let her age keep her from having the relationship she really wants but lucky for her Neil is a persistent Alpha man who will do anything to protect her and have her. I love their flirty banter and the buildup to their relationship. It was realistic and not over the top.
Neil has some issues of his own and his PTSD tries to keep him from living the life he wants with Kendra. They work through their problems together and come to their own version of a HEA.
There is no cliffhanger to this book and I cannot wait for the next book… Maybe Kendra's sister? Oh please say so!
Amanda - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
5 Stars
I have loved every single book of this series and Head Start is no exception. For me, Freya writes "real" characters and "real" everyday goings on. I love how all of her characters tend to be older, not the usual early to mid twenties. She writes characters with maturity and wisdom and definitely ones I can relate to. I really hate to see this series end and it will definitely be one that I revisit and reread often.
Angela - Alphas Do It Better BookBlog
Holy Tater Tits! (Kendra-ism)
I don't give out a five star review lightly. To earn a five star review, it has to be goooood. This one is soooo good!
This book is number 7 in the Cedar Tree Novel series. I have not read the other six, so my tbr pile is about to get markedly larger. The writing is so superb, the characters are so well developed and likable, and real, and omg, it was so good to read a great book! I also added a few new cuss/swear words to my seemingly ever expanding vocabulary...lol
This is the story of Neil and Kendra (aka Kenny) as they try to nail down a serial killer in their town. It is action packed and their love story I so well written. I felt like I could identify with Kendra on so many levels because I too am a forty year old woman with scars (literal and mental) that keep me from being as confident as I want to be.
I also appreciate the fact that Kendra is a mature woman having a hot relationship with a slightly younger man. It cracked me up when Kendra thinks “My mind drifts to last night when, for the second night in a row, what started as a pleasant night on the couch watching Game of Thrones, ended up a hot sweaty tangled mess in bed. I’m discovering a whole new appreciation for the merits of youth. Stamina, regeneration, endurance, and the agility of lips and fingers that should be patented. The boy’s got serious skills.” I need a 30 something year old boy in my life too!
I shed a few tears when she talks about her surgical scars because I have a few of those myself… And his final reaction to them made me weep. She tries to let her age keep her from having the relationship she really wants but lucky for her Neil is a persistent Alpha man who will do anything to protect her and have her. I love their flirty banter and the buildup to their relationship. It was realistic and not over the top.
Neil has some issues of his own and his PTSD tries to keep him from living the life he wants with Kendra. They work through their problems together and come to their own version of a HEA.
There is no cliffhanger to this book and I cannot wait for the next book… Maybe Kendra's sister? Oh please say so!
Amanda - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
5 Stars
I have loved every single book of this series and Head Start is no exception. For me, Freya writes "real" characters and "real" everyday goings on. I love how all of her characters tend to be older, not the usual early to mid twenties. She writes characters with maturity and wisdom and definitely ones I can relate to. I really hate to see this series end and it will definitely be one that I revisit and reread often.
Angela - Alphas Do It Better BookBlog
May 1, 2016
Kendra Schmitt puts most of her time into the new clinic in Cedar Tree, which is now almost running full time. With her schedule a bit more predictable, she finally considers a personal life and concedes to a disastrous blind date. Always the responsible one in her family, she has avoided any kind of entanglement. In particular with a certain young investigator.
Junior member of the GFI team, Neil James, has seen and experienced more than most at his age. When his team becomes part of a task force investigating a series of murders in the area, his protective instincts kick in. The victims' profiles closely match that of a certain physical therapist.
Neil has been trying unsuccessfully for over a year to get closer to Kendra. Now that she might be in danger, he’s determined to break through her resistance and goes all out to win her trust.
Especially now that the killer’s focus appears to zero in on Kendra.
OMG!! I have fallen in love with Neil!
