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In the Dark #2
Just One
I've always been the strong one.
I stand my ground. I take no crap.
That's probably why Finnegan O'Reilly hired me.
Apparently, self-control around Finn is my weakness.
But with the responsibility of taking care of my sick brother, there's no time for romance in my life.
The day Daphne Jones swayed into my pub, it was like a tornado blew through the door.
The only thing she destroyed was my own rule. Don't get involved with employees.
After our unforgettable one night stand, we both agreed to keep our hands to ourselves.
But with Daphne in danger, there's no way I'm keeping my distance now.
I'm going to protect her. Even if it means, risking everything.
I stand my ground. I take no crap.
That's probably why Finnegan O'Reilly hired me.
Apparently, self-control around Finn is my weakness.
But with the responsibility of taking care of my sick brother, there's no time for romance in my life.
The day Daphne Jones swayed into my pub, it was like a tornado blew through the door.
The only thing she destroyed was my own rule. Don't get involved with employees.
After our unforgettable one night stand, we both agreed to keep our hands to ourselves.
But with Daphne in danger, there's no way I'm keeping my distance now.
I'm going to protect her. Even if it means, risking everything.
- GenresRomance
214 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 25, 2017
48 people are currently reading
354 people want to read
About the author
C.E. Johnson
16 books321 followersC.E. Johnson writes protective hero romance with a side of suspense!
She wrote her first book in 2017 and hasn't stopped writing since. C.E. is best known for her romantic suspense series, The Elements of the Heart, which features protective heroes, strong heroines in danger, small town feels, and love that will have your heart swelling.
She's a dog lover, iced coffee enthusiast, and dreams of living in a cabin deep in the woods one day like so many of her characters do.
C.E. Johnson currently lives in the Midwest with her husband, two kids, and a bunch of spoiled rotten animals.
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She wrote her first book in 2017 and hasn't stopped writing since. C.E. is best known for her romantic suspense series, The Elements of the Heart, which features protective heroes, strong heroines in danger, small town feels, and love that will have your heart swelling.
She's a dog lover, iced coffee enthusiast, and dreams of living in a cabin deep in the woods one day like so many of her characters do.
C.E. Johnson currently lives in the Midwest with her husband, two kids, and a bunch of spoiled rotten animals.
Want to stay up to date on all the latest news, sales, giveaways, and releases?
Sign up for my newsletter! https://goo.gl/4yo6Rg
Follow me on Facebook! https://goo.gl/84dZJN
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Want to read
March 14, 2020🎁 The complete In the Dark Series (3 book series) is FREE on Amazon today (3/14/2020)! 🎁
March 11, 2019
I give this book 3.75 stars...….
I couldn't wait to get my hands Fin and Daphne's story. I had been waiting since I read book three first. And I was not disappointed in the story itself. This book was an emotional read. Once I started I could not put it down. It had me on the edge of my seat. My only issue was there were many errors in this book not just with spelling but also with plot errors. I did really enjoy the book. And I look forward to watching C.E. Johnson's writing career grow.
I couldn't wait to get my hands Fin and Daphne's story. I had been waiting since I read book three first. And I was not disappointed in the story itself. This book was an emotional read. Once I started I could not put it down. It had me on the edge of my seat. My only issue was there were many errors in this book not just with spelling but also with plot errors. I did really enjoy the book. And I look forward to watching C.E. Johnson's writing career grow.
April 23, 2020
Daphne has always done anything for other people she’s alway dropping everything at a drop of a hat to drive back home to be there for her brother, and is not appreciated at all by her parents. Her mother does whatever she can to ignore her and not treat her like an actual daughter, so when tragedy strikes and she gets that phone call she’s always had a feeling would come she’s does everything she can to keep busy and hold it all together. Finn O’Riley owns a local pub who has had a eye on Daphne since she walked into his pub asking for a job. They flirt and have hooked up a clueless of times so when she needs him to lean on he’s there without a doubt to protect her. With everything going on will these two finally come together more then a casual hookup. OMG FInn O’Riley I freaking fell in love with this character *swoon sigh dreamy eyes* and my heart just breaks for Daphne and I was rooting for her everytime something crazy happened to her. Yo will definitely love this book and it keeps you on your toes til the very end.
July 27, 2022
Daphne & Finn!!!
I was definitely interested in their story while reading Sophie & Benson's adventure. And it was even better than I'd imagined! I don't want to spoil anything, so I'll just say this was a very emotional ride with important messages throughout about mental health, family, and trust.
I absolutely adored Finn and his Alpha ways. He was always looking out for his Daffodil and even tho sometimes his protective instincts seemed OTT, they were exactly what was needed.
Tears, laughs, friendships, and a whole lotta love made this story another favorite read from a favorite author!
