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Cliffside Bay #7

Healed: Stone and Pepper

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It's Cliffside Bay and beyond in this heartwarming enemies-to-lovers romantic adventure from USA Today bestselling author Tess Thompson.


Stone Hickman is the last of a dying breed. The former Marine believes in integrity, service to his country, a hard day's work, and taking care of his loved ones. When he meets the clever Pepper Griffin, their obvious attraction has him ready to count the stunning beauty among the people that he cares for. But Pepper doesn't share the instant connection. In fact, she wants nothing to do with him. And for honest, straightforward Stone, not knowing why only makes the rejection worse.



Pepper Griffin is the epitome of scrappy. For years she's struggled to make acting her career without any help at all from her famous father. While she's still accepting meager roles with little screen time, her best friend has steadily risen to the height of fame. To make matters worse, that very same friend is happily in love, newly engaged, and wants poor Pepper, whose love life is as sad and pathetic as her last film role, to serve as her maid-of-honor while Pepper's enemy, Stone Hickman, is sure to be the groom's best man.



Though Pepper despises the best man, she loves the bride-to-be more. To keep the peace, Pepper willingly includes Stone in the wedding planning process. When the unlikely pair find themselves stranded in a snowstorm while searching for the perfect venue, they'll have to work together to survive the chill even if that means thawing Pepper's heart.

282 pages, ebook

First published June 24, 2019

1208 people are currently reading
855 people want to read

About the author

Tess Thompson

119 books1,734 followers
Tess Thompson Romance...hometowns and heartstrings.

Tess Thompson is the USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of contemporary and historical Romantic Women’s Fiction with over 60 published titles. When asked to describe her books, she could never figure out what to say that would perfectly sum them up until she landed on, Hometowns and Heartstrings.

She’s married to her prince, Best Husband Ever, and is the mother of their blended family of four kids and five cats. Best Husband Ever is seventeen months younger, which qualifies Tess as a Cougar, a title she wears proudly. Her Bonus Sons are young adults with pretty hair and big brains like their dad. Daughters, better known as Princess One and Two, are teenagers who make their mama proud because they’re kind. They’re also smart, but a mother shouldn’t brag.

Tess loves lazy afternoons watching football, hanging out on the back patio with Best Husband Ever, reading in bed, binge-watching television series, red wine, strong coffee and walks on crisp autumn days. She laughs a little too loudly, never knows what to make for dinner, looks ridiculous kickboxing in an attempt to combat her muffin top, and always complains about the
rain even though she chose to live in Seattle.

She’s proud to have grown up in a small town like the ones in her novels. After graduating from the University of Southern California Drama School, she had hopes of becoming an actress but was called instead to writing fiction. She’s grateful to spend most days in her office matchmaking her characters while her favorite cat Mittens (shhh…don’t tell the others) sleeps on the desk.

She adores hearing from readers, so don’t hesitate to say hello or sign up for her newsletter:
http://tesswrites.com/. You’ll receive an ebook copy of her novella, The Santa Trial, for your
efforts.

Much to her father’s horror, you can find her everywhere on social media.
BookBub: http://bit.ly/2esOcrn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTessTh...
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2vClTfX
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tesswrites
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tesswrites
Instagram: https://instagram.com/tessielouwrites