Head Start is the 7th and final book in the Cedar Tree Series. I am so sad to see this series to come to an end. Like all the other books in this series this one is another winner. I couldn’t put it down. Head Start is one of my favorite books. I love how Neil never once gave up on his feels for Kendra. Kendra like all the other women in the series is fighting her feelings for him. Head Start kept me on the edge of my seat and having me wonder what would happen next. I laughed and cried with this one. I can’t wait to add this to my shelf. Thanks Freya for making me fall in love with this sexy as hell Neil and all the others.
Junior member of the GFI team, Neil James, has seen and experienced more than most at his age. When his team becomes part of a task force investigating a series of murders in the area, his protective instincts kick in. The victims' profiles closely match that of a certain physical therapist.
Neil has been trying unsuccessfully for over a year to get closer to Kendra. Now that she might be in danger, he’s determined to break through her resistance and goes all out to win her trust.
Especially now that the killer’s focus appears to zero in on Kendra.
OMG!! I have fallen in love with Neil!
Head Start is the 7th and final book in the Cedar Tree Series. I am so sad to see this series to come to an end. Like all the other books in this series this one is another winner. I couldn’t put it down. Head Start is one of my favorite books. I love how Neil never once gave up on his feels for Kendra. Kendra like all the other women in the series is fighting her feelings for him. Head Start kept me on the edge of my seat and having me wonder what would happen next. I laughed and cried with this one. I can’t wait to add this to my shelf. Thanks Freya for making me fall in love with this sexy as hell Neil and all the others.
May 30, 2016
This is the second book of this series that I have read and I enjoyed both of them. I would gladly read others in the series if/when I find them. As the final book in this series it is a great because it brings in most of the characters from previous books for the grand finale.
A serial killer is on the loose in the area and he has his sights set on Kendra Schmitt. She has kept herself to herself through the years and has managed to avoid succumbing to the overtures of Neil James even though he has made his interest known to her. After a blind date with an online “friend” that left her feeling creeped-out she leans a bit on Neil and then a bit more until he begins to feel there might be a future for the two of them after all. It is not all smooth sailing for the two of them but it is intriguing. With the killer doing his thing and trying to reach Kendra while Neil and his buddies protect her, the story becomes very intense and is a real page turner.
I liked the interaction between Neil and Kendra. I found Kendra’s strength admirable although I sometimes questioned why she did what she chose to do. I liked the idea presented that healing, physical and mental, is best done with the support of those that care about you.
I would like to thank NetGalley and BookBuzz and the author for the copy of this book to read in exchange for my honest review.
4.5 Stars
A serial killer is on the loose in the area and he has his sights set on Kendra Schmitt. She has kept herself to herself through the years and has managed to avoid succumbing to the overtures of Neil James even though he has made his interest known to her. After a blind date with an online “friend” that left her feeling creeped-out she leans a bit on Neil and then a bit more until he begins to feel there might be a future for the two of them after all. It is not all smooth sailing for the two of them but it is intriguing. With the killer doing his thing and trying to reach Kendra while Neil and his buddies protect her, the story becomes very intense and is a real page turner.
I liked the interaction between Neil and Kendra. I found Kendra’s strength admirable although I sometimes questioned why she did what she chose to do. I liked the idea presented that healing, physical and mental, is best done with the support of those that care about you.
I would like to thank NetGalley and BookBuzz and the author for the copy of this book to read in exchange for my honest review.
4.5 Stars
May 10, 2016
This is the first book that I have read by Freya Baker and I can't believe I waited so long to pick one of her books up. She is a truly amazing author and I know that I will be reading everything I can find by her now.
Kendra works in the medical field at a new clinic in Cedar Tree. She now has time to think about dating and developing a personal life. However, she doesn't want to take the same path that others in her family went so she is very particular about who she talks to.
Neil is a member of GFI and he's younger. Some people don't give him the credit he deserves for being as young as he is though. He's seen a lot and experienced more than most people have that are older than him.
Now, Kendra might be the target of someone dangerous and Neil will do what he has to in order to protect her. Will he break through all of the walls that she has put up? Can Kendra see that she won't be repeating the path of others if she falls for someone younger than her? Can the killer be caught before Kendra gets hurt or worse?