😍😍😍😍
I was definitely interested in their story while reading Sophie & Benson's adventure. And it was even better than I'd imagined! I don't want to spoil anything, so I'll just say this was a very emotional ride with important messages throughout about mental health, family, and trust.
I absolutely adored Finn and his Alpha ways. He was always looking out for his Daffodil and even tho sometimes his protective instincts seemed OTT, they were exactly what was needed.
Tears, laughs, friendships, and a whole lotta love made this story another favorite read from a favorite author!
😍😍😍😍
March 23, 2020
Intended for a mature audience 18+ (Mental illness and suicide)
This is the second book of the In the Dark series.
I couldn't wait to get my hands on this story. Finn and Daphne’s story is one that is filled with loss, love, and learning about forgiveness. I loved every single page.
This book will take you on a roller coaster of emotions, so sit back and make sure you are buckled in! I also had to have a few tissues at the ready. So glad that Finn and Daphne found each other.
This series is fantastic and I highly recommend it! On to book three I go!
This is the second book of the In the Dark series.
I couldn't wait to get my hands on this story. Finn and Daphne’s story is one that is filled with loss, love, and learning about forgiveness. I loved every single page.
This book will take you on a roller coaster of emotions, so sit back and make sure you are buckled in! I also had to have a few tissues at the ready. So glad that Finn and Daphne found each other.
This series is fantastic and I highly recommend it! On to book three I go!
January 8, 2024
Fantastic read
## I truly enjoyed reading this story. Daphne was strong, and Finn was super sweet. Daphne went through so much... she needed Finn and his hugs. I think I liked book 1 a little bit more, but this was fantastic nonetheless. I'm debating buying book 3, Paul's story. It sounds so sad. I'm not sure my heart can take it. I'll give it some thought.
## I truly enjoyed reading this story. Daphne was strong, and Finn was super sweet. Daphne went through so much... she needed Finn and his hugs. I think I liked book 1 a little bit more, but this was fantastic nonetheless. I'm debating buying book 3, Paul's story. It sounds so sad. I'm not sure my heart can take it. I'll give it some thought.
March 17, 2020
I really liked this! It was an emotional read but worth every minute!
December 5, 2022
This book delves deep into mental illness and the affects it has on those around you. I was so grateful for Finn and his love for our girl. She’s a very strong woman who deserved so much.
July 8, 2024
Heal me
So many emotions. omg! I could not put this story down. So many twists and turns. I highly recommend this story to others.
So many emotions. omg! I could not put this story down. So many twists and turns. I highly recommend this story to others.
October 17, 2024
⛔️(in notes)
July 18, 2019
I'm going all over the place with these reads but hang in there with me because I have become a fast fan of this author.
I was very excited to see that this was Finn's story. I had my fingers crossed, but you never know.
He was a super alpha character and Daphne was so fun. She had a great personality and felt with his alpha-ness very well. I loved that the author also didn't make him a tool. That sometimes happens with alpha characters, they are tools, but he was also caring and kind. Wins in my book.
This was a healing story and though the plot left a little to be desired as far as cohesiveness, I still really enjoyed the read.
June 24, 2022
Romance:❤️❤️❤️
Spice:🌶🌶🌶
Spice:🌶🌶🌶
January 6, 2018
3.5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Just One is book two in the ‘In the Dark’ series, but it can be read as a standalone. It’s a steamy, suspenseful and emotional read.
Daphne experienced great tragedy, but she did her best to be strong. Finn was there from the very beginning to support her, be her friend and care for her, even when she thought she’d be okay on her own.
Although they have shared a couple intimate moments up to this point, they still only labelled themselves as friends and coworkers. But that isn’t the case for long. Both parties have been holding back real feeling that have developed and grown. Finn is willing to give Daphne time to come to terms with everything, but he lays it all out there- he wants to be with her, all-in. He was so protective of Daphne, gentle and loving. You just knew that he would do anything for her.
The pacing of the story started dragging a bit for me around the halfway mark, but I pushed on and it picked up again about three quarters of the way through. There was a twist in there that I didn’t see coming, all signs were pointing me in another direction. That surprise element was great!
Overall, a satisfying read. My favorite part of the story was Finn, he was simply sweet and amazing. If you’re in the mood for a romantic suspense, check it out.
Just One is book two in the ‘In the Dark’ series, but it can be read as a standalone. It’s a steamy, suspenseful and emotional read.
Daphne experienced great tragedy, but she did her best to be strong. Finn was there from the very beginning to support her, be her friend and care for her, even when she thought she’d be okay on her own.
Although they have shared a couple intimate moments up to this point, they still only labelled themselves as friends and coworkers. But that isn’t the case for long. Both parties have been holding back real feeling that have developed and grown. Finn is willing to give Daphne time to come to terms with everything, but he lays it all out there- he wants to be with her, all-in. He was so protective of Daphne, gentle and loving. You just knew that he would do anything for her.
