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Shelter
When Grant Daniels is unexpectedly discharged from the Marines, he heads back to his childhood home of Moon Lake, Idaho to run his family’s lodge. The place has seen better days and so has he. The wedding party from hell (actually New York City) checks in, complete with paparazzi and a Bridezilla. Nothing in his training has prepared him for an invasion of this scale.
Legend has it that if you look into the still waters of Moon Lake on the full moon, you’ll see the face of your true love on the water. Paige Ross doesn’t need fairy tales, though. She’s got a ring on her finger and a white dress stuffed in the back of her closet. There’s no backing out now, even if her impending nuptials feel more like a prison sentence for a crime she didn’t commit.
The moonlight shows her things she never knew existed, including a gruff ex-Marine that Paige knows she shouldn’t be looking at. She should stay away; she’s about to say “I do.” But Grant Daniels pulls at her like gravity. The moon is rising and the wedding bells are sounding more and more like an alarm.
What will she see when she looks in the water? A marriage… or a Marine?
Legend has it that if you look into the still waters of Moon Lake on the full moon, you’ll see the face of your true love on the water. Paige Ross doesn’t need fairy tales, though. She’s got a ring on her finger and a white dress stuffed in the back of her closet. There’s no backing out now, even if her impending nuptials feel more like a prison sentence for a crime she didn’t commit.
The moonlight shows her things she never knew existed, including a gruff ex-Marine that Paige knows she shouldn’t be looking at. She should stay away; she’s about to say “I do.” But Grant Daniels pulls at her like gravity. The moon is rising and the wedding bells are sounding more and more like an alarm.
What will she see when she looks in the water? A marriage… or a Marine?
- GenresRomance
444 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 16, 2019
45 people are currently reading
64 people want to read
About the author
Dahlia West
24 books945 followersAmateur Writer. Professional Procrastinator. Voted Least Likely to Succeed in high school. Twice. Dean's list-Purdue University. Honorary Southerner. Future stand-up comedian. Gen X.
www.dahliawest.com
DahliaMWest@gmail.com
Follow me on IG: dahlia_west_13
www.dahliawest.com
DahliaMWest@gmail.com
Follow me on IG: dahlia_west_13
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
May 20, 2019
4.5 Stars!
SHE’S BACK!!!
It’s been two years and eleven months (not that I’ve been counting or anything) since Dahlia West published a book. And I’ve truly missed her writing.
I’ve read - and loved - everything she’s written. So when I went looking on her website a couple years ago and found out she was experiencing a terrible case of writer’s block in the middle of her Star Valley series, I was saddened - mostly for her, but also myself. I sought comfort in multiple rereadings of her Burnout series, which is one of my favorites of all time. When I got a newsletter saying she’d published a new book, I legit did a happy dance and one-clicked it without a second thought. Had it not been for my son’s pesky baseball play-off game, I would have dived right in the very moment it downloaded into my Kindle. But don’t you know, I DID the SECOND we got in the car for the five hour ride home!
Grant Daniels escaped to his childhood home in Idaho after being discharged from the Marines. His two best friends from his unit - Silas and Cole - followed him there, and together they are determined to resurrect Moon Lake Lodge from the disrepair it had fallen in while Grant was away.
Paige Ross has arrived at Moon Lake Lodge for her destination wedding, with best friend Savannah, snooty mother, and sleazy fiance in tow. To Grant’s eye, the pampered princess looks far from the excited blushing bride one would expect for someone getting married in three days.
When Paige calls off her wedding, she decides to stay at the lodge and ask Grant for a job. And the more time they spend together, the harder it is to deny the growing feelings between them. Just when they both think the happiness they never thought they’d find could be theirs, the past comes back to threaten everything.
The start of this Moon Lake series is very reminiscent of the Burnout series (a group of former military men - this time Marines instead of Army Rangers - follow their leader home after leaving the military), however things were just different enough that it didn’t feel like the author was recycling plots. Hopefully that holds up for the remaining books.
What wasn’t different - thankfully - is the witty, humorous banter and good natured joking between the hero and his friends. It’s my favorite thing about Dahlia West’s books - whether it’s friends (the Burnout series) or family (Stark Ink series and Star Valley series), the comedy and camaraderie between the male characters is the BEST . Also, the men are strong and bossy, but - in my opinion - don’t venture into the stereotype alpha male hero. I know the grunting, edict barking, chest pounding “hero” is all the rage these days, but I always wonder if any 21st century woman really wants a man like that. I prefer heroes who are more circumspect in their behavior, and Ms. West nails it every time.