This book is a must read. I couldn't put it down from start to finish. If you haven't yet one-clicked this story, you need to soon. You will not regret reading it and I can't recommend this story enough!
Reviewed by Erin
Kendra works in the medical field at a new clinic in Cedar Tree. She now has time to think about dating and developing a personal life. However, she doesn't want to take the same path that others in her family went so she is very particular about who she talks to.
Neil is a member of GFI and he's younger. Some people don't give him the credit he deserves for being as young as he is though. He's seen a lot and experienced more than most people have that are older than him.
Now, Kendra might be the target of someone dangerous and Neil will do what he has to in order to protect her. Will he break through all of the walls that she has put up? Can Kendra see that she won't be repeating the path of others if she falls for someone younger than her? Can the killer be caught before Kendra gets hurt or worse?
This book is a must read. I couldn't put it down from start to finish. If you haven't yet one-clicked this story, you need to soon. You will not regret reading it and I can't recommend this story enough!
Reviewed by Erin
May 9, 2016
Another strong good story by Freya Barker, no surprise there. The story kept me engaged and wanting to know what is happen through out with absolute zero respect for the next morning (yep that's the sign of a good book and very sluggish start to the day LOL). The writing as usual good tight and well thought out. Only a very few and minor spots along the way did it feel a little trying to hard and forced. Really liked some of the character self thought that made me snort, which is a good balance for some of the heavy subject matter which is dealt with very well. Well worth the money. ( 4 to 41/2 star, this is a copy of my amazon and iBooks review)
April 20, 2016
i have read this whole series and did not think it could get any better, but with Neil and Kendra it did.
Neil has wanted to be in her life for over a year and has slowly wedged his way in, Kendra is older than Neil and thought the age difference was bad because of her mothers MILF status. When Kendra is targeted Neil will stop at nothing to protect what is his, when she willingly gives herself up he has to try to get his Kendra back.
Neil has wanted to be in her life for over a year and has slowly wedged his way in, Kendra is older than Neil and thought the age difference was bad because of her mothers MILF status. When Kendra is targeted Neil will stop at nothing to protect what is his, when she willingly gives herself up he has to try to get his Kendra back.
May 7, 2016
another great read by Freya i have loved every single book in the cedar tree series, they draw you right in from the beginning and i dont want to put it down til i have read every single word. I love these books as i can read the whole series over and over again like ive never read it before. i cant wait for her next book come out now
May 9, 2016
Another great read and I love snippets of previous characters in this crew. The intensity btwn Kendra and Neil was on the tame side for me but I still enjoyed it. 4 solid stars!!
June 25, 2023
I found this story such a disappointing read because of the meaningless English used throughout the book.
To me it was almost like set phrases were used because these were expected by the audience, but there was no conviction behind the words chosen: characters were described in certain ways, or their feelings about each other were, yet at very few points in the story were these descriptions backed up by their actions and how they behaved towards each other.
- Neil has the most important love of his life and vows to protect her. Strange how as soon as his friend Kira appears, he stops thinking or noticing Kendra. On two occasions, he ignores said love of his life, prioritising his friend rather than his love (who is being targeted by a dangerous individual). How he can happily spend a couple of nights supporting Kira rather than spending that time with Kendra is unbelievable but hey, it's okay, he sent Kendra a few texts so that's alright. Really?
- He rushes off to rescue Kendra's sister, and while this is ‘explained’ later in the plot, once again he demonstrates his inability to prioritise people correctly. He needs to make up his mind if his hero complex or Kendra is what should be acted on. And, to be honest, I'd love to understand how he can possibly protect Kendra by continually running away from her on pretty much every occasion he should be by her side.
- When he finally finds her after she’s been kidnapped, what is his his first course of action? Should be to be by Kendra's side but nope, once again, it's Neil and his anger that get prioritised. What an absolute shambles.
- As for his nickname for her, and particularly the explanation that was first given for that, my god, talk about disrespect. Again, this is somewhat softened later in the book but for me that fuller explanation came too little too late. If that was my ‘man’ I’d have kicked him out rather than put up with these repetitive behavioural patterns. And as for the heroine to feel guilty for calling him out on some of it - no way.