Please note: Tess is not affiliated with the writing duo of Charlene Tess and Judi Thompson.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 147 reviews
Profile Image for Bambi Rathman.
354 reviews80 followers
June 14, 2019
Destination: Cliffside Bay! It's a perfect place to travel to in a Tess Thompson book. There you meet up with family and friends you've connected with in this amazing series. The Dogs, Wags, and Wolves are people you love having in your life. I for sure do! I am so excited when the next book comes out in this series. Each one focuses on a couple that will grab your heart and take you on their journey of finding happiness. This novel is about Stone and Pepper.
Each of these characters have come from a traumatic and painful past or events they've had happen in their lives. They have scars that they try to keep from being exposed and revealed but they keep tearing open. What will it take to have those scars heal and help them move forward from the past?
Stone is Gentle Giant and has served the country in the Marines. He's seen a lot and experienced many difficult things in his life. Even still, he's loyal, full of integrity, has the patience of Job and he's full of compassion, determination, optimism and humility. He's got it bad for Pepper.
Pepper is a spitfire! She has gumption, a loyalty to her best friends and a feistiness that I loved. She is a person I would want to be my friend for the steadfastness she shows those she loves. She has had a bad tragedy in her past and she closes herself up to letting her feelings be exposed. She protects herself from being hurt.
I love the way how Ms. Thompson brings personality into her books. There are so many passages and phrases that make this book fun to read. There were also parts of this book that tore my heart out. Since these people are my friends and family, I wanted to help them and be there for them. That's how much this book became a part of me.
The characters in this book are so well written. It was great how the characters from previous books are also included in this one. The are all one and a part of each other.
Ms. Thompson can create metaphors that paint a picture in my mind so very well. Here's one from the beginning of the book that I will always think about:
This is Stone speaking: "Today was all rainbows and unicorns. Given the number of canned-pea type days he'd had during his thirty years of life, he soaked up the unicorns and rainbows, grateful for each one."
There are adorable and cute names Stone and Pepper have for each other throughout the book. I found them endearing and they added so much to the connection between Stone and Pepper.
This book is a true Tess Thompson work. I know I am always in for a great read! I love this series and know each one is going to have me feeling all the emotions with all her wonderful characters.
I do want to thank her for the dedication in the front of the book to those who have served in the military. I appreciate that so very much.
I do believe this book will take the reader on a rewarding and fascinating adventure with Stone and Pepper. I loved every word of it!
I want to thank Ms. Thompson for the honor and privilege of reading an ARC of another amazing book that she's written. I love returning to Cliffside Bay and look forward to the next visit!
Profile Image for Mary.
711 reviews
June 11, 2019
Another wonderful contemporary love story from Tess Thompson. Superbly written with enough humor and an edge to keep things from being too sweet….This tale follows Pepper and Stone from Cliffisde Bay to a crazy blizzard in the Pacific NW, to NYC where their love both begins and is challenged. There’s so much to love about this series, from the beautiful settings, the recurring cast of characters we know and already love, and the new ones who wander in and become a part of the crew. It's a series about family, love, friendship, and what really matters in life...And if you want to test your waterproof mascara, the last paragraph should do the trick.
Profile Image for Linda.
1,093 reviews138 followers
June 8, 2019
This is such a wonderful series. Healed: Stone & Pepper is a sweet story of true love, some laughs, a bit of tragedy, friends and family.

Stone is a great guy. Maybe my favorite of the Cliffside Bay men. He’s a gentle giant of an ex marine who loves completely. He comes from a horrible childhood and overcame so much to get where he is now. He never takes things for granted and knows what he wants.

Pepper came from a very good childhood but had a terrible tragedy to happen. It was so sad to that this happened. It made me cry so hard. Life can deal us blows that we certainly don’t deserve, but finding that special someone can help. Pepper is such a sweet young woman who thought she would never have what her best friends have. She didn’t think she deserved much and seems like she didn’t expect much. But she found the kind of love that will last a lifetime. True, complete, honest love.

This is such a good series. Every book has a story that will life you up and make you believe.
The trip to the mountain to check out a site for a wedding was so good. The preacher made me laugh until I had tears.

The Hickman children all suffered so much. They overcame nothing short of poverty to make a life. Great choices and wonderful friends. This book made me have all the feels again. In parts I cried so hard then would read the next chapter and laugh like a nut. Tess Thompson has a way of writing that makes you feel like you are there. Like you are part of the story. The characters are your friends and you root for them. You want to know them.

Quote from this book that I loved: “Do you know something, Stone Hickman: I no longer feel broken.” She placed her hand over his. “I think you’ve healed me.”

Healed is the perfect name for this awesome book...

I can’t wait for the next book.

Thank you Tess Thompson for this ARC in exchange for my complete and honest opinion. I loved it from start to finish.

A big 5 star book for sure and a high recommendation to everyone. Fall in love with Stone and Pepper.

Profile Image for Kari Hansen.
12.3k reviews92 followers
June 24, 2019
Stone overcame his less than perfect childhood by joining the Marines and after serving returned home to Cliffside Bay. He is a good man who will do anything for anyone and that includes protecting those that can’t protect themselves. He has been attracted to Pepper since they met but she has made it clear she isn’t interested.

Pepper was raised in a happy home but she has always yearned for a relationship with her biological father that never happened. When she was a teenager she survived a traumatic even that she has never healed from emotionally which affects her relationships with men, especially Stone.

They find themselves having to spend time together as they are helping Lisa and Rafael with their wedding. Stone is determined in his pursuit of Pepper but in order for them to have a future together first they must deal with Pepper’s past.

