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Cunningham Security #5
Burned
Older cover edition of ASIN: B07Q8FBG4Q
Zara Brooks needs a fresh start.
Consumed with insecurity and damaged by betrayal, Zara leaves her old life and all the heartache it holds behind her.
Or so she thinks…
Zara is deeply wounded and every choice she makes in her new hometown is evidence of that pain.
Pierce Reynolds has lived in Windsor all his life and loves the community. When multiple businesses in town are set ablaze faster than the police department can investigate, Pierce volunteers to be the lead investigator on the case.
Pierce’s investigation lands him at Zara’s front door and he’s immediately taken with her. While Zara can’t deny that he’s an attractive and well-respected man, she refuses to get involved.
Once tragedy strikes, leaving Zara vulnerable, Pierce learns there’s a lot of hurt hiding beneath her tough exterior and handles her with care. Shocked by the depth of Pierce’s kindness, Zara finds her heart yearns for more.
But Zara treads cautiously.
Because she knows how easy it is to get burned.
Zara Brooks needs a fresh start.
Consumed with insecurity and damaged by betrayal, Zara leaves her old life and all the heartache it holds behind her.
Or so she thinks…
Zara is deeply wounded and every choice she makes in her new hometown is evidence of that pain.
Pierce Reynolds has lived in Windsor all his life and loves the community. When multiple businesses in town are set ablaze faster than the police department can investigate, Pierce volunteers to be the lead investigator on the case.
Pierce’s investigation lands him at Zara’s front door and he’s immediately taken with her. While Zara can’t deny that he’s an attractive and well-respected man, she refuses to get involved.
Once tragedy strikes, leaving Zara vulnerable, Pierce learns there’s a lot of hurt hiding beneath her tough exterior and handles her with care. Shocked by the depth of Pierce’s kindness, Zara finds her heart yearns for more.
But Zara treads cautiously.
Because she knows how easy it is to get burned.
322 pages, ebook
Published May 14, 2019
495 people are currently reading
350 people want to read
About the author
A.K. Evans
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A.K. Evans is a contemporary romance author of over twenty published novels. While she enjoys writing a good romantic suspense novel, Andrea’s favorite books to write have been her extreme sports romances. That might have something to do with the fact that she, along with her husband and two sons, can’t get enough of extreme sports.
Before becoming a writer, Andrea did a brief stint in the insurance and financial services industry and managed her husband’s performance automotive business. That love of extreme sports? She used to drive race cars!
When Andrea isn’t writing, she can be found homeschooling her two sons, doing yoga, snowboarding, reading, or traveling with her family. She and her husband are currently taking road trips throughout the country to visit all 50 states with their boys.
http://eepurl.com/dmeo6z
Amazon:
http://amzn.to/2v8sjUH
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/authorAKEvans/
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/authorakevans/
A.K.'s Book Babes (FB Reader Group):
http://bit.ly/2ys50mU
BookBub:
http://bit.ly/2r3fJm8
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/AuthorAKEvans
A.K. Evans is a contemporary romance author of over twenty published novels. While she enjoys writing a good romantic suspense novel, Andrea’s favorite books to write have been her extreme sports romances. That might have something to do with the fact that she, along with her husband and two sons, can’t get enough of extreme sports.
Before becoming a writer, Andrea did a brief stint in the insurance and financial services industry and managed her husband’s performance automotive business. That love of extreme sports? She used to drive race cars!
When Andrea isn’t writing, she can be found homeschooling her two sons, doing yoga, snowboarding, reading, or traveling with her family. She and her husband are currently taking road trips throughout the country to visit all 50 states with their boys.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
April 27, 2019
I’m a huge fan of this series. I’ve read each and every book this author has written so this was eagerly anticipated. We’ve briefly met Pierce in previous books but didn’t really know him. Wow, what an amazing guy! When he meets Zara her life has gone thro many changes and she’s finally coming out the other side from heartache and disappointment. What follows is a beautiful man who adores his girl, but more than this is how he shows her just how beautiful she is. Not just on the outside but on the inside too. This is an all to common feeling for many women and men. It takes only a little time to doubt yourself but it’s a long road back to acceptance. So Altho this book is dealing with a serial arsonist it’s not the only plot of this book. Great characters and an awesome love story. I could hardly put this book down to sleep. Awesome book.
April 26, 2019
I Love the Cunningham Series...
Burned is a slow burning book that is really a great story. It’s a healing story, and it was very well written. Zara is a little broken, and insecure. She definitely has her reasons. And Pierce is the glue that wants to help put her back together. I love the dialogue between the two of them. And I love how Pierce is so very understanding and has her back no matter what.
There is a lot of hope in this story. And a lot of very different happy endings. There is not a lot of action, but it is not needed. Now... I need to know what happens next...
Burned is a slow burning book that is really a great story. It’s a healing story, and it was very well written. Zara is a little broken, and insecure. She definitely has her reasons. And Pierce is the glue that wants to help put her back together. I love the dialogue between the two of them. And I love how Pierce is so very understanding and has her back no matter what.