The characters just did not ring true. Kendra’s supposed to be in her 40s and yet behaves like an unconfident teenager on too many occasions, and even taking into account the difficulties she experienced in her childhood and previous experiences, to me it read like the killer wasn't the only one with two personalities flip-flopping about.
And as for Neil – my god, he behaves like an immature 22 year old rather than a supposed 'wise old soul' 32 year old. He uses lots of words to describe his feelings for Kendra, and almost always fails to back them up. What a guy!
On top of all that, if this book has been proofread and had beta readers doing a splendid job checking for errors, then it would seem the wrong version of the book was uploaded because the typos, syntax and grammatical mistakes (such as missing words or words in the wrong order) were far more numerous in this than in the previous books in this series. To me it read as if a too tight publication deadline became the main driving force behind this book rather than attention to detail.
This book SHOULD have been so much better, and that is a real shame.
To me it was almost like set phrases were used because these were expected by the audience, but there was no conviction behind the words chosen: characters were described in certain ways, or their feelings about each other were, yet at very few points in the story were these descriptions backed up by their actions and how they behaved towards each other.
- Neil has the most important love of his life and vows to protect her. Strange how as soon as his friend Kira appears, he stops thinking or noticing Kendra. On two occasions, he ignores said love of his life, prioritising his friend rather than his love (who is being targeted by a dangerous individual). How he can happily spend a couple of nights supporting Kira rather than spending that time with Kendra is unbelievable but hey, it's okay, he sent Kendra a few texts so that's alright. Really?
- He rushes off to rescue Kendra's sister, and while this is ‘explained’ later in the plot, once again he demonstrates his inability to prioritise people correctly. He needs to make up his mind if his hero complex or Kendra is what should be acted on. And, to be honest, I'd love to understand how he can possibly protect Kendra by continually running away from her on pretty much every occasion he should be by her side.
- When he finally finds her after she’s been kidnapped, what is his his first course of action? Should be to be by Kendra's side but nope, once again, it's Neil and his anger that get prioritised. What an absolute shambles.
- As for his nickname for her, and particularly the explanation that was first given for that, my god, talk about disrespect. Again, this is somewhat softened later in the book but for me that fuller explanation came too little too late. If that was my ‘man’ I’d have kicked him out rather than put up with these repetitive behavioural patterns. And as for the heroine to feel guilty for calling him out on some of it - no way.
The characters just did not ring true. Kendra’s supposed to be in her 40s and yet behaves like an unconfident teenager on too many occasions, and even taking into account the difficulties she experienced in her childhood and previous experiences, to me it read like the killer wasn't the only one with two personalities flip-flopping about.
And as for Neil – my god, he behaves like an immature 22 year old rather than a supposed 'wise old soul' 32 year old. He uses lots of words to describe his feelings for Kendra, and almost always fails to back them up. What a guy!
On top of all that, if this book has been proofread and had beta readers doing a splendid job checking for errors, then it would seem the wrong version of the book was uploaded because the typos, syntax and grammatical mistakes (such as missing words or words in the wrong order) were far more numerous in this than in the previous books in this series. To me it read as if a too tight publication deadline became the main driving force behind this book rather than attention to detail.
This book SHOULD have been so much better, and that is a real shame.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2021
Story about extended cast with a little romance tossed in. Should have been edited down to half its length. Cover doesn’t really translate to “surfer” hero, nor to former Mormon. Lol.
For people into security and who’ve survived trauma they sure do leave their doors unlocked all the time.
So many things were just extraneous to the story. Like her breast reduction surgery scars. Her bizarre tendency to stupid swear substitutes - like dagnabit.
Several of the characters spoke with the same voice. Hero using “doozy” for example. He should have stopped at “son of a bitch.”
The plot was told in backstitch. You get his side then it backs up to tell her side. And so on. Very disjointed and a bit aggravating. Would be more skillful to sum up when the narration changes.