This an emotional story between two compelling characters about family and love. It is always a treat to visit the characters of Cliffside Bay and this book was no exception.
Profile Image for Jamie.
214 reviews20 followers
June 9, 2019
When picking up a Tess Thompson book I know I am going to experience well developed characters that pull you into their hearts and tell you their story, twists and turns that will take your breath away or leave you crying, and trip back to Cliffside Bay to visit old and new friends that will stay with you long after you have finished that book.

Healed brings you into the lives of Stone, a partner at Wolf Enterprises, and Pepper, an aspiring actress looking for her big break. Both individuals have pasts that they would like to leave behind and memories they would like to erase. Can a trip to Emerson Pass help these two break down their walls and open their hearts?

I absolutely loved Stone and Peppers story. I found there were times I was laughing out loud and other moments when I was bawling my eyes out. I was completely captivated by their story and the twists and turns along the way. I was so sad for their story to end but I am so excited for my next trip to Cliffside Bay!
773 reviews17 followers
July 9, 2019
Reading Healed is like attending a family reunion, all your favorite people are here to catch you up on their lives and introduce you to new people and places in their town.
Healed is the 7th book in the Cliffside bay series and while it can be read as a stand-alone, I promise you that you will binge read the whole series
Pepper and Stone are explosive together and just what each other needs to be healed!
Profile Image for Joyce Stewart Reviews.
566 reviews44 followers
June 14, 2019
Healed: Stone and Pepper (Cliffside Bay Book 7)
By Tess Thompson

Tess Thompson takes the reader on an interesting journey in her new novel “Healed” . In this story you will fall in love with the characters Stone & Pepper. She really knows how to bring her characters to life & draw her readers completely into the story. They are such wonderful characters that I cheered for and connected with.I simply could not stop reading this book once I started it. You just keep turning page after page to see what is going to happen next. She does a wonderful job of writing a great unique storyline for each addition to this series. This story is written with so much feeling and depth and brought about so many emotions in me. I cried & laughed through out the book. While it could be read as a stand alone, I would suggest starting with book 1 and meet all of the lovely people in the town of Cliffside Bay . I am so grateful for the opportunity of reading this book. Once again Tess Thompson has pulled off another 5-star book.
Warning...... you will want to have your tissues ready when you start this book. I am really looking forward to reading more by this author.

** I reviewed this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.**
Profile Image for Ga Books LoverX.
2,411 reviews24 followers
June 24, 2019
4.5 great stars outta 5! I freaking adored this book. From the characters to the story line to the chemistry, I liked it all!

One thing I want to know is where in the freaking world can I find a Stone for myself? Not only is he the perfect man for Pepper, but he is pretty freaking amazing. Caring but also alpha in his own right, that is so freaking hot!

Pepper has been through quite a lot and reminds me of a bird that flutters away when you get close to it. She does not get very close to men, but especially not military men which has her closing down her attraction to Stone right away.

What happens when Pepper can get around Stone being in the military and finally get to know this amazing man? Well to know that you have to check out this book, but I promise it is definitely worth it!

All in all, this book is 100% worth checking out and I believe that you will enjoy reading it very much!

PS: I received this book as an ARC but am voluntarily and honestly reviewing it!
Profile Image for Jenn Bentley.
55 reviews6 followers
December 8, 2019
Another homerun from Tess Thompson! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and being sucked into the town of Cliffside Bay.
60 reviews
July 3, 2019
I did receive an ARC, but all thoughts in this review are my own. Thank you Author Tess Thompson for this opportunity to read and review your Novel... Healed is book #7 in this series... every one of them are delightful to read and so far I’ve had my favorites, this one will be my second favorite... while I throughly enjoyed this book from beginning to end, it’s not without a few things I did not care for and I’ll get to that later... The Story of Stone and Pepper has surprised me on exactly how much I really like it.. the plot and conflict is really good, I loved the adventures they took.. and how they came together... I’m impressed with the creativity in this one.. I love the nicknames they have for each other and the conclusion is one of the best ones yet.. I was pulled in by the magic between these two, it was mesmerizing... I highly recommend this story to anyone who loves a beautiful love story... While Author Thompson writes wonderful stories, ALL of them has the main females as having serious trauma, I don’t know why and the last two Novels didn’t sit well with me on who caused these traumas....disturbing... The part about what the Preacher said was interesting to say the least... and I happen to love Lavender....
Profile Image for Janine - The World Was Hers for the Reading.
1,495 reviews26 followers
June 27, 2019
I was thrilled to be back in Cliffside Bay once again. This time, the couple of the hour is Stone Hickman and Pepper Griffin.

Former Marine and upstanding guy, Stone is really a prince among men. He’s interested in Pepper, but knows she isn’t, so patience is the name of his game. He’s crazy sweet and friendly, even when she isn’t. Afterall, he’s had a rotten past as well and understand how to live in and enjoy the moment and all of the little things it has to offer.

Struggling actress Pepper Griffin’s life changed one evening, making relationships hard and being around military men even harder. She’s moved to Cliffside Bay to be closer to her former roommates, but finds herself feeling left behind now that her friends have both found success in not only their careers but also in love.

When Pepper and Stone are thrown together to help plan their best friends’ wedding, She decides to try and put her past behind her and give Stone a chance. Pepper soon realizes that spending time with Stone may be the best decision she has ever made, but when both Stone and Pepper’s pasts come knocking on their door, they will both face major life decisions and changes that may pull them apart physically and emotionally.

Healed was so sweet and so romantic that I just loved it to bits! It left me with all the warm fuzzy feelings I always get when I step back into the world of Cliffside Bay.

I enjoyed learning about Stone’s past and more about his relationship with his siblings Kyle and Autumn. He really is the ultimate nice guy and just perfect for Pepper. And, while Pepper may be prickly, she has her reasons. I loved watching her attitude change and thaw towards Stone as he melted her reservations about him and ultimately her heart.

What I loved best, however, is that the ultimate decisions come down to Pepper figuring out what she needs and wants, with Stone trying to be supportive no matter what the personal cost . . . that’s true love! 5 stars!
Profile Image for Sharon Moritz-rosenthal.
2,271 reviews29 followers
June 24, 2019
I received a review copy of this book before release for an honest review.


This is part of the series, it is an offshoot of the original series but this is book 2 in this off shoot series featuring The Wolves.

If you are new to this series I highly recommend you start with the original series the book featuring Kyle and Violet (Kyle is Stones brother and their story really starts there.)

Then I would read the first book in The Wolves series about Rafael and Lisa. Lisa is Peppers best friend and in her book we really meet Pepper. Stone is also featured in there and we get to meet all the wolves and hear their back stories.

This series tries to stand alone but its more of a serial and all the characters are very close. Each book features a different couple but we still see and find out about the other couples from previous books. Kyle, Autumn and Stine are all siblings and they grew up in a very complicated environment and this book continues their storyline. The story does try to explain what previously happened but you might be a little lost as its very complicated.

Stone and Pepper met in the previous book but she found out he was a ex military guy and it made her hate him as she was attached by military guys when she was very young. He on the other hand fell into lust with her and he just wants one chance with her.

So this story starts with her hating him but also saving him and him just wanting her. Their two best friends are Rafael and Lisa who are getting married and they are tasked with planning the dream wedding and so that gets them to spend time together getting along.

As in these stories there are tons of surprises along the way and I loved every second of it. This story features Stone who I loved and Pepper who has to decide what she really wants in life It was wonderfully written and I love this series so much.
1,707 reviews14 followers
June 25, 2019
Stone Soup and Pepper Shaker stole the show. Stone has been enamored with Pepper for awhile, but she treats him as though she hates him. But he is steadfast in earning a chance to prove to her that he isn't like other men who have hurt her. Pepper has a secret that she doesn't talk about, not even to her therapist. Due to what happened in her past, she has sworn off all military men. But, she can't help but be attracted to Stone.
When Pepper saves Stone from being hit by a car, he asks her out. Even though she turns him down he tells her he won't give up and he will ask her again. She coyly tells him that she might say yes next time. When they are tasked with scoping out a potential wedding location for their friends, they grow closer and realize that they have real feelings for each other.
Just when everything is looking up for the couple, she gets offered the one thing she has always wanted: a chance to run her own dance company. Realizing that he would be holding her back by asking her to come home with him, he tells her she needs to stay and do what she has always wanted. They will make it work, long distance.
Is the wealthy, glamorous life really the life Pepper wants? Will she be able to have both the fame and love of a good man? Will Stone be able to stay away to let her live her dream? Two characters that were broken in different ways find a way to heal each other, but it might come too late. The storyline of his mother coming back into his life is a good side story, as well. This series keeps getting better and better and I can't wait to read the story of the next Cliffside Bay couple who falls in love.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest, voluntary review.
Profile Image for Kris Lescinsky.
8 reviews
July 2, 2019
Who loves you enough to stick with you when canned peas fall from the sky?