I also like her heroines. They have just a touch of the “damsel in distress” vibe that brings out the protective nature in their heroes, but have an internal pluckiness that makes them a good match for the men who love them. No shrinking violets or too-stupid-to-live antics here!
The thing I love about Dahlia West is that she writes multi-book series, and you get a continuing story throughout the series. They really aren’t meant to be read as standalones, which is great if you are willing to invest in reading a thousand or so compelling, heart wrenching, heart warming pages. If not, you will still enjoy the books, but you won’t get the full emotional investment as when you learn about multiple characters and have seen them in a variety of situations, both focused directly on them and in the periphery of other stories. No one else can weave compelling plot after compelling plot, book after book, and have it flow effortlessly.
All that gushing aside, I do feel like I need to mention the one thing that was a bit disappointing for me. There were A LOT of editing/proofreading errors in this book. I don’t remember this being such a big issue in her previous books, so I’m not sure what changed for her. Maybe she just needs a good beta reader that can catch those pesky goofs...
(PS Ms. West, you can contact me through Goodreads!)
I am a HUGE Dahlia West fan, and can’t wait to read more. I'm so happy her words are flowing again, and I wish her the best of best good writing vibes. And I’m so excited for the rest of the Moon Lake series!
SHE’S BACK!!!
It’s been two years and eleven months (not that I’ve been counting or anything) since Dahlia West published a book. And I’ve truly missed her writing.
I’ve read - and loved - everything she’s written. So when I went looking on her website a couple years ago and found out she was experiencing a terrible case of writer’s block in the middle of her Star Valley series, I was saddened - mostly for her, but also myself. I sought comfort in multiple rereadings of her Burnout series, which is one of my favorites of all time. When I got a newsletter saying she’d published a new book, I legit did a happy dance and one-clicked it without a second thought. Had it not been for my son’s pesky baseball play-off game, I would have dived right in the very moment it downloaded into my Kindle. But don’t you know, I DID the SECOND we got in the car for the five hour ride home!
Grant Daniels escaped to his childhood home in Idaho after being discharged from the Marines. His two best friends from his unit - Silas and Cole - followed him there, and together they are determined to resurrect Moon Lake Lodge from the disrepair it had fallen in while Grant was away.
Paige Ross has arrived at Moon Lake Lodge for her destination wedding, with best friend Savannah, snooty mother, and sleazy fiance in tow. To Grant’s eye, the pampered princess looks far from the excited blushing bride one would expect for someone getting married in three days.
When Paige calls off her wedding, she decides to stay at the lodge and ask Grant for a job. And the more time they spend together, the harder it is to deny the growing feelings between them. Just when they both think the happiness they never thought they’d find could be theirs, the past comes back to threaten everything.
The start of this Moon Lake series is very reminiscent of the Burnout series (a group of former military men - this time Marines instead of Army Rangers - follow their leader home after leaving the military), however things were just different enough that it didn’t feel like the author was recycling plots. Hopefully that holds up for the remaining books.
What wasn’t different - thankfully - is the witty, humorous banter and good natured joking between the hero and his friends. It’s my favorite thing about Dahlia West’s books - whether it’s friends (the Burnout series) or family (Stark Ink series and Star Valley series), the comedy and camaraderie between the male characters is the BEST . Also, the men are strong and bossy, but - in my opinion - don’t venture into the stereotype alpha male hero. I know the grunting, edict barking, chest pounding “hero” is all the rage these days, but I always wonder if any 21st century woman really wants a man like that. I prefer heroes who are more circumspect in their behavior, and Ms. West nails it every time.
I also like her heroines. They have just a touch of the “damsel in distress” vibe that brings out the protective nature in their heroes, but have an internal pluckiness that makes them a good match for the men who love them. No shrinking violets or too-stupid-to-live antics here!
The thing I love about Dahlia West is that she writes multi-book series, and you get a continuing story throughout the series. They really aren’t meant to be read as standalones, which is great if you are willing to invest in reading a thousand or so compelling, heart wrenching, heart warming pages. If not, you will still enjoy the books, but you won’t get the full emotional investment as when you learn about multiple characters and have seen them in a variety of situations, both focused directly on them and in the periphery of other stories. No one else can weave compelling plot after compelling plot, book after book, and have it flow effortlessly.
