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Daring Destiny #1
Fixing Fate
An alternative cover edition for this ASIN can be found here.
I don’t remember what it’s like not to be scared.
And then I meet him.
My brother’s friend and ex-partner is everything I’ll never be. Sexy, confident, and perfect. He calls me sunshine and tells me I’m beautiful. He asks me to stay.
When my past come back with a vengeance, he proves just how much he’d risk to shield me from the demons that were never supposed to resurface.
I don’t remember what it’s like not to be scared.
And then I meet him.
My brother’s friend and ex-partner is everything I’ll never be. Sexy, confident, and perfect. He calls me sunshine and tells me I’m beautiful. He asks me to stay.
When my past come back with a vengeance, he proves just how much he’d risk to shield me from the demons that were never supposed to resurface.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 31, 2017
1083 people are currently reading
1811 people want to read
About the author
Anna Brooks
83 books1,006 followersBe sure to follow me on Bookbub for sales and new release alerts! https://www.bookbub.com/profile/anna-...
The first time Anna tried to read a romance novel, her hair caught on fire when she leaned over a candle to sneak a peek at her mom’s Harlequin. She thinks being hit on the head with a shirtless Fabio until the smoke cleared is what sparked the flame for her love of romance.
Anna was born in Wisconsin, but currently lives in Texas with her husband and two boys. She writes sexy romance that always has a happy ending and loves bringing characters back for cameos. Less than six degrees of separation connects any of her novels.
When she’s not writing or reading, she’s watching reruns of her favorite romcoms, talking to her dog and cat like they’re human, eating carbs, or practicing hand lettering.
She loves to hear from readers and can be found on social media as @annabrooksauth everywhere.
The first time Anna tried to read a romance novel, her hair caught on fire when she leaned over a candle to sneak a peek at her mom’s Harlequin. She thinks being hit on the head with a shirtless Fabio until the smoke cleared is what sparked the flame for her love of romance.
Anna was born in Wisconsin, but currently lives in Texas with her husband and two boys. She writes sexy romance that always has a happy ending and loves bringing characters back for cameos. Less than six degrees of separation connects any of her novels.
When she’s not writing or reading, she’s watching reruns of her favorite romcoms, talking to her dog and cat like they’re human, eating carbs, or practicing hand lettering.
She loves to hear from readers and can be found on social media as @annabrooksauth everywhere.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 226 reviews
August 7, 2017
Here's another fail for me . . . Sadly :(
This was a case of too-much-too-soon and a plot line that was all over the freakin place. I love insta-love/lust but this was just not working for me.
The h, Mellicent, aka Mellie a 22 year old who has closed herself off completely for everyone and everything for the last six years. The only person she is close to, is her brother. Anyways, so out of the blue, her estranged maternal grandfather dies and wills her his rundown family home. She decides to go outside her comfort zone by driving down alone and visiting the house to see about repairs and sell it as soon as possible.
Her brother hooks her up with a contractor, Smith, who was at one time, her cop brother's partner. Smith has his own can of worms he has to deal with but overall he was okay. Not great but okay.
From their first meeting, things felt forced and lacking in any believable attraction, sexual or otherwise. Side note: just because it says they instantly wanted each other doesn't actually make the reader instantly pair them together. We need details, some inner dialogue, something that teases and provokes and builds on that attraction to make it believable.
So aside from the luke warm feelings these two gave off, I think that having two wierdos after the h was overdoing it just a tad bit. This is where the too-much-too -soon bit comes in. It didn't make any sense to me to add that especially since it didn't come off as well thought out. I get it was supposed to be a red herring thing but it didn't come off as a well executed idea.
This was my first by this author but again, the writing style was not for me. It reminded me too much of KA, with the rambling and saying 100 words when 25 would have worked just fine.
SAFETY
This was a case of too-much-too-soon and a plot line that was all over the freakin place. I love insta-love/lust but this was just not working for me.
The h, Mellicent, aka Mellie a 22 year old who has closed herself off completely for everyone and everything for the last six years. The only person she is close to, is her brother. Anyways, so out of the blue, her estranged maternal grandfather dies and wills her his rundown family home. She decides to go outside her comfort zone by driving down alone and visiting the house to see about repairs and sell it as soon as possible.
Her brother hooks her up with a contractor, Smith, who was at one time, her cop brother's partner. Smith has his own can of worms he has to deal with but overall he was okay. Not great but okay.
From their first meeting, things felt forced and lacking in any believable attraction, sexual or otherwise. Side note: just because it says they instantly wanted each other doesn't actually make the reader instantly pair them together. We need details, some inner dialogue, something that teases and provokes and builds on that attraction to make it believable.
So aside from the luke warm feelings these two gave off, I think that having two wierdos after the h was overdoing it just a tad bit. This is where the too-much-too -soon bit comes in. It didn't make any sense to me to add that especially since it didn't come off as well thought out. I get it was supposed to be a red herring thing but it didn't come off as a well executed idea.
This was my first by this author but again, the writing style was not for me. It reminded me too much of KA, with the rambling and saying 100 words when 25 would have worked just fine.
SAFETY
January 31, 2017
Anna Brooks strikes again. This woman can give us the most Beautifully Written Stories.
Fuckity Fuck where do I start with this Review. Firstly as Promised I hope this shows you why you should read this Book. Why you should grab it with two hands. And why I wish there was more than 5 stars. Cos hands down this book is 5+ star worthy.....
I need you to know how Fantastic This book is. I need you to know that Anna Brooks grabbed my Attention from Page One and had my arse on the couch till I was done. She had me trapped. Many of you already know how Fucking Brilliant she is and if you had any doubt, no way in Hell would you Doubt Her Mad Skills....
Fixing Fate is a Story, A Beautiful Story about Healing, Surviving and the Healing Power of Love.
In this book we meet such Extraordinary Characters both Main and Side. I love when we love all the ppl we meet in a story. Where you love the Side Characters so much you want to make sure they also get their HEA because done to your bones you know they 100% deserve it.
Ok so about our Hero and Heroine. Let me just say nothing I say can properly explain how much I loved these Characters. Yes they are both broken for Heartbreakingly Valid reasons but Fuck watching them fight for Love and Happiness was Unadulterated Joy.
Mallie who has me Hooked by the first page is such a damn inspiration. She has been Broken by a fucking Monster that would make you wish you could cut his Balls of and feed it to him. This Amazing Girl has Strength to move past all the shit that has been done to her. Her Courage and Fight leaves me in Awe Of her. People don't know easy it is to give up, to give into your fears and just stop living. So they don't understand they Power and Inner Strength you must have to fight that, to fight it alone because you know nobody but you can do it. That's what this Marvelous Girl does. She defeats any doubt that she couldn't and she does it with a bang. Doing so Fate brings her to the man that owns her heart from the moment they meet.
Smith fighting his own demons. Also living half a life because of a Tragedy that almost drove him to his own distruction. He like Mallie had Ppl that loved them and tried to help but really if you don't want help and not I. Place to let it in then it won't happen. Until the day you decide, Right it's time to Heal. That's what Mallie Gives Smith and Smith makes Mallie safe from the moment he steps into her old Rackity house.
Watching Smith avoid and fight his feelings for her was at times frustrating. I wanted to slap him through my Kindle. But all that changes when Their worst fear comes to her front door. Smith would Fight God or the Devil to keep Mallie alive and safe. Her healing and Happiness is what's most important to him....
The way this man treasures her, the way he protects her and guards her will have you swooning. Your heart will Sigh with such Happiness. These two are so so deserving of Happy and Love. They need that link to heal and move on but that's all threatened and Smith will not have anyone or anything take Mallie away from him....
This man who is so Hot, So Alpha and strong is like Putty when it comes to Mallie. That alone is Beauty to watch....
Now Jay who is Mallie's Brother and Smith's Ex Partner a Friend is such an amazing side character. I really really want his story. Even a Novella would make me so happy. I really do love him and his roll in this book.
This book that has such an Enthralling story. Beautiful Dialogue, Scenes that will have you Choking on a Sob many times because these two have been through such horrid pasts. At the same time Anna balances it out cos at times I would Giggle like a silly Billy and at times I would Fan myself from just their Hot Hot Foreplay.
Grab this Book and I know you won't be sorry.
Enjoy Ladies!!!!
Fuckity Fuck where do I start with this Review. Firstly as Promised I hope this shows you why you should read this Book. Why you should grab it with two hands. And why I wish there was more than 5 stars. Cos hands down this book is 5+ star worthy.....
I need you to know how Fantastic This book is. I need you to know that Anna Brooks grabbed my Attention from Page One and had my arse on the couch till I was done. She had me trapped. Many of you already know how Fucking Brilliant she is and if you had any doubt, no way in Hell would you Doubt Her Mad Skills....
Fixing Fate is a Story, A Beautiful Story about Healing, Surviving and the Healing Power of Love.
In this book we meet such Extraordinary Characters both Main and Side. I love when we love all the ppl we meet in a story. Where you love the Side Characters so much you want to make sure they also get their HEA because done to your bones you know they 100% deserve it.
Ok so about our Hero and Heroine. Let me just say nothing I say can properly explain how much I loved these Characters. Yes they are both broken for Heartbreakingly Valid reasons but Fuck watching them fight for Love and Happiness was Unadulterated Joy.
Mallie who has me Hooked by the first page is such a damn inspiration. She has been Broken by a fucking Monster that would make you wish you could cut his Balls of and feed it to him. This Amazing Girl has Strength to move past all the shit that has been done to her. Her Courage and Fight leaves me in Awe Of her. People don't know easy it is to give up, to give into your fears and just stop living. So they don't understand they Power and Inner Strength you must have to fight that, to fight it alone because you know nobody but you can do it. That's what this Marvelous Girl does. She defeats any doubt that she couldn't and she does it with a bang. Doing so Fate brings her to the man that owns her heart from the moment they meet.
Smith fighting his own demons. Also living half a life because of a Tragedy that almost drove him to his own distruction. He like Mallie had Ppl that loved them and tried to help but really if you don't want help and not I. Place to let it in then it won't happen. Until the day you decide, Right it's time to Heal. That's what Mallie Gives Smith and Smith makes Mallie safe from the moment he steps into her old Rackity house.
Watching Smith avoid and fight his feelings for her was at times frustrating. I wanted to slap him through my Kindle. But all that changes when Their worst fear comes to her front door. Smith would Fight God or the Devil to keep Mallie alive and safe. Her healing and Happiness is what's most important to him....
The way this man treasures her, the way he protects her and guards her will have you swooning. Your heart will Sigh with such Happiness. These two are so so deserving of Happy and Love. They need that link to heal and move on but that's all threatened and Smith will not have anyone or anything take Mallie away from him....
This man who is so Hot, So Alpha and strong is like Putty when it comes to Mallie. That alone is Beauty to watch....
Now Jay who is Mallie's Brother and Smith's Ex Partner a Friend is such an amazing side character. I really really want his story. Even a Novella would make me so happy. I really do love him and his roll in this book.
This book that has such an Enthralling story. Beautiful Dialogue, Scenes that will have you Choking on a Sob many times because these two have been through such horrid pasts. At the same time Anna balances it out cos at times I would Giggle like a silly Billy and at times I would Fan myself from just their Hot Hot Foreplay.
Grab this Book and I know you won't be sorry.
Enjoy Ladies!!!!
June 25, 2017
Have you ever read a book you don’t know how to rate?
Well for me this is one of those books. There were times were I thought, okay this is a 2 star read and then it went up to a 4 star read something happened which I personally wasn’t happy about and it then went back to a 2 star read. I’ve decided to go with 3.5 stars here.
Mellie suffers from agoraphobia and PTSD after being violated in the most horrible way. She has some fears that she wants to overcome. A step in the right direction is to take a closer look at the house that she inherited.
Smith’s whole family died in a freak accident during a storm since then he hasn’t let anyone close as a favor to his old partner Jay he agrees to keep an eye on Mellie. HE is the contractor to help with the house. But the favor turns into more.
They meet they get off to a rocky start and this is where things got difficult for me. The connection that they have at the beginning ebbs and flows. It is an internal battle for Smith as Mellie is eleven years younger and his friend’s sister. Mellie is attracted to Smith and wants to act on it and although Smith tries not to, he caves.
Smith is a likeable Hero and he does everything and anything he can for the heroine. The heroine in the book is somewhat lost and has no self-preservation at all. This is just my opinion. It did make me cringe a couple of times. And scream at her internally of course what the hell she is thinking?
There are twists and turns to the story that made it unpredictable which I liked. The story flows well and the author can suck you in and keep you entertained throughout the book. There are some uncomfortable scenes in the book so if you get squirmy about some things then don’t read the book. PM if you want the details.
Ask me also what the cynic in me says.
I also look forward to reading more by the author.
Review can be found @ http://jerisbookattic-reviewblog.blog...
February 1, 2017
WOW! What a fantastic book. This story has it all. It's heartwarming, hot and steamy. It will have you feeling all sorts of emotions. Mellie and Smith are to broken souls that has gone through their own terrible pasts. As they struggle with their past can they help each other heal? I loved the chemistry between Mellie and Smith. I love the characters and Mellie and Smith's journey to HEA. This is a great read!! I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book.
Want to read
October 6, 2019💝 FREE on Amazon today (1/18/2018)! 💝
Blurb:
Mellie Jamison is afraid of the world after her security and innocence were stolen as a teen. Now in her early twenties, she’s content with her secluded lifestyle and her cat... at least, that's what she tells herself. When a grandfather she never met leaves her an abandoned house, she has no choice but to set out on a journey she never wanted to take.
Smith Porter was living his dream until he was forced to give up his job as a police officer and return home to take over the family business. He’s now alone in the world, merely surviving on memories and emotionless attachments. So when his old partner calls in a favor, Smith agrees to flip the neglected house and keep an eye on Jay's baby sister.
He’s a master at restoration and rebuilding, but Smith never expected that tearing the walls down around Mellie's heart to be his most difficult project yet. And when her life is threatened, keeping her safe is the most important job he’ll ever have.
Blurb:
Mellie Jamison is afraid of the world after her security and innocence were stolen as a teen. Now in her early twenties, she’s content with her secluded lifestyle and her cat... at least, that's what she tells herself. When a grandfather she never met leaves her an abandoned house, she has no choice but to set out on a journey she never wanted to take.
Smith Porter was living his dream until he was forced to give up his job as a police officer and return home to take over the family business. He’s now alone in the world, merely surviving on memories and emotionless attachments. So when his old partner calls in a favor, Smith agrees to flip the neglected house and keep an eye on Jay's baby sister.
He’s a master at restoration and rebuilding, but Smith never expected that tearing the walls down around Mellie's heart to be his most difficult project yet. And when her life is threatened, keeping her safe is the most important job he’ll ever have.
February 6, 2017
“When I look at you, I see so much light. The only light I’ve seen in years.”
Romance Trivia 101 : What do you get when a sweet, skittish damsel in distress collides with hot, hard-bodied Alpha protector? A whole lot of combustible sparks!!!!! And here's one more irrefutable fact....I know if I ever have a hankering for a hyper emotional, super sexy romance with drama and angst galore, the extraordinarily gifted Anna Brooks is gonna deliver big time. And man did she ever with her latest novel, FIXING FATE! The heart fluttery feels were just UNRELENTING in this tumultuous love story about two lost souls who cannot outrun the hands of fate.
When Mellie Jamison inherits her deceased grandfather’s house, she anxiously drives far from home to an unfamiliar city to make the necessary arrangements to put the unwanted property up for sale. She is aghast at the sorry state of the house, which is going to require a major overhaul before it can be put on the market. But fortunately, her older brother Jay hired his former colleague Smith Porter to oversee the necessary renovations so she can sell it and get out dodge ASAP!!
Severely traumatized from a harrowing ordeal from her past, she suffers from crippling panic attacks and nearly jumps out of her skin the first time Smith catches her unaware. This is her first time being away from home and her fragile state of mind is as shaky as the condition of the crumbling porch, especially now that she fears she is being stalked! Yet despite his big, intimidating presence there is something about the big, handsome contractor that puts her immediately at ease. She has not had a boyfriend in six years and has shied away from any sort of physical or emotional intimacy, but for the first time in forever, he awakens passionate longings in her that leave her both unsettled yet aching for more.
Her all-consuming attraction for the ruggedly handsome bachelor is far from unrequited. He too feels something stir within him the moment he gazes into the blond-haired, long legged beauty’s innocent green eyes, and when danger darkens Mellie’s doorstep, Smith's former cop instincts roar to the surface. Nothing is going to happen to the achingly vulnerable beauty on HIS watch! But he knows sheltering Mellie from harm is as far as it can go--she is 10 years younger than he is, and his overprotective friend’s baby sister to boot--which means STRICLY. OFF. LIMITS.
Smith owes her big brother for saving his life and promised his friend he would watch over his precious baby sister. But he knows Jay would have his head if he crossed the line. And besides, he has demons of his own that plague him day after day, night after night; all the while he can’t help obsessing about slaying the dragons of the sweet, wounded girl who is so petrified of the dark she brings out the primal caveman in him. But how long can these two broken souls resist the lure of each other’s aching hearts? And can their fragile love withstand the fury of a dangerous predator?
I floooved this book for many, many reasons. First and foremost because of SMITH!! He is the epitome of my dream BBF! Big, tatted, uber macho, yet so exquisitely gentle and chivalrous and fiercely protective he makes my heart throb! Truthfully? I would hire him as my Mr. Fix it any ole time! So kudos to you, Anna Brooks, for giving me another sinfully sexy alpha male to drool over!!! Smith wound himself around my heart every time he wrapped Mellie up in the shelter of his big, muscular arms, called her “Sunshine” or made her feel like the most beautiful girl in the world. And Smith’s swoon-worthy attributes aside, this book has two of my favorite tropes…best friends’ little sister and older hero/younger heroine. Hello?! Instant binge read material!
This book just had ALL. THE. FEELS. There is nothing more intoxicating to me than a book about two damaged lovers who break down each other's barriers, illuminate the dark, lonely recesses of each other's souls and finally emerge whole. The chemistry between Smith and his “Sunshine” was so electric I felt their magnetic pull from the first time they locked gazes, but the beauty of Anna Brook’s writing is that the emotion and desire between the H and h is always intricately intertwined so much so you that you feel the impact of their visceral connection with every fiber of your being!
As always with this author, the book is perfectly paced, and you can count on plenty of romance, steamy passion, poignant emotion, heartache, charming banter, intrigue, and peril to keep your pulse racing. I also appreciated how the secrets of Smith and Mellie’s pasts are unveiled bit by bit, which adds to the mystique of this story! And the supporting characters are weaved masterfully into the fabric of the story, which infuses the novel with richly nuanced layers and sets the stage for possible future spinoffs. (Speaking of...I CANNOT WAIT for Mellie's Alpha cop bro to get a book of his own and am intrigued by Smith’s friend Erik as well) .
Ultimately, at its core, FIXING FATE is a passionate, life-affirming and, at times, gutwrenching story about overcoming unspeakable anguish, finding hope and love and healing even when all seems lost, and how fate can miraculously fuse two hearts and souls together in unbelievably profound ways.
5+ Hopelessly Smitten with Smith Stars!!
Romance Trivia 101 : What do you get when a sweet, skittish damsel in distress collides with hot, hard-bodied Alpha protector? A whole lot of combustible sparks!!!!! And here's one more irrefutable fact....I know if I ever have a hankering for a hyper emotional, super sexy romance with drama and angst galore, the extraordinarily gifted Anna Brooks is gonna deliver big time. And man did she ever with her latest novel, FIXING FATE! The heart fluttery feels were just UNRELENTING in this tumultuous love story about two lost souls who cannot outrun the hands of fate.
When Mellie Jamison inherits her deceased grandfather’s house, she anxiously drives far from home to an unfamiliar city to make the necessary arrangements to put the unwanted property up for sale. She is aghast at the sorry state of the house, which is going to require a major overhaul before it can be put on the market. But fortunately, her older brother Jay hired his former colleague Smith Porter to oversee the necessary renovations so she can sell it and get out dodge ASAP!!
Severely traumatized from a harrowing ordeal from her past, she suffers from crippling panic attacks and nearly jumps out of her skin the first time Smith catches her unaware. This is her first time being away from home and her fragile state of mind is as shaky as the condition of the crumbling porch, especially now that she fears she is being stalked! Yet despite his big, intimidating presence there is something about the big, handsome contractor that puts her immediately at ease. She has not had a boyfriend in six years and has shied away from any sort of physical or emotional intimacy, but for the first time in forever, he awakens passionate longings in her that leave her both unsettled yet aching for more.
Her all-consuming attraction for the ruggedly handsome bachelor is far from unrequited. He too feels something stir within him the moment he gazes into the blond-haired, long legged beauty’s innocent green eyes, and when danger darkens Mellie’s doorstep, Smith's former cop instincts roar to the surface. Nothing is going to happen to the achingly vulnerable beauty on HIS watch! But he knows sheltering Mellie from harm is as far as it can go--she is 10 years younger than he is, and his overprotective friend’s baby sister to boot--which means STRICLY. OFF. LIMITS.
Smith owes her big brother for saving his life and promised his friend he would watch over his precious baby sister. But he knows Jay would have his head if he crossed the line. And besides, he has demons of his own that plague him day after day, night after night; all the while he can’t help obsessing about slaying the dragons of the sweet, wounded girl who is so petrified of the dark she brings out the primal caveman in him. But how long can these two broken souls resist the lure of each other’s aching hearts? And can their fragile love withstand the fury of a dangerous predator?
I floooved this book for many, many reasons. First and foremost because of SMITH!! He is the epitome of my dream BBF! Big, tatted, uber macho, yet so exquisitely gentle and chivalrous and fiercely protective he makes my heart throb! Truthfully? I would hire him as my Mr. Fix it any ole time! So kudos to you, Anna Brooks, for giving me another sinfully sexy alpha male to drool over!!! Smith wound himself around my heart every time he wrapped Mellie up in the shelter of his big, muscular arms, called her “Sunshine” or made her feel like the most beautiful girl in the world. And Smith’s swoon-worthy attributes aside, this book has two of my favorite tropes…best friends’ little sister and older hero/younger heroine. Hello?! Instant binge read material!
This book just had ALL. THE. FEELS. There is nothing more intoxicating to me than a book about two damaged lovers who break down each other's barriers, illuminate the dark, lonely recesses of each other's souls and finally emerge whole. The chemistry between Smith and his “Sunshine” was so electric I felt their magnetic pull from the first time they locked gazes, but the beauty of Anna Brook’s writing is that the emotion and desire between the H and h is always intricately intertwined so much so you that you feel the impact of their visceral connection with every fiber of your being!
As always with this author, the book is perfectly paced, and you can count on plenty of romance, steamy passion, poignant emotion, heartache, charming banter, intrigue, and peril to keep your pulse racing. I also appreciated how the secrets of Smith and Mellie’s pasts are unveiled bit by bit, which adds to the mystique of this story! And the supporting characters are weaved masterfully into the fabric of the story, which infuses the novel with richly nuanced layers and sets the stage for possible future spinoffs. (Speaking of...I CANNOT WAIT for Mellie's Alpha cop bro to get a book of his own and am intrigued by Smith’s friend Erik as well) .
Ultimately, at its core, FIXING FATE is a passionate, life-affirming and, at times, gutwrenching story about overcoming unspeakable anguish, finding hope and love and healing even when all seems lost, and how fate can miraculously fuse two hearts and souls together in unbelievably profound ways.
5+ Hopelessly Smitten with Smith Stars!!
December 6, 2020
Spoilers ahead
This was like a seriously OTT ARR read......
The h has lived a sheltered life since she was a teen, she'd been attacked and raped and has a hard time being around people especially men. Her estranged grandfather left her a house and she musters the courage to leave home and view the house and oversee the repairs to be done by her brother's friend Smith.
Smith has had a hard time after the accidental death of his family, he's been just existing running his business after quitting the police force and refusing to get more than superficially involved with members of the opposite sex.....until the younger sister of his friend shows up. What was supposed to be a simple job turns complicated as he's unable to stop thinking of the innocent beauty ....only danger is stalking her and it'll take everything Smith has to protect his woman.
*********
Ok I'm a fan of insta lust/love but this book absolutely did NOT work for me.
The h was attacked and I respect that but that trauma was over exaggerated. I wonder why female authors delight in focusing on the delicacy of a woman rather than the strength. She went through something horrific, but what about having her get therapy, go to self defense, volunteer at a shelter....all methods that could've been used to show the h emerge victorious from that incident. Let's be clear, this is NOT what I THINK women should have to do in real life, I'm not a therapist but too many times the h is sunk under the trauma of an incident and it's always the H to FIX her....... Ummmmm we're badasses on our own too you know??! Just my thoughts
Anyway so the h is a delicate flower who flinches at loud noises and is easily scared....she unfortunately attracts the attention of a NEW stalker....I say new because her previous attacker got out of jail and is stalking her too..... can you say wayyyyyy too much
So the h is being stalked but she makes some stupid choices that made me want to bitch slap her. She puts herself in danger repeatedly, one such incident resulted in Smith being arrested and poor baby is so flustered she can't even explain to the cops what happened so they take Smith. This girl acted as maturely as a 16 year old teen.
And Smith.....first of all dumb name 😂
Second of all I hated Smith for his thoughts on women. Let me break it down..... Smith was seeing a woman, he meets the sweet innocent h and no longer wants that woman....he thinks that woman shouldn't be getting angry at his bs because she was only convenient, as a matter of fact before the pure and innocent h women spread their legs so easily for Smith they had him questioning his morals...... What the fuck???? Soooooo all those women before were good enough to stick his cock in at the time but at the perfection of the gloriously innocent h they're suddenly trash??? You lousy piece of shit motherfucker!
Anywho 😂aside from thoughts like those Smith was maybe ok, he was patient with the h, and was a possession and protective Alphaish male. He wasn't great but he was ok
Everything was just toooo much though and made what could've been an enjoyable read into a tedious eye roll worthy task(whyyyyy was this so long???). It took me an entire weekend to read this and I'm sore at those wasted reading hours.
h was raped as a teen, and kidnapped and beaten here
No cheating
h saw H leaving with OW after they'd met, he clarified later that nothing happened with that woman. Tiny reappearance by that woman later on
H sounds like he got around the block.... Nothing in your face too much aside from some statements that triggered my inner shemon 😂
I'm curious about Erik and Jay so I may try book 3 sometime.....does Jay get a book?
*****ETA spoiler so it seems Erik and his h might not get babies, considering his ex died while pregnant,I needed babies to heal the hurt of the past so if that's true I'm not touching book3, and book 2 is a character barely introduced here so I'm not interested. This may be where this author and I part ways.........
This was like a seriously OTT ARR read......
The h has lived a sheltered life since she was a teen, she'd been attacked and raped and has a hard time being around people especially men. Her estranged grandfather left her a house and she musters the courage to leave home and view the house and oversee the repairs to be done by her brother's friend Smith.
Smith has had a hard time after the accidental death of his family, he's been just existing running his business after quitting the police force and refusing to get more than superficially involved with members of the opposite sex.....until the younger sister of his friend shows up. What was supposed to be a simple job turns complicated as he's unable to stop thinking of the innocent beauty ....only danger is stalking her and it'll take everything Smith has to protect his woman.
*********
Ok I'm a fan of insta lust/love but this book absolutely did NOT work for me.
The h was attacked and I respect that but that trauma was over exaggerated. I wonder why female authors delight in focusing on the delicacy of a woman rather than the strength. She went through something horrific, but what about having her get therapy, go to self defense, volunteer at a shelter....all methods that could've been used to show the h emerge victorious from that incident. Let's be clear, this is NOT what I THINK women should have to do in real life, I'm not a therapist but too many times the h is sunk under the trauma of an incident and it's always the H to FIX her....... Ummmmm we're badasses on our own too you know??! Just my thoughts
Anyway so the h is a delicate flower who flinches at loud noises and is easily scared....she unfortunately attracts the attention of a NEW stalker....I say new because her previous attacker got out of jail and is stalking her too..... can you say wayyyyyy too much
So the h is being stalked but she makes some stupid choices that made me want to bitch slap her. She puts herself in danger repeatedly, one such incident resulted in Smith being arrested and poor baby is so flustered she can't even explain to the cops what happened so they take Smith. This girl acted as maturely as a 16 year old teen.
And Smith.....first of all dumb name 😂
Second of all I hated Smith for his thoughts on women. Let me break it down..... Smith was seeing a woman, he meets the sweet innocent h and no longer wants that woman....he thinks that woman shouldn't be getting angry at his bs because she was only convenient, as a matter of fact before the pure and innocent h women spread their legs so easily for Smith they had him questioning his morals...... What the fuck???? Soooooo all those women before were good enough to stick his cock in at the time but at the perfection of the gloriously innocent h they're suddenly trash??? You lousy piece of shit motherfucker!
Anywho 😂aside from thoughts like those Smith was maybe ok, he was patient with the h, and was a possession and protective Alphaish male. He wasn't great but he was ok
Everything was just toooo much though and made what could've been an enjoyable read into a tedious eye roll worthy task(whyyyyy was this so long???). It took me an entire weekend to read this and I'm sore at those wasted reading hours.
h was raped as a teen, and kidnapped and beaten here
No cheating
h saw H leaving with OW after they'd met, he clarified later that nothing happened with that woman. Tiny reappearance by that woman later on
H sounds like he got around the block.... Nothing in your face too much aside from some statements that triggered my inner shemon 😂
I'm curious about Erik and Jay so I may try book 3 sometime.....does Jay get a book?
*****ETA spoiler so it seems Erik and his h might not get babies, considering his ex died while pregnant,I needed babies to heal the hurt of the past so if that's true I'm not touching book3, and book 2 is a character barely introduced here so I'm not interested. This may be where this author and I part ways.........
February 13, 2017
Fixing fate by Anna brooks is a sexy read that once I started reading, I was hooked. Some spoilers ahead.
Mellie inherits a house from her grandfather. She meets her brothers friend, smith, who will be restoring the house to put it on the market. All Mellie wants is to get fixed up as fast as she can and sold. She doesn't want to get close to anyone, including smith.
She is drawn to him in more ways than one. The connection is instant for both her and smith. Mellie has a past that can either destroy them or make them better...but so does Smith.
Throughout the book,Smith and Mellie, deal with a number of different obstacles. Her past, his past, and a stalker. Instead of growing apart, they come closer together. Smith shows his devotion to Mellie not only in his sexual favors but his protection of her. He puts what he wants most on hold until she is more comfortable. Not many men do that, making it even more sexy to read about.
I was drawn to this book and read It so fast I couldn't put it down. The sexual content is steamy and erotic. I wanted to know how the obstacles played out. The twists and turns were easy to follow but not easy to figure out.
I was fascinated with Smith and his devotion to Mellie. He is her protector. She is his. This is a very good book and an awesome author. The book is very well written. I'm going to read more of her books.
Mellie inherits a house from her grandfather. She meets her brothers friend, smith, who will be restoring the house to put it on the market. All Mellie wants is to get fixed up as fast as she can and sold. She doesn't want to get close to anyone, including smith.
She is drawn to him in more ways than one. The connection is instant for both her and smith. Mellie has a past that can either destroy them or make them better...but so does Smith.
Throughout the book,Smith and Mellie, deal with a number of different obstacles. Her past, his past, and a stalker. Instead of growing apart, they come closer together. Smith shows his devotion to Mellie not only in his sexual favors but his protection of her. He puts what he wants most on hold until she is more comfortable. Not many men do that, making it even more sexy to read about.
I was drawn to this book and read It so fast I couldn't put it down. The sexual content is steamy and erotic. I wanted to know how the obstacles played out. The twists and turns were easy to follow but not easy to figure out.
I was fascinated with Smith and his devotion to Mellie. He is her protector. She is his. This is a very good book and an awesome author. The book is very well written. I'm going to read more of her books.
February 6, 2017
4.5 stars
Another hit from Anna Brooks. Smith & mellie were incredible. Each had their own demons to overcome. Very intriguing story. Keep you on the edge of your seat. Can't wait for more from this series.
Another hit from Anna Brooks. Smith & mellie were incredible. Each had their own demons to overcome. Very intriguing story. Keep you on the edge of your seat. Can't wait for more from this series.
August 2, 2017
I have a soft spot for heroines who have panic attacks, because I know from personal experience just how real they can be, no matter how illogical it seems to others who don't have a panic trigger. While my trigger is nowhere close to Mellie's, I felt a kind of kinship with her - and I really wanted to like this book.
At its heart, this story had a world of potential - damaged manwhore and agoraphobic damsel-in-distress fall in love. Unfortunately, so many other things were layered over top of it that the love story got smothered. And I didn't like the way events were carelessly thrown into the mix without thought to the way they caused plot holes.
This author definitely has real talent. She just needs a better editor to point out the kinks and smooth out the rough edges. DNF @45%.
At its heart, this story had a world of potential - damaged manwhore and agoraphobic damsel-in-distress fall in love. Unfortunately, so many other things were layered over top of it that the love story got smothered. And I didn't like the way events were carelessly thrown into the mix without thought to the way they caused plot holes.
This author definitely has real talent. She just needs a better editor to point out the kinks and smooth out the rough edges. DNF @45%.
Read
November 11, 2019I don't even know how to rate this one. It was a free book so I wasn't expecting much and I didn't get much. Characters were inconsistent and cheesy, and the story was just okay. There was a little twist that surprised me though, so it has that going for it.
December 20, 2023
This started off so good then it kinda went OTT and the storyline was a hot mess all over the place many things were thrown in for the shock factor but then it fell flat.. 😭
This was downloaded as a freebie I'll see if I do end up reading the rest.
This was downloaded as a freebie I'll see if I do end up reading the rest.
August 3, 2017
DNF @ 8%
And the award for the most creepiest fucking pervert goes to..... the hero of this story.
she’s at least ten years younger than I am. She doesn’t even live here, and no way in hell would she be up for a quick fuck. She screams innocence. Hell, I’d be surprised if anyone’s ever touched her.
My cock hardens under my pants with just the thought of her, untouched—fuck, I bet she’d be tight as hell—pure, and inexperienced.
Is that^ supposed to be normal? Am I supposed to root for this guy to get the girl? Am I the only one who thinks that this is very pervert-y? "Pure & inexperienced" wtf?
And he's thinking this when she just had a breakdown.
So here the hero is with a woman having dinner and gets a call and he has to go but she gets upset.
"You’re such an asshole.”
I sign the credit card receipt and take off. I don’t give a shit that she’s pissed. I don’t know why she thinks she’s anything more than convenient
I agree with the nameless woman in this one. What an asshole.
And the award for the most creepiest fucking pervert goes to..... the hero of this story.
she’s at least ten years younger than I am. She doesn’t even live here, and no way in hell would she be up for a quick fuck. She screams innocence. Hell, I’d be surprised if anyone’s ever touched her.
My cock hardens under my pants with just the thought of her, untouched—fuck, I bet she’d be tight as hell—pure, and inexperienced.
Is that^ supposed to be normal? Am I supposed to root for this guy to get the girl? Am I the only one who thinks that this is very pervert-y? "Pure & inexperienced" wtf?
And he's thinking this when she just had a breakdown.
So here the hero is with a woman having dinner and gets a call and he has to go but she gets upset.
"You’re such an asshole.”
I sign the credit card receipt and take off. I don’t give a shit that she’s pissed. I don’t know why she thinks she’s anything more than convenient
I agree with the nameless woman in this one. What an asshole.
February 1, 2017
A very good story about Mellie and Smith! Both have had tragic events happen to them in the past and I love the way they help to heal each other! This story had twists that had me sitting on the edge of my seat, holding my breath! A good storyline with a hard subject and a great cast of characters! I hope we get to read Jay's story (Mellie's brother) and Erik's! Looking forward to more from this author!
December 23, 2017
A story filled bite your nails intensity, love that fills your soul, action that keeps you guessing and heat that warms your cockles.
Anna Brooks is a new author to me and I was so pleasantly surprised. Although I felt like the subplot was teased a bit too much without any fulfillment, the main story was so perfect and I loved it so much.
Jacob Morgan and Ava Erickson are a great match. There were a few points that Jacob Morgan pulled away from the mic when he shouldn’t have and that was a bit awkward but it only happened 3 or 4 times and it really didn’t deter from the story, just pulled me out of the narration a bit. Other than that, everything was perfect.
I can’t wait to explore this author more.
Anna Brooks is a new author to me and I was so pleasantly surprised. Although I felt like the subplot was teased a bit too much without any fulfillment, the main story was so perfect and I loved it so much.
Jacob Morgan and Ava Erickson are a great match. There were a few points that Jacob Morgan pulled away from the mic when he shouldn’t have and that was a bit awkward but it only happened 3 or 4 times and it really didn’t deter from the story, just pulled me out of the narration a bit. Other than that, everything was perfect.
I can’t wait to explore this author more.
May 26, 2019
Captivating listen!
The story, characters, and drama had me hooked from the very start! The characters were very unique. I loved that the characters weren't perfect. Mellie had flaws and issues that she needed to overcome and Smith, although very alpha, had guilt that he couldn't get past. Their individual pasts are what truly made this story amazing. I spent the entire book hoping things would work out and I was not disappointed! I cannot wait to continue this series and see what Anna has planned for the other characters!
The narration was great! Ava Erickson and Jacob Morgan did a great job bringing Mellie and Smith to life.
🎧AudiobookObsession🎧
The story, characters, and drama had me hooked from the very start! The characters were very unique. I loved that the characters weren't perfect. Mellie had flaws and issues that she needed to overcome and Smith, although very alpha, had guilt that he couldn't get past. Their individual pasts are what truly made this story amazing. I spent the entire book hoping things would work out and I was not disappointed! I cannot wait to continue this series and see what Anna has planned for the other characters!
The narration was great! Ava Erickson and Jacob Morgan did a great job bringing Mellie and Smith to life.
🎧AudiobookObsession🎧
July 3, 2018
Mellie and Smith
I actually read two books in this series last night. That’s right I had to start another one as soon as I finished. I finally read the first in the series. Even though I’m reading totally out of order I am really enjoying them. These men sure are protective and it’s a good thing because these women are danger magnets.
I actually read two books in this series last night. That’s right I had to start another one as soon as I finished. I finally read the first in the series. Even though I’m reading totally out of order I am really enjoying them. These men sure are protective and it’s a good thing because these women are danger magnets.
August 24, 2017
Not awful, but not memorable. I'll probably forget the book in less than a week.
Super implausible plot, insta-love, and characters that just don't suck you in. Minus Erik. He was great.
Super implausible plot, insta-love, and characters that just don't suck you in. Minus Erik. He was great.
January 22, 2018
This is not working for me. Predictable and boring. Nothing about the story or characters held my attention. DNF. You may love it. Reading is subjective.
November 11, 2019
Sex: multiple scenes of all kinds
Language: 246 (not typo) F words, 102 Lord's name in vain, 95 S words
Violence: past rape, assault, gunshot, kidnapping
HEA or Cliffhanger: HEA
Do I need to read books before this one: no
Would I read more of the series: no, too much swearing and unanswered questions
I appreciated how the author treated sexual assault healing: that police need tact, that some therapists don't get it, that it takes years to start feeling normal. The plot was predictable, only the execution in question. Why was Dirt involved? Why wasn't Erik his own story? What's the deal with grandparents; why have that?
----SPOILERS----
GF disinherited 16yo Mom when pregnant with Jay. 22yo Mellie inherits his house. 31yo Jay is Chicago PD, Smith is contractor he trusts. House is damaged, 5h away from Chicago.
Friday, Smith scares Mellie when he finally shows for estimate; she has a panic attack. Jay told her 8am, Smith had told him 8pm. Jay and Smith were partners; Jay saved Smith's life.
Mellie was raped 6y ago, doesn't trust anyone. Saturday, she's ripping out carpet, meets neighbor Dale. He scares her with pliers, she runs into Smith who tells Dale to go home. He's not letting Jay's sister get hurt on his watch. His cop instincts say Dale is creepy. Smith's attracted to Mellie. Jay calls Smith, Mellie's scared. He rushes to hotel, someone's pranking her. He holds her, she falls asleep, he stays so chain lock on. He likes her innocence. He offers to give tour after shower. Masturbates fantasizing. She learns she got the house because, when their parents were killed in a drunk driving accident (she was 13), GF came to the funeral, fought with Jay. She was the only family left. They spend all day together; he loves her sunshine, wants more; usually he wants to get away after a little time with women. She invites him into her hotel room, he can't or he'll do something stupid.
Middle of night, she wakes to knocking and scratching at her door. She calls Smith, who's on his way. When the doorknob shakes, he hangs up to call cops. They get there first. After giving statement, she packs to go to a nicer hotel. Stay in my guest room. She does, has nightmare blending making love with Smith and being raped by Norman. Smith wakes her, they want each other. Jay calls. Smith's 33yo, shouldn't be responding like teenage boy. He's having actual feelings. Drives to work, smells her in cab, masochist leaves windows up. At her house, he's grateful for work, because a favor is turning into an obsession. She shows up with lunch for everyone; her behavior makes him think of music video. They hold hands. He stays at work 'til 10pm, she's asleep on couch. While eating, he sees shadow in backyard; nothing. He tells her to go to bed, showers, sees she didn't. He moves her computer to carry her, sees she edits erotic romances. Jay pings her: guy still far away; he won't hurt you again.
Smith left before she woke up. Norman was released early a year ago. She wants to fall in love, have a family, feel safe. She thinks nobody will want a basket case like her. He comes home, she warms dinner, his laundry and dishes done. Not hungry, going to bed. I can go to hotel. No, don't take care of me. Trying to be nice. He confesses his desires yesterday morning, he found out about rape. He makes excuses: “I’m a man, and you’re smart, beautiful, funny… I acted inappropriately. I’m not used to someone so… sweet. I’m so sor—” She kisses him. He pleasures her. She apologizes he didn't climax. He isn't used to his heart having anything to do with sex. M: I don't want you to think I'm using you. S: You're too innocent and sweet to manipulate; I liked how I *felt*, use me anytime you like. She thinks: I’ll never be able to be normal. Smith doesn’t have time for an insecure, inexperienced, damaged girl. As much as I want him, he deserves someone who can give everything.
He watches her shut down and hates it. In the few days I’ve known her, she’s pulled things out of me I thought I’d buried with them when they went into the ground.
Erik calls while Smith is going to work. Erik is his best friend, made an orphan at 15, moved in with Smith's family. A storm made the tree crash through the house and kill his twin sister and parents, Erik took it hard and turned to alcohol. Smith stopped feeling and making commitments. He doesn't work today. He drives to Chicago and brings home her cat. Her smile makes his sore butt worth it.
1.5w later, hasn't seen her since, misses her light. It's Sunday, he knows she doesn't work, so he invites her to work on landscaping the backyard with him. They buy some furniture and a fireplace, she likes roses, so he buys 3 plants. They plant the roses by his GF's car. They eat on the back porch, no talking. He decides to tell her his secret because he knows her secret. He lies on car's roof and counts stars; had a lot of memories with GF and that car. Dinner routine continues for days.
She goes to the store. He calls, very worried because she wasn't home when he got home. She goes to see work they've done on her house on the way home. Her nerves act up. Jay calls; Norman's missing. Norman grabs her. Luckily Smith knew she didn't have new key to house, drives up. Norman gets away because Smith stays with her. Jay gets to hospital in record time, wants to take her home; Smith doesn't want to be a memory. She wakes screaming while they talk outside her room. She doesn't want Jay, she holds Smith. Don't leave. He lies beside her. Jay storms off. Too bad. When she's asleep, he joins Jay, who punches him. She's still coming to Chicago. At home, Smith doesn't pack for her. Jay and Mellie come home, she's upset, storms out, Jay follows. Smith smiles because she didn't pack anything.
1.5w later, Smith calls her. Need carpet decision. She's disappointed. You left your stuff here. I did? Yah, Sunshine. I'll have to come get it. I guess you will; bye, baby. Jay's got her locked in the house and a cop outside. She books a flight, calls a friend for a ride to the airport. When she gets to Smith's house, he isn't home. She waits outside. A woman in stilettos arrives, Can I give him a message? She gets an Uber to her house. Neighbor lady offers help to charge her phone, she goes in house. Richard comes in, Polly runs to pharmacy. Mellie's phone is behind him, she asks for it, he turns it on and wants to know why she has messages from so many men (Jay and Smith). They don't know where you are. Kills fly.
Vivian sexually molests Smith. Before she leaves, she says scared blonde girl here. He searches her house, sees her cowering under man next door. He headlocks the guy, gets Mellie out of there. In the garage, he says he wants her, need to talk. Before they can talk, Smith is arrested for assault. He tells Molly to lock the house; will be back soon. Dad's best friend (bromance before they both got married) is now the mayor. Gerald gets him out, Smith tells him everything. If you don't take a risk, you've already lost her. He goes inside as a storm starts. He won't sleep tonight. Especially because she's in his bed.
In the morning, they affirm they want each other. He doesn't do relationships, but he can't help it with her; she sees he has pain. He wants more happy days with her. His sitch with Vivian was over the day they met. He'll take sex at her speed, just talk to him and don't leave. He pleasures her, fingers are bloody. M: There's more than 1 way to be violated. She was on her back the whole time, Jay prevented more.
He goes downstairs, dry heaves, returns. M: I understand it's a turn off I won't ever do some stuff. S: “There ain’t a damn thing, nothing,”—I emphasize. She really needs to hear me on this—“that you could tell me that would change the way I feel about you. Do you get me? I fell for you the moment I saw you... and I’ve never had that kind of reaction to anyone in my life. And getting to know you, seeing you smile and laugh, that is what I care about. Everything else is trivial, Mellie. But this doubt you seem to have about me needs to end. We didn’t even have to confess how we felt out loud for you to come back, because it’s so deep we didn’t need the words. But now we have them, right? So there doesn’t need to be doubt. You’ve just gotta trust that, trust me to take care of you and make you happy.”
Jay calls Smith, Norman's out to get her. She's staying with me, bring her stuff. Jay: You love her? Smith: Yah, I do. She puts syrup on eggs, Ranch on pizza. She takes him to test French fries in ice cream. She's tired of being afraid, gets a little drunk, shares her rape story. He makes her watch Golden Girls. He wakes her to share sunrise on back porch.
3w they've been tied at the hip. He loves it. In bed, she has tantrum (Mars Venus) because she misses Jay. They digitally please each other. Erik arrives drunk in the middle of the night, almost gets shot. Oral sex in shower before work. After work, Erik is very drunk, Smith goes to bed alone, pushing her away. Because tomorrow is the 7th anniversary of the storm.
She doesn't want to go to work with him because it's too hard to edit there. Smith fills in Erik so he can guard. Mellie gets roses. Erik shows her the news clipping about the family's deaths, cries, she cries with him. Smith's sister, Sophia, was pregnant with Erik's baby; Erik had argued with her that night, that's why she was home. Smith comes home to them hugging, kicks Erik out. She stops it by announcing Sophia's pregnancy. They open up, share photos and stories with Mellie. In bed, Smith says he didn't send flowers. When she sleeps, he goes to Dirt to call in favor: get rid of Norman. When he gets home, he says I love you. They make love without penetration. She asks where he went. He won't tell her. He goes to work. She gets email with picture of him going into strip club: When you can’t give a man what he needs, he’ll either take it or get it somewhere else. She shows Erik, gets tons more dirty pictures emails, vomits while Erik calls Smith. He wants to take her to cabin, she wants to go home. That kills him. On the way to Chicago, a cop pulls him over, handcuffs him to his truck. Norman. He shoots Smith in the leg, will finish the job if she doesn't come.
In Chicago, he's replicated her bedroom exactly, except for locks, padding, barred windows. 3 days. Richard rescues her, has sliced up Norman. As they exit the house, many cops arrest them for leaving crime scene. She asks for Jay, You're his missing sister? In the hospital, a detective is rude, Jay and Smith show. Smith cries. She says I love you, sleeps in his arms. Jay reports: Norman had rented Jay's and Mellie's apartment, then waited. Richard emailed dirty pictures, sent flowers, obsessed. He had external tracking device on phone, picked Norman's locks, stabbed him repeatedly. Neighbor heard screams, called it in. Doctor comes in, gives instructions and name of therapist. She asks to go home. With Smith.
Jay is taking a much needed break, a West Coast road trip. Erik detoxed while she was missing, then left. The house is ready to sell; they found an old box under the back porch. Smith wants kids with her, to tell them it was love at first sight for both of them. Turns out her grandpa dated his grandma, did something to hurt her, the builder of their house (his grandpa) stepped in and married her.
She gets a tattoo: Yours, with a mended heart. On the way out, she bumps into a large man: Tell Smith I still owe him. At home, Smith loves her tattoo. They make love for the first time. She's the boss in bed. And it's OK with both of them that he forgot about protection.
3y later, they have a daughter, conceived that day. They got married before Jaycee Sophia was born. Erik married Polly; is she Richard's Polly? Don't know.
Language: 246 (not typo) F words, 102 Lord's name in vain, 95 S words
Violence: past rape, assault, gunshot, kidnapping
HEA or Cliffhanger: HEA
Do I need to read books before this one: no
Would I read more of the series: no, too much swearing and unanswered questions
I appreciated how the author treated sexual assault healing: that police need tact, that some therapists don't get it, that it takes years to start feeling normal. The plot was predictable, only the execution in question. Why was Dirt involved? Why wasn't Erik his own story? What's the deal with grandparents; why have that?
----SPOILERS----
GF disinherited 16yo Mom when pregnant with Jay. 22yo Mellie inherits his house. 31yo Jay is Chicago PD, Smith is contractor he trusts. House is damaged, 5h away from Chicago.
Friday, Smith scares Mellie when he finally shows for estimate; she has a panic attack. Jay told her 8am, Smith had told him 8pm. Jay and Smith were partners; Jay saved Smith's life.
Mellie was raped 6y ago, doesn't trust anyone. Saturday, she's ripping out carpet, meets neighbor Dale. He scares her with pliers, she runs into Smith who tells Dale to go home. He's not letting Jay's sister get hurt on his watch. His cop instincts say Dale is creepy. Smith's attracted to Mellie. Jay calls Smith, Mellie's scared. He rushes to hotel, someone's pranking her. He holds her, she falls asleep, he stays so chain lock on. He likes her innocence. He offers to give tour after shower. Masturbates fantasizing. She learns she got the house because, when their parents were killed in a drunk driving accident (she was 13), GF came to the funeral, fought with Jay. She was the only family left. They spend all day together; he loves her sunshine, wants more; usually he wants to get away after a little time with women. She invites him into her hotel room, he can't or he'll do something stupid.
Middle of night, she wakes to knocking and scratching at her door. She calls Smith, who's on his way. When the doorknob shakes, he hangs up to call cops. They get there first. After giving statement, she packs to go to a nicer hotel. Stay in my guest room. She does, has nightmare blending making love with Smith and being raped by Norman. Smith wakes her, they want each other. Jay calls. Smith's 33yo, shouldn't be responding like teenage boy. He's having actual feelings. Drives to work, smells her in cab, masochist leaves windows up. At her house, he's grateful for work, because a favor is turning into an obsession. She shows up with lunch for everyone; her behavior makes him think of music video. They hold hands. He stays at work 'til 10pm, she's asleep on couch. While eating, he sees shadow in backyard; nothing. He tells her to go to bed, showers, sees she didn't. He moves her computer to carry her, sees she edits erotic romances. Jay pings her: guy still far away; he won't hurt you again.
Smith left before she woke up. Norman was released early a year ago. She wants to fall in love, have a family, feel safe. She thinks nobody will want a basket case like her. He comes home, she warms dinner, his laundry and dishes done. Not hungry, going to bed. I can go to hotel. No, don't take care of me. Trying to be nice. He confesses his desires yesterday morning, he found out about rape. He makes excuses: “I’m a man, and you’re smart, beautiful, funny… I acted inappropriately. I’m not used to someone so… sweet. I’m so sor—” She kisses him. He pleasures her. She apologizes he didn't climax. He isn't used to his heart having anything to do with sex. M: I don't want you to think I'm using you. S: You're too innocent and sweet to manipulate; I liked how I *felt*, use me anytime you like. She thinks: I’ll never be able to be normal. Smith doesn’t have time for an insecure, inexperienced, damaged girl. As much as I want him, he deserves someone who can give everything.
He watches her shut down and hates it. In the few days I’ve known her, she’s pulled things out of me I thought I’d buried with them when they went into the ground.
Erik calls while Smith is going to work. Erik is his best friend, made an orphan at 15, moved in with Smith's family. A storm made the tree crash through the house and kill his twin sister and parents, Erik took it hard and turned to alcohol. Smith stopped feeling and making commitments. He doesn't work today. He drives to Chicago and brings home her cat. Her smile makes his sore butt worth it.
1.5w later, hasn't seen her since, misses her light. It's Sunday, he knows she doesn't work, so he invites her to work on landscaping the backyard with him. They buy some furniture and a fireplace, she likes roses, so he buys 3 plants. They plant the roses by his GF's car. They eat on the back porch, no talking. He decides to tell her his secret because he knows her secret. He lies on car's roof and counts stars; had a lot of memories with GF and that car. Dinner routine continues for days.
She goes to the store. He calls, very worried because she wasn't home when he got home. She goes to see work they've done on her house on the way home. Her nerves act up. Jay calls; Norman's missing. Norman grabs her. Luckily Smith knew she didn't have new key to house, drives up. Norman gets away because Smith stays with her. Jay gets to hospital in record time, wants to take her home; Smith doesn't want to be a memory. She wakes screaming while they talk outside her room. She doesn't want Jay, she holds Smith. Don't leave. He lies beside her. Jay storms off. Too bad. When she's asleep, he joins Jay, who punches him. She's still coming to Chicago. At home, Smith doesn't pack for her. Jay and Mellie come home, she's upset, storms out, Jay follows. Smith smiles because she didn't pack anything.
1.5w later, Smith calls her. Need carpet decision. She's disappointed. You left your stuff here. I did? Yah, Sunshine. I'll have to come get it. I guess you will; bye, baby. Jay's got her locked in the house and a cop outside. She books a flight, calls a friend for a ride to the airport. When she gets to Smith's house, he isn't home. She waits outside. A woman in stilettos arrives, Can I give him a message? She gets an Uber to her house. Neighbor lady offers help to charge her phone, she goes in house. Richard comes in, Polly runs to pharmacy. Mellie's phone is behind him, she asks for it, he turns it on and wants to know why she has messages from so many men (Jay and Smith). They don't know where you are. Kills fly.
Vivian sexually molests Smith. Before she leaves, she says scared blonde girl here. He searches her house, sees her cowering under man next door. He headlocks the guy, gets Mellie out of there. In the garage, he says he wants her, need to talk. Before they can talk, Smith is arrested for assault. He tells Molly to lock the house; will be back soon. Dad's best friend (bromance before they both got married) is now the mayor. Gerald gets him out, Smith tells him everything. If you don't take a risk, you've already lost her. He goes inside as a storm starts. He won't sleep tonight. Especially because she's in his bed.
In the morning, they affirm they want each other. He doesn't do relationships, but he can't help it with her; she sees he has pain. He wants more happy days with her. His sitch with Vivian was over the day they met. He'll take sex at her speed, just talk to him and don't leave. He pleasures her, fingers are bloody. M: There's more than 1 way to be violated. She was on her back the whole time, Jay prevented more.
He goes downstairs, dry heaves, returns. M: I understand it's a turn off I won't ever do some stuff. S: “There ain’t a damn thing, nothing,”—I emphasize. She really needs to hear me on this—“that you could tell me that would change the way I feel about you. Do you get me? I fell for you the moment I saw you... and I’ve never had that kind of reaction to anyone in my life. And getting to know you, seeing you smile and laugh, that is what I care about. Everything else is trivial, Mellie. But this doubt you seem to have about me needs to end. We didn’t even have to confess how we felt out loud for you to come back, because it’s so deep we didn’t need the words. But now we have them, right? So there doesn’t need to be doubt. You’ve just gotta trust that, trust me to take care of you and make you happy.”
Jay calls Smith, Norman's out to get her. She's staying with me, bring her stuff. Jay: You love her? Smith: Yah, I do. She puts syrup on eggs, Ranch on pizza. She takes him to test French fries in ice cream. She's tired of being afraid, gets a little drunk, shares her rape story. He makes her watch Golden Girls. He wakes her to share sunrise on back porch.
3w they've been tied at the hip. He loves it. In bed, she has tantrum (Mars Venus) because she misses Jay. They digitally please each other. Erik arrives drunk in the middle of the night, almost gets shot. Oral sex in shower before work. After work, Erik is very drunk, Smith goes to bed alone, pushing her away. Because tomorrow is the 7th anniversary of the storm.
She doesn't want to go to work with him because it's too hard to edit there. Smith fills in Erik so he can guard. Mellie gets roses. Erik shows her the news clipping about the family's deaths, cries, she cries with him. Smith's sister, Sophia, was pregnant with Erik's baby; Erik had argued with her that night, that's why she was home. Smith comes home to them hugging, kicks Erik out. She stops it by announcing Sophia's pregnancy. They open up, share photos and stories with Mellie. In bed, Smith says he didn't send flowers. When she sleeps, he goes to Dirt to call in favor: get rid of Norman. When he gets home, he says I love you. They make love without penetration. She asks where he went. He won't tell her. He goes to work. She gets email with picture of him going into strip club: When you can’t give a man what he needs, he’ll either take it or get it somewhere else. She shows Erik, gets tons more dirty pictures emails, vomits while Erik calls Smith. He wants to take her to cabin, she wants to go home. That kills him. On the way to Chicago, a cop pulls him over, handcuffs him to his truck. Norman. He shoots Smith in the leg, will finish the job if she doesn't come.
In Chicago, he's replicated her bedroom exactly, except for locks, padding, barred windows. 3 days. Richard rescues her, has sliced up Norman. As they exit the house, many cops arrest them for leaving crime scene. She asks for Jay, You're his missing sister? In the hospital, a detective is rude, Jay and Smith show. Smith cries. She says I love you, sleeps in his arms. Jay reports: Norman had rented Jay's and Mellie's apartment, then waited. Richard emailed dirty pictures, sent flowers, obsessed. He had external tracking device on phone, picked Norman's locks, stabbed him repeatedly. Neighbor heard screams, called it in. Doctor comes in, gives instructions and name of therapist. She asks to go home. With Smith.
Jay is taking a much needed break, a West Coast road trip. Erik detoxed while she was missing, then left. The house is ready to sell; they found an old box under the back porch. Smith wants kids with her, to tell them it was love at first sight for both of them. Turns out her grandpa dated his grandma, did something to hurt her, the builder of their house (his grandpa) stepped in and married her.
She gets a tattoo: Yours, with a mended heart. On the way out, she bumps into a large man: Tell Smith I still owe him. At home, Smith loves her tattoo. They make love for the first time. She's the boss in bed. And it's OK with both of them that he forgot about protection.
3y later, they have a daughter, conceived that day. They got married before Jaycee Sophia was born. Erik married Polly; is she Richard's Polly? Don't know.
October 19, 2020
I think this is the first book that I have read from this author and I definitely enjoyed reading it. It sucked me in from the beginning and I couldn’t figure out which creep was toying with Mellie and I just couldn’t imagine having to life with the kind of fear she was facing everyday. I loved getting to know Smith and Mellie and the journey they had together and the love that they had for each other. It’s was cute!
February 2, 2017
Another great story by Anna Brooks!
This is one of those stories where the reader doesn't get time to think... so much happens!
Mellie and Smiths relationship is adorable. Mellie is a young, sweet vunerable girl who is trying desperately to move on from a difficult past and Smith is the hot alpha male to help her do this. Their story does not run smoothly and there are twists and turns that leave you on your last nerve!
This story contains all the elements of a great read - humour, romance, action and of course hot steamy chemistry!!
It also brings in a character called Eric who peaked my curiosity... I'm quite interested in Eric and Pollys story!
Fixing Fate is a definite read!
This is one of those stories where the reader doesn't get time to think... so much happens!
Mellie and Smiths relationship is adorable. Mellie is a young, sweet vunerable girl who is trying desperately to move on from a difficult past and Smith is the hot alpha male to help her do this. Their story does not run smoothly and there are twists and turns that leave you on your last nerve!
This story contains all the elements of a great read - humour, romance, action and of course hot steamy chemistry!!
It also brings in a character called Eric who peaked my curiosity... I'm quite interested in Eric and Pollys story!
Fixing Fate is a definite read!
February 4, 2017
Fixing Fate by Anna Brooks was a great read. This story had a little bit of everything. From humor, to romance to suspense and some off the charts chemistry.
Mellie Jamison’s life has not been easy. She finds herself living alone and isolated from the world, just how she wants it, or that is what she tells herself. Afraid to put herself out there because she is having such a hard time moving on from a difficult past.
Smith Porter finds himself barely living. Giving up his dreams, he is now just getting by. Preferring to be mostly alone, rather than dealing with emotions. But as we get to know him, we begin to see his protective, caring and possessive side. He is an alpha through and through.
Mellie and Smith both have difficult histories that hold them back from really living and moving forward. Can they break down their walls and see what is in front of them? We see them go through so much, felt so much for them and cheered them on. Add in some suspense and unexpected twists, can these have a future together?
I enjoyed reading this book and seeing both Mellie and Smith’s walls slowly broken down. Mellie was in her way, learning to be strong and overcome fear and Smith was determined to help her. His resolve to help Mellie and be there for her helped him overcome some of his own fears and reservations. .
I found Fixing Fate a beautiful story of two lost souls who found each other right when they needed each other. Right from the start you are drawn into the story and Mellie and Smith’s journey.
I give Fixing Fate by Anna Brook 4.5 stars.
Happy reading!
Mellie Jamison’s life has not been easy. She finds herself living alone and isolated from the world, just how she wants it, or that is what she tells herself. Afraid to put herself out there because she is having such a hard time moving on from a difficult past.
Smith Porter finds himself barely living. Giving up his dreams, he is now just getting by. Preferring to be mostly alone, rather than dealing with emotions. But as we get to know him, we begin to see his protective, caring and possessive side. He is an alpha through and through.
Mellie and Smith both have difficult histories that hold them back from really living and moving forward. Can they break down their walls and see what is in front of them? We see them go through so much, felt so much for them and cheered them on. Add in some suspense and unexpected twists, can these have a future together?
I enjoyed reading this book and seeing both Mellie and Smith’s walls slowly broken down. Mellie was in her way, learning to be strong and overcome fear and Smith was determined to help her. His resolve to help Mellie and be there for her helped him overcome some of his own fears and reservations. .
I found Fixing Fate a beautiful story of two lost souls who found each other right when they needed each other. Right from the start you are drawn into the story and Mellie and Smith’s journey.
I give Fixing Fate by Anna Brook 4.5 stars.
Happy reading!
May 14, 2017
I have a new set of book boyfriends to love!!!!!
Why oh why didn’t any of my book friends tell me how freaking amazing Anna Brooks’ books are?! I have had this book sitting on my ipad for a couple months now and I could kick my own ass for not reading it sooner! This book had me at page one and I just couldn’t put it down … I went to bed late and then proceeded to go to work late and found myself sneak reading while at work!!!
I absolutely loved Smith Porter?!!! I fell so hard for this man, he pretty much had me at hello….. He is just your average (albeit extremely sexy) hard working guy, but sweet baby jesus can he make you swoon?!
Mellie is what heroes are all about. This poor girl’s story is so very sad and tragic. She struggles on a daily basis, but the best part about her is her struggle. She is so damn determined to turn her life around no matter how scared she is. She is done letting that fear rule her life. I was rooting for this girl through the whole book and was so very happy when she came into her own. It was such a great transformation and because she was so beautiful on all levels you couldn’t help but love her….
The way the author brings these two together is amazing. There is a lot to be said for making a couple grow and fall in love and get to know each other before he claims her. Don’t get me wrong, I am all about insta love and a steamy claiming, but…. the way Smith faced Mellie’s fears with her and took his time with her, the way he made her come to him made it all that much better.
I loved this story and these characters so much and I cannot wait for the rest of the books in this series!!!!!!!!
Why oh why didn’t any of my book friends tell me how freaking amazing Anna Brooks’ books are?! I have had this book sitting on my ipad for a couple months now and I could kick my own ass for not reading it sooner! This book had me at page one and I just couldn’t put it down … I went to bed late and then proceeded to go to work late and found myself sneak reading while at work!!!
I absolutely loved Smith Porter?!!! I fell so hard for this man, he pretty much had me at hello….. He is just your average (albeit extremely sexy) hard working guy, but sweet baby jesus can he make you swoon?!
Mellie is what heroes are all about. This poor girl’s story is so very sad and tragic. She struggles on a daily basis, but the best part about her is her struggle. She is so damn determined to turn her life around no matter how scared she is. She is done letting that fear rule her life. I was rooting for this girl through the whole book and was so very happy when she came into her own. It was such a great transformation and because she was so beautiful on all levels you couldn’t help but love her….
The way the author brings these two together is amazing. There is a lot to be said for making a couple grow and fall in love and get to know each other before he claims her. Don’t get me wrong, I am all about insta love and a steamy claiming, but…. the way Smith faced Mellie’s fears with her and took his time with her, the way he made her come to him made it all that much better.
I loved this story and these characters so much and I cannot wait for the rest of the books in this series!!!!!!!!
February 5, 2017
This story gets a big ol' WOW! 10++ stars & all kinds of nail-biting! Smith (how cool of a first name is THAT?!) and Mellie (so pretty!) have a rather complicated relationship at first. They're both recovering from traumas, but they help each other through. And when they stop tip toeing around each other & start building a friendship, then a relationship, falling in love... Fabulous!
There's also that nail-biting thing. The twisty turns are AWESOME! Not complicated or confusing, just very well written & had me turning pages, enjoying the story immensely! Definite recommendation & re-read from one of my favorite, consistent authors. Oh, and the supporting characters - we get a cameo from some of the It's Kinda Personal peeps and from an upcoming character, as well as Erik, Jay & Mouse. Mouse is Mellie's cat. I love that!! : )
There's also that nail-biting thing. The twisty turns are AWESOME! Not complicated or confusing, just very well written & had me turning pages, enjoying the story immensely! Definite recommendation & re-read from one of my favorite, consistent authors. Oh, and the supporting characters - we get a cameo from some of the It's Kinda Personal peeps and from an upcoming character, as well as Erik, Jay & Mouse. Mouse is Mellie's cat. I love that!! : )
February 10, 2017
I really enjoyed Mellie and Smith's story. I love it when there is an instant connection that totally brings out the alpha protective side of our H. Smith may not have been ready for it, but Mellie's sunshine knocked him off his rocker. It took until the box to understand the title and absolutely loved the connection! I was hooked from page one and was grateful for the epilogue....on a side note Erik and ??? There has to be another story there! ...and Jay, please say Jay will get a story too! You know you've read a good story when you're wanting more from even the secondary characters.
February 7, 2017
Anna Brooks strikes again. This woman can give us the most Beautifully Written Stories. She has this amazing Talent when it comes to ripping your heart out after she shatters it then she fits and Fixes each broken piece back together and boy oh boy do we enjoy the ride.
I can't wait for you all to meet Mallie and Smith. One of my Favourite Couples already.
Full Review to be Posted on Our Blog on Release day. Pre-order this book you won't be sorry.
5+ Stars Review To Come..
www.sheilasbookcorner.wordpress.com
I can't wait for you all to meet Mallie and Smith. One of my Favourite Couples already.
Full Review to be Posted on Our Blog on Release day. Pre-order this book you won't be sorry.
5+ Stars Review To Come..
www.sheilasbookcorner.wordpress.com
January 30, 2017
I have read every single book by Anna Brooks and Fixing Fate is best yet! Amazing. Smith Porter will steal your heart and wet your panties ant the same time!
Smith is everything I love in a Hero and Mellie was his perfect match. Their journey together, individually and together was so amazing to read. You will fall in love with with both.
This story will leave you with such a book hangover but in a good way. It's emotional and angsty plus loving and sexy. I highly recommend this book
Smith is everything I love in a Hero and Mellie was his perfect match. Their journey together, individually and together was so amazing to read. You will fall in love with with both.
This story will leave you with such a book hangover but in a good way. It's emotional and angsty plus loving and sexy. I highly recommend this book
July 28, 2017
A damsel in distress who often puts herself at risk even though she is scared of her own shadow. She was 22 but acted like the 16 year old who was attacked. The hero Smith was an asshole but ended up okay because he was patient with her. 3 stars!
February 15, 2017
Anna Brooks has quickly become one of my favorite authors but this book was WOW!!! I don't even know what to say without ruining it for you.
This book makes you really believe no matter what your past is like and no matter how damaged you think you are, there is always someone out there for you that can understand and relate.
Mellie is a sweet young lady who has a horrific past where an older man assaulted her in her own home. Her older brother Jay has worked for the Chicago Police Department for years and is one of the youngest to make detective at only thirty-one years old. Jay and Mellie are so close. They are the only family they have left. Plus with Mellie’s past, Jay is very over protective of her.
When the man who assaulted Mellie got out on good behavior early, Jay has managed to keep an eye on him to be sure he doesn't go after Mellie again.
Mellie is notified that her grandfather has passed away and left her his house. She goes out of state to check out the house and fix it up to sell it. When she sees how bad the house is, she knows she will be there for quite a while. Jays ex partner turned construction worker / carpenter lives in the same area Mellie is staying so he asks Smith to take a look at the house which Smith agrees. The house needs to be gutted. Due to mold and other reasons Mellie cannot stay at the house during some of the renovations. Staying in a motel not far seemed like a good place to be till she gets a scare. She's very nervous and has panic attacks quite easily. For some reason, she trusts Smith and feels comfortable around him. Mellie and Smith have it bad for eachother but keep their distance. Smith is a player and Mellie is a shy, scared girl for reasons Smith will soon find out. Smith vows to protect Mellie and has her stay at his house in the guest bedroom while the house she now owns is being renovated.
When Jay finds out Norman has gone MIA he freaks out and doesn't know what to do. Should he tell Mellie and make her more nervous or keep the info to himself. Once Mellie finds out Norman is no where to be found and things start happening, she knows Norman has found her.
Sometimes having a stalker is good for finding information out. Smith is very closed off and doesn't give Mellie and info about his life growing up or his family but when Erik ( Smith’s Best friend ) stood over for a few days, Mellie finds out everything she needs to know.
Smith is a heartbroken person who can never see himself falling Inlove. Every person he has loved has been taken away from him. Even big strong sexy guys like Smith has fears. Smith and Mellie’s friendship / relationship becomes stronger as time goes on. They find out each other's past and try to help eachother overcome things. These 2 troubled people thought that was it…..no happily ever afters in their lives. Maybe they can have one eventually.
So much happens at the end of this book I was just like oh my goodness what??? I really loved this book and I went through so many emotions while reading it. I was sad, happy, hopeful, worried, and everything in between. This book is definitely a must read!
This book makes you really believe no matter what your past is like and no matter how damaged you think you are, there is always someone out there for you that can understand and relate.
Mellie is a sweet young lady who has a horrific past where an older man assaulted her in her own home. Her older brother Jay has worked for the Chicago Police Department for years and is one of the youngest to make detective at only thirty-one years old. Jay and Mellie are so close. They are the only family they have left. Plus with Mellie’s past, Jay is very over protective of her.
When the man who assaulted Mellie got out on good behavior early, Jay has managed to keep an eye on him to be sure he doesn't go after Mellie again.
Mellie is notified that her grandfather has passed away and left her his house. She goes out of state to check out the house and fix it up to sell it. When she sees how bad the house is, she knows she will be there for quite a while. Jays ex partner turned construction worker / carpenter lives in the same area Mellie is staying so he asks Smith to take a look at the house which Smith agrees. The house needs to be gutted. Due to mold and other reasons Mellie cannot stay at the house during some of the renovations. Staying in a motel not far seemed like a good place to be till she gets a scare. She's very nervous and has panic attacks quite easily. For some reason, she trusts Smith and feels comfortable around him. Mellie and Smith have it bad for eachother but keep their distance. Smith is a player and Mellie is a shy, scared girl for reasons Smith will soon find out. Smith vows to protect Mellie and has her stay at his house in the guest bedroom while the house she now owns is being renovated.
When Jay finds out Norman has gone MIA he freaks out and doesn't know what to do. Should he tell Mellie and make her more nervous or keep the info to himself. Once Mellie finds out Norman is no where to be found and things start happening, she knows Norman has found her.
Sometimes having a stalker is good for finding information out. Smith is very closed off and doesn't give Mellie and info about his life growing up or his family but when Erik ( Smith’s Best friend ) stood over for a few days, Mellie finds out everything she needs to know.
Smith is a heartbroken person who can never see himself falling Inlove. Every person he has loved has been taken away from him. Even big strong sexy guys like Smith has fears. Smith and Mellie’s friendship / relationship becomes stronger as time goes on. They find out each other's past and try to help eachother overcome things. These 2 troubled people thought that was it…..no happily ever afters in their lives. Maybe they can have one eventually.
So much happens at the end of this book I was just like oh my goodness what??? I really loved this book and I went through so many emotions while reading it. I was sad, happy, hopeful, worried, and everything in between. This book is definitely a must read!
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