Tess Thomson’s Healed follows the continued story of a close-knit group of friends who find love and second chances in a small town nobody’s ever heard of – and they like it that way. The characters are deeply flawed, yet eminently relatable. As the series continues I feel more like I know these characters and look forward to seeing their stories unfold. Ms. Thompson does not let her characters find love easily. Each has some secret, some very real obstacle that they must overcome, but somehow it doesn’t feel contrived or forced. These books will make you laugh and cry. There are moments of sentiment and sudden laughter. One of my favorites this time - "Mayonnaise is a foul combination of oil and egg yolks and should not be eaten by humans."

Pepper is a challenging heroine, and one I wasn’t sure I could like. She lives up to her name and is abrasive and difficult in the earlier books in the series, with limited backstory provided to explain her behavior. Her friends have also had enough of her behavior and force her to address the problem with a therapist. Healed is largely the story of Pepper finding herself and recognizing the incredibly decent man who has been there all along. Stone is everything strong and steady and good, and he loves Pepper enough to let her go.

The journey to love isn’t always rainbows and unicorns, but love finds a way with Stone and Pepper despite emotional baggage, sudden blizzards, and financial windfalls. Well worth-reading, and I am already looking forward to the next in the series.
Profile Image for Pam.
4,625 reviews68 followers
October 22, 2022
Healed: Stone and Pepper: Cliffside Bay book 8 is by Tess Thompson. Pepper had a major problem in that she disliked, intensely disliked, men in uniform or who had been in uniform. She had been attacked and raped by four Navy men and carried this dislike with her even after the four had been placed in prison.
She had moved to Cliffside Bay with her friends Lisa and Maggie; but hoped to make it in the movies. So far, she had played in a horror movie but not much recognition…
Stone Hickman had moved to Cliffside Bay to finally be back with his brother and sister. They had a horrible childhood but had stuck together until after his brother and sister were in a car accident and Autumn was badly hurt. His brother who was driving took it personally and to keep from hurting them in the future, insisted he be the one to leave town. Autumn did not want to lose her brother so was instrumental in getting both brother to meet again in Cliffside Bay. Kyle was convinced to give their reunion a second chance. In fact, he gave Stone a job a head carpenter in the building of his new house. He was then added as partner in Wolf Enterprises, and created an up and coming business and relationship with the sister and others. Mother shows up and wants to be reunited; but why?
Then Stone and Pepper are counted on to go to Emerson Pass in order to check out the possibility of trash. The next thing they know is that they are stranded in an isolated home and thought they had plenty of time to get her back to the coast for a meeting. Can they make it?
Profile Image for Katrece Nelson.
316 reviews6 followers
June 28, 2019
The story of Stone and Pepper has been one I have been anticipating for awhile!!! I was invested in these two about two books ago in the series and have been dying to see Tess bring these two together and it has finally happened!!!

The love story was great but I enjoyed the struggles both characters had with their families more. Stone’s mom who ran away when they were barely old enough to remember comes back into their lives and him, Kyle, and their sister Autumn have to deal with the emotional turmoil of that. Pepper has a similar situation in that her father really wanted nothing to do with her either. Seeing how they learn from each other’s pasts was really unique and made me really consider some things in my own life.

🌟🌟🌟🌟(4 out of 5 stars) Stone is absolutely perfect and the back and forth bantar between these two hooked me in immediately. The only issue I tend to have with this series is how well things seem to fall into place for characters, which is typical of fiction but life is messy and love is even messier and I want to read about the mess so I know I’m doing it right. Maybe a fuller figured woman in the town would be an added bonus….and I know she can do it cause in her other series she had a thicker girl as the main love interest. I’m just all in my feelings though so despite all that once again Tess Thompson brings an amazing story to life and I’m already excited for the next book featuring Trey and Autumn who are just best friends…..or are they 🤔
572 reviews5 followers
June 21, 2019
The nicest thing about a long-running series is that the author doesn't need to "set the scene" and develop all her characters from scratch - she can leap straight int the story!
Opening the pages of a Cliffside Bay book is like walking into your best friend's living room - you feel at home, you know where everything is, you know everyone - and the one's you don't know you learn to know and they become part of your life too.
This seventh visit to Cliffside Bay takes us deeper into Pepper and Stone's hearts and minds. What makes them tick, what drives them, what holds them back. And we get to watch them "dance" around each other, each step bringing them closer. Both have lived through difficult events which have influenced their lives deeply and which could still potentially wreck their fragile relationship.
The introduction of Kyle, Stone and Autumn's mother fits with the theme of "healing" too and her story is powerful in its own way and a nice addition.
Every Cliffside Bay book so far has highlighted some or other social injustice and/or health issue and "Healed" follows this path too. I find these sort of inclusions very positive.
I can't wait to see what happens next in the series - I am hoping Lavonne gets some time in the spotlight too as I feel there is a story in him too - perhaps a novella...............................
Profile Image for Andrea.
728 reviews22 followers
December 8, 2019
First, this is my favorite cover in the whole series.

And now the story ...

Stone has been in love with Pepper since he first laid eyes on her. But she doesn't feel the same.

Wrong. She does, but she just has trouble admitting it, thanks to trauma in her past. And now Stone is dealing with the return of his estranged mother and revelations about his and his siblings' past that change everything.

Luckily, Stone and Pepper volunteer to go scope out a venue for Rafael and Lisa's upcoming wedding, when they literally are snowed in together. That kind of situation always lends itself to romantic revelations. I may not like being cold in the snow, but some of the most romantic moments in my life have happened in it. It also helps to soften rough exteriors, which both of these two people need to move on in their lives and to heal.

This is a great couple. Their banter is fantastic and the kind of loving sarcasm some of us aspire to achieve in our own relationships. I read this one curled up in front of a fireplace, which was a perfect location.

This one, as all of the regular-length novels in the Cliffside Bay series, definitely works as a standalone. You'll want to read it before the novella Christmas Wedding.

Thank you to the author and publisher for an advanced review copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
53 reviews
June 18, 2019
Reading a Cliffside Bay book feels like entering a cocoon of friendship, love and support. This small town takes a part of your heart, and makes you wish you could catch the next plane there and never leave! The cast of characters are extremely well developed and grows with each book in the series. This one is about Stone and Pepper, who appeared a little bit in previous books. Now we find out that these seemingly strong and happy people carry crippling baggage from their early lives and experiences, which has made it seemingly impossible for either to easily form trusting and intimate relationships as adults. As their story slowly unfolds, you find yourself practically living it with them, and hope they will find happiness with each other. Each relies on their good friends to help them figure out what they want and need. Healed can be read as a standalone novel, but it's so much more enjoyable to get to know the characters and the town by entering it through the first book, called Traded. This is a wonderful series, each book makes me feel so happy and content for the characters. I am grateful to the author for allowing me to read an ARC of Healed in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Reading-for-life (Angela Sanford).
252 reviews15 followers
June 18, 2019
The seventh book in the Cliffside Bay series is another exciting page turner. Stone Hickman has had strong feelings for Pepper Griffin but she continues to be standoffish and rude, although Stone does not know the reason why. Serving several tours in the military as a Marine, Stone feels like his life is going as planned, but a wrench is getting ready to be thrown into his plans. A visit from someone in his past is sure to stir up a lot of hurt feelings and numerous questions. Pepper who hates anyone in the military has refused to go to therapy so that she can deal with trauma that happened in her past. With the help of her therapist and her friends, will she finally let all of the hurt go and begin to heal? Will the love that Stone feels for Pepper be enough to show her that he will treat her with the love and respect that she deserves? Will Stone finally learn how to forgive others, as well? Author Tess Thompson writes with such heartfelt passion and emotions! I did not think this series could get any better but I was definitely wrong! I cannot wait to see what the wonderful Characters from Cliffside Bay are going to get into next! I received an ARC but all thoughts in this review are my own. Thank you, Author Tess Thompson, for giving me the ARC at my request!
Profile Image for Shannon.
438 reviews13 followers
June 20, 2019
Stone Hickman grew up in a troubled home. His mother left when he, Kyle, and Autumn were just kids to raise themselves as their father drank himself to an early grave. In spite of the struggles, Stone and his siblings rose above and grew into good people.

Stone left the trailer by the pig farm and became a marine. Despite his size, he's a gentle giant, but he will protect those that he loves at whatever the cost.

Pepper grew up in a loving home with her Mom and her stepdad Dack. She longed for her biological father, but he just never was. One night, when she was coming home from the local tavern, four soldiers assaulted her....leaving her broken for years to come. While some women are attracted to a man in uniform, Pepper is terrified.

And, this is how it begins with Stone and Pepper. Can Pepper overcome her fears and let Stone be the man that heals her broken heart? Or will she continue to brush him away, despite the way he makes her heart beat a bit too fast whenever she sees him?

Pepper finds herself in turmoil as she steps off the sidewalk to save Stone's life as a car almost hits him...despite her determination to hate this man, she suddenly finds herself wondering if GOD put her there because he is meant to be in her life....and swoon...
Profile Image for Malinda Wilson.
50 reviews7 followers
June 25, 2019
Another hit from the Amazing Tess Thompson!! Cliffside Bay is such a great series. Stone and Pepper clearly are attracted to each other. Stone is head over hills in love with Pepper and everyone knows it. Pepper refuses to admit her feelings because she has some unresolved issues from the past. She daydreams of the relationship they could have but just can’t make that leap. Until, she asks him to go with her to check out a wedding venue for her best friend. After spending an entire day together talking and flirting, the sparks start to fly. Trapped at the romantic wedding venue by a sudden snowstorm, they find their way to each other. You just can’t deny a love that is strong and true. Life of course has it’s way of derailing your plans and that’s what happened before they even got back home. Choices have to be made, hearts are in jeopardy of being shattered, and there doesn’t seem like there is any hope. In the end, Tess writes us a perfect story that makes us want to yell from the mountain top that love will win in the end. On the edge of my seat waiting to see what happens next for Stone and Pepper along with the rest of our Cliffside Bay friends. Everyone who likes to read about small towns and love stories needs to pick up this book and this series today.
Profile Image for Cynthia.
109 reviews1 follower
September 19, 2019
Tess Thompson understands people are not perfect, that along with experience comes baggage. In her latest Cliffside Bay series, Stone and Pepper are two characters whose damage from prior relationships gets in the way of new ones. Stone is scarred from abandonment and poverty as a child. Pepper was brutally attached as a college coed. Both watch their close friends find partners and love, while they struggle with despair that their turn will never come. Together, sparks fly but their baggage gets in the way. It's like magnets are pushing apart while pulling them together.

Ms Thompson mixes fun and humor in with the drama, making her books fast, fun reads. Like the earlier books in the series, characters are well-developed human beings who are easy to relate to, they keep me coming back for the next installment. This book could be read stand-alone, but treat yourself to the entire series and enjoy seeing the Dogs, Wags and Wolves find love and second chances at happiness, then expand their circle of love to friends and siblings.

I was lucky enough to get an ARC copy of this fun book. Since I can't visit fictional Cliffside Bay for real, I hope Ms Thompson keeps taking us there with her books.
Profile Image for Teri.
3,918 reviews37 followers
June 22, 2019
Stone was a protector born and bred through a childhood that constantly "rained cans of peas" (I love that expression). After tours of duty and his family being together once again he found himself longing for and loving the spit fire that was Pepper. Pepper had landed back in Cliffside Bay watching her best friends find love and soar in their careers while hers became stagnant. She had to fight off the green monster of jealousy and envy as she watched them and fought off Stone. Their story and the last line of the book just felt good. The battles and the growth, their dreams and successes. It's so well done that you want to believe the possibilities. The friends and family love and support. The growth of the siblings as they learned to receive and give forgiveness. The story isn't just about Stone and Pepper working through the obstacles that continued to bombard them in their personal lives but also about them working through being together. The siblings, Kyle, Autumn and Stone have some other challenges to deal with as well. Love is a powerful weapon that can heal when yielded with a forgiving heart.
Profile Image for Julianna Shields.
48 reviews1 follower
June 27, 2019
Healed: Stone and Pepper
I love all of Tess Thompson’s books but am especially fond of the Cliffside Bay series. If you read all of them, you are slowly introduced to new characters and you feel like you are apart of the beautiful beachside town.
With each new book release, it is like going on vacation to my favorite beach town. Book 7 is no different. In book 7 we get to travel with Stone and Pepper to Emerson Pass, Colorado to plan a winter wedding for a mutual friend.
Since it is a Tess Thompson book, of course, there is sweet romance and a little bit of mystery. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Pepper and Stone. Pepper isn’t fond of Stone in the beginning but Stone was in love with Pepper at first sight. I chuckled at the nicknames they gave each other, Pepper Shaker and Stone Soup.
When writing reviews I am always afraid I will give too much of the book away, so I will leave it at this. You could read this book as a stand-alone book, but in my opinion, it is a lot more fun and enjoyable to read all of the series in order.
Thank you, Tess Thompson, for another 5-star book!
Profile Image for Jodi Bird (Ruby Red Romance Review).
1,169 reviews98 followers
June 23, 2019
5 STAR Review by Jodi for Ruby Red Romance Review

Tess Thompson has been able to make me what to be best friends with an amazing group of fictional characters. I love these books. I love these characters. I love getting wrapped up in the fantastic stories. Tess Thompson has done that for me. She is a go-to always for me, especially when it comes to Cliffside Bay.

This is Pepper and Stone's book. I love Stone. As a former Marine, he's seen it all and done it all. Except he's never met anyone like Pepper. She's loyal to those she loves. She's not afraid to stand up to those who hurt her or those she loves. I loved watching her and Stone finally come together. Pepper has had to deal with tragedy in her life and I can see why she is the way she is. I love that Stone has no problem being strong for the both of them. The commitment to each other is what makes this book so special.

I love seeing all our old friends. I love seeing how they are all doing. Tess Thompson has done a fantastic job with these stories and I look forward to more.
Profile Image for Boundless Book Reviews.
2,242 reviews77 followers
June 30, 2019
Stone, Kyle's brother, is ex-military and a contractor. Pepper is a friend of Lisa and Maggie's. Up until this point, Pepper has been rude to Stone because of his military background, but of course, he was already smitten. Pepper has a bad past with men after a tragedy left her shaken. This story gives her and Stone a new start. As friends or lovers? Read and find out.

I have loved this series, and this book was no different. I loved it. This story gives you a better look at both Stone and Pepper. They both have been in previous books, but this book gave us a more in-depth look into their individual stories. I love Stone. For a tough ex-military guy he is such a great guy and big softy. He is a great character all around. Pepper, I'll be honest, was not my favorite before this. She just seemed snooty, but this book made me fall in love with her. Her tough outside hides a more fragile inside. She really is awesome. I loved this story. From the storyline, the settings, the drama, and yes you guessed it the romance I just loved it all. It was well written and an excellent read from start to finish.

Now, I couldn't review this book without giving a bit of an honest author review as well. Tess has a way of putting characters on the page and making them so real. She writes about subjects that are usually very hard to talk, see, or read about. She does it in a way that makes each book a heartbreaking and heartwarming read all at once. Tess is one of my favorite new authors. She amazes me with every turn of a page and every new book that I read.

Healed is another amazing book!

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Profile Image for Elizabeth.
603 reviews18 followers
August 26, 2019
Powerful, Heartwarming, Emotional

As I sit down and open my Tess Thompson book. I know, without a doubt, I am in for an incredibly touching journey. The real world melts away, and I am completely immersed into Healed. Healed is a beautiful story about overcoming powerful and emotional hurts from the past and how accepting love can heal you in all the right ways.

Tess Thompson gives her characters a heart beat. She gives her books a soul. You can feel it. It makes for one of the best, most impressive reads you’ll ever find. It’s absolutely amazing how much she can make you feel, just by reading her words. I felt SO much!! This story gave me so many smiles, and the twists had me turning pages as fast as I could. A completely mesmerizing read that leaves you wanting more.

Without a doubt, one of my most loved and treasured series ever! I’m very anxiously awaiting for who comes next! You need this series in your life, my friends! My greatest addiction is Cliffside Bay!! Let it be yours too!
Profile Image for Pam Fleming.
1,052 reviews
June 17, 2019
Thank to the author for an ARC. I INSTANTLY fell in love with the characters of Pepper and Stone. They were both drawn to Cliffside Bay through their friends and family who are minor characters in the book. Pepper views herself as the crazy aunt to Lisa and Maggie’s family as she drifts with no firm plans. A tragic event in her past has driven her to counseling and leaves her unwilling to commit. Stone was raised in a neglectful childhood which influenced his decision to join the military. When his tour is over he joins with the Wolves to creat a construction firm. Pepper and Stone schedule a trip to Colorado to look for and plan the perfect wedding destination for friends Lisa and Rafael. The characters have depth and development as they seek to overcome their past and the baggage they carry with them. Just when things might be changing contacts from their past once again threatens their beliefs and happiness.
HEALED is another true winner you won’t want to put down
Profile Image for Carol.
675 reviews21 followers
June 28, 2019
Healed is Book 7 in the Cliffside Bay Series. Healed is the story of Stone and Pepper.
Stone is an ex Marine who had a tough childhood when his mother left him and his siblings with their alcoholic father. Pepper has also had a trouble childhood as her famous father would not
support her career as an actress and never expressed his love. When Stone met Pepper it was love at first sight. Pepper's past troubles makes her cautious of Stone. When Pepper's friend asks her to go to Colorado to search for wedding venues, Stone goes along as driver. A snow storm has them stuck in a cabin and that's when love sparks.

I don't want to give anymore of the story away. The book can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading them in order so you get to know all the characters of Cliffside Bay. Reading this series makes you feel like your a part of the Cliffside gang. Healed is a story of forgiveness, love, and learning to heal. I highly recommend this book.
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