There is a lot of hope in this story. And a lot of very different happy endings. There is not a lot of action, but it is not needed. Now... I need to know what happens next...
February 8, 2021
A little slow but overall it worked for me
April 26, 2019
An absolute gem. Zara's self esteem and confidence was shot to pieces by betrayal and who better than Pierce to build her back up, his patience and love were all she needed. I love everything A. K. Evans has written in this series.
April 27, 2019
What a read! I cried and felt every emotion in this book. I loved every bit of it! I don't want to put any spoilers I really dont. So I'm going to keep this short and sweet! Another amazing read!
April 25, 2019
Yet again, this author has outdone herself. Pierce and Zara’s story is the perfect tale of how the confidence and love someone feels from another can soothe the most painful burn. Zara has definitely been burned more than once in her past, but Pierce knows that he’s the man to help her realize just how much more she is than the faults of those who let her down. They’re both strong (even if Zara doesn’t see her own strength at first) and are perfectly matched. Zara gives Pierce her heart and Pierce more than proves that he’s up to the task of keeping it safe and sound, while Pierce gives Zara his heart and she protects it with all she is. I felt Zara’s pain about her not-so-past hurts with people who should always have her back, which made Pierce’s fierce protection of her that much sweeter to me.
Now to wait somewhat patiently to see what comes next for the men of Cunningham Security!
Now to wait somewhat patiently to see what comes next for the men of Cunningham Security!
May 3, 2019
Every once in a while you get so wrapped in a that you can almost believe you are living in the story. Burned grabbed at me and pulled me in instantly. I really felt like I knew Zara, like she was somehow me. Zara's insecurities are so relatable and yet her bravery to move across the country and start a new life are so admirable. You cannot help but love Zara right from the start. Your heart will break for her right from the beginning and as she tries to piece back her life together your heart will heal with hers.
Good luck meeting Pierce and not falling in love. He's a strong, smart, loving, home town boy that you will fall head over heels with. He is kind and compassionate and my god, why can't real men be like him?!! While Zara may have her insecurities Pierce has his self-confidence and it is that phenomenal attribute that he uses to convince Zara to love herself. They truly are a match!
Good luck meeting Pierce and not falling in love. He's a strong, smart, loving, home town boy that you will fall head over heels with. He is kind and compassionate and my god, why can't real men be like him?!! While Zara may have her insecurities Pierce has his self-confidence and it is that phenomenal attribute that he uses to convince Zara to love herself. They truly are a match!
May 21, 2019
FTC DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED AN E-ARC FROM THE PUBLISHER THROUGH GIVE ME BOOKS PROMOTIONS. I VOLUNTARILY OFFER MY HONEST REVIEW OF THE BOOK, THOUGH IT IS NOT EXPECTED OF ME! RECEIPT OF THIS BOOK IN THIS MANNER DOES NOT AFFECT MY OPINION OF THE BOOK OR THE CONTENT OF MY REVIEW!
I've read all of the Cunningham Security series to date, and while this book was a great read, I also felt it lacked a bit of something to make it truly special.
Zara's hurts run deep, and with good reason, but she wound up jumping to a lot of conclusions that she didn't need to, all because she lumped EVERY guy in with her ex! If she had taken 5 minutes to get more information, she wouldn't have had a lot of the problems that she did. I have to really admire her strength though, when dealing with her mother. That situation was pretty rough and I think that she handled it the best way for her. I totally loved Pierce, though! He was exactly what Zara needed and was a perfect choice for her to fall in love with! I absolutely adored the slow burn of their romance, and thought it was perfect in every way possible!
The romantic suspense angle felt a little forgotten in the story, and wrapped up a little too quickly for my tastes, but it did add an urgent element to the story that kept things moving along rather well. All things considered, this was a great story and one that I would definitely recommend!
I've read all of the Cunningham Security series to date, and while this book was a great read, I also felt it lacked a bit of something to make it truly special.
Zara's hurts run deep, and with good reason, but she wound up jumping to a lot of conclusions that she didn't need to, all because she lumped EVERY guy in with her ex! If she had taken 5 minutes to get more information, she wouldn't have had a lot of the problems that she did. I have to really admire her strength though, when dealing with her mother. That situation was pretty rough and I think that she handled it the best way for her. I totally loved Pierce, though! He was exactly what Zara needed and was a perfect choice for her to fall in love with! I absolutely adored the slow burn of their romance, and thought it was perfect in every way possible!
The romantic suspense angle felt a little forgotten in the story, and wrapped up a little too quickly for my tastes, but it did add an urgent element to the story that kept things moving along rather well. All things considered, this was a great story and one that I would definitely recommend!
May 12, 2019
Yet another gem to add to A K. Evans’ collection of jewels!
Zara is wonderfully flawed and relatable , she’s been betrayed in the past and lost her self-confidence. I fell completely in love with Pierce. He’s strong, loyal, sweet and determined. He is the perfect man for Zara, and does all he can to help her find her confidence again, to become the strong woman he knows she can be. Together they become such a great couple and I thoroughly enjoyed following along on their journey. I’m sure I’ll be revisiting them soon in the not too distant future in a re-read.
Zara is wonderfully flawed and relatable , she’s been betrayed in the past and lost her self-confidence. I fell completely in love with Pierce. He’s strong, loyal, sweet and determined. He is the perfect man for Zara, and does all he can to help her find her confidence again, to become the strong woman he knows she can be. Together they become such a great couple and I thoroughly enjoyed following along on their journey. I’m sure I’ll be revisiting them soon in the not too distant future in a re-read.
May 12, 2019
5 'It's okay not to be okay' stars!
I loved this book and the MCs. Zara is probably one of the most relatable heroines I've ever read, and Pierce was simply a dream. Their story was so heartwarming. Even though Zara's heart is a bit broken and battered, she doesn't let it stop her from getting what she deserves. She takes her time to heal, and Pierce is patient as he helps her regain her self-confidence. I love them together and can't wait for the next installment in this series!
I loved this book and the MCs. Zara is probably one of the most relatable heroines I've ever read, and Pierce was simply a dream. Their story was so heartwarming. Even though Zara's heart is a bit broken and battered, she doesn't let it stop her from getting what she deserves. She takes her time to heal, and Pierce is patient as he helps her regain her self-confidence. I love them together and can't wait for the next installment in this series!
May 3, 2019
Zara and Pierce story was beautiful! It is another great story in this series!
Zara is starting her life over in a brand new town. She has been crushed by just about everyone she has ever trusted. She is like most woman. She struggles with all things regarding herself. Her insecurities run deep. She is content on being alone. That is until she meets Pierce.
Pierce is a kind man. He loves his community. He is very upset when he starts investigating the arson of businesses around his town. That is what brings him to Zara's business. He is instantly attracted to to her but can sense she is closed off.
Through the kindness of his friendship and his words they form a connection. He helps break through the walls she built around her heart and shows her that not every person is going to hurt her.
Zara is starting her life over in a brand new town. She has been crushed by just about everyone she has ever trusted. She is like most woman. She struggles with all things regarding herself. Her insecurities run deep. She is content on being alone. That is until she meets Pierce.
Pierce is a kind man. He loves his community. He is very upset when he starts investigating the arson of businesses around his town. That is what brings him to Zara's business. He is instantly attracted to to her but can sense she is closed off.
Through the kindness of his friendship and his words they form a connection. He helps break through the walls she built around her heart and shows her that not every person is going to hurt her.
November 19, 2023
I've been reading AK Evans' work for the last couple of weeks (after discovering her through a Facebook recommendation), and I have to say that I have thoroughly enjoyed everything I've read so far. It is evident that she takes the time to develop her characters' back stories, which only helps to draw me in and get me that much more invested in their HEAs. "Burned" - the fifth installment in the Cunningham Security series and the ninth (chronologically) in the world she created around the Blackman Boards crew of the "Everything" series - tugs at me just as much. Pierce Reynolds is caring, protective, and hotter than hot. We see glimpses of him in previous books, and he's always coming to someone's rescue. By the time his own story comes around, fans like me are thrilled to know that this amazing man will finally get his shot at love. Zara Brooks is new to town, with insecurities that many of us can relate to, and the developing relationship she has with Pierce - all while he investigates a serial arson case and she fights to not only build her new business, but to also overcome her past - is incredibly touching. I didn't think I could adore Pierce anymore than I already did until reading this. Another heartwarming story from Ms. Evans, and the bonus epilogue? Definitely an "Awww" moment!
Update: OMG! Aiden Snow and Kit Swann bring this story to life on audio, and it is a phenomenal way to enjoy a beloved book!!! I mean, Aiden Snow. That voice. Oh my wow! Just amazing, and he absolutely personifies Pierce Reynolds. If I'm being 100% honest, I'm not often able to get into Kit Swann's voice for some reason. However, that unidentified...something...notwithstanding, she does an amazing job of conveying Zara Brooks's vulnerability, self-doubt, and the range of emotions that Zara experiences throughout this story. And, honestly, Kit Swann is a master at snark, and that works well for Zara's character. Another A.K. Evans audiostory knocked out of the park, y'all!
Update: OMG! Aiden Snow and Kit Swann bring this story to life on audio, and it is a phenomenal way to enjoy a beloved book!!! I mean, Aiden Snow. That voice. Oh my wow! Just amazing, and he absolutely personifies Pierce Reynolds. If I'm being 100% honest, I'm not often able to get into Kit Swann's voice for some reason. However, that unidentified...something...notwithstanding, she does an amazing job of conveying Zara Brooks's vulnerability, self-doubt, and the range of emotions that Zara experiences throughout this story. And, honestly, Kit Swann is a master at snark, and that works well for Zara's character. Another A.K. Evans audiostory knocked out of the park, y'all!
May 30, 2021
Wow! Okay, so in this book, the heroes continue to get better and better. Coming off the last book with Lorenzo, I wasn’t sure how that could possibly be, but Pierce was absolutely amazing. A wonderful son and brother, an awesome friend, and a protective and very patient man. And he needed to be. I have to be honest, it took me some time to warm up to Zara, and I’m an empath. Like seriously, I feel all the emotions, from everywhere. Zara kind of wore me out though. I understood her hurt and insecurities, and I even wanted to shake her mother a lot, but whew! I wanted her to truly deal with everything. I think that with everything she endured—family betrayal, cheating ex-fiancee, loss/grief/regret—Zara could have really benefitted from professional counseling. No matter what Pierce did to show her how he felt, what he said, the encouragement from him, as well as from her friend, she kept tying her self-worth to the people who cut her down. The yoga seemed to help, and she finally got it together. I was really happy for her. I still didn't understand why her mother's brain couldn't comprehend the initial problem and why it created discord with the family. I got tired of Zara having to explain it to her. In the end, Pierce, his family, as well as his work-family had her back and I loved that.
The suspense is usually more intriguing, but I just felt a bit underwhelmed about the reasons for the fires, and I'm surprised any businesses were left to destroy in their small community. I found this author when I read about Remi and Kaia in a spin-off series, so I felt I needed to get acquainted with characters/couples that were mentioned in that series. I loved the suspense aspect, but I found that in a few of the books in this series its starts off really well and draws me in, but the resolution is not always satisfying. However, I have enjoyed many of this author's stories and love the couples' chemistry.
The suspense is usually more intriguing, but I just felt a bit underwhelmed about the reasons for the fires, and I'm surprised any businesses were left to destroy in their small community. I found this author when I read about Remi and Kaia in a spin-off series, so I felt I needed to get acquainted with characters/couples that were mentioned in that series. I loved the suspense aspect, but I found that in a few of the books in this series its starts off really well and draws me in, but the resolution is not always satisfying. However, I have enjoyed many of this author's stories and love the couples' chemistry.
October 22, 2023
Zara Brooks has been betrayed by so many people close to her that she Vows to never let people close to her again. She decides to move to Wyoming and begin again and follow her own dreams.
Pierce Reynolds works for Cunningham Security and the moment he sees Zara in her shop he knows he wants to get to know her better but also realizes she is not ready for anything but a friend.
When businesses in town begin to be targeted by an arsonist will Zara's new business be ok? Will Pierce be able to get through Zara's walls and show her that he's a good guy?
This was a good book in the series and I had been looking forward to Pierce's book.
I thought Zara was a great character who had really been let down in the past by those she loved. Her trust and faith in people had really been shattered and I really got what she was going through. Forgiveness is a difficult subject and I thought the author did a really good job with Zara and explaining how most of us would have felt in the situation with her mom.
Pierce was a great guy and the guys at Cunningham Security are truly something else. I have been intrigued by Pierce for a bit and was super excited that we finally got his story and it wasn't disappointing.
There was so much chemistry between Pierce and Zara but they built up a friendship and then when there was enough trust between them it progressed to more. There was definitely a lot of sex once it starts but there was also a lot of story as well.
I liked how Zara was able to deal with the issues she had at the beginning of the book on her terms and she felt more power in herself once she said what she needed go.
The arsonist was a mystery and there weren't any real clues given to the identity for the reader to find out. Everything made sense once it came out but it was a surprise.
It was a good story and I look forward to more. - By Rebecca
Pierce Reynolds works for Cunningham Security and the moment he sees Zara in her shop he knows he wants to get to know her better but also realizes she is not ready for anything but a friend.
When businesses in town begin to be targeted by an arsonist will Zara's new business be ok? Will Pierce be able to get through Zara's walls and show her that he's a good guy?
This was a good book in the series and I had been looking forward to Pierce's book.
I thought Zara was a great character who had really been let down in the past by those she loved. Her trust and faith in people had really been shattered and I really got what she was going through. Forgiveness is a difficult subject and I thought the author did a really good job with Zara and explaining how most of us would have felt in the situation with her mom.
Pierce was a great guy and the guys at Cunningham Security are truly something else. I have been intrigued by Pierce for a bit and was super excited that we finally got his story and it wasn't disappointing.
There was so much chemistry between Pierce and Zara but they built up a friendship and then when there was enough trust between them it progressed to more. There was definitely a lot of sex once it starts but there was also a lot of story as well.
I liked how Zara was able to deal with the issues she had at the beginning of the book on her terms and she felt more power in herself once she said what she needed go.
The arsonist was a mystery and there weren't any real clues given to the identity for the reader to find out. Everything made sense once it came out but it was a surprise.
It was a good story and I look forward to more. - By Rebecca
November 13, 2023
Burned (Cunningham Security Series Book 5) by A. K. Evans is about Pierce, a member of Cunningham Security who helps the local police solve cases, and Zara, a Flower shop owner who recently relocated to Wyoming. Zara first meets Pierce when he interviews her after she calls in a fire at the town's hardware store close to her flower shop. Pierce drops in to buy flowers for his sister and asks Zara for a date. Zara said she would go, but not until after the Mother's Day rush. Zara decides to go hiking to get healthy, where she meets Pierce and his Husky named Blaze on the trail. A friendship begins and grows more as time goes by. Zara agonizes about feeling inferior about herself and her body image based on her ex-boyfriend's view of her. With an arsonist setting fires to local businesses, Pierce is kept busy with the case and trying to move out of the friend zone to become Zara's boyfriend. When Zara loses a childhood friend and needs to return home, Pierce sees an opening and offers to fly back with her, so she won't be alone. Pierce is a genuine cinnamon roll guy on the inside but a true protector who has Zara's back when she needs him to be there for her. With Pierce rebuilding Zara's self-image, they fall out of the friend zone into their relationship's love and romance era. A. K. Evan's Burned is a double entendre with "burned" representing being emotionally singed. In contrast, suspense builds throughout the book in dealing with catching an unhinged arsonist. A.K. Evans's books are all writing at the finest. There is also an audiobook available of Burned by A. K Evans is narrated by Kit Swann and Aiden Snow, whose reading brings emotional clarity to the listener by making the book come alive. I loved this book, and listening to it was a true pleasure.
October 26, 2023
This was a good book in the series and I had been looking forward to Pierce's book.
I thought Zara was a great character who had really been let down in the past by those she loved. Her trust and faith in people had really been shattered and I really got what she was going through. Forgiveness is a difficult subject and I thought the author did a really good job with Zara and explaining how most of us would have felt in the situation with her mom.
Pierce was a great guy and the guys at Cunningham Security are truly something else. I have been intrigued by Pierce for a bit and was super excited that we finally got his story and it wasn't disappointing.
There was so much chemistry between Pierce and Zara but they built up a friendship and then when there was enough trust between them it progressed to more. There was definitely a lot of sex once it starts but there was also a lot of story as well.
I liked how Zara was able to deal with the issues she had at the beginning of the book on her terms and she felt more power in herself once she said what she needed go.
The arsonist was a mystery and there weren't any real clues given to the identity for the reader to find out. Everything made sense once it came out but it was a surprise.
It was a good story and I look forward to more.
I thought Zara was a great character who had really been let down in the past by those she loved. Her trust and faith in people had really been shattered and I really got what she was going through. Forgiveness is a difficult subject and I thought the author did a really good job with Zara and explaining how most of us would have felt in the situation with her mom.
Pierce was a great guy and the guys at Cunningham Security are truly something else. I have been intrigued by Pierce for a bit and was super excited that we finally got his story and it wasn't disappointing.
There was so much chemistry between Pierce and Zara but they built up a friendship and then when there was enough trust between them it progressed to more. There was definitely a lot of sex once it starts but there was also a lot of story as well.
I liked how Zara was able to deal with the issues she had at the beginning of the book on her terms and she felt more power in herself once she said what she needed go.
The arsonist was a mystery and there weren't any real clues given to the identity for the reader to find out. Everything made sense once it came out but it was a surprise.
It was a good story and I look forward to more.
August 26, 2023
burned.
This story is about Zara and Pierce.
This is book 5 and can be read by itself.
Zara has moved to this town to get away from her cheating ex fiancé. She has very low self esteem mostly because of the ex who belittled her and she took it.
Piece is part of Cunning ham security and is looking into arsonist to help the local police out. These two have a connection but she’s not giving in right away because of said ex. Then she seems to not realize he is into her.
While I liked the other book I had a hard time reading this book. I get that she got burned by her now SLI but she hold huge grudge against the mother when I felt her issue should have been against Michelle. She kept saying it was on her parents and family to give an ultimatum when I felt this was not so . When the truth came out her parent are in a hard spot . It’s lose one kid or another when it was told to her like that . Zara was like don’t make me feel guilty but that exactly what she wanted. I found it hard to like her when she kept crying over a dead friend who she also cut out. And was to late to say she was sorry and accepted her so called friend forgiveness.
This being said there are few errors of wording but the story is good there slow burn is very slow. It does have a HEA .
This story is about Zara and Pierce.
This is book 5 and can be read by itself.
Zara has moved to this town to get away from her cheating ex fiancé. She has very low self esteem mostly because of the ex who belittled her and she took it.
Piece is part of Cunning ham security and is looking into arsonist to help the local police out. These two have a connection but she’s not giving in right away because of said ex. Then she seems to not realize he is into her.
While I liked the other book I had a hard time reading this book. I get that she got burned by her now SLI but she hold huge grudge against the mother when I felt her issue should have been against Michelle. She kept saying it was on her parents and family to give an ultimatum when I felt this was not so . When the truth came out her parent are in a hard spot . It’s lose one kid or another when it was told to her like that . Zara was like don’t make me feel guilty but that exactly what she wanted. I found it hard to like her when she kept crying over a dead friend who she also cut out. And was to late to say she was sorry and accepted her so called friend forgiveness.
This being said there are few errors of wording but the story is good there slow burn is very slow. It does have a HEA .
May 20, 2019
Burned in Book 5 in the Cunningham Security Series. Whilst it can most definitely be read as a stand alone I look forward to reading the previous books in this series.
Zara moves to Windsor to leave behind her old life and the heartache she’s been through. She sets up a florist called Petals and puts her heart into setting it up and creating the a successful business for herself.
Pierce has lived in Windsor his whole life and his family live locally and he works for Cunningham Security.
Zara and Pierce meet after Pierce volunteers to be lead investigator on a series of local arson attacks. They have an instant chemistry and attraction and the way Pierce pursues Zara firstly as a friend so beautiful. Zara is left quite insecure and vulnerable due to being so hurt in the past and Pierce is determined to help her realise her self worth and beauty. They were so lovely together and I had everything crossed for them to get their HEA.
I really enjoyed this sweet, small town romance with the perfect amount of suspense and I’m very much looking forward to reading more from A K Evans and in particular this series.
Zara moves to Windsor to leave behind her old life and the heartache she’s been through. She sets up a florist called Petals and puts her heart into setting it up and creating the a successful business for herself.
Pierce has lived in Windsor his whole life and his family live locally and he works for Cunningham Security.
Zara and Pierce meet after Pierce volunteers to be lead investigator on a series of local arson attacks. They have an instant chemistry and attraction and the way Pierce pursues Zara firstly as a friend so beautiful. Zara is left quite insecure and vulnerable due to being so hurt in the past and Pierce is determined to help her realise her self worth and beauty. They were so lovely together and I had everything crossed for them to get their HEA.
I really enjoyed this sweet, small town romance with the perfect amount of suspense and I’m very much looking forward to reading more from A K Evans and in particular this series.
May 21, 2019
Zara has lost a lot of confidence from the demons of her past, and being burned more than once. And Pierce is determined to be the man to help her heal up her burns without the scarring. And that's all of the plot I will describe. The things that happened to Zara really hurt my heart, but boy was she strong for taking a leap to leave it all behind to start over again, and Pierce was one of those men with a giant heart, who I instantly loved. They had chemistry, and yet, it was a slow burn romance as she needed time to heal, and Pierce had great patience. Does that make sense? That happens with those amazing home town boys, so again, as perfect as a man can be was Pierce. Now, for some side excitement, there's an underlying suspense plot afoot, so there were some twists to get my f-bombs dropping as well, which always makes me extra happy. Add in a cast of secondaries who made the story better, and yeah, great read all around! I'm super excited to read more of this series! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
May 2, 2021
Heroine has too many issues
I had difficulty getting through this book but I pushed through just so I could find out who the arsonist was. Despite being able to relate to Zara's insecurities, I found towards the end that they were too much. Why does she need a man to make her feel beautiful and worthy? I feel like that is something she should have worked on herself. Pierce came off as a good guy but it felt like he was always coddling Zara and fighting her battles for her, be it her insecurities or her mother. I appreciate him standing up for her but it just came off as being way too overprotective. Is he the boyfriend or her dad?
I appreciated that the book touched on real-life issues such as women's insecurities and infertility, such as what Gwen was going through. I really like that the characters in this author's books are real and human, rather than rich and perfect, like many other books out there.
I had difficulty getting through this book but I pushed through just so I could find out who the arsonist was. Despite being able to relate to Zara's insecurities, I found towards the end that they were too much. Why does she need a man to make her feel beautiful and worthy? I feel like that is something she should have worked on herself. Pierce came off as a good guy but it felt like he was always coddling Zara and fighting her battles for her, be it her insecurities or her mother. I appreciate him standing up for her but it just came off as being way too overprotective. Is he the boyfriend or her dad?
I appreciated that the book touched on real-life issues such as women's insecurities and infertility, such as what Gwen was going through. I really like that the characters in this author's books are real and human, rather than rich and perfect, like many other books out there.
October 6, 2023
More of a 3.5 story
After Zara Brooks finds her fiancé with another woman weeks before the wedding, she leaves her job and her home and moves away for a fresh start.
Though alone and still filled with insecurities, she is content with her new life.
When the town’s businesses has an arsonist burning them down, Cunningham Security is charged to help the investigation and Pierce Reynolds becomes the lead investigator.
The moment he meets Zara during his investigation, the attraction is evident. While Zara doesn’t want to get involved, Pierce is determined to help her.
I have loved the previous stories in this series and have to confess that this one didn’t meet my expectations. It had a slow burn relationship and as much as I enjoyed Pierce, I never warmed up to Zara.
The narrators Kit Swann and Aiden Snow did a great job with the various voices.
I was entrusted a copy of this audiobook. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
After Zara Brooks finds her fiancé with another woman weeks before the wedding, she leaves her job and her home and moves away for a fresh start.
Though alone and still filled with insecurities, she is content with her new life.
When the town’s businesses has an arsonist burning them down, Cunningham Security is charged to help the investigation and Pierce Reynolds becomes the lead investigator.
The moment he meets Zara during his investigation, the attraction is evident. While Zara doesn’t want to get involved, Pierce is determined to help her.
I have loved the previous stories in this series and have to confess that this one didn’t meet my expectations. It had a slow burn relationship and as much as I enjoyed Pierce, I never warmed up to Zara.
The narrators Kit Swann and Aiden Snow did a great job with the various voices.
I was entrusted a copy of this audiobook. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
November 20, 2023
Zara has been burned. Her ex she can get over, but her family's unwillingness to see her point of view is crushing. The very people who should love unconditionally offer no support for her. Pierce is intrigued by Zara, but she's lumped all men into the same category as her ex. Faith and trust are hard for her to extend to anyone. I liked how Zara and Pierce became friends first. They built their relationship from the ground up and established the trust Zara needed to move to the next level. I loved how Pierce stood up for Zara and showed her how to stand up for herself. Forgiveness was tough for Zara, but eventually she was able to forge a better relationship with her family, especially her mother. I loved how protective Pierce was of Zara! They were really a perfect match.
Kit Swann and Aiden Snow were the perfect narrators for Zara and Pierce. They gave personality to the characters and brought the story to life!
I received a complimentary copy of the audiobook at my request and voluntarily left this review.
Kit Swann and Aiden Snow were the perfect narrators for Zara and Pierce. They gave personality to the characters and brought the story to life!
I received a complimentary copy of the audiobook at my request and voluntarily left this review.
May 19, 2019
After being betrayed by those she thought she could she has left her old life behind and looking for a new beginning. She isn’t about to let anyone close enough to hurt her again and that includes Pierce, even if he makes her feel for the first time in a while.
Pierce is an investigator at Cunningham Security who is investigating the mysterious arson cases that are escalating in town which brings him to Zara and her flower shop. He is drawn to her in a way he has never felt before and he senses the damaged soul under her cool exterior.
Pierce is so patient and understanding as he tries to show her by words and action that he can be trusted and helps her regain the strong confident woman she used to be.
Pierce is an investigator at Cunningham Security who is investigating the mysterious arson cases that are escalating in town which brings him to Zara and her flower shop. He is drawn to her in a way he has never felt before and he senses the damaged soul under her cool exterior.
Pierce is so patient and understanding as he tries to show her by words and action that he can be trusted and helps her regain the strong confident woman she used to be.
May 21, 2019
This is the story of a town burning with an arsonist on the loose. It is also a beautiful story of a woman who has lost confidence in herself and belief in love.
Zara leaves her home and family to come across the country to Windsor. To begin her life over again, to heal and prove to everyone, including herself she can make it on her own. Meeting Peirce, little did Zara know just how much she would come to need him. Peirce taught Zara to see the good in herself and that love is real, building her up when she was down. Feeling many emotions as I read the pages, I found myself wondering why there aren’t more Peirce’s out there.
This story has suspense, love, and most of all hope. Hope that we can all find a Peirce in our lives.
Zara leaves her home and family to come across the country to Windsor. To begin her life over again, to heal and prove to everyone, including herself she can make it on her own. Meeting Peirce, little did Zara know just how much she would come to need him. Peirce taught Zara to see the good in herself and that love is real, building her up when she was down. Feeling many emotions as I read the pages, I found myself wondering why there aren’t more Peirce’s out there.
This story has suspense, love, and most of all hope. Hope that we can all find a Peirce in our lives.
June 2, 2019
This is the story of a town burning with an arsonist on the loose. It is also a beautiful story of a woman who has lost confidence in herself and belief in love.
Zara leaves her home and family to come across the country to Windsor. To begin her life over again, to heal and prove to everyone, including herself she can make it on her own. Meeting Peirce, little did Zara know just how much she would come to need him. Peirce taught Zara to see the good in herself and that love is real, building her up when she was down. Feeling many emotions as I read the pages, I found myself wondering why there aren’t more Peirce’s out there.
This story has suspense, love, and most of all hope. Hope that we can all find a Peirce in our lives.
Zara leaves her home and family to come across the country to Windsor. To begin her life over again, to heal and prove to everyone, including herself she can make it on her own. Meeting Peirce, little did Zara know just how much she would come to need him. Peirce taught Zara to see the good in herself and that love is real, building her up when she was down. Feeling many emotions as I read the pages, I found myself wondering why there aren’t more Peirce’s out there.
This story has suspense, love, and most of all hope. Hope that we can all find a Peirce in our lives.
January 25, 2021
Burn Needs a Spark!