All that gushing aside, I do feel like I need to mention the one thing that was a bit disappointing for me. There were A LOT of editing/proofreading errors in this book. I don’t remember this being such a big issue in her previous books, so I’m not sure what changed for her. Maybe she just needs a good beta reader that can catch those pesky goofs...
(PS Ms. West, you can contact me through Goodreads!)
I am a HUGE Dahlia West fan, and can’t wait to read more. I'm so happy her words are flowing again, and I wish her the best of best good writing vibes. And I’m so excited for the rest of the Moon Lake series!
August 14, 2019
barely 3 ⭐
This book is now part of KU. It wasn't when it was first released and I bought it. Dahlia West is a hit or miss author for me. I'm in a minority with this review. I loved that the book was set at a lakeside lodge in Idaho. I loved the hero, Grant Daniels. Grant and 2 of his friends were unjustly dishonorably discharged from the marines. Cole and Silas follow Grant home to Idaho where is family business is in decline. Grant and his friends decide to bring the failing lodge back to profitability.
Paige and her 2 ultra wealthy friends, Tallulah and Savannah, arrive at the lodge for Paige's wedding. I didn't care for Paige at all. She's been abused by her boyfriend and has no self esteem. If Grant hadn't seen the marks of abuse on Paige and stepped in she would have married her abuser. She's weak and insecure. So much so that Grant, his friends and her friends are constantly reassuring her. The romance between Grant and Paige wasn't just a slow burn it was a no burn. I couldn't get why a smart man like Grant would want someone as needy as Paige. I didn't get their relationship at all. I admit I reached a point that I skimmed my way to the end and IMO Paige never did grow to be resourceful like I hoped she would. I know the next book will be about Cole and Savannah and I think I'll pass. Savannah has her issues with drugs and alcohol and I'm afraid the the book will revolve around her issues. I simply prefer a stronger more self sufficient heroine in romances.
This book is now part of KU. It wasn't when it was first released and I bought it. Dahlia West is a hit or miss author for me. I'm in a minority with this review. I loved that the book was set at a lakeside lodge in Idaho. I loved the hero, Grant Daniels. Grant and 2 of his friends were unjustly dishonorably discharged from the marines. Cole and Silas follow Grant home to Idaho where is family business is in decline. Grant and his friends decide to bring the failing lodge back to profitability.
Paige and her 2 ultra wealthy friends, Tallulah and Savannah, arrive at the lodge for Paige's wedding. I didn't care for Paige at all. She's been abused by her boyfriend and has no self esteem. If Grant hadn't seen the marks of abuse on Paige and stepped in she would have married her abuser. She's weak and insecure. So much so that Grant, his friends and her friends are constantly reassuring her. The romance between Grant and Paige wasn't just a slow burn it was a no burn. I couldn't get why a smart man like Grant would want someone as needy as Paige. I didn't get their relationship at all. I admit I reached a point that I skimmed my way to the end and IMO Paige never did grow to be resourceful like I hoped she would. I know the next book will be about Cole and Savannah and I think I'll pass. Savannah has her issues with drugs and alcohol and I'm afraid the the book will revolve around her issues. I simply prefer a stronger more self sufficient heroine in romances.
May 21, 2019
She's back!
Sweet and merciful muses! No warning. No teasing. Just WHAM, new book and I'm absolutely ok with that.
I've missed Dahlia and her voice. Her men. Their women. The story lines. The food play! Hahahaa
Shelter was/is reminiscent of the Burnout Series but not in a way that makes it boring or a repetition. I love the way Dahlia writes the camaraderie, the brotherhood that walk a fine line. I love watching the women open up and find their possibilities because they're suddenly in a place where they can. And this time... we've got a little bit of a mystery on our hands. She kept us in a land that were pretty familiar with, but moved us west and now we're exploring Idaho and I wish that Moon Lake was a real place.
Proof right here that even when the words don't work, or they won't come, or you just need to walk away that you can keep giving your fans a story that they'll love.
Sweet and merciful muses! No warning. No teasing. Just WHAM, new book and I'm absolutely ok with that.
I've missed Dahlia and her voice. Her men. Their women. The story lines. The food play! Hahahaa
Shelter was/is reminiscent of the Burnout Series but not in a way that makes it boring or a repetition. I love the way Dahlia writes the camaraderie, the brotherhood that walk a fine line. I love watching the women open up and find their possibilities because they're suddenly in a place where they can. And this time... we've got a little bit of a mystery on our hands. She kept us in a land that were pretty familiar with, but moved us west and now we're exploring Idaho and I wish that Moon Lake was a real place.
Proof right here that even when the words don't work, or they won't come, or you just need to walk away that you can keep giving your fans a story that they'll love.
March 31, 2020
⭐3.8⭐Overall I liked the book very much. There were a few elements that I wasn't crazy about. Let me preface that I thought the supporting characters where wonderful (more so Silas and Cole, than Savannah and Taloulah). The friendship between Cole, Grant and Silas, was laugh out loud funny, and their dialogue had me smiling the whole time. However, generally I like to read one relationship unfurling at a time. Breadcrumbs for subsequent books are fine, but I thought the author spent a lot of time developing Savannah and Cole's relationship. Again, my personal preference is to focus on the main H/h's journey. Another bigger problem, was that I just did not connect with the h. I really really really wanted to support her emotional struggles, and journey to self discovery but it fell flat for me. Grant on the other hand was a wonderful H.
May 23, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. Some very unique characters and good storyline. The only reason it didn't get 5 stars from me, there are some editing issues. Several sentences that had too many words that didn't make sense. Otherwise it's a great story and I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
May 26, 2019
So very good
This is a unique and entertaining story full of fascinating characters you will want to become familiar with. I thought I had this figured out, even feared it would end in a cliffhanger. It did not. HEA with a little mystery leading you to book two. This is so good. Wish there was an audible version. Wish I had a Grant, Cole or Silas.
This is a unique and entertaining story full of fascinating characters you will want to become familiar with. I thought I had this figured out, even feared it would end in a cliffhanger. It did not. HEA with a little mystery leading you to book two. This is so good. Wish there was an audible version. Wish I had a Grant, Cole or Silas.
June 30, 2019
Wonderful book!
This is such a great book; it did start out a little slow but it picks up and the story starts to flow. Grant is gruff at first he and Paige did not have an Insta love it even an attraction; it was developed at a realistic pace. I can hardly wait for Cole and Savannah's story next as well as Silas.
This is such a great book; it did start out a little slow but it picks up and the story starts to flow. Grant is gruff at first he and Paige did not have an Insta love it even an attraction; it was developed at a realistic pace. I can hardly wait for Cole and Savannah's story next as well as Silas.
February 3, 2020
Not my favorite
I’ve read several of Dahlia west books and so far I have enjoyed them. However this book left me confused on several accounts there was a lot of back-and-forth that I didn’t understand. I guess it held my attention enough for me to finish the book, but not enough for me to want to read any sequels.
I’ve read several of Dahlia west books and so far I have enjoyed them. However this book left me confused on several accounts there was a lot of back-and-forth that I didn’t understand. I guess it held my attention enough for me to finish the book, but not enough for me to want to read any sequels.
May 24, 2019
5hus book is yet another amazing read from Dahlia West
5***** read. Great characters just what I expected from Dahlia. She gets you hooked from the beginning. Cant wait for the next book
5***** read. Great characters just what I expected from Dahlia. She gets you hooked from the beginning. Cant wait for the next book
June 11, 2019
Yah! Very excited this authors words have started flowing again. Auto one click purchase. :D
June 14, 2019
Love it
Amazing long time coming... Can't help but love all the characters. Looking forward to the rest of the series. Unbelievable author absolutely one of my favorites.
Amazing long time coming... Can't help but love all the characters. Looking forward to the rest of the series. Unbelievable author absolutely one of my favorites.
June 15, 2019
She never disappoints
What an amazing read again , by West. I don't know how she does it, but you get so caught up in here characters. Love , love, loved this book.
What an amazing read again , by West. I don't know how she does it, but you get so caught up in here characters. Love , love, loved this book.
September 4, 2019
Good read.
Another good read from Dahlia West. Can't wait to continue the story. Hope we don't have to wait too long for part two.
Another good read from Dahlia West. Can't wait to continue the story. Hope we don't have to wait too long for part two.
March 30, 2020
Really enjoyed. Five stars!
Loved the story in this one. It was a realistic, steadily built romance. I loved all of the main characters and can't wait for the next one.
Loved the story in this one. It was a realistic, steadily built romance. I loved all of the main characters and can't wait for the next one.
December 21, 2019
https://dahliawest.com/2019/11/here-i...
So glad you're writing again!
Excellent book and hopefully a new series!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews