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Hope Valley #5
Stay With Me
Rory Hightower had a good life. She had a loving family, great friends, and a job she adored, running Hope Valley’s local watering hole, The Tap Room. But there was just one thing missing. Ever since she was a little girl she knew there was one special guy out there just for her. Her dream man. And when Cord walked into her bar, she knew instantly it was him. Which made losing him all the more painful.
Cord Paulson had only ever had one person he could depend on. And that bond ran deep. But when he moved to Hope Valley and met the breathtaking bartender with the bright blue eyes and stunning smile, he felt an instant connection. He wanted Rory from the moment he laid eyes on her. But when his past came back and his loyalties were put to the test, he made the biggest mistake of his life.
Then one night changes everything. After avoiding him for months, Rory has no choice but to lower her guard and let him back in. And Cord plans to use that to his full advantage. He’s determined to repair the damage he caused to her heart and win her back. He may have lost the love of his life once already, but there’s no way he’ll make the same mistake twice.
Cord Paulson had only ever had one person he could depend on. And that bond ran deep. But when he moved to Hope Valley and met the breathtaking bartender with the bright blue eyes and stunning smile, he felt an instant connection. He wanted Rory from the moment he laid eyes on her. But when his past came back and his loyalties were put to the test, he made the biggest mistake of his life.
Then one night changes everything. After avoiding him for months, Rory has no choice but to lower her guard and let him back in. And Cord plans to use that to his full advantage. He’s determined to repair the damage he caused to her heart and win her back. He may have lost the love of his life once already, but there’s no way he’ll make the same mistake twice.
312 pages, ebook
1072 people are currently reading
1118 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Prince
104 books2,538 followersBorn and raised around Houston, Jessica is a self proclaimed caffeine addict, connoisseur of inexpensive wine, and the worst driver in the state of Texas. In addition to being all of these things, she’s first and foremost a wife and mom.
Growing up, she shared her mom and grandmother’s love of reading. But where they leaned toward murder mysteries, Jessica was obsessed with all things romance.
When she’s not nose deep in her next manuscript, you can usually find her with her kindle in hand.
To be in-the-know before anyone else, follow along on my website, or join my newsletter.
www.authorjessicaprince.com
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/_KJ0n
Connect with me everywhere else:
Facebook: authorjessicaprince
Instagram: @jessprince_writes
Twitter: @JessPrince2013
Growing up, she shared her mom and grandmother’s love of reading. But where they leaned toward murder mysteries, Jessica was obsessed with all things romance.
When she’s not nose deep in her next manuscript, you can usually find her with her kindle in hand.
To be in-the-know before anyone else, follow along on my website, or join my newsletter.
www.authorjessicaprince.com
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/_KJ0n
Connect with me everywhere else:
Facebook: authorjessicaprince
Instagram: @jessprince_writes
Twitter: @JessPrince2013
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 277 reviews
September 11, 2019
Spoilers ahead
Rory has strong roots in Hope Valley, her family's bar the Tap Room has been in operation for years and now Rory's running it. When Cord moved to town Rory saw the man that she wanted and after a while she made a move, unforately he informed her he was still hung up on his ex so he friend zoned her. Heartbroken but determined to keep her chin up Rory settled for friendship with the one man she'd always wanted. When Cord's ex returned to town she had to watch as they resumed their relationship and when that ex demanded Cord end his friendship with Rory she had to bare it as he shut her out of his life. When Cord was shot Rory stayed days at his bedside refusing to leave, when Cord opened his eyes and kissed her Rory thought things would finally change.....until he called her by his ex's name. This became the last straw for Rory and she decided to move on with her life. This became difficult because Cord now realizes the mistake he made and he wants her to give him another chance. With a troubled preteen in the mix Rory's dreams of a family might be closer that she thought.
Cord grew up in foster care, shuffled from group home to uncaring foster families. Throughout it all he had Laurie who was his first love. Though they broke up as youths, they continued meeting up over the years and when she came to Hope Valley Cord gave into the past and spent over a year with Laurie leaving Rory behind. But getting shot has a way of opening a man's eyes to his life's decisions and Cord comes to realize that he made the wrong choice but this time he's pulling out all the stops to get Rory to give him another chance.
Ok soooooooo
Rory was a forty year old pathetic doormat......(#sorrynotsorry). Cord claims that just as he was about to make his move on her his ex returned and because she was there for him as a youth he felt loyal to their history and gave the relationship another try. So not only did he initially turn Rory down, he chose his ex over her and then cut her out of his life when his ex demanded it!!!! Da fuck??? Howwwwwwwwww by all that's holy do we accept this!??? His excuses were so lame I was embarrassed for him. This gave me Tate and Neeta flashbacks! *Shudders* and yet stillllllllllllllllllll he has the audacity to claim that he's wanted her since he met her! I mean did I read the same book as everyone else???? Wtf?????
So when he tries to win back Rory she friend zones him (thank God) and they start back a friendship. When a young boy is discovered to be in an abusive foster home Rory turns into a protective momma bear and fights to keep the child.
Eventually she and Cord get together, they adopt the child after a runaway that turned into a kidnapping incident and they lived happily ever after.
This was an embarrassment to read especially as I rated the previous books high. I had absolutely no respect for any of the mcs and the only reason this even got 2* is because of the interactions between the child and everyone in the book especially the mcs and Rory's parents.
OW drama as the ex again returns but he's wiser now so he shuts that down
Abuse and kidnapping of a child
I won't say H was a manwhore as the focus was mainly on his ex not OW that he might have been with
h wasn't a virgin but she'd been pining after Cord for a while, she finally goes on a date that goes nowhere
Rory has strong roots in Hope Valley, her family's bar the Tap Room has been in operation for years and now Rory's running it. When Cord moved to town Rory saw the man that she wanted and after a while she made a move, unforately he informed her he was still hung up on his ex so he friend zoned her. Heartbroken but determined to keep her chin up Rory settled for friendship with the one man she'd always wanted. When Cord's ex returned to town she had to watch as they resumed their relationship and when that ex demanded Cord end his friendship with Rory she had to bare it as he shut her out of his life. When Cord was shot Rory stayed days at his bedside refusing to leave, when Cord opened his eyes and kissed her Rory thought things would finally change.....until he called her by his ex's name. This became the last straw for Rory and she decided to move on with her life. This became difficult because Cord now realizes the mistake he made and he wants her to give him another chance. With a troubled preteen in the mix Rory's dreams of a family might be closer that she thought.
Cord grew up in foster care, shuffled from group home to uncaring foster families. Throughout it all he had Laurie who was his first love. Though they broke up as youths, they continued meeting up over the years and when she came to Hope Valley Cord gave into the past and spent over a year with Laurie leaving Rory behind. But getting shot has a way of opening a man's eyes to his life's decisions and Cord comes to realize that he made the wrong choice but this time he's pulling out all the stops to get Rory to give him another chance.
Ok soooooooo
Rory was a forty year old pathetic doormat......(#sorrynotsorry). Cord claims that just as he was about to make his move on her his ex returned and because she was there for him as a youth he felt loyal to their history and gave the relationship another try. So not only did he initially turn Rory down, he chose his ex over her and then cut her out of his life when his ex demanded it!!!! Da fuck??? Howwwwwwwwww by all that's holy do we accept this!??? His excuses were so lame I was embarrassed for him. This gave me Tate and Neeta flashbacks! *Shudders* and yet stillllllllllllllllllll he has the audacity to claim that he's wanted her since he met her! I mean did I read the same book as everyone else???? Wtf?????
So when he tries to win back Rory she friend zones him (thank God) and they start back a friendship. When a young boy is discovered to be in an abusive foster home Rory turns into a protective momma bear and fights to keep the child.
Eventually she and Cord get together, they adopt the child after a runaway that turned into a kidnapping incident and they lived happily ever after.
This was an embarrassment to read especially as I rated the previous books high. I had absolutely no respect for any of the mcs and the only reason this even got 2* is because of the interactions between the child and everyone in the book especially the mcs and Rory's parents.
OW drama as the ex again returns but he's wiser now so he shuts that down
Abuse and kidnapping of a child
I won't say H was a manwhore as the focus was mainly on his ex not OW that he might have been with
h wasn't a virgin but she'd been pining after Cord for a while, she finally goes on a date that goes nowhere
did-not-finish
November 14, 2019This book had been all over my feed lately and after reading the sample, there was something about the angsty stubborn h that appealed to me. I read this book hoping I would like it, but I had to give up on it and dnf at 47% (no rating).
The H did reject the h in favor of his ex, but all of that happened in the past. (This made the story palatable for me since I hate to read about real-time pining and doormatish behavior). The book picks up after the ex is gone and the H has come to his senses. Unfortunately, the h has had enough and has given up on a future with the H.
This book wasn't bad. It has a Kristen Ashley vibe going on and the H/h are likeable. The romance was probably shaping up to be pretty good with the H fighting hard for the h. But the whole premise of the book isn't working for me. Too many plot holes and inconsistencies.
• The reasons the H went with the ex when he was obviously in love with the h are laughable and just make the H look weak. I don't know how old this guy was but I'm guessing late 30s early 40s so I expect more maturity from this former Navy SEAL.
• The small town, everyone's in your business, atmosphere isn't working for me. They all hated the ex, could see that she was bad news, could see that the h was a much better choice. But did this nosy bunch of butt-in-skis say anything to the H to open his eyes? to offer good advice? Nope. Not until after the ex is gone does everyone come forward to stick their nose in his business. Too late everybody. Should've done your small town thing 2 years ago. (And they would have in a normal situation, but in order to have this angst fest of a story, they behaved against standard)
• The h has always dreamed of marriage and a family. So she chose to stay in the same small town where she grew up and where she would never meet new people and where she could just sit there and passively wait for life to come find her. Huh? This h is too passive in her own life. Even with the H she just sits by while he ghosts her for his ex and hopes that one day he'll come around. I like my h to know her own mind, and to take control of her life instead of just waiting for life to happen to her.
• The h is 40 and will probably not live to see her dream of children of her own. How convenient that the plot drops a 12 year old foster son right in her lap. I haven't finished the book, but even I can see where all this is going.
• The inner dialogue from the H as he watches the h be the fierce and kind woman that she is confused me. He knew her for 2 years before the ex even showed up. He was in her life then. Yet in the now, he is thinking about how amazing she is and what a one-of-a-kind woman she is. Was she not all that 2 years ago? Is all of this news to you H? I just couldn't get on board with the stupidity of his line of thinking and then we go back to his reasons for being with the ex and now he just looks even more weak and blind.
So basically, I didn't want to write a rant about this book, but there were too many plot holes and inconsistencies for me to keep reading. It pulls me out of the story and I get a headache from rolling my eyes.
The H did reject the h in favor of his ex, but all of that happened in the past. (This made the story palatable for me since I hate to read about real-time pining and doormatish behavior). The book picks up after the ex is gone and the H has come to his senses. Unfortunately, the h has had enough and has given up on a future with the H.
This book wasn't bad. It has a Kristen Ashley vibe going on and the H/h are likeable. The romance was probably shaping up to be pretty good with the H fighting hard for the h. But the whole premise of the book isn't working for me. Too many plot holes and inconsistencies.
• The reasons the H went with the ex when he was obviously in love with the h are laughable and just make the H look weak. I don't know how old this guy was but I'm guessing late 30s early 40s so I expect more maturity from this former Navy SEAL.
• The small town, everyone's in your business, atmosphere isn't working for me. They all hated the ex, could see that she was bad news, could see that the h was a much better choice. But did this nosy bunch of butt-in-skis say anything to the H to open his eyes? to offer good advice? Nope. Not until after the ex is gone does everyone come forward to stick their nose in his business. Too late everybody. Should've done your small town thing 2 years ago. (And they would have in a normal situation, but in order to have this angst fest of a story, they behaved against standard)
• The h has always dreamed of marriage and a family. So she chose to stay in the same small town where she grew up and where she would never meet new people and where she could just sit there and passively wait for life to come find her. Huh? This h is too passive in her own life. Even with the H she just sits by while he ghosts her for his ex and hopes that one day he'll come around. I like my h to know her own mind, and to take control of her life instead of just waiting for life to happen to her.
• The h is 40 and will probably not live to see her dream of children of her own. How convenient that the plot drops a 12 year old foster son right in her lap. I haven't finished the book, but even I can see where all this is going.
• The inner dialogue from the H as he watches the h be the fierce and kind woman that she is confused me. He knew her for 2 years before the ex even showed up. He was in her life then. Yet in the now, he is thinking about how amazing she is and what a one-of-a-kind woman she is. Was she not all that 2 years ago? Is all of this news to you H? I just couldn't get on board with the stupidity of his line of thinking and then we go back to his reasons for being with the ex and now he just looks even more weak and blind.
So basically, I didn't want to write a rant about this book, but there were too many plot holes and inconsistencies for me to keep reading. It pulls me out of the story and I get a headache from rolling my eyes.
no-way-jose
September 11, 2019Doormat detected 🤖
Doormat detected 🤖
Don’t touch the book or your head will be blown up
Doormat detected 🤖
Don’t touch the book or your head will be blown up
September 16, 2022
This story wasn't bad, but for me it was just kind of boring. I'm becoming a bit of a book snob these days. I really try to pick up stories that elicit some angsty feels, and this one didn't have that at all for me. The heartbreaking angst from Cord walking away from Rory and taking up with his old girlfriend, all happened in the past. And Rory and Cord weren't even a couple, they were just friends, so there wasn't even a couple break up to give a bit of feels. That gutting angstiness I was looking for wasn't ever experienced. The horrible ex didn't really provide much drama either, and that was seriously a missed opportunity for this story. For me this story was just kind of meh.
March 6, 2020
Apparently my review was of another edition( live and learn because I had no idea this was a thing) but I reread the original edition so that counts 😂
So my review disappeared so I reread and my feelings have not changed so in summary
H/h met four years previously where she took one look and knew he was the man for her
They build a friendship and she finally took her chance but he shot her down
His ex came back to town and even knowing how the h felt about him he went back to his ex
When the ex gave him an ultimatum between continuing his friendship with the h and her he chose the ex
For 18 months he shut the friendship between him and the h down
When he was shot the h stayed by his bedside for days, when he woke up he kissed her and called out the ex's name
She finally decides to move on and starts avoiding him, she goes on a date with a great guy but of course she's still hung up on the H
H comes to her hat in hand asking for a chance he explains the reason why he chose his ex was because he'd had a shit childhood and she was there for him so even though he chose another woman over the h that doesn't mean he hasn't wanted the h from day one he was just blinded by his loyalty to his past
****every time I think author's can't possibly give a H a worse excuse along comes someone to correct me
Anyway the h isn't having his lame excuses and tells him she's done
He pleads for a chance to prove himself
They take things slowly as he proves to her he's worth it
Meanwhile the h in waiting for her perfect man lets time past until she's getting up there in age, a troubled 12 year old comes onto the scene making it possible for her to adopt
Bam! Ready made family, hea
Bad guys and gals were taken down
Hated the H for his dumbass decisions where he chose another woman over the h, in the present he is the typical bossy Alpha male
The h showed some spine sometimes, she was a sweetheart others but I still wanted her to make the idiot grovel more....when it came to her son however she was a mama bear and I loved that. My 2 stars were all for her with her child
OW drama from the pathetic ex who returned to ask for another chance, the H finally learned his lesson and put her in her place
So my review disappeared so I reread and my feelings have not changed so in summary
H/h met four years previously where she took one look and knew he was the man for her
They build a friendship and she finally took her chance but he shot her down
His ex came back to town and even knowing how the h felt about him he went back to his ex
When the ex gave him an ultimatum between continuing his friendship with the h and her he chose the ex
For 18 months he shut the friendship between him and the h down
When he was shot the h stayed by his bedside for days, when he woke up he kissed her and called out the ex's name
She finally decides to move on and starts avoiding him, she goes on a date with a great guy but of course she's still hung up on the H
H comes to her hat in hand asking for a chance he explains the reason why he chose his ex was because he'd had a shit childhood and she was there for him so even though he chose another woman over the h that doesn't mean he hasn't wanted the h from day one he was just blinded by his loyalty to his past
****every time I think author's can't possibly give a H a worse excuse along comes someone to correct me
Anyway the h isn't having his lame excuses and tells him she's done
He pleads for a chance to prove himself
They take things slowly as he proves to her he's worth it
Meanwhile the h in waiting for her perfect man lets time past until she's getting up there in age, a troubled 12 year old comes onto the scene making it possible for her to adopt
Bam! Ready made family, hea
Bad guys and gals were taken down
Hated the H for his dumbass decisions where he chose another woman over the h, in the present he is the typical bossy Alpha male
The h showed some spine sometimes, she was a sweetheart others but I still wanted her to make the idiot grovel more....when it came to her son however she was a mama bear and I loved that. My 2 stars were all for her with her child
OW drama from the pathetic ex who returned to ask for another chance, the H finally learned his lesson and put her in her place
June 26, 2024
Maybe today I woke up wrong but I definitely can’t stand anymore such bs, I feel second hand embarrassment.
The heroine is forty not sixteen and she’s been in love with the hero for the last four years. They met, he started being interested then a couple of years later his ex who dumped him for a better man came back and in a second he was with his ex, again, snubbing the heroine who wasn’t even his friend anymore because his bitchy ex was jealous. Serious? Then he was wounded and took a bullet and the heroine was at his side for days, the first name the hero said when he woke up was his ex. Really? The heroine then seems to grow some shadow of backbone and tries to shut him out but she’s unable to move one and the hero, that realized his ex is trash and the heroine is better, now wants her back. Ok, maybe it’s the small town thing that America have, where there are so penury of men that a woman can get desperate after a loses because the only available ones are either under 16 or over 70. But I would take a 70 charming one over a forty something loser like the hero any day, any. And I suppose the knowledge I have of 40 yo women nowadays is far cry from what the author seems to have because not one of the women around 40 would ever, ever consider a man who treated them like the hero did. No matter his pitiful excuses. Go to hell and stay there. 40 yo single women are survivors, strong, determined women with careers, friends, and what matters most, options. And most of them know how to choose a man. The heroine behavior reeks of desperation and last ride, please,lease, don’t. I can’t read a book where a woman has zero self respect, zero self worth and zero intelligence. And there’s a lot of other stuff as a difficult teenager that the heroine eventually takes in some kind of foster care, to make up of all the kids she never had because her standard were so crippled that she never found a worthy men and the only one she’s been wasting her last fertile years on was trash. No, I just can’t. Sorry if this is more rant than review but I hoped that these years and age women had more self awareness and more pride and self respect… I was wrong, once again.
The heroine is forty not sixteen and she’s been in love with the hero for the last four years. They met, he started being interested then a couple of years later his ex who dumped him for a better man came back and in a second he was with his ex, again, snubbing the heroine who wasn’t even his friend anymore because his bitchy ex was jealous. Serious? Then he was wounded and took a bullet and the heroine was at his side for days, the first name the hero said when he woke up was his ex. Really? The heroine then seems to grow some shadow of backbone and tries to shut him out but she’s unable to move one and the hero, that realized his ex is trash and the heroine is better, now wants her back. Ok, maybe it’s the small town thing that America have, where there are so penury of men that a woman can get desperate after a loses because the only available ones are either under 16 or over 70. But I would take a 70 charming one over a forty something loser like the hero any day, any. And I suppose the knowledge I have of 40 yo women nowadays is far cry from what the author seems to have because not one of the women around 40 would ever, ever consider a man who treated them like the hero did. No matter his pitiful excuses. Go to hell and stay there. 40 yo single women are survivors, strong, determined women with careers, friends, and what matters most, options. And most of them know how to choose a man. The heroine behavior reeks of desperation and last ride, please,lease, don’t. I can’t read a book where a woman has zero self respect, zero self worth and zero intelligence. And there’s a lot of other stuff as a difficult teenager that the heroine eventually takes in some kind of foster care, to make up of all the kids she never had because her standard were so crippled that she never found a worthy men and the only one she’s been wasting her last fertile years on was trash. No, I just can’t. Sorry if this is more rant than review but I hoped that these years and age women had more self awareness and more pride and self respect… I was wrong, once again.
April 7, 2022
Get it here:
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Sadly I think this has been my least favorite couple from Jessica Prince. I did enjoy their story but it didn't feel like they got enough attention in it as a couple. It seemed like the majority of the time they weren't together and Cord was still trying to fight his way back into Rory's life and then some drama happened and they were suddenly together like none of that drama had happened. I was all excited for some groveling and angst, and there was some, but it didn't feel like enough. Especially not since Cord was supposedly some big bad alpha that was going to do anything he could to get back in Rory's good graces.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Sadly I think this has been my least favorite couple from Jessica Prince. I did enjoy their story but it didn't feel like they got enough attention in it as a couple. It seemed like the majority of the time they weren't together and Cord was still trying to fight his way back into Rory's life and then some drama happened and they were suddenly together like none of that drama had happened. I was all excited for some groveling and angst, and there was some, but it didn't feel like enough. Especially not since Cord was supposedly some big bad alpha that was going to do anything he could to get back in Rory's good graces.
March 20, 2020
2 ⭐⭐ - Meh!
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child abuse + dramalhama + weak hero + doormat heroine + kristen ashley similar
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child abuse + dramalhama + weak hero + doormat heroine + kristen ashley similar
I didn’t care that he’d broken my heart. I didn’t care that he’d been my best friend until the day he cast me aside. None of that mattered.
Laurie Dutton. The woman who held Cord’s heart and the reason he’d thrown everything we were to each other away.
For two years I held on to the hope that one day, he’d let go of that past completely,
Laurie Dutton came to Hope Valley to seek Cord out, and the instant he laid eyes on her, it became evident that I’d been waiting in vain. There was no way he was letting go of that past. Not now. Not when she’d come here for him.
Then he kissed me and called me by her name.
“It was the best kiss of my life. Until you called me Laurie.”
I’d have to think about the fact that Laurie Dutton, the love of Cord’s life, was back in my town.
He pulled away from me because he knew she was back.
“It was always you. From the very first moment I laid eyes on you. For more than four years, it’s been you, and I’m so goddamn sorry I messed everything up.”
“The wrath of Becky Hightower lasts longer than any fun Bill Hightower could think up.”
“Most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen, and she’s finally mine.”
September 17, 2019
Awesome book. Rory was fierce! And I loved the fact that Cord loved that about her. The scenes where she defends her people were amazing. Her parents were also the coolest.
August 31, 2020
Crave
This series is addictive, Jessica brings the heat and the emotions with Rorys story. I’ve been on this journey from the beginning, watching couple after fall in love.
Rory is a fun character her job running the local bar Tap Room owned business her family suits her perfectly. She’s made for the role. Her crush on Cord is her secret. When she makes her move it doesn’t go as planned.
Cord makes the mistake of choosing his past leaving Tory devastated. But he realises how bad he screwed it’s going to take a lot more than I’m sorry.
Jessica makes you cry, she also wants to make you slap these guys upside the head! But she also delivers a stellar read that I crave.
This series is addictive, Jessica brings the heat and the emotions with Rorys story. I’ve been on this journey from the beginning, watching couple after fall in love.
Rory is a fun character her job running the local bar Tap Room owned business her family suits her perfectly. She’s made for the role. Her crush on Cord is her secret. When she makes her move it doesn’t go as planned.
Cord makes the mistake of choosing his past leaving Tory devastated. But he realises how bad he screwed it’s going to take a lot more than I’m sorry.
Jessica makes you cry, she also wants to make you slap these guys upside the head! But she also delivers a stellar read that I crave.
December 9, 2025
This book started off with a bang. There was a set up for a lot angst and drama. The fmc has been in love with her best friend, the mmc for years. She builds up the nerve to let him know and he chooses his ex gf instead. Its a great set up for a second best scenario. She steps aside for awhile and remains friends woth him even though her heart is crushed.
Then he is hurt, in a coma and she's by his side constantly until he always up. They kiss..she thinks finally he ❤️ lives me back and then..ehsm he whispers the ex gfs name the one who left him high and dry the moment he's hurt.
At that point she's done and cuts all contact with him. Pretty angsty so far ehh?
Well then she finally accepts his pleas snd apologies. They even start fostering a troubled youth ( just like he used to be) together. The ex comes back amd pleas for another case..he fails to mention this. OK slightly less drama.
The thing is to me there wasnt enough of a apology given of why he didn't choose her. It was like ok she's proved she really loved me by staying with me so now Ill choose her back even though she was never my first choice...rather the choice appears to be made out of Convience and proximity. So maybe I was sour throughout the rest of the story and wasnt convinced of his undying love for her.
Then thats it..drama and angst gone..the sap of a small town romance sets in. I liked the story but mist of the drama was involving the foster son rather then the relationship. I wish that the angst held on or popped back in to say hello past 30 percent.
Overall I liked the book and will read other books from the author.
Then he is hurt, in a coma and she's by his side constantly until he always up. They kiss..she thinks finally he ❤️ lives me back and then..ehsm he whispers the ex gfs name the one who left him high and dry the moment he's hurt.
At that point she's done and cuts all contact with him. Pretty angsty so far ehh?
Well then she finally accepts his pleas snd apologies. They even start fostering a troubled youth ( just like he used to be) together. The ex comes back amd pleas for another case..he fails to mention this. OK slightly less drama.
The thing is to me there wasnt enough of a apology given of why he didn't choose her. It was like ok she's proved she really loved me by staying with me so now Ill choose her back even though she was never my first choice...rather the choice appears to be made out of Convience and proximity. So maybe I was sour throughout the rest of the story and wasnt convinced of his undying love for her.
Then thats it..drama and angst gone..the sap of a small town romance sets in. I liked the story but mist of the drama was involving the foster son rather then the relationship. I wish that the angst held on or popped back in to say hello past 30 percent.
Overall I liked the book and will read other books from the author.
September 12, 2019
It’s been a few days since I finished Stay With Me and I’m still struggling to come up with the words to express just how much I loved Rory and Cord’s story.
I knew it would be fantastic, challenging, and sexy AF, but it was also beautiful and insightful and so heartfelt.
Rory and Cord have painful pasts, pasts where they’ve felt unloved, a little broken, and wondered if they’d ever fine “the one”—the one person who would love them, stay by their side through life’s challenges.
They both know the other is their “one” but through poor decisions and choices, things have not gone the way they should have, but now they’re getting another chance. A real chance.
Seriously, I loved how neither Rory nor Cord gave up, settled for less. And that they really did give their love and romance a chance to grow and strengthen. Even through some serious challenges, once they’d connected they didn’t let things get between them, they fought through together.
This terrific Hope Valley series just keeps getting better and better. Just when I decide I have a new favorite couple, the next couple comes along and replaces them. #bookloverproblems
I can’t wait for the next one! ~ Missy, 5 stars
I knew it would be fantastic, challenging, and sexy AF, but it was also beautiful and insightful and so heartfelt.
Rory and Cord have painful pasts, pasts where they’ve felt unloved, a little broken, and wondered if they’d ever fine “the one”—the one person who would love them, stay by their side through life’s challenges.
They both know the other is their “one” but through poor decisions and choices, things have not gone the way they should have, but now they’re getting another chance. A real chance.
Seriously, I loved how neither Rory nor Cord gave up, settled for less. And that they really did give their love and romance a chance to grow and strengthen. Even through some serious challenges, once they’d connected they didn’t let things get between them, they fought through together.
This terrific Hope Valley series just keeps getting better and better. Just when I decide I have a new favorite couple, the next couple comes along and replaces them. #bookloverproblems
I can’t wait for the next one! ~ Missy, 5 stars
February 23, 2024
Begins with an angst bombardment! The man Rory christened as "the one" on sight had been her best friend for several years,just when she felt they were ready to progress to lovers,his first love shows up.He chooses her twice over Rory!
Then when H is shot and at deaths door,it is Rory at his side,not ow.Yet when he awakens and she finally kisses him,he calls her ow name!😥
H knew from the get go he had screwed up,but it took him 18 months to fully realize his motivation had nada to do with love.That was reserved for Rory.Dude has some ultra groveling to do,and he shines.Not that ow has given up ...
Another important element of the storyline is a 12 yo Rory takes in as a foster child.The H had suffered similarly,grew up in foster care w ow,hence their PAST connection.
It really is a beautiful story of love friends and family in a small town and how it takes a.villiage. ...w a few villians sprinkled in.
So yes has wholesome elements, but sexy and action packed at times as well.A few slow portions,but majority of the tale interesting with the aforementioned angsty elements . Overall an uplifting saga!
Then when H is shot and at deaths door,it is Rory at his side,not ow.Yet when he awakens and she finally kisses him,he calls her ow name!😥
H knew from the get go he had screwed up,but it took him 18 months to fully realize his motivation had nada to do with love.That was reserved for Rory.Dude has some ultra groveling to do,and he shines.Not that ow has given up ...
Another important element of the storyline is a 12 yo Rory takes in as a foster child.The H had suffered similarly,grew up in foster care w ow,hence their PAST connection.
It really is a beautiful story of love friends and family in a small town and how it takes a.villiage. ...w a few villians sprinkled in.
So yes has wholesome elements, but sexy and action packed at times as well.A few slow portions,but majority of the tale interesting with the aforementioned angsty elements . Overall an uplifting saga!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2019
Another wonderful read from Jessica Prince. She always manages to find a way to get me invested in her characters and her stories.
This one is a bit of second chance and unrequited love all rolled into one. My heart ached for Rory and I completely felt her resistance to Cord. At the same time I also understand her feelings about him. I gotta say Cord redeemed himself in my eyes and I loved watching these two bridge the gap between friends and then lovers.
Another book from Jessica goes on my reads list and now I wait for whatever she throws at me next.
This one is a bit of second chance and unrequited love all rolled into one. My heart ached for Rory and I completely felt her resistance to Cord. At the same time I also understand her feelings about him. I gotta say Cord redeemed himself in my eyes and I loved watching these two bridge the gap between friends and then lovers.
Another book from Jessica goes on my reads list and now I wait for whatever she throws at me next.
December 9, 2025
I'm going to start off by saying, on the whole I love the series, seriously love it.
I have been reading JP novels for some time, think I've read all of them and although I am a fan I was not keen on the manwhore type of Hero she sometimes portrays and this series seems different from her past stuff.
It has a Kristen Ashley feel to it.
It's a thorough novel, you feel you must he 50% but you are delighted to find yourself at 25% or so, this is due to developing the characters and situations fully and not skimming.
The Hero's have been at times, brooding but loyal, possessive, faithful and Alpha.
The heroines have been strong and at times snarky with humour and fabulous banter between the girl posse.
No intimate scenes with anyone other than the Hero and heroine.
His ex is on the scene causing ex drama.
Before the main couple get together the heroine goes on a date, for a meal, really nice guy, no spark, chaste peck on lips, both agree she's not into it.
No cheating.
Spoilers below.
This was a bit of a second chance, as Rory and Cord have been circling each other all series with no real explanation to the reader as to what has gone on.
I loved Rory, she has a fab family, she is funny and amazing with a young lad who enters her world.
This is where I may be unpopular.
Cord, I struggled with a bit.
Cord moved to Hope Valley and instantly took a liking to Rory.
He put a stop to the romantic side of the relationship they could have had, saying basically he wasn't in the right place to start something new, alluding to being hung up on his ex.
His ex moves to town, asks to rekindle they do.
All that was fair enough, they had history, he wanted to see if they deserved a second chance, I can see that.
But after things fall apart with his ex and a few events take place he admits he admits he felt something for Rory when he first met her and fell for her, he was about to make a move when his ex comes back.
The ex, who is spoilt, feels threatened by Rory and asks him to cut off friendship with her.
Here is my problem, I get the ex is a bitch, doesn't like any of the men he works with, wants her own way a lot blah blah...... but if you can see your man is in love with another woman, even if he can't see it, everyone can see she's in love with him, would you want them spending time together....
Even of he isn't the type to cheat, it's an uncomfortable situation.
I felt the point was lost a bit by her being OTT, he also felt it was the wrong choice straight away so why did he stick with it??
He does have to grovel but I wasn't really feeling the whole dump Rory situation for the ex.
There is a situation with a child who ends up with Rory who is in the foster system, treated really badly but again it's really OTT, I felt the point was lost.
For example, the foster home was really bad, and I mean really, really bad.
Then the child was bullied at school and the mum and other child were awful, really, really awful.
Then the school handled things badly, having no clue how to handle foster children or bullying, just suspending the foster kid cos he was seen hitting another child.
It brings out fantastic qualities in Rory and she is able to go on a rant that is actually quite emotional but the whole situation was so OTT I felt it was unrealistic.
Maybe it's just me.
Don't get me wrong the book is good, Cord when he gets sorted is amazing, he does grovel, she makes him work for it.
If youve read other books in the series you will want to read this one too.
HEA.
Secondary characters that could have possible future storylines developing through the series and updates of previous characters in series.
Epilogue.
There is an introductory chapter to the next book at the end, optional to read it.
I have been reading JP novels for some time, think I've read all of them and although I am a fan I was not keen on the manwhore type of Hero she sometimes portrays and this series seems different from her past stuff.
It has a Kristen Ashley feel to it.
It's a thorough novel, you feel you must he 50% but you are delighted to find yourself at 25% or so, this is due to developing the characters and situations fully and not skimming.
The Hero's have been at times, brooding but loyal, possessive, faithful and Alpha.
The heroines have been strong and at times snarky with humour and fabulous banter between the girl posse.
No intimate scenes with anyone other than the Hero and heroine.
His ex is on the scene causing ex drama.
Before the main couple get together the heroine goes on a date, for a meal, really nice guy, no spark, chaste peck on lips, both agree she's not into it.
No cheating.
Spoilers below.
This was a bit of a second chance, as Rory and Cord have been circling each other all series with no real explanation to the reader as to what has gone on.
I loved Rory, she has a fab family, she is funny and amazing with a young lad who enters her world.
This is where I may be unpopular.
Cord, I struggled with a bit.
Cord moved to Hope Valley and instantly took a liking to Rory.
He put a stop to the romantic side of the relationship they could have had, saying basically he wasn't in the right place to start something new, alluding to being hung up on his ex.
His ex moves to town, asks to rekindle they do.
All that was fair enough, they had history, he wanted to see if they deserved a second chance, I can see that.
But after things fall apart with his ex and a few events take place he admits he admits he felt something for Rory when he first met her and fell for her, he was about to make a move when his ex comes back.
The ex, who is spoilt, feels threatened by Rory and asks him to cut off friendship with her.
Here is my problem, I get the ex is a bitch, doesn't like any of the men he works with, wants her own way a lot blah blah...... but if you can see your man is in love with another woman, even if he can't see it, everyone can see she's in love with him, would you want them spending time together....
Even of he isn't the type to cheat, it's an uncomfortable situation.
I felt the point was lost a bit by her being OTT, he also felt it was the wrong choice straight away so why did he stick with it??
He does have to grovel but I wasn't really feeling the whole dump Rory situation for the ex.
There is a situation with a child who ends up with Rory who is in the foster system, treated really badly but again it's really OTT, I felt the point was lost.
For example, the foster home was really bad, and I mean really, really bad.
Then the child was bullied at school and the mum and other child were awful, really, really awful.
Then the school handled things badly, having no clue how to handle foster children or bullying, just suspending the foster kid cos he was seen hitting another child.
It brings out fantastic qualities in Rory and she is able to go on a rant that is actually quite emotional but the whole situation was so OTT I felt it was unrealistic.
Maybe it's just me.
Don't get me wrong the book is good, Cord when he gets sorted is amazing, he does grovel, she makes him work for it.
If youve read other books in the series you will want to read this one too.
HEA.
Secondary characters that could have possible future storylines developing through the series and updates of previous characters in series.
Epilogue.
There is an introductory chapter to the next book at the end, optional to read it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
nope-nope-nope
September 9, 2019Pining, celibate heroine, as is the usual with this author I think about dipping back in and remember why I dont read her ever 🙄
September 9, 2019
And once again, this author astounded me.
I'm getting repetitive and tiring, I think, but I must say it again: this is one of the best series I've ever read, that just keeps getting better and better, and every time I read a book from it, that one becomes my favorite.
I can't even believe I 'm saying this, I mean, Lincoln totally stole my heart right at the beginning in Out Of My League and I was waiting for Marco in Wrong Side Of The Tracks since even before this series started (his first appearance was in Consume - Civil Corruption #3).
But, right now, my heart has a new owner, and it belongs to Cord Paulson.
This is a standalone, but you can appreciate the plot even more if you read the previous books, firstly because it's so amazing, secondly because you can see their developments and the crescendo in everyone's feelings.
We met Cord and Rory right in the first book (Out Of My League), and since then we could see something intense going on. But nothing could have prepared me for what I read.
There was a strong pull forcing Rory and Cord together, something undeniable and "un-getting-over-with-able". It was so intense and real, I could almost touch it.
Rory is one of those heroines you can't help but love. She is funny, smart, strong, even when vulnerable. She is forgiving, always ready to help, and amazing friend, with an amazing family. She has everything in her life an dher personality. Except for the love of the man she loves.
At least that's what she thinks.
Cord had one hell of a past. He is strong, resilient, oh so alpha and protective, and extremely loyal....almost to a fault. In fact, that same loyalty (added to a wrong sense of responsability) was the reason he made the biggest mistake of his life: choosing wrong and letting Rory go.
<>"I have a lot to make up for. I have a lot I have to make right, I know that. And I will, I swear, but I need you to Stay With Me, Rory. Stay with me in the here and now so I can do that"
When he realizes his mistake, specially seeing, time and time again, what a wonderful woman Rory was and how she was by his side in the worst moment of his life, he readies himself for the biggest fight of his life, and he's willing to do everything in his power to win back Rory, the woman he most definitely loves.
"When something's worth fighting for, I won't hesitate to do just that. And for you, I'm willing to fight dirty"
As I said before, their pull towards each other was electric. They were both so intense. Rory had a lot within herself to give, and even being guarded and cautious about Cord (rightfully so), she eventually let go of all that pain and fear and just enjoyed the ride. And oh boy, what a ride!
And Cord has something different about him. In this series, the heroes are alpha, protective and I think that is one of the reasons I love this series so much. But Cord goes the extra mile. It's like he has a vibe around him that is even more incisive. He is edgy and more shadowed than the others, even bossier somehow. He was more explosive and his feelings were even more exposed than the previous heroes.
It was a sexy turmoil, and you put Cord and Rory together, it was a rollercoaster of emotions.
I couldn't (and didn't want to) unglue my eyes from the book.
But it wasn't only about them.
It was a small town romantic suspense book, but it was more than that. I don't want to say a lot and end up giving a spoiler, but Rory and Cord's new "mission" (that is also one of the things reponsible for making them get together) was so beautiful to read.
It was a development not only for them, but for another person as well, and I enjoyed their whole new dynamic as much as I loved Rory and Cord's love.
I had unshead tears in my eyes, my heart broke for what I read and for thinking that these kind of scenarios really exist. The way things were happening and working out, how their loved ones stepped in to help, it was wonderful.
There were so many emotions I was almost overwhelmed, but in an amazing way.
"I came to Hope Valley with all my earthly possession fitting into a duffel bag. I had no family, no home. Then I met my dream woman stading behind a bar.
(...) I was surrounded bu more love that I could have ever thought possible (...) I was a kid who'd grown up nothing. Now I had everything"
(I'm trying so hard not to give a spoiler).
Jessica Prince rocked again. And, as usual when it comes to this author and the way she makes me crave new books, I desperately need Xander's book.
There's so much to know about him, but I already know I'm gonna love him.
I just can feel it!
I'm getting repetitive and tiring, I think, but I must say it again: this is one of the best series I've ever read, that just keeps getting better and better, and every time I read a book from it, that one becomes my favorite.
I can't even believe I 'm saying this, I mean, Lincoln totally stole my heart right at the beginning in Out Of My League and I was waiting for Marco in Wrong Side Of The Tracks since even before this series started (his first appearance was in Consume - Civil Corruption #3).
But, right now, my heart has a new owner, and it belongs to Cord Paulson.
This is a standalone, but you can appreciate the plot even more if you read the previous books, firstly because it's so amazing, secondly because you can see their developments and the crescendo in everyone's feelings.
We met Cord and Rory right in the first book (Out Of My League), and since then we could see something intense going on. But nothing could have prepared me for what I read.
There was a strong pull forcing Rory and Cord together, something undeniable and "un-getting-over-with-able". It was so intense and real, I could almost touch it.
Rory is one of those heroines you can't help but love. She is funny, smart, strong, even when vulnerable. She is forgiving, always ready to help, and amazing friend, with an amazing family. She has everything in her life an dher personality. Except for the love of the man she loves.
At least that's what she thinks.
Cord had one hell of a past. He is strong, resilient, oh so alpha and protective, and extremely loyal....almost to a fault. In fact, that same loyalty (added to a wrong sense of responsability) was the reason he made the biggest mistake of his life: choosing wrong and letting Rory go.
<>"I have a lot to make up for. I have a lot I have to make right, I know that. And I will, I swear, but I need you to Stay With Me, Rory. Stay with me in the here and now so I can do that"
When he realizes his mistake, specially seeing, time and time again, what a wonderful woman Rory was and how she was by his side in the worst moment of his life, he readies himself for the biggest fight of his life, and he's willing to do everything in his power to win back Rory, the woman he most definitely loves.
"When something's worth fighting for, I won't hesitate to do just that. And for you, I'm willing to fight dirty"
As I said before, their pull towards each other was electric. They were both so intense. Rory had a lot within herself to give, and even being guarded and cautious about Cord (rightfully so), she eventually let go of all that pain and fear and just enjoyed the ride. And oh boy, what a ride!
And Cord has something different about him. In this series, the heroes are alpha, protective and I think that is one of the reasons I love this series so much. But Cord goes the extra mile. It's like he has a vibe around him that is even more incisive. He is edgy and more shadowed than the others, even bossier somehow. He was more explosive and his feelings were even more exposed than the previous heroes.
It was a sexy turmoil, and you put Cord and Rory together, it was a rollercoaster of emotions.
I couldn't (and didn't want to) unglue my eyes from the book.
But it wasn't only about them.
It was a small town romantic suspense book, but it was more than that. I don't want to say a lot and end up giving a spoiler, but Rory and Cord's new "mission" (that is also one of the things reponsible for making them get together) was so beautiful to read.
It was a development not only for them, but for another person as well, and I enjoyed their whole new dynamic as much as I loved Rory and Cord's love.
I had unshead tears in my eyes, my heart broke for what I read and for thinking that these kind of scenarios really exist. The way things were happening and working out, how their loved ones stepped in to help, it was wonderful.
There were so many emotions I was almost overwhelmed, but in an amazing way.
"I came to Hope Valley with all my earthly possession fitting into a duffel bag. I had no family, no home. Then I met my dream woman stading behind a bar.
(...) I was surrounded bu more love that I could have ever thought possible (...) I was a kid who'd grown up nothing. Now I had everything"
(I'm trying so hard not to give a spoiler).
Jessica Prince rocked again. And, as usual when it comes to this author and the way she makes me crave new books, I desperately need Xander's book.
There's so much to know about him, but I already know I'm gonna love him.
I just can feel it!
Read
September 9, 2019Stay With Me is LIVE! One-click here
August 13, 2024
*** 5 ‘Wild and Beautiful’ Stars***
YAAAASSSS, BITCH (I will, unfortunately have to edit that for the Zon)
*does the whole squeal/happy dance thing while hugging the kindle (okay, this only happened in my head but you get the idea)*
I’ve been waiting patiently (not so patiently) for Cord and Rory’s HEA and it was EVERYTHING my heart wanted and more for them...so much more that there are no words
...well...considering I do that review/blogger thing, I need to put a couplefew more words out there, so here we go
I freaking adored Rory and Cord. Rory is fierce. She’s sweet, sassy, compassionate and knows exactly who she is and what she wants out of her life. Cord is loyal to a fault, something that is highly admirable, but only when it comes to those who actually deserve it. But there is no doubt that he is all kinds of Alpha AF male because when he decides he wants something, he will move heaven and earth to get it.
Their journey to their HEA was all kinds of goodness. There is a lot of hurt and missteps in their past, but I loved how they finally cleared the air and worked at moving past it. It wasn’t easy by any means, but everything they went through was necessary. I went in to this totally #TeamRory but I knew that would shift and end up a 50/50 split with #TeamCord and it totally did early on. I loved that Cord laid everything out for Rory but didn’t expect her to forgive and forget easily. He knew he had to earn her all over again and Rory did forgive, because that is just who she is, but she knows her worth and made him prove to her that he was sincere, without going to any extremes.
I need to stop saying that “this book is my favorite” because thus far EVERY book in this series has been my favorite one *smirks* so I’ll simply say, this series simply ROCKS. It’s so easy to fall in love with these characters and get lost in them and crave more. And speaking of more, I love that we get to hang out and keep up with all the people we’ve met in the series ~ that family dynamic is so strong and good in this baby ~ and meet new ones as it progresses. I’m still all about Xander *BSEG* and Rox was epic in this one, but I loved Rory’s parents. They are amazeballs and I cannot wait to get my hands on the book in the series!
~ Copy provided by Love Affair with Fiction & voluntarily reviewed ~
YAAAASSSS, BITCH (I will, unfortunately have to edit that for the Zon)
*does the whole squeal/happy dance thing while hugging the kindle (okay, this only happened in my head but you get the idea)*
I’ve been waiting patiently (not so patiently) for Cord and Rory’s HEA and it was EVERYTHING my heart wanted and more for them...so much more that there are no words
...well...considering I do that review/blogger thing, I need to put a couplefew more words out there, so here we go
I freaking adored Rory and Cord. Rory is fierce. She’s sweet, sassy, compassionate and knows exactly who she is and what she wants out of her life. Cord is loyal to a fault, something that is highly admirable, but only when it comes to those who actually deserve it. But there is no doubt that he is all kinds of Alpha AF male because when he decides he wants something, he will move heaven and earth to get it.
Their journey to their HEA was all kinds of goodness. There is a lot of hurt and missteps in their past, but I loved how they finally cleared the air and worked at moving past it. It wasn’t easy by any means, but everything they went through was necessary. I went in to this totally #TeamRory but I knew that would shift and end up a 50/50 split with #TeamCord and it totally did early on. I loved that Cord laid everything out for Rory but didn’t expect her to forgive and forget easily. He knew he had to earn her all over again and Rory did forgive, because that is just who she is, but she knows her worth and made him prove to her that he was sincere, without going to any extremes.
I need to stop saying that “this book is my favorite” because thus far EVERY book in this series has been my favorite one *smirks* so I’ll simply say, this series simply ROCKS. It’s so easy to fall in love with these characters and get lost in them and crave more. And speaking of more, I love that we get to hang out and keep up with all the people we’ve met in the series ~ that family dynamic is so strong and good in this baby ~ and meet new ones as it progresses. I’m still all about Xander *BSEG* and Rox was epic in this one, but I loved Rory’s parents. They are amazeballs and I cannot wait to get my hands on the book in the series!
~ Copy provided by Love Affair with Fiction & voluntarily reviewed ~
September 7, 2022
2nd read: 2022
1st read : 2019
‘Stay with me’ is the fifth book in the ‘Hope Valley’ series and if you have read the previous books in this series than the chance is big that you will have notice that there was something going on between Rory and Cord (in the background). But it was also clear that it wasn’t all good. And that made me very curious about their story. So you can imagine my excitement when I discovered that this was their book! This story was everything I had hope for and more! It was also a bit more emotional than the previous books. The writer really gave us a wonderful story.
I really liked the fact that although the story continued in the timeline of the series, you still got to see throughout the story what had happened in the past between Rory and Cord. So as a reader you really got the whole picture of their story. Which made that you really got to feel all the emotions…the hope, the longing and the heartbreak. Because Cord broke Rory’s heart there’s no denying that BUT once he decided that she was the ONE for him. He really went after her with everything that he was! I loved that about him. How he was there for her whenever she needed him. Rory was a great character. A woman who loved with all her heart and soul.
I adored both characters. And I also loved how they opened their heart for someone else too.
Because this story is more than a story about the love between Rory and Cord. It’s also a story about family, blood and no blood. I don’t want to say too much. Because I think that you have to experience this story for yourself. You get both POV’s in this story.
One of the things that I love about this series is the fact that the basic of each story may be the same (alpha man and sassy woman) but each story is still told in a different way. It’s never a repeat of the previous story. I also like the fact that the characters in this series are in their thirties, forties.
So… do you have to read the previous books to read this one? You don’t really have to but it was interesting to see flashes of their story in the other books.
I’m already looking forward to the next book in this series.
1st read : 2019
‘Stay with me’ is the fifth book in the ‘Hope Valley’ series and if you have read the previous books in this series than the chance is big that you will have notice that there was something going on between Rory and Cord (in the background). But it was also clear that it wasn’t all good. And that made me very curious about their story. So you can imagine my excitement when I discovered that this was their book! This story was everything I had hope for and more! It was also a bit more emotional than the previous books. The writer really gave us a wonderful story.
I really liked the fact that although the story continued in the timeline of the series, you still got to see throughout the story what had happened in the past between Rory and Cord. So as a reader you really got the whole picture of their story. Which made that you really got to feel all the emotions…the hope, the longing and the heartbreak. Because Cord broke Rory’s heart there’s no denying that BUT once he decided that she was the ONE for him. He really went after her with everything that he was! I loved that about him. How he was there for her whenever she needed him. Rory was a great character. A woman who loved with all her heart and soul.
I adored both characters. And I also loved how they opened their heart for someone else too.
Because this story is more than a story about the love between Rory and Cord. It’s also a story about family, blood and no blood. I don’t want to say too much. Because I think that you have to experience this story for yourself. You get both POV’s in this story.
One of the things that I love about this series is the fact that the basic of each story may be the same (alpha man and sassy woman) but each story is still told in a different way. It’s never a repeat of the previous story. I also like the fact that the characters in this series are in their thirties, forties.
So… do you have to read the previous books to read this one? You don’t really have to but it was interesting to see flashes of their story in the other books.
I’m already looking forward to the next book in this series.
did-not-finish
March 13, 2021Uh damn.. this book is to brutal for me. Heroine is second best.
Heroine was in love with hero for YEARS. She told hero from the start. Hero had feelings for ow and was not ready for heroine, so they become best-friends (where heroine hoped for more every day)). One day that ex ow moves into down and hero starts dating her again (very fast). Heroine is heartbroken, but still wants to have him in her life. Gf/ow is jelous of their bff thing and makes ultimatum. Her or heroine.
Hero chooses gf and cuts off heroine for 1.5 years he breaks up with gf/ow at some point again.
So heroine has lost 5 years of her life , no dating, one sided love and is finally done. She is 40 already!!
Hero desides he wants her and he choose wrong.
Dnf because he KNEW the whole time heroine loved him and he did that shit... brutal.
Heroine should have moved on fast
Heroine was in love with hero for YEARS. She told hero from the start. Hero had feelings for ow and was not ready for heroine, so they become best-friends (where heroine hoped for more every day)). One day that ex ow moves into down and hero starts dating her again (very fast). Heroine is heartbroken, but still wants to have him in her life. Gf/ow is jelous of their bff thing and makes ultimatum. Her or heroine.
Hero chooses gf and cuts off heroine for 1.5 years he breaks up with gf/ow at some point again.
So heroine has lost 5 years of her life , no dating, one sided love and is finally done. She is 40 already!!
Hero desides he wants her and he choose wrong.
Dnf because he KNEW the whole time heroine loved him and he did that shit... brutal.
Heroine should have moved on fast
February 17, 2023
Read until 83% and lost interest ater that 😑 the entire book is about the heroine's friends and about the hero's groveling. In the short prologue we find out what he did wrong
January 20, 2023
Rory is a wild living woman who feel in love with Cain. Cain out of obligation, stayed with a girl that saved him during his foster care years. But, Cain finds he loved his childhood friend but was not in love with her. Finally he turns to Rory. Together they find a young boy who threw a rich through the bar window and realize he is frightened young boy from a foster home. An abusive foster home.
While this book and many others are good by themselves, they are horrible to read in a series. The author uses the same scenes in the bedroom, the same quotes and continually uses the expression " the best______ of my life" to the point you can read only half the book and get the idea. You meet 2 people in beginning, they start badly, they get together a crisis comes, problem solved in a page of writing, to happily ever after. This author needs to expand. Also typos noted.
While this book and many others are good by themselves, they are horrible to read in a series. The author uses the same scenes in the bedroom, the same quotes and continually uses the expression " the best______ of my life" to the point you can read only half the book and get the idea. You meet 2 people in beginning, they start badly, they get together a crisis comes, problem solved in a page of writing, to happily ever after. This author needs to expand. Also typos noted.
September 26, 2020
Very cute story. Rory has had a crush on Cord since the first time she noticed him walk into the bar she runs and her family owns. The thing is he is hung up on someone else. The instead become close friends but when his past comes to town, and they reconnect he is given an ultimatum and chooses wrong.
In book #4 Cord is shot and hospitalized and it is Rory who sits a beside vigil until he wakes up and when he does, he pulls her in, kisses her and....calls her someone else's name. Now she is set of moving forward. Dating. Forgetting him, even though she can't, and this will lead to igniting him to fight for her, to prove to her, SHE is what he wants.
Just as things are turning good her life will be turned upside down, and they will need to work together for things to work out.
In book #4 Cord is shot and hospitalized and it is Rory who sits a beside vigil until he wakes up and when he does, he pulls her in, kisses her and....calls her someone else's name. Now she is set of moving forward. Dating. Forgetting him, even though she can't, and this will lead to igniting him to fight for her, to prove to her, SHE is what he wants.
Just as things are turning good her life will be turned upside down, and they will need to work together for things to work out.
August 28, 2019
5 Stars!
Jessica Prince has slayed and stolen my entire heart with the fifth book (while technically a standalone, don't short yourself out on the history that builds in each book in this series!!) in the Hope Valley series and ohmigish y'all! BEST BOOK OF THIS ENTIRE SERIES TO DATE! So many feels, so much history, and sooooo much undeniable chemistry packed into one unforgettable, unputdownable, unstoppable book.
Stay With Me is THE STORY I've wanted since I met Rory and Cord and watched them interact in the background a few books ago. Finally, finally it's here and y'all, it was SOOOOO worth the wait. These two were brilliant in every single moment and had my heart racing the entire time. The passion and desire and unstoppable forces on every page was enough to keep my glued and hooked until the very. last. word.
Rory and Cord have history and not all of it is good but some of it is the absolute best. In one moment and one decision, Cord chose wrong, shattering any chance at a future of friendship or anything more with Rory. UNTIL... that is until everything changes for him. He's made mistakes and now he's ready to fight for his future after seeing the wrong choices he made. Rory wants to move on and Cord wants a chance at everything with her. He'll fight. He'll grovel. He'll give every little thing he has for just a chance at something with Rory. Because Cord knows Rory is his forever and now he just needs her to take one chance and stay with him.
This beautiful journey is a bit of a slow burn and very much a second chance with enough angst to keep you hanging on to every page (our girl Rory gives it good!), all the emotions to squeeze your heart (lordy they put me through the ringer in the best ways!), and enough heat to have you squirming in your seat (when that ONE EPIC MOMENT happens, breaking the flood gates, holy hotness you'll know!!).
The Hope Valley series is not one you want to miss. It's like coming home every single time I read a new book in this series. Interconnected standalones that steal your heart, leave you breathless, and stay with you loooooong after the pages have quit turning.
I highly recommend this book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog
Jessica Prince has slayed and stolen my entire heart with the fifth book (while technically a standalone, don't short yourself out on the history that builds in each book in this series!!) in the Hope Valley series and ohmigish y'all! BEST BOOK OF THIS ENTIRE SERIES TO DATE! So many feels, so much history, and sooooo much undeniable chemistry packed into one unforgettable, unputdownable, unstoppable book.
Stay With Me is THE STORY I've wanted since I met Rory and Cord and watched them interact in the background a few books ago. Finally, finally it's here and y'all, it was SOOOOO worth the wait. These two were brilliant in every single moment and had my heart racing the entire time. The passion and desire and unstoppable forces on every page was enough to keep my glued and hooked until the very. last. word.
Rory and Cord have history and not all of it is good but some of it is the absolute best. In one moment and one decision, Cord chose wrong, shattering any chance at a future of friendship or anything more with Rory. UNTIL... that is until everything changes for him. He's made mistakes and now he's ready to fight for his future after seeing the wrong choices he made. Rory wants to move on and Cord wants a chance at everything with her. He'll fight. He'll grovel. He'll give every little thing he has for just a chance at something with Rory. Because Cord knows Rory is his forever and now he just needs her to take one chance and stay with him.
This beautiful journey is a bit of a slow burn and very much a second chance with enough angst to keep you hanging on to every page (our girl Rory gives it good!), all the emotions to squeeze your heart (lordy they put me through the ringer in the best ways!), and enough heat to have you squirming in your seat (when that ONE EPIC MOMENT happens, breaking the flood gates, holy hotness you'll know!!).
The Hope Valley series is not one you want to miss. It's like coming home every single time I read a new book in this series. Interconnected standalones that steal your heart, leave you breathless, and stay with you loooooong after the pages have quit turning.
I highly recommend this book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog
September 13, 2019
I only recently found the Hope Valley series and have seriously LOVED each book, but I just knew that this one was going to be special. I just knew that Cord and Rory's romance was going to hit me straight in the feels and I WAS NOT WRONG.
Theirs is a story of longing; of waiting and hoping that you can finally have the most special kind of love. Cord knew that Rory made him feel things he had never felt, but because of personal loyalty, he had to push her away. Later, he realizes his mistake, and hopes it's not too late to win her back. Rory knew Cord was the one that was meant for her, but after years of carrying that torch, feeling lonely, and waiting for a miracle, she finally decides that she can't wait any longer--she has to move on.
This story is a beautiful slow-burn and my heart hurt for both of them, but I loved watching them grow closer and finally finding their way to happiness. It was filled with all the alpha goodness that I've come to love with this series, and yes, there was plenty of heat and some suspense to round things out, but this book also had me laughing, crying and swooning, and when it was over, my very full heart only wished that there was more.
I can't say enough about this book and series and am so excited to what Ms. Prince has in store fort us next. It's small town romance at its finest. Highly recommend!
Theirs is a story of longing; of waiting and hoping that you can finally have the most special kind of love. Cord knew that Rory made him feel things he had never felt, but because of personal loyalty, he had to push her away. Later, he realizes his mistake, and hopes it's not too late to win her back. Rory knew Cord was the one that was meant for her, but after years of carrying that torch, feeling lonely, and waiting for a miracle, she finally decides that she can't wait any longer--she has to move on.
This story is a beautiful slow-burn and my heart hurt for both of them, but I loved watching them grow closer and finally finding their way to happiness. It was filled with all the alpha goodness that I've come to love with this series, and yes, there was plenty of heat and some suspense to round things out, but this book also had me laughing, crying and swooning, and when it was over, my very full heart only wished that there was more.
I can't say enough about this book and series and am so excited to what Ms. Prince has in store fort us next. It's small town romance at its finest. Highly recommend!
September 8, 2019
Wow!! Rory & Cord might be my favorite couple in this series! The sassiness & take charge attitude that makes Rory was probably the best part of this story. She is by far the fiercest of all the ladies & you definitely shouldn’t piss her off. I was extremely angry with Cord in the beginning, but that man certainly knows how to redeem himself. This story is so full of love, strength & fun that you will not be able to put it down. I was not ready for this story to end. A beautiful romantic read that will leave you wanting more from this wonderful band of characters. I’m just so in love with the characters this author has given us.
I highly recommend this book. Told in dual POV.
I highly recommend this book. Told in dual POV.
September 11, 2019
This was a low angst read. I’m not sure if I was Rory if I could move past being rejected like she was. I definitely would have made him grovel. I like Cory and I loved Rory. I liked them together but there was not a lot of meat and bones to their relationship in this book. At least to me. The reason I gave this 4 stars was because of Rory and Zach!!!! OMG, I know this is a romance novel but wouldn’t the world be a better place if there were a lot more Rorys to advocate for children. Loved her mama bear badass attitude!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2019
Jessica Prince does it again! I swear, just when I think there is no way she can top the last one, she proves me wrong. This book was the sweetest! I absolutely loved Rory and Cord! I have been rooting for Rory to get her happily ever after since she was first introduced. She is my kind of woman!
Gah! Don't get me started on Cord. He's is one hunk of sweet alpha male (once he pulled his head out of his ass). So sexy!! Add in Zach and this book has all the feels! 😍
Gah! Don't get me started on Cord. He's is one hunk of sweet alpha male (once he pulled his head out of his ass). So sexy!! Add in Zach and this book has all the feels! 😍
October 29, 2020
Friends to lovers
This book is a friend's to lovers trope. Though Rory knew at first sight that they were meant to be, it took Cord for years to figure that out for himself. It took bullets, almost dying, and his girlfriend skipping town and not staying at his side at the hospital while he recovered, to finally figure out that Rory, was the woman he loved.
Great story! I love the secondary characters that were introduced in this book - Rory's parents and Zach. On to Xander and Sage.
This book is a friend's to lovers trope. Though Rory knew at first sight that they were meant to be, it took Cord for years to figure that out for himself. It took bullets, almost dying, and his girlfriend skipping town and not staying at his side at the hospital while he recovered, to finally figure out that Rory, was the woman he loved.
Great story! I love the secondary characters that were introduced in this book - Rory's parents and Zach. On to Xander and Sage.
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