My first criticism of this series. I am binge reading so it’s easier to pick up patterns of writing you may not notice otherwise. The stories are all starting to be the same. Relationship, town drama, family drama, solve the problems. I didn’t pick up on this as much in the other books because the interconnected families and past character revisits helped by being invested with them getting their HEA. These were the first two characters not connected by family in the series. The slow burn love got boring. The town drama being investigated was boring. If you are going to write about a top level security team and sprinkle in suspense, commit to it. The guys investigative skills are sorely lacking and they need a CSI guy quickly. Lol!
My first criticism of this series. I am binge reading so it’s easier to pick up patterns of writing you may not notice otherwise. The stories are all starting to be the same. Relationship, town drama, family drama, solve the problems. I didn’t pick up on this as much in the other books because the interconnected families and past character revisits helped by being invested with them getting their HEA. These were the first two characters not connected by family in the series. The slow burn love got boring. The town drama being investigated was boring. If you are going to write about a top level security team and sprinkle in suspense, commit to it. The guys investigative skills are sorely lacking and they need a CSI guy quickly. Lol!
November 13, 2023
This is the fifth book in this phenomenal series, and this is Pierce and Zara’s story.
Pierce works for Cunningham Security, and help the local police department out with cases, and Zara is a flower shop owner, who recently moved into town needing a fresh start after a betrayal. When an arsonist starts settling business’s ablaze in town, Pierces’ investigation brings him to Zara’s shop. Pierce is instantly attracted to Zara and is determined to break through her insecurities.
This is a well written action packed, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, tragedy, suspense, danger, intrigue, romance, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and steamy page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Pierce works for Cunningham Security, and help the local police department out with cases, and Zara is a flower shop owner, who recently moved into town needing a fresh start after a betrayal. When an arsonist starts settling business’s ablaze in town, Pierces’ investigation brings him to Zara’s shop. Pierce is instantly attracted to Zara and is determined to break through her insecurities.
This is a well written action packed, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, tragedy, suspense, danger, intrigue, romance, and love, which leads to an entertaining, and steamy page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
February 15, 2024
Unfulfilled with a routine but lucrative career, family issues so intense it’s barely cordial and a fiancé in the booth in front of her passionately kissing a new woman weeks before their wedding, Zara Brooks decides it’s time. Relocating from Pa to Wy, Zara opens a flower shop and gets a cat. Though involuntarily drooling over and having her ovaries explode over investigator Pierce Reynolds, Zara didn’t think she had the goods or deserved a guy that made her have that reaction.
When Pierce comes to Zara’s shop to find out if she has anything to add to his investigation of the recent spate of arsons especially the one a few doors down, he lets his interest be known but Zara’s not believing him for one instant.
Rating: 3.75stars
When Pierce comes to Zara’s shop to find out if she has anything to add to his investigation of the recent spate of arsons especially the one a few doors down, he lets his interest be known but Zara’s not believing him for one instant.
Rating: 3.75stars
November 30, 2023
a Little Pretty to Brighten Your Day
Title: Burned
Author: A. K. Evans
Format: ebook
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Standalone/ yrs
Part of a Series: Bok 4 of Cunningham Security
POV: Zara, Pierce mostly
Steam Level: slow burn to streaky
4/5
Overall I really like Zara and Pierce’s story. But Zara’s insecurities started to become annoying. Luckily at that point A.K. Evans had her chats yet grow so that she was a bit more confident I enjoyed the mystery as well but the investigation wasn’t a huge part of Zara and Pierce’s story. Overall I’m really enjoying this series and the guys at Cunningham Security.
Title: Burned
Author: A. K. Evans
Format: ebook
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Standalone/ yrs
Part of a Series: Bok 4 of Cunningham Security
POV: Zara, Pierce mostly
Steam Level: slow burn to streaky
4/5
Overall I really like Zara and Pierce’s story. But Zara’s insecurities started to become annoying. Luckily at that point A.K. Evans had her chats yet grow so that she was a bit more confident I enjoyed the mystery as well but the investigation wasn’t a huge part of Zara and Pierce’s story. Overall I’m really enjoying this series and the guys at Cunningham Security.
January 14, 2024
Great!
I chose this rating because this was actually a pretty great book. I really enjoyed pretty much all of the characters. This was a book of understanding, compassion, kindness, acceptance, dealing with betrayal, someone having your back, and also falling in love. I really enjoyed Pierce And Zara story. I think the author did an amazing job with putting these two characters together. Pierce made a great boyfriend when Zara was going through a difficult with her friend and her family. He was right by her side. Great read! I recommend this book to all romance readers.
I chose this rating because this was actually a pretty great book. I really enjoyed pretty much all of the characters. This was a book of understanding, compassion, kindness, acceptance, dealing with betrayal, someone having your back, and also falling in love. I really enjoyed Pierce And Zara story. I think the author did an amazing job with putting these two characters together. Pierce made a great boyfriend when Zara was going through a difficult with her friend and her family. He was right by her side. Great read! I recommend this book to all romance readers.
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