The pacing of the story started dragging a bit for me around the halfway mark, but I pushed on and it picked up again about three quarters of the way through. There was a twist in there that I didn’t see coming, all signs were pointing me in another direction. That surprise element was great!
Overall, a satisfying read. My favorite part of the story was Finn, he was simply sweet and amazing. If you’re in the mood for a romantic suspense, check it out.
July 18, 2018
Five stars is not nearly enough for Just One by C.E. Johnson! This book is the second in the In The Dark series, but it can be read alone! I literally got goosebumps while reading the final paragraph!
Daphne has lived her life around her brother Jarrod and his mental illness. After a life changing event occurs Daphne's entire life is turned upside down. From rock bottom Daphne realizes there's more to her manager Finn then meets the eye(both literally and figuratively speaking!)
Finn reveals he has been in love with Daphne since the day she came into his Irish pub for a waitress job. Finn is amazing for Daphne because she's never felt loved by though who should've made her feel that way.
Will the bond and love between Daphne and Finn be able to withstand all that life will throw at them?
The story is amazing! I fell in love with Finn immediately. The twists are fantastic! I thought I knew what was happening the whole time.. But C.E. Johnson pulled the rug right under me. I'm pretty sure my mouth was open for a good five minutes when I found out one of the twist!
It only takes one great book to hook you on an author and this book is definitely the one to do that!
Daphne has lived her life around her brother Jarrod and his mental illness. After a life changing event occurs Daphne's entire life is turned upside down. From rock bottom Daphne realizes there's more to her manager Finn then meets the eye(both literally and figuratively speaking!)
Finn reveals he has been in love with Daphne since the day she came into his Irish pub for a waitress job. Finn is amazing for Daphne because she's never felt loved by though who should've made her feel that way.
Will the bond and love between Daphne and Finn be able to withstand all that life will throw at them?
The story is amazing! I fell in love with Finn immediately. The twists are fantastic! I thought I knew what was happening the whole time.. But C.E. Johnson pulled the rug right under me. I'm pretty sure my mouth was open for a good five minutes when I found out one of the twist!
It only takes one great book to hook you on an author and this book is definitely the one to do that!
November 28, 2018
We met Finn in Benson and Sophie's story and I loved how protective he was towards Sophie. I just knew that when he found someone he cared about, he would be all in and give it everything he has. I was not wrong! Finn and Daphne's story is fast-paced but it doesn't feel rushed. They have known each other for quite awhile, but circumstances have kept them apart. Once their secrets become revealed, they realize they don't want to waste time and want to be with one another. However, love isn't simple and they have numerous hurdles to get through. I loved how there were twists and turns throughout the book. Just when I thought I knew what was going on, CE Johnson threw a curve ball that I never saw coming. I loved how Benson and Sophie were a part of this book as well as some amazing other characters that I would love to see get their own books one day. I shed numerous tears in this book, swooned hard over Finn and the ending of this book melted my heart. Trust me, you need to read this book!! You don't want to miss out on Finn and Daphne's story!!!!
October 26, 2017
Wow! Just wow! This book is so full of emotion it left me in tears. This is a story of life and all the chaos it brings. It is a story of living and dying, a story of torment and pain but it is also a story of hope, healing and love. This is the story of Daphne and Finn. While their relationship started off as friends, it evolves into something different at a time when Daphne needs Finn in her life. Finn loves Daphne and as you read this story you can see why he chooses to open his heart to her. But Daphne is unsure and isn't at a point where she can see past her pain. Can Finn help Daphne? Will she open her life to him? As I told CE, I have a Finn in my life and when you read this book you will see just how lucky I am! This is a beautiful story and a definite must read for 2017!!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Want to read
April 6, 2024Purchase Amazon March 14, 2020
October 13, 2017
The second book of In the Dark series is amazing!!!! The author was able to capture the true character of Finn to show just how far he will go to prove his love for Daphne. There are plots and twists throughout the book that will make you not want to put the book down. This is a perfect sequal to Done and you won't be able to help yourself but fall more in love with all the characters. If you are looking for a mixture of romance and drama filled with a bit of mystery, this series, this book, is one you must read!!!! The author did it again and I can not wait for the next book in the series!
October 7, 2019
Just One! Powerful read!
This second book of the series is so full of twists, angst and love that you will not be able to put the book down. I’m in love with Finn and his though exterior and loving heart. The man is devoted and loyal to those he love. Daffodil (as he calls Daph) has many skeletons in her closets. She has Finn’s attention. The path they take together is full of ups and down and you can fell like you are right there with them every step of the way.
You won’t want to miss this book. You will cry and laugh and get swooned all in this one book.
Powerful and beautiful story.
Nanedsmomba- reviewer and blogger for Life Reads With Friends
This second book of the series is so full of twists, angst and love that you will not be able to put the book down. I’m in love with Finn and his though exterior and loving heart. The man is devoted and loyal to those he love. Daffodil (as he calls Daph) has many skeletons in her closets. She has Finn’s attention. The path they take together is full of ups and down and you can fell like you are right there with them every step of the way.
You won’t want to miss this book. You will cry and laugh and get swooned all in this one book.
Powerful and beautiful story.
Nanedsmomba- reviewer and blogger for Life Reads With Friends
October 12, 2017
Another amazing story from C.E. Johnson! I received an Arc copy of Just One and was blown away! Talk about triumph through tragedy and rising from the ashes. Not to mention an amazing twist that will leave you unsure of which characters can be trusted! Be prepared to go through all the emotions while reading this book! C. E. Johnson has such an amazing way of making you connect with her characters and feeling their emotions, not even for only the main character but for all. Cannot wait for her next book!
April 18, 2018
When I read the description for this book I was ecstatic to find out that book two was Finn’s story. He was the character that I enjoyed the most. He’s patient and caring, but don’t think that makes him any less of an alpha male. He has his sights set on Daphne and he’s not going to let her fall, unless it’s in the form of falling for him. This story is a journey of love, loss, and this couple finding their center. I really enjoyed this read. I have said it once, and I’ll say it again… This author’s writing gets better with each book. You’ll definitely want to snag this one.
June 29, 2018
Exceptional
Absolutely exceptional. Author tackles a brutally difficult subject with grace and acceptance. Some mystery, danger, heat and deep emotions make this book a must read. I’m really just amazed at the acceptance. Accepting that someone struggles so hard with mental illness and the fierce love they receive despite the difficult circumstances. True, unwavering love is the theme of this book. Well done. Proud of this author for showcasing mental health this with this love.
Absolutely exceptional. Author tackles a brutally difficult subject with grace and acceptance. Some mystery, danger, heat and deep emotions make this book a must read. I’m really just amazed at the acceptance. Accepting that someone struggles so hard with mental illness and the fierce love they receive despite the difficult circumstances. True, unwavering love is the theme of this book. Well done. Proud of this author for showcasing mental health this with this love.
October 29, 2017
This book is incredible! I already loved Done so when Just One hit my kindle I wasted no time starting that book. I was not disappointed! When a book can get me crying on one page then smiling and laughing on the next, I consider that an incredible read. This is a beautiful story and I absolutely loved Daphne and Finn's relationship. Speaking of Finn... YUM!!!! Great job. Any novel by C.E Johnson is an automatic 1-Click for me!
October 12, 2017
It isn’t very often that a book leaves me with a hangover. This book did. Its twists had my head spinning. At one time I didn’t believe anyone and thought they all could be guilty of something. It’s a story that focuses on mental illness and suicide. It’s about love and loss. It’s about love and forgiving... all wrapped into a mind blowing story
October 23, 2017
Absolutely loved Finn and Daphne and the relationship that builds. There were some twists and turns that kept you wanting to read more. This passage in the book says it all!
~Because one decision, one phone call, one word, can crumble your entire world, leaving you buried, heartbroken, and barely breathing. It just takes one person to pull you out of the rubble. Just one.
~Because one decision, one phone call, one word, can crumble your entire world, leaving you buried, heartbroken, and barely breathing. It just takes one person to pull you out of the rubble. Just one.
December 9, 2017
This book started out with sadness, but ended with happiness. Such a well written story that takes you on a journey of grief, betrayal, love and finding out who your friends are. I liked Finn 's loyalty and sweetness to Daphne. Poor Daphne how much more could her heart endure before it shattered. I was so happy to see Daphne get a Prince charming and as happy ever after.
August 6, 2018
Daffodils
This story is about a love that wait for the other one too acknowledge. Sometimes when you think you're alone; is when you someone got your back unconditionally. Daphne and Finn are two such people. Loved this story. The characters are to die for! The story just as beautiful.
This story is about a love that wait for the other one too acknowledge. Sometimes when you think you're alone; is when you someone got your back unconditionally. Daphne and Finn are two such people. Loved this story. The characters are to die for! The story just as beautiful.
October 22, 2017
I received an ARC of this book. Great story line, characters from the first book are pulled in throughout this book. Love the ending but would have loved an epilogue!
January 3, 2018
A good read. I enjoyed the story line and this book had excellent characters.
November 17, 2017
Wonderful Book!
I love this book! It is just as good if not better than the first book in the series! Can't wait for the third book in the series to come out or Rain!
I love this book! It is just as good if not better than the first book in the series! Can't wait for the third book in the series to come out or Rain!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews