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The Connelly Cousins #3
Michael
Time is running out for Bailey Keehan. The sleepy little town of Birch Falls has been lovely, but now her dark past is catching up to her. Living everyday looking over her shoulder, keeping herself separate from everyone she meets, and unwilling to endanger anyone by getting close to them weighs heavily on her.
Until Conlan O’Leary steps in to lend a guiding hand to the lovely, lonely, wary young waitress in his employ and his grandson Michael. Conlan has to intervene before the restlessness that’s plagued the former Army Ranger leads him to wander away from Birch Falls again. Convinced that Bailey is in some kind of trouble, Mr. O’Leary asks Michael to find out what the trouble might be, and help her, if he can.
Michael suspects his grandfather has an ulterior motive; after all, the man has been known to play matchmaker. But Michael soon realizes there’s a lot more to the pretty server than meets the eye. Not only is she on the run, she’s also the one woman he’s been waiting for his entire lifetime and never truly expected to find, his heart, his croie.
Bailey is determined to keep Michael at arm’s length but after he comes to her rescue one evening, she sees him in a new light. She can’t resist a night with the dark, handsome man who’s captured her attention and has had a starring role in her private fantasies for the last six months. But that’s all it can be. One night with her knight in shining armor. Then she must move on, for his safety as well as hers.
Little does she realize that Michael has no intentions of letting her go that easily.
Until Conlan O’Leary steps in to lend a guiding hand to the lovely, lonely, wary young waitress in his employ and his grandson Michael. Conlan has to intervene before the restlessness that’s plagued the former Army Ranger leads him to wander away from Birch Falls again. Convinced that Bailey is in some kind of trouble, Mr. O’Leary asks Michael to find out what the trouble might be, and help her, if he can.
Michael suspects his grandfather has an ulterior motive; after all, the man has been known to play matchmaker. But Michael soon realizes there’s a lot more to the pretty server than meets the eye. Not only is she on the run, she’s also the one woman he’s been waiting for his entire lifetime and never truly expected to find, his heart, his croie.
Bailey is determined to keep Michael at arm’s length but after he comes to her rescue one evening, she sees him in a new light. She can’t resist a night with the dark, handsome man who’s captured her attention and has had a starring role in her private fantasies for the last six months. But that’s all it can be. One night with her knight in shining armor. Then she must move on, for his safety as well as hers.
Little does she realize that Michael has no intentions of letting her go that easily.
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 29, 2016
375 people are currently reading
483 people want to read
About the author
Abbie Zanders
79 books2,049 followersAbbie Zanders is a USA Today Bestselling Author with more than 55 published romance novels to date. Her stories range from contemporary to paranormal and everything in between. She promises her readers two things: happily ever afters, always, and no cliffhangers, ever.
Born and raised in the mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania, where she sets most of her stories, she’s known for small town romance featuring golden-hearted alpha heroes and strong, relatable heroines. Besides being an avid reader and writer, she loves animals (especially big dogs), American muscle cars, and 80's hair bands.
Born and raised in the mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania, where she sets most of her stories, she’s known for small town romance featuring golden-hearted alpha heroes and strong, relatable heroines. Besides being an avid reader and writer, she loves animals (especially big dogs), American muscle cars, and 80's hair bands.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
March 4, 2016
I enjoyed this one for the most part. It wasn't out of this world, but a nice quick read. Both characters were likable. Although I am kind of over the whole "25 year old virgin" thing that seems to be so popular lately. I also thought the whole reason she was running for 10 years got resolved pretty darn easily. Overall though it was a decent read.
Didn't really care for the Amy and Jamie novella at the end though. Why would any woman want to even consider getting with a guy that asked her good friend to marry him, especially since HE was all into the relationship. I'd always wonder if he was still lusting over her. Plus it all started like a week after he found out Lina married his brother, it was all a little "TO" convenient and fast.