Writing needed tightening. For example, heroine shares at one point she’s “barely had a chance to process,” except we’ve just had several paragraphs of her doing just that. Nobody needs an excuse to drink coffee.
Lots of Britishisms. Doorpost. Bloody. They’re in Colorado. Allegedly. Sceptical.
The criminal investigation was just bizarre. I still don’t know what GFI stands for - I guess I’m expected to read the first six books for that basic information. But seriously none of them caught on to the anagrams? Dragging that out insults the reader AND the security guys so genius the FBI asked for their help.
Early onset Alzheimer’s is prior to the age of 65. I wouldn’t call that “elderly.” People don’t retire until their late 60s these days. Sometimes later.
A canvass is a poll. A canvas is a painting.
But the main thing…
Couldn’t help thinking I’ve read this story before or seen it what with the angel wings and tattoos. The villain part was so familiar the whole way through. Or maybe it was just predictable and derivative.
As for the romance, the hero was all over the place. He was 31/32 while she was 40. But she did not act like the older one. And the age difference was just an excuse to keep them apart until this book.
If you like ensembles - I normally don’t unless they are VERY well written (see Nora Roberts’ trios) - this was okay for that. It was a lot of juggling for not having read the prior books. There were too many cameo appearances that didn’t add to the story at all. And there were paragraphs and paragraphs that pissed me off having to wade through. Did we really need to deal with that gal’s girlfriend issues with her parents ad nauseum just to highlight the heroine’s insecurities? No.
Basically a bust. Don’t forget to lock your doors. And knock first when you visit.
ETA: So it doesn’t seem like I’m nitpicking, have to add that I felt cheated not seeing him fall for her. That was already a done deal. It’s obvious that there are prior books, because that’s where this couple’s story actually started - but I didn’t read them and now I don’t feel like I want to…
For people into security and who’ve survived trauma they sure do leave their doors unlocked all the time.
So many things were just extraneous to the story. Like her breast reduction surgery scars. Her bizarre tendency to stupid swear substitutes - like dagnabit.
Several of the characters spoke with the same voice. Hero using “doozy” for example. He should have stopped at “son of a bitch.”
The plot was told in backstitch. You get his side then it backs up to tell her side. And so on. Very disjointed and a bit aggravating. Would be more skillful to sum up when the narration changes.
Writing needed tightening. For example, heroine shares at one point she’s “barely had a chance to process,” except we’ve just had several paragraphs of her doing just that. Nobody needs an excuse to drink coffee.
Lots of Britishisms. Doorpost. Bloody. They’re in Colorado. Allegedly. Sceptical.
The criminal investigation was just bizarre. I still don’t know what GFI stands for - I guess I’m expected to read the first six books for that basic information. But seriously none of them caught on to the anagrams? Dragging that out insults the reader AND the security guys so genius the FBI asked for their help.
Early onset Alzheimer’s is prior to the age of 65. I wouldn’t call that “elderly.” People don’t retire until their late 60s these days. Sometimes later.
A canvass is a poll. A canvas is a painting.
But the main thing…
Couldn’t help thinking I’ve read this story before or seen it what with the angel wings and tattoos. The villain part was so familiar the whole way through. Or maybe it was just predictable and derivative.
As for the romance, the hero was all over the place. He was 31/32 while she was 40. But she did not act like the older one. And the age difference was just an excuse to keep them apart until this book.
If you like ensembles - I normally don’t unless they are VERY well written (see Nora Roberts’ trios) - this was okay for that. It was a lot of juggling for not having read the prior books. There were too many cameo appearances that didn’t add to the story at all. And there were paragraphs and paragraphs that pissed me off having to wade through. Did we really need to deal with that gal’s girlfriend issues with her parents ad nauseum just to highlight the heroine’s insecurities? No.
Basically a bust. Don’t forget to lock your doors. And knock first when you visit.
ETA: So it doesn’t seem like I’m nitpicking, have to add that I felt cheated not seeing him fall for her. That was already a done deal. It’s obvious that there are prior books, because that’s where this couple’s story actually started - but I didn’t read them and now I don’t feel like I want to…
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