Enigma

Callahan #2

by Taylor Brent

In a town full of secrets, everyone knows my story
My husband left me for another woman
And I vowed never again.
I threw myself into building my life back up from the rubble it had become.
I made a name for myself with the diner my grandfather left me.
I was strong. I was independent. I needed no one.
Then he came to town.
Exotic and calm, I was drawn to him from the beginning.
He pulled me in and made me feel things I didn’t think were possible.
But can I trust him? Does he feel what I feel?
How can I let him break down the walls I spent so much time building?

After my wife died, I was lost and alone.
I liked it that way.
Relationships only led to pain and I couldn’t live through that again.
But then I met her.
Flaming hair and blue eyes trapped me in her net.
But guilt and grief are hard to let go.
How can I let her in, when I don’t deserve the happiness she offers?
Can the love of Thanksgiving and the magic of Springvale bring us together and banish the ghosts of the past for good?

Genres: Contemporary Romance

113 pages, ebook

First published November 23, 2018

Reviews

[Becky · Rating 1 out of 5]

Confused after reading!

Weird and confused is how I feel after reading this book. This is story is all over the place, maybe it's a part of a series and should be read along with that. If it's not than the author just jumps around in this story giving you hints of one couple one storyline than jumps to another. Very confused 😕! Add in the fact both lead characters are wimpy and just not that likeable, equals a not so great holiday read. If like me your into Christmas reads right now, this isn't one! Skip this one folks!

[Rina's Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

An easy to read story that left me feeling warmhearted. The chemistry was on point and I absolutely loved the happily ever after!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very sweet

I found this story to be so sweet and perfect. Two broken people meet, not expecting to fall in love or even be with the other but good old Rose has a plan for them!!

[Joe Kendall · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a lovely sweet second chance romance that has a lot of heart.
I loved the characters which are written with great care and attention to detail. The plot is full and engaging. I could not put my kindle down.
Margery is a woman who had has to learn to be fierce when it comes to her daughter. Niyol had recently discovered he has a grown daughter.
Both have been hurt and betrayed. Both are drawn to each other.
A charming read I highly recommend.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Misty Goan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic well written fun heart felt storyline. This is a enjoyable humourous journey to get their HEA in a amazing second chance at love. The characters are interesting and well developed with great chemistry.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jane Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

KU Edition reader

In the words of  Henry Wadsworth Longfellow: Into each life some rain must fall. But that doesn't mean the sun is not allowed to shine again! I truly enjoyed reading this second in the series book. It is heartbreaking at times, but heartwarming for the most part, kinda like real life, right?

[Portia C. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ok

Nice quick read. This story was a little different than the others I've read from this author. The characters were great and protective of each other. I wish Mitchell could have gotten his just do.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Margery was stunned that her husband was raving about being so much in love – with his medical assistant at the clinic, not with his wife of 7 years! He complained about the time she spent working at the diner she owned, which had put him through medical school. He complained about their 2-year-old daughter, a child he said he never wanted and accusing her of forcing the issue even though he had told her he wanted children when they were first married. Regardless, it was thoughtless of him to use their child as his excuse for infidelity. Too late to save the marriage now, she asked him to get out. He didn’t even bother to say goodbye to his child.

Both Niyol and Margery have been hurt and abandoned by spouses in their past relationships and have built up walls against future romance. But Niyol, on his way to the Inn where he will be taking care of trail horses, stops at a diner and is quickly attracted to Margery. The instant chemistry between them is very obvious as they talk and seem comfortable with each other.

Rose asks Niyol to pick Margery up and bring her to the inn for supper. Despite his attraction to Margery, he doesn’t feel worthy to pursue a relationship. He feels guilt for not being there for his deceased wife when she obviously needed him. Can Margery recognize his pain and help him to open up to another chance at love? Can she break down her own walls and love again?

This well-written story will fill the reader with warmth and compassion. These two are actually good people with big hearts who have experienced pain and loss. The story line will draw the reader in to experience their emotions, realistic enough to make the reader care for them. You won’t want to miss this one!

[anita.thebookaddict · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC was given to me by Author through Booksprout. My review is given voluntarily and all opinions are mine alone. Ty

I gave this book 4 stars.
The complex emotional content really struck a cord with me in this book. My heart was breaking for Ainsley, she is Margery daughter. Man I felt like waking the ex over the head more then once.
This story is based on Margery and Niyol love affair, a second chance at finding new love, but there's so much baggage, that both of them have from their past, especially Niyol It will be very difficult to put all of those difficult emotions behind them, before they can embrace the future as a couple.
Rose is a matchmaker......she's trying her best ;) ( she is Margery`s best friend & Niyol`s cousin. Oh! boy!
Niyol just found his adult daughter, that he didn't know existed.
So as you can tell, there is a lot packed into this Enigma book. It's a quick read, but kinda powerful!!!
Lots love, deceptions, guilty feelings, tenderness, chemistry, the sex was good, friendships, losers, a serious subject matter that is so, so important nowadays more then ever (depression)!!! Powerful women that are business owners, with a HEA 💞
⊙The one issue I had is that the ending was kind of abrupt. I would have liked a little longer epilogue. That's the only reason I gave it a 4 ☆.

[Raecharmed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Margery is a strong woman that is dealing with the fact her husband divorced her not long after the had their daughter. She's running her family's diner while raising her daughter. She wasn't looking for love but when Niyol showed up she was stammering like a school girl. Niyol didn't like how Margery's ex talked to her and he wanted to see her happy like she had before her ex showed up. When Niyol showed up at his families place for good possibly he lets a friend of Margery know that she'll be on her own for the holiday. When he offers Margery the invite from his family she jumps at the chance to spend time with everyone. Niyol was only looking to connect with his daughter but Margery had him spinning and wanting to spend time with her. Pretty soon thing heat up between them but Niyol is conflicted about being with Margery because he came to see his daughter. Will Niyol admit his feelings for Margery before its too late?

This is a great story once I started it I couldn't put it down. The chemistry between them is off the charts hot. This is a well written and very entertaining story. I would recommend this book to any book lover.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tammy]

Margery hasn't been with a man since her divorce with Mitchell. Niyol just happened to stop at Margery's diner and they ended up talking for quite awhile. After getting into his SUV and looking at his phone it appears he missed several text messages and phone calls. After calling Rose and letting her know he was on his way and then giving the details to Rose later on for what happened at the diner with Margery and her ex-husband. Rose starts by meddling and sends Niyol to fetch Margery for dinner and from there Margery and Niyol aren't fighting the attraction they have for one another. Although Niyol doesn't believe he should be happy since he feels as though he failed his deceased wife. Now getting the chance to finally grow a family with his daughter that he never he had. Jill and Luke live at the Inn also with Niyol and Rose, David and guest.

Margery and Ainsley are spending alot of time with Niyol and with everyone else at the Inn. Reading about letting go of grief and regret and allowing love back into your heart. Margery, Ainsley and Niyol deserve the HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review

[Ramona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enigma is the second book in the series following Destiny which introduces Rose Callahan our matchmaker who runs a inn near the town Springvale, Utah. In this book Niyol, Jill's father, is hired to take care of the horses that Rose bought for riding on the nature trails in the park. When he arrives in Springvale he stops at Margery's diner to get something to eat and meets Margery who working that night. There's a instant attraction between them and they start talking and have a enjoyable time, but Rose calls him and asks when he's going to arrive at the inn. The next day Rose sends Niyol to Margery's to pick her up to bring her to the inn for supper. Niyol who feels guilty for his feelings because he blames himself for Jill's mother death who suffered with depression and not being there for Jill when she grew up, is fighting his attraction for Margery. Can Margery help heal Niyol to accept her in his life? I enjoyed this book and it's a well-written romance by Taylor. I can't wait to read the next book in the Callahan series to see who Rose matchmakes again. I volunteer to read and review this ARC.

[Judy Munoz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in a series, but this book does also work as a standalone novel. I read the first book in the series and enjoyed it. This second book is another win! I loved it! It is more of a traditional romance in the sense that there is nothing unusual or kinky in it, but it is still a very powerful and inspiring read. I loved the new characters - they were so engaging and likeable - and I enjoyed reconnecting with the characters from the first book. The author weaves a wonderful tale of two people finding a second chance at love with each other, even though neither person feels they want or deserve it. The story is filled with hope, joy, a bit of humour and incredibly steamy romance - everything you need for an engaging love story. I am hooked! I can’t wait for the next book from this author. Fantastic read!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[B. Koe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast-paced, GREAT CHARACTERS a seasonal SECOND chance ROMANCE MUST-BUY!
Author Taylor Brent is becoming one of my favorite authors. She writes these remarkable novellas with the most remarkable characters who are well-developed considering the length of the story and very easy to love or hate as designed. In “ENIGMA,” Margery and Niyol were so much fun to get to know and rooting for their happy ending was as easy as breathing due to Brent’s smooth yet descriptive style of writing and her use of dual narration. Add to those great characters and easy to read prose a compelling second chance at love plotline, and “ENIGMA” easily earns an “I loved it!” nod. Now since I don’t usually allow a fifth star to a novella because of its length, “ENIGMA” will receive all 4 stars and another ½ STAR because it is SOOOOO good! I voluntarily read an ARC copy of “ENIGMA” and this is my honest, voluntary review. I STRONGLY suggest that you purchase your copy of “ENIGMA” today! Happy pages! 😉

[Debbie Caswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two people both with damaged souls can they find a life together

Margary has had to be strong she has rebuilt her families diner business back up after her husband walked out on her for another woman and the worst thing in her small town every one knows her business. Niyol is coming to visit his cousin Rose for Thanksgiving and stops at the diner on the way. He has a fun conversation with Margary but doesn't like how her Ex speaks to her when he calls in. When he phones Rose to tell her he is on his way he discovers that Rose and Margary are friends. Rose tell him to invite Margary and her daughter to dinner. Margary and Niyol are attracted to one another but she has sworn to never trust another man and he hasn't forgiven himself for the death of his wife let alone the fact that he has just discovered a grew up daughter Can they both et their walls down enough to see how this will progress Do they have any chance of a HEA

[Margarette Dibble · Rating 5 out of 5]

5+ Star's

Nice happily ever after, I love the way it story is connect to the last, I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys stories that are funny, steamy, and oh so romantic.

[Rebmay · Rating 4 out of 5]

ENIGMA is a story about letting go of past hurts and betrayals to accept a brighter, happier future. Both Margery and Niyol have been hurt in the past, betrayed by their exes. Margery’s husband cheated on her repeatedly before he finally left her and their daughter, Ainsley. Niyol was very much in love with she disappeared. He later discovered she had died, and has only recently found the daughter his wife had delivered after her disappearance. Margery and Niyol meet at her diner and find an instant connection, one both want to resist. What follows is a relationship filled with give and take, guilt, regret and at last, joy. This book expertly takes the reader on this couple’s path toward a well deserved happily ever after.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Deanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read the first book in the series and enjoyed it. I think I liked this one even better. Both Niyol and Margery have been hurt and abandoned by spouses in the past. Neither is seeking love again. The attraction between them is there from their first meeting and they both want to resist it. Here is where my only real criticism of the book lies. They both say that they don't want another relationship and that they want to fight this attraction but both give in to it quickly and easily. it would have been nice had there been a bit more development of this plot point with some tension and buildup. Otherwise, this was a heartwarming story about love, forgiveness, and family. It was also wonderful to see the characters from the first book in the series again and get to know them a little better.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Korkoi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the epitome of true love finding you when you least expect it. When Niyol and Margery met for the first time it was like two planets aligned and it was cosmic. The book is very well written with all the drama, match making, bullying, self growth and getting a happily ever after, I guarantee you will not be able to put the book down once you start reading. The book took me on a roller-coaster of emotions where I wanted to slap Margery's ex - husband and his new wife to wanting to give Margery's daughter a hug. This book should be read with a hot cup of cocoa (or a glass of wine 😜) sitting near a roaring fire, under a blanket.

I received an ARC of this book from Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Shifty Bugger · Rating 5 out of 5]

When reading this book it grabbed you from the start. *cheating husband, a wife that worked hard and raised a child.* Margery thought she was at fault for all that has happened between her and her husband. Nichol had his own problems, he found he had a daughter and wants to be in her life. With all the heart aches and pains they all found their love as a family and the love of each other. It was a heart felt story that does happen in the real world with the feeling that love does come to all when we are ready to accept.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Andrea Thompson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sweet, lighthearted later in life romance between two characters who have loved and lost before. Margery is beloved by the town, the owner of the diner that once belonged to her grandfather. Her ex-husband is a constant source of stress and doesn't seem to care to spend time with their 7 year old daughter. Niyol is related to a friend, and comes to town to help with their inn. Sparks fly between these two pretty immediately and it's a lot of fun and smiles seeing them find their HEA together.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Heather Vandine · Rating 5 out of 5]

We met Niyol and Margery in the first book Destiny. Niyol is Jill's dad and Margery is Rose's best friend. Niyol blames himself for his wife's death years ago and Margery divorced years ago after her husband was cheating. They are instantly attracted to each other. Rose is up to usual match making tricks. You learn more about Luke and Jill. I enjoyed reading this book. It is a quick book to read. You don't have to read the 1st book to know what's going on but it helps. Great read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute short story about 2 lonely people finding love later in life. Niyol moves to a small mountain town to live near his long lost daughter. Stopping for lunch in the towns only diner he witness the diner owner Margery argue with her ex about spending time with their 9 year old daughter. Wanting to defend an protect her Niyol strikes up a conversation and sparks instantly fly.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mary Burgess · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is actually book two in this series but can be read as a stand-alone. Book one was Destiny and was primarily about Luke, Roger, and Jill. It was also an excellent read. Margery and Niyol have a second chance to re-evaluate previous relationships with other spouses. Characters are well developed and good storyline. Excellent read!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Terry Babb · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read, highly recommended.
A tender tale about love lost & then, in the blink of an eye, found with someone else who awakens your inner passion. Tissues recommended unless you're not a softy like me. It was a quick love & lust & the feel goods on the back of trauma for both main characters but it was beautifully crafted around the most interesting & diverse characters that all left their indelible mark on the story. This is the second book in the series but can be read as a stand alone.

[linda wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

great read

by linda wilson


loved this sweet and heart warming book about finding love later in life for Margery and Niyol and we get to visit past characters Rose , Luke , Jill and Rodger from the first book Destiny , it's well written with great characters , drama , steamy scenes and so much more , a definite must read

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Elisa Castro · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enigma is book two in the series Callahan by author Taylor Brent. So I have a confession to make this is the first book I’ve read in this series- I’m sorry to say- since it’s absolutely brilliant!! The storyline is intensely beautiful and heart wrenching. The characters show a strength of courage- that is the root of this intriguing tale. And hey the sizzle is awesome!!
Enjoy!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5* This well-written storyline has some drama, instant attraction, smouldering chemistry and two main characters that do not wish to fall in love due to their individual past pains and betrayal. They do their utmost to protect themselves but a brighter future beckons them and they do receive their HEA. I found this to be an easy and engaging read, and I liked it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Theresa Wesley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Margery's husband has left her after cheating. Margery wants to be the best mom to dr daughter Ainsley and move in with her life. Suddenly her best friend Rose's cousin comes into town and Margery has feelings she hasn't had in a long time. Niyol has moved to to town to help his cousin and get to know his daughter he didn't know he had. Things quickly ignite between Margery and Niyol and feelings neither of them expected blossom. This is a good quick read. The story kept me interested

[Crystal ( Meeka) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book by Taylor Brent, she really out did her self with this second chance at live novel! I really loved Niyol and Margery chemistry in the book!! They hit it off right away and the sparks was off the charts!! I’m glad they both got there HEA! They both been threw a lot thought out their lives! I enjoyed this story and the many secrets that lies within it!!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.