Didn't really care for the Amy and Jamie novella at the end though. Why would any woman want to even consider getting with a guy that asked her good friend to marry him, especially since HE was all into the relationship. I'd always wonder if he was still lusting over her. Plus it all started like a week after he found out Lina married his brother, it was all a little "TO" convenient and fast.
March 5, 2016
may contain spoilers! !!
3.75 stars! I actually enjoyed this one more than I thought. lol in the beginning I was hmmm with Johnny (hero from 2book)talking about ow ass looking good I was a bit turned off. Honestly it wasn't as bad as it sounds. but really I didn't like that. Johnny is really a great hero though (besides that).lol anyhow I ended up loving hero and heroine. He was super alpha and I love his jealousy. I didn't like how their first time went down but oh Michael he couldn't help it:) I did feel the whole reason her running for that long was resolved too quick. I love all the pregnancies. I want another book with them(all couples ) having all their babies :) Overall enjoyable read for me!
Safety : hero was with alot of women before. not too much is mentioned about his pasts, we just know he had lots of women. he always used condoms except for with the h:) heroine was a virgin. Her first time with hero want exactly pleasant for her. hero got lost in her. he got a little rough (not bad)he didn't know she was a virgin ..He felt so bad about it. he explains why he didn't even realize she was. you won't hold it against him and he makes up for it:)
I'm curious about the Callaghan brothers series but I don't think they are safe for me. ...I'll have to research them.
Regarding the novella about Jamie (brother to the hero from book 1 who was sort of dating h from book 1,who thought he loved her)yeah I didn't care for it.
3.75 stars! I actually enjoyed this one more than I thought. lol in the beginning I was hmmm with Johnny (hero from 2book)talking about ow ass looking good I was a bit turned off. Honestly it wasn't as bad as it sounds. but really I didn't like that. Johnny is really a great hero though (besides that).lol anyhow I ended up loving hero and heroine. He was super alpha and I love his jealousy. I didn't like how their first time went down but oh Michael he couldn't help it:) I did feel the whole reason her running for that long was resolved too quick. I love all the pregnancies. I want another book with them(all couples ) having all their babies :) Overall enjoyable read for me!
Safety : hero was with alot of women before. not too much is mentioned about his pasts, we just know he had lots of women. he always used condoms except for with the h:) heroine was a virgin. Her first time with hero want exactly pleasant for her. hero got lost in her. he got a little rough (not bad)he didn't know she was a virgin ..He felt so bad about it. he explains why he didn't even realize she was. you won't hold it against him and he makes up for it:)
I'm curious about the Callaghan brothers series but I don't think they are safe for me. ...I'll have to research them.
Regarding the novella about Jamie (brother to the hero from book 1 who was sort of dating h from book 1,who thought he loved her)yeah I didn't care for it.
March 4, 2016
Book ended at 77%.
Cheesy but enjoyable enough.
Cheesy but enjoyable enough.
November 11, 2020
This book starts out strong with potential, but goes downhill from there. It’s the same plot used over and over in this author’s books about finding your crioe. I am tired of love at first sight and virgins giving their bodies to a virtual stranger. The mystery side of this story was intriguing, but then rushed at the end and a weak storyline.
I am being generous giving it 3 Stars. The only reason I rated it higher than two stars is because I like the Callahan and O’Leary families.
I am being generous giving it 3 Stars. The only reason I rated it higher than two stars is because I like the Callahan and O’Leary families.
June 22, 2016
Bailey Keehan has been on the run for years, now she is in Birch Falls and knows it is only a matter of time before she will have to run again. Working as a waitress, Mr. O'Leary her boss ask his grandson Michael for help with Bailey knowing she is hiding something and in trouble.
Michael realized his grandfather was up to something, but seeing Bailey he realizes quickly she is the other half of his soul. Determined to keep Bailey safe, he tries to earn her trust quickly but Bailey is afraid trusting Michael will put him in danger. Michael though plans to prove her wrong.
Loved this, refreshing treat. I definitely will be going through and looking at this authors other books. Chemistry off the chart and Michael is full of swagger. Had several unexpected surprises, excellent read.
Michael realized his grandfather was up to something, but seeing Bailey he realizes quickly she is the other half of his soul. Determined to keep Bailey safe, he tries to earn her trust quickly but Bailey is afraid trusting Michael will put him in danger. Michael though plans to prove her wrong.
Loved this, refreshing treat. I definitely will be going through and looking at this authors other books. Chemistry off the chart and Michael is full of swagger. Had several unexpected surprises, excellent read.
March 9, 2016
This book was as enjoyable as the second.
However, I will say unlike Johnny, Michael is uber ALPHA and so protective of Bailey after he figures out what she means to him.
However, what kind of disappointed me was the way Bailey's conflicts were resolved in like 2 seconds. I kind of felt like the author was trying to rush through to the end of the book.
PLUS, it ends at like 77% for about a 20 page novella for Jaime. Yeah, I didn't care too much for that either. It seemed very rushed and too much of a convenience that he would fall and get over his bruised ego within a week.
However, I will say unlike Johnny, Michael is uber ALPHA and so protective of Bailey after he figures out what she means to him.
However, what kind of disappointed me was the way Bailey's conflicts were resolved in like 2 seconds. I kind of felt like the author was trying to rush through to the end of the book.
PLUS, it ends at like 77% for about a 20 page novella for Jaime. Yeah, I didn't care too much for that either. It seemed very rushed and too much of a convenience that he would fall and get over his bruised ego within a week.
March 3, 2016
HEA
I love this series! I've been reading from the first Callaghan brother to Michael Connelly and I love these men! The story was great and can't wait to see what Abbie Zanders has in store.
I love this series! I've been reading from the first Callaghan brother to Michael Connelly and I love these men! The story was great and can't wait to see what Abbie Zanders has in store.
March 2, 2016
This was a sweet safe read even though I wanted to shake Bailey a few times and tell her to grow up! I really loved Michael, over the top and very sweet.
Read
March 8, 2016DNF at 26%, I may pick his up again later.
March 18, 2016
boring. the problems seems so weak. solving the problem itself not so interesting. a no no
May 9, 2016
Excellent
I swear this was the second best Connelly Cousin book. I was sorry to see it end. Michael is more like his Callaghan cousins, I hope this doesn't end the series!!
I swear this was the second best Connelly Cousin book. I was sorry to see it end. Michael is more like his Callaghan cousins, I hope this doesn't end the series!!
November 26, 2019
There can be no greater gift than that of a loving family. Unless it is to find your Croie.
Still unsettled after his service as an Army Ranger, Michael is happy to be home among family tho still not sure it is where he belongs. But when asked to do a favor for Daideo (his grandfather, Conlan), he readily accepts even if he has that feeling of foreboding, of trouble ahead.
Bailey Keehan loves working for Conlan O'Leary and the friendly warmth of Birch Falls, but her deadly past would not allow her to settle in, to call this lovely town home. She could not risk bringing trouble to these caring people who have welcomed her into their world.
Conlan suspects Bailey has something big bothering her and asks Michael to help. But could there be more behind his request?
Does Daideo have another thought about Michael and Bailey? Can these two help each other?
Abby Zanders' stories are built around the kind of characters we wish surrounded us who have enough love to open their arms for one more over and over. Her books are not words on a screen or page, they literally pull you in until you reluctantly step out at the end.
Michael & Bailey's story will not only touch your heart, it will make a place to stay. It - and more of Abby's books - own a piece of mine.
Still unsettled after his service as an Army Ranger, Michael is happy to be home among family tho still not sure it is where he belongs. But when asked to do a favor for Daideo (his grandfather, Conlan), he readily accepts even if he has that feeling of foreboding, of trouble ahead.
Bailey Keehan loves working for Conlan O'Leary and the friendly warmth of Birch Falls, but her deadly past would not allow her to settle in, to call this lovely town home. She could not risk bringing trouble to these caring people who have welcomed her into their world.
Conlan suspects Bailey has something big bothering her and asks Michael to help. But could there be more behind his request?
Does Daideo have another thought about Michael and Bailey? Can these two help each other?
Abby Zanders' stories are built around the kind of characters we wish surrounded us who have enough love to open their arms for one more over and over. Her books are not words on a screen or page, they literally pull you in until you reluctantly step out at the end.
Michael & Bailey's story will not only touch your heart, it will make a place to stay. It - and more of Abby's books - own a piece of mine.
November 1, 2017
>Book review – Michael
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 3rd in the Connelly Cousins series and ends in an HEA. Michael is the oldest, most mysterious Connelly brother. His grandfather asks him to watch over a timid waitress, Bailey. A paranormal element is introduced as both Michael and his grandfather "feel" something about Bailey is wrong. The story uses that paranormal element as Michael's reason he falls for Bailey so quickly, she is his soulmate. In a funny scene, Michael even tells Bailey that they would be married early in the book. He is alpha protective from that point on.
>Once Michael finds out what Bailey is hiding, the game is on. The threat is vanquished, of course with the help of his Callaghan cousins. The romance in this story is so sweet. Both Bailey and Michael are well rounded characters that a reader can truly care about. For once a couple's first time is not all sunshine and roses, but way more realistic.
>This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving this story 5 stars.
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 3rd in the Connelly Cousins series and ends in an HEA. Michael is the oldest, most mysterious Connelly brother. His grandfather asks him to watch over a timid waitress, Bailey. A paranormal element is introduced as both Michael and his grandfather "feel" something about Bailey is wrong. The story uses that paranormal element as Michael's reason he falls for Bailey so quickly, she is his soulmate. In a funny scene, Michael even tells Bailey that they would be married early in the book. He is alpha protective from that point on.
>Once Michael finds out what Bailey is hiding, the game is on. The threat is vanquished, of course with the help of his Callaghan cousins. The romance in this story is so sweet. Both Bailey and Michael are well rounded characters that a reader can truly care about. For once a couple's first time is not all sunshine and roses, but way more realistic.
>This book is appropriate for an adult audience. I am giving this story 5 stars.
August 18, 2023
Michael is a phenomenal romantic suspense by Abbie Zanders. Ms. Zanders has once again held me hostage, not against my will, with her amazing story-telling abilities. Michael's grandfather had him come meet with him so he could introduce him to his newest waitress, Bailey. They know two things about Bailey without her telling them. She's afraid and she doesn't plan to stick around long. Michael and Bailey's story is packed with drama, humor, sizzle, action and suspense. I loved this story and can't wait for my next Abbie Zanders book. Michael is book 3 of The Connelly Cousins Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliffhanger.
I read a print copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I read a print copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 5, 2024
Potential to be great
This rating is based on my preference on the types of romance books I like. I prefer them to show growth of the relationship of the MC’s. This book had too many instances where they were apart and I like it when they are together majority of the time.
Just when it started to get good between Michael and Bailey, where they were finally talking and spending more than a few minutes together, she leaves him and he spends a good amount of them trying to locate her. But once they are back together, they are so sweet together. This author does a good job showcasing the love the couple has for each other through their conversations and their physical gestures to each other. You can really feel the bond and love coming through.
This rating is based on my preference on the types of romance books I like. I prefer them to show growth of the relationship of the MC’s. This book had too many instances where they were apart and I like it when they are together majority of the time.
Just when it started to get good between Michael and Bailey, where they were finally talking and spending more than a few minutes together, she leaves him and he spends a good amount of them trying to locate her. But once they are back together, they are so sweet together. This author does a good job showcasing the love the couple has for each other through their conversations and their physical gestures to each other. You can really feel the bond and love coming through.
October 12, 2019
Michael: Connelly Cousins, Book 3 (The Connelly Cousins)
The love story of Michael and Bailey (Keely). Michael has return home and is working with Ian to plan a new health Spain Birch Falls. His grandfather add him to help a woman who work for him. Michael mets Bailey and it's love at first sight. She is his croie.
Bailey is on the run from her cousins who want her under his control. She has come to Birch Falls and has found some peace there until she mets Michael. Will she lost everything or gain all? Great story.
The love story of Michael and Bailey (Keely). Michael has return home and is working with Ian to plan a new health Spain Birch Falls. His grandfather add him to help a woman who work for him. Michael mets Bailey and it's love at first sight. She is his croie.
Bailey is on the run from her cousins who want her under his control. She has come to Birch Falls and has found some peace there until she mets Michael. Will she lost everything or gain all? Great story.
June 5, 2022
Overly protective Alpha that totally loses control (and his mind) at the wrong time
Bailey is running from something or someone but Michael is willing to put in the work to befriend her and gain her trust so hopefully she will tell him the truth. He realizes almost immediately that she is the one for him so he will stop at nothing to keep her safe, but then he loses his control and not intentionally hurts her so she flees. Will he be able to find her and accept the truth of who she really is who she is running from? What kind of physical condition does he find her in?
Bailey is running from something or someone but Michael is willing to put in the work to befriend her and gain her trust so hopefully she will tell him the truth. He realizes almost immediately that she is the one for him so he will stop at nothing to keep her safe, but then he loses his control and not intentionally hurts her so she flees. Will he be able to find her and accept the truth of who she really is who she is running from? What kind of physical condition does he find her in?
January 5, 2018
Unique, creative with witty banter❤
I only wish I had read the Connelly Cousins first. It would have given me more background prior to reading the Callahan Brothers. These stories are as unique as the characters themselves.
I am so glad that I chose to read this book. It is well written and hard to put down. I highly recommend reading if you truly appreciate original stories.
Happy Reading!
I only wish I had read the Connelly Cousins first. It would have given me more background prior to reading the Callahan Brothers. These stories are as unique as the characters themselves.
I am so glad that I chose to read this book. It is well written and hard to put down. I highly recommend reading if you truly appreciate original stories.
Happy Reading!
January 12, 2020
Michael's Story
This wasn't my favorite book of Abbie's. I had a very hard time with their first sexual experience, it was awful. There wasn't a strong connection for me when you find your croie. The reason Bailey was on the run was a little weak for me. It was ok but not my favorite book in the series. The bonus novella of Jamie's story was nice to have, but not my favorite. I'm glad Jamie received his HEA. Full novel, no cliffhanger.
This wasn't my favorite book of Abbie's. I had a very hard time with their first sexual experience, it was awful. There wasn't a strong connection for me when you find your croie. The reason Bailey was on the run was a little weak for me. It was ok but not my favorite book in the series. The bonus novella of Jamie's story was nice to have, but not my favorite. I'm glad Jamie received his HEA. Full novel, no cliffhanger.
August 14, 2021
I love this series. When the Connelly's find their Croie they will move mountains to protect them. When Michael sees Bailey everything changes for him and when he comes to her aid he knows she is the one. Now to just tear down her defenses and find out what is holding her back and has her running. I love the family dynamic. Michael is hard as nails but sweet and loving to Bailey. Excellent series. Excellent read.
March 16, 2023
Michael: Connelly Cousins, book 3
I felt the book was really superior at the beginning and the end but found the sex so gratuitous in the middle that I could have skipped that and given it 5 stars. Great ending that moved so quickly that it was suddenly tying up every loose end without time for the reader to digest and savor. Even so, worth reading and enjoying Annie Zanders talent.
I felt the book was really superior at the beginning and the end but found the sex so gratuitous in the middle that I could have skipped that and given it 5 stars. Great ending that moved so quickly that it was suddenly tying up every loose end without time for the reader to digest and savor. Even so, worth reading and enjoying Annie Zanders talent.
January 30, 2017
Unlimited book. Michael finds true love with woman hiding fom cousin that tried to clam her as his wife and burned her family's home. Woman pregnant from first sexual encounter. Her true identity of a scott irish heirs. Short story, Jamie finds true love with book store owner Amy. After Lina marries his broth Kyle.
January 26, 2018
Love it
Really enjoyed reading this one .. was not only was she a mystery but she was something special to micheal .. i love grandpa he knew it all and what was up ... but some how got micheal in the right direction ... once he saw her she was his ... these guys fall hard thats for sure .. bloody AWESOME .. definitely worth a read ... 😘😘
Really enjoyed reading this one .. was not only was she a mystery but she was something special to micheal .. i love grandpa he knew it all and what was up ... but some how got micheal in the right direction ... once he saw her she was his ... these guys fall hard thats for sure .. bloody AWESOME .. definitely worth a read ... 😘😘
September 3, 2018
Abbie always deliver. On all fronts. The stories are captivating and well written. The characters are engaging and provides you with an entertaining and extremely enjoyable read.
The edge that she gives you that hint of suspense has you in the edge anxiously turning the pages.
Another great read.
The edge that she gives you that hint of suspense has you in the edge anxiously turning the pages.
Another great read.
January 18, 2020
Although I was expecting some badass royal rumble in the story, I remembered that this wasn’t a Callaghan story. But despite the lack of ass kicking, the story itself was bamf!! I have always been in love with Abby Zander’s writings. And yes, I started with book 3 because I like the name, Michael (great excuse right?).
April 7, 2020
When Michael's grandfather points him towards Bailey because he's certain she's in trouble, Michael doesn't question his grandfather's insight. It takes no time for Michael to become completely enamored. Bailey knows that Michael is the man of any woman's dreams but not hers. She can't become involved with any man. Well, Michael didn't get the memo.
May 31, 2020
My favourite of the Connelly Cousins books. Michael realises Bailey is his other half and is determined to find out her secrets and keep her safe, Bailey is equally determined to stand alone. Misunderstandings and challenges, heat, a hot alpha male and a strong woman plus some intrigue are all here to keep you gripped. Loved the story and the characters, 5* as usual Abbie Zanders.
March 23, 2022
What a man Granddad is!
Another superb book and a great way to finish this trio.
A part Irish, part Scottish young woman is working in the cafe making her own special coffee and cinnamon buns ...
This is a beautifully written story with lots going on. And has the perfect ending! Happy Reading
Another superb book and a great way to finish this trio.
A part Irish, part Scottish young woman is working in the cafe making her own special coffee and cinnamon buns ...
This is a beautifully written story with lots going on. And has the perfect ending! Happy Reading
September 13, 2022
wonderful
The trouble with reading a book that is part of a series, is that there is such a let down when you read them all. You just don’t want them to stop. One of the best. Connellys and Callaghans . Worth to binge. Would love to see follow ups of all those kids being produced. Great read!!!
The trouble with reading a book that is part of a series, is that there is such a let down when you read them all. You just don’t want them to stop. One of the best. Connellys and Callaghans . Worth to binge. Would love to see follow ups of all those kids being produced. Great read!!!
September 17, 2022
Special Lass!
Michael: WOW! He did not like to stay in one place for very long, he gets restless but then his grandfather asked him to help Bailey guide herself. Michael could not keep his eyes of of her. She was breath taking. He was very protective of her even though he he didn't know her well. It was a great story and a great ending to this part of the family.
Michael: WOW! He did not like to stay in one place for very long, he gets restless but then his grandfather asked him to help Bailey guide herself. Michael could not keep his eyes of of her. She was breath taking. He was very protective of her even though he he didn't know her well. It was a great story and a great ending to this part of the family.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews